The Football.....

[Accy cyclist]

I'm listening to the Turkey v Paraguay match on Radio 5 Live. As I post it's approaching half time with Paraguay leading 1 - 0. These matches between teams that obviously won't win the tournament to me are more entertaining than when the potential winners play. The other night, both like tonight, in the early hours I watched New Zealand v Iran and the following night/morning I watched Mexico v South Korea.

 

[Pblakeney]

in fairness as I saw someone point out today as I hadnt really processed it to this level to be fair, it was FIFAs decision, for sure to suit what their view of the American audience is, but it was FIFA who did it, so blame FIFA.

the Americans, as Ive been in America and watched premier league football on tv in a bar and no one complained about quarters or having to pay attention for 45 mins or any of that stuff, actually really dont care about that stuff. However it apparently guarantees nearly a billion dollars worldwide in ad revenue which is shared amongst FIFA and tv companies ultimately.

so dont blame the yanks, blame the people skimming the profits from it.

Probably not the American fans or players that have been asking for quarters but organisations have been seeking it for decades.
Yes it is all about revenue/money and FIFA is all about money but the idea originated in the US.

 

[Accy cyclist]

I'm listening to the Turkey v Paraguay match on Radio 5 Live. As I post it's approaching half time with Paraguay leading 1 - 0. These matches between teams that obviously won't win the tournament to me are more entertaining than when the potential winners play. The other night, both like tonight, in the early hours I watched New Zealand v Iran and the following night/morning I watched Mexico v South Korea.

Turkey are out as I post!😮 I thought they'd make the last 32 at least!🤔

 

[Dave7]

Turkey are out as I post!😮 I thought they'd make the last 32 at least!🤔

I see Scotland have more or less blown it. A shame as I (along with many) wanted them to make it to the next round .

 

[Dave7]

BTW......there has been lots of talk about Engerland winning the whole thing. I just cant see it. I really dont think they are good enough........I would like them to, I just cant see it happening.
What say you ??

 

[Mo1959]

I see Scotland have more or less blown it. A shame as I (along with many) wanted them to make it to the next round .

Surprised they only lost 1-0 to be honest. I wasn't that impressed with them even against Haiti so didn't expect them to do well. Wait you see they will play well against Brazil.

 

[Dave7]

Surprised they only lost 1-0 to be honest. I wasn't that impressed with them even against Haiti so didn't expect them to do well. Wait you see they will play well against Brazil.

I wish
I dont know why I wish them well as the Scots fans seem to hate the English.

 

[N0bodyOfTheGoat]

I see Scotland have more or less blown it. A shame as I (along with many) wanted them to make it to the next round .

Three points and goal difference of zero after two games means they are right in the mix to be one of five third placed teams that will reach the knockout phase. It will all come down to the Brazil match and they've been underwhelming so far.

 

[No Ta Doctor]

BTW......there has been lots of talk about Engerland winning the whole thing. I just cant see it. I really dont think they are good enough........I would like them to, I just cant see it happening.
What say you ??

I think they have a chance, if certain players stay fit and aren't dead on their feet. Pretty solid defence, strong midfield, world class attacker in Kane and some serious deadball ability for set pieces. There are a few players that can absolutely light stuff up as well - Saka, Eze, Kane, Rashford, Madueke, Bellingham - all capable of finding something special on occasion. I expect them to grow in consistency/solidity as the tournament progresses and their organisation becomes more natural and to hopefully create a platform for the more creative players to shine. And failing that, there's always corners

 

[Dave7]

I think they have a chance, if certain players stay fit and aren't dead on their feet. Pretty solid defence, strong midfield, world class attacker in Kane and some serious deadball ability for set pieces. There are a few players that can absolutely light stuff up as well - Saka, Eze, Kane, Rashford, Madueke, Bellingham - all capable of finding something special on occasion. I expect them to grow in consistency/solidity as the tournament progresses and their organisation becomes more natural and to hopefully create a platform for the more creative players to shine. And failing that, there's always corners

It would certainly be good to see it happen.
I dont think many of the so called top teams are performing well at the moment so that should help.

 

[matticus]

Surprised they only lost 1-0 to be honest. I wasn't that impressed with them even against Haiti so didn't expect them to do well. Wait you see they will play well against Brazil.

Scotland's only hope is another kit mix up / theft...
leading to Brazil playing in England kit.

 

[No Ta Doctor]

It would certainly be good to see it happen.
I dont think many of the so called top teams are performing well at the moment so that should help.

Generally speaking, the quality of teams at the world cup is quite a way below Champions League level, apart from maybe the top four or five. A lot of teams have good players, but not enough time to get them to gel - especially when top players are managing minutes or injuries and swerving international friendlies and dead rubbers. Well organised teams of decent players that are comfortable playing together can go far

 

[Dorset Boy]

Scotland need to stop Vinicus Jr somehow - perhaps food poisoning?

France are currently favourites in my book

 

[Accy cyclist]

BTW......there has been lots of talk about Engerland winning the whole thing. I just cant see it. I really dont think they are good enough........I would like them to, I just cant see it happening.
What say you ??

It's hard to say after one game, even though we played fairly well in that game. History shows that England have played well before and/but lost, so I'd say we won't be winning the world cup. BUT I'd obviously love to be proved wrong.😉

 

[Accy cyclist]

It won't let me show the photo, but this Netherlands warm up/training top must be the 'funkiest' top at the tournament!😎👍
Nike Netherlands x Patta Academy Pro Training Football Shirt Men's medium BNWT | eBay UK https://share.google/KH2Bt5bwhCj4VTIBO