The Football/Soccer Thread

[Imperium]

Where the heck did you get this from, Flamini is leaving on a free as his contract ends on June 30 2012 and is signing for AC Milan on July 1. If his contract was over he would already be at MilanAh, sorry if i confused you. I meant since janurary he was a free agent, i.e. he can go and talk to other clubs without arsenal interfering. That he could not physically go to a club is irrelevant but he could have a deal which would come to effect at the end of the season. Like right now he is still under contract for arsenal (till the end of the season) but a deal has already been agreed with milan. He could have done that since janurary. But your right, it is the end of the season not janurary that it specifically ends. :amuse

Btw, dont you mean his contract with milan is until 2012 not the other way around. :p

[rtyd1]

Thanks for the clarification, I meant to say 2008 not 2012 sorry.
Flamini has told news of the world the reason he left was because the missed out on the title

France midfielder Mathieu Flamini insists the pain of missing out on the title influenced his decision to quit Arsenal and join AC Milan.The Frenchman has opted to join the Italian giants instead of signing a contract extension with the Gunners, who led favourites Manchester United by five points in February.
Asked if winning the title would have made a difference, Flamini told the News of the World: "That would have weighed in the balance. It would certainly have counted.
"I actually wanted to sign a new contract at Arsenal last July but it didn't happen. AC Milan did so much to sign me I couldn't refuse.
"What happened to us after leading the league for so long was the most painful experience I had during four years at Arsenal," he added.

[Imperium]

Thanks for the clarification, I meant to say 2008 not 2012 sorry.
Flamini has told news of the world the reason he left was because the missed out on the titleHe is kinda contradictory...you leave one club because you just missed out on the title to go to another club who had no chance at the title. Why doesnt he just come out and say its the money, then ill stop being so bitter :shakefist

"AC Milan did so much to sign me I couldn't refuse"

Those italians and their offers you cant refuse. >.>

[rtyd1]

AC Milan are bringing more players in to compete for the league next year and could have persuaded Flamini to sign that way. Dont really think it was the money because he only getting 5K more at Milan, its a lot of money for us but for him its not much so he never really wanted to stay at Arsenal and i think Wenger knew that

[Imperium]

AC Milan are bringing more players in to compete for the league next year and could have persuaded Flamini to sign that way. Dont really think it was the money because he only getting 5K more at Milan, its a lot of money for us but for him its not much so he never really wanted to stay at Arsenal and i think Wenger knew thatHe did say he wanted to leave last season but the speculation was to Birmingham city. Last season he was a bit-part player, a substitute. He had a contract that was about 1million a season, we raised it to about 2.8 milllion a season, he said no. And went to milan who gave him a 5.6 million (http://www.goal.com/en/Articolo.aspx?ContenutoId=682482) a season. I dont know but whoever you are, but three million is a lot of money.

[rtyd1]

What i heard was Arsenal offered him 55k a week while Milan offered him 60K as stated here http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/07052008/1/wenger-upset-flamini-departure.html

[Imperium]

What i heard was Arsenal offered him 55k a week while Milan offered him 60K as stated here http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/07052008/1/wenger-upset-flamini-departure.html
Yea, i the 55k a week (2.8 mil a season) is what i heard too. But since the offer by milan is being reported differently, i looked to see if anybody from milan confirmed the price of his wages, but nobody did. So it means the papers are speculating and milan is going to confirm it in july. But it is said to be a big money (http://www.inthenews.co.uk/news/autocodes/premiership-teams-2006-2007/arsenal/wenger-urges-famini-concentrate-on-football-not-money-$1220426.htm).

[rtyd1]

Seems like we'll have so wait until July as you said for confirmation of his wages. If he left for the money then my didnt Arsenal offer him more the have a lot of money now because the emirates is a goldmine for them. It seems like Hleb is going too, if that were to happen i cant see arsenal challeging for the title the same way the did this year unless Wenger brings in some big names to replace them like Niko Kranjcar, Hatem Ben Arfa, as well as Jean Makoun and David Villa

[Imperium]

Seems like we'll have so wait until July as you said for confirmation of his wages. If he left for the money then my didnt Arsenal offer him more the have a lot of money now because the emirates is a goldmine for them. It seems like Hleb is going too, if that were to happen i cant see arsenal challeging for the title the same way the did this year unless Wenger brings in some big names to replace them like Niko Kranjcar, Hatem Ben Arfa, as well as Jean Makoun and David Villa
As an arsenal fan i would disagree. Maybe if we lost fabregas and wenger, then we might not challenge for the title but not otherwise. But i admit Flamini was a huge loss, he was one of our most consistent and star players, but replacement can be found in maybe Makoun or one of the youngsters like diaby. As for hleb, he is a good winger but is not in the same league as say...rosicky, simply because his goal threat is non exsistent. Although finding a suitable replacement will be harder than finding one for Flamini, kranjcar might replace him but that is if portsmouth are willing to sell, he has been a good player for them. As for villa, i really dont think he is needed to be honest. Our strikers have scored a lot of goal this season in the league, and that was with two not playing a lot of games because of injury. In fact if you take out ronaldo because he is a winger, our strikers scored the most goals out of the top four. So upfront is not really the problem more like we need some quality defenders on the bench. =/

[rtyd1]

Man U have won the premier league and Derby, Reading and Birmingham have been relegated. Im devastated because i was going to either Reading or Birmingham next year for university.
Fabregas has admitted Hleb helps him to play better may not get the same help next year if he leaves. Imperium the next season for arsenal will be decided by how well the new recruits settle in to the club

[Mendes]

MU won the league as rtyd1 said, and you know my opinion on this. They deserve being champions. Alongside Arsenal, they played the best football, but the gunners lost the flare in the last month. Injuries and a young, limited squad can justify the poor last sprint of Arsenal, while Manchester's strategy of sparing lots of important players for the most important matches ended paying off. I'd bet on MU for the CL final as well.

In Italy, Inter Incredibly lost a major opportunity to become champions. They owned the match but allowed siena to strike 3 times, 2 of them went in. 2 things impressed me in this game: 1-Materazzi may have cost Inter the title. For 2 times he went up to 'help' the team in the attack, and got himself in the way of Julio Cruz's shots. In one of them the ball was going in, but Materazzi fell right in time to block his teammate's shot xD. Later in the 80 minutes, he was awarded a penalty kick for the victorious 3-2, but he allowed Siena's keeper to defend... 2- Balotelli. This kid joined Inter's senior squad in the middle of the season from the Primavera Team of Inter (young squad) and he's being in the 1st 11 very frequently to play as striker. Considering Inter has Crespo and Suazo in the bench to replace him, I'd say he's going to be a true monster in world football. His physical is strong, and his technique is prodigious. He's also a free kick genius and his FK crosses reminded me of beckham's with some amazing and precise curling. Scored 1 and assisted another in this match. Maybe he'll be a surprise nominee for Italy's 23 in Euro Cup.

I saw some highlights of the Copa dos Libertadores. Really nice matches there as well. I was impressed with Boca's win over Cruzeiro. Boca Juniors have lots of talented players. I wouldnt mind at all that FC Porto went shopping there. Rodrigo Palacios, Riquelme and Palermo are some players I'd love to see playing with our strip.

Who do you guys see as favorite for the Euro Cup? Nationalism aside, I really think Spain has what it takes to take the title. They may have wasted alot of chances lately and got themselves eliminated soon, but this year they seem to be playing very well and their team is superb. I dont see any flaws in their squad and to think that Xavi, Fabregas, Iniesta, Villa and Torres play in the same team...


EDIT: I just saw Boro's impressive win against City. 8-1! Can you believe it? Was it just bad luck for City, or is Eriksson already thinking on his next challenge? (or both)

[rtyd1]

Spain have the best squad in terms of talent but always find a way not to win, this might be there year though since the have more great players than usual. However some of the spainiards are in poor form such as Xavi, Iniesta and Villa and Fabregas appears to be tired after such a long season with arsenal. My pick for the Euro is Portugal since they are strong at the back with Bosingwa, Paulo Ferreira, Ricardo Carvalho (all could be a Chelsea next season) and have the current greatest player in the world Ronaldo.
PS, Mendes im not sure why you would want Riquelme after what happened at Villareal

[Stiluz]

Weeeeeeeeee are the Champions! Two fantastic seaons! I'd rather have seen Arsenal than Chelsea in second place though, I mean, where was Chelsea all year? And suddenly they come and BHAM.

[Mendes]

Spain have the best squad in terms of talent but always find a way not to win, this might be there year though since the have more great players than usual. However some of the spainiards are in poor form such as Xavi, Iniesta and Villa and Fabregas appears to be tired after such a long season with arsenal. My pick for the Euro is Portugal since they are strong at the back with Bosingwa, Paulo Ferreira, Ricardo Carvalho (all could be a Chelsea next season) and have the current greatest player in the world Ronaldo.
PS, Mendes im not sure why you would want Riquelme after what happened at Villareal

Oooo you think Portugal's gonna win? I hope you're right of course, but we're not as favorites as Italy, France, Spain...
Our defense is strong if you exclude the left back... we're trying right backs on the left out of desperation. The only origin left back is Everton's Nuno Valente, but its definitely not good enough (its bad actually, very bad). Our center forward position is a problem yet unsolved. I'd like Hugo Almeida to take the spot, since he's doing fine in Werder Bremen (in a team where there's already world class strikers) and he's tall, with a good heading. That's important since our main strength is the wingers. Sadly, our 'beloved' coach, Scolari dont agree with me and plays Nuno 'I Cant Score A Goal Even In The Short Box Without The Keeper Or Defensive Pressure' Gomes or Helder Postiga, who was FC Porto's 4th or 5th option for the attack or Makukula, Benfica's recent acquisition who plays 1 game in 10, with only power and no technique.

As for Riquelme, yeah, he's a troublemaker and he'd never go to Porto, even if we wanted him. He's already on the club he loves, so it wouldnt be worth a try. Still, he's one of the players I like the most with the ball at his feet and of course I'd like to see a player like that in my team, as I'd like to see Messi, Ronaldo, Kaka, Pirlo in Porto, but its just a passing dream. Aside from Riquelme, Boca's squad is very talented. There's some players I think Porto could buy some of them, since we've been very active in Argentina when it comes to market and all our argentinian players are top class. Pablo Ledesma, Lucas Castroman, Palacio and Palleta could fill some positions where we'll loose 1st team players

[rtyd1]

I'd like to see Porto doing well again in the champions league seems more than ever that the European cup will be dominated by teams from England, Italy and Spain. Its unlikely though because the players they need to challenge for Europe are attracted to clubs in these countries since Porto or even Lyon are unable to compete financially. Your Porto dream team sounds like a team in Football Manager where anything goes which is why its so fun.

For Portugal, maybe Scolari should play Ronaldo as a striker since he keeps getting goals and Simao and Quaresma on the wings with Deco, Veloso with another player in midfield

[Mendes]

For Portugal, maybe Scolari should play Ronaldo as a striker since he keeps getting goals and Simao and Quaresma on the wings with Deco, Veloso with another player in midfield


That's a valid option too, but Scolari doesnt play without an original center forward, so Ronaldo's always winger. It wouldnt be a bad thing if we hadnt that original center forward problem...
Simão is having lots of injuries this season and Quaresma is having form variations throughout the season. Hopefully they'll be at top form for the Cup and Nani is already at good level as well. To be honest, I was hoping that Figo decided to go back to Portugal for the Cup, just like he did in 2006, but I guess its just a dream now.

Our center midfield is veru strong right now. Petit may be out of form, but Inter's Pélé, Stuttgart's Fernando Meira and Miguel Veloso will have a tough fight over the spot of defensive midfielder. For the other 2 spots, we have Joao Moutinho (Sporting), Raul Meireles (Porto), Manuel Fernandes (Everton), Deco, Tiago (Juve) and Simao can play as offensive midfielder as well. Its not a midfield like England or Spain, but I think its stronger than France's and more creative than Italy's

[rtyd1]

What about Portugal goalkeeper, is it still Ricardo. If so that may be a weakness since he's no Cech or Casillas.
England's midfield isnt that great since there two best central midfielders Gerrard and Lampard seem to be unable to play with each other since the like to attack instead of defending so leave gaps for the opposition to exploit. The England wingers have also been very poor for the national side which is why they were unable to qualify for the Euro's
If you havent heard already Chelsea have signed Jose Bosingwa for £16.2 million on a three year deal. This means they have three right backs now Belletti and Ferreira. One of them will leave an my money is on Belletti since Ferreira has signed a new deal recently.

[Imperium]

^ The partnership between lampard and gerrard wasnt good, it was expected to be something miraculous, magical even, but its been quite woeful. Barry with Gerrard/Lampard is a better partnership. Barry can hold back while one of them goes foward. Which has been quite good. The wingers have been rubbish, wright-phillips isnt good enough. Beckham is much better even at his age, and that was evident against croatia. Bentley might be able to fill in his shoes, but even though i'd hate to say it, i would think it would be wise for him to move to a bigger club. More compettion would make him better....i hope.


Im devastated because i was going to either Reading or Birmingham next year for university. Really? I live in Birmingham, what university in birmingham did you apply?. And a lot of people over here are gutted, they blame the board. I agree with them, Mcleish is a decent manager and Birmingham have a decent squad with the likes of Zarate, larsson, kapo, Mcfadden etc.

Fabregas has admitted Hleb helps him to play better may not get the same help next year if he leaves. Imperium the next season for arsenal will be decided by how well the new recruits settle in to the clubIf we do get new players i would expect them to be young, so they will most likely fit in well. As for the transfer speculation, we've been linked again to ben arfa, with Wenger saying he will sign a "player" within weeks. Ben arfa has been hyped and i hope it him, he could be a good for us in midfield.



2- Balotelli. This kid joined Inter's senior squad in the middle of the season from the Primavera Team of Inter (young squad) and he's being in the 1st 11 very frequently to play as striker. Considering Inter has Crespo and Suazo in the bench to replace him, I'd say he's going to be a true monster in world football. His physical is strong, and his technique is prodigious. He's also a free kick genius and his FK crosses reminded me of beckham's with some amazing and precise curling. Scored 1 and assisted another in this match. Maybe he'll be a surprise nominee for Italy's 23 in Euro Cup. Balotelli indeed has a lot of potential, i remeber watching some clips in which the commentator started shouting his nickname, "Super Mario" xD. With Milan's Pato and Barcelona's Bojan he is another stunning young striker.


Who do you guys see as favorite for the Euro Cup?Spain have the best team on paper, but it will all depend on Xavi and Fabregas, if they can work together then Spain will go far. If they cant then i dont see them winning it. They are both quite similar, if they do form a partnership and perform well, then it will be a dangerous combination. But it can also end up with them just getting in each others way and spain falling flat! But im being safe and putting my money of the ever so stable germans, who just seem to become dangerous on big occasions (albeit more so in the world cup than in the Euro's in recent time). Since Englands out though, im hoping for an upset, so i could see russia as a dark horse, more to do with the fact that they have Gus hiddink. Dont see Greece holding onto the title.


EDIT: I just saw Boro's impressive win against City. 8-1! Can you believe it? Was it just bad luck for City, or is Eriksson already thinking on his next challenge? (or both)City have been horrible ever since Erikssons job was put into doubt, they were woeful against liverpool and even more so today. Im really glad for Boro though, i think Southgate has done a good job with them this season, next season maybe they could push for a top 10 finish, they defintely showed they have the quality.
[hr]

I'd like to see Porto doing well again in the champions league seems more than ever that the European cup will be dominated by teams from England, Italy and Spain. Its unlikely though because the players they need to challenge for Europe are attracted to clubs in these countries since Porto or even Lyon are unable to compete financially.The most recent (http://uk.reuters.com/article/sportsNews/idUKN3052805820080501?pageNumber=1&virtualBrandChannel=0) figures show that Arsenal, Liverpool and United are all in the top five richest clubs in the world with their annual turnover. And Chelsea have abramohvic so you might as well put them at the top of the list. The only other club who probably could complete financially with them is most likely madrid and milan (With berlusconi). So i wont be surprised if in another couple of years the CL become a league within a league within a league. Making teams like lyon and porto's chance even slimmer. Which is...really messed up. =/

[Mendes]

What about Portugal goalkeeper, is it still Ricardo. If so that may be a weakness since he's no Cech or Casillas.

Yeah it is a major weakness! I dont want to be too critic or something but I hate Ricardo. Benfica's Quim is in Superb shape. One of the best keepers I've seen in action this season. But Scolari is stubborn as a freakin door and he'd put Ricardo in the 1st 11 even if he had Cech, Buffon, Saar or Casillas...



England's midfield isnt that great since there two best central midfielders Gerrard and Lampard seem to be unable to play with each other since the like to attack instead of defending so leave gaps for the opposition to exploit.


^ The partnership between lampard and gerrard wasnt good, it was expected to be something miraculous, magical even, but its been quite woeful. Barry with Gerrard/Lampard is a better partnership. Barry can hold back while one of them goes foward. Which has been quite good. The wingers have been rubbish, wright-phillips isnt good enough. Beckham is much better even at his age, and that was evident against croatia. Bentley might be able to fill in his shoes, but even though i'd hate to say it, i would think it would be wise for him to move to a bigger club. More compettion would make him better....i hope.

You guys are complaining about midfield? Carrick, Hargreaves, Barry, Downing, Lampard, Gerrard, Joe Cole and Jenas :/ Can we pick a few for ourselves?

As for beckham, I dont like him. I've seen some impressive games by wright-phillips, and dont forget Walcott, he could save England's winger 'problem' in the future.



Really? I live in Birmingham, what university in birmingham did you apply?The most recent (http://uk.reuters.com/article/sportsNews/idUKN3052805820080501?pageNumber=1&virtualBrandChannel=0) figures show that Arsenal, Liverpool and United are all in the top five richest clubs in the world with their annual turnover. And Chelsea have abramohvic so you might as well put them at the top of the list. The only other club who probably could complete financially with them is most likely madrid and milan (With berlusconi). So i wont be surprised if in another couple of years the CL become a league within a league within a league. Making teams like lyon and porto's chance even slimmer. Which is...really messed up. =/


That's inevitable, but for the near-future, I've got faith in Porto for the CL, since we have some amazing players who dont have the chance to play right now. When the 5 players I mentioned before were all gone (1's already out) and we've made ourselves a huge profit, we may be able to fill some positions with very good players. I've got no idea at how point will Porto be able to buy already renowned players, a little like Lyon is doing. Of course when I say I have faith in Porto for the CL, I'm speaking of the quarter-finals... semi-final if we're lucky in the draw. I also believe in miracles since we won it with Mourinho
[hr]
Oh and almost forgot, Portugal's 23 announced players for the Euro Cup:



Guarda Redes:
Ricardo (Bétis de Sevilla)
Quim (Benfica)
Rui Patrício (Sporting)

Defesas:
Bosingwa (FC Porto)
Bruno Alves (FC Porto)
Ricardo Carvalho (Chelsea)
Paulo Ferreira (Chelsea)
Pepe (Real Madrid)
Miguel (Valencia)
Fernando Meira (Estugarda)
Jorge Ribeiro (Boavista)

Médios:
Raúl Meireles (FC Porto)
Miguel Veloso (Sporting)
João Moutinho (Sporting)
Petit (Benfica)
Deco (Barcelona)
Nani (Man. United)

Avançados:
Quaresma (FC Porto)
Nuno Gomes (Benfica)
Simão (Atlético)
Hugo Almeida (Werder Bremen)
Hélder Postiga (Panathinaikos)
Cristiano Ronaldo(Man. United)


I'm kinda shocked with the decision of having only 5 original midfields, when we play with 3, sometimes 4 in the 11. Specially considering some of them are young (Veloso and Moutinho) and some of them are in horrible shape (Petit and Deco). Raul Meireles isnt that good... I was really hopping Scolari would give a chance to Manuel Fernandes and specially Pele, who's being used very regularly in Inter. Tiago is a player I think would be useful... but he's not playing much in Juve. Most of our center forwards are laughable. I dont think either Nuno Gomes or Postiga or even Almeida are capable of doing well in there. I hope Scolari ends up placing Ronaldo in the center. Less magic in the wings, but a guy who scores two times more goals than our entire attackers together shouldnt let us down...

[rtyd1]

For England i can see a 4-3-3 formation with Lamps, Stevie and Hargreaves/Barry. Up front Rooney supported by Young, Bentley,Cole or Agbonlahor in the wide positions. Beckham defo has the chance to feature in the England side but i think Owens time may be up, he seems to be lacking that cutting edge in front of goal which he had in the past for England.

About Bentley a move to Liverpool may do him good since they really need a good winger since pennant and kuijt are not players who will win you a league title and Bentley has the ability to become one.

I applied to the Aston uni for Economics and management and also agree about the Board. After the Carson Yeung takeover fiasco and also being unable to sign a good striker at the start of the season, Forssell didnt play enough games and Jerome just wasnt good enough, Zarate and Mcfadden didnt come until the second half of the season.

I have good news about Ben Arfa for you, he has been in talks with Arsenal about a move this year for about 12 million. I believe Carlos Vela will be a player to watch next season since his loan away at Osasuna ends soon and he should be able to get a work permit


You guys are complaining about midfield? Carrick, Hargreaves, Barry, Downing, Lampard, Gerrard, Joe Cole and Jenas :/ Can we pick a few for ourselves?


I can see where your coming from but the problem is these players dont play well in the national side. They are good players for their clubs but not for internationals where they always play poorly. I hope Capello is able to get these players to transfer club form for their country


and dont forget Walcott, he could save England's winger 'problem' in the future.

Walcott is a really a striker he prefers playing there than on the wings, just does it for arsenal since he needs games and hasnt fully developed yet i think. In the long term he wont be a winger though he be a henry like striker

[Lohnt]

I think it's ridiculous that Postiga plays for the national team, at least based on his games in Panathinaikos, he's terrible, even by Greek Superleague standards.

To be honest, I wish Edinho (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arnaldo_Edi_Lopes_da_Silva) would get a chance, for starters last season he had 6 goals all season, this season he had 5 goals in 5 matches, and a sixth one during the playoffs. He plays amazingly at both striker and right offensive positions; also he's fast and tall. For a Portuguese offensive player that plays in Greece (in case you get a fated matchup with us again =p) that would know how to play against a Greek defense, I would choose Edinho over Postiga anyday.

[Mendes]

I think it's ridiculous that Postiga plays for the national team

You think so too? Well, believe it or not, he's better than Nuno Gomes, but that's so easy.
I dont know Edinho, but we sure need some striker to flourish as soon as possible. Up till then, I hope either Hugo Almeida or Ronaldo play as center forwards.

I only checked Portugal's nominees for the euro. How were the other nation's nominees? Any big surprises?

[rtyd1]

Postiga has a decent record for Portugal i think 10 goals in 30 games. No one else really has a much better record but he's a shodow of the player he was hyped up to be when he moved to Tottenham

Big surprises about the Euro 08 so far are,
Henrik Larsson in the Sweeden squad, Clarence Seedorf has pulled out of the Netherlands' provisional squad and Pavel Nedved could come out of retirement for the Czech Republic
<hr noshade size="1">
If anyone cares Hollands provisional squad is

Goalkeepers: Edwin van der Sar (Manchester United), Maarten Stekelenburg (Ajax), Henk Timmer (Feyenoord), Sander Boschker (Twente Enschede)

Defenders: Wilfred Bouma (Aston Villa), Tim de Cler (Feyenoord), Urby Emanuelson (Ajax), John Heitinga (Ajax), Kew Jaliens (AZ Alkmaar), Joris Mathijsen (Hamburg), Mario Melchiot (Wigan Athletic), Andre Ooijer (Blackburn Rovers).

Midfielders: Ibrahim Afellay (PSV Eindhoven), Giovanni van Bronckhorst (Feyenoord), Orlando Engelaar (Twente Enschede), Nigel de Jong (Hamburg), Denny Landzaat (Feyenoord), Hedwiges Maduro (Valencia), Clarence Seedorf (AC Milan), Wesley Sneijder (Real Madrid), Rafael van der Vaart (Hamburg), Demy de Zeeuw (AZ Alkmaar).

Forwards: Ryan Babel (Liverpool), Klaas Jan Huntelaar (Ajax), Danny Koevermans (PSV Eindhoven), Dirk Kuyt (Liverpool), Ruud van Nistelrooy (Real Madrid), Robin van Persie (Arsenal), Arjen Robben (Real Madrid), Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink (Celtic).

[Lelo]

Gooooooooo Man U, who here is a Manchester United fan. There gonna take Chelsea out

[Mendes]

Nedved on Czech Republic is bad for me as they're stuck in the same group as Portugal.

Nowdays, Holland's team is composed by alot of players from their internal championship. Is it that dutch clubs are able to keep their players better than before or is it that there's less quality on the actual dutch football?
Still, I'm impressed at how van der Vaart is still in HSV... I consider him one of the very best players in the world, but he's still outside a huge clube of Europe. I wonder if this summer market he'll be responsible for a huge transfer.

[rtyd1]

Van der Vaart has said his time is up at Hamburg as he has achieved all that he can there and was planning to make a big move this summer. But Hamburg are not prepared to let him go easily since his contract in up in 2010 and the teamhe was linked with Valencia are in a lot of trouble finacialy and are selling there best players and the stadium this summer.
Imo the dutch national sqaud is much weaker than it has been in past years, they have no word class defenders, 1st choice goalkeeper is getting old and might not be able to replace him and only have two great midfielders Wesley Sneijder and Van der Vaart.
[hr]
Found an article about Van der vaart moving this season

In-demand Hamburg midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has admitted he is likely to leave the Bundesliga club at the end of the season.The Holland midfielder saw a move to Valencia fall through last summer after Hamburg rejected a 22million euro bid even though the player stated his desire to move to Spain.

And he is adamant he will not be denied a transfer again.

"I would like to have everything cleared up early, but we cannot agree in July that I will be staying - that would be unrealistic," he told Sport Bild magazine.

"What happens when Chelsea or another top club comes along on August 21 and offers 30 million euros?

"I would want to move, even at the very last minute of the transfer window."

Van der Vaart has impressed for Hamburg again this season, scoring 10 goals in 24 games to spearhead the club's bid to qualify for next season's Champions League.

The 25-year-old has a clause in his contract which enables him to leave in the summer of 2009 for just 1.5million euros.

And rather than risk losing him on the cheap, Hamburg are believed to be open to offers since talks over a new, improved deal with the Bundesliga side are "out of the question".

"Hamburg made me a great offer last year and I turned it down because my aim is to move to a big club where I can improve and win trophies," added van der Vaart.

"My opinion will not change."

[walkie]

waooww european championship is getting closer every day..and there is not much time left before turkey beats portugal :D

seriously guys, i just want some outsider opinions about turkey and qualifying from that group, do you think we can make it?

Turkey
Portugal
Czech
Switzerland

[Mendes]

I'm not familiarized with Turkey's team right now, but you guys have been qualifying regularly for the main national competitions in the last decade. Still, I'd be very surprised with something like 2002 and to tell the truth, Turkey had lots of trouble to qualify in the weakest group in theory. I'm betting on Portugal and Czech for the next round.

I wonder where will van der Vaart go to. Choices are very open for him, since HSV wont waste this opportunity to sell him for more than those ridiculous 1.5M€ mentioned. I think he may go to: Inter, who have no attacking midfielder other than stankovic, and the last can play winger; Juve, who's trying to rebuild the strongest team in Europe; Real Madrid, who would add another dutch prodigy to their squad in place of Guti, who seems to be the weakest midfielder of RM; Barcelona, who will apparently have a tough summer market with lots of ins and outs. Guardiola seems to want to change Barça radically, and Deco, Zambrotta, Ronaldinho and Puyol(!) are said to be on his dark book.

Today, UEFA cup final. Zenit vs Rangers... I dont feel too motivated to see this match :/

[Imperium]

Its on.....right now! I'll watch it, if it gets boring, ill just switch channels. A fiorentina and munich final would have been intresting, but this doesnt really seem to say "Watch Me". But ill still give it a go. I hope it gets exciting and is pretty even, since im neutral. :amuse


waooww european championship is getting closer every day..and there is not much time left before turkey beats portugal :D

seriously guys, i just want some outsider opinions about turkey and qualifying from that group, do you think we can make it?

Turkey
Portugal
Czech
Switzerland

To be honest i didnt even think turkey would qualify after what happened in 04 & 06. But now that they have i wouldnt rule them out, they have a history of over-achieving (Euro 00 & WC02) :p. Nihat has been pretty good, and Tuncay has been playing well for boro and if Emre performs, then they could have a chance of coming 2nd. But i really want to see Nuri Sahin, i hope he lives up to his reputation, although has he been called upto the squad for the euro's?

Anyway the Czech have lost Rosicky and frankly Nedved is too old, he might be able to lead them, but he wont regain his old form and i doubt his impact on the matches themselves will be impressive. Their defence is pretty good with the likes of Cech in goal and Jankulovki and Ujfalusi (damn their names are hard to spell >.>), their midfield is okay but upfront is their weak point. Koller is old and Baros hasnt had a good season with portsmouth and i doubt he will get many goals. And then you have a pretty decent swiss side that has home advantage (which could play a major part).

First place is going to portugal i would assume, but i think second will be fought for hard, the turks want to get back some pride, the swiss dont want to be embarrased and the Czechs want to get to the latter stages. My guess is though its going to be Portugal and - im stretching the imagination - Switzerland. Out of the two home nations they are the better side and home nations mostly do well, so i see an upset in that group coming. (Disclaimer: This has nothing to do with me wanting senderos to do well and come back a better player :oh)

This could be fun, why dont we post who we think will get through the other group stages. Whoever is closest gets a cookie. :p

[rtyd1]

Zenit have won the Uefa cup and beat Rangers 2 - 0,
I was rooting for Rangers since there a british club

For that group i think it ll be Portugal and the Czechs going through although Switzerland have a the ability to push them i think they lack a really talented player. I woudnt be surprised if Baros has a good tournament since he was in a very similar position in the last championships

Here is the Czech squad for the euros and Nedved has not come out of retirement

Goalkeepers: Jaromir Blazek (Nuremberg), Petr Cech (Chelsea), Daniel Zitka (Anderlecht) Defenders: Zdenek Grygera (Juventus), Marek Jankulovski (AC Milan), Michal Kadlec, Tomas Sivok (both Sparta Prague), Radoslav Kovac (Spartak Moscow), Zdenek Pospech (FC Copenhagen), David Rozehnal (Lazio), Tomas Ujfalusi (Fiorentina)

Midfielders: Tomas Galasek (Nuremberg), David Jarolim (Hamburg), Marek Matejovsky (Reading), Jaroslav Plasil (Osasuna), Jan Polak (Anderlecht), Daniel Pudil (Slavia Prague), Libor Sionko (FC Copenhagen), Stanislav Vlcek (Anderlecht)

Strikers: Milan Baros (Portsmouth), Martin Fenin (Eintracht Frankfurt), Jan Koller (Nuremberg), Vaclav Sverkos (Banik Ostrava).

Russia have also submitted their squad and Kerzhakov is missing surprisingly since hes there main striker

[Lelo]

waooww european championship is getting closer every day..and there is not much time left before turkey beats portugal :D

seriously guys, i just want some outsider opinions about turkey and qualifying from that group, do you think we can make it?

Turkey
Portugal
Czech
Switzerland

Turkey? I got a couple friends who are Turkish. And no i dont think u guys will make it but if u do I hope you take out Portugal, I hate them. They took out England last World Cup, that pissed me off. This Euro championship isnt gonna be as exciting for me cause stupid England didnt even qualify

[Mendes]

Turkey? I got a couple friends who are Turkish. And no i dont think u guys will make it but if u do I hope you take out Portugal, I hate them. They took out England last World Cup, that pissed me off. This Euro championship isnt gonna be as exciting for me cause stupid England didnt even qualify

And dont forget the Euro 04! xD I hope we continue to piss you off for many time :P

[Imperium]

And dont forget the Euro 04! xD I hope we continue to piss you off for many time :PMore like Scolari pisses us off. 02, 04, and 06...i really dont like that man. >.>

Anyway today is the Fa cup final, im feel like rooting for the underdogs cardiff city, but if portsmouth wins then a chance a english team will get to the uefa cup final will be higher. So im kinda stuck in a dilema, i think ill just see who plays the better football.

And i never laughed (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/main.jhtml?xml=/sport/2008/05/15/ufninter115.xml) harder. It might be true, but i just have this picture of mancini telling figo to go and make ancelotti sleep with the fishes, and i cant get it out. XD

[Lelo]

And dont forget the Euro 04! xD I hope we continue to piss you off for many time :P

LOL, damn you guys, Christiano and his ugly smile, I only respect Ronaldo cause he plays for Man U but other than that I hate his guts

[rtyd1]

It was the cheeky wink at Rooney when he got sent off that pissed of the england fans and the press

[Mendes]

*nostalgic memories :'D*

Well, Inter won the Serie A in the last sprint match. Zlatan saved this season for Inter, coming from injury he entered minute 50 and scored 2 goals soon after, breaking the tie and specially, breaking Inter's nervousness with Roma winning in the Catania match at that time. Figo says he'll play for another season, which is nice, I love watching him play.

In Spain, we wont have Sevilla in the CL this time. Atletico Madrid will take its place. Valencia saved their asses in the last matches and got themselves a 10th spot. They'll play the UEFA cup next season via Copa del Rey.

Porto *snif* lost the cup final with Sporting CP. 2-0 in the extra time. Its been pretty obvious to me that Porto's players have already closed the store since they won the league. Most players are already thinking of the club they will represent next... and Bosingwa... well, he didnt play, because Chelsea demanded that he wouldnt play the final so that he wouldnt get injured -_- His transfer was inevitable, but the timing was horrible. I cant believe Porto actually didnt use him coz of Chelsea's demands...

[Imperium]

^ I was watching the inter game, they were stumbling and bumbling until zlatan came on. The guy on his third shot won the title for them. He came on and then BAM! Goal. But more importantly Milan wont be playing in the CL, I - the ever bitter arsenal fan - wish luck to flamini in the coming uefa cup, i hope he does really well. :)


It was the cheeky wink at Rooney when he got sent off that pissed of the england fans and the pressThat wasnt only it, he was also trying to get him sent off. Rooney deserved the red card for trying to destroy carvalho's familey jewels but their was no reason for ronaldo to run across the pitch and complain to the ref and try to get his teammate sent off. Then came the "wink". And as Shearer - ever the gentleman - kindly put it "If i was rooney i would stick one in him" -> that is how everyone felt (...and i really wont be surprised if rooney did >.>). But if you look at it, it was club vs country and the fact that country won should not really be surprising.

[rtyd1]

Actually Ronaldo has said that he was just complaining that it was a foul to the referee not that it was a red card offence, Can we believe him though.
If you see the replay there was no malice in rooney when he reduced Carvalho's sperm count it was an accident and he should not have been sent off

[Imperium]

Actually Ronaldo has said that he was just complaining that it was a foul to the referee not that it was a red card offence, Can we believe him though.
If you see the replay there was no malice in rooney when he reduced Carvalho's sperm count it was an accident and he should not have been sent off
Yea, he wasnt even looking where he was stepping to be honest. But the referee said it was "violent conduct" and i do see where he was coming from. But im sure it could have easily been a yellow or even just a lecture since rooney wasnt looking...but ronaldo came in with his badgering so he had no choice i guess. That kind of tackle could be anything from a red to a lecture...and i guess ronaldo knew that and tried to get the best out of it...>.>;

[rtyd1]

There is no doubt Ronaldo behaved like a right twat in approaching the ref, i think some kind of rule should be imposed that only the captain can approach the ref or its a booking for the player

[Mendes]

I've discussed with you guys this matter of the captain isnt as important in most countries in comparison to as it is in England. And in Portugal, we actually couldnt care less who the captain is. Its just a symbolic 'title' given to the player with the most international games.

As for Ronaldo crying for Rooney's expulsion... I must say that's totally his style. What'd you expect? Its not club vs country, its just his dumb personality and bad attitude. If he had thought that trough, he'd think of the implications it would bring in the club and in the supporters. He was really lucky with the outcome of it, with Rooney saying it was past waters and Fergunson pointing their friendship. Ronaldo's shape increase was also very important. Merit for him on that

[rtyd1]

Ronaldo also said in the same interview that he would do the same thing again if the same situation arose in a match and that he has no regrets. Im guessing this time though he'll be off to Madrid

[◆ T.D.A ◆]

ronaldo aint going to madrid, maybe in 2 seasons time but not next season. Ronaldo rulz!!

[rtyd1]

A Man U fan i see good on ya. I think Ronaldo will move to Madrid before his carreer is up but not this year unless he does something stupid. Btw i dont think 100 million is enough for Ronaldo, he'll earn the club more than that if they keep wining like this season

[◆ T.D.A ◆]

A Man U fan i see good on ya. I think Ronaldo will move to Madrid before his carreer is up but not this year unless he does something stupid. Btw i dont think 100 million is enough for Ronaldo, he'll earn the club more than that if they keep wining like this season

yh when he does leave, i'm sure we can buy a handful of good players, and we do have nani.

[rtyd1]

Teams and subs :
4-3-3 will see Frank Lampard and Michael Ballack getting forward to support Didier Drogba through the middle, with Florent Malouda and Joe Cole on the wings.

United's line-up is more surprising. Fergie has left Ji-Sung Park out of the squad completely and Carlos Tevez will start alongside Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo in a 4-3-3.

Here are the subs,
Chelsea: Cudicini, Shevchenko, Mikel, Kalou, Alex, Belletti, Anelka.
United: Kuszczak, Anderson, Giggs, Nani, O'Shea, Fletcher, Silvestre

Man U won 6 - 5 on penalties

:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D

[thegreatest08]

GLORY GLORY MAN UTD GLORY GLORY MAN UTD.

are third champions league title.

we love u Ferguson!!!

[Totinona]

Can't believe Man.U actually won.What Van der Sar did before the penalty,pointing to the left,was very smart.
If I say so myself. :amuse

Anyways,congratulations to all united fans here. :>

[◆ T.D.A ◆]

CAN'T BELIEVE MANU WON! I REALLY THOUGHT TERRY WOULD SCORE, MAN!! RONALDO SCORED AND MISSED! WHAT A GAME. GLORY UNITED.

THE GAME WAS FANTASTIC, IT HAD EVERYTHING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :tem:tem:tem:tem:tem:tem

[Stiluz]

YES YESYEYSYEYSHEYYAYEAY YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH YES YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEES YESHJYESHEYAEWHYAEYEAEYYHEAEYAEYAEYEAYFASD YES
BEST GAME EVER!

[Mendes]

hah, and I missed the game! I was only able to see the 1st half and it was being amazing. Ronaldo's goal was superb and I heard Terry stumbled when he was attempting to score the winning penalty for Chelsea xD Must be tough to have the CL title one penalty away and miss it

[rtyd1]

Terry's standing foot slipped when he took the penalty and it was still to close for comfort. The blame really lies with Anelka whose penalty was poor and Drogba who acted like an arse and got himself sent off by slapping Vidic
[hr]
Was any Man u fans anxious about Van Der Sar in the shootout, he didnt have a great game in normal time and had chances to save penalties in the shootout but was unable to get a strong enough hand to it. Anelka really bottled it

[Stiluz]

Van der Sar is usually good at penalties, I was just worried in general, so exciting! >_>

[rtyd1]

Yeah in the community shield he saved 3 out of 3 Chelsea penalties, i was hoping for a repeat of that

[◆ T.D.A ◆]

I thought we were going to lose when ronaldo miss, and when terry was taking a penalty. Glad he missed. Drogba would have taken the penalty instead of terry so it is kinda his fault.

[Lelo]

GOOOOOOOOO, MANCHESTER UNITED BABY, finally we are the champs again.
[hr]

Ronaldo also said in the same interview that he would do the same thing again if the same situation arose in a match and that he has no regrets. Im guessing this time though he'll be off to Madrid

what is it with Madrid, they just keep signing the best for there team, thats not fair, after everyone leaves Madrid they suck too. They are like the Yankees of soccer

[rtyd1]

Real Madrid were formally known as the Galáctico's of football which is spanish for superstars. This policy meant that Real Madrid would sign players due to marketing potential. Usually the best players have the highest marketing potential but then you get people like Beckham who are decent footballers but money makers for the club. To make things worse they sacked a winning coach, Hierro left due to an internal dispute and sold off Makelele. Because of this they failed to win anything for three years

For the last two seasons Madrid have not gone for Galácticos but for more effective players like Diarra, Ramos, Cannavaro, Gago, Higuian and Sneijder. Since they have been winning league titles recently they are now being linked with the real top players like Kaka, Fabregas and Ronaldo of course.

About the people that left Madrid sucking there are explanations. Figo was old, Beckham has had injury problems and Ronaldo is a fat shit period

[Imperium]

GOOOOOOOOO, MANCHESTER UNITED BABY, finally we are the champs again.
<hr noshade size="1">


what is it with Madrid, they just keep signing the best for there team, thats not fair, after everyone leaves Madrid they suck too. They are like the Yankees of soccer

That is more like chelsea. Real madrid dont go crazy in the international transfer market like they use too. If you see their squad its not like its filled with HUGE superstars, its like any other big team. Chelsea have taken the role of being the galacticos of football. And to be fair, madrid doesnt really need to try so hard to attract big star players, its the most succesful team in europe and the attraction that it holds for ronaldo is understandable. I guess he will go eventually but maybe not this season, especially if ferguson doesnt want to sell him. Maybe in a few years when his form starts to dip or he gets in one of those epic ego clashes with sir alex.

As for the final, it was a match of two halves. United dominated in the first, and i was suprised to see probably wes brown's performance of the season. I was really impressed with him, he was delivering amazing crosses, defending well, and attacking too. All round good performance by him, as for united, they probably should have been upfront by half time. Chelsea in the first half though were dire, couldnt seem to hold onto the ball, although near the end they started to get better, especially in the second half when their were times united were played off the pitch. Exciting final, good match by both teams, they both gave it their all.

btw, was it only me or was everybody seemed to be falling on the floor at the begining of the match? Sheesh >.>

Edit: http://redrants.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/5jkcfh.jpg

Poor terry...but i couldnt stop laughing to this >.>;

[rtyd1]

Looked at the pic, its sly but funny,
On Sky they said the slipping was due to the pitch. The blades that players use were cutting up the pitch apparently so many players were slipping and had to switch to studs like Cashley Cole did 10 mins into the match

[Imperium]

Looked at the pic, its sly but funny,
On Sky they said the slipping was due to the pitch. The blades that players use were cutting up the pitch apparently so many players were slipping and had to switch to studs like Cashley Cole did 10 mins into the matchI heard the pitch was a right mess the day before, the russians just put it in or something. Ah, I saw the cashley changing the studs didnt know it was to do with the pitch...my hopes were raised though, because at first i thought he was in pain...but alas it was not to be and he continued. :(

btw, what channel did you watch it on?

[rtyd1]

Sky Sports, what bout you

It was all over the sports new that the pitch was around Championship quality, Frankly im surprised no one from Chelsea's blamed the pitch

[Imperium]

ITV, i usually watch CL on ITV. Nothing against sky but its a habit i suppose, but for international the bbc, they hate adverts as much as i do. :D


It was all over the sports new that the pitch was around Championship quality, Frankly im surprised no one from Chelsea's blamed the pitchGive it time. I expect it to dominate the headlines in the coming weeks. Probably a player will say something and it will end in a war of words like it always does...I wonder if grant will keep his job, i first thought he was a joke, but on his achievments have been pretty impressive. Although barnsley and tottenham have been pretty funny, i think he did a alright job overall.

The euro's are coming and england is playing a friendly too! I wonder what capello will do, he still adjusting i suppose, but i hope for a good match. (i.e 10:0 to england :D)

[rtyd1]

Yup, imo Grant deserves to keep his job he's done a better job than the special one would have. Unfortunately its big gay Rmn Abr making the decisions and because of that he'll be out and somone like Rijkaard or Mancini will be in charge next season to bring some "sexy" football.

The reason why i loathe ITV lies in a commentator named David Pleat, hes like ITV's eqiuvalent of Jamie. I wanted to strangle him when he called Pirlo Perlo for every AC Milan game ITV covered over the last three seasons
[hr]


The euro's are coming and england is playing a friendly too! I wonder what capello will do, he still adjusting i suppose, but i hope for a good match. (i.e 10:0 to england :D)

Time for another Peter Crouch scoring spree:tem:tem,
Seriously Capello will have us playing boring football for a while at least. We ll be lucky to win 3 - 0

[Mendes]

Real Madrid were formally known as the Galáctico's of football which is spanish for superstars. This policy meant that Real Madrid would sign players due to marketing potential. Usually the best players have the highest marketing potential but then you get people like Beckham who are decent footballers but money makers for the club. To make things worse they sacked a winning coach, Hierro left due to an internal dispute and sold off Makelele. Because of this they failed to win anything for three years

For the last two seasons Madrid have not gone for Galácticos but for more effective players like Diarra, Ramos, Cannavaro, Gago, Higuian and Sneijder. Since they have been winning league titles recently they are now being linked with the real top players like Kaka, Fabregas and Ronaldo of course.

About the people that left Madrid sucking there are explanations. Figo was old, Beckham has had injury problems and Ronaldo is a fat shit period

I agree Real Madrid's recent market policy has improved a lot last 2 years. I just wonder if that had a hand of Capello. Up till he came, Madrid had thousands of superstars and in unbalanced positions. I think he cleaned the house when he came. Then Schuster came and didnt get too excited with the financial power of the club and Robben was probably the only 'star' hired last season.

One of RMadrid's biggest problems is, imo, the presidential elections. Any candidate for president of RM has to have a Lot of money, and the candidates use to promise to hire the world's top superstars to get more votes, and it actually works very well... What doesnt work so well is the sportive success of those superstars.
I think Madrid would have done much better with Makelele, Cambiasso, Eto'o and as you mentioned, specially Hierro. He was a top class center back and a huge captain. Probably the most important player in a decade of Madrid's impressive period.
I think Figo was being important for Madrid when they were in 'dark times', on Barça's shadow. He's amazing at pushing the team forward, but he cant take being benched, and left for better that time.



That is more like chelsea. Real madrid dont go crazy in the international transfer market like they use too. If you see their squad its not like its filled with HUGE superstars, its like any other big team. Chelsea have taken the role of being the galacticos of football. And to be fair, madrid doesnt really need to try so hard to attract big star players, its the most succesful team in europe and the attraction that it holds for ronaldo is understandable. I guess he will go eventually but maybe not this season, especially if ferguson doesnt want to sell him. Maybe in a few years when his form starts to dip or he gets in one of those epic ego clashes with sir alex.

As for the final, it was a match of two halves. United dominated in the first, and i was suprised to see probably wes brown's performance of the season. I was really impressed with him, he was delivering amazing crosses, defending well, and attacking too. All round good performance by him, as for united, they probably should have been upfront by half time. Chelsea in the first half though were dire, couldnt seem to hold onto the ball, although near the end they started to get better, especially in the second half when their were times united were played off the pitch. Exciting final, good match by both teams, they both gave it their all.

btw, was it only me or was everybody seemed to be falling on the floor at the begining of the match? Sheesh >.>

Edit: http://redrants.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/5jkcfh.jpg

Poor terry...but i couldnt stop laughing to this >.>;


LOL! That's cruel, haha!

Well, I saw the highlights of the final, and Chelsea was very unlucky in the 2nd half. Drogba's and Lampard's strikes deserved better than the post. In general, it was very tied, and specially, one of the best finals ever. Sometimes the finals get too boring coz both teams are nervous and afraid to do a decisive mistake. This time it was opportunity after opportunity! I hope I still get to see the full match on TV...

[rtyd1]

Well, I saw the highlights of the final, and Chelsea was very unlucky in the 2nd half. Drogba's and Lampard's strikes deserved better than the post. In general, it was very tied, and specially, one of the best finals ever. Sometimes the finals get too boring coz both teams are nervous and afraid to do a decisive mistake. This time it was opportunity after opportunity! I hope I still get to see the full match on TV...

Man U deserved more from the 1st half as well. Tevez and Carrick had good enough chances for a 3 - 0 lead and the Chelsea goal was a combination of luck and Van Der Sar's boots.
I was praying for a proper final unlike the community shield and the FA cup and we got it. Only the AC Milan - Liverpool final was a better game from the last few years


JT is an liar see this video http://sosoarsenal.blogg.se/?c=1211537785ate
Terry's statmant was
"There was some pushing and shoving, I admit that," he told The Sun. "But no spitting, that is not my style. No way would I spit at another player."

[Lelo]

I watched it on ESPN2 in HD, out of the whole tournament, this was the only game in HD and it looked great

[Mendes]

Chelsea fired Grant. Its official and Mancini and Rijkaard are the front line names for the Blues. I was personally surprised with this news. Grant's season was amazing despite having lost everything in the last matches. It was very difficult to do better, but I guess that's not good enough for Abramovic. I hope Mancini goes to Chelsea so that Mourinho can take Inter's hot seat.
[hr]
Actually Mourinho took Inter's hot seat first than Mancini took Chelsea :P
Its said the portuguese coach will earn 9M€ for year :drool
Lampard and Deco are already said to be in Mourinho's shortlist

[sk.nite]

I think Mourinho's style is fitting for the Serie A (more than the Premier League imo) and he'll make a strong team. Inter will have a hard time competing with Milan, since they don't play Champions and will focus on winning the Scudetto.

[◆ T.D.A ◆]

Inter aren't suited to Champions League football, they need to get in players which can win them the CL.

I'm hoping ManUtd can retain the CL, not many clubs have won baCK TO BACK CL.

[Mendes]

I agree with sk.nite. Mourinho's style fits Inter and I'm pretty confident he'll create a team not only to keep the dominance in the internal competition, but also a team who can be competitive in the CL. Inter has players, has money, and now, imo, they have a great and ambitious coach. Sometimes I criticized Mancini for his lack of ambition which caused him to loose an 11 point difference advantage and delayed everything for the last match.
Next season, Serie A will be unquestionably much more competitive, with Roma as strong as ever and I've heard rumors that they may be selling the club to a multi-millionaire. Juve gets stronger every season and they're looking forward to retrieve that amazing squad they had before calcio-caos. Milan is always a contender and Fiorentina is improving their status at great speed. I was also hopping Lazio had a word to say. They've been loosing status as fast as Fiorentina is winning it, and they have some very good players here and there.
Inter'll have to sweat alot next season :P

[sk.nite]

Inter aren't suited to Champions League football, they need to get in players which can win them the CL.

I'm hoping ManUtd can retain the CL, not many clubs have won baCK TO BACK CL.

I don't want to burst your bubble, but the chances of ANY team retaining the CL in its modern version are very low. The fact that it hasn't happened yet backs my statement. The chances of Man Utd winning the CL next season is about 8%, just a little higher than the rest of the usual candidates.

[Lelo]

Chelsea fired Grant. Its official and Mancini and Rijkaard are the front line names for the Blues. I was personally surprised with this news. Grant's season was amazing despite having lost everything in the last matches. It was very difficult to do better, but I guess that's not good enough for Abramovic. I hope Mancini goes to Chelsea so that Mourinho can take Inter's hot seat.
<hr noshade size="1">
Actually Mourinho took Inter's hot seat first than Mancini took Chelsea :P
Its said the portuguese coach will earn 9M€ for year :drool
Lampard and Deco are already said to be in Mourinho's shortlist

why would they fire grant when they almost won UEFA

[rtyd1]

why would they fire grant when they almost won UEFA

Because they lost the carling cup, the premier league and the champions league after reaching the final, Chelsea wanted to win those all but the finished with nothing

[Mendes]

I think Grant's firing was cruel, but he Was fired. Its in Chelsea's official site, and they're currently looking for a new manager. I wonder if Abramovic will wait for the end of the Euro Cup to hire a new manager, since these nation level competitions usually bring some coaches down when they dont achieve the FA's expectations or when their contract ends. I could see Abramovic having fun buying the players by himself without even having a manager to choose them. Fernando Torres seems to be his new target.

[Lelo]

Because they lost the carling cup, the premier league and the champions league after reaching the final, Chelsea wanted to win those all but the finished with nothing

well making it to the finals is good enough, they should have left him for a little while longer. Truth be told, Man U should have lost that game, if Terry didnt hit the pole they would have won

[sk.nite]

Because they lost the carling cup, the premier league and the champions league after reaching the final, Chelsea wanted to win those all but the finished with nothing

Chelsea is just one of those clubs with bad karma/uvelievable bad luck. It's been like that historically. I think they should be happy enough with the Premier Leagues they won recently, but I guess that with the quality of players they bring in each season the fans wouldn't be satisfied by that.

[rtyd1]

well making it to the finals is good enough, they should have left him for a little while longer. Truth be told, Man U should have lost that game, if Terry didnt hit the pole they would have won

For some of the fans yes but to the retards in charge of the club ending a season trophyless in unacceptable for a club of chelsea's stature. Also Grant was never able to play the kind of football Roman wanted and Mancini / Rijkaard are supposed to be able to play attacking football
[hr]

Chelsea is just one of those clubs with bad karma/uvelievable bad luck. It's been like that historically. I think they should be happy enough with the Premier Leagues they won recently, but I guess that with the quality of players they bring in each season the fans wouldn't be satisfied by that.

The majority of fans were satisfied and Grant was begining to win them over it was the people who ran the club who were dissatisfied with the season

[Imperium]

I think Grant's firing was cruel, but he Was fired. Its in Chelsea's official site, and they're currently looking for a new manager. I wonder if Abramovic will wait for the end of the Euro Cup to hire a new manager, since these nation level competitions usually bring some coaches down when they dont achieve the FA's expectations or when their contract ends. I could see Abramovic having fun buying the players by himself without even having a manager to choose them. Fernando Torres seems to be his new target.It was cruel, i expected them to at least give him his old job as director of football. Which they didnt. And i think abramovich buys whoever he wants wether their is a coach there or not (shevchenko). Real football has become his personal Football manager.


Chelsea is just one of those clubs with bad karma/uvelievable bad luck. It's been like that historically. I think they should be happy enough with the Premier Leagues they won recently, but I guess that with the quality of players they bring in each season the fans wouldn't be satisfied by that.To be honest, barnsley deserved their win in the league. They desired it more, and fought chelsea for every ball. While the league cup defeat, it was a pretty even match. But your right about the league cup, tottenham as usual were rubbish. Chelsea in all honesty should have won. :oh

For some of the fans yes but to the retards in charge of the club ending a season trophyless in unacceptable for a club of chelsea's stature. Also Grant was never able to play the kind of football Roman wanted and Mancini / Rijkaard are supposed to be able to play attacking football


The majority of fans were satisfied and Grant was begining to win them over it was the people who ran the club who were dissatisfied with the seasonYea, Abramovich wants "sexy" football. But i doubt mancini will give it to him, inter dont really play the most attractive football in serie a. It would be better for him to go for spalletti or something but he is not going to leave roma, i'd bet. Rijkaard with barcelona do play good football, but i dont think he has the right temperment to control a chelsea dressing room full of inflated ego's. He couldnt do it this season with barcelona, and i doubt he would be able to do it with chelsea. Another candidate would be the genius that is Guus Hiddink. But hiddink seems to prefer to manage underdogs so it doesnt seem likely he will be going to chelsea.

Btw, with the help of the spanish press, Madrid are trying everthing humanly possible to try and get ronaldo from the mancs. Not only does it seem the whole madrid dressing room is coming out and singing his praises, the best i read so far is that they "apparently" sent him a expensive audi (Why? Dont ask me >.>) and have made it known they are willing to pay him 9million euro's a year (making him the highest paid player in the world). You cant see they arent trying. XDDD Intrestingly though, when the ronaldo-real news started to pick up, it seems that the newspapers have suddenly got bored of talking about a "mass exodus" from arsenal. It was amusing while it lasted. -_-;

[rtyd1]

It was cruel, i expected them to at least give him his old job as director of football. Which they didnt. And i think abramovich buys whoever he wants wether their is a coach there or not (shevchenko). Real football has become his personal Football manager.

Ah but they did offer him his old job back but Grant didnt want to stay.
Chelsea appararenty have a 3-4 man shortlist with Mancini, Hiddink, Rijkaard ans surprisingly Deschamps who hasnt done much at all after taking Monaco to the CL final

[Mendes]

Well, Grant or any other person wouldnt accept such demotion and still stay at the club. I actually think this opportunity he had in Chelsea can catapult him to a good managing career in a club with less ambitions.
Last time I saw Deschamps he was in serie B helping Juve to recover their penalty points and go to the serie A. Then he was replaced with Ranieri and I've never heard of him since then. Not a bad coach at all, but if Abramovic is really interested in winning titles at all costs, an experienced coach would be the best option. I cant believe no one turns to Eriksson...

About the Real Madrid's constantly pressing Ronaldo matter, I guess they've far crossed the line. I mean, the spanish press doesnt just put him in every newspaper cover... they simply launch news connecting Ronaldo to RM about once every 5 hours... I'm so sick and tired of reading the word 'Ronaldo' followed by the word 'Madrid' everytime I check online news :/
The thing about the Audi they sent to the portuguese hotel where Portugal's team is staging was unbelievable. Is that even legal? lol!

[rtyd1]

Sven has been mentioned but not very seriously since he hasnt won anything for a while, if he leaves Man City he'll be joining Mexico by the sound of it. Grant has impressed the Man City owner and will be offered the job it seems.
The latest news about Inter is that Mancini is going to be sacked and Mourinho will replace him, it all but been confirmed

I've already grow tired about the Ronaldo saga and i hope there wont be anything more for a while. Man U have reported them to FIFA but since its posted in a newpaper not directly linked to Madrid they cant do anything about it. Expect more for at least two weeks

[Mendes]

RM's chairman just told the press they'll give up harassing trying to buy Ronaldo, since they dont want to loose respect of a club they consider as a 'friend club'

[KnuckleheadedNinja]

i didn't even know a thread like this exist.

MANCHEASTER UNITED FOREVER.

We are the champion
No time for losers(chelsea)
'cause we are the champions of the world.

we are the best club team in the world right now, no arguement

[rtyd1]

Mourinho is the Inter coach, Hleb is believed to have agreed terms with Barca and Spurs continue to wave their money around by meeting Capel from Sevilla's release clause and are favorites to sign Gio Dos Santos from Barca

The man u-madrid saga continues :):tem:D
Queiroz Hits Out In Ronaldo Row, Wed 28 May, 03:09 PM

Man U assistant manager Carlos Queiroz has launched an extraordinary attack on the Spanish nation and Real Madrid in particular over what he believes are attempts to "naturalise" Cristiano Ronaldo (http://mangahelpers.com/forums/../football/cristianoronaldo.html).
The Portuguese coach draws a bizarre comparison between the player and Christopher Columbus.
Real Madrid have made no secret of their desire to recruit Ronaldo, prompting United to consider reporting them to FIFA.
But Queiroz feels Madrid's outspoken courting of his Portuguese compatriot is about more than their wish to snap up the gifted winger, claiming it is part of the long history and rivalry between Portugal and Spain.
"Cristiano Ronaldo will never be Spanish! As they will never take Olivenca again," he told Portuguese newspaper Jornal do Noticias, referring to the small town on the disputed border between the two countries.
Queiroz also delved further into the historic rivalry, alluding to explorer Christopher Columbus - who both countries claim as theirs - and the 60-year Philippine Dynasty when Portugal was ruled by three Spanish kings until the bloodless revolution of 1640.
"They already did the same with Christopher Columbus, and it now seems they want to naturalise Cristiano Ronaldo," added the United number two.
"Have they already forgotten what we did to them in the past? We will never lose our patience."
With Portugal preparing for Euro 2008 (http://mangahelpers.com/forums/../football/euro/), Queiroz knows the furore surrounding Ronaldo's future could not have come at a worse time.
"It's being done in a manner to distract the Portugal team, at the height of their preparations for the European Championships," he said.
"But I am convinced that despite pressure from the Spanish sporting press he will not accept to change his nationality.
"However, it is an attack with a well-defined strategy and Portugal should be worried about that."

[Imperium]

Sven has been mentioned but not very seriously since he hasnt won anything for a while, if he leaves Man City he'll be joining Mexico by the sound of it. Grant has impressed the Man City owner and will be offered the job it seems.I've just realised why hasnt anybody thought of lippi? He is unemployed, and said he wants to work in another country. Maybe they already approached him and he turned them down. That would be intresting. :XD


[/COLOR] Queiroz Hits Out In Ronaldo Row, Wed 28 May, 03:09 PM

Man U assistant manager Carlos Queiroz has launched an extraordinary attack on the Spanish nation and Real Madrid in particular over what he believes are attempts to "naturalise" Cristiano Ronaldo (http://mangahelpers.com/forums/../football/cristianoronaldo.html).
The Portuguese coach draws a bizarre comparison between the player and Christopher Columbus.
Real Madrid have made no secret of their desire to recruit Ronaldo, prompting United to consider reporting them to FIFA.
But Queiroz feels Madrid's outspoken courting of his Portuguese compatriot is about more than their wish to snap up the gifted winger, claiming it is part of the long history and rivalry between Portugal and Spain.
"Cristiano Ronaldo will never be Spanish! As they will never take Olivenca again," he told Portuguese newspaper Jornal do Noticias, referring to the small town on the disputed border between the two countries.
Queiroz also delved further into the historic rivalry, alluding to explorer Christopher Columbus - who both countries claim as theirs - and the 60-year Philippine Dynasty when Portugal was ruled by three Spanish kings until the bloodless revolution of 1640.
"They already did the same with Christopher Columbus, and it now seems they want to naturalise Cristiano Ronaldo," added the United number two.
"Have they already forgotten what we did to them in the past? We will never lose our patience."
With Portugal preparing for Euro 2008 (http://mangahelpers.com/forums/../football/euro/), Queiroz knows the furore surrounding Ronaldo's future could not have come at a worse time.
"It's being done in a manner to distract the Portugal team, at the height of their preparations for the European Championships," he said.
"But I am convinced that despite pressure from the Spanish sporting press he will not accept to change his nationality.
"However, it is an attack with a well-defined strategy and Portugal should be worried about that."

Thanks for that, i havent laughed that hard in a long time. XD Whats intresting though is that in the middle of Queiroz's ramblings is that he does bring up a good point. For example look at Best, the way we talk about him you would think he is english, right? But i doubt that real madrid is involved in a conspiracy with the spanish press in trying to convince the world that ronaldo is spanish. :rofl

btw, was'nt columbus italian? :oh

And for Euro news, France beat ecuador 2-0 in a friendly. Which is not relativly intresting but how they won was amazing. Bafetimbi gomis scored two goals in his debut! (Apparently the last person to do that was zidane). Whats more intresting though is that he was substituted on in the second half so only played 45min. He scored two (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z20txETBHQU&feature=related) goals (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGhJsn3cK-s&feature=related) that are just amazing. Anyway Domenech just cut down france's squad to its final 23. And Flamini is not in it. :D Goalkeepers: Gregory Coupet (Lyon), Sebastien Frey (Fiorentina/ITA), Steve Mandanda (Marseille)

Defenders: Eric Abidal (Barcelona/ESP), Patrice Evra (Manchester United/ENG), William Gallas (Arsenal/ENG), Willy Sagnol (Bayern Munich/GER), Lilian Thuram (Barcelona/ESP), Francois Clerc (Lyon), Sebastien Squillaci (Lyon), Jean-Alain Boumsong (Lyon)

Midfielders: Lassana Diarra (Portsmouth/ENG), Claude Makelele (Chelsea/ENG), Jeremy Toulalan (Lyon), Patrick Vieira (Inter Milan/ITA), Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich/GER), Samir Nasri (Marseille)

Forwards:: Nicolas Anelka (Chelsea/ENG), Thierry Henry (Barcelona/ESP), Florent Malouda (Chelsea/ENG), Karim Benzema (Lyon), Sidney Govou (Lyon), Bafetimbi Gomis (St Etienne)

[sk.nite]

The man u-madrid saga continues :):tem:D
Queiroz Hits Out In Ronaldo Row, Wed 28 May, 03:09 PM

Man U assistant manager Carlos Queiroz has launched an extraordinary attack on the Spanish nation and Real Madrid in particular over what he believes are attempts to "naturalise" Cristiano Ronaldo (http://mangahelpers.com/forums/../football/cristianoronaldo.html).
The Portuguese coach draws a bizarre comparison between the player and Christopher Columbus.
Real Madrid have made no secret of their desire to recruit Ronaldo, prompting United to consider reporting them to FIFA.
But Queiroz feels Madrid's outspoken courting of his Portuguese compatriot is about more than their wish to snap up the gifted winger, claiming it is part of the long history and rivalry between Portugal and Spain.
"Cristiano Ronaldo will never be Spanish! As they will never take Olivenca again," he told Portuguese newspaper Jornal do Noticias, referring to the small town on the disputed border between the two countries.
Queiroz also delved further into the historic rivalry, alluding to explorer Christopher Columbus - who both countries claim as theirs - and the 60-year Philippine Dynasty when Portugal was ruled by three Spanish kings until the bloodless revolution of 1640.
"They already did the same with Christopher Columbus, and it now seems they want to naturalise Cristiano Ronaldo," added the United number two.
"Have they already forgotten what we did to them in the past? We will never lose our patience."
With Portugal preparing for Euro 2008 (http://mangahelpers.com/forums/../football/euro/), Queiroz knows the furore surrounding Ronaldo's future could not have come at a worse time.
"It's being done in a manner to distract the Portugal team, at the height of their preparations for the European Championships," he said.
"But I am convinced that despite pressure from the Spanish sporting press he will not accept to change his nationality.
"However, it is an attack with a well-defined strategy and Portugal should be worried about that."

That's one giant load of shit -_-.

You'd think that after "el equipo de los galacticos" Real Madrid learned something about making a team of only 50000000$ players, but apparently not. If it was up to Calderon, I think he would put Kaka, Ronaldo, Robben, Messi, Raul, Van Nistelroy and Sneijder in the same team and leave Casillas alone in the defense.

[Mendes]

Lol Queiroz lost a huge opportunity to shut up imo.
As for France not selecting Flamini... that's nonsense. He plays more and better than Diarra, Vieira, Makelele and probably Toulalan. Its great news for me. I'm done with loosing against France in these cups...

I was watching England vs USA in the 1st half, but it was boring. England seems to be testing some formations, which is understandable. The 4.4.2 with Beckham and Gerrard in the wings isnt bad at all. Ashley Cole is in great shape and he can cover for Gerrards nature of searching interior areas. Still, its not a formation I enjoy. The 4.3.3 is usually more attractive and it could work with Rooney and Beckham in the wings.
The 1-0 was scored by Terry, who couldnt have scored in a better time, after his nightmare night 1 week ago. Beckham's cross in the FK was as terrific as ever. It seems like a FK awarded to England is almost like a penalty when Beck's around
[hr]

That's one giant load of shit -_-.

You'd think that after "el equipo de los galacticos" Real Madrid learned something about making a team of only 50000000$ players, but apparently not. If it was up to Calderon, I think he would put Kaka, Ronaldo, Robben, Messi, Raul, Van Nistelroy and Sneijder in the same team and leave Casillas alone in the defense.

Yeah its that typical Real Madrid's philosophy: 'Its cool to suffer 4 goals as long as we score 5'.
Right now I think they've been controlling themselves not to buy 3-4 superstars every year and they've been investing in the defense (1st Cannavaro, then Metzelder, Pepe and now Garay).
I dont know if that was Capello's influence, but RM has been alot better now. I still remember when they had Ronaldo (el Gordito), Owen, Raul, Morientes and Portillo to play as center forwards...

[sk.nite]

Yeah its that typical Real Madrid's philosophy: 'Its cool to suffer 4 goals as long as we score 5'.
Right now I think they've been controlling themselves not to buy 3-4 superstars every year and they've been investing in the defense (1st Cannavaro, then Metzelder, Pepe and now Garay).
I dont know if that was Capello's influence, but RM has been alot better now. I still remember when they had Ronaldo (el Gordito), Owen, Raul, Morientes and Portillo to play as center forwards...

Calling Ronaldo gordito it's almost a praise XD.

I think that Real Madrid still plays mediocre football, but now Barcelona (and Valencia) is even worse than them, so they don't have much competition. Villareal getting the second place is a clear indication of that. Capello did make the team a little more balanced, I'll give him that, but it's more of a drop in their rivals performance rather than a dramatic improvement of their own the cause of their victories in la liga.

[Mendes]

I totally agree and I've said that many times here. Its unbelievable how the last 10 weeks in Spain went... Real Madrid could draw as much as they liked coz Barça would draw or loose as well. When Messi got injured that was so obvious that Real could have won the league much, much sooner if they actually won games like a normal champion would... Its also true that the spanish league is very competitive, more than any other imo, but Barça, Valencia, Atletico Madrid, Zaragoza and even Real Madrid were way under expectations. Only Vilarreal went above expectations and I saw some games where they were lucky.

Its curious we've been talking about summer transfers and we've completely forgot Zaragoza's relegation that will cost them the loss of lots of superb players. Among others, I can see Ayala, Juanfran, Luccin, Aimar and Diego Milito as candidates to leave the club.

[Lelo]

How many title did Man U take this year?

[Leen]

^
Two

The Champions League and the Premier League

[Mendes]

Actually, Man U won the Community Shield too over Chelsea. No doubt Man U was the team of the year whether you like them or not. The future's bright for them as well, as Anderson is yet to show the overwhelming potential he has. Believe me, I know. He played in FC Porto for a short time (he was injured by 6 months the only season he played for us) but he was something else. Nani seems to have evolved alot too. I think Man U should focus on a right side back, like Daniel Alves, Rafinha or Behrami. Lets also see how the Ronaldo novel goes on. I'm not convinced with Real Madrid giving up on the portuguese winger.

I'm already surprised with such agitated market even before the Euro Cup!

[rtyd1]

Thats the way it is these days, mid table sides have £30-50 million budgets and since every one else is buying they have to do the same to keep up. There is not going to be another Ajax who won the CL with nearly all the players they developed themselves if the transfer market keeps expanding. The closest side to the Ajax team is Wenger's Arsenal but as Mourinho (i think) said he takes diamonds and polishes them. Most of his talent is bought between 16-21 and then furthur developed.

I could see Anderson taking over PS role in midfield for Man U, the only dissapointing thing i can think of is his lack of goals. If he is to become world class he going to have to improve his shooting so he can get 15-20 goals a season from a midfield role

[Mendes]

Thats the way it is these days, mid table sides have £30-50 million budgets and since every one else is buying they have to do the same to keep up. There is not going to be another Ajax who won the CL with nearly all the players they developed themselves if the transfer market keeps expanding. The closest side to the Ajax team is Wenger's Arsenal but as Mourinho (i think) said he takes diamonds and polishes them. Most of his talent is bought between 16-21 and then furthur developed.

I could see Anderson taking over PS role in midfield for Man U, the only dissapointing thing i can think of is his lack of goals. If he is to become world class he going to have to improve his shooting so he can get 15-20 goals a season from a midfield role

Yeah Anderson's finishing is poor. He scored a few goals for Porto but nothing impressive and he's yet to score for Man U. I guess its not a quality of his, but I dont think a player has to score goals to porve his worth. Of course that helps... proof is Ronaldo. He's scoring goals impressively but his assists are dropping. When Nistelrooy was around Ronaldo assisted much more, specially in crosses. I guess having a center forward with less hight like Tevez lowers Ronaldo's capability of assist in comparison of what he did with the legendary flying dutchman around

[KnuckleheadedNinja]

How many title did Man U take this year?

two. EPL and UEFA championship.

[Imperium]

Lol Queiroz lost a huge opportunity to shut up imo.
As for France not selecting Flamini... that's nonsense. He plays more and better than Diarra, Vieira, Makelele and probably Toulalan. Its great news for me. I'm done with loosing against France in these cups... Flamini does have a higher work rate then those players but i wont even try to guess whats going on in domenech head. I think he is opting for a more experienced approach. Vieira couldnt be left out, and even at his age Makelele is still one of the best defensive midfielders in the game. So i wouldnt be surprised if Diarra or Toulalan dont even get a lot of games.



I was watching England vs USA in the 1st half, but it was boring. England seems to be testing some formations, which is understandable. The 4.4.2 with Beckham and Gerrard in the wings isnt bad at all. Ashley Cole is in great shape and he can cover for Gerrards nature of searching interior areas. Still, its not a formation I enjoy. The 4.3.3 is usually more attractive and it could work with Rooney and Beckham in the wings.
The 1-0 was scored by Terry, who couldnt have scored in a better time, after his nightmare night 1 week ago. Beckham's cross in the FK was as terrific as ever. It seems like a FK awarded to England is almost like a penalty when Beck's aroundIt was a dire match, so im not surprised you only watched half of it. I think we waited about 20minutes before their was even a shot on goal, and even that wasnt on target! Lampard was invisible for large parts of the match. Hargreaves on the other hand was playing really well, much more dynamic as a central midfielder than a fullback. I hope he plays more games to try and cement a spot in midfield. God knows Lampard and Gerrard need more competition. Another impressive performance though, by gerrard who was playing on the wings. Which was surprising since he didnt really do good on the wings for liverpool against Arsenal in the CL. He did do good their, but i dont see him playing their in the future. Since Joe cole is waiting in line and i think he would bring more to the wings just how gerrard would bring more to the midfield. Terry's header was well taken from a beauty of a freekick by beckham, who does want to let go of that right wing role so easily. Bentley who later came on for him wasnt bad, but didnt have a huge impact on the match. The match started to pick up pace after Lampard was taken off for Barry. Who was another impressive performer, playing a nice ball for gerrard to tap in for the second goal. I hope we get to see more of hargreaves/barry midfield because as much as lampard is impressive for chelsea he needs more competition for his role with england or (like today) is more than likely to just sit back and not bother. Overall the match was rubbish and to be honest it was against a weak american side who probably should never play without Landon Donovan's name on the Starting XI. =/

Btw, did anybody see the recent craze on youtube over beckhams 70 yard goal? He hit a empty (!) net from his own half...-_-;


I think that Real Madrid still plays mediocre football, but now Barcelona (and Valencia) is even worse than them, so they don't have much competition. Villareal getting the second place is a clear indication of that. Capello did make the team a little more balanced, I'll give him that, but it's more of a drop in their rivals performance rather than a dramatic improvement of their own the cause of their victories in la liga.Yea, your right with madrid being really poor this season. And it showed when they played roma in the CL who beat them in both legs. But i read about somebody from real boasting about the young age of the squad (Something like out of the big clubs in europe they have the second smallest average age), which i guess means they have a future in which they want to build on. The squad in itself is not bad but i think if they want to succede in the CL maybe they should get add a more ruthless and physical side to their game. Something the spanish clubs lacked this season.



Its curious we've been talking about summer transfers and we've completely forgot Zaragoza's relegation that will cost them the loss of lots of superb players. Among others, I can see Ayala, Juanfran, Luccin, Aimar and Diego Milito as candidates to leave the club.
Ayala is getting old and i heard he retired for international football so i really wouldnt be surprised if he follows Oliveira and decides to stay. As for Sergio Garcia, Aimar and the others. I guess some spanish clubs will snatch them or maybe one or two will go abroad.


Yeah Anderson's finishing is poor. He scored a few goals for Porto but nothing impressive and he's yet to score for Man U. I guess its not a quality of his, but I dont think a player has to score goals to porve his worth. Of course that helps... proof is Ronaldo. He's scoring goals impressively but his assists are dropping. When Nistelrooy was around Ronaldo assisted much more, specially in crosses. I guess having a center forward with less hight like Tevez lowers Ronaldo's capability of assist in comparison of what he did with the legendary flying dutchman around
I was surprised when i heard Anderson was a attacking midfielder by nature. I always saw him as the Davids type who just runs up and down. Maybe its the hair....He does have a lot of potential and i wont be surprised to see him starting more games next season, instead of coming off the bench. As for ronaldo's assists, they indeed are dropping. Last season they it was really high, but i suppose you cant score and assist at the same time.

[Lelo]

England beat U.S., thats about all the action I will see cuz they aint going to Euro, this sucks, Englands got a solid team too

[sk.nite]

Despite having big name players in their squad, England's teamwork is poor and their attack power is quite low. Not to mention that they haven't found a decent keeper in ages, which would make a defensive style a viable strategy.

[Mendes]

Btw, did anybody see the recent craze on youtube over beckhams 70 yard goal? He hit a empty (!) net from his own half...-_-;


Yeah, but its different when its beckham... sadly



I was surprised when i heard Anderson was a attacking midfielder by nature. I always saw him as the Davids type who just runs up and down. Maybe its the hair....He does have a lot of potential and i wont be surprised to see him starting more games next season, instead of coming off the bench. As for ronaldo's assists, they indeed are dropping. Last season they it was really high, but i suppose you cant score and assist at the same time.

I was surprised as well when I saw Anderson's defensive skill on Man U. He was a typical attacking midfielder in Porto with a low number of defensive actions demanded. In MU he played as defensive midfielder and very effectively. I guess that explains part of his lack of scored goals this season.

Quaresma is being linked with Inter, according to the press, for a 30M deal. Its not been confirmed, but its very possible. Porto's defensive midfielder, Paulo Assunção, is leaving the club as well, since he used the Webster Law in his favor. Its still unknown his next club, but whoever it is, its a lucky club. He was one of the most (or The most) important players for us this season and its another loss for us. Now lets just sit back and wait for the next player to leave to a bigger club. I bet on Lucho Gonzalez

[sk.nite]

Quaresma is being linked with Inter, according to the press, for a 30M deal. Its not been confirmed, but its very possible. Porto's defensive midfielder, Paulo Assunção, is leaving the club as well, since he used the Webster Law in his favor. Its still unknown his next club, but whoever it is, its a lucky club. He was one of the most (or The most) important players for us this season and its another loss for us. Now lets just sit back and wait for the next player to leave to a bigger club. I bet on Lucho Gonzalez

What's this Webster law about?

I bet that if you saw Lucho Gonzalez playing for Argentina you wouldn't mind him leaving so much. XD

[Imperium]

What's this Webster law about?
Its when a player under 28 terminates their contract with the club after playing for them for at least three years. They terminate it, by buying out the contract. So basically any player (under 28) can leave a club after three years just by buying out the contract. Its named after some dude who used it to go to wigan (which didnt do him a lot of good...karma?)

[Mendes]

What's this Webster law about?

I bet that if you saw Lucho Gonzalez playing for Argentina you wouldn't mind him leaving so much. XD

I think he feels the pressure of playing for Argentina. Its way different when he's in a squad full of amazing players for his spot. In Porto he's brilliant and I think he has what it takes to play for a huge team. I hope he doesnt leave tough...

The Webster Law can be applied when a player has under 27 years old and his contract was signed 3 years before. He can leave the club of his own will as long as he compensates the club with the value of his remaining contract salaries.
In this particular situation, Paulo Assunção had a 4 year contract and 3 of them had already passed, so he decided to leave the club and his future club will certainly cover for his remaining year of salaries, which is a ridiculous quantity comparing to what it would be if he was involved in a normal transfer.

Its not pretty, but I think Assunção left because he was threatened by a fan a few weeks ago. At least it helped...
[hr]

Its when a player under 28 terminates their contract with the club after playing for them for at least three years. They terminate it, by buying out the contract. So basically any player (under 28) can leave a club after three years just by buying out the contract. Its named after some dude who used it to go to wigan (which didnt do him a lot of good...karma?)

lol you beat me to it, but I didnt knew of the player who named the law

[sk.nite]

The Webster Law can be applied when a player has under 27 years old and his contract was signed 3 years before. He can leave the club of his own will as long as he compensates the club with the value of his remaining contract salaries.
In this particular situation, Paulo Assunção had a 4 year contract and 3 of them had already passed, so he decided to leave the club and his future club will certainly cover for his remaining year of salaries, which is a ridiculous quantity comparing to what it would be if he was involved in a normal transfer.

Its not pretty, but I think Assunção left because he was threatened by a fan a few weeks ago. At least it helped...


Hmm, it seems a bit unfair for the clubs imo. I knew about the Bosman law, but not about this one. Since when has this law been around?

[rtyd1]

Hmm, it seems a bit unfair for the clubs imo. I knew about the Bosman law, but not about this one. Since when has this law been around?

Webster's transfer to Wigan Athletic (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Wigan_Athletic_F.C.) was ratified by FIFA on September 4 (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/September_4), 2006 (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/2006), seemingly creating a legal precedent for the conduction of international football transfers, since the 30th of January 2008 it become official i believe for all players,

Summary here
[edit (http://mangahelpers.com/w/index.php?title=Bosman_ruling&action=edit&section=3)] Webster ruling

Wigan (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Wigan_Athletic_F.C.) was the first club to take advantage of this new ruling as they signed Andy Webster (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Andy_Webster) from Hearts (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Heart_of_Midlothian_F.C.) in August of 2006. Initially Hearts (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Heart_of_Midlothian_F.C.) were slow to react to the signing, but when Webster was loaned to Hearts' rival Rangers (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Glasgow_Rangers), Hearts took legal action. Hearts (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Heart_of_Midlothian_F.C.) believed that the £625,000 either Andy Webster (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Andy_Webster) or Wigan (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Wigan_Athletic_F.C.) should pay was not adequate compensation. It was well short of the four million pound transfer Hearts wanted. This amount was based on the so-called 'going rate' in the transfer market of a player of his calibre. FIFPRO, the global players’ football union, supported both Webster's and Wigan's case because of the implications of a ruling in the player's favour.
The case was finally brought before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Switzerland to clarify the wording and legality of Article 17. The court ruled on 30 January 2008 that Webster was free to sign with another club from a different national league and that, according to Article 17, he need only pay £150,000 for leaving the club for Wigan (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Wigan_Athletic_F.C.) with a year remaining on his contract. This amount is generally cited as being the amount that Hearts would have owed him had he remained with the club.
This ruling in fact has established an addendum to Article 17 allowing a player who is between the ages of 23 and 28 to move in the final year of a four or five year contract provided he hands in a request to the club no more than 15 days after the end of the previous season. The club would be entitled to compensation, but only equalling the amount of the final year's wages as per the contract. In most cases that would be far less than an agreed transfer fee. In addition, the player would have to move to a club that was not in the same association as his current club. Players who are older then 28 are only required to fulfill two years on a contract no matter the length of the contract. At such a point they can opt out of the rest of their contract by paying the remainder owed to them to the club they are under contract to.

[edit (http://mangahelpers.com/w/index.php?title=Bosman_ruling&action=edit&section=4)] Implications of Webster ruling

It is initially unclear how quickly this ruling will affect the transfer market in international football. The January 2008 market included no Webster-like transfers and fees continued to be in millions of pounds. The summer of 2008 does contain a few test cases that could demonstrate the new transfer market, but most of those involved are so tied to their clubs that it would be unlikely that they would jump their club for one in another nation (Frank Lampard (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Frank_Lampard) of Chelsea, a fixture to the West London club's starting eleven, is one regularly cited test case, and Michael Owen (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Michael_Owen) who currently is with Newcastle (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Newcastle_United_F.C.) is another). Dimitar Berbatov (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Dimitar_Berbatov), who currently plays for Tottenham (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Tottenham_Hotspur_F.C.), is also often cited, but he does not turn 28 until the spring of 2009.(http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/article3279498.ece)
It has been suggested that the top 25% of players would most benefit from the ruling, but if the results of free agency in American sports are any indication of the future changes such a ruling could bring to European football, spectators should see a growing wealth in the younger players who have promise and the middle class footballer who can play after age 28 as well. Growth of the minimal salary and the salaries of players who have more than five years of service in American sport increased twentyfold in the first ten years of free agency.
What is clear is that there could be a challenge to smaller clubs. If international scouting continues at its current pace, these clubs could be looking at losing young stars prematurely to foreign clubs. Because of this, smaller clubs may unload younger stars sooner than they had wanted, and thus get less for these diamonds in the rough, because of the threat of losing a player to an international rival. It may be that small clubs will find themselves less likely to be able to support themselves with transfer fees and may have to revert to pre-1995 ways of keeping their club afloat.
Of concern is the implication for clubs in non-European markets which have a combination of good talent and weak local currencies. For instance the African Nations Cup overlaps the European transfer window. A talented African player can be induced to terminate his contract without cause and the benefiting European Club could acquire an excellent player for a pittance. Such was the case of Essam Al Hadari (http://mangahelpers.com/w/index.php?title=Essam_Al_Hadari&action=edit&redlink=1) who was the first African based player to attempt to use this clause to join FC Sion (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/FC_Sion) of Switzerland after helping Egypt win the African Nations Cup. His attempt to terminate his contract failed on a technicality since he did not give his club the required 15 day notice. Articles 17 may thus pose grave consequences for South American and Africa clubs.

[Lelo]

Despite having big name players in their squad, England's teamwork is poor and their attack power is quite low. Not to mention that they haven't found a decent keeper in ages, which would make a defensive style a viable strategy.

when I first started watching soccer they had David Seaman who still till this day was my favorite goalie. He really knew how to rock that mustache
[hr]

Flamini does have a higher work rate then those players but i wont even try to guess whats going on in domenech head. I think he is opting for a more experienced approach. Vieira couldnt be left out, and even at his age Makelele is still one of the best defensive midfielders in the game. So i wouldnt be surprised if Diarra or Toulalan dont even get a lot of games.

It was a dire match, so im not surprised you only watched half of it. I think we waited about 20minutes before their was even a shot on goal, and even that wasnt on target! Lampard was invisible for large parts of the match. Hargreaves on the other hand was playing really well, much more dynamic as a central midfielder than a fullback. I hope he plays more games to try and cement a spot in midfield. God knows Lampard and Gerrard need more competition. Another impressive performance though, by gerrard who was playing on the wings. Which was surprising since he didnt really do good on the wings for liverpool against Arsenal in the CL. He did do good their, but i dont see him playing their in the future. Since Joe cole is waiting in line and i think he would bring more to the wings just how gerrard would bring more to the midfield. Terry's header was well taken from a beauty of a freekick by beckham, who does want to let go of that right wing role so easily. Bentley who later came on for him wasnt bad, but didnt have a huge impact on the match. The match started to pick up pace after Lampard was taken off for Barry. Who was another impressive performer, playing a nice ball for gerrard to tap in for the second goal. I hope we get to see more of hargreaves/barry midfield because as much as lampard is impressive for chelsea he needs more competition for his role with england or (like today) is more than likely to just sit back and not bother. Overall the match was rubbish and to be honest it was against a weak american side who probably should never play without Landon Donovan's name on the Starting XI. =/

Btw, did anybody see the recent craze on youtube over beckhams 70 yard goal? He hit a empty (!) net from his own half...-_-;
Yea, your right with madrid being really poor this season. And it showed when they played roma in the CL who beat them in both legs. But i read about somebody from real boasting about the young age of the squad (Something like out of the big clubs in europe they have the second smallest average age), which i guess means they have a future in which they want to build on. The squad in itself is not bad but i think if they want to succede in the CL maybe they should get add a more ruthless and physical side to their game. Something the spanish clubs lacked this season.

Ayala is getting old and i heard he retired for international football so i really wouldnt be surprised if he follows Oliveira and decides to stay. As for Sergio Garcia, Aimar and the others. I guess some spanish clubs will snatch them or maybe one or two will go abroad.


I was surprised when i heard Anderson was a attacking midfielder by nature. I always saw him as the Davids type who just runs up and down. Maybe its the hair....He does have a lot of potential and i wont be surprised to see him starting more games next season, instead of coming off the bench. As for ronaldo's assists, they indeed are dropping. Last season they it was really high, but i suppose you cant score and assist at the same time.

yeah, that shit was pretty nice. I just saw it today. Even though it was an empty net I still give him credit for making it

[sk.nite]

Webster's transfer to Wigan Athletic (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Wigan_Athletic_F.C.) was ratified by FIFA on September 4 (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/September_4), 2006 (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/2006), seemingly creating a legal precedent for the conduction of international football transfers, since the 30th of January 2008 it become official i believe for all players,

Summary here
[edit (http://mangahelpers.com/w/index.php?title=Bosman_ruling&action=edit&section=3)] Webster ruling

Wigan (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Wigan_Athletic_F.C.) was the first club to take advantage of this new ruling as they signed Andy Webster (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Andy_Webster) from Hearts (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Heart_of_Midlothian_F.C.) in August of 2006. Initially Hearts (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Heart_of_Midlothian_F.C.) were slow to react to the signing, but when Webster was loaned to Hearts' rival Rangers (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Glasgow_Rangers), Hearts took legal action. Hearts (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Heart_of_Midlothian_F.C.) believed that the £625,000 either Andy Webster (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Andy_Webster) or Wigan (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Wigan_Athletic_F.C.) should pay was not adequate compensation. It was well short of the four million pound transfer Hearts wanted. This amount was based on the so-called 'going rate' in the transfer market of a player of his calibre. FIFPRO, the global players’ football union, supported both Webster's and Wigan's case because of the implications of a ruling in the player's favour.
The case was finally brought before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Switzerland to clarify the wording and legality of Article 17. The court ruled on 30 January 2008 that Webster was free to sign with another club from a different national league and that, according to Article 17, he need only pay £150,000 for leaving the club for Wigan (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Wigan_Athletic_F.C.) with a year remaining on his contract. This amount is generally cited as being the amount that Hearts would have owed him had he remained with the club.
This ruling in fact has established an addendum to Article 17 allowing a player who is between the ages of 23 and 28 to move in the final year of a four or five year contract provided he hands in a request to the club no more than 15 days after the end of the previous season. The club would be entitled to compensation, but only equalling the amount of the final year's wages as per the contract. In most cases that would be far less than an agreed transfer fee. In addition, the player would have to move to a club that was not in the same association as his current club. Players who are older then 28 are only required to fulfill two years on a contract no matter the length of the contract. At such a point they can opt out of the rest of their contract by paying the remainder owed to them to the club they are under contract to.

[edit (http://mangahelpers.com/w/index.php?title=Bosman_ruling&action=edit&section=4)] Implications of Webster ruling

It is initially unclear how quickly this ruling will affect the transfer market in international football. The January 2008 market included no Webster-like transfers and fees continued to be in millions of pounds. The summer of 2008 does contain a few test cases that could demonstrate the new transfer market, but most of those involved are so tied to their clubs that it would be unlikely that they would jump their club for one in another nation (Frank Lampard (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Frank_Lampard) of Chelsea, a fixture to the West London club's starting eleven, is one regularly cited test case, and Michael Owen (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Michael_Owen) who currently is with Newcastle (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Newcastle_United_F.C.) is another). Dimitar Berbatov (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Dimitar_Berbatov), who currently plays for Tottenham (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/Tottenham_Hotspur_F.C.), is also often cited, but he does not turn 28 until the spring of 2009.(http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/article3279498.ece)
It has been suggested that the top 25% of players would most benefit from the ruling, but if the results of free agency in American sports are any indication of the future changes such a ruling could bring to European football, spectators should see a growing wealth in the younger players who have promise and the middle class footballer who can play after age 28 as well. Growth of the minimal salary and the salaries of players who have more than five years of service in American sport increased twentyfold in the first ten years of free agency.
What is clear is that there could be a challenge to smaller clubs. If international scouting continues at its current pace, these clubs could be looking at losing young stars prematurely to foreign clubs. Because of this, smaller clubs may unload younger stars sooner than they had wanted, and thus get less for these diamonds in the rough, because of the threat of losing a player to an international rival. It may be that small clubs will find themselves less likely to be able to support themselves with transfer fees and may have to revert to pre-1995 ways of keeping their club afloat.
Of concern is the implication for clubs in non-European markets which have a combination of good talent and weak local currencies. For instance the African Nations Cup overlaps the European transfer window. A talented African player can be induced to terminate his contract without cause and the benefiting European Club could acquire an excellent player for a pittance. Such was the case of Essam Al Hadari (http://mangahelpers.com/w/index.php?title=Essam_Al_Hadari&action=edit&redlink=1) who was the first African based player to attempt to use this clause to join FC Sion (http://mangahelpers.com/wiki/FC_Sion) of Switzerland after helping Egypt win the African Nations Cup. His attempt to terminate his contract failed on a technicality since he did not give his club the required 15 day notice. Articles 17 may thus pose grave consequences for South American and Africa clubs.


It's pretty disturbing that regions with talented players and poor clubs will be pressed even harder to sell their players before the age of 23. Although here in Argentina, in practical cases, it wouldn't have a great effect. Really talented players are sold at a very young age, 19 or 20. Some leave the country without even playing a single pro match (take Messi for example). But I don't think it would be possible for a player to leave the club with that law, the fans would burn his house and lynch him on the street...well, maybe they wouldn't go that far, but they certainly wouldn't give him a kind farewell.

Anyway, thanks for the info.

[rtyd1]

That kind of thing has happened in Brazil too, I remember Robinho's mum was kidnapped when he was thinking of moving to Real Madrid from Santos

Just when you thought it was over Marca continue the saga,
Following on from the Red Devils' public statement about Madrid's conduct, this personal letter appears to be a step further.

Allegedly signed by David Gill, the Old Trafford CEO, it states that not only are United unwilling to sell Ronaldo at present, but that they will not do so even if Cristiano Ronaldo publicly asks for a move.

Furthermore, Gill requests that Madrid publicly renounce their desire to land the Portuguese ace.

To Marca, of course, this betrays nervousness on the part of the English side.

The Godfather

Meanwhile, Marca claims that Ronaldo's godfather, one Fernao Sousa, has said that Cristiano is on the verge of deciding that the time is right for a move.

He said, "Cristiano must seize this opportunity to go to Real Madrid.

"I think that he's already decided to do so, but he'll wait until after the Euros before saying anything.

"His main goal is to win everything. That's what he wants - the Champions League in particular, but also going all the way with Portugal at Euro 2008."

[◆ T.D.A ◆]

Who are you guys gonna support in the Euro, me? Portugal.

[ibra87]

Italy. Italy all the way for me!

[Lelo]

Who are you guys gonna support in the Euro, me? Portugal.

Portugal? They took out England in the World Cup, shouldnt you hate them. Me, I dont really care who wins but if I have to choose it would be Italy
[hr]

That kind of thing has happened in Brazil too, I remember Robinho's mum was kidnapped when he was thinking of moving to Real Madrid from Santos

Just when you thought it was over Marca continue the saga,
Following on from the Red Devils' public statement about Madrid's conduct, this personal letter appears to be a step further.

Allegedly signed by David Gill, the Old Trafford CEO, it states that not only are United unwilling to sell Ronaldo at present, but that they will not do so even if Cristiano Ronaldo publicly asks for a move.

Furthermore, Gill requests that Madrid publicly renounce their desire to land the Portuguese ace.

To Marca, of course, this betrays nervousness on the part of the English side.

The Godfather

Meanwhile, Marca claims that Ronaldo's godfather, one Fernao Sousa, has said that Cristiano is on the verge of deciding that the time is right for a move.

He said, "Cristiano must seize this opportunity to go to Real Madrid.

"I think that he's already decided to do so, but he'll wait until after the Euros before saying anything.

"His main goal is to win everything. That's what he wants - the Champions League in particular, but also going all the way with Portugal at Euro 2008."


what ended up happening to his mom

[Mendes]

I kind of agree with Lelo. We took England out of the World cup 06, euro 04, euro 2000... I wouldnt cheer for a team that's done so bad to mine :P
Still, I'm getting more confident on Portugal's chances of winning this time. We've got some players on top form and most important, there's a number of players who're likely going to move for a bigger club if they do great performances in the Euro, like Bruno Alves, Veloso, Moutinho, Deco(he's leaving barça and right now no one seems to want him) and specially Quaresma. We'll see in next preparation match this saturday against Georgia

[rtyd1]

What ended up happening to his mom

He paid the kidnappers money to get his mom back, then left for Madrid.

The way i see it the Euro's are going to be won by either Italy (won the WC and have a very talented and experienced squad), Portugal (some great young players in their team) or Spain (the best squad of the tournament). Germany and France will be up there with them but i dont think they both still have the ability to go all the way

[Imperium]

Ill be supporting england. :oh

No but seriously, after having thought it over, ill just support the underdogs in every match or however plays the most attractive football.

[rtyd1]

Where does evryone think Greece will end up this year, remember they won Euro 04 by beating Portugal in the final.
I dont think they ll even get out of their group this year since its pretty tough.

[Mendes]

Where does evryone think Greece will end up this year, remember they won Euro 04 by beating Portugal in the final.
I dont think they ll even get out of their group this year since its pretty tough.

I do remember that and I swear I'll never underestimate Greece again... I'd say the tougher their opponents, the tougher they are to beat, so I dont think that'll be stopping Greece from going trough to the quarter finals. I still think Spain and Sweeden are favorites

[Lelo]

I kind of agree with Lelo. We took England out of the World cup 06, euro 04, euro 2000... I wouldnt cheer for a team that's done so bad to mine :P
Still, I'm getting more confident on Portugal's chances of winning this time. We've got some players on top form and most important, there's a number of players who're likely going to move for a bigger club if they do great performances in the Euro, like Bruno Alves, Veloso, Moutinho, Deco(he's leaving barça and right now no one seems to want him) and specially Quaresma. We'll see in next preparation match this saturday against Georgia

In America every time on TV when they play a commercial for Euro 08 its always Portugal's team that they show, mostly C. Ronaldo. It seems like they are one of the favs to win it

[Mendes]

Well, we're starting to feel pissed, coz although we achieved a team who's being favorite every year, the truth is, we havent won a single international competition for the senior level... We're in great thirst for a victory, coz in a small country like us, we never know when it may be our last chance. I'm not satisfied with some positions where we dont have any decent option, like left side back and center forward, but if we consider our country has only 10Million people and a trash football league, its definitely a great team!

[sk.nite]

Well, we're starting to feel pissed, coz although we achieved a team who's being favorite every year, the truth is, we havent won a single international competition for the senior level... We're in great thirst for a victory, coz in a small country like us, we never know when it may be our last chance. I'm not satisfied with some positions where we dont have any decent option, like left side back and center forward, but if we consider our country has only 10Million people and a trash football league, its definitely a great team!

Hey what about Pauleta? did he retire?
I agree with Portugal having chances, but not Spain. They're eternal losers and they'll keep losing till the end of time. What do you think about group C? It's a bit much I believe, and really bad luck for Romania. Do you have info on them? Are they any good? Btw, the only team that pays less that Romania for being last in their group is Austria. WTF? Isn't Austria one of the local teams, are they really that bad?
It will be a relly tough quarter final for Portugal though, since I believe it will be against a group C's team, but correct me if I'm wrong. Anyway, my favorite is Germany, and so it is for the dudes betting out there.

[Lelo]

Well, we're starting to feel pissed, coz although we achieved a team who's being favorite every year, the truth is, we havent won a single international competition for the senior level... We're in great thirst for a victory, coz in a small country like us, we never know when it may be our last chance. I'm not satisfied with some positions where we dont have any decent option, like left side back and center forward, but if we consider our country has only 10Million people and a trash football league, its definitely a great team!

theres only 10 million people in Portugal, wow, thats nothing.

Sucks for Portugal for always coming up short but maybe this is the time for them, Euro 08 is looking good for them. What team would you say you fear the most

[Mendes]

Hey what about Pauleta? did he retire?
I agree with Portugal having chances, but not Spain. They're eternal losers and they'll keep losing till the end of time. What do you think about group C? It's a bit much I believe, and really bad luck for Romania. Do you have info on them? Are they any good? Btw, the only team that pays less that Romania for being last in their group is Austria. WTF? Isn't Austria one of the local teams, are they really that bad?
It will be a relly tough quarter final for Portugal though, since I believe it will be against a group C's team, but correct me if I'm wrong. Anyway, my favorite is Germany, and so it is for the dudes betting out there.


Pauleta did retire after his World Cup 06. Anyways, he only scored in easy matches, like qualifications and stuff.

About Spain, I already considered them the favorites, and I think this may be their year. Then again, they're experts of disapointing and perhaps Greece will surprise them again...
Romania seems doomed in Group C. Sad but true I guess. Their group rivals are too above them. I can still remind Euro 2000 where the outsiders, Portugal and Romania overcomed Germany and England in the group stage. That looks like an impossible dream now for them. Some good players now and there, like Chivu and Mutu. I hope they cost France some points...


theres only 10 million people in Portugal, wow, thats nothing.

Sucks for Portugal for always coming up short but maybe this is the time for them, Euro 08 is looking good for them. What team would you say you fear the most

Yeah its a small country, and our very best performance was the 3rd place in 66 when we lost with England in the semi-finals. 5.3 in an amazing match. I guess we've been paying back at England in the last matches, but this time, we fear France the most. We record wins over Germany, England, Spain and Holland in these competitions. France has taken us out many times, and I'm so sick of it. We have yet to meet Italy, but its certainly not a nation we want to face...

[Lohnt]

I think Russia has a good chance at the Euro this year, they have a lot of experienced players in the European stage this year. They also won Fiba and Eurovision, kind of like we did last time.. so maybe they can take it all.

I realize Greece isn't the strongest team in the tournament, in fact I'd say it's in the second strongest group of teams now, but the team this year is better than last Euro... then again if big teams underestimate us again, we'll just make them pay again =)

[◆ T.D.A ◆]

Portugal? They took out England in the World Cup, shouldnt you hate them. Me, I dont really care who wins but if I have to choose it would be Italy
<hr noshade size="1">


what ended up happening to his mom

portugal knocked out engliand so they earned my respect plus ronaldo and nani play for portugal.

[Mendes]

Portugal 2 - 0 Georgia. Not an impressive result, nor an impressive exhibition, but some good things to take from the match. The team seems to be fine physically, except for Ronaldo who's still playing in a low pace. Bosingwa's as explosive as ever and Moutinho and Quaresma are on top of their game. The goal Moutinho scored was brilliant. Veloso and Nuno Gomes did very poor in this game. The 1st was a surprise and he seems to be loosing for Petit in the defensive midfielder position. The 2nd was the same as ever. He acts like an opposing defender, cuts our attacks... static in the area, never winning headers, missing goals that I would score myself... I hate him and I cant believe he will be the 1st choice for the attack :'(

[ibra87]

Germany - Serbia: 2 - 1. Ballack managed somehow.
Meh. Lehmann really needs to get his act together. Kahn (especially in his prime) was a superb goalkeeper and made the German defense a lot safer, a thing which Lehmann still hasn't done yet IMO. If they wanna win, they need to improve on their defense, I'm sure the teams they'll face in Euro 2008 will have a much stronger offense than Serbia.

[Lelo]

portugal knocked out engliand so they earned my respect plus ronaldo and nani play for portugal.

I like Ronaldo when he is scoring for Man U, but other than that I dont like him, I think he is a hot shot pretty boy(though he's one of the best players in the world). After he complained to the ref to give Rooney a red card and then scoring the winning penalty kick to win it for Portugal in the World Cup, I really disliked him, I wanted him to leave Man U, but now I'm glad he stayed cause we keep winning

[Imperium]

Hey what about Pauleta? did he retire?
I agree with Portugal having chances, but not Spain. They're eternal losers and they'll keep losing till the end of time. What do you think about group C? It's a bit much I believe, and really bad luck for Romania. Do you have info on them? Are they any good? Btw, the only team that pays less that Romania for being last in their group is Austria. WTF? Isn't Austria one of the local teams, are they really that bad?
It will be a relly tough quarter final for Portugal though, since I believe it will be against a group C's team, but correct me if I'm wrong. Anyway, my favorite is Germany, and so it is for the dudes betting out there.Spain have always dissapointed but i wouldnt rule them out this time. They easily have the most in-form striker in the tournament and their midfield is exceptionally strong. They have a strong defence with the likes of puyol and ramos and one of the best keepers in the world. All in all an amazing starting XI. (Although its spain so im seriously considering putting money on them not getting out of the group stages xD).

Austria apprently arent that strong but if they beat croatia i wont really mind. :tem Btw portugal are going to be playing a group b side in the quaterfinals.


Germany - Serbia: 2 - 1. Ballack managed somehow.
Meh. Lehmann really needs to get his act together. Kahn (especially in his prime) was a superb goalkeeper and made the German defense a lot safer, a thing which Lehmann still hasn't done yet IMO. If they wanna win, they need to improve on their defense, I'm sure the teams they'll face in Euro 2008 will have a much stronger offense than Serbia.Lehman hasnt been playing proper football since august. So it not surprising he wasnt playing well. But even if he is not at his best, he still has vital experience, which puts him in front of the international newcomers like Enke and Adler.
<hr noshade size="1">

I like Ronaldo when he is scoring for Man U, but other than that I dont like him, I think he is a hot shot pretty boy(though he's one of the best players in the world). After he complained to the ref to give Rooney a red card and then scoring the winning penalty kick to win it for Portugal in the World Cup, I really disliked him, I wanted him to leave Man U, but now I'm glad he stayed cause we keep winning
http://img133.imageshack.us/img133/9928/rooney9uy.jpg

Your not the only one who hated disliked him. :tem

[◆ T.D.A ◆]

As A Utd fan you just have to love Ronaldo, and anyways he didn't ask the referee to send rooney off he said to the ref it was a booking. Ronaldo said in the post match interview.

[Mendes]

I wonder you find these images, Imperium xD
As for Portugal facing a group b team, that's always comforting. I wouldnt mind avenging England this time if we're to face Croatia. If everything goes as planned, Portugal should be 1st and Croatia second to Germany.

[Lelo]

Spain have always dissapointed but i wouldnt rule them out this time. They easily have the most in-form striker in the tournament and their midfield is exceptionally strong. They have a strong defence with the likes of puyol and ramos and one of the best keepers in the world. All in all an amazing starting XI. (Although its spain so im seriously considering putting money on them not getting out of the group stages xD).

Austria apprently arent that strong but if they beat croatia i wont really mind. :tem Btw portugal are going to be playing a group b side in the quaterfinals.

Lehman hasnt been playing proper football since august. So it not surprising he wasnt playing well. But even if he is not at his best, he still has vital experience, which puts him in front of the international newcomers like Enke and Adler.
<hr noshade size="1">

http://img133.imageshack.us/img133/9928/rooney9uy.jpg

Your not the only one who hated disliked him. :tem

ROFL, ah man, that was the best pic Ive ever seen. Did you find that or create it urself
[hr]

As A Utd fan you just have to love Ronaldo, and anyways he didn't ask the referee to send rooney off he said to the ref it was a booking. Ronaldo said in the post match interview.

thats what he claimed just cause the cameras were on. You think he would actually say he wanted England to get a red card. I dont think he was targeting Rooney, he just wanted England to get fucked and there is nothing wrong that, he just wanted to win. But what happened still sucked

[sk.nite]

Spain have always dissapointed but i wouldnt rule them out this time. They easily have the most in-form striker in the tournament and their midfield is exceptionally strong. They have a strong defence with the likes of puyol and ramos and one of the best keepers in the world. All in all an amazing starting XI. (Although its spain so im seriously considering putting money on them not getting out of the group stages xD).


If I had to put money (which I dont' have now T_T) I'd bet on Spain losing in the quarterfinals. It's like in that saying "Old habits die hard". They'll win their 3 group matches and when everybody starts saying that they're the #1 candidates they'll lose. You can't even say that it's because they feel the pressure, beacuse most of these players are used to winning titles. It's like they're cursed or something.

[Lelo]

If I had to put money (which I dont' have now T_T) I'd bet on Spain losing in the quarterfinals. It's like in that saying "Old habits die hard". They'll win their 3 group matches and when everybody starts saying that they're the #1 candidates they'll lose. You can't even say that it's because they feel the pressure, beacuse most of these players are used to winning titles. It's like they're cursed or something.

Please dont start with the curses, theres no such thig unless ur name is Indiana Jones, lol

[Mendes]

England celebrated Trindade and Tobago's centenary by winning 3.0 there. I cant find any video record of the game :/ but its a good result for the british. How was the game?

[rtyd1]

Summary of the game here http://www.goal.com/en/Articolo.aspx?ContenutoId=719556.

Basicly England controlled the game mostly because T&T are terrible but if England were really playing well and took the majority of their chances it would have been +5 - 0

[Mendes]

Mourinho was presented as the new Inter Milan's coach. It was already public, now it's official. I think he and Inter's financial power will move the summer market. Etoo, Drogba, Carvalho, Deco, Lampard and Diarra(RM) are some of the names brought up by the press. I guess they need a center forward since Cruz is already old, Adriano's on loan and Crespo's remaining is uncertain. The center midfield is also a place where Inter needs to reinforce. They have many defensive players, but not much offensive ones, and Lampard could fit as a glove. I'd like to see a more technician player like Diego or Van der Vaart there instead tough.

[sk.nite]

Mourinho was presented as the new Inter Milan's coach. It was already public, now it's official. I think he and Inter's financial power will move the summer market. Etoo, Drogba, Carvalho, Deco, Lampard and Diarra(RM) are some of the names brought up by the press. I guess they need a center forward since Cruz is already old, Adriano's on loan and Crespo's remaining is uncertain. The center midfield is also a place where Inter needs to reinforce. They have many defensive players, but not much offensive ones, and Lampard could fit as a glove. I'd like to see a more technician player like Diego or Van der Vaart there instead tough.

You're forgetting about Cambiasso and Stankovic, i think they're good enough in the central offensive midfielder position. I agree that the position that needs reinforcing the most is the attack. He should keep Ibrahimovic as striker and sign two wingers, according to his style. Maybe Joe Cole and Quaresma. Signing Etoo or Drogba while having Ibrahimovic would be overdoing it imo.

[rtyd1]

Apparenly Mourinho wants Ibra out since he is terrible in big games (Outshone in the CL) and Eto or Drogba in.
Stankovic's role at the club may be more minimal next season since he hasnt had the best year and was outspoken about Mancini's sacking.
Its likely a centre back will be bought to replace Matrix and a central midfielder to partner Cambiasso like Essien or Lampard.
Inter seem very weak in the wings as well, ive seen Stankovic play there and they have Figo but who else.

From what i can tell Jose has a lot of work to do if Inter will be able to challenge for the CL

[Mendes]

Inter seem very weak in the wings as well, ive seen Stankovic play there and they have Figo but who else.


For what I've been hearing, quaresma is likely to fill that hole. I always saw Stankovic as a winger as well. Inter seems to use Mazwell or Zanetti in the wings when they play at 4-4-2.
As for Zlatan, I dont want to see him leave Inter. He's one of the most perfect footballers in the world imo.
I dont see cambiasso as an offensive midfielder. He's supposed to be a defensive midf, although he's been attacking good enough for one

[sk.nite]

WTF!? They'll sell Ibrahimovic? That's crazy. And the fact that Maxwell and Zanetti play on the wings shows how much they're lacking there, since both are defenders.

[rykarreolacr]

Ibrahimovic isn't going anywhere. They just extended his contract to 2012 and they will be paying him LOADS of money. :p

[rtyd1]

Maxwell and Zanetti are wing backs to be more correct, which makes the versatile enough to play in either defence and midfield.

Zlatan is not a big game player as we have seen in the CL when he was at Juve and Inter. Most recenty he was outshone by Torres in the CL. Torres had 1 chance in that match and took it, Ibra had a few chances that were better than Torres' but didnt score once. If Jose is willing to give Ibra a chance he'll stay

Cambiasso's role is defensive midfield but he plays that role with a lot of attacking flair and has the ability to shoot from distance and pass the ball around midfield and defences.

[sk.nite]

Maxwell and Zanetti are wing backs to be more correct, which makes the versatile enough to play in either defence and midfield.


What I meant is that they're essentailly full backs, and playing in a midfield position is improvised.

[Mendes]

What I meant is that they're essentailly full backs, and playing in a midfield position is improvised.

I agree, although I believe Zanetti was a won bet. That guys amazing wherever he plays.
I also thought Mourinho enjoyed playing in 4.3.3, like in Leiria, Porto and Chelsea, but I wonder if he'll keep that formation when Inter's being playing in 4.2.2 ever since I can remember. If he buys Drogba and Etoo and keeps Zlatan and Balotelli, I guess he'd be keeping Inter's original formation, but if he does buy Quaresma, then that wouldnt fit, since he's a offensive only player with no defensive skill or sense. In Porto, our coach tried the 4.2.2 and whenever he used that formation, Quaresma disappeared from the match.
Then again, I could see him do on Quaresma the same kind of tactic work Joe Cole got in Chelsea. Cole was a player similar to Quaresma but after Mourinho, he learned to defend reasonably

[Imperium]

What I meant is that they're essentailly full backs, and playing in a midfield position is improvised.I agree, its kinda like eboue at arsenal. He is naturally a fullback but plays in the wings (and not very well to tell the truth) because of limited options. Zanetti is versatile but i agree he needs to go back to his natural position and play in defence.

Btw, Cannavaro is defintely out of the euro's. Which means you might as well say their is a huge hole in italy's defence, Gamberini is his official replacement (ahead of nesta for some reason =/). I guess it going to be matrix and barzagli as centrebacks then. And viera" might" also miss the euro's. So thats two captains from the group of death. Van de sar and chivu might be next. >.>;

[Mendes]

I'm almost sure Nesta renounced Italy some years ago.

[Imperium]

He has!? Oh well, then i guess there wasnt really any other choice.

[rtyd1]

Yeah Nesta has retired but Matrix is slightly unfit / injured / crap form. Its more likely that panucci will play CB

[◆ T.D.A ◆]

Chelsea have agreed a deal with Ancelotti, I wonder if Kaka can be signed.

[rtyd1]

Its 90% certain that Carlo will be at Chelsea from what i hear
Ancelotti has been strongly linked with taking over at Chelsea ever since the sacking of Avram Grant just under a fortnight ago.

Sky Sports News claims that the Milan coach's representatives held talks with Chelsea officials this afternoon which resulted in an agreement for him to move to West London.

Now all that remains is for Ancelotti to give his final go-ahead to the deal, and for the Blues to agree a compensation package with Milan.

This all follows reports in the Italian media that Ancelotti met with Roman Abramovich in Paris last night at the Four Seasons George V hotel near the Eiffel Tower, where the Chelsea owner offered the Italian a four-year contract.

The meeting was long and thorough, and the Russian billionaire offered Carletto 7.2 million Euros net per year, as well as 100 million Euros to invest immediately on transfers, with the first target being Kaka.

Assistant coach to Ancelotti will reportedly be former Chelsea playing legend Gianfranco Zola, who is currently working with the Italy Under-21 national team.

Milan Vice President Adriano Galliani has admitted that Ancelotti was in Paris last night but denied it was to have talks with Abramovich."I spoke with Ancelotti. He was in Paris, but not to meet Abramovich. He was in Paris for business," said the transfer guru.

Whatever the exact truth, it certainly seems that Chelsea are homing on their new manager.

I wonder who is going to manage AC Milan now

[◆ T.D.A ◆]

Its 90% certain that Carlo will be at Chelsea from what i hear
Ancelotti has been strongly linked with taking over at Chelsea ever since the sacking of Avram Grant just under a fortnight ago.

Sky Sports News claims that the Milan coach's representatives held talks with Chelsea officials this afternoon which resulted in an agreement for him to move to West London.

Now all that remains is for Ancelotti to give his final go-ahead to the deal, and for the Blues to agree a compensation package with Milan.

This all follows reports in the Italian media that Ancelotti met with Roman Abramovich in Paris last night at the Four Seasons George V hotel near the Eiffel Tower, where the Chelsea owner offered the Italian a four-year contract.

The meeting was long and thorough, and the Russian billionaire offered Carletto 7.2 million Euros net per year, as well as 100 million Euros to invest immediately on transfers, with the first target being Kaka.

Assistant coach to Ancelotti will reportedly be former Chelsea playing legend Gianfranco Zola, who is currently working with the Italy Under-21 national team.

Milan Vice President Adriano Galliani has admitted that Ancelotti was in Paris last night but denied it was to have talks with Abramovich."I spoke with Ancelotti. He was in Paris, but not to meet Abramovich. He was in Paris for business," said the transfer guru.

Whatever the exact truth, it certainly seems that Chelsea are homing on their new manager.

I wonder who is going to manage AC Milan now

probably lippi or rijkaard

[rtyd1]

Lippi ruled himself out saying it would be an insult to Juve if he managed one of their rivals in the italian league. Rijkaard is looking likely

EDIT : AC Milan dont need a new manger but chesea still do, Carlo says hes staying

[Lelo]

Ibrahimovic isn't going anywhere. They just extended his contract to 2012 and they will be paying him LOADS of money. :p

please take that sig off, it's creeping the fuckin shit out of me,:o
[hr]

Chelsea have agreed a deal with Ancelotti, I wonder if Kaka can be signed.

AHH, Kaka, LOL, every time I hear his name I just start to laugh. Sucks to have shit as ur name

[Mendes]

FC Porto was suspended from the CL this year, due to the process 'Apito Final', where Porto lost 6 points in the league. That time, Porto didnt contest the decision, because we had over 20 points of advantage in comparison to the 2nd placed, and contesting the decision could imply a loss of points in the next season instead. It happens that UEFA doesnt allow a team that doesnt contest corruption related decisions in their competitions. The spot Porto will give in CL will be filled by the 4th placed, Benfica

[Imperium]

FC Porto was suspended from the CL this year, due to the process 'Apito Final', where Porto lost 6 points in the league. That time, Porto didnt contest the decision, because we had over 20 points of advantage in comparison to the 2nd placed, and contesting the decision could imply a loss of points in the next season instead. It happens that UEFA doesnt allow a team that doesnt contest corruption related decisions in their competitions. The spot Porto will give in CL will be filled by the 4th placed, BenficaThat must really hurt. I would honestly contemplate killing something if that happened between Tottenham and Arsenal.:( Although look on the bright side, benfica might not even make it past the qualifying. Speaking of that didnt the scandal happen when jose was in charge? Shouldnt he be punished too?

[Mendes]

That must really hurt. I would honestly contemplate killing something if that happened between Tottenham and Arsenal.:( Although look on the bright side, benfica might not even make it past the qualifying. Speaking of that didnt the scandal happen when jose was in charge? Shouldnt he be punished too?

Yeah it was about that time, but why would the coach be punished?
Well, I dont really care if Benfica goes to the CL. They usually do such ridiculous performances in Europe that sometimes I laugh.
I'll miss the CL though. I'll cheer for Inter this time...

[rtyd1]

AC Milan have also been awarded a CL place too because CSKA Sofia have financial problems.
When was the last time a club got kicked out of the Cl, in my five years of footballing exp i dont remember anything like this and now two clubs are out

[sk.nite]

AC Milan have also been awarded a CL place too because CSKA Sofia have financial problems.
When was the last time a club got kicked out of the Cl, in my five years of footballing exp i dont remember anything like this and now two clubs are out

A really convenient excuse they found to put Milan in the CL by force...

[Imperium]

A really convenient excuse they found to put Milan in the CL by force...Actually it might not even happen. The site that reported just said (http://goal.com/en/Articolo.aspx?ContenutoId=723059) it might not happen. I really wouldnt put it past uefa to do something like that, but since the site seems to not have any valid source, i guess they're just making a story out of nothing.

[rtyd1]

Now Milan wont be in the CL since the Bulgarian FA decided to give the UEFA license they took from CSKA to Levski Sofia.http://www.goal.com/en/Articolo.aspx?ContenutoId=723059

There is still a very very outside chance AC will get Porto's place but it'll go to Benfica most probably

[rykarreolacr]

Why should Milan go to CL for an incident that happened to another country's club? If that happens I find it ridiculous and unfair to every other European team who isn't in the CL.

[rtyd1]

The reason i belive was that CSKA had the license revoked without a license you cant play in the CL and no other team in Bulgaria had one. Since there were no bulgarian clubs able to play logic dictates that the place should go to the club who have the highest UEFA rank and are not already in the competition will be the replacement which was AC.

Now the Bulgarian FA are likely to give UEFA license they took from CSKA to Levski Sofia so they can participate

[Lelo]

I watched Argentina vs U.S. yesterday, man does the U.S. really suck. Why cant U.S. even compete. I'm pretty sure that tit's because the U.S. plays on a smaller field than European teams do right?

[sk.nite]

I watched Argentina vs U.S. yesterday, man does the U.S. really suck. Why cant U.S. even compete. I'm pretty sure that tit's because the U.S. plays on a smaller field than European teams do right?

That was Mexico, and yes they suck badly.

[rtyd1]

Seems like someone really wants AC Milan in the CL
http://www.goal.com/en/Articolo.aspx?ContenutoId=725056

If AC do get a place which team is next, Valencia

[sk.nite]

Just read in the argentinian press that Inter is interested in Aguero. Is is true? If it is, Ibrahimovic + Kun Aguero = Best attack duo in the world (I'm not saying it because he used to play for the team I support :p)

[KnuckleheadedNinja]

I watched Argentina vs U.S. yesterday, man does the U.S. really suck. Why cant U.S. even compete. I'm pretty sure that tit's because the U.S. plays on a smaller field than European teams do right?

i don't even know why people expect the U.S. to be good. U.S. play SOCCER and the other countries play FOOTBALL, two different things if you ask me.

And Euro 08 begins tommorrow. I want Portugal to win but i think Germany probably going to take it.

[Lelo]

That was Mexico, and yes they suck badly.

yeah my bad, it was. I watched the U.S. vs England match that I recorded right before that match, I was a little confused

[Mendes]

I still cant believe we lost 3-2 against US's soccer in world cup 2002...

As for the recent updates on the summer market:
.Dani Alves seems to close to Barça. The amazing and, imo, the best right side back right now is said to have an agreement with Barça. Sevilla would earn 25M€ and perhaps some players involved in a trade.
-Barça is also looking for a center forward. Probably an attempt to cover an eventual leaving of Eto'o. Trezeguet, Benzema, Ibrahimovic and Adebayor are some names brought by the press.
-Roque Santa Cruz is said to be in Manchester United's plans for about 19M€. I honestly doubt he's worth that much. He did an amazing season in Blackburn though

And Maldini is playing one more season! Milan's super captain isnt done yet :P

[Lelo]

^ because of Kobe Jones, LOL just kidding.:D

[Imperium]

I heard rumours of adebayor to milan. 32 million pounds! (Around 40 euro's). As much as i like him, if they gave us that much, i would sell him faster than you can shout "goal". But its not true he came out (again) to say its not true, as did wenger.

From what i heard of alves, its seems all but confirmed. Maldini is a robot, or some type of superhuman, most keepers already retire at his age, and he is still playing at the highest level. Amazing.

Santa cruz's price tag is that much i suppose because he got so many goals with a team that is not the most talented. And the fact that he already "adjusted" to the league which always means a extra couple of million.

[rtyd1]

Santa Cruz is a good player and Chelsea must be wishing they had got him instead of Claudio Pizarro, my prediction is that he will suffer from SSS (second season syndrome) and he ten goals next season

[Mendes]

PORTUGAAAAAL! 2-0 against Turkey! Great exhibition we did. We had so much goal attempts the result could have easily been stronger. I was impressed! Czech Republic also won against switzerland, so the stronger teams of group A in theory are setting the pace

[KnuckleheadedNinja]

PORTUGAAAAAL! 2-0 against Turkey! Great exhibition we did. We had so much goal attempts the result could have easily been stronger. I was impressed! Czech Republic also won against switzerland, so the stronger teams of group A in theory are setting the pace

yeah, portugal could have score like 3 more goals. Nuno Gomez hit the post like two times.

[Imperium]

PORTUGAAAAAL! 2-0 against Turkey! Great exhibition we did. We had so much goal attempts the result could have easily been stronger. I was impressed! Czech Republic also won against switzerland, so the stronger teams of group A in theory are setting the paceI think scolari has found a solution to your striker problem. Just stick pepe upfront, and he'll bang in the goals. XDDD

[sk.nite]

I think scolari has found a solution to your striker problem. Just stick pepe upfront, and he'll bang in the goals. XDDD

Ooohhh... so that's why Real Madrid paid 30 kilos for him XD

Argentina 0 - USA 0 : I want those 90 minutes of my life back.

[Lelo]

Portugal is looking great and so is Germany.

By the way who is the #1 ranked soccer player in the world right now
[hr]
sucks Lebanon lost to Saudi Arabia in the 2010 Olympic qualifications

[Imperium]

Portugal is looking great and so is Germany.

By the way who is the #1 ranked soccer player in the world right nowRanking players is always subjective. There are awards like the fifa footballer of the year, and european footballer of the year but sometimes imo they can get quite biased. Right now everybody thinks ronaldo is going to scoop both awards this season. But the euro's i think will decide it. If he has a good tournament than the award is as good as his, but if one of the other contenders does the amazing, like single-handly win the tournament for their country then he might not get it. Kinda like how cannavaro won the award in 06, he is the reason why italy won the WC.

But, no their is no real ranking system i think. Their is a country ranking though, which weirdly england have just taken portugal out of the top ten and beat the dutch to number 9. The wonders of football :D

[Mendes]

I think scolari has found a solution to your striker problem. Just stick pepe upfront, and he'll bang in the goals. XDDD


Hah! I was thinking the exact same thing when Pepe scored like that! Nuno Gomes could try a midfield position though. The striker position isnt his thing... definitely.


Ooohhh... so that's why Real Madrid paid 30 kilos for him XD

Argentina 0 - USA 0 : I want those 90 minutes of my life back.


Strange result. Argentina was looking really fine against Mexico.


Ranking players is always subjective. There are awards like the fifa footballer of the year, and european footballer of the year but sometimes imo they can get quite biased. Right now everybody thinks ronaldo is going to scoop both awards this season. But the euro's i think will decide it. If he has a good tournament than the award is as good as his, but if one of the other contenders does the amazing, like single-handly win the tournament for their country then he might not get it. Kinda like how cannavaro won the award in 06, he is the reason why italy won the WC.
But, no their is no real ranking system i think. Their is a country ranking though, which weirdly england have just taken portugal out of the top ten and beat the dutch to number 9. The wonders of football :D

I subscribe. I dunno what are those rankings based on... and the same goes to this ranking (http://www.zerozero.pt/ranking_iffhs.php). I mean, this is supposed to be a ranking based on history and statistic, but Chelsea comes in 3rd place. On the portuguese teams, sporting cp comes in much better position than fc porto and benfica, which is a miracle considering they've won a single league title in 24 years...
Most FIFA rankings are pointless.

Holland is winning 2-0 with Italy. A very good match and Holland's impressive. Their 2nd goal was just great. Perfect counter! Both goals were made in Real Madrid

[Lelo]

Italy is down 2 to 0, wow. How did that happen, its only the first game so they better play ridiculously good in their upcoming games. I'm trying my hardest to be interested in Euro but its hard to when my team England ain't in it. This sucks.

[Mendes]

It must be hard to be interested in an international competition when you're country's not in it. I also lost interest in 2002, when Portugal didnt get past the 1st round. Since we're rockin, I'm overexcited with the Euro. The sad part is the university's exams are on fire too...

Italy lost 3-0. It was an exciting match tough, with lots of opportunities for both sides. Holland played better and some of their plays were outstanding. Reminded of the mechanical orange, and the last 2 goals were proof of it. With France's draw, Holland appears as the main candidate to go trough the next stage. Who else will follow?

[Lelo]

^ good luck with ur exams

so italys game was good, nice I recorded it and I'm gonna watch it when I get home from work. Thanks for the updates

[KnuckleheadedNinja]

i can't believe it italy lost 3-0.

[sk.nite]

The 3-0 result didn't reflect what both teams did in the pitch. It could have easily ended 3-2 or even 3-3, but Italy was unlucky in attack. Holland won after 29 years against Italy, their last victory was in the '78 world cup.
France 0 - Romania 0: You'd day this is really bad for France, since both Italy and Holland will most likely win against Romania, but I think this will hurt Italy more. Why? Simple. Becuase France will have to win against Italy to pass the group stage and they will imo.
My prediction of group C:
-1° Holland 7
-2° France 5
-3° Italy 3
-4° Romania 1

[Mendes]

^ good luck with ur exams



Tks, I guess I'll need it :P


The 3-0 result didn't reflect what both teams did in the pitch. It could have easily ended 3-2 or even 3-3, but Italy was unlucky in attack. Holland won after 29 years against Italy, their last victory was in the '78 world cup.
France 0 - Romania 0: You'd day this is really bad for France, since both Italy and Holland will most likely win against Romania, but I think this will hurt Italy more. Why? Simple. Becuase France will have to win against Italy to pass the group stage and they will imo.
My prediction of group C:
-1° Holland 7
-2° France 5
-3° Italy 3
-4° Romania 1

I also think the outcome of the France vs Italy will decide who will go to the next stage. Still, Italy would only need a draw, while France needs a win (considering Romenia is doomed to loose the next 2 games). If Italy plays with all of their known coldness, they've got superior chances than France. Still, I can't help to feel the possibility of a miracle in this group. I'm sure you remember Euro 2000, when Portugal, England, Germany and Romenia were stuck in the same group. At that time, Portugal was a total outsider, just like Romenia, while England and Germany were huge favorites to win the title. Guess what? Portugal-1st, Romenia-2nd, Germany and England went home sooner. Considering France and Italy were favorites in this cup and the 1st match's results, I wouldnt count out a huge surprise from Romenia :P

[KnuckleheadedNinja]

spain just whop the russians ass. 4-1. I hope they can play like this throughout the tournament.

[Lelo]

why isn't Henry starting for France, is he that old? You know when I first heard that Henry was going to Barcelona I went crazy thinking him, Messi and Ronaldinho are gonna kick ass but only Messi started , Henry couldn't get in his grove and Ronaldinho just, well I dont know what happen to him, did he get injured or what.

[Mendes]

I didnt watch the Spain vs Russia, but that result was impressive! Russia is a very strong team and very well managed. Villa scored 3 goals... I guess Spain are serious!

As for Henry, he was getting used to Barça in the latest matches, but his adaptation progress in Spain was tough. The competition for the striker position was very hard, and Barça didnt change the formation because of him. With the 4-3-3, Barça's attack was set with Messi, Ronaldinho and Eto'o. Henry failed to impressed when either Eto'o or Ronaldinho were injured. Ronaldinho is just in terrible shape right now. Lack of confidence and... stuff. He just stopped playing. Kinda justifies Barça's shameful season.

Today Sweeden also beat Greece, with 2-0 and a thunderous goal by Zlatan! You gotta love him, he's superb! Tomorrow's schedule for the Euro presents a Portugal-Czech Republic. This game may decide the 1st team to go trough the next stage. I'm pretty confident in our chances. We played very good in the 1st match and Czech played really bad with Switzerland. Aside from their Italy-made defense, I dont think they're too dangerous

[Lelo]

I didnt watch the Spain vs Russia, but that result was impressive! Russia is a very strong team and very well managed. Villa scored 3 goals... I guess Spain are serious!

As for Henry, he was getting used to Barça in the latest matches, but his adaptation progress in Spain was tough. The competition for the striker position was very hard, and Barça didnt change the formation because of him. With the 4-3-3, Barça's attack was set with Messi, Ronaldinho and Eto'o. Henry failed to impressed when either Eto'o or Ronaldinho were injured. Ronaldinho is just in terrible shape right now. Lack of confidence and... stuff. He just stopped playing. Kinda justifies Barça's shameful season.

Today Sweeden also beat Greece, with 2-0 and a thunderous goal by Zlatan! You gotta love him, he's superb! Tomorrow's schedule for the Euro presents a Portugal-Czech Republic. This game may decide the 1st team to go trough the next stage. I'm pretty confident in our chances. We played very good in the 1st match and Czech played really bad with Switzerland. Aside from their Italy-made defense, I dont think they're too dangerous

Thanks, basically Henry should of stayed with Arsenal and Ronaldinho is lazy, he doesnt have the heart for the game like he use to. Sucks, that would of been a crazy match in UEFA if both Ronandinho and Henry were starters and faced Man U. Too bad, we still would of won:tem

[sk.nite]

spain just whop the russians ass. 4-1. I hope they can play like this throughout the tournament.

Hehehe, looks like my prediction will come true.

Pd: IIIIIIIIBRAAAAAAAIIIIIIIMOOOOOOVIIIIIIIIC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Imperium]

Im with the czech on this one. Portugal are not my cup of tea. :oh

[Lelo]

Im with the czech on this one. Portugal are not my cup of tea. :oh

your with Czech? Is it truethat not one team scored a goal against them inthe world cup

[KnuckleheadedNinja]

Im with the czech on this one. Portugal are not my cup of tea. :oh

You better take that back...Wait it too late, cause portugal just whop the czech ass, 3-1.

[Mendes]

What is true is that we won 3-1 and, once again, we're showing our credentials to win the cup this year.

Have you guys heard? Scolari in Chelsea after the Euro Cup... lol, this kind if new should have been delayed till the Euro actually ended... it may have an adverse effect on the players i guess
[hr]

You better take that back...Wait it too late, cause portugal just whop the czech ass, 3-1.
lol you beat me to it :P

[Lohnt]

Why is the convo split into 2 topics, I don't really get the point at this point, may as well just merge them.

Btw, congrats Mendes, CR has finally woken up in the tournament, and Deco was seriously impressive. I mean he's a huge player and all, but I thought he was no longer at his prime, guess I was wrong.

[sk.nite]

Looks like I'll have to call Luis Felipe "te cago a trompadinhas" Scolari as Lewis Philip from now on :XD And about his 10 million salary I say: good for you Felipao :thumbs

Btw, am I the only one who thinks that it's blatantly obvious that Abramovic and his henchmen are laundring the big bucks in Chelsea? I mean, they've had a 250 million loss since they started managing the club, and they stlill spend money like there's no tomorrow.

[Imperium]

One thread is just for the euro's while this one is for everything else to do with football i guess. :D It will be intresting to see what scolari can do with chelsea. He hasnt coached a club for 7 years (?).



Btw, am I the only one who thinks that it's blatantly obvious that Abramovic and his henchmen are laundring the big bucks in Chelsea? I mean, they've had a 250 million loss since they started managing the club, and they stlill spend money like there's no tomorrow.Hahaha maybe he is. You know, as you said he hasnt profited since he came, which makes me think he is either going to slow down the spending or just leave chelsea (and let them go back to being a mid table club). But chelsea owe him back all that money which they say is not debt but uefa disagree. In fact, platini was moaning about the amount of debt United and chelsea owe (united having the larger debt, though) not long ago.

[Lelo]

did anyone watch the Switz-Turkey match, it was ridiculous, Turkey got luckey on 2 goals. The first one the goalie blocked it but because the ball was wet and spinning so fast it deflected off the goalies hands and into the goal. The second one was in the 92nd min, I'm guessing it was their striker who kicked it towards the goal and it hit the leg of a Swtiz player who was jumping in the air to tey to stop it and ended up bending the ball right into thenet. Because of that goal in the 92nd min the Swiftz have been eliminated

[Mendes]

Well, that's football for you... Switzerland actually played a good and positive football, but they were unlucky and somehow, inexperienced. I want to see good things from the switz in the upcoming qualifyers.

Germany lost 2-1 with Croatia... that's bad for us. This will most likely put Portugal and Germany in the quarterfinals. For an impartial fan's view, this could be awesome. For me, its one of the worst opponents we could face, on pair with Italy and Spain. Well, I'm confident with our exhibitions so far and I think we're favorites.

As for Scolari leaving to Chelsea, well, I never liked the guy, but this shouldnt have been announced publicly in the middle of the Euro. This may affect some players, for the worse... I dont like this side of Scolari. 1st he hits Dragutinovic and denies it; seconds later he apologizes for hitting him :/ Now he announces he's leaving the nation after the Euro, where we're showing credits and favoritism... I'd clearly wait for the end of the Cup to announce something like this...

[KnuckleheadedNinja]

wow france are done for. they just lost to Dutch, 4-1

[Lohnt]

As for Scolari leaving to Chelsea, well, I never liked the guy, but this shouldnt have been announced publicly in the middle of the Euro. This may affect some players, for the worse... I dont like this side of Scolari. 1st he hits Dragutinovic and denies it; seconds later he apologizes for hitting him :/ Now he announces he's leaving the nation after the Euro, where we're showing credits and favoritism... I'd clearly wait for the end of the Cup to announce something like this...
Maybe it's England's payback for Rooney's red card =p Drop Portugal's psychology a little. Make some drama, since without Figo Christiano has no one to fight with.

[Mendes]

Holland is playing superb football! I love watching them in action and their record in this Euro is amazing. If they decide to spare players and end up loosing with Romenia, then my comparison with Euro 2000 turns real :P

Today its Spain vs Sweeden. Lets see if Spain still look shinny in the 2nd match. I expect Spain to be favorites, but they usually have that characteristic of loosing when they're less expected to.
If Greece wants to go trough the quarter finals they have no option but to win against Russia, and the same applies to the Russians. Its really hard to find an outsider in this group

[Lohnt]

It doesn't really matter, even if we win, we have to win against Spain as well, which.. historically at least (aside from favorites) we don't do so well (in both basketball and football). And even if Greece wins they face Holland.. and they kind of raped us in the prelimenaries of the Mundial 2006..

I dunno, I don't really have high hopes in general, but I was hoping we would make it to the 8.. maybe even 4, but that's just blind & silly patriotism XD

[Lelo]

Spain won 2-1 against Sweden and Greece got eliminated against Russia 1-0, Both games were fun to watch, there was some pretty awesome goals.

[Mendes]

I saw spain vs sweden, but it was boooring... at least after watching holland vs france and italy vs romenia yesterday
Spain had to sweat a Lot to win this, and they scored at 92'
In the 1st half it was Spain vs Zlatan, but the prodigy striker left the game at the break for some reason and sweden never smelled the goal again

[KnuckleheadedNinja]

that was a bad defense by sweden to allow David Villa to score that goal. Also Greece are done.

[Lelo]

I know no one cares about U.S. soccer but after the Turk game on ESPN, they played a 2010 World Cup qualifications match between U.S. and Barbados(dont even know where that is), the U.S. scored 3 goals in first 19 min, one was in the 1st min. The U.S. probably think their badass right now.

[Agrias]

I know no one cares about U.S. soccer but after the Turk game on ESPN, they played a 2010 World Cup qualifications match between U.S. and Barbados(dont even know where that is), the U.S. scored 3 goals in first 19 min, one was in the 1st min. The U.S. probably think their badass right now.

And Brazil has just lost to Paraguay. The new Brazil team sucks, and so does its coach. -________________________-

[Lelo]

^I like the new sig and avatar, blue is one of colors.

how fuuny would that be if Brazil doesnt make it to the World Cup, I highly doubt it would happen though. Also did Ronaldinho play or no.
[hr]
Usa won 8-0. I know Usa sucks but 8 goals in one game is pretty nuts

[Agrias]

Ah I forgot, it wasn't a World Cup qualification game, but a Olympic games one.. :p
We usually suck at Olympic games...funny isn't it? 5 times world champion, and not even one gold medal! :p

This team is terrible...no Kaka and no Ronaldinho :/ At least Robinho is playing, but he isn't enough to save the team ;/

[Mendes]

I dont think Brazil can comply on lack of talented players. Imo, its the opposite. Too many overtalented players usually leads to disaster unless you have a discipline machine as a coach, which you dont. Scolari had that characteristic and he led Brazil to the title in 2002, but Dunga doesnt seem fit for the role...
I think that's the reason Brazil does so well in the Copa America. Usually in that competition, the players that play in the greatest European clubs arent in the nominees for Brazil and the team actually plays better and usually win that cup.
Who do you see fit to train the Brazilian squad, Agrias? I feel like for some reason in Brazil the choice is always a Brazilian coach... why isnt a foreign coach considered? Almost every coach would like to train Brazil, but whenever I ask to a Brazilian who they'd like to train your squad they always point out Zico, Scolari, Luxemburgo... wouldnt it be worth a try an European coach, like Lippi, Rijkaard, Eriksson, Basten, etc?

[Agrias]

Who do you see fit to train the Brazilian squad, Agrias? I feel like for some reason in Brazil the choice is always a Brazilian coach... why isnt a foreign coach considered? Almost every coach would like to train Brazil, but whenever I ask to a Brazilian who they'd like to train your squad they always point out Zico, Scolari, Luxemburgo... wouldnt it be worth a try an European coach, like Lippi, Rijkaard, Eriksson, Basten, etc?

The idea of having a foreign coach for the national squad sounds...completely unlikely, impossible xD
I don't think this has even been considered...I guess it's due to our national soccer pride....or maybe just we aren't used to this situation, I myself had never even thought about this possibility. ^^;

I don't even imagine how people would react, seriously. CBF - the soccer federation - is the one who chooses the coaches, and I know nothing of their methods.

Who do do I see fit for the job? I really make no idea. Better ask the guys. xD

[sk.nite]

Choosing foreign coaches is for small countries (like England :kukuku)

The problem with Brazil right now is that they suck (Adriano can't f***ing move for god's sake! He weighs like 100 kg!), but so do we. Man, tying in the last minute against Ecuador, that's just embarassing. The problem with our team is basically that the guy sitting in the bench and his drinking buddies knowing shit about how to make a team(the name's Alfio Basile, a good friend of Julio Grondona, who runs the AFA. Hmmm, no, nothing suspicious there...). Put Riquelme, Gago, Veron and Mascherano all at the same time in the pitch and the result is Guerron having a picnic in the right band. I won't deny that Ecuador's defence was in good shape the entire game, but also Argentina's lack of offensive attitude had a dessicive influence in the final score.

My prediction for the match against Brazil: It will be either a boring 0-0 or Brazil will miracolously recover their form and beat us 3-0(or worse). Pretty pesimistic, huh? Well, check the last results between Brazil and Argentina and you'll see.

[KnuckleheadedNinja]

anyone saw the turkey vs. czech game, that was the game of the tournament. Also Germany won, so it going to be portugal vs. Germany in the qauterfinal. I hope Portugal wins.

[Lelo]

^so far that was the game of the tournament, but theres a lot more games to come. I can't wait to get home to watch Italy vs France, hopefully it is a good game

[Pirulito]

My prediction for the match against Brazil: It will be either a boring 0-0 or Brazil will miracolously recover their form and beat us 3-0(or worse). Pretty pesimistic, huh? Well, check the last results between Brazil and Argentina and you'll see.

Argentina will beat Brazil easily. Brazil team don't have form since the world cup 2006.
I believe (and I also want to) there won't be miracle this time.

Argentina >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Brazil, nowadays

[Mendes]

You dont see that often... an Argentinian expecting a defeat against Brazil, and a Brazilian expecting a defeat against Argentina.
Well, I wouldnt bet on this match, that's for sure...

[Pirulito]

Rumours say Zico is well-reputed to be next Portugal's coach.
What do you think about it, Mendes?

[Mendes]

I dunno. I'm used to have the press rumor alot. We'll most likely be appointed a new coach every day if it comes to the press. But I like Zico (at least as a player) and the work he developed in Fenerbahce. My favorite would be Carlos Queiroz, but I honestly doubt he'll leave United. There's still a bunch of renowned coaches around without contract. We'll see.

Italy won 2-0 against France. Italy has that lucky star on this competitions, as France was too soft in that game and Romenia couldnt step up to a powerful Holland 'B'. We'll have a pleasant Spain vs Italy for the Quarter-finals and an interesting Holland vs Sweden or Russia. Portugal-Germany will be a major dish and Croatia will face Turkey.

[Lelo]

when do argentina and Brasil play

[Agrias]

Tomorrow :p
I'll be at class -_____- I hope the teacher wants to watch the game too. xD

[Lohnt]

You dont see that often... an Argentinian expecting a defeat against Brazil, and a Brazilian expecting a defeat against Argentina.
Well, I wouldnt bet on this match, that's for sure...

Truer words..

I hope they show the game here.. Brazil v Argentina are always fun games to watch.

[Imperium]

but also Argentina's lack of offensive attitude had a dessicive influence in the final score.Wasnt tevez or messi playing?


Choosing foreign coaches is for small countries (like England :kukuku)
Its not our fault that our FA doesnt bother to train managers properly >.>. All they do is convince ex-players to become managers...which doesnt bring about good results, i.e. the last time we had a decent english manager was the 80's >.>;. But capello isnt going to last long anyway, either he is going to get tired of us or we're going to get tired of him. Basically he'll be gone by the next euro's euro's -_-;.

Btw, the match is going to clash with the euro's. :( I might still watch it, if the other matches get boring.

[Mendes]

It wont clash. In GTM:
Brazil x Argentina 19/06 01h50
Portugal x Germany 19/06 19h45

Its kinda late in the night, but I may be able to watch it. If Dunga gets defeated I think he'll be fired for sure

[sk.nite]

Argentina will beat Brazil easily. Brazil team don't have form since the world cup 2006.
I believe (and I also want to) there won't be miracle this time.

Argentina >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Brazil, nowadays

That lack of form didn't prevent Brasil from beating us 3-0 in a friendly match(I'm sure it was after the WC because that f***ing drunkard Basile was already on the bench) and beating us in the Copa America final for 3-0 (again :notrust). That was in 2007 if I remember correctly. But I don't think it's a lack of form, but more the style Dunga has that makes Brasil play like a small team and that's why they only get results against teams like Argentina, who don't speculate and attack them.



Wasnt tevez or messi playing?


Messi and Aguero played this match. Tevez is resting so he wasn't called up (form mutual agreement with the coach from what I know). The problem isn't the forwards, but the midfielders. It's a collection of Galapagos' turtles imo, and they disrupt the fast attack pace that Messi and Aguero/Tevez naturally have.

[Lohnt]

So why doesn't he play with all three attackers in order to let them form the attack on their own? So Aguero is on the adult team now? grats to him, I thought he was still in the under 21

[Mendes]

Argentina's midfield is getting old... I havent been hearing of any young attacking midfield talent from Argentina. Some years ago, it was that generation where Aimar, Veron and Riquelme were in their prime. Is Banega a good player, sk.nite?

@Lohnt
He is under 21, but he's a prodigy and since Saviola rarely plays in Real and Crespo, Cruz cant keep up with the attacking dynamism of Argentina's forwards (specially Messi's), he's the best man for the job. I look forward to see if Aguero lives up to the expectations placed on him. It must be tough the battle for center forward position in Argentina. Crespo, Aguero, Tevez, Delgado, Saviola, Cruz, Trejo and watch out for Lisandro

[sk.nite]

Argentina's midfield is getting old... I havent been hearing of any young attacking midfield talent from Argentina. Some years ago, it was that generation where Aimar, Veron and Riquelme were in their prime. Is Banega a good player, sk.nite?

@Lohnt
He is under 21, but he's a prodigy and since Saviola rarely plays in Real and Crespo, Cruz cant keep up with the attacking dynamism of Argentina's forwards (specially Messi's), he's the best man for the job. I look forward to see if Aguero lives up to the expectations placed on him. It must be tough the battle for center forward position in Argentina. Crespo, Aguero, Tevez, Delgado, Saviola, Cruz, Trejo and watch out for Lisandro

I can't say Banega sucks, but neither I can say that he's worth the price Valencia paid for him or that I want him on the national team's midfield. It's something that happens with players who play for Boca, they're sold overpriced and are overrated in general by the media(Riquelme being the major exponent).
What I really meant is that we don't have good external players in the midfield right now, and it's not because there aren't any out there playing in the world, it's just that Basile don't call them and that's why I'm so f***ing angry at him :mad

[patedecarne]

An ant coach >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Dunga...

Seriously, I'm expecting to see a rampage tonight, thanks God I won't see it in the stadium, the deception could be even worse...

Dunga must fall today, otherwise there's a high possibility that Brazil won't make it to 2010 World Cup...

[sk.nite]

An ant coach >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Dunga...

Seriously, I'm expecting to see a rampage tonight, thanks God I won't see it in the stadium, the deception could be even worse...

Dunga must fall today, otherwise there's a high possibility that Brazil won't make it to 2010 World Cup...

With this classification system Argentina and Brazil are ALWAYS qualified beforehand, no matter how badly they play. And I'm hoping Basile is sacked too, but unfortunately there hasn't been a sacked coach in Argentina since...well I don't remember.

[Mendes]

I guess this thread could create a We Hate Our Nation's Coach crew. Is there anyone satisfied with their manager?

sk.nite, what club do you cheer for?

[walkie]

I guess this thread could create a We Hate Our Nation's Coach crew. Is there anyone satisfied with their manager?

sk.nite, what club do you cheer for?

i can join that crew but i thought portugese people r ok with scolari?!?!?!

[patedecarne]

Well, to tell the truth, I think Scolari is one of the most prepared persons to be Brazil's coach;

Not even with Brazil, but he always did an excellent job in other teams here;

But currently, I cannot say for sure if he's doing well just now, though...

[Mendes]

Actually I dont like Scolari. The country is kinda split in half when it comes to support the coach. I dont like some of his stubborn choices and he usually needs to loose important matches to realize mistakes (1st match he played in Euro 2004 was so proof of that). But I never complainted as long as he had that winning star around him. I was just terrified with his attitude towards Dragutinovic. A coach of his level could never do something like that. It reveals a horrible character and I was really surprised when he was supported by the FA instead of being fired that time

[sk.nite]

I guess this thread could create a We Hate Our Nation's Coach crew. Is there anyone satisfied with their manager?

sk.nite, what club do you cheer for?

Independiente de Avellaneda, one of the biggst teams of Argentina. We are called "los diablos rojos" which means "red devils", because of the color of the jersey, which is obviously red. The club had its biggest moment of glory during the 70's and 80's, when we won 7 times the Libertadores cup (AKA the south american champions league). Our last title won was the Apertura 2002 (Argentinian league). If you want to know more about the club go HERE (http://www.infiernorojo.com/). It's better than the official site.

[Agrias]

Brazil 0 x 0 Argentina...the game was far better than the last one versus Paraguay, but Brazil still lacks Kaka something...

It was fun to see Dunga being called dumb (and many other things i can't really write here) all night long by the entire stadium. Everytime the stupid narrator would shut his mouth, we got to hear the roar. xD

[KnuckleheadedNinja]

Brazil need to step their game up. It be the crazy thing ever if they don't qualify for the world cup, i know this is not going to happen but they really need to stay playing like Brazil again.

[Pirulito]

Brazil didn't a good match but Argentina has managed to be worse.
Unbelievable.

[sk.nite]

My prediction for the match against Brazil: It will be either a boring 0-0 or Brazil will miracolously recover their form and beat us 3-0(or worse). Pretty pesimistic, huh? Well, check the last results between Brazil and Argentina and you'll see.

I'm da man :smile-big

Mascherano :worship2 best number 5 in the world

[Lelo]

they didny go into OT in the Brasil game

[sk.nite]

One more comment about the match: It was nice to see both coaches going all out at the end of the match and showing off the great south american football style to the world with these substitutions: Battaglia x Riquelme and Dani Alves x Diego

For the dense bunch: That was sarcasm.

[Lohnt]

I'll join the we hate our coach club. I wouldn't worry too much about Argentina and Brazil though, worse case scenario they can just call back some old players to come back and help out before the Mundial

[Lelo]

^ Brasil will call up Romario, LOL

[Mendes]

Well, its Germany vs Turkey in the semi-finals.
I'm terrified by our defensive mistakes against Germany. I cant help but to feel like we would have won that match with a different goal keeper... In the end, Germany outplayed us and they're in huge position to reach the final. Unless Turkey does something like that again xD
Can you believe it? After turning a 2-1 defeat against Czech into a 3-2 win at the last minutes, the Turkish do the same thing with Croatia! It was tied 0-0 till extra time-29', where Croatia scores. At 31' Turkey tied in the last second and then they just tossed Croatia out of the Euro in the penalties!

As for the market:
It seems like Ronaldo wants to go to Real Madrid as much as Real Madrid wants Ronaldo. I smell blood in this transfer speculation...
It seems like Adebayor is going to Barça for 27M€, replacing Eto'o who's destiny is still unknown.
(I had to say this xD) Porto just hired Cristian Rodríguez, the attacking midfielder who played on Benfica by loan last season and established as one of the best players of our rivals. Benfica didnt cover the wages he was asking for, while Porto did. The blue will suit him fine! Mwahahaha

[Lohnt]

I hope he goes to RM, they haven't had a really good European season for a while. It's good for historic teams like RM to get players like that.

I agree that your keeper is pretty bad, but our old man was worse =)

Sounds good, Romario, Rivaldo and Ronaldo will take Brazil back to the top.
ps. almost forgot Zico! Pele can be the coach.

[Lelo]

why can't great soccer players stay on the same team, I hate it when they go where the money is. It would really suck if Ronanldo leaves Man U, we are the best and if he leaves that fucks evrytuing up

[Amilevi]

(I had to say this xD) Porto just hired Cristian Rodríguez, the attacking midfielder who played on Benfica by loan last season and established as one of the best players of our rivals. Benfica didnt cover the wages he was asking for, while Porto did. The blue will suit him fine! Mwahahaha

Now Rodríguez is in the champions league, LOL

[KnuckleheadedNinja]

why can't great soccer players stay on the same team, I hate it when they go where the money is. It would really suck if Ronanldo leaves Man U, we are the best and if he leaves that fucks evrytuing up

i known, what better place for him to show his talent than at the greatest and best club(Man U) ever and at the best and most follow league right now(EPL). I don't really see him during too well in La Liga. He should just go ask Theiry Henry.

[sk.nite]

I'm so happy with Racing playing "la promocion" I changed my sig. What is that you wonder? Well, it's basically a relegation play-off. Imagine you support a big team and that your biggest rivals are playing that. I just can't stop laughing.

Pd: Racing used to be a football club. Now it's just a private enterprise.

[Mendes]

lol racing was a nice team. I used to shop there in CM some amazing players. How did they got so bad? Corinthians had a similar problem in the Brasileirão, but they were a super rich club when they were relegated, which is even more unbelievable. In Portugal, that's completely impossible. The 3 most important teams -Porto, Benfica, Sporting - never fell onto the lower leagues and they won every league title except for 2 times in history

EDIT: btw, Arsenal just secured Nasri for 16.5M€. A nice purchase from the North London club. I havent seen him playing much, but he's supposed to be a hot prospect for France

[sk.nite]

lol racing was a nice team. I used to shop there in CM some amazing players. How did they got so bad? Corinthians had a similar problem in the Brasileirão, but they were a super rich club when they were relegated, which is even more unbelievable. In Portugal, that's completely impossible. The 3 most important teams -Porto, Benfica, Sporting - never fell onto the lower leagues and they won every league title except for 2 times in history

EDIT: btw, Arsenal just secured Nasri for 16.5M€. A nice purchase from the North London club. I havent seen him playing much, but he's supposed to be a hot prospect for France

Yeah, here in Argentina too it's very rare that one of the most important teams (called "grandes": Boca, River, Independiente, Racing and San Lorenzo) to be relegated. In fact, it only happened to Racing and San Lorenzo once in the eighties.

In what position does Nasri play? I'd say he's a center-forward, considering that Adebayor was already sold. Btw, 16.5 million it's pretty steep considering he's relatively unknown.

[Mendes]

Yeah, here in Argentina too it's very rare that one of the most important teams (called "grandes": Boca, River, Independiente, Racing and San Lorenzo) to be relegated. In fact, it only happened to Racing and San Lorenzo once in the eighties.

we call the biggest teams the 'grandes' as well, but the only possibility of one of them to drop from the 1st league is trough a corruption scandal like Juve in calcio-caos. Although, trough our justice system that seems very unlikely...



In what position does Nasri play? I'd say he's a center-forward, considering that Adebayor was already sold. Btw, 16.5 million it's pretty steep considering he's relatively unknown.

Nasri is attacking midfielder. He doesnt seem to be an option to fill in Adebayor's gap. It seems to me like its an alternative to Rosicky, who's having several problems with injuries. His price was very high, but I've heard he was already a huge player, and he may still benefit by Wenger's characteristic of improving youngsters. Arsenal has money, so they must be still be looking for a center midfielder with the characteristics of Flamini and a center forward.