Soccer Thread 2014-15

[Flasch186]

Apparently FWIU they used US banks, US telecommunications, US wires to perpetrate the fraud on US soil.

[spleen1015]

Apparently FWIU they used US banks, US telecommunications, US wires to perpetrate the fraud on US soil.

Makes sense. Thanks!

[Galaxy]

How else would you structure it aside from 'one nation - one vote'? Is there any major international competition that doesn't do it that way?

To me, the fact that each country gets the same payout as one other is more troublesome. Why does Liechtenstein get the same payout as the US, Australia, England, ect..?

[ISiddiqui]

To me, the fact that each country gets the same payout as one other is more troublesome. Why does Liechtenstein get the same payout as the US, Australia, England, ect..?

Well why does Kentucky get the same payment as Alabama when the SEC makes a Bowl Game? Same payouts are a general practice.

(edit: a bowl game not involving either of the two)

[Butter]

Alas, the cynic in me thinks what will probably happen is a significant turnover in FIFA executives and the status quo eventually continues, albeit with the corruption driven further underground and the 2022 World Cup out of Qatar (but with huge payouts to Qatar involved).

Is there any scenario now that ends with the USA playing in a Qatari World Cup? I can't imagine that we will even participate if it continues without either massive changes or a move. Also, the major sponsors seem on the verge of really starting to attract some heat that they don't need.

Agree though with whoever said that the World Cup won't be back in the US in our lifetimes.

[spleen1015]

If we solve the corruption issues and FIFA gets new leadership, why wouldn't we get a WC?

[ISiddiqui]

Is there any scenario now that ends with the USA playing in a Qatari World Cup? I can't imagine that we will even participate if it continues without either massive changes or a move. Also, the major sponsors seem on the verge of really starting to attract some heat that they don't need.

It may be slightly embarrassing for us, as the US was guilty of bribery for the Salt Lake City Olympic Games. At the very least people would say if Qatar replaced the corrupt officials with others, like the US did (which really launched Mitt Romney's political career, of course), they have no reason not to participate.

[chesapeake]

Washington Post: How the U.S. can arrest FIFA officials in Switzerland, explained...
washingtonpost.com/blogs/the-fix/wp/2015/05/27/how-the-us-can-arrest-fifa-officials-in-switzerland-explained/?hpid=z2

[miami_fan]

Oh my a player just fell out in the Europa League Final.

Seems like the after effects of a clash of heads. Stretchered off the field.

[miami_fan]

Sevilla go back to back in the Europa League and 4th all time.

[Grover]

UEFA Calls For New FIFA Leadership, Possible Boycott (http://deadspin.com/breaking-uefa-calls-for-postponement-of-fifa-president-1707221824?utm_campaign=socialflow_deadspin_facebook&utm_source=deadspin_facebook&utm_medium=socialflow)

Oh shit!

[AlexB]

I think that there is more chance UEFA withdraw and set up a rival organisation and FIFA collapses than this causes ay major reforms. But I don't think that will happen either.

All that happens is Sepp survives, brings in new minions and continues as before. There'll be a couple of token gestures like the release of a heavily redacted Garcia report, a short term nod to transparency, but nothing will really change.

TBH the way I see it this guarantees a Sepp victory: those who haven't been picked up but are in incriminating positions will be desperate not to have Ali come in and expose them. And there will be a lot of those.

[ISiddiqui]

A way that I could possibly see an attempted minimizing of corruption is to rotate the World Cup among member confederations (something will have to be done about OFC) and have solely those confederations vote on the host. Now, granted that won't eliminate the corruption at all, but I think it may help it in some ways as it may balance the desire to get paid with the desire not to have your confederation look like a laughing stock.

[TroyF]

I think that there is more chance UEFA withdraw and set up a rival organisation and FIFA collapses than this causes ay major reforms. But I don't think that will happen either.

All that happens is Sepp survives, brings in new minions and continues as before. There'll be a couple of token gestures like the release of a heavily redacted Garcia report, a short term nod to transparency, but nothing will really change.

TBH the way I see it this guarantees a Sepp victory: those who haven't been picked up but are in incriminating positions will be desperate not to have Ali come in and expose them. And there will be a lot of those.

Everything you say could happen outside of one thing: the Garcia report is going to be out in public in full and likely soon.

The Swiss authorities have it. The US Justice Department has it.

If a single FIFA official charged decides to go to court? The report will be wide open. If none of them go to trial, it means many flipped and Sepp is going to be in a world of hurt. I mean, a serious world of hurt.

Like I said above, the RICO statutes are designed to wipe out organized crime syndicates. Big bad tough gangsters have sang like canaries when given their options. You think these FIFA guys are going to be tougher?

The guys who will support Sepp for protection? Sepp can't protect them anymore. Anyone who is guilty of any wrong doing had better get a lawyer and move to a country without extradition.

With all of that said, your main point is dead on. Maybe Sepp is insulated himself so well that nobody can pin anything on him. Maybe he really is a cartoon villain who will get away off of this.

My money? He's done. Even if the sham goes on Friday and he gets reelected, the convictions, other charges and the looming commercial disaster of 2022 would destroy the organization. Think about it this way. . . if proof comes out that bribes were taken for South Africa, Russia and the scum of 2022, do you realize how many lawsuits are going to be filed across the world? All of the countries that spent millions of dollars to try to get the World Cup and lost? They are going to want their money back.

That billion dollar slush fund from FIFA is going to go bye bye with lawsuits in the next five years. I don't believe Blatter is ever going to be anything more than a figurehead from this point forward and that his reign will be over by the end of the year.

[miami_fan]

Does Chuck Blazer have to go into the witness protection program? You know, all this talk about RICO law and everything.

[bhlloy]

UEFA and the U.S. should boycott 2018 and 2022, that would get things changed in a hurry. The US could be a wildcard into the 2020 Euros as a carrot.

[SirFozzie]

Does Chuck Blazer have to go into the witness protection program? You know, all this talk about RICO law and everything.

He's gravely ill with colon cancer, so it's pretty much a moot point

[ISiddiqui]

I do doubt that UEFA would boycott a World Cup held in its conference.

[cougarfreak]

I do doubt that UEFA would boycott a World Cup held in its conference.

If they held their own tourney they would. Money galore.

[miami_fan]

Spoken in my best George Costanza voice... HE'S BACK!

Sepp Blatter named FIFA president after Prince Ali concedes - ESPN FC (http://www.espnfc.com/fifa-world-cup/story/2471359/sepp-blatter-named-fifa-president-after-prince-ali-concedes)

Granted, the voters may have decided that he will be in jail soon, but the fact is they just elected a man who could be in jail soon.

[ISiddiqui]

And UEFA, of course, didn't boycott anything relating to the vote. Empty words Platini.

This is actually a pretty good article on why Blatter wins the vote from third world countries - who cares about corruption when you are finally getting some infrastructure money from FIFA and you are worried the next guy isn't going to care so much about it (obviously that is one of the reasons Blatter makes it priority):

How an obvious crook like Sepp Blatter keeps winning re-election - SBNation.com (http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/5/29/8688057/sepp-blatter-fifa-corruption-presidential-election-arrests?utm_campaign=kevinmccauley&utm_content=chorus&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter)

[whomario]

Fact of the matter is that FIFA does a lot of good work in those countries, i think one needs to differentiate here between what you think of Blatter/FIFA at the high level and what happens consistently at the low level. Similarly to how Armstrong did a ton for cancer research and stuff while still being a cheat.
And you know what ? I don´t blame those countries/federations at all. On what other basis should they realistically vote ? If it were about the objectively best person, you would never need a vote.

Maybe if the investigations had been made public and the arrests made a week or two ago there would have been a better chance to not have him elected.

This whole conference (and yes, i watched parts of it) reminded me a lot about a cult/sect.

Also, Blatter is not the target of those investigations and i don´t think he will be anytime soon. Much less that anything would be found. He´s "the bank" speaking in Wire terms, only even further removed IMO. He is definitely fostering an environment that ultimately ends up benefiting him and his vision of how FIFA ought to be run (i mean, he´s imo pretty clearly not doing this for monetary gain), but i don´t think an investigation in terms of money/corruption will get close to him.

[JonInMiddleGA]

The line between nations that oppose corruption and those who just want their cut seems pretty well drawn at this point. And they appear to be mostly where anyone might expect them to be frankly.

Time for legitimate nations to separate themselves from the criminal culture afaic.

[whomario]

It is not nations, it is sport associations. Maybe dial it down a notch. I don´t think you want people judge the US as a nation based on what the NFL and its commissioner does :)

Also, you know where i´d expect associations and its individuals to suspectible to this sort of thing ? Where they don´t have it quite as fluffy as most of the good and wealthy associations. And looky look, it ends up being the same list. Those associations vote for the guy that they believe benefits them the most. Isn´t that the same way most of the voters in the US would decide who to vote into political office ? :confused:

Also: Haven´t US banks only recently basically come within half a step of causing the whole world economy to fail due to essentially "wanting their cut" (after key regulations were removed with shitloads of money spent on lobbyists and the likes to make that happen) ? Was that not criminal culture ?

[AlexB]

Yes: in effect Blatter is a football socialist and there are more have-nots than haves. Unless someone else comes in and convinces the less wealthy footballing nations that a change at the top will not mean reduced income, Blatter will win every time and nothing will change.

He'll come out of this unscathed I guarantee you. In fact i wouldn't be surprised if he were the first Futurama style head in a tank so that he can rule football forever.

[ISiddiqui]

Fact of the matter is that FIFA does a lot of good work in those countries, i think one needs to differentiate here between what you think of Blatter/FIFA at the high level and what happens consistently at the low level. Similarly to how Armstrong did a ton for cancer research and stuff while still being a cheat.
And you know what ? I don´t blame those countries/federations at all. On what other basis should they realistically vote ? If it were about the objectively best person, you would never need a vote.

Oh, I completely agree. You would think though that anti-Blatter forces would figure out that the way to fight the Palpatine of Football would be to have someone who actually does care about football in the third world and is willing to invest in the have nots as well as clean up the game. I'm not sure a Middle Eastern Prince would necessarily care about the things those football associations care about.

[MIJB#19]

The line between presidents of football associations that oppose corruption and those who just want their cut seems pretty well drawn at this point. And they appear to be mostly where anyone might expect them to be frankly.

Time for legitimate football associations to separate themselves from the criminal culture afaic.Fixed for accurateness, but aside from the technicalities, you're spot on. A handful of associations are aiming at separation from FIFA already.

[ISiddiqui]

You mean like how UEFA was going to boycott the vote? ;)

[AlexB]

You mean like how UEFA was going to boycott the vote? ;)

I agree with not boycotting the vote. It could be seen as a sleight on Prince Ali as well, and the voting process itself wasn't corrupt.

A vote against is a stronger message than no vote at all IMHO, and means that UEFA can push for change from within with some sort of legitimacy. A boycott would have further alienated Africa and Asia

[ISiddiqui]

I just meant that at a stab at the "aiming at separation from FIFA" comment.

Also, Platini gave a pretty warm hello to Blatter.

[MIJB#19]

You mean like how UEFA was going to boycott the vote? ;)Anybody that would claim 'UEFA' would take actions, is making stuff up. UEFA isn't in a position to boycott anything FIFA related, because it's a separate entity. It's the individual FA's that are members of both unions that could take some actions about something FIFA-related.

[MIJB#19]

Additionally, I'm not sure the UEFA members with FIFA membership (the 53 of 54 that are) will be able to get on the same page. Why would the Russian FA boycott the World Cup to be hosted by themselves?

[MIJB#19]

I just meant that at a stab at the "aiming at separation from FIFA" comment.

Also, Platini gave a pretty warm hello to Blatter.Well, those aiming at separation are basically those members that lost the election of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. And that's just a handful. I'm far from convinced they'll go through with such a thing. :D

[EagleFan]

With that corrupt sleaze bag being re-elected it shows that there are probably a lot more people getting their pockets lined.

[JonInMiddleGA]

It is not nations, it is sport associations. Maybe dial it down a notch. I don´t think you want people judge the US as a nation based on what the NFL and its commissioner does :)

Uh huh. I'm confident those are all wholly & entirely independent (isn't that actually a rule ? wink wink.

If you haven't seen Nate Silver's breakdown of "how to break FIFA (http://fivethirtyeight.com/features/how-to-break-fifa/)" today, I recommend it. It's incredibly clear how long FIFA would be relevant without most of the nations (a word that can be used rather interchangeably here afaic, national governing body/federation is a bit unwieldy IMO) who voted against Blatter.

If the majority of the voting members are content with the status quo then by all means let them keep that ... the rest should go their separate way and leave them to wallow in it.

Governance by least common denominator is never really a great approach, it certainly seems to be an enormous part of the problem here.

[SirFozzie]

yeah, considering Sepp Blatter's latest comments, we're looking at an open break I think

"No-one is going to tell me that it was a simple coincidence this American attack two days before the elections of FIFA. It doesn't smell right. This has touched me and FIFA.

"Not only did they try to denigrate me but also they used the moment to say, 'This is the time to go'. Then it was said, 'We are going to boycott the congress'. But where are we? Where is the sportsmanship? There are signs that cannot be ignored. The Americans were the candidates for the World Cup of 2022 and they lost.

"The English were the candidates for 2018 and they lost, so it was really the English media and the American movement.

"If they have a financial crime that regards American citizens, then they must arrest these people there and not in Zurich when we have a congress in Zurich.

"The United States, it is the main sponsors of Hashemite kingdom [Jordan]. This corruption affair is between North America and South America. It was taken to Zurich and they say it is FIFA.''

[flere-imsaho]

Speaking of Newcastle, what with the whole sponsor of the club being morally reprehensible (payday loan company), and the owner not giving two shits about the team other than making a profit, I'm starting to think the unthinkable and wondering if I need to cut ties with NUFC and go support some other squad.

I'd just wait. You'll get a new owner eventually and then you'll have that much more cred as a fan. :D

Jack Warner: Slimeball, or Slimiestball?

Living, breathing example of the stereotype of a third world corruption artist.

[miami_fan]

Fact of the matter is that FIFA does a lot of good work in those countries, i think one needs to differentiate here between what you think of Blatter/FIFA at the high level and what happens consistently at the low level. Similarly to how Armstrong did a ton for cancer research and stuff while still being a cheat.
And you know what ? I don´t blame those countries/federations at all. On what other basis should they realistically vote ? If it were about the objectively best person, you would never need a vote.



Yes: in effect Blatter is a football socialist and there are more have-nots than haves. Unless someone else comes in and convinces the less wealthy footballing nations that a change at the top will not mean reduced income, Blatter will win every time and nothing will change.


Oh, I completely agree. You would think though that anti-Blatter forces would figure out that the way to fight the Palpatine of Football would be to have someone who actually does care about football in the third world and is willing to invest in the have nots as well as clean up the game. I'm not sure a Middle Eastern Prince would necessarily care about the things those football associations care about.

As I re-reading this thread, these three posts really get to the core issues for me. No, I don't want corruption. I don't want bribery. I don't shady practices. However, I also don't want the World Cup to just bounce from Western Europe to the U.S, every year. I don't want don't want there to only be ONE spot for both Asia AND Africa nations combined. I don't want FIFA dominated by a few FA's to the detriment of the rest of the world.

I don't understand why the choices for a football governing body have to be so limited

[The Jackal]

So, back to fun things.

Theo!

[kingfc22]

So, back to fun things.

Theo!

Alexis!!!

[The Jackal]

That Alexis goal was ridiculous. Back to back cups!

Now let's do a title challenge next year.

[bhlloy]

Holy shit Messi

[ISiddiqui]

OMG, that was just one of those amazing goals by Messi... Wow!

[TroyF]

That Alexis goal was ridiculous. Back to back cups!

Now let's do a title challenge next year.

Lets hope so. It is time!!!

[TroyF]

As I re-reading this thread, these three posts really get to the core issues for me. No, I don't want corruption. I don't want bribery. I don't shady practices. However, I also don't want the World Cup to just bounce from Western Europe to the U.S, every year. I don't want don't want there to only be ONE spot for both Asia AND Africa nations combined. I don't want FIFA dominated by a few FA's to the detriment of the rest of the world.

I don't understand why the choices for a football governing body have to be so limited


We have one guy who is simply a worthless piece of human garbage. He sits back while modern day "slaves" die in Qatar. He's made horrific remarks on race, gender, human sexuality and just about any other topic you want to find. He's corrupt.

At this point, anyone who votes for him deserves to fall with him. These smaller countries want money? Ok, lets see how many people line up to see a Bahamas vs. Angola or Chad vs. Japan in the semis of the "World Cup" when Germany vs. France and Brazil vs. Italy are on the other channels.

I agree with you. There should be a rotation of World Cups. The smaller countries should get help for their programs. But there is no way in hell a system should be allowed to exist that allows someone to win an election by taking care of the small fish while raking in billions in unclean money.

It's time to end this.

[bulletsponge]

i dont want a WC in the US. i like watching us qualify each cycle

[EagleFan]

US Women need to finish better if they want to do well in the WC. They had some chances but did a poor job of finishing.

[JonInMiddleGA]

As I re-reading this thread, these three posts really get to the core issues for me. No, I don't want corruption. I don't want bribery. I don't shady practices.

When corruption (bribery, etc) is part & parcel of doing business on a daily basis in a lot of the world, I'm not sure you can avoid the above while also avoiding the below

However, I also don't want the World Cup to just bounce from Western Europe to the U.S, every year. I don't want don't want there to only be ONE spot for both Asia AND Africa nations combined. I don't want FIFA dominated by a few FA's to the detriment of the rest of the world.

[MizzouRah]

US Women need to finish better if they want to do well in the WC. They had some chances but did a poor job of finishing.

They seemed tired or something.. definitely off today.

[ISiddiqui]

Or just didn't seem to care.. it was a worrying performance, no doubt.

[Vince, Pt. II]

If you haven't seen Messi's goal, you're doing yourself a disservice. That was absurd.

[TroyF]

Or just didn't seem to care.. it was a worrying performance, no doubt.

to say the least. They looked horrible.

[Draft Dodger]

will the champions league final be on TV?

[claphamsa]

its got to be...

[Critch]

will the champions league final be on TV?

Saturday June 5th, 2.45pm - Fox

[Draft Dodger]

Saturday June 5th, 2.45pm - Fox

thanks!

[ISiddiqui]

This is a really good article on why Africa tends to support Blatter (and it isn't the hookers and blow):

http://www.colinudoh.com/2015/05/africa-blatter-africa.html

The African vote is tight. It is united. It is Blatter's. This is less about corruption, and more about delivery. And loyalty.

Africa does not trust Europe. And until Europe, or whichever candidate its flavour of the month is, shows concrete evidence that Africa's interest will be given the same seat at the table, status quo will remain.

The rest of the article details how Blatter continued Havelange's policy to expand FIFA from just a European old boy's club and spread the benefits African and Asian countries. And, of course, Blatter not only promised an African World Cup - he delivered it. That South African WC was worth it's weight in votes.

This stuff NEEDS to be taken into account when determining how to get rid of Sepp. Simply saying, well it's just bribes for hookers and blow trivializes the entire thing - and falls right into what Sepp wants you to believe is happening, btw.

[ISiddiqui]

I think we also tend to forget this:

Michel Platini admits politics played part in Qatar 2022 World Cup win | Football | The Guardian (http://www.theguardian.com/football/2013/sep/20/michel-platini-politics-qatar-2022-world-cup)

Blatter, who voted for the US to host the 2022 tournament but has since become an advocate of moving it to winter, said in an interview this week that there was "definitely direct political influence" on European executive committee members to vote for Qatar.

Platini sardonically added: "It's new, apparently. It was said that Europeans voted for Qatar but Qatar got 14 votes. We're only eight. If you subtract eight from 14 you get six left over."

Platini has admitted voting for Qatar

So, basically, fuck UEFA on this.

[HomerSimpson98]

Holy shit Messi

+1. Need to find that on youtube. I bet we watched that 20 times on the DVR. Best in the world.

[cartman]

Ask, and you shall receive

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HAwEuOgI7yU" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[ISiddiqui]

Craig Hope on Twitter: "Ryan Taylor was released from NUFC by telephone before being told to pass his mobile to Jonas Gutierrez so he could be delivered same news." (https://twitter.com/CraigHope_DM/status/605425413360336897)

God damn you Newcastle! You are just begging for me to drop you as a fan...

[Coffee Warlord]

...wow.

[miami_fan]

Craig Hope on Twitter: "Ryan Taylor was released from NUFC by telephone before being told to pass his mobile to Jonas Gutierrez so he could be delivered same news." (https://twitter.com/CraigHope_DM/status/605425413360336897)

God damn you Newcastle! You are just begging for me to drop you as a fan...

Brutal

[HomerSimpson98]

Glorious! Thanks cartman. still drops my jaw

[MIJB#19]

Crazy escape by Hamburger SV in the 1.Bundesliga 'Relegation 2015'.

[whomario]

Crazy escape by Hamburger SV in the 1.Bundesliga 'Relegation 2015'.

Devastating for Karlsruhe ... actually the club which, along with Dortmund, ignited my love for the sport as a youth. Had some epic UEFA Cup matches and a ton of great players (Hässler, kiriakov and Euro-eddy. Also kahn and Scholl before moving to Bayern.)

The team totally lost their calm after going up 1:0, eventhough that did not change anything (0:0 was enough for Promotion).
Clutch Freekick though ...

[MIJB#19]

Devastating for Karlsruhe ... actually the club which, along with Dortmund, ignited my love for the sport as a youth. Had some epic UEFA Cup matches and a ton of great players (Hässler, kiriakov and Euro-eddy. Also kahn and Scholl before moving to Bayern.)

The team totally lost their calm after going up 1:0, eventhough that did not change anything (0:0 was enough for Promotion).
Clutch Freekick though ...Indeed. Devastating for the Karlsruhe players and fans.
I felt that after the 1-0, the 1-1 was hanging in the air. The free kick was easily given (it didn't seem like a real hand ball to me), but basically the goalkeeper was asking for the kick that went into the goal. In overtime we saw what usually happens with injury time equalizers. Karlsruhe was completely discouraged, unlike HSV, which kept pushing and eventually the three substitutes decided the game. The final minutes were thrilling, although it was obviously over. The last minute stopped penalty didn't really matter, although it added some extra drama.

[whomario]

Blatter just resigned ! Gets to be a martyr that way, whoever follows (not entirely sure if the prince is a given ?) will have to work harder than he would have if elected .

[Flasch186]

http://www.cnbc.com/id/102726399

FIFA's Blatter to quit, calls congress to elect new president

[MIJB#19]

It makes you wonder what proof there is likely to come out that made Blatter decide to call it quits, doesn't it?

[MIJB#19]

Wait, what? Next elections are in May 2016? What kind of shit are they smoking at the FIFA?

[The Jackal]

what a friggin joke

[The Jackal]

Wait, what? Next elections are in May 2016? What kind of shit are they smoking at the FIFA?

Where do you see that?

[whomario]

Its the next normal congress, but they just said election will be sooner

[MIJB#19]

Where do you see that?Sorry, I suppose I must have misheard what they said. I thought I heard them say there will be new elections at the next congress, with the next congress being in May 2016.

[AlexB]

Good the he's gone as he had no credibility, but don't get carried away. Nothing to stop the African/Asian/Central American majority putting up their candidate and voting them in basically without any chance of defeat if they organise it properly.

And because of this there may be little change in terms of overall power base, no root and branch change, no sweeping reforms...

[dacman]

:banana:

[MIJB#19]

Of course there's a better alternative: get all the <strike>greedy bastards</strike> football association presidents back to the office now and ask the three withdrawn candidates to step up for a new election. But I suppose that would be too democratic and not inline with the regulations...

[ISiddiqui]

YAY!!!! What great news!!

June 2 is now VS Day - Victory over Sepp!

[ISiddiqui]

Of course there's a better alternative: get all the <strike>greedy bastards</strike> football association presidents back to the office now and ask the three withdrawn candidates to step up for a new election. But I suppose that would be too democratic and not inline with the regulations...

I think you have to open it up. How many folks didn't run because they didn't think they could beat Sepp?

[ISiddiqui]

Though apparently the 2016 Copa America Centario is in serious danger. The US indictments were all for broadcast rights for that tournament, and earlier today:

http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/06/02/us-soccer-fifa-copaamerica-idUSKBN0OI1R820150602

Jose Luis Meiszner, general secretary of the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL), said a question mark hung over the tournament also because there was an order for the arrest of the owners of the tournament's broadcasting rights.

Seven top officials of soccer's world governing body FIFA, all from CONMEBOL and CONCACAF which governs soccer in North and Central America and the Caribbean, were arrested in Zurich last week in a U.S. Department of Justice investigation.

"Today, let's put a giant question mark over the possibility of playing that Cup in the United States," Argentine Meiszner told Argentina's Radio America in an interview.

"The president of one of the confederations is under arrest, the companies that own the rights have had their funds blocked...nobody can seriously say that things in the future are going to be as foreseen," he said.

Damn. I mean, ok, worth the indictments and Sepp resigning, but it still sucks.

[miami_fan]

Of course there's a better alternative: get all the <strike>greedy bastards</strike> football association presidents back to the office now and ask the three withdrawn candidates to step up for a new election. But I suppose that would be too democratic and not inline with the regulations...

Speaking of democracy, it would probably be nice for the candidates to spell out how they will erase corruption AND build the game worldwide. Not being Sepp no longer seems good enough.

[ISiddiqui]

Prince Ali has thrown his hat back into the ring. He said on CNN: "I'm there to support the developing nations." - A smart, smart move. It's going to be a race for African and Asian delegates and I think Prince Ali knows that more European competitors are going to be entering the race taking away some of his support in last week's election.

[stevew]

Pretty selfish to run for reelection and then to almost immediately resign. Way to waste money and time.

[Grover]

Prince Ali has thrown his hat back into the ring. He said on CNN: "I'm there to support the developing nations." - A smart, smart move. It's going to be a race for African and Asian delegates and I think Prince Ali knows that more European competitors are going to be entering the race taking away some of his support in last week's election.

I'm a big fan of Prince Ali because he is seemingly less corruptible.

He has to keep the royal family in mind.

[ISiddiqui]

Sheikh Ahmed Al-Fahd of Kuwait is also saying he's running. People are going to be coming out of the woodwork left and right for this election. It's going to make the Republican primary look small.

[Peregrine]

Think this was a big reason why - sources quoted from the US investigation of all the corrupt crooks....errr FIFA officials.

The sources said the feds are conducting the FIFA probe the same way they would handle an old-school New York-style racketeering case.

“Now that people are going to want to save themselves, there’s probably a race to see who will flip on [Blatter] first,” one source said, explaining how the feds typically try to get people to inform on their superiors.

[ISiddiqui]

I think Sepp is looking at this list right now ;)

Countries with no extradition treaty with US - WSFA.com Montgomery Alabama news. (http://www.wsfa.com/story/22665099/countries-with-no-extradition-treaty-with-us)

[NobodyHere]

I'm a big fan of Prince Ali because he is seemingly less corruptible.

He has to keep the royal family in mind.

I hear there are big questions on how Prince Ali obtained his money.

https://33.media.tumblr.com/1ef9c10b3ac0169ed07f7021c7067008/tumblr_mnw2vfbqiE1rg6i70o1_400.gif

[BillJasper]

I think Sepp is looking at this list right now ;)

Countries with no extradition treaty with US - WSFA.com Montgomery Alabama news. (http://www.wsfa.com/story/22665099/countries-with-no-extradition-treaty-with-us)

Maybe Sepp is building himself a nice retirement home in Qatar now? :lol:

[albionmoonlight]

I think Sepp is looking at this list right now ;)

Countries with no extradition treaty with US - WSFA.com Montgomery Alabama news. (http://www.wsfa.com/story/22665099/countries-with-no-extradition-treaty-with-us)

Not to threadjack, but I love that a random TV station in Montgomery, AL, felt the need to create this list and publish it as a story. I'd love to know the backstory there.

[stevew]

I think Sepp is looking at this list right now ;)

Countries with no extradition treaty with US - WSFA.com Montgomery Alabama news. (http://www.wsfa.com/story/22665099/countries-with-no-extradition-treaty-with-us)

Afghanistan, Algeria, Andorra, Angola, Armenia, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Bosnia and

Herzegovina, Brunei, Burkina Faso, Burma, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, the Central

African Republic, Chad,China, Comoros, Congo (Kinshasa), Congo (Brazzaville), Djibouti, Equatorial

Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Indonesia, Ivory Coast, Kazakhstan,

Kosovo, Kuwait, Laos, Lebanon, Libya, Macedonia, Madagascar,Maldives, Mali, Marshall Islands,

Mauritania, Micronesia, Moldova, Mongolia,Montenegro, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Nepal,

Niger, Oman, Qatar, Russia, Rwanda, Samoa, São Tomé & Príncipe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia,

Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu,

Vatican, Vietnam and Yemen.

Where would you go?

I think that whole Yugoslavia mess is basically settled, so some of those look appealing.

[ISiddiqui]

It appears some countries are missing from the list... for instance I couldn't find Croatia on this:

List of United States extradition treaties - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_United_States_extradition_treaties)

and I think the Illyrian Coast would likely be a perfect place to hide out.

Or St. Petersburg in Russia.

[ISiddiqui]

Not to threadjack, but I love that a random TV station in Montgomery, AL, felt the need to create this list and publish it as a story. I'd love to know the backstory there.

June 2013... Snowden? Was that back then?

[stevew]

Oh yeah, Croatia no brainer. Not sure about Albania though.

[ISiddiqui]

Say what you will about Qatar, this was hilarious!

Qatar hits back at English FA chief Greg Dyke by implying that his team stinks - SBNation.com (http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/6/2/8715071/qatar-hits-back-at-english-fa-chief-greg-dyke-by-implying-that-his)

"If I was the Qatari organisers I wouldn't sleep very well tonight," said Dyke (Chairman of the English FA) to Press Association Sport.

Qatar hits back:“We would urge Mr Dyke to ... concentrate on delivering his promise to build an England team capable of winning the 2022 WC"

BURN!!

[bhlloy]

Andorra or the Vatican would be lovely until you needed to go to the shops

[ISiddiqui]

You don't want the Vatican. Pope Francis is a huge football fan... he'd turn him over even if he wasn't required to ;).

[albionmoonlight]

You don't want the Vatican. Pope Francis is a huge football fan... he'd turn him over even if he wasn't required to ;).

"Forgive me, Father, for I have sinned . . . "

"Yeah, no shit, Sepp"

[Galaxy]

I think Sepp is looking at this list right now ;)

Countries with no extradition treaty with US - WSFA.com Montgomery Alabama news. (http://www.wsfa.com/story/22665099/countries-with-no-extradition-treaty-with-us)
Swiss authorities did tell Sepp and FIFA officials not to leave the country after they raided the headquarters.
FIFA's Sepp Blatter expected to be interviewed by Swiss authorities 'in days' | Daily Mail Online (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3100107/Is-net-closing-slippery-despot-Swiss-authorities-expected-interview-FIFA-s-Sepp-Blatter-days.html)


I wonder if the charges will come from Switzerland first, and not the US. Seems like Switzerland would want to put a Swiss citizen who is in charge of a secretively run organization based in Switzerland (and with Switzerland's recent changes on its banking secrecy laws over the last few years, it adds to the fire) on trial if they can.

[ISiddiqui]

Interesting rumor here (though not one I'm really fond of):

Report: Italian legend Andrea Pirlo to sign for New York City FC | ProSoccerTalk (http://prosoccertalk.nbcsports.com/2015/06/03/report-italian-legend-andrea-pirlo-to-sign-for-new-york-city-fc/?utm_network=facebook&utm_post=3759824&utm_source=FB%20-%20NBC%20Sports%20Soccer&utm_tags=srm%5Bsoccer%2Carticle%5D)

Pirlo, 36, will run Juventus’ midfield in the UEFA Champions League final against Barcelona in Berlin this Saturday but rumors are swirling that the Italian international could be on the move to Major League Soccer this summer.

According to a report in Spanish outlet AS, Pirlo will be on his way to NYC to join Frank Lampard and David Villa as Designated Players.

NYCFC is really trying to cement the slur that the MLS is a Retirement League (they deserve to be last place right now just for that).

[ISiddiqui]

Uh oh... Chuck Blazer's guilty plea became unsealed today. He indicates in it that he helped facilitate a bribe for the selection of the 1998 World Cup, which was held in France.

Jonathan Tannenwald on Twitter: "Hello @PhilippeAuclair and @Jon_LeGossip - here’s Chuck Blazer talking to the feds: http://t.co/kIGL4X2K5d" (https://twitter.com/thegoalkeeper/status/606184745995784194/photo/1)

The head of the 1998 France World Cup Organizing Committee? None other than Michael Platini. Oops..

[ISiddiqui]

Dola... I got my hands on the full plea and it appears Blazer was involved in facilitating a bribe by Morocco for the 1998 WC.

And interestingly for the 2010 vote, Blazer helped the same guy take a bribe from Morocco AND South Africa.

Though one does wonder how Platini countered...

(edit: Oh, the guy that got the Morocco and South Africa bribes was Webb (it speaks of $10mil bribe, which had to go through FIFA eventually)!)

[AlexB]

Quick question for whomario, and anyone else with any knowledge of the Bundesliga - my team Leicester have just signed Christian Fuchs from Schalke on a Bosman. I don't know him at all tbh - decent player? Seems like he has a chequered injury history, but at the same time is the Austrian captain apparently...

[whomario]

Quick question for whomario, and anyone else with any knowledge of the Bundesliga - my team Leicester have just signed Christian Fuchs from Schalke on a Bosman. I don't know him at all tbh - decent player? Seems like he has a chequered injury history, but at the same time is the Austrian captain apparently...

He is a decent offensive player for a left back who does a good job moving up the field. Has a great left foot, meaning his Free Kicks and Corners are really good (also long throws) with some good crosses from play as well, but his defense has always been suspect at best. I think he´d benefit from moving up to left midfield (but not true winger), dunno if that position exists at Leicester ?

I actually think he´d be a decent fit with a lower-half PL team keeping things simple tactically with his pretty straight-forward style of play, if that makes sense. (and i don´t know if Leicester fits that stereotype ;) )
Left Backs are a rare creature, so i think its well worth a try.

[MIJB#19]

Swiss authorities did tell Sepp and FIFA officials not to leave the country after they raided the headquarters.
FIFA's Sepp Blatter expected to be interviewed by Swiss authorities 'in days' | Daily Mail Online (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3100107/Is-net-closing-slippery-despot-Swiss-authorities-expected-interview-FIFA-s-Sepp-Blatter-days.html)


I wonder if the charges will come from Switzerland first, and not the US. Seems like Switzerland would want to put a Swiss citizen who is in charge of a secretively run organization based in Switzerland (and with Switzerland's recent changes on its banking secrecy laws over the last few years, it adds to the fire) on trial if they can.I think they should wrap them all up and send them to The Hague, to make some good use of the international criminal court. (or the international court of justice, whichever applies best)

[AlexB]

He is a decent offensive player for a left back who does a good job moving up the field. Has a great left foot, meaning his Free Kicks and Corners are really good (also long throws) with some good crosses from play as well, but his defense has always been suspect at best. I think he´d benefit from moving up to left midfield (but not true winger), dunno if that position exists at Leicester ?

I actually think he´d be a decent fit with a lower-half PL team keeping things simple tactically with his pretty straight-forward style of play, if that makes sense. (and i don´t know if Leicester fits that stereotype ;) )
Left Backs are a rare creature, so i think its well worth a try.

We ended up playing with wing backs for the latter half of last year, but we have only one player that can play LWB, and there are (silly IMHO) rumours Arsenal might be interested in him.

Don't know if we'll stick with 352/532 but maybe LWB could be his position then if attack is his strength: defensive deficiencies can be covered more easily by the extra CB.

Cheers for the info!

[sovereignstar v2]

Interesting rumor here (though not one I'm really fond of):

Report: Italian legend Andrea Pirlo to sign for New York City FC | ProSoccerTalk (http://prosoccertalk.nbcsports.com/2015/06/03/report-italian-legend-andrea-pirlo-to-sign-for-new-york-city-fc/?utm_network=facebook&utm_post=3759824&utm_source=FB%20-%20NBC%20Sports%20Soccer&utm_tags=srm%5Bsoccer%2Carticle%5D)



NYCFC is really trying to cement the slur that the MLS is a Retirement League (they deserve to be last place right now just for that).

Those two could dominate the MLS until their mid-40s.

[ISiddiqui]

I'm sure Beckham thought that as well ;). He was done at 38 - which puts these signings into some perspective a bit.

I doubt either Lampard or Pirlo (though Pirlo's game doesn't require him to run as much which will help) plays past 40.

[bhlloy]

I actually don't think Lampard will hold up that well into his 40s, and I would imagine in a couple of years a midfield of those two would get run all over, even in MLS

[whomario]

The U20 World Cup is underway in New Zealand btw. Saw the US game against the hosts, pretty good group of players imo you have coming up there.

Some very exotic countries in the competition like Myanmar (which the US only beat 2:1 though and who did qualify against the likes of Japan, Australia and South Korea) or my favourite: Fiji !
Germany beat them 8:1 and it was every bit that difference, but then the Islanders turn around and beat Honduras 3:0 despite a 10-30 shot count :D 2 of the goals were pure slapstick as well:

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IJQp8_u0r-M" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

the same channel has goals and a few highlights for all other games as well.

[ISiddiqui]

U20 WC is always fun. A tournament to elevate the hopes and dreams of many nations... only to have them crushed when those players grow up and don't progress as people thought they would ;).

[ISiddiqui]

Looks like James Milner is on his way to Liverpool. A good signing by Rogers.

[Grover]

Looks like James Milner is on his way to Liverpool. A good signing by Rogers.

Until he plays him at center back because he is more clever than us.

[ISiddiqui]

:D

[Grover]

Fifa crisis: FAI were paid after Thierry Henry handball, says John Delaney – live | Football | The Guardian (http://www.theguardian.com/football/live/2015/jun/04/jack-warner-fifa-corruption-i-have-kept-quiet-i-will-do-so-no-more-live)

OH BOY.

[dacman]

Until he plays him at center back because he is more clever than us.

Only Jurgie is that clever. :(

[ISiddiqui]

C'mon guys, playing Bradley out of position was just a brilliant maneuver ;)

[Grover]

Only Jurgie is that clever. :(

ask Emre Can if Rodgers isn't that clever.

[MIJB#19]

Fifa crisis: FAI were paid after Thierry Henry handball, says John Delaney – live | Football | The Guardian (http://www.theguardian.com/football/live/2015/jun/04/jack-warner-fifa-corruption-i-have-kept-quiet-i-will-do-so-no-more-live)

OH BOY.Not this handball thing again...

[miami_fan]

Craig Hope on Twitter: "Ryan Taylor was released from NUFC by telephone before being told to pass his mobile to Jonas Gutierrez so he could be delivered same news." (https://twitter.com/CraigHope_DM/status/605425413360336897)

God damn you Newcastle! You are just begging for me to drop you as a fan...

And the summer has just started ISiddiqui.:D

Newcastle's Papiss Cisse leaves girlfriend for holiday and marries in Paris | Daily Mail Online (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3110513/A-game-two-halves-Newcastle-footballer-Papiss-Cisse-leaves-girlfriend-holiday-three-days-later-marries-Senegalese-volleyball-player-fianc-e-Paris.html)

[ISiddiqui]

How shocking is this?!

Premier League closes door on sponsorship from 2016-17 (http://www.espn.co.uk/football/barclays-premier-league/story/2479193/premier-league-closes-door-on-sponsorship-from-2016-17)

The Premier League will not have a title sponsor from the 2016-17 season, it has confirmed.

The move reflects the organisation's desire to mirror major American sports leagues like the NBA and NFL in presenting a "clean" brand.

Having been sponsored by Barclays since 2004, in 2016 the competition will be known simply as "The Premier League."

[whomario]

Not very. That money has become peanuts (40 mio a year or 2 per club !) compared with TV money, they can easily afford going that route. Heck, theyll propably make more money with secondary sponsors getting more prominent advertising spots without an "exclusive" sponsor in the spotlight.

[ISiddiqui]

The money may have become peanuts, but they likely could have made quite a bit auctioning off naming rights.

[bulletsponge]

And the summer has just started ISiddiqui.:D

Newcastle's Papiss Cisse leaves girlfriend for holiday and marries in Paris | Daily Mail Online (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3110513/A-game-two-halves-Newcastle-footballer-Papiss-Cisse-leaves-girlfriend-holiday-three-days-later-marries-Senegalese-volleyball-player-fianc-e-Paris.html)

while sleazy, its nice to see a black man pick a sista over a blond chick

[sovereignstar v2]

Looks like James Milner is on his way to Liverpool. A good signing by Rogers.

Should get some more playing time at a mid-table club. Guessing Rodgers promised him a central midfielder role as well.

[MIJB#19]

Weird to have an international friendly (Netherlands vs USA, yay!) a day before the Champions League final. Could be an interesting one, with the tropical temperature today (and 15 degrees Celsius higher than the past couple of days) with the prospect of thunder during pre-game preparation. The roof might be closed in Amsterdam. :D

[bob]

The announcers keep saying the US should be happy with the 1 - 1 halftime score, but I think they could easily be down 3 - 1 right now.

[bob]

And very quickly into the 2nd half, it is now 3 - 1.

[NobodyHere]

Wow if true

Fifa corruption scandal: 'Germany sent Saudi Arabia weapons' in exchange for support of their bid to host the 2006 World Cup (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/international/fifa-corruption-scandal-germany-sent-saudi-arabia-weapons-in-exchange-for-support-of-their-bid-to-host-the-2006-world-cup-10301221.html)

[bulletsponge]

wow now the US lead 4-3!

both defenses have been horrendous. the score could easily be 5-5 at least

[bob]

Nice response by the US to tie

[bob]

Or crazily enough take the lead

[cartman]

That was an entertaining 2nd half

[Easy Mac]

Michael Bradley is overrated.

[Easy Mac]

Also, an amateur has now scored friendly winning goals against Mexico and the Netherlands.

[bulletsponge]

Also, an amateur has now scored friendly winning goals against Mexico and the Netherlands.

bobby wood scored the winner here

[whomario]

How is Bobby Wood an amateur ? He´s played professional for 4 years now. Or am i missing sth ?

Edit: Ah, i get it now. The US is definitely getting some good players through. The U20 has a couple future NT players imo, if they make the right career moves (as a team, the squad is badly balanced though).
Also, i saw Christian Pulisic play with the Dortmund U17 a few days ago, that kid has all the talent in the world. Very impressive.

[Easy Mac]

Meant the amateur assisted.

[MIJB#19]

Apparently not watching the second half was a good idea. Oranje, and in particular Guus Hiddink, is getting fleeced by the Dutch media. Regardless of the opposition, 4 goals against is an embarrassing performance.

[claphamsa]

predictions on today? I bet Barca wins 3-1

[The Jackal]

I'll say Messi in the 75th, 1-0.

[Critch]

Barca 3-1 would be my bet as well. A friend in the UK mentioned he's got Barca 3-1/Messi scores the first goal for 50/1. Sounds like a good bet to me.

[BishopMVP]

The US is definitely getting some good players through. The U20 has a couple future NT players imo, if they make the right career movesTotally. I hope they stay in MLS and develop instead of chasing that European money.

[whomario]

tough one for me, have long had some sort of connection with both teams and really appreciate a couple players on both sides. Maybe rooting as tad bit more for Barcelona.

Really looking forward to an hopefully great game :)

3:2 Barca

[whomario]

Totally. I hope they stay in MLS and develop instead of chasing that European money.

I think the US players need to find a middle ground, all depends on the player and the situation. The early playing time at age 18 or so is huge and for your "role players" it is better to play MLS rather than sit on the bench elsewhere, but at some point you need a couple players who develop beyond "nice player" status and there is no way a genuine world class player develops purely from MLS and NT play, imo. Not for the forseeable future at least.

Plus, 2 of the teams best players (both already capped by Klinsmann as well) are Emerson Hyndman who plays for Fulham (9 matches last season, which is a decent turnout) and Rubio Rubin who had 28 games for Utrecht.


But i guess thats a discussion we ought to save for after the final at least ;) maybe next Wednesday or so ;)

[MIJB#19]

That was fast. :D

[whomario]

Woa, that was quick. And wonderfully executed. Brilliant run by Iniesta makes that goal.

[claphamsa]

i want to copy vidals hair

[MIJB#19]

Vidal is lucky to still be on the field.

[whomario]

Vidal is lucky to still be on the field.

If there´s a foul anywhere on the match there´s a 50% chance he was involved :D

Buffon with a great save to keep Juve in it.

[whomario]

Someone needs to get Vidal to cool down ASAP. If i am coaching, i am thinking hard about subbing him here.

Neymar is such a fluid athlete, the way he picks up speed without even trying that much is pretty spectacular.

[MIJB#19]

We should put our money on Vidal not being on the field after half time, but I suppose it's too likely to be profitable.

[whomario]

Vidal is such a nutcase. If he gets red carded, the Juve players should all form a circle and kick him ...

[kingfc22]

We should put our money on Vidal not being on the field after half time, but I suppose it's too likely to be profitable.

Vidal is such a nutcase. If he gets red carded, the Juve players should all form a circle and kick him ...

Definitely going to see red. Especially once Barca scores one or two more.

[MIJB#19]

Just inches wide, only inches.

[The Jackal]

the biter is up to the day

[Desnudo]

Surprising there's only one goal so far. A lot of good chances.

[MIJB#19]

Surprising there's only one goal so far. A lot of good chances.jinx?

[Desnudo]

This could be a classic if Vidal doesn't kill anyone

[MIJB#19]

Oh, Buffon... :redface:

[claphamsa]

3-1 would have been a good bet

[The Jackal]

3-1 would have been a good bet

well done

[MIJB#19]

God thing the Champions League final didn't go to extra time and penalties, it could have clashes with the Women's World Cup opening match.

[The Jackal]

congrats to barca. let silly season begin

[The Jackal]

I know the world cup is still going on, but I have a dire need to express how much I want Arsenal to finalize this Sanchez signing.

Plus there's plenty going on in the transfer market, and didn't want to disrupt the FIFA thread.

It seems like there is a lot more certainty around Sanchez to the Gunners than there was with Higuain last year, but I'm still nervous up until it's confirmed.

Debuchy would be a solid replacement for Sagna, though Aurier could've been cool too.

Another reason I want Sanchez signed is so I can start focusing my energy on which holding midfielder I want. :cool:

1) ALEXIS

2) Debucy go ow.

3) Coquelin?

[AlexB]

My company are the English contactors for FieldTurf, but I have to say (and can't post it anywhere else but here ;) ) that the ball bounce on the WWC pitch in Edmonton is poor. The ball clearly is sitting up too much on the first bounce on any ball that is hit medium-long.

Same for everyone, but it's not going to help the debate on artificial pitches, and it is not the norm - you would have thought they could have got it right given the history of threatened legal action and eyes of the world being on them.

[whomario]

Barca has been the best team in Europe this season pretty consistently, deserved title. That offensive punch is pretty unfair.
Pirlo should call it on this level, has been pretty clear (even in some of the Juve wins recently) that he has become that crucial half step to slow for even him to overcome :( Pogba was a bit too quiet for the first 60 or so minutes, but damn is that guy talented. His footwork actually reminds me of Zidane a bit.


This match is entertaining, too :) That Free Kick from China was pretty damn perfect.

That pitch is pretty weird. I think i wrote in here about how turf must not be nescessarily a bad thing, but the turf they are using definitely seems a little bit off. Some funny bounces and pretty "sticky" surface.

Also, that canadian CBs (Buchanan) hairdo is the most amazingly weird one on a day that included Arturo Vidal.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Huge win for Sporting KC tonight against Seattle. Really needed to find a way to get three points against those guys.

[Grover]

Report: Sepp Blatter Linked To Allegedly Corrupt $10 Million Payment (http://deadspin.com/report-sepp-blatter-linked-to-allegedly-corrupt-10-mi-1709667574)

[The Jackal]

that jack warner onion thing still cracks me up every time

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Really tough to watch the World Cup games today. The pool play rounds just don't have enough competition in them yet. It was sad to hear the commentators saying that saves by Thailand and by Ivory Coast goaltenders were 'something to build on'. If that's the best those games offer, ouch.

Hoping the U.S. gets off to a good start tomorrow.

[SirFozzie]

In today's run of "How Fucked is FIFA?"

One former FIFA executive committee says that they issued the 2010 World Cup to the losing country.

Morocco not South Africa won 2010 World Cup vote - report - ESPN FC (http://www.espnfc.us/fifa-world-cup/story/2482914/morocco-not-south-africa-won-2010-world-cup-vote-report)

Now, it's likely someone's lying about their vote, but I wonder if this will lead to countries making their vote public in the future.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Great action in the Sweden-Nigeria game. Nigerian forwards are REALLY good. Just running right by the Swedish defense. Very unlucky to be behind thus far.

Edit: Now 2-0 Sweden. The Nigerian goalkeeper is a disaster on handling the corner kicks.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Wow. What a turnaround by Nigeria. Fun to watch.

[cthomer5000]

Really tough to watch the World Cup games today. The pool play rounds just don't have enough competition in them yet. It was sad to hear the commentators saying that saves by Thailand and by Ivory Coast goaltenders were 'something to build on'. If that's the best those games offer, ouch.

Hoping the U.S. gets off to a good start tomorrow.

The gulf between teams at this tournament (especially goalkeepers) can be staggering. You always see some SERIOUS hammerings in the group stage.

[cubboyroy1826]

All tied up. Nice run by Ordega.

[cubboyroy1826]

Definitely going to be a tough group for the US. Swedens back four are having all kinds of trouble with the Nigerian speed.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Definitely going to be a tough group for the US. Swedens back four are having all kinds of trouble with the Nigerian speed.

Probably the best result though. Really didn't want either of these teams to get three points.

[cubboyroy1826]

Very true. I was a little worried Sweden would run away with 3 plus a big goal diff. Next up US soccer then the Hawks game.

[cthomer5000]

1. I continue to love Megan Rapinoe. Total baller.

2. Hope Solo continues to remind us why the federation puts up with all her off-the-field bullshit.

[PilotMan]

Ugh, they are playing like a team way out of form. I'd be scared if I was playing FM.

[cthomer5000]

They're all over the place. Over-reliant on Rapinoe. Wambach doesn't really fit with how they're playing, and occasionlly they simply force one in there.

[MizzouRah]

Started playing much better last part of the half.. I hope they come out like that the 2nd half.

How long is Alex Morgan out?

Edit: ok she's active, just not in the SL

[cthomer5000]

Tobin Heath is the shit. Hopefully she comes in and runs this game.

[kingfc22]

Since when did we add yellow to our national colors?

[EagleFan]

Good result.

[PilotMan]

That's 1 down.

[cthomer5000]

Tobin Heath is the shit. Hopefully she comes in and runs this game.

I swear I don't think she missed a single pass after coming on. Slowed it down, kept possession a ton, closed the game out. Good result in the end after some shakey stuff in the first half.

[MizzouRah]

I feel much better now! :)

[Solecismic]

1. I continue to love Megan Rapinoe. Total baller.

2. Hope Solo continues to remind us why the federation puts up with all her off-the-field bullshit.

Yeah. Rapinoe was often the best on the field in past years, and today looks like she has gotten even better. Her approach is so much more Tecmo Bowl than anyone else's.

And Solo... it's a bit troubling that she seems to live her personal life like an episode of COPS. I suppose we should just go with it because she's the best goalie in the world, but it's definitely a sign that we still don't take women's athletics very seriously that she's on the team at this point.

Wambach... well, you can't have them all. Maybe it's time to pat her on the back for a crazy-good career and ship her off to a Norwegian B team.

[ISiddiqui]

The US really sucked in that first half. Second half was way better, but please, USWNT, don't play that way against Sweden. We'll get blown out.

[SirFozzie]

Today in Jack Warner: Ultimate Slimeball (From ESPN News Feed)

Jack Warner has been investigated by US Prosecutors over the disappearance of money meant for victims of the Haiti Earthquake. He raised $750,000 when he visited in 2010. He denies the allegations of corruption and bribery.

[saldana]

Wambach doesn't really fit with how they're playing, and occasionlly they simply force one in there.

this.

it is so frustrating when the wings are not taking the ball deep and not trying to create on the outside because everytime we get within 25 yards of goal all anyone wants to do is loft the ball towards Wambach. she is clearly not fit for 90 minutes, and her foot skills are even less than they were when she was "good". by the end of the game she was a ghost on the field and we actually lost at least 2 scoring chances because she was too slow/tired/clumsy to get to a ball (not even counting the blown headers that JP and Julie called "rust").

[MIJB#19]

The gulf between teams at this tournament (especially goalkeepers) can be staggering. You always see some SERIOUS hammerings in the group stage.It would be easy to say it's a result of the women's game being much wider apart in skill level and the group stages being subject to mismatches. But at the same time - as recently as a 11 month go - on the men's side a world cup semifinal ended up in a demolition of a supposedly quality team.

[BishopMVP]

this.

it is so frustrating when the wings are not taking the ball deep and not trying to create on the outside because everytime we get within 25 yards of goal all anyone wants to do is loft the ball towards Wambach. she is clearly not fit for 90 minutes, and her foot skills are even less than they were when she was "good". by the end of the game she was a ghost on the field and we actually lost at least 2 scoring chances because she was too slow/tired/clumsy to get to a ball (not even counting the blown headers that JP and Julie called "rust").They brought in a coach who changed the style, focused on the younger players, went undefeated for a whole year then had one bad result and was canned. And they went back to a coach who relies on the old players, with consistently poor results since taking over. Maybe patriotism will get me cheering for the US in the end, but I'm not a fan of how that organization is being run.

[whomario]

Just saw a condensed replay of the norway-sweden mens friendly and Odegaaard looked to be the best player in the (admittedly not stellar) game. Kid is 16 years old for another 6 months and would be eligible for U17 tourneys.

[ISiddiqui]

They brought in a coach who changed the style, focused on the younger players, went undefeated for a whole year then had one bad result and was canned. And they went back to a coach who relies on the old players, with consistently poor results since taking over. Maybe patriotism will get me cheering for the US in the end, but I'm not a fan of how that organization is being run.

Ehhh... that's a bit too kind of Sermanni. It wasn't one bad result. They didn't win a game in the group stage at the 2014 Algarve Cup (1-1 draw with Japan, 0-1 loss against Sweden, and a 3-5 loss against Denmark). Most coaches would have gotten canned with that sort of result in a major tournament.

[Solecismic]

For a #3 versus #6, that was like watching paint dry. I wonder if they agreed to a 1-0 result before the match. England looks like it would struggle to put a single shot on goal against Ecuador.

[Grover]

I am pleased with the hiring of Slaven Bilic.

It will not be boring at Upton Park this year.

Big signing being announced tomorrow. Rumors of Lovren, Obiang or Ayew, but Ayew has been linked to Swans as well

[miami_fan]

Premier League could be victim of Europa League arrogance - ESPN FC (http://www.espnfc.com/blog/tactics-and-analysis/67/post/2484883/premier-league-could-be-victim-of-europa-league-arrogance)

Time to appreciate the Europa League.

[MIJB#19]

Premier League could be victim of Europa League arrogance - ESPN FC (http://www.espnfc.com/blog/tactics-and-analysis/67/post/2484883/premier-league-could-be-victim-of-europa-league-arrogance)

Time to appreciate the Europa League.I actually remember the days when the Eredivisie was ranked ahead of the Premier League. Admittedly, that was in the previous century (the mid and late 90's), before European laws voided all foreign-player limitations, followed by the Bosman case, etc. Fluctuations are of all times, but that top three spot certainly appears to be at risk next seasons, although there still is a 3-point cushion on Serie A. Plus, that so called arrogance also applies to the Spanish and Italian clubs. Even clubs in leagues in the bottom of the top10 are guilty of fielding backups.

Additionally, I was tempted to respond with how the Premier League's Fair Play Award ticket in Europa League could hurt the Premier League even more. I did the math (and foolishly forgot to save my research) that showed that over the past 20 seasons (I had to stop tracking at some point), the fair play award teams on average actually improve the league's coefficient. Basically, they accumulate enough points in the early qualifying stages to make up for the increased denominator, especially teams from leagues with higher standards, because they are seeded teams throughout those qualifying stages.

[cartman]

Jack Warner bought time on Trindad and Tobago TV to state his case.

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

John Oliver then bought time as well, and issued a rebuttal:

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/alwba8V1csY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[cartman]

Oof. Hungary and Serbia were tied in the 119th minute of their U20 World Cup match, and headed for PKs. That is, until a brutal own goal by Hungary gave Serbia the 2-1 win.

Terrible 119th Minute Own Goal Eliminated Hungary From U-20 World Cup | The Big Lead (http://thebiglead.com/2015/06/10/terrible-119th-minute-own-goal-eliminated-hungary-from-u-20-world-cup/)

[SirFozzie]

Klinsmann haters are frantically looking for recipes to make eating crow palatable as the USA MNT beats Netherlands and Germany in the space of a week.

[Chief Rum]

Klinsmann haters are frantically looking for recipes to make eating crow palatable as the USA MNT beats Netherlands and Germany in the space of a week.

You're right. Surely these victories will prove invaluable in getting to the next round of WC qualifying. Oh what, they're friendlies and don't mean a thing? Yup.

[ISiddiqui]

A very, very good goal from Bobby Wood there. Wow!

[MIJB#19]

You're right. Surely these victories will prove invaluable in getting to the next round of WC qualifying. Oh what, they're friendlies and don't mean a thing? Yup.Not entirely worthless. These wins will result in a lot of points for the FIFA ranking, because of the rankings of the respective opponents.

[Chief Rum]

Not entirely worthless. These wins will result in a lot of points for the FIFA ranking, because of the rankings of the respective opponents.

No, they aren't worthless, but they're not really of tremendous value either. FIFA rankings are about as much crap as FIFA itself at the moment, really, and the games literally do nothing to qualify the team for any tournament whatsoever.

I'm not a Klinsmann hater at all. I think he does some very good things, and then there are some faults he needs to shore up. I'm just pointing out that SirFozzie's point is patently ridiculous when you consider what was on the line in these games (nothing, really).

[cthomer5000]

Not entirely worthless. These wins will result in a lot of points for the FIFA ranking, because of the rankings of the respective opponents.

IIRC playing literally any friendlies lower our ranking overall because they are worth less than our competitive games within the confederation. We get penalized in friendlies simply by being part of CONCACAF.

I'm 99% certainly it's been shown mathmateically that if we really wanted to maximize our ranking (and therefore shot at the #1 pot in World Cup) that playing literally zero friendlies would be better.

It's a completely broken system.

[kingfc22]

IIRC playing literally any friendlies lower our ranking overall because they are worth less than our competitive games within the confederation. We get penalized in friendlies simply by being part of CONCACAF.

I'm 99% certainly it's been shown mathmateically that if we really wanted to maximize our ranking (and therefore shot at the #1 pot in World Cup) that playing literally zero friendlies would be better.

It's a completely broken system.

Let's ask Jack Warner for some help.

[Desnudo]

No, they aren't worthless, but they're not really of tremendous value either. FIFA rankings are about as much crap as FIFA itself at the moment, really, and the games literally do nothing to qualify the team for any tournament whatsoever.

I'm not a Klinsmann hater at all. I think he does some very good things, and then there are some faults he needs to shore up. I'm just pointing out that SirFozzie's point is patently ridiculous when you consider what was on the line in these games (nothing, really).

Bitching about beating Germany and The Netherlands...

[EagleFan]

Rather slow start for USWNT tonight. The refs don't seem to want to call a PK as each team should have had one by now.

[Easy Mac]

A firefighter from Gibraltar just stopped a German PK. maybe the US win was overrated.

[Easy Mac]

This Gibraltar-Germany match on FS2 is quite exciting. Gibraltar could honestly have 2 goals right now, but they're down 1-0. And it's amazing how easy it is to see the immense talent gap.

[Easy Mac]

Triple Dola

This Gibraltar keeper is playing like a giant killer. He would be carrying a 9.2 at the half in FM.

I greatly regret telling my wife I am going to Costco for her.

[bhlloy]

Day late on this but Wales are so close to qualifying now we can taste it - will be vacationing in France next year assuming it happens. An incredible effort against a really good Belgium team

[SirFozzie]

The Faroe Islands have beat Greece.

Again!

[cartman]

That was an epic quarterfinal match between Serbia and the USA in the U20 World Cup. Went 9 deep in penalties where Serbia scored and won. The US goalie made some awesome saves, but the scorers didn't take advantage.

[EagleFan]

Two of those use takers went completely brain dead. The very first one stopping right before kicking; that left him with zero power on his kick and an easy save. The last one barely jogging up and had no power on his kick for another easy save. Especially when the Serbia keeper was about a yard in front of the line before every kick (which I thought was supposed to be an illegal move). Shame for the US keeper because those two saves he made were fantastic.

Felt bad for the defender who skied his kick, he was a little out of his element there and he had played a GREAT game, glad the keeper came up huge with save next. Then the other player was about 2 inches from a perfect PK but instead he hits the corner and comes up empty.

[ISiddiqui]

Yay US women! Though we totally didn't look impressive... I fear how we'll play against Germany... who we may meet in the Semis.

[cubboyroy1826]

Yeah todays game was just so so. It seems like everyone but the US coaches knew that the US should pack the box on the corners just like Sweden did against Nigeria. We just seemed a little out of sync with passes going to long and players not communicating very well. Alas a win is a win.

[SirFozzie]

Clint Dempsey? He mad, yo.

The Portland-Seattle game.. got out of hand, the Sounders ended the game with 7 players, including Clint Dempsey grabbing the referee's card book and ripping it up

Livestream: 2015 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup - Round 4: Seattle Sounders FC vs. Portland Timbers - YouTube (https://youtu.be/QeAasSQnZ8Q?t=2h31m2s)

[ISiddiqui]

Yeah todays game was just so so. It seems like everyone but the US coaches knew that the US should pack the box on the corners just like Sweden did against Nigeria. We just seemed a little out of sync with passes going to long and players not communicating very well. Alas a win is a win.

Oh, I'm not saying the win isn't nice. But other teams in the tourney have impressed. We haven't. I don't think we'll actually go very far playing this way.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Eastside Hockey Manager (Early Access) is $10 until noon today.

[Bobble]

Eastside Hockey Manager (Early Access) is $10 until noon today.

I think you meant this for the Steam thread maybe? Either that or this is the weirdest threadcrap ever. ;)

[Bobble]

Oh, I'm not saying the win isn't nice. But other teams in the tourney have impressed. We haven't. I don't think we'll actually go very far playing this way.

+1

[SirFozzie]

Dempsey got three games for ripping up the ref's notebook. Kinda surprised, the minimum punishment for assault (which includes "Destroying or damaging the referee's equipment") is six games. Eligible for the Gold Cup, let's see what Klinsi does.

[cartman]

Parma failed to find a new investor (evidently the Mike Piazza thing never materialized), and have been kicked down to Serie D.

[ISiddiqui]

Well, it looks like Pirlo to NYCFC is a go. The team has started playing better recently, so I'm not sure they needed to pull a retirement player to keep fan interest going (esp with Lampard coming over soon as well - though I think NYCFC is much happier getting Pirlo this Summer than Lampard over what happened with him this Spring).

[whomario]

Parma failed to find a new investor (evidently the Mike Piazza thing never materialized), and have been kicked down to Serie D.

That will be a popular pick in FM 16 then ;) (in all seriousness, thats a shame. One of the teams that have regularly been of interest to me, especially as a youngster in the late 90s and early 00s)

[cartman]

Inter splashed out 40 million Euros to get Geoffrey Kondogbia away from AS Monaco. That is a steep price to upgrade their midfield.

[sovereignstar v2]

Nice that UEFA is going to relax the FFP rules so that the Milan clubs can start splashing the cash.

[SirFozzie]

If USA win tonight, half the quarterfinalists will be english speaking nations (Canada, US, England, Australia).

3 of the four could make the semifinals (Germany-France is the only non-English speaking quarterfinals, Canada plays England).

Fox must love the way this is turning out (Barring US loss)

[MizzouCowboy]

Red card on the Columbia keeper and Wambach (I think) misses from the spot.
This US team looks terrible. Giving up possession constantly, and I have no clue what the plan of attack is.

And just like that it's a GOOOOAAAALLLL USA!

[kingfc22]

That is some atrocious goal keeping right there.

[kingfc22]

If you're going to talk shit. You better be able to back it up.

[bronconick]

That is some atrocious goal keeping right there.


It's their 3rd stringer

[cartman]

Every time I hear Tony DiCicco announcing, I have to remind myself that I'm not listening to Jeremy Schaap.

[SirFozzie]

2 weeks to go until meaningful European games start, at least for English/Scottish/Irish/Welsh teams in Europe. Celtic face Stjarnan, who knocked out Motherwell in Europa League qualifiers last year.

Champions League:
(Enters at first round)

The New Saints (Wales) vs B36 Torshavn (Faroe Islands)
Crusaders (Northern Ireland) vs Levadia Talinn (Estonia)

(Enters 2nd Round)
Glasgow Celtic (Scotland) vs FC Stjarnan (Iceland)
Dundalk (Ireland) vs BATE Borisov (Belarus)

(Enters Playoff Stage (4th round))
Manchester United vs ???

Enters Group Stage
Chelsea
Manchester City
Arsenal


Europa League

Enters 1st Qualifying Round
West Ham (England) vs FC Lusitans (Andorra)
Newtown (Wales) vs FC Valetta (Malta)
Glenavon (Northern Ireland) vs Shakhtyor Soligorsk (Belarus)
Linfield (Northern Ireland) vs NSI Runavik (Faroe Islands)
Glentoran (Northern Ireland) vs MSK Zilina (Slovakia)
Shamrock Rovers (Ireland) vs Progres Niederkorn (Luxemborg)
Cork City (Ireland) vs KR Reykjavik (Iceland)
UC Dublin (Ireland) v F91 Dudelange (Luxemborg.. the Dudelange abides!)
St Patrick's Athletic (Ireland) vs Skonto FC (Latvia)
Bala Town (Wales) vs FC Differdange 03 (Luxemborg)
AUK Broughton (Wales) vs Lokomitva Zagreb (Croatia)
Aberdeen (Scotland) vs KF Shkendija (Macedonia)
St Johnstone (Scotland) vs Alashkert FC (Armenia)


(enters 2nd round qualifying)
Inverness Caley Thistle (Scotland) vs Astra Girgliu (Romania)

(Enters 3rd round qualifying)
Southampton (v ???)

(Enters Group Stage)
Liverpool
Tottenham

And my hands hurt typing that all out, and my spell checker has gone on strike.

[MizzouRah]

Wasn't too found of the referring tonight.. but at least we scored on one of the PK's. Don't like not having Rapinoe for the next game.

[RainMaker]

Wambach really looks washed up.

[rowech]

Wambach really looks washed up.

She offers something coming off the bench where she can go 15-20 minutes as much as she possibly can but playing her an entire game is generally a waste. Would rather a younger/faster team in there.

They're just not good enough this go around. They will get past the next game but once they're to the final four, my guess will be they will be the weakest of the four remaining teams.

[CraigSca]

Watching this with my wife (trying to get her into soccer) and, while she's not a soccer fan, her critique has been brutal. As she's said, it seems like the Americans just kick it without thinking and I have to agree. It's almost as if there is no tactical plan. It's not fun soccer to watch.

[ISiddiqui]

Agreed. Jill Ellis is really a bad coach.

[BishopMVP]

Bad coaching, a federation more concerned about politics and marketing than winning, and a domestic abuser starting. I was rooting for the US to lose so they are forced to fix the problems.

[HomerSimpson98]

I think everyone is being a tad harsh, in my uneducated opinion. The short of it was that Colombia simply was not that good. There is not one time during that match that I was concerned about a possible loss. We were bigger, faster, and stronger than they were in all phases. And I think we knew that, so we kinda half-assed it. At least thats what I am telling myself. It was a rough game to watch for sure.

[ISiddiqui]

We've been half-assing it a lot in this tourney then ;). We may be ok against China, but then either Germany or France are going to kill us.

[Arles]

The US hasn't really been "challenged" yet, so it will be interesting to see how they respond if they go down early in a game. Thus far they've been able to get the result they needed fairly comfortably by coasting. I think they have another gear that we will see starting in the China match. That said, I am not a big fan of Ellis and she might be the one weak link that hurts them down the road.

[ISiddiqui]

Seriously... I think everyone and their mothers is calling for a 4-3-3 formation (ok, 4-2-3-1 may work too) at this point. But it won't happen.