Talk Elections

Forum Community => Off-topic Board => Topic started by: Gustaf on September 04, 2010, 04:30:10 AM



Title: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on September 04, 2010, 04:30:10 AM
I'm not seeing a topic on it.

Great start for Sweden with a solid 2-0 win over Hungary, while Finland surprisingly lost against Moldavia by just as much.

Also great start for England who beat Bulgaria 4-0.

Italian start for Italy, beating Estonia 2-1 after being down 1-0 at half-time.

France continues to suck and lost against Belarus by 0-1. Portugal also sucked, drawing against Cyprus 4-4 (!).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on September 04, 2010, 04:33:02 AM
Germany on normal service. Marginally stronger, cleverer side in a weakish, though not completely boring, game. And win 1-0 thanks to putting good use to a realyl stupid defensive mistake once.
Yawn.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on September 04, 2010, 05:10:49 AM
lolfrance

Though to be fair most of their team has less than 10 international caps.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Bunwahaha [still dunno why, but well, so be it] on September 04, 2010, 02:29:50 PM
France - Biélorussie

0 - 1

In Stade de France...

... (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3t8MeE8Ik4Y)

Yeah, everything is to build here...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on September 04, 2010, 05:37:56 PM
I suppose it's nice to see Ingerland not fail utterly, especially as the keeper was born in the same town as me. Wales lost to Montenegro which is less good, though not surprising.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Phony Moderate on September 04, 2010, 06:35:46 PM
The Euro seems to have become a big deal only in the last 20 years or so. Also, I've been told that it wasn't referred to as the "Euro" until 1996, when it was held here in England.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Bunwahaha [still dunno why, but well, so be it] on September 04, 2010, 07:20:33 PM
Also, I've been told that it wasn't referred to as the "Euro" until 1996, when it was held here in England.

Not sure, I think I remind of this yellow rabbit in 1992 (Sweden) in my football magazines, and iirc they called it Euro 1992, has to be checked.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on September 05, 2010, 03:34:37 AM
The Euro seems to have become a big deal only in the last 20 years or so.
Nope. Make that a 30.
Quote
Also, I've been told that it wasn't referred to as the "Euro" until 1996, when it was held here in England.
Yep.

()   ()


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Bunwahaha [still dunno why, but well, so be it] on September 05, 2010, 10:03:05 AM
Oh maybe not in the logo, but as far as I remind people always said 'Euro', and it was called 'Euro' in media as well, then for everybody here it was 'Euro '92', I can't remind this as people saying or writing 'UEFA '92'.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on September 05, 2010, 10:46:43 AM
Well people here still call it "EM" (or "Europameisterschaft"), except for complete tools who might say "Euro". I'm pretty sure (though, hey, maybe I'm wrong) nobody called it "Euro" before UEFA started calling it that. Which was in 1996.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Bunwahaha [still dunno why, but well, so be it] on September 05, 2010, 12:54:22 PM
I'm pretty sure (though, hey, maybe I'm wrong) nobody called it "Euro" before UEFA started calling it that. Which was in 1996.

Ah! I found back a cover of the football magazine I read when I was a child:

()

In the top left: 'Euro 92'. Hey France might have launched the fashion. ;D

And it was even before '92:

()

And still before!

()

Was harder to find some cover for before with something mentioned about it, but the very few I found went 'Europa '80', which might had this name due to the fact it was in Italy.

()


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on September 06, 2010, 05:20:59 AM
In Sweden it is also called EM. I've never heard a Swede, in Swedish, refer to it as "Euro" (although I know it is called that in English, hence why I used it for this thread title).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: MASHED POTATOES. VOTE! on September 06, 2010, 05:44:19 AM
If anyone is actually coming to see games, she or he can go drink with me.

Just for the future.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on September 06, 2010, 08:32:21 AM
Does anyone have any idea how to buy tickets to any of the qualification matches? Scotland is coming to play the Czech Republic in Prague in October and I'd like to go. Is there a UEFA website for this?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Јas on September 06, 2010, 08:53:38 AM
Does anyone have any idea how to buy tickets to any of the qualification matches? Scotland is coming to play the Czech Republic in Prague in October and I'd like to go. Is there a UEFA website for this?

The tickets would be primarily distributed by the national associations which I presume all have different means of passing on their allocations. So if you're going to try online then the Czech and Scottish football associations might be a better bet than UEFA.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on September 06, 2010, 12:47:21 PM
I'm pretty sure (though, hey, maybe I'm wrong) nobody called it "Euro" before UEFA started calling it that. Which was in 1996.

snippety-do

Well, nobody here anyhow. :D


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Bunwahaha [still dunno why, but well, so be it] on September 07, 2010, 11:42:21 AM
I'm pretty sure (though, hey, maybe I'm wrong) nobody called it "Euro" before UEFA started calling it that. Which was in 1996.

snippety-do

Well, nobody here anyhow. :D

Yes, yes, that's what I thought you could be saying, was making the point for France, forgot to delete your quote. France has been avant-garde (once in a while...).

Well, about tonight's match, that's funny we go play Bosnia as if it was a major team and the favorite of the group and going like 'no, no, we're not eliminated yet, we still have a little chance, we have to try!'.

Laurent Blanc is very nice and open-minded, full of good will, but is the opposite of someone reassured and reassuring. Everything is to build here. Bosnia which seems to be offensive, dynamic, and with psychological assurance clearly is the favorite tonight, especially in Sarajevo.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on September 08, 2010, 07:30:05 AM
Great result for France, especially since Romania continue to suck.

Lol, Portugal.

Bad for Sweden losing Mellberg for the Holland game.

Lol, Scotland.

Good for England. And good for Turkey, bad for Belgium who are going to struggle for a top-two spot now. Lithuania and Slovakia are doing great!

I don't think Ireland is looking good though, despite winning. Sorry Jas. :(


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on September 08, 2010, 08:39:26 AM
My Czech roommate was pretty depressed about last night's game.

Poor Kazakhstan. :(

The Norwegian goal against Portugal is hilarious, by the way: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqtIwkNkHfg&feature=player_embedded


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Јas on September 08, 2010, 08:44:05 AM
I don't think Ireland is looking good though, despite winning. Sorry Jas. :(

You mean a 3-1 thrashing of mighty Andorra following a dogged 1-0 victory over Armenia hasn't sent shockwaves around Europe!?

I haven't actually seen anything of either; just been following press reports which have been fairly mixed but generally cautiously pessimistic.



Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Bunwahaha [still dunno why, but well, so be it] on September 08, 2010, 11:45:41 AM
I don't think Ireland is looking good though, despite winning. Sorry Jas. :(

You mean a 3-1 thrashing of mighty Andorra following a dogged 1-0 victory over Armenia hasn't sent shockwaves around Europe!?

lol. But I know the feeling.

But now: Yay France!

We won a match!!

Had been 7 matches it hadn't happen.

And we goaled with feet, actually, and by attacking! and with passes! all the stuffs!! we played football!!!

Yeah, dominated the whole match, lots of occasions, and some beautiful ones, especially in second half. The fact that Bosnia isn't a team with a über blocking defense might have helped, maybe, but we developed interesting things, especially in the attack and the middle. Now we have an attacker of reference, Benzema, and the Malouda-Benzema-Valbuena has been a pretty interesting attack, and the M'Vila-Diaby-Diarra a pretty solid middle.

Was only one match, and remains Bosnia, but still, it's different. Wasn't fan of them before but now I almost don't want that players like Ribéry and Evra (barred from playing several matches because of their behavior in South Africa) come back, we have several other good players that could better than them to make a team. Hope we will have friendly matches against strong teams to see more the worth of it.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on September 08, 2010, 12:33:44 PM
Bosnia is a pretty strong team, beating them by 2-0 is a strong showing and bodes well. If you can get the stars back and get the team to work together again there is still great potential in the team.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on September 08, 2010, 08:10:03 PM
Congratulations to Scotland for their heroic defeat of the mighty Liechtenstein. No, seriously. Their coach has stated that he is 'thrilled' with the result.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 05, 2010, 10:31:15 PM
Portugal has become a total disaster. That game against Cyprus had to be one of the craziest things I've ever seen in Soccer.

As for my beloved side, I have very mixed feelings. That first game was an embarrassment but, as stated earlier, a pretty Italian start for the Italian squad. Crushing the Faroe Islands was great because even though they're minnows, it is very un-Italian to win 5-0.

Friday will be tougher and next week will be the first real challenge. I think we'll take the group rather easily but we'll need some improvement for the final tournament. After that disaster a few months ago, this team better get us to to least the Semi finals.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 07, 2010, 10:14:42 AM
Prandelli isn't going to start Rossi against Northern Ireland tomorrow. The same Rossi that scored a goal and had a great game against the same team just a year ago. This is our first real test and I'm worried they might screw it up.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on October 07, 2010, 12:16:16 PM
Northern Ireland count as a 'real test' for Italy now? Oh how the mighty have fallen.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 07, 2010, 12:24:02 PM
Northern Ireland count as a 'real test' for Italy now? Oh how the mighty have fallen.

I'm not saying it's actually very serious competition but compared to Estonia and the Faroe Islands? Yeah, Northern Ireland counts as the first real test (especially when we're playing them in Belfast).

Don't get too happy, Al. We will still easily win our group and Wales still won't qualify for anything.  ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on October 07, 2010, 03:51:09 PM
In the last Euro qualifiers Northern Ireland had a strong home record, beating Sweden, Denmark and Spain there. So they're not a team to be trifled with.

Also, Italy actually has a pretty tough group. Serbia, Slovenia and Northern Ireland aren't teams you can just breeze past. 


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 07, 2010, 03:59:37 PM
In the last Euro qualifiers Northern Ireland had a strong home record, beating Sweden, Denmark and Spain there. So they're not a team to be trifled with.

Also, Italy actually has a pretty tough group. Serbia, Slovenia and Northern Ireland aren't teams you can just breeze past. 

Yeah, those teams certainly aren't minnows and Italy isn't taking/shouldn't take them lightly but it's not like we're in a group with teams like Spain or Germany. Then we'd really have to worry about finishing second place.

Overall, I think it's an easy group with some hurdles but first place should be ours. I think Slovenia is more of a one hit wonder (2010).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Јas on October 08, 2010, 01:22:32 AM
In the last Euro qualifiers Northern Ireland had a strong home record, beating Sweden, Denmark and Spain there. So they're not a team to be trifled with.

NI have been in hellish form recently. Up until the Slovenia game they were 7 games without a goal; and 10 without a win (since, funnily enough, beating Slovenia the last time).

David Healy has stopped scoring goals. If they're going to match their form from the last qualification campaign than something will have to change very soon.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on October 08, 2010, 01:35:55 AM
Today is Germany vs. Turkey in Berlin.

And Austria vs. Azerbaijan in Vienna.

My guesses: Germany 2:1 Turkey & Austria 3:1 Azerbaijan


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on October 08, 2010, 04:09:37 AM
In the last Euro qualifiers Northern Ireland had a strong home record, beating Sweden, Denmark and Spain there. So they're not a team to be trifled with.

NI have been in hellish form recently. Up until the Slovenia game they were 7 games without a goal; and 10 without a win (since, funnily enough, beating Slovenia the last time).

David Healy has stopped scoring goals. If they're going to match their form from the last qualification campaign than something will have to change very soon.

Oh, right. I'm certainly not predicting a similar performance by them this time. Merely pointing out that they have it in them, so to speak.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Јas on October 08, 2010, 07:01:58 AM
In the last Euro qualifiers Northern Ireland had a strong home record, beating Sweden, Denmark and Spain there. So they're not a team to be trifled with.

NI have been in hellish form recently. Up until the Slovenia game they were 7 games without a goal; and 10 without a win (since, funnily enough, beating Slovenia the last time).

David Healy has stopped scoring goals. If they're going to match their form from the last qualification campaign than something will have to change very soon.

Oh, right. I'm certainly not predicting a similar performance by them this time. Merely pointing out that they have it in them, so to speak.

Yeah, when on form they're not an unreasonable team - and can usually defend well enough.

They are sorely lacking though in the ability to both create and take goal scoring opportunities. Healy was almost doing this himself for a while there, but he's simply not playing well recently. Nor is he getting even first team club football at the minute. Kyle Lafferty has potential - but the team will still struggle to create chances for him as well.

Italy really should be able to take them at a canter.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Bunwahaha [still dunno why, but well, so be it] on October 08, 2010, 09:15:20 AM
7 games without a goal; and 10 without a win

Sounds familiar to me...

Also, something is wrong, Faroe Islands, along with Romania and Switzerland, is our property normally.

Oh and, just after having found something strong in the middle, 2/3 of it is injured. Yay. Luckily attack still available.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on October 08, 2010, 01:36:10 PM
Today is Germany vs. Turkey in Berlin.

And Austria vs. Azerbaijan in Vienna.

My guesses: Germany 2:1 Turkey & Austria 3:1 Azerbaijan


Starts good:

2 minutes played, Austria 1, Azerbaijan 0

:)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 08, 2010, 03:50:30 PM
I'll take the draw in Belfast especially when Serbia lost 3-1 at home after being up late in the game.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Landslide Lyndon on October 08, 2010, 04:13:18 PM
I'll take the draw in Belfast especially when Serbia lost 3-1 at home after being up late in the game.

How the mighty have fallen. :D


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 08, 2010, 05:17:37 PM
I'll take the draw in Belfast especially when Serbia lost 3-1 at home after being up late in the game.

How the mighty have fallen. :D

See the earlier posts as to why they haven't "fallen" by drawing in Belfast.  :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on October 09, 2010, 12:28:09 AM
Final results:

Austria 3, Azerbaijan 0
Germany 3, Turkey 0

If we could somehow win in Brussels on Tuesday against Belgium and then against Turkey, that would be great. But Austria and Belgium have about the same strength, so I think it will be a draw. At least our team is not as bad anymore as it was ... :P



Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on October 09, 2010, 03:49:25 AM
Several funny results yesterday.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Hans-im-Glück on October 09, 2010, 07:40:02 AM
Portugal 3, Denmark 1

I think this was a good game from Portugal and a very good start for the new manager Paulo Bento.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 09, 2010, 02:55:04 PM
Yes, Bulgaria finally won a match ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Hans-im-Glück on October 09, 2010, 03:02:29 PM

Are now all Bulgarians Lothar Mathäus fans? ;D


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on October 09, 2010, 03:16:23 PM
Egad? You ended up actually hiring the creep!?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 10, 2010, 06:25:26 AM
While it would take a qualification to the EU for this to happen, he seems well liked, for now. Though our players are complaining that his training is too exhausting. Apparently Mathäus has learned two Bulgarian words: "again" and "quickly" ;D

Why is he a creep?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on October 10, 2010, 07:33:06 AM

Against the worst Wales squad since that carrot Bobby Gould was coach.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Bunwahaha [still dunno why, but well, so be it] on October 11, 2010, 11:38:36 AM
France. :)

The match has showed that now we have several possible good combinations for middle and attack. It still needs construction and automatisms, but something could be on its way...

And sometimes life is ironic to the point that after Romania we play Luxembourg.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on October 11, 2010, 04:46:59 PM
Hoping that we can pull out a draw versus Holland tomorrow. :S

France is looking better now. So is Portugal, unfortunately.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on October 11, 2010, 05:29:41 PM
France. :)

The match has showed that now we have several possible good combinations for middle and attack. It still needs construction and automatisms, but something could be on its way...

And sometimes life is ironic to the point that after Romania we play Luxembourg.

From what I caught of the game (the last twenty or so minutes) the "new" French team really impressed me. Also seeing almost everyone in the stadium waving the tricolore was neat visually.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 11, 2010, 05:50:16 PM
Does the French team ever place home games outside of the Stade de France? Try spicing it up a little, guys.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 12, 2010, 12:20:09 PM
Wow. Northern Ireland was lucky to escape with a draw against the Faroe Islands. Even though it was only a tie, that will likely be the best result the Faroe Islands will see throughout qualification.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on October 12, 2010, 01:34:19 PM
Well, Azerbaijan did us a favor today by beating Turkey 1:0

The Belgium vs. Austria game starts in a few minutes, if we could beat them and then Turkey we´d have a good chance of being at the Euro 2012 ... ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 12, 2010, 02:10:00 PM
Serbian ultras attack Italian fans before the start of the game so we're in a delay. I doubt that they even play at this point which ought to mean a 3-0 forfeit by Serbia.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 12, 2010, 02:34:11 PM
The game gets underway and the Serbian fans throw a flare onto the field. Unreal. Call the damn game!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on October 12, 2010, 02:34:35 PM
Wow. Northern Ireland was lucky to escape with a draw against the Faroe Islands. Even though it was only a tie, that will likely be the best result the Faroe Islands will see throughout qualification.

My point exactly.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 12, 2010, 02:39:08 PM
3-0 per l'Italia!  :D  Bye, Serbia.

...or they might "play later." What a disgrace.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on October 13, 2010, 01:30:42 AM
But Austria and Belgium have about the same strength, so I think it will be a draw. At least our team is not as bad anymore as it was ... :P

Has anyone seen that game ?

4:4

LOL, one of the weirdest games I´ve ever seen. Our goalkeeper with a huge parade, first fended off a shot by a Belgium striker 3 meter ahead of him, then a few seconds later again and then a couple seconds later touched the ball barely with this fingers so that it went to the goal crossbar.

Then Paul Scharner got a red card because of striking a Belgium player Zidane like with his head - 1m away from the English referee Dean.

The Englishman Dean was a quality of his own, almost stepping in never when there was a foul (he probably likes very rough games) ... ;)

When Scharner saw red, Austria was leading 3:2, but then Belgium entered power-play mode and scored 2 goals. Austria looked beaten, but then Martin Harnik out of nowhere scored the equalizing goal with just 1 minute to go ... :)

Really great game !

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=299375&cc=5739


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on October 13, 2010, 01:40:17 AM
Here is a cool video of the highlights of the Belgium adventure, with real ORF commentary !

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GiLSnNeBUFQ


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 13, 2010, 08:43:57 AM
I wouldn't exactly be happy with that result if I was a fan of Austria.  :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on October 13, 2010, 08:44:52 AM
That's the second 4-4 tie of the qualifiers so far! Nice to see after the low-scoring World Cup.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on October 13, 2010, 08:49:37 AM
I wouldn't exactly be happy with that result if I was a fan of Austria.  :P

Haha, well, all we have to do now is beat the Belgians after the winter @ home in Vienna.

Then we beat Azerbaijan and Kazhakstan and tie Turkey and lose against Germany.

Then I guess we should remain second ?!

;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on October 13, 2010, 02:22:54 PM
Here is a cool video of the highlights of the Belgium adventure, with real ORF commentary !

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GiLSnNeBUFQ
Just the goals, actually.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on October 13, 2010, 03:24:16 PM
Obviously wasn't a good night to be a Swede. :(

Ah, well. We should still pull out the 2nd place.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Hans-im-Glück on October 13, 2010, 03:49:37 PM
Iceland 1, Portugal 3

I think Portugal is on a good way.Under Queiroz they only destroy the game :(, but now they are playing football.

In the German group all are playing for Germany. I will be a hard fight between Turkey, Belgium and Austria for the second place. In the moment I think Austria have good chances.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 14, 2010, 02:04:27 AM
Hm, Estonia loses 0-1 due to an own goal by a Russian? One might almost wonder whether this was an accident ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 14, 2010, 09:21:34 AM
Hm, Estonia loses 0-1 due to an own goal by a Russian? One might almost wonder whether this was an accident ;)

Huh? Estonia isn't in Russia's group.  :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 15, 2010, 02:16:26 AM
Hm, Estonia loses 0-1 due to an own goal by a Russian? One might almost wonder whether this was an accident ;)

Huh? Estonia isn't in Russia's group.  :P
Russians in Estonia have not treated very well after 1991, so that's why I suggested (not very seriously) that it might not have been an accident. Of course, if he's a member of their team, he's probably well integrated, so this is very unlikely, but it's still rather ironic.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 15, 2010, 02:18:21 AM
Hm, Estonia loses 0-1 due to an own goal by a Russian? One might almost wonder whether this was an accident ;)

Huh? Estonia isn't in Russia's group.  :P
Russians in Estonia have not treated very well after 1991, so that's why I suggested (not very seriously) that it might not have been an accident. Of course, if he's a member of their team, he's probably well integrated, so this is very unlikely, but it's still rather ironic.

I don't get which team you're talking about though.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Hash on October 15, 2010, 11:16:34 AM
Hm, Estonia loses 0-1 due to an own goal by a Russian? One might almost wonder whether this was an accident ;)

Huh? Estonia isn't in Russia's group.  :P
Russians in Estonia have not treated very well after 1991, so that's why I suggested (not very seriously) that it might not have been an accident. Of course, if he's a member of their team, he's probably well integrated, so this is very unlikely, but it's still rather ironic.

I don't get which team you're talking about though.

An Estonian player of Russian ancestry/ethnicity scored an own goal.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 15, 2010, 12:10:11 PM
Hm, Estonia loses 0-1 due to an own goal by a Russian? One might almost wonder whether this was an accident ;)

Huh? Estonia isn't in Russia's group.  :P
Russians in Estonia have not treated very well after 1991, so that's why I suggested (not very seriously) that it might not have been an accident. Of course, if he's a member of their team, he's probably well integrated, so this is very unlikely, but it's still rather ironic.

I don't get which team you're talking about though.

An Estonian player of Russian ancestry/ethnicity scored an own goal.

I figured but I didn't get the point at first. I thought he was saying the Estonian of Russian descent scored an own goal in a game against Russia to spite the Estonians.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Bunwahaha [still dunno why, but well, so be it] on October 15, 2010, 06:10:45 PM
France. :)

The match has showed that now we have several possible good combinations for middle and attack. It still needs construction and automatisms, but something could be on its way...

And sometimes life is ironic to the point that after Romania we play Luxembourg.

From what I caught of the game (the last twenty or so minutes) the "new" French team really impressed me. Also seeing almost everyone in the stadium waving the tricolore was neat visually.

Damn it, they annoy me with that. For a very few years, each time there is a match in Stade de France, you can see all these very same French flags waved by so much people, would almost have a North Korean taste. IIrc it appeared a matter of time after Morocco and Tunisia played in Stade de France a few years ago, and there had been troubles during anthems, people booed the Marseillaise, and then politicians felts scandalized, that the anthem shouldn't be booed, etc. Seems spontaneous though, maybe since then they sell all those very same French flags for cheap close of the stadium, dunno...

Does the French team ever place home games outside of the Stade de France? Try spicing it up a little, guys.

Funny you said that precisely the day before France played in...Metz. :P

And yeah, France regularly plays outside of the Stade de France.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 15, 2010, 06:34:13 PM

And yeah, France regularly plays outside of the Stade de France.

Regularly plays outside? Every recent home game I've seen highlights of showed them there.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Bunwahaha [still dunno why, but well, so be it] on October 15, 2010, 06:49:23 PM

And yeah, France regularly plays outside of the Stade de France.

Regularly plays outside? Every recent home game I've seen highlights of showed them there.

Yeah, last ones were there. Hey we were in psychological troubles, he needed home sweet home. Unless it's an other explanation...

Tbh, before Metz I can't recall when was the last one outside of Stade de France. But there have regularly be some yeah, biggest other spots being Marseille and Lyon, but others as well, Saint-Etienne, Lens, Nantes, for some that can be regularly chosen, sometimes even rather small cities could have been chosen, and once there even have been one in the very small Breton city of Guimgamp. Far more rarely, and maybe only once, at least in my memory, it can happen in overseas territories.

Well, most of the games that are not in the main stadium of the country, or in the 2 other biggest (Marseille and Lyon), use to be either small qualifiers (Faroe in Guimgamp), or friendly matches (Costa-Rica in Martinique).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on January 30, 2011, 12:47:36 AM
I'm dying without these qualifying matches and it's especially bad for an Azzurri fan since our last game was  suspended due to the Serbian Ultras (though I'm not complaining about an automatic 3-0 victory in our favor). Action starts up in late March but we had some news yesterday about Ukraine possibly being suspended, meaning there would be a new co-host - http://www.worldfootballinsider.com/Story.aspx?id=34112 (http://www.worldfootballinsider.com/Story.aspx?id=34112)

There have been back up plans in place for awhile. I think I remember reading Hungary and Germany might  host some games if this happens which would be interesting. Of course, the whole tournament should just move to Italy since they were supposed to get it anyway but no, we can't have that. UEFA (and FIFA) have to continue to "make history" instead of picking decent hosts.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on January 30, 2011, 01:09:13 AM
There have been back up plans in place for awhile. I think I remember reading Hungary and Germany might  host some games if this happens which would be interesting. Of course, the whole tournament should just move to Italy since they were supposed to get it anyway but no, we can't have that.
Bit unfair on Poland?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on January 30, 2011, 01:46:01 AM
There have been back up plans in place for awhile. I think I remember reading Hungary and Germany might  host some games if this happens which would be interesting. Of course, the whole tournament should just move to Italy since they were supposed to get it anyway but no, we can't have that.
Bit unfair on Poland?

No, no, no. Poland would still host as well. Germany and Hungary would split the games Ukraine was supposed to host. Not that I'd care if Poland was stripped of their hosting duties, too, especially if it meant more games in Germany. You guys know how to host tournaments. It would also give me a reason to actually visit the country instead of four hour layovers in Munich while en route to Italy.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on January 30, 2011, 01:54:08 AM
There have been back up plans in place for awhile. I think I remember reading Hungary and Germany might  host some games if this happens which would be interesting. Of course, the whole tournament should just move to Italy since they were supposed to get it anyway but no, we can't have that.
Bit unfair on Poland?

No, no, no. Poland would still host as well. Germany and Hungary would split the games Ukraine was supposed to host. Not that I'd care if Poland was stripped of their hosting duties, too, especially if it meant more games in Germany. You guys know how to host tournaments. It would also give me a reason to actually visit the country instead of four hour layovers in Munich while en route to Italy.
I was commenting on the "move the whole tournament to Italy" thing. Btw, it's not as if Italy's stadia as of right now would satisfy the UEFA.
Though fwiw it's more likely that they'd move as many games as possible to Poland.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on January 30, 2011, 03:13:04 AM
]I was commenting on the "move the whole tournament to Italy" thing. Btw, it's not as if Italy's stadia as of right now would satisfy the UEFA.

Oh, I see. Well, in that case, do you really think I'd care if that was fair or not to another country?  ;)

Yeah, they are in desperate need of renovations but I'm worried about a never ending cycle with this one: every time Italy bids for a tournament, UEFA or FIFA will say the stadia aren't up to par but awarding Italy a tournament seems to be the only thing that will kick the FIGC into gear for stadia renovations. Oh well.  :(

Quote
Though fwiw it's more likely that they'd move as many games as possible to Poland.

That might be the case but some games would still have to be played elsewhere. Platini floated the Germany-Hungary idea last Spring but I don't know if that's actually still on the table.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on January 30, 2011, 03:17:21 AM
If only a few games would be played outside of Poland, a Poland-Czech Republic tournament would be a good idea but can you get any more "feel good" than Poland-Germany? Everyone can cry and hug each other and all that good stuff. And maybe - just maybe - we could see a good Soccer tournament!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Iosif on January 30, 2011, 04:12:34 AM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9nXC1HyaUEM


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on January 30, 2011, 01:07:30 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9nXC1HyaUEM

Only in America.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Landslide Lyndon on January 30, 2011, 02:26:03 PM
If only a few games would be played outside of Poland, a Poland-Czech Republic tournament would be a good idea but can you get any more "feel good" than Poland-Germany? Everyone can cry and hug each other and all that good stuff. And maybe - just maybe - we could see a good Soccer tournament!

A Poland-Czech Republic tournament? Sign me in.
What better way to pass your summer than watching football among Europe's most beautiful women.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on January 30, 2011, 02:43:30 PM
What better way to pass your summer than watching football among Europe's most beautiful women.

Well, that was my original proposal: move it to Italy where it was supposed to be anyway.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Landslide Lyndon on January 30, 2011, 03:33:50 PM
What better way to pass your summer than watching football among Europe's most beautiful women.

Well, that was my original proposal: move it to Italy where it was supposed to be anyway.

Nice try but everybody here knows that Italian women can't hold a candle to their Czech and Polish counterparts. ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Swedish Rainbow Capitalist Cheese on January 30, 2011, 05:30:20 PM
What better way to pass your summer than watching football among Europe's most beautiful women.

Well, that was my original proposal: move it to Italy where it was supposed to be anyway.

Nice try but everybody here knows that Italian women can't hold a candle to their Czech and Polish counterparts. ;)

Who cares about the God damn women? Football should be about one thing and one thing only... the hot men who kick the ball. 


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on January 30, 2011, 08:59:38 PM
What better way to pass your summer than watching football among Europe's most beautiful women.

Well, that was my original proposal: move it to Italy where it was supposed to be anyway.

Nice try but everybody here knows that Italian women can't hold a candle to their Czech and Polish counterparts. ;)


When it comes to looking as masculine as possible? Yeah, point taken.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Landslide Lyndon on January 31, 2011, 06:18:24 AM
When it comes to looking as masculine as possible? Yeah, point taken.

()

()

Yep, I agree with you. ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on February 08, 2011, 04:18:01 PM
The next games will be really hard to win.

Austria vs. Netherlands tomorrow.

Austria vs. Belgium and Austria vs. Turkey in March.

Austria vs. Germany in June or so.

...

I'd say we lose 3:1 tomorrow in Eindhoven.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on February 09, 2011, 03:01:40 PM
28 minutes played: Holland 1, Austria 0


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on February 09, 2011, 03:27:10 PM
Argentina now leads Portugal 1:0


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on February 09, 2011, 03:34:44 PM
England vs. Denmark is still 1:1


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on February 09, 2011, 03:37:45 PM
Wow, great goal by Holland !

2:0 now.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on February 09, 2011, 04:00:27 PM
3:0 Holland now by penalty.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on February 09, 2011, 04:02:44 PM
England now ahead of Denmark by 2:1

Argentina vs. Portugal is now 1:1


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on February 09, 2011, 04:13:26 PM
Yay ! Penalty for Austria:

3:1 now.

Seems my prediction will be right.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on February 09, 2011, 04:15:12 PM
France leads Brazil 1:0 now.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Bunwahaha [still dunno why, but well, so be it] on February 09, 2011, 08:12:45 PM
We can't help but beat Brazil.

1st half was boring, but 2nd half was quite good, France dominated all the way (the fact Brazilians had one red didn't help them, but that's what can happen when one plays taekwondo). Benzema was quite good too, and Jeremy Menez (AS Roma) could be a future good attacker, all of this with several injured players, we kept a good middle and a good defense.

This team could become interesting.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on February 09, 2011, 11:12:56 PM
If I wasn't busy watching Italy vs. Germany, I would have loved to have seen...Liechtenstein vs. San Marino.  :P  What a thriller that must have been! Liechtenstein won 1-0, by the way.

How about Luxembourg beating Slovakia 2-1? Croatia vs. Czech Republic looked exciting.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on May 25, 2011, 07:48:34 PM
They're back on June 3rd, 4th and 7th!  :)

The only truly big game looks to be Portugal vs. Norway. A Portugal win would put them even at the top with Norway but with Denmark probably beating Iceland the same day, it would mean a three way tie for first. England vs. Switzerland should be somewhat entertaining since England will be fighting to stay atop the group with Montenegro (who ought to win at home against Bulgaria).

Of course, Italy should continue to dominate Group C but that will only be exciting for a few of us.  ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 03, 2011, 03:47:48 PM
Beautiful win complete a goal from my boy Rossi. If we get just two wins out of our last four games, there is no mathematical way for anyone to surpass us at the top of the group.  :) 

Now let's just kick Ireland's ass in Tuesday's Friendly. 


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on June 03, 2011, 05:35:25 PM
Decent game overall. Moldavia isn't as simple an obstacle as one might think so 4-1 is pretty good.

And what happened to Bosnia and Lithuania? There weren't generally that many interesting games tonight, unfortunately.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 03, 2011, 06:36:21 PM
Decent game overall. Moldavia isn't as simple an obstacle as one might think so 4-1 is pretty good.

And what happened to Bosnia and Lithuania? There weren't generally that many interesting games tonight, unfortunately.

Yeah, the interesting games are tomorrow. Norway vs. Portugal ought to be the biggest one.

As for Lithuania, that is just too funny. Not only to lose by to lose 0-2 to Liechtenstein. Ouch. That's Liechtenstein's first competitive win in four years. As for Bosnia, that is less surprising. Romania might be pretty pathetic these days but they had home field advantage and Bosnia isn't exactly a good team anyway.

Another real embarrassment is France continuing to struggle against Belarus. They might just give France a good run in the home stretch especially since two of France's remaining games are in Romania and Albania. The former has put on very good performances at home while the latter isn't a pushover on home turf either.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on June 04, 2011, 03:37:25 AM
Decent game overall. Moldavia isn't as simple an obstacle as one might think so 4-1 is pretty good.

And what happened to Bosnia and Lithuania? There weren't generally that many interesting games tonight, unfortunately.

Yeah, the interesting games are tomorrow. Norway vs. Portugal ought to be the biggest one.

As for Lithuania, that is just too funny. Not only to lose by to lose 0-2 to Liechtenstein. Ouch. That's Liechtenstein's first competitive win in four years. As for Bosnia, that is less surprising. Romania might be pretty pathetic these days but they had home field advantage and Bosnia isn't exactly a good team anyway.

Another real embarrassment is France continuing to struggle against Belarus. They might just give France a good run in the home stretch especially since two of France's remaining games are in Romania and Albania. The former has put on very good performances at home while the latter isn't a pushover on home turf either.

Bosnia is criminally underrated. Dzeko just moved to Manchester City, for instance. In the last World Cup qualifier they finished second in their group behind Spain, ahead of Turkey and Belgium. In the WCQ before that they finished 3rd in their group, having tied Spain in both legs.

And, they're undefeated against Italy. ;)

Romania, on the other hand has been sucking really hard ever since the 2008 Euros. In the last WCQ they were thrashed by Lithuania 3-0 on home ground. That is just embarrassing. Before yesterday their only points were beating Luxembourg and tying Albania and Belarus. So I was surprised that they could just sweep Bosnia to the side (especially since they lost the away leg against Bosnia)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on June 04, 2011, 04:41:51 AM
Germany won. Somehow. Didn't deserve to.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Franzl on June 04, 2011, 04:50:57 AM
Germany won. Somehow. Didn't deserve to.

Germany always deserves to win football matches.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on June 04, 2011, 04:53:17 AM
Germany won. Somehow. Didn't deserve to.

Germany always deserves to win football matches.
Nah, that's the Eintracht.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Franzl on June 04, 2011, 04:56:11 AM
Germany won. Somehow. Didn't deserve to.

Germany always deserves to win football matches.
Nah, that's the Eintracht.

Eintracht didn't do a good job of defending what's rightfully theirs then ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on June 04, 2011, 05:02:20 AM
Germany won. Somehow. Didn't deserve to.

Germany always deserves to win football matches.
Nah, that's the Eintracht.

Eintracht didn't do a good job of defending what's rightfully theirs then ;)
Fucking disaster...

I'm visible in this shot from after the Cologne game.

() Top corner of the stands (center of the image in left-right terms), near a redheaded steward.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 04, 2011, 09:07:48 AM
Decent game overall. Moldavia isn't as simple an obstacle as one might think so 4-1 is pretty good.

And what happened to Bosnia and Lithuania? There weren't generally that many interesting games tonight, unfortunately.

Yeah, the interesting games are tomorrow. Norway vs. Portugal ought to be the biggest one.

As for Lithuania, that is just too funny. Not only to lose by to lose 0-2 to Liechtenstein. Ouch. That's Liechtenstein's first competitive win in four years. As for Bosnia, that is less surprising. Romania might be pretty pathetic these days but they had home field advantage and Bosnia isn't exactly a good team anyway.

Another real embarrassment is France continuing to struggle against Belarus. They might just give France a good run in the home stretch especially since two of France's remaining games are in Romania and Albania. The former has put on very good performances at home while the latter isn't a pushover on home turf either.

Bosnia is criminally underrated. Dzeko just moved to Manchester City, for instance. In the last World Cup qualifier they finished second in their group behind Spain, ahead of Turkey and Belgium. In the WCQ before that they finished 3rd in their group, having tied Spain in both legs.

And, they're undefeated against Italy. ;)

Maybe but remember that I have a pretty high standard as to what a "good" team is in Soccer.  ;)

Quote
Romania, on the other hand has been sucking really hard ever since the 2008 Euros. In the last WCQ they were thrashed by Lithuania 3-0 on home ground. That is just embarrassing. Before yesterday their only points were beating Luxembourg and tying Albania and Belarus. So I was surprised that they could just sweep Bosnia to the side (especially since they lost the away leg against Bosnia)

Yeah, they were terrible in the last World Cup qualifiers but they've obviously improved somewhat. Tying Belarus in Belarus isn't that bad if a team like France can't get their hands around them. I'd say that tie against Albania was probably more of a hangover from the 2010 World Cup qualifiers since it was their first game of these qualifiers.

Whatever the case, they've certainly fallen hard since the 2008 qualifying campaign which saw them top their group against The Netherlands (including one win and one draw against the Dutch).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 04, 2011, 09:26:15 AM
And just as I give Romania some credit, their coach resigns.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on June 04, 2011, 09:29:46 AM
I would, were that to happen to me.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 04, 2011, 09:30:35 AM

Quit as coach of Romania? How about never take the job.  :D


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 04, 2011, 11:22:39 AM
Wow. Talk about terrible luck for England.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 04, 2011, 11:25:12 AM
...and just seconds later, a dose of luck. This is going to be an exciting game.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on June 04, 2011, 01:31:30 PM
Germany won. Somehow. Didn't deserve to.

By relying on Mario Gomez to score twice, including a winning 90th minute goal. LOL


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: ZuWo on June 04, 2011, 01:43:12 PM
Wow. Talk about terrible luck for England.

As usual against one of the big teams the Swiss didn't manage to pull it off. I'm quite happy with that tie, though. I expected England to win handily.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 04, 2011, 08:56:05 PM
England caught a big break with Bulgaria tying Montenegro. Group B is all tied up at the top between Ireland, Slovakia and Russia. This one should be the most exciting between now and October. Totally unpredictable. I'm hoping for Ireland and Slovakia to make it through. If that happens and assuming one of the two wins their playoff, I'd love to be grouped with them in the Finals. We have a score to settle with the latter from last year. I have a feeling the result would be much different this time around.  ;)  And, of course, Italy vs. Ireland is always good fun.

Group F is interesting with Israel putting on what has to be a strong than expected performance. Their only losses are to Croatia and Greece. That being said, they have to face both of them again so I don't think Israel is going to be advance. This one is between Greece and Croatia. Their game on October 7th should be the decisive one.

Group H is like Group B - three way tie at the top - but probably a little less unpredictable. Portugal has the easier final games but they've screwed up before. Maybe Cyprus can stick it to them again and Denmark or Norway will take the group. I wouldn't bet on it though.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 05, 2011, 01:41:20 AM
Germany won. Somehow. Didn't deserve to.

By relying on Mario Gomez to score twice, including a winning 90th minute goal. LOL

Germany always somehow wins in the last 2 minutes or overtime ... :P

At least our team wasn't playing as sh**tty as was expected before the game and was almost level with the German team for long periods.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 05, 2011, 02:10:23 AM
A recap of the Austria vs. Germany game if anyone wants to watch:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gc90C_LH1ko


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on June 06, 2011, 08:29:25 AM
How much longer will that fascist last as England coach, I wonder? Oh... wait. I forgot. Those contractual issues that the FA stupidly (tautology?) agreed to.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 06, 2011, 08:59:17 AM
How much longer will that fascist last as England coach, I wonder? Oh... wait. I forgot. Those contractual issues that the FA stupidly (tautology?) agreed to.

How's Wales doing, Al? Oh, wait. Sorry. Let me ask that again: Wwhaghr duyerbag ngaagil blerekant?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Phony Moderate on June 06, 2011, 09:28:22 AM
British football tends to go through a bad spell when the Tories are in power, ftr.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 06, 2011, 09:35:50 AM
British football tends to go through a bad spell when the Tories are in power, ftr.

For awhile, I thought I was the only one that noticed that Italy does poorly when Berlusconi is in power. How naive I was. After the 2010 World Cup, an image floated around Facebook showing the failures of the Azzurri during Berlusconi's time in the office with a picture of the 2006 team lifting the Cup next to a picture of Prodi.  :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on June 06, 2011, 10:08:54 AM
Also, of course...

Number of Frankfurt (including a non-Eintracht player in both 34 and 54) players in German World Cup squads vs the result.

1934 2 a third place that was considered a spectacular success
1938 0 disaster
1954 2 world cup win
1958 0 disappointment
1962 0 disappointment
1966 2 second place, and a controversial final
1970 1 third place
1974 2 world cup win
1978 1 disappointment
1982 0 second place, not exactly winning any sympathy at home or abroad
1986 1 second place
1990 1 (plus 1 returning to the club that summer) world cup win
1994 1 disappointment
1998 0 severe disappointment
2002 0 second place, not exactly deserved
2006 0 third place
2010 0 second place

Obvious correlation.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 06, 2011, 10:22:48 AM

Oh really?  ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on June 06, 2011, 10:30:06 AM

About as well as they have done since John Charles retired, which is not very. Why?

Quote
Oh, wait. Sorry. Let me ask that again: Wwhaghr duyerbag ngaagil blerekant?

Really no need for that, dear. I described Capello as a fascist because he appears to be one (as in: a supporter of fascism) and not because he's Italian.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 06, 2011, 10:36:44 AM

Really no need for that, dear. I described Capello as a fascist because he appears to be one (as in: a supporter of fascism) and not because he's Italian.

I know Capello is a right winger but fascist? I can't help but think you exaggerated it to throw in another veiled jab. Just call him "Benito Capello" next time. You'll still be able to excuse it: "What? Fabio sounds like Benito."


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on June 06, 2011, 10:38:24 AM
You ought to at least correct to foreigner's Welsh orthography, Alun. These mistakes happen.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on June 06, 2011, 10:46:18 AM
I know Capello is a right winger but fascist? I can't help but think you exaggerated it to throw in another veiled jab.

Nah, I mean it in all seriousness. Based on some of the comments he's made in the past (stuff to do with Franco comes to mind immediately), he does appear to be a fascist.

Quote
Just call him "Benito Capello" next time. You'll still be able to excuse it: "What? Fabio sounds like Benito."

Does it? I'll remember that; thanks. Learn something every day, don't you?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on June 06, 2011, 10:47:07 AM
You ought to at least correct to foreigner's Welsh orthography, Alun. These mistakes happen.

This is true. The letter 'k' is no longer used for one thing.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 06, 2011, 10:58:41 AM
You ought to at least correct to foreigner's Welsh orthography, Alun. These mistakes happen.

This is true. The letter 'k' is no longer used for one thing.

Damn. I wasn't going to put that in at first. Oh well. Almost dead on though.  ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on June 07, 2011, 06:23:45 AM
You ought to at least correct to foreigner's Welsh orthography, Alun. These mistakes happen.

This is true. The letter 'k' is no longer used for one thing.

Damn. I wasn't going to put that in at first. Oh well. Almost dead on though.  ;)

No, not almost dead on. No way 'duyerbag' could ever be a Welsh word.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 07, 2011, 10:07:46 AM
You ought to at least correct to foreigner's Welsh orthography, Alun. These mistakes happen.

This is true. The letter 'k' is no longer used for one thing.

Damn. I wasn't going to put that in at first. Oh well. Almost dead on though.  ;)

No, not almost dead on. No way 'duyerbag' could ever be a Welsh word.

I guess I didn't throw together enough random letters.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 07, 2011, 10:26:14 AM
Today is Austria vs. Latvia.

Finally we have a country that we can beat, even if it's only a test game ... :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 07, 2011, 10:33:17 AM
I think Germany will be the first non-host team to qualify with a win today at Azerbaijan. The real excitement of the day, of course, will be Italy vs. Ireland in a Friendly.  :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: patrick1 on June 07, 2011, 10:35:13 AM
I think Germany will be the first non-host team to qualify with a win today at Azerbaijan. The real excitement of the day, of course, will be Italy vs. Ireland in a Friendly.  :)

Do you know if that is on TV?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 07, 2011, 10:40:31 AM
I think Germany will be the first non-host team to qualify with a win today at Azerbaijan. The real excitement of the day, of course, will be Italy vs. Ireland in a Friendly.  :)

Do you know if that is on TV?

Of course it is...in countries that appreciate the game. FSC and GolTV aren't covering it. I'm surprised that the local Irish Soccer pubs with satellite channels aren't covering it or at least they weren't when I checked. Anyway, you can watch it online - http://atdhe.ws/ (http://atdhe.ws/)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: patrick1 on June 07, 2011, 10:58:22 AM
I think Germany will be the first non-host team to qualify with a win today at Azerbaijan. The real excitement of the day, of course, will be Italy vs. Ireland in a Friendly.  :)

Do you know if that is on TV?

Of course it is...in countries that appreciate the game. FSC and GolTV aren't covering it. I'm surprised that the local Irish Soccer pubs with satellite channels aren't covering it or at least they weren't when I checked. Anyway, you can watch it online - http://atdhe.ws/ (http://atdhe.ws/)

Yeah, I think since it is a friendly there is a lot less coverage. I'm trying to get some work done (or at least pretend to) so the the pub wasnt an option anyway:).  There is an Italian place not too far from me, but I wouldnt fit in (or be welcome) with the Gotti wannabes who frequent it.

Thanks for the link.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 07, 2011, 12:55:20 PM
I think Germany will be the first non-host team to qualify with a win today at Azerbaijan. The real excitement of the day, of course, will be Italy vs. Ireland in a Friendly.  :)

Do you know if that is on TV?

Of course it is...in countries that appreciate the game. FSC and GolTV aren't covering it. I'm surprised that the local Irish Soccer pubs with satellite channels aren't covering it or at least they weren't when I checked. Anyway, you can watch it online - http://atdhe.ws/ (http://atdhe.ws/)

Yeah, I think since it is a friendly there is a lot less coverage. I'm trying to get some work done (or at least pretend to) so the the pub wasnt an option anyway:).  There is an Italian place not too far from me, but I wouldnt fit in (or be welcome) with the Gotti wannabes who frequent it.

Thanks for the link.

Sure, they get a lot less coverage but the pubs usually cover the games especially when there aren't any huge qualifiers going on at the same time. One of the most popular Soccer pubs is showing Sweden vs. Finland instead. It just doesn't make sense.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 07, 2011, 01:02:04 PM
First half is over and Germany leads Azerbaijan 2:0, but they did not earn this kind of lead.

Like against Austria, Azerbaijan is even with them on a technical level and even had some really good chances, but the Germans with their luck are 2:0 ahead ... typical ! :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Franzl on June 07, 2011, 01:12:22 PM
First half is over and Germany leads Azerbaijan 2:0, but they did not earn this kind of lead.

Like against Austria, Azerbaijan is even with them on a technical level and even had some really good chances, but the Germans with their luck are 2:0 ahead ... typical ! :P

It's not like Germany is playing anywhere near to full strength and potential. Opponents like Austria and Azerbaijan don't warrant that ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on June 07, 2011, 01:29:48 PM
Germany's not playing in top form, but to say that Azerbaijan is playing at their level is a stretch.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 07, 2011, 01:34:37 PM
Germany's not playing in top form, but to say that Azerbaijan is playing at their level is a stretch.

I have watched the first half live and the German team had many troubles (false passes, weaknesses in the defense) that led almost to 2 goals by Azerbaijan. In 1 case Azerbaijan even hit the goal post, because 1 defense player made a very bad pass. Azerbaijan was also at least as actively playing as Germany. 1:1 would be a better count right now.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on June 07, 2011, 01:49:27 PM
2-1 is probably a fair score.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on June 07, 2011, 02:08:29 PM
And it was the score, for a few minutes. Then Germany scored in injury time again.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on June 07, 2011, 02:20:01 PM
So in the end Germany playing like crap is still decidedly better than Azerbaijan, which is not a very radical conclusion.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 07, 2011, 02:41:41 PM
Stop the presses! Forget Ireland being up 1-0 over Italy at halftime...Faroe Islands are beating Estonia 2-0 in the second half! This is great!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 07, 2011, 03:13:04 PM
This will be the whopping fourth competitive win for the Faroe Islands in ten years. Estonia has totally collapsed.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on June 07, 2011, 03:20:17 PM
What is Estonia?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: patrick1 on June 07, 2011, 03:53:42 PM
Nice by Ireland.  Trap as them playing well.  Hopefully they can build on this come Sept. 


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on June 07, 2011, 04:18:49 PM
Nice thrashing of Finland tonight.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 07, 2011, 10:55:21 PM
Nice by Ireland.  Trap as them playing well.  Hopefully they can build on this come Sept. 

Hopefully play well enough to qualify so we can face them in the group stage next year.  :)  I'd love a group of Italy, Ireland, Slovakia and France. Imagine the drama between those teams (Slovakia not as much but there would still be a revenge factor in Italy vs. Slovakia).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: patrick1 on June 07, 2011, 11:14:54 PM
Nice by Ireland.  Trap as them playing well.  Hopefully they can build on this come Sept. 

Hopefully play well enough to qualify so we can face them in the group stage next year.  :)  I'd love a group of Italy, Ireland, Slovakia and France. Imagine the drama between those teams (Slovakia not as much but there would still be a revenge factor in Italy vs. Slovakia).

It would be nice for Ireland to get another crack at France in a meaningful game.  It was even more disappointing knowing they would have put on a better show in 2010 than the French side.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 08, 2011, 01:03:20 AM
Austria 3 - 1 Latvia

As expected.

Maybe Germany and Turkey have bad days when we play them in September so we still have a chance ... :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Јas on June 08, 2011, 06:47:00 AM
2-0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-hJxlxSnE5E) is a very heartening result for a second-string Irish side. :)


Stop the presses! Forget Ireland being up 1-0 over Italy at halftime...Faroe Islands are beating Estonia 2-0 in the second half! This is great!

The Faroes have made not inconsiderable progress under Brian Kerr - and have threatened a couple of wins in this qualifying campaign already.

They had Estonia beaten last year in Tallinn but for 2 second-half injury time Estonian goals; and maybe should've beaten Northern Ireland in Tórshavn (ended 1-1).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on June 08, 2011, 11:27:30 AM
I guess I didn't throw together enough random letters.

Is this the time to mention that I live in Y Felinheli, that my Taid grew up in Llan Ffestiniog and that one of his brothers lived near Trawsfynydd? :D


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on June 08, 2011, 11:30:48 AM
Deutsch sieht oft viel zufälliger aus. Auch wenn wir nicht ansatzweise so viele Ypsilons haben. Dafür haben wir so wunderschöne Nachnamen wie "Uhltzscht".


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Franzl on June 08, 2011, 11:52:33 AM
Deutsch sieht oft viel zufälliger aus. Auch wenn wir nicht ansatzweise so viele Ypsilons haben. Dafür haben wir so wunderschöne Nachnamen wie "Uhltzscht".

Wir mögen auch lange Wörter. Wörter, die manchmal zwei oder dreimal gelesen werden müssen, bevor man sie endgültig identifizieren kann.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Hans-im-Glück on June 08, 2011, 12:16:40 PM
Deutsch sieht oft viel zufälliger aus. Auch wenn wir nicht ansatzweise so viele Ypsilons haben. Dafür haben wir so wunderschöne Nachnamen wie "Uhltzscht".

Wir mögen auch lange Wörter. Wörter, die manchmal zwei oder dreimal gelesen werden müssen, bevor man sie endgültig identifizieren kann.

Genau. Wir haben so schöne Wörter wie:

Donaudampfschifffahrtskapitänsmütze
Fernstraßenbauprivatfinanzierungsgesetz
Rindfleischetikettierungsüberwachungsaufgabenübertragungsgesetz
Feuerwerksraketenanzündeschnursicherheitsverlängerung
Siebenhundertsiebenundsiebzigtausendsiebenhundertsiebenundsiebzig
Massenkommunikationsdienstleistungsunternehmen

German is a nice language ;D


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 08, 2011, 12:30:37 PM
Deutsch sieht oft viel zufälliger aus. Auch wenn wir nicht ansatzweise so viele Ypsilons haben. Dafür haben wir so wunderschöne Nachnamen wie "Uhltzscht".

Wir mögen auch lange Wörter. Wörter, die manchmal zwei oder dreimal gelesen werden müssen, bevor man sie endgültig identifizieren kann.

Genau. Wir haben so schöne Wörter wie:

Donaudampfschifffahrtskapitänsmütze
Fernstraßenbauprivatfinanzierungsgesetz
Rindfleischetikettierungsüberwachungsaufgabenübertragungsgesetz
Feuerwerksraketenanzündeschnursicherheitsverlängerung
Siebenhundertsiebenundsiebzigtausendsiebenhundertsiebenundsiebzig
Massenkommunikationsdienstleistungsunternehmen

German is a nice language ;D


Or Oachkatzlschwoaffotoaufbewahrungssafe.

Don't know if people outside Austria/Bavaria understand the first 2 word-parts ... :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on August 10, 2011, 02:37:27 PM
Friendly action today. Italy vs. Spain has been amazing. Italy should be up 3-0 or maybe more. They dominated for most of the first half, scored in the 14th minute then Spain was awarded a penalty and scored. It was a terrible call though.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Landslide Lyndon on August 10, 2011, 02:44:12 PM
Isn't your sig from the Euro 2008 quarterfinal? If yes then it's a strange choice since Italy lost.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on August 10, 2011, 02:48:51 PM
Isn't your sig from the Euro 2008 quarterfinal? If yes then it's a strange choice since Italy lost.

1) Go to hell.

2) It was a great highlight from that game and one of Buffon's two penalty saves from that tournament.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Landslide Lyndon on August 10, 2011, 02:57:14 PM
Isn't your sig from the Euro 2008 quarterfinal? If yes then it's a strange choice since Italy lost.

1) Go to hell.

2) It was a great highlight from that game and one of Buffon's two penalty saves from that tournament.

You could put that instead. :P

()


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on August 10, 2011, 03:10:03 PM
Isn't your sig from the Euro 2008 quarterfinal? If yes then it's a strange choice since Italy lost.

1) Go to hell.

2) It was a great highlight from that game and one of Buffon's two penalty saves from that tournament.

You could put that instead. :P

()

I've put variations of it but we don't want it overplayed and the current one is more relevant (though, of course, Buffon let in the only penalty today).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on August 10, 2011, 03:15:25 PM
Brazil doesn't have much of a chance against Germany it seems, with Germany now leading 2:0 and about 20 minutes to go.

Why must we have them in our group again ... ? :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on August 10, 2011, 03:17:20 PM
Now 2:1 Germany ...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on August 10, 2011, 03:25:48 PM
Now:

Germany 3, Brazil 1

Meanwhile the Austrian pussy team loses 1:2 to Slovakia.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on August 10, 2011, 03:31:03 PM
ITALIA IN VANTAGGIO! 2-1!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on August 10, 2011, 03:41:36 PM
Italia -  2
Spagna - 1*



Beautiful.



*Total nonsense penalty.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on August 10, 2011, 04:06:53 PM
Meanwhile, in the preview for 2014's final match, Germany dominated Brazil and beat them for the first time since 1993 with a bunch of Bundesliga 20 year olds.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on August 10, 2011, 08:23:14 PM
Northern Ireland thrashed Faroe Islands and continued to tip-toe their way towards the Euros. They still have a decent shot at a play-off.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on August 10, 2011, 09:57:47 PM
Northern Ireland thrashed Faroe Islands and continued to tip-toe their way towards the Euros. They still have a decent shot at a play-off.

Oh, damn. I forgot that there was a qualifier today. They certainly do have a shot at the playoffs. It should be a nail biter between Slovenia and Northern Ireland. I'm assuming that neither will take points from Italy since both have to play them away and we're on fire now. However, if one of them is able to do so, that should seal their place in the playoffs. I still think Slovenia has the edge but only by a single point.

It might help Northern Ireland, though, that Italy will likely have already qualified by the last game (they should qualify two games from now against Slovenia) and that would mean a far more relaxed style for Italy. We saw how they almost threw away their final qualifier for the 2010 World Cup against Cyprus while at home because they had qualified in the second to last game.

Serbia still has a chance but they finish with two tough matches. I'll say that they're going to finish in fourth.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Јas on August 11, 2011, 03:19:46 AM
I understand Spain losing means the Dutch will become the #1 FIFA ranked team in tomorrow's ranking update.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on August 11, 2011, 10:31:23 AM
I understand Spain losing means the Dutch will become the #1 FIFA ranked team in tomorrow's ranking update.

:D

It's awesome to be the ones to knock them off their perch but...ugh...the Dutch.  :(   It seems a little soon for rankings though. Wasn't there an update about two weeks ago?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on August 11, 2011, 11:00:18 AM
Euro 2012 title within Italy's reach after win against Spain - http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/3378/international-friendlies/2011/08/11/2614857/italys-cassano-inspired-win-over-worlds-best-spain-proves (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/3378/international-friendlies/2011/08/11/2614857/italys-cassano-inspired-win-over-worlds-best-spain-proves)


"Make no mistake about it … Italy are becoming contenders again."

Meanwhile, Casillas is being a baby, claiming the game should have ended in a tie because our final goal was lucky and they dominated the second half. Iker must not have been paying attention when we dominated the first half and had many more opportunities, not to mention their very generous awarded penalty.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: republicanism on August 11, 2011, 11:04:52 AM

Italy has always been a contender.
Throughout the last decades, there were three teams that were always "big ones": Brazil, Italy and Germany.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on August 11, 2011, 12:25:45 PM
Northern Ireland thrashed Faroe Islands and continued to tip-toe their way towards the Euros. They still have a decent shot at a play-off.

Oh, damn. I forgot that there was a qualifier today. They certainly do have a shot at the playoffs. It should be a nail biter between Slovenia and Northern Ireland. I'm assuming that neither will take points from Italy since both have to play them away and we're on fire now. However, if one of them is able to do so, that should seal their place in the playoffs. I still think Slovenia has the edge but only by a single point.

It might help Northern Ireland, though, that Italy will likely have already qualified by the last game (they should qualify two games from now against Slovenia) and that would mean a far more relaxed style for Italy. We saw how they almost threw away their final qualifier for the 2010 World Cup against Cyprus while at home because they had qualified in the second to last game.

Serbia still has a chance but they finish with two tough matches. I'll say that they're going to finish in fourth.

Remember that Northern Ireland already has tied Italy once. The thing I think speaks in their favour is that they have two games against Estonia left and Estonia is a quite weak team. Serbia should have performed better and might surge at the end, but I think they'll still lose against Italy and that might make things too uphill for them.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Јas on August 11, 2011, 01:11:28 PM
I understand Spain losing means the Dutch will become the #1 FIFA ranked team in tomorrow's ranking update.

:D

It's awesome to be the ones to knock them off their perch but...ugh...the Dutch.  :(   It seems a little soon for rankings though. Wasn't there an update about two weeks ago?

Ah, checked that - you're right. The update won't take place until the 24th.
Fairly sure it shouldn't make a difference though as there aren't any relevant fixtures between now and then.

It'll be the first time the Dutch have been the top ranked side.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on August 11, 2011, 02:15:43 PM
Northern Ireland thrashed Faroe Islands and continued to tip-toe their way towards the Euros. They still have a decent shot at a play-off.

Oh, damn. I forgot that there was a qualifier today. They certainly do have a shot at the playoffs. It should be a nail biter between Slovenia and Northern Ireland. I'm assuming that neither will take points from Italy since both have to play them away and we're on fire now. However, if one of them is able to do so, that should seal their place in the playoffs. I still think Slovenia has the edge but only by a single point.

It might help Northern Ireland, though, that Italy will likely have already qualified by the last game (they should qualify two games from now against Slovenia) and that would mean a far more relaxed style for Italy. We saw how they almost threw away their final qualifier for the 2010 World Cup against Cyprus while at home because they had qualified in the second to last game.

Serbia still has a chance but they finish with two tough matches. I'll say that they're going to finish in fourth.

Remember that Northern Ireland already has tied Italy once. The thing I think speaks in their favour is that they have two games against Estonia left and Estonia is a quite weak team. Serbia should have performed better and might surge at the end, but I think they'll still lose against Italy and that might make things too uphill for them.

It was earlier in the qualifiers (we start slower) and in Belfast so their previous draw shouldn't be reason to believe another draw is possible. However, see my other reasoning as to why a draw is possible.

As for Serbia, I actually think we'll tie since we should have qualified by then and we'll be playing in Belgrade which is very, very hostile territory especially for Italy since the previous fixture between the two was infamously called off and awarded as a 3-0 win for us.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: NVGonzalez on August 11, 2011, 03:50:14 PM
Euro 2012 title within Italy's reach after win against Spain - http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/3378/international-friendlies/2011/08/11/2614857/italys-cassano-inspired-win-over-worlds-best-spain-proves (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/3378/international-friendlies/2011/08/11/2614857/italys-cassano-inspired-win-over-worlds-best-spain-proves)


"Make no mistake about it … Italy are becoming contenders again."

Meanwhile, Casillas is being a baby, claiming the game should have ended in a tie because our final goal was lucky and they dominated the second half. Iker must not have been paying attention when we dominated the first half and had many more opportunities, not to mention their very generous awarded penalty.

Italy seems to be resurrecting after a very horrid World Cup. Looks like I will add them to my contenders list. Congrats Phil!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on August 11, 2011, 10:54:43 PM
Italy seems to be resurrecting after a very horrid World Cup. Looks like I will add them to my contenders list. Congrats Phil!

Good job, smart!

In somewhat European related news, Brazil has apparently cancelled their upcoming Friendlies with Spain and Italy, instead opting for Costa Rica, Egypt and a few others. Sounds like they're in trouble.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on August 11, 2011, 11:16:37 PM
In somewhat European related news, Brazil has apparently cancelled their upcoming Friendlies with Spain and Italy, instead opting for Costa Rica, Egypt and a few others. Sounds like they're in trouble.

Hahah, that's hilarious.

Unfortunately we all know that the Brazil will be good again by the time 2014 comes around and they'll win.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on August 11, 2011, 11:23:00 PM

Unfortunately we all know that the Brazil will be good again by the time 2014 comes around and they'll win.

Yes, they will win like they did in 1998, 2006 and 2010 just as predicted.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on August 24, 2011, 03:40:35 PM
Well, it finally happened - Spain drop out of first place in the FIFA rankings. It sucks that the Dutch are the new top team but at least Spain are out and it was thanks to their loss against Italy.  :)

http://www.goal.com/en/news/745/fifa/2011/08/24/2633924/netherlands-leapfrog-spain-at-top-of-fifa-rankings (http://www.goal.com/en/news/745/fifa/2011/08/24/2633924/netherlands-leapfrog-spain-at-top-of-fifa-rankings)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: NVGonzalez on August 24, 2011, 07:36:06 PM
Well, it finally happened - Spain drop out of first place in the FIFA rankings. It sucks that the Dutch are the new top team but at least Spain are out and it was thanks to their loss against Italy.  :)

http://www.goal.com/en/news/745/fifa/2011/08/24/2633924/netherlands-leapfrog-spain-at-top-of-fifa-rankings (http://www.goal.com/en/news/745/fifa/2011/08/24/2633924/netherlands-leapfrog-spain-at-top-of-fifa-rankings)

No love for Germany?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on August 24, 2011, 08:46:06 PM
Well, it finally happened - Spain drop out of first place in the FIFA rankings. It sucks that the Dutch are the new top team but at least Spain are out and it was thanks to their loss against Italy.  :)

http://www.goal.com/en/news/745/fifa/2011/08/24/2633924/netherlands-leapfrog-spain-at-top-of-fifa-rankings (http://www.goal.com/en/news/745/fifa/2011/08/24/2633924/netherlands-leapfrog-spain-at-top-of-fifa-rankings)

No love for Germany?

I guess they get points for knocking Brazil down but I'm an Azzurri fan, my friend. I'm not going to have love for Germany.  :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on August 31, 2011, 03:30:13 PM
Just two days away from the return of qualifying action!  :)

Thank God Italy faces Faroe Islands though there's even some concern (or just downplaying expectations so we seem incredible after we win comfortably) that a minnow will keep us from getting three points thanks to the Serie A strike. I don't think anyone has suggested that we'd lose but if we don't get the full three points, it's an embarrassment. I think we'll win but I'm not as optimistic about next week's match against Slovenia. I think we'll get a draw despite playing at home.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on September 01, 2011, 07:12:34 AM
Sweden plays Hungary. Key, key game. A win there and the chances of getting best runner-up and qualify automatically would be very, very good.

Even with a draw or, God forbid, a loss we should have a good shot at second place in the group, but we would then have to face a play-off. And that's no good, of course.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 01, 2011, 07:26:55 AM
Austria defeats Germany tomorrow in Gelsenkirchen by 4:1 !!!!!!!

;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Franzl on September 01, 2011, 07:35:13 AM
Austria defeats Germany tomorrow in Gelsenkirchen by 4:1 !!!!!!!

;)

I'll tell you what, I'll put a picture of your choice in my forum signature if that happens :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 01, 2011, 07:38:18 AM
Austria defeats Germany tomorrow in Gelsenkirchen by 4:1 !!!!!!!

;)

I'll tell you what, I'll put a picture of your choice in my forum signature if that happens :)

ok :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on September 01, 2011, 08:55:55 AM
Austria defeats Germany tomorrow in Gelsenkirchen by 4:1 !!!!!!!

;)

I'll tell you what, I'll put a picture of your choice in my forum signature if that happens :)

ok :)

It should be a picture of Joe Republic's choice.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 01, 2011, 10:11:24 AM
A win there and the chances of getting best runner-up and qualify automatically would be very, very good.


Sorry to break the bad news but they aren't doing that anymore for the Euros. The group runners up now plays in a two legged playoff round like in World Cup qualifying.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on September 01, 2011, 10:28:25 AM
A win there and the chances of getting best runner-up and qualify automatically would be very, very good.


Sorry to break the bad news but they aren't doing that anymore for the Euros. The group runners up now plays in a two legged playoff round like in World Cup qualifying.
Except for the best one. There's 9 groups and 14 places, what can they do?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 01, 2011, 10:37:20 AM
A win there and the chances of getting best runner-up and qualify automatically would be very, very good.


Sorry to break the bad news but they aren't doing that anymore for the Euros. The group runners up now plays in a two legged playoff round like in World Cup qualifying.
Except for the best one. There's 9 groups and 14 places, what can they do?

Right  :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 12:56:51 PM
So, what is my prediction for Germany vs. Austria (starting in 50 minutes) ?

I guess either 3:0 or 4:0 for Germany. But more likely 3:0 ... :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on September 02, 2011, 12:57:55 PM
For the first time ever maybe, the highest ranked and lowest ranked FIFA countries will be playing each other today, when the Dutch face poor little San Marino.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on September 02, 2011, 12:59:57 PM
Results so far

Israel - Greece 0-1
Lithuania - Liechtenstein 0-0
Finland - Moldova 4-1
Andorra - Armenia 0-3
Azerbaijan - Belgium 1-1 !
and waiting on confirmation that
Russa - Macedonia 1-0
is indeed over.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 02, 2011, 01:01:56 PM
For the first time ever maybe, the highest ranked and lowest ranked FIFA countries will be playing each other today, when the Dutch face poor little San Marino.

7-0 for the Dutch, I suppose.

I have a bad feeling that Italy is going to concede its first goal in 2012 qualifying since the 31st minute of the first game. Buffon has conceded a goal in Tórshavn before and we're a little rusty. I think we'll win 2-1.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 02, 2011, 01:07:35 PM

Wow. Turkey just got a huge gift.

Also, Malta managed to score its first goal of qualifying against Croatia.


Quote
and waiting on confirmation that
Russa - Macedonia 1-0
is indeed over.

This will allow the Irish to put some much needed space between themselves and Slovakia in the standings when the two meet later on.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 01:16:15 PM
Here is the Live Stream of Germany vs. Austria from the Austrian ORF-TV:

http://sport.orf.at/stories/fblive

(Don't know if the stream is working in the US, you need to try ...)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 02, 2011, 01:18:47 PM
I found out last night that Comcast finally has RAI in Philly so I get to watch every Italian national team game on TV. No more Internet streams.  :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 01:20:54 PM
Phil, can you please try the link I have posted above ?

It would be interesting to know if ORF streams can be watched outside of Austria ... ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on September 02, 2011, 01:21:44 PM
It tells me in German and English that it is available in Austria only, for "legal reasons".


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 01:24:21 PM
It tells me in German and English that it is available in Austria only, for "legal reasons".

Ahh, that suxx ... :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on September 02, 2011, 01:25:57 PM
Now Kazakhstan has equalized against Turkey... hey, if that result stands I think it means Germany are officially through without any points against Austria, while Austria's campaign is suddenly alive again (if still on life support). Might make for a somewhat interesting game after all...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 02, 2011, 01:27:50 PM
It tells me in German and English that it is available in Austria only, for "legal reasons".

I'm just getting a white screen where the player ought to be along with this...


Liveübertragung aus Gelsenkirchen




EM-Qualifikation, Deutschland - Österreich


No warning that it's only available in Austria for me.


Now Kazakhstan has equalized against Turkey... hey, if that result stands I think it means Germany are officially through without any points against Austria, while Austria's campaign is suddenly alive again (if still on life support). Might make for a somewhat interesting game after all...

What the hell? Belgium would still be alive as well.

By the way, Germany already officially qualified.  ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: ZuWo on September 02, 2011, 01:31:18 PM
I'm a whole-hearted Austria fan tonight. :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 01:32:24 PM
It tells me in German and English that it is available in Austria only, for "legal reasons".

I'm just getting a white screen where the player ought to be along with this...


Liveübertragung aus Gelsenkirchen




EM-Qualifikation, Deutschland - Österreich


No warning that it's only available in Austria for me.

So you can watch it in the US, but not in Germany ? Hilarious.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 01:33:00 PM

Thanks for the mercy ... :P

If Austria somehow wins, I eat a Besen.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 02, 2011, 01:34:37 PM
It tells me in German and English that it is available in Austria only, for "legal reasons".

I'm just getting a white screen where the player ought to be along with this...


Liveübertragung aus Gelsenkirchen




EM-Qualifikation, Deutschland - Österreich


No warning that it's only available in Austria for me.

So you can watch it in the US, but not in Germany ? Hilarious.

Well, not necessarily. It's just a blank screen.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 02, 2011, 01:38:45 PM
Rooney was complaining that the field in Bulgaria was bad. It can't be that horrible since England went up 1-0 in the 13th minute.

Hungary just scored against Gustaf's boys. If that stands, life is going to get a little more difficult for Sweden despite having a game in hand since Hungary finishes up with easier games.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 01:39:22 PM
Well, try this instead:

http://www.firstrowsports.eu/webmaster/ATDHELIVESPORTS/81596/1/watch-germany-vs-austria.html


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 02, 2011, 01:40:07 PM
Well, try this instead:

http://www.firstrowsports.eu/webmaster/ATDHELIVESPORTS/81596/1/watch-germany-vs-austria.html

That works just fine.  ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on September 02, 2011, 01:41:08 PM
By the way, Germany already officially qualified.  ;)
Not yet ;)

Rooney was complaining that the field in Bulgaria was bad. It can't be that horrible since England went up 1-0 in the 13th minute.

Hungary just scored against Gustaf's boys. If that stands, life is going to get a little more difficult for Sweden despite having a game in hand since Hungary finishes up with easier games.
Nor did it stop him from scoring in the 21st minute :(


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 01:43:03 PM
LOL, is it just me or did the 5.000 or so Austrian fans sing our national anthem louder than the 50.000 German fans the German one ? :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 02, 2011, 01:43:40 PM

I could have sworn that they officially qualified in their last game. Weird.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on September 02, 2011, 01:45:25 PM

Thanks for the mercy ... :P

If Austria somehow wins, I eat a Besen.
If Germany qualifies (as seems likely in several minutes), is there any chance of an old style unspoken agreement ala 1982 between them and Austria ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 02, 2011, 01:46:44 PM
We almost scored twice within the first three minutes! :D

Make that three times after a beautiful corner that we somehow screwed up. 


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 01:48:20 PM
Phil or Lewis, please also try copying this url

mms://apasfl.apa.at/orf1x

and open it with your windows media player.

Maybe this worxx.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 01:49:53 PM

Thanks for the mercy ... :P

If Austria somehow wins, I eat a Besen.
If Germany qualifies (as seems likely in several minutes), is there any chance of an old style unspoken agreement ala 1982 between them and Austria ;)

What happened then ? I´m not familiar with 1982 football ...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 02, 2011, 01:50:39 PM
Phil or Lewis, please also try copying this url

mms://apasfl.apa.at/orf1x

and open it with your windows media player.

Maybe this worxx.

No luck there.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 01:50:56 PM
Damn, the Germans are putting up the heat ...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 02, 2011, 01:52:09 PM
The Dutch are already up 3-0 in the 18th minute. We could have been up by as much and we're only six minutes in!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on September 02, 2011, 01:53:20 PM

Thanks for the mercy ... :P

If Austria somehow wins, I eat a Besen.
If Germany qualifies (as seems likely in several minutes), is there any chance of an old style unspoken agreement ala 1982 between them and Austria ;)

What happened then ? I´m not familiar with 1982 football ...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1982_FIFA_World_Cup#First_round
The analogy seems clear, but this time the victim would deserve it ;)

Edit: Well, probably it won't happen...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 01:53:55 PM
8 minutes over: Germany 1, Austria 0


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 02, 2011, 01:56:17 PM
Finally up! 1-0 Italia in the tenth minute though Cassano was probably offsides.  :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on September 02, 2011, 02:00:53 PM
The German qualification will be slightly delayed due to Turkey's 90' winning goal :(


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 02, 2011, 02:01:58 PM
Turkey re-ignites some of that excitement from Euro 2008 with that last minute goal. And ESPN says the goal came in the seventh minute of stoppage time. I smell some controversy with that one...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 02:02:56 PM
Oh, here is a ESPN stream:

http://alvtv.blogspot.com/2011/08/channel-2.html


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 02:07:25 PM
English commentary is so much better to watch ... :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 02:09:52 PM
2:0 Germany

meh, goalie what are you doing ?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 02:14:01 PM
3:0 Germany

This is going to end badly. Germany is playing world-champion like and we are 2 classes below.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 02:15:05 PM
If it ends higher than 5:0, coach Didi Constantini is probably history.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: ZuWo on September 02, 2011, 02:15:47 PM
3:0 Germany

This is going to end badly. Germany is playing world-champion like and we are 2 classes below.

jo, des is bitter. ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 02:18:47 PM
Some good shots directed on Neuer in the last minutes, but still useless ...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 02, 2011, 02:23:18 PM
The Faroese almost had a beautiful goal earlier. We got lucky as it hit the post. Then again, we deserve a bit of luck after how unlucky we've been with some of these shots on goal.

It's funny playing in the Faroe Islands. The crowd goes wild if their guys simply touch the ball. Their near goal is probably the loudest they've ever cheered for this team.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 02:28:00 PM
Ok, now nice goal by Arnautovic with the head.

Germany 3, Austria 1


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on September 02, 2011, 02:33:04 PM
damn, that Belgium result sucks. :(


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 02:50:14 PM
Damn, our goalkeeper (and defense) suxx today.

4:1 Germany


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 02, 2011, 02:53:19 PM
Estonia leads Slovenia 1-0. The battle for second place in Group C stays interesting.  :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 02:53:37 PM
Woohoo.

At least the offense is making up for it, Martin Harnik scores a nice goal.

Germany 4, Austria 2


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on September 02, 2011, 02:58:02 PM
Wales leading two nil... which is... unusual these days.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 02, 2011, 03:09:50 PM
Well, it looks like I was wrong about The Netherlands-San Marino match. It won't end 7-0; it's 8-0 in the 80th minute.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 02, 2011, 03:10:23 PM
Wales leading two nil... which is... unusual these days.

And against Montenegro! Wow.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 02, 2011, 03:11:19 PM
9-0 now.

And Faroe Islands almost scores, hitting the crossbar. Crazy.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 03:27:15 PM
5:2 Germany now


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 03:30:38 PM
And now it's 6:2 Germany ...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 02, 2011, 03:31:25 PM
Almost 7:2 ...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 02, 2011, 03:33:32 PM
And so what could have been a 5-0 win for Italy ends 1-0. One win away from qualification.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on September 02, 2011, 03:37:18 PM
Congratulations to Germany for being the first country (apart from the hosts) to qualify for the European championship.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Franzl on September 02, 2011, 03:42:43 PM

Pity you didn't place a bet on Austria ;)



Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Landslide Lyndon on September 02, 2011, 03:44:59 PM
And so what could have been a 5-0 win for Italy ends 1-0. One win away from qualification.

As always. ;)

Wales just handed the ticket to Poland/Ukraine to England.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 02, 2011, 03:49:56 PM
And so what could have been a 5-0 win for Italy ends 1-0. One win away from qualification.

As always. ;)

Wales just handed the ticket to Poland/Ukraine to England.

So true but I can't help but think that if Serie A wasn't striking, they would have nailed a few more of those opportunities. Cassano proved once again that he is easily one of the most overrated players. He could have had another goal late in the game but just stopped running in the box. Disgusting. I really don't like him.

Some fairytales seem to have come to an end today: Montenegro (though they still could advance during the playoff round), Northern Ireland, Belgium and Belarus.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on September 02, 2011, 08:12:43 PM
Belgium will be a strong team in 2014 and on. Their team is young but very talented, and another few years should be good for them.

Glad to see Germany as the first team to qualify though. It was especially nice to see Götze and Schürle score goals after coming on. ;D


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on September 03, 2011, 03:31:19 AM
A win there and the chances of getting best runner-up and qualify automatically would be very, very good.


Sorry to break the bad news but they aren't doing that anymore for the Euros. The group runners up now plays in a two legged playoff round like in World Cup qualifying.
Except for the best one. There's 9 groups and 14 places, what can they do?

Right  :P

Lewis is correct - I was referring to Sweden's chances of being the BEST runner-up and thus qualify automatically.

Sadly, given the disaster yesterday that now looks very unlikely. We really need to find a good left-back.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on September 03, 2011, 03:38:49 AM
Phil, on your previous post about Sweden, I'm not worried about Hungary. As long as we beat Finland and San Marino (teams that we beat by 5-0 and 6-0 respectively in the last games) we're automatically ahead of Hungary regardless of how the rest goes (if they win all their other games and we lose the last game against Holland we would, given that, be tied on points and be ahead based on better head-to-head record).

So, to my mind this isn't really about the second place. I'm almost counting on Sweden not screwing that up. It was about being the best runner-up - a win against Hungary would have made it likely, but now the dream is more or less over, I'm afraid. And I don't trust Sweden in a play-off against anyone, really.

At least I'll be happy if the Norwegians get that best 2nd place spot.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on September 03, 2011, 06:44:57 AM
Turkey re-ignites some of that excitement from Euro 2008 with that last minute goal. And ESPN says the goal came in the seventh minute of stoppage time. I smell some controversy with that one...
There were a red card for Turkey and two yellows for Kazakhstan during the preceding six minutes of stoppage time... I suppose that had something to do with it.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 03, 2011, 07:45:33 AM
Phil, on your previous post about Sweden, I'm not worried about Hungary. As long as we beat Finland and San Marino (teams that we beat by 5-0 and 6-0 respectively in the last games) we're automatically ahead of Hungary regardless of how the rest goes (if they win all their other games and we lose the last game against Holland we would, given that, be tied on points and be ahead based on better head-to-head record).


Yeah, I didn't realize you guys beat them by two goals in the first game. You still have to beat Finland in Helsinki though. I imagine that won't be another 5-0 rout. That being said, Hungary still have to play them again, too, but they'll have the benefit of home field advantage in the last game.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Insula Dei on September 03, 2011, 10:46:40 AM
Belgium will be a strong team in 2014 and on. Their team is young but very talented, and another few years should be good for them.


True, we have some real talent walking around, the problem is forging them into a team. I think we now have more potential future top players than ever before: Eden Hazard (Lille), Witsel (Benfica), Romelu Lukaku (Chelsea), Courtois (Chelsea),... all have the potential to play a worldcup.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 05, 2011, 11:41:27 PM
Spain, The Netherlands and Italy should join Germany, Poland and Ukraine as qualified teams today. Spain will surely steam roll Liechtenstein while The Netherlands shouldn't have much of a problem with Finland. Italy will have the toughest task but I think we'll get the job done at home. We'll have even more of a psychological edge since we're playing in Florence (where Prandelli reigned as coach of Fiorentina). Unfortunately, I think our clean sheet run will finally come to an end but we'll still come away with maximum points in a 2-1 win.

Fun fact that I just noticed: Group E (The Netherlands' group) is the only group in the tournament in which no team has recorded a draw in 2012 qualifying.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 03:18:03 AM
Austria is playing Turkey in Vienna today.

I'd say 2:1 or 2:0 for Turkey.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on September 06, 2011, 10:32:04 AM
Sweden's group is quite boring tonight. I guess Moldavia stealing a draw from Hungary is not impossible, but beyond that the games look pretty set.

Lots of exciting matches elsewhere though. I hope Northern Ireland can beat Estonia and keep themselves alive in their group. And I hope Austria manages an upset against Turkey.

Of course I'm also at least semi-hoping for Denmark to upset Norway and allow Sweden a new shot at that best runner-up. In a similar vein I'm cheering for Israel against Croatia as well.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on September 06, 2011, 11:01:47 AM
Of course I'm also at least semi-hoping for Denmark to upset Norway and allow Sweden a new shot at that best runner-up. In a similar vein I'm cheering for Israel against Croatia as well.
Turkey not defeating Austria would also help ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: republicanism on September 06, 2011, 11:39:55 AM

Still 0:0 in Moscow. Go Ireland!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 12:03:17 PM
And I hope Austria manages an upset against Turkey.

Turkey not defeating Austria would also help ;)

Well, the Kronen Zeitung today wrote that Austria needs a new Jan Sobieski (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Vienna) today ... :P ;)

(unfortunately, we don't have any players of Polish origin in the team, but maybe Kalwejt can do a cheerleader job for us ...)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: republicanism on September 06, 2011, 12:05:06 PM
And its over.

Now its Russia 17, Ireland 15, Slovakia 14.
Slovakia has one more game left, but they still have to go to Russia, while Russia and Ireland are allowed to beat Andorra once again.

Pretty nice position for Ireland now. It is in there own hands to ensure place two, and place one is not impossible at all.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on September 06, 2011, 12:07:22 PM
Slovakia's one more game is tonight, against Armenia. Now... an Armenian away win... that'd make things seriously interesting at 17-15-14-14.
Armenia still play Ireland, after all.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: republicanism on September 06, 2011, 12:20:05 PM

Best result for Ireland would be a draw of course.

In group E, Netherlands can technically qualify now if they beat Finland.
And Hungary plays Moldova half an hour from now. I guess I'll cross my fingers for Moldova, since I'd like to see Sweden in the Euros.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on September 06, 2011, 12:56:44 PM

Best result for Ireland would be a draw of course.

In group E, Netherlands can technically qualify now if they beat Finland.
And Hungary plays Moldova half an hour from now. I guess I'll cross my fingers for Moldova, since I'd like to see Sweden in the Euros.

Appreciated. :)

GMantis, while I am, as noted, cheering on Austria in that game anyway, I'm not too worried about the Turks being best runner-up. They've already at 2 losses, 1 draw with a game against Germany still left. Sweden's at 2 losses, with a game against Holland left. I'm more worried about Croatia and Norway.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 06, 2011, 12:58:22 PM

Slovakia has one more game left, but they still have to go to Russia

Slovakia's remaining game against Russia is in Slovakia.

Going to Moscow and walking away with a draw is decent for the visiting team. However, there are problems ahead. The way I look at it, I think all three top teams will end with 21 points. I think that is going to hurt Ireland when it comes to the head-to-head record.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on September 06, 2011, 01:13:46 PM

Slovakia has one more game left, but they still have to go to Russia

Slovakia's remaining game against Russia is in Slovakia.

Going to Moscow and walking away with a draw is decent for the visiting team. However, there are problems ahead. The way I look at it, I think all three top teams will end with 21 points. I think that is going to hurt Ireland when it comes to the head-to-head record.

Yeah, I agree that is worrying for the Irish. Slovakia hasn't looked that strong though. They lost against Armenia so it's hardly out of the question for them to lose points in their remaining games (outside of Russia).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on September 06, 2011, 01:37:44 PM
There are a handful of friendlies today as well, including Belgium-USA and Poland-Germany, both of which should be good.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 06, 2011, 01:39:14 PM
The Dutch are just ten minutes away from qualifying. They're only up 1-0 though so let's see if Finland can at least equalize (despite being down a man).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 01:40:05 PM
There are probably 25.000 Turks in the Vienna stadium and 20.000 Austrians or so ... :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on September 06, 2011, 01:41:52 PM
There are probably 25.000 Turks in the Vienna stadium and 20.000 Austrians or so ... :P

It's like when USA plays Mexico at home... :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on September 06, 2011, 01:44:58 PM
I wonder what language the Belgium players speak to each other during games...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 01:46:50 PM
I wonder what language the Belgium players speak to each other during games...

They normally speak both languages, but I guess they just talk in their native language.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 06, 2011, 01:48:29 PM
Almost a goal by my boy Rossi within the first thirty seconds! :D


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 01:52:21 PM
Austria not playing so badly, they had some good chances so far ...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 06, 2011, 01:53:10 PM
2-0 to the Dutch. Game over. They have officially qualified.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 01:58:03 PM
BTW, this is the 14th game against Turkey since WW2.

Austria won 7 times so far, Turkey 6 times.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on September 06, 2011, 02:02:43 PM
I wonder what language the Belgium players speak to each other during games...

They normally speak both languages, but I guess they just talk in their native language.
Probably the same with the Switzerland players, probably.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on September 06, 2011, 02:04:50 PM
2-0 to the Dutch. Game over. They have officially qualified.
Not exactly. Were they to lose their remaining two games and Sweden to win their last three, they could finish second.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 02:20:55 PM
1st half over:

0-0


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 06, 2011, 02:24:51 PM
Faroe Islands managed a goal against Serbia in Belgrade!


2-0 to the Dutch. Game over. They have officially qualified.
Not exactly. Were they to lose their remaining two games and Sweden to win their last three, they could finish second.

Interesting. Other sources made it seem like they could qualify as group winners today.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on September 06, 2011, 02:28:29 PM
Faroe Islands managed a goal against Serbia in Belgrade!


2-0 to the Dutch. Game over. They have officially qualified.
Not exactly. Were they to lose their remaining two games and Sweden to win their last three, they could finish second.


Interesting. Other sources made it seem like they could qualify as group winners today.
Yes. If Sweden doesn't defeat San Marino ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 02:50:33 PM
Now it has become a very boring match ... :(


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 02:54:32 PM
The Turks look like they are K.O. and the Austrians are too incompetent to get past the Turkish defense.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on September 06, 2011, 02:57:33 PM
Now it has become a very boring match ... :(
And I thought you were talking about Sweden - San Marino :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 02:58:57 PM
Jimmy Hoffer now in for Austria, maybe he can do something ...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 03:01:01 PM
Turkey on the goalpost now and Arnautovic from Austria almost with a goal.

Game is better now ...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 03:04:25 PM
The Turkish fans are now shouting "Turkiye" while the Austrian fans are shouting "Österreich".

Because both fan groups are about equally strong, it sounds something like "Türkreich" or "Österriye" ... lulz


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 03:07:12 PM
Arnautovic gets "laserpointered" by a fan ...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on September 06, 2011, 03:09:44 PM
Armenia has totally demolished Slovakia; good news for Russia and Ireland.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 03:10:34 PM
Now back to boring game-style ...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 03:14:31 PM
Italy vs. Slovenia and France vs. Romania still 0-0 ?

Interesting.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 03:15:36 PM
Belgium vs. USA is currently 1-0

Poland vs. Germany is 1-0 too.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 06, 2011, 03:15:54 PM
Armenia has totally demolished Slovakia; good news for Russia and Ireland.

Whoa. Huge news.

Italy vs. Slovenia and France vs. Romania still 0-0 ?

Interesting.

We just had the ball cleared on Slovenia's goal line twice a few minutes ago. We missed way too many opportunities this entire game.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 03:17:29 PM
Offside goal by Austria not given by the referee, would have been a correct one.

Still 0-0.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 03:19:09 PM
Poland vs. Germany now 1-1


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 03:21:10 PM
Austrian goalkeeper fouls Turkish striker ...

Penalty.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 03:23:03 PM
Wow, Pascal Grünwald saves the penalty by the Turks ... !!!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 03:25:28 PM
Game now ended 0-0


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 06, 2011, 03:26:47 PM

A glimmer of hope for Belgium!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on September 06, 2011, 03:27:16 PM
Earnshaw needs his eyes tested. Oh well.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 03:27:50 PM
Meanwhile, Switzerland defeated Bulgaria 3:1


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 03:29:42 PM
Romania vs. France ends 0-0


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 06, 2011, 03:30:24 PM
Pazzini scores five minutes from the end of regulation! Grazie a Dio!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on September 06, 2011, 03:32:08 PM
Meanwhile, Switzerland defeated Bulgaria 3:1
Ugh. At least they managed to score a goal now. Though it would probably have finished better if one of the Bulgarian players wasn't sent off for a thought up foul.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 03:34:16 PM
After 30 minutes, Spain vs. Liechtenstein is still 0-0. Hilarious ! :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Insula Dei on September 06, 2011, 03:35:01 PM

If only we'd beaten the Azeri's and tied the US instead,...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 03:36:33 PM
Now a goal for Spain.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 06, 2011, 03:41:46 PM
Italy officially qualifies for Euro 2012 as group winners! :D


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 03:42:58 PM
Poland scores the 2:1 against Germany in the 91st minute.

Belgium vs. USA ended 1:0

Spain leads 2:0 now against Liechtenstein.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 03:44:15 PM
Germany shoots a goal now in the 95th minute for 2:2


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 03:45:32 PM
Scotland remains ahead of Lithuania by 1:0


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 06, 2011, 03:47:22 PM
Scotland remains ahead of Lithuania by 1:0

...and if they win, they'll have a glimmer of hope for qualifying, too.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on September 06, 2011, 03:49:07 PM
Italy officially qualifies for Euro 2012 as group winners! :D
Congratulations! But the Netherlands beat you by a few minutes ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 06, 2011, 03:52:30 PM
The more important question will be if the Poles and Ukrainians will get their stadiums ready by next year. I have seen and read reports that they are way behind schedule in construction.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on September 06, 2011, 03:53:05 PM
Sweden really sucked, especially in first half. Still ended with 5-0 in the end, which is respectable. With Greece's tie and Norway's loss there is still hope!

Armenia's result is really bizarre. And Northern Ireland...what happened? Estonia almost has a shot now!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on September 06, 2011, 03:55:25 PM
Italy officially qualifies for Euro 2012 as group winners! :D
Congratulations! But the Netherlands beat you by a few minutes ;)

The Netherlands haven't won the group mathematically yet. All we have to do is beat them by 4 goals in the last match and count on them losing against Moldova. :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on September 06, 2011, 03:57:29 PM
Although, come to think of it, I think Holland is guaranteed best runner-up even if they were to lose the remaining games.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 06, 2011, 04:18:42 PM
The more important question will be if the Poles and Ukrainians will get their stadiums ready by next year. I have seen and read reports that they are way behind schedule in construction.

Is this still an issue? I remember reading about it earlier in the year but figured they had their act together by now. Just goes to show you that FIFA and UEFA are idiots for risking a smoothly run tournament for "making history."

Euro 2012 was supposed to go to Italy anyway but Poland-Ukraine won in an upset. I actually wouldn't mind seeing it go to Croatia-Hungary (the third place bid).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on September 06, 2011, 04:43:31 PM
Although, come to think of it, I think Holland is guaranteed best runner-up even if they were to lose the remaining games.

Yeah, Netherlands qualified because even if the Swedes tie them, they're still best runner up. So it's Italy, Germany, Holland, Ukraine and Poland as of today.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 07, 2011, 02:17:55 AM
Austrian goalkeeper Pascal Grünwald fouls Turkish striker and then saves the penalty shot:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKnmoYmKF14


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on September 07, 2011, 02:30:16 AM
The best was the Austrian commentator, when he said live on TV:

"F**k, aufpassen !" ("F**k, watch out !")

;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on September 07, 2011, 04:26:52 AM
Well, having studied the table I think best runner-up is realistically between Denmark and Greece, with Sweden as an outsider.

It could also be Croatia, if they lose to Greece and finish second in their group.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 07, 2011, 05:40:35 PM
Well, having studied the table I think best runner-up is realistically between Denmark and Greece, with Sweden as an outsider.

It could also be Croatia, if they lose to Greece and finish second in their group.

Greece has won all but one game (which ended in a draw) at home so I think their remaining home game against Croatia should go their way. Croatia will win its last game but as long as Greece don't lose in Georgia, Greece will win the group.

I think it's going to be between Sweden and Croatia for the best runner-up spot. You guys should beat Finland but I'm guessing that even with The Netherlands' taking their foot off the pedal a bit, they'll still get a draw against the Swedes in the final game. That would put Sweden and Croatia equal with 22 points from their respective groups.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on September 08, 2011, 04:29:08 AM
Well, having studied the table I think best runner-up is realistically between Denmark and Greece, with Sweden as an outsider.

It could also be Croatia, if they lose to Greece and finish second in their group.

Greece has won all but one game (which ended in a draw) at home so I think their remaining home game against Croatia should go their way. Croatia will win its last game but as long as Greece don't lose in Georgia, Greece will win the group.

I think it's going to be between Sweden and Croatia for the best runner-up spot. You guys should beat Finland but I'm guessing that even with The Netherlands' taking their foot off the pedal a bit, they'll still get a draw against the Swedes in the final game. That would put Sweden and Croatia equal with 22 points from their respective groups.

I'm not certain that Croatia can't get their act together and beat the Greek. Tying Latvia is not particularly impressive. Not that it matters - either way the best runner-up out of that group is likely to have 22 point (16 once you deduct those against the worse team).

We should beat Finland, which would put us at 21 (15). So we need that point against Holland quite badly. It's at home and they will have nothing to play for, so hopefully we'll get it. Although Holland sort of strikes me as the kind of team that might whip us for fun anyway. :(

I also wouldn't count out Denmark though. Even if they lose against Portugal, a win against Cyprus would put them at 16 as well.

At least we have an edge in goal difference - especially against Greece. Croatia has a good goal difference so I'm hoping for them to win their group...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 08, 2011, 09:11:44 AM
(16 once you deduct those against the worse team).

Oh, right.

I'm not saying that Croatia can't get their act together; they certainly can. And Greece's tying with Latvia definitely wasn't impressive (it was almost a loss). I still like Greece's chances at home.

Quote
Although Holland sort of strikes me as the kind of team that might whip us for fun anyway. :(

Yeah, they have a history of doing that.

Quote
I also wouldn't count out Denmark though. Even if they lose against Portugal, a win against Cyprus would put them at 16 as well.

I, again, forgot about the subtraction of points against the worst team in one's group. I was actually expecting them to draw with Portugal at home and beat Cyprus so that should make them the best runner up but we'll see what happens. Crazy things can happen. Cyprus did tie Portugal in the opening game (a stunning 4-4 result) in Portugal and only lost by a goal against Norway in their next game. Sometimes, when these teams have the chance to spoil things for their opponents, they kick it into overdrive.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Iosif on September 09, 2011, 12:12:18 AM
Italy are rubbish. This ain't the 90's anymore. The Italians are all old and sh**t and slow. Serie A is also rubbish. It was revived briefly by Jose Mourinho aka GOD but it has since gone back to being rubbish. The French are set to overtake them this year in the UEFA coefficient as well. All the best players are leaving in droves, even if it means playing in a Daghestanian hellhole. Have you been to Milan? My God that's a grim city. Horrible, really horrible. I don't blame Eto'o at all. Are you going to watch Barca v AC next week? Don't. It'll be embarrassing. A hiding to nothing. 4, 5, 6 easily. Milan best players are all Premier League/Liga rejects anyway. Robinho, Zlatan... Boateng couldn't even get a game at Spurs. How the mighty have fallen - I remember Juve in the 90's. What a team! Now it's like watching an OAP Sunday league kick about at the local park. Only with less fans in attendance.

Italy will flame out in the group stages next year as per. They'll be tears. They'll be tantrums. They'll be finger pointing. But nobody will be surprised and more importantly nobody will care. Italian football is a cancer on the beautiful game. I for one gladly celebrate it's rapid death spiral.  


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 09, 2011, 12:18:35 AM
Italy are rubbish. This ain't the 90's anymore. The Italians are all old and sh**t and slow.

This is a very young team but thanks for playing.

 
Quote
The French are set to overtake them this year in the UEFA coefficient as well.

Proof? You might be thinking of the Germans who just did.

 
Quote
Have you been to Milan? My God that's a grim city. Horrible, really horrible.

Several times, in fact. I enjoy it.

Quote
Are you going to watch Barca v AC next week? Don't. It'll be embarrassing.

Wouldn't matter to me. Milan isn't my Italian team anyway.


Quote
Italy will flame out in the group stages next year as per. They'll be tears. They'll be tantrums. They'll be finger pointing. But nobody will be surprised and more importantly nobody will care. Italian football is a cancer on the beautiful game. I for one gladly celebrate it's rapid death spiral.  

C+

Showed some half decent attempts but still easily detectable. Suggested methods for better trolling: getting my Serie A team preference correct; don't get basic facts wrong (i.e., saying that the Italians have an old team. It isn't 2010 anymore).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Iosif on September 09, 2011, 12:23:22 AM
Not everyone who disagrees with you is trolling.

I suggest you stop being such a massive fanny.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 09, 2011, 12:45:57 AM
Not everyone who disagrees with you is trolling.

I suggest you stop being such a massive fanny.

Well, I mean, there were some glaring errors for a "fan" of the game.  :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Iosif on September 09, 2011, 01:12:58 AM
I'm sorry, I'm not having being lectured on football by a colonial commoner.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 09, 2011, 01:16:16 AM
I'm sorry, I'm not having being lectured on football by a colonial commoner.

I've played the game for most of my life, don't follow anything regarding the American version of the game and do follow real Football/Soccer (oops. I know you dislike calling it that...). I'm not a "colonial" follower of the game by any stretch of the imagination.

But if we want to have a debate about this aspect of the game, let's take it to one of the other threads. Let's save this for Euro 2012 talk.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on September 10, 2011, 04:11:29 AM
1. I must say that I still think Italy sort of looks a lot less strong than they have historically.
2. Despite that, Italy (together with Germany) is the team that I never count out regardless of how badly they've done.

3. Italy's team is still pretty old, imo. If you look at the German line-up against Austria the majority was younger than 25 (8/11). In Italy's last game only 2 were (and none below 23). The vast majority in Italy is still close to 30 which makes the team pretty old, albeit not by Italian standards.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 10, 2011, 03:59:07 PM
If you look at the German line-up against Austria the majority was younger than 25 (8/11). In Italy's last game only 2 were (and none below 23). The vast majority in Italy is still close to 30 which makes the team pretty old, albeit not by Italian standards.

Close to 30, sure, but we only have two starters that are actually at or older than 30 (I don't even want to count Buffon in that since he's in goal and age isn't much of a factor for him/keepers last much longer in this game).

To nit pick, there definitely was a player (though not a starter) that was under 23 in our last game: Balotelli. He didn't come in until the very end though.

I think the average age on the team is somewhere in the mid 20s and that's not old by Italian standards. This squad is likely younger, on average, than the 2006 team and that's good enough for me.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on September 10, 2011, 04:22:45 PM
If you look at the German line-up against Austria the majority was younger than 25 (8/11). In Italy's last game only 2 were (and none below 23). The vast majority in Italy is still close to 30 which makes the team pretty old, albeit not by Italian standards.

Close to 30, sure, but we only have two starters that are actually at or older than 30 (I don't even want to count Buffon in that since he's in goal and age isn't much of a factor for him/keepers last much longer in this game).

To nit pick, there definitely was a player (though not a starter) that was under 23 in our last game: Balotelli. He didn't come in until the very end though.

I think the average age on the team is somewhere in the mid 20s and that's not old by Italian standards. This squad is likely younger, on average, than the 2006 team and that's good enough for me.

Yeah, I was talking of the starting line-up, so I didn't count Balotelli. And of course Buffon is fine. Still, it's a fairly old squad. Not too old for the Euros, sure, but next World Cup still looks a bit grim to me, since a large part of the current starters will be 30+ by then.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 10, 2011, 04:31:38 PM
If you look at the German line-up against Austria the majority was younger than 25 (8/11). In Italy's last game only 2 were (and none below 23). The vast majority in Italy is still close to 30 which makes the team pretty old, albeit not by Italian standards.

Close to 30, sure, but we only have two starters that are actually at or older than 30 (I don't even want to count Buffon in that since he's in goal and age isn't much of a factor for him/keepers last much longer in this game).

To nit pick, there definitely was a player (though not a starter) that was under 23 in our last game: Balotelli. He didn't come in until the very end though.

I think the average age on the team is somewhere in the mid 20s and that's not old by Italian standards. This squad is likely younger, on average, than the 2006 team and that's good enough for me.

Yeah, I was talking of the starting line-up, so I didn't count Balotelli. And of course Buffon is fine. Still, it's a fairly old squad. Not too old for the Euros, sure, but next World Cup still looks a bit grim to me, since a large part of the current starters will be 30+ by then.

Prandelli is still experimenting with younger players. We'll probably see a few of them in the remaining qualifiers and Friendlies since we've already qualified.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on September 11, 2011, 04:34:20 AM
If you look at the German line-up against Austria the majority was younger than 25 (8/11). In Italy's last game only 2 were (and none below 23). The vast majority in Italy is still close to 30 which makes the team pretty old, albeit not by Italian standards.

Close to 30, sure, but we only have two starters that are actually at or older than 30 (I don't even want to count Buffon in that since he's in goal and age isn't much of a factor for him/keepers last much longer in this game).

To nit pick, there definitely was a player (though not a starter) that was under 23 in our last game: Balotelli. He didn't come in until the very end though.

I think the average age on the team is somewhere in the mid 20s and that's not old by Italian standards. This squad is likely younger, on average, than the 2006 team and that's good enough for me.

Yeah, I was talking of the starting line-up, so I didn't count Balotelli. And of course Buffon is fine. Still, it's a fairly old squad. Not too old for the Euros, sure, but next World Cup still looks a bit grim to me, since a large part of the current starters will be 30+ by then.

Prandelli is still experimenting with younger players. We'll probably see a few of them in the remaining qualifiers and Friendlies since we've already qualified.

Younger players being 27-year olds? ;)

I remember in the last World Cup this sort of famous guy who was a commentator in Swedish tv and was a huge Italy fan was really broken down after they lost against Slovakia and was talking about how they needed to let in the new young players. I think his example was Di Natale who was already over 30 and Quagliarella who was getting there. That struck me as amusing and slightly telling of the Italian perspective on age.

I have to say that the strong teams from last Worlds (Germany, Spain, Holland) really look like the strongest ones so far this time around as well.

My guess for the Euros win would be Germany, but it's by no means a given. I'll never make the mistake of counting out Italy. 


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on September 11, 2011, 09:48:45 PM

Younger players being 27-year olds? ;)

25-27 year olds, yes.  ;)

Quote
I have to say that the strong teams from last Worlds (Germany, Spain, Holland) really look like the strongest ones so far this time around as well.

My guess for the Euros win would be Germany, but it's by no means a given. I'll never make the mistake of counting out Italy. 

Sure but if I had to pick a top four, I would honestly say that Italy rounds out that group. I like how things are being set up. It reminds me of 2006: a very disappointing previous tournament, a domestic league scandal and strong skepticism from the rest of the world about our chances despite improvement.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on September 12, 2011, 12:08:48 PM

Younger players being 27-year olds? ;)

25-27 year olds, yes.  ;)

Quote
I have to say that the strong teams from last Worlds (Germany, Spain, Holland) really look like the strongest ones so far this time around as well.

My guess for the Euros win would be Germany, but it's by no means a given. I'll never make the mistake of counting out Italy. 

Sure but if I had to pick a top four, I would honestly say that Italy rounds out that group. I like how things are being set up. It reminds me of 2006: a very disappointing previous tournament, a domestic league scandal and strong skepticism from the rest of the world about our chances despite improvement.

Well, I'd agree that Italy is a good candidate for 4th team. However, my impression is that the difference is larger between the 4th and 3rd than between the 4th and 5th.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 06, 2011, 03:17:58 PM
We're back in less than 24 hours! :)

Italy vs. Serbia should be interesting. Let's see how the Serbian fans act. Here's hoping they don't act the way they did during the Genoa (suspended) match...though I wouldn't mind getting an automatic 3-0 win by virtue of their forfeit.

There are some really good games tomorrow with a few teams able to book their spots in either the final tournament or the playoff round. Since Italy is already through as group winners, I'm probably more interested in what happens in several other groups. I'm really interested in seeing if Spain defeat the Czech Republic. If so, Scotland has a real shot at qualifying for the playoff round. Of course, that means Scotland will have to win or draw against Spain next week or, if they lose, they'll have to rely on the Czechs falling apart against Lithuania.

Greece vs. Croatia should be good, too. And let's not forget about the drama in Group B (Russia, Ireland, Armenia and Slovakia).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on October 06, 2011, 05:11:35 PM
We need to beat Finland to secure the 2nd place. So I'm hoping that works out. I'm also cheering on Montenegro to make it out in 2nd place. Not that I think they will though.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 06, 2011, 05:57:05 PM
I'm also cheering on Montenegro to make it out in 2nd place. Not that I think they will though.

It would be quite an accomplishment if they got the second spot but I want the Swiss to qualify. I think England will beat Montenegro (but it should be a tough game) and Switzerland will win against Wales, setting up a decisive final game which the Swiss will take at home.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on October 06, 2011, 06:34:08 PM
Turkey needs to lose, Belgium needs to win.

Armenia should beat Macedonia, but Ireland and Russia doing poorly in their away games will be helpful too.

I'll be cheering on Italy (gross), so that Estonia still has a chance of 2nd place.

Don't really have a preference between Switzerland and Montenegro, though Montenegro is apparently resting players tomorrow who are a yellow card away from suspension for the game against Switzerland on Tuesday, which should decide second place.

Scotland's obviously not beating Spain, so the Czechs should hopefully be through to the playoffs.

Keeping Portugal out is going to be tricky, unless Iceland somehow upsets them. But maybe Denmark can win the group by defeating them at home? Cross your fingers.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 06, 2011, 08:52:47 PM

Agreed.

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Armenia should beat Macedonia, but Ireland and Russia doing poorly in their away games will be helpful too.

Russia should still win in Slovakia since the latter has seemed to collapse. Ireland will beat Andorra. Even a poor performance gets teams a win there.

Quote
I'll be cheering on Italy (gross), so that Estonia still has a chance of 2nd place.

;)

My feelings on the group are weird. I don't want to see Northern Ireland nor Estonia get through but it would be interesting. I won't be rooting for the runner up from this group in their playoff anyway (unless they're stuck playing teams like Bosnia or Armenia). That means I want Serbia but obviously don't want them to beat us or get a draw tomorrow tomorrow. I can root for Slovenia for the second spot, too, but if we draw with Serbia, it eliminates Slovenia.


Quote
Scotland's obviously not beating Spain, so the Czechs should hopefully be through to the playoffs.

They don't have to. Scotland will beat Liechtenstein on Saturday. If Spain beats the Czechs, that puts Scotland a point ahead. If Scotland then draws against Spain, Czech Republic must beat Lithuania. A draw doesn't do them any good. Yeah, I guess a win is likely to happen but not a slam dunk since they're not that great anymore and are playing away. Hell, if Scotland loses to Spain and the Czechs only muster a point against Lithuania, Scotland can still go through.

Quote
Keeping Portugal out is going to be tricky, unless Iceland somehow upsets them. But maybe Denmark can win the group by defeating them at home? Cross your fingers.

Iceland isn't beating them at home. Not now at least. Yeah, Cyprus found a way to tie them 4-4 in the opening game for both countries but that was a different time. Portugal has their act together. Norway is likely finished. I think the only way they can qualify for a playoff spot (barring big upsets in tomorrow's games) is on goal difference and they must see someone lose the final group game between Portugal and Denmark.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on October 06, 2011, 11:18:29 PM
The Czechs actually lost to Lithuania at home at the very beginning (can't believe I forgot, I was watching the game on Czech TV at the time!) so yeah, beating Lithuania isn't assured, you're right.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: ZuWo on October 07, 2011, 07:19:04 AM
I'm also cheering on Montenegro to make it out in 2nd place. Not that I think they will though.

It would be quite an accomplishment if they got the second spot but I want the Swiss to qualify. I think England will beat Montenegro (but it should be a tough game) and Switzerland will win against Wales, setting up a decisive final game which the Swiss will take at home.

Absolutely. :P There are two tough matches ahead of the Swiss team but I think they can do it. While the Swiss have played better and better recently the Montenegro squad appears to have faltered.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 07, 2011, 08:14:43 AM
Seems like most of my favored teams have a chance to make at least the play-offs.

In Group A, I agree with what has been said about Turkey and Belgium.

In group B, Russia is very likely to qualify directly and Armenia has a chance, given the rather erratic display of Ireland. And playing for a draw often doesn't turn out well.

In group C, I'm not quite sure to back. Normally, I wouldn't support Estonia in anything, but their football team seems to be actually represent the country, so I'm considering backing them instead of the Serbs (though it's always nice to see an over-fancied big Western European team brought down by a Balkan country).

Apologies to Gustaf, but I would really like to see Hungary qualify to a tournament after 25 years. So I'll be rooting for Finland. And it shouldn't be that hard to get at least a draw, considering that Sweden needed numerical advantage to defeat San Marino ;)

In group F, Greece seems to have improved lately, so they definitely have a chance to win against Croatia at home.

In group G, I'm rooting for Montenegro to overtake England :) But they are wisely concentrating on the last match with Switzerland, so they're still with a chance to reach the play-offs.

Don't really care about any team in group H, though I'll note that if Portugal and Denmark win their games today, they would then have a very good chance to qualify directly with a draw between them in the last game.

In group I, my sympathies are split. Scotland is one of the teams one just can't help but root for, but on the other hand they still have that dreadful coach who supports the 4-6-0 system, while the Czechs really deserve to reach the European championship with their great team.



Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on October 07, 2011, 11:17:37 AM
Sweden v Finland is about to kick off.

Reminder to everyone: teams finishing on equal points will be ranked on head-to-head record before anything else. Might be important in a number of groups.

Also, I think Denmark are favourites to take best runner-up. If they beat Cyprus on Tuesday they will likely get it.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on October 07, 2011, 11:23:25 AM
Austria vs. Aserbaidschan is already in the 25th minute.

It's still 0:0


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on October 07, 2011, 11:24:36 AM
So far we suck. Finland was very close to scoring. :(


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on October 07, 2011, 11:25:38 AM
Ok, scratch that. :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on October 07, 2011, 11:28:10 AM
Red card now for Aserbaidschan in the 27th minute because one of their defenders clearly fouled an Austrian striker slightly ahead of the goalkeeper area. Free kick now.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on October 07, 2011, 11:33:55 AM
1:0 for Austria now

The Azeris are now definitely feeling the pressure with only 10 men on the field.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 07, 2011, 11:52:47 AM
Saw parts of the Armenia-Macedonia match. Armenia played a nice attacking style of football (though their midfield was not entirely convincing) and would have won by even more if the referee didn't make several inaccurate decisions in favor of Macedonia. Ireland would be wise not to underestimate them.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on October 07, 2011, 12:08:21 PM
It's 2:0 for Austria now in the 50th minute.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on October 07, 2011, 12:14:04 PM
Other good games later today:

Turkey vs. Germany
Serbia vs. Italy
Spain vs. Czech Republic


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on October 07, 2011, 12:18:33 PM
60th minute now, Austria now leading 3:0 !


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on October 07, 2011, 12:20:00 PM
Azerbaijan now falling apart literally, almost 4:0


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 07, 2011, 12:20:33 PM
Today is the feast of Our Lady of the Rosary. The supposed purpose according to a friend of mine is to thank God for the victory of the Christians over the Turks. Sign of a Germany win?  :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on October 07, 2011, 12:21:43 PM
Today is the feast of Our Lady of the Rosary. The supposed purpose according to a friend of mine is to thank God for the victory of the Christians over the Turks. Sign of a Germany win?  :P

If the Austria vs. Azerbaijan game is an early indicator, the Christians are currently leading the Muslims ... :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 07, 2011, 12:23:41 PM
60th minute now, Austria now leading 3:0 !
If Azerbaijan finishes last, Turkey might qualify directly (if they defeat Germany, of course). Considering the close connection between the two, this raises interesting speculations ;)
Of course most likely Azerbaijan are just playing really badly.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 07, 2011, 12:26:07 PM
Wow. Armenia is for real. A 4-1 thrashing of Macedonia. It's going to be an interesting final day in Group B next week.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 07, 2011, 12:29:18 PM
Today is the feast of Our Lady of the Rosary. The supposed purpose according to a friend of mine is to thank God for the victory of the Christians over the Turks. Sign of a Germany win?  :P

If the Austria vs. Azerbaijan game is an early indicator, the Christians are currently leading the Muslims ... :P
This raises a question: Is Bosnia a Muslim or a Christian country.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on October 07, 2011, 12:32:45 PM
Today is the feast of Our Lady of the Rosary. The supposed purpose according to a friend of mine is to thank God for the victory of the Christians over the Turks. Sign of a Germany win?  :P

If the Austria vs. Azerbaijan game is an early indicator, the Christians are currently leading the Muslims ... :P
This raises a question: Is Bosnia a Muslim or a Christian country.

Good question: There's been no Census there for about 30 years.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on October 07, 2011, 12:36:33 PM
Azerbaijan has now scored.

3:1


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on October 07, 2011, 12:48:13 PM
4:1 Austria now, with a few minutes to go.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on October 07, 2011, 12:50:11 PM
Game over. Austria wins 4:1 against Azerbaijan.

Now on to watch Germany vs. Turkey.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 07, 2011, 12:50:45 PM
Finland has reduced Sweden's lead and there are still 13 minutes left...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 07, 2011, 12:52:14 PM
Today is the feast of Our Lady of the Rosary. The supposed purpose according to a friend of mine is to thank God for the victory of the Christians over the Turks. Sign of a Germany win?  :P

If the Austria vs. Azerbaijan game is an early indicator, the Christians are currently leading the Muslims ... :P
This raises a question: Is Bosnia a Muslim or a Christian country.

Good question: There's been no Census there for about 30 years.
Regardless of that, most of their players seem to be Muslims, so no surprises if Luxembourg wins ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 07, 2011, 01:03:27 PM
Sweden should hang on at this point.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on October 07, 2011, 01:14:45 PM
The German team has quite a few Muslims (Khedira, Özil at least) as well, let's not forget. :P

Very happy about Armenia's showing today. They've done their part; now it's up to Slovakia and Andorra.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on October 07, 2011, 01:20:44 PM
Reminder to everyone: teams finishing on equal points will be ranked on head-to-head record before anything else. Might be important in a number of groups.

UEFA's use of head-to-head record instead of goal difference is really stupid.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on October 07, 2011, 01:27:22 PM
Germany vs. Turkey live-stream:

http://livetv1.info


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on October 07, 2011, 01:37:09 PM
Wow, Neuer saves the day for Germany.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 07, 2011, 01:39:30 PM
Ok, let's see if we can keep our clean sheet streak going (though I'm not that optimistic)...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 07, 2011, 01:50:32 PM
Already 1-0 Italia after Serbia almost scored! Marchisio's first goal! Wow!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 07, 2011, 01:57:07 PM
Already 1-0 Italia after Serbia almost scored! Marchisio's first goal! Wow!

...actually it was Cassano. Damn.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 07, 2011, 02:05:14 PM
Now they're saying it was Marchisio. Is it to hard to review the replay, people?

Anyway, Spain scored very early against the Czech Republic. Surprisingly, the Dutch haven't netted any goals against Moldova and they're in the 33rd minute.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 07, 2011, 02:08:05 PM
Germany's taken the lead!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on October 07, 2011, 02:08:17 PM
Vintage display of German counter-attacking precision, 1-0. :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 07, 2011, 02:12:46 PM
Denmark's taken a 4-0 lead.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 07, 2011, 02:15:28 PM
Serbia breaks our clean sheet streak. Damn.  :(  Still, only two goals after nine games isn't bad. Let's make sure they don't get anymore, boys!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on October 07, 2011, 02:16:04 PM
Spain's scored again, 2-0 after less than 30 minutes. :(


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 07, 2011, 02:18:35 PM
England's taken the lead against Montenegro, as has Netherlands against Moldova.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 07, 2011, 02:27:55 PM
Reminder to everyone: teams finishing on equal points will be ranked on head-to-head record before anything else. Might be important in a number of groups.

UEFA's use of head-to-head record instead of goal difference is really stupid.
No, it's the better method as it compares how well the teams did against each other and not how good they were at beating up the minnows.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on October 07, 2011, 02:29:50 PM
Reminder to everyone: teams finishing on equal points will be ranked on head-to-head record before anything else. Might be important in a number of groups.

UEFA's use of head-to-head record instead of goal difference is really stupid.
No, it's the better method as it compares how well the teams did against each other and not how good they were at beating up the minnows.

It may be more fair, but it ultimately makes the outcome less exciting/fluid and fails to promote attacking play, unlike deciding by goal difference.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: ZuWo on October 07, 2011, 02:40:22 PM
What a lame match between Wales and Switzerland ... fortunately England is about to crush Montenegro.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 07, 2011, 02:42:54 PM
What a lame match between Wales and Switzerland ... fortunately England is about to crush Montenegro.
Perhaps like Montenegro they are focusing on the last game.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on October 07, 2011, 02:46:43 PM
Russia and Ireland both score... Armenia will have to win in Ireland then. :(


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: ZuWo on October 07, 2011, 02:47:46 PM
What a lame match between Wales and Switzerland ... fortunately England is about to crush Montenegro.

... or not. Montenegro has just scored. England's lead is down to 2-1 now.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 07, 2011, 02:48:57 PM
Russia and Ireland both score... Armenia will have to win in Ireland then. :(
You thought Andorra could draw with Ireland?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 07, 2011, 02:51:33 PM
Quite an interesting game between Turkey and Germany. Germany almost made it 2-0, then very shortly after that, Turkey almost equalized. Germany's playing really strongly for a team that has no stake in the result.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 07, 2011, 02:57:52 PM
And they've made it 2-0.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on October 07, 2011, 03:01:34 PM
Russia and Ireland both score... Armenia will have to win in Ireland then. :(
You thought Andorra could draw with Ireland?

Stranger things have happened.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 07, 2011, 03:08:34 PM
Wales has taken the lead against Switzerland!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: ZuWo on October 07, 2011, 03:39:31 PM
Wales has taken the lead against Switzerland!

That was a terrible performance by the Swiss, plain and simple. If you lose to Wales in such a way, you have no business trying to qualify for the World Cup.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 07, 2011, 03:44:40 PM
Reminder to everyone: teams finishing on equal points will be ranked on head-to-head record before anything else. Might be important in a number of groups.

UEFA's use of head-to-head record instead of goal difference is really stupid.
No, it's the better method as it compares how well the teams did against each other and not how good they were at beating up the minnows.

It may be more fair, but it ultimately makes the outcome less exciting/fluid and fails to promote attacking play, unlike deciding by goal difference.
In some cases however teams which might have scrapped through with a draw would need a win under the direct result tiebreaker. So it depends on every specific case.

Wales has taken the lead against Switzerland!

That was a terrible performance by the Swiss, plain and simple. If you lose to Wales in such a way, you have no business trying to qualify for the World Cup.
It also means that Bulgaria will have to defeat Wales in their last game to avoid finishing last. Looking at how Wales played, I'm not very optimistic at this happening. 


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 07, 2011, 03:49:31 PM
And Montenegro makes it 2-2 in injury time!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: ZuWo on October 07, 2011, 03:52:16 PM
And Montenegro makes it 2-2 in injury time!

I'm not too unhappy. In this shape, the Swiss won't beat Montenegro anyway.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 07, 2011, 03:53:16 PM
England qualifies for the tournament and Montenegro qualifies to the play-off.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 07, 2011, 04:53:49 PM
Poor Switzerland. I wish I could have seen that amazing Montenegro finish though. Slovakia and Slovenia are out, too.

I think Ireland will beat or tie Armenia next week in what ought to be a great game. Serbia will have a tougher time because they need all three points away from home with Slovenia trying to be spoiler. I think the Serbs will eek it out though. France should beat Bosnia.

With Portugal almost blowing this game against Iceland, I don't know what's going to happen in their final game. Denmark should be thrilled.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on October 07, 2011, 07:56:08 PM
;D


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on October 08, 2011, 04:56:04 AM
Well, not a good game by Sweden by any means, but we won and that is what matters. Second place now secured.

At this stage, it is all about being best runner-up. Unfortunately, I suspect Denmark will get it. So, here is the deal as far as I can see:

If Sweden beats Holland, we have it regardless of how other stuff goes.

If we tie Holland, we get it if Portugal beats Denmark and Croatia does not beat Latvia by 5-0 or more.

If we lose against Holland, it is over.

Realistically, I think it is between Sweden and Denmark at this stage. I doubt Croatia can pick up the goal difference.

Of course, getting a point against Holland is not that likely. What goes in our favour is a number of things though:

1. No Robben or Sneijder, their best players and playmakers. Also no Affelay and no Steklenburg. Still, the players they have left are still good.

2. They have nothing to play for. Unfortunately, not something that typically bothers Holland I think.

3. We have home ground.

4. Counter-intuitively, Ibrahimovic cannot play since he is suspended. And Sweden actually tends to play better without him than with him. Last Euro qualification we beat Spain 2-0 without him. 

---------------------

In other groups, I hope Estonia can get to runner-up. Slovenia might be able to tie Serbia, which would be enough. The Serbian point against Italy is actually utterly useless to them. Had Estonia not lost 0-2 against Faroe Islands they could have clinched 2nd place by now. Lol.

Turkey is virtually guaranteed imo. Germany is not pulling any punches and I expect them to steamroll Belgium while Turkey gets an easy win against the bag of sucks that is Azerbaijan.

Russia has Andorra in the final game which means they have won the group. Ireland should be able to not lose against Armenia at home and get 2nd. Had Armenia not tied Macedonia they would have had the upper hand.

France will likely stave off Bosnia, although it would be hilarious if we could get another Ireland versus France play-off. ;D

Greece has probable taken their group since they should not lose against Georgia.

Denmark will not beat Portugal, I do not think.

A wee bit excitement still in the last group. If Scotland beats Liechtenstein, they would be fine with tying Spain while Lithuania ties the Czechs. I think none of this will happen though.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 08, 2011, 01:19:37 PM
Scotland up 1-0 at the half. They better pop in a goal or two more. Liechtenstein has pulled off some surprises this qualifying campaign...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 08, 2011, 02:59:18 PM
Scotland wins. It all comes down to Tuesday's action. The Czechs have to be a little nervous.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 09, 2011, 10:05:06 AM
Just an observation going into the final day of the Group stage: while I support Belgium for the runner up spot and don't want to see Armenia get through Group B, the former has to be the least deserving team in contention for a playoff spot while the latter is probably to most deserving. Belgium has screwed up so many matches late in the game, either losing or drawing, that they should have won or at least tied while Armenia has put up a great fight to possibly make it through a tough group. Their performance has been really surprising.

If current play is any indication, I'm willing to bet that Armenia will be the team to watch in the 2014 World Cup qualifiers in Group B (Italy's group). Denmark and Armenia will probably be the teams battling it out for second place. Hell, the latter might even give my guys a scare.

I'll also admit to Gustaf that it looks like I underestimated Bosnia. :P  I still think France will beat them on Tuesday and they'll lose in the playoff round but they put on a great campaign.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on October 09, 2011, 10:36:33 AM
Just an observation going into the final day of the Group stage: while I support Belgium for the runner up spot and don't want to see Armenia get through Group B, the former has to be the least deserving team in contention for a playoff spot while the latter is probably to most deserving. Belgium has screwed up so many matches late in the game, either losing or drawing, that they should have won or at least tied while Armenia has put up a great fight to possibly make it through a tough group. Their performance has been really surprising.

If current play is any indication, I'm willing to bet that Armenia will be the team to watch in the 2014 World Cup qualifiers in Group B (Italy's group). Denmark and Armenia will probably be the teams battling it out for second place. Hell, the latter might even give my guys a scare.

I'll also admit to Gustaf that it looks like I underestimated Bosnia. :P  I still think France will beat them on Tuesday and they'll lose in the playoff round but they put on a great campaign.

Told you so. ;) I agree though that they will likely not pass France. I'm largely in agreement with your other points as well.

As regards Italy's World Cup group, it is looking quite feisty by now. Malta sucks of course and Bulgaria seem weak, but none of the other three seem to be teams who will just roll over and let you kill them.

I'm upset though - by bringing this up you fooled me into looking at those groups, thus reminding me of Sweden's horrible future. There is no team I wouldn't rather have than Germany. Ireland and Austria for 3rd and 4th pot teams is also bad luck, imo. Ugh.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 10, 2011, 02:24:33 AM
Just an observation going into the final day of the Group stage: while I support Belgium for the runner up spot and don't want to see Armenia get through Group B, the former has to be the least deserving team in contention for a playoff spot while the latter is probably to most deserving.
If you think Armenia is the most deserving team to go through, why don't you want them to?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on October 10, 2011, 05:08:58 AM
Just an observation going into the final day of the Group stage: while I support Belgium for the runner up spot and don't want to see Armenia get through Group B, the former has to be the least deserving team in contention for a playoff spot while the latter is probably to most deserving.
If you think Armenia is the most deserving team to go through, why don't you want them to?
Because he doesn't like it if small teams set up the established order. *shrugs*


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 10, 2011, 11:02:46 AM
Just an observation going into the final day of the Group stage: while I support Belgium for the runner up spot and don't want to see Armenia get through Group B, the former has to be the least deserving team in contention for a playoff spot while the latter is probably to most deserving.
If you think Armenia is the most deserving team to go through, why don't you want them to?
Because he doesn't like it if small teams set up the established order. *shrugs*

Bingo.  ;)

Plus, I want Ireland to go through even though they aren't part of the "established order." I want Italy to face Trapattoni during the tournament and finally get a win. The Italy-Ireland rivalry would be fun for me amongst some of my friends.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: republicanism on October 10, 2011, 01:25:27 PM

I don't remember how they do the play-offs: Are the 8 teams casted free against each other, or are some teams seeded?

Anyways, the whole qualification went pretty good for the teams I like. Two Scandinavians in the playoffs (or Denmark qualifies directly), Ireland should make it in the playoffs, Scotland with an outside chance.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 10, 2011, 02:11:14 PM

I don't remember how they do the play-offs: Are the 8 teams casted free against each other, or are some teams seeded?

The four teams with the best UEFA coefficient ranking will be seeded.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on October 10, 2011, 02:20:00 PM
Ireland's been playing horribly, while Armenia has displayed some nice, exciting attacking football (they've scored almost as many goals as Russia and Ireland combined). Neither team obviously has much of a chance at the actual tournament, so let's at least have the one that isn't playing like crap get through.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: republicanism on October 10, 2011, 02:22:21 PM

I don't remember how they do the play-offs: Are the 8 teams casted free against each other, or are some teams seeded?

The four teams with the best UEFA coefficient ranking will be seeded.


Ah, it's a shame. So no chance for France vs. Portugal in the playoffs :(





Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 10, 2011, 02:32:21 PM
Ireland's been playing horribly, while Armenia has displayed some nice, exciting attacking football (they've scored almost as many goals as Russia and Ireland combined). Neither team obviously has much of a chance at the actual tournament, so let's at least have the one that isn't playing like crap get through.

I haven't seen the Ireland games but the results aren't horrible. They drew against Russia and Slovakia in September when things were very tense between the three teams at the top of the group. Maybe they were too cautious but I reserve the "horrible" label for teams that lose or draw (or even barely win) when they are supposed to win comfortably or at least tie.

In my opinion, Slovakia gets the "horrible" label. Talk about a collapse.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Јas on October 11, 2011, 02:34:31 AM
We're on a run of 8 clean sheets (including games against Italy, Russia and Croatia); and we're the only side to have beaten Armenia in Yerevan in this group.

The wheels could certainly come off the wagon tonight (and I do suspect that at least the clean sheet run will probably come to an end), but I don't think it's fair to say that our recent form has been 'playing like crap'.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: afleitch on October 11, 2011, 07:53:41 AM
So, Scotland have to beat Spain, or failing that have Lithuania beat the Czech Republic to finish second and get through to the playoffs. Won't happen. Ah well.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Insula Dei on October 11, 2011, 08:26:36 AM
Let's hope for a miracle tonight, people. Defeating Germany may be tough, but Turkey sadly isn't going to lose from the Azeri's.


Anyway, I share some of Phil's qualms. Objectively we really don't deserve to be in Ukraine or Poland, whereas Turkey would probably deserve to be there more than us. But I do believe that this Belgium is slowly growing to the point where it would be a more than worthy participant in any international competition. I have sad this before, but, boy, we do have a lot of young talent that's yet to blossom.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Franzl on October 11, 2011, 09:14:53 AM
We've made it our goal to finish the qualification with a perfect record.

We're not getting defeated by Belgium at home... ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 11, 2011, 09:35:45 AM
We're not getting defeated by Belgium at home... ;)

You don't need to be for Belgium to progress as long as Turkey loses or draws against Azerbaijan. :P  Let's remember that Azerbaijan did beat Turkey in this campaign. Unfortunately for those that want to see Belgium move on, I wouldn't be too hopeful that there will be a repeat even though Turkey has been less than impressive lately.


So, Scotland have to beat Spain, or failing that have Lithuania beat the Czech Republic to finish second and get through to the playoffs. Won't happen. Ah well.

Have a little faith, my friend. Lithuania is playing at home and their only victory thus far was away against the Czechs. They can certainly at least get a tie. If that happens, you guys just have to find the additional push to at least get a draw. It would be terrible if the Czechs only walk away with a point, Scotland loses and you're eliminated because of your head-to-head record.

Conceding that last minute penalty to the Czechs in September is what might kill you guys. In fact, if it wasn't for that, you guys would have qualified for that runner up spot already.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 11, 2011, 11:01:06 AM
We're not getting defeated by Belgium at home... ;)

You don't need to be for Belgium to progress as long as Turkey loses or draws against Azerbaijan. :P  Let's remember that Azerbaijan did beat Turkey in this campaign. Unfortunately for those that want to see Belgium move on, I wouldn't be too hopeful that there will be a repeat even though Turkey has been less than impressive lately.
Azerbaijan will lose not only because they've been dreadful, but because they are not about to trip up Big Brother Turkey on their way to qualification :) As for Belgium defeating Germany, the problem with that is that both Germany and the Netherlands have won all their games and neither will want the other to have a perfect record while they don't ;) This is bad news for Sweden as well, of course.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on October 11, 2011, 12:43:01 PM
We're not getting defeated by Belgium at home... ;)

You don't need to be for Belgium to progress as long as Turkey loses or draws against Azerbaijan. :P  Let's remember that Azerbaijan did beat Turkey in this campaign. Unfortunately for those that want to see Belgium move on, I wouldn't be too hopeful that there will be a repeat even though Turkey has been less than impressive lately.
Azerbaijan will lose not only because they've been dreadful, but because they are not about to trip up Big Brother Turkey on their way to qualification :)
You mean, like they did in Baku?

Anyways, Germany are up 2-0 already, so the current 0-0 draw would actually be enough for Turkey.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on October 11, 2011, 12:43:40 PM
Also, Georgia up against Greece.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 11, 2011, 12:46:14 PM
We're not getting defeated by Belgium at home... ;)

You don't need to be for Belgium to progress as long as Turkey loses or draws against Azerbaijan. :P  Let's remember that Azerbaijan did beat Turkey in this campaign. Unfortunately for those that want to see Belgium move on, I wouldn't be too hopeful that there will be a repeat even though Turkey has been less than impressive lately.
Azerbaijan will lose not only because they've been dreadful, but because they are not about to trip up Big Brother Turkey on their way to qualification :)
You mean, like they did in Baku?

Anyways, Germany are up 2-0 already, so the current 0-0 draw would actually be enough for Turkey.
At that point Azerbaijan still had a chance to qualify.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on October 11, 2011, 01:25:09 PM
I was going to make a post about "would be funny if Turkey got through with a 0-0 tonite", heard a big noise from the Turkish cafe cross the street and didn't. Found out that was offside, but before I came back here the ball was back in and this time it counts. Germany up 3-0, Turkey up 1-0.
Greece still down, Croatia now up (and would thus qualify as of right now), Ireland-Armenia still 0-0.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 11, 2011, 01:25:37 PM
Armenia's goalkeeper has himself sent away in a foolish foul - stopping a clear goalscoring opportunity with his hands. Outside the penalty area.
In other news, Germany continues to demolish Belgium, while Turkey and Azerbaijan is (surprisingly) still a tie.

PS: Incidentally, I think the Irish player whose shot the goalkeeper stopped with his hands was also controlled with his hand. What's with Ireland and all these handballs?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on October 11, 2011, 01:27:45 PM
Armenia's goalkeeper has himself sent away in a foolish foul - stopping a clear goalscoring opportunity with his hands. Outside the penalty area.
Yeah. Just came back to add that.
Quote
In other news, Germany continues to demolish Belgium, while Turkey and Azerbaijan is (surprisingly) still a tie.
No.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 11, 2011, 01:29:48 PM
Quote
In other news, Germany continues to demolish Belgium, while Turkey and Azerbaijan is (surprisingly) still a tie.
No.
Well it was when I was writing it :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 11, 2011, 01:31:35 PM
And Armenia scores an own goal :(


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 11, 2011, 01:31:53 PM
Ireland now up 1-0. Same for Denmark. Portugal could be in trouble...

Sweden up 1-0 now, too!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on October 11, 2011, 01:32:56 PM
And Croatia up 2-0, you forgot that one. :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 11, 2011, 01:37:18 PM

Just saw that. Looks like Croatia is taking the group.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on October 11, 2011, 01:38:50 PM
Greece have just equalized. I think that's them back on top, right?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Insula Dei on October 11, 2011, 01:40:22 PM
What a disappointing night. Thank god I didn't make any bold claims on here.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 11, 2011, 01:40:50 PM

Wow! What drama! Yep, they're back on top because of head-to-head.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Franzl on October 11, 2011, 01:42:38 PM
I kinda feel sorry for Belgium. But only kind of. ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 11, 2011, 01:43:41 PM

Wow! What drama! Yep, they're back on top because of head-to-head.
They still have a chance to win the best second place. As long as they score 6 goals in the last five minutes ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 11, 2011, 01:46:14 PM
Greece up 2-1 now. Talk about a tease for Croatia.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on October 11, 2011, 01:58:33 PM
Germany, Turkey, Croatia games over. My live ticker being a tease about the Greek game.

EDIT: Looked at another one, and of course that game is long over too. So Greece have it.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on October 11, 2011, 01:59:34 PM
Also, the Czechs went up in the 2nd minute and Spain in the 6th, so bad news for Scotland.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 11, 2011, 02:04:27 PM
The Croatia result is good news for Sweden which still have a chance to finish second best if they manage to hold Netherlands to a draw.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on October 11, 2011, 02:06:22 PM
2-0 Ireland. Armenian Fairytale is over. Of course, there's still Montenegro and maybe Estonia.

EDIT: 2-1.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 11, 2011, 02:10:57 PM
Italia -  1
Irlanda del Nord -  0


:)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on October 11, 2011, 02:11:59 PM
We were trying to keep discussion of today's friendlies out of this thread. :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 11, 2011, 02:13:42 PM
The Czechs are now up 2-0. Scotland better step it up since it's looking less likely that Lithuania will do them any favors.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 11, 2011, 02:25:44 PM
Now Ireland has lost a player as well!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 11, 2011, 02:31:25 PM
Sweden now up 3-2 after being down 2-1! Wow!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 11, 2011, 02:38:32 PM
Czechs are up 3-0 and Spain put in another one so the Scottish dream is over. Slovenia looks like they're going to guarantee Estonia a place in the playoffs. Portugal is now down by two but I think Norway has to score an insane amount of goals to beat them for runner up.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 11, 2011, 02:41:27 PM
Russia qualifies to the tournament and Ireland reaches the play-offs.
But Armenia deserves congratulations for the way they played. And they are a young team and really have the potential to do something in the future (which means that Bulgaria's group is even more horrible than it seemed before :()


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on October 11, 2011, 02:52:10 PM
Armenia! :(

I hope this isn't a one off performance from then. It's nice to see one of the smaller teams play confident, attractive football and be successful at it.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on October 11, 2011, 02:55:01 PM
Also, while I love the German team at the moment, it would be nice if we didn't concede random goals at the very end of the game all the time.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 11, 2011, 02:58:16 PM
Another goal for Cassano. I think this will make him the top scorer in Group C. I'm not a fan of his but I'll give credit where it is due: he did very well tonight.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 11, 2011, 02:59:17 PM
Also, while I love the German team at the moment, it would be nice if we didn't concede random goals at the very end of the game all the time.
As long as they are 3:0 up, it doesn't really matter :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 11, 2011, 03:06:34 PM
The Swedes slay the dragon. Wow.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 11, 2011, 03:09:06 PM
Portugal scores in stoppage time (not that it matters).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on October 11, 2011, 03:13:50 PM
Denmark and Sweden!!!

And Estonia is currently still advancing to the play-offs! :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Insula Dei on October 11, 2011, 03:25:26 PM
This means that if (nd that's rather a big 'if') Belgium qualifies for the WC 2014, it  will be their  return to the international stage after 12 (Twelve!) years in the wilderness.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on October 11, 2011, 03:30:22 PM
lol, never change France, never change.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 11, 2011, 03:34:45 PM
This means that if (nd that's rather a big 'if') Belgium qualifies for the WC 2014, it  will be their  return to the international stage after 12 (Twelve!) years in the wilderness.
That's probably what will happen with Bulgaria. The way they playing now and with their group, they'll be lucky to finish 4th.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on October 11, 2011, 03:35:23 PM
Well, today was a good day. Sure, Holland lacked Robben and Sneijder but their team is still really good and we did lack Ibrahimovic. I am, needless to say, very happy about this outcome!



Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on October 11, 2011, 03:36:29 PM
Lol, France. France versus Ireland in play-offs again?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 11, 2011, 03:38:35 PM
...and it ends 3-0. Great performance tonight and throughout the entire campaign. Prandelli really has done an excellent job and the team is really clicking, overcoming last year's embarrassment.

Over ten games, we have only conceded two goals (which included goalless streak for the opposition from the 32nd minute of the first match until the 26th minute of our second to last game) and scored twenty*. We were undefeated (one of only four teams that can say that). Underestimate these guys at your own risk. I'm very confident going into the tournament. We're back!


*Three of which were awarded to us in the forfeit but, hey, I still count it.  ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 11, 2011, 03:39:24 PM
France scores. If the result stands, they will avoid the playoff round.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 11, 2011, 03:42:25 PM
The Czech Republic qualifies for the play-off. Not very sorry for Scotland, if you play like that you should be kept as far as possible from a tournament.
In other news, France equalizes with a penalty. Let's hope it's not a dodgy one ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 11, 2011, 03:43:19 PM
Estonia has reached the play-offs as well. And that's a team that lost to the Faroe Islands!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 11, 2011, 03:50:36 PM
Estonia has reached the play-offs as well. And that's a team that lost to the Faroe Islands!

They almost lost both games to the Faroe Islands. They lucked out in the very first qualifier by scoring twice in stoppage time.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 11, 2011, 03:51:33 PM
France survives and wins the group.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 11, 2011, 04:03:45 PM
We were undefeated (one of only four teams that can say that).
Five, actually :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 11, 2011, 04:10:57 PM
We were undefeated (one of only four teams that can say that).
Five, actually :)

Ah, you're right. Still impressive.  ;)

Anyway, the playoff draw is on Thursday. I don't know the seeding since the coefficient rankings have to be adjusted but I hope it's possible to see Portugal, Ireland, Croatia and the Czech Republic advance.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 11, 2011, 04:19:38 PM
We were undefeated (one of only four teams that can say that).
Five, actually :)

Ah, you're right. Still impressive.  ;)

Anyway, the playoff draw is on Thursday. I don't know the seeding since the coefficient rankings have to be adjusted but I hope it's possible to see Portugal, Ireland, Croatia and the Czech Republic advance.
Here is the last estimation:
http://www.world-results.net/uefa/ranking.html#2011
That was before today's games, but it seems unlikely that the order will change.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on October 11, 2011, 04:28:11 PM
Given the results of today's games I doubt it will change - the Czechs won their game, after all.

I hope Portugal fails though. I would like to see Bosnia make it this time.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 11, 2011, 04:37:40 PM
I figured all of the right teams would be seeded.  ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on October 11, 2011, 09:33:31 PM
So, Wales won again. Weird.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: republicanism on October 11, 2011, 11:01:41 PM

Great results. Denmark and Sweden qualified, Ireland in the playoffs, Portugal not yet qualified.

Looking at the UEFA rankings, Portugal, Czech Republic, Croatia and Turkey are seeded in the playoffs. What would be best for Ireland? The Czech I guess. Or Turkey, their strength is very unsteady.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 12, 2011, 01:27:19 AM

Great results. Denmark and Sweden qualified, Ireland in the playoffs, Portugal not yet qualified.

Looking at the UEFA rankings, Portugal, Czech Republic, Croatia and Turkey are seeded in the playoffs. What would be best for Ireland? The Czech I guess. Or Turkey, their strength is very unsteady.
These (http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Download/competitions/General/01/64/07/71/1640771_DOWNLOAD.pdf) rankings are out of date. Here are the rankings after yesterday's match:
http://www.world-results.net/uefa/ranking.html#2011


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 12, 2011, 02:49:49 AM
Seems that I wasn't the only one who thought that Ireland was helped by the referee:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/republic-of-ireland/8821001/Republic-of-Ireland-2-Armenia-1-match-report.html
Since Ireland obviously will not offer Armenia a replay, I know already who to root against in the play-offs (well, if Ireland plays against Turkey, I may think about it). And I hope we won't be hearing any more complaints about Henry's handball.



Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Јas on October 12, 2011, 05:07:48 AM
Seems that I wasn't the only one who thought that Ireland was helped by the referee:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/republic-of-ireland/8821001/Republic-of-Ireland-2-Armenia-1-match-report.html
Since Ireland obviously will not offer Armenia a replay, I know already who to root against in the play-offs (well, if Ireland plays against Turkey, I may think about it). And I hope we won't be hearing any more complaints about Henry's handball.

There is a difference in circumstance, and I would argue level of injustice, between these two cases - a play-off extra-time deliberate double handball and offside goal, and this incident.

At any rate, though I’d have no objection to a replay, presuming such were to become an established norm. (Judging by both our group games against them Armenia don’t present too many problems for our side anyway). However, as the FAI will recall from the France incident, TPTB informed them in no uncertain terms that a replay, even if the French offered one, would be out of the question.

(When was the last time you heard anyone bring up Henry's handball anyway?)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: republicanism on October 12, 2011, 05:57:38 AM

Great results. Denmark and Sweden qualified, Ireland in the playoffs, Portugal not yet qualified.

Looking at the UEFA rankings, Portugal, Czech Republic, Croatia and Turkey are seeded in the playoffs. What would be best for Ireland? The Czech I guess. Or Turkey, their strength is very unsteady.
These (http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Download/competitions/General/01/64/07/71/1640771_DOWNLOAD.pdf) rankings are out of date. Here are the rankings after yesterday's match:
http://www.world-results.net/uefa/ranking.html#2011


Oh thanks for correcting me GMantis. UEFA unpredictable as ever.
So Ireland is seeded instead of Turkey, that's a nice surprise. I'll hold my fingers crossed that they get Estonia or Montenegro tomorrow.

Btw is the controversial scene with Cox' handball-or-no-handball online somewhere? Haven't seen it yet, and nothing on youtube.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Јas on October 12, 2011, 06:40:04 AM
Btw is the controversial scene with Cox' handball-or-no-handball online somewhere? Haven't seen it yet, and nothing on youtube.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=CdD8QiUBtmk


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: republicanism on October 12, 2011, 06:55:15 AM
Btw is the controversial scene with Cox' handball-or-no-handball online somewhere? Haven't seen it yet, and nothing on youtube.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=CdD8QiUBtmk

Thanks! Yeah it looks pretty much like a handball. But no Henry-material.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 12, 2011, 07:02:33 AM
Btw is the controversial scene with Cox' handball-or-no-handball online somewhere? Haven't seen it yet, and nothing on youtube.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=CdD8QiUBtmk

Thanks! Yeah it looks pretty much like a handball. But no Henry-material.
On the other hand it seems that the keeper didn't touch the ball with his arms (though he didn't do himself any favors by raising up his arms). And yes, it's not as bad as what Henry did, but the decision favored Ireland and considering how early it came, it was probably decisive.

Seems that I wasn't the only one who thought that Ireland was helped by the referee:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/republic-of-ireland/8821001/Republic-of-Ireland-2-Armenia-1-match-report.html
Since Ireland obviously will not offer Armenia a replay, I know already who to root against in the play-offs (well, if Ireland plays against Turkey, I may think about it). And I hope we won't be hearing any more complaints about Henry's handball.

There is a difference in circumstance, and I would argue level of injustice, between these two cases - a play-off extra-time deliberate double handball and offside goal, and this incident.

At any rate, though I’d have no objection to a replay, presuming such were to become an established norm. (Judging by both our group games against them Armenia don’t present too many problems for our side anyway). However, as the FAI will recall from the France incident, TPTB informed them in no uncertain terms that a replay, even if the French offered one, would be out of the question.

(When was the last time you heard anyone bring up Henry's handball anyway?)
Agree with most of what you said, but not the bolded part. I watched much of the game and for long periods the Armenians seemed more dangerous even with a player down.

And the Henry accident is mentioned constantly. Seems to go together with "Ireland" and "play-off".


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Јas on October 12, 2011, 07:51:03 AM
Btw is the controversial scene with Cox' handball-or-no-handball online somewhere? Haven't seen it yet, and nothing on youtube.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=CdD8QiUBtmk

Thanks! Yeah it looks pretty much like a handball. But no Henry-material.
On the other hand it seems that the keeper didn't touch the ball with his arms (though he didn't do himself any favors by raising up his arms). And yes, it's not as bad as what Henry did, but the decision favored Ireland and considering how early it came, it was probably decisive.

Seems that I wasn't the only one who thought that Ireland was helped by the referee:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/republic-of-ireland/8821001/Republic-of-Ireland-2-Armenia-1-match-report.html
Since Ireland obviously will not offer Armenia a replay, I know already who to root against in the play-offs (well, if Ireland plays against Turkey, I may think about it). And I hope we won't be hearing any more complaints about Henry's handball.

There is a difference in circumstance, and I would argue level of injustice, between these two cases - a play-off extra-time deliberate double handball and offside goal, and this incident.

At any rate, though I’d have no objection to a replay, presuming such were to become an established norm. (Judging by both our group games against them Armenia don’t present too many problems for our side anyway). However, as the FAI will recall from the France incident, TPTB informed them in no uncertain terms that a replay, even if the French offered one, would be out of the question.

(When was the last time you heard anyone bring up Henry's handball anyway?)
Agree with most of what you said, but not the bolded part. I watched much of the game and for long periods the Armenians seemed more dangerous even with a player down.

And the Henry accident is mentioned constantly. Seems to go together with "Ireland" and "play-off".

Didn't see the game myself - just highlights online (http://www.timesoccer.com/video/009/03-armenia-vs-ireland-live-highlights.html) and read articles and such. None of the highlights I've seen had Armenia create any clear-cut chances other than their goal. (But then maybe they're not included - just as the [apparently perfectly legal (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/15230446.stm)] disallowed goal of Cox 5 minutes before the keeper got sent off is nowhere to be seen.)

At any rate, I won't be building up massive hopes for us in the play-offs. We're often there and we usually lose. I recall losing to Netherlands (E96), Belguim (WC98), Turkey (E00), France (WC10). Only win I can think of was against Iran (WC02).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 12, 2011, 09:30:19 AM
At any rate, I won't be building up massive hopes for us in the play-offs. We're often there and we usually lose. I recall losing to Netherlands (E96), Belguim (WC98), Turkey (E00), France (WC10). Only win I can think of was against Iran (WC02).

All of the teams you lost to were definitely better sides (except maybe Belgium in 1998). I would have a positive outlook if I was you. I would hope to get Estonia if I was an Ireland fan.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on October 12, 2011, 10:43:18 AM
I would say that there is a vast difference between getting either Turkey or Bosnia, both of which I think are pretty damn good teams, as opposed to Montenegro or Estonia who have over-performed in the qualifiers but could easily crumble.

Montenegro did seem to get worse towards the end of the campaign. They qualified based on their very impressive record during the first half of it. On the other hand, playing them in Podgorica seems like pure hell to me.

It obviously depends on how the teams get matched up but I think Portugal, Croatia, Bosnia and Turkey could well go through if the draw falls down that way. Ireland and Czech Rep have not impressed me a lot in this one.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 12, 2011, 11:13:57 AM
I saw that Armenia own goal earlier. Talk about a disaster. Some own goals are understandable. That one? No. Cruel, cruel ending for the Armenians. Plus, their goalie didn't deserve to be sent off.

There is a difference in circumstance, and I would argue level of injustice, between these two cases - a play-off extra-time deliberate double handball and offside goal, and this incident.

Here's why it doesn't matter: the play didn't result in a difference making goal. Even if it did, take that goal away and it's still a tie and Ireland progresses. You don't have a replay because an Irish player used his hand and the goalie was given a red card (even if that red card was unwarranted).

However, bringing up the whole Ireland-France game from two years ago gives me a sense of obligation to point out what few people realized (maybe you realize it, Jas, but bare with me): if you take away that Henry goal, that does not mean that Ireland would have went through. Take away that goal and if the score remained, it would have went to a penalty shoot out. It aggravates me when Irish fans imply that without that goal, they would have been on their way to South Africa.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on October 13, 2011, 06:38:05 AM
So, play-off draw is done. Unfairly enough it is basically the two strongest from each pot facing each other.

Croatia v Turkey
Portugal v Bosnia
Ireland v Estonia
Czech Rep v Montenegro


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on October 13, 2011, 06:40:26 AM
I will root for Bosnia, Ireland, Montenegro and Croatia.

My prediction is all the top-seeds making it through. The closest game will probably be Croatia v Turkey. The Turks should have a psychological advantage after last Euros... :D


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on October 13, 2011, 07:06:30 AM
To sum up the qualification campaign so far, I think Germany and Spain clearly stand out as the two strongest teams, with Holland 3rd.

Behind them, Italy seems like the strongest contender (congratulations Phil). France and England will also want payback and, who knows, might get it this time.

If Portugal and Croatia both qualify we could have a couple of hellish groups, since France and Portugal will then both be in the 4th pot, given current rankings. A group could then go something like

Spain
Germany
Croatia
France


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 13, 2011, 07:43:22 AM
I wanted to watch it live but overslept.  :(  It turned out how I wanted/expected anyway. I wanted to see a Croatia-Turkey rematch while Ireland and Portugal seem to get off easy.


If Portugal and Croatia both qualify we could have a couple of hellish groups, since France and Portugal will then both be in the 4th pot, given current rankings.

I guess it won't be possible to see the group I wanted:

Poland
Italy
France
Ireland


Oh well. I'd settle for being able to face only one of them (France or Ireland) and bring in Sweden or Denmark as a replacement. We owe both a rematch after 2004.  :P

The countdown to December 2nd (final tournament draw) begins!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on October 13, 2011, 12:11:07 PM
Goddamnit, Ireland's gonna knock out two of my underdog teams now.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on October 13, 2011, 09:28:27 PM
Anyways, lol Rayne Wooney.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on October 13, 2011, 09:54:14 PM
Quote
Future News: Capello calls up ‘Shmayne Shmooney’ to England squad

()

Shortly after UEFA announced their decision to give Wayne Rooney a three-match ban that will keep him out of the entire Euro 2012 group stage because of the violent conduct that got him sent off in England's final qualifier against Montenegro, England manager Fabio Capello announced the newest addition to his squad: "Shmayne Shmooney."

"Shmayne is player we just happened to discover after it became clear that Wayne Rooney, who is a completely different person, might miss more than one group stage match," Capello told the press. "It really is a miracle. Because Shmayne and Wayne definitely aren't the same person."

When asked how the public can be sure that a player who looks identical to Rooney is, in fact, a different person, Capello replied: "Stupid question. This one has a mustache. Next?"

Capello then introduced Shmooney -- a striker who is claimed to play for fictional Premier League club Harchester United from the defunct television series "Dream Team" --  to reporters, who posed the same question to Shmayne himself.

"I wish I was Wayne Rooney," said Shmooney, who constantly scratched at his mustache. "He's a very talented goal scorer and he has great hair, so I wish I was him, but I'm not. My name's Dwayne. I'll do my best to make up for my -- I mean, his -- absence, though."

Capello was quick to correct Shmooney, saying that "of course he knows his name is Shmayne and not Dwayne." He then abruptly ended the press conference when Shmooney's mustache fell off of his face.

http://sports.yahoo.com/soccer/blog/dirty-tackle/post/Future-News-Capello-calls-up-8216-Shmayne-Shm?urn=sow-wp5668


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Landslide Lyndon on October 14, 2011, 01:09:46 AM

Well, here is a group that will make Philadelphia bar owners happy.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on October 14, 2011, 05:06:07 AM
That draw went horribly wrong. Basically two matches of Grade A teams vs Grade B teams and two matches of Grade B teams vs Grade C teams.
And bad luck for Bosnia again, who really deserve to qualify some of these days, missing out over the past decade while several weaker European sides got a qualification or even two in edgewise.

Croatia vs Turkey has entertainment potential. Though not with the way Turkey have been playing recently.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on October 14, 2011, 05:12:05 AM
That draw went horribly wrong. Basically two matches of Grade A teams vs Grade B teams and two matches of Grade B teams vs Grade C teams.
And bad luck for Bosnia again, who really deserve to qualify some of these days, missing out over the past decade while several weaker European sides got a qualification or even two in edgewise.

Croatia vs Turkey has entertainment potential. Though not with the way Turkey have been playing recently.

Agreed. A better draw would have been Estonia/Montenegro v Portugal/Croatia with Czech/Ireland meeting Bosnia/Turkey.

I am hoping Bosnia can get Portugal this time. They definitely deserve to qualify for a tournament at some point.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 14, 2011, 09:19:03 AM

Well, here is a group that will make Philadelphia bar owners happy.

I think a lot of people would love that group.  :P  You know France vs. Ireland is in high demand and Italy vs. France is always a classic.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on October 14, 2011, 09:33:16 AM
Who would you want to get second in that group Phil? You hate the French team, but France is clearly more of an established power than Poland or Ireland.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on October 15, 2011, 04:02:43 AM
Who would you want to get second in that group Phil? You hate the French team, but France is clearly more of an established power than Poland or Ireland.
I think it's ordered by seed pot.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 15, 2011, 06:10:23 PM
Who would you want to get second in that group Phil? You hate the French team, but France is clearly more of an established power than Poland or Ireland.

Certainly not Poland. It's extremely unfortunate that they'll even be allowed to participate. I guess I'd want to see France progress though I really wouldn't care. I have to go with France because there's the possibility of meeting the runner up in the Final and I'd obviously rather beat them (for the second time of the tournament, of course) there. It would also totally even us out regarding the rivalry because of their victory over us in 2000.


No, he means who would I rather see finish a runner up in my ideal final tournament group.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 16, 2011, 09:58:28 AM
Who would you want to get second in that group Phil? You hate the French team, but France is clearly more of an established power than Poland or Ireland.

Certainly not Poland. It's extremely unfortunate that they'll even be allowed to participate.
The host not participating would kind of dampen the tournament...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 16, 2011, 10:01:50 AM
Who would you want to get second in that group Phil? You hate the French team, but France is clearly more of an established power than Poland or Ireland.

Certainly not Poland. It's extremely unfortunate that they'll even be allowed to participate.
The host not participating would kind of dampen the tournament...

Not when the hosts are a mediocre at best team.  ;)

I don't think Euro 2008 was the best of tournaments but that wasn't because Switzerland and Austria didn't go far. Do you think fans in those countries honestly expected their teams to pull of miracle runs to the Final?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on October 16, 2011, 10:17:21 AM
Who would you want to get second in that group Phil? You hate the French team, but France is clearly more of an established power than Poland or Ireland.

Certainly not Poland. It's extremely unfortunate that they'll even be allowed to participate.
The host not participating would kind of dampen the tournament...

Not when the hosts are a mediocre at best team.  ;)

I don't think Euro 2008 was the best of tournaments but that wasn't because Switzerland and Austria didn't go far. Do you think fans in those countries honestly expected their teams to pull of miracle runs to the Final?
No, but at least they got to participate. You can't expect a country to put an effort in hosting a tournament and then be excluded from it.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 16, 2011, 01:20:05 PM
You can't expect a country to put an effort in hosting a tournament and then be excluded from it.

Uh, I absolutely can. It isn't enough that we're helping their economy immensely? It isn't a crazy thought that teams should actually earn their place in the final tournament.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Landslide Lyndon on October 16, 2011, 05:05:22 PM
You can't expect a country to put an effort in hosting a tournament and then be excluded from it.

Uh, I absolutely can. It isn't enough that we're helping their economy immensely? It isn't a crazy thought that teams should actually earn their place in the final tournament.

It's tradition. And it's VERY difficult to change tradition in football. Just ask all those that tried to abolish the off-side rule.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on October 16, 2011, 08:42:47 PM
You can't expect a country to put an effort in hosting a tournament and then be excluded from it.

Uh, I absolutely can. It isn't enough that we're helping their economy immensely? It isn't a crazy thought that teams should actually earn their place in the final tournament.

It's tradition. And it's VERY difficult to change tradition in football. Just ask all those that tried to abolish the off-side rule.

No, I'm not saying that it ought to be changed. I really don't care that much and though I think teams ought to earn their place in the final tournament, I respect the tradition of letting the host nation(s) participate (as strange and contradictory as that sounds).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 09, 2011, 10:50:55 PM
The playoff round begins on Friday! I can't wait. It almost makes me forget about Italy's Friendly against Poland. Almost.  ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on November 09, 2011, 10:51:40 PM
Obviously the most important thing happening this weekend is the Germany-Netherlands friendly. I hope both sides take it at least somewhat seriously. Should be good.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 11, 2011, 01:20:10 PM
I'm heading down to one of the Irish Soccer pubs in a bit to watch the matches. Unlike the last time I was there to watch an Ireland match (Italy vs. Ireland when Italy qualified with a last minute goal), I'll actually be rooting for them this time.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on November 11, 2011, 04:08:04 PM
60 minutes played and Germany gets pwned by Ukraine 3:1 ...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on November 11, 2011, 04:14:21 PM
This time around it seems that all the seeded teams will go forward. Well, Portugal might be the exception ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on November 11, 2011, 04:14:45 PM
Ukraine almost shot the 4:1, but now Germany scored the 2:3 ...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 11, 2011, 04:16:44 PM
Croatia is almost surely through after beating Turkey 3-0 in Istanbul. Ireland is up 3-0 in Estonia. Czech Republic has to be favored after winning 2-0 at home. It looks like Portugal's second leg game will be the most interesting.

Oh, and Italy is up 2-0 in the Friendly against Poland.  :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 11, 2011, 04:22:32 PM
Estonia is down to nine men. What a disaster.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on November 11, 2011, 04:23:32 PM
Germany equalizes.

3:3

What else ... meh. And Ukraine was really good so far ...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 11, 2011, 04:37:08 PM
Ireland is up 4-0. Dublin must be exploding with joy. Tuesday's game might be the most pointless match they'll play during this qualifying campaign.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on November 11, 2011, 04:38:36 PM
Ireland is up 4-0. Dublin must be exploding with joy. Tuesday's game might be the most pointless match they'll play during this qualifying campaign.
Or so they thought... until Estonia go up 4-0 with four obvious handgoals within the last four minutes.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: republicanism on November 12, 2011, 12:47:12 AM

Yay Ireland! :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on November 15, 2011, 10:54:13 AM
A few good games tonight (incl. my predictions):

Slovenia - USA (1:1)
Ukraine - Austria (2:1)
Croatia - Turkey (2:1)
Denmark - Finland (3:0)
Luxembourg - Switzerland (0:3)
Montenegro - Czech Republic (1:1)
Poland - Hungary (2:0)
Greece - Romania (0:0)
Germany - Netherlands (2:2)
Italy - Uruguay (2:1)
Ireland - Estonia (3:0)
England - Sweden (0:0)
France - Belgium (2:1)
Portugal - Bosnia-Herzegovina (0:1) - Big surprise of the night and I hope BH wins !
Costa Rica - Spain (0:1)

Games in bold are EURO 2012 qualification games - round 2.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 15, 2011, 11:00:28 AM
One of my favorite days of the year.  :)

Ireland and Croatia will cruise, the Czechs might get a bit of a scare and Portugal should come away with a nice victory (not a crushing win but I think they'll dominate).


I'm going to skip Italy's game again since I'd rather watch qualifying playoffs on TV as opposed to finding a live stream for the Azzurri but it should be a good game. Here's hoping we measure up well against the South American champs. It should be a good warm up.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on November 15, 2011, 11:13:09 AM
In case anyone wants to watch the Slovenia vs. USA game, here's the link (http://iceman11.yolasite.com).

Starts in about 45 minutes.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on November 15, 2011, 11:23:00 AM
Slovenia tied the US in Worlds right?

The only exciting qualifier is Bosnia v Portugal. I'm really rooting for Bosnia. Hope they can pull an upset! Remember that a 1-1 tie is enough to see them through.

I'm also hoping Sweden's streak of not losing against England since 1968 remains intact after today!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on November 15, 2011, 11:27:49 AM
Slovenia tied the US in Worlds right?

The only exciting qualifier is Bosnia v Portugal. I'm really rooting for Bosnia. Hope they can pull an upset! Remember that a 1-1 tie is enough to see them through.

I'm also hoping Sweden's streak of not losing against England since 1968 remains intact after today!

Yeah, Slovenia only played the US once so far (in the 2010 WC) and that game ended 2:2


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on November 15, 2011, 11:46:42 AM
The most important thing happening today is the Germany-Holland match. I hope that's as good as it has the potential to be.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on November 15, 2011, 11:57:54 AM
I'm also hoping Sweden's streak of not losing against England since 1968 remains intact after today!

Because of the failure of the current management to take a stand against racism, so am I.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on November 15, 2011, 12:09:32 PM
In case anyone wants to watch the Slovenia vs. USA game, here's the link (http://iceman11.yolasite.com).

Starts in about 45 minutes.

Link is not working anymore. Try this (http://soccerjumbo-pastry.blogspot.com/2009/10/channel-3.html).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on November 15, 2011, 12:28:16 PM
US scores first goal, after 8 minutes.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on November 15, 2011, 12:32:18 PM
I'm also hoping Sweden's streak of not losing against England since 1968 remains intact after today!

Because of the failure of the current management to take a stand against racism, so am I.

Right, read about that. Terry seems to be quite the troublemaker for the English team. :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on November 15, 2011, 12:38:30 PM
Pretty foggy in Slovenia, you can't see much right now.

I also learned that there are 80.000 Slovenians living in Cleveland.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on November 15, 2011, 12:46:03 PM
Slovenia just scored.

1-1

(and now it should stay that way and my prediction would be fine)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 15, 2011, 03:01:35 PM
Italy apparently already down 0-1 to Uruguay after just three minutes. I should feel badly about not really caring about that game today but I don't. :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 15, 2011, 03:19:44 PM
Ireland puts the icing on the cake: up 1-0 before half time. All other games are scoreless.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on November 15, 2011, 03:49:42 PM
USA wins 3-2, finally starts scoring some goals.

Also Germany is currently dominating the Dutch. ;D


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 15, 2011, 04:01:51 PM
Croatia and Czech Republic are through to the Finals.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 15, 2011, 04:16:30 PM
Portugal up 1-0 after a Ronaldo goal in the eighth minute.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on November 15, 2011, 04:26:26 PM
Germany leading 3-0, lololol.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 15, 2011, 04:35:51 PM
Ireland returns to the Euros for the first time since 1988.

Looks like Italy is going down to Uruguay 0-1. Oh well. Not bad considering the injuries we have.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on November 15, 2011, 05:02:31 PM

First win against Holland since 1996!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 15, 2011, 06:03:44 PM
The Portugal-Bosnia game was insane. I didn't get to see it but following it on ESPN.com nearly gave me a heart attack.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 15, 2011, 09:36:13 PM
So now that everyone is set, the next big day is the group draw on December 2nd. The pots will look like this...


Euro 2012 Draw Pots

Pot 1

Rank Team Coeff
1 Ukraine 28,029
2 Poland 23,806
3 Spain 43,116
4 Netherlands 40,860

Pot 2
 
Rank Team Coeff
5 Germany 40,446
6 Italy 34,357
7 England 33,563
8 Russia 33,212

Pot 3
 
Rank Team Coeff
9 Croatia 33,003
10 Greece 32,455
11 Portugal 31,717
12 Sweden 31,675

Pot 4

Rank Team Coeff
13 Denmark 31,205
14 France 30,508
15 Czech Republic 29,602
16 Republic of Ireland 28,576


I'm hoping Italy gets Group A with Poland. The other two teams I'd like to see in the group: Greece and Ireland or France. I obviously want to avoid Spain and The Netherlands in the first round (especially because I'd love to face either of them in the Final) and Ukraine is a better team than Poland. I'd rather not have to fight Croatia or Portugal in the group stage so Greece is an ideal pick from Pot 2. (I wouldn't mind Sweden either). Our opposition from the fourth pot is going to be the trickiest but since Italy finds a way to screw up the easiest groups, I welcome a trickier team. France or Ireland would be great for that and they add the element of rivalry.

We could see an amazing Group of Death if Spain or The Netherlands, Germany and Portugal are forced into the same group.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on November 15, 2011, 09:52:42 PM
SPAIN, GERMANY, PORTUGAL, FRANCE group of death, gogogoogogo.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 15, 2011, 09:59:16 PM
SPAIN, GERMANY, PORTUGAL, FRANCE group of death, gogogoogogo.

Ugh. No. We can't have two powers out in the group stage.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on November 16, 2011, 04:25:23 AM
I doubt we can make it out of the group stage. The best group we can hope for would probably be:

Poland
Russia
Ireland

The fairest groups would probably be something like:

Poland
Germany
Croatia
Denmark

Spain
Russia
Sweden
France

Netherlands
England
Greece
Ireland

Ukraine
Italy
Portugal
Czech Rep

---------------

Although, seeing Germany matched against Netherlands would also be cool.

Basically, pot 1, as always, has the biggest difference. Spain/Holland = bad, Ukraine/Poland = good.

In pot 2, Germany is the one people will be praying to avoid, Russia the one people pray to get. England and Italy are both erratic and always possible to score points off, but the German machine is awful to meet in a group stage. (I would prefer facing Germany rather than Italy in, say, a semi-final though).

In pot 3 it's sort of a wash I think. All the teams have strengths and weaknesses. If pressed I'd say Croatia and Portugal, in that order, are the teams to avoid though.

In pot 4 it's very hard to tell. I think Ireland is the one you want though. France has such good quality player-wise I wouldn't want to face them even with their poor record over the last few years.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 16, 2011, 11:37:38 AM
In pot 4 it's very hard to tell. I think Ireland is the one you want though. France has such good quality player-wise I wouldn't want to face them even with their poor record over the last few years.

I'd want to face Czech Republic over Ireland. Aside from their impressive showing in the playoff round, they've been rusty over the past few years. Their qualifying campaign was lackluster and they didn't even get to the World Cup last year.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on November 16, 2011, 12:09:13 PM
In pot 4 it's very hard to tell. I think Ireland is the one you want though. France has such good quality player-wise I wouldn't want to face them even with their poor record over the last few years.

I'd want to face Czech Republic over Ireland. Aside from their impressive showing in the playoff round, they've been rusty over the past few years. Their qualifying campaign was lackluster and they didn't even get to the World Cup last year.

Well, then again, neither did Ireland. ;)

The Czechs used to be good, so I might be overrating them. They were at least in last Euros. When was Ireland last in a tournament?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on November 16, 2011, 01:09:55 PM
The Portugal-Bosnia game was insane. I didn't get to see it but following it on ESPN.com nearly gave me a heart attack.
I saw it all. Technically fine playing, loads of goals, loads of dodgy refereeing. Bosnia slightly stronger, and it would have been the neutral observer's Perfect Game.

I get a feeling that if either Postiga or Coentrao had been sent off at 3-2 (and it would have been a useless, stupid, non-compulsory second yellow for either... but no worse than Lulic's... and yeah, they both had a foul where the possibility must have occurred to the ref during that period), Bosnia would probably have pulled through. And it wouldn't have been deserved, looking at the whole 90 minutes. But it probably would have felt deserved.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 16, 2011, 03:35:24 PM
In pot 4 it's very hard to tell. I think Ireland is the one you want though. France has such good quality player-wise I wouldn't want to face them even with their poor record over the last few years.

I'd want to face Czech Republic over Ireland. Aside from their impressive showing in the playoff round, they've been rusty over the past few years. Their qualifying campaign was lackluster and they didn't even get to the World Cup last year.

Well, then again, neither did Ireland. ;)

Yeah but we'll never really know if they would have gotten there if it wasn't for a certain incident...

Quote
The Czechs used to be good, so I might be overrating them. They were at least in last Euros. When was Ireland last in a tournament?

Their last tournament was in 2002. I guess the point cuts both ways but I think there is more proof of the Czechs as a declining power and Ireland as a "hot" team.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on November 17, 2011, 12:46:40 AM
Meanwhile, French coach surrenders before the tournament even begins (http://www.goal.com/en-us/news/465/france/2011/11/16/2760650/france-cannot-win-euro-2012-says-laurent-blanc).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Јas on November 17, 2011, 02:47:09 AM
The Czechs used to be good, so I might be overrating them. They were at least in last Euros. When was Ireland last in a tournament?

Their last tournament was in 2002. I guess the point cuts both ways but I think there is more proof of the Czechs as a declining power and Ireland as a "hot" team.

No worries guys, a [Ukraine/Poland]-Italy-Sweden-Ireland group could be ok with me. ;)

Our record against both Italy and Sweden is pretty good.

Since losing to Italy, in Rome, in the 1990 World Cup Quarter Finals, we've played Italy in 3 competitive games, won 1 (WC 94) and drawn the other two (WC Qualifiers 2009).

We've played Sweden only twice in my lifetime. Both friendlies. We won both (2-0 in 1999 and 3-0 in 2006).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 17, 2011, 12:38:19 PM
Meanwhile, French coach surrenders before the tournament even begins (http://www.goal.com/en-us/news/465/france/2011/11/16/2760650/france-cannot-win-euro-2012-says-laurent-blanc).

What the hell? I understand downplaying expectations but this is taking it way too far.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 17, 2011, 12:55:05 PM
Out of boredom, I decided to pick my ideal groups and knockout round matches...

Group A

Poland                              
Italy
Greece                     
Ireland


Group B

Spain                        
Russia                        
Croatia                     
France


Group C

The Netherlands                        
England
Sweden                  
Czech Republic


Group D

Ukraine                                    
Germany
Portugal                  
Denmark


Quarter finals

Italy vs. France
The Netherlands vs. Portugal
Spain vs. Ireland
Germany vs. England

Semi finals

Italy vs. The Netherlands
Spain vs. England

Final

Italy vs. Spain


If you want to do the same, be warned: the bracket for the knockout rounds will not be like the 2008 tournament, meaning a group winner cannot meet the group runner up in the Semi final. The only way they could meet again is in the Final.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on November 17, 2011, 12:58:59 PM
Quarter finals
Germany vs. England

Semi finals
Spain vs. England

LOL, no. That's not how this sport works. :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 17, 2011, 01:54:10 PM
Quarter finals
Germany vs. England

Semi finals
Spain vs. England

LOL, no. That's not how this sport works. :P

That's why I said this is what I want to see.  ;)  Quite frankly, I wouldn't care if Germany won. That's perfectly acceptable. It would set up another great Semi final but I'd like some interesting stories out of the tournament and "England finally beats Germany!" would be one of them.  :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on November 17, 2011, 04:21:45 PM


Group A

Poland                              
Germany
Croatia
Ireland


Group B

Spain                        
Russia                        
Greece                                          
Czech Republic


Group C

The Netherlands                        
Italy
Portugal                                    
France


Group D

Ukraine                                    
England
Sweden
Denmark


Quarter finals

Germany vs. Czech Republic
The Netherlands vs. Sweden
Spain vs. Croatia
England vs. France

Semi finals

Germany vs. The Netherlands
Spain vs. England

Final

Germany vs. England




Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 23, 2011, 10:51:13 AM
http://www.fifa.com/worldranking/rankingtable/index.html (http://www.fifa.com/worldranking/rankingtable/index.html)

Italy down three spots to 9th (totally ridiculous) and Croatia up four spots to 8th. England surpasses Brazil.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: republicanism on November 23, 2011, 12:01:11 PM
Quite frankly, I wouldn't care if Germany won.

But I would, especially in the political atmosphere of the day.
Germany should drop out in disgrace early in the tournament.

Of course they wouldn't, they will probably win the tournament or at least come second.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on November 23, 2011, 01:02:10 PM
Germany should drop out in disgrace early in the tournament.

wut.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Franzl on November 23, 2011, 01:38:16 PM

He's ashamed of Germany or something because we're demanding responsibility from other EU countries.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: republicanism on November 23, 2011, 02:48:31 PM

For the record I never supported the German national squad.

But this time, they really deserve to loose. It would by great if they lost against Greese (unlikely) or perhaps Italy (more likely).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Franzl on November 23, 2011, 03:14:11 PM

For the record I never supported the German national squad.

But this time, they really deserve to loose. It would by great if they lost against Greese (unlikely) or perhaps Italy (more likely).

lol


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on November 23, 2011, 03:23:23 PM
I think we can all agree that Germany is trying to do through the Euro what it could not through panzers, but that's no reason not to support your national team.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 23, 2011, 03:30:28 PM
A German rooting for Italy to beat Germany in a Soccer tournament. Excellent.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: republicanism on November 23, 2011, 03:37:03 PM

My friends, I never supported our national team. Can't tell you why.

It started when I was a little guy in 1996 and I just loved the England team, because of their wonderful gray jerseys, because of Shearer, Gascoigne, Seaman: Just great. The Germans couldn't offer me anything like that. And it didn't change.



Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on November 23, 2011, 03:42:37 PM
Most people who're a) leftish b) major fans of a major club don't particularly care about the German national team. It's not our team, basically. Club XY is our team.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on November 23, 2011, 04:08:27 PM
Most people who're a) leftish b) major fans of a major club don't particularly care about the German national team. It's not our team, basically. Club XY is our team.

gross. At a certain point, anti-nationalism is, well, not as bad as nationalism, but definitely pretty silly.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on November 23, 2011, 04:13:39 PM
The attitude is not anti-nationalist (though that exists as well in regard to the German team... understandable if you grew up with their 80s and 90s incarnation) but rather anationalist. A lot of the people who share it still vaguely support them. They're just not nearly as important as any random league game.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on November 23, 2011, 08:48:41 PM
Agreeing with Lief. I don't think it's the first time, but it might be the 2nd.

I'll probably root for Germany once Sweden is out of the tournament.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on November 24, 2011, 11:38:56 PM
Anyone who cares more about their national team than their club is not a real football fan. End of discussion.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on November 25, 2011, 08:45:46 AM
Anyone who cares more about their national team than their club is not a real football fan. End of discussion.

This seems to assume that one has a club. Where I grew up everyone cheered for the Stockholm posh people team. A minority cheered for another team and got beaten up occasionally. I got beaten up by both for not really caring.

I guess I never really got into it. I don't really feel a connection to either the players or the fans of the local teams here.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on November 25, 2011, 10:00:27 AM
Anyone who cares more about their national team than their club is not a real football fan. End of discussion.

This seems to assume that one has a club. Where I grew up everyone cheered for the Stockholm posh people team. A minority cheered for another team and got beaten up occasionally. I got beaten up by both for not really caring.

I guess I never really got into it. I don't really feel a connection to either the players or the fans of the local teams here.

Then you should have picked some suitably proletarian team from somewhere else (ideally somewhere with some sort of connection with you) and cheered for them instead. Obviously.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on November 25, 2011, 10:05:09 AM
Anyone who cares more about their national team than their club is not a real football fan. End of discussion.

This seems to assume that one has a club. Where I grew up everyone cheered for the Stockholm posh people team. A minority cheered for another team and got beaten up occasionally. I got beaten up by both for not really caring.

I guess I never really got into it. I don't really feel a connection to either the players or the fans of the local teams here.

Then you should have picked some suitably proletarian team from somewhere else (ideally somewhere with some sort of connection with you) and cheered for them instead. Obviously.

There are people who do that, of course. However, that strikes me as even MORE silly.

I didn't grow up being taken to games by my parents so I don't have a strong connection to any club, really. I have idiosyncratic likes and dislikes for certain teams based on perception, but since they're all commercial machines purchasing seventh-rate Brazilian players...it doesn't go very deep.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on November 25, 2011, 10:13:41 AM
Then I don't think you're taking things anywhere near seriously enough. Mind you, it is always an objectively good thing (proven by Science, I believe) to not support the posh club, if there is one.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on November 25, 2011, 10:39:53 AM
Then I don't think you're taking things anywhere near seriously enough. Mind you, it is always an objectively good thing (proven by Science, I believe) to not support the posh club, if there is one.

Oh, I see that point. Thing is, Stockholm has 3 clubs. The posh one I mentioned. The traditional workers' club which is now mostly supported by the faux proletariat (culture workers, PR-consultants in coloured scarfs and the like - although the stalwart alcoholics are still around as well). And then one which everyone hates. Their profile is the kind of club who relies on expensive foreign purchases from before that became kosher.

None of them appeals to me, although I like Hammarby's tradition of prefering stylish play and losing over bad play and losing over stylish play and winning. :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on November 25, 2011, 11:43:45 AM
Anyone who cares more about their national team than their club is not a real football fan. End of discussion.

Understandable viewpoint coming from someone who is Welsh.


;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on November 26, 2011, 06:23:24 AM
Gustaf, you're just proving Al's original point: You are not a real football fan. There's nothing wrong with that, and people like you are what we have the World Cup and the Euros for, but it's a fact.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Bunwahaha [still dunno why, but well, so be it] on November 26, 2011, 03:22:15 PM
Oh, Bosnia...

On s'était fait totalement balladé par eux au match retour, we didn't touch a ball, it was freaking luck we didn't lose against them. They have a beautiful and dynamic game, too bad they lost, and against Portugal moreover. I liked to imagine them as the big surprise of this Euro.
Hope they'll do it for World Cup.

The big surprise now would be that French players realize that playing with a ball is allowed...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on November 27, 2011, 07:40:17 PM
Gustaf, you're just proving Al's original point: You are not a real football fan. There's nothing wrong with that, and people like you are what we have the World Cup and the Euros for, but it's a fact.

Nah, I disagree with that. I know the kind of people who only follow World Cup and Euros. They're certainly not real football fans.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on November 28, 2011, 02:11:41 PM
Yah, I know. The rule outlined really needs an exception for people from outside the big league countries.
Then again, do such people have a right to exist? Jury's still out...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on December 01, 2011, 11:12:07 AM
One day away. Just one day! Tomorrow is seriously one of the best days of the year. That's how much of a nerd I am.  :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on December 02, 2011, 10:51:41 AM
Ten minutes to go!

I'm now starting to get this feeling that we're going to be stuck with Spain. Just no Group of Death (even though we seem to do well in those...) please!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on December 02, 2011, 11:00:18 AM
Ten minutes to go!

I'm now starting to get this feeling that we're going to be stuck with Spain. Just no Group of Death (even though we seem to do well in those...) please!

It's starting at 6 I guess, so in one hour ...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on December 02, 2011, 11:03:08 AM
Yeah, I was counting down until the start of the special on our Soccer channel (which is streaming British SKY Sports).  :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on December 02, 2011, 11:07:55 AM
Even within the official 2 hour thingy the first 80 minutes will probably be all fluff.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on December 02, 2011, 11:09:19 AM
Even within the official 2 hour thingy the first 80 minutes will probably be all fluff.


As I've just learned. They're talking about Al's silly Premier League team coach replacement.  :(


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on December 02, 2011, 11:21:07 AM
Let's try a prediction:

Group A

Poland
Ireland
Sweden
Germany

Group B

Holland
Czech Republic
Croatia
Russia

Group C

Spain
France
Greece
Italy

Group D

Ukraine
Denmark
Portugal
England


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on December 02, 2011, 11:31:56 AM
Let's try a prediction:

Austria will win at worst one fewer point than last time.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on December 02, 2011, 11:45:16 AM
Let's try a prediction:

Austria will win at worst one fewer point than last time.

Stop joking, because you guys will get obliterated by Austria next time when we meet for the 2014 World Cup qualification ... ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on December 02, 2011, 11:47:11 AM
Let's try a prediction:

Austria will win at worst one fewer point than last time.

Stop joking, because you guys will get obliterated by Austria next time when we meet for the 2014 World Cup qualification ... ;)
Hopefully. :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on December 02, 2011, 12:06:21 PM
Why the hell is Pot 2 being drawn fourth? UEFA is obviously trying to match FIFA in silliness.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on December 02, 2011, 12:07:58 PM
Why the hell is Pot 2 being drawn fourth? UEFA is obviously trying to match FIFA in silliness.

Maybe because they want the best pot to be saved for last.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on December 02, 2011, 12:13:40 PM
They can't draw pot 1 last because the really suspenseful question (do we get an easy or a hard group) would be answered before the draw anyways.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on December 02, 2011, 12:30:45 PM
I love SKY: "No Ukrainian folk dancing" on their broadcast.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on December 02, 2011, 12:42:40 PM
Thank God I put on the ESPN stream. SKY isn't showing the stream live; just doing their commentary as they get word of the teams drawn.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on December 02, 2011, 12:45:50 PM
France lucks out. Looks like I want Group D now just a bit more than A.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on December 02, 2011, 12:52:27 PM
Wow. Group A is a joke.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on December 02, 2011, 12:53:35 PM
Group A is a joke. Group B is the Group of Death.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on December 02, 2011, 12:55:31 PM
Ooh, nice negative vibes. Second match against the Cheeseheads.

Group D has bigger names than Group A, but is possibly even weaker in practice.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on December 02, 2011, 12:55:39 PM
Italy with Spain, Ireland and Croatia. Oh joy!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Franzl on December 02, 2011, 01:00:32 PM
Group B is interesting :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on December 02, 2011, 01:06:04 PM
Group B and C should be awesome. Group A and D are terrible and boring probably. France and England will both independently find some way to fukc up being in Group D, of course.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on December 02, 2011, 01:06:55 PM
O.K, so I want three of the four sides in Group D to lose all their games. Fyck.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on December 02, 2011, 01:15:20 PM
O.K, so I want three of the four sides in Group D to lose all their games. Fyck.
What have you got against Sweden? (Or Ukraine?)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on December 02, 2011, 01:19:01 PM
O.K, so I want three of the four sides in Group D to lose all their games. Fyck.
What have you got against Sweden? (Or Ukraine?)

I've nothing against Sweden.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on December 02, 2011, 01:25:32 PM
Group Winners

Czech Republic
Germany
Spain
France

Group Runners up

Russia
The Netherlands
Italy
England


I give Spain the edge in winning our group but I really think it could go either way. Same with all of the other groups. I can see all of the above runners up winning their respective groups, that's how evenly matched these teams are. Of course, Group A is the closest to a free-for-all. What a joke.

It would be nice to be wrong and see Italy win the group and France come in as runners up in Group D. If everything in my current bracket plays out with the revisions I just mentioned, that would mean Italy vs. France in the Quarter final, Italy vs. The Netherlands in the Semi final and Italy vs. Spain in the Final which was exactly the path I had planned out a few weeks ago.  :)  As of now, though, I have us meeting France in the Quarter final and Germany in the Semi final.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: GMantis on December 02, 2011, 01:41:16 PM
O.K, so I want three of the four sides in Group D to lose all their games. Fyck.
What have you got against Sweden? (Or Ukraine?)

I've nothing against Sweden.
And the Ukraine?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on December 02, 2011, 08:39:27 PM
O.K, so I want three of the four sides in Group D to lose all their games. Fyck.
What have you got against Sweden? (Or Ukraine?)

I've nothing against Sweden.

Yeah, I sure hope Sweden is the approved of team. :P

I'm not too disappointed with the draw. This was realistically about as good as we could hope for. Ukraine is arguably the weakest team from pot 1 and I think England might be the best team for Sweden from pot 2 (even though Russia is clearly weaker in terms of players). Getting France was bad luck, but still.

And group A...jeez. Talk about the worse imaginable group.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Bunwahaha [still dunno why, but well, so be it] on December 03, 2011, 05:26:40 AM
We are totally messy, unexperienced, and kinda 'psychologically blocked' but we could win that group I guess. I don't know much about Sweden nowadays' team though.

Wow at group B.


How disgracious. I wouldn't even know how to pronounce it this way.

Let's make shine the stars!

F**K!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on December 03, 2011, 05:57:22 AM
So, predictions:

Group A:
Poland
Russia

Group B:
Germany
Netherlands

Group C:
Spain
Italy

Group D:
France
England


That would give:

Poland v Netherlands

Germany v Russia

Spain v England

France v Italy

Semi-finals:

Spain v Netherlands

Germany v Italy

Final:

Germany v Spain

I think that is pretty much the boring prediction. Probably won't be true, of course. I do have a hard time seeing anyone challenge the big 3, although behind them pretty much anything can happen.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Landslide Lyndon on December 03, 2011, 05:59:34 AM

()


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on December 03, 2011, 07:11:59 AM
So, predictions:

Group A:
Russia
Greece

Group B:
Germany
Netherlands

Group C:
Spain
Italy

Group D:
England
Sweden

That would give:

Russia v Netherlands

Germany v Greece

Spain v Sweden

England v Italy

Semi-finals:

Spain v Netherlands

Germany v Italy (because we do not beat Italy in such matches. Never will. I think it's in the FIFA constitution somewhere.)

Final:

Spain v Italy

Another boring prediction that probably won't be true.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on December 03, 2011, 07:13:17 AM
Italy losing a quarterfinal against England or a semifinal against Germany feels less realistic than them going out in the group stage, somehow.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on December 03, 2011, 07:17:04 AM
Italy losing a quarterfinal against England or a semifinal against Germany feels less realistic than them going out in the group stage, somehow.

That is definitely very, very true. It'd probably have to be Croatia in that case, although they have not looked all that strong in qualification and feel decidedly worse now compared to a couple of years ago.

It's also true that Italy tends to beat Germany in big games. On the other hand, Germany feels SO much better than Italy right now. Like, really, really. So that's what I based my prediction on. I generally have trouble seeing Germany lose against a team that isn't Spain or Holland.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on December 03, 2011, 07:20:53 AM
And as to Holland...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on December 03, 2011, 08:23:13 AM

You're thinking about the traditional Holland meltdowns? They tend to do reasonably at the Euros though, compared to worlds.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on December 03, 2011, 08:48:56 AM

You're thinking about the traditional Holland meltdowns?
Nah, just of the recent friendly. :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Јas on December 03, 2011, 10:20:20 AM
Tough draw. No surprise that we're being written-off. But I don't think clawing our way out the group would be out of the question.

We've gotten out of the groups in 3 of the 4 major tournaments we've been to; and our record against each of Spain, Italy and Croatia is sound. Bring it on.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on December 03, 2011, 11:24:57 AM

Uh? I'm satisfied with the draw. Naturally, people hope their team gets the easiest group but, in reality, we find a way to screw up the easy groups so Group C is a great fit. The order of the games couldn't be better either when you consider how Italy starts slowly.


I have a feeling that your image was posted because I don't have you guys getting out of the group. ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on December 03, 2011, 11:46:27 AM
Since I already posted my predictions for the group winners and runners up, I might as well do my full bracket and expanded commentary :) ...


Quarter finals

Czech Republic vs. The Netherlands

Spain vs. England

Germany vs. Russia

France vs. Italy


Semi finals

Spain vs. The Netherlands

Germany vs. Italy


Final

Spain vs. Italy


This is the first tournament in years ahead of which I've felt truly confident. 2010 was a forced confidence ("They've underestimated us before and look how we did! It will be the same thing this time...even though something doesn't feel right at all.") and 2008 brought a real nervousness when we were stuck with that Group of Death. I feel great about our chances of progressing out of the group (though if we really slip up against Spain and Ireland capitalize early in their campaign, we could give up a spot in the knockout rounds).

I like our chances against either France or England in the Quarter finals. The Semi finals get tricky. Whether we face the Dutch or the Germans, we're going to have a real challenge. Yeah, we typically have the Germans' number in big games but they're phenomenal right now. I think the Dutch are more likely to falter so I'm hoping we win our group or they win theirs (opposed to my current predictions) so we end up on the same side of the bracket.

I have good feelings about meeting Spain in both the group and hopefully in the Final. I think our Friendly win gave us real confidence especially considering how we dominated one half of play and came away with a win. A Friendly win isn't "just a Friendly" against the World and Euro Champions. I think we'll start the group with a draw but I fully believe we can get the win then and if we meet them later.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on February 08, 2012, 02:41:53 PM
Good riddance to fascist rubbish.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on February 08, 2012, 02:45:02 PM
Oh my God. What the hell?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on February 08, 2012, 03:53:00 PM
Oh, more of the fallout over what Terry did or did not say. I honestly don't even know what he is alleged to have said!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on February 08, 2012, 04:11:16 PM
I hope Joe Hart gets the captaincy. He's pretty much the only person on that team who isn't an awful human-being at this point.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on February 08, 2012, 04:13:29 PM
WAIT CAPELLO RESIGNED? oh shit that's hilarious

I guess they'll be appointing the illiterate tax dodger in his place?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on February 08, 2012, 04:35:58 PM
I hope a replacement is announced while I'm over there next weekend!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on February 09, 2012, 11:39:22 AM
oh god yes. I had heard rumors that this was true, but to see if officially is awesome.

()


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on February 09, 2012, 11:49:17 AM
Ugh, the green again? Yuck.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on February 09, 2012, 12:42:34 PM
No Phil, the green is beautiful (though I'm not a fan of the subtle hoops). I will miss the black and gold kits from 2010 though. Those were badass.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on February 10, 2012, 03:31:01 PM
You know, Lippi said just the other day that he'd be interested in coaching a national, not a club, team and lead them into the 2014 World Cup. Fewer better opportunities would be available than coaching the English team. Not sure they'll go with another foreigner (especially an Italian) though.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on February 10, 2012, 03:37:25 PM
And especially one who is an idiot.

I think that after their recent experiences with idiots, they'll go back to what we were accustomed from them pre-Erikson, ie fullblown cretins.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on February 10, 2012, 05:48:10 PM
And especially one who is an idiot.

I think that after their recent experiences with idiots, they'll go back to what we were accustomed from them pre-Erikson, ie fullblown cretins.

Idiot? Ok, 2010 aside, the man has been far from idiotic as a coach.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on February 10, 2012, 07:39:58 PM
And especially one who is an idiot.

I think that after their recent experiences with idiots, they'll go back to what we were accustomed from them pre-Erikson, ie fullblown cretins.

()


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on February 27, 2012, 10:01:05 AM
Not specifically Euro 2012 related but Friendly action returns this Wednesday. The game with my name a over it: Italy vs. U.S.A.  I know for whom I'm rooting. ;)

Later that night, PPL Park (the "Philadelphia" Union's stadium) will be hosting Ghana vs. Chile. A friend of mine will be taking me as a gift. That's what it takes for me to step foot in there. ;) In all seriousness, though, the teams aren't half bad so it should be interesting.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on February 27, 2012, 10:35:19 AM
And Austria plays Finland on Wednesday.

We should win this thing, but who knows with all these pussies in our team ...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on February 27, 2012, 12:58:47 PM
Ghana and Chile both did better than a certain team you're very fond of in the last World Cup, KP, so they're a little more than "not half bad." :P

Also Donovan is sick and won't be playing against Italy. Dempsey and him have yet to play together under Klinsmann. :(


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on February 27, 2012, 01:20:36 PM
Ghana and Chile both did better than a certain team you're very fond of in the last World Cup, KP, so they're a little more than "not half bad." :P

2010 isn't a good barometer. ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Bunwahaha [still dunno why, but well, so be it] on February 29, 2012, 03:34:18 PM
Just turning Germany-France on.

Wow, what on Earth happening? France leads!

And I hear the goal is from the good Giroud, 1st time here as main attacker. Nice.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on February 29, 2012, 04:00:13 PM
U-S-A! U-S-A! U-S-A!

I would have so much gay sex with Clint Dempsey, it's ridiculous.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on February 29, 2012, 04:25:29 PM
Jesus Christ, guys...

I know it's our B side but come on!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on February 29, 2012, 04:41:37 PM
I am choosing to ignore the game against France though.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on February 29, 2012, 04:44:08 PM
Congrats on the historic win...against Italy's B side. :P

First time Italy has lost in Genoa, too.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: King on February 29, 2012, 05:17:41 PM
FALSE HOPE! FALSE HOP- I mean USA! USA! USA!


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on February 29, 2012, 05:36:07 PM
The abuse I'm taking on Facebook from the fair weather fans is a) predictable, b) genuinely amusing and c) yet another reason why some of us will never care about the sport in this country. The "fans" are horrendous.

Note: some of my friends are sincere fans but most of this is nationalistic idiocy from people that couldn't care less about the game.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on February 29, 2012, 08:03:11 PM
Chile vs. Ghana is actually really fun! I'm sitting with the Chile fans. Ghana up 1-0 at half time.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on February 29, 2012, 10:31:11 PM
Great ending tonight. Chile awarded - and converted - a penalty in the final minutes. The ensuing celebrations within the Chilean ranks was great. 1-1 final.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on March 01, 2012, 01:53:46 AM
Austria beats Finland by 3:1 with one of the craziest goals I've ever seen:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t33pJAiGaBk

:P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on April 13, 2012, 10:56:53 AM
Rossi tears ligament again and will miss the Euros.

I...I don't even know what to say...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on April 13, 2012, 01:53:14 PM
Don't worry, you guys still have Balotelli...

No way that can end badly.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on April 13, 2012, 03:09:18 PM
Don't worry, you guys still have Balotelli...

No way that can end badly.

I hate you.


:P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on April 14, 2012, 02:07:08 AM
I don't think Italy can win this time, and given that they're also unlikely to go anywhere, so will it really matter? :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on April 14, 2012, 06:57:03 AM
I don't think Italy can win this time, and given that they're also unlikely to go anywhere, so will it really matter? :P

I still want to see my favorite player finally play in an international tournament. And we are seriously underestimated. I like that. :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on April 17, 2012, 01:30:32 PM
It's never too early: Turkey submits bid for Euro 2020. Platini said he will back the bid if Istanbul loses its Olympic bid (also in 2020).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on April 17, 2012, 01:31:40 PM
If this is some kind of ploy to get me to withdraw support for the Istanbul Olympics, it fails.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on April 30, 2012, 11:50:05 AM
Redknapp snubbed. Hodgson getting England post today.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on April 30, 2012, 12:05:56 PM
Hahaha spurs have to keep 'arry! Awesome.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: NVGonzalez on April 30, 2012, 06:26:12 PM
I know this is sort of off topic but did anyone get the Euro 2012 patch for Fifa 12? How is it?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Landslide Lyndon on April 30, 2012, 08:10:55 PM
Redknapp snubbed. Hodgson getting England post today.

LOL, England.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on May 07, 2012, 03:08:42 PM
With one month and one day until kickoff, the main talking point is about leaders boycotting because of the situation in Ukraine. And I just saw a headline about Löw saying Germany will send a team. Of course they are sending a team...or are some nations considering boycotting completely? Christ Almighty.

They couldn't just give the tournament to Italy, could they? No, no...that would have been too easy. ::)  How long until Platini is out anyway?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on May 08, 2012, 09:24:16 AM
Platini will be out when Blatter retires and Platini takes his job.

Also Puyol is undergoing surgery and won't be at the Euros, meaning Spain has to rely on Pique hahahaha.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on May 08, 2012, 09:35:00 AM
Also Puyol is undergoing surgery and won't be at the Euros, meaning Spain has to rely on Pique hahahaha.

And I thought Barca's collapse was going to be the only bad news for Spain heading into the tournament...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on May 22, 2012, 11:02:09 AM
I know Italy performs best when expectations are low but Prandelli said Italy will not win the tournament. How the hell does the coach of a top team do that?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Franzl on May 22, 2012, 11:08:39 AM
I know Italy performs best when expectations are low but Prandelli said Italy will not win the tournament. How the hell does the coach of a top team do that?

Nothing wrong with being realistic ;)

In all seriousness: Dumb to say that.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on May 22, 2012, 11:14:48 AM
Didn't Laurent Blanc say the same thing a few months ago as well?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on May 22, 2012, 11:20:10 AM
Didn't Laurent Blanc say the same thing a few months ago as well?

Not exactly the standard I wanted to live up to...

Though, ironically enough, I expect France to go undefeated in the group stage (the only team to do so). I'll post my predictions once the official thread opens (which would probably be appropriate after all of the major domestic leagues have wrapped up).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on May 22, 2012, 11:28:53 AM
Yeah, France is my dark horse pick of the tournament. I think they'll do surprisingly well. I think Italy might have some problems without Rossi though, unless Balotelli shows up.


Title: Villa out for Euro 2012
Post by: Keystone Phil on May 22, 2012, 03:08:24 PM
Barcelona has confirmed that David Villa will not be playing for Spain at Euro 2012. Another major (though somewhat expected) blow to the defending champions.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on May 25, 2012, 03:06:33 PM
We all know that training people to keep goal is beneath English clubs (or beyond their ability), but seriously? (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Butland)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: ZuWo on May 26, 2012, 11:25:53 AM
Germany is playing Switzerland in a friendly game today. I expected this to be a 3-0 or 4-0 victory for Germany, but strangely enough Switzerland has taken a 2-0 lead after only 20 minutes. A victory against the Germans would be huge ...

For the record, the last Swiss victory against the Germans dates back to 1956.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on May 26, 2012, 11:30:57 AM
Ugh, the German defense without Bayern's players kind of sucks...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: ZuWo on May 26, 2012, 11:46:04 AM
2-1 now, just one minute before halftime. I wouldn't be surprised if that was the turning point and Germany scores a couple more goals.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 26, 2012, 11:56:10 AM
Just turned on the TV. Who is playing for Germany's B team if the Bayern players are not ?

Dortmund and Real Madrid ?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 26, 2012, 11:57:15 AM
PS: Let's hope the Swiss defeat the Germans. 56 years is a fu**in' long time.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: ZuWo on May 26, 2012, 12:09:18 PM
3-1 now, and a Derdiyok hattrick. Ok, I won't make predictions anymore. This match is just weird.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 26, 2012, 12:09:45 PM
Switzerland 3:1 Germany-B

...

Still not over yet I think, because the Germans usually score in the 93rd or so (with luck) ... :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 26, 2012, 12:22:45 PM
MEGA-LOL @ Swiss keeper (will probably end up in Lief's sig as an animated GIF):

3-2 Switzerland


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 26, 2012, 12:24:30 PM
MEGA-LOL now @ Germany's defense:

4-2 Switzerland


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 26, 2012, 12:25:57 PM
Anyway, why is Germany playing in green-white dresses ?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: ZuWo on May 26, 2012, 12:27:11 PM
The last five minutes ... I'm just speechless.

Well, positively speaking for Germany we can say this game was the wake-up call they needed.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 26, 2012, 12:30:10 PM
4-3 Switzerland now.

I don't have a good feeling about this. Germany always does this to us Austrians or Swiss.

In the end we lose or we have a tie ... :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Franzl on May 26, 2012, 12:31:30 PM
We are missing most good players...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 26, 2012, 12:32:40 PM
We are missing most good players...

Jaja, die Ausreden ... :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 26, 2012, 12:33:56 PM
5-3 Switzerland now ... :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: ZuWo on May 26, 2012, 12:34:38 PM
5-3.

The German squad without or with only a few players from Bayern is as competitive as the German economy without the state of Bavaria.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on May 26, 2012, 12:35:33 PM
That was one of the coolest free kick routines I've ever seen.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on May 26, 2012, 12:36:20 PM
Anyway, why is Germany playing in green-white dresses ?

Green is historically Germany's away color. Only in the past few years have they changed it (to red and then black).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: ZuWo on May 26, 2012, 12:37:23 PM
That was one of the coolest free kick routines I've ever seen.

Now you have a really hard decision to make: Whether to put that free kick routine or that terrible gaffe by the Swiss goalkeeper in your sig.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 26, 2012, 12:38:12 PM
Lief, did you see the blunder of the Swiss goalie ? And will you put it in your sig ?

The Swiss TV commentator's reaction: "What did Benaglio do ? Try to catch the ball's shadow ?"

;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Franzl on May 26, 2012, 12:38:18 PM
5-3.

The German squad without or with only a few players from Bayern is as competitive as the German economy without the state of Bavaria.

lol

Bavaria helps, but all of West Germany is in better economical shape than 80-90% of the EU. ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on May 26, 2012, 12:41:07 PM
Probably won't be able to find any gifs from today's game, most of them are from Premier League matches, but if I find the Swiss free kick I'll definitely put it there.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on May 26, 2012, 12:44:35 PM
LOL, why is Cacau still playing for Germany??


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 26, 2012, 12:45:38 PM
LOL, why is Cacau still playing for Germany??

For which other nation should he play ?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on May 26, 2012, 12:57:04 PM
None, he's pretty mediocre.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on May 26, 2012, 02:20:20 PM
Anyway, why is Germany playing in green-white dresses ?

Green is historically Germany's away color. Only in the past few years have they changed it (to red and then black).
And grey before the red, but otherwise yeah. First used in 1954, and based on the DFB's emblem.

()

Ooh yeah, wikipedia has just what I needed. (http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deutsche_Fu%C3%9Fballnationalmannschaft#Historische_Trikots)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on May 26, 2012, 02:47:15 PM
Awww...I missed a goal fest that wasn't a blow out (and it resulted in a defeat for Germany)! Damn. I guess I shouldn't complain too much: relaxing on the beach is enjoyable. :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Franzl on May 26, 2012, 03:04:47 PM
BTW, Phil, do you have anything in particular (I could understand it with all the Bayern players) against the German national team, or is it more of a "eliminate the viable competition" thing, from an Italian perspective?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on May 26, 2012, 03:06:27 PM
That mix of unexperienced kids and the elderly (plus Özil, Khedira and Podolski admittedly) would not be viable competition.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on May 26, 2012, 03:58:46 PM
BTW, Phil, do you have anything in particular (I could understand it with all the Bayern players) against the German national team, or is it more of a "eliminate the viable competition" thing, from an Italian perspective?

Franzl, come on. You know me well enough: I'm an Azzurri fan through and through. I have to be against Germany. ;)  But you also know me well enough to know that I don't really wish to see the "viable competition" eliminated. I'm a traditional powers guy. I want to see Germany do well...and then fall to us in the tournament. :P  I can cheer losses like this one though since it is meaningless.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on May 26, 2012, 03:59:34 PM
Well everyone in the Group of Death is terrible apparently.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on May 26, 2012, 04:04:47 PM
Spain won 2-0 over Serbia.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 27, 2012, 12:13:42 AM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2MRaQ1wgG2I


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on May 28, 2012, 08:45:59 AM
Another chapter of Italy's betting scandal opens hours before the final 23 are selected for the Euros - http://iphone.france24.com/en/20120528-italy-football-mauri-betting-fixing-corruption-serie-a-european-championship (http://iphone.france24.com/en/20120528-italy-football-mauri-betting-fixing-corruption-serie-a-european-championship)

Investigators arrived at the training camp as players were asleep. Before the Italy haters start jumping for joy, remember what happened the last time a betting scandal took place right before an international tournament. ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on May 28, 2012, 12:17:32 PM
And now Bonucci is apparently being investigated. He better be able to play under the pressure (a la Juve players in 2006) but that's if Prandelli even gives him the benefit of the doubt and includes him in the final 23.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on May 29, 2012, 04:55:33 AM
Another chapter of Italy's betting scandal opens hours before the final 23 are selected for the Euros - http://iphone.france24.com/en/20120528-italy-football-mauri-betting-fixing-corruption-serie-a-european-championship (http://iphone.france24.com/en/20120528-italy-football-mauri-betting-fixing-corruption-serie-a-european-championship)

Investigators arrived at the training camp as players were asleep. Before the Italy haters start jumping for joy, remember what happened the last time a betting scandal took place right before an international tournament. ;)

Wasn't there something like that before Italy won in 1982 as well? Can't remember exactly.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on May 29, 2012, 07:47:04 AM
Italy-Luxembourg Friendly called off after another earthquake hits the Parma region, this time killing ten people - http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2012/soccer/wires/05/29/2080.ap.soc.italy.luxembourg.cancelled.125/index.html (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2012/soccer/wires/05/29/2080.ap.soc.italy.luxembourg.cancelled.125/index.html)


The Italian team's hotel was evacuated. This has been quite a lead up to the tournament...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on May 30, 2012, 01:47:19 PM
Wow! Amazing goal by South Korea against Spain! 1-1.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 30, 2012, 11:26:16 PM
Today is the friendly game Germany vs. Israel in Leipzig (Saxony) !!!

Why the f**k are they playing in Saxony of all places, where the NPD once got 10% in the state election ?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 31, 2012, 12:09:07 AM
For he record:

There have been 3 games of Germany vs. Israel so far (all 3 friendly games) and all were won by Germany. So, let's hope that Israel follows Switzerland tonight and eliminates Germany too.

And Austria then follows on Sept. 11 ... ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on May 31, 2012, 12:35:27 AM
Germany better score like five goals or I'll be worried and stressed for the next week.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 31, 2012, 12:52:47 AM
Germany better score like five goals or I'll be worried and stressed for the next week.

Depends if Germany plays with the A-team or the B-team tonight.

But I think I've read somewhere that the Bayern players are now ready for the national team.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Franzl on May 31, 2012, 04:32:46 AM
I hope they keep the Nazis out of the stadium. Im Ernst, wie kommt man auf die Idee in Sachsen zu spielen?


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 31, 2012, 05:03:06 AM
I hope they keep the Nazis out of the stadium. Im Ernst, wie kommt man auf die Idee in Sachsen zu spielen?

I just saw that they already played in Leipzig during the WC 2006.

So, they probably won't have much problems with the Nazis (but you never know ...)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 31, 2012, 05:16:54 AM
Side fact:

The US got killed by Brazil 4:1 in Washington DC in their friendly game.

"U.S. Still Learning, With Brazil as Teacher"

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/31/sports/soccer/us-brazil-match.html


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 31, 2012, 05:26:44 AM
Austria plays the Ukraine tomorrow at home in Innsbruck.

Then on Tuesday, Austria plays Romania also in Innsbruck.

Austria has never lost a game so far when playing in Innsbruck (6 won, 1 draw).

Here's the full schedule of international friendly games for the next week:

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/fixtures/_/league/fifa.friendly/international-friendly?cc=5739


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on May 31, 2012, 10:46:25 AM
Side fact:

The US got killed by Brazil 4:1 in Washington DC in their friendly game.

"U.S. Still Learning, With Brazil as Teacher"

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/31/sports/soccer/us-brazil-match.html

Having actually watched the game, the USA played a lot better than the score suggested. They still deserved to lose, but by more like 3-2 than 4-1.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 31, 2012, 01:14:23 PM
Germany vs. Israel starts in 15 minutes.

I want Israel to win, but probably Germany will win this now that they have the Bayern players.

Prediction: 3-1 Germany


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 31, 2012, 02:04:49 PM
A rather boring game so far after 30 minutes.

Germany is technically better than Israel, but the Israel defense is good.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 31, 2012, 02:17:02 PM
Just when the (German) audience started to boo their team, Gomez scored.

1-0 Germany.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on May 31, 2012, 02:22:38 PM
Lampard out of Euros.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on May 31, 2012, 03:18:12 PM
Nice goal by Andre Schürrle now.

2-0 Germany

Still, Germany is not really convincing today (especially Müller, Kroos and Podolski missed many opportunities), but technically still far better than Israel.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on May 31, 2012, 03:36:27 PM
It's pretty hard to score that many goals when the opposing team is defending deep like that. I think Schürrle should definitely start ahead of Podolski though, he's fantastic.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: minionofmidas on June 01, 2012, 07:27:22 AM
I hope they keep the Nazis out of the stadium.
Aber dann spielt Deutschland ja nur zu fünft! :P


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 01, 2012, 01:12:27 PM
Austria vs. Ukraine starts in 20 minutes.

The game is played in Innsbruck, Austria and the weather is sh**tty (very rainy and cold).

This might be good for the Austrian team and therefore I predict a 2:1 win (usually I don't predict the Austrian team to win, because usually our football team suxx).


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 01, 2012, 01:41:36 PM
3 minutes into the game, Austria scores the first goal by free kick.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 01, 2012, 02:48:24 PM
After 55 minutes, Ukraine scores and it's 1:1


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 01, 2012, 02:53:56 PM
In the 62nd minute now, Austria raises the score to 2:1

(Please no more goals now, so my prediction is correct ... ;))


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 01, 2012, 02:55:49 PM
In the 62nd minute now, Austria raises the score to 2:1

(Please no more goals now, so my prediction is correct ... ;))

F(inks) the Ukraine !

65th minute: Ukraine scores - 2:2 now.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 01, 2012, 03:06:15 PM
Alaba misses the goal by about 20cm with a volley shot. Would have been a great goal.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 01, 2012, 03:20:16 PM
WOOOOOHOOOOO !!!

90th minute: Austria scores the 3:2 with a brilliant goal.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 01, 2012, 03:21:18 PM
Russia up 2-0 on Italy.  :(


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 01, 2012, 03:26:03 PM
FINAL SCORE:

Austria 3 - 2 Ukraine

Innsbruck remains a good soil for the Austrian football team. In 8 international games, the Austrians have won 7 times there, with 1 draw. No loss there so far.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 01, 2012, 03:35:41 PM
3-0

Hope this serves as a wake up call.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on June 01, 2012, 06:36:35 PM
Not sure if Russia is good or Italy just sucks...


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Keystone Phil on June 01, 2012, 07:16:49 PM
Not sure if Russia is good or Italy just sucks...

I couldn't find a stream to actually watch a game. Fellow Azzurri fans claims the first half was good for us. Pirlo was "amazing" and Buffon kept a clean sheet. He left at half time after a minor injury but is fine. Unfortunately, our back up goalie (Napoli's De Sanctis) then let in three but two of the goals were very lucky for Russia.

Even if it wasn't as bad as it looks, if Italy was so good in the first half, we should have scored at least one goal. Hopefully, this game shook the fear out of them unlike in 2008 when we were ripped apart by the Dutch in our opener.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 02, 2012, 12:47:40 AM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q9vSySFA-bQ

Watch the last goal by Austria's Marko Arnautovic @ about 4:00 ... :)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: ZuWo on June 02, 2012, 04:31:03 AM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q9vSySFA-bQ

Watch the last goal by Austria's Marko Arnautovic @ about 4:00 ... :)

Will this victory silence the critics of Marcel Koller for a while? ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Gustaf on June 02, 2012, 09:30:06 AM
Austria v Ukraine seemed to have some hilariously bad goal keeping.

And just by watching the goals Italy's defense and backup keeper looked shaky, to say the least.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Lief 🗽 on June 02, 2012, 11:08:34 AM
I hope this England vs. Belgium friendly is good. I really like the Belgian team, on paper they look like they should be very strong, but they haven't really been able to put all the pieces in place yet.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 02, 2012, 12:10:50 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q9vSySFA-bQ

Watch the last goal by Austria's Marko Arnautovic @ about 4:00 ... :)

Will this victory silence the critics of Marcel Koller for a while? ;)

Which critics ? If he goes on like this and we defeat Germany on Sept. 11, then he'll get a medal of honour from the President ... ;)


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 02, 2012, 12:58:32 PM
LOL at the "South Tyrol is not Italy" flag by one of the visitors yesterday at 0:03:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fjkfoyUFW0


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: NVGonzalez on June 03, 2012, 06:26:18 PM
Wow. Not sure if Mexico is becoming great or Brazil sucked. Neymar was literally shut down all game and that goal by Dos Santos had me screaming and jumping. I'm happy with the 2-0 :)

Also don't  with Severo Meza. ()


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 05, 2012, 10:37:25 AM
Austria vs. Romania starts in about 3 hours.

Will be played in Innsbruck (Austria) again, like last week when Austria defeated the Ukraine.

I predict a 2-2 tie this time.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 05, 2012, 01:28:36 PM
Game starts.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 05, 2012, 02:41:45 PM
Still 0-0 after 50 minutes. The Ukraine game was much more interesting.


Title: Re: Euro 2012 Qualifiers
Post by: Tender Branson on June 05, 2012, 03:25:33 PM
Game over.

What a waste of TV time. A boring game results in a 0-0 ... :P