USA vs. Slovenia thread

[MaNuMaNiAc]

I don't have a problem with FIFA not changing the results. I mean if anything Ireland has way more of a beef with this. The game changes as a result of one play and you can't go back and wipe out that one play and then act as if the rest of the game would have been the same.


Fuck the ref. Thats all. Fuck the Ref.

This would be the correct approach to bitching about this game. The US got screwed out of two points by a dumbass ref. Its unfair and it blows.

[MannyIsGod]

LOL dude - I took the day off. I can't even imagine that I'd have a job should I have watched this at work considering the amount of profanity flying from my mouth when he called whatever the fuck he called.

What did he call by the way? Was it a foul or an offsides?

[Cry Havoc]

Bullshit, what would happen then is the outcome of games with controvertial calls wouldn't be decided until days or even weeks after the games ended with every team complaining they deserve the outcome overturned because of every fucking technicallity.

So limit the review decisions to key outcomes in the match. It's not that difficult. Have you ever heard of hockey? They tend to get calls right because THEY LOOK AT THE REPLAY. So there IS no controversy.


Changing game results after the fact just doesn't work

And why not? You're saying that the game is bettered when human error by an official determines the outcome, versus a review panel that could ensure that a team that deserves the game actually wins?

[urunobili]

damn fucking ref robbed the US :pctoss

[Spurologist]

Had to attend a seminar and missed the entire second half. I fucking hate you all.

sorry for you but you missed a helluva game.

[symple19]

Give each manager one challenge per half, and you keep it if you win the challenge

Problem is, you really can't challenge a contact foul, only offsides and boundary calls

[Sense]

And we have owned your team for the last decade. Whats you point. LOL Donovan PISSING ON AZTECA


If USA doesnt win. I will never post on the Spurs Board again in my life. (P.S. 3 points is quiet an accomplishment dont kid yourself. you should be proud)

That you TPark?

[MannyIsGod]

Oh shit! LOL ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

[MaNuMaNiAc]

despite dirty Slovenian players and the worst ref in the history of the world, that was one of the most dramatic and entertaining sporting matches I've ever seen.

So if you're going to start ripping soccer now, go fuck yourself

:lmao @ this being the worst reffing job in world cup history. I'm guessing your history starts when? 06?

[Sense]

LOL dude - I took the day off. I can't even imagine that I'd have a job should I have watched this at work considering the amount of profanity flying from my mouth when he called whatever the fuck he called.

What did he call by the way? Was it a foul or an offsides?

He called a foul, according to Donovan the ref didn't want to tell them who and how...

[velik_m]

You better clean yourself off after wetting your pants when you saw the Edu shot go in.

I didn't wet my pants, because i heard the ref's whistle long before... :wakeup

[MaNuMaNiAc]

That you TPark?

The_World's_Finest going all TPark, that's priceless! :lmao

[ElNono]

Good game. Good US comeback. You can bitch about the ref all you want, but those mistakes do happen. The US should have simply started the game more focused and not given up two goals. It gets tiring to always have to play from behind.

[resistanze]

sorry for you but you missed a helluva game.

:pctoss

It's all good. I'll catch the replay.

[MannyIsGod]

Seriously though - lots to be proud of from the US in the 2nd half.

Jozy was a beast playing very physical after being fairly absent in the first half. Landon played extremely well also.

They really just need to come out focused and give a lot of early effort like that. If they can play this 2nd half in the FIRST half against Algeria then they'll be fine and they'll advance.

The best thing about this game is that while the US got robbed they still have their fate in their own hands and they will advance with a 2-0 win over Algeria no matter what.

[lefty]

:pctoss

It's all good. I'll catch the replay.
Next WC is in Brazil

We won't miss the games !!!!!

[Dinamita]

And we have owned your team for the last decade. Whats you point. LOL Donovan PISSING ON AZTECA

http://thegrandchawhee.files.wordpress.com/2010/02/crybaby2.jpg

[MaNuMaNiAc]

He called a foul, according to Donovan the ref didn't want to tell them who and how...

yeah, I'm not entirely clear what the fuck he called. All I know is I saw about 6 slovenian fouls on that play and maybe, MAYBE one American dude grabbing a shirt. No excuse

[Spurologist]

That you TPark?

http://i126.photobucket.com/albums/p84/dotsofcolor/doc2/doc-pics-pwned/pwned-funny2.jpg

DOG = The_Worlds_finest

[Trainwreck2100]

Nice to see Joey Crawford got a tan and made it to johannesburg

[Muser]

:lmao at people thinking the game was rigged.

[Cry Havoc]

Not to mention the tackle from behind on Altidore right on the edge of the box that could have been a red card.

[Sense]

yeah, I'm not entirely clear what the fuck he called. All I know is I saw about 6 slovenian fouls on that play and maybe, MAYBE one American dude grabbing a shirt. No excuse

From the first glance of the play, the only one I could've pointed at that could've possibly be mistaken for a foul was Edu, simply because he beat his defender and the guy ended up sliding for the ball... which could've SOMEHOW looked like a foul.

That's just from the first non-slow-mo look at it, after looking at it.... NO ONE could've possibly been called for a foul.


I think he called it on Edu though..

[Cry Havoc]

:lmao at people thinking the game was rigged.

:lmao At England likely being an evenly officiated match away from 3rd place in their group.

[Trainwreck2100]

how did joey crawford get to johannesburg so quickly

well played 4cc

[Sense]

double

[Cry Havoc]

From the first glance of the play, the only one I could've pointed at that could've possibly be mistaken for a foul was Edu, simply because he beat his defender and the guy ended up sliding for the ball... which could've looked like a push.

That's just from the first non-slow-mo look at it, after looking at it.... NO ONE could've possibly been called for a foul.


I think he called it on Edu though..

If anything, it should have been a penalty kick for the US for the full bear hug applied by Slovenia.

[velik_m]

On the side note: i don't know why USA fans are so pissed about this result, this is a great result for USA if USA beats Algeria 2-0, Slovenia has to beat England to finish ahead of them and if that unlikely scenario happens, the USA is still through and England is the one going home...

[Trainwreck2100]

Im pretty sure we elected Barack obama so the international sports community stops fucking us over

[MaNuMaNiAc]

:lmao At England likely being an evenly officiated match away from 3rd place in their group.

Do YOU think it was rigged?

[MannyIsGod]

The bradley goal man. So good

[velik_m]

The bradley goal man. So good

Not as good as the Birsa one :P

[Pero]

Oh please, the reffing was bad but it wasn't rigged. :lol

[Sense]

If anything, it should have been a penalty kick for the US for the full bear hug applied by Slovenia.

I know... I've stated this before on other posts.

[MannyIsGod]

On the side note: i don't know why USA fans are so pissed about this result, this is a great result for USA if USA beats Algeria 2-0, Slovenia has to beat England to finish ahead of them and if that unlikely scenario happens, the USA is still through and England is the one going home...

I agree with you on that - I said it above - but come on! if we win today we're pretty much in no matter what.

In a way though, the US tends to play better with pressure so maybe this will turn out to be a good thing.

[MannyIsGod]

Not as good as the Birsa one :P

He pretty much froze Howard. Pretty sick goal.

[DisgruntledLionFan#54,927]

I see the World Cup has finally started.

Terrible call but saying bullshit calls are the reason Americans don't watch soccer is fucking laughable.

[MaNuMaNiAc]

I see the World Cup has finally started.

Terrible call but saying bullshit calls are the reason Americans don't watch soccer is fucking laughable.

Specially from an NBA fan :lmao

[Whisky Dog]

Dempsey gets one elbow in the 1st minute and Slovenia fan is trying to use that to justify the gift his team was given. Rofl.

Btw, that defender who took down Altidore on the edge or in the box on the break deserved a red but was fortunate to only get a yellow. Slovenia got so many calls and the game gifted to them they need to start calling themselves the Lakers.

Ok, so now what do we need out of the next game? Draw or Algeria over England?

[Cry Havoc]

Do YOU think it was rigged?

ZOMG YES EVERYONE IS OUT TO FUCK US THAT STUPID FIFA. :lol


Not at all, really. I think it was a shitty, shitty job by an official who is completely out of his depth. There were a ton of late calls and questionable decisions, but the biggest ones went against the US. The yellow card early and the goal disallowed were stupendously idiotic, and I think an example of an official who didn't know how to position himself properly to call a play, or just wasn't paying enough attention.

I wonder if part of the reason that Slovenia got booked so much is that they saw he was missing some obvious fouls, and decided to play sloppier with their tackles, but those being made in the open field, he saw them. :lol

[Cry Havoc]

I see the World Cup has finally started.

Terrible call but saying bullshit calls are the reason Americans don't watch soccer is fucking laughable.

Hey, when I'm pissed I say things that might not necessarily make so much sense in retrospect. :lol

[MannyIsGod]

QW0KiXYQ6I0

If the Leftys can draw or beat the Musers either would be a good result.

[Bukefal]

Oh, cut the crap. US players have been going into every fucking jump with their elbows first. It is not our fault that the referee had enough of it exactly at the wrong moment and cleared a completely regular goal.

He fucked us at the end of the first half also. Slovenia had a clear 4 on 2 counter attack and he whistled end of half time. I guees you missed that ...

Yeah, it's not Slovenia's fault. It's just the refs in general so far, it has not been very good. USA played well, and that should have been a goal, it's a shame. Slovenia got lucky there. And it has nothing to do with games being rigged, that's just crap.

[MaNuMaNiAc]

ZOMG YES EVERYONE IS OUT TO FUCK US THAT STUPID FIFA. :lol


Not at all, really. I think it was a shitty, shitty job by an official who is completely out of his depth. There were a ton of late calls and questionable decisions, but the biggest ones went against the US. The yellow card early and the goal disallowed were stupendously idiotic, and I think an example of an official who didn't know how to position himself properly to call a play, or just wasn't paying enough attention.

We're in agreement then

[Cry Havoc]

We're in agreement then

Yeah, but it's like I'm a guy talking to you about this chick I could have had last night at the bar and you're the guy who stayed in to study.

We're in agreement, but I'm the one with blue balls. :lol

[MaNuMaNiAc]

Yeah, but it's like I'm a guy talking to you about this chick I could have had last night at the bar and you're the guy who stayed in to study.

We're in agreement, but I'm the one with blue balls. :lol

More like you're the guy talking to me about this chick you could have had last night at the bar and I'm the guy that had her three days ago

yes, in my scenario you're still the guy with the blue balls. :lmao

Seriously though, I agree, the US got hosed.

[Pero]

Hey MaNuMaNiAc what's your sig supposed to mean? I don't get it.

[MaNuMaNiAc]

Hey MaNuMaNiAc what's your sig supposed to mean? I don't get it.

:lol Seriously?

[Whisky Dog]

On a side note somebody should really make a "Lol USA" gif with that dumb ass grown man in the stands who was crying after the Bradley goal

[Pero]

:lol Seriously?

Yeah. :lol

[Pero]

Ohhhhhhhhhh wait, I get it now. :lmao

[urunobili]

On a side note somebody should really make a "Lol USA" gif with that dumb ass grown man in the stands who was crying after the Bradley goal

that made me cry too buddy... THAT"S how you live soccer... just be proud :toast

[Cry Havoc]

More like you're the guy talking to me about this chick you could have had last night at the bar and I'm the guy that had her three days ago

yes, in my scenario you're still the guy with the blue balls. :lmao

Seriously though, I agree, the US got hosed.

On a side note, I'm not a casual fan. I play soccer (though not competitively) and I go to a lot of MLS games. DC United did recently beat AC Milan, so maybe there is a future for US soccer after all. :lol

The fact that I've been watching the sport for so long just heightens my anger, though. Far too many World Cups have been determined by decisions like this -- the Australian - Italian semifinal was absolutely horrid.

[Spurologist]

:lol Seriously?

I don't get it........:depressed

OR maybe I don't find it funny

[MaNuMaNiAc]

On a side note, I'm not a casual fan. I play soccer (though not competitively) and I go to a lot of MLS games. DC United did recently beat AC Milan, so maybe there is a future for US soccer after all. :lol

The fact that I've been watching the sport for so long just heightens my anger, though. Far too many World Cups have been determined by decisions like this -- the Australian - Italian semifinal was absolutely horrid.

you mean 06? Australia vs Italy was in the round of 16 no the semifinals. Though you're right, it was a sham.

[MaNuMaNiAc]

I don't get it........:depressed

OR maybe I don't find it funny

ok... his laptop died on him, that's the first picture. The rest sort of speaks for itself. Hopefully

[Cry Havoc]

you mean 06? Australia vs Italy was in the round of 16 no the semifinals. Though you're right, it was a sham.

Meh. Calling it from memory... I thought it was the game leading up to the final.

But yeah, I was pretty neutral for most of that game, but the Roos won me over with their heart on defense... only to see it jerked out of their chest in the waning moments.

[Pero]

ok... his laptop died on him, that's the first picture. The rest sort of speaks for itself. Hopefully

Actually before I didn't get the rest... Maybe because I don't keep porn on my computer. :lol

[DisgruntledLionFan#54,927]

you mean 06? Australia vs Italy was in the round of 16 no the semifinals. Though you're right, it was a sham.

That was a great call.

[MannyIsGod]

y73APmQsyvo

OH NO NOT THE FACE!

[Cry Havoc]

Headline on the front page of SI.com right now:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v116/whisperingstorm/SIheadlinereferee.jpg

[Nick, the Nazi]

What's with all the butthurt dirty mexicans in this thread?

[Cry Havoc]

What's with all the butthurt dirty mexicans in this thread?

They're sad that we've started kicking their ass in the only sport they're good at.

[mVp]

They're sad that we've started kicking their ass in the only sport they're good at.

Ouch that's gotta hurt :lol

I watched this game, man, that was a great second half by the US, great coaching there, when they made the sub to put one more attacker I said "well, the US is winning this shit" too bad the ref decided the game instead of the players :depressed

Slovenia played a good first half, they escaped with a draw at the end of the game, football loses.

[Sense]

They're sad that we've started kicking their ass in the only sport they're good at.

Wtf are you talking about?

Mexico is better than the US right now.

[Cry Havoc]

Wtf are you talking about?

Mexico is better than the US right now.

Who have you beaten lately to lay claim to this?

We beat Spain and almost beat Brazil.

You beat an atrociously bad French team.

[Sense]

Who have you beaten lately to lay claim to this?

We beat Spain and almost beat Brazil.

You beat an atrociously bad French team.

You had the "atrociously bad French team" beating Mexico 2-0...
:lol

Spain also got beat by Switzerland, and there's no almost that defines skill.

If team USA gets in group A, they don't get out.... plain and simple.

People keep underestimating France... although not the best French team.. they really weren't that bad.

As far as beating Spain and "almost" beating Brazil.. that doesn't make you a better team whatsoever..

Mexico beat Italy and France and outplayed an English team at home, even if they didn't win it's a good feat.

They also beat team USA in the gold cup... remember that? Or are you going to throw the "we didn't have our best team" bullshit?

Your team is weak, and today was laughable...

[DarkReign]

There was a game today?

huh...

Take it that it didnt quite go well, then?

huh...

[Cry Havoc]

You had the "atrociously bad French team" beating Mexico 2-0...
:lol

Which is more of a knock on Mexico than a statement of French quality.


Spain also got beat by Switzerland, and there's no almost that defines skill.

Kind of like how you almost beat England and yet are laying claim to how that gives you credence in this argument?


People keep underestimating France... although not the best French team.. they really weren't that bad.

:lmao They're widely considered one of the worst teams in the tournament right now. That showing against Mexico was atrocious, and it wasn't because of the touch of the Mexicans. French was horrible and any other non-Mexico homer will tell you that as well.


As far as beating Spain and "almost" beating Brazil.. that doesn't make you a better team whatsoever..

So beating the #1 team in the world doesn't make us better? Outplaying Brazil for 40-50 minutes doesn't mean anything?


Mexico beat Italy

Spain is higher ranked than Italy.

and France

ROFL. U BEET FRANCE ZOMG. Algeria would beat France right now. South Africa would beat France right now.


and outplayed an English team at home, even if they didn't win it's a good feat.

Ah, so drawing to the English is a point in your favor? What the fuck are you saying here? It counts more for you? We outplayed them for a large portion of the match as well.


They also beat team USA in the gold cup... remember that? Or are you going to throw the "we didn't have our best team" bullshit?

You're right. It's still a valid victory against the US even if it's against a bunch of 7th graders. :lol Hilarious.


Your team is weak, and today was laughable...

Yeah, USA soccer is not what it should be. However, we're at least as good as Mexico, and that's only because our best athletes play other sports. :lol What's it feel like to know the scrubs of our country play as well as your national team?

[Spurologist]

ok... his laptop died on him, that's the first picture. The rest sort of speaks for itself. Hopefully

:lmao

Got it......I thought the computer was saying DIE

[DarkReign]

Yeah, USA soccer is not what it should be. However, we're at least as good as Mexico, and that's only because our best athletes play other sports. :lol What's it feel like to know the scrubs of our country play as well as your national team?

Absolute truth in that statement.

Every US National team member is like a B- athlete comapred to the other major sports.

While the rest of the world puts their very best onto the "pitch" (using that correctly?) at age 3.

[Sense]

Which is more of a knock on Mexico than a statement of French quality.

It actually shows where your soccer credibility ends...




Kind of like how you almost beat England and yet are laying claim to how that gives you credence in this argument?

You guys almost beat England? Last time I checked, a goalkeeper was replaced today for something that happened that game, care to explain what that was? 1-1 win right?



:lmao They're widely considered one of the worst teams in the tournament right now. That showing against Mexico was atrocious, and it wasn't because of the touch of the Mexicans. French was horrible and any other non-Mexico homer will tell you that as well.
If they're such a horrible team, why didn't Uruguay beat them just as bad?




So beating the #1 team in the world doesn't make us better? Outplaying Brazil for 40-50 minutes doesn't mean anything?
Outplaying Brazil for 40-50 minute doesn't mean jack shit if outplaying England doesn't either. If you really want to go with the "outplaying" we've been doing it to teams like Brazil and Argentina for a while, obviously as you can tell it means nothing unless you win. What did the US do in Copa America? How'd they fare in 07 in their group? Mexico won that group, who had Brazil, chile, and Ecuador in the group.

Mexico outplayed Argentina in 06, but we lost the match... does that really count?


Your best win in the history of the USA apparently was against Spain... and it's sad, because it doesn't mean anything.




Spain is higher ranked than Italy.
Spain isn't the reigning World Cup Champion....



ROFL. U BEET FRANCE ZOMG. Algeria would beat France right now. South Africa would beat France right now.
Algeria would beat France right now? :lol It's funny how you're trying to downgrade a quality win for Mexico, when was the last time the USA beat France?



Ah, so drawing to the English is a point in your favor? What the fuck are you saying here? It counts more for you? We outplayed them for a large portion of the match as well.
lol@outplaying the english for a large portion of the match... the game was a joke, both teams played horrid... but somehow you guys won..
:lol



You're right. It's still a valid victory against the US even if it's against a bunch of 7th graders. :lol Hilarious. No win against the US is valid... the fact that they got 5-0'd was just hilarious... it's not like we didn't expect to crush them.




Yeah, USA soccer is not what it should be. However, we're at least as good as Mexico, and that's only because our best athletes play other sports. :lol What's it feel like to know the scrubs of our country play as well as your national team?

:lmao Really? :lol

[mookie2001]

mexico sucks

[Cry Havoc]

It actually shows where your soccer credibility ends...




You guys almost beat England? Last time I checked, a goalkeeper was replaced today for something that happened that game, care to explain what that was? 1-1 win right?


If they're such a horrible team, why didn't Uruguay beat them just as bad?



Outplaying Brazil for 40-50 minute doesn't mean jack shit if outplaying England doesn't either. If you really want to go with the "outplaying" we've been doing it to teams like Brazil and Argentina for a while, obviously as you can tell it means nothing unless you win. What did the US do in Copa America? How'd they fare in 07 in their group? Mexico won that group, who had Brazil, chile, and Ecuador in the group.

Mexico outplayed Argentina in 06, but we lost the match... does that really count?


Your best win in the history of the USA apparently was against Spain... and it's sad, because it doesn't mean anything.



Spain isn't the reigning World Cup Champion....



Algeria would beat France right now? :lol It's funny how you're trying to downgrade a quality win for Mexico, when was the last time the USA beat France?


lol@outplaying the english for a large portion of the match... the game was a joke, both teams played horrid... but somehow you guys won..
:lol

No win against the US is valid... the fact that they got 5-0'd was just hilarious... it's not like we didn't expect to crush them.





:lmao Really? :lol

You sure you aren't a Lakers fan? You talk smack like they do.

[Sense]

You sure you aren't a Lakers fan? You talk smack like they do.

Are you serious? That's what you have? a Laker fan insult?

[Cry Havoc]

It actually shows where your soccer credibility ends...

So wait. Beating Italy counts because they're reigning world champs... but predicting France, WHO WAS IN THE FINAL WITH ITALY in the last World Cup is a bad call? I forget, how did Mexico do in that World Cup? Ohhhh right, you lost in the round of 16. So Italy is a big win because they're champs, but France is shit because they only made the Final. Your logic is hilarious. :lol


You guys almost beat England? Last time I checked, a goalkeeper was replaced today for something that happened that game, care to explain what that was? 1-1 win right?

Ah, so here we go. Your other rants include "winning is all that matters" and "the end result is what counts", EXCEPT where America is concerned, in which case we just "got lucky", despite having numerous attacking runs against England.

No, we were totally lucky. Your draw was so much better. How many more points did you score for that draw against England?

:lmao


If they're such a horrible team, why didn't Uruguay beat them just as bad?

They played a shit game against Mexico and everyone knows it. The commentators talked about it, the analysts were saying it. Everyone is fairly certain the career of the French coach will be a short one from here on.



Outplaying Brazil for 40-50 minute doesn't mean jack shit if outplaying England doesn't either. If you really want to go with the "outplaying" we've been doing it to teams like Brazil and Argentina for a while, obviously as you can tell it means nothing unless you win. What did the US do in Copa America? How'd they fare in 07 in their group? Mexico won that group, who had Brazil, chile, and Ecuador in the group.

Ah, so this counts, but beating the #1 team in the world means nothing. Got it.


Mexico outplayed Argentina in 06, but we lost the match... does that really count?

Either it does, or it doesn't. I'd like you to show some consistency instead of talking about how amazing your draw to England was as a rationale for why Mexico > USA.



Your best win in the history of the USA apparently was against Spain... and it's sad, because it doesn't mean anything.


:lol You're right. Only Mexican victories count.


Spain isn't the reigning World Cup Champion....

Neither is England, yet you're talking up your victories (draws) so much, you'd think they are.


Algeria would beat France right now? :lol It's funny how you're trying to downgrade a quality win for Mexico, when was the last time the USA beat France?

When was the last time they played in a tournament or a World Cup? When was the last time France has played that poorly? You're such a homer if you think that team was anything more than a shell of it's former self.


No win against the US is valid... the fact that they got 5-0'd was just hilarious... it's not like we didn't expect to crush them.

With all the smack you're talking, you had better make it to the final 4 teams this year in the World Cup.


Are you serious? That's what you have? a Laker fan insult?

I'm just pointing out how ridiculous some of your statements are. Anytime you have to resort to an ad-hominem attack, you're on shaky ground. :lol But keep it up, it makes your arguments look so much more valid.

[MaNuMaNiAc]

Absolute truth in that statement.

Every US National team member is like a B- athlete comapred to the other major sports.

While the rest of the world puts their very best onto the "pitch" (using that correctly?) at age 3.

oh give me a fucking break. You can't use that bullshit excuse forever. Keep telling yourself that if it makes you feel better. The reality of the matter is, the US doesn't lack funds nor athletic ability to excell in football. They lack something else. What that is, well, you're going to have to figure that out to win something, now, won't you?

[MaNuMaNiAc]

It gets so fucking tiring hearing American's pull the "we'd win everything if we bothered to try" bullshit. There's literally no other fans in the world with that amount of narcissism. Most bother to win something first.

[Cry Havoc]

oh give me a fucking break. You can't use that bullshit excuse forever. Keep telling yourself that if it makes you feel better. The reality of the matter is, the US doesn't lack funds nor athletic ability to excell in football. They lack something else. What that is, well, you're going to have to figure that out to win something, now, won't you?

It's not an excuse, it's a fact.


It gets so fucking tiring hearing American's pull the "we'd win everything if we bothered to try" bullshit. There's literally no other fans in the world with that amount of narcissism. Most bother to win something first.

There's NO guarantee that we would win if we played our best athletes. We might never win a World Cup even with our best players available.

However, if you're dismissing the importance for a nation to actually have an interest in the sport as a national culture as it correlates to growing young, skilled players, you're crazy. Soccer hasn't really caught on in the US yet, and you think that doesn't affect the quality of the players on the field?

Most kids in the US grow up wanting to play football, baseball, or basketball, and in some areas hockey. That's a massive disparity between the US and the rest of the world, and it DOES affect the talent we put onto our soccer pitches.

[Slo spurs fan]

Congrats US on great comeback and great game. I had a blast.

[Slo spurs fan]

Now you can beat Algeria and we will beat England and all is good. :lol

[MaNuMaNiAc]

It's not an excuse, it's a fact.



There's NO guarantee that we would win if we played our best athletes. We might never win a World Cup even with our best players available.

However, if you're dismissing the importance for a nation to actually have an interest in the sport as a national culture as it correlates to growing young, skilled players, you're crazy. Soccer hasn't really caught on in the US yet, and you think that doesn't affect the quality of the players on the field?

Most kids in the US grow up wanting to play football, baseball, or basketball, and in some areas hockey. That's a massive disparity between the US and the rest of the world, and it DOES affect the talent we put onto our soccer pitches.

I don't doubt that the US would be a very good football nation if it applied itself. Whether they win anything boils to something completely different. As it stands, the US isn't very good right now. That would change drastically if you had a more focused approach to it. Don't really think that will happen soon though. Too many passtimes.

[Cry Havoc]

As it stands, the US isn't very good right now.

Well, we had a brilliant second half today, and almost did something that's never been accomplished in World Cup history.

[MaNuMaNiAc]

Well, we had a brilliant second half today, and almost did something that's never been accomplished in World Cup history.

yeah, but you began losing 2-0 against a team most people thought you'd beat easily. I wouldn't use today's game as an example of US football strength. Don't get me wrong, I thought it was pretty damn exceptional. Still doesn't really cut it.

[MaNuMaNiAc]

Having said that, I wouldn't be surprised if the US made to the semi finals this WC. All the top teams are playing like shit.

[scott]

As a US Soccer fan, I agree the "we'd be good if we tried" argument is lame. You go tell our players they are subpar athletes that don't try. You're an idiot if you believe that. You think LeBron James would be a good soccer player??? Probably not unless he were to be a goal keeper (which the US consistently fields 1st class quality players). We send our top soccer athletes out on our soccer team. We just aren't as good as the rest of the world yet.

[LoneStarState'sPride]

As a US Soccer fan, I agree the "we'd be good if we tried" argument is lame. You go tell our players they are subpar athletes that don't try. You're an idiot if you believe that. You think LeBron James would be a good soccer player??? Probably not unless he were to be a goal keeper (which the US consistently fields 1st class quality players). We send our top soccer athletes out on our soccer team. We just aren't as good as the rest of the world yet.

You know what? I hate the "we'd be good if we tried" argument as much as you do, but it's the fucking truth. What's so idiotic about believing LeBron James would be a good soccer player? He's athletically gifted, first and foremost. The rest is just technical ability. He's grown up playing bball, so he has a specific skill set that is maximized by his physical ability. No disrespect to the US National team, but I would fear the physical specimens we have playing American Football and basketball far more on the pitch than a Landon Donovan or Clint Dempsey (for the record, two of my all-time favorite players).

I stand by the argument that if our best athletes grew up playing "futbol," the US would be far more respected in the game.

[MaNuMaNiAc]

You know what? I hate the "we'd be good if we tried" argument as much as you do, but it's the fucking truth. What's so idiotic about believing LeBron James would be a good soccer player? He's athletically gifted, first and foremost. The rest is just technical ability. He's grown up playing bball, so he has a specific skill set that is maximized by his physical ability. No disrespect to the US National team, but I would fear the physical specimens we have playing American Football and basketball far more on the pitch than a Landon Donovan or Clint Dempsey (for the record, two of my all-time favorite players).

I stand by the argument that if our best athletes grew up playing "futbol," the US would be far more respected in the game.

Spoken like someone that doesn't have a fucking clue what football is all about. How many 6.8ft football players do you see that are any good? 1? 2? and they don't crack the top 30 by a long shot. LeBron's attibutes are great for basketball and maybe even american football, but "soccer"?

Football is not a brute force game, so LeBron's size doesn't really offer him much in terms of mobility. He'd probably have a mean header though, I'll give you that. Otherwise, driblling ability would be non existant. Not with that size.

Again, really fucking tiring narcissism

[scott]

Barry Sanders, on the other hand, is the kind of guy who probably would have made a great soccer player.

[DisgruntledLionFan#54,927]

LeBron? Might be a good situational player in the box a la Toni, though I hated Toni's guts.

Think more along the lines of Chris Paul, Deron, Kobe, Rondo, DeSean Jackson, MJD, Revis, Aso, C. Bailey, Austin, Steve Smith, Ocho, etc.

You're bound to find a few exceptional soccer players out of the NBA and NFL talent pool.

[MaNuMaNiAc]

LeBron? Might be a good situational player in the box a la Toni, though I hated Toni's guts.

Think more along the lines of Chris Paul, Deron, Kobe, Rondo, DeSean Jackson, MJD, Revis, Aso, C. Bailey, Austin, Steve Smith, Ocho, etc.

You're bound to find a few exceptional soccer players out of the NBA and NFL talent pool.

I have absolutely no doubt the US would have exceptional football players if their interest lay that way. It doesn't, therefore until they do, pointless speculation is just that.

[Slo spurs fan]

LOL NBA players in soccer. Can´t even imagine how dumb would they look like.

[LoneStarState'sPride]

Spoken like someone that doesn't have a fucking clue what football is all about. How many 6.8ft football players do you see that are any good? 1? 2? and they don't crack the top 30 by a long shot. LeBron's attibutes are great for basketball and maybe even american football, but "soccer"?

Football is not a brute force game, so LeBron's size doesn't really offer him much in terms of mobility. He'd probably have a mean header though, I'll give you that. Otherwise, driblling ability would be non existant. Not with that size.

Again, really fucking tiring narcissism

Did I say anything about size? I said athletic ability. That's not "narcissism," that's fact. And where did I say his ability would help him dribble? I've played "football" before, quit assuming I'm just another stuck-up American for you to flame.

You're honestly gonna tell me that a US team comprised of (hypothetically) players with Reggie Bush's speed and footwork and James' height and athletic ability wouldn't hold its own on a world stage. Go take a fucking hike.

[Slo spurs fan]

You have more than 2.000.000 active soccer players and you can´t find stronger (LeBronze type) players? GMFB.

[MaNuMaNiAc]

Did I say anything about size? I said athletic ability. That's not "narcissism," that's fact. And where did I say his ability would help him dribble? I've played "football" before, quit assuming I'm just another stuck-up American for you to flame.

You're honestly gonna tell me that a US team comprised of (hypothetically) players with Reggie Bush's speed and footwork and James' height and athletic ability wouldn't hold its own on a world stage. Go take a fucking hike.

I'm saying your parallels have no fucking logic what so ever. James' height and athletism DON'T translate into football well. I don't give a fuck how much "soccer" you've played :lol

and second, I'm not saying the US couldn't hold its own on the world stage were it to apply itself to football. I'm saying they're not likely to win everything like people like you are fond of implying.

I do honestly believe LeBron would absolutely suck at fooball. No question about it.

P.S. Your whole "we would win everything if we sent our best athletes" bullshit qualifies you as "just another stuck-up American". You're just so convinced of your bullshit that you don't realize exactly how stuck up you sound.

[LoneStarState'sPride]

You have more than 2.000.000 active soccer players and you can´t find stronger (LeBronze type) player. GMFB.

It's not that we can't "find" stronger players--if you've got LeBron's size or athletic ability in the US, though--you'd be foolish to not try to maximize that in a sport like American football or basketball.

[DisgruntledLionFan#54,927]

I do honestly believe LeBron would absolutely suck at fooball. No question about it.

So then the likeness to Toni was a good one, eh?

[DMX7]

If you were to transports 2 million Americas who weren't fatasses to a place where soccer is a way of life and the competition is greater, then you could build a team similarly as good. Problem is most Americans who play soccer stop as soon as their YMCA eligibility expires or sooner.

[MaNuMaNiAc]

So then the likeness to Toni was a good one, eh?

Luca?

[LoneStarState'sPride]

I'm saying your parallels have no fucking logic what so ever. James' height and athletism DON'T translate into football well. I don't give a fuck how much "soccer" you've played :lol

and second, I'm not saying the US couldn't hold its own on the world stage were it to apply itself to football. I'm saying they're not likely to win everything like people like you are fond of implying.

I do honestly believe LeBron would absolutely suck at fooball. No question about it.

Then we're in agreement on the US being able to hold its own on the world stage. I've never implied that the US would win everything--even if we had the best players in the world, stuff would still happen "that's why they play the game."

The LeBron thing really is neither here nor there--I was just running with an analogy someone else brought up. I'm pretty sure, though, that athletic ability can translate into any sport if the proper skill set is learned early enough, but that's just my opinion. Am I insinuating that LeBron could pick up soccer right now and be good at it? Hell no.

[MaNuMaNiAc]

I'd just like to clarify. I'm no objecting to the claim that the US would be among the sports best if it applied itself to football as it does its other sports. I'm objecting to some people absolute certainty that the US would be the best were to do so. I think THAT's bullshit.

[DisgruntledLionFan#54,927]

Luca?

Yes, but mostly in jest.

I know he was an excellent finisher.

[Slo spurs fan]

Why the hell you can´t win in hockey? Don´t tell me "we don´t care enough" shit.

[MaNuMaNiAc]

Yes, but mostly in jest.

I know he was an excellent finisher.

I was gonna say.

[MaNuMaNiAc]

Then we're in agreement on the US being able to hold its own on the world stage. I've never implied that the US would win everything--even if we had the best players in the world, stuff would still happen "that's why they play the game."

The LeBron thing really is neither here nor there--I was just running with an analogy someone else brought up. I'm pretty sure, though, that athletic ability can translate into any sport if the proper skill set is learned early enough, but that's just my opinion. Am I insinuating that LeBron could pick up soccer right now and be good at it? Hell no.

ok, we can agree on that

[LoneStarState'sPride]

I'd just like to clarify. I'm no objecting to the claim that the US would be among the sports best if it applied itself to football as it does its other sports. I'm objecting to some people absolute certainty that the US would be the best were to do so. I think THAT's bullshit.

Agreed, then.

[LoneStarState'sPride]

Why the hell you can´t win in hockey? Don´t tell me "we don´t care enough" shit.

Please tell me you're not serious. How long has it been since the winter olympics? 4 months? Jeez, short memory lol

[Slo spurs fan]

Please tell me you're not serious. How long has it been since the winter olympics? 4 months? Jeez, short memory lol

LOL true. I am an idiot and will shut the fuck up now.:bang

[DisgruntledLionFan#54,927]

Toni knew his role and played it well. You don't score that much in Serie A if you suck.

But his touches were never great and his play so sloppy at times, but man he sure knew how to hit the back of the net.

Oddest scorer I've seen in quite some time.

[LoneStarState'sPride]

LOL true. I am an idiot and will shut the fuck up now.:bang

LOL, hey it's all good--I just like to argue. And my temper's a little short after the match today lol. Keep the posts coming, tho! :toast

[MannyIsGod]

Who cares what would be if we did this or that with certain athletes. We don't kick ass in soccer. Its the way it is. You guys can argue hypotheticals all day and night but it doesn't change shit.

Its kinda how I keep watching the replay of the Edu goal looking for the foul and I can't seem to find it. Just doesn't change the fact that the stupid ref still called one.

[sendman]

God damn this weakass Slovenian team let this American lardasses team of the hook.
What a bunch of incompetent pussies. They let this third class (all the good ones are in real sports), good for nothing rejects to come back in the game by letting them throw their fat elbows left and right. And those blind refs just stood there and watched. Half of those dirty American assgobblers should be thrown out of the game in the first half.:lmao

[DisgruntledLionFan#54,927]

I'd totally forgotten about the missed hand ball on the goal line against Germany in the 2002 Quarters.

Probably because Italy got jobbed hard that year. I distinctly remember 3 or 4 good Azzurri goals called back and who can forget Totti getting tossed?

These calls are a part of every WC.

[LoneStarState'sPride]

These calls are a part of every WC.

Sad but true :depressed

[MannyIsGod]

I'd totally forgotten about the missed hand ball on the goal line against Germany in the 2002 Quarters.

Probably because Italy got jobbed hard that year. I distinctly remember 3 or 4 good Azzurri goals called back and who can forget Totti getting tossed?

These calls are a part of every WC.

I'll never forget that. Scoring against Kahn in that World Cup was close to impossible and then they don't call that. His hand never came up though so I"m not even sure the US team complained too hard about it.

[wut]

God damn this weakass Slovenian team let this American lardasses team of the hook.
What a bunch of incompetent pussies. They let this third class (all the good ones are in real sports), good for nothing rejects to come back in the game by letting them throw their fat elbows left and right. And those blind refs just stood there and watched. Half of those dirty American assgobblers should be thrown out of the game in the first half.:lmao
something like that....same blind refs that allowed Slovenia to walk away with a 2-2 tie.

[DisgruntledLionFan#54,927]

That has to be an automatic call/PK.

Chances are extremely slim for either to make it that far, but I'm rooting for USA/Italy in the Semis or Finals. My guinea ass is going to be in Italy as it was in 2006 and I want that again. Nothing better than riling up the eye-talians. Plus, the amount of ass was simply out of control.

Make it happen, FIFA.

Please?

[Pero]

Plus, the amount of ass was simply out of control.


What?

[Trainwreck2100]

What?

He was in awe of Italian women posterior

[DisgruntledLionFan#54,927]

Sorry.

Ass=Good looking women who'd give me the time of day.

All of the other ones who wouldn't were bitches, of course.

Honestly, being there during Italy's WC run was one of the best times I've ever had. Bar none.

[Trainwreck2100]

Sorry.

Ass=Good looking women who'd give me the time of day.

All of the other ones who wouldn't were bitches, of course.

Honestly, being there during Italy's WC run was one of the best times I've ever had. Bar none.

Son i hear being in a foreign land right after september 11th was a good time to be abroad for the bitches.

[NRHector]

The ref in that game is training to become a NBA ref and so far he's almost done with his training

[Pero]

Ahhh... At first I actually thought you were talking about Italian national team, but this makes more sense. :lol

[DisgruntledLionFan#54,927]

TW, sadly, I didn't go there for over a decade(1994-2004). When I was a young pup(20ish), they'd flock to you for simply being from the States.

Now, it is much harder as they have most of the same amenities that we do. Plus, it doesn't help when you have a bunch of loud-mouthed, Precious-sized American tourists giving you a bad name. Add the fact that we like to start these war things and they'd rather sit and tell you how fucking stupid the US is then simply s-ing your c.

Fucking internet and W ruined everything.

[Kobayagi]

Major props to Algeria for putting up a fight tonight. :tu

I hope we tie against England and Algeria beats USA and the two underdogs advance.

[resistanze]

The argument for me is a pointless one, as basically any nation on earth can make this claim for any sport in which they don't invest their full dedication.

Essentially, most countries can claim "If we spent more time into developing basketball/hockey/football/baseball, we'd be much more competitive on the world stage."

Isn't this what exactly happened in basketball? In 1992, the US team won by a average of 40 points per game. 12 years later, the growth of the sport result in Argentina winning the the gold medal. And clearly, Soccer >>>>>>>>> Basketball in Argentina.

I guess that means Argentina could dominate basketball if they cared as much as they do about soccer. But who really cares about 'ifs'.

[symple19]

:lmao @ this being the worst reffing job in world cup history. I'm guessing your history starts when? 06?

fair enough, a little hyperbole is called for when my country had it's heart broken.

[symple19]

On a side note somebody should really make a "Lol USA" gif with that dumb ass grown man in the stands who was crying after the Bradley goal

I did tear up when he equalized dude, I have nothing but respect for that guys passion

Only two sports teams can bring me to that, the US natty team and Auburn football.

Recognize!

[symple19]

Absolute truth in that statement.

Every US National team member is like a B- athlete comapred to the other major sports.

While the rest of the world puts their very best onto the "pitch" (using that correctly?) at age 3.

Have to disagree with you here DR. Have you worked out these players alongside the best in other sports? I think not. You're much smarter than making blanket statements like this

[symple19]

It gets so fucking tiring hearing American's pull the "we'd win everything if we bothered to try" bullshit. There's literally no other fans in the world with that amount of narcissism. Most bother to win something first.

agreed

[symple19]

As a US Soccer fan, I agree the "we'd be good if we tried" argument is lame. You go tell our players they are subpar athletes that don't try. You're an idiot if you believe that. You think LeBron James would be a good soccer player??? Probably not unless he were to be a goal keeper (which the US consistently fields 1st class quality players). We send our top soccer athletes out on our soccer team. We just aren't as good as the rest of the world yet.

:tu

[symple19]

I am so proud of this team, even if they don't advance.

The bottom line is, if they had played better to start the game then none of this bullshit would matter.

I sincerely hope we crush Algeria and find a way to advance. This team could certainly make some noise if(admittedly a very big if) it can find it's way in the early going of matches.

[Muser]

Yeah ^, for some reason the U.S.A seem to play like dogshit at the start of matches. When they go behind they start to play like a decent team.

[Pelicans78]

USA needs to come out against Algeria the same way they trashed Egypt in a must-win game last year at the Conf. Cup. It won't be easy, but its gotta be done.

[fonzy16]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2sD_8prYOxo&feature=player_embedded

[Pero]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2sD_8prYOxo&feature=player_embedded

:lol

[Sisk]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2sD_8prYOxo&feature=player_embedded

:lmao

[Dario]

Lol i wanted to ask americans about the football vs soccer name thing for a long long time, but i guess i wouldn't say it as good as in this video. :rolleyes
I guess they should call it handball, but the name is allready taken.
Roughball? :downspin:

[Spurologist]

http://www.sanjuanupdate.com/updatepix09/football-egg.jpg

[Slo spurs fan]

http://www.sanjuanupdate.com/updatepix09/football-egg.jpg

:lmao

[MannyIsGod]

:lmao

[lefty]

Major props to Algeria for putting up a fight tonight. :tu

I hope we tie against England and Algeria beats USA and the two underdogs advance.
I sure hope so :D

[Pero]

http://www.sanjuanupdate.com/updatepix09/football-egg.jpg

:lmao:lmao:lmao

[The_Worlds_finest]

Soccer comes from the term Associated Football.

[LoneStarState'sPride]

:tu for Emmitt Smith :toast

[ffadicted]

http://www.sanjuanupdate.com/updatepix09/football-egg.jpg

:lmao:lmao

[Muser]

Soccer comes from the term Associated Football.

And Football comes from the people who created the sport.

[Muser]

http://www.sanjuanupdate.com/updatepix09/football-egg.jpg

:lol So true.

[xellos88330]

What if they changed american football to elipse. I think it sounds pretty cool and catchy. The ball is shaped like an elipse.

[boston.balla]

What if they changed american football to elipse. I think it sounds pretty cool and catchy. The ball is shaped like an elipse.


that'd be an ellipsoid btw .. ellipse is a plane object.:toast

[LoneStarState'sPride]

What if they changed american football to elipse. I think it sounds pretty cool and catchy. The ball is shaped like an elipse.

Here's my take on the whole football name game. Soccer, Rugby, Aussie Football, and American football are all technically related, and therefore can make claims (of varying legitimacy) to the moniker "football." It just so happens that soccer is the biggest game globally, so therefore I'll usually give it the nod in international discussions.

Regionally, though, is a different story. You come to Texas and start throwing around the world "football," you'd best not be referring to "soccer," (I don't care if you're standing smack in the middle of Clint Dempsey's hometown lol). I guarantee you Australia is the same way about their brand of football.

As far as American football goes, I've never had a problem with the name, for one simple reason--the entire game can turn on special teams (for those unfamiliar, "special teams" are the squads--neither offensive nor defensive--that deal with actually kicking the ball. Kickoffs after each score, punting to turn over possession of the ball, field goal attempts, and extra point attempts after touchdowns). A team can be dominating in every other aspect of the game, but if their special teams are porous, they'll have a tough time winning, because it's the most dangerous part of the game. In fact, it's not uncommon for field goal kickers to be the leading scorers on their teams.

Not gonna really get into the whole "we were here first," or "longer heritage," type arguments, because they're really stupid at the end of the day--nobody's changing the name of a sport because foreigners on either side of the issue object.

[Dario]

Ye, but still, calling a sport, where you carry a "ball" around in hand, football is kinda funny, don't you think?

[LoneStarState'sPride]

Ye, but still, calling a sport, where you carry a "ball" around in hand, football is kinda funny, don't you think?

Not really, considering one of the most consistent ways to score is, in fact, done with a kicker. To each their own, though--doesn't really matter at the end of the day, if you can understand both sports for what they are.