WC 2010 draws

[sonic21]

France and Portugal are not top-seeded. The draw is friday.

group 1 (top-seeded)
Brazil, Spain, Italy, Germany, Argentina, England, Holland, South Africa

group 2
Australia, Japon, South Korea, North Korea, Honduras, Mexico, USA, New Zealand

group3
Algeria, Cameroun, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Chili, Paraguay, Uruguay

group4
Denmark, France, Greece, Portugal, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Suitzerland

[Bukefal]

Looking forward to the draw. I thought Holland would be in 2, but they are in 1 after all.

[TDMVPDPOY]

i want a rematch with italy either group or knockout stages...fuck them diving wankers are playin the wrong sport

[IronMexican]

So how does this work? Whatever group you are in, thats who you COULD play? I DONT GET THIS SHIT

[lefty]

So how does this work? Whatever group you are in, thats who you COULD play? I DONT GET THIS SHIT
so basically:

1st of all, those are not groups, they are pools


Each group (in the group stage) will have 1 team from each pool

For example, you can have a group comprising of: Brazil, Mexico, Algeria and Denmark


However, South Africa and any other African team won't be in the same group

[IronMexican]

so basically:

1st of all, those are not groups, they are pools


Each group (in the group stage) will have 1 team from each pool

For example, you can have a group comprising of: Brazil, Mexico, Algeria and Denmark


However, South Africa and any other African team won't be in the same group

Yeah, I wiki'd it. So you pretty much can play anyone not from the same zone as you? (Like Mexico and USA). Unless you are Europe, which you can only have 2 in each.

[lefty]

Yeah, I wiki'd it. So you pretty much can play anyone not from the same zone as you? (Like Mexico and USA). Unless you are Europe, which you can only have 2 in each.
That's a good question

I'm not sure if it's a rule specific to Africa or if it applies to other zones as well

Since Africa doesn't have a lot of teams, I think they want to increase the chances of the African teams to go to the 2nd round (because if 2 of them fall in the same group, that means - potentially - less african teams qualifying for the 2nd round)

[Brazil]

lol France fucked by fifa surely hand payback

[NuGGeTs-FaN]

please put Australia in with Italy. I want those flopping morons to get knocked out in the 1st round :smokin

[lefty]

Yeah, I wiki'd it. So you pretty much can play anyone not from the same zone as you? (Like Mexico and USA). Unless you are Europe, which you can only have 2 in each.
Ok, I just chatted with a co-worker who is from Uruguay

The same rule applies to the Conmebol zone

[sonic21]

1st of all, those are not groups, they are pools


yea sorry, i didn't know the english word.

[IronMexican]

yea sorry, i didn't know the english word.

I am sick and tired of you argentinian manu fans who can't speak english.

[lefty]

yea sorry, i didn't know the english word.
No problem

I'm not even sure pool is the right word :lol

[SAtown]

Top 10 Things to Expect from World Cup Draw :lol


http://goal.com/en/news/2377/top-10/2009/12/01/1659262/top-10-things-to-expect-from-world-cup-draw

[IronMexican]

2) At the end of the ceremony, Thierry Henry is invited to join the Soweto Gospel Choir for renditions of traditional Irish songs Carrickfergus and Danny Boy. Afterwards Michel Platini asks the audience, "Can we have a big hand for Henry?"



7) FIFA dramatically change the rules just two minutes before the draw in order to allow France to be in a group all by themselves. Raymond Domenech announces that it is a "balanced group and we have to be cautious".

:lmao

[Brazil]

I am sick and tired of you argentinian manu fans who can't speak english.

I think sonic is french or argentina changed his flag

[resistanze]

"8) The Greek delegation get their dinner early and then defend it for the rest of the night."

LMAO! So true.

[FromWayDowntown]

Brutal for CONCACAF teams to get put with the Asia/Oceania qualifiers.

Had CONCACAF been potted with the Africans, USA, Mexico, or Honduras would have certainly been drawn into South Africa's group and had a relatively high chance to make the knockout rounds. Now, any of them could end up in a group with a top seed and France or Portugal -- if the group includes Ivory Coast, the CONCACAF team will likely be the poorest team in the group.

Seems pretty likely that there's going to be an absolutely killer Group of Death by the end of the proceedings on Friday.

[TwinTowers]

I don't get how Argentina is a top seed, after a poor showing in the commebol qualifiers

[lefty]

Today is the day, bitches !!!!!!!!

Damn, I'm hoping Algeria won't be in the same group as Brazil and Spain :D

[IronMexican]

almost. So nervous

[lefty]

almost. So nervous
I'm super nervous OMG

No Brazil, no SPain, no Grance, please please please



And more Cherlize THeron please :D

[lefty]

Enough with the fucking history lessons and the stupid kid !!!!!!

[Purple & Gold]

Stay away Group of Death.....

[lefty]

Damn Charlize Theron is gorgeous

Good Job, South Africa :tu

[lefty]

http://img7.hostingpics.net/pics/515430hiya.jpg

[Purple & Gold]

Lol you're quick with that pic of Charlize Theron

[Purple & Gold]

No Ivory Coast No France and Portugal......

[lefty]

Lol you're quick with that pic of Charlize Theron
:lol

[lefty]

Why us Eric Snow wearing a yellow dress?

[The Gemini Method]

This has got to be the longest 2 hour program in the history of live feed on the internetz. Normally, I go for the Brazil (Selecao) side since that's who really got me into the sport of futbol (soccer), but I'm kinda partial to Spain since they did win me $100 American in the Euro Cup last time. They've been rather spectacular in the qualifying rounds, but can they win the biggest price and finally put an end to the underachieving label that they kinda got rid of in winning the Euro tourney...

[lefty]

Ok not groups E or F please...................

[Purple & Gold]

Yay Mexico got South Africa :lol

[Purple & Gold]

Opening Match couldn't have wished for a better group A opponent!!

[lefty]

Lol usa

[resistanze]

lefty ya got england!

[lefty]

Haha Algeria vs USA

[lefty]

lefty ya got england!
I'm OK with England

Thanks GOd we didn't get Brazil or SPain

[The Gemini Method]

The U.S. gets England in its first match...lol

[IronMexican]

Fuck

[resistanze]

France in an easy ass group.

[lefty]

LMAO Korea

[IronMexican]

Uruguay and Fracne are very good teams. And South Africa is hosting. Not easy

[The Gemini Method]

Group F looks like the Group of Death...

[Purple & Gold]

Ohhh shit France don't like that but I guess we couldn't dodge them all.

[Purple & Gold]

Uruguay and Fracne are very good teams. And South Africa is hosting. Not easy

Uruguay is decent and host countries always play well. Mexico and France should advance though.

[The Gemini Method]

Spain with Honduras so far...so good for the Spaniards...

[resistanze]

Phew Serbia

[lefty]

Phew Serbia
Ehehehehe :D

[resistanze]

Portugal is fucked!

[lefty]

Korea :lmao

[Libri]

Uruguay and Fracne are very good teams. And South Africa is hosting. Not easy

Not easy but Mexico seems to play up to their competition.

[The Gemini Method]

Can it get any easier for Brasil?

[resistanze]

I feel bad for Ivory Coast, 2 shitty draws in a row.

[IronMexican]

Uruguay is decent and host countries always play well. Mexico and France should advance though.

France always struggles eartly on too.

[lefty]

I feel bad for Ivory Coast, 2 shitty draws in a row.
You mean Korea

[IronMexican]

I wanna see Lalas pimp USA like he did in 2006. That was funny.

[The Gemini Method]

Yeah, the group with The Netherlands, Japan, and Cameroon looks like to be the Death...

[resistanze]

You mean Korea

lol N Korea never had a chance. Ivory Coast is actually good! :lol

Last WC they had Netherlands and Argentina, lost both games 2-1.

[The Gemini Method]

At least we know that Group H won't need many translators...

[sonic21]

It is possible France will have a new coach in January. Right now i don't see them advancing.

[resistanze]

I think France can compete with Uruguay and Mexico.

[Purple & Gold]

I wanna see Lalas pimp USA like he did in 2006. That was funny.

Lalas was trashing their talent on ESPN Deportes after the game against Mexico. He actually speaks pretty good Spanish. But he's as happy as a pig in shit now. They should be able to advance easily.

[Purple & Gold]

It is possible France will have a new coach in January. Right now i don't see them advancing.

France and Mexico should advance. But don't ever count out the host nation. And good to hear France is struggling.

[The Gemini Method]

Brazil v. Portugal in the 2nd game...awesome.

[Libri]

The U.S. gets England in its first match...lol

Let them play against the big teams and see if they have improved or not.

[The Gemini Method]

Let them play against the big teams and see if they have improved or not.

With all the injuries plaguing the U.S., I'll be glad to see them advance to the 2nd round...

[sonic21]

It will be close between usa, algeria and slovenia. I think slovenia or algeria will advance.

[The Gemini Method]

Looks like Mexico is going to have a tough group...I wouldn't be surprised if they flounder in the 1st round.

[lefty]

I wouldn't underestimate the USA

Why? because they play hard for 90 minutes

[sonic21]

well maybe the us team has improved, i only see them play during the WCs

[The Gemini Method]

They've improved, but they're not close to being elite just yet. Let's see if Donovan can lead his team better than he did with the Galaxy during the MLS Cup...

[Slo spurs fan]

We will beat your sorry ass USA!
2mio Slovenia against 300+mio USA.
We already beat Russia (150 mio people), we are giant killer! The soccer´s David.

[Brazil]

-Easy group for France. For me France and South Africa advance
-Brazil with the most difficult one, poor Portugual always in death groups. Ivory coast is a huge client with Drogba at the top of his form
- Argentina will have to step up to pass south corea, nigeria (always tricky) and Greece capable of the best or of the worst
- Group C England / USA should not have issues
- Germany is not in an easy one Ghana / Serbia can be tough
- Holland will have to take his group seriously with Cameroun and Danmark
- Italy it's too easy like usual
- Spain in a chair also

[Slo spurs fan]

-Easy group for France. For me France and South Africa advance
-Brazil with the most difficult one, poor Portugual always in death groups. Ivory coast is a huge client with Drogba at the top of his form
- Argentina will have to step up to pass south corea, nigeria (always tricky) and Greece capable of the best or of the worst
- Group C England / USA should not have issues
- Germany is not in an easy one Ghana / Serbia can be tough
- Holland will have to take his group seriously with Cameroun and Danmark
- Italy it's too easy like usual
- Spain in a chair also

If you think France won´t have MANY problems with Uruguay (not even mention Mexico), than you are not from this world. There won´t be any free handball goals for France.

[IronMexican]

If you think France won´t have MANY problems with Uruguay (not even mention Mexico), than you are not from this world. There won´t be any free handball goals for France.

It's already on and cracking:lol


France struggles to beat Ireland and suddenly they have an easy group?

[The Gemini Method]

We will beat your sorry ass USA!
2mio Slovenia against 300+mio USA.
We already beat Russia (150 mio people), we are giant killer! The soccer´s David.

Uh, what does a nation's population have to do with how good/bad your soccer team is going to do in the World Cup? If you beat the U.S., that'll be a good victory, but Slovenia has no chance on winning the whole thing just like the U.S. has...

[sonic21]

If you think France won´t have MANY problems with Uruguay (not even mention Mexico), than you are not from this world. There won´t be any free handball goals for France.

Teams like France always find a way to advance (even when they suck)

[Slo spurs fan]

Uh, what does a nation's population have to do with how good/bad your soccer team is going to do in the World Cup? If you beat the U.S., that'll be a good victory, but Slovenia has no chance on winning the whole thing just like the U.S. has...

LOL we have even chances. NO chance for our two teams. You really don´t think US can win it all, do you?

[Slo spurs fan]

Teams like France always find a way to advance (even when they suck)

Yeah, you are right. France can buy a win.

[The Gemini Method]

LOL we have even chances. NO chance for our two teams. You really don´t think US can win it all, do you?

No I do not. Not yet at least. Football aka Soccer is still growing in the U.S. Will it ever be the case that our team will win it all? Maybe. Just not in 2010. That's being a realist...

[Brazil]

It's already on and cracking:lol


France struggles to beat Ireland and suddenly they have an easy group?

Apparently you're not very familiar with how the qualification works in Europe. It's a fucking war, there is no easy match and France won't certainly be the same than during qualification. Players are in the midle of the season with their team playing all the competitions, smaller countries have their players rested and 100% focus on the qualification.

You want some examples ?
- France 92 qualification : 8 games / 8 wins 4 being against Spain and Tchecosloquia, 19 straight wins stretch. Result during the Euro=> first round elimination no win.
- Qualification Euro 2000, France struggled a lot with 1-1 in Island, a poor 1-0 against Andorre, loss against Russia in Paris. Result => Euro winner
- Qualification World cup 2006, again a nightmare. Result=> finalist.

Sorry to say that but France and South Africa will pass

[Brazil]

Yeah, you are right. France can buy a win.

u mad?

[Slo spurs fan]

Apparently you're not very familiar with how the qualification works in Europe. It's a fucking war, there is no easy match and France won't certainly be the same than during qualification. Players are in the midle of the season with their team playing all the competitions, smaller countries have their players rested and 100% focus on the qualification.

You want some examples ?
- France 92 qualification : 8 games / 8 wins 4 being against Spain and Tchecosloquia, 19 straight wins stretch. Result during the Euro=> first round elimination no win.
- Qualification Euro 2000, France struggled a lot with 1-1 in Island, a poor 1-0 against Andorre, loss against Russia in Paris. Result => Euro winner
- Qualification World cup 2006, again a nightmare. Result=> finalist.

Sorry to say that but France and South Africa will pass

Bullshit. You think players from Slovenia played only those 10 games in the last 2 years? and a giant lol @ Tchecosloquia

[Slo spurs fan]

u mad?

At how you bought that win (Platini bought that win for ya)? Yes I am mad.

[IronMexican]

Apparently you're not very familiar with how the qualification works in Europe. It's a fucking war, there is no easy match and France won't certainly be the same than during qualification. Players are in the midle of the season with their team playing all the competitions, smaller countries have their players rested and 100% focus on the qualification.

You want some examples ?
- France 92 qualification : 8 games / 8 wins 4 being against Spain and Tchecosloquia, 19 straight wins stretch. Result during the Euro=> first round elimination no win.
- Qualification Euro 2000, France struggled a lot with 1-1 in Island, a poor 1-0 against Andorre, loss against Russia in Paris. Result => Euro winner
- Qualification World cup 2006, again a nightmare. Result=> finalist.

Sorry to say that but France and South Africa will pass

Thanks Nostradamus.

[Brazil]

Bullshit. You think players from Slovenia played only those 10 games in the last 2 years? and a giant lol @ Tchecosloquia


chill out dude. I don't know what are you mad for but it's ok.

Where do I say players from Slovenia are playing only 10 games in the last two years ?
It's just that players of Milan AC, Real Madrid, Chelsea etc... have heavier calendar and tougher games every week than players playing for Lille, Laval or ljubljana and normally countries like France, Spain have more players playing for these big teams than Island for instance.

oh and thanks for the giant lol @ it brings a lot to the current debate.

[sonic21]

if france doesn't advance, the WC will not be competitive. I mean they are the only team who can stop Brazil since 1990.

:downspin:

[Brazil]

Thanks Nostradamus.

it wasn't a prediction, I should have added IMO France and South Africa will pass, it's my call. I guess you have a different one with your team being one of the two.

[velik_m]

I was hoping for Italy, USA & Ivory Coast but this group is ok too.

Group G is ouch, not too mention they cross with group H (Spain). We could have Brasil-Spain in 1/8 finals! :wow

Italy as always gets the easiest draw, still they'll somehow manage to just barely scrape through...

[Brazil]

if france doesn't advance, the WC will not be competitive. I mean they are the only team who can stop Brazil since 1990.

:downspin:

hummm not sure about that one. I wish we can see a France / Brazil: Dunga vs. Domenech would be epic.

[sonic21]

i was kidding, i think spain or holland can win it all

[Brazil]

i was kidding, i think spain or holland can win it all

Every competition holland is announced to be capable to win it all but we never know maybe this is the right one.

[Technique]

Still can't believe Russia didn't qualify..

[sonic21]

Every competition holland is announced to be capable to win it all but we never know maybe this is the right one.

i will always feel bad for them because of 1974. I think they were the best team in 1998 and we were lucky they didn't qualify for the finale.

[MannyIsGod]

Pretty solid group for the United States to advance. Can't wait to see them pound the shit out of Slovenia like Beno pounding a dozen breakfast tacos.

[velik_m]

Pretty solid group for the United States to advance. Can't wait to see them pound the shit out of Slovenia like Beno pounding a dozen breakfast tacos.

Weak. Come on now, you can do better...

[sonic21]

is donovan still the best american player? why didn't he come to europe?

[MannyIsGod]

Weak. Come on now, you can do better...

Probably but I don't want to piss off Slomo. He's a friend. :lol

I'm actually looking forward to this because it should produce a good game blog thread here :lol

[mookie2001]

slovenia sucks


the US is going to ruin England, UGLY STYLE

book that shit

[velik_m]

U.S. gets a plum Cup draw for once

The gods of soccer smiled upon the United States for once on Friday, giving the Americans one of the most fortunate draws imaginable for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa (FULL DRAW).

Once all the ping-pong balls were drawn in Cape Town, the U.S. ended up with the following first-round games: vs. England on June 12 in Rustenburg, vs. Slovenia on June 18 in Johannesburg and vs. Algeria on June 23 in Pretoria.

The vast majority of pundits around the world will pick the U.S. to advance to the knockout round along with England, and with good reason. Slovenia and Algeria were two of the biggest surprises in November even to qualify for the World Cup, both countries needing upsets in playoffs against Russia (by Slovenia) and Egypt (by Algeria) to reach the field of 32. Algeria and Slovenia are arguably the worst teams from Africa and Europe, respectively, to qualify for South Africa.

And while England will be a huge challenge in the U.S.' opening game, it's a mouthwatering matchup between old rivals who last met in the World Cup in 1950: a 1-0 U.S. victory that is considered perhaps the greatest upset in World Cup history. Can anyone say Landon Donovan vs. David Beckham in South Africa? If you're the U.S., having your toughest group game first is a good thing. (Remember the big win over Portugal in the 2002 World Cup opener?) What's more, England is a traditionally slow-starting team in World Cups.

But there's even more to the U.S.' lucky draw. If the Yanks advance to the knockout rounds, the World Cup bracket structure would allow them to avoid having to meet any of the FIFA rankings' top four teams (Spain, Brazil, Netherlands, Italy) until the semifinals. That's right: The world's top four teams are all on the other side of the bracket.

What does all this mean? Well, the U.S. will have no excuses if it fails to reach the knockout rounds of the 2010 World Cup. It won't matter if the Americans are still missing players due to injury (Oguchi Onyewu, Charlie Davies, Jay DeMerit). It won't matter because this is just about the kindest draw you could imagine.

Think about it: The U.S. won't even have to hop on a plane from its base near Pretoria to travel to games in Rustenburg (a two-hour drive), Johannesburg (a one-hour drive) and Pretoria (a no-hour drive).

Nor will the Yanks be uncomfortable in their surroundings, having played games during last June's Confederations Cup at the same stadiums in Rustenburg (a 3-0 win vs. Egypt), in Pretoria (a 3-0 loss to Brazil) and in Johannesburg's Ellis Park (a 3-2 loss to Brazil). All three games will be at altitude, but the U.S. will have plenty of time to acclimatize at its training camp beforehand.

So, yes, the soccer gods smiled on America on Friday. Get ready for the hype on USA-England. And get ready for expectations around the U.S. to spike mightily.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/grant_wahl/12/04/wcup.draw/index.html?eref=sihp

[velik_m]

England enjoy kind World Cup draw

England have been drawn to face the United States, Algeria and Slovenia in the group stage of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

Fabio Capello's men will play the United States in Rustenburg on 12 June, Algeria in Cape Town on 18 June and Slovenia in Port Elizabeth on 23 June.

Five-time champions Brazil face Portugal, Ivory Coast and North Korea in arguably the strongest group.

Holders Italy were drawn with Slovakia, Paraguay and New Zealand.

France, the 1998 winners and 2006 runners-up, will play hosts South Africa, Mexico and Uruguay, who staged and triumphed at the first World Cup in 1930.

European champions Spain are unlikely to fear Chile, Switzerland or Honduras and three-time winners Germany will take on Serbia, Ghana and Australia.

The Netherlands, ranked number three in the world, must navigate their way past Denmark, Cameroon and Japan.

Two-time champions Argentina are pooled with 2004 European champions Greece, Nigeria and South Korea.

As with every World Cup since 1998, teams must finish in the top two in their group to qualify for the knockout phase.

Fifa announced on Thursday that the winners of the 2010 tournament, which takes place between 11 June and 11 July, will receive £18.6m ($31m).

That is an increase of 61% on the 2006 finals, while teams who get knocked out in group stage are to pocket £5.4m ($9m).

England's seeding as one of the eight top teams in the competition meant they would always avoid Brazil, Spain, Holland, Italy, Germany and Argentina and South Africa in the group stage.

Their only previous World Cup meeting with the USA - a 1-0 defeat in 1950 - ranks as one of the biggest shocks in the tournament's 80-year history, and they have never played Algeria or Slovenia on world football's biggest stage.

But England can lay claim to victories over the USA and Slovenia under Capello at Wembley.

"It's not so bad," the Italian told BBC Sport. "We played against the USA and Slovenia at home - we played well, we won, but when we have to play here in June it will be difficult.

"Algeria beat Egypt (in a World Cup qualifying play-off) and will not be easy; they have a really good team now. When you play at the World Cup, every game is not easy."

Asked if he feared England, USA coach Bob Bradley told BBC Sport: "No, not at all. It's big. Algeria and Slovenia are teams that maybe aren't the biggest teams in some ways, but came through with great efforts to get here."

If England emerge from Group C they will play either Germany, Serbia, Ghana or Australia for a place in the quarter-finals.

South Africa will get the tournament started against Mexico at Ellis Park, Johannesburg, on 11 June 2010.

"I don't envy the Mexicans, who are going to be subject to 90,000 vuvuzelas," said South Africa defender Matthew Booth, referring to the loud horns that Bafana Bafana supporters bring to matches.

The star-studded draw ceremony, held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, began with a video message from revered former South Africa president and Nobel Peace Prize winner Nelson Mandela.

"Sport has the power to inspire and unite people," said 91-year-old Mandela. "In Africa, soccer enjoys great popularity and has a particular place in the hearts of people.

"This is why it is so important that the Fifa World Cup will for the first time ever be hosted on the African Continent in 2010. We feel privileged and humble that South Africa has been given the singular honour of being the host country."

South Africa's Oscar-winning actress Charlize Theron brought a touch of Hollywood glamour to proceedings, alongside England midfielder David Beckham, Ethiopian athletics legend Haile Gebrselassie and Springboks rugby union captain John Smit.

Makhaya Ntini, the first black cricketer to play for South Africa, and World Cup icons Franz Beckenbauer, Michel Platini, Eusebio and Roger Milla were present, with entertainment coming from the likes of the Soweto Gospel Choir and singers Angelique Kidjo and Johnny Clegg.

2010 World Cup draw

Group A: South Africa, Mexico, Uruguay, France

Group B: Argentina, South Korea, Nigeria, Greece

Group C: England, USA, Algeria, Slovenia

Group D: Germany, Australia, Ghana, Serbia

Group E: Netherlands, Japan, Cameroon, Denmark

Group F: Italy, New Zealand, Paraguay, Slovakia

Group G: Brazil, North Korea, Ivory Cost, Portugal

Group H: Spain, Honduras, Chile, Switzerland

Story from BBC SPORT:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/sport2/hi/football/internationals/8393328.stm

[velik_m]

U.S. to open against England at World Cup
CAPE TOWN, South Africa (AP) - The United States will face England at the World Cup for the first time since a famous upset 60 years ago, then play Slovenia and Algeria in the first round of next year's tournament.

The U.S. opens against England in Rustenburg on June 12, the teams' first World Cup matchup since the Americans' 1-0 victory at the 1950 tournament in Brazil.

The United States then meets Slovenia at Johannesburg's Ellis Park on June 18 and completes the first round on June 23 against Algeria in Pretoria. The U.S. has never played either nation.

"This is the best draw we've ever had in any World Cup," said former U.S. forward Eric Wynalda, now an analyst for the Fox Soccer Channel. "No disrespect to England, but this is an ideal group for us."

Several U.S. players are well known to England because they play in the Premier League, including goalkeeper Tim Howard (Everton), midfielder Clint Dempsey (Fulham), defenders Jonathan Spector (West Ham) and Jay DeMerit (Watford) and forward Jozy Altidore (Hull). U.S. captain Carlos Bocanegra played for Fulham.

"It will be like a Premier League game," Fulham manager Roy Hodgson said. "The USA is like a team you meet every week. It's better than meeting North Korea and a style of play you're not used to."

The game could feature a matchup of Los Angeles Galaxy teammates Landon Donovan playing for the U.S. against England midfielder David Beckham. Donovan shrugged his shoulders when the U.S. was picked to play England. "It never ends," he said - apparent reference to his connection to the English star.

"This is going to be awesome," Donovan said. "I can't wait. This is going to be great."

The U.S. has beaten England twice and lost seven times in nine meetings. The other victory was 2-0 in a 1993 exhibition at Foxborough, Mass. In the most recent matchups, England won 2-1 at Chicago's Solider Field in 2005 and 2-0 at Wembley last year.

The only official match between the teams was at the 1950 World Cup.

"It's a tough game," former England manager Terry Venables said. "They will be very well organized and very fit. They won't outplay us but they could out-strength us.

"They won't give in until the last but we do have a bit more."

Mexico was drawn Friday to meet South Africa in the tournament opener on June 11 in Johannesburg. El Tri then plays France and Uruguay in Group A.

http://msn.foxsports.com/soccer/story/10473422/U.S.-to-open-against-England-at-World-Cup

[scott]

I like our chances to go unbeaten in this group. Howard's Premier League experience will be key.

[lefty]

if france doesn't advance, the WC will not be competitive. I mean they are the only team who can stop Brazil since 1990.

:downspin:
:lol So true

[lefty]

Story from BBC SPORT:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/sport2/hi/football/internationals/8393328.stm
Wow :lmao

I would be surprised if the U.S leave the tournament with 2 points






Just kidding :D

[lefty]

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs086.snc3/15343_1266600315081_1531993952_702012_600919_n.jpg

[NuGGeTs-FaN]

UGH! Australia is in the group of death!

[MB20]

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs086.snc3/15343_1266600315081_1531993952_702012_600919_n.jpg

:lol

[MB20]

Seriously, I would like for some other country to win this time.
Always the same countries win the WC...which is kinda boring...
Brazil, Italy, Germany, Argentina, Uruguay, England, France (am I missing someone?)
I´d like an african team to win.


And don´t sleep on Chile or Paraguay. They are playing very well.

[lefty]

Seriously, I would like for some other country to win this time.
Always the same countries win the WC...which is kinda boring...
Brazil, Italy, Germany, Argentina, Uruguay, England, France (am I missing someone?)
I´d like an african team to win.


And don´t sleep on Chile or Paraguay. They are playing very well.
I agree.

But Blatter will go David Stern on teams not named Brazil, Spain, Italy, France, Argentina and Germany.

[MB20]

Well, to be honest, Argentina sucks. Not even Blatter has the power to help us.

[lefty]

Well, to be honest, Argentina sucks. Not even Blatter has the power to help us.
I don't know what Maradonna the coach has done to Argentina :depressed

Still a fucking legend though

[Bukefal]

I want the Netherlands to win it finally. They had so many chances. 2 times in the finals, plus a very good shot in 1998. But I don't think they will honestly. They have good players, but they have a motivation problem. The players are not motivated. They play 'not to lose' instead of playing 'to win'. And that's a huge difference. They have pretty simple pool, they will come far I guess.

Group A: France will do it good, maybe Uruguay also but I think mexico will be second in the group.

Group B: Argentina of course will be first in the group, Greece second I think.

Group C: This is a group I don't know, because you would say England is the best. But, England has sucked for many years now, Slovenia can be a tough underdog. But I think the USA will suprise this WC, they may even be first in their group. They will definitelly advance.

Group D: Germany is simply the best one in here. This is a tough group. I think Germany first and Australia second, with some luck though.

Group E: Well, Netherlands first in the group, second im going for Cameroon.

Group F: Italy is a team which develops in the tournament itself, they will be first and Slovakia second, because I think they will surprise and their motivation will be big.

Group G: This is also a tough group, you have Brasil, Portugal and Ivory Coast, 3 good teams. Brasil will of course come out first second I think Portugal.

Group H: Spain first, chili second. Honduras and Switzerland are simply not good enough.

As for possible winners, I think it will be around Germany, Brasil, Argentina and maybe Spain. I hope the Netherlands and it would be awesome if USA gets it, but that's not realistic, even though I think they will come far and surprise.

[lefty]

Don't overlook South Africa.

As of right now, they may be the weakest African team out of the 6 participating in the 2010 WC, but they have 6 months to get ready, and will play at home.

When they hosted the Afican Nations Cup at home, they won the tournament.

Same thing with the rugby WC.

The SA gouvernment will invest big time in its team.

[Universal]

Don't overlook South Africa.

As of right now, they may be the weakest African team out of the 6 participating in the 2010 WC, but they have 6 months to get ready, and will play at home.

When they hosted the Afican Nations Cup at home, they won the tournament.

Same thing with the rugby WC.

The SA gouvernment will invest big time in its team.
SA doesn't have a chance going against the likes of Mexico, Uruguay and France...if a weaker team (for instance, New Zealand) had been drafted to the A group instead of one of those three, it could be different.
Then again, this is soccer...if Greece can win the Euro, South Africa surely can aspire to at least the 2nd spot in that group.

[lefty]

SA doesn't have a chance going against the likes of Mexico, Uruguay and France...if a weaker team (for instance, New Zealand) had been drafted to the A group instead of one of those three, it could be different.
Then again, this is soccer...if Greece can win the Euro, South Africa surely can aspire to at least the 2nd spot in that group.
Well, regarding France, it depends on if they will be allowed to use their hands or not.

But you are right, anything can happen.

In the 82 WC, Algeria beat West Germany; but Algeria had a great team back then, super squad.

[Bukefal]

South Africa wont do anything suprising at all. As well as Algeria, I dont know why you overrate them so much? :)

[Universal]

Well, regarding France, it depends on if they will be allowed to use their hands or not.

But you are right, anything can happen.

In the 82 WC, Algeria beat West Germany; but Algeria had a great team back then, super squad.
Now that I think about it, South Africa doesn't have to be THAT good to qualify for the second round. Uruguay -though it's a good team- is not the powerhouse it used to be in the old days (heck, they didn't even qualify to the 2006 WC), Mexico seems to be getting worse every year and France is easily the crappiest "big name" NT in the world...even worse than Maradona's Argentina and Italy. Not to mention, the refs won't help them at all because of what happened against Ireland.

I don't really know any of the algerian players, who's the "go-to-guy"?

[Bukefal]

I only know Mourad Meghni, Rafik Hallice, Rafik djebbour, Belhadj and Yebda.

[lefty]

I only know Mourad Meghni, Rafik Hallice, Rafik djebbour, Belhadj and Yebda.
I'm impressed :tu

There is also Ziani (Wolfsburg), Majid Bouguerra (Glasgow Rangers, and maybe Tottenham next season), Anthar Yahia (Bochum), Karim Matmour (Borussia Monchegladbach)

[Universal]

I'm impressed :tu

There is also Ziani (Wolfsburg), Majid Bouguerra (Glasgow Rangers, and maybe Tottenham next season), Anthar Yahia (Bochum), Karim Matmour (Borussia Monchegladbach)
To think that you could have had Zidane and probably other players who chose to play for France...

Speaking of which, Germany and France have been looking like "U.N. teams" for quite a while....most of their guys were born someplace else.

[lefty]

To think that you could have had Zidane and probably other players who chose to play for France...

Speaking of which, Germany and France have been looking like "U.N. teams" for quite a while....most of their guys were born someplace else.

Yeah, Zidane, Benzema, Nasri....

Oh well, fuck it :lol :depressed

It's also because Algerian Soccer Association didn't do its job; they should have reached out to those guys.

However, with new people managing the Association, franco-algerians have gradually joined the team :tu

[mookie2001]

argentina just sucks, theyre weak mentally, no heart, no fight, no balls

[Bukefal]

To think that you could have had Zidane and probably other players who chose to play for France...

Speaking of which, Germany and France have been looking like "U.N. teams" for quite a while....most of their guys were born someplace else.

Yeah, this was also the same for the Netherlands, some years ago almost the whole team was made up of players from Suriname, which was a Dutch Colony. Seedorf, Davids, Kluivert etc..... But now, there are more Dutch people.

If that team of 1998 would have played for Suriname, Suriname would have been one of the best nations in the world :lol

[lefty]

Yeah, this was also the same for the Netherlands, some years ago almost the whole team was made up of players from Suriname, which was a Dutch Colony. Seedorf, Davids, Kluivert etc..... But now, there are more Dutch people.

If that team of 1998 would have played for Suriname, Suriname would have been one of the best nations in the world :lol
Damn :wow

[lefty]

U.S. won't overlook its opponents


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http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/i/columnists/44_55.jpg (http://www.spurstalk.com/columns/archive?columnist=44&root=worldcup2010)By Jeff Carlisle, ESPNsoccernet
(Archive (http://www.spurstalk.com/columns/archive?columnist=44&root=worldcup2010))
Remember the old adage, "Be careful what you wish for, you may get it?" The U.S. men's national team should.

http://soccernet-assets.espn.go.com/design05/mediaUS/20091021/ziani_200.jpg GettyImagesWith stars like Karim Ziani playing in Europe, Algeria won't be a pushover.


After years of getting the proverbial short end of the World Cup draw, last Friday the Americans received the kind of first-round group that manager Bob Bradley could only dream of. Yet with it comes some uncharted territory. The U.S. is now in the unfamiliar position of being favorites to progress to the second round. Those expectations come with the kind of pressure that they haven't always coped well with in the past, and closer inspection of their opponents reveals plenty of reasons to be wary.

The U.S. will face group heavyweights England in its opener on June 12, a match that will contain enough plot lines (David Beckham (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/players/profile?id=8880), Landon Donovan (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/players/profile?id=19107), 1950) to give David Mamet a migraine. But it's the Americans' other two adversaries -- Algeria and Slovenia -- that have U.S. fans feeling giddy. Algeria is regarded as the least powerful of the five African qualifiers (not including hosts South Africa). Slovenia are also deemed to be among the tournament's lesser lights.
If this seems like the perfect recipe for overconfidence, well, it is, although everyone associated with the U.S. team seems to be giving the first-round opponents their due respect.
"It's a draw that is good for us as far as draws go," said former U.S. national team assistant coach John Hackworth, who now holds the same post with MLS side Philadelphia Union. "But I've been through enough of them, particularly on youth level, to know that sometimes it's very deceptive in terms of people's perception of how good a team is based on whether they are a power or what their ranking is."


U.S. national team blogGet exclusive insight into the U.S. national team and its players as they prepare for South Africa. National team blog (http://insider.espn.go.com/espn/blog/index?name=us_national_soccer) http://assets.espn.go.com/i/in.gif



Added U.S. attacker Landon Donovan during Friday's conference call, "I certainly don't overlook [Algeria and Slovenia]. I know on paper it seems like a better draw than we had last time but that all goes out the window when the games start."
While the U.S. deserves its label as favorites to progress, the Americans' group is one with some considerable landmines, especially when the styles of the respective teams are examined. England showed in 2008 the gulf in class that exists when the English easily dispatched the Americans 2-0. The U.S. has made considerable progress since then, especially when its run to the final of the 2009 Confederations Cup is taken into account. But at this stage, the only possible positional advantage the U.S. has is in goal with Tim Howard (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/players/profile?id=34158). And the edge England has over the Americans in terms of its ability to keep possession is still considerable, especially when names like Frank Lampard (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/players/profile?id=8941) and Steven Gerrard (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/players/profile?id=7935) are factored in.
That makes it likely that the U.S. will be staring up at the rest of the group following its opening game. Yet Hackworth believes the U.S. is strong enough mentally to absorb such a blow.
"When you can get off to a good start, it builds a ton of confidence in your team," Hackworth said. "In this case though, and knowing Bob and the way he will approach that game with the team and the staff, they'll go in being a little bit realistic. If they can go in and get a result, great, if not, they're playing to get out of the group.



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"Certainly our experience in the Confederations Cup is going to come into play in a huge way when we go into group play in the World Cup. Losing the first two games and getting out of the group at the Confederations Cup, that was a huge lesson for the players and for our staff."
That know-how will be put to the test six days later against a Slovenia side that poses a different set of problems for the Americans. While Matjaz Kek's team clearly lacks England's quality, it is one that is highly organized, and extremely difficult to break down, as evidenced by the fact it conceded just four goals in its group qualifying matches. And much like the Slovakia side that defeated the U.S. 1-0 in a friendly last month, it'll be perfectly content to soak up pressure and nail the Americans on the break.
Of course, the U.S. established its own potency on the counterattack at the Confederations Cup, although the injuries sustained by forward Charlie Davies in an October car accident make the Americans less effective in that regard. But it raises the question of which team will opt to carry the play.
"It's more of a tactical game because in order to play [a counterattacking style] the opponent has to come out a little bit, whether that's through one of their own counterattacks or by them having the ball a little bit, getting downfield and bringing some of their numbers forward," Hackworth said. "That's not going to be easy, but at the same time I've always felt like we're not just a counterattacking team. I think we've been a team in CONCACAF where we had to go out and play against teams that sat in and looked for restart opportunities and counterattacks. We've been exposed to a lot of that in some pretty big games."
If the U.S. does decide to take the initiative in attack, it'll need to stay disciplined, and be especially mindful of Slovenia's frontline duo of Milivoje Novakovic and Zlatko Dedic, both of whom are veterans of the German Bundesliga with Cologne and Bochum, respectively. West Bromwich Albion midfielder Robert Koren remains the twosome's primary supplier, and limiting his influence could do much to disrupt the Slovenians' game.
But summoning the creativity needed to break down Slovenia's defense will likely prove the biggest challenge. And while the pedigree of their back line doesn't quite match that of their forwards, the collective efforts of Grenoble's Bostjan Cesar and Gent's Marko Suler, among others, is clearly greater than the sum of its parts.



The Americans' group finale will take place in Pretoria on June 23 against Algeria. The U.S. will likely progress only as far as its midfield allows, and this just so happens to be the area where the Desert Foxes are strongest. Many of the players in Algeria's midfield ply their trade in Europe's top leagues, with Wolfsburg's Karim Ziani, Borussia Monchengladbach's Karim Matmour, and Lazio's Mourad Meghni among them.
Such strength has led manager Rabah Saadane to employ a 3-5-2, although it will be interesting to see how a pacy player like Donovan will be able to exploit the inevitable gaps that appear out wide in such a system.
But after enduring a qualifying campaign fraught with tension, one that included an attack on the team bus by Egyptian supporters, it's clear that Algeria has the mental fortitude to make some noise in the tournament.
That said, the Americans will be expecting that by the time the third game rolls around, their fate will be entirely in their hands. At which point they could -- and should -- be able to step safely into the second round.





Jeff Carlisle covers MLS and the U.S. national team for ESPNsoccernet. He also writes for Center Line soccer and can be reached at [email protected].

[Whisky Dog]

Of course I'm pulling for Spain, but would be a cool deal if the US found a way to win the tournament. Or somebody like the Dutch or Mexico in a shocker.

[TDMVPDPOY]

Of course I'm pulling for Spain, but would be a cool deal if the US found a way to win the tournament. Or somebody like the Dutch or Mexico in a shocker.

ima call it

spain and netherlands will advance to the knockout stages but till choke in those stages...

[mystargtr34]

I dont think Portugal makes it out of the group. Brazil and Ivory Coast IMO... Portugal just dont have anything other than Ronaldo that scares anyone. Simao? Deco?... i dont think they will be a threat.

[lefty]

I dont think Portugal makes it out of the group. Brazil and Ivory Coast IMO... Portugal just dont have anything other than Ronaldo that scares anyone. Simao? Deco?... i dont think they will be a threat.
+1

Even Ronaldo chokes with Portugal

[lefty]

Man, the arrogant UK press :lol

England
Algeria
Slovenia
Yanks


And I also found this:

Although Algeria's English-based contingent of Nadir Belhadj (http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/tag/Nadir+Belhadj/), Kamil Ghilas (http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/tag/Kamil+Ghilas/), Hassan Yebda (http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/tag/Hassan+Yebda/) and Hameur Bouazza (http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/tag/Hameur+Bouazza/) will be looking forward to the England clash more than any other, Rangers defender Madjid Bougherra (http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/tag/Madjid+Bougherra/) is relishing coming up against his club team-mates when his country face the USA.

He told L'Equipe: "It is an exciting draw. I am very happy to play England, a great team. I am above all delighted to play USA, I was dreaming about it.

At Rangers, I am playing with two US players, Maurice Edu (http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/tag/Maurice+Edu/) and DaMarus Beasley (http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/tag/DaMarus+Beasley/). We have never stopped teasing ourselves for a few days."

[resistanze]

Man, the arrogant UK press :lol

England
Algeria
Slovenia
Yanks

Yeah they should take it easy. They haven't done squat since 1966, where they picked up all that bad karma leading up to the Hand of God.

[lefty]

Yeah they should take it easy. They haven't done squat since 1966, where they picked up all that bad karma leading up to the Hand of God.
Plus, in the 1966 championship game, the GWG wasn't a goal; it never crossed the line

[Whisky Dog]

England's gonna be shocked when US wins the group and they're fighting just to advance.

[lefty]

England's gonna be shocked when US wins the group and they're fighting just to advance.
Ok, I know they are arrogant, but don't be ridiculous

[IronMexican]

Yeah, Whiskey, don't let them be arrogant. It's not like you are or anything.

[symple19]

Do any US people remember Iran? You know, the team that beat us and now has the day as a national holiday? You can't overlook anybody.

For the US, Beasley is my key. He can play physical enough to breach teams with a tough defense, like Slovenia.

I can't fucking wait for the summer. USA!!!!

[Whisky Dog]

Lol, the pommie wankers are notorious chokers no matter how arrogant they are. They'll be fighting for 2nd in group.

[sonic21]

England won't go far as usual. They have the best league but the elite teams don't have enough english players. They lack talent compared to other teams.

And Lampard and Gerrard are great players but they don't play well together.

[symple19]

England won't go far as usual. They have the best league but the elite teams don't have enough english players. They lack talent compared to other teams.

And Lampard and Gerrard are great players but they don't play well together.

If the English play well in the middle they will dominate the group. However, that is a very big "if"

[symple19]

Let me pose this question to my international friends. Which Country has the most pressure to perform come WC time every four years?

As an American, it would seem to me that England and Brazil are at the top. It would also seem to me that the English wilt under that pressure every four years.

???????

[lefty]

England won't go far as usual. They have the best league but the elite teams don't have enough english players. They lack talent compared to other teams.

And Lampard and Gerrard are great players but they don't play well together.
They don't have the best league

And they have the worst goalies

I mean you shoot, you score, it's like FIFA 95

[symple19]

They don't have the best league

And they have the worst goalies

I mean you shoot, you score, it's like FIFA 95

I think it's fair to say they have the most talent in their league than anywhere else, no? It's also a different style from league to league. Barclay's is certainly an offensive type league, as opposed to serie A, which is more defensive minded.

[resistanze]

Premier League does have the most talent. It has little to do with English players, though.

[symple19]

Premier League does have the most talent. It has little to do with English players, though.

Very true. With some teams it seems like you have to search for an actual British player. :lol

[quentin_compson]

England won't go far as usual. They have the best league but the elite teams don't have enough english players. They lack talent compared to other teams.


To me, England's problem at recent tournaments has been that they haven't been able to form a true team out of the many gifted individual players they have. Since Capello took over, however, that has gotten better, and they have also played better tactically.


Very true. With some teams it seems like you have to search for an actual British player. :lol

This might be true for Arsenal (and it seems to be changing a little bit, with the likes of Walcott, Gibbs, Ramsey and Wilshere all about to become a bigger part of the team), but if you look at the other Top Four teams, there are always British players amongst the most important ones for their respective teams: Rooney, R. Ferdinand, Gerrard, Lampard, Terry - to name just a few.

[resistanze]

This might be true for Arsenal (and it seems to be changing a little bit, with the likes of Walcott, Gibbs, Ramsey and Wilshere all about to become a bigger part of the team), but if you look at the other Top Four teams, there are always British players amongst the most important ones for their respective teams: Rooney, R. Ferdinand, Gerrard, Lampard, Terry - to name just a few.

This is true for other Big Clubs as well. Chelsea, for instance, has only 4 English regulars (Terry, the Coles and Lampard). Liverpool the same. ManU however has always had a heavy English influence, though.

I just point this out because for the past years it's been a talking point amongst analysts that the Premier League is the strongest, due to success in the CL (3 of 4 teams in semi-finals past 3 years). I agree they're the strongest, but it's very important to note that they attract excellent international talent as well.

[quentin_compson]

I agree they're the strongest, but it's very important to note that they attract excellent international talent as well.

Of course that's true, and I fully agree on that one.

[Bukefal]

England will suck like they are used to at big tournaments over the recent years. Spain usually do not so well, but I dont know, they were great when they won the European Championship, but still I dont think they'll get far.

[lefty]

To me, England's problem at recent tournaments has been that they haven't been able to form a true team out of the many gifted individual players they have. Since Capello took over, however, that has gotten better, and they have also played better tactically.

Yup; Capello has "latinized" their game

[MB20]

Yup; Capello has "latinized" their game

Latinized or italianized? :lol

[lefty]

Latinized or italianized? :lol
I wouldn't say "italianized" since the UK players don't dive a lot.

[TwinTowers]

I'm calling it right now. The final will be Brasil vs Germany

[Bukefal]

The USA will surprise in this World Cup. Im looking forward to see them play.

[Brazil]

Let me pose this question to my international friends. Which Country has the most pressure to perform come WC time every four years?

As an American, it would seem to me that England and Brazil are at the top. It would also seem to me that the English wilt under that pressure every four years.

???????

I'm not sure to understand your question. When WC come the favorites to win it all are always the same: Brazil, Italy and Germany then Argentina. After it depends of the years, in 2010 I think one of the team with a lot pressure to perform well is Spain because they have a talented generation, they won the euro cup and Spain is the last big soccer country without the trophy.

England won it at home in 1966 since this date England is not an elite team. Elite teams IMO are Brazil Italy Germany then Argentina - France then England / Spain / Netherlands then Portugal / Russia...

[mookie2001]

aint no way the USA is losing to England, i'll bet my life on that shit

argentina has a better chance of watching manu play 80 games a season

[lefty]

aint no way the USA is losing to England, i'll bet my life on that shit

argentina has a better chance of watching manu play 80 games a season
It was an honor to know you

[sonic21]

It was an honor to know you

they did win the Gold Cup. They're legit.

:wakeup

[lefty]

they did win the Gold Cup. They're legit.

:wakeup
I'm not saying they are not.

They are clearly legit; they can beat the U.K, nut Machinchose is 200% England is gonna lose

[symple19]

I'm not sure to understand your question. When WC come the favorites to win it all are always the same: Brazil, Italy and Germany then Argentina. After it depends of the years, in 2010 I think one of the team with a lot pressure to perform well is Spain because they have a talented generation, they won the euro cup and Spain is the last big soccer country without the trophy.

England won it at home in 1966 since this date England is not an elite team. Elite teams IMO are Brazil Italy Germany then Argentina - France then England / Spain / Netherlands then Portugal / Russia...

Thanks Brazil. Spain makes a lot of sense. Sorry if I didn't phrase the question too well.

Let me try again.In your opinion, which country's supporters/media put the most pressure on their side to win? England? Spain? Brazil? Argentina?

Is there an overwhelming sentiment internationally towards one country or another as to which side is under the most pressure?

[mookie2001]

no way in hell the united states is losing to england. no way in hell

wont happen

[Brazil]

Thanks Brazil. Spain makes a lot of sense. Sorry if I didn't phrase the question too well.

Let me try again.In your opinion, which country's supporters/media put the most pressure on their side to win? England? Spain? Brazil? Argentina?

Is there an overwhelming sentiment internationally towards one country or another as to which side is under the most pressure?

Once again we have the traditionals no matter what: the two countries with the most of pressure from media/supporters are 1. Argentina (they are really crazy about soccer), 2. Brazil (they are crazy about soccer but the big difference is they love winning and the beautiful game, if the NT doesn't perform well a kind of desinterest will increase which is not the case with Argentinan they follow their team no matter what.) and 3. Italy (soccer is a religion)

After it depends on how good was the team during the 4 years stretch before the competition. For instance French have not a lot of expectations for this world cup, the pressure will be low. Spain is a special case : they will have a lot of pressure coming from the media but not so much coming from supporters, Spanish people are not very interested by their NT they more focus on their clubs: old story of regionalism. Germany will go with a quite good load of pressure but as usual. Regarding Englan I'm not sure pressure will be high I don't think media and supportes have high expectations for this world cup.

[DAF86]

no way in hell the united states is losing to england. no way in hell

wont happen

I'm with Mookie on this one: England won't beat the US.

[velik_m]

I'm with Mookie on this one: England won't beat the US.

Eh, like it matters who finishes third in the group.



:downspin:

[sonic21]

usa will be lucky to win a game

[mookie2001]

i bet if they could use their hands like france they could win

[sonic21]

so you agree they won't win a game

[mookie2001]

if they used their hands? every game

[makedamnsure]

Can't wait to have a repeat of 1950.

Come on you Yanks!!!!

[Brazil]

^I'd love that. I hate England well less than Italy and Germany but still I hate them

[MB20]

Official balls production process:

LqEJUXmAN3Y

[lefty]

I love group C

[IronMaxipad]

they did win the Gold Cup. They're legit.

:wakeup
Joke post