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Amore May 20th, 2014 6:59 PM

Well, he got promoted once, maybe he can do it again?

I was thinking, considering how much Sherwood's style conflicts with that of all the players Spurs bought instead of offering Bale £2million-per-week (which would've been a better investment), he'd probably be good for you guys. Snodgrass honestly at times looks like he's too go for the team, but if there was a striker to finish any chances he created, you'd do a lot better - one thing Sherwood did was revitalise Adebayor, else Manchester United wouldn't have been able to avoid being in Europe because relying on Soldado would've put Spurs in the bottom half of the table.

Weeaboo Name May 20th, 2014 8:42 PM

Sherwood
+ Got the best out of Adebayor
+ Not a 'yes man'
- Unattractive football with one of the most technically gifted sides in the league
- No Yurop even in a league where man yoo were ♥♥♥♥e
- Not a lot of experience
- Spuds fans not sad to see him go
- Massive bellend

Has a certain entertainment value but I don't think I'd feel that way if it was at the expense of my club.

Mackay
+ Recent good seasons in Championship
+ Good manipulator of the media
+ Not a 'yes man'
- Not so pretty football even in a Championship winning season
-/? Transfers were rather hit and miss although with the new setup at the club this might not be too big an issue
- My first favourite Norwich player

Seems to be a safe pair of hands. Wasn't given long enough at Cardiff that is for sure.

Zola
+ Got West Ham to finish 5 points above the drop playing their best football in years
+ Not a 'yes man'
+ Plays the best formation (5212)
+ Name rolls of tongue
- Last Championship job didn't end so well
-/? All those loan players at Watford, although that could have been forced on him by the owners

Would be my pick from the favs.

Lennon
? Winner in Scotland with Celtic
+ Best of the non 'yes men' listed I think
+ Much like Lambert he is a bellend that I like
+ Probably has most to prove
- Ginger

Pretty sure it won't be him though.

So yeah, I want Zola or Lennon for me but Malky would be a safe pair of hands too. The Hyypia type appointment might be interesting but I don't know enough about him as a manger to judge.

inb4 it's Adams and the technical director is just an uninspiring promotion from within.

Eruption May 21st, 2014 5:24 AM

They should try and get Curbishley, he has been out of management for a while but he seems interested since he took that coaching job at Fulham last season during the short-lived Meulensteen reign. I'm not sure how he hasn't found a job in all this time, he did brilliant at Charlton and alright at West Ham.

At least names like Mackay are being mentioned though, much more optimistic than the typical noted names in link to Championship jobs like Warnock.

Weeaboo Name May 21st, 2014 9:14 AM

Curbishley has been spoken about a bit as a potential candidate for the technical director role we are going to be using from now on. Only the odd mention as actual first team manager though.

Apparently Zola has officially stated that he's interested. Can't help but feel if it was him he'd have the job already though. A lot of Norwich fans only see those last 5 Watford games when they he's mentioned unfortunately.

Either Mackay drawing it out just in case the WBA job comes along or not signing until we have officially poached his mate Iain Moody from Palace.

Eruption May 22nd, 2014 4:38 AM

...And suddenly Lennon looked a lot more realistic.

Lennon & Mackay will take up the WBA & Norwich vacancies now probably, not sure who will go where though.

Weeaboo Name May 22nd, 2014 9:31 AM

Looks like we'll get the one West Brom don't want, I sure hope they want Malky.

Also Adams went from 4th favourite 25/1 to favourite 1/1 in a matter of hours. I know odds aren't everything but that is pretty crazy.

;__;

A Premier League return suddenly seems to be vanishing over the horizon.

lol

Eruption May 22nd, 2014 3:37 PM

Not the news you were hoping for then, but he could still surprise you. I might have a look on the odds of him getting sacked first when the season rolls around though.

Loving the bluntness of some of those titles, 'F-ck off Adams' being a particular highlight.

Weeaboo Name May 22nd, 2014 4:19 PM

I'm not as bothered by it as a lot of people but yeah, not even near my first choice.

You can't really judge him on those last 5 games so he is an unknown quantity. His total lack of experience in the transfer market shouldn't be too destructive with the setup McNally outlined the other day. A reputable technical director that Adams would learn from could be perfect, somebody like the aforementioned Curbishley would be a good move. There were slightly hopeful rumours floating around that we might approach Gérard Houllier, the thinking is a backseat role would be more up his alley with his health issues.

He has a good affinity with the club and fans so I expect this reaction will have long blown over by the time the season starts. Not sure how I feel about this but playing attacking football has been made a part of his contract. I assume he'll also give chances to the younger lads he's been working with in previous years, I'm sure they're happy with the appointment.

Guess we'll just have to wait and see.

------

In other news that only 1 or 2 of you will care about.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/27506305
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/27539635

Cardiff sure are going for it.

Not going to see that here this summer. I'd imagine signing players from foreign lands will be 2spooky for our board after the whole Ricky van Wolfswinkel ordeal.

Aeroblast May 23rd, 2014 7:46 PM

CL tomorrow; I hope Atletico wins it, but feel that Real will edge them.

Eruption May 24th, 2014 4:42 AM

I'll have to root for Real as Cristiano Ronaldo is my favourite player and has been for a long time now. It would be nice for Atletico to win though so I don't mind too much if Ronaldo isn't triumphant at the end of the night.

Either way I'm sure this will be a very enjoyable final with no possession, tiki-taka crap for once.

Aeroblast May 24th, 2014 2:33 PM

The game was much closer than the final scoreline suggests; nevertheless Real Madrid deserved the win.

Ivysaur May 24th, 2014 3:00 PM

That was unspeakably cruel.

Eruption May 24th, 2014 3:34 PM

Commiserations Went, it seems today's finals were both decided by cruelly timed goals. It's a real shame that they became so tired after ninety minutes. I'm sure the season as a whole will be a great set of memories for you and other Atleti fans though.

I'm really annoyed at how much mention Bale is receiving from our media for this, sure he's British, but he did play horrible for the entire game before he scored his open chance.

Weeaboo Name May 25th, 2014 12:02 AM

Real and QPR. Not a good day.

Now to wait for this technical director appointment, not sure why they're bothering looking around when we know it will be Ricky Martin promoted from within. Not sure what to think of this new system really, although I suppose for a new manager like Adams it could be good only having to focus on the football.

---

Kid I went to school with just got promoted into the Championship.

Amore May 26th, 2014 12:54 PM

That last note...the ♥♥♥♥! Really? That's impressive. A guy who used to coach my cricket has played goalkeeper in Wembley but he was still only in a League 1 side (plus we got hammered by Southampton)

Gutted to see Derby beaten by a goal from Zamora, of all people. Hope they can hang on to their players and go at it again next season.

I was definitely in a minority in wanting Real to win la Decima, due to just liking their players more (Ronaldo, Ramos, Marcelo, Di Maria in particular). Bale's getting the headlines despite playing below standard most of that game but then again, Cristiano's disappearing act was more impressive - perhaps he would've finished those earlier chances though? Strange it seems not so long ago tiki-taka was seen as unstoppable, yet three of the goals scored in that match were headers, and both finalists are more known for their counter-attacking (Although Real can pull off aggressive possession football too).
I kinda felt bad for Atletico, but then again mostly they lost because of inferior fitness by what I saw from watching the whole game. Simeone completely screwed up playing Diego Costa, there was no way he'd be fit that soon. I was curious to see if he would bring on Diego instead of Adrian and try to overwhelm Real in midfield but oh well.

Weeaboo Name May 26th, 2014 1:52 PM

Yeah, Richard Brindley from the League 1 play off wining side Rotherham. I haven't seen much of him since he's gone pro but he always looked through the various youth teams, and at lunch times during school. I taught him everything he knows.

Banz May 27th, 2014 9:05 AM

Mauricio Pochettino has left Southampton to become the new Spuds manager.

Eruption May 27th, 2014 3:00 PM

Cardiff are after Adam LeFondre to add to those earlier acquisitions too. I hope they fail.

I also kind of want Pochettino and Spurs not to work out because some loyalty would be nice here and there in the game, but I think just this once they might have a good manager.

Ryoutarou May 27th, 2014 3:32 PM

Boo.

I thought he was working out pretty great for Southampton, we had a much better season this year. Any word on who might replace him?

Eruption May 27th, 2014 3:39 PM

The bookies favourite at the moment is Murat Yakin (most recently Basel manager), but there's nothing concrete at all so far. You have to assume it will be a more continental styled manager, I can't see them throwing away their progress so far to acquire a Neil Lennon type.

I wouldn't be too surprised if McClaren somehow snagged the job.

Weeaboo Name May 28th, 2014 12:30 AM

Le Fondre and Macheda to go with those two from the other day. It seems that Tan and Ole are going for the 'my first save on football manager' approach. I suppose if they sign everybody that happens to be available some of them will probably work out.

Not sure why any 'on the up' manager like Pochettino would go to Spurs, considering their recent manager history. Career wise I think another season or two of building at Southampton could have seen him on to better things. Feel pretty sorry for the Southampton fans, I can see that talented squad of theirs getting ripped apart this summer.

Storm around Norwich has calmed over the last couple of days. Fans are back to the usual overreaction to every stupid rumour in the Mirror or Sun. Apparently we've OFFERED Ruddy to Arsenal and Snodgrass is off to Hull for 3 million quid! At least it will calm down a bit during the World Cup.

Aeroblast May 28th, 2014 7:54 AM

Don't follow PL too much, but been hearing rumors that Moyes might join Soton.

Weeaboo Name May 28th, 2014 9:20 AM

Surely not. As Nuke said it will be somebody with a flashy foreign name.

Aeroblast May 28th, 2014 9:34 AM

Other names I've been hearing are Laudrup and de Boer, if they're fancy enough I guess.

Eruption May 30th, 2014 10:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by -Lapras- (Post 8273165)
Surely not. As Nuke said it will be somebody with a flashy foreign name.

Or McClaren, but then he has some flashy clubs on his resumé.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Aeroblast (Post 8273184)
Other names I've been hearing are Laudrup and de Boer, if they're fancy enough I guess.

They'll do. Looks like Koeman is the favourite at the moment. Whoever it is will do a good job to be in charge in 2015.

Weeaboo Name May 30th, 2014 11:20 AM

McClaren is pretty much Dutch though init.

Eruption May 30th, 2014 11:31 AM

How could I forget his temporary bout of Dutchness...

Weeaboo Name June 2nd, 2014 3:58 AM

Super exciting news, looks like Norwich are going to pinch Gary Holt from Falkirk for the vacant assistant manager position. Rated the guy as a player and he seems to have been doing pretty well at Falkirk. #jobsfortheoldguard #keepingitinthefamily #HALLONEYUL

Logan June 2nd, 2014 4:03 AM

Yakim would be my first choice. Followed by do Boer and Laudrup, anyone who can continue the 'Southampton Way' thoroughly gets my nod. In other news, yet to renew my season ticket and I probably should do shortly.

Weeaboo Name June 2nd, 2014 4:22 AM

I know nothing about Murat Yakin's career, seen a lot of Saints fans wanting him but I'm not really sure why. Looks like the betting has all been on Ronald Koeman though, now he would be fantastic. Well, whatever you do it certainly doesn't look like your board are going to pussy out and bring in a defensive coach after major success playing forwards.

Banz June 2nd, 2014 5:21 AM

Welcome back to Liverpool, Rickie Lambert
https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/t31.0-8/10339339_292970110872569_6815838073252344183_o.jpg

Weeaboo Name June 2nd, 2014 8:39 AM

So Norwich hired Joe Royle as a ''footballing consultant'' whatever that means. Well, I guess it adds a lot of experience to a backroom staff that has very little. He was the Ipswich boss during my first few seasons watching Norwich.

Also Gary Holt and Mark Robson confirmed as members of the coaching team. My hashtag about keeping it was fully justified. Well, I'm not sold at all on this but I suppose it can't be worse than Hughton, Calderwood and Trollope.

donavannj June 2nd, 2014 9:16 AM

Soooo... an American expansion club just signed Villa as its first player ever. Will he be missed in Spain?

Weeaboo Name June 2nd, 2014 9:19 AM

Heh, I was just about to make a sarcy comment on how you might have a better shot of getting a conversation on that started over here. Plastic count is way higher over there than it is here.

lel it didn't take long for silly season to start. An hour after the coaching appointments the Daily Mail are saying Hooper is demanding a transfer and will join Villa or QPR. Replacing him will be Jordan Rhodes, or at least Simon Thomas the Norwich supporting Sky presenter says so anyway. Why would Rhodes make a sideways move to a club that surely wouldn't top his current pay? Would a Premier League side gamble on a 6 goals striker that would probably cost a chunk more than the 5 mill we signed him for?

Aeroblast June 2nd, 2014 5:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Banz (Post 8281836)

Good move for both parties. Liverpool needs depth and got a quality option, and Lambert is back at his dream club after spending years in lower leagues.

Lallana will probably follow him.

Eruption June 3rd, 2014 1:55 AM

Just to reply to everything. Lambert move won't work out well probably, but it's nice for him while it lasts. One of the better players Soton could sell out of their first teamers anyway.

I'm sure Went will miss Villa. If Lampard joins as well then that's a great start for the franchise.

I would've thought Norwich could do better if they needed serious support for Adams, but we'll see how this setup works out. Pretty sure Adams will be sacked within the first few months of the season and replaced by Holt or one of the other guys that joined yesterday.

Banz June 3rd, 2014 3:50 AM

Lambert doesn't have to 20 goals next season. He'll only play in some of the Cup games and when one SAS is injured. Or he might come off the bench in some games. 10 goals would be good enough for him. And he takes penalties too.

Ivysaur June 3rd, 2014 4:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by donavannj (Post 8282151)
Soooo... an American expansion club just signed Villa as its first player ever. Will he be missed in Spain?

Villa was a sale from Barcelona (€2M), he's pretty old already to be honest, and everything he did for us last year is more than we could have ever expected from him. I can only thank him a million times and wish him a good time in his retirement in NY.

Weeaboo Name June 4th, 2014 5:41 AM

So apparently Norwich are going head to head with Boro, Derby and Cardiff (who have already signed 3 forwards) for Bournemouth striker Lewis Grabban. Now that feels much more likely than the last one saying we were about to go for Jordan Rhode$.

Eruption June 4th, 2014 11:22 AM

No chance of our involvement in trying to acquire him being true, we definitely have no money to compete there. :P

Poor start for England, but this Ecuador side will get to the QFs so I'm alright with it given the weird experiments.

donavannj June 4th, 2014 6:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ivysaur (Post 8283701)
Villa was a sale from Barcelona (€2M), he's pretty old already to be honest, and everything he did for us last year is more than we could have ever expected from him. I can only thank him a million times and wish him a good time in his retirement in NY.

Ah, so it's more like the David Beckham signing that the Los Angeles Galaxy did several years back.

Weeaboo Name June 5th, 2014 3:58 AM

Thought it was just paper talk but Norwich have actually gone and signed Lewis Grabban from Bournemouth. Pacey, versatile, hard working forward that got 22 goals last season. Considering the fact I was expecting a plethora of bosmans and loans this summer this certainly shows promise. Now, unless Hoolahan has shown a change in attitude I do hope to see a true number 10 through the doors next, not a massive fan of putting the likes of E.Bennett or Redmond through the middle.

Eruption June 5th, 2014 8:18 AM

That one resolved pretty quickly then, hopefully that one turns out to be a good move for your lot.

I haven't had much to say about Boro recently, but our kits for next season have been announced so I can show those off.



Very different to usual, but they're both quite nice in my opinion.

Weeaboo Name June 5th, 2014 10:21 AM

Like the away kit a lot.

Still haven't released ours but it will be soon. Were probably waiting for the mood around the club to change, which has pretty much happened now.

Eruption June 7th, 2014 5:04 AM

Maybe they're expecting Mr. Grabban to be the kit model along with some other signings. I think I'd rather advertise a kit with positive new players than a bunch that recently got relegated personally.

Weeaboo Name June 7th, 2014 3:19 PM

Clearly saving the goals for the real games.

Sheffield Wednesday takeover complete. If he's looking to spend it would seem a tough Championship season just got tougher.

Eruption June 12th, 2014 6:32 AM

Sorry I haven't posted much lately, my laptop is broke and I hate using my phone for PC. But anyway it all kicks off today and I'm pretty excited.

Who do you guys think will win?
And who would you want to win when your home nation goes out? (asssuming you live in a doomed nation like England or the US)

I'll say Brazil and Portugal respectively. I ordered a Portugal shirt to wear throughout the tournament and it came today (great timing) so my buzz is even higher for the tournament. Plus it just happens to coincide with the end of my exams so I can sit back and enjoy it.

Also get out of our game Mr. Blatter you've never done anything right as far as I can remember and now you've gone too far.

Hikamaru June 12th, 2014 12:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nuke (Post 8297399)
Who do you guys think will win?
And who would you want to win when your home nation goes out? (asssuming you live in a doomed nation like England or the US)

I don't usually pick winners right off the bat, but I know who I may try and support should my native Australians fail in the group stage (which I'm assuming will be highly likely given we got pitted with major powerhouses i.e. Spain and Netherlands) and I think I could lean towards the Brazilians for a change given it's their home ground and they do play really good.

And currently the match between Brazil and Croatia is underway, it's currently 1-1 for the score right now. I could see Brazil winning this one, but the one I know I want to try and watch is Australia's first group game against Chile. Here in Australia, SBS is broadcasting the event, in fact they have so many World Cup coverage they plan to show every single match live and also replay it for those who missed seeing their nation in action.

They've pretty much been Australia's go-to network for World Cup TV broadcasts so yeah gonna try and watch the really well anticipated matches that's for sure. I'm sure that this thread will be getting some huge activity for the duration of the event.

bobandbill June 12th, 2014 1:50 PM

Not a bad opening match, nearly over now. Somewhat debatable penalty I suppose for Brazil's second, but the defender shouldn't have put his arms on him like that. Not well taken either tbh. Croatia are pushing now for the equaliser.

Dang what a shot just now, well saved. And now I edit again because Brazil just got their third, quite the eventful minute!

Looking forward to Australia's first match, although I don't think our chances are at all good. Chile, Spain and the Netherlands? =/ Still, at least we got there.

Hamj June 12th, 2014 1:54 PM

I hope Australia get pummelled after you gave us a pummelling in the ashes.

Ivysaur June 12th, 2014 2:11 PM

That penalty was completely ridiculous. Only in Brazil. Oh well. #RoboACroacia

I'm really scared for our opening match against the Netherlands :\

Weeaboo Name June 12th, 2014 2:25 PM

England will beat the refball. Don't worry.

Eruption June 12th, 2014 3:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hikamaru (Post 8297855)
They've pretty much been Australia's go-to network for World Cup TV broadcasts so yeah gonna try and watch the really well anticipated matches that's for sure. I'm sure that this thread will be getting some huge activity for the duration of the event.

I'm certainly planning to watch all possible games and hopefully you're right about the activity.

Quote:

Originally Posted by bobandbill (Post 8297923)
Not a bad opening match, nearly over now. Somewhat debatable penalty I suppose for Brazil's second, but the defender shouldn't have put his arms on him like that. Not well taken either tbh. Croatia are pushing now for the equaliser.

Looking forward to Australia's first match, although I don't think our chances are at all good. Chile, Spain and the Netherlands? =/ Still, at least we got there.

Definitely not a penalty, but I'm glad it happened because it saved my bet.

Hopefully Australia put in some respectable performances for you Socceroos even if they are unlikely to progress.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hamj (Post 8297930)
I hope Australia get pummelled after you gave us a pummelling in the ashes.

Meh it's only cricket they can have the ashes as long as they want.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ivysaur (Post 8297954)
I'm really scared for our opening match against the Netherlands :\

You'll be fine, I have a sneaky feeling Chile will get through at the Netherlands' expense.

Roll on day two!

bobandbill June 12th, 2014 3:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hamj (Post 8297930)
I hope Australia get pummelled after you gave us a pummelling in the ashes.

But this time we'd be expected to be beaten. =p
Quote:

Hopefully Australia put in some respectable performances for you Socceroos even if they are unlikely to progress.
Same here, haha. I can accept losing, especially with the team we had (had to get rid of a lot of the old guard late due to a late change of coach - previous was terrible for us... and we've had a bunch of injuries too), but I hope we don't get smashed considering our group. And a draw would be nice.

Watch for our keeper Ryan, he's got quite some potential. Used to play for my local club and doing pretty decently for himself at Brugge. In fact, three players from my club (Central Coast) may very well start, at least two will (the other is the captain, Jedinak of Crystal Palace).

Ryoutarou June 12th, 2014 4:10 PM

ESPN reporter Jorge Ramos is saying that FIFA have reached out to the US and has told them to get an organization committee ready should the increasing likelihood of Qatar's World Cup being stripped becomes a reality. The final decision is to be made in September or October.

(though as of now, the Tweet this was initially mentioned in has been deleted)

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ivysaur (Post 8297954)
That penalty was completely ridiculous. Only in Brazil. Oh well. #RoboACroacia

I'm really scared for our opening match against the Netherlands :\

As long as you don't play against Brazil, you'll be totally fine.

Weeaboo Name June 12th, 2014 4:14 PM

On the topic of Australian football I see Michael Theoklitos changed his name. After his 1 game for Norwich I'm surprised he didn't change his career.

Gabri June 12th, 2014 4:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ivysaur (Post 8297954)
I'm really scared for our opening match against the Netherlands :\

I would prefer Netherlands in our group a million times instead of Germany.

Weeaboo Name June 12th, 2014 4:53 PM

Guess I'll be supporting Holland from that group as they're the only squad with a Norwich player. Not sure if I want Fer to have an amazing tournament to increase his value or an awful one so nobody wants him.

Hikamaru June 12th, 2014 10:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ryoutarou (Post 8298158)
ESPN reporter Jorge Ramos is saying that FIFA have reached out to the US and has told them to get an organization committee ready should the increasing likelihood of Qatar's World Cup being stripped becomes a reality. The final decision is to be made in September or October.

Yeah I'm hoping the 2022 World Cup hosting rights ballot can be recontested because I don't think Qatar even deserved it. The country itself is so scorching hot in climate which means they can only hold the event during the winter, and I felt like the ballot was rigged. Australia like put so much effort into it only to get out with a measly one vote.

But still, I think that should the ballot be redone I hope that a better country can claim the hosting rights. Qatar is basically a country that I don't think is capable of hosting such an event as the World Cup.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ryoutarou (Post 8298158)
As long as you don't play against Brazil, you'll be totally fine.

I know how my Australian cohorts will be fearing Brazil should we finish second in our group and they finish first in theirs. No-one loves facing those football-mad Brazilians.

Oh, and I watched a bit of the match between Brazil and Croatia. It was Brazil taking the victory in the end, winning 3-1. I gotta try and tune into SBS tomorrow for when Australia has its first game against Chile, which I think is likely the only I even think we have a chance to scrape through.

That's the nightmare that comes when your nation gets drawn in a group with two major European powerhouses, the two that happened to be the 2010 World Cup finalists nonetheless. When I heard about getting pitted with the Netherlands and Spain I said to myself "face it my Socceroos are gonna exit in the group stage".

Aeroblast June 12th, 2014 11:09 PM

If there is going to be a re-vote it'll probably go to United States. Australia sounds nice, but timezone difference is a severe hindrance. It's only going to be 20 years since us and Japan have hosted the World Cup, so we won't get it, either.

Bar an upset, Australia are going to end up with 0 points. They really are in a group of death, though that means they are under no pressure. I wouldn't underestimate any South American teams that make it through their qualifiers.

Weeaboo Name June 13th, 2014 4:13 AM

Rumours doing he rounds that Norwich have put a 5 million pound bid in for Ross McCormack. I suppose with Becchio probably off somewhere we'd still have to fill our ex-Leeds player quota. WACCOE went into meltdown when we took Becchio, wonder what would happen this time.

Hamj June 13th, 2014 7:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Aeroblast (Post 8298600)
If there is going to be a re-vote it'll probably go to United States. Australia sounds nice, but timezone difference is a severe hindrance. It's only going to be 20 years since us and Japan have hosted the World Cup, so we won't get it, either.

I'd prefer to see it in the US than Qatar. The US is definitely better prepared for it. I think it was a farce you didn't get it in the first place

Ryoutarou June 13th, 2014 7:21 AM

Looking forward to Mexico today, it'll be interesting to see what they can do with so many key players injured during friendlies leading up to the tournament. I was confident they could make it out of the first round, they have a fairly strong record against Brazil, but now I'm not so sure. I really don't want all the work they did turning themselves around to have been for nothing.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Aeroblast
If there is going to be a re-vote it'll probably go to United States. Australia sounds nice, but timezone difference is a severe hindrance. It's only going to be 20 years since us and Japan have hosted the World Cup, so we won't get it, either.

The United States would be the optimal choice to host a World Cup if it's stripped from Qatar. You already have most of the infrastructure in place. Though I don't like the idea of having matches in (American) football stadiums, that definitely needs to change. As long as it's not in Qatar, I'll be happy, that time differential, not to mention the heat, would make for horrible conditions.

I am surprised it's taken so long for anything to happen. It's already known Jack Warner took a very dubious $2 million payment from a source linked with the bidding committee.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hikamaru
I know how my Australian cohorts will be fearing Brazil should we finish second in our group and they finish first in theirs. No-one loves facing those football-mad Brazilians.

Oh, and I watched a bit of the match between Brazil and Croatia. It was Brazil taking the victory in the end, winning 3-1. I gotta try and tune into SBS tomorrow for when Australia has its first game against Chile, which I think is likely the only I even think we have a chance to scrape through.

That's the nightmare that comes when your nation gets drawn in a group with two major European powerhouses, the two that happened to be the 2010 World Cup finalists nonetheless. When I heard about getting pitted with the Netherlands and Spain I said to myself "face it my Socceroos are gonna exit in the group stage".

I think there's just a lot of pressure on the refs to push things in Brazil's favor. During the game yesterday it seemed any call that could go in their favor did, with that penalty being the biggest offender of them all. Though even with that penalty goal out of the way, there were two very clean goals that ensured Brazil's victory regardless of the situation.

Australia definitely found themselves in an unlucky position, which seems to be the case with a lot of up and coming teams. I'm guessing today's game is the only shot at three decent points either team is going have and I gotta wonder how that's going to reflect on their play style.

Hikamaru June 13th, 2014 7:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hamj (Post 8299014)
I'd prefer to see it in the US than Qatar. The US is definitely better prepared for it. I think it was a farce you didn't get it in the first place

Yeah, it was so appalling when I heard about Qatar winning the bid. If they were to be stripped of the hosting rights I'm happy with the US hosting it. It'll look pretty interesting in my opinion, but hey I agree with Ryoutarou - that heat will definitely take toll on the players unless if they held it in winter.

Eruption June 13th, 2014 8:55 AM

Well the fifa plot thickens, beckenbeur refuses to co-operate.

Mexico really deserve this win, I can't believe the decisions going against them so far. Loving Hector Herrera so far.

Also looks like we're going to be seeing no more of kei kamara apparently we've not helped with his malaria situation. I mean he was probably going before this, but now it's certain. Not sure what we can do if he's in Kansas though to be honest. I think he'll be happy back there anyway.

Weeaboo Name June 13th, 2014 9:06 AM

So 2 goals. That potential pen, would have been soft but there was contact and even that isn't required this summer. Also that Cameroon elbow.

At least we get to see Adrian Chiles hitting on Fabio Cannavaro some more.

Eruption June 13th, 2014 9:19 AM

I prefer the relentless quizzing of English players that Cannavaro doesn't know about.

As if that was the first yellow. The Song foul ten minutes ago was horrible.

Ivysaur June 13th, 2014 9:20 AM

It's pretty obvious FIFA wants a Brazil - Cameroun final and they'll do everything to get it.

Weeaboo Name June 13th, 2014 9:29 AM

It's a yellow shirt bias. Australia have a chance.

Dreg June 13th, 2014 10:25 AM

The Mexico-Cameroon match wasn't too bad actually, A lot better than the second half of Brazil-Croatia. Interested to see what Chile-Australia and Spain-Netherlands will turn out.

Eruption June 13th, 2014 11:52 AM

I like the new Spain, much less boring to watch.

What a header from RVP.

Dreg June 13th, 2014 11:54 AM

At least this ref knows how to call a correct penalty. Enjoying this game so far.

Weeaboo Name June 13th, 2014 11:58 AM

Thank you, everyone in the MAL WC threads are saying it wasn't a pen. It clearly was.

Great header.

Dreg June 13th, 2014 12:13 PM

And Arjen Robben makes it 2-1. This is getting good.

Aeroblast June 13th, 2014 12:24 PM

3-1 to Netherlands. They're playing very well.

Weeaboo Name June 13th, 2014 12:26 PM

Well I certainly didn't see this coming.

Dreg June 13th, 2014 12:30 PM

AND IT'S 4-1 NOW! Iker Casillas what are you doing???

Aeroblast June 13th, 2014 12:31 PM

Casillas has been woeful.

Edit: 5-1.

Dreg June 13th, 2014 12:39 PM

5-1! Total destruction of the world champions!

Eruption June 13th, 2014 12:40 PM

Okay, Went's worries were justified.

Brendino June 13th, 2014 12:43 PM

Like I said on Twitter, nothing can make up for the heartbreak of the 2010 World Cup final, but this is pretty close. Unreal game by the Dutch so far.

Aeroblast June 13th, 2014 12:45 PM

Oh, Casillas... He should be dropped next game.

http://gfycat.com/TheseDeficientAppaloosa
http://gfycat.com/HeartyHardtofindClam

Edit: Torres you idiot.

http://abload.de/img/torres5gs9j.gif

Dreg June 13th, 2014 12:51 PM

Sweet, sweet revenge by the Dutch here. Well done the Netherlands.

Ryoutarou June 13th, 2014 12:53 PM

Much more interesting than the final in 2010. At least until Spain fell apart and could find no answers, then I was sort of just watching to see how much higher the scoreline would be, there were certainly chances for this to have been a bigger blow out. Game of the day so far, that second one from Robben was beautiful.

Weeaboo Name June 13th, 2014 12:54 PM

A ref that wasn't out to destroy the game and this happens. Great.

Dreg June 13th, 2014 1:09 PM

I wonder how Chile v Australia is gonna turn out? I might go with Chile 2-0.

Ivysaur June 13th, 2014 1:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ivysaur (Post 8297954)
I'm really scared for our opening match against the Netherlands :\

There we go.

Well, to be honest, I was expecting this. Not that terrible, but certainly not much better. Time for some serious clean-up work.

Quote:

Originally Posted by AirSabin Bubblun (Post 8299428)
Sweet, sweet revenge by the Dutch here. Well done the Netherlands.

#TenemohUna

Dreg June 13th, 2014 1:20 PM

In all honesty, I thought it might have finished 3-3. I was expecting at least 6 goals and I was right.

Hamj June 13th, 2014 1:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Weeaboo Name (Post 8299147)
At least we get to see Adrian Chiles hitting on Fabio Cannavaro some more.

Hey, the guy is a stud, you can't blame him.

Hikamaru June 13th, 2014 1:34 PM

So the Chile vs Australia match will be starting in a few minutes. I'm sure this will probably be the only one my nation may have a chance at winning, but I'm hoping in the next matches they can pull more upsets.

I bet any of my Australian cohorts might be planning to watch the game right now, and I know Chile isn't as much of a powerhouse on the level compared to the Netherlands or Spain.

And apparently the Netherlands defeated Spain 5-1 in their match, seems like the Spanish may not be as strong as we expect this time around. Still, hoping for an interesting fight in the Chile vs Australia match. It'll probably be a close one imo.

Ivysaur June 13th, 2014 1:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hikamaru (Post 8299484)
So the Chile vs Australia match will be starting in a few minutes. I'm sure this will probably be the only one my nation may have a chance at winning, but I'm hoping in the next matches they can pull more upsets.

I bet any of my Australian cohorts might be planning to watch the game right now, and I know Chile isn't as much of a powerhouse on the level compared to the Netherlands or Spain.

And apparently the Netherlands defeated Spain 5-1 in their match, seems like the Spanish may not be as strong as we expect this time around.

Chile is much better than us right now and they are playing in South America, which always helps teams from that zone. Australia will suffer a lot to get any points, unless we have given up by then.

Hikamaru June 13th, 2014 1:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ivysaur (Post 8299490)
Chile is much better than us right now and they are playing in South America, which always helps teams from that zone. Australia will suffer a lot to get any points, unless we have given up by then.

I have to admit it may be kinda surprising if Spain does get eliminated in the group stage, if your theory about the Chileans performing well on South American turf is right. Still, from what I heard the Spaniards didn't do very well in that loss to the Netherlands.

Maybe my biggest threat now will be the Dutch instead of the Spanish lol

Ivysaur June 13th, 2014 1:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hikamaru (Post 8299504)
I have to admit it may be kinda surprising if Spain does get eliminated in the group stage, if your theory about the Chileans performing well on South American turf is right. Still, from what I heard the Spaniards didn't do very well in that loss to the Netherlands.

Maybe my biggest threat now will be the Dutch instead of the Spanish lol

Actually my bets are

1 - Netherlands 7pt
2 - Chile 7/5pt
3 - Spain 3/4 pt
4 - Australia 0 pt

Hikamaru June 13th, 2014 1:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ivysaur (Post 8299510)
Actually my bets are

1 - Netherlands 6pt
2 - Chile 6/4pt
3 - Spain 3/4 pt
4 - Australia 0 pt

Now that is kinda baffling... you think all of Australia's opposition will be so strong it'll leave the Socceroos with nothing. I am expecting to probably fail in the group stage but there may be a plot twister every now and then like in the Spain-Netherlands match earlier.

Hamj June 13th, 2014 1:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ivysaur (Post 8299490)
Chile is much better than us right now and they are playing in South America, which always helps teams from that zone. Australia will suffer a lot to get any points, unless we have given up by then.

I wouldn't underestimate Chile. They beat us 2-0 at Wembley and we were lucky to only lose by two. Sanchez and Vargas are very good

Ivysaur June 13th, 2014 1:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hikamaru (Post 8299513)
Now that is kinda baffling... you think all of Australia's opposition will be so strong it'll leave the Socceroos with nothing. I am expecting to probably fail in the group stage but there may be a plot twister every now and then like in the Spain-Netherlands match earlier.

I'll be extremely and positively surprised if Australia manages to scrap even a single point, yes. Although that could make the group crazy enough for us to qualify, I sincerely doubt it will happen.

Ryoutarou June 13th, 2014 1:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hikamaru (Post 8299513)
Now that is kinda baffling... you think all of Australia's opposition will be so strong it'll leave the Socceroos with nothing. I am expecting to probably fail in the group stage but there may be a plot twister every now and then like in the Spain-Netherlands match earlier.

Australia will need to play better than they ever have to get beyond the group stage. Even their best shot at getting three points is a fairly stronger team than them. And as bad as Spain played today, there isn't a lot of doubt that they'll be able to take on Australia.

(though I'm more interested in who will finish on top since Mexico will likely face them if they make it to the second round)

Weeaboo Name June 13th, 2014 1:52 PM

I'm pretty sure Spain will win their next two games.

Chile are a really good side. Looking forward for seeing Cahill again though.

Ivysaur June 13th, 2014 1:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Weeaboo Name (Post 8299525)
I'm pretty sure Spain will win their next two games.

I'm not. Just putting that out there.

Hikamaru June 13th, 2014 1:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ivysaur (Post 8299518)
I'll be extremely and positively surprised if Australia manages to scrap even a single point, yes. Although that could make the group crazy enough for us to qualify, I sincerely doubt it will happen.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ryoutarou (Post 8299521)
Australia will need to play better than they ever have to get beyond the group stage. Even their best shot at getting three points is a fairly stronger team than them. And as bad as Spain played today, there isn't a lot of doubt that they'll be able to take on Australia.

(though I'm more interested in who will finish on top since Mexico will likely face them if they make it to the second round)

Yeah I know they'll have to play at their best after learning the strengths of the Chilean team, but yeah I think the end result will be a close one. I know the real horror is that there will be a risk of facing Brazil should we pass through the group stage, and god no-one loves facing Brazil.

I'm watching the game on SBS right now here in my own bedroom, and the game's about to start so let's pray we can scrape through this one since Chile are apparently rated by betting figures right now as the favorites to win this match.

(teams are still singing national anthems as I was posting this)


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