Who you cheering for in the World Cup?

Germany. I've got family there and they are good odds to win.

France, ha ha haaaaa

NO ONE- any sport that can be mastered by 3 or 4 yr olds aint really a sport

I'm a Tottenham fan so I'm cheering for England, Belgium, Colombia, Denmark. Never liked Brazil, Spain, Germany, Argentina - but they are nice to watch play obviously.

Of the top tier teams (those last 4 and France - the teams who have won it in recent history) I'm definitely for France. Spurs goalkeeper is there and they have an exciting collection of young players who play in some of the biggest teams in Europe.

Egypt is interesting because they have Mohammed Salah, the Premier League's top scorer. He might not be fit for the first game though.

Kind of sad for some of the African teams (other than Egypt) this go round, there are fewer stars from top leagues....you always pull for these teams but they are often disappointing.

Though unlike England who are always disappointing.

Sweden

They knocked out the Italians and haven't been to the Cup recently.

I'm also keeping an eye on these guys:

http://www.espn.com/espn/feature/story/_/id/23659183/world-cup-2018-russ...

Germany grew up in Munich. Lived there for their 1974 win. 

I haven't really followed FIFA action lately, though I did have the pleasure of attending the USA drubbing of Honduras 6-0 last year (those were the days).

This Cup is missing some familiar color: Azzurri, Orange, and Red-White-and-Blue.  I always felt that Italy was the least interesting multiple-title side, while the Nederlands were always my favorite "second team".

My ancestors tell me to root for England and Sweden, but the vikings from Iceland are my sentimental favorites.  (I agree with HotnannySF regarding frustration with the Lions)

I'm hoping that Mexico can do CONCACAF proud and am usually rooting for them in the knockout rounds (if they get there).

I've historically rooted against Portugal, as the USA has had to play a few key matches against them; but I'd be happy for Ronaldo if he can win it all before it's too late.

And: Did Russia rig the group draw?  Like I said, I haven't been paying much attention, but that looks like a weak group (unless Salah can work some magic).

Iceland looks to be in a tough group, but I'll wish them the best of the bunch.

England are fielding a young team so they have the potential to surprise. They don't have a good ball holding player but a bunch of fast quick guys so expect them to try to counterattack when possible

Costa Rica

I tend to root for Brasil because when I was a kid I saw the Brasil national team with Pele play an exhibition at Kesar Stadium. At the time he was older but still brilliant (I saw him a number of years later with the New York Cosmos, but that wasn't close to the same).

He scored a goal that day at Kezar and he/they were amazing to watch. I have always liked their style of short, precise passing/team game, and at least to me they seem to play the game with joy. I believe the term "the beautiful game" came about because of Brasil's style. Also, during the 1994 WC their team was based just down the road from me in Los Gatos, and damn those folks know how to have a good time. It was a two-week, 24-hour a day rager.

I'm conflicted with Mexico. Back in to old days of the San Jose Earthquakes at Spartan Stadium the crowds were predominantly Mexican, who are a hoot to watch a game with, and I have many friends and associates who are Mexican and DEEPLY care, but Mexico is also the USA's biggest rival and they love to stomp on us, so there's that. Still, they're also a group of people who know how to party, which is always a plus in my book. And tequila.

Ultimately though, without our bunch of clunkers there, deep down I have no real affiliations or favorites. I'll just watch as much as I can and see how I feel as the tournament progresses.

Italy

Mexico

Tom convinced me. Tequila it is!

Germany, last 2 world cups caught a  deep round match at the hofbrau Haus in Vegas.  Great party.  And what Ender said.

The only time I ever went to Candlestick was for a hilarious Mexico El Salvador friendly match in early 2000s. My buddy and I and maybe 4 other people there weren't Latino. Fun smoking out in the upper deck watching the fans fk with each other. 

Mexico does have an exciting young player in Hirving Lozano. He plays for PSG in France and is nicknamed Chucky. 

Even though Mexico and USA are archrivals I've always pulled for Mexico in the WC but last few times haven't been much to cheer about for them....they get beaten in first knockout round every time

Germany vs Mexico on sunday morning! If Mexico can tie they might have a chance to win the group. Previous 2 champions did not make it past the group stages the following WC and went home early (Italy and Spain) 

France and Senegal 

Too bad Holland didn’t make it.

What is this "World Cup" that you speak of?

I keep reading the thread title as "Who you cheating for in the World Cup?"

The World

Oh yeah Liverpool's other African star Sadio Mane (aside from Salah) plays for Senegal. He can cause some damage but is going to need help.

It's interesting to watch players whose club teams are vastly superior to their national teams cope with that situation. 

Nice Jambone, Id not be against a few cheer leaders too

Yeah tequilla sounds nice

Finally something interesting, Spain fire their coach because he secretly joins Real Madrid as coach (after the tournament) even though he just signed a contract extension.

Spain plays their arch enemy Portugal in 2 days! LOL 

Mexico

lnga-lund inga-lund ingalund!

mexico numero dos

England, of course. 

Although the fact that Italy didn’t qualify already makes this a successful WC in my book.

Here’s an interesting fact that some of you may not know. In spite of only eight different countries winning the World Cup over the 20 previous tournaments, there have been five different winners since 1998. (How many times they’ve won)

1998 - France (1)

2002 - Brazil (5)

2006 - Italy (4)

2010 - Spain (1)

2014 - Germany (4)

Brazil also won in 1994, the year it was held in the USA. 

Uruguay (2), Argentina (2) and Engerlund (1) have also won the WC. 

Oh hey Russia plays today. Someone must be pumped. 

Russia up 2-0 over Saudi Arabia at 50 min. mark...pretty good game though

I only watched some of that, but wow what a terrible game. By FIFA rankings these are the two worst teams in the tournament. Russia as host didn't have to qualify, but Saudi Arabia are so bad it makes you wonder how the tournament will suffer because the next World Cup will have 48 teams, not 32.... if Saudi is able to qualify as terrible as they are, this basically means more games lacking quality and having lopsided scores

Second half much better^

But, totally agree, opening up to 48 sux

48 means mo' money for FIFA and host countries.

Lots of weak teams and aged or injured usual suspects, will get eliminated in prelims.  Greater odds of a Cinderella sneaking through.  The NCAA expanded from 32 to 68, and it has helped that tournament.  I'm a UVA alum, so I don't say that easily.

48 means mo' money for FIFA and host countries.

Lots of weak teams and aged or injured usual suspects, will get eliminated in prelims.  Greater odds of a Cinderella sneaking through. The NCAA expanded from 32 to 68, and it has helped that tournament.  I'm a UVA alum, so I don't say that easily.

>>>Lots of weak teams and aged or injured usual suspects, will get eliminated in prelims.  Greater odds of a Cinderella sneaking through. The NCAA expanded from 32 to 68, and it has helped that tournament.  I'm a UVA alum, so I don't say that easily.

Here’s the thing, there’s already a 2.5 YEAR TOURNAMENT just to qualify for the World Cup Finals. THOSE are the preliminaries. It goes on FOREVER. People pay money to watch those games. Leagues stop for weeks on end so that national teams can gather their players and train and play in these qualifying matches. Those games need to carry some weight and right now they do. Italy, Holland, USA and Chile all messed up and they’re out and they deserve to be out. 

Every country has ample opportunity to get to the final 32. There are already enough shit games already (see today’s 5-0 opener and watch when Uruguay put up 10 on the Saudis next week). The expansion is all about money like you said and we will get a worse product for the first third of the finals. 

Not a fan.

Nice header by Uruguay.

Any you folks want to see why people watch this stuff then watch the replay of Spain Portugal because it was one of the greatest group games in the history of the WC. I'm not kidding!

I'm a Tottenham fan))))))

Me as well...Saw them play Arsenal in The FA Cup Semi in 1991 and then the FA Cup Final a few weeks later vs. Nottingham Forrest. Also been to The Old White Heart Lane 3 or 4 times. 

I am rooting for England 

^^I just caught the highlights on my phone...and I'm hoping to do what you recommend!

LOOK At That FAT Prick Saluting ! The HORROR !! 2020 Can't Come Fast Enough !

Wake up early tomorrow morning - France vs Australia at 6am EST

Quality match on day 2 as the spurs fan said -Spain vs Portugal is one to watch. Ronaldo still hasn’t slowed down and Spain with both a goal of the tournament and keepers gaffe of the tournament nominations already. 

Of course we all know that England will only go as far as Spurs will take them. Kane, Ali, Dyer, Rose, Trippier - and Walker is still pretty much a Spur. Not quite a golden generation. Too bad they don’t have Poch coaching them.

Bucky I read something on the Guardian site (I think) that Dier and Rose will likely make way for Henderson and Ashley Young to start... according to the way they were set up in practice. But Kane Walker Alli and Trippier are certain starters. Rose didn't play a lot last season and Henderson is allegedly better at holding the ball than Dier.

Quick equalizer for Iceland.

France won 2-1

Messi playing for Argentina live now, one of the great players.

Fun game....great lineup of games today

Iceland stops Messi.

Iceland!!!

These two will both advance, id think

Anyone seen Stever?

Denmark beats Peru 1-0

Iceland ties Argentina 1-1.

Pretty good showing by the Scandinavians today.

Watch out for us. The Swedes are on deck.

Viking Strong!

Bunch of Mexicans in Texas so I'll go with them.

great game mexico is playing. 

Nice going, El Tri.  

Way to represent for CONCOAF

Alexi lalas is a fucking tool.

Bunch of great games today

>>>Alexi lalas is a fucking tool.

Thank you.   His incessant whining after the Brazil game about how Neymar was harassed was idiotic.   The Swiss did exactly what they needed to do to pull out a tie, including fouling him throughout the match to keep him off balance.    

Great day of matches. Starting off with our friends/rivals Costa Rica with their world class keeper Keilor Navas of Real Madrid going up against Siberia. Of course this game was settled by Korolov of Siberia and formerly Manchester City on a brilliant free kick much to the dismay of the Ticos but the action REALLY heated up in game 2. 

Mexico 1 - Defending Champion Germany 0. You have to tip your hat to our friends/rivals Mexico for playing a brilliant match for 90 minutes and over coming the years of coaching upheaval and team strife that el Tri have endured. 

Finally, the Swiss come back from down 1-0 to earn a draw against tournament favorites Brazil. Brazil is so stacked they have Neymar, Willian, Coutinho, Marcelo, Fernandinho, Casemiro, Danillo, Jesus, Bobbby Firminho and even Fred to name a few. 

The swiss and every other team are going to foul Neymar. If the ref thinks it’s a foul, he will call it that way. Today the Swiss took what they could get and Brazil fell asleep on a corner, 1-1. 

Ive managed to hear zero of Alexi Lalas so far and I hope to keep i5 that way. Someone needs to get his old pal Tony Meola some coffee though if they are going to have him do color on these matches. Dude is asleep. 

Been some great matches so far, I’m looking forward to the England Hotspurs vs Tunisia match tomorrow and hopefully N.London will make us happy. 

Sweden takes down Korea.  It would be awesome if they can knock the Germans out.  Go Norse!

Nice commentary Bucky, but I think you meant Serbia when you wrote Siberia.  If there are any Siberian soccer players,  they'd just play for Russia.

(((Viking Strong!)))

Wow, what a grueling match, with something approaching 40 fouls (or beyond...) for the 90-plus minutes (seemed like more than 4 minutes should've been added).  I suppose that it's only fitting that the game was won by PK - reviewed one at that!

I have a feeling that Sweden is going to be the victim of a Teutonic grudge match for their next foray onto the tournament grounds.

I'm personally pleased to see the results for Mexico, Iceland, Sweden, and France.  Fine with the Spain-Portugal & Brazil-Switzerland draws as well.

It's so much more relaxing for me to follow the WC Finals without USA in the mix (for better or worse).

Go Panama!!!

My English colleagues (in the UK) can hardly do their jobs today, they are too excited and into the game that starts at 2 EST.  I was on a couple of conference calls with them this morning...no work got done :-)  

Its seems that some of the chants and taunts from Mexico's fans are homophobic and are causing headaches for FIFA:

https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/jun/18/puto-chants-mexico-foot...

Switzerland no slouch of a team. They topped their qualifying group and have not lost in 20+ matches.

Now the expectations of the Mexican team are sky high after beating Germany. They are well known for getting beaten in the first round of knockouts, can they go father??

Belgium looked like they took some hash brownies before the first half, but they finally woke up. DeBruyne is the master of assists and the outside of the foot pass for Lukaku's first goal was pretty awesome

>>>Its seems that some of the chants and taunts from Mexico's fans are homophobic and are causing headaches for FIFA:

Trump said "There not sending there best fans"

Urine filled sandwich bags aren't in style anymore?

Nice one         Inga-lund inga-lund ingalund!

Mexico

Senegal vs Poland today at 11 EST

Columbia rcvd a red card early in match vs Japan thats in 85th minute now, with Japan up 2-1. I didnt see what happenned , but im sure i will. I sure hope it was warrented as Columbia had to play since 4 minute mark a man down.

Wild game w Senegal and Poland!

Senegal wins 2-1, both of my teams won their first games   

France vs Peru on Thursday 

Columbia loses my boy J-rod injured gets thrown in...

Yuya Osako's Goal Gives Japan 2-1 Win over 10-Man Colombia in 2018 World Cup

RORY MARSDENJUNE 19, 2018

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2781809-yuya-osakos-goal-gives-japan-...

Colombia defender did intentional handball to prevent a certain goal, he forgot that that is what you do at the end of a match to prevent a team from winning, not at the very beginning of the game. He got sent off then Japan scored anyway and Colombia had to play 87 minutes with 10 men....so dumb. They almost kept it tied.

Tottenham defender Davinson Sanchez was the guilty culprit, he dawdled and a Japanese player took the ball from him and had 1 one on one with goalie, who stopped it but Kagawa's follow up was going on the back of the net.

Is it too early to appoint a special counsel, or should we wait a bit longer before we start the investigation?

The Columbian who intentionally blocked that shot with his arm might be wise to not go home for a while.

Morrocco vs Portugal...game of first round, so far...morrocco dominating...but, down 1-0 at 75 min mark...yet, another ronoldo goal, at 4 min mark

^I became a big fan of Morocco this morning. Too bad they couldn't put the ball into the back of the net (details, details...).

Morocco did well moving the ball but just couldn't get that last part together. Benatia, who plays for Juventus (the biggest team in Italy) had a few real good chances.... but having your best player be the center back doesn't help a lot for scoring goals.

Today not the most exciting day. Hotly anticipating Argentina - Croatia. Thinking one of Croatia or Serbia going far in this WC, they are playing in a familiar Slavic country and both squads are stacked. Can definitely see Croatia winning tomorrow.  

I felt bad for Morocco, but , like JD said, you gotta put it in the back of net....i didnt see their game vs Iran, but, i guess they coulda-shoulda won that as well...now, theyre eliminated after just two games...

Thats one talented team out that would have been fun to see advance. Hpfly, all teams that do advance are as exciting a squad as they----but, i highly doubt that.

France vs Peru on now

Fox TV

Croatia

France won 1-0   

Wow, Fabes, that Croatia team looks real good as they advance today w a complete whipping of the Messi lead Argentina....

Could be croatia and iceland advancing???

(Croatia already in round of 16 after todays win)

Ouch, no fun in Argentina tonight.  Iran really gave Spain a scare.  Lots of good football at this level. Hard to count anyone out.

Well done Croatia! Best team performance so far. They could do this a few more times

^Beautiful game.  Wonderful goal from Modric!

Modic with the lightning bolt indeed. Real Madrid Modric no less. I feel a little bad for Messi, I bet he wishes he stayed retired from international football when he said it the first time. 

Aguero, Higuain, Dybala, Messi - so much firepower and so few cohesive offensive attacks. Caballero not being a great GK doesn’t help. How Maradona hasn’t had a stress and cocaine induced stroke yet is beyond me. 

Serbia Switzerland was the best game yet, not only that, both goals scored by Switzerland in their stunning come from behind victory were scored by players whose parents were refugees from Kosovo. How incredibly appropriate for this game and for this time we live in.

This means that the Serbia Brazil match will be a barn-burner. Neymar trying desperately to become the outsized villan of this world cup with flashy dives, whining to the refs and stupid showboating when they went 1-0 up. He also cried when they won. F%*king c*nt!!!

Belgium vs Tunisia on Fox now

Fun first half...

Exciting game, next up today (on regular Fox tv) Mexico vs South Korea and Germany vs Sweden 

Glad you don’t need cable tv for today’s games, we just have free broadcast tv.

Let's go, Sweden!

If Sweden beats Germany, then the defending champs would be eliminated.

Wild game so far...Sweden scored in first half...Germany ties it up immediatly at beginning of second half, and now just continues to put on the pressure...

Exciting game loving it. Ooooooooo yellow card!

Fantastic shot at the very end..............GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOGOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOGOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAL

Amazing finish!

Rats.  Now the Swedes need El Tri to roll over and or the Krauts to lose to Korea to keep Germany out of the knock-out rounds.

Die Panzer!

Early lead for Brits...one of cleanest, best , goals of tourney...header off corner etc...

Panama getting spanked, not looking like they have a chance. 

^....and England scores again! Hat trick for Kane...ya, at 6-0, id say its over....both England and Belguim will advance , still w a game to play in first round...and theyre both showing that they are contenders for cup.

stupid Panama taking our spot. Kinda stings, At least England is looking great!

Let’s go Senegal! 

I bought 5 dollar Mexico Soccer shirt when I first saw this thread & if all goes as planned - I will be wearing it to see Los Straitjackets tonight.

Viva Mexico~

Japan/Senegal is a fun match.

Looks like Russia fell back to Earth (didn't watch any of it).

Probably doesn't make too much difference who is 1st or 2nd in this group anyway.  Tough game ahead for both teams next round.

dang, Spain got lucky. And that is why it is called the cruelest sport.  Morocco was better team. respect.

Spain got lucky and Portugal got lucky too, Ronaldo missed a penalty kick, could've gotten sent off and Iran missed a last second goal that looked harder to miss than score that would've sent Superman back to far western Europe. Video replay starting to controversially dominate the WC. None of the 5 big teams look scary at the moment. Would LOVE to see a Colombia, Belgium, England or Croatia win the whole thing. Germany, Argentina, Spain looking too slow and old, and France and Brazil haven't gotten it together yet.   

Morrocco was already eliminated, game meant nothing to Spain...it did to Morocco, cause you always want to win in world cup, especially if youre eliminated w two losses even though you outplyed opponents in those previous games as well...

Still remains to be seen, but, they could be best team not moving frwd etc

Yeah Morocco was the best team in the WC with 2 losses and they are next door to Spain so it meant everything to them. Poland might be a bit better on paper but they were a shambles on the field

Nigeria!

Wow...goal in 86 minute (or so) gives Argentina the lead, and not only moves them on to next round, itll knock Nigeria out....Croatia scores to break tie w Iceland at 90 minute mark....just another day of great soccer..

Still a few more days, and spots to be determined, but, i cant wait for knockout round.

Sets up a great France Argentina match on Saturday

Damn, the Telemundo announcer almost had a heart attack on that late Argentina goal. I was wondering if he's from Argentina.

I can't believe anyone watches these games with the English speaking announcers. I understand more about the flow of the game, what's happening and the drama of any given moment listening to announcers who I don't understand at all than I do listening the endless jabber on FS1.

And there is nothing better in sports broadcasting than the glory of the GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL!!!!!!!!!!! call when a goal is scored.

Dude went 20 seconds straight on a late goal a few days ago, and he does it a little different every time. 

amazing stuff! More!!!

What a win for Argentina. Maradona flipping off everyone after that winning goal, the crowd (85% Argentina fans) going berserk. It still may be the VAR-ld Cup but that's what we want, a moment of pure footballing brilliance. Apparently Rojo is very left footed and he hit that with his right.

Remember France was close to getting knocked out in the group stages in 2006 and then they went all the way to the final. Anything can happen after it goes down to 16. Glad Argentina and France are playing together in the first knockout round, both have been pretty mediocre considering how many super talented players each have and one deserves to go home after Saturday. Which will it be. (Argentina)

Moving and doing it in Zagreb City,!!! Croatia wins their group

Lance you are spot on with watching on the Latin channels, I have no idea what they are saying but they put so much emotion into the call that I love watching it. They even do the same calling their local league games outside of the World Cup games

Ditto , Lance, Fabes

Does the 2018 World Cup logo remind anyone else of Roger from American Dad?

I learned the expression otro vez listening to the Mexican League games on Telemundo when I lived in L.A.  Can't stand their commercials, though.  There is something even more sinister and sleazy than the standard U.S. marketing.

Big games tomorrow for Mexico, Sweden and Germany, with one of them going home.  

Curious how the brackets will set up for the knockout rounds.  Is there a chance of a Serbia/Croatia match?  That one would be interesting.  Yugoslavia would have a great team this year if the country hadn't split up.

I'm half Yugoslavian.

My father grew up on a small island in the Adriatic Sea.

Matulovitch is my father's birth name.

He hated the lousy Serbians.

When my brother & I were young we thought that lousyserb was one word.

Go Croatia!!!!

Oops

I think we get uraguay portugal

France vs argentina

Spain russia

Croatia denmark

So far

As far as Serbia goes....we ll know soon...but, they must beat Brazil, and hope Costa Rica beats the Swiss, or theyre out

>>>Curious how the brackets will set up for the knockout rounds 

Here you go. Came out in January 

Sweden is about to snuff out Mexico, hell yeah!

My oldest brother is watching the game at my cousin's place up north of Gothenburg right now.  He says the Swedes are going nuts!

3-0.  Are you fucking kidding me!  Sweden is delivering a beat-down for the ages.  Definitely won't be going to my favorite taqueria today.  No one likes sad tacos.

If the Germans don't score a goal in extra time, they will be out, Mexico will advance, and Sweden wins the group.  Holy fuck!

Wow, south korea w 2 !!!!

Korea just scored in extra time.  Hasta la vista, Krauts.

Wish I was in Sweden right now.  It's gonna be a long, long, crazy, crazy night there!

i tried watching some last week. 

just can't handle the chronic flop.

makes basketball look honest.

hard to respect the game/players.

which is too bad, because its a great game.

FIFA has been wrkng on penalizing flopping players w yellow cards...mostly now, though, the flopping gets ignored by a good ref, its not causing the advantages for teams that it used to....it wont be long before it s not a tool players use, but, itll take awhile for it to be gone for good  (if they can EVER reach that point).

But, anyone not watching this World Cup is missing out. This has already been one of the most exciting Cups ever. Every game (minus last one w france that had zero meaning in any standings) has been great. Thrillers left and right, including two great games already today, w two more to follow.

I hope Team Usa is watching, because we re seeing the best in the world. Ive been watching and/or playing soccer all my life, and the talent in this cup, team wide, is amazing.

Just saw that both Mexico and Germany lost and didn't even score.  Wow!!! 

Wow my team is out. First time Germany didn't advance to the next round, but it seems to be the modern trend that defending champs don't make it out of group. 

How would you like your Schadenfreude served?

Wow!

This morning, I was hanging out at the local sports bar with my work buddies from Mexico and Korea.

Talk about high drama and catharsis!  I feel like we all won today, though I'm not sure that my Mexican friends will fully recover from the trauma.

Hega Sverige!!!

Did i just hear that right?

Germany has made final 8 in every World Cup since 1954?

If thats so, .....

Wow...and hats off to South Korea for showing up today...their goalie was fantastic, and although, i watched more of Sweden Mexico, from what i saw South Korea kinda surprised Germany...i dont think they ever thought theyd lose this game...they pulled a rabbit out of hat last game, just no way they could do it two games in a row.

No doubt, Jambone.  They're out of the tournament and may have the best goal of the tournament.

One of my Swedish cousins married a German woman, and lives in Berlin now.  Their boys were ecstatic in 2014 when Germany took the Cup.  Probably a little awkward right now.  The boys are half-Swedes, so I guess they'll be alright, but my cousin's wife is a sweetheart, so I hope she's not too bummed.

No Germany, no Italy, no Netherlands.  This is going to be a much different knockout round than we're used to seeing.

^ for sure! And , i think thats bringing some of the "energy" to this Cup-----the fact that not only are there some new faces (teams) in tourney, but, some are now advancing.

And, really no clearcut favorite. France, Belgium, Portugal, Spain, Brazil, Argentina, The Swiss (if they make it) , Uraguay, The home team, Russia...on and on, any ONE of those squads could win...cant wait til the wknd, and we still have an afternoon, and a full day of meaningful matches...both these games comin up today should be great! 

Lets Go Swiss! Tie/win, and advance...

Germany defeated in Russia once again

Yeah the Germans are much more comfortable in S. America. 

If England loses to Belgium tomorrow they’ll end up in a better bracket, away from Brazil. Some great matchups ahead: Uruguay v Portugal and France v Argentina are both on Saturday and Brazil v Mexico Monday is another one I’m looking forward too. Hopefully Mexico will play like they did in games 1 and 2 and give Brazil a game. 

The lousyserbs are out!!!

>>>Germany has made final 8 in every World Cup since 1954?

i think it’s even longer since the 30’s.  

Anyway, the only team Germany beats is Sweden and Sweden wins the group, wild.  Mexico like always loses win they’re supposed to win and wins when they’re supposed to lose, they’ll get knocked out.

another wild stat is Germany joins, France, Italy and Brazil not getting out of group after they won the cup.

belgium looks great, nobody talking about Belgium in this thread.

ill follow the Schweitzers now.

Belgium, like England, have not played anyone good yet. They have a bunch of great players but they were knocked out 3-1 by WALES in Euro 2016 competition. I like them but they are inconsistent. I would to see them go deep.

Mexico does have a shot to beat Brazil, but they took a few steps backwards today. They looked poor probably bc they were thinking too much about what was happening in the Germany game. 

The Germans are simply 4 years older than last WC and like my dad says it's hard to be hungry when you have a ham on your back. They needed younger players ilke Sane in the team.

The WC champion stat is that now the past 3 champions have been knocked out in the group stages, Germany, Spain (2014) and Italy (2010).

I may not have talked Belgium much here, Bucky, but , i just listed teams i thought had legitimiate shot at Cup....and wrote them second after France...it doesnt look like a "list"^^ ,  more off top of my head, but, ive been talking about them elsewhere, and def rooting for them (and Swiss, Uruguay)...they dont have any weaknesses, just a well balanced team ....up front, defense, and middle, goal...theyve got it all.

Now, if i had to pick one team to win it all?

Ill tell ya what...after brackets are complete for knockout round ill pick final four, two, and champ...and id hazard to guess , that ill have Belgium in that group.

And on that stat...four in a row w no repeat  champ, three out in group stage, and Brazil knocked out in round of 16. 

That’s some quality stats and info fellas TY

It'd be nice to see Africa and Asia represented in the knockout round, so I'll go in rooting for Senegal and Japan, respectively; however, I wouldn't be too upset if Colombia plays some exciting soccer and advances.

I suppose that Belgium and England will be able to figure out which team each would rather play in the next round.  Not sure if that potentially makes tomorrow's match a snoozefest...

>>The WC champion stat is that now the past 3 champions have been knocked out in the group stages, Germany, Spain (2014) and Italy (2010).

thanks

although not  consecutive France was knocked out after they won also in 2002

fucking Germans won the pre World Cup confederations cup last year in Russia, so there is hope with the youth next cup

Müller, özil were sleeping, time to retire, old men

France was in 98, Brazil in 2002 ^

Last repeat winner was Brazil in 1958, 1962...the only other repeat winner was Italy w first two, in 1934, 1938...the reason theyre even talking about it, is that the defending champ isnt getting out of group stage lately....THATS new...not repeating is not new etc

Is It Really Mexico and Brazil ? = That Will Be INSANE == Gigantic T.V. and Stream Viewership ! And LOUD Bars ! INSANE !

Yes France won in 98 and knocked out in group 2002, correct?

Yes, on years...but, im not sure when France lost that year...i blv thats correct, though...also in group, which would make Brazil the only defending champ out of last 5, that has made it to knockout round...

Dont know why but I would like to see Croatia continue to do well.  So the best place to watch World Cup around here is an Irish Pub.  Do I show up in England colors? Hmmm

Senegal Columbia today....win and advance...should be fun game...

England vs Belguim? Lose and go to easier side of bracket?...hmmmm....no, thatll end in 2-2 tie...;)

Go Senegal!

My other favorite team, France, already advanced 

Poland's doing its part to add to the entertainment factor. 

Poland's doing its part to add to the entertainment factor. 

OK, I have no idea how they will do the tie-breaker between Japan and Senegal...

Wow, Senegal gets knocked out due to more bookings.  Learned something new today. 

I'd like to think that England-Belgium teams will be motivated to avoid Colombia...

(too many JD posts, I know)

Bummer for Senegal, hope it was at least a good game, I could not watch it. 

See, it does pay to be nice.  

That was wild drama for the Japanese.  Colombia's goal put them in.

After the first tie-breakers (points, goal differential, total goals) were all tied, it went down to who got less cards.  

Japan (who rested the four players who had scored all their goals) gets the winner of the England-Belgium match.

Decided by cards ^....shows it pays to play nice, ppl

Wow...just looked at all matchups....sweden vs switzerland  gonna be great match...all look good on paper etc....next round is sat thru tues i blv...

Ill post my final 4 ,2, and champ soon....who ya got?

Belgium earned themselves a spot in the "Bracket of Death": Brazil, Mexico, France, Argentina, Portugal, Uruguay, and...... Japan

I don't think England are going to be too worried about Colombia now esp because Rodriguez got hurt, he is their best player. Of course, they will have to score. If Harry keeps scoring they will lift the cup!

A shame about Senegal (first time someone went out on yellow cards) but they should have pushed harder to score in the first half against Colombia because Colombia were pretty bad, kinda like Mexico yesterday: no spirit, bad passes and shots.

Also, Senegal had 2 yellow cards in extra time vs Japan. If those hadn't happened they would at least been in the roshambo draw to get in the last 16.

The only thing about "bracket of death" is that some of those teams didnt look great in group round (argentina, brazil), and the other bracket has some of the "hottest" teams....

Its gonna be fun...

Belgium has not lost in 22 straight matches...wow...

Ok, so Senegal got eliminated by the tie breaker going all way to "fair play" rule (yellow cards etc)...that rule is new this year, so, my question is, what would have happened under 2014 rules? Anybody know?

Ok, if i have brackets right...

Final four:

Brazil vs Uruguay (although that means i took spain and portugal out...wouldnt be surprised to see one in final4)

France vs Belgium

Brazil vs Belgium

Belgium wins!!

Or....

Here’s the up to date bracket: 

That right hand side of the bracket with Russia, Denmark and the Swiss being three of the weakest remaining and all on one side looks to be the easier path to the finals. Spain especially must be licking their chops after the tournament started with their coach being fired. We will definitely see some new blood in the semi-finals from the right hand bottom four. 

As for the left hand side the potential match-up of Portugal vs Argentina in the quarterfinals, better known as Ronaldo vs Messi really jumps out as does of course a possible Brazil vs Belgium quarterfinal. A matchup certainly worthy of a later meeting. 

Off day tomorrow but Saturday is going to be A REAL CRACKAH as we get France v Argentina early and Uruguay v Portugal in the second match. (Insert cliche here) This is going to be where the rubber meets the road. Time to get it on. 

>>>>Ok, so Senegal got eliminated by the tie breaker going all way to "fair play" rule (yellow cards etc)...that rule is new this year, so, my question is, what would have happened under 2014 rules? Anybody know?

i think I do. In the past they would have looked to the Japan vs Senegal match result to break the tie but they tied 2-2 also so the next tie breaker would have been: g) drawing of lots by the FIFA Organising Committee. (Pick a name from a hat, basically). 

http://www.conmebol.com/en/content/tie-breaker-rules-group-stage-2014-wo...

Thanks, bucky, for all the above info, including bracket...i must have read mine wrong...the one you are showing makes my final four impossible....i will review, and be back....;)

Ok, like everyone else...id love to see the messi vs renaldo matchup...but, i gotta stick w my guns, and w my habit of looking for a sleeper....so...

Final Four: tough bracket w one of my sleepers ,Uraguay, w France, Arg. and Portugal...

Ive got PORTUGAL comin out..

Belgium should meet Brazil...Im going BElGIUM out of that bracket 

im taking CROATIA ,  therez my new sleeper, over a Spain team in quarters, and SWEDEN over England .

Wow...alot of great matches comin up!

Ill take BElGUIM over Portugal in one semi, and CROATIA over SWEDEN in other, setting up a Belguim vs Croatia final....and ill stick w my original BELGUIM pick as champ!

(Now, hpflg i read THAT bracket right...lol)

Nice Jambone I don’t think I’m that bold with the outsiders but let me give this a shot. 

As much as I’d love to see Messi v Ronaldo as well I think it’s going to be Uruguay v France with Uruguay in the semis.

I also think and hope we will see a Brazil v Belgium match and I think Brazil will out score Belgium in a wide open match. So an all S.America semi Brazil v Uruguay

As much as I like Croatia’s midfield I think Spain’s depth and experience will take them past both Russia and Croatia where they will meet England - a team I pick with my heart and not my head although I think either Sweden or Columbia can also make it to the semis as well, 

Ill be happy if u right about Uruguay...i had them originally, pulled plug on my second attempt at a final four...but, ill be rooting for them, swiss (who i didnt pick at all, theyre playing Swedes w three starters out w second yellow cards...theyre deep, but, not THAT deep), and Belgium...nothing would make me happier than a USA VS ITALY final, or USA Switzerland, but, none of that is happening...lol, but, ill always root for Swiss via a few dear friends of mine

Brazil  and Mexico at 7 a.m. Monday - I Will Be At My Mechanics shop with coffees and breaky burritos It Will Be OTCs

France vs Argentina starts in a few (10 EST) on Fox.

Great game! Talent level and energy def ramped up!

Yes, awesome game, great playing!

Did France just score three goals in ten minutes?

19 year old took over game....wow...and this is the FRANCE they were talking about pre tourney..

Sil vous plait, en flambeau.

  Holy cow, what a game!  France!  

France is second youngest team in world cup...another wow....

Who is youngest i wonder?

And here we go.....game 2!!!

Im torn....rooting for Uruguay, but, picked Portugal to advance two more games.....just hoping this game as good as first....i doubt we ll see 7 goals,  im thinking 2-1 decided by penalty kicks

Nice header!

Gorgeous goal! Damn, we are def seeing the best in the world...ill say it again, im actually glad USA aint in it...management and USA soccer committee should all be home taking notes

Excited for France, hope Messi may return, a sublime effort on his part towards the end, bold prediction the Ronaldo is about to do something special and advance to Friday's round, this is the only World Cup story I have...

https://archive.org/details/gd94-07-03.sbd.stevens.11691.sbeok.shnf

http://www.metroactive.com/features/columns/silicon-alleys_20110629.html

     The day after the last show on Summer Tour a stone's throw from Stanford Stadium at Shoreline, woke up at the Mountain view Residence Inn in a room with ten people or so, I woke up early...they leave a paper at the door, opened up the sports section to read "Greatest Match in the History of United States Soccer" and realized it was right up the street.
    Drove to Palo Alto, great tailgate scene, people from many countries kicking the ball around, bought a ticket from a Brazilian, walked in the stadium for what was at the time the most heavily secured sporting event in the history of the country, guys in berets & automatic weapons...anyways, because it was the 4th of July and I wanted to exercise my freedom, I rolled and smoked a large spliff by myself in the shrubbery inside of Stanford Stadium, then found my seat in the Brazilian section.  
    The Brazilian's are great fans, these people traveled halfway across the planet earth for this match, great match, 0-0 until a late goal from Brazil, well played on both sides.

Excited for France, hope Messi may return, a sublime effort on his part towards the end, bold prediction the Ronaldo is about to do something special and advance to Friday's round, this is the only World Cup story I have...

https://archive.org/details/gd94-07-03.sbd.stevens.11691.sbeok.shnf

http://www.metroactive.com/features/columns/silicon-alleys_20110629.html

     The day after the last show on Summer Tour a stone's throw from Stanford Stadium at Shoreline, woke up at the Mountain view Residence Inn in a room with ten people or so, I woke up early...they leave a paper at the door, opened up the sports section to read "Greatest Match in the History of United States Soccer" and realized it was right up the street.
    Drove to Palo Alto, great tailgate scene, people from many countries kicking the ball around, bought a ticket from a Brazilian, walked in the stadium for what was at the time the most heavily secured sporting event in the history of the country, guys in berets & automatic weapons...anyways, because it was the 4th of July and I wanted to exercise my freedom, I rolled and smoked a large spliff by myself in the shrubbery inside of Stanford Stadium, then found my seat in the Brazilian section.  
    The Brazilian's are great fans, these people traveled halfway across the planet earth for this match, great match, 0-0 until a late goal from Brazil, well played on both sides.

^ double post, getting my sea legs

They should force Saurez to leave the game for a "concussion"  check

WOW. Nice call Bucky. France v Uruguay.  Crazy cup so far.

People talking about Messi/ Ronaldo as “The Goat”. Hysterical. Guys are prob done in the World Cup. Nothing to show.

Happy Sunday.....all, should be another great day of fulbol!

what are the overtime rules for this russia spain match?

Russia!

Kick save and a beauty!!

Home team is always dangerous in world cup....always

EPIC!

Overtime rules : (which you prob know by now)

2 15 minute periods...sudden death...score, and you win

One extra sub (your 4th of game if wanted etc) new rule this year

Still tied after extra time...penalty kicks...5 kicks each...if tied after...just keep kicking til someone wins

Also, it use to be, you had to be on field at end of game in order to participate in penalty kicks...but, i heard something the other day about that rule being tweaked as well....maybe you just have to have played at some point in game...not sure...but, there is a rule in place about who can kick a p kick, and who cant

The door just opened a little more for Croatia!!!