Soccer Thread 2013-14

[sovereignstar v2]

Good time to start a new thread as Sevilla have confirmed that they've come to an agreement with City to sell Jesus to them. Spanish international Jesus Navas that is. :cool:

[SirFozzie]

Was the price 40 pieces of Silver?

Big 2 weeks coming up in World Cup Qualifying, Mexico have three games over the next week, USA have three games in the next two weeks.. By this time next month, the CONCACAF standings will be much clearer than the big ol muddle they are now.

[law90026]

Good buy by City I think but with a big caveat. Jesus' issues are quite well-documented and the question is whether he will be able to withstand the pressure in Manchester.

[sovereignstar v2]

This party is just getting started.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/XUexMtlAT_U" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[TroyF]

Sov,

Nothing on you, because I do this too when I hear of a signing for Arsenal, but I love these clips. They make every so cer player look like a living, breathing God who cannot be stopped. Navas had one goal in 44 games this year and in the clip it looks like he scores at will.

The guy is a great player, heis a great signing and I would be thrilledif he were coming to my team. I just find te videos to be amusing.

[sovereignstar v2]

I know they don't really mean much. I only post them so people can spend a few minutes to see a little bit of what a player is about, rather than watching them say boss the midfield against Chelsea in the Champions League. There is a joke that is often used at one of the City forums and it goes like this:

Georgios Samaras looked good on youtube.

[TroyF]

I know they don't really mean much. I only post them so people can spend a few minutes to see a little bit of what a player is about, rather than watching them say boss the midfield against Chelsea in the Champions League. There is a joke that is often used at one of the City forums and it goes like this:

Georgios Samaras looked good on youtube.

So did Chamach for Arsenal. Looked like a great player. OOPS. Like I said, we all do it. I just think it is funny.

[miami_fan]

When The Beautiful Game Turns Ugly (http://espn.go.com/espn/feature/story/_/id/9338962/when-beautiful-game-turns-ugly)

A fascinating (but pretty long) article by Wright Thompson about racism in Italian football.

[SirFozzie]

Saddened to read that, I support Hellas Verona, thanks to the great book about them, it appears the Ultras still have control of them :(

[saldana]

any one know a way to get the US/Jamaica game tonight? not on any of the normal networks

[cartman]

Yeah, it is on beIN sports. I'm sure the usual streaming suspects will have the game.

[DaddyTorgo]

Yeah, it is on beIN sports. I'm sure the usual streaming suspects will have the game.

Yep. 9:20 pm (which means kickoff is probably shortly after 9:30?)

Gotta watch the Bruins game first, so I'll watch it after and have thoughts for you all then.

[cartman]

Awesome end to the game. From despair to the win.

[RainMaker]

I don't even know what to say about the last 10 minutes. I'll take it though.

[SirFozzie]

Jordan-Australia is a huge game, Jordan was playing negative from the start (they just need a draw to have their fate in their own hands), wasting time 4 minutes in (which has to be a new record).. Australia took the lead, and now have their own fate in their hands (a win today and in their final qualifier and they will directly qualify)

Here's the standings entering the final two games

Japan - 14 points (already qualified)
Oman - 9 Points (remaining game vs Jordan)
Jordan - 7 Points (Playing Australia now, final game vs Oman)
Australia - 7 Points (Playing Jordan Now, final game vs Iraq)
Iraq - 5 Points (Final games vs Japan and vs Australia)

Jordan would have the tie breaker over Australia with a draw (it's head to head as first tiebreaker, not goal difference)

[SirFozzie]

Australia 2-0!

[MIJB#19]

CAS denied Malaga's case and agreed with UEFA on banning them from the Europe League in 2013/2014. The financial fair play battle is on!

[kingfc22]

Keep throwing stuff onto the field you idiots. I hope Mexico is forced to forfeit this game and lose any points they would earn.

[cartman]

Wow, the Mexico-CR tie is huge

[bulletsponge]

if the confed cup wasnt starting next week im sure el chepo would be fired tomorrow

[cartman]

The US sure is coming out guns a blazing.

[cartman]

Is that the field the MLS team in Seattle uses? It looks like it is in horrible condition.

[DaddyTorgo]

Is that the field the MLS team in Seattle uses? It looks like it is in horrible condition.

Temporary grass over artificial surface (what the MLS team usually plays on).

[cartman]

Ah, thanks. That explains why it looks the way it does.

[DaddyTorgo]

Ah, thanks. That explains why it looks the way it does.

Like ass you mean?

[cartman]

And just on cue, they start talking about the field in the broadcast :)

[bulletsponge]

Altigoal!

[cartman]

ALTIDORE!!!

[kingfc22]

Great run by Bradley to set that all up. Love seeing Jozy playing in top form.

[DaddyTorgo]

Nice goal! They're right - Altidore playing with much more confidence these past few games - and I think he's getting better service too.

Now if only he could display consistency.

[DaddyTorgo]

Close Bradley...close.

[cartman]

If Dempsey didn't get in the way of the Bradley shot a few minutes before the Altidore goal, it would be 2-0.

[Easy Mac]

That was a Grown Ass Man goal.

[DaddyTorgo]

da FUQ!?!?!?

WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN EDDIE JOHNSON!?!?!?!

[DaddyTorgo]

Great ball by Cameron too.

[Easy Mac]

I'm not sure if I'm sad or impressed that GAM is 3rd all time for the US in WCQ goals.

[DaddyTorgo]

I'm not sure if I'm sad or impressed that GAM is 3rd all time for the US in WCQ goals.

Was just going to say something along those lines. It's confusing...but I mean...I guess it's accurate?

[Easy Mac]

It took about 40 minutes, but Cameron seems to have settled himself into the midfield. Evans looks lost at right back. Wouldn't mind seeing Corona in for Fabian Johnson.

[DaddyTorgo]

I guess EJ had 4 goals in his first 2 WCQ games back in 2004, so that accounts for basically half of his haul, so that sort of explains that a bit.

[Easy Mac]

Rocket by Jozy, and Clint follows it up with a brilliant try off the post.

[Easy Mac]

Is anyone else genuinely surprised whenever Mihael Bradley makes the wrong pass or loses possession? I don't know that I've ever felt that way about another American player. If be more than willing to have an hour long argument with anyoe who says Bradley isn't the best player the US has produced so far.

[DaddyTorgo]

Is anyone else genuinely surprised whenever Mihael Bradley makes the wrong pass or loses possession? I don't know that I've ever felt that way about another American player. If be more than willing to have an hour long argument with anyoe who says Bradley isn't the best player the US has produced so far.

In terms of just midfielders: Claudio Reyna?
Overall: I think you'd have to include Dempsey in a shortlist to rival Bradley. Donovan too - we forget just how good he has been sometimes I think.

Other players the US has produced who are as good: Mia Hamm? Hell...you could pick a lot of the women...

[Easy Mac]

I don't know if I ever saw a healthy Reyna to be able to make that call.

Come on ball, Beasley deserved that one

[DaddyTorgo]

I don't know if I ever saw a healthy Reyna to be able to make that call.

Come on ball, Beasley deserved that one

Healthy Claudio Reyna was amazing. He was a US version of say...Andrea Pirlo. Just completely bossed the game, controlled the tempo, had amazing vision. First American to captain a European team (Wolfsburg). 3rd American ever (first in the modern era) named to the World Cup All Tournament Team in 2002. He was never the same after that ACL tear though.

Had Stu Holden not had like 45 injury setbacks we could be talking about him in the same conversation I'm convinced - unfortunately I dunno if he'll ever get back to match fitness again.

[cartman]

This might have been the most impressive game of the Jurgen era. It easily could have been four or five to nil.

[DaddyTorgo]

This might have been the most impressive game of the Jurgen era. It easily could have been four or five to nil.

2 posts and a non-call PK...I'll give you 5. :)

[SirFozzie]

You remember two weeks ago, or so, the Belgium game, when we were convinced that the USA wasn't going to make the World Cup?

[SirFozzie]

If they can pull off a win against Honduras (or even a draw) they'll have quashed every fear we had prior to the Gold Cup

[sovereignstar v2]

Spain are such a disgraceful bunch. Bunch of pussies.

[SirFozzie]

Tahiti Scores! We have the Miracle on Grass....

[bhlloy]

Anyone watching the u21 final? Incredible start considering these two teams have only conceded once the whole tournament

[whomario]

Spain was scary good all tournament, guess the golden generation will be replaced rather seemlessly afterall ...

[Butter]

Tahiti Scores! We have the Miracle on Grass....

I just want to know how the crap Tahiti made it to the Confederations Cup.

[bhlloy]

Basically beat New Zealand... Since Australia is in the Asian confederation now Oceania is a very sad region. They don't even get a guaranteed World Cup spot but the confederations cup is more of a friendly tournament.

Spain U21 are scary good, like a mini Barcelona team the way they play. Certainly replacing class with class

[Butter]

I see. I was just looking that up and see that the 4th Place CONCACAF gets to play New Zealand (the already determined OFC champion) for the right to go to 2014 WC. I guess that's why Australia wanted out?

[whomario]

didn´t even have to beat New Zealand, the Kiwis somehow lost to New Caledonia in the semifinal.

[whomario]

I see. I was just looking that up and see that the 4th Place CONCACAF gets to play New Zealand (the already determined OFC champion) for the right to go to 2014 WC. I guess that's why Australia wanted out?

as far as i remember it, Australia wanted out due to lack of competition holding their development back. Then after they switched, FIFA adjusted the qualification process.
(so Australia didn´t go out for better chance but went out of OFC despite facing tougher odds in Asia)

EDIT: OK, FIFA did adjust it but only changing the confederations that´d go up against each other. So they propably alos though it´d be easier (or at least less random) doing it in Asia.

[dacman]

They should just lump Oceania into Asia and split it geographically -- would hopefully help with some of the ridiculous travel. Just check South Korea's road trips in their qualifying group (Lebanon, Kuwait, UAE).

[MIJB#19]

Anyone watching the u21 final? Incredible start considering these two teams have only conceded once the whole tournamentI was impressed by the Italians' playing style in he semi finals. They are clearly ready to play old school demolition-football.

[MIJB#19]

EDIT: OK, FIFA did adjust it but only changing the confederations that´d go up against each other. So they propably alos though it´d be easier (or at least less random) doing it in Asia.These matchups were drawn, fwiw.

[MIJB#19]

They should just lump Oceania into Asia and split it geographically -- would hopefully help with some of the ridiculous travel. Just check South Korea's road trips in their qualifying group (Lebanon, Kuwait, UAE).Somehow I think it's easier for South Korea to visit those states than visiting the tiny countries of the Oceania confederation.

[SirFozzie]

ALTIGOL!

[kingfc22]

JOZY!!!

[DaddyTorgo]

Jozy!!!

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Zusi has been fabulous in his setups tonight. Great to see him playing so well.

[DaddyTorgo]

What? Tied for the longest goal-scoring streak in US history??

To think that's true with all the crap we give him is kinda mind-blowing.

[DaddyTorgo]

Zusi has been fabulous in his setups tonight. Great to see him playing so well.

Him + Fabian Johnson make all the difference in the world in getting the ball in from wide areas.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Him + Fabian Johnson make all the difference in the world in getting the ball in from wide areas.

Really should be a couple more goals on the board for the U.S. Some poor finishing by the strikers tonight.

[MrBug708]

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2808229/USMNTgoal_medium.gif

[MIJB#19]

What? Tied for the longest goal-scoring streak in US history??

To think that's true with all the crap we give him is kinda mind-blowing.Good for Jozy Altidore. He's been awesome this past season, especially the past months, yet Klinsmann looked desperate to find excuses to keep him out of the squad. Ironic how things can flow. :)

[rowech]

Good for Jozy Altidore. He's been awesome this past season, especially the past months, yet Klinsmann looked desperate to find excuses to keep him out of the squad. Ironic how things can flow. :)

Or maybe, it was motivation.

[whomario]

So this Neymar fella is looking pretty good so far. Will be interesting to see him against Italy and hopefully later on Spain.

[cschex]

He was amazing yesterday. Also, that Kagawa goal against Italy was fantastic

[cougarfreak]

I read recently that something like all 1300 premier league games will be available to watch via NBC affiliates and online through NBC this upcoming season. That's awesome.

[Flasch186]

I read recently that something like all 1300 premier league games will be available to watch via NBC affiliates and online through NBC this upcoming season. That's awesome.

This

[Easy Mac]

Will lead to a lot of divorces.

"what honey? I'll have to cut the grass later, I'm only halfway through the 120,000 minutes of premier league soccer I'm watching over the next 9 months."

[MIJB#19]

I read recently that something like all 1300 premier league games will be available to watch via NBC affiliates and online through NBC this upcoming season. That's awesome.That's quite impressive for a league that has only 380 games. :D

[DaddyTorgo]

Ridiculous goal by Delofeu for the Spain U-20''s against the US.

[DeToxRox]

MrBoywunder ‏@MrBoywunder4h
Liverpool have £9m bid accepted for Simon Mignolet as Sunderland move for striker Jozy Altidore Liverpool have £9m bid accepted for Simon Mignolet as Sunderland move for striker Jozy Altidore | Mail Online (http://dailym.ai/11RzdmW) via @MailOnline

[DaddyTorgo]

Arrgh - not sure that's a good move for Jozy. He needs to be banging them in regularly in advance of the WC.

[sovereignstar v2]

I wouldn't say the competition at Sunderland is that great. They spent money of Fletcher and Wickham in recent seasons, but they are hardly world-beaters.

[bhlloy]

He was linked to Cardiff earlier this offseason. It would have been really to have a US forward who wasn't completely terrible after Eddie Johnson scoring one goal the entire season a few years back

[DaddyTorgo]

I wouldn't say the competition at Sunderland is that great. They spent money of Fletcher and Wickham in recent seasons, but they are hardly world-beaters.

It's who they play against that I'm more worried about, not his competition for a place, but the difficulty he might have in scoring.

[whomario]

It's who they play against that I'm more worried about, not his competition for a place, but the difficulty he might have in scoring.

If the US wants to get a better team, they need some more players to prove themselves against top flight competition. Altidore is among the few who might have a shot at this.

[Easy Mac]

So it's true, if a teammate doesn't set it up perfectly for Chicharito, he can't score.

[Desnudo]

If the US wants to get a better team, they need some more players to prove themselves against top flight competition. Altidore is among the few who might have a shot at this.

He's better than Sunderland at this point

[sovereignstar v2]

He's better than Sunderland at this point

I'd say playing for any non yo-yo EPL club is a nice next step for Joze.

[Marc Vaughan]

I'd say playing for any non yo-yo EPL club is a nice next step for Joze.

Don't underestimate the coaching and tactical aspect of learning at a team - for instance Stoke aren't a 'yo-yo' Premiership club, but if you're aiming to become a World Class player then I wouldn't recommend joining them as a youngster ...

(nothing against Stoke per-se, they hammered Brighton last year and play a good solid competitive style of football - but its a style which is self-limiting and will never win them the Premiership title, its hard to break down and is intent on maximizing the effectiveness of limited players (comparative to the best say Man Utd or Chelsea stars) rather than grooming World class players ...)

[sovereignstar v2]

I get your point, but Joze isn't going to be world class and playing for Sunderland and excelling could get him a job at Liverpool/Tottenham/Newcastle next.

[cartman]

My cousin and I took his 7 year old to his first pro soccer game on Saturday, to see FC Dallas host Sporting Kansas City. It looked like it was going to be a 2-0 loss for the home team, but Dallas scored 2 goals in the last 3 minutes to escape with a tie.

[SirFozzie]

So.. 18 of 20 Serie A teams raided by the police on tax evasion (only Bologna and Cagliari avoided the police).. 43 teams across the top 3 divisions and 12 player agents were raided. Yikes. Yet another blemish on Italian football

[miami_fan]

The same could be said for Turkish football

Fenerbahce given Champions League ban, Besiktas given Europa ban - ESPN FC (http://espnfc.com/news/story/_/id/1484628/fenerbahce-given-champions-league-ban-besiktas-given-europa-ban?cc=5739)

[SirFozzie]

As I teased DT, the very definition of chutzpah is making an eight figure purchase (Carlos Tevez to Juve for 12 millionpounds) the same day you're raided by tax police.

Although this keeps Juventus in line with AC Milan in the "Mercurial Striker" competition.

[cartman]

This Italy-Spain Confed Cup match has been awesome. The score is 0-0 late, but there have been tons of close calls for each team.

[cartman]

Going to PKs

[whomario]

The WC will be pretty unusual, the climate is definitely going to be a factor (not just the Heat, but the humidity) and if this tournament is any indication: The european style of pressuring high up the pitch and quick hitting attacks might not be the ideal tactic this time around.
The brasilians might actually have a shot next year, was pretty aparent that they dealt with the conditions really well and got better as the game went on.

Also, the games next year will be played at earlier start times afaic.

[cartman]

Spain wins on the 7th PK

[cartman]

It will be interesting to see if Brazil ends Spain's amazing unbeaten run. Can't wait for the final.

[Ryan S]

The WC will be pretty unusual, the climate is definitely going to be a factor (not just the Heat, but the humidity) and if this tournament is any indication: The european style of pressuring high up the pitch and quick hitting attacks might not be the ideal tactic this time around.
The brasilians might actually have a shot next year, was pretty aparent that they dealt with the conditions really well and got better as the game went on.

Also, the games next year will be played at earlier start times afaic.

There is also the possibility of near freezing temperatures in Port Alegre and Curitiba in the south of Brazil. One of the teams in Group E will need to play two games in colder conditions, then fly to the far north to play in one of the hottest cities.

As for kickoff times, 24 matches kick off at 1pm, 11 at 4pm, 18 at 5pm, 10 at 7pm and 1 at 10pm. All times mentioned are Brasília official time.

[cartman]

One amazing streak will end today. It will be either's Spain's 29 game unbeaten streak, stretching back to the 2010 World Cup, or Brazil's streak of not losing a competitive game at home since 1975.

[DaddyTorgo]

Disappointed that the Azzurri aren't in the finals, but I'm okay with their performance, especially when considering the bites of the injury bug. It does point to an obvious problem though, that a lot of the "core" of the team is on the "back 9" and there's a long-term bias against introducing some of the talented youth. Marco Veratti for instance - if he actually is the "next Pirlo" ought to be part of the senior team and be making appearances. Lorenzo Insigne ought to be playing up top alongside Balotelli. Pleased to see De Sciglio has cracked his way into the starting lineup, but that type of youth-movement needs to happen throughout the team IMO.

[Easy Mac]

I don't think Italy's back line wants to be there. They've been amazingly sloppy in the second half.

[Easy Mac]

How did Forlan get the first shot off, and how did Buffon stop the second?

[cartman]

That was a beautiful free kick for a goal by Diamanti

[whomario]

So, Italians seem to be kinda good at this "Free Kick" thing ... ;)

[cartman]

As long as there is a wall in front. They seem to have issues with penalty kicks. :)

[cartman]

And Uruguay answers with a tremendous free kick of their own

[Easy Mac]

Ooh Cavanni

[kingfc22]

What a free kick!

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

So, Italians seem to be kinda good at this "Free Kick" thing ... ;)

As is Uruguay. ;)

[cartman]

Second straight game for Italy to go to PKs.

[cartman]

Buffon gets 3 saves to give Italy the win!

[DaddyTorgo]

Buffon gets 3 saves to give Italy the win!

Small consolation, but like I said...I'll take it.

[kingfc22]

Really looking forward to this finale. Probably the highest odds currently for what we will see next year.

[kingfc22]

That was quite the ugly goal. At least it will force this one to be even more wide open.

[cartman]

That was an unreal save by the Brazilian defender

[PilotMan]

I think that was the greatest defensive play I have ever seen. Unreal. How did he get that over the goal at that angle?

[cartman]

Neymar is good

[kingfc22]

Neymar is pretty special.

[Easy Mac]

Neymar goodness

[PilotMan]

How did Casillas give up that angle? That was tight!

[rowech]

How did Casillas give up that angle? That was tight!

Yes...very bad keeping from him. Thought he was off and stayed back way too long.

[Easy Mac]

That was as perfect a placement of that shot as anyone could possibly make.

I haven't seen Spain dominated like this since the US beat them 4 years ago.

[rowech]

Brazil has looked strong -- very strong -- this whole tournament.

[whomario]

Brazil has looked strong -- very strong -- this whole tournament.

did it varying their style as well, playing posession football at times and at others counter attacking. And today playing quite a bit faster than before.
Reminds me a lot on their style of play in 2002.

Spain isn´t half-assing it, but they are also not (unlike Brazil) treating this like the biggest possible game.

The moment where everybody just kept singing the anthem even when the band stopped playing was pretty epic.

[cartman]

I don't see how Brazil loses next year. They are going to have a MASSIVE home field advantage.

[bob]

Brazil's whole "run into the stands" celebration makes me hope they end up losing.

[Easy Mac]

They like the first couple of minutes

[cartman]

FRED!

He must have been at the end of the line when they were handing out one-name soccer names.

[Easy Mac]

In what world is that not a red card?

[cartman]

Got my tickets for the Gold Cup semifinals at Cowboys Stadium on the 24th. Looking forward to some great soccer, and the US had better be one of the teams playing. :)

[AlexB]

FRED!

He must have been at the end of the line when they were handing out one-name soccer names.

Him and Bernard!

(Admittedly though Bernard sounds much worse in the English pronunciation "burnered" than the US "bernarrrrd")

[Flasch186]

In what world is that not a red card?

It was a bad call but the ref IMO was trying to "make up " for falling on the other side of the line on the pull down of Neymar earlier so to "even it up" he was falling on this side of the line this time. No excuse but thats likely why.

[saldana]

It was a bad call but the ref IMO was trying to "make up " for falling on the other side of the line on the pull down of Neymar earlier so to "even it up" he was falling on this side of the line this time. No excuse but thats likely why.

i disagree...there was definite intent on the tackle...Pique whipped his lower leg through well after the ball was gone.

straight red was absolutely the correct call IMO

[DaddyTorgo]

Reminder: USA v. Guatemala tonight @ 11pm EST.

Gold Cup warmup match.

[MrBug708]

Love 8pm games!

[bulletsponge]

didnt even realize a game was tonight until i saw it scroll across bottom of screen. thought it was the gold cup, but a nice friendly will do fine with the GC squad

[MrBug708]

Looks like Jozy to Sunderland. I think Jozy will do very well at Sunderland. He will be first choice striker and has a decent supporting cast around him.

[MrBug708]

Donovan back with the USMNT

[kingfc22]

Donovan back with the USMNT

Didn't realize this was happening today until I saw the lineup.

Here's hoping the guys keep up their recent form.

[DaddyTorgo]

God yes, let us see Holden in the second half.

I'm a firm believer that there's nothing that's wrong with this US team that couldn't be cured by more Holden (assuming he has recovered to 100%).

[DaddyTorgo]

Can't score from your own half motherfuckers.

Where's Stu?!?!?!

WE WANT STU!!!!!!!!

[DaddyTorgo]

Well that took long enough. Nicely done in the end though. Well done by Torres on the ball in.

And again I provide the jinx-busting comment. LOL

[DaddyTorgo]

STU HOLDEN IS IN THE BUILDING MOTHERFUCKERS!!!!!

HIDE YO CHILDREN...HIDE YO WIVES...AND PREPARE TO GO DOWN TO DEFEAT!!!!

Nice to hear that Klinsy recognizes Stu's talent and will give him plenty of time to make his comeback.

[DaddyTorgo]

Donovan with #50!

[kingfc22]

Very cool to see Landon get #50

[DaddyTorgo]

LOOK AT THAT LONG BALL FROM HOLDEN!!!

WOOO!!!!!!

(yes yes...i'm the resident "Stu Holden man-crush" poster of the board).

[DaddyTorgo]

Nice vision by Donovan there...takes a deflection, but he makes that goal for Wondo-dinkus (I dislike him). Almost like seeing that from Landon even more than the PK goal that was somewhat of a gimme.

[kingfc22]

And it's a rout

[DaddyTorgo]

BEAUTIFUL BY HOLDEN AND DONOVAN!!!!

Such gorgeous passing.

Like I said - nothing wrong with this team that can't be cured by more Stu!!

[DaddyTorgo]

Think Klinsy said in that lil hug "Alright man...you're back?"

LOL

I mean look - it's a rebuilding Guatemala side, but they've looked good in the second half.

[DaddyTorgo]

FML...if that's someone other than Bruin Stu has 2 assists.

[SackAttack]

Nicolas Anelka is a Baggie, huh? Okay.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Yikes. Tough ref and crowd in Brazil.

Referee beheaded after killing player in Brazil - ESPN FC (http://espnfc.com/news/story/_/id/1492969/referee-beheaded-killing-player-brazil?cc=5901)

[JonInMiddleGA]

Yikes. Tough ref and crowd in Brazil.

Tough ref, tougher crowd apparently.

[murrayyyyy]

Come on... we have our own tough crowds in America. Vegas... I'm sure the MLS is happy with how this went down...

Massive brawl sets the tone for violent Mexican soccer event at Sam Boyd Stadium - Las Vegas Sun News (http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2013/jul/03/major-pre-game-brawl-mars-mexican-soccer-event-out/#axzz2YJ6qZbQq)

[Desnudo]

AZ accept Sunderland bid for Altidore - ESPN FC (http://espnfc.com/news/story/_/id/1492974/az-accept-sunderland-bid-altidore?cc=5901)

[SirFozzie]

My god, Panama beat Mexico? There's going to be a riot.

[bhlloy]

Hope not, seeing as that's about 2 minutes from my house. Mexico coach has to be done after this.

[MrBug708]

You back in Pasadena?

[bhlloy]

Yup. Funny thing was as I was playing soccer/running errands this afternoon kept seeing Mexico jerseys and figured it was the first game of the tournament but had no idea there was a game at the Rose Bowl. Thankfully nothing took me over in that direction.

[bhlloy]

DOLA - Canada loses to Martinique as well? When does the US pull an Australia and try and get itself in the South American federation? :)

[MrBug708]

Ready to join the good side and hit up some UCLA games this fall? :)

[GoldenEagle]

Keep in mind this is B-squad from Mexico.

[cartman]

I hope video exists of these games. It would be awesome to watch.

BBC Sport - Nigerian clubs suspended after 'scandalous' scorelines (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23240104)

[cartman]

GOAL!!! Nice garbage collection there after the goal line save.

[DaddyTorgo]

I guess if you have to give Wondo a start this is the game to do it in...

[SirFozzie]

Wondo with a brace, 2-0 USA...

[DaddyTorgo]

Can we stop flogging Wondo as a legit striker please? Sure he's "scored in back to back games" but they've been against 2 JV level teams.

[SirFozzie]

Embrace your hate, DT, let it make you stronger... ;)

[DaddyTorgo]

Embrace your hate, DT, let it make you stronger... ;)

You think he's a legit NT-level striker?

Seriously??

Everything I see him score is (relatively) simple. He's either got to be inside the 6, or completely unmarked in order to score.

[cartman]

Uh oh, gave one back there. 2-1

[cartman]

And the US answers right back! 3-1

[DaddyTorgo]

Uh oh, gave one back there. 2-1

We should almost get 0 points for this game for allowing Belize to score IMO.

[SirFozzie]

You think he's a legit NT-level striker?

Seriously??

Everything I see him score is (relatively) simple. He's either got to be inside the 6, or completely unmarked in order to score.

No, but A) It's funny and B) every time you bitch about him, he scores ;)

As in Hat trick.

[DaddyTorgo]

No, but A) It's funny and B) every time you bitch about him, he scores ;)

As in Hat trick.

Well I'm glad you don't - I'd question your football intelligence if you did.

And yes, it is amusing.

And yes - I do seem to have a reverse-jinx effect on the NT.

[DaddyTorgo]

LMAO @ the announcers having spent minutes before talking about how Belize was so vulnerable in set piece situations b/c they can't practice them so often, and then the US gives up a goal to an unmarked guy on a FK. Hilarious. Jurgy cannot be happy about that.

[MrBug708]

Beckerman, even with the nice pass on the second goal, is terrible.

[DaddyTorgo]

Beckerman, even with the nice pass on the second goal, is terrible.

He sucks so much ass it's embarrassing to see him out there with his floppy-ass dreads giving the ball away on simple passes. He's fucking like 31 years old...WTF is he doing?

[DaddyTorgo]

STU MOTHAFUCKING HOLDEN MOTHAFUCKAS!!!!

THIS SHIT IS ABOUT TO GET REAL!!!

[MrBug708]

That was Clint Mathis?

[MrBug708]

This ref hates America

[DaddyTorgo]

STU MOTHERFUCKING HOLDEN MOTHERFUCKERS!!!!!

[SirFozzie]

STU-S-A!

[kingfc22]

STU MOTHERFUCKING HOLDEN MOTHERFUCKERS!!!!!

This makes me smile :D

[DaddyTorgo]

This makes me smile :D

It's cuz Stu Holden is great. He's got so much energy, so much love for the game, and so much vision and willingness to try to make creative offensive plays, and to play under pressure in tight spaces (not that we've really seen that these past couple games).

I'd love to see a Bradley-Holden CM duo in the WC. Fuck Jermaine Jones, he's overrated.

Honestly, given the ball-pressure they're likely to face from better teams in the WC, the Bradley-Holden duo will give them the best shot to keep possession and avoid stupid fucking turnovers that will lead to goals against. Doesn't hurt that it'll also give them probably the best shot offensively either.

[SirFozzie]

Orozco makes it 5-1.

Ok boys, let's not get anyone hurt.

[DaddyTorgo]

Yeah, that's a questionable call (without looking at the replay extensively).

His arm was at his side and he was turning away.

[SirFozzie]

Lando PK makes it six.

I think it was the little hop the belize player made, gave an impression of hand to ball and not ball to hand.

[DaddyTorgo]

Lando PK makes it six.

I think it was the little hop the belize player made, gave an impression of hand to ball and not ball to hand.

I used to ref, and I wouldn't ever call that a PK in any game I reffed.

[SirFozzie]

tracking story: Match fixers apparently approached Belize players before US, and attempted to bribe them (probably "Hey, you are going to lose anyway, so why not allow a couple more goals", and then bet the spread). Belize players denied it (a bit surprising, Belize is a very poor nation, so poor that they are currently taking donations to defray the Gold Cup expenses), and the match fixers fled after dropping an envelope full of $50/$100 in an attempt to buy silence:

Report: Belize national team players approached to throw U.S.*match | SI Wire (http://tracking.si.com/2013/07/10/belize-united-states-soccer-match-fixer/?eref=sircrc)

[cartman]

Looks like Cuba is going with an 8-1-1 formation for this game

[cartman]

That was a beautiful offside trap. Cuba tried a counter attack, and in the blink of an eye, three guys were offside, and the attacker had nowhere to go.

[cartman]

Uh oh. 1-0 Cuba

[Glengoyne]

Is the us Cuba game televised? I see it on the soccer channel at 5 pacific tonight.

[cartman]

Oh so close. Donovan scored, but was a half step offside.

[cartman]

It is on regular, broadcast Fox

[cartman]

Landon with a PK to tie right before the half!

[Glengoyne]

TY I'm at my Mom's house, and Couldn't find it with the remote.

Just in time to see the penalty kick.

[cartman]

Great save by the Cuban keeper

[cartman]

GOAL!!!!! Corona gets a ball to fall right to him and he buries it. 2-1 US

[cartman]

Wondo comes on as a sub and scores! 3-1!

[cartman]

Wondo with his 2nd goal! 4-1!

[cartman]

The US was just going through the motions until Cuba scored. Then they started playing like they cared and scored 4 unanswered. They are through to the quarterfinals.

[Galaxy]

Looking to understand what happened AS Monaco after discovering they were in the second league last year, I turned to wikipedia. Always a trusty, reliable source:

AS Monaco FC - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AS_Monaco_FC#History)

[PilotMan]

Looking to understand what happened AS Monaco after discovering they were in the second league last year, I turned to wikipedia. Always a trusty, reliable source:

AS Monaco FC - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AS_Monaco_FC#History)

:lol:

[SirFozzie]

UGH.

I hate when people do that (goes to fix it)

[cartman]

Looks like the US is playing for the tie. Hopefully they can get something going in the second half and extend the win streak. I'd much rather face El Salvador than Honduras in the quarterfinals.

[DaddyTorgo]

Why am I not in Hartford at this game?

[Alan T]

Why am I not in Hartford at this game?


I thought about going, but just took the kids on Saturday to the Revs game and didn't think I could talk the wife into two games in one week.

[DaddyTorgo]

That's a clear red card.

Blown call by the ref.

[MrBug708]

Same ref game Benny a yellow card for this play
http://i.usatoday.net/communitymanager/_photos/game-on/2012/08/14/BennyFeilhaberx-inset-community.jpg

[DaddyTorgo]

Horrible call. Heh - even the CONCACAAF ref dude says it should have been a red.

[DaddyTorgo]

Everytime they say Shaun Johnson I think of the little Olympic gymnast and I'm like "Why is she playing goal for us?"

[DaddyTorgo]

da fuq? Nicely done Johnson n Donovan.

[cartman]

GOOOOAAALLLL!!! That was awesome! Costa Rica nearly scores on the corner, US gets the breakaway, Donovan with an awesome pass to Shea, and he knocked it off the goalie and in!

[cartman]

Alright, USMNT. Take care of El Salvador on Sunday, and I'll be there to cheer you on Wednesday!

[Critch]

A good, top-players-not-being-assholes story from Arsenal's tour of Vietnam:

BBC News - Vietnam fan's joy at meeting Arsenal after pursuing their bus (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-23341088)

[SirFozzie]

Ok, this is really kinda cool.

Marseille is preparing for the Ligue 1 season. Toulouse Rugby is preparing for the Top 14 Rugby season. The two teams played a friendly game that featured a first half played under soccer "rules", and the second half under rugby "rules". Of course, this is rather loose definition of "rules". It was called "The Shock" in france. It featured a rugby trick shot from "referee" Eric Cantona.

Toulon (Rugby) Vs Marseille (Foot) # Amazing Match - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ygDU_BQ95yc)

[SirFozzie]

Vilanova to step down as Barcelona boss due to a cancer relapse.

Holee fuck, if there EVER was a year for someone outside the Big Two in La Liga to win the title, this is the year.

[MrBug708]

The half mexican, half salvadorian, american born scores vs el salvador

[Grover]

The half mexican, half salvadorian, american born scores vs el salvador

It should be at least 6-1, maybe 6-2.

[rowech]

It should be at least 6-1, maybe 6-2.

I've seen so many of these players suck so badly the last year and now they seem like they know what they're doing. I think that is what people don't appreciate with Donovan. Feel he just elevates the game around him no matter who he plays with. He's not the easiest guy to liked my opinion but he is crucial to the USA next year.

[Grover]

I've seen so many of these players suck so badly the last year and now they seem like they know what they're doing. I think that is what people don't appreciate with Donovan. Feel he just elevates the game around him no matter who he plays with. He's not the easiest guy to liked my opinion but he is crucial to the USA next year.

Absolutely, I'm not a big fan of his overall, but he and Dempsey can cause havoc when they're playing together in the attacking third. Donovan has a creative nous that we generally lack in American players.

I'm hoping Mix Diskerud keeps performing. He's having a great tournament and his distribution today has been superb. Excellent direct player, wouldn't mind seeing him at West Ham under Big Sam.

[DaddyTorgo]

GG USA guys. Donovan could easily have 1-2 more. EJ playing like a GAM is so nice to see.

[DaddyTorgo]

MIX IS IN THE MIX!!!!

[Grover]

Mix 100% deserves that after bossing the midfield all day long.

[SirFozzie]

That's the record for most USA wins in a row, right?

edit: (whoops, the win over Costa Rica set the record, this is just extending it)

[SirFozzie]

Landon Donovan's future is so bright..

http://i.minus.com/ix8kSpghnwQMl.gif

He's gotta wear the shades...

(that El Salvador "Fans" threw at him)

[cartman]

Can't wait for Wednesday night. Gonna be crazy with all of the US fans for one of the games, and Mexico for the other.

[MrBug708]

Donovan is our only player that I can remember who can operate in that position between the forwards and the wingers so flawlessly.

I know during the telecast, Wynalda said that Jurgy would have a walk with Donovan after the tournament about the future of Landon with the USNT. Hopefully it goes like this "Welcome back"

[PilotMan]

Honduras on the verge of the upset. Injury time has gotten crazy.

[sovereignstar v2]

Anyone seen Bebe?

Bailiffs visit Manchester United training complex in search of Bebe - Goal.com (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2013/07/20/4131526/bailiffs-visit-manchester-united-training-complex-in-search)

[MacroGuru]

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/C058wv48oms" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Grover]

Donovan is our only player that I can remember who can operate in that position between the forwards and the wingers so flawlessly.



I actually think that Dempsey is equal to Donovan in terms of playing that attacking center midfielder position, but where Donovan is more of a playmaker, Dempsey acts more like a second forward making those runs.

With the two of them in the same XI, I think it's better with Dempsey central and Donovan shunted to the right, though I'd like to see Donovan perhaps play on the left so he can cut inside.

[SirFozzie]

Looks like HBO is about to do a MAJOR hit piece on Chivas USA and discrimination. Tune in tomorrow (Tuesday) at 10 PM to Real Sports

[whomario]

Barca hiring Gerardo Martin, previously coaching at Newells Old Boys (Messis former team) and the NT of Paraguay. First job in Europe, seems an unorthodox hire.
When Hiddink quit his job at Anzhi i was sure he was going to be the new guy.

[MrBug708]

Fantastic! Copa America is coming to the US in 2016

Decision ahead on proposed U.S. hosted Copa America (http://www.soccerbyives.net/2013/07/decision-looming-proposed.html)

[Grover]

Arsenal have reportedly bid £40,000,001 for Luis Suarez.

Quote Liverpool owner John Henry "What do you think they're smoking over at Emirates."

If I'm Henry, I bite their hands off and invest in players who fit Rodgers' philosophy immediately.

[MrBug708]

The Starting XI for ?#?USAvHON? Gold Cup Semifinal.

1-Rimando; 15-Parkhurst, 25-Besler, 21-Goodson, 7-Beasley (c); 14-Beckerman, 11-Holden; 20-Bedoya, 10-Donovan, 16-Torres; 26-E. Johnson

Surprised Corona and Mix are sitting for Holden and Bedoya.

[MrBug708]

So this is the field in Jerryworld...

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BP4nAUACEAAKtHy.jpg:large

[MrBug708]

http://www.whoateallthepies.tv/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Klinsmann.gif

http://m.sportingkc.com/sites/kansascity/files/KLINSY.gif

http://mob81.photobucket.com/albums/j218/unseenxcasualty/klins.gif
http://www.sportingkc.com/sites/kansascity/files/klinsmanncelebrate.gif

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn151/salzraender/28u6z5u.gif

http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m06dok9kSh1qep4b4o1_500.gif

[MrBug708]

http://sphotos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/969348_10151594844418883_1327095663_n.jpg

[MrBug708]

https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRxG7wEaKCz7nYJXsByXti4CLYHcGe_PAZaRcyt7QWAY7rJq0-B0w

http://img.izismile.com/img/img6/20130429/640/how_things_are_done_in_the_united_states_of_murica_640_high_29.jpg

http://www.jimmyco.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/oh_merica_640_19.jpg

[bulletsponge]

goal johnson. that was fast

[MrBug708]

GAM!

[saldana]

goal johnson. that was fast
Nice passing to set that up but it was a poor strike...a better goalie punches that over...needs better placement

[MrBug708]

2!

[MrBug708]

That was...quick

[kingfc22]

Donovan around another scoring opportunity.