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parksey
25-07-2012, 08:32 PM
It comes with a heavy heart that I kick off this thread with news of Pippo Inzaghi's retirement.

http://www.goal.com/en/news/10/italy/2012/07/24/3262788/ac-milan-hand-inzaghi-coaching-role


AC Milan have announced that veteran striker Filippo Inzaghi has become a youth coach at the club.

The decision signals the end of a successful career for the 38-year-old, who had been on the look-out for a new club after parting company with the Rossoneri at the end of last season.

Inzaghi was touted with a move to Championship side Watford earlier in the month, but the Hornets' manager, Gianfranco Zola, quickly dismissed stories linking the club with the Italian.

He will now take charge of Milan's Allievi Nazionali team - the youngest side in the Rossoneri's youth academy - after signing a contract with the Italian giants until 2014.

During his 11-year spell at San Siro, Inzaghi, who cost the club €37 million, scored 125 goals in 296 appearances for the Rossoneri.

The former Italy international is the second-highest scorer in continental competitions with 70 goals, seven goals fewer than Real Madrid legend Raul.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0koLqYQ7c2Y

goaliepersempre
17-09-2012, 11:40 AM
http://www.blick.ch/sport/fussball/ich-haette-ein-taxi-nehmen-sollen-id2035942.html

Chipps drink driving walks away from crash

au revoir
27-09-2012, 02:03 PM
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/statue-captures-zidane-headbutt/story-fnbsq24o-1226482391768

shit yea.

http://resources3.news.com.au/images/2012/09/27/1226482/197995-zidane-headbutt-statue.jpg

furns
03-10-2012, 10:59 AM
Ballack announces retirement
http://www.skynews.com.au/sport/article.aspx?id=801622

yet seemed fit enough to ask for over $2mil a season a week ago?

la bazzle
03-10-2012, 11:29 PM
Well worth it. Would have liked tinks to have paid double. He didn't even have to play, just come and hang out and shit. Sad day

MFKS
16-10-2012, 11:52 AM
The AFC apologises for an editorial mistake in which the UAE National Team was inadvertently referred to by an inaccurate nickname on the AFC's official website www.the-afc.com in the article 'UAE to take cautious approach' dated 12 October 2012.


The error, which was mainly because of referral to a popular web-based encyclopedia by the concerned Editor, was corrected immediately after it was noticed.

The AFC would like to apologise for any hurt this might have caused to the UAE Football Association and UAE football fans.

The UAE FA are one of the AFC’s valued Member Associations and the AFC will continue to extensively cover the UAE National Team and UAE League activities.

Apparently someone edited Wikipedia page on UAE NT referring to the UAE by the alleged nickname as Sand N>>>>>>.

Some dumb**** at AFC apparently uses Wikipedia as a reference tool for research. After researching the article to put on the AFC's website to the world no one bothered reading it to see the blatantly offensive term.

AFC:blush::redcard:

hawk
17-10-2012, 10:50 AM
Serbia having a day out


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=drtQb_j5RGo

Grimario
17-10-2012, 11:09 AM
Can't see that because am remoted into work laptop and video just won't run... but is that the incident where Danny Rose reacts to monkey chants and gets sent off? Disc race.

parksey
21-10-2012, 02:17 PM
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/italian-serie-italy-juventus-star-bonucci-punches-armed-123147727.html

Italian Serie A: Italy and Juventus star Bonucci punches armed robber

Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci faced down an armed robber who pointed a pistol at his head before chasing the assailant as he tried to get away.

The Italy international was with his wife and baby son at a car dealership in Turin on Thursday, looking to buy a Ferrari, when a man with his face covered pointed a gun at his head and demanded that he give him his watch.

Bonucci refused and instead punched the thief, knocking him to the ground before chasing him as he tried to get away on a scooter with his accomplice.

The Gazzetta Dello Sport reported the man shouted "What are you doing? Are you mad? I'll shoot you" as Bonucci pursued them in vain.

He later reported the incident to the police.

http://l3.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/whsTW5__3KNKUFcLXIiT1A--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7Y2g9MzYwO2NyPTE7Y3c9NjQwO2R4PTA7ZH k9MDtmaT11bGNyb3A7aD0zNTU7cT04NTt3PTYzMA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en_GB/Sports/Eurosport/901916-15058814-640-360.jpg

awesome.

hawk
06-11-2012, 07:20 PM
Check these crowds for Scottish Div 3


Saturday, October 20, 2012

FT Berwick Rangers 2-1 Clyde Shielfield Park (546)
FT East Stirlingshire 2-1 Peterhead Ochilview Park (296)
FT Elgin City 2-2 Annan Athletic Borough Briggs (734)
FT Rangers 2-0 Queen's Park Ibrox Stadium (49,463)
FT Stirling Albion 1-3 Montrose Forthbank Stadium (527)

seldom
06-11-2012, 07:25 PM
lol...nice

plague
17-11-2012, 04:52 PM
I guess this goes in here.
Dude one on one with the keeper, lobs him, only to have a reserve player run on and save it.
Also, whats the ref to do? rightly awards a indirect free but cant send anyone off, then the team cant convert the free.
Watch the video, its pretty funny.

http://www.whoateallthepies.tv/skills/147336/striker-lofts-ball-over-stranded-keeper-substitute-keeper-runs-onto-pitch-and-makes-the-save-video.html

pv4
04-01-2013, 10:33 AM
milan playing a friendly against a fourth-tier side, the opposition fans yelled racist things, kevin-prince boateng is in possession and picks up the ball and kicks it towards racist fans, then walks off.

absolutely amazing of boateng. love it.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=nXyqFZ_fghI

parksey
11-01-2013, 01:21 AM
http://sphotos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/537780_406085579473430_88229207_n.jpg

Dear Lionel,

I am writing you this note to offer my congratulations on winning the Ballon d'Or. Again. As you can see by the look on my face, I am very happy for you. Please forgive me for not congratulating you at the gala, but since I am so tall and statuesque and you are so tiny and maintain terrible posture, I couldn't find you in the crowd. Also, since someone played a joke on you by telling you to wear that garish spotted jacket and tie, I didn't want to keep you from getting home and changing your clothes as fast as you possibly could. That's how thoughtful I am.

It was another tremendous year for me, and, supposedly, for you as well. You had to set a world record in order to score more goals than me. Of course, smart people know that team accomplishments are far more important than personal achievements and I helped my club to win La Liga in 2012 whereas you only helped your club win the Copa del Rey. The year my club only won the Copa del Rey, I did not win the Ballon d'Or. I suppose this just shows that voters hold me to a higher standard than you.

Anyway, you have now won the Ballon d'Or a record four times in row. I guess you're happy about that. Yet, Andy Gray, England's most respected sexist broadcaster, has questioned whether you could play well on a cold night in Stoke. After all, you have only won titles for one club, whereas I have won titles for clubs in La Liga and the Premier League. But very few players have the physical talent and mental strength to prove themselves on different teams and in different leagues, so you should only feel a little bit bad about that.

People are always trying to compare you and I, but there really is no comparison. Yes, we were both named after Americans -- I was named after Ronald Reagan, a talented actor and two-term president, whereas you were named after Lionel Richie, a man who sang about dancing on the ceiling. Which is both impossible and patently ridiculous. I impregnated a woman and created a child in 2010, but it took you until 2012 to figure out how to do those things. I grew tall and strong naturally and you needed enough growth hormones to make even Lance Armstrong feel guilty in order to be neither of those things. Also, I wear proper tuxedos to formal events while you wear a suit made out of clown pants. So comparing us is both silly and unfair.

In conclusion, I congratulate you, Leo. But remember: No matter how many Ballon d'Or awards you win, I still won it first.

Confidently yours,

Cristiano Ronaldo

P.S. My apologies for writing this letter in English, one of several languages I am able to speak, when I know you only speak Spanish. Maybe Gerard Pique will translate it for you.

WolfMan
11-01-2013, 06:11 AM
^^

Brilliant

Jeterpool
11-01-2013, 07:45 AM
Early contender for funniest post award in 2013!

Are the 2012 awards going to happen?

goaliepersempre
11-01-2013, 07:52 AM
absolute gold...

militiamon
12-01-2013, 10:58 PM
http://sphotos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/537780_406085579473430_88229207_n.jpg

Dear Lionel,

I am writing you this note to offer my congratulations on winning the Ballon d'Or. Again. As you can see by the look on my face, I am very happy for you. Please forgive me for not congratulating you at the gala, but since I am so tall and statuesque and you are so tiny and maintain terrible posture, I couldn't find you in the crowd. Also, since someone played a joke on you by telling you to wear that garish spotted jacket and tie, I didn't want to keep you from getting home and changing your clothes as fast as you possibly could. That's how thoughtful I am.

It was another tremendous year for me, and, supposedly, for you as well. You had to set a world record in order to score more goals than me. Of course, smart people know that team accomplishments are far more important than personal achievements and I helped my club to win La Liga in 2012 whereas you only helped your club win the Copa del Rey. The year my club only won the Copa del Rey, I did not win the Ballon d'Or. I suppose this just shows that voters hold me to a higher standard than you.

Anyway, you have now won the Ballon d'Or a record four times in row. I guess you're happy about that. Yet, Andy Gray, England's most respected sexist broadcaster, has questioned whether you could play well on a cold night in Stoke. After all, you have only won titles for one club, whereas I have won titles for clubs in La Liga and the Premier League. But very few players have the physical talent and mental strength to prove themselves on different teams and in different leagues, so you should only feel a little bit bad about that.

People are always trying to compare you and I, but there really is no comparison. Yes, we were both named after Americans -- I was named after Ronald Reagan, a talented actor and two-term president, whereas you were named after Lionel Richie, a man who sang about dancing on the ceiling. Which is both impossible and patently ridiculous. I impregnated a woman and created a child in 2010, but it took you until 2012 to figure out how to do those things. I grew tall and strong naturally and you needed enough growth hormones to make even Lance Armstrong feel guilty in order to be neither of those things. Also, I wear proper tuxedos to formal events while you wear a suit made out of clown pants. So comparing us is both silly and unfair.

In conclusion, I congratulate you, Leo. But remember: No matter how many Ballon d'Or awards you win, I still won it first.

Confidently yours,

Cristiano Ronaldo

P.S. My apologies for writing this letter in English, one of several languages I am able to speak, when I know you only speak Spanish. Maybe Gerard Pique will translate it for you.

What is this shit? Terrible.

parksey
13-01-2013, 12:38 PM
What is this shit? Terrible.

I am just a jealous guy cause someone is much better than my bf i mean idol. :/

Jeterpool
16-01-2013, 08:42 AM
http://www.foxsports.com.au/football/glasgow-soccer-giants-rangers-say-theyll-allow-australian-forward-francesco-stella-to-quit-the-club/story-e6frf423-1226554799637

Wonder if he will end up in the A-League?

380
16-01-2013, 09:11 AM
Gypo's for sure if Lawrie Mac has anything to do with it.

hawk
16-01-2013, 11:00 PM
Cristiano Ronaldo

P.S. My apologies for writing this letter in English, one of several dix I am able to suck, when I know you only speak Spanish. Maybe Gerard depardu will translate it for you.

gracious

weston
19-01-2013, 11:55 AM
http://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/video/15033411792/PSV-ace-goes-nuts

This guy wasn't happy at getting sent off.

Buddha
19-01-2013, 12:17 PM
Nigel Adkins has been sacked as Soton manager

It's an absolute disgrace, picked up 4 points in his last two matches when everybody expected him to get only 1, only been beaten 2 in ten matches, and replace him with a manager who can't even speak English, thanks Soton for confirming your place in the relegation zone now.

This is a sign of how shit things have become with regards to owners and having no known football knowledge.

hawk
20-01-2013, 09:11 PM
Nigel Adkins has been sacked as Soton manager

It's an absolute disgrace, picked up 4 points in his last two matches when everybody expected him to get only 1, only been beaten 2 in ten matches, and replace him with a manager who can't even speak English, thanks Soton for confirming your place in the relegation zone now.

This is a sign of how shit things have become with regards to owners and having no known football knowledge.

discgrace

skippy
20-01-2013, 09:42 PM
Nigel Adkins has been sacked as Soton manager

It's an absolute disgrace, picked up 4 points in his last two matches when everybody expected him to get only 1, only been beaten 2 in ten matches, and replace him with a manager who can't even speak English, thanks Soton for confirming your place in the relegation zone now.

This is a sign of how shit things have become with regards to owners and having no known football knowledge.

****ing horrible idea, sack a manager that has bought 2 successive promotions, and 3 points clear of the drop zone with essentially the same squad.

Grimario
22-01-2013, 04:31 PM
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-21098006


Swansea's Angel Rangel helps homeless in the city

Swansea City's Angel Rangel and his wife have been praised by fans after driving around the snowy streets of Swansea on Friday night looking for homeless people to help.

The Premier League defender had tweeted his 24,000 followers on Friday night asking for suggestions of where to go because he had "food going spare".

He later tweeted "it was just a little gesture" and was his wife Nikki's idea.

They are reported to have ended up at a homeless shelter in the city.

Fans have since taken to social media to praise the actions of the pair, with one saying Rangel is in danger "of giving footballers a good name".

The Spanish defender first said on Twitter: "Anyone knows the location of homeless people in Swansea? I got food going spare! #randomtweet"

A little later he wrote: "Thanks so much for the suggestions. It was @MI55Y_28 idea so we are driving around. Terrible to be out in this weather."

He then tweeted: "Wow we r amazed at the amount of tweets we r receiving. Thanks a lot but it was just a little gesture we drove for only 1 hour and felt great".

The gesture caused something of a sensation on Twitter among football fans.

One fan said: "What an absolute top bloke @arangelz is! Exception to the modern day football. Proud to say he plays for my team. Swansea thanks you angel!"

It was reported Rangel and his wife had been at a sandwich chain when the manager said he would have to throw food away because it was closing for the night.

He told CNN: "My wife, Nikki, who is a very caring and charitable person, asked if we could have them for the homeless rather than see them thrown in the bin.

"They agreed and we drove around Swansea for over an hour, but couldn't find any homeless people as it was so cold out on the streets with all the snow."

They were eventually invited to a homeless shelter after the tweet did the rounds on social media.

He said it was something the pair were now going to do on a regular basis.

Rangel has been a regular in the Swansea side this season and has been a popular figure among fans since signing in 2007.

What a bloke

Jeterpool
22-01-2013, 06:37 PM
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-21098006



What a bloke

+1

weston
23-01-2013, 08:03 AM
Sneijder to Galatasary...... didn't see that coming

http://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/turkey-super-lig/news/1137750/Sneijder-completes-Gala-move

goaliepersempre
23-01-2013, 08:15 AM
its been mumbling for a while now...

weston
23-01-2013, 08:22 AM
its been mumbling for a while now...

Should get out from under my rock than...

I heard te rumour or Man Utd and Liverpool being interested but not Galatasaray.

goaliepersempre
23-01-2013, 08:26 AM
yeah there was a little standoff between the two parties if the deal was going to go ahead. in anycase was in Inter player so meh :P

De-Champ
23-01-2013, 10:40 AM
Should get out from under my rock than...

I heard te rumour or Man Utd and Liverpool being interested but not Galatasaray.

Morinho & Van Gaal convinced him to join Galatasaray

hawk
23-01-2013, 04:42 PM
Fourth-tier Bradford City continued their League Cup fairytale by completing a sensational 4-3 aggregate semi-final win over Aston Villa on Tuesday that sent them into the final.
http://www.smh.com.au/sport/football/a-football-fairytale--bradford-into-wembley-final-20130123-2d5yq.html


brado

Jeterpool
24-01-2013, 09:54 AM
So....Hazard kicks a ballboy...not good.

Kid was being a bit of a douche though and was on twitter before the game saying he was going to waste time too

Doesn't excuse it though

Bon
24-01-2013, 11:54 AM
So....Hazard kicks a ballboy...not good.

Kid was being a bit of a douche though and was on twitter before the game saying he was going to waste time too

Doesn't excuse it though

HAHAHAHA Yeah I just saw this on Fox Sports..
I haven't lol'd that much in a long time.. At first I thought it was all the media hyping it up, but after watching it, he gave him quite a good poke..

belchardo
24-01-2013, 12:00 PM
no doubt the ball kid deserved it, but you just can't do that!

think he can expect a long sit on the sideline.

Bon
24-01-2013, 12:06 PM
They have a link to another clip on Fox Sports of the Celtic manager answering one of the reporters mobile phones during the press conference..
It was actually pretty funny, gallery were losing it..

plague
24-01-2013, 08:30 PM
Imagine if Suarez had done it?
http://www.whoateallthepies.tv/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/hazard-ballboy.gif

At least Hazard picked on someone his own size.

Jeterpool
24-01-2013, 08:54 PM
Imagine if Suarez had done it?
http://www.whoateallthepies.tv/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/hazard-ballboy.gif

At least Hazard picked on someone his own size.

Ferguson thinks Suarez did...

GazFish35
24-01-2013, 08:55 PM
Torres would have missed him.

Jeterpool
24-01-2013, 09:32 PM
And cole would have shot him while terry would have shagged him.

parksey
24-01-2013, 10:01 PM
imagine cantona in that situation

would have booted the kid out of the stadium

au revoir
24-01-2013, 10:12 PM
neg. cantona wouldn't kick a child. the bloke is righteous.

belchardo
24-01-2013, 10:15 PM
think we're underselling the awesomeness of the ballboy. made christiano look like an oscar winner.

sh10
24-01-2013, 11:33 PM
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/A-34uxPCQAIszO0.jpg

Poor Hazard misheard Fergie, thought he said "kick ballboys out of sport"

seldom
25-01-2013, 12:00 AM
A lot of those ballboys go on to be refs...get in early I say !

hawk
25-01-2013, 12:38 AM
no doubt the ball kid deserved it, but you just can't do that!


young tyke loves that stuff. Hazzard should be paid overtime. That league wanker david on kofm thought it was the worst thing to ever happen.

goaliepersempre
29-01-2013, 02:13 PM
Sneijder to Galatasary...... didn't see that coming

http://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/turkey-super-lig/news/1137750/Sneijder-completes-Gala-move

Drogba signing too, not a bad little outfit, but where are the turks getting the money for this time....

hawk
01-02-2013, 12:24 PM
Drogba signing too, not a bad little outfit, but where are the turks getting the money for this time....

They have plenty. There's nothing they dont deal in

belchardo
05-02-2013, 07:07 AM
European investigators say they have identified about 680 suspicious soccer matches including World Cup qualifiers and Champions League matches in a global match-fixing scandal spanning 2008-2011.

The European Union's police agency, Europol, has revealed evidence of fixing in about 380 matches across Europe and a further 300 games outside the continent.

Europol director Rob Wainwright said the investigation had identified about 425 corrupt officials, players and serious criminals in 15 countries. Fifty people have been arrested so far.

"This is match-fixing activity on a scale we have not seen before involving hundreds of criminals and corrupted officials and players, affecting hundreds of professional matches and generating very large amounts of illicit profits," Mr Wainwright said.

Investigators say the scam was backed by a Singapore-based betting cartel and had brought in at least 8 million euros ($A10.4 million) in proven profits after paying almost $2.5 million in bribes.

German police described a global network involving couriers ferrying bribes around the world, paying off players and referees, with the biggest bribe being $180,000.

Accomplices would then place bets on the internet or by phone with bookmakers in Asia, where bets that would be illegal in Europe were accepted.

"One fixed match might involve up to 50 suspects in 10 countries on separate continents," Friedhelm Althans, chief investigator for police in the German city of Bochum, said.

"Even two World Championship qualification matches in Africa, and one in Central America, are under suspicion."

Other matches fixed included World and European cup qualifying matches and top flight league matches in several European countries.

They also included two Champions League matches, including one played in Britain.

Investigators found that criminals from Asia also participated in the match-fixing and that some of the fixed matches took place outside Europe.

Investigators said no names of players or clubs would be released while the investigation proceeded.

'People will be shocked'

BBC sports commentator Phil Parry says the breadth of the corruption is astonishing.

"I think people will be shocked when they understand the scale of it and when they – the audacity of it, actually," he said.

"When we were talking about some of these high-profile competitions, which are globally known, and it seems to have tentacles that are touching every strata of football across the continent."

He admits the scandal will likely damage the code.

"I think in the short term it will certainly create some damage because people will start doubting the sporting integrity, they will start doubting some of the validity of results that have happened," he said.

"I think that from a long-term point of view actually, the action that's already been taken, as long as that campaign carries on, as long as we don't lose our vigilance in regards to this, then I think the battle can still be won and the sport can come out on top."

ABC/Reuters

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-02-04/scale-of-global-soccer-match-fixing-revealed/4500644

let's hope this brings about some action from FIFA.

Zico
05-02-2013, 01:48 PM
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-02-04/scale-of-global-soccer-match-fixing-revealed/4500644

let's hope this brings about some action from FIFA.
FIFA are the worst for corruption so I would not be surprised if a high level FIFA official is caught up in the mess.

hawk
07-03-2013, 10:21 AM
See, the idea is to get your corrupt team to the top. Its the only way.

hawk
08-05-2013, 12:57 PM
Alex Ferguson may leave Manchester United
who can fix their wins if he leaves? Jose?

hawk
18-05-2013, 09:25 PM
Premier League club Stoke has launched an internal investigation into reports of a dressing-room prank featuring a bloody pig's head and a smashed car windscreen.
It has been reported that a pig's head was left in Kenwyne Jones' locker by teammate Glenn Whelan on Friday. On discovering the pig's head, Trinidad striker Jones was reportedly so furious that he stormed outside and smashed the window of Whelan's car in retribution.
Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/sport/soccer/pig-and-a-stoke-no-joke-20130518-2jt96.html#ixzz2TdtVxOie
just jokes

hawk
22-05-2013, 02:03 PM
The Premier League is close to finalising its deals which will bring a total of around £5.5 billion in broadcasting rights for 2013-16. That is £2 billion more than the current deal.

The league champions next season can expect to earn close to £100 million in broadcast earnings while the bottom club can expect their earnings to go up from £39.8 million, which Queens Park Rangers picked up this season, to around £63 million.

The way the Premier League distributes its TV money means half of the total cash from the domestic deals is divided equally between the member clubs, and all of the overseas broadcasting income is also split equally.

A further 25 per cent of domestic TV income is split as merit money depending on where each club finish in the league, and the final 25 per cent is paid in ‘facility fees’ for each time a club’s matches are shown on television in the UK.

For that reason, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur both earned more than Chelsea despite finishing below their capital rivals in the table because both appeared in more live TV games.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/premier-league/10072297/New-Premier-League-TV-deal-promises-100m-prize-money-for-next-seasons-title-winners.html.

pv4
23-05-2013, 12:27 PM
west ham sign a bloke named razvan rat :rof:

Grimario
23-05-2013, 12:49 PM
west ham sign a bloke named razvan rat :rof:

Razvan Rat, Romanian left back, formerly of Shakhtar? Awesome player in FM back in the day.

furns
24-05-2013, 11:31 AM
Pulis gawwwwn

no more naked headbutts in the sheds rofl

plague
04-06-2013, 11:17 PM
This is magnificent.
Enjoy.
http://abload.de/img/moureturrrrrnedj4n.gif

MFKS
07-06-2013, 05:10 PM
Saturday 8th June
4-30am Czech Republic V Italy LIVE
7-45am Argentina V Colombia LIVE

WC Qualifiers on SBS One.

If anyone interested

hawk
12-06-2013, 09:47 PM
Scottish Football League clubs have voted in favour of a proposed merger with the Scottish Premier League .

The bodies will form a new Scottish Professional Football League in time for next season, averting a threatened breakaway from Division One clubs.

A revised financial distribution model will be introduced, feeding more money into the second tier.

The league structure will remain the same, with a top flight of 12 and three lower divisions of 10.
Scots always ahead of the English

belchardo
18-07-2013, 12:52 PM
http://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/news/1160120/Blatter-to-push-for-winter-World-Cup#Menu

blatter now wants the qatar world cup moved to december: "it's too hot".

no shit sherlock.

boz-monaut
18-07-2013, 01:09 PM
surely there could be a legal challenge mounted on the fact that the bids were all made for a June/July tournament

utter bullshit from FIFA

q-money
18-07-2013, 01:41 PM
FIFA a corrupt and bungling organisation only looking out for it's own interests?

well blow me down with a feather

for the good of the game (and ourselves)

russjaybee
18-07-2013, 02:05 PM
I imagine if it does get moved that's going to F**k over a fair few people. Lulz.

Edit: Durp.

Jeterpool
18-07-2013, 02:35 PM
I imagine if it does get moved that's going to F**k over a fair few people. Lulz.

They've got 9 years to get ready for it if that's the case :lulz:

plague
18-07-2013, 03:00 PM
Cheeky buggers in the media wondering how much the weather paid Blatter to get it moved.

GazFish35
18-07-2013, 03:12 PM
bbc are reporting that legal cases are already being prepared.

russjaybee
18-07-2013, 03:35 PM
They've got 9 years to get ready for it if that's the case :lulz:

:gent:

hawk
21-07-2013, 11:42 AM
Manchester United are prepared to double Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas's current wages in a bid to lure him to Old Trafford.

ya dont need to count transfers fees when buying the comp

plague
05-08-2013, 03:08 PM
Found this doing the rounds on some sites.
NBC (America) has made a pretty huge investment into Premier League so they are running some different promos.
This one isnt too bad, especially considering the target audience.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=6KeG_i8CWE8

plague
10-08-2013, 11:02 AM
Pippo Inzaghis 40th birthday (yesterday).
Geez he knew where the back of the net was didn't he.

front2
18-08-2013, 10:32 PM
So Jedinak starts for Palace.

380
19-08-2013, 07:19 AM
Jedinak had a great game, easily the best on the park.

russjaybee
19-08-2013, 10:25 AM
Truth 380? Did you watch?

380
19-08-2013, 10:39 AM
Yeh watched the whole game and was a standout. Commentators constantly praised his vision for being in the right spot at the right time and his work rate.

russjaybee
19-08-2013, 10:42 AM
Nice work Jedihack let's hope he can keep it up.

goaliepersempre
19-08-2013, 11:59 PM
Yeh watched the whole game and was a standout. Commentators constantly praised his vision for being in the right spot at the right time and his work rate.

His work rate? Tell him to bloody well do that for the Nati

joel31
11-10-2013, 11:11 AM
Uefa explores internationals shake-up with Nations League plan

Uefa is considering a radical overhaul of international football that would see national teams playing a new Nations League competition.

The idea, floated at executive committee meetings that preceded aUefa meeting in Dubrovnik last month, would see Uefa using existing dates for friendlies in the international calendar to launch a new league involving all 54 member nations.

Uefa sources have told the Guardian that the idea was one of several floated at the meeting as part of a discussion about how to improve the attractiveness of international football from 2018 onwards. The Uefa executive committee will now examine the idea in more detail before deciding whether to adopt it.

The new concept, first revealed by Norwegian paper Dagbladet, would see all Uefa's members divided into a series of perhaps nine divisions based on their recent results, with promotion and relegation following each round of matches.

The winner of the first division would be Uefa's Nations League champion and win a substantial prize, with the bottom team in each division being relegated in favour of the winner of the tier below.

The Norwegian FA president, Yngve Hallen, who sits on UEFA's national committee for international tournaments, said: "It is true that a series of games is one of the models being discussed."

The discussions are taking place against a backdrop of concern that the qualifying campaigns for the expanded European Championships from 2016 will prove less attractive because there will be less jeopardy.

In conjunction with other Uefa innovations due to be introduced from 2014 onwards, including its "week of football" in which qualifiers will take place across six days to maximise viewers, the drive from its HQ in Nyon is to boost the profile of the international game.

Uefa has recently taken central control of TV rights for the competitive qualifying matches of all its member nations, promising large underwritten guarantees to the biggest countries. That has increased the pressure on Uefa to bring in funding from TV and commercial partners in order to meet them.

If the Uefa Nations League idea is explored further, then the European governing body would be likely to look to centralise the TV and marketing rights in the same way as it has for the Champions League.

"The success of the Champions League has already inspired the Europa League. This is also something they are trying to look at in connection with the Nations League - how this can sharpen the market. That's what this is largely about," said Hallen.

"But there have been very clear political guidelines from all 54 federations that the focus needs to be on the football/competitive aspect. All countries should have equal opportunities," he added.

"No-one should have to qualify for this tournament - everyone plays from the first game. And then there is also a recognition that tournament form should be easy to understand for most people. All this we need to work out."

The Swedish FA representative Karl-Erik Nilsson told Aftonbladet that "it has been established that it is difficult to get interest around friendlies".

"For 2020 it has been looked at whether it would be possible to combine traditional qualifiers with with this league format, instead of friendlies, to increase interest," he said.

"It is worth looking at but we were clear that it can't have an impact on the qualifiers for the Euro tournaments. The qualifiers are No1 and have the highest priority. There won't be more international games because of this."

He said the initial reaction among the 54 members was that "creating more interest is not something negative".

Nilsson added: "All 54 members were in Croatia and the idea was presented from a perspective of: is this worth looking at? And the overall feeling was: 'let's look at it but don't let it have an impact on the qualifiers'."

He said that one idea included in the presentation was to divide the groups so that clubs next to one another in the Fifa rankings were grouped together, while another version envisaged a geographical structure.

The FA and the other big European associations may be among the most difficult to convince of the merits of the plan, because they would have to give up the possibility of lucrative friendlies against big South American sides.


How the groups might look

First division Spain, Germany, Holland, Italy, England, Portugal

Second division Russia, Greece, Croatia, Sweden, France, Bosnia-Herzegovina

Third division Ukraine, Denmark, Switzerland, Belgium, Hungary, Czech Republic

Fourth division Republic of Ireland, Serbia, Norway, Slovakia, Turkey, Israel

Fifth division Slovenia, Austria, Romania, Montenegro, Poland, Finland

Sixth division Scotland, Armenia, Bulgaria, Latvia, Estonia, Belarus

Seventh division Wales, Northern Ireland, Albania, Iceland, Lithuania, Macedonia

Eighth division Georgia, Moldova, Azerbaijan, Luxembourg, Cyprus, Kazakhstan

Ninth division Liechtenstein, Faroe Islands, Malta, Andorra, San Marino, Gibraltar

http://www.theguardian.com/football/2013/oct/10/uefa-internationals-nations-league-friendlies

Grimario
15-10-2013, 06:20 PM
No news article not in French that I can see yet but Bruno Metsu has passed away from a long term battle with cancer.

Grimario
27-11-2013, 02:30 PM
http://uk.reuters.com/article/2013/11/27/uk-soccer-world-asia-idUKBRE9AQ03920131127

Huge news.

Jeterpool
06-12-2013, 10:58 AM
The sin bin for football?? Thoughts?

http://www.foxsports.com.au/football/uefa-president-michel-platini-suggests-football-adopts-sin-bins-instead-of-yellow-cards/story-e6frf423-1226776728268

joel31
06-12-2013, 12:31 PM
Really bad idea. I like how it currently works

GazFish35
06-12-2013, 12:57 PM
The sin bin for football?? Thoughts?

http://www.foxsports.com.au/football/uefa-president-michel-platini-suggests-football-adopts-sin-bins-instead-of-yellow-cards/story-e6frf423-1226776728268

No. Would be rubbish.

Should just let video review look at yellow cards as well as reds.

Jeterpool
06-12-2013, 01:16 PM
No. Would be rubbish.

Should just let video review look at yellow cards as well as reds.

:lol:

joel31
06-12-2013, 01:20 PM
In other news India has won the right to host the 2017 under-17 World Cup. That's gonna be an enjoyable time for them getting smashed by the worlds best teens
http://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/FIFA-U-17-World-Cup/news/1175495/FIFA-hands-U-17-World-Cup-to-India

goaliepersempre
06-12-2013, 06:05 PM
Platini is a douche....

lquiquer
05-01-2014, 09:25 PM
RIP Eusebio #Legend #WC1966 #Portugal #Benfica #1965UCL

Premy
05-01-2014, 09:47 PM
RIP the Black Panther


http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=U49j7ZHxC6c&desktop_uri=%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DU49j7ZHxC6c

pv4
09-01-2014, 09:57 AM
http://www.football365.com/news/21554/9106436/Thomas-Hitzlsperger-Announces-That-He-s-Gay


Former Aston Villa, West Ham and Everton midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger has revealed he is gay.

Hitzlsperger is the highest-profile footballer to 'come out' and follows American Robbie Rogers, who revealed his sexuality last year.

Hitzlsperger won 52 caps for Germany and finished his career at Stuttgart last year, retiring because of injury.

In an interview with Germany's Die Zeit newspaper, he said: "It has been a long and difficult process...only in recent years has it dawned on me that I would prefer to live with another man."

Hitzlsperger, 31, says he does not know any other players in Germany who are gay.

"I'm coming out about my homosexuality because I want to move the discussion about homosexuality among professional sportspeople forwards," Hitzlsperger said.

"I've never been ashamed of the way I am," he added, although he conceded it has not always been easy to live with some of the comments dished out on the subject.

"Just picture 20 men sat around a table together drinking - you've just got to let the majority be, just as long as the jokes are halfway funny and the talk about homosexuality doesn't get too insulting.

"In England, Germany or Italy, homosexuality is not taken seriously as an issue, at least not in the dressing room."

Aston Villa, the German's first English club, said on social media: "Everyone who knows Thomas from his time here at Villa has great respect for him, not only as the fine player he was but also as a man.

"His statement today is a straightforward statement and, along with our support as a club, we hope that everyone involved in the game extend to him their support as well."

While the Professional Footballers' Association said: "It is great that Hitzlsperger has discussed his sexual orientation openly. The PFA hope to learn from his experiences as a player."

Several footballers have voiced their support on social media, among them Arsenal's Lukas Podolski, who played alongside Hitzlsperger for Germany.

"Brave and right decision," he wrote. "Respect, Thomas Hitzlsperger. His outing is a important sign in our time."

QPR midfielder Joey Barton tweeted: "Thomas Hitzlsperger has shown a lot of courage today.

"Sad times when people have to wait till they retire from their chosen profession before they feel other people will judge them solely on who the human being is. Shame on all of us as a society."

Former England Under-21 international Justin Fashanu was the first professional footballer in Britain to come out in 1990 before he took his own life eight years later, aged 37.

Tennis legend Martina Navratilova came out publicly as gay in 1981 while John Amaechi was the first NBA player to openly admit to being gay in 2007.

Ex-Wales rugby union captain Gareth Thomas, plus England and Surrey wicketkeeper Steven Davies, have come out in the last five years.

Olympic boxing gold medallist Nicola Adams topped the Independent's annual 'Pink List' poll of influential lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in November 2012.

And last month Tom Daley revealed he was in a relationship with a man, while two other Olympic divers have previously come out.

Australian Matthew Mitcham announced he was gay in 2008 shortly before he won a gold medal at the Beijing Olympics, and four-time Olympic diving champion Greg Louganis revealed he was gay following his retirement in 1995.

What an inspiration. Hopefully, if there's more gay pro players out there, they can too be comfortable enough with the fact.

The Dunster
09-01-2014, 10:06 AM
The FFA has been screwing Jets fans in the ass for nine seasons. How is Thomas Hitzlsperger coming out even newsworthy ?

Premy
09-01-2014, 03:39 PM
Ignore the fact that it comes from the sepo's


http://m.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2014/01/08/bayern-munichs-karl-heinz-rummenigge-says-fifa-uefa-contemplating-switch-sum?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=News&utm_campaign=Unpaid

UEFA & FIFA consider moving to a summer Schedule.

joel31
18-03-2014, 09:44 PM
AVB has another high profile job
http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/26625324

hawk
18-04-2014, 08:52 AM
Thessaloniki: Police in Thessaloniki have arrested a PAOK fan accused of dumping a crate of fish on the visiting Olympiakos bench, in a stunt that delayed a tense Greek Cup semi-final for more than an hour.

http://media.zuza.com/1/6/165bbb43-b84e-4bf8-ab36-ef609c5619e5/XTS801-416_2014_185026_hd_Content.jpg

MFKS
23-04-2014, 08:17 PM
Barcelona will be able to buy and sell players this summer after Fifa suspended its transfer ban on the club.

The 14-month ban - imposed after the Spanish club were found to have breached rules on signing minors from overseas - is on hold pending an appeal by the club.

Football's world governing body said in a statement: "The chairman of the Fifa appeal committee considered that the appeal lodged by the club is to be granted suspensive effect."

Absolute farce.

Just a way of circumventing the ruling to allow them to spend up big this summer. Stock up on the players they need and then they can deal with the consequences of the ban after they have rebuilt their squad.

Dis Grace

furns
26-04-2014, 01:11 PM
RIP Tito

hawk
27-04-2014, 11:00 PM
Ryan Giggs: Old Trafford united again by managerial natural
beats Norwich 4-0 at home. SD could have gotten this result

MFKS
27-04-2014, 11:35 PM
beats Norwich 4-0 at home. SD could have gotten this result

The same Norwich who pushed Liverfool a long way last week before going down 3-2???

Don't think so.

This was just the usual unpopular manager punted players inspired miracle that happens everytime someone gets the arse

Premy
29-04-2014, 04:44 PM
Holy shit anyone near a computer google "polish football fan and riot police with capsicum spray" and post the pic on here.

pv4
29-04-2014, 05:16 PM
http://i.imgur.com/GpkH3W4.jpg

pv4
29-04-2014, 05:18 PM
That spray is fxxxing lethal enough as-is without the flames.

Crazy scenes. 1:35 onwards, on the left of the screen, in the below


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iw8_ywFbnO0

belchardo
01-05-2014, 12:49 PM
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-05-01/an-documentary-charts-worst-team-in-football-history/5422960

no idea where it can be seen.

Grimario
01-05-2014, 01:53 PM
Melbourne.

http://www.acmi.net.au/lp_next_goal_wins.aspx

joel31
12-05-2014, 05:06 PM
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2613013/Fabien-Barthez-From-World-Cup-winner-inspiring-village-Luzenac-French-second-tier-just-650-inhabitants.html
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2622683/History-making-manageress-Helena-Costa-dubbed-Jose-Mourinho-petticoat-Chelsea-boss-time-Benfica.html

a few good footballing stories

Jeterpool
17-05-2014, 06:51 AM
http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/best-askjose-chelsea-boss-jose-3550862

Jose took to twitter. Here were some of the questions he had a chance to answer.

First and last ones were my favourite.

Premy
18-05-2014, 03:57 AM
Huge Congrats to Athletico

BodyNovo
18-05-2014, 07:07 AM
Was at Neptune fountain for celebrations

25,000 people going crazy

Flares, detonators, unbelievable

GazFish35
18-05-2014, 08:15 AM
Rbb?

BodyNovo
18-05-2014, 08:41 AM
Na there was no script quoting the geneva convention

lquiquer
19-05-2014, 08:46 PM
The mail is Eden Hazard to PSG... Come on Jose show him how to defend first

joel31
19-05-2014, 08:49 PM
Was at Neptune fountain for celebrations

25,000 people going crazy

Flares, detonators, unbelievable
any photos body?

BodyNovo
19-05-2014, 09:31 PM
716

First rip

They closed the city of for about a 5km radius

Party only stopped around 2am the next night

goaliepersempre
20-05-2014, 12:42 AM
716

First rip

They closed the city of for about a 5km radius

Party only stopped around 2am the next night

I took a shit load from timmys phone you will see them soon body....

BodyNovo
20-05-2014, 07:35 AM
Just seen them

Basel parties :fap:

Premy
20-05-2014, 10:59 PM
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2633731/Manchester-City-invest-Japanese-club-Yokohama-F-Marinos-global-expansion-continues.html

City Extend their brand in Asia, just bought 20% of Yokohama F Marinos

snake
21-05-2014, 01:53 AM
are these clubs write offs for ffp or something?

belchardo
21-05-2014, 08:27 AM
are these clubs write offs for ffp or something?

licencing fees for colours, name, brands etc can be used as income I believe. so, yep, dodgy bull to get around FFP regs.

goaliepersempre
22-05-2014, 06:13 AM
Just seen them

Basel parties :fap:

was insane.... but the "official" party on sunday night was bigger.......

lquiquer
16-06-2014, 09:46 PM
Xavi and Ben Arfa prob going to Al-sadd as per l'équipe & beIN sport... Why why why???? Middle East for European big players don't make sense to me... Why would you want to play in front of 3000 men ????? Don't get it.... Surely Xavi does not need the $$$$

Premy
16-06-2014, 10:20 PM
I seen just last week that both New York club's wanted Xavi and surely Hatem is to young to be considering Qatar?

De-Champ
17-06-2014, 11:21 AM
Maybe just a guest stint, like Eto'o did a few years ago

GazFish35
27-06-2014, 08:46 AM
would love to be able to claim this as my own, but i cant.




your-suarez-ban-questions-answered

There seems to be a lot of confusion as to the exact details of the ban handed down to Uruguay and Liverpool’s Luis Suarez by FIFA. Suarez is banned from ALL footballing activity for biting Italian defender Chiellini. WWN is here to clarify the details as we have been busy pouring over our copy of FIFA’s judgement:

How will the ban be enforced?

Luis Suarez will be taken by FIFA’s security team later today to their World Cup headquarters. The striker’s feet will then be slowly lowered into a vat of wet cement, thus encasing them in concrete preventing him from partaking in any football activity.

What if someone kicks a ball at him?

Unfortunately for Suarez this counts as ‘footballing activity’ as stated in FIFA’s judgement. If angry Liverpool fans were to lunge at the striker with a corner flag or throw a water bottle in his direction the ban would be extended to a lifetime ban.

Is he allowed to wear football jerseys?

No, he is not. Likewise his copy of FIFA 2014 has been confiscated. Security personnel have already raided his houses in Liverpool and Montevideo and removed all football related items.

What if I don’t think the ban was severe enough?
Fans who do not think the ban was severe enough have been advised to take to social media to share their opinions with one another. FIFA’s official statement specifically warns against murder.

What can Liverpool FC do?

Right now FIFA’s advice is to lie down in the foetal position and have someone spoon feed ice cream to the club. Fans themselves have been told to find the nearest object and throw it violently while shouting ‘it isn’t fair’ as many times as it takes until the anger subsides.

Can Suarez be transfered?

Yes, he can. But he will be required to switch exclusively to a vegetarian diet and have his teeth removed. Barcelona and Real Madrid are believed to be willing to pay all dental costs.

Could FIFA be bribed to reduce the ban in any way?

Yes.



http://waterfordwhispersnews.com/2014/06/26/your-suarez-ban-questions-answered/

joel31
28-06-2014, 07:46 PM
not that this is news or journalism
http://www.clarionledger.com/story/opinion/columnists/2014/06/25/coulter-growing-interest-soccer-sign-nations-moral-decay/11372137/?from=global&sessionKey=&autologin=
This lady is the biggest idiot. Gives an implication about the stupidity of Americans

Imyourhero
28-06-2014, 07:50 PM
Holy crap, that'll do me for the night ahahahaha! ^^^

joel31
30-06-2014, 06:13 PM
Massive news
http://www.ftbpro.com/posts/chris.deeley/1046276/luis-suarez-resigns-after-awful-world-cup

lquiquer
11-07-2014, 09:50 PM
Suarez to Barca..done deal.... http://www.lequipe.fr/Football/Actualites/Accord-liverpool-barca-pour-suarez/481687A Watch your shoulders boys from La Liga

pv4
16-07-2014, 12:31 PM
Leeds have officially gone crazy

http://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/jul/03/massimo-cellino-leeds-united-paddy-kenny


The increasingly bizarre world of Leeds United has taken another turn for the strange after it emerged that Massimo Cellino, their maverick new owner, has such a dislike of the number 17 it has turned him against one of the club’s key players who was born on that date.

Cellino is so suspicious of the number 17 that he had the seats at his former club, Cagliari, taken out and replaced with 16B. Now he has instructed the new Leeds head coach, Dave Hockaday, not to select Paddy Kenny after discovering that the goalkeeper’s birthday is on 17 May and concluding that he is bad luck for the Championship club. Kenny, the second-highest earner at Leeds on £10,000 a week, has been left at home while the other players embark on a pre-season trip to Italy and he will not play for the club again.

Cellino, who also has a fear of purple, has separate issues about Kenny allegedly being overweight but is said to have reacted emotionally when he found out the 36-year-old goalkeeper had a connection with the number 17.

The Italian’s superstition about that number is so strong he has told Hockaday it must not form part of the squad list next season. Michael Brown previously wore 17 for Leeds but was released at the end of the season.

The issue goes back to Cellino’s time in Italian football when he says there was only one occasion in 20 years that Cagliari won or drew a game on the 17th of a month. In a recent interview, he remembered that victory and put it down to him asking the club’s supporters to wear the dreaded purple to the game. “The whole stadium was purple on the 17th. We won because I think that bad luck is like algebra: minus and minus is positive. Purple and 17 … they became positive and we won. That’s the only time.”

Cellino completed his takeover of Leeds in April but only after an appeal against the Football League’s decision to try to block him entry on the grounds he had a previous conviction for fraud.

Since then, he has sacked Brian McDermott and unexpectedly brought in Hockaday, who had been out of work for eight months after leaving his previous club, Forest Green, on the back of a run of seven defeats in eight games.

Leeds are now embarking on a cost-cutting process that has seen the canteen at their training ground closed down, meaning the players have to take packed lunches or send out for sandwiches. The players are also being made to pay to have their kits washed. Hockaday will not have control of transfer business and Cellino intends to flood the squad with free signings and cheap Italian imports. Stuart Taylor, who left Reading at the end of the season, has joined Leeds to take over from Kenny.

hawk
18-07-2014, 06:20 PM
Ronaldo loves himself, says Boban
Cristiano Ronaldo's selfishness and vanity hampered Portugal at the FIFA World Cup, according to Croatian icon Zvonimir Boban.
.

lol


Manchester United's new away shirt appears to have accidentally gone on sale - before it has even been officially unveiled by the club. Manchester Evening News

Grimario
18-07-2014, 06:43 PM
Lahm has just announced his retirement from international football.

What a way to bow out at that level.

la bazzle
18-07-2014, 07:49 PM
What a legend. Absolute one of the best defenders I've seen in my lifetime. Shame he didn't stick around for euros but I can't blame the guy. Now to just concentrate on Bayern

la bazzle
18-07-2014, 07:50 PM
Pretty sure he's been in the best FIFA XI for every world cup he's played in

Grimario
18-07-2014, 08:30 PM
What a legend. Absolute one of the best defenders I've seen in my lifetime. Shame he didn't stick around for euros but I can't blame the guy. Now to just concentrate on Bayern

He really is. ****ing EPL only watching mongs who go on about the relatively shit right backs in that league being the best in the world and completely ignoring this bloke. Absolutely amazing player.

lquiquer
18-07-2014, 09:21 PM
Lahm has just announced his retirement from international football.

What a way to bow out at that level.

At only 30!!!... For sure he's got another 4 years in him and a Rendezvous with Moscow

Grimario
18-07-2014, 09:33 PM
Jorge Valdivia has just announced his int retirement too.

joel31
18-07-2014, 09:54 PM
phenomenal footballer. I'm stunned at this decision but I'm very happy for what he is done in the international game
Danke Phillip

pv4
19-07-2014, 08:15 AM
Lahm is life, Lahm is love.

So versatile, and seems to be the ultimate professional.

I'm really impressed by this move by him - part of it would be because he's done all he wants etc, but the other part is he'd realise there needs to be a young guy to step up and fill his void.

I feel really old now that the Harry Kewell's, Lahm's, all those big names that I've grown up with, etc are starting to retire! And that makes me a bit scared :rof:

parksey
19-07-2014, 04:38 PM
lol

yeah haha playing with a potentially career threatening knee injury despite all medical staff from real madrid advising him to sit out the tournament. he was well below par but didn't want to let his country down.

what a wanker.

Bremsstrahlung
19-07-2014, 05:56 PM
yeah haha playing with a potentially career threatening knee injury despite all medical staff from real madrid advising him to sit out the tournament. he was well below par but didn't want to let his country down.

what a wanker.


Your previous Ronaldo love, or at least while he was at MUFC, makes me feel like this was sarcasm, but, i don't understand why.

Playing with a potentially career ending injury is a pretty silly thing to do....Especially against medical advice. :S

parksey
20-07-2014, 12:18 AM
pls

turbo
20-07-2014, 06:09 AM
I'm guessing you guys down under wouldn't be aware that two Newcastle United supporters were on the Malaysia Airlines flight that was shot down over Ukraine a couple of days ago.

The news has our club in mourning more so because the two lads (John Alder & Liam Sweeney) who lost their lives were well known and liked amongst our away support. Alder had amazingly only missed one toon game in 41 years! The pair were travelling to New Zealand for the fixtures against Wellington Phoenix and Sydney FC, which should have been the trip of a lifetime.

I knew neither of them personally but remember John Alder well from when I was going to away games regularly a few years back. I didn't know his name but some of the lads called him "the undertaker" because he always wore a suit. When the news broke fans started laying flowers outside St James Park, at the statue of Sir Bobby. I wasn't at work so I spent most of the day on my laptop reading what other fans had to say.

Anyway last night the strangest thing happened...

A lad from Sunderlands most popular message board www.readytogo.net said he'd be going to Newcastle on Sunday and asked if anyone would like to chip in for some flowers. He started this online donation thing with a fiver, hoping to raise a hundred quid. Have a look http://www.gofundme.com/brx6wk

24 hours later the Mackems have raised over £12,500. Personally i'm astonished, impressed, grateful and just happy football fans can make the news for the right reasons once in a while. It's a shame it's taken a tragedy for us to put the petty bullshit away but Sunderland, we salute you.

http://www.readytogo.net/smb/threads/floral-tribute-for-the-newcastle-lads.943399/

http://www.readytogo.net/smb/threads/messages-of-thanks-from-newcastle-online.943788/

http://deadspin.com/rival-fans-pay-tribute-to-newcastle-fans-on-plane-shot-1607726044

Jeterpool
20-07-2014, 06:32 AM
I'm guessing you guys down under wouldn't be aware that two Newcastle United supporters were on the Malaysia Airlines flight that was shot down over Ukraine a couple of days ago.

The news has our club in mourning more so because the two lads (John Alder & Liam Sweeney) who lost their lives were well known and liked amongst our away support. Alder had amazingly only missed one toon game in 41 years! The pair were travelling to New Zealand for the fixtures against Wellington Phoenix and Sydney FC, which should have been the trip of a lifetime.

I knew neither of them personally but remember John Alder well from when I was going to away games regularly a few years back. I didn't know his name but some of the lads called him "the undertaker" because he always wore a suit. When the news broke fans started laying flowers outside St James Park, at the statue of Sir Bobby. I wasn't at work so I spent most of the day on my laptop reading what other fans had to say.

Anyway last night the strangest thing happened...

A lad from Sunderlands most popular message board www.readytogo.net said he'd be going to Newcastle on Sunday and asked if anyone would like to chip in for some flowers. He started this online donation thing with a fiver, hoping to raise a hundred quid. Have a look http://www.gofundme.com/brx6wk

24 hours later the Mackems have raised over £12,500. Personally i'm astonished, impressed, grateful and just happy football fans can make the news for the right reasons once in a while. It's a shame it's taken a tragedy for us to put the petty bullshit away but Sunderland, we salute you.

http://www.readytogo.net/smb/threads/floral-tribute-for-the-newcastle-lads.943399/

http://www.readytogo.net/smb/threads/messages-of-thanks-from-newcastle-online.943788/

http://deadspin.com/rival-fans-pay-tribute-to-newcastle-fans-on-plane-shot-1607726044

Hi turbo. I had read this had occurred but I saw it on a British site. The news here has been about the families of Aussies who died, mostly. It's all too terrible and difficult to comprehend.

However the Sunderland supporters should be applauded. That is astonishing and demonstrates that at the end of the day, no matter the rivalry, you hope the humanity of people being fans of football can come through. In this case it has.

Wow. Thanks for sharing.

turbo
20-07-2014, 08:34 AM
What a f'ed up world we live in huh? There's millions of amazing people but you only need a handful of arseholes to ruin things.

Bremsstrahlung
12-08-2014, 07:30 AM
Man City and Arsenal tipped to be coming out next year for an all stars game.
I dare say Man City will definitely come out. I think they need to to solidify this relationship with Melbourne City, so probably a friendly with them and maybe an allstars game in Sydney.

Interested to see if Arsenal come out. Pretty big supporter base in Australia.

Jeterpool
06-09-2014, 07:01 AM
http://m.foxsports.com.au/football/premier-league/paper-talk-villareals-beautiful-gesture-to-sick-child-man-united-and-arsenals-lucky-escapes/story-fn8uzjqx-1227049032242

This is a great little story. Kudos to Villarreal.

Premy
15-09-2014, 07:55 PM
Fox Sports to broadcast the Indian Super League.
A 2 month league ran between October - December, 8 clubs featuring Ljunberg, Trezeguet, ADP and Pires.

http://m.foxsports.com.au/football/fox-sports-australia-will-broadcast-the-new-indian-super-league-football-competition/story-e6frf423-1227059138816

MFKS
16-09-2014, 07:31 AM
Fox Sports to broadcast the Indian Super League.
A 2 month league ran between October - December, 8 clubs featuring Ljunberg, Trezeguet, ADP and Pires.

http://m.foxsports.com.au/football/fox-sports-australia-will-broadcast-the-new-indian-super-league-football-competition/story-e6frf423-1227059138816

****ing disgraceful.

The dimwits could show more FFA Cup than they do. Even show the NYL

Could try for rights to other Euro Leagues outside the EPL

Could even show some Sth American football

Even something more in the Asian realm like the J League or K League but we get to watch a bunch of mercenaries in retirement suck a few more $$ out of the game playing in a country that can't even make the Top 16 in the Weakest confed on the planet despite having nearly a billion inhabitants to choose from

Jeterpool
16-09-2014, 09:02 AM
****ing disgraceful.

The dimwits could show more FFA Cup than they do. Even show the NYL

Could try for rights to other Euro Leagues outside the EPL

Could even show some Sth American football

Even something more in the Asian realm like the J League or K League but we get to watch a bunch of mercenaries in retirement suck a few more $$ out of the game playing in a country that can't even make the Top 16 in the Weakest confed on the planet despite having nearly a billion inhabitants to choose from

Completely agree.

GazFish35
16-09-2014, 09:49 AM
pfft. cool your jets.
didnt the a-league get picked up by india's channel 10?

23 million of us watching their rubbish league so 1.2 billion of them get to see ours.
pretty good deal for our sponsors etc etc

MFKS
16-09-2014, 09:58 AM
pretty good deal for our sponsors etc etc
Don't know if the demand for Castle Quarry Products and their services will be big in Delhi and Mumbai out of this though :woo:

lquiquer
03-10-2014, 09:49 PM
Henry set to retire in December...... Not signing new contract with NYRedbulls however still a possibility of a last contract god knowns where? He is 37

GazFish35
04-10-2014, 07:49 AM
Henry set to retire in December...... Not signing new contract with NYRedbulls however still a possibility of a last contract god knowns where? He is 37

Bet he follows Pires and ljunberg to india

Premy
04-10-2014, 11:05 AM
Bet he follows Pires and ljunberg to indiaMLS season finishes late October, playoffs run into December. ISL runs from October - December impossible for Henry to play in the ISL.

lquiquer
30-10-2014, 09:05 PM
Could be Henry's last game in the MLS tomorrow........What will he do? Is it too late for Indian Super League (Lots of his mates there: Trezeget, Anelka, Pires, Ljunberg)

steve136
19-11-2014, 06:21 PM
Terrible news. Can't say I'm surprised though.

http://undergroundmgzn.com/2014/10/08/islamic-state-host-2026-world-cup/

joel31
19-11-2014, 09:02 PM
Terrible news. Can't say I'm surprised though.

http://undergroundmgzn.com/2014/10/08/islamic-state-host-2026-world-cup/
do u not get that the satire in the article

Bremsstrahlung
20-11-2014, 08:02 PM
do u not get that the satire in the article

I think he got the satire, though you missed his sarcasm haha

plague
20-11-2014, 11:06 PM
I'm praying to Jesus that you're being sarcastic. You just never know how people are these days though...
I liked the Foz better when Captain Obvious was alive.

R.I.P Captain O.

pv4
27-11-2014, 10:52 AM
Thought about putting this in another thread, but this seemed the best place to put it.

World XI confirmed:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OArACq2vEwY

lquiquer
27-11-2014, 11:23 AM
Thought about putting this in another thread, but this seemed the best place to put it.

World XI confirmed:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OArACq2vEwY

God has spoken #10 #DareToZlatan

lquiquer
04-12-2014, 10:11 PM
Heskey on trial at Wanderers..................... http://www.lequipe.fr/Football/Actualites/Gudjohnsen-et-heskey-a-bolton/519623....... Bolton... :wub:

lquiquer
24-01-2015, 10:10 AM
Brillante to Empoli (18 months loan)

lquiquer
03-02-2015, 10:48 PM
Tinks should get on Ben Arfa...... His contract with Nice was not able to go through (for different reasons) and can now prob only play outside of Europe.....

lquiquer
04-02-2015, 10:56 AM
Hatem Ben Arfa speaks after being forced out of Nice due to a technicality http://www.foxsports.com.au/football/premier-league/deadline-day-wash-up-anderson-leaves-manchester-united-hatem-ben-arfa-is-clubless/story-e6frf4a3-1227207306648 … #foxfootball

lquiquer
21-02-2015, 06:00 PM
Interesting 1007

hawk
21-02-2015, 08:15 PM
Interesting 1007

gets paid more to stay at home. and looks the goods

MFKS
21-02-2015, 08:23 PM
gets paid more to stay at home. and looks the goods

One reason the Arab nations go nowhere in this game. The players get paid too much to play in their leagues to want to test themselves in Europe.

Also add in the heat as another factor. They are so use to playing at a slow tempo and can't cope with high tempo games with fit opponents when the environmental conditions are such you can play high tempo

lquiquer
21-02-2015, 08:30 PM
One reason the Arab nations go nowhere in this game. The players get paid too much to play in their leagues to want to test themselves in Europe.

Also add in the heat as another factor. They are so use to playing at a slow tempo and can't cope with high tempo games with fit opponents when the environmental conditions are such you can play high tempo

Still a player of this caliber should aim higher.... Like a move to Qatar (oops I meant PSG)..... #DareToZlatan

MFKS
21-02-2015, 08:44 PM
Still a player of this caliber should aim higher.... Like a move to Qatar (oops I meant PSG)..... #DareToZlatan

Precisely La Legs Serie A

He has the technical ability to star in them

goaliepersempre
23-02-2015, 11:27 PM
One reason the Arab nations go nowhere in this game. The players get paid too much to play in their leagues to want to test themselves in Europe.

Also add in the heat as another factor. They are so use to playing at a slow tempo and can't cope with high tempo games with fit opponents when the environmental conditions are such you can play high tempo

its something sooo different training week in week out and playing in warm or cold temperatures... europe does develop a player.. the amount of games you play and regularity.. plus training in -2 and snow and then in 4 months time playing in 30+ degrees....

I love that local leagues are getting better in countries even australia but its still no way near the level to compete in the world stage.. (goes back to how much we rate our current NT)

Jeterpool
20-03-2015, 08:35 AM
http://www.teamtalk.com/championship/9766212/Fulham-boss-Kit-Symons-promises-a-squad-overhaul-in-the-summer

Trouble maybe for Taggs? No mention of players in the article however Fulham have something like 30* strikers on their books.

*Rule of 3

Grimario
20-03-2015, 10:06 AM
http://www.teamtalk.com/championship/9766212/Fulham-boss-Kit-Symons-promises-a-squad-overhaul-in-the-summer

Trouble maybe for Taggs? No mention of players in the article however Fulham have something like 30* strikers on their books.

*Rule of 3

Would think that the young potential guy would get kept over the 30 over 30's. There's no upside in keeping that many older players around.

lquiquer
15-04-2015, 10:06 PM
Wander where Klopp is going to sign?... PSG?.... Real?..... City? .. AC Milan ??....

Retro Jet
20-04-2015, 12:46 AM
Not sure if it's been mentioned anywhere else.
Saw TWG report of the Adam Federici 'blunder' plastered as a headline.
Watche the Vid. Fmd...the bloke made heaps of crucial saves and gets hung out to dry
over that mishap. Feel for the bloke.

belchardo
20-04-2015, 07:05 AM
Not sure if it's been mentioned anywhere else.
Saw TWG report of the Adam Federici 'blunder' plastered as a headline.
Watche the Vid. Fmd...the bloke made heaps of crucial saves and gets hung out to dry
over that mishap. Feel for the bloke.

he's a keeper. people only ever remember your stuff ups.

BodyNovo
20-04-2015, 09:37 AM
he's out of contract at years end, i reckon he might consider coming home after this.

goaliepersempre
20-04-2015, 04:42 PM
Yeah like above he is a keeper so 1 mistake and your hung out to dry...

The near post sve from BFG header was great and was strong for them and has been all season.. Unfortunate... (but still happy we got the win :P )

lquiquer
06-05-2015, 04:24 PM
He must have gone to one of SD Austrian pool party (No Red Bull)


http://www.foxsports.com.au/football/premier-league/drunk-mascot-video-gareth-bales-woes-own-goal-madness-newcastle-strife-paper-talk/story-fn8uzjqx-1227338663354

plague
27-05-2015, 03:03 PM
Jeez,it looks like the Americans just arrested half of FIFA.

Grimario
27-05-2015, 03:09 PM
http://mobile.nytimes.com/2015/05/27/sports/soccer/fifa-officials-face-corruption-charges-in-us.html

belchardo
27-05-2015, 03:26 PM
https://02varvara.files.wordpress.com/2011/07/01-kaboom.jpg (https://www.google.com.au/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CAcQjRw&url=https%3A%2F%2F02varvara.wordpress.com%2F2011%2 F07%2F09%2F9-july-2011-jumpin%25E2%2580%2599-jehoshaphat-batman-she%25E2%2580%2599s-got-a-bomb-in-her-tits%2F01-kaboom%2F&ei=cVVlVYfvMMG8mAWxmoLQBw&bvm=bv.93990622,d.dGY&psig=AFQjCNHusj91QQSvZ1knlJMMX3qrqInK-g&ust=1432790762770844)

MFKS
27-05-2015, 03:38 PM
Blatter rigging another election??

Its on Friday.

Coincidence???

belchardo
27-05-2015, 03:45 PM
not even blatter is that Machiavellian that he can persuade the US government to arrest a few opponents. I doubt they're opponents anyway.

lquiquer
03-06-2015, 04:18 AM
Blatter goooone...... Viva platini

belchardo
03-06-2015, 07:07 AM
halla-bloody-lujah. that man is the dog turd on the shoe of life.

Premy
03-06-2015, 08:33 AM
Blatter goooone...... Viva platini
Viva Platini?
What the hell has Plantini done about all of this?
Plantini would be the last thing FIFA needs, his sat on his arse twiddling his thumps doing F all for too long watching everyone fill there pockets.

Viva David Gill.

plague
03-06-2015, 08:34 AM
{insert Keanu Reeves WHOA photo here}

MFKS
03-06-2015, 09:10 AM
Yep great Sepps gone.

Anyone thinking we are gonna see great change is deluding themselves.

The set up is the issue.


One vote per country means FIFA only need to spread the love to the poorer nations with some handouts to buy enough votes to keep elected.


Basically they are a law unto themselves

furns
03-06-2015, 12:54 PM
Viva Platini?
What the hell has Plantini done about all of this?
Plantini would be the last thing FIFA needs, his sat on his arse twiddling his thumps doing F all for too long watching everyone fill there pockets.

Viva David Gill.

Not to mention he also voted for Qatar

belchardo
03-06-2015, 01:11 PM
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-06-03/doidge-this-isnt-the-end-of-sepp-blatter-at-fifa/6517562

a depressing, but a good chance of being true, take on blatter's "resignation"

WolfMan
03-06-2015, 02:40 PM
Not to mention he also voted for Qatar

Who doesn't want a new yacht though? Can't blame him

lquiquer
03-06-2015, 03:53 PM
Not to mention he also voted for Qatar

Quite right. But also my point was that he worked pretty hard to get Blatter out.

q-money
03-06-2015, 04:06 PM
blatter and havelange, for all their faults recognised that FIFA is 1 country = 1 vote and exploited it to the hilt. anyone who wants to succeed in the presidential role will have to provide the juicy mangos to the peasant nations of CONCACAF, the AFC and the CAF if they want to survive. UEFA is irrelevant as a bloc.

militiamon
03-06-2015, 08:06 PM
I find it kind of weird that Oceania gets more of a say than South America when it comes to FIFA voting.
What's legit messed up though is that Africa has 5 times the amount of votes that South America gets under that system.

Not sure how a more reasonable system would work while still being equitable for the smaller countries, but it seems to me like the current system just breeds corruption and cronyism.


Aside from that, should be interesting to see how things go under a new Pres. There are lots of issues that are floating around in football right now which could ultimately have a big impact on how the game is played. Think of all the changes that occurred under Blatter's regime:

- Golden goal abolished
- Video replay technology strongly resisted but goal line technology starting to become (very reluctantly) more widespread
- World Cups held in unconventional places
- Silly string for free kicks etc.

Jeterpool
18-07-2015, 08:00 PM
Fabian Delph will be popular upon return to Villa

lquiquer
26-07-2015, 10:04 AM
Mexes goal last night .... Nice

lquiquer
09-10-2015, 12:58 PM
WC qualifiers FT: Chile 2-0 Brazil, Argentina 0-2 Equador !!!!! Whaou.....

Retro Jet
23-10-2015, 01:03 PM
Get a load of this. Schweinsteiger (the pig climber lol) is the quintessential Deutsche!

http://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/article/2015/10/23/schweinsteiger-sue-over-nazi-toy-doppelganger-1


“Many people in Germany are called Bastian,” DiD represenative Patrick Chan said.

“The figure is based on a typical German. We believe that all Germans look like that.”

Fmd...if reversed and anyone mocked up an Asian doll and made the comment "We believe that all Asians look like that."
you'd have your guts for garters.
Patrick Chan :redcard: :wanker:
Where's our :racist: when you need it?

lquiquer
10-11-2015, 12:20 PM
Flores released by his US club....

lquiquer
19-11-2015, 02:26 PM
Apparently from Jorge Sampaoli (chile)...

1209

belchardo
19-11-2015, 03:59 PM
brilliant.

plague
01-12-2015, 12:32 PM
Suarez not being on that final ballot for ballon dor is a ****ing joke.

hawk
01-12-2015, 08:50 PM
Apparently from Jorge Sampaoli (chile)...

1209

sums up the stubbins household. mrs having a great time

lquiquer
16-12-2015, 11:46 PM
Pep to city 2016/17

MFKS
17-12-2015, 10:00 AM
Suarez not being on that final ballot for ballon dor is a ****ing joke.

Iniesta not winning it is a ****ing joke

Bremsstrahlung
18-12-2015, 02:34 AM
Seeya jose

The Special One
18-12-2015, 07:46 AM
I am disappointed but I continue. Now I can fulfil my dream of coaching in the A-League.

There's still that team on the Gold Coast, right? I hope so.

De-Champ
18-12-2015, 08:39 AM
Pep to city 2016/17

or maybe Chelsea

Jeterpool
18-12-2015, 08:48 AM
or maybe Chelsea

I was listening to the 5 Live Football Daily podcast yesterday and on their European show they were talking about Pep (obviously) and they were making a fair point that he could end up at Man Utd.

Everyone assumes a) he's leaving and b) that it's City he's going to.

Today's decision has certainly made it interesting, to say the least.

Jeterpool
15-01-2016, 10:38 AM
So Atletico and Real Madrid have been handed 1 year bans in the transfer window. that could throw the cat amongst the pigeons.

Will this force the hand of Real when it comes to De Gea? Hazard? Or PSG with Ronaldo? United with Bale? Even Chelsea and Liverpool who have been linked with Kroos?

Either way it's :popcorn:

MFKS
15-01-2016, 04:41 PM
So Atletico and Real Madrid have been handed 1 year bans in the transfer window. that could throw the cat amongst the pigeons.

Will this force the hand of Real when it comes to De Gea? Hazard? Or PSG with Ronaldo? United with Bale? Even Chelsea and Liverpool who have been linked with Kroos?

Either way it's :popcorn:

Never slowed Barca down when they got the same thing the last few years.

They are big enough they find away around it by appealing and getting it held up in court for 6 months then stockpile players at the next window and then cop the ban

lquiquer
26-01-2016, 06:57 PM
http://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/article/2016/01/26/buffon-eyes-2018-world-cup-farewell

6 WC would be phenomenal.......Hope he makes it

hawk
28-02-2016, 09:49 AM
Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo said "if we were all at my level maybe we would be leaders" after his side's 1-0 derby defeat by Atletico Madrid.

Is it any reason most people hate this grub. Isnt he due for a long term injury. blokes luck is way overs

plague
28-02-2016, 08:16 PM
To be fair he has since clarified he was talking 'fitness' level.

belchardo
30-04-2016, 07:39 PM
http://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/gallery/2016/apr/30/the-20-photographs-of-the-week#img-17

"Milton Casco of River Plate is protected by police as he prepares for a throw-in during a match against Boca Juniors"

Great photo.

lquiquer
02-05-2016, 08:23 AM
LucA$h declared bankrupt in the UK.... lol.....

skippy
02-05-2016, 03:09 PM
Lolol how the **** has he managed that?

Retro Jet
18-07-2016, 11:31 AM
Thoughts out to Demba Ba.
That's a shocker... :(

hawk
01-10-2016, 07:07 PM
Leicester boss Claudio Ranieri has said he will not interfere with striker Jamie Vardy's pre-match ritual of drinking a glass of port. (Daily Express)

k

belchardo
01-12-2016, 10:38 PM
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/dec/01/nside-talys-ultras-the-dangerous-fans-who-control-the-game

Great but disturbing article. You'll need a bit of time to read it.

MFKS
11-01-2017, 06:25 PM
What's everyone's thoughts on the World Cup plan

16 groups of 3

Top 2 advance

Then KO Rd 32 onwards


So 48 teams involved

I think good for the game

See some of the countries who should be doing better actually qualify

goaliepersempre
11-01-2017, 06:31 PM
Puts pressure on to win games in the group, may cause upsets....

Good for fifa bank account..

Maybe harder for nations to host...

(i. stadium ok can pass similar amounts, but accomodation facilities etc.)


Another point.

48 from 211 member nations this can also be viewed in both ways.

making it more open to newer nations but than again removing what is the actual big acheivement to reach the finals...

(thats what it is the World Cup Finals)


but yeah still more concerened how its going to go in 2022 in December.

lquiquer
11-01-2017, 07:35 PM
What's everyone's thoughts on the World Cup plan

16 groups of 3

Top 2 advance

Then KO Rd 32 onwards


So 48 teams involved

I think good for the game

See some of the countries who should be doing better actually qualify

I don't like it one bit......should be hard to qualify for WC. Now New Zealand, China, ......Australia just walk in (And also others in Africa, South America, Concacaf ....). Europe the big looser (If Holland couldn't qualify in Euro with 24 teams then more likely at times a big European nation will miss out and Qatar or Trinidad or Venezuela will get in fairly easy)........Also concerned about 3 in a group because in the last game of the group you know what you need to do to march on....... And 16 countries will only play 2 games then tchao....frankly I liked it the way it is.

goaliepersempre
11-01-2017, 09:01 PM
Also gone is the 2 games at the same time round, which is nerve racking...

Macca
12-01-2017, 08:39 AM
Not a fan. Don't mind having more teams in, but having only two games to make the first cut is a bit rough. One off game / bit of bad luck and you could be struggling to make it out. Lots of big names could drop out early, and probably will be lots of boring groups with two strong teams and one minnow where the results are formalities.

Also read a post by someone on reddit outlining a scenario whereby the last group game can have a specific outcome that benefits both teams, which can lead to suspicion at best and a lack of integrity at worst. Situations like this were the reason the final group games began to be played simultaneously.

All in all not against expansion but prefer the old format to this. They're a bit hamstrung though trying to get more teams in without increasing the length of tournament or amount of games.

pv4
12-01-2017, 09:07 AM
I love the increase in teams, but I hate the 16 groups of 3.

What I will say though is I'm struggling to contemplate the allocations per federation. Particularly Asia. Asia surely has to have the worst allocation to achievement ratio. What do we get - 4.5 spots? And none of them make it thru the group stage. I think I read the Asian allocation will be 8.5 for 2026. I'm struggling to figure out where 8.5 teams come from. Australia, Iran, Japan & South Korea are the 4 obvious. Then you've got Iraq, Saudi Arabia & UAE as the next 3 you'd consider decent (WC worthy though?). And who's left in Asia - China maybe? I mean obviously by 2026 things will change. Particularly with the $$ getting thrown into the game throughout Asia we'll probably see West Asian teams + China in particular strengthen. But it just seems.. embarrassing? being an Asian supporter and just thinking about all the cannon fodder we'd throw into the Cup.

parksey
12-01-2017, 08:51 PM
the world cup is dead

pv4
12-01-2017, 10:34 PM
the world cup is dead

Let's chat in 10 years when you change your mind and say "wow, that was great".

What we have to remember is the WC gets increased teams fairly frequently. The last time was.. 98? It's not like it's an uncommon move.

parksey
12-01-2017, 11:06 PM
Can't wait for Oman vs New Zealand at Bangladesh 2026.

StannyCFCJET
12-01-2017, 11:24 PM
the world cup is dead

100% agree we all saw the Euros were Portugal were abysmal in the group stage, Struggled to come third then qualify for knockout stages

pv4
13-01-2017, 05:22 AM
100% agree we all saw the Euros were Portugal were abysmal in the group stage, Struggled to come third then qualify for knockout stages

And then do better than England.

pv4
13-01-2017, 06:38 AM
Can't wait for Oman vs New Zealand at Bangladesh 2026.

Well it won't be in Bangladesh, because two world cups in Asia in a row would be absurd! Surely 2026 will be in USA, Africa or Australia (assuming we weazle out of Asia for some reason.. probably to do with hosting the WC).

The beauty of Oman vs NZ is you don't owe either of them your viewing time. Watch it or don't watch it, it doesn't matter. Those sorts of games will be put on at shit hours in shit places with shit attention drawn to them. Whilst raising so, so much interest within their own countries, generating so much income for said countries (as well as FIFA, so what), putting obscure players on the global radar that previously would have had to rely on the right scouts and the right youtube highlight vids with just the right song choice (I mean can ANY youtube highlight video have any other song than Remember the Name by Fort Minor??) and in such improving the quality of global football as a whole.

But sure, football as a whole didn't exist before the Socceroos Golden Generation, or before the majority of us here were old enough to comprehend the World Cup. So most of us against the idea of an expanded World Cup are just assuming 32 teams is the ideal number because it's what we currently have, and have had "all our lives", or had little interest or weren't even born in 94 when it was 24 teams.

What's one of the oldest memories of the World Cup you have instilled in your brain, it was so good? For me it was the 2002 Senegal/France game. If my googling is correct, Senegal were the second lowest ranked team at that tournament (while France were 1st). If all the "the world cup is dead" people of pre-98 got their way, that game never would have happened.

In 9 years get ready to write & read a shit-tonne of "Cinderalla Story" headlines m8.

lquiquer
13-01-2017, 09:06 AM
We won't get out of Asia unless they kick us out... so 2026 is CONCACAF or Africa (FIFA already said Europe and Asia can't bid for it). South America will go for 2030 (100 years anniversary). Uruguay interested but not sure 48 hotels in the country? Member you been there what you think?

leftrightout
13-01-2017, 01:57 PM
Can't wait for Oman vs New Zealand at Bangladesh 2026.

This already happens at world cups... Can you say you that the quality in Angola vs Iran would be better than Oman Vs New Zealand?
Well they have played each other at a recent world cup.

The world cup went to 32 teams in 98, it isn't like this is a big change from the long standing tradition that is the 32 team world cup.
48 teams means more games, how can any football fan complain about that?

There are heaps of people complaining about the 3 team groups saying there's no room to lose a game then come back and qualify as there is now. To that i say, don't lose a game.

There are also complaints about crashing out early, losing one game and you'll struggle to come back from it to qualify. These complaints by the same people complaining about more teams meaning lesser quality. If these extra teams are lesser quality then upset results shouldn't be a worry!

In the end its just more great football to watch, i bloody love the world cup and more games to me is a gift!

Macca
13-01-2017, 02:08 PM
This already happens at world cups... Can you say you that the quality in Angola vs Iran would be better than Oman Vs New Zealand?
Well they have played each other at a recent world cup.

The world cup went to 32 teams in 98, it isn't like this is a big change from the long standing tradition that is the 32 team world cup.
48 teams means more games, how can any football fan complain about that?

There are heaps of people complaining about the 3 team groups saying there's no room to lose a game then come back and qualify as there is now. To that i say, don't lose a game.

There are also complaints about crashing out early, losing one game and you'll struggle to come back from it to qualify. These complaints by the same people complaining about more teams meaning lesser quality. If these extra teams are lesser quality then upset results shouldn't be a worry!

In the end its just more great football to watch, i bloody love the world cup and more games to me is a gift!

Beating the new 16 teams (while some will doubtless be strong teams) is not the issue. The point is that there is going to be massive disparity between groups, assuming of the three that one team will be a top level team (top 16), and one will be from the bottom 16, the middle team variance will be massive, leaving some groups that may have a top European contender with say a high flier from Asia and a low team from Africa, while another could have the middle team be a very strong South American or European team that is underrated (in terms of FIFA rankings) currently.

That is my main gripe. The lowered "resolution" of screening 16 teams as if they are the same will lead to big variances.

evolution
13-01-2017, 02:46 PM
Uruguay interested but not sure 48 hotels in the country? Member you been there what you think?

Have also been. Estadio Centenario is the most run-down, dilapidated piece of shit stadium this side of Gosford. Concrete seats, falling apart, a disgusting moat around the ground with who knows what breeding in it. Historical significance or not needs to be knocked down and rebuild completely.

Montevideo itself is quite a nice place with a few OK hotels, but it's a small country with nowhere near enough stadiums of FIFA quality (need to be at least 40,000 capacity plus all seater) and they would struggle to host even a 32 team tournament. Should stick to hosting the Copa America when it comes around.

leftrightout
13-01-2017, 02:52 PM
Have also been. Estadio Centenario is the most run-down, dilapidated piece of shit stadium this side of Gosford. Concrete seats, falling apart, a disgusting moat around the ground with who knows what breeding in it. Historical significance or not needs to be knocked down and rebuild completely.

Montevideo itself is quite a nice place with a few OK hotels, but it's a small country with nowhere near enough stadiums of FIFA quality (need to be at least 40,000 capacity plus all seater) and they would struggle to host even a 32 team tournament. Should stick to hosting the Copa America when it comes around.

Possibly shared with Argentina and final played in a revamped Centenario?

Which will do doubt be left to rot, much like the Brazilian stadiums!

MFKS
13-01-2017, 03:46 PM
Have also been. Estadio Centenario is the most run-down, dilapidated piece of shit stadium this side of Gosford. Concrete seats, falling apart, a disgusting moat around the ground with who knows what breeding in it. Historical significance or not needs to be knocked down and rebuild completely.

Montevideo itself is quite a nice place with a few OK hotels, but it's a small country with nowhere near enough stadiums of FIFA quality (need to be at least 40,000 capacity plus all seater) and they would struggle to host even a 32 team tournament. Should stick to hosting the Copa America when it comes around.

Montevideo a nice place??

Your 100% spot on about the Estadio Centenario.

It is a falling apart shit tip

The rest of the place quite frankly was poor.

I would go back to Buenos Aires in a heart beat
Same with Rio and Brazil

Santiago i could handle being in but wouldn't be overtly keen to go.

Uruguay you would have to kidnap me to get me to go back.

It is stuck in a ****ing time warp and about 30 years behind the rest of South America

I not see how they could host the WC in this day and age. It is a small country with a population of 3 million.

I not seeing how they going to host the thing with 32 teams let alone 48

Maybe as a part co host they might get away with a role


Other thing is with Centenario it a complete rebuild. With the cost of modern day stadia. I not kñow the taxation revenue in the country would justify the excessive spend

Swifts
13-01-2017, 05:03 PM
There are heaps of people complaining about the 3 team groups saying there's no room to lose a game then come back and qualify as there is now. To that i say, don't lose a game.

I haven't put too much thought into this... but in this new format, you will only play 2 games. If you win one of those games, you are almost 100% certain to qualify for the next stage. Which means you can lose one and win one and go through.

The only situation where this wouldn't work is where:
- Team A beats Team B
- Team B beats Team C; and
- Team C beats team A

Which would leave all 3 teams on 3 points and then goal difference would separate them. But considering each group would have a top nation, a middle of the road nation, and a lesser nation, then the likelihood of this scenario happening would be fairly slim I would think.

pv4
13-01-2017, 06:53 PM
LRO - my man!

Fwiw most people I've talked to are skeptical on the groups of 3, which i think I'm skeptical of too.

But the 48 teams - I'm yet to talk to anyone who was born before the 90s who thinks it's a bad idea.

lquiquer
13-01-2017, 07:22 PM
LRO - my man!

Fwiw most people I've talked to are skeptical on the groups of 3, which i think I'm skeptical of too.

But the 48 teams - I'm yet to talk to anyone who was born before the 90s who thinks it's a bad idea.

Born 67......I don't like the idea of 48 teams. Not for the actual WC (However don't like group of 3) but more to do with qualification. Might be hard to sell tickets when Australia can easy squeeze in the 8 from Asia who will qualify. No more cut throat games like Urgay 05 or Irak 13.......32 teams was a good balance and I think ideal format. Also should be hard for Kiwis to get in......

goaliepersempre
13-01-2017, 07:25 PM
LRO - my man!

Fwiw most people I've talked to are skeptical on the groups of 3, which i think I'm skeptical of too.

But the 48 teams - I'm yet to talk to anyone who was born before the 90s who thinks it's a bad idea.

yup 48 teams as such not a bad idea.. its the details and the smaller points.

The 3 team groups is just silly/not good... opens a lot of doors for not good practices... 4 like in every tournament is great.. or bumb the number up like in the qualifiers...

and the resources needed to host 48 teams and visitors..

(i think alot of people against it in intitial point would be thinking woo money grab for Fifa)

but hey this is 2026..... we need to a) survive that long B) see how the next 2 WC goes...

(oh and a 48 Team WC in December.....precedent is set.... would just destroy club football)

Jetmaster
13-01-2017, 08:04 PM
Nothing about professional sport now is about the betterment of the game...it IS about ths money. Cricket is another great example.

As Simon Hill said this solely about getting China to host 2026 and validate the promises of the new FIFA leadership.

lquiquer
13-01-2017, 09:35 PM
Nothing about professional sport now is about the betterment of the game...it IS about ths money. Cricket is another great example.

As Simon Hill said this solely about getting China to host 2026 and validate the promises of the new FIFA leadership.

Well Sir China can not get 2026 and 2030 will go to South America. So China first hope is 2034.

MFKS
13-01-2017, 09:44 PM
yup 48 teams as such not a bad idea.. its the details and the smaller points.

The 3 team groups is just silly/not good... opens a lot of doors for not good practices... 4 like in every tournament is great.. or bumb the number up like in the qualifiers...

and the resources needed to host 48 teams and visitors..

(i think alot of people against it in intitial point would be thinking woo money grab for Fifa)

but hey this is 2026..... we need to a) survive that long B) see how the next 2 WC goes...

(oh and a 48 Team WC in December.....precedent is set.... would just destroy club football)

Destroying club football would not be the worst thing.

I would rather watch Italy v Brazil and Argentina V Germany playing than watching Real Madrid V Bayern and Chelsea V PSG in the UCL

International football should be the pinnacle of the game.

Not club football

goaliepersempre
13-01-2017, 09:51 PM
Destroying club football would not be the worst thing.

I would rather watch Italy v Brazil and Argentina V Germany playing than watching Real Madrid V Bayern and Chelsea V PSG in the UCL

International football should be the pinnacle of the game.

Not club football

It will affect the entire season... how to schedule and im not just meaning the La Liga and Premier League and Bundesliga.. IT doesnt just affect the top league but also the lower leagues..... even our a league...

for a december competition... let alone a 48 team that could possibly happen.....


Its shit for the players and preperation for the competition.... and recovery afterwards....



but that is all in the future...

parksey
13-01-2017, 10:26 PM
Well it won't be in Bangladesh, because two world cups in Asia in a row would be absurd! Surely 2026 will be in USA, Africa or Australia (assuming we weazle out of Asia for some reason.. probably to do with hosting the WC).

The beauty of Oman vs NZ is you don't owe either of them your viewing time. Watch it or don't watch it, it doesn't matter. Those sorts of games will be put on at shit hours in shit places with shit attention drawn to them. Whilst raising so, so much interest within their own countries, generating so much income for said countries (as well as FIFA, so what), putting obscure players on the global radar that previously would have had to rely on the right scouts and the right youtube highlight vids with just the right song choice (I mean can ANY youtube highlight video have any other song than Remember the Name by Fort Minor??) and in such improving the quality of global football as a whole.

But sure, football as a whole didn't exist before the Socceroos Golden Generation, or before the majority of us here were old enough to comprehend the World Cup. So most of us against the idea of an expanded World Cup are just assuming 32 teams is the ideal number because it's what we currently have, and have had "all our lives", or had little interest or weren't even born in 94 when it was 24 teams.

What's one of the oldest memories of the World Cup you have instilled in your brain, it was so good? For me it was the 2002 Senegal/France game. If my googling is correct, Senegal were the second lowest ranked team at that tournament (while France were 1st). If all the "the world cup is dead" people of pre-98 got their way, that game never would have happened.

In 9 years get ready to write & read a shit-tonne of "Cinderalla Story" headlines m8.

Yeah we all love fairy tales at the World Cup but it's not going to be the same when half the teams there can barely play the game.

Sure there has been a few stinkers in each group at recent cups but that's enough.

This will not increase the quality of the tournament, which is supposed to be the pinnacle of the sport, and is purely motivated by money.

plague
14-01-2017, 11:57 AM
Reminds me of this American podcast I listened to after the 2014 WC saying it should be every 2 years because it would twice as dope because America has a Super Bowl every year and the Super bowl is dope.

Yeah that seems legit logic.

belchardo
14-01-2017, 03:33 PM
Based on current rankings (at 12 January 2017), and assuming the following breakup of spots:



UEFA
16


CAF
9


AFC
9


CONMEBOL
8


CONCACAF
5.5


OCEANIA
0.5


TOTAL
48



the following teams would qualify. first number world ranking, second number confederation ranking.



CAF



CONCACAF


UEFA




33
1
Senegal

17
1
Costa Rica
3
1
Germany


34
2
Côte d'Ivoire
18
2
Mexico

5
2
Belgium


35
3
Egypt

28
3
USA

7
3
France


36
4
Tunisia

58
4
Panama

8
4
Portugal


39
5
Algeria

69
5
Haiti

10
5
Spain


49
6
Congo DR





11
6
Switzerland


50
7
Nigeria

CONMEBOL


12
7
Wales


53
8
Burkina Faso
1
1
Argentina
13
8
England


54
9
Ghana

2
2
Brazil

14
9
Croatia


AFC



4
3
Chile

15
10
Poland


29
1
Iran

6
4
Colombia

16
11
Italy


37
2
Korea Republic
9
5
Uruguay

21
12
Iceland


44
3
Australia

19
6
Peru

22
13
Netherlands


46
4
Japan

20
7
Ecuador

23
14
Republic of Ireland


48
5
Saudi Arabia
40
8
Paraguay

24
15
Turkey


61
6
Uzbekistan




25
16
Slovakia


64
7
United Arab Emirates








81
8
China PR










85
9
Qatar













New Zealand play off against Honduras for the final position

furns
14-01-2017, 05:38 PM
Rumours are that a full spot will go to Oceania, the half spots would go to AFC & CONCACAF