Soca Warriors Online Discussion Forum

Sports => Football => Topic started by: Flex on August 29, 2013, 06:34:03 AM

Title: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Flex on August 29, 2013, 06:34:03 AM
Beenhakker plans for World Cup 2018.
By Ian Prescott (Express).


Dutchman Leo Beenhakker is already planning Trinidad and Tobago’s campaign for the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, and the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) has had several invitations to play international matches following the Soca Warriors’ credible performance at the Concacaf Gold Cup where they reached the quarter-final stage. So said TTFA president Raymond Tim Kee yesterday.

“Since our performances at the Gold Cup we have been having countries wanting to play against us, which was a previously elusive goal,” Tim Kee said.

Tim Kee was the featured speaker yesterday at the guest speaker series held by the Trinidad Union Club at its Nicholas Towers headquarters. He said that having accepted an invitation to play against New Zealand, the United Arab Emirates and hosts Saudi Arabia in the four-team OSN Cup from September 5, the TTFA has been forced to turn down other offers of international matches in both September and October. However, in November, Soca Warriors fans will see their side play at home.

Football is also going back to the community. This plan has been included in a newly-completed TTFA constitution, and Association has also sourced 15,000 indestructible balls to distribute to local clubs.

The TTFA will next month also launch a state-of-the-art website to market its replica jersey, and an online fan club as well. Wherever the national football teams plays, there will also be kiosks selling TTFA merchandise.

Read More (http://www.socawarriors.net/mens-senior-team/senior-team-news/federation-news/12807-beenhakker-plans-for-world-cup-2018.html)

Title: Re: Beenhakker plans for World Cup 2018.
Post by: KND2 on August 29, 2013, 09:43:08 AM
no word on what the plans are that would have been nice.



I like this quote

15,000 indestructible balls .......................I wonder where the find them ball and more importantly where they find 15000 different groups of youth to distribute the ball too.


Can some one in TnT get one of the balls and let me know how long it last for small goal sweat in the road.
it is supposed to be indestructible
Title: Re: Beenhakker plans for World Cup 2018.
Post by: dreamer on August 29, 2013, 11:15:25 AM
Very refreshing article on what Beenie's been up to as we were not hearing news about him. Thank God for the END (in a way) of Jackula. Of course men like Coops and other such brainwashed folks still crying a river of nostalgic tears and nothing can be done to help such stunted, myopic and frankly (sorry to say this) dangerous people. They will be following Jackulito right up to the very end and making the suicidal plunge with him just like cult followers of the false prophet David Koresh. Thank you Sancho, Kelvin, Shaka, Wolfe, Stern, Kenwyne, Cyd, FS and company for having the guts to stand up to Goliath-sized EVIL and win, giving us chance to enjoy the game we love with a fresh new promising team without Scampito and Rodent.
Title: Re: Beenhakker plans for World Cup 2018.
Post by: de_redman on August 29, 2013, 11:37:03 AM
Can some one in TnT get one of the balls and let me know how long it last for small goal sweat in the road.
it is supposed to be indestructible
That is the same ball the fella who get bounce down walking from seattle to brazil used:
http://www.socawarriors.net/forum/index.php?topic=29635.msg853167#msg853167 (http://www.socawarriors.net/forum/index.php?topic=29635.msg853167#msg853167)
You can get one here:
http://www.oneworldfutbol.com/ (http://www.oneworldfutbol.com/)
Title: 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying draw seeding for CONCACAF
Post by: Trini _2026 on November 17, 2013, 10:02:01 AM
http://www.football-rankings.info/2013/11/2018-fifa-world-cup-qualifying-draw_7485.html

Just taken from a blog . We need to get into that sixth spot

Friday, November 1, 2013

2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying draw seeding for CONCACAF (1 November 2013)
Assumptions:

- CONCACAF will keep the current qualifying system
- FIFA will use the FIFA ranking to seed the teams
- CONCACAF will choose the March 2015 ranking for seeding

The March 2015 FIFA ranking will include matches played between March 2011 and March 2015. This means we're currently in the 0.5 time frame and things will start to get interesting.

This the March 2015 ranking (for CONCACAF only) using matches played up to and including October 31st, 2013 and matches scheduled up to March 2014 (only those on fifa.com).

The "0.5" part is computed this way: points gained / (number of matches played + scheduled).

Changes since the last update:

Costa Rica replace Panama in the first pot.

First round

Pot 1: Barbados, Bahamas, Dominica, Montserrat, Curacao
Pot 2: US Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Anguilla, Turks and Caicos Islands

Second round (group stage)

Pot 1: El Salvador, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Cuba, Canada
Pot 2: Guatemala, Belize, Suriname, Grenada, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Antigua and Barbuda
Pot 3: Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, Guyana, St. Kitts and Nevis, Bermuda, Aruba
Pot 4: Nicaragua + 5 winners from the first round

Third round (group stage)

Pot 1: USA, Mexico, Costa Rica
Pot 2: Panama, Honduras, Haiti
Pot 3: 6 group winners from the second round

Rank - Team - Points

 1 USA                             520
 2 Mexico                          432
 3 Costa Rica                      409
--------------------------------------
 4 Panama                          384
 5 Honduras                        361
 6 Haiti                           232
--------------------------------------
 7 El Salvador                     230
 8 Trinidad and Tobago             223
 9 Jamaica                         222
10 Dominican Republic              157
11 Cuba                            156
12 Canada                          154
--------------------------------------
13 Guatemala                       124
14 Belize                          100
15 Suriname                         81
16 Grenada                          77
16 St. Vincent and the Grenadines   77
18 Antigua and Barbuda              74
--------------------------------------
19 Puerto Rico                      73
20 St. Lucia                        72
21 Guyana                           63
22 St. Kitts and Nevis              55
22 Bermuda                          55
22 Aruba                            55
--------------------------------------
25 Nicaragua                        51
--------------------------------------
26 Barbados                         48
27 Bahamas                          26
28 Dominica                         20
28 Montserrat                       20
30 Curacao                          17
--------------------------------------
31 US Virgin Islands                16
32 British Virgin Islands            8
33 Cayman Islands                    5
34 Anguilla                          2
35 Turks and Caicos Islands          0
Title: Building for 2018
Post by: AB.Trini on May 10, 2014, 09:48:25 AM
Keeping the big picture in sight- it is not quite evident if as we assess players what 2018 plays in the thinking at this time.

Kudos for the administration in acquiring the quality of friendlies in June but what is the plan this far? We are one month away and is like yuh hearing very little of proposed player selections or team preparation. I realize that some players are still engaged in league play with their respective teams.

So from a coaches' perspective what is the plan for June? Showcase the strongest possible team we have in our player pool? or think 2018? By fielding potential talent?

Who are the BEST prospective talent we have at this current time?

Locals:    Starting in goal?    Forwards?   Midfields ?    Defence?

players in UK:

Players in Europe:

Players in Asia:

MLS:

Players who could represent TNT but have not committed at this time:

In my humble opinion we still need a strong midfielder to direct the attack; a striker who is a threat to score and who could run at defences.

We have seen growing improvements  in defence and I think we have depth to work with.

Who is a quality young goaltender to work alongside Jan Michael?

I still believe that some mini camps involving the best of the locals against foreign based players could be a healthy motivation and competition for all players involved. It appeared that our last international friendlies showed that we had some momentum in moving forward now  how do we keep this moving forward?

We have some Caribbean competitions on the horizon and we also have Gold Cup- I would like to see open completion for spots at each of these none of this fielding a semi B team for qualifications then brining in foreign players .if we want to foster a truly compatible and formidable squad we ought to have the very best at each competition.

Title: Re: Building for 2018
Post by: AB.Trini on May 26, 2014, 09:32:12 AM
It is always with delight and a sense of pride to read of the progress and opportunities our players are getting both locally and abroad.  How do we maximize on these opportunities?  When looking at the make up of WC squads like Brazil, Mexico, England and even Argentina. It is apparent that they are providing opportunities for younger players in their line up and dropping older experienced players.

As we move towards 2018, should we  not be adopting a similar trend as oppose to bringing back players who may not be around for 2018? do we not have faith in the  young potentials to give them this opportunity?  All these friendlies should be our foundation building blocks for 2018.
Title: Re: Building for 2018
Post by: asylumseeker on May 26, 2014, 09:56:09 AM
Fair question.

However, I would note that despite the injection of young talent into squads .. several teams likely will return to incorporating some of the older players as they attempt to qualify for Euro 2016 and other tourneys. It's not an all or nothing commitment.

Nonetheless, the experience of our "youths" versus the experience of some of the other "youths" that are being included elsewhere is night and day comparatively. They all young and have the same playing age, but some younger in terms of playing maturity.
Title: Re: Building for 2018
Post by: dreamer on May 26, 2014, 10:46:29 AM
Keeping the big picture in sight- it is not quite evident if as we assess players what 2018 plays in the thinking at this time.

Kudos for the administration in acquiring the quality of friendlies in June but what is the plan this far? We are one month away and is like yuh hearing very little of proposed player selections or team preparation. I realize that some players are still engaged in league play with their respective teams.

So from a coaches' perspective what is the plan for June? Showcase the strongest possible team we have in our player pool? or think 2018? By fielding potential talent? .....


The big picture? Several agendas converging. Major crossroads moment. Need to juggle the following at the same time:

1. Firstly, get best possible T&T team to Argentina without twist ankle, hamstring pull and other last minute hard-luck injuries.
2. Find out now who is truly fit for 30 mins, 45 mins or 90 mins run at furious pace in Estadio Monumental. BraveHart is on the ball with that right now.
3. Establish / consolidate T&T football pedigree with once in a lifetime opportunity against Argentina (to a lesser degree Iran) to get a decent score and secure high quality opposition for the future.
4. Raise T&T rankings, possibly by massive leaps, should there be good scores against Argentina and Iran. Use whatever combination of veteran experience, youthful aggression and energy, whatever it takes to get the job done. With T&T ranking above 70, doors start to open more rapidly for T&T players / recruits.
5. Convince waggonist T&T media and businessmen to come on board after a good showing in South America, for the betterment of the local game / industry.
6. Create momentum for the already improving Pro League. Get Guerra, Marcus, Joevin, Rundell, Caesar on the international shop window.
7. Get a headstart & get prepared early for Caribbean Cup against a whole bunch of crabs-in-a-barrel Caribbean teams (Cuba, Martinique, Jamaica, Haiti, Guyana, Suriname, Grenada, St. Vincent that are hungry to give we thunder and make us cry over potentially lost opportunities. Get victories for the coach to allow T&T football stakeholders to rally around more. Teflon against the Cornmeals, Horners, who wish to see the ship sink without Renraw.
8. Get funds from T&T home games and newfound waggonists crowds that can go into the coffers to pay dues to Sancho and the 13, pay Latas, pay Cornmeal, pay the others.
9. With the important debts paid, qualify to bring Beenhakker back to T&T as "Director of football" after he is convinced that the shit of Renraw-inspired exploitation is over.
10. Go into Caribbean Cup in red hot form with BEST possible team. Win the Cup and collect the TOP money prize, and rise higher up the rankings. Clear more of TTFA debt.
11. Qualify for Gold Cup and enter a period of T&Ts new renaissance in football with a newly respected T&T Pro League, churning out players, sometimes recycling on international loan, sometimes for permanent sale with juicy sell-on clauses (to boost the coffers and buying power of the Pro League teams, with regular national team appearances in Gold Cup and youth teams in CONCACAF Cups and thus potentially more appearances in World Cups. Get the Proleague teams from broke-status to in-the-red. Get a new MOS to treat the football sector fairly and collaborate to get the teams fitted with revenue-earning, 3000-seater cozy community stadia.
10. Try to silence all Jackula stooges forever until they inevitably try to make their comeback in the next 20 yrs.
11. Get as much foreign-based T&T football talent and Jackula-triggered refugees to return and contribute to the new football order.
12. Get Flex, Tallman and company with new stakeholder positions in the new Football sector.
Title: Re: Building for 2018
Post by: maxg on May 26, 2014, 11:39:13 AM
like your plan A..don't wait prepare plan B..
Title: Re: Building for 2018
Post by: AB.Trini on May 26, 2014, 08:20:06 PM
See the youthful squad ummmm the Jammie's fielded against Serbia. Ah saying again we cyar keep recycling parts dat eh go be operable come 2018.
Title: Re: Building for 2018
Post by: dnice1 on May 27, 2014, 03:38:59 AM
In addition most countries are having their U17,U20,U23 squads train and play a few matches. What are we doing with those age groups??? Nada :banginghead:
Title: Re: Building for 2018
Post by: Tiresais on May 27, 2014, 06:12:23 AM
We definitely need to find our team for 2018 and focus on that, but that doesn't mean anyone over 28 isn't any good for us - we need all stripes to pull for that qualification and we will definitely need the weight of experience to pull through. Players who would be 32 in 2018 are definitely people I would want participating now - 4 years of NT experience on already weighty shoulders would certainly give our defence more punch, and wouldn't hurt in the centre of midfield too.
Title: Re: Building for 2018
Post by: elan on May 27, 2014, 10:16:51 AM
See the youthful squad ummmm the Jammie's fielded against Serbia. Ah saying again we cyar keep recycling parts dat eh go be operable come 2018.

Controversial say we playing for Pride vs Argentina.
Title: Re: Building for 2018
Post by: Trini on May 29, 2014, 10:09:36 AM
We not playing for no pride against Argentina, this is a very important game, as too is the Iran game.

We have a very very important tournament later this year, the caribbean Cup. We need to win, because we have not won it in forever, and soon we may be the Uruguay (forgotton team)of the Caribbean. We also need it to qualify for both the Gold Cup next year and the Copa Centenario the following year to be held in the US. If we dont win this Caribbean Cup, we have to depend on tother teams and make a decent run in the Gold Cup next year.

So these games are critical to us and our preparation. We seem to be using a core of players recently since the Guyana catastrophe, and to be honest we not doing that badly, given where we were coming from and losing to Guyana (2nd place Caribbean Cup, knockout rounds Gold Cup, 3rd place Saudi Cup and double winners vs jamaica). If we can put on 2 good displays in the next couple weeks, we will continue to build on momentum and prep for the Caribbean Cup. If we get blown out twice, we take a few steps back. Also, dont underestimate the effect of 2 good perfomances, esp in Buenos Aires, will have on our Caribbean opposition later this year. In no uncertain terms, we need to build our own momemtum and send a statement of intent.

Its very clear why we got these games, Argentina and Iran need a pre-Nigeria workout (thats pretty flattering for us I must admit).
And whther we like to admit it or not, somebody in the TTFF wukkin.

With regards to building for 2018, a lot of that success depends on getting to the Gold and Copa Cups, and a lot of getting there depends on what we do in the next few months. We aint playing for pride, we playing for very very serious stakes here.
Title: Re: Building for 2018
Post by: elan on May 29, 2014, 10:43:55 AM
Why do you all equate winning or not losing bad with improving? So we go play Argentina and lose what 2-0, 3-0, 4-1 and that is us moving forward?

Title: Re: Building for 2018
Post by: Tiresais on May 29, 2014, 03:07:44 PM
Why do you all equate winning or not losing bad with improving? So we go play Argentina and lose what 2-0, 3-0, 4-1 and that is us moving forward?

Depends what we learn from it
Title: Re: Building for 2018
Post by: Tallman on July 15, 2014, 10:49:21 PM
TTFA president Raymond Tim Kee believes this country has the potential to qualify for the next World Cup in 2018.
http://www.tv6tnt.com/sevenpm-news/-Tim-Kee-on-TT-3308----267273781.html
Title: Re: Building for 2018
Post by: AB.Trini on September 07, 2014, 07:56:07 AM
In reflecting on our  senior teams and our usual mode of preparations for major tournaments it would seem that a shift in thinking and practice ought to occur. Needless to say change is not always fully embraced nor is it without challenges. In our nation, it must be challenging for a footballer to earn a living as a full time professional player.
What would it look like if a core of local players was selected- be it players from the u 20 and or players in the present professional league. These players would qualify for government subsidy ( Football Support Program- new twist) and be in training all year round. Of course there will be details to work out with clubs or  the athletes' personal lives. Is it conceivable to have these players as asleep rate team in the pro league?

What if the foreign based players were not automatic selections but had to challenge these players for berths on the national team?

 Is it feasible to have an entirely local based squad and a foreign based team- or one comprised of foreign based professionals. Prior to our national team selections these two squads would have a series of games to determine which players would be on the national team.
 We would create a sense of competitiveness from within our ranks- eliminate the fact that some players are automatic selections and also provide players with the hope that they have an opportunity to make the team. Players would know that playing for TNT is an open competition much like competing for a job

Look at how we do things and expect success- take the Caribbean Cup- lower rank teams are presently competing and building on their team cohesiveness- our team in,less than a month with little preparation is now expected to not only compete but win this tournament-  we may look at plugging gaps with foreign players and hoping for the best. What is wrong with this picture? Constant receipt for long term failure.we may achieve some success but in the long term we still lack a solid sustainable core of quality players at home.

We keep hearing about the lack of funding   When are we going to look at how we spend what we have to support our renewable resources?  It is evident the way we are doing things are not equalling to successful return on the dollars we are spending. An analytical logistic model for measuring team success equated to money spent on that team may reveal that we are lacking. Could you envision that if we could show successful yield on our spending for the national senior teams how much easier this may be to approach corporate TNT for sponsorship?

If we need this level of support we need to begging running the business of football differently rather than begging for money to put into a program with a leaky bottom in my humble opinion.
Title: Re: Building for 2018
Post by: AB.Trini on September 09, 2014, 07:10:58 PM
Well all the doom and gloom about TTFA and no money -, we might as well pack it in for Caribbean Cup Gold cup and eventually World Cup Things are simply too 4 cup right now.
Why and how could Jamaica field a team in preparation and we fielding ah U 20?
Jamaica squad for friendly against Canada:
The Reggae Boyz starting 11 included Philadelphia Union goalie Blake, defenders Morgan of Leicester City, Nyron Nosworthy of Bristol City, Alvas Powell of the Portland Timbers, midfielder Watson of FC Dallas and forwards Simon Dawkins of Derby County and Deshorn Brown of the Colorado Rapids.

Jamaican head coach Winfried Schaefer, who won the African Nations Cup in 2002 with Cameroon, was using the game as a warmup for the mid-November Caribbean Cup.
Title: Re: Building for 2018
Post by: Tenorsaw on September 10, 2014, 12:06:58 PM
Right now we are way behind these four in Concacaf, in terms of talent pool and player representation in Europe:  USA, Mexico, and Costa Rica.  The fourth spot is up for grabs. 
Title: Re: Building for 2018
Post by: Mad Scorpion a/k/a Big Bo$$ on September 10, 2014, 12:16:44 PM
Right now we are way behind these four in Concacaf, in terms of talent pool and player representation in Europe:  USA, Mexico, and Costa Rica.  The fourth spot is up for grabs. 

Like yuh cah check aought? lol
Title: Re: Building for 2018
Post by: Tenorsaw on September 10, 2014, 12:28:59 PM
Lol...nah, meh head was focusing on the four that made the World Cup.  Then, I took Honduras out of that group because they are inconsistent, and their talent pool seems to have dropped off a bit.   
Title: A look at the proposed CONCACAF 2018 World Cup Qualifying format
Post by: Tallman on September 24, 2014, 11:45:27 AM
A look at the proposed CONCACAF 2018 World Cup Qualifying format
http://www.vavel.com/en-us/soccer/395446-a-look-at-the-proposed-concacaf-2018-world-cup-qualifying-format.html
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Trini _2026 on September 24, 2014, 01:06:17 PM
lord antigua is ranked higher than us now wow
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: FF on September 24, 2014, 08:27:55 PM
lord antigua is ranked higher than us now wow

And Jamaica and Haiti. What's your point? They have been playing competitive caribbean cup qualification games.
They will come back toward the mean in short time.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: elan on September 24, 2014, 10:46:33 PM
lord antigua is ranked higher than us now wow

We new TTFA working on fixing that. When they went Argentina it was not just for the ride, they organized a number of friendlies.
Title: Re: Building for 2018
Post by: AB.Trini on October 13, 2014, 06:02:43 PM
Small measures of success are the foundational blocks for the larger goals- therefore with each measure of success, we ought to be considering how is this  setting the stage for WC2018.

F
I think this is one of the most opportune time, where we are sensing a depth in the overall team composition. It has been a while since we have had a back four that is coming unto its own. Still being cautiously optimistic, there are  overall aspects of our game that could be improved with adequate preparation and added 'friendlies ' - the cohesion, transition phases of our game will take time.
Anyone else think we could still be in need of a more technical goalie? Where is the depth in this area to press the two we tend to default to? To we have any goalies in the US colleges that are eligible to represent TnT?
Title: Re: Building for 2018
Post by: Sando prince on October 13, 2014, 08:14:46 PM
I am happy for the team progressing to the final round of the Caribbean Cup but the TRUTH is we did not faced enough quality in opposition to determine where we are in terms of being ready and able to beat big teams in CONCACAF
Title: CONCACAF will reportedly keep the Hex for 2018 World Cup qualification
Post by: Trini _2026 on January 01, 2015, 01:02:58 AM
CONCACAF will reportedly keep the Hex for 2018 World Cup qualification
By Ryan Rosenblatt  @RyanRosenblatt on Nov 19 2014, 2:22p



There are changes at the beginning of qualifying, but nothing will change in the final two rounds, when the U.S., Mexico and other top teams join the fray.

CONCACAF is making small changes to World Cup qualifying for 2018, but the last two rounds will remain the same, according to Sportsnet. Rather than a second-round group stage, qualifying will expand to five rounds, and the first three rounds will now be two-legged home-and-away ties. Those will feed into the three-group semifinals and one-group finals.

The format for the semifinals and finals, unchanged since 1998, remains the same: three groups of four teams play six matches each, home and away, in the semifinals. The top-two teams advance to the final round, or Hex, composed of one group of six teams. The Hex takes place in the year before the World Cup and sees each team play 10 matches, one at home and one away against each team.

While FIFA has not yet confirmed how many spots CONCACAF will receive for the 2018 World Cup, it is expected to remain at 3.5. That means the top-three teams in the Hex automatically qualify for the world's biggest sporting event, while the fourth-place team goes to a inter-confederation playoff to qualify.

The first round will be played by teams ranked 22nd to 35th in CONCACAF in March of 2015. The seven winners will then join teams ranked ninth to 21st in the second round, to be played next June before the Gold Cup. Ten teams will make it out of that stage and join teams ranked seventh and eighth (Jamaica and Haiti) in the third round. Six teams will emerge from there and they, along with the top-six ranked teams, will make up the 12-team semifinal round.

The semifinals will be played in 2016, with the top-six teams in CONCACAF joining in at this stage. The August 2014 FIFA rankings will reportedly be used to determine who the top-six teams are, so the United States, Mexico, Costa Rica, Honduras, Panama and Trinidad and Tobago would skip out on the preliminary rounds.
Title: T&T 2018 World Cup campaign to start in November.
Post by: royal on January 12, 2015, 03:13:22 PM
T&T 2018 World Cup campaign to start in November.
TTFA Media.


Trinidad and Tobago’s Senior Men’s Team will commence its 2018 World Cup Qualifying Campaign in November this year after being seeded among the top six teams in the region by CONCACAF.

The “Soca Warriors” based on its ranking in August 2014, will join the United States, Costa Rica, Mexico,  Panama and Honduras as the Confederation’s top six teams for Round Four.

For Round Four,  the six Round Three  winners will join six top seeds and the 12 teams will be grouped into 3 round-robin, home-and-away groups of 4 teams.

The six (6) group winners and runner-ups will then advance to Round Five which is the Final Round of CONCACAF qualification for the Russia 2018 World Cup Finals.

Round Four, T&T’s opening round in the campaign will run from  November 2015 to September 2016 and the Final Round will be staged between November 2016 and October 2017. qualifying three CONCACAF nations directly to the FIFA World Cup and providing a further intercontinental playoff spot for the fourth-placed team.

The match-ups and groupings for Rounds Three, Four and Five of CONCACAF World Cup qualifying will be determined at the FIFA World Cup Qualifying Draw in St. Petersburg, Russia, on July 25, 2015.

TTFA President Raymond Tim Kee commented on T&T’s seeding saying he was extremely pleased to be ranked among the top six of the Confederation which he said was evidence of the progress made by the “Soca Warriors” under Stephen Hart who was introduced as head coach in June 2013 under his leadership of the TTFA.

“It’s indeed pleasant news for us  that we are seeded among the top six nations in all of CONCACAF but it’s also a revelation that our journey officially begins this year based on the format and the dates released by the confederation for qualification for Russia 2018,” Tim Kee told TTFA Media.

“Therefore, while we have already commenced the planning stages for our campaign and our team has been active, finishing second in the Caribbean Cup and qualifying for the CONCACAF Gold Cup last year, there is a lot to be done to ensure we continue to be on the right path in relation to our preparations for what will by all means be a rigorous qualifying campaign.

“The Team has to be adequately prepared which means there is a critical need for training camps, training matches and an overall program supported by all the stakeholders. Our National team deserves all that is required for us to be successful in the quest for Russia 2018 and rightly so, we shall make every effort to see this happen,” Tim Kee added.

National Senior Team head coach Stephen Hart, at present in  Jamaica with the National Under 20 team,  also commented on the format, adding that intense preparations including international games would have to be  a part of the national team’s program between now and the start of its 2018 campaign.

“The draw is a double edge sword. On one had we avoid the early qualifications where anything can happen, but once your games come around you have to be mindful of the fact that you are playing teams that have been playing competitive international games. That being said, it is a more favorable position to be in,” Hart told TTFA Media.

Additional Notes

The Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) today announced the details of the draw for the initial phases of the CONCACAF Preliminary Competition for the FIFA World Cup Russia 2018. The draw will be held in Miami at the W Hotel South Beach, at 7 PM ET on Thursday, January 15.

The event, involving 27 of the 35 CONCACAF Member Associations seeking to qualify for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, will determine the match-ups for the first two rounds of the five-round regional qualifying tournament in CONCACAF, which begins in March and runs through 2017.

The seeding for the draw for this edition of CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying was based on FIFA rankings as of August 2014.The 35 Member Associations competing to qualify for the 2018 FIFA World Cup have been ranked 1-35 (please see below for the full ranking).

The fourteen (14) national teams ranked 22 to 35 (St. Kitts & Nevis, Belize, Montserrat, Dominica, Barbados, Bermuda, Nicaragua, Turks & Caicos, Curacao, US Virgin Islands, Bahamas, Cayman Islands, British Virgin Islands, Anguilla – in order of rank) will dispute Round One of the Preliminary Competition, which consists of seven home-and-away series to be contested from March 23-31 of this year.

For Round Two, the thirteen (13) Member Associations ranked 9-21 (Canada, Cuba, Aruba, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Suriname, Guatemala, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, St. Lucia, Grenada, Antigua & Barbuda, Guyana, Puerto Rico – in order of rank) will join the seven (7) Round One series winners, for ten more home-and-away series to be held between 8-16 June, 2015.

Round Three, which consists of another series of home-and-away match-ups featuring the ten (10) Round Two series winners, joined by the two Member Associations ranked 7 and 8 – Jamaica and Haiti -- will be played August 31-September 8.

(http://www.ttffonline.com/home/images/russia.logo.jpg)

(http://www.ttffonline.com/home/images/hartpointstraining.jpg)

Title: Re: T&T 2018 World Cup campaign to start in November.
Post by: Banter Banton on January 13, 2015, 08:39:39 AM
Use the windows - we have 8 friendlies available with 2 in March, 2 in June before the Gold Cup, 2 in September and 2 in October PLUS at least 3 group games in the Gold Cup.

If we use our calender especially vs decent opposition we could have some quality preparation for the team.

Everyone has to be on the collective page. TTFA, Min of Sport etc.... TTFA have to book those friendlies early and the quality of opposition should always come from a top 50 team including at least 2 games from 8 vs top 15 If possible.
Title: Re: T&T 2018 World Cup campaign to start in November.
Post by: Agent Jack Bauer on January 13, 2015, 09:14:16 AM
Why even bother with qualifications.........I have it from very good sources that we spot dun book in d dance
Title: Re: T&T 2018 World Cup campaign to start in November.
Post by: royalian on January 13, 2015, 10:51:10 AM
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/soccer-insider/wp/2015/01/12/u-s-world-cup-qualifying-campaign-to-begin-this-year/
Title: Re: T&T 2018 World Cup campaign to start in November.
Post by: dreamer on January 13, 2015, 12:25:21 PM
Let's see if Uncle Tim, Shell-done, MOS and others will get their act together this time.
Or would they like Lasana "yuh f**ker" Liburd to give them more critical write ups.
We watchin' ...
Title: Re: T&T 2018 World Cup campaign to start in November.
Post by: Deeks on January 13, 2015, 04:34:49 PM
Let's see if Uncle Tim, Shell-done, MOS and others will get their act together this time.
Or would they like Lasana "yuh f**ker" Liburd to give them more critical write ups.
We watchin' ...

Why not ask all them businesses what they have against football.
Title: Re: T&T 2018 World Cup campaign to start in November.
Post by: dreamer on January 13, 2015, 05:48:08 PM
Yuh cyah force businesspeople who have no obligation to give a shite, to care, especially when they see football sector leaders who "appear to be" unpatriotic, corrupt and seem bad to be associated with and be seen ribbon cutting with. Businessmen want return on their money not bad press by association. On the other hand, it is part of the sports leaders agendas to look like they are producing results, raising funds, planning early. The planning early is what I'm most interested in as the historical excuse is: "There was no application sent to my desk on time". "No visa applications on time so player x could not be selected". "Cardiff was not requested leave for player on time". "Central FC not told in time to release players". :Hart not given time to submit his favorite squad list". "Not enough time to request game against Colombia"  Enough.
Title: Re: T&T 2018 World Cup campaign to start in November.
Post by: Deeks on January 14, 2015, 07:11:20 AM
I understand all ah that, Breds. But still, they could request certain things from the TTFA. But I find they could more for football. What about the pro-league? They could help in sponsorship. How come very few helping Point or Palo Seco?
Title: Re: T&T 2018 World Cup campaign to start in November.
Post by: dreamer on January 14, 2015, 08:36:25 AM
True. Few care.
Title: Re: T&T 2018 World Cup campaign to start in November.
Post by: Midknight on January 14, 2015, 09:22:29 PM
Anyone else find the August 2014 cut off date a bit weird?

Copa centramericana was in September. Caribbean Cup was in October and November.

Just saying...
Title: Re: T&T 2018 World Cup campaign to start in November.
Post by: Controversial on January 15, 2015, 05:15:12 AM
Why even bother with qualifications.........I have it from very good sources that we spot dun book in d dance

so the sources openly admitting to match fixing???? ???

bc by the dance if you mean round 5 we book, that's exactly what they insinuating... correct me if im wrong...
Title: Re: T&T 2018 World Cup campaign to start in November.
Post by: FF on January 15, 2015, 11:47:25 AM
The Top 6 did not change from August to now in any case
Title: Re: T&T 2018 World Cup campaign to start in November.
Post by: Midknight on January 16, 2015, 02:32:55 AM
The Top 6 did not change from August to now in any case

I can't actually tell because of the way the new FIFA rankings page sucks...what's up with that?
Title: Re: T&T 2018 World Cup campaign to start in November.
Post by: FF on January 16, 2015, 07:27:52 AM
The Top 6 did not change from August to now in any case

I can't actually tell because of the way the new FIFA rankings page sucks...what's up with that?

I know right, I had to scour a bunch of other sites to confirm
Title: Re: T&T 2018 World Cup campaign to start in November.
Post by: Agent Jack Bauer on January 17, 2015, 12:14:38 PM
Why even bother with qualifications.........I have it from very good sources that we spot dun book in d dance

so the sources openly admitting to match fixing???? ???

bc by the dance if you mean round 5 we book, that's exactly what they insinuating... correct me if im wrong...
doh hurt up yuh head.....d pump is real.......we in d dance.......book yuh ticket and start practicing yuh Russian
Title: Re: T&T 2018 World Cup campaign to start in November.
Post by: Banter Banton on January 17, 2015, 12:24:07 PM
Why even bother with qualifications.........I have it from very good sources that we spot dun book in d dance

so the sources openly admitting to match fixing???? ???

bc by the dance if you mean round 5 we book, that's exactly what they insinuating... correct me if im wrong...
doh hurt up yuh head.....d pump is real.......we in d dance.......book yuh ticket and start practicing yuh Russian

Hull yuh c**t with that shit brudda man....
Title: Re: T&T 2018 World Cup campaign to start in November.
Post by: Agent Jack Bauer on January 17, 2015, 03:54:24 PM
Why even bother with qualifications.........I have it from very good sources that we spot dun book in d dance

so the sources openly admitting to match fixing???? ???

bc by the dance if you mean round 5 we book, that's exactly what they insinuating... correct me if im wrong...
doh hurt up yuh head.....d pump is real.......we in d dance.......book yuh ticket and start practicing yuh Russian

Hull yuh c**t with that shit brudda man....
yuh have d new passport?  If not go get a renewal pronto
Title: Re: T&T 2018 World Cup campaign to start in November.
Post by: Tiresais on January 24, 2015, 02:55:02 PM
Woot woot! Can't wait, we definitely need to maximise our preparation though.
Title: Optimism, activity fuel Grenada ahead of WCQ
Post by: Trini _2026 on February 22, 2015, 07:51:14 AM

Optimism, activity fuel Grenada ahead of WCQ
www.concacaf.com
http://www.concacaf.com/article/optimism-activity-fuel-grenada-ahead-of-wcq

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada – A slate of international friendlies, the possibility of a new head coach and an intensive drive to recruit overseas players, represent exciting times ahead for Grenada as it prepares for 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifying.

Grenada Football Association (GFA) President Cheney Joseph said his organization was working feverishly on a number of plans which, once realized, would enhance the national team’s chances on the Road to Russia.

Already, the GFA has scheduled a pair of friendlies at Bermuda next month and is in negotiations for other fixtures, before facing Puerto Rico in the second round of 2018 World Cup qualifiers starting in June.

“It is good news that for the first time in many years we are having very good preparation,” Joseph told CONCACAF.com.  “I think the advantage we have this time around is that most of the home-grown players are available for training.

“We are hoping that while according to the FIFA rankings, Bermuda may be seeded some 20 spots down, we’re going to use that friendly as a measuring stick to see where we are at, ahead of the World Cup qualifier in June.

“We are also currently completing discussions with Guyana to play two games there in April and we also go off to St Lucia to play the Windward Islands tournament, so we’re looking at about seven games that hopefully we’re going to have before we engage Puerto Rico.”

Grenada, fielding a squad comprised largely of domestic-based players, suffered an early exit from the CFU Caribbean Cup last September.

The GFA, though, is targeting several eligible players in England and Scotland, whom it believes can help strengthen the roster.

“We’re just hoping that complimenting the home grown players will be those international players that we are able to secure for the first game,” Joseph said.  “We are already in discussions with some of these overseas-based players.  This time around, we have a large pool to choose from, maybe more than 15 international players, playing not at the lower divisions, but at the Championship level [in England].

“We also know of two in Scotland – Myles Hippolyte and Anthony Straker – and we may just have Shalrie Joseph to give Grenadians the last chance to see him internationally.  We want to create a balance between home-grown and overseas-based players, but we are trying to ensure that every single player who qualifies to represent Grenada is contacted.”

It is also hoped that former England under-19 head coach Noel Blake can be brought on board to lead the technical staff.

“Presently, the technical staff is 100 per cent local,” finished Joseph.  “However, we have started discussions with an international coach and I think it is a matter of the GFA finalising arrangements.  We are hoping that we can close off on discussions and get him as soon as possible.”
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Deeks on February 22, 2015, 10:06:39 AM
Guys, GFA looking for technical help. Send Allyuh CV to them!!!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Trini _2026 on February 22, 2015, 10:28:28 AM
Guys, GFA looking for technical help. Send Allyuh CV to them!!!

So whats is the TTFF doing ??
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Deeks on February 22, 2015, 06:32:32 PM
Guys, GFA looking for technical help. Send Allyuh CV to them!!!

So whats is the TTFF doing ??

They go leh you know!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: trini_stallion on March 01, 2015, 02:19:11 PM
November right around the corner. ..gold cup in d summer...One match declared so far....we not preparing for nothing. ..what kind of plan we hv...any scouts working too see the best possible pool of players?  WCQ not gonna be easy. ..gone are the days of putting a team together on just talent and expect to get a result. We played a full strength team for the Caribbean cup and lose to jamaica on penalties. ...how we go stand against them central americans....I know hart must be asking himself d same thing...we in Trinidad not serious about football
Title: 2018 FIFA World Cup: Russia
Post by: elan on March 22, 2015, 07:22:41 PM
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CAu97IvW8AALs5V.jpg)
Title: Re: 2018 FIFA World Cup: Russia
Post by: elan on March 22, 2015, 07:29:48 PM
USVI looks to youth for Barbados WCQ (http://www.concacaf.com/article/usvi-looks-to-youth-for-barbados-wcq)




CHARLOTTE AMALIE, US Virgin Islands -- The U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) has invested heavily in the youth aspect of its squad and is confident the approach will pay dividends, when they visit Barbados in the first leg of their first round CONCACAF qualifying series for the 2018 FIFA World Cup on Sunday.

Sitting 197th in the latest FIFA World Rankings, the USVI is focussed on developing a strong national side and believes the youth element holds the key to a bright future.

Two weeks ago, the USVI fell 2-0 at Antigua & Barbuda in an international friendly.  Despite that defeat, head coach Ahmed Mohammed said there were encouraging signs.

“The confidence level in the team is quite high because we had a game against Antigua and we were younger than the Antiguan players,” Mohammed told CONCACAF.com.  “What I have in the team are players as young as 16-years-old (Jacob Borden), a right full back player, and he is a great player and I have four to six players who are between the ages of 17 and 18.

“They are really, really willing and have a lot of talent and the mix between young players and experienced players, I am trying to get a collective well-organized team [in this regard].”

Borden will be one of several key players expected to feature in Barbados, along with midfielders Dusty Good and Garrick Mathurin, defender Dewayne Dyer and goalkeeper Erik Mezzo.

The squad has been in training twice weekly for six weeks and, in addition to the Antigua friendly, has played warm-up games against local opposition.

Mohammed has been pleased with the team’s development during that time.

“We worked on different topics, from conditioning to technical and tactical training, and collective and individual training,” he explained.  “Those were the main areas we focussed on.  The response has been very good.  I am really, really happy with this team because I have a lot of young players who are really willing to learn and who are giving 120 per cent.  I am satisfied with this team.”

In Barbados, the USVI will face an opponent that is undefeated in friendlies this year, posting a win (3-1) and draw (2-2) against St. Vincent & the Grenadines, while battling Guyana to a stalemate (2-2).

Mohammed expects to get a result in Bridgetown.

“I was looking at the highlights of the last game that they played and I know how they play and how they are organised,” finished the 35-year-old, who was hired in February.  “I also saw the highlights from the game against Guyana which they drew 2-2 so I am well prepared.

“What you can expect is a well organised, collective, well compact USVI team.  We are going there to win.”
Title: Re: 2018 FIFA World Cup: Russia
Post by: elan on March 22, 2015, 07:34:29 PM
Barbados 0 vs. US Virgin Islands 1 FT
Title: Re: 2018 FIFA World Cup: Russia
Post by: elan on March 24, 2015, 10:26:03 AM
Nicaragua 5 vs. Anguilla 0 FT
Title: Re: 2018 FIFA World Cup: Russia
Post by: trini_stallion on April 22, 2015, 07:12:53 PM
Been thinking about this a bit lately. ..my generation of warriors was the 06 crop. ..before that the closest we came was in 1990...I know about it from being a member here for so long. ..I was 4 at that time...and prior to that...was 74?

In the 06 squad we had an abundance of talent I believe with alot of our warriors plying their trade in top leagues in Europe and elsewhere. ...apart from the local talent like whitley,  and dwarika to an extent. ...

First question. ..was that bunch the highest caliber players/best squad/most prominent ballers...or the 89/90 or the 74 squad?

And finally. ..The current squad we hv....realistically do they hv the talent in comparison to the past ballers to carry us through...

100% die hard fan...through thick nd thin...even when I was deployed I was roaming this site the little I cld hv to see wuz d scene....imho...This crop does not hv the individual success the 06 crop had....how that translates into team play...I don't know. ..However I am optimistic
Title: Re: 2018 FIFA World Cup: Russia
Post by: Peong on April 22, 2015, 07:25:32 PM
Been thinking about this a bit lately. ..my generation of warriors was the 06 crop. ..before that the closest we came was in 1990...I know about it from being a member here for so long. ..I was 4 at that time...and prior to that...was 74?

In the 06 squad we had an abundance of talent I believe with alot of our warriors plying their trade in top leagues in Europe and elsewhere. ...apart from the local talent like whitley,  and dwarika to an extent. ...

First question. ..was that bunch the highest caliber players/best squad/most prominent ballers...or the 89/90 or the 74 squad?

And finally. ..The current squad we hv....realistically do they hv the talent in comparison to the past ballers to carry us through...

100% die hard fan...through thick nd thin...even when I was deployed I was roaming this site the little I cld hv to see wuz d scene....imho...This crop does not hv the individual success the 06 crop had....how that translates into team play...I don't know. ..However I am optimistic

The 2002 squad was pretty talented.  Yorke at Man U, Shaka at West Ham, Latapy at Glasgow Rangers,  Dog at Livingston, Stern at Nottingham Forrest, Carlos Edwards and Dennis Lawrence at Wrexham.  I had great hopes for that team.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: trini_stallion on April 23, 2015, 06:27:45 PM
Yea I did a wiki search on the 2002 squad...what a flop....we finished last in the semi's. ..had some 06 stars in that squad too...we topped the group before the semi's tho...beating Mexico  ???  ???...anyways. ..looking forward too see how we do in the gc
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 06, 2015, 09:49:37 AM
Just realized Surinam faces Nicaragua in Nicaragua tomorrow. Any other games on?
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 07, 2015, 09:22:07 AM
Matches this week, CONCACAF Second Round, 1st leg

Sunday, June 7

Ncaragua v. Surinam

Wednesday, June 10

Antigua & Barbuda v. St. Lucia
Aruba v. Barbados
Curacao v. Cuba
St. Vincent & The Grenadines v. Guyana

Thursday, June 11

Dominica v. Canada
Dominican Republic v. Belize
St. Kitts & Nevis v. El Salvador

Friday, June 12

Guatemala v. Bermuda
Puerto Rico v. Grenada
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 07, 2015, 09:28:40 AM
https://www.youtube.com/v/tKcltCLYcCc


Technical Director Confident But Cautious
Antigua and Barbuda Football Association.


St. John’s, Antigua – With just 5 days away from Antigua and Barbuda’s clash with St. Lucia at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. Technical Director Piotr Nowak along with English based defender Marvin McCoy and veteran goalie Molvin James spoke on ABFA Television partner ABS Touchline and gave the public his thoughts on the match ahead.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 07, 2015, 09:45:06 AM
Welsh National League striker gets international call up for World Cup qualifiers
Dave Jones (Daily Post, Wales)


(http://i4.dailypost.co.uk/incoming/article9399497.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/BRADMIGUEL1JPG.jpg)
Brickfield Rangers's forward Brad Miguel named in the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines squad to face Guyana

Welsh National League football club Brickfield Rangers are still coming down to earth after one of their players received an unexpected international call-up.

Rangers striker Brad Miguel, 21, has been named in the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines squad to face Guyana in back-to-back World Cup qualifiers next week.

Miguel was born in Kingston, St Vincent, in the Caribbean before moving to England as a youngster.

He relocated to Wrexham a year ago to study business and accounting at Glyndwr University.

Formerly on Wycombe Wanderers’ books, he started off playing for the Glyndwr football and futsal teams.

Miguel then joined Brickfield’s futsal team and after a short spell with WNL Division One side Lex Glyndwr, he was signed by Rangers manager Peter Gabriel at the end of January.

The new recruit scored for the Brickie in a 3-1 defeat at Brymbo on April 18 and was part of the team which beat Rhos Aelwyd 2-1 a fortnight later - a result which kept Rangers in the Premier Division.

Miguel flew out to the Windward Islands this week to join up with the rest of the Vincentian squad, which also includes first-timer Gavin James, who plays for Buckingham-based Hellenic League club Flackwell Heath (http://www.maidenhead-advertiser.co.uk/Sport/Football/Other-local-clubs/James-called-up-to-represent-St-Vincent-The-Grenadines-in-World-Cup-qualifier-02062015.htm).

It is rare enough for a player operating at the top level in Wales, the Welsh Premier League, to win international honours while playing in the WPL.

Sammy Ayorinde (Bangor City and Nigeria) and David Artell (Bala Town and Gibraltar) are the only two have achieved this.

(http://i4.dailypost.co.uk/incoming/article9399500.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/BRADMIGUEL2JPG.jpg)
Brad Miguel in action

So it could well be a first for North Wales football that a player performing in tier-three of the pyramid has been chosen for his country at full international level.

“It feels good,” said Miguel, when asked about his selection.

“Every kid that plays football has that dream of playing in a World Cup for their country and to be able to say I’ve got the chance to represent mine is a dream come true.”

Miguel, who has also played in the USA for Cincinnati Bearcats, was introduced to Brickfield by goalkeeper and football director Andrew “Chopper” Ruscoe.

“They are a great bunch of lads down there,” added Miguel. “They’ve not had the best of seasons as a club, but with the guys there they should go far in the future.”

Oli Jones, who runs the Brickfield futsal team, expressed his delight at Miguel’s call-up.

“We are so pleased to have an international superstar among our camp,” said Jones.

“It is like something out of the PC game Football Manager, it’s surreal.

“The day that Chopper suggested bringing him into the fold you could see his ability. His footwork is immense. We wish Brad the best of luck and we look forward to seeing him back with us in September.”

Brickfield chairman Paul Hooson added: “We wish Brad all the best and everyone at the club will rooting for him.

“Brad will become our very first full international player at Brickfield Rangers whilst registered with the club and we thank him for that.”

Brickfield did also nurture the talents of future Wales midfielder Robbie Savage and Northern Ireland international brothers Jim and Jeff Whitley as youngsters.

The Vincentians take on Guyana in the first of their two-legged CONCACAF World Cup qualifier in the coastal town of Arnos Vale in St Vincent next Wednesday, June 10, (kick-off 8pm BST).

The return leg takes place in Georgetown, Guyana, on Monday, June 15, (12am start BST).

The winner progresses to round three of the CONCACAF qualifier for 2018 World Cup, set to be held in Russia.

Who are Saint Vincent and The Grenadines?

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines finished second in the Caribbean Cup in 1995, and participated at the 1996 CONCACAF Gold Cup.

Its first FIFA World Cup qualification attempt was for the 1994 edition. It has entered every World Cup qualification since.

Nicknamed the Vincy Heat, the team is managed by Kingstown-born Cornelius Huggins, who won 96 caps for his country and formerly played for Kedah FA in the Malaysian Super League.

Among the competition Miguel faces to break into the side next week will be Oalex Anderson, a prolific marksman who plays for Seattle Sounders FC 2, a level three club in the USA football pyramid.

St Vincent and the Grenadines are currently ranked 112th in the world by the FIFA ranking system, lying above Moldova, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Malta.

Their first-choice colours are yellow shirts and blue shorts and in their last outing they beat the Dominican Republic 1-0.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 07, 2015, 09:54:38 AM
Broome ready to give 100% to B’dos football team
Michael Phillips (Barbados Advocate)


Barbados could be very well sporting some new blood in the bars when they face Aruba next week in their upcoming round of games in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.

With the ever-increasing focus on the importance of quality goalkeepers, an overseas custodian has made himself available for selection to the squad.

Of Barbadian parentage, 23-year-old Keasel Broome is currently in the local training camp ahead of the June 10 game which is to be played in Aruba. Broome, an American native, plays professionally for the New York Cosmos in the North American Soccer League. Drafted out of Providence College – where he played every minute of every game for 2013 and 2014 – by the MLS (Major League Soccer) team San Jose Earthquakes, Broome opted to go to Cosmos.

Now back in Barbados for the first time since 2003, Broome took some time out to take in some of the action in the BICO/National Sports Council Primary Schools Football Competition. After meeting some of the young players he told the Barbados Advocate that he was stoked to be on island and was honoured at the opportunity to represent the country.

“This is my first international camp and hopefully I can get my first international cap with the Tridents, so I am excited about this opportunity and hopefully we can get two positive results and go to the next round,” he said.

Noting that his family hailed from St. Lucy, Broome said that Barbadians can expect him to give his all in the upcoming games, of which he said he would make himself available for any further rounds.

“They can expect me to play at 100% and give my all. I have high expectations going into both games and I know the team demands a lot out of me and I will demand a lot of the team, and with our teamwork and communication, I think we will get the job done,” Broome added.

(http://www.barbadosadvocate.com/admini/News_Photo_bv.asp?NewsID=43844)
New York Cosmos keeper Keasel Broome (centre-back) taking some time out to meet with the Wilkie Cumberbatch team.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 07, 2015, 10:05:33 AM
(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/81789000/jpg/_81789110_moss.jpg)

World Cup 2018: Colwyn Bay's Moss embarks on road to Russia
Aled Williams (BBC Wales Sport)


While Wales concentrate on an important Euro 2016 qualifier against Israel, a north Wales-based footballer is already setting his sights on the 2018 World Cup.

Colwyn Bay defender Louis Moss is in the Barbados squad to face the United States Virgin Isles over two legs in CONCACAF first round pre-qualifying.

So with the cheers that greeted Mario Gotze's extra-time winner for Germany against Argentina in last summer's World Cup final still ringing in our ears, a defender who plays in the Conference North is setting out on the road to Moscow.

Should Barbados, ranked 143rd by Fifa, overcome US Virgin Isles over two legs, they face Aruba in the second round in June and then two further rounds to reach the final six-team qualifying group known as the Hexagonal - a long and difficult road to reach the finals.


(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/81392000/jpg/_81392807_louis_moss.jpg)
Louis Moss has also played for Wrexham and Vauxhall Motors

"Unfortunately, when you're ranked so low, that's what you've got to go through," said Moss.

"But from what I gather, everyone is feeling pretty confident about getting through to the next round.

"We've got a good squad and on paper we should beat the US Virgin Islands. I don't know what Aruba are like but I know they are ranked higher than us.

"Hopefully we can go as far as possible and play as many games as we can and be all the better for the experience."

Born in Chester, 22-year-old Moss qualifies for Barbados through his mother and played for the Caribbean island's Under-15 and Under-17 teams before winning his first senior cap in 2011 during his time at Wrexham, a club where father Geoff was chairman.

He won three caps during qualifying for the 2014 World Cup but then did not feature for three years until regional qualifying for the CONCACAF Gold Cup in late 2014, where he played against St Kitts and Nevis, Haiti and French Guiana.

Barbados finished bottom of their group, but Moss is pleased with the progress the side have made since he first became involved with the national side.

"The first time I went, when I was 18, I was a bit unsure about it," Moss said.

"They're very physical and in your face, very good at closing down and to try and stop you from playing. But the standard is a better than people think.

"It wasn't just the football that I enjoyed. It was the whole idea of going to another country and seeing the world in a different light.

"We played against good teams that potentially could have rolled us over but we gave a really good account of ourselves in all of the games.

Barbados side which faced St Kitts and Nevis
(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/81527000/jpg/_81527890_moss_barbados.jpg)
Louis Moss (back row on the right) pictured with the Barbados side which faced St Kitts and Nevis in 2014

"The standard from our point of view was pretty good and I did all right and they've called me back."

Moss is not the only British-based played to be included in the squad for the first leg in Bridgetown on 22 March and the return leg in Charlotte Amalie four days later.

Emmerson Boyce, Wigan Athletic's FA Cup-winning captain in 2013, has been capped seven times by Barbados and is the national team skipper.

Boyce, 35, is unavailable for the first leg - Wigan host Bolton Wanderers in the Championship the previous day - but the Barbados Football Association is hopeful he will join up for the second leg.

"It would be great for us if he could come out for the game," Moss said of Boyce.

"He's obviously played at a really high level in England and he's our captain and he's a great leader."

Moss is the first Colwyn Bay player since 1930 to win senior international honours and he will miss games against Harrogate Town and Brackley while on World Cup duty.
International Seagulls

John Neal in 1930 was the last Colwyn Bay player before Moss to be capped at senior international level. The Football League refused to allow clubs to release players for internationals if it clashed with a League game. Welsh selectors were forced to pick home based players, including Llandudno-born Neal. The team dubbed 'the Unknowns' and captained by Cardiff City's Fred Keenor gained a 1-1 draw against Scotland at Glasgow's Ibrox Park in October 1930. Neal won his second and final cap in the next match, a 4-0 defeat by England in Wrexham the following month.

Club versus country dilemmas are usually the preserve of top-flight players and Moss admits his international call-up has come at a difficult time with the north Wales side struggling in the Conference North.

"It's going to be hard leaving Colwyn Bay and missing two very important games," said Moss, who spent a four-month spell playing for Ventura County Fusion in the United States Premier Development League.

"We've struggled this year but we've got a good team and good team spirit and everyone at the club is still confident we can get ourselves out of trouble.

"But this was an opportunity I couldn't say no to. I'm at that point in my career where I can't afford to turn down these opportunities.

"Playing for Barbados is something that I really enjoy doing and I want to play as many games as I can and hopefully help the team as much as I can."

UPDATE: Moss will miss the two games after suffering an injury during training ahead of Sunday's first leg.

"The doctor has ruled me out for 4-6 weeks with a Achilles injury. That is football I'm afraid," Moss said.

US Virgin Islands won the first leg 1-0 in Bridgetown but Barbados won 4-0 to advance to the next round where they will face Aruba in June
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: vb on June 07, 2015, 12:20:34 PM
Coach Shabazz names squad for St Vincent World Cup qualifier
Guyana Chronicle


FOUR days before Guyana kick off their 2018 World Cup aspirations against St Vincent and The Grenadines, Head Coach Jamaal Shabazz yesterday named his 21 man-squad that will tomorrow wing out to Kingstown.

The two teams will face off at the Arnos Vale Stadium on Wednesday June 10, then in the return fixture at the Guyana National Stadium four days later.

In a change to previous qualification tournaments, CONCACAF decided that the first three rounds will be played as knockout rounds, with both the fourth round and the final round (referred to as ‘The Hexagonal’) played as group stages.

Thirty eight players (38) were called by Shabazz and according to the Golden Jaguars coach, coming up with the final squad to travel for the first leg, was a difficult task.

Shabazz added that each player showed commitment and worked hard for the right to be selected.

Meanwhile, Shabazz pointed out that midfield maestro Clive Nobrega, who had picked up a Red Card in Guyana’s 1 – 0 International Friendly lost to Suriname in Paramaribo last month will miss the first leg of the qualifier due to the infraction .

Of the team that played in the 2014 qualifier that reached the penultimate round, Christopher Nurse, Ricky Shakes, goalkeeper Derrick Carter, Vurlon Mills, Collin Nelson, Trayon Bobb, Walter Moore, Jamaal Smith and Dwaine Jacobs are the only returning players with Shabazz crafting a younger side.

The Squad: Akel Clarke and Derrick Carter (GK), Defenders: Matthew Briggs, Collin Nelson, Jamaal Smith, Adrian Butters, Samuel Cox and Dwain Jacobs. Midfield: Vurlon Mills, Ricky Shakes, Brandon Beresford, Christopher Nurse (Captain), Kanata Manning, Trayon Bobb, Walter Moore, Eon Alleyne, Neil Danns. Forwards: Emery Welshman, Sheldon Holder, Marcel Barrington and Daniel Wilson.

Head Coach: Jamaal Shabazz
Asst. Coach: Wayne Dover
Goalkeeping Coach: Andrew Hazel
Equipment Manager: Trevor Burnett
Managers: Mark Xavier and Faizal Khan
Trainer: Anson Ambrose
Physiotherapist: Duane Saunders and Beverley Nelson
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 07, 2015, 04:26:20 PM
(http://laprensa16.doap.us/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2015/06/Alineaciones-NIC-SURINAM.jpg)
The expected lineups for today's encounter.

Kick-off: 8:00pm T&T time.
Nicaragua: coached by Henry Duarte (Costa Rica)
Surinam: coached by Dean Gorre (Surinam)
Referee: Javier Santos (Puerto Rico)
Viewing: should be available at the usual links.

Nicaragua is trying to put forward a new face following the issues it had with match-fixing in recent years. One of its players is supposedly on the verge of becoming the first Nicaraguan to move from the local league to a European league (the skipper, Juan Barrera) with a signing by Austrian Bundesliga team,  Cashpoint SC Rheindorf Altach, who will be involved in the Europa League's third qualifying round commencing July 2015.

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 07, 2015, 07:24:31 PM
Just tuned in. Nicaragua is up 1-0 at about 64 minutes.

http://www.rojadirecta.me/goto/azulyblanco.co/stream3.php

UPDATE: Final score Nicaragua 1 Surinam 0. Goal at 43' by Chavarria off a deflected cross. Surinam looked poor, offered nothing going forward, and were intent on resolving any Nicaraguan possession with rash interventions. Reports indicate Nicaragua should have been up by 2 or 3 goals.

The return leg will take place on Tuesday, June 16 in Paramaribo, Surinam.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 09, 2015, 08:38:50 PM
An unlikely hero for Belize
FIFA.com


Belize needed a new hero against the Cayman Islands. The biggest name in the nation’s football, jet-heeled striker Deon McCaulay, was absent. So the job fell to an unlikely campaigner.

The humble Elroy Kuylen, a sturdy veteran, stepped reluctantly into the shock of the spotlight. “When you’re chasing history, someone has to step up,” the 31-year-old midfield grafter told FIFA.com about Belize’s unsteady start to 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ qualifying.

Belize are outsiders compared to Central American neighbours Costa Rica and Honduras – and even Panama. But these minnows are on the march, steadily improving their football and climbing the CONCACAF pyramid on both club and country fronts. Their biggest star, McCaulay, wasn’t called up for the games against the Caymans, left instead in Atlanta, Georgia where he plays with the Silverbacks of the North American Soccer League, USA’s second professional tier.

No Deon, no goals

“Oh man, did we miss Deon,” said Kuylen, who played two years in Honduras before landing at local club giants Belmopan Bandits. “If we get him through five times, you know he’ll score at least two. That’s a guarantee."

McCaulay scored 11 goals in the Brazil 2014 qualifiers to finish top of the global strikers’ table above Luis Suarez, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. “You can’t teach his kind of composure,” Kuylen said, a clear respect for his country's all-time top scorer.

McCaulay is held in high esteem, but there was nothing he could do all those miles away in the USA. Without him, the goals dried up. The Caymans slammed the door shut and earned a 0-0 draw in the first leg in Belmopan. Jitters set in among McCaulay’s replacements in the frontline. Jarett Davis and Daniel Jimenez carved out chances, but never looked like scoring.

“The Caymans played defence the whole time,” said Kuylen, with a gentle voice and calm manner. “We created so many chances, but without Deon we couldn’t finish.” In the second leg, in George Town, Kuylen knew his side needed a goal. “That would probably be enough,” he said.

Kuylen is a midfielder without flash. “He’s a hard worker,” said Brazil-born Belize coach Jorge Nunez. “He’ll push until there’s nothing left.” He’s also the team’s free-kick specialist. He stays behind after training and curls his best efforts toward the corners. When Belize went down 1-0 after five minutes, the idea of set-pieces began to gather like a storm cloud in the midfielder’s mind.

“I practice them all the time; you can believe that,” said Kuylen, who hails from Orange Walk Town in the sugar-producing heart of Belize. "I take all the free-kicks for my club and for the national team too. My coaches make sure there’s time for me to take at least 30 or 40 after practice so I’ll be ready when the time comes.”

When the time did come, the pressure was on. Belize were on the verge of going out at the first hurdle; they were scoreless in 110 minutes of football. Kuylen stood over the ball 23 yards out on the right side of the box. He breathed deeply, remembering the twilight dead-ball sessions in Belmopan, by himself after training. How the balls curled, one after the other, into the net. He blocked out the noise of the cocky Cayman crowd.

“When the ball went in, I could breathe again,” he said of his wicked curler that went over the wall and low into the corner. Only his second goal for the national team, it sent Belize through to the next round on the slimmest margin of away goals. “I felt a wave of relief wash over me.”

Belize’s time

An outlier in Central America, the country formerly known as British Honduras has stepped up their game since putting their toes in the water of international competition in the middle 1990s. They are now a low-level contender, not to be taken lightly. An appearance in the CONCACAF Gold Cup of 2013 is a signal of that progress.

“History motivates us right now,” said Kuylen, part of a golden generation that includes goalkeeper Shane Orio and free-scoring McCaulay. “History lasts forever, you know, and we want to make it. We want to open doors for the young boys coming behind. It’s our time now in Belize,” he added sombrely, remembering when his country were easy-beats, walkovers.

Belize next face a stern test in the form of the Dominican Republic, another side on the up in the lower reaches of the CONCACAF pyramid. McCaulay will be back, a relief to all in the team. “We’re working on our system for the Dominican series,” Kuylen said, coyly.

That system will likely include feeding the ball through the channels to the clinical McCaulay. But quiet hero Kuylen will keep practicing his free-kicks in the fading sun of the Belmopan twilight, just in case. 
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 09, 2015, 08:49:32 PM
Antigua and Barbuda: MLS great Nowak's new Caribbean calling
FIFA.com


Piotr Nowak isn’t often accused of being laid-back. As a player in his native Poland, then in Germany’s top flight, and later as one of MLS’ all-time greats, his grit bordered on ferocity. It makes the 50-year-old’s current coaching post, in the sun-soaked Caribbean, all the more curious.

“People have the wrong idea about me,” the former Poland captain told FIFA.com, the island breezes of Antigua and Barbuda whistling through the telephone receiver. “All that yelling, it’s just passion.”

Nowak played his football on the edge. He was a playmaker with a physical alter ego, and he fed off the intensity of a game-day. He grew up in the structure of the old Eastern Bloc and became the ultimate competitor. Nowak, with stern jaw and stocky build, was the consummate professional.

When he coached the USA’s Olympic team in Beijing in 2008 and MLS sides DC United and Philadelphia Union, he stalked the touchline like a man possessed. This bristly personality might have been the cue for aggravation when he arrived in Antigua and Barbuda last year.

Island time

“He had some guidelines, let’s just say,” said veteran Antigua and Barbuda goalkeeper Molvin James of his new coach, a smile in his voice. The hero of the Benna Boys side that knocked Haiti out of World Cup qualifying for Brazil 2014 speaks of Nowak with genuine affection. “He wants us in early and up early. Ten o’clock team breakfast means 10 o’clock– not 10:15! We all show up ten minutes early now!”

Nowak won’t deny laying down the law. “I noticed that time is a fluid thing here on the islands,” said the 1996 Polish player of the year. “I had to make some rules about it. Maybe not everyone loved that.”

But that’s where the collisions between Nowak and the local boys ended. It was less a culture shock and more a cultural exchange – a mutual respect between an old pro and a group of hopefuls from a place with little pedigree in the game. Nowak speaks of his players, mostly part-timers, with warmth and charity. “I want to show them the way, to help them understand that today you might be here in the leagues but tomorrow you can be at Real Madrid or Liverpool!”

“He’s a great guy,” said Javorn Stevens. At 17, he’s one of Antigua’s budding stars in attack, singled out for a bright future by Nowak. “I think maybe he sees something special in me, but I know he wants us all to do something with our lives and to know this is our time,” added Stevens, who will likely line up alongside all-time top scorer, Pete ‘Big Pete’ Byers, in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Your time

Nowak makes it clear that what’s going on in Antigua and Barbuda is not about him. “My career’s over,” he scoffed. “You don’t see the coach holding up the cup when a team wins something. It’s about the players!”

The Antiguans play their first Russia 2018 qualifier midweek against island neighbors St Lucia at home. What’s most important for Nowak is that his men recognise the opportunity before them.

“I don’t want a team of little Nowaks,” he said, eager to clarify the situation. “I am demanding, yes, but I don’t want to break the spirit of these players, I want them to express themselves. I want them to know this is their time, for themselves and their country.”

Nowak’s voice turns soft. “I admire the hell out of these guys,” he said of the local lads who train before and after work, or a long day of school. “They don’t have much to eat, but they never complain. ‘Let’s keep going’ they say at the end of training. It’s tough life, but they push through with a smile.”

A smattering of England-based players will join the squad before kick-off against St Lucia. It represents a small problem for Nowak. “I need them to know they can’t just waltz in and be the boss,” he said of the England-based players, most from the lower leagues. “They have to respect the team here, and respect what we’re doing.”

Discipline, for a wiser, older Nowak, is about playing the right way. “He doesn’t want us to bang the ball up the field and chase after it,” said James, the goalkeeper getting set to take part in his third FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign. “And he’s actually a pretty relaxed guy. He comes right up to us to tell us what he wants – he doesn’t shout in front of everyone and try to embarrass us. We listen to what he says.”
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 09, 2015, 09:41:19 PM
Playing for blood in St. Kitts
FIFA.com


(http://img.fifa.com/mm/photo/tournament/competition/02/59/10/12/2591012_full-lnd.jpg)

Atiba Harris gets stopped when he walks the streets in Basseterre. People put arms around the man and snap selfies. “It’s a friendly place,” Harris told FIFA.com, eager to deflect the adulation he receives. But he’s the best footballer ever to hail from St. Kitts and Nevis. The tall, lean striker who wears an easy smile is a favourite football son.

Harris left the two-island nation, with a population of under 60,000, when he was just 17. When he went to play in Spain, it was his first time away from home, away from the parish of St Peter’s near Monkey Hill. He was the first – and still the only – Kittitian to play professionally in Spain. “I didn’t know anybody,” he said of his spell in Cadiz, admitting to missing the openness and good humour that suffuse his home.

“Everyone’s happy here,” said Harris, who now splits his time between Dallas, Texas, where he lines up for FC Dallas, and his native Basseterre. “I try to get back down at least once a year,” added the man who, unsurprisingly, captains his national team, the Sugar Boyz.

Home and away

While an icon on his home islands in the Caribbean, Harris is a journeyman in Major League Soccer, where he’s bounced around from club to club since 2005. He’s played for six teams in nine seasons, often as a utility man off the bench. His versatility makes him useful. Harris has the speed and sense to play out wide or up front as a No9. He’s a proper professional, but he’s no star in MLS. While he’s lived in six of its cities, Harris doesn’t get recognized much on the streets of America.

Currently in his second stint with FC Dallas, Harris is having a renaissance. He had his most successful season at the Texan club in 2009 when they reached their first MLS Cup. And when he was let go by San Jose Earthquakes last year, he was brought back to Dallas. Now 30, Harris has grabbed a starting role in the side that currently sit second in the Western Conference. He’s started five of six games in the young season, earning the faith of coach Oscar Pareja and shaking off the after-effects of a knee injury that saw him miss an entire season in 2011.

“I’m happy in Dallas,” he said, talking of his home away from home. “My family is happy there and we’re scoring and winning games.”

While Dallas may be the place where Harris earns his daily bread, St. Kitts and Nevis is his home. It’s the place where his heart finds peace. “St. Kitts is like a family,” said the skipper, who made his national team debut at the tender age of 15. “It’s different here. People smile more. You run into friends from when you were a kid.”

Last time Harris was home, in late March, he helped his national team progress to the next round of 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ qualifying with a commanding performance in a 6-2 win over neighbours Turks and Caicos Islands. But, ever the professional, he had gripes at the end. “The result was good for us,” said Harris, who scored the opening goal. “But we should have scored more and I don’t like that we conceded the two. I’m not too happy with that.”

Professional standards

Harris, who flew back to Dallas before the second leg (also won 6-2 – aggregate 12-4), clearly takes his responsibilities as captain of his country seriously. It’s unlikely that St. Kitts, who’ve never reached a World Cup or even a CONCACAF Gold Cup, will run too deep into the qualifying stages. But that’s not the point.

“When you’re playing for your country, especially when you’re captain, you’re not playing for money,” said Harris, who is first cousin to former England international Micah Richards. “You’re representing your mom and your dad, your grandma and granddad. There’s urgency. It’s all closer to your heart.”

And much like any other family, expectations are high at home. “In the stadium down here you can hear every shout,” he said with a chuckle. “You feel pressure. The people expect goals, no matter what,” added Harris. “They want us to entertain them and to win, no matter who we play – Turks and Caicos or USA.”

The next challenge for little St. Kitts and Nevis is a date with El Salvador in June. The Central Americans are giants by comparison, sitting 27 places above the Sugar Boyz in the world ranking and having played in the World Cup finals of 1970 and 1982. They recently stretched Argentina in a friendly too, losing only 2-0 to the 2014 World Cup runners-up. But when you’re playing for family, anything’s possible, according to captain Harris. “This is blood down here,” he said, pride welling. “You can’t let your family down."
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 10, 2015, 08:14:42 AM
“It’s never easy playing against these little Caribbean countries. They’re unorthodox and you never know what to expect. We can’t play down to their level. We have to kill them off and that has to be our mindset.”

--- Canada midfielder Patrice Bernier, with roots in Haiti, on the Canucks’ opener with Dominica.

CONCACAF’s road to Russia continues (http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/news/y=2015/m=6/news=concacaf-s-road-to-russia-continues-2639618.html?intcmp=fifacom_hp_module_news)
(fifa.com)


Russia 2018 qualifying continues in CONCACAF this week with a host of new combatants joining the fray to take on the winners of the previous round. Canada, El Salvador and Cuba, all FIFA World Cup™ participants from the past, will all be in action.

The big game
St. Kitts and Nevis – El Salvador, Warner Park, Basseterre
El Salvador enter qualifying with a team hoping to recapture the glory days of 1970 and 1982, when the Central Americans reached the finals of the World Cup. The current side, under coach Albert Roca, is full of budding talent and even managed a respectable 2-0 loss against Lionel Messi’s Argentina in a recent friendly. But St. Kitts and Nevis are one of the Caribbean teams on the up. Led by captain and MLS veteran Atiba Harris, the Kittians play a speedy and attacking style. “El Salvador is tough, but so are we,” said Harris, who scored in the 12-4 aggregate win over Turks and Caicos. “There are a lot similarities between football in Central America and the Caribbean.”

In other action
Cuba travel to Willemstad to take on a Curacao side coached by former Netherlands and Barcelona forward Patrick Kluivert. The Cubans warmed up with a friendly in Havana against New York Cosmos of the USA’s second tier NASL.

Their 4-1 defeat seems to indicate there’s some work to be done ahead of the opener, when captain Yeniel
Marquez will lead the Cubans in his fifth attempt at qualifying.

Antigua and Barbuda play both legs of their series against St. Lucia on home soil. Known as the Benna Boys, the Antiguans knocked out Haiti in Brazil 2014 qualifying and are hoping to repeat similar heroics this time out under new coach Piotr Nowak, a former Poland captain and MLS legend with Chicago Fire.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines take on Guyana while Aruba play their first game of the campaign against a
Barbados side known for their physical play, but who struggled against minnows US Virgin Islands in the first
round. The Barbadians will once again lean on the experience of captain and Wigan Athletic veteran Emmerson

Belize had a rough go of it against the Cayman Islands in their first-round series, but they are still favourites to get results against the Dominican Republic, especially with the return of their star man Deon McCaulay.

Canada begin their campaign with a tricky test against lowly ranked Dominica. A team made up exclusively of
professionals, the Canucks might feel the pressure against a group of island part-timers giving it their unorthodox all.

Central American hopefuls Guatemala take on Bermuda, who beat the Bahamas in their first round game, while Puerto Rico and Grenada clash to round out the field which opened on 7 June with Nicaragua edging out Suriname 1-0 at home in Managua

Player to watch
Most in the camp agreed on the reason why Belize struggled against the Cayman Islands: The absence of star
striker Deon McCaulay. He scored 11 goals in Brazil 2014 qualifying to finish above Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez in the official scorers’ table. “If we get him through five times, you know he’ll score at least two.

That’s a guarantee," said a relieved Elroy Kuylen, who bagged Belize’s only goal in the first round with a superb freekick.

Did you know?
Atiba Harris, St. Kitts and Nevis skipper and widely regarded as the islands’ best-ever player, has football running through his veins. England international Micah Richards is his first cousin, and the two played pick-up games together when the Fiorentina defender visited his ancestral home of St. Kitts as a young boy.

The number
17 - The number of players from club side Antigua Barracuda FC who played in the Antigua and Barbuda national team during Brazil 2014 qualifying. Now, though, that number is zero. Barracuda, who played in the lower leagues of the USA’s professional hierarchy and were plagued by a demanding travel schedule, disbanded after losing every game of their final season.

What they said
“It’s never easy playing against these little Caribbean countries. They’re unorthodox and you never know what to expect. We can’t play down to their level. We have to kill them off and that has to be our mindset.” Canada
midfielder Patrice Bernier, with roots in Haiti, on the Canucks’ opener with Dominica.

CONCACAF second round (first legs) for Russia 2018

7 June
Nicaragua 1-0 Suriname

10 June
St. Vincent and the Grenadines-Guyana
Antigua and Barbuda-St. Lucia
Curacao-Cuba
Aruba-Barbados

11 June
Dominican Republic-Belize
Dominica-Canada
St. Kitts and Nevis-El Salvador

12 June
Guatemala-Bermuda
Puerto Rico-Grenada

* Return legs of the second-round series will take place between 14 and 16 June
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 10, 2015, 03:48:56 PM
Bolton midfielder Neil Danns' World Cup dreams scuppered by passport problems
Matt Lewis (Mirror)


Four English-based footballers have had their World Cup dreams put on hold due to passport problems.

Bolton’s Neil Danns, former Millwall full-back Matthew Briggs, Leicester’s Marcel Barrington and Boreham Wood midfielder Sam Cox have been training with Guyana in the hope of making their competitive debuts.

The Golden Jaguars are due to play St Vincent and the Grenadines in a 2018 qualifier later today but the foursome were unable to travel to the islands with the rest of the squad after failing to acquire their citizenship in time.

Boss Jamaal Shabazz hopes the Guyanese FA and government can get passports issued for the quartet in time for the second leg on Sunday but has had to make late changes for the opener in the Caribbean.

Boreham Wood skipper Sam Cox confirmed: "Will not be at the game against St.Vincent today. Gutted & disappointed that the passport situation hasn't been sorted in time.

"Hopefully will be sorting out Passports in time for the 2nd leg."

Guyana, ranked 158th in the world by FIFA, were last in action in March when they beat Grenada 2-0 in a friendly.

Meanwhile, St Vincent and the Grenadines are currently 112th, lying above Moldova, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Malta.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 10, 2015, 03:51:49 PM
St. Vincent and The Grenadines and Guyana played to a 2-2 draw today in the first leg of CONCACAF Second Round qualifying.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 10, 2015, 07:01:29 PM
At the end of play, a few minutes ago, St. Lucia defeated Antigua and Barbuda in Antigua by a margin of three goals to one in the first leg of CONCACAF Second Round qualifying. Antigua and Barbuda 1 St. Lucia 3.

Meanwhile, at half time:

Aruba 0 Barbados 2

Curacao 0 Cuba 0

UPDATE: Both matches end as at the half. Players red-carded in both games (one from Barbados and one from Curacao).

(http://nos.nl/data/image/2015/06/11/165698/xxl.jpg)
The card issued to Gianluca Maria of Curacao.

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 11, 2015, 01:32:50 AM
World Cup defeat for Marvin
VitalFootball.Co.UK


York City full-back Marvin McCoy started for Antigua & Barbuda in their World Cup Second Qualifying Round first-leg 3-1 defeat to St. Lucia at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. The 26-year-old Walthamstow-born defender was awarded his eighth international cap when being selected by his country for the first time in three years. However, it was Tevaughn Harriette giving the hosts the advantage midway through the opening half, although Tremain Paul swiftly equalised for St. Lucia five minutes later.

The Benna Boys certainly pushed hard to reclaim their lead after the break and missed a couple of excellent opportunities through goalscorer Harriette and Peter Byers before David Henry netted a second for the visitors against the run of play. And worse was to follow for Antigua & Barbuda with late substitute Troy Greenidge heading a crucial third away goal for the underdogs in added time.

The two sides meet again at the same venue in the return clash on Sunday for a place in the third round.

Antigua and Barbuda: Molvin James, McCoy, Peters, Murtagh (Brown 62), Jahraldo-Martin (Stevens 62), Harriette, Thomas (Romeo 76), Peter Byers, John, Akeem Thomas, Parker

subs (unused): Brentton Muhammad, Kieran Richards, Tumwa, Zaine Francis-Angol, Eugene Kirwan, McDonald, Burton, Beckles, Lockhart

Goals: Harriette (21)

St Lucia: Poloen, Joseph, Frederick, Paul, Charles (Mullarkey 90), Henry (Joseph 84), Edward, Joseph, Hunte, Polius (Greenidge 90), St. Prix

subs (unused): Thomas, Emmanuel, Altidore, Deterville, Louis, Reid

Goals: Paul (26), Charles (61), Greenidge (90)

Ref: K. Ward (St Kitts & Nevis)

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 11, 2015, 08:09:57 AM
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CHL9bPDUAAA3lSa.jpg)
Barbados celebrating its 2-0 victory in Aruba. Emmerson Boyce (Wigan Athletic) scored both goals (18', 28').
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: vb on June 11, 2015, 02:54:17 PM

[b]Russia 2018 World Cup Qualifier Wilson, Beresford score as Golden Jags and St Vincent draw
June 10,
2015[/b](http://guyanachronicle.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Guyana-Team.jpg)

GUYANA, playing in their first Russia 2018 World Cup Qualifier, drew 2-2 with St Vincent and the Grenadines at the Arnos Vale Stadium in Kingstown, thanks to goals from Daniel Wilson and Brandon Beresford on either side of play. Beresford put the Golden Jaguars in the lead in the 26th minute when the young talented midfield player easily placed a well-placed shot past St Vincent custodian Winslow McDowall.
The Jaguars pressed forward, hunting another goal but luck was not on their side as they closed the half holding a 1-0 lead.
However, the home side equalised through their dapper forward Cornelius Stewart, who is well known to Guyana head coach Jamaal Shabazz, given the fact that the Vincentian had played with Caledonia AIA in the TT Pro-League.
The 25-year-old Stewart had troubled Guyana’s defence several times in the first half and finally got past Akel Clarke in the 51st minute to equalise for St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Both sides were guilty of not capitalising on their chances on goal, but Guyana, in the 75th minute through Wilson got the icebreaker.
Wilson, who plays locally with Alpha United lashed on to ‘through ball’ and the 21-year-old forward calmly patted his effort past an outstretched McDowall.

With victory in sight, the Christopher Nurse-captained side were cautious in their play but the defence caved in after pressure from the ‘Vincy Heat’ whose second-half substitute Tevin Slater equalised, just before the end of regulation and full time, ending in a draw.
The result means that Guyana, in their return leg on Sunday, June 14 at the Guyana National Stadium, will only need a goalless or 1-1 result to advance to the next round of qualifiers, thanks to their two crucial away goals.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: vb on June 11, 2015, 03:00:46 PM

Dominica vs. Canada | World Cup Qualifying Match Preview
JUNE 9, 2015
Daniel Squizzato
MLSsoccer.com



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CANADA vs. DOMINICA
Thursday, June 11, 7 pm ET
Windsor Park, Roseau, Dominica
TV: none

Canada’s quest towards Russia 2018 is set to begin in the same way as its last few World Cup qualifying campaigns – in the early CONCACAF rounds, against an obscure and (almost certainly) overmatched opponent.

But Canadian fans are desperately hoping that this campaign will end a bit differently than the last few have.

It’s assumed that this home-and-away series (the second leg is at BMO Field on June 16) will be a cakewalk for Benito Floro’s side, with many observers already casting their gaze toward the semifinal round (Canada’s terminus in the last four qualifying cycles), set to kick off in November.

But Floro has been careful not to overlook this matchup with the tiny Caribbean island, currently ranked No. 168 in the world. He has named a nearly full-strength roster and said earlier this month that “we need to play both games with a lot of intensity and I hope my players understand the situation, because it would be very, very bad if we don’t play well.”

Get more CanMNT news here
Indeed it would, given that Canada—who’ve recently moved up to No. 109 in the world—has found ways to slip up against minnows in the past. Under Floro, however, the team appears to be more organized and confident than in the past, which has some fans wondering whether he might be the one to lead them to the final round of CONCACAF qualifying (aka “the Hex”) for the first time since the 1998 World Cup cycle.

Before any of that, however, there is Dominica—and, beyond Dominica, another home-and-away series in September.

Roster notes: Atiba Hutchinson has been ruled out of both legs against Dominica with a leg injury. Meanwhile, FC Edmonton defender Mallan Roberts has replaced Dejan Jakovic, who is also dealing with an injury.

Broadcast note: The game will not be broadcast on Canadian television. There is the possibility of a web stream, but the logistics will not be known until matchday. The Canadian Soccer Association will provide updates via Twitter, @CanadaSoccerEN.

HISTORY

In terms of history between the two teams, there is none. This series will be the first two matches between Canada and Dominica.

Now, if you’re talking World Cup history – well, there’s also close to none. Canada’s only appearance in the FIFA World Cup was in 1986, though they came agonizingly close to qualifying for USA ’94 (losing to Australia on penalty kicks in an intercontinental play-off). In their most recent qualifying campaign, heading into Brazil 2014… well, let’s just agree not to talk about that, shall we?

As for Dominica, this will be just their sixth World Cup qualifying campaign. The second round of CONCACAF qualifying is the farthest they’ve ever gone, posting an all-time record of three wins, four draws and 11 losses in World Cup qualifying.

READ: Orlando City's Larin coming into qualifiers with confidence
CANADA OUTLOOK

With a new cycle comes new hope. And while Canada has spent much of the last two and a half years fumbling in the wilderness, after unceremoniously crashing out of their last World Cup qualifying campaign, things actually appear to be coming together at the right time for Floro and company.

After an unconscionably abysmal 2013, in which Canada had zero wins and just one goal in 13 games, things began turning around in 2014, when Canada lost just once in five friendlies. So far in 2015, Canada has turned in a pair of creditable performances against Iceland (a 1-1 draw and a 2-1 loss) and posted victories over Guatemala and Puerto Rico.

If the Canadians can, as expected, earn two more wins against Dominica, they’ll ride into this summer’s CONCACAF Gold Cup on their first four-game winning streak since 2009. (Cosmic coincidence: Part of that streak came during the 2009 Gold Cup, in which Canada finished first in a group that included Costa Rica, Jamaica and El Salvador—the exact same teams they’ll be lined up against in the 2015 tournament).

Spirits have also been boosted by two fresh faces appearing on the roster: Will Johnson, who hasn’t been with the Canadian team in nearly two years, and Tesho Akindele, the Calgary-born FC Dallas striker who has just now committed to represent the nation of his birth.

READ: Predicting Canada's 23-man Gold Cup roster
DOMINICA OUTLOOK

Dominica—whose all-time high in the FIFA rankings was No. 128, back in February 2011—actually comes into this match with a bit of momentum.

After defeating the British Virgin Islands (ranked No. 194) 3-2 on aggregate in the first round of CONCACAF qualifying back in March, Dominica played a trio of friendlies against fellow Caribbean teams in order to prepare for the Canadian showdown. They ended up with a 2-1 win over Grenada (No. 160), a 1-1 draw with Saint Lucia (No. 136) and a 1-0 loss to St. Vincent and the Grenadines (No. 112).

All of this being said, the team’s outlook for World Cup qualification is exceedingly bleak; barring one of the most monumental upsets in soccer history, this is where the road will end for Dominica.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Canada – Tesho Akindele – Who else? The 2014 MLS Rookie of the Year bucked the trend and, when faced with a decision of whether to play for Canada or a higher-ranked country (in this case, the US), he actually chose Canada!

His commitment couldn’t have come at a better time, as the recent retirement of all-time leading scorer Dwayne De Rosario has opened the door for someone to step up and put the ball in the back of the net for Canada. Against Dominica, Akindele will get his first chance to show whether or not he’ll live up to the hype.

Get more international soccer news here
Dominica – Julian Wade – One of just two members of this roster to be playing professionally outside of Dominica at the moment, the 24-year-old striker has four goals in 12 appearances for his national team.

ROSTERS

Canada

GOALKEEPERS (3): Milan Borjan (Radnički Nis/Serbia); Lars Hirschfeld (Vålerenga/Norway); Kenny Stamatopoulos (AIK/Sweden)

DEFENDERS (7): Nana Attakora (San Antonio Scorpions); Manjrekar James (Pécsi MFC/Hungary); Mallan Roberts (FC Edmonton); Ashtone Morgan (Toronto FC); Karl W. Ouimette (New York Red Bulls); David Edgar (Birmingham City FC/England); Nik Ledgerwood (Energie Cottbus/Germany)

MIDFIELDERS (8): Adam Straith (Fredrikstad FK/Norway); Maxim Tissot (Impact de Montréal); Julian de Guzman (Ottawa Fury FC); Atiba Hutchinson (Besiktas/Turkey); Will Johnson (Portland Timbers); Jonathan Osorio (Toronto FC); Samuel Piette (Deportivo la Coruña; Spain); Russell Teibert (Vancouver Whitecaps FC)

FORWARDS (5):  Tosaint Ricketts (Hapoel Haifa/Israel); Tesho Akindele (FC Dallas); Randy Edwini-Bonsu (Stuttgarter Kickers/Germany); Marcus Haber (Crewe Alexandra/England); Cyle Larin (Orlando City SC)

Dominica

GOALKEEPERS (3): Glenson Prince (San Juan Jabloteh/Trinidad); Owen Oscar (Kensbro FC/Dominica); Raleighson Pascal (unattached)

DEFENDERS (8): Aldrin Lawrence (Portsmouth Bombers/Dominica); Darlton Bannis (unattached); Kervin Lawrence (unattached); Kurtney Mckenzie (unattached); Malcolm Joseph (Club Old Fort Road/Dominica); Malyan Philip (Southeast SC/Dominica); Hubert Prince (Centre Bath Estate/Dominica); Egbert Walsh (unattached)

MIDFIELDERS (9): Joslyn Prince (Southeast FC/Dominica); Naielle Lee (Centre Bath Estate/Dominica); Chad Bertrand (Dublanc FC/Dominica); Glensworth Elizee (Portsmouth Bombers/Dominica); Scottie Phillip (Southeast FC/Dominica); Sidney Lockhart (Southeast SC/Dominica); Travis Joseph (Dublanc FC/Dominica); Briel Thomas (Dublanc FC/Dominica); Anfernee Frederick (unattached)

FORWARDS (4): Mitchell Joseph (Centre Bath Estate/Dominica); Julian Wade (Slingerz FC/Guyana); Randolph Peltier (Pointe Michel FC/Dominica); Bert Casimir (unattached)
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 11, 2015, 04:16:27 PM
https://www.youtube.com/v/-j3HNRKKmrE#t=11

At the end of play today, Belize defeated the Dominican Republic 2-1 in the first leg of CONCACAF Second Round qualifying.

Belize: Dean McCaulay (13', 88')

Dominican Republic: Lombardi (71')

EDIT: See this link (http://edition.channel5belize.com/archives/114720) for a transcript of the TV report on the game.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 11, 2015, 07:39:15 PM
Canada defeated the Dominica 2-0 in the first leg of CONCACAF Second Round qualifying played in Dominica.

Canada: Larin and Teibert (5' and 63'). Borjan was ejected for Canada at 82'.

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 11, 2015, 07:41:33 PM
In a telling turn of events, St. Kitts and Nevis presently lead El Salvador 2-1 with about 15 minutes left in regulation time ... after trailing 1-0.

UPDATE: 2-2 Final score.

El Salvador equalized through Bonilla at 88'. Other Salvadoran goal came at 40' via Herrera.

St Kitts and Nevis scored through Mitchum and Sawyers, 3 minutes within each other at 68' and 71'.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 12, 2015, 06:32:20 AM
Canada defeats Dominica in men's 2018 World Cup qualifier
The Canadian Press.


(http://i.cbc.ca/1.3110508.1434079562!/fileImage/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/16x9_620/larin-cyle.jpg)
Larin who opened the scoring in the fifth minute after receiving a through ball from Tosaint Ricketts in the right side of the box.

The Canadian men's soccer team downed Dominica 2-0 on Thursday in the first leg of a home-and-away series in the second CONCACAF preliminary round of qualifying for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Cyle Larin and Russell Teibert scored for Canada, which can advance to CONCACAF's third round of qualifying with a win, draw or one-goal loss in the second leg.

"I think we played a very good game," said Canadian head coach Benito Floro. "We proposed that we would be serious in this game and to play Dominica with a lot of respect. We developed a strong pressing game, and at the same time we had at least 12 or 13 scoring chances."

Larin opened the scoring in the fifth minute after receiving a through ball from Tosaint Ricketts in the right side of the box. Teibert doubled Canada's lead in the 64th minute on a penalty kick.

"It was very important to get an early goal and settle into the game and put them on the back foot early," said Larin. "It was good for us."

Canada goalkeeper Milan Borjan was sent off in the 80th minute for deliberately handling a goal-bound shot outside the box after Jonathan de Guzman turned the ball over to give Dominica a breakaway. Borjan, who will be suspended for the second leg, was replaced in goal Kenny Stamatopolous.

Canada, ranked 109th in the world, hosts the second leg against the 168th ranked Dominicans in Toronto at BMO Field on June 16.

Should the Canadians advance after the second leg, they will move on to the third round of CONCACAF qualification. That stage will see 10 second-round winners join Jamaica and Haiti -- the seventh and eighth-seeded teams -- in six home-and-away series to be played Aug. 31 to Sept. 8.

The third-round winners will move on to the group stage -- a point the national team has failed to get past since the buildup to the 1998 World Cup.

"We'll prepare the same [for the game in Toronto] because this is the second half of the eliminatory, so we're going to play Dominica in front of our home support and we need to play very well," said Floro.

"We have to score enough goals to be happy and hopefully enough to give two or three players other chances to play, but it has to be a very good game for us."
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 12, 2015, 07:07:55 AM
(http://am-edhdep-cdn.agilecontents.com/resources/jpg/7/1/1433957993717.jpg?keepThis=true&TB_iframe=true&height=480&width=720)

St. Kitts  Nevis has reinforced its technical staff with the recent addition of Jacques Passy Kahn from Mexico. Passy was at the helm yesterday along with Jeffrey Hazel (who ran things previously) in the draw versus El Salvador. According to my source, Passy is only the 4th Mexican coach to direct a foreign team. The others are Castillo, Javier Aguirre, Carlos de Los Cobos and Bora Milutinovic (a naturalized Mexican citizen).

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CG2XKuIUgAEZ0oP.jpg)
The Kittians and Nevisians engaged in tactical prep for El Salvador.

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CG2W0pnVAAAGbrv.jpg)
Most of the technical staff.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 12, 2015, 08:38:22 AM
Listen to and view the Belizeans pre-match tactical session and post-match reactions to the DR game between 5:55 and 14:38.

Coverage of the game continues from about 1:08:20 through the end. Provides an insight into the some common challenges across CONCACAF.

https://player.vimeo.com/video/130503347

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 13, 2015, 08:43:59 AM
‘Lights out’ Bermuda given fighting chance
By Stephen Wright (The Royal Gazette)


Guatemala 0 Bermuda 0

The second-round qualifier descended into chaos when the floodlights went off at the Estadio Nacional Mateo Flores in Guatemala City last night.

The blackout occurred in the 85th minute, with the players left standing around in the dark, bemused as to what had happened.

Both teams eventually headed to the dressing room before returning to the pitch about 15 minutes later — to play the final five minutes of the second half.

Bermuda had looked set for an impressive draw against a much fancied Guatemala before the floodlight failure, and continued their obstinate display when the match finally resumed.

The visiting side had Freddy Hall — the team’s captain, in the absence of the injured Nahki Wells — to thank, with the Bermuda goalkeeper pulling off a fine save late on.

Hall needed to be at his very best throughout against Guatemala, who unsurprisingly enjoyed the bulk of possession, missed a hatful of chances and had three goals disallowed.

Bermuda showed plenty of appetite for the battle, however, with Keishen Bean forcing a save from Ricardo Jerez, the Guatemala goalkeeper, with a free header that the midfielder probably should have done better with.

Andrew Bascome, the Bermuda coach, said before the game that it would be “beautiful” should his side return home with a fighting chance of advancing to the third round.

His battling players achieved far more than that last night, with an inspiring performance against a side ranked 33 positions above them in the Fifa world rankings, and can dare to dream of pulling off a major upset in the return leg at the National Stadium on Monday.

Bascome heaped praise upon his team for their unyielding defensive display but said his tactics would be far more expansive on home soil.

“I was very excited with the commitment and the guys stayed very organised,” Bascome said. “We kept our two blocks tight and we tried to make good use of the ball.

“Our objective was to prevent Guatemala from scoring and I have to praise the players for staying disciplined for the entire game.

“On Monday we will be in our conditions and our strategy will be a lot different.”

Mark Wade, the Bermuda Football Association vice-president, admitted that the team rode their luck at times but believed they had deserved the draw.

“The players were quietly confident that we could get something out of it,” said Wade, who attended last night’s game.

“The coach wanted the team to be hard to beat and we achieved that. We rode our luck at times but we are very happy to leave Guatemala with something.”

“Freddy [Hall] stepped up tonight and there were a lot performances that deserve praise.”

Wade said it was important the players to remained focused during the floodlight failure and admitted they had been hoping they would not come back on.

“It was quite confusing and, to be honest, we were hoping they did not come back on as [the result] would have stood.”

Monday’s match kicks off at 7.30pm.

TEAMS

Bermuda (4-5-1): F Hall — T Burgess (A Simmons, 76min), J Harvey, D Leverock, J Bather — D Ming, T Ming, R Lambe, K Bean, Z Lewis (sub: J Donawa, 61) — J Smith (sub: R Simons, 76). Substitutes not used: R Lee, D Bascome, D Eve, M Hill, L Simmons. Booked: T Ming, Burgess, Smith.

Guatemala (4-4-2): R Jerez — E Vasquez, W Lalin, M Hernández, J Márquez (sub: C Mejía, 68) — J Contreras (sub: K Herrarte, 75), M Papa, S Cincotta, M Avila (sub: M Lopez, 75) — C Ruiz, J Aparicio. Substitutes not used: V Ayala, R Morales, E Chinchilla, A Rodas, G Arias, Motta, X Castrillo, K Herrarte, D Lopez, B de Leon. Booked: Cincotta.

Referee: I Franco Sopegno (Cuba).
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 13, 2015, 08:59:49 AM
Quote
Mark Wade, the Bermuda Football Association vice-president, admitted that the team rode their luck at times but believed they had deserved the draw.

I wonder if he was referring to the image below. The way the article reads you would think the game was played without controversy. However, that's not the way the Guatemalans see it. I wouldn't be surprised if the stadium lights went out through deliberate action.

"Goal" x Marco Pappa disallowed for seemingly no reason per the Guatemalans. (https://v.cdn.vine.co/r/videos_h264high/4585624C8E1221343530418077696_SW_WEBM_143416519149428e5f89534.mp4?versionId=HHMPMUNLF0czd_Vu2MTMSCWILHT5b0Be)

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 13, 2015, 09:41:44 AM
(http://recend.apextech.netdna-cdn.com/images/tn/0/72/2000/1068/900/447/2015/06/12/201500612_rc_football_jlcc_01.jpg)

Puerto Rico beat Grenada 1-0 at the Juan Ramón Loubriel Stadium with 4,500 spectators in attendance (among them Carmelo Anthony who is the owner of Puerto Rico FC, recently announced as a 2016 participant in the NASL).

Despite the loss, both Grenada coach Anthony Modeste and captain Marc Marshall feel that PR dropped the intensity in the second half and that Grenada is capable of overcoming the gap on home soil. The Puerto Ricans concede that they dropped the intensity, but also point out that Grenada has to chase the game at home, and in doing so will likely leave space to exploit in PR's favor.

Deniz Bozkurt @ 16' for his first international goal. Puerto Rico's first victory in three years. Puerto Rico incurred four (4) yellow cards going into next Tuesday's encounter at the National Cricket Stadium in St George's. Grenada none that I am aware of ...

UPDATE: View Puerto Rico's goal here (http://forum.rojadirecta.es/showthread.php?252166)
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 13, 2015, 10:31:11 AM
Matches, CONCACAF Second Round, 2nd leg

Sunday, June 14

Barbados v. Aruba
Belize v. Dominican Republic
Cuba v. Curacao
Guyana v. St. Vincent & The Grenadines
St. Lucia v. Antigua & Barbuda

Monday, June 15

Bermuda v. Guatemala

Tuesday, June 16

Canada v. Dominica
Grenada v. Puerto Rico
El Salvador v. St. Kitts & Nevis
Surinam v. Nicaragua
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: vb on June 13, 2015, 11:11:56 AM


‘Vincy Heat’ arrive for their date with Golden Jaguars tomorrow
June 12, 2015

ST Vincent and the Grenadines National football team arrived in Guyana yesterday ahead of their date tomorrow at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, against the ‘Golden Jaguars’.The ‘Vincy Heat’ drew 2-2 with the ‘Golden Jaguars’ in their opening match of the 2018 World Cup Qualifier at the Arnos Vale Stadium last Wednesday, putting head coach Cornelius Huggins’ men in a must-win situation.
Should Guyana fail to come up with the ‘W’, the Jamaal Shabazz-led side will need to ensure that the game finishes in either a 0-0 or 1-1 draw to keep their Russia dreams alive.
“The team is ready, we know the job at hand and we have to get a win on Sunday (tomorrow)” Huggins said while speaking to the media at the Ogle International Airport.

“I think in St Vincent we were supposed to win convincingly. Once you get the opportunities you are supposed to make good of them and that’s why the game ended in a draw,” Huggins told reporters.
Guyana, through Brandon Beresford, took the lead until St Vincent star forward Cornelius Stewart equalised in the early minutes of the second half.

Ricky Shakes’ goal then gave the Guyanese the lead until Tevin Slater pulled one back for the Vincentians.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: vb on June 13, 2015, 11:26:10 AM
English quartet receive citizenship

JUNE 13, 2015 | BY KNEWS | FILED UNDER SPORTS

Englishmen Neil Danns, Matthew Briggs, Marcel Barrington and Sam Cox were all granted citizenship and is now eligible to represent Guyana in tomorrow’s return leg of their 2018 World Cup Qualifier against St Vincent

(http://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/images/2015/06/Passport-2.jpg)

(L-R) Matthew Briggs, Neil Danns, Sam Cox and Marcel Barrington proudly displaying their Guyanese Passport.
(L-R) Matthew Briggs, Neil Danns, Sam Cox and Marcel Barrington proudly displaying their Guyanese Passport.

and the Grenadines.
The two CONCACAF Nations will collide at the Guyana National Stadium and with the quartet now receiving their documents, Head Coach Jamaal Shabazz will put forward the best ‘Golden Jaguars’ line up.

Failing to be granted citizenship prevented the players from representing Guyana in Wednesday’s 2 – 2 draw in Kingstown at the Arnos Vale Sports Complex.
“We’re happy that we can now focus on getting the job done on Sunday and not have to worry if we’ll be able to play or not,” said Danns the Bolton Wanderers midfielder.

Briggs, the youngest player to ever feature in an English Premier League game (16 years and 65 days old with Fulham), stated that, “I’m glad that we finally got our documents. I was worried because we signed on to the programme to help build and push Guyana’s football to the highest level and to not play in the first game was a major disappointment. It’s nice to finally put my mind on Sunday’s game and get the result we need to advance to the next round of the World Cup Qualifiers.”

The now 24 year-old Briggs also pointed out that he’s happy players like Cox and 19 year-old English Premier League side Leicester’s forward Barrington would be able to get their first International Cap.
The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Marketing and Communication Director Rawle Toney said that the Federation is, “happy that the Government of Guyana was able to issue the players their documents in a timely manner and the GFF is grateful for their support in helping the Golden Jaguars in their quest to Russia 2018”.
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Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: vb on June 14, 2015, 03:06:48 PM
Any links for Concacaf games for today and tmrw.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 14, 2015, 03:20:49 PM
Cuba and Curacao tied at 1-1. Cuba playing with 10 due to red card. About 27 minutes of regulation time left.

UPDATE: If the result has held, Curacao is out. Still unclear what has happened.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 14, 2015, 04:35:34 PM
Belize is leading the Dominican Republic by a goal to nil at 33'. Belize is supposedly in a 4-4-2 playing the DR's 4-3-3. On present form, they are on track to move to the next round.

Update: Belize 2-0 @ the half.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: vb on June 14, 2015, 05:15:16 PM
Belize is leading the Dominican Republic by a goal to nil at 33'. Belize is supposedly in a 4-4-2 playing the DR's 4-3-3. On present form, they are on track to move to the next round.

Update: Belize 2-0 @ the half.

do you have any links?
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Trini _2026 on June 14, 2015, 05:45:39 PM
Cuba and Curacao tied at 1-1. Cuba playing with 10 due to red card. About 27 minutes of regulation time left.

UPDATE: If the result has held, Curacao is out. Still unclear what has happened.

you mean cuba is out the first game was played in curacao
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 14, 2015, 05:58:28 PM
Belize is leading the Dominican Republic by a goal to nil at 33'. Belize is supposedly in a 4-4-2 playing the DR's 4-3-3. On present form, they are on track to move to the next round.

Update: Belize 2-0 @ the half.

do you have any links?

Nah, just getting updates. Final score 3-0. Belize moves on.

All the other matches in progress are scoreless. St. Lucia is playing with 10 men. Ah hadda say, ballers in our region (the Caribbean) are reckless with getting cards.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: vb on June 14, 2015, 06:09:01 PM
Guyana vs. SVG.
Guy. down 1-2 at the half.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Trini _2026 on June 14, 2015, 06:18:58 PM
guyana would be out if they do not win
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 14, 2015, 06:25:22 PM
Cuba and Curacao tied at 1-1. Cuba playing with 10 due to red card. About 27 minutes of regulation time left.

UPDATE: If the result has held, Curacao is out. Still unclear what has happened.

you mean cuba is out the first game was played in curacao

Absolutely correct. Cuba is out. Kluivert continues his march. Was following @curacaofootball and had Curacao on the brain.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 14, 2015, 06:34:31 PM
guyana would be out if they do not win


It's now 4-2 SVG. Things look unlikely for the new passport holders.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 14, 2015, 06:37:30 PM
Antigua have scored. 1-0. But they have wuk to do. The score was 3-1 STL in Antigua.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: pull stones on June 14, 2015, 06:38:49 PM
wow! i wonder what jamal is thinking now. poor sean de silver, at least he still has a chance with barbados.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 14, 2015, 06:46:00 PM
wow! i wonder what jamal is thinking now. poor sean de silver, at least he still has a chance with barbados.

Guyana have pulled one back. 4-3.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 14, 2015, 06:47:52 PM
Antigua have scored. 1-0. But they have wuk to do. The score was 3-1 STL in Antigua.

St. Lucia have scored. Now 1-1 ... but now Lucia playing with 9. Another player red-carded. About 4' left in regulation.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 14, 2015, 06:54:01 PM
Antigua have scored. 1-0. But they have wuk to do. The score was 3-1 STL in Antigua.

St. Lucia have scored. Now 1-1 ... but now Lucia playing with 9. Another player red-carded. About 4' left in regulation.

Antigua and Barbuda have scored again. 2-1 with 1' of regulation left.


AND GUYANA have tied it up 4-4 ....
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 14, 2015, 06:58:33 PM
Antigua score again ... 3-1 in the dregs ...game still in progress. (but FIFA website is not corroborating this info ... so ah not sure).

Update: corroborated ... but score is now 4-1.

Final score in the second leg is 4-1. Aggregate score 5-4. Antigua and Barbuda move on at St. Lucia's expense.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: vb on June 14, 2015, 07:07:03 PM
guyana would be out if they do not win


It's now 4-2 SVG. Things look unlikely for the new passport holders.

4-4

I think Guy must score 6 according to the away rule.If my math is correct.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 14, 2015, 07:08:49 PM
Guyana and SVG end up 6-6 on aggregate. SVG move on.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 14, 2015, 07:12:04 PM
With about 7 left in regulation, Barbados is 1-0 over Aruba; (3-0 aggregate).
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: pull stones on June 14, 2015, 07:14:36 PM
to hell with st lucia. they had no right to blow such a lead especially on away goals.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 14, 2015, 07:29:55 PM
Moving on to the CONCACAF Third Round following CONCACAF Second Round, 2nd leg competition on June 14, 2015

Antigua and Barbuda
Barbados
Belize
Curacao
St. Vincent & The Grenadines
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: pull stones on June 14, 2015, 07:34:37 PM
how lovely it would be if bermuda and st kitts nevis could pull off the up set against the central americans. niceness.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 14, 2015, 07:36:19 PM
Guyana and SVG end up 6-6 on aggregate. SVG move on.

Would love to see this match. Comes across as an incredibly tense drama.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Banter Banton on June 14, 2015, 09:09:08 PM
f**k Guyana...well done SVG
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: vb on June 14, 2015, 11:02:14 PM
f**k Guyana...well done SVG

I hear SVG 4th goal was a bicycle kick off a corner.

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: pull stones on June 15, 2015, 03:51:55 AM
seems like those four english boys went and got their passports for nothing. hehe
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 15, 2015, 05:14:50 AM
Allyuh see why the WC is exciting. Prelims is do or die. Some of the most exciting WC. Maybe not the best interms of technique, but exciting nevertheless. I hope CFU archiving these regional games.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 15, 2015, 05:23:10 AM
Aruba v Barbados, 1st leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/f2dK1DWObhM

Barbados v Aruba, 2nd leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/ZqPKq_sb448
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 15, 2015, 05:26:47 AM
Antigua and Barbuda v St. Lucia, 1st leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/HmmdHkITmWo

St. Lucia v Antigua and Barbuda, 2nd leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/rBIMjCYP63o
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 15, 2015, 05:35:20 AM
Cuba v Curacao, 2nd leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/9r54yTyEccI
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 15, 2015, 05:40:29 AM
Dominican Republic v Belize, 1st leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/Edn8arppTlU

Belize v Dominican Republic, 2nd leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/oc0fOm8k4P4
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 15, 2015, 07:15:24 AM
Mad Bull and Maestro ... de 2 Belizean commentators ...  :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: "If bucket go a well every minute, what go happen ..."  :whip:
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Mad Scorpion a/k/a Big Bo$$ on June 15, 2015, 10:20:07 AM
Mad Bull and Maestro ... de 2 Belizean commentators ...  :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: "If bucket go a well every minute, what go happen ..."  :whip:

Dem is rell vibes!!!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Peong on June 15, 2015, 10:28:46 AM
St. Lucia vs A&B was chaotic boy.  Very entertaining.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: vb on June 15, 2015, 12:03:38 PM
St. Lucia vs A&B was chaotic boy.  Very entertaining.

Have to admire Antig. the odds were against them.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: frico on June 15, 2015, 01:27:23 PM
f**k Guyana...well done SVG
;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: jamaica2099 on June 15, 2015, 05:27:05 PM
Hey Haters! Long time no see. ;D ;D

Anyway. Here's the link for the Bermuda vs Guatemala WCQ:

http://sportsfree.me/stream/4ef4b7f5e578ce7672b5dbe719c7909d

Enjoy. And see you in the Fourth Round.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 15, 2015, 05:45:42 PM
Canadian men face Dominicans in second leg of World Cup qualifier
Neil Davidson (The Canadian Press).


(http://static.theglobeandmail.ca/f5f/sports/soccer/article24970514.ece/ALTERNATES/w620/web-sp-so-canada-0615.JPG)
Members of Dominica''s national men's soccer team practise at BMO Field in Toronto on Monday, June 15, 2015 ahead of their World Cup men’s qualifying match against Canada on Tuesday. Canada won the opening leg last week in Dominica 2-0.

Farmers, fishermen, construction workers, teachers, students and the self-employed. There’s more than just soccer to the men who make up the Dominica national team.

“Most everyone on the team is working,” said coach Shane Marshall, a former midfielder and national team captain whose day job is driving a taxi. “Most of them are self-employed. We have a few guys that are going to school. So it’s kind of difficult to work around.

“Some of them have to say ‘Okay, well coach, I’ll not be able to make it today because I have class. I’ll make it tomorrow.’ ” From their modest home away from home, a two-star hotel in suburban Brampton, the team known as the Nature Boys – due to the natural beauty of Dominica – is hoping to score one for the little guy when it takes on Canada on Tuesday in the return leg of their World Cup qualifying series.

Canada, ranked No. 109 in the world, defeated No. 168 Dominica 2-0 last before some 6,000 fans on Thursday in the Caribbean island located halfway between Puerto Rico and Trinidad and Tobago.

The Dominica players, dressed in a lime green tops, took a moment to take in BMO Field on Monday before the match commissioner let them on the pristine field for their one-hour practice.

“It’s a lovely playing field. It’s conducive to playing good football,” goalkeeper and captain Glenson Prince, who was a standout in the first leg, said admiringly.

The series opener was played on a somewhat less hospitable cricket pitch in Roseau. Canada went ahead on a fifth-minute goal by Orlando City forward Cyle Larin. Vancouver Whitecaps midfielder Russell Teibert made it 2-0 on a 63rd-minute penalty after Larin was pulled down.

Canadian coach Benito Floro, while not complaining, thought Canada could have scored more.

“Everyone’s going to think it’s a walk in the park,” Canadian captain Julian de Guzman said of Dominica. “But these teams, they’re very tricky. You can’t take them lightly at any moment. They’re very physical, fast players and they’re playing for a World Cup too. They believe they can make it.

“We cannot judge these guys on rankings or where they’re from. So we’re not taking it any different than it would be if we were to play Panama in Panama or [play] the U.S.”

Canada will be without goalkeeper Milan Borjan, red-carded late in the game for handling the ball outside the penalty box.

“A lot of persons didn’t give us a chance coming into the game because of the [FIFA] rankings and what not,” Prince said. “But we watched a lot of tapes of the Canadians. We were confident coming into the [home] game and we are confident going into this game because we can believe that if we can improve on our performance we can turn that 2-0 deficit around.”

So a Dominica win is possible?

“Definitely. If not we wouldn’t be here right now,” said the 27-year-old ’keeper.

Prince is currently without a club after his contract with a team in Trinidad and Tobago ran out. Two of his teammates play semi-pro in Trinidad while the rest play for clubs at home.

Prince teaches physical education at a secondary school in Dominica, whose population numbers some 73,500 – about the same as Sarnia, Ont.

While Dominica stays at a hotel with a complimentary continental breakfast near the airport after commercial flights to Antigua and then Toronto, the fully professional Canadian side travelled south by chartered plane and stayed in a hotel featuring a fully equipped dive shop, its own jetty, rooftop Jacuzzis, infinity pool, gymnasium and spa.

Dominica beat the British Virgin Islands in a two-legged playoff in the first round of World Cup qualifying in the CONCACAF region, which covers North and Central America and the Caribbean.

The 10 second-round winners move on to the third round where they will be joined by Jamaica and Haiti for another home-and-away series.

The six winners will join the top six teams in the confederation – Costa Rica, the U.S., Mexico, Honduras, Panama and Trinidad and Tobago – in the penultimate stage which will see round-robin play in three groups. The top two in each group will advance to the final hexagonal round-robin.

The top three will qualify directly for the 2018 World Cup in Russia with the fourth-place team having a chance to join them via a playoff.

So Canada, in its quest for only its second ever World Cup qualification, could have at least 18 more games to go if it wins Tuesday.

“It’s a long journey, a lot of games ahead of us,” de Guzman said.

With the domestic soccer spotlight on the Women’s World Cup, the Canadian men are flying under the radar.

With no TV network interested, Tuesday’s game is being streamed on the Internet. Monday’s practices drew one reporter.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 15, 2015, 06:01:45 PM
Time and time again yuh could see the naivete in playing Central American teams. Come Bermuda!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 15, 2015, 07:34:42 PM
Bermuda v Guatemala, 2nd leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/T_rgneWFLRw
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: vb on June 15, 2015, 07:40:35 PM
Time and time again yuh could see the naivete in playing Central American teams. Come Bermuda!

Bermuda lost 1-0 at home.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 15, 2015, 08:09:26 PM
Bermuda 0 Guatemala 1: Cincotta sends visitors through
FourFourTwo.com


Stefano Cincotta's first international goal sent Guatemala into the third round of CONCACAF's World Cup qualifying.

Guatemala defeated Bermuda 1-0 in World Cup qualifying to advance, as defender Stefano Cincotta struck his maiden goal at international level.

Having been held to a scoreless draw at home in the first leg of the tie, Guatemala prevailed at the Bermuda National Stadium in Hamilton on Monday to claim a spot in CONCACAF's third round of qualifying.

Cincotta, who plays club football for Chemnitzer FC in Germany's third tier, scored in the 27th minute, overlapping down the left before firing the ball across Bermuda goalkeeper Dale Eve and inside the far post.

The result ended Bermuda's unbeaten run at seven games, with the Caribbean nation tasting defeat for the first time in 2015.

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 16, 2015, 05:35:41 PM
Grenada and Puerto Rico played to a 2-0 result today in the second leg of CONCACAF Second Round qualifying. The Grenadians were true to their word that they would overhaul Puerto Rico's 1-0 home victory. Aggregate score 2-1. Grenada moves on to the next round of qualifying.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 16, 2015, 05:40:18 PM
Surinam lost to Nicaragua by a margin of three goals to one in Paramaribo, Surinam in the second leg of CONCACAF Second Round qualifying today. Having won the first leg at home with a 1-0 victory, Nicaragua progresses to the next qualifying round.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 16, 2015, 05:43:25 PM
There are two other fixtures remaining today: Canada hosting Dominica and El Salvador hosting St. Kitts and Nevis. The first match is in progress with Canada already on the score sheet leading 1-0 with 7' played.

http://sportsfree.me/stream/2794c6298341e2d0ce9c7907065fcb73

UPDATE: Canada 2-0 at the half.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on June 16, 2015, 06:59:58 PM
Surinam lost to Nicaragua by a margin of three goals to one in Paramaribo, Surinam in the second leg of CONCACAF Second Round qualifying today. Having won the first leg at home with a 1-0 victory, Nicaragua progresses to the next qualifying round.

I thought that Suriname was better. Weren't they supposed to  get access to a pool of  Dutch born players?

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 16, 2015, 07:14:42 PM
http://sportsfree.me/stream/94238ee5c95651786b35291ec1a2135d

Link for the El Salvador v St. Kitts match. The Central Americans are on the scoreboard already. 1-0. Still a lot to play for for SKN.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 16, 2015, 07:17:00 PM
Canada 4-0 @ 83'. Dominica done.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 16, 2015, 07:27:56 PM
Surinam lost to Nicaragua by a margin of three goals to one in Paramaribo, Surinam in the second leg of CONCACAF Second Round qualifying today. Having won the first leg at home with a 1-0 victory, Nicaragua progresses to the next qualifying round.

I thought that Suriname was better. Weren't they supposed to  get access to a pool of  Dutch born players?

From what I gather, those players were not incorporated ... or better put, have not been incorporated yet. Requires legislation to pass
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on June 16, 2015, 07:34:59 PM
I read something was proposed or might have been passed. I think it was posted on here.

I watching SLV and SKN. Good game. SLV up by a goal. But SKN not sitting down.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 16, 2015, 08:33:43 PM
Canada downs Dominica 4-0 in World Cup qualifier
Neil Davidson (The Canadian Press).


TORONTO -- Tesho Akindele scored his first international goal and set up one of two Tosaint Ricketts goals as Canada dispatched Dominica 4-0 Tuesday for a 6-0 aggregate win over the Caribbean minnow in the first stop on the Canadian men's 2018 World Cup qualifying journey.

Canada, ranked 109th in the world, dominated the part-timers from No. 168 Dominica before an announced crowd of 9,749 on a pleasant, breezy 20-plus-degree night at BMO Field. A contingent of green-clad Dominica fans in the north stand did their best to cheer on the visitors whose roster included fishermen, construction workers and students.

Cyle Larin also scored for Canada, which could have padded its lead. Dominica goalie Glenson Prince saved a David Edgar penalty after a handball early in the second half and Canada's Jonathan Osorio hit the goalpost in the 89th minute.

It was Canada's first four-goal performance since a 4-0 victory over St. Kitts and Nevis in November 2011 in World Cup qualifying.

Benito Floro's team will find out who it faces next in qualifying at the July 25 World Cup preliminary draw in St. Petersburg. Canada, whose only World Cup appearance came in 1986, has at least 18 more games to go if it is to be successful in its bid to represent CONCACAF, which covers North and Central America and the Caribbean, in Russia in 2018.

The play of Larin, a native of Brampton, Ont. taken first overall in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft by Orlando City, and Calgary-born Akindele, MLS rookie of the year in 2014 for FC Dallas, bodes well for future challenges.

Canada went into the game up 2-0 from the first leg and wasted little time trying to add to its margin, testing Prince from all angles and distances. The Dominica 'keeper faced 14 shots, 11 on target in the first half alone.

At times, Canadian players lined up to have a go at goal.

Akindele, in his second national team appearance, opened his account for Canada in the fourth minute by hammering home a right-footed shot from the edge of the penalty box.

The Canadian defence was split open by a fine through ball in the 23rd minute but Kenny Stamatopoulos stopped Randolph Peltier's shot.

Larin, who had taken some punishment from a physical Dominica defence, pivoted outside the penalty box before curling a shot past Prince in the 41st minute. Larin has now scored in three straight games for Canada.

Ricketts made it 3-0 in the 52nd minute, tapping home a low cross beautifully delivered by Akindele before chipping home an Osorio through ball in the 77th minute for his 10th goal for Canada.

Canada made four changes from the team that won the opening leg 2-0 last Thursday in Dominica on goals by Larin and Russell Teibert. Stamatopoulos came in for the suspended Milan Borjan in goal with Edgar joining Toronto FC's Ashtone Morgan and Osorio in the starting 11.

Teibert, Karl Ouimette and Manjrekar James moved to the bench.

Canada, which skipped the first round of CONCACAF qualifying, will be joined in the third round of CONCACAF qualifying by Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Curacao, Guatemala, Grenada, Nicaragua, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and either El Salvador or St. Kitts and Nevis.

Those 10 second-round winners join Jamaica and Haiti -- the seventh- and eight-seeded teams in the region -- in six home-and-away series to be played Aug. 21 to Sept. 8.

The winners advance to Round 4 joining the six top-ranked teams: Costa Rica, Mexico, U.S., Honduras, Panama and Trinidad and Tobago. Those 12 teams will be placed in three round-robin groups, playing from November to September 2016, with the top two from each pool advancing to the final round.

The final six teams will face off in the CONCACAF hexagonal, to be played from November 2016 to October 2017. The top three in the group will advance directly to the World Cup with the fourth country taking part in an intercontinental playoff.

Dominica, whose population of 73,500 is roughly that of Sarnia, Ont., advanced to the second round by beating the 194th-ranked British Virgin Islands 3-2 on aggregate.

Dominica is located about halfway between Puerto Rico and Trinidad and Tobago.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 16, 2015, 08:35:16 PM
El Salvador is 3-1 up versus St. Kitts Nevis with about 12' left in regulation.


UPDATE: Final score 4-1.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 16, 2015, 08:59:10 PM
Moving on to the CONCACAF Third Round following CONCACAF Second Round, 2nd leg competition on June 14, 2015

Antigua and Barbuda
Barbados
Belize
Curacao
St. Vincent and the Grenadines


Moving on to the CONCACAF Third Round following CONCACAF Second Round, 2nd leg competition on June 15, 2015

Guatemala


Moving on to the CONCACAF Third Round following CONCACAF Second Round, 2nd leg competition on June 16, 2015

Canada
Grenada
El Salvador
Nicaragua
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 17, 2015, 10:25:09 AM
St. Kitts and Nevis v El Salvador, 1st leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/CUU95bSHKo4

El Salvador v St. Kitts and Nevis, 2nd leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/znmFn6F9XTw
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 17, 2015, 10:31:40 AM
Nicaragua v Surinam, 1st leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/daKl8BxS-9s

Surinam v Nicaragua, 2nd leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/-mHR56zrPQE
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 17, 2015, 10:37:12 AM
Puerto Rico v Grenada, 1st leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/IBI7IUeHH2c

Grenada v Puerto Rico, 2nd leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/zvfn2Tcvixs
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 17, 2015, 10:42:41 AM
Dominica v Canada, 1st leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/sYjru138ch8

Canada v Dominica, 2nd leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/JrfVKC5fh4c
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Tiresais on June 18, 2015, 05:35:16 AM
Thanks for the highlights :) Will get some quality viewing tonight
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Flex on June 19, 2015, 02:03:18 AM
Five Caribbean teams reach 3rd round W/Cup qualifying
T&T Express Reports.


Grenada won 2-0 at home against Puerto Rico on Tuesday night, becoming the fifth Caribbean team to advance past the second round of the CONCACAF Zone in the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

But there was no such good luck for St Kitts and Nevis, who were beaten 4-1 in El Salvador on Tuesday night, after securing a respectable 2-2 home draw in the first leg.

Canada and Nicaragua also won both home and away to reach the third round. Canada won its second-leg match 4-0 over Domi­nica, and Suriname went down 1-3 at home to ­Nicaragua.

Jamaica and Haiti enter in the third round of qualification, joined by the ten winners from the second round.

Contesting the third round are Jamaica (85), Haiti (117), Canada (122), El Salvador (127), Guatemala (134), St Vincent and the Grenadines (134), Grenada (142), Antigua and Barbuda (149), Belize (162), Barbados (169), Nicaragua (175) and Cura­cao (182).

The draw for the third round will be held on July 25 at the Konstantinovsky Palace in Strelna, St Petersburg, Russia. Matches are scheduled to be played from August 31 to September 8 this year.

Six of the third-round qualifiers will advance to the final round of World Cup qualifying, where they will be joined by the six top-ranked teams in CONCACAF.

Those teams are Costa Rica, Mexico, United States, ­Honduras, Panama and T&T. Teams will be drawn into three four-team, home-and-away round-robin groups, with games taking place between November 2015 and September 2016.

Apart from Grenada, four other Caribbean teams are safely into the next round of the “Road to Russia” 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers after playing their first- and second-leg games.

The teams are Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda, Curacao and St Vincent and the Grenadines. UNCAF team Belize also made it into the next round.

Barbados stopped Aruba 2-0 away and 1-0 at home, Curacao drew with Cuba 0-0 at home and 1-1 away, St Vincent and the Grenadines drew 2-2 at home and 4-4 away, while Antigua and Barbuda was defeated 3-1 by St Lucia at home and won 4-1 in the second leg.

Bermuda went out 1-0 on aggregate to Guatemala on Monday.

Title: GFF sends protest to FIFA … SVG player had British passport
Post by: Tallman on June 19, 2015, 06:36:37 AM
GFF sends protest to FIFA … SVG player had British passport
By Stephan Sookram (Guyana Chronicle)

 
THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) confirmed that they have launched a protest to FIFA after realising that St Vincent and Grenadines fielded a player who was not the holder of a passport from the Island.

The Golden Jaguars drew 4-4 with the ‘Vincy Heat’ at the Guyana National Stadium last Sunday but were knocked out of the 2018 World Cup Qualifier tournament since the visitors had the superior goal difference, thanks to the ‘away goals’ rule.

However, after the loss, Chronicle Sport was made to understand that the GFF had gotten a tip that Garvin James, the St Vincent and the Grenadines striker, was used though he was not a holder of a Vincentian passport which is a clear violation of FIFA’s laws that govern a player’s eligibility to represent his country.

James was born in England and plays for the Flackwell Heath Football Club.

“Yes, we did write to FIFA, telling them of our findings and protested the result. As far as I’m aware, we haven’t received a response as yet,” said the GFF’s Marketing and Communications director Rawle Toney when contacted yesterday, after this newspaper failed to reach Normalisation Committee Chairman Clinton Urling for a comment on the issue.

Toney, when asked what prompted the GFF to lodge a protest, noted, “Well the GFF believes that it has a case based on the rules of FIFA which clearly state that the only identification accepted as a proof of citizenship is a player’s passport. Four of our players had to miss the first leg of the qualifier because they were not citizens of Guyana and only were allowed to play when that happened and their passports were granted.”

FIFA regulations for the 2018 programme say that only passports are “valid proof of a player’s identity and nationality.” Each player’s passport must be shown to FIFA’s match delegate the day before kickoff.

The new rule states: “Identity cards or other supporting official documents shall not be accepted” and history has shown that seven different African teams fielded ineligible players in qualifying group matches for the 2014 World Cup, forcing FIFA to award 3-0 wins to their opponents.

If GFF is successful, the result will be reversed, a fine will be imposed on the St Vincent Football Association and the Golden Jaguars will be awarded the victory with a 3-0 scoreline and would advance to the next round of qualification.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on June 21, 2015, 06:21:05 PM
http://www.iwnsvg.com/2015/06/20/svg-football-official-says-guyana-would-be-caught-offside-with-protest-about-players-nationality/

Interesting reply from SVGFF. We will see what FIFA says.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 24, 2015, 09:18:39 AM
Flackwell Heath striker Gavin James talks about the "surreal" experience of representing St Vincent in a World Cup qualifier against Guyana
By Greg Styles (Bucks Free Press).


(http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/resources/images/3929391/)
(http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/resources/images/3929397/)

As Gavin James walked into the scorching heat at Arnos Vale Stadium in St Vincent and the Grenadines he did so with the famous FIFA anthem ringing in his ears.

The 26-year-old is more accustomed to plundering goals past helpless opposition at Wilks Park for his club side Flackwell Heath rather than preparing himself to make his international debut in a World Cup qualifier against Guyana.

James, who qualified to represent the Caribbean island through his grandparents, admits he could scarcely believe he was about to win his first international cap as he lined up for the national anthems alongside ten players who were mere strangers when he got the call up on May 29.

A plucky email sent to the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF) set the ball rolling on the forward’s journey into international football, culminating in his debut against Guyana in the first leg of a second round qualifier.

“They play the FIFA anthem as you walk out and it was one of those things that gives you goose bumps as you’re walking out as there is this iconic music playing,” said James.

“You all line-up, they play both national anthems, then you have a team photo and I kind of had to pinch myself and wonder if it was really happening.”

When the original call from Dominique Stowe, a committee member of the SVGFF, came his way, James arranged time off from his job as a trainee teacher at Chesham Grammar School, packed his bags and jetted off on June 2.

On arrival in the Caribbean, James was welcomed into the training camp, which was based in a town named Brighton, and introduced to his teammates – a mix of players who came from afar afield as Finland and America to be part of the squad.

After playing 45 minutes in a practice match on his first day, head coach Cornelius Huggins informed the striker that he had done enough, with James himself feeling “comfortable” in his new surroundings.

The Bucks New University graduate felt he was in with a good chance of playing against Guyana – suspicions which were confirmed when he was asked to head to the Nichols Building in Kingstown, home of the SVGFF, to meet the media.

“On the Friday (June 5) morning the manager said to me that there was going to be a press conference at the FIFA office so I need to be there. When I turned up it was me, the captain, the vice-captain, the coach, the president of FIFA over there and an ambassador.

“I kept thinking to myself ‘considering who I’m here with I’ve got a good chance [of playing] here’. The day before the game we had a training session and he said the team I was in was maybe the one he would be starting with, but nothing was set in stone.

“I prepared myself as if I was going to start and then when I turned up in the changing room for the game he read the team out. I was the last name called and he said ‘and a first international cap for...’ and then he called my name and that was it, it was going to happen.”

The Arnos Vale Stadium, which is more commonly used as a venue for Test match cricket, was a far cry from what James is used to and the searing heat made life hard for the lone striker.

Having trailed at half-time St Vincent equalised through Cornelius Stewart after 51 minutes. James was substituted soon after and watched his replacement, Tevin Slater, snatch an equaliser seven minutes from time after Guyana had retaken the lead.

“I was happy with my performance although I would have liked to get longer,” explained James.

“I was playing as a lone striker and when you do that over here (England) it’s ok but when you do it in that heat – he expects you to run, chase down and you just feel exhausted.

“There’s been a few highlights put on Youtube and I’m in quite a few of them, so I was quite pleased with how I played. A few people said I played well but it was just unfortunate with the heat.”

With two away goals and Bolton midfielder Neil Danns poised to make his international debut in the second leg, Guyana were the hot favourites to progress when they hosted St Vincent at Providence Stadium on June 15.

But the mood within the St Vincent camp – which included fellow High Wycombe players Brad Miguel and JJ Lofthouse-Smith – was a confident one.

The two aforementioned players didn’t make the final 21-man squad for either match but they, like James, were able to find common ground with coach Huggins, who had played at Adams Park in 2003.

James said: “He was a really good manager and he actually played in the St Vincent team that played against Wycombe Wanderers a few years back.

“He played centre back in that game as did the other coach (Wesley Charles), so they were familiar with Wycombe and I think that helped.”

Huggins helped his country beat Wanderers 2-1 on that cold December night – conditions which were polar opposite to those which greeted his current side in Guyana.

A place in the third round of CONCACAF qualifying, and a possible meeting with Jamaica, was the prize on offer for St Vincent and they duly secured their place, albeit after 90 hectic minutes.

Watching on from the bench, James said his side were “cruising” at 4-2 up before Guyana pulled one back and Danns equalised with four minutes left.

The Flackwell front man came on for the final few “nervy” minutes and did his best to run down the clock before participating in the joyous scenes which greeted full-time.

“When the final whistle went it was like an eruption,” he said. “All the players were going crazy, they ran over to the crowd and they were celebrating before they got pulled away because there was 5,000 fans there, all Guyanans and they were enticing them.

“They were playing music and they must have been on the pitch for 20-30 minutes after the final whistle just celebrating.

“They were dancing, music was playing and it’s something which I’ve never experienced before. It was so good to see.”

James says he is yet to come to terms with winning his first two caps for St Vincent with his brother Ashleigh, who also plays for Heath, keeping him well informed of developments in England while he was away.

“It was amazing; I still can’t believe it now. Everyone’s been asking questions and it just seems so surreal that I’ve been there and done it and now I’m back here again.

“My brother’s been at home the whole time and he’s just told me how people have been talking about it, coming up to him in the street and saying how amazing it is and saying when he gets back let him know we’ve been tracking and streaming the games on the internet.

“I spoke to my manager from football and he was saying how proud he was, and that’s the same for my mum, dad and family.”

With St Vincent now in the hat for the third round draw, James will hope to feature once again on the road to the 2018 World Cup when Vincy Heat continue their campaign in August.

James said: “I spoke to the technical director (Keith Ollivierre) at an airport in Guyana and he was saying how it was nice to meet me, how he was impressed and that he wants to see me again.

“The coach said he’d want to work with me again and that he wants me to have a bit more time to get acclimatised to the heat and the players.

He added: “Everyone keeps coming up to me and saying ‘you’re an international footballer’ and it doesn’t even sound real.”
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Flex on June 29, 2015, 10:40:59 AM
Barbados sanctioned for fielding ineligible player
FIFA.COM


Barbados Football Association (BFA) has been sanctioned for fielding an ineligible player in the preliminary competition match for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ played between Barbados and Aruba on 14 June 2015.

The match is declared to be forfeited and awarded 0-3 in favour of Aruba, with the BFA also receiving a fine of CHF 6,000 after the FIFA Disciplinary Committee considered the BFA liable for having breached art. 55 par. 1 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC) and art. 8 of the Regulations for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™. Upon delivering its decision, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee referred to the wording of art. 55 of the FDC which sets a clear sanction for any breach of eligibility rules.

The sanction relates to the Barbadian player Hadan Holligan failing to serve the automatic one‑match suspension imposed on him following two cautions received in two different matches (art. 17 par. 3 of the FDC).

The sanction will have immediate effect and as a consequence Aruba will now qualify for the next round of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ qualifiers.

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: dreamer on June 29, 2015, 11:04:36 AM
Bacchanal for so. Teams real desperate. Wow.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 30, 2015, 06:59:20 AM
The general secretary of the Barbados Football Ass'n has resigned. Likely in the aftermath of disqualification by FIFA. Imagine we have a ton of screw-ups and no one ever steps down!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: vb on June 30, 2015, 02:59:42 PM
The general secretary of the Barbados Football Ass'n has resigned. Likely in the aftermath of disqualification by FIFA. Imagine we have a ton of screw-ups and no one ever steps down!

You beat me to it.

Title: Concacaf World Cup Qualifiers 2018 Draw.
Post by: Big Magician on July 25, 2015, 10:11:34 AM
FIFA World Cup 2018 Draw..TnT..Guatemala/Antigua..USA..and SVG/Aruba..Starts in Nov 2015...4 FIFA friendly dates available before we start...lets get prepared.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Dynamite Warrior on July 25, 2015, 10:13:16 AM
Group C: USA,T&T,Antigua/Guatemala,Aruba/St.Vincent
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: truehaitian on July 25, 2015, 10:13:40 AM
Watch third round DRAWING FOR THE 2018 CONCACAF WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS LIVE drawing:
http://stream.nbcdeportes.com/index_nbcdeportes-world-cup-qualifiers.html?pid=18322

USA
T&T
St vincent/Aruba winner
Antigua/Guatemala winner

T&T will get  an easy ride with the US in the final round
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Dynamite Warrior on July 25, 2015, 10:15:38 AM
Watch third round DRAWING FOR THE 2018 CONCACAF WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS LIVE drawing:
http://stream.nbcdeportes.com/index_nbcdeportes-world-cup-qualifiers.html?pid=18322

USA
T&T
St vincent/Aruba winner
Antigua/Guatemala winner

T&T will get  easy ride with the US in the final round
Good draw for us. Haiti is in the group of death
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Big Magician on July 25, 2015, 10:17:36 AM
real work to do...but we could not have asked for a better draw...lets get ready please please please...4 friendlies available...dont f#ck around
Title: Re: TnT...USA..Guatemala..SVG/Aruba..WCQ
Post by: futbolfan on July 25, 2015, 10:18:57 AM
Group A: Mexico, Honduras, Curacao/El Salvador, Canada, Belize

Group B: Costa Rica, Panama, Grenada/Haiti, Jamaica/Nicaragua

Group C: USA, Trinidad & Tobago, St Vincent & the Grenadines/Aruba, Antigua & Barbuda/Guatemala

The top two in each group then go to Round 5...

Not a bad group...This will be a marathon until the end, but with alot of hard work, dedication and a bit of luck, We can qualify for Russia 2018.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: royal on July 25, 2015, 10:21:34 AM
real work to do...but we could not have asked for a better draw...lets get ready please please please...4 friendlies available...dont f#ck around

yea not a bad group for us if we prepare properly. The group with Jamaica and Haiti is de toughest   
Title: Re: TnT...USA..Guatemala/Antigua..SVG/Aruba..WCQ
Post by: Trini _2026 on July 25, 2015, 10:24:26 AM
Group B: Costa Rica, Panama, Grenada/Haiti, Jamaica/Nicaragua this is a hard group .....
Title: World Cup 2018 Draw.
Post by: che on July 25, 2015, 10:26:27 AM

Group A                        Group B                       Group C

Mexico                          Costa Rica                   USA
Honduras                       Panama                       T&T
Canada/Belize                 Jamaica/Nicaragua         SVG/Aruba
Curacao/El Salvador         Grenada/Haiti               Antigua/Guatemala

Not a bad group for us. Group A is the group of death.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Big Magician on July 25, 2015, 10:37:07 AM
frig dem..
Title: Re: TnT...USA..Guatemala/Antigua..SVG/Aruba..WCQ
Post by: vb on July 25, 2015, 11:04:18 AM
The J'cans go btch, they get a tough group.  ;D
Title: Re: TnT...USA..Guatemala/Antigua..SVG/Aruba..WCQ
Post by: Controversial on July 25, 2015, 11:15:42 AM
Group B: Costa Rica, Panama, Grenada/Haiti, Jamaica/Nicaragua this is a hard group .....

that's a group of death right there... good prep for JA though...
Title: Re: World Cup 2018 Draw.
Post by: panterry1 on July 25, 2015, 11:16:49 AM
I disagree! Group B is the group of death.  Providing that Jamaica and Haiti win their game.  All of them will be teams who got to the quarter finals of the gold cup. Anyway T&T can't afford to take any game for granted.
Title: Re: World Cup 2018 Draw.
Post by: FF on July 25, 2015, 11:38:09 AM
Also relevant... The playoff draw has pitted Concacaf vs Asia and Conmebol vs Oceania for the half spots
Title: Re: TnT...USA..Guatemala/Antigua..SVG/Aruba..WCQ
Post by: Controversial on July 25, 2015, 11:39:21 AM
FIFA World Cup 2018 Draw..TnT..Guatemala/Antigua..USA..and SVG/Aruba..Starts in Nov 2015...4 FIFA friendly dates available before we start...lets get prepared.

what are the four fifa dates available???
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Controversial on July 25, 2015, 11:41:35 AM
Also relevant... The playoff draw has pitted Concacaf vs Asia and Conmebol vs Oceania for the half spots

okay just checked.. 4.5 spots...

so the half spot could be playing qatar, UAE, China, Bahrain

i could see japan, s.korea, australia and iran qualifying automatically...
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Controversial on July 25, 2015, 11:42:06 AM
I disagree! Group B is the group of death.  Providing that Jamaica and Haiti win their game.  All of them will be teams who got to the quarter finals of the gold cup. Anyway T&T can't afford to take any game for granted.

check my post again... i said group b was the group of death... ::)
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: FF on July 25, 2015, 11:45:36 AM
He was replying to Che
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: davyjenny1 on July 25, 2015, 11:48:11 AM
Interesting to see who will occupy Concacaf half spot. I wonder how the ASIANS are feeling about this?
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: FF on July 25, 2015, 11:48:29 AM
Also relevant... The playoff draw has pitted Concacaf vs Asia and Conmebol vs Oceania for the half spots

japan and s.korea i assume... but how many guaranteed spots do they get?

Most likely not. They have 4.5 spots. Korea and Japan usually qualify in the automatic spots
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Controversial on July 25, 2015, 11:48:54 AM
He was replying to Che

 :beermug:
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Peong on July 25, 2015, 11:53:44 AM
We get the easiest group.  Thanks uncle Jack!
Ey is time we beat a full strength US.  We getting two bites of the cherry early on, let's do it.
Title: Re: TnT...USA..Guatemala/Antigua..SVG/Aruba..WCQ
Post by: Banter Banton on July 25, 2015, 11:54:07 AM
FIFA World Cup 2018 Draw..TnT..Guatemala/Antigua..USA..and SVG/Aruba..Starts in Nov 2015...4 FIFA friendly dates available before we start...lets get prepared.

what are the four fifa dates available???

2 match days in September and 2 in October. So far we only have Mexico lined up in September. We need 3 more games because I guarantee you the top 10 teams in concacaf will play 4 games of good quality.

Let's get it done TTFA and Min of Sport ...don't f**k around with my national team
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Controversial on July 25, 2015, 11:55:34 AM
Also relevant... The playoff draw has pitted Concacaf vs Asia and Conmebol vs Oceania for the half spots

japan and s.korea i assume... but how many guaranteed spots do they get?

Most likely not. They have 4.5 spots. Korea and Japan usually qualify in the automatic spots

i just checked out the groups... you are right about japan and s.korea, i believe australia and iran may get in as well, unless china does well..
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Controversial on July 25, 2015, 11:56:14 AM
FIFA World Cup 2018 Draw..TnT..Guatemala/Antigua..USA..and SVG/Aruba..Starts in Nov 2015...4 FIFA friendly dates available before we start...lets get prepared.

what are the four fifa dates available???

2 match days in September and 2 in October. So far we only have Mexico lined up in September. We need 3 more games because I guarantee you the top 10 teams in concacaf will play 4 games of good quality.

Let's get it done TTFA and Min of Sport ...don't f**k around with my national team

 :beermug:
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 25, 2015, 12:03:57 PM
Has anyone seen FIFA's official response re: Guyana's SVG challenge?
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Controversial on July 25, 2015, 12:07:22 PM
Has anyone seen FIFA's official response re: Guyana's SVG challenge?

no, what happened?
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: che on July 25, 2015, 12:22:10 PM
I disagree! Group B is the group of death.  Providing that Jamaica and Haiti win their game.  All of them will be teams who got to the quarter finals of the gold cup. Anyway T&T can't afford to take any game for granted.

check my post again... i said group b was the group of death... ::)

Contro how you always looking to pick fight so  ;)
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: reggae-fan on July 25, 2015, 12:31:30 PM
The J'cans go btch, they get a tough group.  ;D
the teams that advance out of group b will be well prepared for the hex.  if Jamaica continues on its current trajectory, they will be fine home and away vs these teams. Teams in form today can be woefully out of form when qualifiers roll around. This gold cup, plus Copa America Chile has transformed Jamaica...we would have played Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Mexico, USA, Costa Rica, Venezual, in the past month and a Hal alone. We are as prepared as anyone in Concacaf
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Fyzo10 on July 25, 2015, 12:58:22 PM
Guys will Molino be fit and healthy for the qualifications?
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Peong on July 25, 2015, 01:13:29 PM
Guys will Molino be fit and healthy for the qualifications?

The semifinal round is from November 2015 to September 2016.
We shouldn't need him for the semis but he will be available while it's still in progress.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on July 25, 2015, 01:24:07 PM
Has anyone seen FIFA's official response re: Guyana's SVG challenge?

no, what happened?

The last article I read about this said that the SVGF provided a passport stamp as proof of the player's SVG nationality. Although, the player holds a British passport, SVG can use the stamp as temporary proof of citizenship. The stamp does say something along the lines of "this stamp is proof that the person who owns this passport is a national of St Vincent and the Grenadines". The situation is still foggy.. Because according to FIFA rules, the player must have a passport from the country they are playing for.  FIFA viewed all the passports before the game, and they never had an issue with it. So I guess the protest failed. GUY FA has already moved on. FIFA will probably update the rules to avoid this situation again.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on July 25, 2015, 02:05:41 PM
Just looked at Antigua's roster. They have about 7 brit-antiguans. 3 are playing for in the championship and premier League.  The others are playing for teams well below league 2. I think they might pull it off against Guatemala.

Group B is serious. Whoever makes it out will be well prepared for the hex. I will take a stab at it and say Jamaica and Panama will be going to the Hex. 
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Controversial on July 25, 2015, 02:10:26 PM
Just looked at Antigua's roster. They have about 7 brit-antiguans. 3 are playing for in the championship and premier League.  The others are playing for teams well below league 2. I think they might pull it off against Guatemala.

Group B is serious. Whoever makes it out will be well prepared for the hex. I will take a stab at it and say Jamaica and Panama will be going to the Hex. 

JA and Haiti...
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Deeks on July 25, 2015, 03:56:25 PM
Group B: Costa Rica, Panama, Grenada/Haiti, Jamaica/Nicaragua this is a hard group .....

that's a group of death right there... good prep for JA though...

If Guatemala were to revamp by then and let's say beat SVG, it will not be any walk in the park for TT. Our WC record with Guat. is fairly even.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Tallman on July 25, 2015, 04:27:35 PM
Group B: Costa Rica, Panama, Grenada/Haiti, Jamaica/Nicaragua this is a hard group .....

that's a group of death right there... good prep for JA though...

If Guatemala were to revamp by then and let's say beat SVG, it will not be any walk in the park for TT. Our WC record with Guat. is fairly even.

Head to Head World Cup Qualifiers vs Guatemala:
Played: 11
Won: 4
Lost: 3
Drawn: 4
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: hg495 on July 25, 2015, 05:17:13 PM
we already playing against mexico in sept. a good tough eurpoean team could be good warmup for america, and either a south american team like venezula or bolivia in they altitude or someone like australia or something.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: pull stones on July 25, 2015, 05:35:30 PM
why worry about jamaica they will be just fine lets worry about our selves. one thing is certain we will either see panama or costa rica out of the hex because none of them will beat jamaica in that group.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on July 25, 2015, 06:38:59 PM
Group B: Costa Rica, Panama, Grenada/Haiti, Jamaica/Nicaragua this is a hard group .....

that's a group of death right there... good prep for JA though...

If Guatemala were to revamp by then and let's say beat SVG, it will not be any walk in the park for TT. Our WC record with Guat. is fairly even.

Head to Head World Cup Qualifiers vs Guatemala:
Played: 11
Won: 4
Lost: 3
Drawn: 4

SVG is playing Aruba. Antigua is playing Guatemala.

I think there will be an upset in the next round. My guess is GUA or SLV. The CFU teams have gotten stronger. So it will not be a surprise when it happens.

Jamaica, shouldnt take Nicaragua lightly. Nicaragua has pumped some resources into their national team recently. They are also scouting foreign born players from USA and Spain. They pulled off good results against Suriname. I think they will either play very well or very poorly against Jamaica.

We need to get some quality matches so we can stay sharp.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: reggae-fan on July 25, 2015, 07:55:49 PM
Jamaica, shouldnt take Nicaragua lightly. Nicaragua has pumped some resources into their national team recently. They are also scouting foreign born players from USA and Spain. They pulled off good results against Suriname. I think they will either play very well or very poorly against Jamaica.

We need to get some quality matches so we can stay sharp.

Jamaica will take no one lightly, not with this coach that we have. I dont consider Nicaragua a weak team, we saw them a couple years ago at the Gold cup and they looked a decent side then. I can imagine they have gotten better.

With that said, Jamaic will be strengthening, Jason Puncheon of Chrystal Palace is set to join he squad. I imagibe with jamaicas recent success there might also be othet players looking to get a run in the squad as well.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Deeks on July 25, 2015, 08:29:46 PM
What puncheon rum in the house. Or in the yard.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on July 25, 2015, 09:38:59 PM
Let us not take our group for granted, all games will be difficult.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 25, 2015, 10:46:18 PM
Nicaragua is a weak team. Doh dance around de ting.

Also, as things stand, SVG should whip Aruba. Barbados had dem busy and Barbados is/was itself not the picture of footballing virtue.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Controversial on July 26, 2015, 12:56:39 AM
So what friendlies do we need to prepare besides Mexico..

Suggestions?
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on July 26, 2015, 04:29:36 AM
So what friendlies do we need to prepare besides Mexico..

Suggestions?

Venezuela is a stones throw away. They have improved tremendously. We should be playing them more often. I glad we not seeing much games with the Grenadas, the SVGs etc. However, it might not hurt to get in a game as we will be playing another CFU team.

Might be hard to set up friendlies with the teams not in Concacaf.




Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sam on July 26, 2015, 06:28:29 AM
Group A: Mexico, Honduras, Curacao/El Salvador, Canada, Belize

Group B: Costa Rica, Panama, Grenada/Haiti, Jamaica/Nicaragua

Group C: USA, Trinidad & Tobago, St Vincent & the Grenadines/Aruba, Antigua & Barbuda/Guatemala

The top two in each group then go to Round 5...

Not a bad group...This will be a marathon until the end, but with alot of hard work, dedication and a bit of luck, We can qualify for Russia 2018.

Good draw for T&T but is always de small teams wha does give yuh trouble.

Ah hope we take all serious.

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Cocorite on July 26, 2015, 02:31:23 PM
So what friendlies do we need to prepare besides Mexico..

Suggestions?

Mexico
Canada
Jamaica
El Salvador

Barbados
Venezuela
Germany would be nice
Sweden
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Controversial on July 26, 2015, 04:20:44 PM
So what friendlies do we need to prepare besides Mexico..

Suggestions?

Mexico
Canada
Jamaica
El Salvador

Barbados
Venezuela
Germany would be nice
Sweden


Good choices...

I was thinking Ecuador, Chile, Denmark, Wales, Chile, South Korea...
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Controversial on July 28, 2015, 08:09:54 PM
Group A: Mexico, Honduras, Curacao/El Salvador, Canada, Belize

Group B: Costa Rica, Panama, Grenada/Haiti, Jamaica/Nicaragua

Group C: USA, Trinidad & Tobago, St Vincent & the Grenadines/Aruba, Antigua & Barbuda/Guatemala

The top two in each group then go to Round 5...

Not a bad group...This will be a marathon until the end, but with alot of hard work, dedication and a bit of luck, We can qualify for Russia 2018.

Good draw for T&T but is always de small teams wha does give yuh trouble.

Ah hope we take all serious.



Costa Rica, Panama , Haiti and Jamaica

Mexico, Honduras, curaçao and Canada

Trinidad , USA , Guatemala and St Vincent

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Flex on August 02, 2015, 07:55:08 AM
FIFA rules in favour of SVG in WC protest
T&T Express


Football world's governing body, FIFA, has turned down a protest by the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) alleging that St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) used an ineligible player during a World Cup Qualification game in June.

The GFF had requested FIFA to investigate and rule on the status of the player, James Gavin of St Vincent and the Grenadines, and the status and outcome of the game played in the preliminary competition for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia on June 14 between both teams at the Guyana National Stadium.

The GFF was questioning the eligibility of Gavin and whether he was in possession of a St Vincent and the Grenadines passport during the qualification games.

However, in a letter to the GFF, FIFA's Disciplinary Committee ruled that “after careful examination of all the requested information and documentation, it was considered that no further intervention was necessary in such context”.

The GFF said that it is currently seeking legal advice on whether to appeal the ruling to the FIFA Appeals Committee. St Vincent and the Grenadines advanced on away goals after a 2-2 draw in Arnos Vale followed by a 4-4 tie in Georgetown.

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: trini_stallion on August 02, 2015, 10:02:57 AM
Shabazz take yuh licks and hush yuh mouth!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on August 02, 2015, 10:35:43 AM
This GFF/SVG thing presents a lesson regarding compliance with the rules, but it also presents insight into how FIFA's wording has steered clear of stimulating controversy.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on August 02, 2015, 02:13:28 PM
This GFF/SVG thing presents a lesson regarding compliance with the rules, but it also presents insight into how FIFA's wording has steered clear of stimulating controversy.

Both sides have good arguments. SVGF is saying that the St Vincent citizenship stamp on a British passport grants citizenship.. While GFF is arguing that the player must have a passport as per Fifa rules. GFF took it to the next level.. So anything can happen now.

Fifa will put things in place to avoid this from happening  in the future.
Title: Bradley Wright-Phillips not interested in representing Grenada
Post by: Trini _2026 on August 12, 2015, 08:05:06 PM
http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2015/08/12/bradley-wright-phillips-not-interested-representing-grenada-i-just-want-focu

Bradley Wright-Phillips not interested in representing Grenada: "I just want to focus on the Red Bulls"


HANOVER, N.J. – At 30 years of age, Bradley Wright-Phillips appears to be putting an end to his senior international career before it even has a chance to start.

The Red Bulls’ English striker is one of the most lethal goal scorers in MLS, with an MLS-record-tying 27 goals in 2014. And so it’s no wonder that there’s a national team out there attempting to woo him into the international scene.

Although the English national team has had its struggles identifying a regular goal scorer outside of Wayne Rooney, the Three Lions are not the ones calling. Instead, thanks to his mother’s roots, the tiny Caribbean nation of Grenada is the nation inquiring about his services. After ousting Puerto Rico in Round 2 of CONCACAF World Cup qualifying, the Spice Boys are set for a two-leg match-up against Haiti in Round 3 on Sept. 4 and Sept. 8.


With a population of just over 100,000, the Grenadian national team frequently enlists players born outside of the country, but who may have ancestry tracing back to Grenada. But Wright-Phillips does not appear to be interested in taking the plunge.

“I’m not too sure on international football,” Wright-Phillips told MLSsoccer.com. “I like to just play club football at the moment and I know I’m not getting any younger.”

Although his brother and Red Bulls teammate, Shaun, has enjoyed a successful career with the English national team highlighted by his selection to the 2010 World Cup squad, younger brother Bradley is wary of the obstacles that international call-ups present.


“I don’t know if I want to travel to somewhere else to play a game and come back,” Wright-Phillips admitted. “Over here [in MLS], with the way the league is with games through the summer, you would miss a lot of important games so I don’t know if I really want to do that.”

Aside from Grenada, Wright-Phillips would also be eligible to represent Jamaica at the senior level due to his father’s ancestral connection to the country, as well as Trinidad and Tobago through similar family connections. But at this stage in his career, the yearning for international soccer has admittedly faded.

“When I was younger it used to interest me when I was playing for the England U-20s,” Wright-Phillips said. “Now I just want to focus on playing for the Red Bulls.”
Title: Re: Bradley Wright-Phillips not interested in representing Grenada
Post by: Dinner Mints on August 12, 2015, 08:33:43 PM
Ah think that was Kenwyne real partner in the Southampton days. Tell him send a text.
Title: Re: Re: Bradley Wright-Phillips not interested in representing Grenada
Post by: Mad Scorpion a/k/a Big Bo$$ on August 13, 2015, 09:24:05 AM
Ah think that was Kenwyne real partner in the Southampton days. Tell him send a text.

Fuh what? yuh want Contro to get mad ah wha?  Da fella seem like he want to humble heself and join we? :rotfl:
Title: Re: Re: Bradley Wright-Phillips not interested in representing Grenada
Post by: Controversial on August 13, 2015, 09:28:31 AM
Nah, mad man prefer Hart and the fed to get on their knees and beg him to play for us...   :D delusional yes...
Title: Re: Re: Bradley Wright-Phillips not interested in representing Grenada
Post by: Peong on August 13, 2015, 10:21:32 AM
What kinda fool prefers to play no international ball when given the chance?
He gonna regret that later in life.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on August 18, 2015, 10:23:30 AM
Costa Rica Coach Quits After Fight
By The Associated Press


Paulo Wanchope resigned as the coach of Costa Rica’s national team a day after he was involved in a fistfight at a match in Panama City.

Wanchope was an observer at Tuesday night’s game between the under-23 teams of Costa Rica and Panama. A scuffle broke out, and video of the incident shows Wanchope angrily opening a gate to the field, shoving a youth standing behind it and apparently receiving a shove from a man standing beside the gate. Wanchope then turns and punches the man, who kicks and hits him before the police intervene.

Wanchope, who took over Costa Rica’s team last year after a career as one of Central America’s most famous forwards, had approached the field several times to shout at officials that the match was fixed, said Ramon Cardoze, vice president of the Panama Soccer Federation.

https://www.youtube.com/v/k-8qesS852U
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: warmonga on August 22, 2015, 12:45:31 AM
I watch st Vincent played  sum rell hard tackle dey bussing and dem eh have no sense at all. They leading  by big margin and boom kicking the ball upfront.. rushing and taking free kick and throw They good for about 3 or 4. Now everybody thinking we will face Guatemala I dnt believe so , I saw the entire game of Guatemala vs Bermuda and they scrape thru with a 1-0 against Bermuda. Antigua is a  decent team could gave  Guatemala whole heap ah pressure with sum tall lanky players upfront. A&B Guatemala clash will be something to watch..
Title: Re: Re: Bradley Wright-Phillips not interested in representing Grenada
Post by: Tiresais on August 25, 2015, 07:01:54 AM
What kinda fool prefers to play no international ball when given the chance?
He gonna regret that later in life.

Could be for a number of reasons - maybe it disrupts his family life, maybe the long flights leave him out of fitness and unable to do his job effectively, maybe he doesn't like people at teh FA or doesn't trust him to pay him. Personally share the same opinion as you, but I know there are good reasons when players decide not to.
Title: Re: Re: Bradley Wright-Phillips not interested in representing Grenada
Post by: Football supporter on August 25, 2015, 09:23:12 AM
What kinda fool prefers to play no international ball when given the chance?
He gonna regret that later in life.

Could be for a number of reasons - maybe it disrupts his family life, maybe the long flights leave him out of fitness and unable to do his job effectively, maybe he doesn't like people at teh FA or doesn't trust him to pay him. Personally share the same opinion as you, but I know there are good reasons when players decide not to.

I put it down to receiving poor advice.
Title: Re: Re: Bradley Wright-Phillips not interested in representing Grenada
Post by: palos on August 25, 2015, 11:22:40 AM
Why would anyone in their right mind volunteer to play for T&T with the state T&T football is in?

Seriously.

A player had to pay the team hotel bill out of his own pocket because the hotel threaten to seize all their belongings as the bill wasn't paid

Staff have to buy team meals (for 30 people) and put it on their personal credit card

Team members kicked off of a charter flight on the way to an international game to accommodate "friends" of the Federation President. 

All that and much much more.  But allyuh saying people getting bad advice or delusional?

As much as I love T&T, why would anybody walk into such a situation?
Title: Re: Re: Bradley Wright-Phillips not interested in representing Grenada
Post by: dreamer on August 25, 2015, 12:26:10 PM
Why would anyone in their right mind volunteer to play for T&T with the state T&T football is in?

Seriously.

A player had to pay the team hotel bill out of his own pocket because the hotel threaten to seize all their belongings as the bill wasn't paid

Staff have to buy team meals (for 30 people) and put it on their personal credit card

Team members kicked off of a charter flight on the way to an international game to accommodate "friends" of the Federation President. 

All that and much much more.  But allyuh saying people getting bad advice or delusional?

As much as I love T&T, why would anybody walk into such a situation?

Very sad. Very sad.
One would have to be themselves delusional to be a defender of that kinda status quo.
Continue the pressure ... and pray for relief from this madness.
Anything the socawarriors achieve is IN SPITE OF this madness.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on August 26, 2015, 07:56:55 AM
...
Puerto Rico beat Grenada 1-0 at the Juan Ramón Loubriel Stadium with 4,500 spectators in attendance (among them Carmelo Anthony who is the owner of Puerto Rico FC, recently announced as a 2016 participant in the NASL).
...

Carmelo Anthony has hired Adrian Whitbread to coach Puerto Rico FC.

http://www.socceramerica.com/article/65335/nasls-puerto-rico-fc-hires-whitbread-as-coach.html

P.S. seems like a coach that would have been on Central's profile list.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on August 28, 2015, 10:11:39 AM
Guatemala just called a squad into camp starting today through September 8 ... as they look to face Antigua & Barbuda. Details here (http://www.fedefutguate.org/index.php/noticias/3072-seleccion-nacional-convocatoria-oficial-del-28-de-marzo-al-08-de.html).

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on August 28, 2015, 10:53:04 AM
(http://www.fesfut.org.sv/uploaded/noticias/DSC_0013.JPG)
El Salvador as they ramp up for Curacao.

(http://www.fesfut.org.sv/uploaded/noticias/IMG_3627.JPG)
Photo of Hugo Pérez, El Salvador's NT assistant coach, arriving in El Salvador on Tuesday this week to assume his duties. Pérez is Salvadoran by birth, but played for the US MNT for roughly a decade.

Pérez had hoped to become the NT coach following El Salvador's not so stellar performance at the Gold Cup. However, the job has gone to former Dallas Burn player, Jorge Humberto "El Zarco" Rodríguez, who replaced the Spaniard, Albert Roca following the Gold Cup.

Rodríguez is Salvadoran. He manages the club, Isidro Metapán, and just as with Mexico's appointment of Feretti, Rodríguez will serve in an interim capacity.

(The club name,  Isidro Metapán, may sound familiar because it's where Jamaica's Romeo Parkes plays ... and because Parkes, a left mid who has had success at IM, was recently denied entry into Costa Rica upon landing with the team for the opening leg of CONCACAF Champions League play versus Herediano. Frankly, that exclusion still seems fishy).

Anyhow, El Salvador is in training. They trained at 11 TT time this morning and will have a session at 6:00pm TT time this evening. Same schedule tomorrow and a 10:00am session on Sunday.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on August 30, 2015, 08:15:45 AM
Honduras play Venezuela and Ecuador during the upcoming break. Five new players have been called up (two forwards, two defenders, and a midfielder).

Don't be surprised if Honduras play South Africa in a subsequent friendly.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 03, 2015, 07:15:34 PM
Seven NASL players in World Cup Qualifying
Mike Woitalla, Soccer America


Seven NASL players have joined their national teams for World Cup qualifiers and two are off to compete in Africa Cup of Nations qualifying.

Five of the players will be involved in the two-leg, third-round Concacaf playoffs Sept. 4 and 8 to earn passage in the fourth-round group stage*.

Jacksonville Armada’s Shawn Nicklaw joins Guam for its Asian qualifiers against Iran in Tehran and Oman in Harmon, Guam. Nicklaw played in wins over Turkmenistan (1-0) and India (2-1) that put Guam in first-place of Group D.

Sainey Nyassi and Futty Danso join Gambia for an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Cameroon.

2018 World Cup Qualifiers, NASL Callups
Canada (vs. Belize): Julian de Guzman (Ottawa Fury FC).
El Salvador (vs. Curaçao): Richie Menjivar (Tampa Bay Rowdies), Andrés Flores (New York Cosmos)
Haiti (vs. Grenada): Pascal Millien (Jacksonville Armada FC), Steward Ceus (Atlanta Silverbacks)
Jamaica (vs. Nicaragua): Lance Laing (FC Edmonton)
Guam (vs. Iran & Oman): Shawn Nicklaw (Jacksonville Armada FC).

2017 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers, NASL Callups
Gambia (vs. Cameroon): Sainey Nyassi (FC Edmonton), Futty Danso (Carolina RailHawks).

* The USA, Mexico, Honduras, Costa Rica, Panama and Trinidad & Tobago automatically qualified for the fourth-round. The top two teams from each of the three fourth-round groups advance to the final round, the Hexagonal, from which the top three qualify for the 2018 World Cup and the fourth-place team earns a playoff against Africa's fifth-place team.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 03, 2015, 07:29:40 PM
Again, the question arises: does Bentick have a path to national selection via the NASL? What would he bring that yields more value than his direct competitor(s) on the squad.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 04, 2015, 04:50:21 PM
St. Vincent and Grenadines 2 - 0 Aruba. Final score.

Haiti 3-1 Grenada. Final.

Honduras is up 2-0 on Venezuela with about 10+ left.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 04, 2015, 05:25:50 PM
Honduras 3-0 Venezuela. Final score. Friendly.

In WC qualifying, with 19 minutes played, El Salvador lead Curacao 1-0.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 04, 2015, 05:50:23 PM
Is the surface in Curacao grass?
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Tallman on September 04, 2015, 06:47:49 PM
Is the surface in Curacao grass?

Supposed to be grass.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: FireBrand on September 04, 2015, 07:04:20 PM
Is the surface in Curacao grass?

Supposed to be grass.

I doubt... That looked like artificial turf
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 04, 2015, 07:17:23 PM
Jamaica down.

Jamaica 0-2 Nicaragua
Fuh realllll
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Dynamite Warrior on September 04, 2015, 07:20:39 PM
Jamaica down.

Jamaica 0-2 Nicaragua
Fuh realllll

In 10 mins at that
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 04, 2015, 08:05:31 PM
Canada 3-0 Belize. FT.
Curacao 0-1 El Salvador. FT.
Antigua & Barbuda 1-0 Guatemala. FT.
Jamaica 0-2 Nicaragua @ the half

Friendly: Panama 0-0 Uruguay @ 45'+1
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 04, 2015, 08:12:21 PM
Jamaica 0-3 Nicaragua 68'
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 04, 2015, 08:23:21 PM
Jamaica 0-3 Nicaragua 56'

Wow... I knew Nicaragua was going to give them problems. Don't think the Reggae Boyz will score 4 in Managua. Looks like Jamaica's wcq is about to an end.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 04, 2015, 08:25:04 PM
Jamaica 0-3 Nicaragua 56'

Wow... I knew Nicaragua was going to give them problems. Don't think the Reggae Boyz will score 4 in Managua. Looks like Jamaica's wcq is about to an end.

Self-inflicted wound. Might prove to be fatal.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 04, 2015, 08:29:52 PM
Jamaica 0-3 Nicaragua 56'

Wow... I knew Nicaragua was going to give them problems. Don't think the Reggae Boyz will score 4 in Managua. Looks like Jamaica's wcq is about to an end.

Self-inflicted wound. Might prove to be fatal.

You think? This is a huge hill to climb. Nicaragua will put every man behind the ball. Although I am rooting for them.. I don't think they will score 4.

The game is still going on. So I hope they prove me wrong.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 04, 2015, 08:35:52 PM
Jamaica 1-3 Nicaragua @ 75'
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 04, 2015, 08:41:36 PM
Good result for Antigua & Barbuda, but 1 goal might be insufficient going to Guate.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: FF on September 04, 2015, 08:42:40 PM
Jamaica score again
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 04, 2015, 08:59:29 PM
Jamaica 2-3 Nicaragua @ 90+

So Jamaica needs 3 goals to ensure qualification.

Good result by Antigua. But I hope it is enough for the road game.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 04, 2015, 09:02:19 PM
Jamaica 2-3 Nicaragua FT
Friendly: Panama 0-0 Uruguay @ 68'
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 04, 2015, 09:26:11 PM
Is the surface in Curacao grass?

Supposed to be grass.

I doubt... That looked like artificial turf

I agree. Did some digging.

http://www.edelgrass.com/en/news/2015/Installation-artificial-turf-pitch-at-Stadium-Ergilio-Hato-SDK-in-Cura%C3%A7ao

Special dispensation? Ah know it doh rain dey much.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 04, 2015, 09:45:50 PM
Friendly: Panama 0-1 Uruguay FT
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Deeks on September 04, 2015, 09:48:15 PM
That was a surprise!!!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 04, 2015, 10:19:15 PM
My prediction for the next leg:

Jamaica scores the first goal
Nicaragua ties
Jamaica takes the lead but runs out of time
Final score Jamaica 2- 1 Nicaragua 

Guatemala 2- 0 Antigua and Barbuda

Canada 1- 2 Belize

El Salvador 2 - 2 Curacao

Haiti 3 - 1 Grenada

Aruba 0- 0 St Vincent
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 04, 2015, 10:31:45 PM
Third Round Qualifying: Antigua and Barbuda v Guatemala, 1st leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/wADTBq7AdII
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 04, 2015, 10:38:30 PM
Third Round Qualifying: St. Vincent and the Grenadines v Aruba, 1st leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/HEhWbPuAq0Q
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 04, 2015, 10:41:13 PM
Third Round Qualifying: Grenada v Haiti, 1st leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/abbG0LrjR5U
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 04, 2015, 10:57:41 PM
Third Round Qualifying: Jamaica v Nicaragua, 1st leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/j5pT3xwkjF8


Lowly-ranked Nicaragua warns Jamaica not to take them lightly
Stabroek News


KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – Minnows Nicaragua have warned Jamaica not to take them lightly, as they eye an upset in the first leg of the third round 2018 World Cup qualifier at the National Stadium here tomorrow.

The Central Americans languish 144th in the FIFA rankings, a whopping 89 spots below the 55th ranked Regge Boyz.

But despite entering the contest as underdogs, Nicaragua Football Association head, Jose Jocinto Reyes believes they can spring an upset on the hosts.

“We are coming from less to more, and we are ready for Jamaica,” Reyes told reporters through an interpreter after arriving here on Tuesday with part of the contingent.

“We are a young team and do not have the same experience as Jamaica, as we are very aware of the standard of play of the Jamaican team. Saying this, we have prepared to be competitive with our young team and a winning result is what we are here to achieve.”

He continued: “Russia is our aim and even a draw for us is just as good as a win. We are expecting to put on a good showing and will be thrilled to see a full house turning out for the game.”

Nicaragua have produced dominant performances so far in the World Cup qualifiers to reach this stage of the competition. They hammered Anguilla 8-0 on aggregate in the first round and in the second round, breezed past Suriname 4-1 on aggregate, after winning the first leg 1-0 and the second, 3-1.

Jamaica will present the first real challenge for the Nicaraguans but the Reyes said with his side still developing, they would be sure to learn from the experience regardless of the result.

“Nicaragua is working with young talent and, irrespective of the outcome of the game, football will be the victor.”

Mattocks and Mariappa score, but Jamaica lose 2-3 to Nicaragua
By Audley Boyd (The Gleaner).


 When Jamaica tackle Nicaragua in their second-leg football match next week Tuesday in Managua, the Reggae Boyz must win to have any chance of advancing any further in their quest for a place at the 2018 World Cup final in Russia.

Nicaragua claimed first-leg advantage over Jamaica with an unexpected 3-2 victory over Jamaica in their CONCACAF first-leg World Cup Qualifying football match at the National Stadium last night.

The visitors surged to a shock 2-0 lead at half-time and with just a minute gone in the second half, Luis Molina scored to hand his team a handsome 3-0 lead.

Darren Mattocks (68th) and Adrian Mariappa (78th) put back some life into the Jamaican crowd, scoring two goals inside 10 minutes to cut the deficit to 2-3.

They had been booing their players before the goal, especially central defender Michael Hector.

However, the goals brought cheers, none of which could have made the equaliser against a Nicaraguan team that defended stubbornly and had their goalkeeper to thank for some inspired saves.

Jamaica got off to a slow start and found themselves two goals behind inside the first 10 minutes.

Captain Manuel Rosas gave Nicaragua the lead at the fourth minute, scoring a penalty while sending goalkeeper Andre Blake the wrong way, after Kemar Lawrence handled the ball inside the box.

Within six minutes, Carlos Chavarria doubled the lead when sent clear with the Jamaican defence caught badly out of position on the counter.

He hit a grounder across Andre Blake that careened off the far post into the goal.

Jamaica almost halved the deficit at the 13th when Demar Phillips, effective on the left, passed to Rodolph Austin, who smashed powerfully at goal.

However, goalkeeper Justo Lorente proved equal to the task and pushed the ball over the bar.

Phillips provided an even better opportunity with another cross from the left to Simon Dawkins, but the unmarked midfielder had more time than he thought and put his shot over the bar.

Jamaica got stronger as the half progressed and moved into a position of clear dominance.

Significantly, they could not transfer that advantage into a goal against opponents whose size provided much deceit to their physical play.

The Reggae Boyz now have it all to do in the second-leg away tie in Managua, in the qualifying series for the 2018 World Cup Final in Russia.

The winners on aggregate will advance to the 12-team CONCACAF semi-final group stage.

The losers will be eliminated.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 04, 2015, 11:25:31 PM
Charlie Slusher discussing preparations for Canada Match

https://www.youtube.com/v/tGMsU7EfCxA


Charlie Slusher discussing the financial reality of maintaining support for the National Team

https://www.youtube.com/v/Et4M3TM3cU4


Belizean Jaguars engaged in community service

https://www.youtube.com/v/5Ep8Iy8yGhM


Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 04, 2015, 11:25:44 PM
Canada blanks Belize in World Cup soccer qualifier
By Neil Davidson (The Chronicle Herald).


TORONTO (CP) — Tosaint Ricketts scored twice and Atiba Hutchinson added a stoppage-time goal to give Canada a 3-0 win over underdog Belize in the first leg of a World Cup qualifier Friday night.

Canada led 1-0 at the half against a mostly part-time team it should have carved wide open. It dominated possession but showed little teeth in front of goal until late in the game as the visitors sagged before an announced crowd of just 10,412 at BMO Field.

The Canadians came out more aggressively in the second half, pushing Hutchinson further up the field. But the finishing continued to underwhelm, with Canadians getting in the way of their own shots on occasion.

Ricketts found the mark again in the 65th, deftly redirecting in a Nik Ledgerwood cross to make the score more respectable. Substitute Russell Teibert’s cross found Hutchinson in front of goal for the final score.

The Canadians are ranked 102nd in the world while Belize — whose population is around 350,000 — is No. 128. British bookmaker William Hill had Belize as a 12-1 underdog.

The return match is Tuesday in the Belize capital of Belmopan, where FFB Stadium was upgraded in 2014 to meet CONCACAF standards. An upset does not seem in the making.

In 2004, Canada dispatched the Jaguars 8-0 on aggregate when they met in a similar qualifying tie. Both matches were held in Kingston, Ont., because of the Belize stadium issue.

Ricketts put Canada ahead in the 25th minute, poking the ball home after a goal-mouth scramble. Goalkeeper Woodrow West made a fine save to deny Cyle Larin’s header but the ball deflected back towards the goal line. Samuel Piette failed to put it in but then Ricketts got a limb to it.

It was Canada’s first goal in 308 minutes dating back to its last World Cup qualifier, a 4-0 win over Dominica on June 16. Canada subsequently went scoreless in three games at the Gold Cup (0-1-2).

Belize came out in a 4-4-2 formation, with defender Trevor Lennen shadowing Larin wherever he went. Canada played a 4-2-3-1 with Hutchinson and Will Johnson patrolling in front of the back line.

Midfielder Julian de Guman, who only recently came back from an injury layoff, captained Canada but left in the 14th minute.

Related Video (http://www.cbc.ca/player/Sports/Top+Stories/ID/2675009488/)
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 05, 2015, 12:24:14 AM
Friendly: Altidore scores twice as US rallies to beat Peru 2-1
The Associated Press


WASHINGTON - Jozy Altidore scored a pair of second-half goals in his return to the U.S. national team following an injury filled summer, and the Americans rallied to beat Peru 2-1 in an exhibition Friday night.

Preparing for next month's one-game playoff against Mexico for a berth in the 2017 Confederations Cup, the Americans fell behind in the 20th minute. Daniel Chavez's 20-yard shot caromed off defender Omar Gonzalez and looped over the outstretched right arm of goalkeeper Brad Guzan, who retained the starting job despite the return of Tim Howard from a 14-month national team sabbatical.

While the visitors had a 59-41 percent possession advantage in the first half, Altidore dampened the mostly pro-Peruvian crowd 28,896 at RFK Stadium, where the Americans improved to 15-3-5 at their most frequently used venue.

Altidore was sent home by U.S. coach Jurgen Klinsmann after the group stage of the CONCACAF Gold Cup in July because he failed to regain fitness following a hamstring injury. Against Peru, he played his strongest national team game in more than a year.

He earned a penalty kick from Mexican referee Francisco Chacon when he flicked the ball over Carlos Zambrano and was tripped by the defender. Goalkeeper Pedro Gallese dove left to block the penalty kick, but the ball bounded to Altidore, who side-footed it into an empty net from 5 yards in the 59th minute.

Guzan sprawled to his right to deny Juan Manuel Vargas' goal-bound header off a free kick eight minutes later and blocked Renato Tapia's close-range effort off the rebound.

Altidore then started the move to the second goal when he passed to DeAndre Yedlin bursting down a flank. Yedlin cut the ball back for Altidore, and it ricocheted off a Peruvian to the other side of the field. Gyasi Zardes' cross deflected off a defender to Altidore, who kicked the ball in from 3 yards at the far post.

With his first multigoal match since June 2014 against Nigeria, Altidore increased his total to 29 international goals, one behind Brian McBride for fourth on the American career list behind Landon Donovan (57), Dempsey (40) and Eric Wynalda (34).

Jermaine Jones played well in his first national team match since he was a central defender in a 2-0 exhibition win over Panama on Feb. 8. Back in a defensive midfield role, Jones started and stayed in until the 72nd minute. Jones missed two months of the Major League Soccer season, returned Aug. 1 following two hernia operations and had played just 122 minutes over three matches since then for New England.

Klinsmann started Michael Orozco at right back and kept the rest of his defensive line the same as in the penalty-kicks loss to Panama in the Gold Cup third-place match in July: Omar Gonzalez and John Brooks were in the center, and Tim Ream was on the left.

Outside backs DaMarcus Beasley, Fabian Johnson and Tim Chandler are hurt. Geoff Cameron, who skipped the Gold Cup at the request of Stoke, entered at right back for the start of the second half.

The U.S. was missing midfielder Michael Bradley and forward Clint Dempsey, who remained with their MLS teams and are expected to join the national team ahead of Tuesday's exhibition against Brazil at Foxborough, Massachusetts.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 05, 2015, 12:30:14 AM
https://www.youtube.com/v/CSJ466RQorQ

Friendly --- Panama 0 Uruguay 1: Stuani's late header clinches win
FourFourTwo


Uruguay got back to winning ways without Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani, edging past Panama in a friendly.

A late goal from Christian Stuani has seen Uruguay register their first win in four matches, prevailing 1-0 over Panama on Friday.

Stuani rose highest at the back post to nod Jonathan Rodriguez's cross into the net in the 82nd minute, with the Middlesbrough striker previously having been one of the more profligate of the Uruguayans as they struggled to break down Panama at the Estadio Rommel Fernandez Gutierrez.

The friendly victory was Uruguay's first since their opening match of the 2015 Copa America, with Oscar Tabarez's men looking to rediscover their best form ahead of the start of CONMEBOL's World Cup qualifying in October.

Without Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani, Uruguay lacked a cutting edge in Panama, with Stuani, Nicolas Lodeiro and Diego Rolan all failing to convert opportunities in the opening 20 minutes.

Stuani and Rolan started up front for Uruguay with Lodeiro in behind but the second-half introduction of Rodriguez for the latter seemed to spark Tabarez's side.

Rodriguez teed up Stuani on the hour-mark but he could only shoot straight at Panama goalkeeper Jose Calderon, while Diego Godin sent a header over the bar from a free-kick with 15 minutes remaining.

In the 79th minute, Rodriguez had a shot blocked, while the Deportivo La Coruna forward rounded Calderon in the lead-up to Stuani's goal before regathering possession and delivering a cross to the far post.

Panama had a late chance for an equaliser but Luis Tejada's glancing header flashed wide of the post in stoppage time.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Tiresais on September 05, 2015, 07:37:45 AM
Is the surface in Curacao grass?

Supposed to be grass.

I doubt... That looked like artificial turf

Yup artificial AFAIK - I'd say it's roughly 50-50 now on the smaller islands for real v artificial turf. Nearly all teh new stadia I can think of in the region playing at International level have been artificial
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Peong on September 05, 2015, 01:35:46 PM
Nicaragua not afraid to play in The Cubicle.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 06, 2015, 05:29:41 PM
Nicaragua not afraid to play in The Cubicle.

Yeah it seemed more like a cubicle than an actual office on Friday. .

The Reggae Boyz need a miracle to advance. I don't see them scoring 3 goals in Managua. Its going to be key for them to score in the first half. If they score in the first half, they should go through.. If they  dont, panic will take over and Nicaragua will start to grow in confidence.

We all know that many of the Jamaican supporters won't be rooting for us if we were in the same position.. But I would rather see them through instead of another Central American team.

Nicaragua will score at home. Can't see Jamaica getting 3.

Final score Jamaica 2-1 Nicaragua
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 06, 2015, 06:09:25 PM
Hey Haters! Long time no see. ;D ;D

Anyway. Here's the link for the Bermuda vs Guatemala WCQ:

http://sportsfree.me/stream/4ef4b7f5e578ce7672b5dbe719c7909d

Enjoy. And see you in the Fourth Round.

Perhaps.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: real madness on September 06, 2015, 06:16:58 PM
Nicaragua not afraid to play in The Cubicle.

Yeah it seemed more like a cubicle than an actual office on Friday. .

The Reggae Boyz need a miracle to advance. I don't see them scoring 3 goals in Managua. Its going to be key for them to score in the first half. If they score in the first half, they should go through.. If they  dont, panic will take over and Nicaragua will start to grow in confidence.

We all know that many of the Jamaican supporters won't be rooting for us if we were in the same position.. But I would rather see them through instead of another Central American team.

Nicaragua will score at home. Can't see Jamaica getting 3.

Final score Jamaica 2-1 Nicaragua

Jamaica only need 2 goals if they keep a clean sheet.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 06, 2015, 06:33:56 PM
Nicaragua not afraid to play in The Cubicle.

Yeah it seemed more like a cubicle than an actual office on Friday. .

The Reggae Boyz need a miracle to advance. I don't see them scoring 3 goals in Managua. Its going to be key for them to score in the first half. If they score in the first half, they should go through.. If they  dont, panic will take over and Nicaragua will start to grow in confidence.

We all know that many of the Jamaican supporters won't be rooting for us if we were in the same position.. But I would rather see them through instead of another Central American team.

Nicaragua will score at home. Can't see Jamaica getting 3.

Final score Jamaica 2-1 Nicaragua

Jamaica only need 2 goals if they keep a clean sheet.

That's right. But it is likely that Nicaragua  will score at home.

All the officials are Guatemalan. All it will take is a dive in the 18 yard box by the Nicaraguans and they will get the crucial goal.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 06, 2015, 06:45:08 PM
Yard has been talking about bringing Jason Puncheon into the squad, but that chatter has been mooted for well over a year. Wonder what's de hold-up.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 06, 2015, 06:48:32 PM
Yard has been talking about bringing Jason Puncheon into the squad, but that chatter has been mooted for well over a year. Wonder what's de hold-up.

Don't know what the hold up is. But I can tell you if they progress, there will be more UB40s coming out of nowhere. Might end up working against them.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 06, 2015, 07:16:53 PM
Another team that might cause an upset is Antigua. Guatemala needs 2 goals. If Antigua scores, Guatemala will need 3.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Peong on September 06, 2015, 07:30:42 PM
Another team that might cause an upset is Antigua. Guatemala needs 2 goals. If Antigua scores, Guatemala will need 3.

Yes I forgot to add, very well done by Antigua.  I hope they go through.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 06, 2015, 07:56:55 PM
Another team that might cause an upset is Antigua. Guatemala needs 2 goals. If Antigua scores, Guatemala will need 3.

Yes I forgot to add, very well done by Antigua.  I hope they go through.

Antigua has their own "mini UB40". Guatemala might go down
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Cocorite on September 06, 2015, 08:51:09 PM
Nicaragua not afraid to play in The Cubicle.

Yeah it seemed more like a cubicle than an actual office on Friday. .

The Reggae Boyz need a miracle to advance. I don't see them scoring 3 goals in Managua. Its going to be key for them to score in the first half. If they score in the first half, they should go through.. If they  dont, panic will take over and Nicaragua will start to grow in confidence.

We all know that many of the Jamaican supporters won't be rooting for us if we were in the same position.. But I would rather see them through instead of another Central American team.

Nicaragua will score at home. Can't see Jamaica getting 3.

Final score Jamaica 2-1 Nicaragua


And how many red cards?  ;)
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Deeks on September 07, 2015, 07:50:21 AM
I was really surprised by the initial score, seeing that the game was at JA. In addition JA have had the Copa America and was in the GC final. That goes to show that WC qualifying is one of the hardest competitions in the football world. Look at Holland for the 2016 Euros. They lost 1-0 to Iceland and 3-0 to Turkey. Aye and they placed 3rd in Rio WC.

So let's see what the JA team is really made of. A 2-0 shut out is all it takes. Remember TT in Bahrain.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Flex on September 07, 2015, 08:04:24 AM
Results heading into the next set of games (return-legs) starting tomorrow.

Home team listed first.

Curaçao 0 v El Salvador 1 -
El Salvador needs only a tie.

Canada 3 v Belize 0 -
Canada needs only a tie. Or can lose by a 1-goal margin and still qualify.

Grenada 1 v Haiti 3 -
Haiti needs only a tie. Or can lose by a 1-goal margin and still qualify.

Jamaica 2 v Nicaragua 3 -
Nicaragua needs only a tie. Or can lose by a 1-goal margin and still qualify.

St Vincent 2 v Aruba 0 -
St Vincent needs only a tie. Or can lose by a 1-goal margin and still qualify.

Antigua 1 v Guatemala 0 -
Antigua needs only a tie.

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 07, 2015, 08:43:51 AM
Nicaragua not afraid to play in The Cubicle.

Yeah it seemed more like a cubicle than an actual office on Friday. .

The Reggae Boyz need a miracle to advance. I don't see them scoring 3 goals in Managua. Its going to be key for them to score in the first half. If they score in the first half, they should go through.. If they  dont, panic will take over and Nicaragua will start to grow in confidence.

We all know that many of the Jamaican supporters won't be rooting for us if we were in the same position.. But I would rather see them through instead of another Central American team.

Nicaragua will score at home. Can't see Jamaica getting 3.

Final score Jamaica 2-1 Nicaragua


And how many red cards?  ;)

Considering that the officiating crew will be all Central American, Jamaica needs to be on their best behavior. The slightest touch by the Jamaicans will be called. Anything in the penalty area will go against the Jamaicans.

Guatemalans will panic if they dont score by the 60th minute. Their crowd will try to keep them in it. But I expect the energy of the crowd to give them more pressure, which will in turn work against them. I picked Guatemala to win 2-0. But if the Antiguans score a goal, I cant see the Guatemalans scoring 3.



 
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 07, 2015, 09:03:56 AM
I was really surprised by the initial score, seeing that the game was at JA. In addition JA have had the Copa America and was in the GC final. That goes to show that WC qualifying is one of the hardest competitions in the football world. Look at Holland for the 2016 Euros. They lost 1-0 to Iceland and 3-0 to Turkey. Aye and they placed 3rd in Rio WC.

So let's see what the JA team is really made of. A 2-0 shut out is all it takes. Remember TT in Bahrain.

Interesting parallel. But JA has a much deeper hole to crawl out of.

Yeah. A 2-0 shut out is all that it takes. But I hope they arent counting on scoring 2 and sitting back. Scoring two goals and sitting back will be the worst mistake that JA can make. Because Nicaragua will likely score. I say score three goals and then relax a bit. The pressure will then be on the Nicaraguans to score.. And as we seen, Nicaragua will crack under under pressure. That is the only way JA will make the next round.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: jamaica2099 on September 07, 2015, 09:25:09 AM
Hey Haters! Long time no see. ;D ;D

Anyway. Here's the link for the Bermuda vs Guatemala WCQ:

http://sportsfree.me/stream/4ef4b7f5e578ce7672b5dbe719c7909d

Enjoy. And see you in the Fourth Round.

Perhaps.
Nice!!!! But no "PERHAPS". And since T&T is in another group in the Fourth Round. We will see you in the HEX. ;) ;)
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 07, 2015, 09:28:22 AM
Hey Haters! Long time no see. ;D ;D

Anyway. Here's the link for the Bermuda vs Guatemala WCQ:

http://sportsfree.me/stream/4ef4b7f5e578ce7672b5dbe719c7909d

Enjoy. And see you in the Fourth Round.

Perhaps.
Nice!!!! But no "PERHAPS". And since T&T is in another group in the Fourth Round. We will see you in the HEX. ;) ;)

Best of luck Jamaica2099.. I want to see you guys in the next round. But things just went from bad to worse for you guys:

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/sport/Barnes-out--Austin-doubtful-for-Nicaragua-return_19227568

Looks like Barnes is out because he cant play on artificial turf. And Austin is not even in Managua.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: jamaica2099 on September 07, 2015, 09:55:24 AM
Hey Haters! Long time no see. ;D ;D

Anyway. Here's the link for the Bermuda vs Guatemala WCQ:

http://sportsfree.me/stream/4ef4b7f5e578ce7672b5dbe719c7909d

Enjoy. And see you in the Fourth Round.

Perhaps.
Nice!!!! But no "PERHAPS". And since T&T is in another group in the Fourth Round. We will see you in the HEX. ;) ;)

Best of luck Jamaica2099.. I want to see you guys in the next round. But things just went from bad to worse for you guys:

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/sport/Barnes-out--Austin-doubtful-for-Nicaragua-return_19227568

Looks like Barnes is out because he cant play on artificial turf. And Austin is not even in Managua.
I don't see a problem. We have more than enough Reggae Boyz to fill those positions and get 3 goals or more.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: de_redman on September 07, 2015, 09:58:15 AM
Hey Haters! Long time no see. ;D ;D

Anyway. Here's the link for the Bermuda vs Guatemala WCQ:

http://sportsfree.me/stream/4ef4b7f5e578ce7672b5dbe719c7909d

Enjoy. And see you in the Fourth Round.

Perhaps.
Nice!!!! But no "PERHAPS". And since T&T is in another group in the Fourth Round. We will see you in the HEX. ;) ;)

Best of luck Jamaica2099.. I want to see you guys in the next round. But things just went from bad to worse for you guys:

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/sport/Barnes-out--Austin-doubtful-for-Nicaragua-return_19227568

Looks like Barnes is out because he cant play on artificial turf. And Austin is not even in Managua.
I don't see a problem. We have more than enough Reggae Boyz to fill those positions and get 3 goals or more.
If the nics score a goal alyuh arse is grass!!!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 07, 2015, 10:05:30 AM
Hey Haters! Long time no see. ;D ;D

Anyway. Here's the link for the Bermuda vs Guatemala WCQ:

http://sportsfree.me/stream/4ef4b7f5e578ce7672b5dbe719c7909d

Enjoy. And see you in the Fourth Round.

Perhaps.
Nice!!!! But no "PERHAPS". And since T&T is in another group in the Fourth Round. We will see you in the HEX. ;) ;)

Best of luck Jamaica2099.. I want to see you guys in the next round. But things just went from bad to worse for you guys:

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/sport/Barnes-out--Austin-doubtful-for-Nicaragua-return_19227568

Looks like Barnes is out because he cant play on artificial turf. And Austin is not even in Managua.
I don't see a problem. We have more than enough Reggae Boyz to fill those positions and get 3 goals or more.

You serious? Barnes and Austin are probably the best players on the team. Both had outstanding Gold cup and Copa performances. It would be foolish to think that this is not a devastating blow. Perhaps your resiliency will see you through to the next round. I agree with Redman.. One Nica goal will f00k things up for you guys. So I hope you guys get 3 goals.. Because youre going to need 3 to go through.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: jamaica2099 on September 07, 2015, 10:31:17 AM
Hey Haters! Long time no see. ;D ;D

Anyway. Here's the link for the Bermuda vs Guatemala WCQ:

http://sportsfree.me/stream/4ef4b7f5e578ce7672b5dbe719c7909d

Enjoy. And see you in the Fourth Round.

Perhaps.
Nice!!!! But no "PERHAPS". And since T&T is in another group in the Fourth Round. We will see you in the HEX. ;) ;)

Best of luck Jamaica2099.. I want to see you guys in the next round. But things just went from bad to worse for you guys:

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/sport/Barnes-out--Austin-doubtful-for-Nicaragua-return_19227568

Looks like Barnes is out because he cant play on artificial turf. And Austin is not even in Managua.
I don't see a problem. We have more than enough Reggae Boyz to fill those positions and get 3 goals or more.

You serious? Barnes and Austin are probably the best players on the team. Both had outstanding Gold cup and Copa performances. It would be foolish to think that this is not a devastating blow. Perhaps your resiliency will see you through to the next round. I agree with Redman.. One Nica goal will f00k things up for you guys. So I hope you guys get 3 goals.. Because youre going to need 3 to go through.
Look carefully at this Reggae Boyz roster:

http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/round=274851/match=300334096/index.html#nosticky

Now tell me which of these Boyz did not play a role bigger than Austin and Barnes? 
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 07, 2015, 10:49:49 AM
Hey Haters! Long time no see. ;D ;D

Anyway. Here's the link for the Bermuda vs Guatemala WCQ:

http://sportsfree.me/stream/4ef4b7f5e578ce7672b5dbe719c7909d

Enjoy. And see you in the Fourth Round.

Perhaps.
Nice!!!! But no "PERHAPS". And since T&T is in another group in the Fourth Round. We will see you in the HEX. ;) ;)

Best of luck Jamaica2099.. I want to see you guys in the next round. But things just went from bad to worse for you guys:

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/sport/Barnes-out--Austin-doubtful-for-Nicaragua-return_19227568

Looks like Barnes is out because he cant play on artificial turf. And Austin is not even in Managua.
I don't see a problem. We have more than enough Reggae Boyz to fill those positions and get 3 goals or more.

You serious? Barnes and Austin are probably the best players on the team. Both had outstanding Gold cup and Copa performances. It would be foolish to think that this is not a devastating blow. Perhaps your resiliency will see you through to the next round. I agree with Redman.. One Nica goal will f00k things up for you guys. So I hope you guys get 3 goals.. Because youre going to need 3 to go through.
Look carefully at this Reggae Boyz roster:

http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/round=274851/match=300334096/index.html#nosticky

Now tell me which of these Boyz did not play a role bigger than Austin and Barnes? 

No team will want to go into a crucial qualifier missing key players like Austin and Barnes. Yes there are replacements for Barnes. But if there is anytime you need your "engine" in the midfield, its now. If Austin does not play, the boyz will miss him.

I will like to see how the team  responds to such adversity. Maybe JA is a team that plays better when their backs are against the wall. We will see tomorrow.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 07, 2015, 11:56:36 AM
Don't be fooled by 2099's bravado. Austin's absence would be significant.

Next thing: could someone render an authoritative comment regarding these artificial surfaces that are popping up in WC qualifying? Is this what FIFA's goal projects have resulted in? If Rwanda and Ghana can play on that field in Kigali, what the heck is happening here?
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 08, 2015, 06:15:27 PM
Haiti 2-0 Grenada 2nd half now starting

Aruba 1-0 SVG . 15mins into the game
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 08, 2015, 06:25:26 PM
Haiti just secured their spot into the next round. 3-0 with 40 mins to go.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: vb on September 08, 2015, 06:43:06 PM
jca game start? finished?
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 08, 2015, 06:50:06 PM
jca game start? finished?

Soon. At 930.

SVG is playing a set of .. Aruba can find themselves back in the hunt if they keep it up.

SVG has a speedy forward. He creates a lot of chances. 
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 08, 2015, 07:21:29 PM
SVG is letting this one get away. Aruba 2-0 SVG
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: CAPITANO on September 08, 2015, 07:27:07 PM
wow..Jamaica looking like they would be in trouble with this one..Nicaragua crowd looking serious!!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Cocorite on September 08, 2015, 07:31:19 PM
Wey Big Mag . . .?

Time fuh dem tuh buy a TV?  ;)
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 08, 2015, 07:31:51 PM
Nicaragua vs Jamaica now starting. Their stadium is packed. Fans are no joke.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: che on September 08, 2015, 07:48:49 PM
Nicaragua vs Jamaica now starting. Their stadium is packed. Fans are no joke.

any link?
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: dreamer on September 08, 2015, 07:50:57 PM
 A little help please. I missed the link for this Nicaragua vs Jamaica game. Is there one?
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: TdotTrini on September 08, 2015, 07:52:43 PM
http://cricfree.tv/watch/live/nicaragua-vs-jamaica-live-streaming
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: TdotTrini on September 08, 2015, 07:54:18 PM
Jam up 1 - 0
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: che on September 08, 2015, 07:55:21 PM
http://atdhe.fm/soccer/stream-41b025-nicaragua-vs-jamaica
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: dreamer on September 08, 2015, 07:59:17 PM
Thanks folks
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: grimm01 on September 08, 2015, 08:07:14 PM
Ah know this is not a qualifying game but anyone watching the US game? Brazil rolling them like a tamarind ball. 4-0
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: che on September 08, 2015, 08:08:12 PM
SVG scores late. They lose 2-1 but advance 3-2 on agg.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Cocorite on September 08, 2015, 08:08:37 PM
Ah know this is not a qualifying game but anyone watching the US game? Brazil rolling them like a tamarind ball. 4-0

Dem Brazilians too wicked . . . Nasty goals
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: che on September 08, 2015, 08:10:56 PM
Ah know this is not a qualifying game but anyone watching the US game? Brazil rolling them like a tamarind ball. 4-0

These types of scores not good for Concacaf on a whole. When one of our top two teams get handle like that at home it just makes the whole fed look weak.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: che on September 08, 2015, 08:13:46 PM
Belize giving Canada all they can handle 1 all early second half. Nicaragua hit the post and outplaying Jam but losing 1nil.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: che on September 08, 2015, 08:16:28 PM
Curacao down 1nil on the road at El Sal. but they are also playing well . CFU teams holding their own this round.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: che on September 08, 2015, 08:30:55 PM
ANT holding Guat nil/nil early in the first half. A draw and they will be in.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Cocorite on September 08, 2015, 08:31:12 PM
Wah bout de Antigua/Guatemala game?
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 08, 2015, 08:33:03 PM
All these goals Mattocks scoring, yet he still doh look fluent with the ball. Despite this being the pinnacle (WC qualifying), the one that would have changed it up for him is the finish he didn't convert in Chile during the Copa America.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 08, 2015, 08:34:38 PM
Wah bout de Antigua/Guatemala game?

Nil nil at 28'.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Cocorite on September 08, 2015, 08:48:23 PM
Wah bout de Antigua/Guatemala game?

Nil nil at 28'.

Thanks. Antigua might hold on
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 08, 2015, 08:57:12 PM
Jamaica looking flat. They not pushing for anything. Winnie needs to remind them that they need a goal.

Antigua is doing well. They killing the game for the Guatemalans
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: che on September 08, 2015, 08:57:50 PM
Can. is into the next round with a 1all draw against Belize to advance 4-1 on agg.
Haiti and SVG  also advanced. 
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 08, 2015, 08:58:30 PM
Wah bout de Antigua/Guatemala game?

Nil nil at 28'.

Thanks. Antigua might hold on

Scoreless at the half.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 08, 2015, 08:59:03 PM
If JA lose.. Watch how they call for Winnie scalp in the morning.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 08, 2015, 09:02:23 PM
Costa Rica leads Uruguay at the half. Venezuela and Panama finished 1-1. Mexico are 1-0 versus Argentina at 25'.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 08, 2015, 09:04:53 PM
Nicargua is starting to kill the clock. 76min
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: che on September 08, 2015, 09:05:04 PM
If JA lose.. Watch how they call for Winnie scalp in the morning.

We would do the same.
I am all for Caribbean unity but I would not mind seeing Nicaragua advance.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 08, 2015, 09:06:17 PM
@65' Curacao still trail El Salvador 1-0.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 08, 2015, 09:08:11 PM
Jamaica is living a nightmare that was not of Winnie's making.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on September 08, 2015, 09:12:41 PM
Nic like they tired...I'm sensing JA can prevail bc they're playing with more urgency
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 08, 2015, 09:17:19 PM
Jamaica is living a nightmare that was not of Winnie's making.

What a nightmare.

 Nicaragua is doing everything right for this point of the game. JA is on the verge of elimination.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 08, 2015, 09:17:54 PM
Goalllllll Jamaica
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on September 08, 2015, 09:18:23 PM
Nic like they tired...I'm sensing JA can prevail bc they're playing with more urgency
Me and meh goat mout..... The writing was on the wall though
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on September 08, 2015, 09:23:41 PM
Big JA win!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 08, 2015, 09:25:18 PM
Antigua is doing well. 0-0 60mins
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 08, 2015, 09:26:11 PM
A return to normal service. Congratulations to Jamaica!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 08, 2015, 09:31:32 PM
The Kluivert dream, 2018 edition, has ended.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 08, 2015, 09:36:32 PM
Guatemala lead 1-0 at 71'.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Peong on September 08, 2015, 09:39:39 PM
a&b need to dig deep.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: vb on September 08, 2015, 09:42:12 PM
2-0 Guat. gaem eh done yet
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 08, 2015, 09:42:35 PM
SALT! 2-0.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: vb on September 08, 2015, 09:43:19 PM
2-0 Guat. gaem eh done yet

77th mnt
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 08, 2015, 09:51:33 PM
All they need is a goal.  I want Guatemala out.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 08, 2015, 09:54:02 PM
Honduras lost away 2-0 to Ecuador.

Meanwhile, Messi and company are trying to resolve the 1-0 deficit versus Mexico. Chances at both ends.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 08, 2015, 09:59:42 PM
Guatemala move on.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 08, 2015, 10:08:01 PM
Mexico just stretched Argentina defensively to make it 2-0.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Peong on September 08, 2015, 10:10:07 PM
Very good night for teams I dislike: jamaica, Guat, Mexico.
 Look Guardado score a golazo on Arg. The pass he received was perfect.

Messi is the man, the invisible man.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: real madness on September 08, 2015, 10:13:33 PM
Nicaragua not afraid to play in The Cubicle.

Yeah it seemed more like a cubicle than an actual office on Friday. .

The Reggae Boyz need a miracle to advance. I don't see them scoring 3 goals in Managua. Its going to be key for them to score in the first half. If they score in the first half, they should go through.. If they  dont, panic will take over and Nicaragua will start to grow in confidence.

We all know that many of the Jamaican supporters won't be rooting for us if we were in the same position.. But I would rather see them through instead of another Central American team.

Nicaragua will score at home. Can't see Jamaica getting 3.

Final score Jamaica 2-1 Nicaragua

Jamaica only need 2 goals if they keep a clean sheet.

That's right. But it is likely that Nicaragua  will score at home.

All the officials are Guatemalan. All it will take is a dive in the 18 yard box by the Nicaraguans and they will get the crucial goal.

2 goals were enough
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on September 08, 2015, 10:20:06 PM
So the El Salvador fans hit a Curucao player with a bottle when he was about to take a corner.....Concacaf need to nip this in the bud by penalizing these teams for fan behavior. It's getting ridiculous!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 08, 2015, 10:34:05 PM
Argentina save face in a scripted outcome. Messi equalizer courtesy textbook Kun pass. 2-2.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 09, 2015, 07:47:36 AM
Third Round Qualifying: El Salvador v Curacao 2nd leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/1uOsFSADFbE
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 09, 2015, 07:53:14 AM
So the El Salvador fans hit a Curucao player with a bottle when he was about to take a corner.....Concacaf need to nip this in the bud by penalizing these teams for fan behavior. It's getting ridiculous!

https://www.youtube.com/v/1_k2SreRyr0

Long time now lip service has been the order of the day in CONCACAF with particular respect to El Salvador and Central America (in general). In November 1997, let's recall Jamaica being encamped on the field during WC qualifying ... and that was by no means the first offending act.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Flex on September 09, 2015, 07:53:48 AM
Group A

Pld  W  D  L  GF  GA  Pts
Mexico  0  0  0  0  0  0  0
El Salvador  0  0  0  0  0  0  0
Honduras  0  0  0  0  0  0  0
Canada  0  0  0  0  0  0  0

Group B

Pld  W  D  L  GF  GA  Pts
Costa Rica  0  0  0  0  0  0  0
Haiti  0  0  0  0  0  0  0
Panama  0  0  0  0  0  0  0
Jamaica  0  0  0  0  0  0  0

Group C

Pld  W  D  L  GF  GA  Pts
Trinidad & Tobago  0  0  0  0  0  0  0
United States  0  0  0  0  0  0  0
Guatemala  0  0  0  0  0  0  0
St Vincent & the Grenadines  0  0  0  0  0  0  0

First match(es) in all Groups will be played on 13 November 2015.

Tiebreakers

1.Points (3 points for a win, 1 point for a draw, 0 points for a loss)
2.Goal difference
3.Goals scored
4.Points in matches between tied teams
5.Goal difference in matches between tied teams
6.Goals scored in matches between tied teams
7.Away goals scored in matches between tied teams (if the tie is only between two teams)
8.Play-off match(es) on neutral ground (if approved by FIFA Organizing Committee), with extra time and penalty shoot-out if necessary

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 09, 2015, 08:03:35 AM
Third Round Qualifying: Nicaragua v Jamaica, 2nd leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/Y0ZpfhaYdFI
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 09, 2015, 08:05:52 AM
Third Round Qualifying: Haiti v Grenada, 2nd leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/mkW96nyNKG8
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 09, 2015, 08:11:43 AM
Third Round Qualifying: Belize v Canada, 2nd leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/iTCgWLnr14Q
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 09, 2015, 08:15:02 AM
Third Round Qualifying: Aruba v St. Vincent and the Grenadines, 2nd leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/sCQLwxy16kc
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: lefty on September 09, 2015, 08:22:00 AM
can't wait to see TT v USA wish we could have played them in a friendly.....before qualifying....like Mex dey uncomfortable with teams running at them not as much as Mexico but still
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 09, 2015, 08:25:26 AM
All these goals Mattocks scoring, yet he still doh look fluent with the ball. Despite this being the pinnacle (WC qualifying), the one that would have changed it up for him is the finish he didn't convert in Chile during the Copa America.

https://www.youtube.com/v/fibo24quufo
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 09, 2015, 08:53:15 AM
Third Round Qualifying: Guatemala v Antigua and Barbuda, 2nd leg

https://www.youtube.com/v/LbxZE9s9xFI

Sadly, the Benna Bs got poisoned in the manner expected (Pescado Ruiz and a set play).
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: frico on September 09, 2015, 09:17:36 AM
Very good night for teams I dislike: jamaica, Guat, Mexico.
 Look Guardado score a golazo on Arg. The pass he received was perfect.

Messi is the man, the invisible man.
Jamaica was lucky to get that late goal,Nicaragua looked better by far and was stringing some really good passes,their finishing wasn't as good,their possession football was also very good.Jamaica never looked like scoring,and had Nicaragua continued to play the game the way they were doing they would have won.They decided to defend with everybody back with about 4 minutes to go,and that was it.The group stages are going to even be more difficult for them,it's a difficult one.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Deeks on September 09, 2015, 09:32:00 AM
So the El Salvador fans hit a Curucao player with a bottle when he was about to take a corner.....Concacaf need to nip this in the bud by penalizing these teams for fan behavior. It's getting ridiculous!

https://www.youtube.com/v/1_k2SreRyr0

Long time now lip service has been the order of the day in CONCACAF with particular respect to El Salvador and Central America (in general). In November 1997, let's recall Jamaica being encamped on the field during WC qualifying ... and that was by no means the first offending act.

Concacaf has to put their foot down on this, man. This is not good.
Title: Jamaica Woos New York Red Bulls Striker Bradley Wright-Phillips
Post by: Tallman on September 12, 2015, 08:22:31 PM
Jamaica Woos New York Red Bulls Striker Bradley Wright-Phillips
By Gordon Williams (Jamaica Gleaner)


Jamaica is looking to load up on its goalscoring firepower for upcoming World Cup qualifiers by wooing one of the most prolific club strikers in the Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF).

Former England youth international, Bradley Wright-Phillips, who led Major League Soccer in scoring last season with a MLS record-tying 27 goals playing for New York Red Bulls, is being recruited by the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), which is trying to convince the 30-year-old London-born player to join the Reggae Boyz' campaign.

"Yes, we have reached out to Bradley Wright-Phillips," national team manager Roy Simpson confirmed on September 10.

According to Simpson, Wright-Phillips, son and brother of ex-England internationals Ian Wright and Shaun Wright-Phillips, respectively, traces his Jamaican roots through his grandmother.

He has 41 goals in 64 appearances since joining the Red Bulls in 2013, scoring 13 in 25 games so far this season.

Starting with his professional debut in 2004, he scored 77 times in 272 appearances representing Manchester City, Southampton, Plymouth Argyle, Charlton Athletic and Brentford in the United Kingdom.

But the lure of international football has not been overtly strong for the 5' 8", 155-pound Wright-Phillips so far. According to sources, he has followed Jamaica's progress in recent competitions, including Copa America and the CONCACAF Gold Cup, and discussed the national set-up with clubmate and Reggae Boy Kemar Lawrence. But, he's been uncertain about his commitment.

Deadline
Simpson said Wright-Phillips expressed appreciation at the JFF's interest in him. However, he added, the player requested time to discuss the matter with his family after being contacted by the JFF in early August.

Simpson said Wright-Phillips, a MLS All-Star, didn't set a deadline for making a decision on whether or not to join Jamaica, which resumes World Cup qualifying on November 13 against Panama to kick off the CONCACAF semi-final.

The Boyz advanced to that round after defeating Nicaragua 4-3 on goal aggregate, following a 3-2 loss in the first leg on September 4 and winning 2-0 in the return match on September 8.

Those fixtures again highlighted inconsistent scoring form as Jamaica failed to capitalise on numerous chances. The team, which has received praise for overall organisation and competitive spirit, also failed to score in three straight 1-0 defeats during Copa America.

In the Gold Cup, Jamaica managed eight goals and conceded six in half dozen games while advancing to the final.

Jamaica wants Wright-Phillips to join a strike force that includes Darren Mattocks, Giles Barnes and Deshorn Brown. Even in the absence of his immediate commitment, the JFF is pushing forward with the process of making him eligible to play for Jamaica.

"Both parties agreed that it is OK to pursue the paperwork," said Simpson, "just in case he decides to take up the offer."

Efforts to contact Wright-Phillips through his club this week were unsuccessful.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 13, 2015, 08:54:52 AM
http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2015/09/11/darlington-nagbe-now-us-citizen-%E2%80%93-what-happens-now-and-where-might-he-fit-us
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 15, 2015, 01:28:15 PM
Mexico and US Preliminary Rosters for the upcoming CONCACAF Cup

Klinsmann named 35 players. Feretti named only 32. The rosters will be cut to 23 players by October 1, 2015. Listed on this thread due to the relevance of player selection for WC qualifying.


MEXICO

GK (4) – Guillermo Ochoa (Malaga/Spain); Moises Munoz (Club America/Mexico); Alfredo Talavera (Toluca/Mexico); Jonathan Orozco (Monterrey/Mexico)
             
DF (10) – Paul Aguilar (Club America/Mexico); Diego Reyes (Real Sociedad/Spain); Rafael Marquez (Hellas Verona/Italy); Hector Moreno (PSV Eindhoven/Netherlands); Miguel Layun (Porto/Portugal); Hector Herrera (Porto, Portugal); Oswaldo Alanis (Guadalajara/Mexico); Arturo Rivas (Tigres/Mexico); Miguel Herrera (Pachuca/Mexico); Jorge Torres Nilo (Tigres/Mexico)
             
MF (9) – Israel Jimenez (Tigres/Mexico); Andres Guardado (PSV Eindhoven; Netherlands); Jose Juan Vazquez (Leon/Mexico); Jesus Duenas (Tigres/Mexico); Javier Aquino (Tigres/Mexico); Jonathan Dos Santos (Villarreal/ Spain); Luis Montes (Leon/Mexico); Carlos Pena (Leon/Mexico); Javier Guemez (Club America/Mexico)
 
FW (9) – Oribe Peralta (Club America/Mexico); Raul Jimenez (Benfica/Portugal); Carlos Vela (Real Sociedad/Spain); Carlos Esquivel (Toluca/Mexico); Jesus Corona (Porto/Portugal); Javier Hernandez (Bayer Leverkusen/Germany); Elias Hernandez (Leon/Mexico); Jurgen Damm (Tigres/Mexico); Giovani Dos Santos (LA Galaxy/United States)       

USA

GK (4) – Brad Guzan (Aston Villa/England); Bill Hamid (D.C. United/USA); Tim Howard (Everton/England); Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake/USA)
 
DF (12) – Ventura Alvarado (Club America/Mexico); DaMarcus Beasley (Houston Dynamo/USA); Matt Besler (Sporting Kansas City/USA); John Brooks (Hertha Berlin/Germany); Geoff Cameron (Stoke City/England); Brad Evans (Seattle Sounders FC/USA); Greg Garza (Atlas/Mexico); Omar Gonzalez (LA Galaxy/USA); Michael Orozco (Club Tijuana/Mexico); Tim Ream (Fulham/England); Jonathan Spector (Birmingham City/England); DeAndre Yedlin (Sunderland/England)
 
MF (12) – Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake/USA); Alejandro Bedoya (Nantes/France); Michael Bradley (Toronto FC/Canada); Joe Corona (Veracruz/Mexico); Mix Diskerud (New York City FC/USA); Fabian Johnson (Borussia Mönchengladbach/Germany); Jermaine Jones (New England Revolution/USA); Alfredo Morales (FC Ingolstadt/Germany); Lee Nguyen (New England Revolution/USA); Danny Williams (Reading/England); Gyasi Zardes (LA Galaxy/USA); Graham Zusi (Sporting Kansas City/USA)
 
FW (7) – Jozy Altidore (Toronto FC/Canada); Clint Dempsey (Seattle Sounders FC/USA); Alan Gordon (LA Galaxy/USA); Aron Johansson (Werder Bremen/Germany); Jordan Morris (Stanford University/USA); Chris Wondolowski (San Jose Earthquakes/USA); Bobby Wood (Union Berlin/Germany)
Title: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Sando prince on October 09, 2015, 04:18:06 PM
Scores from yesterday   :nailbiting:


CHILE 2 BRAZIL 0

ARGENTINA 0 ECUADOR 2

Highlights from the Argentina game  http://www.footytube.com/video/argentina-ecuador-oct09-376559

Title: Re: CONCACAF News Thread
Post by: vb on October 09, 2015, 07:26:21 PM
Haiti lead El Salvador 3-0 after 20 mnts.

ES defense in shambles.

VB
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on October 10, 2015, 08:01:58 PM
Watch wha going on in de US v MEX battle for the CONCACAF Cup.

Won't be long before we see Tim Howard.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on October 10, 2015, 09:26:55 PM
Watch wha going on in de US v MEX battle for the CONCACAF Cup.

Won't be long before we see Tim Howard.

Exciting game. It may jus end up in penalties oui
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: grimm01 on October 10, 2015, 09:46:59 PM
Peralta just out Mexico 2-1 up.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: grimm01 on October 10, 2015, 09:57:53 PM
US just equalize to send about 15% of the crowd in the Rose Bowl into celebrations.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on October 10, 2015, 10:00:13 PM
The equalizer we have come to expect ... came!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on October 10, 2015, 10:08:47 PM
Unlikely we'll see a third equalizer, but a 4th MEX item is conceivable.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: grimm01 on October 10, 2015, 10:10:01 PM
Some good goals pass in this game.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on October 10, 2015, 10:12:18 PM

Exciting game between these two rivals! On this day Mex got the better of the US.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Peong on October 11, 2015, 08:45:40 AM
Good game man, full of fight and good goals.
Aguilar's assist and goal did it for Mexico.  I loved the goal - many players would want to control that high ball first then look to shoot or pass but if yuh don't need to trap, don't.
That first time hit left Guzan and the defender with no time to do anything. Bravo fella :applause: it was a worthy matchwinning goal.

Bradley and Dempsey struggled badly.
Jones was fouling men all over the field.  He led with a forearm into a man's neck and was lucky to only get a yellow.
The white rasta was bad in the Gold Cup and continued that form last night.
Altidore is toots.
Wood is on the verge of taking Altidore's place.

I won't complain if the USA sticks with underperforming players.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on October 11, 2015, 06:54:27 PM
Ally ugh think they'll give Kilnsman a bligh? Going into the game they were calling for his head if they lost.....and they did!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on October 11, 2015, 09:13:26 PM
Ally ugh think they'll give Kilnsman a bligh? Going into the game they were calling for his head if they lost.....and they did!

http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/11/9496293/usmnt-fans-hate-jurgen-klinsmann-because-he-wont-stop-lying
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on November 13, 2015, 08:03:10 PM

USA hammering St Vincent now
Title: Re: South America 2018 World Cup Qualification
Post by: Sando prince on November 13, 2015, 08:04:27 PM

In today's Big Clash;

Brazil and Argentina draw 1-1 . Post highlights later
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: grimm01 on November 13, 2015, 08:30:57 PM
El Salvador can't catch their breath, Mexico all over them.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Deeks on November 13, 2015, 09:20:20 PM
JA down 2-0 at home. Terrible mistake between goalie and defender for Pan. Second goal.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on November 13, 2015, 09:38:34 PM
Speaking about heads, the Jamaican fans will be calling for the "Winnie".
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on November 13, 2015, 09:53:40 PM
Watching the Haiti and Costa Rica game. Haiti looks so disjointed. They playing quick and short passes. But they lack tactically.

Jamaica and Panama game is very intense. No team is settling. Jamaica throwing everything at Panama. Panama playing them hard.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Big Magician on November 13, 2015, 09:54:07 PM
final scores ??
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on November 13, 2015, 09:56:00 PM
final scores ??

Panama 2- 0 Jamaica 90th minute

Haiti 0-1 Costa Rica  93rd minute
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Deeks on November 13, 2015, 11:01:55 PM
Canada leading Honduras 1-0 in BC Place.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Deeks on November 14, 2015, 12:03:53 AM
Canucks beat the Hondos 1-0.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Big Magician on November 14, 2015, 06:05:48 AM
thanks
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Flex on November 14, 2015, 08:46:21 AM
Concacaf World Cup Qualifiers Full Results

Group A

Mexico 3 (Andrés Guardado 7, Héctor Herrera 42, Carlos Vela 64) v El Salvador 0

Canada 1 (Cyle Larin 38) v Honduras 0

Group B

Costa Rica 1 (Cristian Gamboa 29) v Haiti 0

Jamaica 0 v Panama 2 (Armando Cooper 43, Wes Morgan 52 Own-Goal)

Group C

USA 6 (Bobby Wood 11, Fabian Johnson 29, Jozy Altidore 31, 74, Geoff Cameron 51, Gyasi Zardes 58) v St Vincent 1 (Oalex Anderson 5)

Guatemala 1 (Carlos Mejia del Cid 90) v Trinidad and Tobago 2 (Khaleem Hyland 67, Kenwyne Jones 80)

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Sando prince on November 14, 2015, 12:59:02 PM

Highlights

Brazil vs Argentina
http://www.footytube.com/video/argentina-brazil-nov14-384683

Chile vs Colombia
http://www.footytube.com/video/chile-colombia-nov12-384497

Ecuador vs Uruguay
http://www.footytube.com/video/ecuador-uruguay-nov12-384553
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Socapro on November 14, 2015, 03:11:32 PM
Highlights from T&T’s 2-1 win in their first World Cup Qualifying match against Guatemala.

Guatemala 1 - 2 Trinidad & Tobago | Round 4 - WCQR18
https://www.youtube.com/v/xLTgKZqtAvc


More Highlights: Guatemala 1 - 2 Trinidad & Tobago - CONCACAF 2018 WCQ

FIFA World Cup Russia 2018 CONCACAF Qualifiers - Group C - Guatemala 1-2 T&T
https://www.youtube.com/v/KDxCaTd3Ag0

Amazing Goal - Kenwyne Jones (Trinidad & Tobago) vs. Guatemala
https://www.youtube.com/v/D891e4ju2lU

Hyland reacts to the win.

Khaleem Hyland's post match reactions after 2--1 win over Guatemala
https://www.youtube.com/v/A5KhoOZgLRA

T&T captain Kenwyne Jones reacts to the 2-1 victory over Guatemala in 2018 World Cup Qualifier on Friday night - TTFA Media.

Kenwyne Jones Post Match Comments after T&T's 2-1 win over Guatemala
https://www.youtube.com/v/pWqazGwlEQM

T&T's head coach Stephen Hart reacts to 2-1 win over Guatemala in Guatemala City on Friday night. - TTFA Media TV.

Stephen Hart's Post Match Reaction after 2-1 win over Guatemala
https://www.youtube.com/v/8TtViP7m5i8
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Socapro on November 14, 2015, 03:13:47 PM
Highlights from JA's 2-0 defeat to Panama at home in their Office.

Jamaica 0 - 2 Panama - CONCACAF 2018 WCQ
https://www.youtube.com/v/_rZPddEGdEU

Jamaica Defensive Fail - GK Kerr and Wes Morgan fumble and Blas Pérez celebrates
https://www.youtube.com/v/Z16D9EeE8wg
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Socapro on November 14, 2015, 03:14:49 PM
Highlights from Haiti's 1-0 defeat to Costa Rica in Costa Rica at the Estadio Nacional de Costa Rica - San Jose.

Costa Rica 1 - 0 Haiti - CONCACAF 2018 WCQ
https://www.youtube.com/v/3lGgbeVgnPQ
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Socapro on November 14, 2015, 03:15:53 PM
Highlights from SVG's 6-1 defeat to USA in USA.

USA vs St. Vincent Grenadines 6 - 1 2015 ~ All Goals & Highlights 13/11/2015
https://www.youtube.com/v/1yeC-iGD0MM
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: che on November 14, 2015, 06:06:33 PM
Guat commentators got real quiet every time T&T score. :)
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: pull stones on November 14, 2015, 07:00:45 PM
Highlights from Haiti's 1-0 defeat to Costa Rica in Costa Rica at the Estadio Nacional de Costa Rica - San Jose.

Costa Rica 1 - 0 Haiti - CONCACAF 2018 WCQ
https://www.youtube.com/v/3lGgbeVgnPQ
off side should have been called on that gaol, not because the scorer was off side but there was interuption on the play by an offside player.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: pull stones on November 14, 2015, 07:12:15 PM
wow didn't know neymar was a creole, all this time i thought he was latino.   :rotfl:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Fyzo10 on November 14, 2015, 07:35:07 PM
wow didn't know neymar was a creole, all this time i thought he was latino.   :rotfl:

lol...latino isnt a race, there's a lot of black latinos in brazil

neymar is most likely mulatto, everyone from brazil and grew up there speaking portuguese are latinos whether they white black or mixed

latino is basically like west indian..its not rly a race
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: pull stones on November 14, 2015, 07:49:35 PM
wow didn't know neymar was a creole, all this time i thought he was latino.   :rotfl:

lol...latino isnt a race, there's a lot of black latinos in brazil

neymar is most likely mulatto, everyone from brazil and grew up there speaking portuguese are latinos whether they white black or mixed

latino is basically like west indian..its not rly a race
dont take me seriously friend. i was only getting kicks on his nappy hairstyle look. before he was rocking the blond streaks which lead me to believe he was mullato. now he has a flannel ball afro. no offense.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: behind-de-bridge on November 15, 2015, 04:47:24 AM
Team looking good. Congratulations to them.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Deeks on November 15, 2015, 07:06:19 AM
Algeria lost 1-0 to Tanzania in DarEs Salaam. Home team looked good with the crowd behind them. They have two players from the current African Champs, TP Mazembe from Lubumbasi, Congo. But Algeria is very skill and plays tactically good ball. Chad beat Egypt 1-0 in Chad. Same thing. The North Africans played skill possession ball, but the home excelled with pace skill and home field advantage. It was nice seeing a couple WC games from Africa. Tough venue to play, though.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on November 15, 2015, 09:34:16 AM
wow didn't know neymar was a creole, all this time i thought he was latino.   :rotfl:

lol...latino isnt a race, there's a lot of black latinos in brazil

neymar is most likely mulatto, everyone from brazil and grew up there speaking portuguese are latinos whether they white black or mixed

latino is basically like west indian..its not rly a race
dont take me seriously friend. i was only getting kicks on his nappy hairstyle look. before he was rocking the blond streaks which lead me to believe he was mullato. now he has a flannel ball afro. no offense.

I seen an article about the whitening of Neymar the other day. The article had pictures of him in his early teenage years. He appeared to be more "black" than "latino" in the pictures. Does not matter to me what race he is. However, in Brazil it does matter.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Deeks on November 15, 2015, 12:29:10 PM
Equatorial Guinea beat Morocco 1-0 at home. Two teams with most of their players playing in Spain and France. Morocco more technical than EG. But EG held their own. They had a Spanish-born brother call Balboa. Good player. Morocco danger was a dude named El-Arabi. Morocco goes forward on aggregate, 2-1.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: pull stones on November 15, 2015, 04:59:55 PM
wow didn't know neymar was a creole, all this time i thought he was latino.   :rotfl:

lol...latino isnt a race, there's a lot of black latinos in brazil

neymar is most likely mulatto, everyone from brazil and grew up there speaking portuguese are latinos whether they white black or mixed

latino is basically like west indian..its not rly a race
dont take me seriously friend. i was only getting kicks on his nappy hairstyle look. before he was rocking the blond streaks which lead me to believe he was mullato. now he has a flannel ball afro. no offense.

I seen an article about the whitening of Neymar the other day. The article had pictures of him in his early teenage years. He appeared to be more "black" than "latino" in the pictures. Does not matter to me what race he is. However, in Brazil it does matter.
i said it in jest only because i didn't recognize him. i actually thought that dunga brought in another youth player, then i saw the number 10. it was just funny to see hime changed up and so differently. i was taken by surprise.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: davyjenny1 on November 16, 2015, 01:33:38 AM
Higuita Impersonation Gone Wrong - GK Johnny Placide (Haiti) vs. Grenada

https://www.youtube.com/v/yuvDfKMo1WE
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on November 16, 2015, 12:52:50 PM
Costa Rica Coach Quits After Fight
By The Associated Press


Paulo Wanchope resigned as the coach of Costa Rica’s national team a day after he was involved in a fistfight at a match in Panama City.

Wanchope was an observer at Tuesday night’s game between the under-23 teams of Costa Rica and Panama. A scuffle broke out, and video of the incident shows Wanchope angrily opening a gate to the field, shoving a youth standing behind it and apparently receiving a shove from a man standing beside the gate. Wanchope then turns and punches the man, who kicks and hits him before the police intervene.

Wanchope, who took over Costa Rica’s team last year after a career as one of Central America’s most famous forwards, had approached the field several times to shout at officials that the match was fixed, said Ramon Cardoze, vice president of the Panama Soccer Federation.

https://www.youtube.com/v/k-8qesS852U


Just ran into PW @ MIA. He doh seem to have a worry on his shoulders. But forget shoulders ... He definitely doh have a worry on his arm. A gem of a woman.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on November 17, 2015, 03:51:35 PM
Guatemala 4 St Vincent 0
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on November 17, 2015, 04:42:43 PM
Wow. I just seen Corona on Mexico score a "BOSS" goal. You will know what I talking about when you see it.

Honduras 0-1 Mexico 20 mins left
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on November 17, 2015, 04:50:43 PM
Honduras has really fell off. They are down by two now. They have a huge hill to climb if they want to make the hex. If the game finishes as it is, Honduras will not make the hex. Especially if Canada gets a point tonight in San Salvador. Yes it's still a bit early. But it's looking that way now.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: palos on November 17, 2015, 08:30:36 PM
Wow. I just seen Corona on Mexico score a "BOSS" goal. You will know what I talking about when you see it.

Honduras 0-1 Mexico 20 mins left

Corona is PRESSHA
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Bitter on November 17, 2015, 09:19:38 PM
This Canada - El Salvador game is the worst game I've seen in a while. I don't know why I still watching it.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on November 17, 2015, 09:30:09 PM
This Canada - El Salvador game is the worst game I've seen in a while. I don't know why I still watching it.
Ent! Thank God it's over now.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Deeks on November 17, 2015, 11:00:05 PM
This Canada - El Salvador game is the worst game I've seen in a while. I don't know why I still watching it.
Ent! Thank God it's over now.


You still watching it because it was the only game on the tv. I was watching it also. Game tied 0-0.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Flex on November 18, 2015, 04:13:29 AM
Concacaf World Cup Qualifiers Full Results

Group A

Mexico 2 (Jesus Corona 67, Jurgen Damm 72) v Honduras 0

Canada 0 v El Salvador 0

Group B

Costa Rica 2 (Bryan Ruiz 66, Marcos Urena 69) v Panama 1 (Luis Tejada 71)

Jamaica 1 (Clayton Donaldson 64) v Haiti 0

Group C

USA 0 v Trinidad and Tobago 0

St Vincent 0 v Guatemala 4 (Brandon de Leon 24, Minor Campollo 33, Dennis Lopez 50, Gerson Tinoco 81)

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on November 18, 2015, 05:57:45 AM

As of now I see Costa Rica and Panama coming out of Group B. One reason because it's hard for JA to win in Panama. See what happens
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Deeks on November 18, 2015, 06:52:14 AM

As of now I see Costa Rica and Panama coming out of Group B. One reason because it's hard for JA to win in Panama. See what happens

Breds, CR has to to go Kingston. JA will catch themselves by then.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Flex on November 18, 2015, 07:24:28 AM
No for the weak hearts.

https://www.youtube.com/v/yEhVfPF9Zdw
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: grimm01 on November 18, 2015, 07:29:04 AM

No for the weak hearts.

https://www.youtube.com/v/yEhVfPF9Zdw

Ah sorry for that fella because that look like a career ender...
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on November 18, 2015, 08:22:33 AM

As of now I see Costa Rica and Panama coming out of Group B. One reason because it's hard for JA to win in Panama. See what happens

Breds, CR has to to go Kingston. JA will catch themselves by then.

Breds you talking like if that is a fact. It is more likely for CR to win in Kingston than JA winning in Panama. Like I said time will tell.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: pull stones on November 18, 2015, 12:36:16 PM
No for the weak hearts.

https://www.youtube.com/v/yEhVfPF9Zdw
career done!!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Adam Lake on November 18, 2015, 01:10:06 PM
No for the weak hearts.

https://www.youtube.com/v/yEhVfPF9Zdw
career done!!

JAH! Dat is PAIN!!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Peong on November 18, 2015, 10:51:59 PM
And check the stupid Mexican grimacing and acting like he get hurt.
Watch how he jump up as soon as he see the extent of the injury.
Title: Re: T&T Journey To USA To Face Latin Competition.
Post by: Flex on December 24, 2015, 07:45:17 AM
Guatemala coach quits amid chaos.
By Shaun Fuentes (Guardian).


Guatemala is in search of a new head coach ahead of its next set of 2018 World Cup qualifying matches in March after Argentina Ivan Sopegno quit his position and returned to club Comunicaciones. His contract was set to expire at the end of 2015.

Guatemala lost at home 2-1 to T&T in November before defeating St Vincent and the Grenadines 4-0 on the road. Guatemala will face the United States twice in March in upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Guatemalan football federation president Bryan Jimenez, and its secretary general, Hector Trujillo, were indicted by US authorities, along with its former representative on the FIFA executive committee, Rafael Salguero. And reports are that amid the chaos, Sopegno opted to quit his position.

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on December 24, 2015, 09:42:33 AM
El Salvador has declined to fine 8 players who abandoned training camp in October. According to the federation, the players involved (who have been named) need to issue statements of apology to the nation. More to follow.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on December 24, 2015, 10:05:17 AM
As far as Sopegno quitting Guatemala: he is probably overstating the reason he is stepping down. Convenient time to exit for him personally.

FIFA's intervention in the federation's affairs, marks the second time in roughly a decade that FIFA has had to step in to right things in Guatemala. At the moment, a lot of daylight exists between now and March. Too early to declare how it affects outcomes on the field.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on December 30, 2015, 07:17:53 AM
More chaos in Guatemalan football is benefit to T&T during a WC campaign since we in the same group  :)
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on December 31, 2015, 12:31:33 PM
Word out is that "Winnie" might be leaving Jamaica soon. He is owed a few months wages. An African team is interested in him.

He is probably the best coach the Reggaeboyz has had in a long time. If he goes, goodbye Russia 2018 for them.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on January 02, 2016, 08:36:20 PM
Interesting development. Looks like the Reggae Boyz may lose the best coach they have had in years. Although, Winnie released a statement promising to stay until the end of his contract, there are reports that he is in Muscat finalizing a deal to be Oman's national coach.

https://twitter.com/ahdaafme   
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on January 03, 2016, 06:08:53 AM
Interesting development. Looks like the Reggae Boyz may lose the best coach they have had in years. Although, Winnie released a statement promising to stay until the end of his contract, there are reports that he is in Muscat finalizing a deal to be Oman's national coach.

https://twitter.com/ahdaafme   


I will take it seriously when I see something official that he is leaving until then its speculation and rumours.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on January 03, 2016, 08:11:22 AM
Interesting development. Looks like the Reggae Boyz may lose the best coach they have had in years. Although, Winnie released a statement promising to stay until the end of his contract, there are reports that he is in Muscat finalizing a deal to be Oman's national coach.

https://twitter.com/ahdaafme   


I will take it seriously when I see something official that he is leaving until then its speculation and rumours.

It always starts with speculation. One thing is certain though, Winnie has quite a name in the football international sphere. He is owed a few months salary  by the JFF and for him to jump on a plane and go to Muscat for negotiations, I think it is more than speculation. I think he is prepping a back up plan. We will see what happens..
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Trini _2026 on January 04, 2016, 02:10:39 PM
Report: Canadian national team to land dual-nationals Steven Vitoria, Scott Arfield

http://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2016/01/04/report-canadian-national-team-land-dual-nationals-steven-vitoria-scott-arfield

Benito Floro's pool of players is growing larger in 2016.

Former Philadelphia Union centerback Steven Vitoria and current Burnley midfielder Scott Arfield are set to pledge their international soccer allegiances to Canada, according to a report from Vancouver publication The Province. Vitoria and Arfield are expected to be called in by Floro in the coming months, and they will be the latest dual nationals to join the Canadians as they attempt to reach the World Cup this cycle.

Vitoria, 28, was born in Toronto but played for Portugal at the Under-20 level. He was never capped by the senior squad, however, and is apparently ready to play for Canada. The 6-foot-5 defender is currently under contract with Benfica, but spent last season on loan with the Union.

The 27-year-old Arfield was born in Scotland, but is eligible to suit up for Canada because his father was born in Toronto. Arfield currently plays for English Championship side Burnley, and has previously represented Scotland's youth teams.

Canada are currently in the midst of their CONCACAF World Cup qualifying campaign. They next play against Mexico on March 25.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on January 19, 2016, 10:18:35 PM
Claveri named Guatemala head coach
CONCACAF.com


GUATEMALA CITY, Guatemala – Walter Claveri was presented as the new head coach of Guatemala at a press conference on Monday.

The 58-year-old leaves a similar position with Suchitepequez and replaces Ivan Sopegno, who resigned in December after the Chapines opened the fourth round of CONCACAF qualifying for the 2018 FIFA World Cup with a 1W-0D-1L record in Group C play.

"With well-defined principles, we hope to lay the foundations for our football to succeed," said Claveri. "Guatemala is changing and we hope that we can all contribute to its improvement.”

As a player, Claveri was a member of Suchitepequez, when it captured its only Guatemalan league title in 1983 and he won the bronze medal with Guatemala at the 1983 Pan American Games.

Guatemala resumes World Cup qualifying with games against the first-place United States (1W-1D-0L, 4 points) at March 25 (home) and March 29 (away).

"This team is already formed,” Claveri commented. “Ivan (Sopegno) formed a basis. We seek to add one other player. The team has several players and Municipal Communications".

Claveri will be assisted by former Guatemala internationals Juan Carlos Plata, David Gardiner and Rogelio Flores.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on January 21, 2016, 10:19:47 PM
CAS rules in favour of SVGFF
Antigua Observer


(http://antiguaobserver.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/St-Vincent-and-the-Grenadines-Striker-Gavin-James.png)
Striker Gavin James, according to GFF, was not the holder of a St Vincent and the Grenadines passport when he played in a World Cup qualifier against Guyana

LAUSANNE, Switzerland (CMC) — The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has ruled in favour of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF) in a dispute with the Guyana Football Federation (GFF).

A judgment handed down by sole arbitrator Luigi Fumagalli, of Milan, Italy, was delivered to the SVGFF last week, outlining the substance of the ruling.

GFF lodged a complaint with FIFA last year claiming that the SVGFF had used an ineligible player, Gavin James, when the two teams met in a Russia 2018 World Cup Qualifier in Guyana on June 14.

GFF’s complain was rejected by FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee as well as its Appeals Committee.

GFF then took its case against FIFA and the SVGFF to the CAS on the eligibility of UK–based James.

The GFF contended that James was not the holder of a St Vincent and the Grenadines passport at the time the game was played as was required by Article 19(3) of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Regulations.

Reports say that at the time of the game, James was the holder of a United Kingdom passport with a stamp inserted indicating he was a citizen of SVG by descent.

Reports say that after assessing the matter and looking at all the evidence, Fumagalli, a lawyer, found the case put forward by the GFF to be flawed in a number of ways.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on February 09, 2016, 08:43:01 AM
Guatemala plays Honduras tomorrow night in a friendly warm-up to prep for Klinsi and Co. Players started prep as a squad yesterday.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on February 09, 2016, 08:51:50 AM
Guatemala plays Honduras tomorrow night in a friendly warm-up to prep for Klinsi and Co. Players started prep as a squad yesterday.
Klinsi and Co. also played Canada over the weekend to prepare for them. Other teams finding ways to get their friendlies in, even if it's with local based players.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on February 09, 2016, 08:59:21 AM
Guatemala plays Honduras tomorrow night in a friendly warm-up to prep for Klinsi and Co. Players started prep as a squad yesterday.
Klinsi and Co. also played Canada over the weekend to prepare for them. Other teams finding ways to get their friendlies in, even if it's with local based players.

No Carnival in either place.  :P

Maybe we should pull a Trinidad XI v. a Tobago XI at the Oval and find a catchy name for de event.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on February 09, 2016, 09:20:35 AM
Guatemala plays Honduras tomorrow night in a friendly warm-up to prep for Klinsi and Co. Players started prep as a squad yesterday.
Klinsi and Co. also played Canada over the weekend to prepare for them. Other teams finding ways to get their friendlies in, even if it's with local based players.

No Carnival in either place.  :P

Maybe we should pull a Trinidad XI v. a Tobago XI at the Oval and find a catchy name for de event.

We could call it de Machel Cup, dat might get ppl's attention ;D
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on February 10, 2016, 03:53:39 PM
Mexico plays Senegal tonight. Rafa Marquez is in the squad. Game primarily about two things: commercial interest and observing players (some with a view of WC qualification and others the Olympics). Match being played in Miami at Marlins Park.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on February 10, 2016, 10:58:31 PM
Mexico 2 Senegal 0

Senegal showed the naivete of a team unfamiliar with the approach of Mexican squads to friendlies and qualifiers alike. In the second half the inevitable happened (twice): courtesy hungry ballers showing their hunger.

For much less £, several of the Senegalese played in a manner evocative of the term English commentators have pinned on Toure Yaya's back: "languid".

Guatemala 3 Honduras 1

Honduras opened the scoring at ~ 3 minutes; the eventual equalizer came from the Honduran-born, naturalised Guatemalan, Gerson Tinoco,  at ~ 19'). However, out of respect for his country of birth, Tinoco did not celebrate. It was uphill from there for Honduras and Jorge Luis Pinto. While it's true Honduras has been experiencing a bad patch, it seems Guatemala doesn't plan on lying down anytime soon.

P.S.

By the way, Pescado Ruiz is back courtesy a ruling from the Normalization Committee overseeing the Guatemalan federation. Ruiz initially had been awarded a six month suspension after rushing the ref following the ref's call (on a play that involved Mekeil Williams). In a significant turn of events, the powers-that-are now say that the six matches Ruiz has missed are punishment enough. It seems fairly certain that "someone" wanted his soldier around for WC qualifying. Even at 37, Pescadito is that important. Take note.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on February 25, 2016, 02:22:51 AM
Zardes v. Santos Laguna: played wide with movement towards central positions when in the final third. Overall not an impressive rendition on either side of the ball. Very innocuous, very tentative (movement) ... notably poor aerially. Not convinced as to the intangible he brought Arena.

In preseason, there are reports that Arena is considering/experimenting with Zardes up top with Keane ... opting to deploy Gio dos Santos from the flank.

Curious as to how Zardes' role and performances will develop in the coming weeks. Hard to see Klinsmann finding much comfort in today's effort. Of course not our immediate concern given the FIFA calendar, but there is something "not there" ...

On the other hand, Bradley was Bradley.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Flex on February 25, 2016, 02:54:17 AM
U.S. happy with camp, looks next to Guatemala
CONCACAF.COM


CARSON, California -- It needed very late goals in two separate games, but victories over Iceland and Canada, respectively, represented the first time since 2012 that the United States opened the year with two straight wins.

On Friday, Jozy Altidore’s 89th minute header off a cross from Ethan Finlay gave the Americans a 1-0 triumph over their visiting neighbor to the north.

The result ended a lengthy U.S. training camp on a positive note, creating good vibes ahead of a pair of World Cup qualifiers against Guatemala next month.

“Everyone takes this as a head start and got four weeks under their belt,” said U.S. head coach Jurgen Klinsmann after the Canada encounter. “They all worked really well. The whole spirit of the camp was great. I think they got rewarded tonight. We told them they’ve got to be patient. It is what it is. The more the game goes on, (Canada’s) going to get more defensive and make it more difficult.”

Klinsmann’s side leads its fourth-round World Cup Qualifying group on goal difference over Trinidad & Tobago after two games each (four points, GD: +4 to +1). The U.S. can put some distance between itself and the third-place Guatemalans (3 points) with wins on March 25 and 29, when it is expected to field a more experienced side.

“This is about the bigger picture,” the 51-year-old German noted. “That we are well prepared for Guatemala. Obviously, we’ll have the European players coming in.”

One of the bright spots has been the play of Altidore, who netted in both to take his international goal total to 33.

“He looked good the whole camp,” Klinsmann finished. “He's hungry, wants to prove himself. He deserved that goal (against Canada).”

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on March 10, 2016, 05:36:23 PM
http://m.fifa.com/worldcup/news/y=2016/m=3/news=el-profe-lopez-guatemala-s-class-act-2769386.html
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on March 13, 2016, 01:40:36 PM
(Panama will play Martinique in Martinique on April 27. Friendly).
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on March 17, 2016, 02:41:32 PM
Panama has made one change to its squad as it prepares to face Haiti. They have promoted 18 year old Ismael Diaz to the First Team. Diaz joins Blas Perez, Luis Tejada, Abdiel Arroyo, Roberto Nurse and Gabriel Torres as Panama's contingent of forwards. Diaz is Portugal-based (Porto), but plays for the "B" squad there.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 25, 2016, 06:03:00 PM
I now about to watch JA vs CR. I notice the JFA got the new prime minister to come out and shake hands and give the boyz words of encouragement. Holness telling the boyz " Meh wan see five", "Mek sure yuh pass the ball", "We want a win". They even get Tessanne to come out and sing the anthem. National pride high in that stadium now.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 25, 2016, 06:15:29 PM

Watching the JA vs CR game at the moment. It will be a surprise if JA win this game. let us see what will happen
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 25, 2016, 06:15:52 PM
I now about to watch JA vs CR. I notice the JFA got the new prime minister to come out and shake hands and give the boyz words of encouragement. Holness telling the boyz " Meh wan see five", "Mek sure yuh pass the ball", "We want a win". They even get Tessanne to come out and sing the anthem. National pride high in that stadium now.

they will need more than national pride. let us see what happens
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 25, 2016, 06:20:38 PM
I now about to watch JA vs CR. I notice the JFA got the new prime minister to come out and shake hands and give the boyz words of encouragement. Holness telling the boyz " Meh wan see five", "Mek sure yuh pass the ball", "We want a win". They even get Tessanne to come out and sing the anthem. National pride high in that stadium now.

they will need more than national pride. let us see what happens

As you say that Sando. They score. JA 1 - 0 CR.. And they are looking GOOD.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 25, 2016, 07:11:45 PM
Haiti 0-0 Panama

Jamaica 1- 0 Costa Rica
Jamaica is playing very good. Costa Rica dont know what to do with the ball.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 25, 2016, 07:17:15 PM

Costa Rica may equalise. pressure does buss pipe
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 25, 2016, 07:20:49 PM

Costa Rica may equalise. pressure does buss pipe

You watching the game? I am. Jamaica cleaning up everything!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 25, 2016, 07:28:02 PM

Costa Rica may equalise. pressure does buss pipe

You watching the game? I am. Jamaica cleaning up everything!

so what just happened? like I said pressure does buss pipe!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 25, 2016, 07:28:15 PM

CR equalised..game now 1-1
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 25, 2016, 07:28:30 PM
Sando..

Goal Costa Rical. JA 1-1 CR

JA need all points in this game.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 25, 2016, 07:29:28 PM

CR equalised..game now 1-1

Yeah. But you think JA playing good? I think they outplaying CR
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 25, 2016, 07:31:00 PM

CR equalised..game now 1-1

Yeah. But you think JA playing good? I think they outplaying CR

Listen if you want Jamaica to win that is ok but CR is and has always been one of the top teams in CONCACAF. This is a hard game for Jamaica to win

I am now going to turn to the USA vs Guatemala game
.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 25, 2016, 07:32:51 PM

CR equalised..game now 1-1

Yeah. But you think JA playing good? I think they outplaying CR



Listen if you want Jamaica to win that is ok but CR is and has always been one of the top teams in CONCACAF. This is a hard game for Jamaica to win

I am now going to turn to the USA vs Guatemala game
.

I only giving credit where its due. I think they playing much better than CR.. But the game is starting to shift. So maybe I'll be eating my words.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: trini_stallion on March 25, 2016, 08:01:35 PM
Ja and CR.  draw!

On to the US and Guat game!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 25, 2016, 08:14:40 PM
Ja and CR.  draw!

On to the US and Guat game!

Guat 1-0 USA
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Bitter on March 25, 2016, 08:21:54 PM
The final countdown for Klinsmann?
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 25, 2016, 08:22:03 PM
2-0 Guate
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Bitter on March 25, 2016, 08:25:34 PM
Offside goal for Ruiz?

Anybody watching that Brazil - Uruguay Game?
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Deeks on March 25, 2016, 08:32:22 PM
Braz-Uru 2-2 in the 76 mins.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Deeks on March 25, 2016, 08:54:06 PM
Braz 2 v Uru 2 fulltime. I think that was in Braz. Good score for Uru.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on March 25, 2016, 08:56:31 PM
Braz 2 v Uru 2 fulltime. I think that was in Braz. Good score for Uru.
Suarez first game back in a while
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 25, 2016, 09:16:09 PM
Highlights from today's World Cup Qualifiers


Argentina vs Chile
http://www.footytube.com/video/chile-argentina-mar24-412690



Italy vs Spain
http://www.footytube.com/video/italy-spain-mar24-412660



Colombia vs Bolivia
http://www.footytube.com/video/bolivia-colombia-mar24-412655



Netherlands vs France
http://www.footytube.com/video/netherlands-france-mar25-412861

.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: toonmili on March 25, 2016, 09:17:27 PM
Anyone else concerned about this USA vs Guatemala game.  All USA have to do is win.  Why is it so hard.  Making the group unnecessarily complicated.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: lefty on March 25, 2016, 09:20:15 PM
klinsmann dustin out he resume right now
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Dutty Love on March 25, 2016, 09:32:43 PM
Anyone else concerned about this USA vs Guatemala game.  All USA have to do is win.  Why is it so hard.  Making the group unnecessarily complicated.

What makes you think the USA is good? They have very little talent. Most Central American teams are more technical
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 25, 2016, 09:55:27 PM

I will be surprised if Klinsman keep his job after today loss
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: toonmili on March 25, 2016, 10:02:07 PM
Anyone else concerned about this USA vs Guatemala game.  All USA have to do is win.  Why is it so hard.  Making the group unnecessarily complicated.

What makes you think the USA is good? They have very little talent. Most Central American teams are more technical

Come on lets me real. They are better than what they played tonight. Shocking stuff from them. Embarrassing really. I would say they not making the hex but they will... some how or the other. NO way Fox and co. are loosing all that money. Sadly Trinidad has a harder job now. Guatemala has a better goal difference than us I believe. We have to murder SVG come Tuesday. And we have to beat Guatemala at home too and not loose to USA by too much in USA.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 25, 2016, 10:03:54 PM
Anyone else concerned about this USA vs Guatemala game.  All USA have to do is win.  Why is it so hard.  Making the group unnecessarily complicated.

What makes you think the USA is good? They have very little talent. Most Central American teams are more technical

Come on lets me real. They are better than what they played tonight. Shocking stuff from them. Embarrassing really. I would say they not making the hex but they will... some how or the other. NO way Fox and co. are loosing all that money. Sadly Trinidad has a harder job now. Guatemala has a better goal difference than us I believe. We have to murder SVG come Tuesday. And we have to beat Guatemala at home too and not loose to USA by too much in USA.

I am confident once we play to our potential T&T will beat St Vincent and Guatemala at home..and with those two wins we would have qualified for the hex before playing the USA
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on March 25, 2016, 10:04:30 PM
Anyone else concerned about this USA vs Guatemala game.  All USA have to do is win.  Why is it so hard.  Making the group unnecessarily complicated.
Yes this result just opened up the group and it can make our final 2 games very interesting.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Dutty Love on March 25, 2016, 10:06:16 PM
USA has no top players. The gap with Mexico has never been so wide since before 1990.

American coaches only develop robots. No creativity, little skills, and even tactically they are poor.

They can make it in Concacaf because outside of Mexico and Costa Rica, the other countries have very poor level of human development and high corruption but if you look at pure talent you will find more talented players in Central America and the Caribbean that you will find in the US system.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Dutty Love on March 25, 2016, 10:12:21 PM
When I see an 18 year old American raised kid do what I saw Levi Garcia do today I will change my mind.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Dinner Mints on March 25, 2016, 10:38:21 PM
When I see an 18 year old American raised kid do what I saw Levi Garcia do today I will change my mind.
Ent that used to be Freddy Adu?
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: weary1969 on March 25, 2016, 10:40:01 PM
We need to take care of our business. We have 7 Guatemala 6 and USA 4. Good riddance to the soccer players but you cannot count them out.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: MEP on March 25, 2016, 10:42:39 PM
Our only problem is that we have to shore up the defence.......I still think we need to find 2 quality central defenders.... where from me eh know but we now  know that at our best we can run with them. What will hurt us is not playing this summer as we would have gained invaluable experience
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 25, 2016, 10:47:30 PM
Our only problem is that we have to shore up the defence.......I still think we need to find 2 quality central defenders.... where from me eh know but we now  know that at our best we can run with them. What will hurt us is not playing this summer as we would have gained invaluable experience

That is why I am still upset we did not take advantage of the Copa Centenario opportunity.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: MEP on March 25, 2016, 11:04:37 PM
I'm also moving towards that school of thought that KJ's time should be limited lawd knows I've gotten enough cuss for defending his time on the field but after watching today's game I really have to ask, what does he bring other than leadership. Something is missing from how he plays and he has played target long enough to know his role. It's almost as if he is afraid to literally think outside the box.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Trini _2026 on March 26, 2016, 03:56:26 AM
I'm also moving towards that school of thought that KJ's time should be limited lawd knows I've gotten enough cuss for defending his time on the field but after watching today's game I really have to ask, what does he bring other than leadership. Something is missing from how he plays and he has played target long enough to know his role. It's almost as if he is afraid to literally think outside the box.

our team needs a goal scorer ..
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: frico on March 26, 2016, 04:46:08 AM
MEP: You are right about KJ,I'v said it before,he is better off playing a defensive role.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: pull stones on March 26, 2016, 05:36:49 AM
When I see an 18 year old American raised kid do what I saw Levi Garcia do today I will change my mind.
Ent that used to be Freddy Adu?
are you forgetting charlie davies and landon donovan, not to mention 19 year old micheal bradley who hurt us on many occasions?tsk tsk
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: pull stones on March 26, 2016, 05:41:16 AM
I'm also moving towards that school of thought that KJ's time should be limited lawd knows I've gotten enough cuss for defending his time on the field but after watching today's game I really have to ask, what does he bring other than leadership. Something is missing from how he plays and he has played target long enough to know his role. It's almost as if he is afraid to literally think outside the box.
and come tuesday you will change your tune and sing his praises when he redeems himself. unfortunately this is football mate, some days we're on and others we're far from that. as it stands kenny had a bad day at the office, it happens to the best, like messi and rooney.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Dutty Love on March 26, 2016, 07:24:55 AM
When I see an 18 year old American raised kid do what I saw Levi Garcia do today I will change my mind.
Ent that used to be Freddy Adu?
are you forgetting charlie davies and landon donovan, not to mention 19 year old micheal bradley who hurt us on many occasions?tsk tsk

Donovan yes. Only one in the history. Still a player that failed in Europe.

Bradley is a mediocre and certainly technique is not his strenght. Charlie who?
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Dutty Love on March 26, 2016, 10:19:06 AM
http://www.burgundywave.com/2016/3/26/11308010/usmnt-vs-guatemala-fire-jurgen-klinsmann
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 26, 2016, 10:42:26 AM
Highlights from today's World Cup Qualifiers


Argentina vs Chile
http://www.footytube.com/video/chile-argentina-mar24-412690



Italy vs Spain
http://www.footytube.com/video/italy-spain-mar24-412660



Colombia vs Bolivia
http://www.footytube.com/video/bolivia-colombia-mar24-412655



Netherlands vs France
http://www.footytube.com/video/netherlands-france-mar25-412861

.

.. and here is the Brazil vs Uruguay.. this one was probably the most exciting game yesterday.

http://www.footytube.com/video/brazil-uruguay-mar26-412904
.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on March 26, 2016, 10:48:28 AM
By scoring in this WC campaign, Guatemala's Ruiz - if I am not mistaken - becomes the third player in history to score in each of five World Cup qualifying campaigns. Something like that. Will confirm.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 26, 2016, 11:49:09 AM
By scoring in this WC campaign, Guatemala's Ruiz - if I am not mistaken - becomes the third player in history to score in each of five World Cup qualifying campaigns. Something like that. Will confirm.

If RRuiz's travel ban continues, he will miss the return leg against us in September. He is banned from traveling outside of Guatemala due to a matter that is in the courts. I believe it's nothing criminal. a civil. . over property.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on March 26, 2016, 12:08:01 PM
By scoring in this WC campaign, Guatemala's Ruiz - if I am not mistaken - becomes the third player in history to score in each of five World Cup qualifying campaigns. Something like that. Will confirm.

If RRuiz's travel ban continues, he will miss the return leg against us in September. He is banned from traveling outside of Guatemala due to a matter that is in the courts. I believe it's nothing criminal. a civil. . over property.
He was denied a visa to travel to the U.S. For Tuesday's game for this same reason. He's also running for president of the Guatemala federation this year I think.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Peong on March 27, 2016, 06:12:54 PM
Not a qualifier but England played some nice ball against Germany. This Germany lookin like garbage though. Emre Can? They not serious.

Nice return by Mario Gomez. I thought he was done and dusted. He woulda had a tidy double if not for a malfunctioning linesman.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: soccerman on March 27, 2016, 06:28:17 PM
Not a qualifier but England played some nice ball against Germany. This Germany lookin like garbage though. Emre Can? They not serious.

Nice return by Mario Gomez. I thought he was done and dusted. He woulda had a tidy double if not for a malfunctioning linesman.
Vardy had a nice one.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 28, 2016, 03:11:16 AM
http://www.burgundywave.com/2016/3/26/11308010/usmnt-vs-guatemala-fire-jurgen-klinsmann

 ;D Ah know when that fella was writing that article he was reel mad
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Mad Scorpion a/k/a Big Bo$$ on March 28, 2016, 08:46:33 AM
When I see an 18 year old American raised kid do what I saw Levi Garcia do today I will change my mind.
Ent that used to be Freddy Adu?
are you forgetting charlie davies and landon donovan, not to mention 19 year old micheal bradley who hurt us on many occasions?tsk tsk

Donovan yes. Only one in the history. Still a player that failed in Europe.

Bradley is a mediocre and certainly technique is not his strenght. Charlie who?

That is a harsh judgment to pass.  Like him or not LD was top drawer.  I@ Bayern he was not given much of a chance.  Unless you have proven yourself elsewhere as a top offensive player and they go in for you it is very difficult to get ahead of the Germans in that team.  I liken his treatment to the situation that developed at Stoke with KJ once Crouch was brought in.  Only reason he went ahead of KJ was because he was English because he brought nothing additional in terms of goal scoring or increased team chemistry.  When Donovan went to Everton they wanted him to stay and even brought him a second time.  So saying he failed is disingenuous at best.  After his episode @ Bayern he made the decision that he would stay in MLS and build it.  Whether you agree with his decision or not, no one can argue that he didn't help elevate the status of the MLS and make his team attractive enough that Keane and Beckham would choose to join.

Just so we clear I am not a fan of LD but give Jack he jacket.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Big Magician on March 28, 2016, 06:15:45 PM
7-1
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: pull stones on March 28, 2016, 07:01:30 PM
any clips on the great yankees and their commentary, like harks and lal-ass? somebody post something nah i feel like laughing tonight at the expense of the bombastic yanks.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Trini on March 28, 2016, 08:00:53 PM
Anyone else concerned about this USA vs Guatemala game.  All USA have to do is win.  Why is it so hard.  Making the group unnecessarily complicated.
Yes this result just opened up the group and it can make our final 2 games very interesting.

We need the U.S. to beat up Guatemala. If that game draw tomorrow night, we cld end up with 3 teams on 11 pts. And our goal difference rel poor.
We need to have this wrapped up before the away game vs USA.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: 100% Barataria on March 28, 2016, 08:30:12 PM
Amazing, we not at a stage where we have to depend on other results to go through but having discussions as such. I guess as fans we have grown accustomed to the 'heart attack' football syndrome from which we tend to suffer.

Bottom line, we need to take of our own destiny
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Peong on March 28, 2016, 10:11:51 PM
That is a harsh judgment to pass.  Like him or not LD was top drawer.  I@ Bayern he was not given much of a chance.  Unless you have proven yourself elsewhere as a top offensive player and they go in for you it is very difficult to get ahead of the Germans in that team.  I liken his treatment to the situation that developed at Stoke with KJ once Crouch was brought in.  Only reason he went ahead of KJ was because he was English because he brought nothing additional in terms of goal scoring or increased team chemistry.  When Donovan went to Everton they wanted him to stay and even brought him a second time.  So saying he failed is disingenuous at best.  After his episode @ Bayern he made the decision that he would stay in MLS and build it.  Whether you agree with his decision or not, no one can argue that he didn't help elevate the status of the MLS and make his team attractive enough that Keane and Beckham would choose to join.

Just so we clear I am not a fan of LD but give Jack he jacket.

I believe LD was at Bayer Leverkeusen.  I don't think it was about playing opportunities nah,  I remember something about him being homesick.
My opinion at the time was that he was immature.

That situation with Ruiz is interesting.  I kinda want him to come POS and experience the buss-ass firsthand though.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: FF on March 29, 2016, 04:36:08 AM
Pescadito Ruiz is in Columbus for tonight's game so he will most likely be in POS too
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: 100% Barataria on March 29, 2016, 05:15:20 AM
Really? Heard the judge moved the matter to today and so would have been too late...something must have happened last minute

Vieri and Hudson ripped the US play to shreds last night and in the end they said the last game vs TT will be tough and 'TT is playing better than the US now'
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on March 29, 2016, 07:41:47 AM
Pescadito Ruiz is in Columbus for tonight's game so he will most likely be in POS too

Also not sure Ruiz is off and running. Source?
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Mad Scorpion a/k/a Big Bo$$ on March 29, 2016, 08:51:00 AM
That is a harsh judgment to pass.  Like him or not LD was top drawer.  I@ Bayern he was not given much of a chance.  Unless you have proven yourself elsewhere as a top offensive player and they go in for you it is very difficult to get ahead of the Germans in that team.  I liken his treatment to the situation that developed at Stoke with KJ once Crouch was brought in.  Only reason he went ahead of KJ was because he was English because he brought nothing additional in terms of goal scoring or increased team chemistry.  When Donovan went to Everton they wanted him to stay and even brought him a second time.  So saying he failed is disingenuous at best.  After his episode @ Bayern he made the decision that he would stay in MLS and build it.  Whether you agree with his decision or not, no one can argue that he didn't help elevate the status of the MLS and make his team attractive enough that Keane and Beckham would choose to join.

Just so we clear I am not a fan of LD but give Jack he jacket.

I believe LD was at Bayer Leverkeusen.  I don't think it was about playing opportunities nah,  I remember something about him being homesick.
My opinion at the time was that he was immature.

That situation with Ruiz is interesting.  I kinda want him to come POS and experience the buss-ass firsthand though.

You right but Leverkusen even worse.  Very rarely has players from other nations played big minutes unless is a star in that team.  So a young prospect come like ah black man in America that have to work twice as hard and be twice as good.  The fella make 7 appearances in 5 years for the first team!  I have never really cared for his personality but to be fair that made absolutely no sense whatsoever.  Dat was utter bullshit, who wouldn't want out after a while being there and not getting an opportunity and keep in mind this started when he went there @ about 17 playing with the 2nd team for a couple years.  I doh know what other people mindset was @ 17 but I woulda probably been homesick in that environment too.  If yuh playing steady it probably wouldn't weigh very heavy on your mind at all.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: FF on March 29, 2016, 11:50:53 AM
Pescadito Ruiz is in Columbus for tonight's game so he will most likely be in POS too

Also not sure Ruiz is off and running. Source?

http://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2016/03/29/guatemalas-carlos-ruiz-hamilton-lopez-rejoin-team-usmnt-clash-ohio
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on March 29, 2016, 12:32:22 PM
Pescadito Ruiz is in Columbus for tonight's game so he will most likely be in POS too

Also not sure Ruiz is off and running. Source?

http://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2016/03/29/guatemalas-carlos-ruiz-hamilton-lopez-rejoin-team-usmnt-clash-ohio

These are developments that occurred subsequent to either of our posts. Based on audio comments from the woman who leads the Normalization Committee, I was reasonably certain that Ruiz had not left Guatemala prior to this morning (and he had not). And I was more certain after cross-referencing other sources that had no new info since the federation's backpedal.

However, good on the Guatemalans. The "federation" has arranged two private planes, on two successive days, to get two players to Ohio. We would be struggling with logistics. They even managed to facilitate and assist the other player with his visa issue.

Since the very "federation" reversed its decision on the duration of Ruiz's ban, it was clear they would go to bat for him.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Peong on March 29, 2016, 12:43:32 PM
http://www.foxsports.com/soccer/story/guatemala-will-have-carlos-ruiz-hamilton-lopez-for-crucial-clash-vs-usmnt-032816
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on March 29, 2016, 01:27:31 PM
P.S. That landlord would have been public enemy #1.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on March 29, 2016, 02:04:01 PM
P.S. That landlord would have been public enemy #1.
Ent!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 29, 2016, 07:50:32 PM

USA beat up Guatemala.. and I am sure they will beat Vincy in their next game.  Which means T&T should take care of business at home and beat Guatemala and the last game between T&T and US should be a fight for who top the table.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 29, 2016, 07:51:13 PM

Jamaica vs Costa Rica clash tonight should be epic. Leh we see what JA is really made of..
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 29, 2016, 08:00:39 PM

Jamaica vs Costa Rica clash tonight should be epic. Leh we see what JA is really made of..

I watching Haiti vs Panama. Placide is keeping Haiti in the game. Haiti only fouling and dropping on the pitch. The ref aint showing any cards. How the hell this team beat us for Copa..

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 29, 2016, 08:04:17 PM
This is a hostile environment. JA just avoided a bad call which could have been a penalty. Not even 2 minutes pass.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 29, 2016, 08:07:56 PM
Costa Rica 1-0 Jamaica.

Good game so far. Lots of action. Very intense.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on March 29, 2016, 08:08:01 PM
Yard off to a bad start. Not sure it would de facto have been a bad call.

(And that wasn't even factoring in the goal).
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: socachynee on March 29, 2016, 08:32:24 PM
Mexico vs Canada starting now

Mayan Gods will feast tonight
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 29, 2016, 08:40:48 PM
CR 2-0 JA

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: socachynee on March 29, 2016, 08:51:21 PM
Mexico 1 on Penalty Canada Nil
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Deeks on March 29, 2016, 08:56:54 PM
7-1


Mag you is ah obeah man, or what.7-1 =6.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 29, 2016, 08:58:28 PM

I will be surprised if Can beat Mex in a WC qualifier, especially when the game in Mex
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 29, 2016, 08:59:04 PM
CR 2-0 JA



CR always been strong team at home
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Deeks on March 29, 2016, 08:59:35 PM

Jamaica vs Costa Rica clash tonight should be epic. Leh we see what JA is really made of..

I watching Haiti vs Panama. Placide is keeping Haiti in the game. Haiti only fouling and dropping on the pitch. The ref aint showing any cards. How the hell this team beat us for Copa..



because we played shit.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Deeks on March 29, 2016, 09:00:55 PM
CR 2-0 JA



CR always been strong team at home

I don't think TT has ever beaten either JA or CR in WC football. Check me on that.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 29, 2016, 09:05:49 PM

Jamaica vs Costa Rica clash tonight should be epic. Leh we see what JA is really made of..

I watching Haiti vs Panama. Placide is keeping Haiti in the game. Haiti only fouling and dropping on the pitch. The ref aint showing any cards. How the hell this team beat us for Copa..



because we played shit.

Haiti just get a red card. Discipline is lacking. You should see
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 29, 2016, 09:07:17 PM
CR 2-0 JA



CR always been strong team at home

I don't think TT has ever beaten either JA or CR in WC football. Check me on that.

I don't think T&T have played JA much in WC football. In the last twenty years I could only think of one WC campaign where both teams made it to the final round to play each other.
.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 29, 2016, 09:16:38 PM
Pan 1- 0 Haiti

Haiti will be practically out if they dont get a point.This is also a bad result for JA
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: socachynee on March 29, 2016, 09:23:57 PM
Mexico 2 NIL
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: soccerman on March 29, 2016, 09:34:26 PM
Brazil had to claw their way back to tie 2-2 with Paraguay in 89th....they were down 2-0
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on March 29, 2016, 09:40:57 PM
Results from Tuesday, March 29

AFC
Australia 5 Jordan 1
Afghanistan 2 Singapore 1
Japan 5 Syria 0
Lebanon 1 Myanmar 1 (red cards issued to both teams)
China 2 Qatar 0
India 1 Turkmenistan 2
Uzbekistan 1 Bahrain 0
Tajikistan 0 Kyrgyzstan 1
Iraq 1 Vietnam 0
Palestine 7 East Timor 0
Maldives 4 Bhutan 2
UAE 1 Saudi Arabia 1
Iran 2 Oman 0
Philippines 3 North Korea 2
South Korea v. Kuwait (postponed)

CONMEBOL
Colombia 3 Ecuador 1
Uruguay 1 Peru 0
Argentina 2 Bolivia 0
Venezuela 1 Chile 4
Paraguay 2 Brazil 2

CAF
Malawi 1 Guinea 2
Lesotho 2 Seychelles 1
Rwanda 5 Mauritius 0
Ethiopia 3 Algeria 3
Niger 1 Senegal 2
Namibia 1 Burundi 3
Togo 0 Tunisia 0
Angola 0 D.R. Congo 2
Liberia 5 Djibouti 0
Uganda 0 Burkina Faso 0 (Burkinabe red card)
Gambia 0 Mauritania 0
Egypt 1 Nigeria 0
South Africa 0 Cameroon 0
Sudan 1 Ivory Coast 1
Morocco 2 Cape Verde 0

CONCACAF
Trinidad & Tobago 6 SVG 0
USA 4 Guatemala 0
Honduras 2 El Salvador 0
Panama 1 Haiti 0 (Haiti, red card)
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on March 29, 2016, 09:47:48 PM
CR 2-0 JA
CR 3-JA 0.....that's a tough group
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: weary1969 on March 29, 2016, 09:59:22 PM
CR 2-0 JA
CR 3-JA 0.....that's a tough group

I know CR is tougher opposition but eh want them yardies in the hex.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 29, 2016, 10:00:11 PM
CR 2-0 JA
CR 3-JA 0.....that's a tough group

I know CR is tougher opposition but eh want them yardies in the hex.

JA messed up when they failed to beat Panama in their first game. and that was a home game for them.
.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 29, 2016, 10:09:37 PM
CR 2-0 JA
CR 3-JA 0.....that's a tough group

I know CR is tougher opposition but eh want them yardies in the hex.

JA messed up when they failed to beat Panama in their first game. and that was a home game for them.
.

That's right. They needed to get at least a point to stay on pace with Panama. Don't see a way for Haiti at this point.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on March 29, 2016, 10:21:07 PM
CR 2-0 JA
CR 3-JA 0.....that's a tough group

I know CR is tougher opposition but eh want them yardies in the hex.
:beermug:
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on March 29, 2016, 10:21:55 PM
We will be playing USA in Jacksonville, FL in September
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: loyalist on March 29, 2016, 10:57:10 PM
I'll make that drive
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Peong on March 29, 2016, 11:02:26 PM
I just got some more joy watching the CR - Jam highlights  ;D
We will be playing USA in Jacksonville, FL in September

USSoccer says Sept 6th.  Our game vs Guat should be on the 2nd.
Our MLS guys will be sharp, but the European players will be just a couple weeks into their seasons so the coach must factor that into their preparation.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Flex on March 30, 2016, 03:57:57 AM
Group-A Standings

P  W  D  L  F  A  Pts
x - Mexico  4  0  0  0  10  0  12
Honduras  4  1  1  2  4  5  4
Canada  4  1  1  2  1  5  4
El Salvador  4  0  2  2  2  7  2

Upcoming Matches

Sept-2

El Salvador v Mexico
Honduras v Canada

Sept-6

Mexico v  Honduras
Canada v El Salvador

Group-B Standings

P  W  D  L  F  A  Pts
Costa Rica  4  3  1  0  7  2  10
Panama  4  2  1  1  4  2  7
Jamaica  4  1  1  2  2  6  4
Haiti  4  0  1  3  0  3  1

Upcoming Matches

Sept-2

Haiti v Costa Rica
Panama v Jamaica

Sept-6

Costa Rica v Panama
Jamaica v Haiti

Group-C Standings

P  W  D  L  F  A  Pts
Trinidad and Tobago  4  3  1  0  11  3  10
United States  4  2  1  1  10  3  7
Guatemala  4  2  0  2  7  6  6
St Vincent & the Grenadines  4  0  0  4  3  19  0

Upcoming Matches

Sept-2

Trinidad & Tobago v Guatemala
St Vincent v USA

Sept-6

USA v Trinidad & Tobago
Guatemala v St Vincent

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 30, 2016, 09:35:49 AM

(http://img.fifa.com/mm/photo/tournament/competition/02/77/31/85/2773185_full-lnd.jpg)

Seven progress to complete Asia's last-12 line-up

http://img.fifa.com/mm/photo/tournament/competition/02/77/31/85/2773185_full-lnd.jpg


The line-up of Asia’s third qualifying round for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ was complete with the remaining seven slots filled on Tuesday’s closing matchday of the second round. While Australia, Iran and Uzbekistan all prevailed to progress as group winners, Syria, Iraq, China PR and United Arab Emirates finished as the four best runners-up to join the already-qualified Qatar, Korea Republic, Japan, Thailand and Saudi Arabia in the next phase. The draw for the next round will take place on 12 April in Kuala Lumpur.
 
With the competition also serving as the qualifying for the 2019 AFC Asian Cup in United Arab Emirates, these teams received added reward with qualification to the continental finals. Despite elimination from FIFA World Cup qualifying, though, the rest of the sides all made it to AFC Asian Cup qualifying. The next top-sixteen finishers, including the four remaining runners-up, progress to the third qualifying round to UAE 2019, while even the rest of the teams had their own share of joy by featuring in the AFC Asian Cup qualifying play-off round. Join FIFA.com as we review all of the exciting action across the continent. 
 
The match
Philippines 3-2 Korea DPR
Goals: Misagh Bahadoran 43, Manuel Ott 84, Iain Ramsay 90; So Kyong Jin 45+2, Ri Hyok Chol 48
 
Philippines from Group H, under American Thomas Dooley, produced one of the matchday's biggest surprises by overcoming South Africa 2010 finalists Korea DPR 3-2, fulfilling the former USA captain's promise of defeating the Chollima at home. In what proved to be a seesaw-battle, the hosts, who came away with an unlikely goalless draw in Pyongyang, came from behind to see off a side 44 places above them in the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking. While the result did little to help the Razkals’ qualification, it did contribute in shattering the visitors' hopes of a place in the last 12.
 
Desperately needing points to secure progression, Korea DPR pressed hard from the outset. It was, however, the home side that took the lead in surprising fashion, Misagh Bahadoran heading home to complete a move initiated by Javier Patino two minutes from the break. So Kyong-Jin soon drew the scoreline level before Ri Hyok-Chol put the visitors ahead shortly after the restart. The game looking destined for victory in the visitors’ favour, however, the home side staged a strong comeback with a two quick-fire goals from Manuel Ott and Iain Ramsay sealing a memorable victory for the tournament debutants. In another match in the group, having seen their progression confirmed by Korea DPR's loss, Uzbekistan went on to win 1-0 over Bahrain at home.

Read More; http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/news/y=2016/m=3/news=seven-progress-to-complete-asia-s-last-12-line-up-2772980.html

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 30, 2016, 09:36:06 AM

For me this was the most exciting WC qualifier yesterday. Colombia looking very dangerous right now.

http://www.footytube.com/video/colombia-ecuador-mar29-413638
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: weary1969 on March 30, 2016, 02:07:16 PM
Keep the momentum beat Guatemala in the HCS.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Deeks on March 30, 2016, 02:53:46 PM
Right now, DJW and Coach Hart need to sit and have a serious conversation about preps for these 2 games. I think the Guatemala game is most crucial. Because if we win that we thru to the Hex and then coach can give other players time against the US. If we can get 2 games a month(wishful thinking), that will be 10 friendlies. Some against JA, Haiti, Central American and South American teams(Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Brazil Z team, a return game against Argentina in the HCS. We just need games for these guys(especially the home guys).
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 30, 2016, 02:59:51 PM
Group-A Standings

P  W  D  L  F  A  Pts
x - Mexico  4  0  0  0  10  0  12
Honduras  4  1  1  2  4  5  4
Canada  4  1  1  2  1  5  4
El Salvador  4  0  2  2  2  7  2

Upcoming Matches

Sept-2

El Salvador v Mexico
Honduras v Canada

Sept-6

Mexico v  Honduras
Canada v El Salvador

Group-B Standings

P  W  D  L  F  A  Pts
Costa Rica  4  3  1  0  7  2  10
Panama  4  2  1  1  4  2  7
Jamaica  4  1  1  2  2  6  4
Haiti  4  0  1  3  0  3  1

Upcoming Matches

Sept-2

Haiti v Costa Rica
Panama v Jamaica

Sept-6

Costa Rica v Panama
Jamaica v Haiti

Group-C Standings

P  W  D  L  F  A  Pts
Trinidad and Tobago  4  3  1  0  11  3  10
United States  4  2  1  1  10  3  7
Guatemala  4  2  0  2  7  6  6
St Vincent & the Grenadines  4  0  0  4  3  19  0

Upcoming Matches

Sept-2

Trinidad & Tobago v Guatemala
St Vincent v USA

Sept-6

USA v Trinidad & Tobago
Guatemala v St Vincent



Hard luck to Haiti and Jamaica. They in a tough group. We lucky that we get drawn into a less competitive group.

Jamaica actually has a very good team. Probably the best team since the 98 Reggae boyz. They are going to fight Panama like hell in Panama city come September. We have better results vs Panama for wcq. So whats going on in group B might actually be good for us as we have a better record against Panama as opposed to Jamaica.

Still bothers me that Haiti beat we in Copa. I watched some of their game yesterday. They lack cohesion. Only run and kick and tackle hard.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 30, 2016, 03:02:38 PM
Right now, DJW and Coach Hart need to sit and have a serious conversation about preps for these 2 games. I think the Guatemala game is most crucial. Because if we win that we thru to the Hex and then coach can give other players time against the US. If we can get 2 games a month(wishful thinking), that will be 10 friendlies. Some against JA, Haiti, Central American and South American teams(Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Brazil Z team, a return game against Argentina in the HCS. We just need games for these guys(especially the home guys).

I agree Deeks. Just imagine if we can get some friendlies against good competition regularly. Venezuela is a much better team now. They right in we backyard (or we right in their backyard). We should at least get some games with them. When last we play them? We actually closer to them than Grenada.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 30, 2016, 03:03:22 PM
I belive Jamaica has only scored TWO goals in their last four World Cup qualifying games. This is poor!.. They had to be able to put the ball in the back of the net more often if they wanted to qualify.

Panama is not going to roll over to JA in Panama City. Panama will be the ones playing at home. It will be tough from now till the end for Jamaica.
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Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 30, 2016, 03:14:48 PM
I belive Jamaica has only scored TWO goals in their last four World Cup qualifying games. This is poor!.. They had to be able to the ball in the back of the net if they wanted to qualify.

Panama is not going to roll over to JA in Panama City. Panama will be the ones playing at home. It will be tough from now till the end for Jamaica.
.

Jamaica playing against 2 1/2 teams that are good. They should have at least a win at home. I guarantee they go fight Panama like a gunfight inna Waterhouse. Panama will walk a way with some points. Question is whether it will be 1 or 3. I believe a tie for Panama will be enough for them. Goal difference will decide the 2nd spot. I expect Jamaica to go all out on Haiti.

Some yardies starting to blame the "offshore yardies", "reggae brits", "ub40s"  for their struggles in the group. We will see what happens.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 30, 2016, 03:18:02 PM
I belive Jamaica has only scored TWO goals in their last four World Cup qualifying games. This is poor!.. They had to be able to the ball in the back of the net if they wanted to qualify.

Panama is not going to roll over to JA in Panama City. Panama will be the ones playing at home. It will be tough from now till the end for Jamaica.
.

Jamaica playing against 2 1/2 teams that are good. They should have at least a win at home. I guarantee they go fight Panama like a gunfight inna Waterhouse. Panama will walk a way with some points. Question is whether it will be 1 or 3. Some yardies starting to blame the "offshore yardies", "reggae brits", "ub40s"  for their struggles in the group. We will see what happens.

They have no excuses for not gaining points against teams that you are capable of beating. Failed at home to gain a point against Panama.

I expect Panama to play much better at home than Jamaica played at their home especially with the Hex in their grasp. And I do not care who they blame, same side which made final of Gold Cup. No excuses.
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Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 30, 2016, 03:35:38 PM
I belive Jamaica has only scored TWO goals in their last four World Cup qualifying games. This is poor!.. They had to be able to the ball in the back of the net if they wanted to qualify.

Panama is not going to roll over to JA in Panama City. Panama will be the ones playing at home. It will be tough from now till the end for Jamaica.
.

Jamaica playing against 2 1/2 teams that are good. They should have at least a win at home. I guarantee they go fight Panama like a gunfight inna Waterhouse. Panama will walk a way with some points. Question is whether it will be 1 or 3. Some yardies starting to blame the "offshore yardies", "reggae brits", "ub40s"  for their struggles in the group. We will see what happens.

They have no excuses for not gaining points against teams that you are capable of beating. Failed at home to gain a point against Panama.

I expect Panama to play much better at home than Jamaica played at their home especially with the Hex in their grasp. And I do not care who they blame, same side which made final of Gold Cup. No excuses.
.

I not giving them any excuses. I just going by what some of their fans are looking at. But I with you. They shouldnt be where they are considering the wave of momentum they have been riding since beating us at the Caribbean cup.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 30, 2016, 03:38:10 PM
I belive Jamaica has only scored TWO goals in their last four World Cup qualifying games. This is poor!.. They had to be able to the ball in the back of the net if they wanted to qualify.

Panama is not going to roll over to JA in Panama City. Panama will be the ones playing at home. It will be tough from now till the end for Jamaica.
.

Jamaica playing against 2 1/2 teams that are good. They should have at least a win at home. I guarantee they go fight Panama like a gunfight inna Waterhouse. Panama will walk a way with some points. Question is whether it will be 1 or 3. Some yardies starting to blame the "offshore yardies", "reggae brits", "ub40s"  for their struggles in the group. We will see what happens.

They have no excuses for not gaining points against teams that you are capable of beating. Failed at home to gain a point against Panama.

I expect Panama to play much better at home than Jamaica played at their home especially with the Hex in their grasp. And I do not care who they blame, same side which made final of Gold Cup. No excuses.
.

I not giving them any excuses. I just going by what some of their fans are looking at. But I with you. They shouldnt be where they are considering the wave of momentum they have been riding since beating us at the Caribbean cup.

Caribbean Cup was in November 2014.. Their momentum died gradually since the Gold Cup. They have played poorly in their recent games. Scoring only two goals in four games and losing at home in WC competition. Their recent games is what is considered when looking at current form. This is what will be looked at when evaluating them in World Cup qualifiers.
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Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 30, 2016, 03:48:07 PM
Yeah. I should have said the wave they were riding up to the end of the Gold cup.. But anyways.

Haiti really bother me though. They had their top players yesterday.. And their quality was very poorrrrr. They never showed any invention at all. Placide, is probably one of the top 5 for Concacaf keepers right now. He manages his defensive line well. He kept Haiti in the game.

Although Panama was better, they were not that much better.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 30, 2016, 03:49:34 PM
Yeah. I should have said the wave they were riding up to the end of the Gold cup.. But anyways.

Haiti really bother me though. They had their top players yesterday.. And their quality was very poorrrrr. They never showed any invention at all. Placide, is probably one of the top 5 for Concacaf keepers right now. He manages his defensive line well. He kept Haiti in the game.

Although Panama was better, they were not that much better.

So then the group is not as hard as you claim then?  :)

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: trini_stallion on March 30, 2016, 03:50:05 PM
I feel bad for them though. I watch the game against Costa Rica and they look like ...idk nah...without a prayer. You cld see the disappointment on their faces. Good luck to them on their future games tho.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 30, 2016, 03:58:40 PM
Yeah. I should have said the wave they were riding up to the end of the Gold cup.. But anyways.

Haiti really bother me though. They had their top players yesterday.. And their quality was very poorrrrr. They never showed any invention at all. Placide, is probably one of the top 5 for Concacaf keepers right now. He manages his defensive line well. He kept Haiti in the game.

Although Panama was better, they were not that much better.

So then the group is not as hard as you claim then?  :)



Every team has bad games Sando. Maybe it was Panama who played better.. Or maybe it was the Haitians that played worse. Or maybe it was Haiti's poor performance that made Panama look like the better team. At the end of the day, group B is more competitive/harder than our group and group A.

What do you think? Is the group living up to the expectation of being the "group of death"?  I think it is..
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 30, 2016, 04:01:20 PM
Yeah. I should have said the wave they were riding up to the end of the Gold cup.. But anyways.

Haiti really bother me though. They had their top players yesterday.. And their quality was very poorrrrr. They never showed any invention at all. Placide, is probably one of the top 5 for Concacaf keepers right now. He manages his defensive line well. He kept Haiti in the game.

Although Panama was better, they were not that much better.

So then the group is not as hard as you claim then?  :)



Every team has bad games Sando. Maybe it was Panama who played better.. Or maybe it was the Haitians that played worse. Or maybe it was Haiti's poor performance that made Panama look like the better team. At the end of the day, group B is more competitive/harder than our group and group A.

What do you think? Is the group living up to the expectation of being the "group of death"?
I think it is..

Nope. The way CR and PAN running away with the points in that group it clearly did not live up to the expectation of everyone battling each other on even grounds. So the answer is NO! Look at the damn points table and go back and watch the games.
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Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 30, 2016, 04:09:02 PM
Well okay. CR is running away with it. But there isnt much daylight between Panama and Jamaica. And Jamaica and Haiti.

Most of the games have been decided within a goal. With the exception of 2 games. So this group is still the group of death in my opinion.

I was expecting the places to be determined in the last game. Looks like it will be the second last game.

What do you think about Group A? That group is still up in the air for the second spot
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: trini_stallion on March 30, 2016, 04:10:58 PM
So obviously this is hypothetical bit as things stand NOW, the hex looking like:

Mexico
Honduras
Costa Rica
Panama
USA
Trinidad and Tobago.

In terms of Fifa ranking from highest to lowest in concacaf it's

Mexico,
USA,
Costa Rica
Trinidad and Tobago
Panama
Honduras.

I know is a longggggg journey ahead but guys, but Russia is in our grasp, we just really have to rise to the occasion!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 30, 2016, 04:13:04 PM
Well okay. CR is running away with it. But there isnt much daylight between Panama and Jamaica. And Jamaica and Haiti.

Most of the games have been decided within a goal. With the exception of 2 games. So this group is still the group of death in my opinion.

I was expecting the places to be determined in the last game. Looks like it will be the second last game.

What do you think about Group A? That group is still up in the air for the second spot

Group A is more closer for second spot than Group B.  You should focus on praying for Jamaica in Group B  :)
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Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 30, 2016, 04:16:27 PM
Well okay. CR is running away with it. But there isnt much daylight between Panama and Jamaica. And Jamaica and Haiti.

Most of the games have been decided within a goal. With the exception of 2 games. So this group is still the group of death in my opinion.

I was expecting the places to be determined in the last game. Looks like it will be the second last game.

What do you think about Group A? That group is still up in the air for the second spot

Group A is more closer for second spot than Group B.  You should focus on praying for Jamaica in Group B  :)
.

Come on Sando.. I stop talking about Jamaica now.. Why would I pray for them? We would have a better chance against Panama in the Hex. Plus JA knock us out of Copa. The last thing I want to do is pray for them.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on March 30, 2016, 04:24:27 PM
So obviously this is hypothetical bit as things stand NOW, the hex looking like:

Mexico
Honduras
Costa Rica
Panama
USA
Trinidad and Tobago.

In terms of Fifa ranking from highest to lowest in concacaf it's

Mexico,
USA,
Costa Rica
Trinidad and Tobago
Panama
Honduras.

I know is a longggggg journey ahead but guys, but Russia is in our grasp, we just really have to rise to the occasion!

Although I rooting for Canada, Honduras is in a good position to make it to the Hex. If Mexico takes their foot off the pedal in the final game (As they already qualified) then Honduras will go through. But if Mexico plays the final game like how a real qualifier should be played, then Canada has a chance. They need to beat or tie Honduras at home as well. Not out of reach as Canada got a result on the road to El Salvador. But in the end, I think it will be Honduras making the hex.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on April 13, 2016, 07:53:05 AM
Quote
An international soccer campaign is a lot like a political one. Though there are a huge number of events, very few of them have any significance. Since the 2014 World Cup, the U.S. national team has played 29 matches, winning 14, losing nine, and drawing six. Just 11 of those have been competitive, nonfriendly games, and I’d classify only four of those 11—the Gold Cup semifinal against Jamaica, the Confederations Cup playoff against Mexico, and road World Cup qualifiers against Trinidad and Tobago and Guatemala—as important matches that the U.S. had a realistic chance to lose. The national team lost three of them, salvaging a solitary draw against Trinidad.

http://www.slate.com/articles/sports/sports_nut/2016/03/jurgen_klinsmann_is_to_blame_for_the_regression_of_the_u_s_men_s_soccer.html


The venting continues.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on April 13, 2016, 11:17:59 AM
Quote
An international soccer campaign is a lot like a political one. Though there are a huge number of events, very few of them have any significance. Since the 2014 World Cup, the U.S. national team has played 29 matches, winning 14, losing nine, and drawing six. Just 11 of those have been competitive, nonfriendly games, and I’d classify only four of those 11—the Gold Cup semifinal against Jamaica, the Confederations Cup playoff against Mexico, and road World Cup qualifiers against Trinidad and Tobago and Guatemala—as important matches that the U.S. had a realistic chance to lose. The national team lost three of them, salvaging a solitary draw against Trinidad.

http://www.slate.com/articles/sports/sports_nut/2016/03/jurgen_klinsmann_is_to_blame_for_the_regression_of_the_u_s_men_s_soccer.html


The venting continues.

As much as I do agree with the article, I dont think that Klinsmann is totally to blame. Its not that their quality of football has gone down under Klinsmann. The Concacaf region has become more competitive (especially cfu.. mainly because the national teams in the cfu are getting access to their foreign born players).

The future of WC qualifying in Concacaf is about to get more competitive. These teams are priming up to give a good run for the 2022 campaign:

- Cuba (Currently there are a handful of MLS players with Cuban heritage who cannot play for Cuba. This will change once relations continue to improve with the US)

- Suriname (Once that law gets passed in Netherlands, Suriname will essentially have a Netherlands "B" team playing for them)

- Curacao (Kluivert has identified more players in the Eredivise with Curacao heritage.. possibly another Netherlands "B" team)

* I read that Martinique and Guadelope wanted to put in a proposal to FIFA so they can compete as a nation in qualifying. Dont know the status of it. I imagine that if it did , both teams will essentially have a French "B" team.



Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: frico on April 13, 2016, 12:33:09 PM
The Reggaeboyz have the team to beat both Panama and Haiti and qualify for the Hex,they also have the Copa to use and rectify any problems,I backing the Yard to qualify for the Hex.My heart is Caribbean and I therefore want Jamaica in place of a non Caribbean team.I cannot say more.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on April 13, 2016, 02:40:36 PM
The Reggaeboyz have the team to beat both Panama and Haiti and qualify for the Hex,they also have the Copa to use and rectify any problems,I backing the Yard to qualify for the Hex.My heart is Caribbean and I therefore want Jamaica in place of a non Caribbean team.I cannot say more.

The thing is that all them teams in that in Copa. So they all will benefit from being in it.

That group coming down to Panama and Jamaica for the final spot. I rooting for JA too. But they might have left it a little too late. Goal difference is going to get Panama through.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Deeks on April 13, 2016, 04:53:26 PM
* I read that Martinique and Guadelope wanted to put in a proposal to FIFA so they can compete as a nation in qualifying. Dont know the status of it. I imagine that if it did , both teams will essentially have a French "B" team.


That will be very interesting. I guess if exceptions to the rule applied to England, Scotland, Wales and NI, then it can work for them also. Then Cayenne can ask for that exception also.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on April 13, 2016, 06:07:15 PM
Two of Allyuh above me better pray for JA.. dem only score two goals in their last four WC qualifying games which is horrible..and they need to beat Panama in Panama by a certain amount of goals which will not be easy for them when Panama just need a draw to advance..

As for them playing in Copa, well that do not mean much because all other teams in their group will be benefitting from Copa too.. so allyuh jus begin to pray for Jamaica eh
.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Controversial on April 13, 2016, 11:20:53 PM
Quote
An international soccer campaign is a lot like a political one. Though there are a huge number of events, very few of them have any significance. Since the 2014 World Cup, the U.S. national team has played 29 matches, winning 14, losing nine, and drawing six. Just 11 of those have been competitive, nonfriendly games, and I’d classify only four of those 11—the Gold Cup semifinal against Jamaica, the Confederations Cup playoff against Mexico, and road World Cup qualifiers against Trinidad and Tobago and Guatemala—as important matches that the U.S. had a realistic chance to lose. The national team lost three of them, salvaging a solitary draw against Trinidad.

http://www.slate.com/articles/sports/sports_nut/2016/03/jurgen_klinsmann_is_to_blame_for_the_regression_of_the_u_s_men_s_soccer.html


The venting continues.

As much as I do agree with the article, I dont think that Klinsmann is totally to blame. Its not that their quality of football has gone down under Klinsmann. The Concacaf region has become more competitive (especially cfu.. mainly because the national teams in the cfu are getting access to their foreign born players).

The future of WC qualifying in Concacaf is about to get more competitive. These teams are priming up to give a good run for the 2022 campaign:

- Cuba (Currently there are a handful of MLS players with Cuban heritage who cannot play for Cuba. This will change once relations continue to improve with the US)

- Suriname (Once that law gets passed in Netherlands, Suriname will essentially have a Netherlands "B" team playing for them)

- Curacao (Kluivert has identified more players in the Eredivise with Curacao heritage.. possibly another Netherlands "B" team)

* I read that Martinique and Guadelope wanted to put in a proposal to FIFA so they can compete as a nation in qualifying. Dont know the status of it. I imagine that if it did , both teams will essentially have a French "B" team.





Spot on.... Concacaf will become even more competitive than South America..
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on April 14, 2016, 10:23:35 AM
Quote
An international soccer campaign is a lot like a political one. Though there are a huge number of events, very few of them have any significance. Since the 2014 World Cup, the U.S. national team has played 29 matches, winning 14, losing nine, and drawing six. Just 11 of those have been competitive, nonfriendly games, and I’d classify only four of those 11—the Gold Cup semifinal against Jamaica, the Confederations Cup playoff against Mexico, and road World Cup qualifiers against Trinidad and Tobago and Guatemala—as important matches that the U.S. had a realistic chance to lose. The national team lost three of them, salvaging a solitary draw against Trinidad.

http://www.slate.com/articles/sports/sports_nut/2016/03/jurgen_klinsmann_is_to_blame_for_the_regression_of_the_u_s_men_s_soccer.html


The venting continues.

As much as I do agree with the article, I dont think that Klinsmann is totally to blame. Its not that their quality of football has gone down under Klinsmann. The Concacaf region has become more competitive (especially cfu.. mainly because the national teams in the cfu are getting access to their foreign born players).

The future of WC qualifying in Concacaf is about to get more competitive. These teams are priming up to give a good run for the 2022 campaign:

- Cuba (Currently there are a handful of MLS players with Cuban heritage who cannot play for Cuba. This will change once relations continue to improve with the US)

- Suriname (Once that law gets passed in Netherlands, Suriname will essentially have a Netherlands "B" team playing for them)

- Curacao (Kluivert has identified more players in the Eredivise with Curacao heritage.. possibly another Netherlands "B" team)

* I read that Martinique and Guadelope wanted to put in a proposal to FIFA so they can compete as a nation in qualifying. Dont know the status of it. I imagine that if it did , both teams will essentially have a French "B" team.





Spot on.... Concacaf will become even more competitive than South America..
Wait what? I can't see that happening in our lifetime.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on April 14, 2016, 06:47:03 PM
Quote
An international soccer campaign is a lot like a political one. Though there are a huge number of events, very few of them have any significance. Since the 2014 World Cup, the U.S. national team has played 29 matches, winning 14, losing nine, and drawing six. Just 11 of those have been competitive, nonfriendly games, and I’d classify only four of those 11—the Gold Cup semifinal against Jamaica, the Confederations Cup playoff against Mexico, and road World Cup qualifiers against Trinidad and Tobago and Guatemala—as important matches that the U.S. had a realistic chance to lose. The national team lost three of them, salvaging a solitary draw against Trinidad.

http://www.slate.com/articles/sports/sports_nut/2016/03/jurgen_klinsmann_is_to_blame_for_the_regression_of_the_u_s_men_s_soccer.html


The venting continues.

As much as I do agree with the article, I dont think that Klinsmann is totally to blame. Its not that their quality of football has gone down under Klinsmann. The Concacaf region has become more competitive (especially cfu.. mainly because the national teams in the cfu are getting access to their foreign born players).

The future of WC qualifying in Concacaf is about to get more competitive. These teams are priming up to give a good run for the 2022 campaign:

- Cuba (Currently there are a handful of MLS players with Cuban heritage who cannot play for Cuba. This will change once relations continue to improve with the US)

- Suriname (Once that law gets passed in Netherlands, Suriname will essentially have a Netherlands "B" team playing for them)

- Curacao (Kluivert has identified more players in the Eredivise with Curacao heritage.. possibly another Netherlands "B" team)

* I read that Martinique and Guadelope wanted to put in a proposal to FIFA so they can compete as a nation in qualifying. Dont know the status of it. I imagine that if it did , both teams will essentially have a French "B" team.





Spot on.... Concacaf will become even more competitive than South America..
Wait what? I can't see that happening in our lifetime.

I agree. But I think he means the competition to get into the world cup.. not that the teams in Concacaf will be better than the teams in Conmebol.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on April 14, 2016, 08:48:34 PM
Yea I figured that's what he meant and Concacaf will be even more competitive given the number of teams of improved teams competing for 3.5 spots. However in Conmebol it's fewer teams competing for 4.5.
Right now they're 10 teams fighting for qualification and after 6 games Brazil is in 6th place, other countries have stepped up significantly.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on May 25, 2016, 10:35:54 AM
El Salvador's senior squad versus their U-20s in progress now. They are playing 3 x 30'. The U-20s are up 1-0. The second 30' block just started. Will update.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on May 25, 2016, 01:29:54 PM
El Salvador's senior squad versus their U-20s in progress now. They are playing 3 x 30'. The U-20s are up 1-0. The second 30' block just started. Will update.

1-1 final. Marco Rodríguez @ 27' for the U20s. Raul Rénderos for the seniors (appears to have notched that in the final 30' block).
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 08, 2016, 10:39:27 AM
Mexico to open Hex on the road
FIFA.com

 
The Official Draw for the final round of qualifying in North, Central America and the Caribbean took place on Friday 8 July in Miami. The event, from CONCACAF headquarters in Miami and hosted by General Secretary Philippe Moggio, sets the ball rolling on the highly competitive, six-team round-robin known throughout the region as the Hexagonal (or simply 'the Hex'). It will send three sides from the region directly to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™. 

Draw results

1. C1
2. B2
3. A2
4. B1
5. A1 (Mexico)
6. C2

Only giants Mexico have officially qualified for the Hexagonal so far, but the remaining five teams will be known after the last two matches of the semi-final round are played on 4 and 8 September. The reigning CONCACAF champions will kick-off the Hexagonal round in November away from their hallowed ground of the Estadio Azteca against a team yet to be determined but one that could be, if results go accordingly in semi-final Group C, their arch-rivals USA.
 
Mexico are the only team in CONCACAF qualifying with a perfect record, having won all four of their games so far. Despite a demoralising 7-0 loss to Chile in the recent Copa America Centenario, Juan Carlos Osorio's team are still the cream of the region. They've scored ten goals so far in the semi-final round and have yet to concede.
 
Also in good shape are Costa Rica, who set the world stage alight two years ago by reaching the quarter-finals of the global showpiece in Brazil. The Ticos are three points clear atop their tricky semi-final group and looking likely bets to reach through to the final Hexagonal round. Also alive and aiming for places in the final round are the USA, Canada, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Panama and Trinidad and Tobago.
 
For the first time ever, the Hexagonal will take place outside of one calendar year. It will, instead, run from November 2016 and conclude in October 2017, sending the top three sides directly to Russia. The fourth-placed team faces an intercontinental play-off against an AFC opponent for a potential fourth ticket to Russia from the CONCACAF region, while the fifth and sixth-placed teams will be eliminated.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: trini_stallion on July 08, 2016, 02:00:03 PM
http://ttfootball.org/2016/07/08/draw-confirms-positions-and-match-ups-for-concacaf-hex/


I'm gonna say the Hex is gonna be looking like Mexico, United States, Costa Rica, Socawarriors, Panama and Honduras!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 08, 2016, 02:32:23 PM
Should we win the group, our first rival will be Mexico at the HCS.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on July 08, 2016, 02:42:18 PM
Should we win the group, our first rival will be Mexico at the HCS.
When I read it I thought the same thing. Should be more incentive to come way with at least 4 points in the last 2 games.
Title: Hart: We still have business to handle before the ‘Hex’
Post by: Tallman on July 09, 2016, 10:21:44 PM
Hart: We still have business to handle before the ‘Hex’
TTFA Media


Trinidad and Tobago Head Coach Stephen Hart hasn’t put much thought to the schedule of the CONCACAF Final Round of 2018 World Cup qualification which was determined at the official draw on Friday in Miami.

For Hart, his feelings shortly after T&T’s 6-0 victory over St Vincent and the Grenadines in the team’s last World Cup qualifier in March, remains the same today. And that is T&T still has a final hurdle to get over before reaching the Hexagonal phase.

“We haven’t achieved anything yet. We are still in the same position as we were in March. We are not yet in the Hex. We have two difficult games left and that is our main objective at this time, getting the result that will take us there (Final round),” Hart told TTFA Media following the draw.

“Once you’re into the Hex, you have the best teams in the region and you have to face everyone at some point. There is where the real toss up begins because you are looking at playing home and away with everything at stake over a rigorous schedule. Thinking about what our possible games could look like when it starts in November and ends next year is not a focus at the moment. We have to take care of business in our next two games first and foremost,” he added.

The T&T senior team is expected to regroup in late August for a training camp ahead of the all-important World Cup qualifier against Guatemala at the Hasely Crawford Stadium on September 2nd, before meeting the United States on September 6th in Jacksonville, Florida.

T&T currently leads its semi-final group with ten points, three more than second placed USA, followed by Guatemala (six points) and St Vincent/Grenadines in the bottom spot without a point. A draw against Guatemala will do it for T&T but Guatemala needs to win to stay alive before their final game at home to St Vincent, and if they do, T&T will find themselves in a position of needing to defeat the US in order to advance to the “Hex”.

T&T also have Caribbean Cup and Gold Cup qualifying matches on October 3rd and 9th against Martinique and Dominican Republic before the start of the CONCACAF Final phase November 7th-15th.

So far, Mexico is assured of first place in Group A from the fourth round, but no other hex position has been solidified with two games left to play in September. The upcoming Hexagonal will run, for the first time in its history, outside of one calendar year. The competition, which boasts CONCACAF’s top teams and stars, kicks off in November 2016 and concludes in October 2017, sending three sides directly to Russia 2018 with the fourth entering a playoff with an Asian team.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on July 11, 2016, 09:35:39 AM
T&T better not count their chickens before they hatch. The game still has to be played to win. 
.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: weary1969 on July 11, 2016, 09:50:46 AM
T&T better not count their chickens before they hatch. The game still has to be played to win. 
.

CO-SIGN
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Deeks on July 11, 2016, 10:42:48 AM
T&T better not count their chickens before they hatch. The game still has to be played to win. 
.

CO-SIGN

“We haven’t achieved anything yet. We are still in the same position as we were in March. We are not yet in the Hex. We have two difficult games left and that is our main objective at this time, getting the result that .......

Well at least the coach knows that.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on August 25, 2016, 01:21:35 PM
Rohr’s $47,000 salary, waste of funds – Gombe
By Jude Iroha-Udoka, Today.


A former member of the Nigeria Football Association, Shuaibu Gara-Gombe, has lambasted the Amaju Pinnick-led board for contracting German tactician Gernot Rohr on $47,000 salary, saying it is a waste of scarce resources.

The fiery sports administrator and commentator said that paying such a huge salary at a time the country’s economy was facing tough times showed that the Nigeria Football Federation lacks the foresight and displayed insensitivity to reality on [the] ground.

He said the country should have used such money to engage [a] quality local coach and clear the backlog of salary arrears of all the tacticians in its employ including those they had disengaged.

He said that the process of engaging the German coach was not transparent enough and the mechanism for the payment of his salary was still shrouded in secrecy.

“Who is going to pay for the salary of the coach? They have not come out even though we heard it was an oil company, which of the oil firms? When they employed Sunday Oliseh, they told us Zenith Bank was going to be responsible for his pay but we don’t know what is happening now, they should be transparent and desist from telling Nigerians lies,” he stressed.

Gara-Gombe added that Rohr was not good enough to qualify Nigeria for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

“They have given Rohr the mandate to qualify Nigeria for the World Cup but I can tell you that he will not do that. He cannot get us to Russia because he is not good enough. Mark my word, he will fail,” he said.

“I think this is a colossal waste of public funds, number two, that money should have been used to pay all the coaches in the employ of the NFF including those that are dead instead of splashing it on somebody who is not good enough to take our national team to the next level,” he said.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: andremartinsc on August 26, 2016, 06:11:41 AM
Can't wait to watch T&T and especially Bostock and Levi Garcia on the qualifiers.
I'm cheering for Panamá and T&T to reach the World Cup.

Regards from Brazil
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Deeks on August 26, 2016, 04:51:25 PM
Can't wait to watch T&T and especially Bostock and Levi Garcia on the qualifiers.
I'm cheering for Panamá and T&T to reach the World Cup.

Regards from Brazil

Andre, you did not post anything during the Olympics!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: andremartinsc on August 29, 2016, 06:35:28 AM
This past month has been hard. Too much work. But it was beautiful, wasn't it?  :laugh:

I'm happy for all the athletes and especially our soccer team. We did well for a country that doesn't invest on sports.

Did you like it?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Deeks on August 29, 2016, 01:40:05 PM
With web streaming this was the best. I got to see other sports for the first week, instead of only gymnastics and swimming. Not that I don't like those sports. I enjoyed it. I saw lots of football. Not only the Brazil games. Saw field hockey, rowing,basketball, etc. But the Olympics was very good. I thought that Brazil should have invested more in Track and field. But other than that it was great.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: andremartinsc on August 30, 2016, 06:15:44 AM
With web streaming this was the best. I got to see other sports for the first week, instead of only gymnastics and swimming. Not that I don't like those sports. I enjoyed it. I saw lots of football. Not only the Brazil games. Saw field hockey, rowing,basketball, etc. But the Olympics was very good. I thought that Brazil should have invested more in Track and field. But other than that it was great.

Sadly we don't invest much in other sports besides soccer. We live in a big country with more than 200mi of people so we should have a lot of talent in all sports.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 02, 2016, 11:00:17 AM
Disagree with any notion of a SVG upset, but would appreciate one. ;D
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Sando prince on September 02, 2016, 11:55:56 AM

Some exciting WC qualifiers all around the world today!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: fari on September 02, 2016, 03:23:48 PM
SVG lie down...their fans ent even come out to support
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 02, 2016, 03:24:33 PM
6-0 in stoppage time.

(Canada and Honduras scoreless at 22').
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: E-man on September 02, 2016, 04:11:55 PM
Where is Canada?
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: 100% Barataria on September 02, 2016, 04:14:21 PM
Where is Canada?


Just north of the US...
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: E-man on September 02, 2016, 04:14:45 PM
Thought they wouldn't show for the 2nd half. Honduras was lined up on the field for minutes waiting.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: lefty on September 02, 2016, 04:15:55 PM
Where is Canada?


Just north of the US...

lol :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl:
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 02, 2016, 04:17:30 PM
Where is Canada?


Just north of the US...

 :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl:

Allyuh wreaking havoc wid meh fish taco.  :rotfl: :rotfl:
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 02, 2016, 07:23:40 PM
I watching Haiti v CR. Haiti is holding down against CR.

Group B is still wide open. If Haiti and Jamaica win, Tuesdays match in Kingston is going to be fire. 
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 02, 2016, 07:38:24 PM
Jamaica pressing. Only 7 minutes into the game. I feel JA might pull it off tonight.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on September 02, 2016, 07:43:28 PM
Jamaica pressing. Only 7 minutes into the game. I feel JA might pull it off tonight.

Jamaica not wining in Panama. watch and see
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 02, 2016, 07:48:21 PM
Jamaica pressing. Only 7 minutes into the game. I feel JA might pull it off tonight.

Jamaica not wining in Panama. watch and see

That's why I say "might". They were looking good in the first few minutes. Hit the cross bar on a header. It's a very open game. Both teams AIN'T AFRAID to bring the game to each other.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 02, 2016, 07:59:53 PM
1-0 Panama. Caught Jamaica on the break.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on September 02, 2016, 08:01:19 PM

Goal! Panama!

once again Ja not winning in Panama

Jamaica have themselves to blame for being in this tight position in their group because they fail to win one game at home
.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 02, 2016, 08:03:47 PM
I see CR is in. They score in the 28 against Haiti. I thought it was 78
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on September 02, 2016, 08:52:59 PM
Where is Canada?


Just north of the US...

lol :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl:
:rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl:
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: kounty on September 02, 2016, 08:55:30 PM
How much El Salvador need in this game? They brininging it to Mexico!
(aside) is only bottle and water whenever mexico get a corner. for real wah we do at the hasley?
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 02, 2016, 09:20:13 PM
Looks like the final spot for the hex will be in group A. Panama is about to knock the Reggae Boyz out.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 02, 2016, 09:21:43 PM
2 -0 Panama.  Reggae Boyz made a grave mistake. Wow.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on September 02, 2016, 09:24:48 PM

As expected Panama was not going to lose to Jamaica at home. The points in that group is a good representation of CR and Pan being the better teams
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 02, 2016, 09:30:10 PM
That 2nd goal was school boyish. Plus Kemar Lawrence got a yellow for blasting the ball at the ball boy.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on September 02, 2016, 09:33:34 PM
That 2nd goal was school boyish. Plus Kemar Lawrence got a yellow for blasting the ball at the ball boy.
Yea that was totally uncalled for.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 02, 2016, 10:04:39 PM
That 2nd goal was school boyish. Plus Kemar Lawrence got a yellow for blasting the ball at the ball boy.
Yea that was totally uncalled for.

Dahis likely frustration from the officials not having carded the Panamanian who kicked the ball away a few seconds before.

In England, that would have been a yellow. Some of the English players seemed frustrated with the officiating.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 03, 2016, 07:25:28 AM
That 2nd goal was school boyish. Plus Kemar Lawrence got a yellow for blasting the ball at the ball boy.
Yea that was totally uncalled for.

Dahis likely frustration from the officials not having carded the Panamanian who kicked the ball away a few seconds before.

In England, that would have been a yellow. Some of the English players seemed frustrated with the officiating.

Was reading some of the comments on the Reggae Boyz site. Wowww. They are a giving textbook lessons on how to bash your national team and set up. If TT had lost last night, I don't think we would have bashed our national team the way they are doing it.  Barely any constructive feedback. Plus they calling for Winnie head.

Btw, where is reggae fan?  Not looking to gloat at him. Will like to know his thoughts about what happened last night and the future of the Reggae Boyz.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Big Magician on September 04, 2016, 08:17:53 AM
SEND MORE BRITS... SEND MORE BRITZ  ( said in a zombie like voice)

Fish n Chipz Boyz....   by the way...congrats on your Caribbean Cup...and Gold Cup finalist appearance... shi#hongs
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on September 04, 2016, 08:24:30 AM
That 2nd goal was school boyish. Plus Kemar Lawrence got a yellow for blasting the ball at the ball boy.
Yea that was totally uncalled for.

Dahis likely frustration from the officials not having carded the Panamanian who kicked the ball away a few seconds before.

In England, that would have been a yellow. Some of the English players seemed frustrated with the officiating.

Was reading some of the comments on the Reggae Boyz site. Wowww. They are a giving textbook lessons on how to bash your national team and set up. If TT had lost last night, I don't think we would have bashed our national team the way they are doing it.  Barely any constructive feedback. Plus they calling for Winnie head.

Btw, where is reggae fan?  Not looking to gloat at him. Will like to know his thoughts about what happened last night and the future of the Reggae Boyz.

Congrats to Panama and Costa Rica in reaching the Hex.
.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Sando prince on September 04, 2016, 08:26:42 AM

Argentina vs Uruguay was a good one

http://www.footytube.com/video/argentina-uruguay-sep01-442898
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 04, 2016, 08:44:45 AM

Argentina vs Uruguay was a good one

http://www.footytube.com/video/argentina-uruguay-sep01-442898

One-sided affair with Uruguay bunkered in their half of the pitch.

http://www.buenosairesherald.com/article/220965/messi-leads-10man-argentina-to-victory
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 04, 2016, 08:46:29 AM
Germany v. Norway today! Neuer newly and sensibly named as captain.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Controversial on September 04, 2016, 11:21:41 AM
What is the reggae boyz record against Guat?

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: maxg on September 04, 2016, 11:26:33 AM
How much El Salvador need in this game? They brininging it to Mexico!
(aside) is only bottle and water whenever mexico get a corner. for real wah we do at the hasley?
throw waist and pelt wink ?  :D
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Peong on September 04, 2016, 11:36:24 AM
Jamaica lose?   :applause:
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Tallman on September 05, 2016, 12:50:07 PM
WATCH: All 13 of Trinidad and Tobago’s goals during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifying Semifinal Round, up to and including the 2-2 draw against Guatemala.

https://www.youtube.com/v/PMKKRhPoZYY
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on September 05, 2016, 01:02:21 PM
WATCH: All 13 of Trinidad and Tobago’s goals during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifying Semifinal Round, up to and including the 2-2 draw against Guatemala.

https://www.youtube.com/v/PMKKRhPoZYY

Thank yuh  :beermug:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Sando prince on September 06, 2016, 02:33:12 AM
Germany v. Norway today! Neuer newly and sensibly named as captain.

No surprise here

http://www.footytube.com/video/norway-germany-sep04-443356
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 06, 2016, 04:30:50 AM
http://www.cbssports.com/soccer/news/world-cup-qualifying-el-salvador-players-share-audio-of-match-fixing-bribe-vs-canada/
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on September 06, 2016, 09:38:49 AM
http://www.cbssports.com/soccer/news/world-cup-qualifying-el-salvador-players-share-audio-of-match-fixing-bribe-vs-canada/
Respect to the players for taking a stand and bringing everything to the forefront.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 06, 2016, 06:30:59 PM
Vincyyyyy 1 - 0 Guate Guate
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: gawd on pitch on September 06, 2016, 06:31:19 PM
Guate just tie it.

1-1
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 06, 2016, 06:55:03 PM
Ven 2 Arg 1 at 67 mins.
Uruguay 4 Paraguay 0 final.

EDIT:

Switzerland 2 Portugal 0 [yes, the very same unconvincing European champions]

Sweden 1 Holland 1
Bosnia & Herzegovina 5 Estonia 0 (where Radanfah plays)
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 06, 2016, 07:21:27 PM
Chile 0 Bolivia 0
Ven and Argentina final @ 2-2.

China 0 Iran 0
Syria 0 South Korea 0
Japan 2 Thailand 0
Australia 1 UAE 0
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on September 06, 2016, 08:56:31 PM

gawd on pitch your Jamaican team right now losing at home to Haiti   :D
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on September 06, 2016, 09:15:28 PM
Haiti 2 - 0 Jamaica
.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Peong on September 06, 2016, 09:24:51 PM
Guat score 9 tonight wdmc
Title: All hail Pescado Ruiz, the recordbreaker
Post by: asylumseeker on September 08, 2016, 08:17:58 PM
All hail Ruiz, the record breaker
FIFA.com


Carlos Ruiz will always remember 6 September 2016. After all, how could the Guatemalan forget the day on which he not only won his last cap for his country, whom he represented proudly for 18 years, but also became the leading goalscorer in FIFA World Cup™ qualifying history?

By grabbing five goals in Guatemala's 9-3 victory over St. Vincent and the Grenadines, in the final set of fixtures in the fourth round of North, Central America and Caribbean Zone qualifying for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia, the seasoned striker took his tally in World Cup preliminaries to 39, surpassing former Iranian international Ali Daei's previous record of 35.

It is true that this emphatic win was not enough to take Guatemala into the Hexagonal, the final stage of CONCACAF qualifying. However, no one can deny that the Los Chapines captain did everything in his power to try to lead his country to the global extravaganza for the first time.

The forward, who is on the verge of turning 37, made his international debut on 18 November 1998. He went on to score eight goals in Korea/Japan 2002 qualifying, ten on the road to Germany 2006, six in the South Africa 2010 preliminaries, a further six in the battle to reach Brazil 2014 and nine in Russia 2018 qualifying.

El Pescadito (The Little Fish), as he is widely known, racked up his historic tally in 47 qualifiers, compared to the 55 in which Daei managed his tally. In all he scored 68 goals in 133 appearances in a Guatemala shirt.

Ruiz, who is currently without a club but intends to continue playing professionally, gave the following explanation regarding his decision to retire from international football: "I feel full of nostalgia when I look back to the beginning, but this is the right time to call it quits. I have to be sensible: I'm almost 37 and I know that I can contribute more off the pitch."   

Having bowed out with five goals in front of his adoring fans, claiming a world record in the process, the veteran's send-off was certainly the stuff that dreams are made of.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 08, 2016, 08:26:36 PM
Records fall across the globe
FIFA.com


A kid making national history in Kingstown and a veteran making global history in Guatemala City highlight FIFA.com’s latest statistical review, as well two on-song European superstars and the fall of defensive impregnability.

54 FIFA World Cup™ qualifiers without defeat is the stupendous sequence Spain are on following an 8-0 thrashing of Liechtenstein. La Roja last lost 1-0 in Denmark in March 1993, and have since won 42 and drawn 12 matches. Monday’s result left Spain having scored 31 times and conceded zero in seven meetings with Liechtenstein – all victories. David Silva’s doubles in that game and its preceding warm-up – a 2-0 win in Belgium – took him above Emilio Butragueno and Fernando Morientes into fifth on Spain’s list of leading marksmen. The 28-goal playmaker now trails only David Villa (59), Raul (44), Fernando Torres (38) and Fernando Hierro (29).

17 years and 349 days old was the age at which Christian Pulisic became the youngest USA player to score in World Cup qualifying on Friday. The Hershey, Pennsylvania native rose from the bench in the 67th minute and took just four minutes to put the Stars and Stripes 4-0 up away to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The Borussia Dortmund forward then helped Jurgen Klinsmann’s side thump Trinidad and Tobago 4-0 on Tuesday – a match in which Tim Howard outranked Kasey Keller as the top-appearing American in World Cup qualifiers.

13 hours and 44 minutes without conceding in World Cup qualifying was the run that came to an end for Korea Republic on Thursday. Since Reza Ghoochannejhad’s unanswered goal earned Iran victory in Ulsan in 2013, the Taeguk Warriors kept eight consecutive clean sheets and, 3-0 up at home to China PR with little over 15 minutes remaining, appeared cruising towards a ninth. Yu Hai’s 74th-minute effort reduced the deficit, however, before Hao Junmin left the South Koreans hanging on. That they nevertheless did to win a ninth successive World Cup qualifier. That national-record run came to an end as Korea Republic and Syria finished goalless on Tuesday.

9 hours and 40 minutes: that is how long Luxembourg had gone without scoring against Bulgaria until Aurelien Joachim’s equaliser on the hour on Tuesday. Another leveller, this time from Florian Bohnert in stoppage time, meant Luxembourg netted three goals in a World Cup qualifier for only the fourth time since their first preliminary in 1934, and appeared to have earned them an historic draw in Sofia. However, Aleksandar Tonev’s even later goal snatched a success that maintained Bulgaria’s 100 per cent record in 13 instalments of the fixture.

7 goals in what could be his last two Guatemala games is what Carlos Ruiz sensationally hit to become the leading marksman in World Cup qualifying history. The 36-year-old bagged both his nation’s goals in a 2-2 draw away to Trinidad and Tobago on Friday, before posting five in the 9-3 rout of St. Vincent and the Grenadines on Tuesday. It left Ruiz on 39 goals in 47 World Cup preliminaries, three more than previous record-holder – Iran’s Ali Daei. If, as he all but confirmed before the latter match, Ruiz does retire from Guatemala duty, he will do so as the joint-15th all-time highest scorer in international football with 68 goals in 133 appearances.

Quick hits
139 matches is what Joachim Low reached against Norway to go joint-second on Germany’s list of record coaches, alongside Helmut Schon and shy of Sepp Herberger (169).

33 years is how long Brazil had gone without winning away to Ecuador until a 3-0 victory on Thursday. A Seleção had last beaten La Tricolor in their own backyard thanks to an unanswered Roberto Dinamite goal at the 1983 Copa America.

10 goals in his last 13 starts for Wales have rocketed Gareth Bale to second on Wales’ list of top scorers, four behind 28-goal Ian Rush.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 08, 2016, 08:31:33 PM
CONMEBOL: Uruguay back on top, Brazil on the rise
FIFA.com


The Day Replayed
Uruguay eased to victory over Paraguay and made the most of Argentina’s draw in Venezuela to retake the lead in the South American qualifying competition for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™.

The other side to make a significant move on Matchday 8 were Brazil, who edged out Colombia at home to climb up to second place in the table, ahead of the Argentinians and Colombians, who complete the four automatic qualification places.

Ecuador, who went down to a Peru side in desperate need of points, lie fifth. Neither Chile, who were held to a draw at home by Bolivia, nor Paraguay could take advantage of the Ecuadorians’ latest slip-up and remain outside the qualification places. FIFA.com rounds up Tuesday’s action.

Match of the day
Brazil 2-1 Colombia
BRA: Miranda 2, Neymar 74; COL: Marquinhos 36 o.g.

Despite failing to sparkle, Brazil recorded a second consecutive win under new coach Tite and moved into the thick of the battle for the automatic qualification places. Miranda’s early goal pointed to a comfortable night for the hosts, though Colombia had other ideas and pulled level in fortunate fashion.

The visitors pushed for a winner, but it was Brazil who claimed it, with Neymar scoring with a left-footed drive to give A Canarinha their first qualifying win over Los Cafeteros since 2003, when they recorded a 2-1 win en route to Germany 2006. The result ended a run of three straight victories for the Colombians in the competition, though they remain in the top four.

Elsewhere
Uruguay reclaimed top spot in the table with an impressive showing against Paraguay. La Celeste were three goals to the good at the break, thanks to strikes from Edinson Cavani, Luis Suarez and Cristian Rodriguez. Cavani scored a second after the restart to complete an emphatic win for the Uruguayans and take to four the number of games they have gone without defeat to La Albirroja in World Cup qualifying matches. Los Charrúas also maintained their perfect record at the Estadio Centenario in Montevideo, where they have scored 11 goals in winning all four of their games to date and have yet to concede.

Argentina needed a second-half revival to scrape a point against Venezuela in Merida. Juan Pablo Anor and Josef Martinez had the Vinotinto fans out of their seats with goals either side of half-time, only for Lucas Pratto and Nicolas Otamendi to pop up and secure a 2-2 draw for the visitors. It was only the second time that La Albiceleste have managed to come from two goals down to earn a point in a qualifying match, the first having come in 2001, when they drew 3-3 with Bolivia in La Paz.

Chile and Bolivia failed to find the target in a goalless draw in Santiago that does neither of them much good. La Roja have now gone three games without a win at home, their worst run in the qualifiers since the Germany 2006 campaign, when they went winless in Santiago for five games. Their biggest concern at the moment, however, is that they lie outside the qualification places. The Bolivians are also well out of the picture, but can at least console themselves with the fact that they avoided a seventh straight qualifying defeat to the Chileans.

In the day’s final game, Peru registered a vital 2-1 defeat of Ecuador in Lima. Christian Cueva, from the penalty spot, and Renato Tapia were the men on the scoresheet for the hosts, who had gone winless in their previous four Russia 2018 qualifiers. Gabriel Achilier headed home in between times for the Ecuadorians, who have collected one point from their last four games and have lost their last three, their first such run in World Cup qualifiers since 2007. Michael Arroyo’s sending-off completed a miserable night for La Tri.

Player of the day
Luis Suarez (Uruguay): El Pistolero had an evening to remember against Paraguay. As well as setting up Cavani for his brace, Suarez won a penalty that he converted for his second goal of the Russia 2018 campaign. It was a strike that took the Uruguayan level with Marcelo Salas as the second-highest goalscorer in the history of South American qualifying competitions with 18, just one behind former Argentinian front man Hernan Crespo.

Did you know?
Argentina usually struggle when Lionel Messi is absent, and they did so again against Venezuela in Merida. La Albiceleste have won all three of their games in which Lío has appeared in the current campaign. In the other five games without him, however, they have collected only six points, registering a win, three draws and a defeat.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on November 11, 2016, 07:03:10 PM

US v MEX about to start. Could be the most exciting game tonight
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on November 12, 2016, 03:24:11 PM

Mex looking good right now, A big win for them away from home
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Sando prince on November 12, 2016, 03:31:57 PM
Argentina vs Brazil game was suppose to be a close contest but the home team had a convincing win

http://www.footytube.com/video/brazil-argentina-nov10-458883
.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: soccerman on November 15, 2016, 07:40:25 PM
For what it's worth, Uruguay lost 3-1 to Chile tonight as well
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Bitter on November 15, 2016, 09:37:56 PM
Costa Rica ripping the USA a new one.
3-0 in the 74th.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Bitter on November 15, 2016, 09:41:47 PM
Cuatro a cero!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: soccerman on November 15, 2016, 09:45:33 PM
Cuatro a cero!
At least we ain last lol
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Sando prince on November 15, 2016, 11:14:01 PM

Ah hear America pick up 4 in dey ass from CR today  :D
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Deeks on November 16, 2016, 12:25:49 AM
Surprised at that scoreline. I would not say I would be surprised that US would lose to CR, but not that margin.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: andremartinsc on November 16, 2016, 05:31:34 AM
Argentina vs Brazil game was suppose to be a close contest but the home team had a convincing win

http://www.footytube.com/video/brazil-argentina-nov10-458883
.

Brazil is back  ;)
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: soccerman on November 16, 2016, 09:27:11 AM
Argentina vs Brazil game was suppose to be a close contest but the home team had a convincing win

http://www.footytube.com/video/brazil-argentina-nov10-458883
.

Brazil is back  ;)
Yes Brazil is firing on all cylinders now!
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on November 21, 2016, 02:35:15 PM
Jürgen Klinsmann's tenure as US National Team coach has ended.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: MEP on November 21, 2016, 02:47:07 PM
jes come to post the same too
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on November 21, 2016, 02:51:46 PM
We might be looking at Bruce Arena. Or maybe Tab Ramos.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: MEP on November 21, 2016, 02:56:33 PM
I think Tab Ramos but to me he is an Anton Corneal.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: Bitter on November 21, 2016, 03:37:24 PM
Hard luck dey Klinsy.

Yuh milk them good.

They supposed to be bringing in Arena. I fraid he.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on November 22, 2016, 05:01:58 AM
"Klinsmann always said he wanted to guide US Soccer into a different era. Now he finally has. The 1980's." ... Adrian Healy.

The real Back to the Future decision could be announced today.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on November 22, 2016, 01:53:54 PM
Bruce it is.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: soccerman on November 22, 2016, 02:12:38 PM
Bruce it is.
Back to the future.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on November 23, 2016, 08:08:00 AM
Klinsmann: We'll have a tremendous 2017"
By Paul Kennedy, Soccer America.


A day after he was fired, Jurgen Klinsmann took to Facebook, where he regularly answered questions of fans, to say thanks to fans and his players whose calls and texts of support had been very emotional. He reviewed his five and a half years in charge and looked ahead to 2017 and 2018.

"Hi everyone, thanks so much for taking the time to watch this quick message. I just simply want to say thank you, thank you, thank you to all of you for the amazing ride over the last five and a half years. It’s been an amazing experience. It’s been a huge, huge honor to lead the national team over that amount of time.

"We’ve had some amazing experiences together. 2012, a record year; 2013, another record year with winning the Gold Cup; 2014, getting out of the group of death against Ghana and Portugal in Brazil, with all of you down there. Then, obviously, 2015, a bit of a disappointment with the Gold Cup, but then 2016, we picked it up and we played an amazing, unforgettable Copa America this summer.

"It’s come to an end. Obviously, you’ve gotta respect that. I just want to say thank you so much, especially to our fans, the American Outlaws, which grew unbelievably over the last years, having chapters now all over the place, and getting bigger and bigger.

"A very, very special thank you I want to say to all of the players. The response from them yesterday when the news came out is overwhelming. All the text messages, all the calls I received from the players of support is very emotional for me, and I really, really appreciate it. I just wish them the best of luck.

"I was a 1,000 percent convinced we were gonna qualify for Russia 2018 after those two losses. It’s now down to a new coach, getting the job done, but I’m still convinced, you know, he will get and the team will get the job done. We’ll have a tremendous 2017, and then hopefully a tremendous World Cup in Russia.

"That being said, again, thanks so much for all of you. Hope to see you soon somewhere on a soccer field out there. Keep supporting your team. It’s your national team. You own that team. Push them in all the qualifiers now coming up to get all the points that we need in order to be in Russia 2018. See you soon. Thanks so much.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on November 23, 2016, 08:14:28 AM
Bruce Arena: 'I would have done this for free'
By Paul Kennedy, Soccer America.


It all came quickly. First, losses to Mexico and Costa Rica that put Jurgen Klinsmann's jeopardy. Then his firing on Monday that led U.S. Soccer president Sunil Gulati and CEO/secretary general to approach LA Galaxy management about speaking to Bruce Arena. By late morning on Tuesday, Arena was back as U.S. national team coach, a job from which he was fired in 2006 after eight years on the job.

“I never expected to be back in this role the way it came about over the last 48 hours," said Arena in a conference call with media on Tuesday afternoon. "However, I think any coach in our country would always be thrilled to have the opportunity to coach one of our national teams, so obviously when the opportunity presented itself -- I hate to say this now to Sunil -- I would have done this for free. It didn’t work out that way, we did agree to a contract."

Arena, who spent parts two seasons with the New York Red Bulls and nine with the Galaxy, said he was a better coach than he left the national team a decade ago.

“I’ve learned a lot," he said. "I’ve had 10 years on the field at the club level and I’ve had the opportunity to work with some of the most talented players in the world and understanding how they work and how to build a team; and I’ve continued to grow on the tactical side, continued to grow in learning how to deal with players and learning how to plan and playing away and playing in big matches. I think 10 years later I’m better prepared for this job than I was in 1998 and 2002, and ultimately 2006. I’m hopeful that the experiences that I have are going to benefit the program. You know, one of the things you learn from experience is you see things a lot clearer and a lot quicker than you did previously, and the game has slowed down a bit where I can see as a coach, and in my position, how things are happening on the field. I’m better at identifying the strengths and weaknesses of players and I think I’m better at how you build a team."

In a veiled knock at the national team under Klinsmann, Arena said the USA had the players but it needed to develop a "team concept."

“I haven’t spoken to [captain] Michael Bradley," he said, "but I have had communication with a couple of players over the last 10 hours or so and have an understanding, we need to build a chemistry with this team and have a common goal and really work on a team concept. I really believe individually and positionally we have good players and we just got to get them working together as a team. There are no real secrets in how you build good teams. It takes a lot of hard work, it takes communication, it takes discipline and it takes some talent. I think we have enough talent to build a good team and end up in Russia in 2018. It’s going to take a little time, a little bit of patience and a lot of hard work.”

Arena coached a few of the players in his previous tenure as national team coach -- Clint Dempsey and Tim Howard were on the 2006 World Cup team, and Bradley made his senior debut in 2006 -- others he coached or coached against MLS but others he only knows from watching them. On bringing back players like Jonathan Bornstein and Benny Feilhaber whom Klinsmann had ignored, Arena said he was open to looking at everyone.

"I think they and other players are good players," he said, "and we’re going to give those type of players the opportunity to be back in the national team program. How it ends up, I can’t answer at this point. We have a lot of work ahead of us. I’m well aware of the qualities of those two and others and we’re going to look closely at those players as we begin a domestic camp in January and ultimately select a roster for the games in March. So, no names are off the table. However, I would say that its highly unlikely we’re going to bring many new players into the program. We’re at a time right now where we need to get results and we need to have a team that’s ready to go in March.”

Most Men's Wins
71 Bruce Arena
55 Jurgen Klinsmann
43 Bob Bradley
30 Bora Milutinovic
26 Steve Sampson

One of the questions raised about Arena's hiring was his commitment to bringing in players born or raised in other countries telling ESPN FC in 2013 that "players on the national team should be -- and this is my own feeling -- they should be Americans. If they're all born in other countries, I don't think we can say we are making progress." Eight of the 25 players Klinsmann had in camp for the Costa Rica game were born and raised in other countries.

“If I made those comments," Arena responded, "I certainly don’t believe that’s my attitude. As a starting point, one of my favorite players in my eight years as national team coach was Earnie Stewart. I believe that anyone that has a United States passport is certainly eligible to play for our national team. I embrace all players that are eligible to play and I just want to make sure their heart’s in the right place and when they put the U.S. jersey on they’re playing for that crest on that shirt. It’s important to me; I have a great passion for this national team and I expect the same out of all players. I am all for any players that are eligible to play for us and I really look forward to working with our foreign-nationals as well as our domestic players."

Arena's Four Dos a Ceros
2000: USA 2 Mexico 0 (friendly -- Landon Donovan debut)
2001: USA 2 Mexico 0 (Hexagonal opener)
2002: USA 2 Mexico 0 (World Cup second round)
2005: USA 2 Mexico 0 (Hexagonal clincher)

At 65, Arena is the oldest national team coach in at least the last half century, but he believes age isn't a factor in terms of his ability to relate to players.

“I don’t think the age matters, as a starting point," he said. "We just elected a 70-year-old man as president of the United States. We’re still going pretty strong in this age group. How would I describe myself as a coach? A hard worker. I believe I’m a player’s coach. I like to believe I have a good understanding of how players are thinking. What I really know is how to build a team. I understand all the qualities and circumstances that develop into making a team and, again, I’m hopeful those qualities will allow me to get this team moving at full speed when qualifying starts again in March.”

Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on November 30, 2016, 10:31:23 PM
Ramirez: I hate wearing a suit and tie
FIFA.com


Oscar Ramirez has cited dressing smartly, stress and being recognised in public as the cons of doing a job he loves. The 76-times-capped former midfielder assumed the Costa Rica reins last year, and has overseen their perfect start to the Hexagonal phase of 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ qualifying.Los Ticos sit two points clear at the summit of the six-side group, having won 2-0 in Trinidad and Tobago and thrashed USA 4-0 in San Jose.

Ramirez usually wore casual shirts, with several buttons undone, or a t-shirt during his time in the dugout of Costa Rican club colossuses Alajuelense, often underneath an unzipped training jacket. Since assuming his country’s controls, however, the 51-year-old has been suited and booted.

“I don’t like it,” Ramirez told La Nación. “I don’t know, I feel uncomfortable in the suit and tie, but it’s an issue that I’ve already got used to. I do it because I know it’s formal.”

Adapting to the formalities of guiding Costa Rica is something the self-confessed introvert has had to deal with.

“I know that I now get a little more attention from people,” said Ramirez. “When I go to public places, they ask me for photos. You already know what they want because I’m a public figure, so to speak. I prefer to go out with family. If I go alone, people start to bother me, whereas if I’m with my family and the kids, they respect my privacy more.”

One public place Ramirez avoids is football stadia to watch the Costa Rican Primera División. “People start conversations, they pat you on the back, and when it’s over the thing you’ve seen the least of is the game. They distract you a lot, which is why I’ve got used to recording the games.”

Ramirez also revealed that, in and around the Russia 2018 qualifiers, he almost only communicates with his four children via a ‘good morning’ or ‘good night’ in a WhatsApp group, and has little interaction with his wife as he focuses on Los Ticos.

“At home we’re very clear: with my wife, occasionally we’ll talk at night,” said the No10 in the Costa Rica team that beat Scotland and Sweden to reach the Round of 16 at Italy 1990. “She knows that, if I call, it’s because I need to speak to her or need some favour. She tries not to bother me with situations in the house because she knows that, when I’m with the national team, I’m fully occupied. On match days she comes and brings me the suit I’m going to wear, we talk a little, and it goes very quickly. I can’t give her much time.

“Being a coach is a very stressful job, although I try to make my life as simple as possible, to not put more pressure than there already is on myself. I must feel at ease with what I do without worrying about what some people say.

“The pressure on me has increased, because I now coach the national team. It’s more difficult and stressful, but likewise it’s [more] enjoyable. The stress increases during the qualifiers. Two days after the last game [against USA] I still had trouble falling asleep. It was only three days after the game that I began to relax.”

Costa Rica have appeared at four World Cups, with their best performance coming at Brazil 2014. Despite being the outsiders in a group including England, Italy and Uruguay, Los Ticos won it and eliminated Greece on penalties in the Round of 16, before losing a shootout with the Netherlands in the quarter-finals.
Title: Re: 2018 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on November 30, 2016, 11:03:55 PM
Fire U.S. Soccer’s President, Too? That’s Different, and Improbable
By Sam Borden, The New York Times.


At the end of a conference call on Tuesday during which he explained the decision to fire Jurgen Klinsmann as coach of the United States men’s national team, Sunil Gulati, the president of U.S. Soccer, talked about the sport’s steep rise in popularity in this country. One result of that spike, Gulati said, is “that pressure has increased on anyone involved in the game.”

He was, of course, including himself. And while much attention in American soccer this week has been devoted to Klinsmann’s ouster and the hiring of Bruce Arena for a second stint as coach of the national team, plenty of scrutiny has also been directed toward Gulati — the man who essentially hired (and fired) Klinsmann, as well as fired (and hired) Arena.

“These decisions are always hard,” Gulati said. “We try to be methodical about them. That wasn’t easy yesterday on a personal level or a professional level. But it was something I felt we had to do to put ourselves in the best position.”

In many other sporting circumstances, Gulati might have been removed along with Klinsmann — the rough equivalent of a general manager being fired along with a struggling coach as part of a total housecleaning. But U.S. Soccer is not the New York Jets, either in form or in function, and Gulati is not a sports executive whose sole job is to assemble a single team from top to bottom.

For some frustrated fans, that premise may seem incongruous or maddening, but it is the reality. Consider this, too: Gulati draws no salary from U.S. Soccer to compensate him for his grief.

Because U.S. Soccer is a nonprofit body that oversees all facets of the sport in the United States — as opposed to a for-profit professional sports team or league — its most senior positions are elected posts held on a volunteer basis. Gulati’s primary job is being an economics lecturer at Columbia; on Sunday, in addition to weighing Klinsmann’s fate, he taught a makeup class.

Yes, there are procedures by which Gulati could be removed by U.S. Soccer’s board of directors, but such impeachments are highly unlikely and generally designed for situations in which a board member has done something illegal.

Gulati, for whatever one might think of his recruitment of (and commitment to) Klinsmann, is charged with leading U.S. Soccer in all areas, regardless of that particular area’s public interest. Some, like the flux of the men’s national team, are high-profile and tumultuous. Others, like the World Cup champion women’s national team and its fight for pay equality, are cantankerous and complex. Still others, like the expansion of the federation’s development academy for young players, are important but not widely publicized.

The list goes on: the federation’s decision to enact important new restrictions on youth players and heading the ball; the federation’s financial support for a women’s professional league; the federation’s determination that promotion and relegation is not currently a viable option for this country’s league system; the federation’s interest in bidding to host another World Cup.

All of it is Gulati’s — and the federation’s — bailiwick. All of it matters.

Taken in sum, the conclusion is this: Gulati, who is also a part of the powerful FIFA Executive Committee and who has become a significant power broker among global soccer executives, is not going anywhere any time soon.

The current bylaws of the federation call for its next presidential election to be held in 2018, and it is expected that Gulati — who has been president since 2006 and who ran unopposed in two subsequent elections — will seek one more term from a voting population that represents youth associations, adult associations and other soccer stakeholders. At this point, there is no reason to think he will be challenged, let alone that he will lose.

Should it be this way in the future? That is not an unreasonable question, and it is one some high-level soccer executives, including U.S. Soccer board members, have asked themselves. In American sports, the person responsible for hiring the team’s coach does not generally also sign off on, say, the team’s marketing and sponsorship agreements. And some soccer federations elsewhere have a specific administrator or executive whose primary job is running that country’s men’s national team, giving thoughts on player selection as well as coaches. Perhaps U.S. Soccer has grown so much that it is now untenable for it to avoid having a similarly formal distinction.

In current practice, Gulati and Dan Flynn, the federation’s chief executive (and a salaried staff member), made the call on removing Klinsmann and hiring Arena, even if they consulted with other members of the board along the way. The board ultimately approved the moves, though it is difficult to imagine that anything would have been done differently even if, for example, a powerful voice representing youth soccer had thought Klinsmann was doing a terrific job.

To his credit, Gulati has not deflected his connection to Klinsmann. He has acknowledged many times that he pursued Klinsmann, on and off, for years, and he does not shy from the truth that the on-field results he had hoped for did not materialize. The United States did not do well at the Gold Cup last year, did not qualify for the Confederations Cup, did not qualify for the Olympics and did not start this final round of World Cup qualifying with anything resembling success.

Gulati accepts his share of responsibility. But he also believes that U.S. Soccer has never been in a better financial position than it is now, has never had as much global influence as it does now, and has never been in as good a position to host another World Cup as it is right now. Gulati’s mandate is bigger than just Klinsmann or Arena, bigger than just the men’s national team.

Is the men’s team important? Of course. That is why Gulati flew across the country on Monday morning to meet with Klinsmann at a hotel in the Los Angeles area to inform him of the change before sitting down with Arena, the coach of the Los Angeles Galaxy, and beginning the process of bringing him back aboard. That is why he fired the coach he had wanted to hire for so long.

But by the time Arena set to work concluding his contract negotiations with Flynn, Gulati was gone. On Tuesday, while Arena answered questions about his return from California, Gulati was back in New York, checking on other federation business and taking part in the call after finishing up another obligation: office hours for his students, who are preparing for big tests of their own.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Sando prince on March 30, 2017, 11:59:30 AM

My favourite WC match this past weekend  :beermug:

http://www.footytube.com/video/netherlands-italy-mar28-484280
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Bitter on September 05, 2017, 01:23:56 PM
This eh CONCACAF, but I eh feel the need to create a new thread.

I watching Saudi Arabia vs Japan. The match playing in Saudi. This is a serious stones lime.

And the prince sitting in a chair so far away from anybody, he couldn't even hug up anybody when they score.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: soccerman on September 05, 2017, 03:03:20 PM
This eh CONCACAF, but I eh feel the need to create a new thread.

I watching Saudi Arabia vs Japan. The match playing in Saudi. This is a serious stones lime.

And the prince sitting in a chair so far away from anybody, he couldn't even hug up anybody when they score.
  :D
Title: Re: The International Friendlies Thread
Post by: Deeks on November 10, 2017, 04:12:44 PM
Sweden one up on Italy in WC qualifier with a 1-0 win in Italy.
Title: Re: The International Friendlies Thread
Post by: Deeks on November 13, 2017, 04:58:42 PM
Well people, no Italy in Russia. 0-0.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/index.html
Title: Re: Re: The International Friendlies Thread
Post by: Deeks on November 13, 2017, 05:04:05 PM
Blame Balotelli!

Won 7, Drew 2, Lost 1 {to SPAIN} in qualification then lost a play-off to Sweden 1-0 over two legs - There's nothing mediocre about Italy. They just could not make the final hurdle.

Title: Re: Re: The International Friendlies Thread
Post by: mukumsplau on November 13, 2017, 07:02:09 PM
since they hired Ventura, i knew we wouldnt qualify. im not the least bit bothered.
Title: Re: Re: The International Friendlies Thread
Post by: Deeks on November 13, 2017, 07:46:57 PM
since they hired Ventura, i knew we wouldnt qualify. im not the least bit bothered.

Imagine if we had lost 1 and drew 2, we would preparing to go Moscow.
Title: Re: The International Friendlies Thread
Post by: soccerman on November 13, 2017, 11:53:36 PM
Blame Balotelli!

Won 7, Drew 2, Lost 1 {to SPAIN} in qualification then lost a play-off to Sweden 1-0 over two legs - There's nothing mediocre about Italy. They just could not make the final hurdle.
Right now the press calling for the coach's head and the President to step down. They say the coach never had the caliber to manage the Italian squad, not a good tactician and lacking credibility with the players, he was a mid-table Serie A manager at best. De man didn't even show up for the press conference.
Title: Re: The International Friendlies Thread
Post by: Deeks on November 14, 2017, 03:36:28 PM
Watching some of the WC play-off between Rep. Ireland and Denmark. Denmark demolish them 4-1 with 4 mins to go. The Danes have game. They can knock ball real good. And this game is in Dublin. 5-1 at the end.
Title: Re: Re: The International Friendlies Thread
Post by: soccerman on November 14, 2017, 06:52:14 PM
The US is exploring the possibility of hosting a pre WC tournament for teams that failed to qualify like Italy, Netherlands, Ghana, etc. We should be proactive in expressing our interest in this in case they pull it off.
http://www.espnfc.com/united-states/story/3269935/us-soccer-exploring-pre-world-cup-matches-with-netherlands-italy
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Bitter on November 15, 2017, 04:47:17 AM
Hard luck dey Honduras. But you were poor over these 2 legs
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Deeks on November 15, 2017, 01:47:17 PM
Just read Hondo got done in by 2 pks and a free kick. Hard luck. Just show how remarkable DL header was in 2006.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Deeks on November 16, 2017, 06:43:38 PM
Peru in!. hard luck NZ. The red sash is back!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Mose on November 20, 2017, 03:18:26 AM
https://www.theguardian.com/football/2017/nov/16/world-cup-2018-fans-holland-italy-ireland

Where did it alĺ go wrong?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Deeks on November 20, 2017, 04:01:42 PM
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-5100191/Carlo-Tavecchio-resigns-president-Italian-FIGC.html


Italian FA prez. resigned or fired. Take your pick.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: soccerman on November 20, 2017, 08:54:05 PM
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-5100191/Carlo-Tavecchio-resigns-president-Italian-FIGC.html
Italian FA prez. resigned or fired. Take your pick.
Not surprised, the way the Italian media was calling for his head after they didn't qualify, I knew he wouldn't last. They were demanding for him and the coach to be out!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Qualification Thread
Post by: Deeks on November 29, 2017, 04:26:20 PM
Italians feeling more blues for not being in the WC

http://www.espn.com/soccer/italy/story/3289299/italian-football-loses-funds-after-world-cup-qualification-failure

The Italian Football fed. lose some govt funding after failing to qualify for the WC.

Italian football will lose €2.6 million in funding after the national team failed to reach a World Cup finals for the first time in 60 years.

All Olympic sports receive funding from the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) with the funds based on criteria including results and success.

Italy's defeat to Sweden in a qualification playoff means the country's football association (FIGC) will be given a smaller slice of the cake, with other sports earning greater shares.

"We've got to look at Olympic qualification, women's football and rankings," Giovanni Malago, the president of CONI, told Sky Sport Italia.

"We're going to have to discuss with the future FIGC president how we can obtain better results.

"Certain parameters and criteria are involved in the distribution [of funds] and football is going to take a reduction of €2.6 million, which will impact on about seven to eight percent of our overall contributions."

Malago added that the cutback "really should have been far superior," saying it was "a very minor reduction" that had been agreed across the board.

The wider Italian economy is also set to suffer from Italy's World Cup absence, which means the tournament is no longer expected to provide a spending boost in many sectors.

The FIGC is preparing for elections, with president Carlo Tavecchio having resigned days after sacking coach Gian Piero Ventura.
Title: 2018 World Cup Russia
Post by: Jumbie on December 01, 2017, 05:25:57 AM
The draw for the 2018 FIFA World Cup takes place in Moscow this morning (Dec 1).
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Russia
Post by: Trini _2026 on December 01, 2017, 12:31:19 PM
The groups look so even
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Russia
Post by: Tallman on December 01, 2017, 02:13:20 PM
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DP-P_3PXcAAj8Wb.jpg:large)
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Russia
Post by: Deeks on December 01, 2017, 04:21:55 PM
Group D look the hardest. All the Euro and South American bigshots have it easy. Well, easy on paper. let's see what happens on game day.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: legal alien on December 01, 2017, 06:59:53 PM
I was gonna say group F is the toughest, but I realize that most of the groups hard. Group H looks like the group where all the teams have a chance.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sando prince on December 02, 2017, 04:32:27 AM

I expect Colombia to do damage AGAIN in another World Cup. I see they in an easy group, so this is good for them to build momentum.

Come World Cup time six months from now Argentina and Messi should be ready, forget about their rough path in qualification, we know how this movie script plays out and the WC tournament is a different beast On paper they have the team to go all the way and Messi more than ever have to lead his team to a World Cup title. I expect them to have another great WC tournament but will they go all the way and win the title? We shall see
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on December 25, 2017, 01:27:51 PM
FIFA has reported that in playing 22 matches on the road to Russia 2018, Australia has  equalled the record set by Honduras and Trinidad & Tobago (https://twitter.com/FIFAWorldCup/status/944145494623657984) in the qualifiers for the 2002 WC South Korea/Japan.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on April 10, 2018, 10:01:13 AM
Japan names Akira Nishino to replace Vahid Halilhodzic just two months before World Cup (https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2018/04/09/soccer/international-soccer/vahid-halilhodzic-axed-helm-japan-soccer-team-two-months-world-cup-finals/#.WszCop_B80M)
By Andrew McKirdy, The Japan Times.


Akira Nishino will lead Japan at this summer’s World Cup in Russia after the Japan Football Association confirmed Monday that it had fired manager Vahid Halilhodzic just two months before the tournament begins.

“There is always a risk when you change managers,” JFA President Kozo Tashima told reporters at a packed news conference in Tokyo, citing poor results and a lack of “communication and trust” with the players as the reasons for Halilhodzic’s dismissal.

“There is also a risk when you don’t change managers,” he said. “If it was guaranteed that just by changing managers you would magically make the team better, we would do that. But we have considered all the risks and listened to all points of view.”

Nishino, who served as the JFA’s technical director, has signed a contract that will take him to the end of the June 14-July 15 World Cup, where Japan has been drawn in a first-round group with Colombia, Senegal and Poland.

“It was my job as technical director to support the manager, and I feel a responsibility for this situation,” the 63-year-old Nishino said in a statement issued by the JFA.

“It’s very difficult to change managers at this time, but helping the team is more of a priority than my own personal situation so I decided to take the job.”

Nishino made his name as manager of Japan’s under-23 team at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and oversaw a famous 1-0 victory over Brazil that was dubbed the “Miracle of Miami.” He then went on to forge a long and successful career as a club manager in Japan, winning both the J. League and Asian Champions League titles with Gamba Osaka.

“Even if it increases our chances of winning at the World Cup by only one or two percent, we had to act,” said Tashima. “We only have two months left until the World Cup, so the new manager had to come from within the organization. Nishino has seen the team more than anyone else and he will be our new manager.

“We chose Nishino because of the timing. If we had done this earlier, we might not have chosen Nishino. But with only two months left, in this situation, we came to this decision.”

Tashima confirmed that he personally dismissed Halilhodzic at a Paris hotel on Saturday despite the 65-year-old Bosnian having led Japan to qualification for its sixth straight World Cup, punching its ticket with a 2-0 home win over Australia last August.

Results and performances in friendly matches since then have been poor, however, with a 1-1 draw against Mali and a 2-1 defeat to Ukraine — neither of which has qualified for the World Cup — last month proving to be the final straw for the JFA.

“Halilhodzic came in and built a team in a very short time and got us to the World Cup,” said Tashima, who said Halilhodzic was “surprised” to be given the news. “He is a very serious character and very passionate about football, and he conveyed that passion to the players.

“But the games we have played since we qualified for the World Cup have led to this dismissal. It’s not only based on winning or losing games. We listened to the opinion of the players and other people but that was not the only basis for this decision. In the Mali and Ukraine games, communication and trust with the players had slipped a little and we looked at all that and made our decision.”

Halilhodzic’s spiky personality frequently ruffled feathers after arriving in Japan to take over from Javier Aguirre in March 2015, and rumors of his impending dismissal swirled throughout his three-year reign.

But Tashima denied that personality clashes within the JFA led to his dismissal, and insisted that Nishino, who was Halilhodzic’s immediate boss in his role as technical director, was anything other than supportive.

“After we had lost (4-1) to South Korea in the E-1 Football Championship in December, we met to discuss things,” said Tashima. “We discussed who would take over and decided to stick with Halilhodzic. Through all that, Nishino supported Halilhodzic until the end.

“I don’t think there was any friction within the JFA.”

Nishino becomes Japan’s third manager since Alberto Zaccheroni left the job following the team’s first-round exit from the 2014 World Cup. Mexican Aguirre was named as Zaccheroni’s replacement but was fired in March 2015 after a match-fixing case naming him as a defendant was accepted by a Spanish court.

“Most people would say that it’s not a good thing to change so frequently,” said Tashima. “But given the circumstances, I don’t think you can say it’s always bad not to stick to that rule.

“I wouldn’t be taking responsibility if I didn’t take this decision. It’s the responsibility of the president to take decisions to move Japanese football forward. I won’t make any statement about whether I should stay or quit. This is the choice I have taken to increase Japan’s chances of reaching the second round of the World Cup, even if it is only by one or two percent. That’s my responsibility.”

Halilhodzic’s assistant coaches, Jacky Bonnevay and Cyril Moine, as well as goalkeeping coach Enver Lugusic, also left their positions. Nishino did not appear before the media on Monday but is scheduled to speak on Thursday.

“Of course each manager will have a way that he wants his team to play, and he will explain that on Thursday,” said Tashima. “But it will likely be a style of football that is Japanese. That means keeping hold of the ball and passing it around.”

Japan begins its World Cup campaign against Colombia in Saransk on June 19, before taking on Senegal in Yekaterinburg on June 24 and Poland in Volgograd on June 28.


Former Samurai Blue boss Takeshi Okada supports choice of Akira Nishino as new manager
The Japan Times


New men’s national team manager Akira Nishino, appointed following the shock dismissal of predecessor Vahid Halilhodzic, received the backing Tuesday of the only other Japanese manager to lead the national team at the World Cup.

With just two months until the 2018 tournament kicks off in Russia, the Japan Football Association on Monday dropped the bombshell that it had fired Halilhodzic after the national team’s poor performances in its most recent warmup matches, a 1-1 draw with Mali and a 2-1 loss to Ukraine late last month.

Takeshi Okada, Japan head coach at the 1998 World Cup in France and in 2010 in South Africa, said JFA technical director Nishino, who coached J. League side Gamba Osaka to multiple titles, including the 2008 Asian Champions League, was the “best choice” to take the reins.

“In the sense that he knows the national team well, he is the best choice,” Okada said. “Because he’s been around the team continuously, I think he has a clear picture of what needs to be done.”

The JFA cited poor communication between Halilhodzic and his players as one of the reasons for firing the 65-year-old from Bosnia-Herzegovina, but Okada said exchanging ideas won’t be a problem for Nishino.

“On top of getting great results in the J. League, he was even better when it came to communicating with the players,” Okada said.

Okada, whose second stint as Japan boss came unexpectedly after then head coach Ivica Osim suffered a stroke in November 2007, knows better than most the challenge facing Nishino in Russia.

With his unheralded squad not expected to make an impact, Okada won plaudits for leading the young group to the round of 16 in South Africa with a dynamic brand of passing soccer.

Nishino has just weeks to bring together a squad in generational transition and whose preparation has been hampered by injuries to key players and the shock of Halilhodzic’s dismissal.


Japan captain Makoto Hasebe admits he feels ‘responsible’ for Vahid Halilhodzic getting fired
The Japan Times


Japan captain Makoto Hasebe said Monday he feels partly to blame for the sacking of national head coach Vahid Halilhodzic ahead of the World Cup finals in Russia.

“I feel responsible as a player,” Hasebe told reporters after training with his German Bundesliga club Eintracht Frankfurt. “I had the most responsibility among all the players because (Halilhodzic) trusted me with the position of captain.”

The Japan Football Association announced Monday it has terminated its contract with Halilhodzic and appointed former Gamba Osaka coach and the association’s technical director Akira Nishino for the job.

Halilhodzic steered Japan to a spot in its sixth straight finals despite taking the position just months before qualifying matches for the World Cup finals began in 2015.

Hasebe, who has 108 caps with Japan since making his debut in 2006, expressed his appreciation for the 65-year-old from Bosnia Herzegovina but said the team has to move on.

“It’s difficult to think of what to say,” he said. “I’m just focused on what is in front of me instead of looking back.”

The 34-year-old Hasebe is bound for his third World Cup finals following the 2010 and 2014 tournaments.

Japan opens its 2018 campaign against Columbia in Group H on June 19.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 04, 2018, 08:36:52 PM
Imagine Leroy Sane did not make the cut for the Germany side.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: maxg on June 04, 2018, 10:48:16 PM
Imagine Leroy Sane did not make the cut for the Germany side.
Just another reason why dem gettin cutass... oops, did i say that out loud..yup, sure did.. hope it starts with Mexico
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Flex on June 07, 2018, 03:14:26 AM
Spain's full 23-man squad:

Goalkeepers:  Kepa Arrizabalaga (Athletic Club), David de Gea (Manchester United), Pepe Reina (Napoli)

Defenders: Jordi Alba (Barcelona), Cesar Azpiliqueta (Chelsea), Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid), Nacho Fernandez (Real Madrid), Nacho Monreal (Arsenal), Alvaro Odriozola (Real Sociedad), Gerard Pique (Barcelona), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid)

Midfielders:  Thiago Alcantara (Bayern Munich), Sergio Busquets (Barcelona), Andres Iniesta (Barcelona), Isco (Real Madrid), Koke (Atletico Madrid), Saul Niguez (Atletico Madrid), David Silva (Manchester City)

Forwards:  Marco Asensio (Real Madrid), Iago Aspas (Celta Vigo), Diego Costa (Atletico Madrid), Rodrigo Moreno (Valencia), Lucas Vazquez (Real Madrid).

France full 23-man squad:

Goalkeepers: Alphonse Areola (PSG), Hugo Lloris (Tottenham), Steve Mandanda (Marseille);

Defenders:   Lucas Hernandez (Atletico Madrid), Presnel Kimpembe (PSG), Benjamin Mendy (Manchester City), Benjamin Pavard (Stuttgart), Adil Rami (Marseille), Djibril Sidibe (Monaco), Samuel Umtiti (Barcelona), Raphael Varane (Real Madrid);

Midfielders: N'Golo Kante (Chelsea), Blaise Matuidi (Juventus), Steven N'Zonzi (Sevilla) Paul Pogba (Manchester United), Corentin Tolisso (Bayern Munich);

Forwards: Ousmane Dembele (Barcelona), Nabil Fekir (Lyon), Olivier Giroud (Chelsea), Antoine Griezmann (Atletico Madrid), Thomas Lemar (Monaco), Kylian Mbappe (PSG), Florian Thauvin (Marseille).

Argentina's World Cup squad:

Goalkeepers:  Sergio Romero (Manchester United), Willy Caballero (Manchester City), Franco Armani (River Plate).

Defenders: Gabriel Mercado (Sevilla), Cristian Ansaldi (Torino), Nicolas Otamendi (Man City), Federico Fazio (Roma), Marcos Rojo (Man United), Nicolas Tagliafico (Ajax), Marcos Acuna (Sporting), Eduardo Salvio (Benfica).

Midfielders:  Javier Mascherano (Hebei), Lucas Biglia (Milan), Ever Banega (Sevilla), Giovani Lo Celso (PSG), Manuel Lanzini (West Ham), Angel Di Maria (PSG), Maxi Meza (Independiente).

Forwards:  Lionel Messi (Barcelona), Paulo Dybala (Juventus), Sergio Aguero (Man City), Gonzalo Higuain (Juventus), Cristian Pavon (Boca Juniors).

Nigeria full squad

GOALKEEPERS: Ikechukwu Ezenwa (Enyimba) Daniel Akpeyi (Chippa United) Francis Uzoho (Deportivo de La Coruna)

DEFENDERS: William Troost-Ekong (Bursaspor) Leon Balogun (Mainz 05) Kenneth Omeruo (Kasimpasa) Bryan Idowu (Amkar Perm) Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes) Abdullahi Shehu (Bursaspor) Elderson Echiejile (Cercle Brugge) Tyronne Ebuehi (ADO Den Haag)

MIDFIELDERS: John Obi Mikel (Tianjin Teda) Ogenyi Onazi (Trabzonspor) John Ogu (Hapoel Beer Sheva) Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City) Oghenekaro Etebo (Las Palmas) Joel Obi (Torino)

FORWARDS: Odion Ighalo (Changchun Yatai) Ahmed Musa (CSKA Moscow) Victor Moses (Chelsea) Alex Iwobi (Arsenal) Kelechi Iheanacho (Leicester City) Simeon Nwankwo (Crotone)

Brazil full squad

Goalkeepers: Alisson (Roma), Ederson (Man City), Cassio (Corinthians)

Full-backs: Marcelo (Real Madrid) Danilo (Man City), Filipe Luis (Atletico Madrid), Fagner (Corinthians).

Centre-backs: Marquinhos (PSG), Thiago Silva (PSG), Miranda (Inter Milan), Pedro Geromel (Gremio).

Midfielders: Willian (Chelsea), Fernandinho (Man City), Paulinho (Barcelona), Casemiro (Real Madrid), Philippe Coutinho (Barcelona), Renato Augusto (Beijing Guoan), Fred (Shakhtar).

Forwards: Neymar (PSG), Gabriel Jesus (Man City), Roberto Firmino (Liverpool), Douglas Costa (Juventus), Taison (Shakhtar).

Germany squad in full

Goalkeepers: Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich), Marc-Andre ter Stegen (Barcelona), Kevin Trapp (PSG)

Defenders: Jerome Boateng (Bayern Munich), Mats Hummels (Bayern Munich), Niklas Sule (Bayern Munich), Antonio Rudiger (Chelsea), Matthias Ginter (Borussia Monchengladbach), Jonas Hector (Koln), Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich), Marvin Plattenhardt (Hertha Berlin)

Midfielders: Toni Kroos (Real Madrid), Sami Khedira (Juventus), Ilkay Gundogan (Manchester City), Leon Goretzka (Schalke), Sebastian Rudy (Bayern Munich), Mesut Ozil (Arsenal), Thomas Muller (Bayern Munich), Julian Brandt (Bayer Leverkusen), Julian Draxler (PSG), Marco Reus (Borussia Dortmund)

Forwards: Mario Gomez (Stuttgart), Timo Werner (RB Leipzig)

Mexico Full roster:

Goalkeepers: 1- Jesus Corona (Cruz Azul) 12- Alfredo Talavera (Toluca), 13- Guillermo Ochoa (Standard Liege)

Defenders: 2- Hugo Ayala (Tigres), 3- Carlos Salcedo (Eintracht Frankfurt), 5- Diego Reyes (Porto), 7- Miguel Layun (Sevilla), 15- Hector Moreno (Real Sociedad), 21- Edson Alvarz (America), 23-Jesus Gallardo (Monterrrey)

Midfielders: 4- Rafael Marquez (Atlas), 6- Jonathan Dos Santos (LA Galaxy) 8- Marco Fabian- (Eintracht Frankfurt), 10- Giovani dos Santos (LA Galaxy), 16- Hector Herrera (Porto), 18- Andres Guardado (Real Betis)

Forwards: 9- Raul Jimenez (Benfica), 11- Carlos Vela (LAFC), 14- Javier Hernandez (West Ham United), 17- Jesus Corona (Porto) 19- Oribe Peralta- (America), 20- Javier Aquino (Tigres), 22- Hirving Lozano (PSV)

Belgium's final 23-man World Cup squad in full:

Goalkeepers: Koen Casteels (Wolfsburg), Thibaut Courtois (Chelsea), Simon Mignolet (Liverpool)

Defenders: Toby Alderweireld (Tottenham), Dedryck Boyata (Celtic), Leander Dendoncker (Anderlecht), Vincent Kompany (Manchester City), Thomas Meunier (Paris Saint-Germain), Thomas Vermaelen (Barcelona), Jan Vertonghen (Tottenham)

Midfielders: Mousa Dembele (Tottenham), Yannick Carrasco (Dalian Yifang), Nacer Chadli (West Brom), Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City), Marouane Fellaini (Manchester United), Eden Hazard (Chelsea), Thorgan Hazard (Borussia Monchengladbach), Adnan Januzaj (Real Sociedad), Youri Tielemans (Monaco), Axel Witsel (Tianjin Quanjian)

Forwards: Michy Batshuayi (Borussia Dortmund), Romelu Lukaku (Manchester United), Dries Mertens (Napoli)

England's World Cup 2018 squad in full

GOALKEEPERS: Jack Butland (Stoke), Jordan Pickford (Everton), Nick Pope (Burnley).

DEFENDERS: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Gary Cahill (Chelsea), Fabian Delph (Manchester City), Phil Jones (Manchester United), Harry Maguire (Leicester), Danny Rose (Tottenham), John Stones (Manchester City), Kieran Trippier (Tottenham), Kyle Walker (Manchester City), Ashley Young (Manchester United).

MIDFIELDERS: Dele Alli, Eric Dier (both Tottenham), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Jesse Lingard (Manchester United), Ruben Loftus-Cheek (Chelsea).

FORWARDS: Harry Kane (Tottenham), Marcus Rashford (Manchester United), Raheem Sterling (Manchester City), Jamie Vardy (Leicester), Danny Welbeck (Arsenal)


Portugal Full squad:

Goalkeepers: Anthony Lopes (Lyon), Beto (Goztepe), Rui Patricio (Sporting).

Defenders: Bruno Alves (Rangers), Cedric Soares (Southampton), Jose Fonte (Dalian Yifang), Mario Rui (Napoli), Pepe (Besiktas), Raphael Guerreiro (Borussia Dortmund), Ricardo Pereira (Porto), Ruben Dias (Benfica).

Midfielders: Adrien Silva (Leicester), Bruno Fernandes (Sporting), Joao Mario (West Ham), Joao Moutinho (Monaco), Manuel Fernandes (Lokomotiv Moscow), William Carvalho (Sporting).

Forwards: Andre Silva (AC Milan), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City), Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid), Gelson Martins (Sporting), Goncalo Guedes (Valencia), Ricardo Quaresma (Besiktas).

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sam on June 07, 2018, 05:13:45 AM
Imagine Leroy Sane did not make the cut for the Germany side.

That coach is a mad man, Sane was de best young player in de EPL this season, cant believe meh eyes here.

England coach crazy to, this players dont belong there, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Phil Jones, Ashley Young, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Danny Welbeck (maybe).

Nick Pope should be they number 1 keeper

Germany taking 2 strikers and one ah them (Gomez) is like 33 years ole, lord fadda. Nils Petersen and Mark Uth mighta be better options.


Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sam on June 07, 2018, 05:27:15 AM
Ah rushing to pull up meh pants dis morning and end up cuffing meh balls we.

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 07, 2018, 08:08:16 AM
Ah rushing to pull up meh pants dis morning and end up cuffing meh balls we.



Breds, wrong threads!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 07, 2018, 09:51:38 AM
Ah rushing to pull up meh pants dis morning and end up cuffing meh balls we.

Breds, wrong threads!
:rotfl:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 07, 2018, 03:12:51 PM
Jose Mourinho's picks to advance

Uruguay and Russia (Group A)
Spain and Portugal (B)
France and Australia (C)
Argentina and Nigeria (D)
Brazil and Switzerland (E)
Germany and Mexico (F)
England and Belgium (G)
Senegal and Poland (H)

Thoughts?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Errol on June 08, 2018, 02:01:28 AM
Ah rushing to pull up meh pants dis morning and end up cuffing meh balls we.



Breds, wrong threads!

 :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl:

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Brownsugar on June 08, 2018, 04:19:38 PM
Ah rushing to pull up meh pants dis morning and end up cuffing meh balls we.



But wha de??!!  Just so??!!  :rotfl: :rotfl:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 10, 2018, 05:59:00 PM
Jose Mourinho's picks to advance

Uruguay and Russia (Group A)
Spain and Portugal (B)
France and Australia (C)
Argentina and Nigeria (D)
Brazil and Switzerland (E)
Germany and Mexico (F)
England and Belgium (G)
Senegal and Poland (H)

Thoughts?

My predictions:

Uruguay and Egypt (Group A)
Spain and Portugal (B)
France and Peru (C)
Argentina and Croatia (D)
Brazil and Costa Rica (E)
Germany and Mexico (F)
England and Belgium (G)
Senegal and Colombia (H)
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 13, 2018, 05:55:33 AM
Spain fire the WC manager because he was hired by Real for next season.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 13, 2018, 10:29:53 AM
Spain fire the WC manager because he was hired by Real for next season.

Correct decision. And, ah big eff up for Lopetegui. Every player wants to play on a WC stage. Most managers also. Lopetegui got this wrong because he was salivating at the immediate prospect of Real. Fernando Hierro is about as sensible a candidate to fill in because he knows the inside of the Fed and team and gives the episode a soft cushion.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Flex on June 14, 2018, 01:39:34 AM
Brazil to triumph in FIFA World Cup.
By Colin Murray (Guardian).


Just as I predicted, the West Indies won the first Test match against Sri Lanka at the Queen’s Park Oval, on easily the best pitch that has been produced in the region for a long time. The batsmen were able to play their shots and if the bowlers bent their backs, they would extract something from the surface.

Kudos to the ground curator. It was five days of absorbing Test match cricket and after the Windies got over their early match jitters, they dominated the match from after tea on the first day, right up to the luncheon period on the final day. We will summarise the series after the final Test match, as today pride and place must go to the biggest sporting event on the planet: the 2018 edition of the FIFA World Cup.

With 32 teams in eight groups contesting a trophy worth USD $38 million, winning the World Cup is any footballer’s dream. My only regret is that it comes around every four years; I really wish it was shorter, maybe every three years, but the wait is always well worth it.

Firstly, let’s examine the teams in group A: the hosts Russia, together with Uruguay, Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Uruguay with Luis Suarez and Edison Cavani up front should win the group, while it appears to be a toss-up between Egypt and Russia for the second spot. The Egyptians may be too heavily dependent on Mo Salah and with the luxury of home support, Russia may take it.

In group B, Portugal and Spain stand out. Portugal come into the tournament as European champions and should be brimming with confidence, but I can’t see them getting the better of Spain as the Spaniards possess a good all round quality team.

In group C France will waltz away as winners and should go far in the tournament as they are extremely talented. Denmark, even though they had to qualify by playing in a play-off against Ireland, should pull through ahead of Peru and Australia.

Group D without a doubt is this tournament’s group of death. Any two of the four can go through as Argentina, Iceland, Croatia and Nigeria all have the ability to win against one another. However, any team with Lionel Messi in it, you just have to fancy and in Argentina, there are many match winners. The other three teams are evenly matched. Iceland will fight for every ball; so too will the Nigerians with their physical strength, however, although Croatia finished runners-up to Iceland in their European group qualification, I feel they may well turn the tables on their Icelandic counterparts and take this group’s coveted 2nd spot.

Group E sees the tournament favourites Brazil, who should have absolutely no problems in topping this group. I cannot see Costa Rica, who only lost on penalties at the quarter-final stage back in 2014, repeating their valiant progress. Therefore, I fully expect Serbia to come out of this group ahead of them and Switzerland.

Group F sees another tournament favourite in Germany—the defending champions—having a slightly tougher group than Brazil, but should also face no hurdles in winning this group. The other three teams in Mexico, Sweden and South Korea should make the runners-up position quite competitive but somehow I feel Mexico with their experience, should get the better of the Asian qualifiers—South Korea—and the tough Swedes.

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 14, 2018, 09:46:12 AM
Thanks for cooperating, Saudi Arabia.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 14, 2018, 10:01:49 AM
The only thing worse than the Saudi back line is the Fox Sports commentary.

Thank me later.

https://www.reddit.com/r/soccerstreams/
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sando prince on June 14, 2018, 11:06:51 AM

This is why I am against increasing the number teams at the 2026 world cup, you will have more low quality teams like Saudi and you will see more shit performances like what we saw today. In the end the quality of the world cup will decrease if they increase the number of teams
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 14, 2018, 11:08:52 AM
They just did not perform. It just put TT first game in 06 into perspective. We were expected to get about 5. Thanks for the memories 06 Soca Warriors.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 14, 2018, 11:12:41 AM
The clip of Putin kind of apologizing to the Saudi prince after goal is funny and priceless at the same time.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 14, 2018, 12:16:45 PM
Costa Rica with a winning trend in World Cup openers
CONCACAF


If history is a good indicator, the Costa Rican National Team will fancy its chances in its 2018 FIFA World Cup opener on Sunday versus Serbia.

The Ticos will square off against the European side to open Group E at the Cosmos Arena in Samara, and a look back at past World Cup openers suggests that Oscar Ramirez's side will be confident at getting three points.

In its first ever appearance at a FIFA World Cup at Italy 1990 playing in Group C, Costa Rica came out 1-0 winners against Scotland thanks to a Juan Cayasso goal in the 49'.

That initial victory led to a second group stage win versus Sweden, 2-1, earning the Ticos a spot in the second round before falling 4-1 to Czechoslovakia.

Twelve years later at Korea/Japan 2002, Costa Rica would again claim a win in its group stage debut with a 2-0 triumph over China in Group C, with Ronaldo Gomez (61') and Mauricio Wright (65) providing the goals.

Unfortunately for Costa Rica, it was on the wrong end of a tiebreaker on goal difference with Turkey and did not advance.

Germany 2006 was not as kind to the Ticos. Despite a Paulo Wanchope brace, Costa Rica fell 4-2 to hosts Germany to kick off Group A and was unable to earn a point in three group stage matches.

Things were vastly different to open Group D in Brazil 2014, as Joel Campbell (54'), Oscar Duarte (57') and Marco Urena (84') all scored in a 3-1 win over Uruguay, which laid the groundwork for Costa Rica's memorable run to the quarterfinals.

Now with Costa Rica set to start at Russia 2018, the Ticos will be out to claim its fourth win in five World Cup openers.

"We are continuing our preparation ahead of the debut, we are in Russia now and we should experience the World Cup party," said MF Celso Borges to reporters on Wednesday.

"The attitude is good at this moment and we are looking forward, focused on the goal which is to win the first game," concluded Borges.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: pull stones on June 14, 2018, 01:38:24 PM
I wonder if TT could beat Saudi arabia? their defense reminds me so much of our own poor porous defense and the mistakes and the poor defensive errors we make. thank god we didn’t make it through due to the poor state of our football that has lead us to this low fifa ranking. we need a whole new defense and a new goalie asap.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: pull stones on June 14, 2018, 01:40:29 PM
PS. The saudi goal keeper was a hot mess. he made Marvin Phillips look like vandersar. at least 3 of those goals were salvageable had he used his goal line properly and positioned himself better. very poor goal keeping indeed if I may say so. i certainly hope that Egypt has a better plan.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Cocorite on June 14, 2018, 02:50:53 PM
They just did not perform. It just put TT first game in 06 into perspective. We were expected to get about 5. Thanks for the memories 06 Soca Warriors.

I was lamenting the fact that T&T could have easily made this World Cup and perform admirably if Hart was still there
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 14, 2018, 04:31:31 PM
Organizationally yuh could see what Juan Antonio Pizzi's plan was for Saudi Arabia. Sadly for them, the opening goal came largely against the run of play, but prior to the opening goal the key player in central midfield for the KSA was too elaborate when Russia was far from cohesive defensively and looked a bit unsure at the back. One had the sense that a direct approach might have placed Russia on the backfoot. But, once they scored it was a different and more confident ball game. And yes, the GK and the skipper were poor.

(Was good to see Zhirkhov again).
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 14, 2018, 07:35:01 PM

This is why I am against increasing the number teams at the 2026 world cup, you will have more low quality teams like Saudi and you will see more shit performances like what we saw today. In the end the quality of the world cup will decrease if they increase the number of teams

Ent!

Like when that shit squad Brazil collect 7 from Germany in the last world cup... or when the next minnow Spain get 5 from The Netherlands
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Brownsugar on June 15, 2018, 05:53:53 AM

This is why I am against increasing the number teams at the 2026 world cup, you will have more low quality teams like Saudi and you will see more shit performances like what we saw today. In the end the quality of the world cup will decrease if they increase the number of teams

Ent!

Like when that shit squad Brazil collect 7 from Germany in the last world cup... or when the next minnow Spain get 5 from The Netherlands


 :heehee: :heehee: :heehee:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: pull stones on June 15, 2018, 06:33:16 AM
I’m here watching this game Uruguay and Egypt and thinking to myself that these are the two teams moving on to the next round because i don’t think Russia beating anyone of these teams. of course i could be wrong but I seriously doubt it.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 15, 2018, 07:58:44 AM
This is how I expect this WC to go. Like a CDL test. Lots of buses and lots of parking.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 15, 2018, 08:00:36 AM
I’m here watching this game Uruguay and Egypt and thinking to myself that these are the two teams moving on to the next round because i don’t think Russia beating anyone of these teams. of course i could be wrong but I seriously doubt it.

On paper, yes. But even with a draw between them ah feel one of them would suffer elimination. The Saudi performance yesterday still gives the Russians a luxury.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 15, 2018, 11:02:49 AM
Cruel loss for Morocco, but time and time again we see own goals like that when you have forwards defending in those situations.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 15, 2018, 11:52:17 AM
This is how I expect this WC to go. Like a CDL test. Lots of buses and lots of parking.

Honestly. I don’t see parking in the first 2games. Quite a bit of stray passes.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 15, 2018, 12:05:05 PM
I know the Olympics was in Sochi, but that was Winter. It doh have diving in the winter Olympics.

What happen to VAR?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 15, 2018, 12:11:58 PM
This is how I expect this WC to go. Like a CDL test. Lots of buses and lots of parking.

Honestly. I don’t see parking in the first 2games. Quite a bit of stray passes.

Yeah, I agree. Teams were set up to counterattack to varying degrees once they regained possession, but I haven't seen a traditional parked bus although there have frequently been at least 8 players behind the ball.

It would be suicidal to approach the opening group stage match with no attacking ambition or intent.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 15, 2018, 12:13:35 PM
In its execution, world-class penalty by CR7.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 15, 2018, 12:21:06 PM
Yuh hadda give Costa his due. Very few players would find themselves on a WC squad after being "AWOL" from the team to which they were contracted.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 15, 2018, 12:22:31 PM
And he scores.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 15, 2018, 12:45:28 PM
DeGea has a bout of Karius disease.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 15, 2018, 12:46:47 PM
This is how I expect this WC to go. Like a CDL test. Lots of buses and lots of parking.

Honestly. I don’t see parking in the first 2games. Quite a bit of stray passes.

Yeah, I agree. Teams were set up to counterattack to varying degrees once they regained possession, but I haven't seen a traditional parked bus although there have frequently been at least 8 players behind the ball.

It would be suicidal to approach the opening group stage match with no attacking ambition or intent.

But that is what the bus is. 9 and 10 man behind the ball and hoping for a counter-attack.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 15, 2018, 12:54:33 PM
This is how I expect this WC to go. Like a CDL test. Lots of buses and lots of parking.

Honestly. I don’t see parking in the first 2games. Quite a bit of stray passes.

Yeah, I agree. Teams were set up to counterattack to varying degrees once they regained possession, but I haven't seen a traditional parked bus although there have frequently been at least 8 players behind the ball.

It would be suicidal to approach the opening group stage match with no attacking ambition or intent.

But that is what the bus is. 9 and 10 man behind the ball and hoping for a counter-attack.

For instance, nothing out there looks like a Mourinho parked bus. Iz more than just the #s.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 15, 2018, 12:57:12 PM
Anyone not expecting drama in the 2nd half? Match set up for another memorable chapter in WC  history.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 15, 2018, 01:11:29 PM
This is how I expect this WC to go. Like a CDL test. Lots of buses and lots of parking.

Honestly. I don’t see parking in the first 2games. Quite a bit of stray passes.

Yeah, I agree. Teams were set up to counterattack to varying degrees once they regained possession, but I haven't seen a traditional parked bus although there have frequently been at least 8 players behind the ball.

It would be suicidal to approach the opening group stage match with no attacking ambition or intent.

But that is what the bus is. 9 and 10 man behind the ball and hoping for a counter-attack.

For instance, nothing out there looks like a Mourinho parked bus. Iz more than just the #s.

I actually don't think he parks the bus as much as people think. He plays a conservative game plan. Di Matteo used to park the bus with Chelsea.

Still, so far in these games, if you take 3 touches, then there are 8 men behind the ball. Is so normal now, that when it doesn't happen, we are shocked.

Right now, we looking at Spain try to break down this Portugal setup. Unless they score, this will be how the 2nd half looks.

I guess if is not a bus, they parking maxi and breadvan.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 15, 2018, 01:18:07 PM
That shot was  :flamethrower:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 15, 2018, 01:47:08 PM
This certainly issues a challenge to Messi to perform on this stage.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Mad Scorpion a/k/a Big Bo$$ on June 15, 2018, 01:57:37 PM
This certainly issues a challenge to Messi to perform on this stage.

When it's all over Messi wont match him.  CRonaldo not only confident in himself but also his team. When they won Euro with him on the sidelines it gave both him and the team real belief and confidence that they can all perform when needed.  5 years ago Ronaldo wasn't putting that ball back to the top of the box for any of his national teammates.  Sleep on this team at your own Peril.  I was not removing Costa from this game unless injured. He is a straight up battering ram!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Brownsugar on June 15, 2018, 02:04:35 PM
Pretty boy is not my favourite player but ah gotta give the man he props today.... :notworthy: :notworthy:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 15, 2018, 03:23:24 PM
It is all well and good to compare the two. Messi is currently the best attacking midfield in the universe. The other is the best striker in the universe. Who would you start, CR or Costa?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: maxg on June 15, 2018, 05:20:08 PM
It is all well and good to compare the two. Messi is currently the best attacking midfield in the universe. The other is the best striker in the universe. Who would you start, CR or Costa?
more to come, plenty games to play
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 15, 2018, 07:23:46 PM
Cristiano Ronaldo steals the spotlight despite Diego Costa’s best efforts
By Paul MacInnes, The Guardian


Age shall not wither him nor custom stale his infinite variety. Ruthless Ronnie was at it again, his 51st career hat-trick topped off with a superlative last knockings free-kick hit with a new technique. Alongside that there was the pace he should have lost five years ago, an efficacy of action that bordered on the supreme and the spatial awareness of a quantity surveyor. The Portugal captain gave a display that was enough to jump-start the World Cup in and of itself. But the delight of this match was that his performance was only one of many intriguing subplots.

Let’s dwell on the big man for a little longer, though. Thirty-three years old and off the back of another Champions League title, another 40-goal season, there remains not one sign of a weakening of his will to win. Perhaps, in fact, it is the opposite, as if the impediments that nature tries to put in his way have been transformed into just another opponent on the pitch, another obstacle to get round. On the evidence of this match Ronaldo appears even to be winning the battle with time. The pace he showed on the counterattack against Spain was terrifying. It may not be common to see him sprinting as much as this, given the way Real Madrid tend to dominate the ball, but there is no doubt he still has it in him.

At the same time he has the cunning and mental wherewithal that only experience can bring. Even then they are tools that are available only when one is determined to use that experience to advantage. He knew Nacho was the uncommon link in this Spanish side and so, in the third minute, he ran at it. Pulling out the stepovers as if he was still a teenager, he duly drew a foul and stepped up to convert the penalty by sending David de Gea the wrong way. Ronaldo’s 27 first-half touches were judicious, every one; in the 16th minute a single backheeled flick on the halfway line sprang the entire Spain defence.

With his second goal, just before half-time, you would not put it past him to have hit the shot straight at De Gea just to put the Spanish keeper under extra psychological pressure. The late, uproarious third was a free-kick. Rather than being struck through the laces in the way he trademarked (before being imitated by so many others) he whipped it round the Spanish wall. He also rolled up the right leg on his short shorts before striking it, another Ronaldo innovation.

So far, so iincomparable, but that was hardly all. At the other end, weighing in at 192 pounds and standing out like a redwood in a team of bonsai trees was Diego Costa. Before the Spanish FA decided to create a national psychodrama by asserting their primacy in HR matters, Costa’s place in the team was probably the most contentious issue in camp. Was his skill set suited to a team who have a long-standing way of playing? If not, would he be willing or able to adapt himself to their needs? The answers, on this display at least, were no and not really, but rather delightfully it did not matter.

The Spanish No 19 was a one-man plan B and he was available from the first whistle. His tiki-taka teammates were not overly inclined to use his very particular set of skills but when they did Costa was in the mood for merking. His first goal began with the incidental pleasure of watching Pepe misjudge the milking of a minor infraction. It ended with that simple combination of brute strength and artisanal precision that is the mark of the former Chelsea man. Costa’s second goal, bundled in on the line from a Sergio Busquets knockdown was just as characteristic. He may not be able to dance round three opponents before playing a cross through a full-back’s legs, but he is certainly good for some other things.

One match, two headlines, and both delivered by men the subject of investigation by Spanish tax authorities. After a relatively lacklustre start to the tournament that would have been enough. But this game had a supporting cast of storylines, too, and Uruguay v Egypt would have loved to have borrowed any one of them.

First, there was that De Gea blooper. It seems a long time since Alex Ferguson had to attack referees after matches in order to deflect attention from the Spaniard dropping crosses. In fact it may be De Gea’s first error since 2011. But it happens to the best of them, as well as most England keepers. Then there was a dazzling display from Isco, and a severe case of stage fright from Goncalo Guedes. Oh and Nacho, a guy who has six goals in his Real Madrid career, scores his first for his country with a strike that is almost certainly through to the goal of the tournament montage if not the top three.

This was a match all right and for those who, at 6.50pm, had written it all off as indigestion, it turns out they were wrong. Fully blown cases of World Cup fever have now been confirmed.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 15, 2018, 07:39:11 PM
It is all well and good to compare the two. Messi is currently the best attacking midfield in the universe. The other is the best striker in the universe. Who would you start, CR or Costa?

Take in this sample from Rob Smyth who did the Guardian's live coverage of the match:

"Messi was better from 2008-13, but I think Ronaldo has comfortably surpassed him in the last five years; I don’t really see how anyone can think otherwise. But it’s probably a discussion for another day. And neither of them are fit to clean Maradona’s bidet."
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 15, 2018, 10:45:10 PM
For some reason, I see two different type of players with skills and flair. One has more attributes of one thing over the other, and vice versa. I know if both were on the same team, that would have been FYAHH.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 16, 2018, 04:46:42 AM
France needs to get its act together.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 16, 2018, 08:27:06 AM
The little lion under pressah!. He just missed pk .
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: royal on June 16, 2018, 09:03:09 AM
you'll remember when we beat Iceland 2-0 in England in a friendly before 06 world cup? What ah difference time makes.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Tallman on June 16, 2018, 10:43:26 AM
you'll remember when we beat Iceland 2-0 in England in a friendly before 06 world cup? What ah difference time makes.

Remember when we beat Panama 6-0 in 2000? What ah difference time makes.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 16, 2018, 11:40:58 AM
This Peru-Denmark game is a lot of fun. Peru forwards need a bush bath.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: davyjenny1 on June 16, 2018, 12:17:56 PM
Two smallest nations in w/c history drew their first two thrilling world cup openers against top ranking teams at different W/C tournaments.

T&T Vs Sweden '06

Iceland vs Argentina '18

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Controversial on June 16, 2018, 02:26:34 PM
you'll remember when we beat Iceland 2-0 in England in a friendly before 06 world cup? What ah difference time makes.

Remember when we beat Panama 6-0 in 2000? What ah difference time makes.

Not about time brothers, it’s about who running our football... Trinbago could have been there all those times and this time but they keep supporting corrupt sellouts locally ...
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Controversial on June 16, 2018, 02:30:09 PM
THe biggest joke is the African teams have European coaches and playing European style football and always losing ...

Some common sense would be to start playing or developing an African brand of football instead of trying to play like a European club team

The matches getting more boring every 4 years with the same styles of football being recycled
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: davyjenny1 on June 16, 2018, 03:16:25 PM
Since after 1990 World Cup African teams have not proven that they belong, to many disappointments from then on and am not surprise of today's results from Nigeria"s game, no substance at all.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on June 16, 2018, 03:44:29 PM
African football lost its soul a long time  ago...remember when it was at least entertaining to watch, Ghana was d last team dat showed glimpses of what we used to get in d 90s and dem ent even qualify........when was d last time nigeria produce ah okocha-esc player...too much rigid euro centric influence has crept into their football....yuh might still see glimpses at youth level but it disappear from senior ball completely

Sent from my SM-J105B using Tapatalk
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: chelsealife on June 16, 2018, 08:30:36 PM
THe biggest joke is the African teams have European coaches and playing European style football and always losing ...

Some common sense would be to start playing or developing an African brand of football instead of trying to play like a European club team

The matches getting more boring every 4 years with the same styles of football being recycled
I'm expecting Senegal to show up
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Brownsugar on June 16, 2018, 10:39:06 PM
THe biggest joke is the African teams have European coaches and playing European style football and always losing ...

Some common sense would be to start playing or developing an African brand of football instead of trying to play like a European club team

The matches getting more boring every 4 years with the same styles of football being recycled
I'm expecting Senegal to show up

 :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 17, 2018, 09:57:15 AM
Mexico came out to play and they're not intimidated thus far
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 17, 2018, 10:09:10 AM
First half was open and positive and exciting. I expect to see  El Autobus in the 2nd half.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 17, 2018, 10:38:10 AM
I eh see no bus  ..... yet. But game eh done ...... yet.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 17, 2018, 10:40:31 AM
Mexico frustrating me with these breakaways.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 17, 2018, 10:43:50 AM
Die Mannschaft is in legitimate trouble with 5 plus stoppage to go, but they have the tools to overcome adversity. They're not the Netherlands. Captivating to watch their approach.

 
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 17, 2018, 10:46:13 AM
Mex. running they luck, now!!!!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on June 17, 2018, 10:52:48 AM
does be lil conflicted about mexico given dey penchant for play acting but dis good for concacaf
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 17, 2018, 10:54:32 AM
Our Lady of Guadelupe. Lupita. Smiled on Mexico. Ha!!! All them prognostigators, take that in allyuh  pwefen.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 17, 2018, 10:59:38 AM
Happy for Mexico and good for Concacaf. The Germans played poised throughout the game, never panicked.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: davyjenny1 on June 17, 2018, 11:06:16 AM
On the field is 11 v 11. The core of this Mexican squad has been together since teenagers. Congratulations to them.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Brownsugar on June 17, 2018, 11:09:05 AM
Wow!!  :o
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sando prince on June 17, 2018, 11:14:40 AM

All I have to say is Spain lost their first match and went on to win the 2010 World Cup. So I will not read much into Germany and Argentina first match in this year World Cup
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 17, 2018, 11:16:35 AM

All I have to say is Spain lost their first match and went on to win the 2010 World Cup. So I will not read much into Germany and Argentina first match in this year World Cup
Both those teams are still predicted to advance to the 2nd round.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 17, 2018, 11:19:08 AM
Just at a flash back of the linesman raising his flag for offside against JJ in the Mexico game at the stadium during the HEX  :frustrated:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 17, 2018, 11:39:21 AM
Makes the WC interesting. Now for Swiss to pip the Brazilians.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 17, 2018, 11:45:40 AM
Makes the WC interesting. Now for Swiss to pip the Brazilians.

Ah not interested in dat.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 17, 2018, 12:16:06 PM
Loving the individual ball retention on display at this WC.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 17, 2018, 12:19:24 PM
Swiss keeper jes learned de word "pweffen". Haha. ;D
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on June 17, 2018, 12:27:36 PM
Swiss keeper jes learned de word "pweffen". Haha. ;D
Lol

Sent from my SM-J105B using Tapatalk

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 17, 2018, 12:45:39 PM
Swiss playing decent. But Brazil appears that they not going to get suckered in like Germany.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 17, 2018, 12:49:44 PM
This Brazil team is well balanced in all areas and positions, hard to find a weakness
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 17, 2018, 01:09:02 PM
This is why you don't play with your food
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 17, 2018, 01:27:44 PM
Best thing for Neymar is that he isn't captain. Also Brazil has several players who have worn the armband. No shortage of "leaders".
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 17, 2018, 01:46:45 PM
This look like an Arsenal game.

Start off hot and sweaty, brilliant play,  then get done by a set piece
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 17, 2018, 01:56:33 PM
A well organized Swiss team fort for a point. They did excellent. Next game.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: davyjenny1 on June 17, 2018, 02:19:29 PM
Several times and for the most part of the game Neymar, was decked on his backside, no problem putting him down.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 17, 2018, 03:56:01 PM
While it was admirable(if you not a Brazil fan) that the Swiss played a smart and well-organized game, they did commit fouls on Neymar. He did not have a good day, but he was out there trying to make something work. Unfortunaely, not much worked for him. So all the people who castigated Pogba and France. Look who have 3 points after the first set of games.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 17, 2018, 07:38:25 PM
Although several of the Swiss fouls were tactical fouls (the so-called professional fouls), Neymar was also otherwise deliberately placing himself in situations to draw fouls. Classic example is one of the free kicks they had in the dregs when Miranda went forward.

What's an effective way of eliminating distance between the goal and the ball without losing possession when time to advance the ball is limited ? A free kick.

Of note, today both Germany and Brazil were in search of a decisive goal but the difference in approach between both teams (despite Germany's loss) showed where Brazil might be lacking in generating creativity (that's not dependent on one player) closer to the opponent's goal.

Good game by Switzerland but Zuber's goal would have been disallowed by refs in prominent leagues, ent?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 18, 2018, 06:28:43 AM
but Zuber's goal would have been disallowed by refs in prominent leagues, ent?

Probably not.  We only see the foul on the replay, in slow motion. I guess VAR will mean more of this stuff gets called, but even then it's still a judgement call. I don't think it was called much differently in the Bundesliga.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 18, 2018, 06:30:46 AM
Sweden - Korea is... robust.
If you even look like you thinking of breaking free, then you getting kick down.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 18, 2018, 07:11:25 AM
but Zuber's goal would have been disallowed by refs in prominent leagues, ent?

Probably not.  We only see the foul on the replay, in slow motion. I guess VAR will mean more of this stuff gets called, but even then it's still a judgement call. I don't think it was called much differently in the Bundesliga.
According to Wenger, had they used VAR to call a foul on that goal then they'll have to call fouls on every corner given the amount of pushing and shoving at that takes place. Miranda's positioning was poor. He was looking directly at the corner not with an open body posture to see man and ball to avoid getting pushed in the back.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 18, 2018, 07:12:59 AM
Korea like they watched the TnT vs Sweeden game last night for inspiration
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 18, 2018, 07:15:23 AM
Korea like they watched the TnT vs Sweeden game last night for inspiration

I doh think we foul as much. But I biased.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 18, 2018, 07:20:40 AM
VAR says...
Penalty!

I'd be shocked if this game ends with 22 on the pitch
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Brownsugar on June 18, 2018, 09:36:37 AM
The Panama fans remind me of T&T fans in the Stadium against Sweden and England.....more noise and vibes than the opposition.....
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 18, 2018, 11:30:26 AM
but Zuber's goal would have been disallowed by refs in prominent leagues, ent?

Probably not.  We only see the foul on the replay, in slow motion. I guess VAR will mean more of this stuff gets called, but even then it's still a judgement call. I don't think it was called much differently in the Bundesliga.
According to Wenger, had they used VAR to call a foul on that goal then they'll have to call fouls on every corner given the amount of pushing and shoving at that takes place. Miranda's positioning was poor. He was looking directly at the corner not with an open body posture to see man and ball to avoid getting pushed in the back.

I have a recollection of Howard Webb raining on somebody's parade after putting one like that in the net.

The pinnacle of the game is scoring goals. Pushing on a corner with an innocuous outcome should be distinguished from shoves that lead to the advantage of a goal. Yuh could always call the play back (as is done when an advantage materialises). Perhaps Miranda should have dropped to the deck to emphasize the contact.

Ah jes vex Switzerland equalized.  :)
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 18, 2018, 12:39:26 PM
So... Tunisia Penalty?

Harry Kane!!! Penalty?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: StoreBayLimer on June 18, 2018, 01:07:21 PM
The Panama fans remind me of T&T fans in the Stadium against Sweden and England.....more noise and vibes than the opposition.....

Panama was excellent today against Belgium: they defended well, good ball control and passing, and attacked when it was possible. In this world cup, I am strongly supporting both Belgium and Panama, although for slightly different reasons.  My fondest hope (for this match) was that Panama scored at least one goal and not collect too many from Belgium.  Love the spirit of my Panamanian brothers, from the time the game start (or before) they are on their feet cheering, really into the moment. A long time ago, when I lived in Los Angeles, when you hear the Panamanian Association of LA is throwing a party, it is a real party. To me, the Panamanians are one of the very few groups whose party can match the real vibes of a good Trini party.

It is my fondest hope that Panama beat England on Sunday.   
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 18, 2018, 01:11:16 PM
This officiating crew is terrible.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 18, 2018, 02:01:22 PM
Harry Kane the hero, Ian Wright smiling from ear to ear.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 18, 2018, 02:05:25 PM
but Zuber's goal would have been disallowed by refs in prominent leagues, ent?

Probably not.  We only see the foul on the replay, in slow motion. I guess VAR will mean more of this stuff gets called, but even then it's still a judgement call. I don't think it was called much differently in the Bundesliga.
According to Wenger, had they used VAR to call a foul on that goal then they'll have to call fouls on every corner given the amount of pushing and shoving at that takes place. Miranda's positioning was poor. He was looking directly at the corner not with an open body posture to see man and ball to avoid getting pushed in the back.

I have a recollection of Howard Webb raining on somebody's parade after putting one like that in the net.

The pinnacle of the game is scoring goals. Pushing on a corner with an innocuous outcome should be distinguished from shoves that lead to the advantage of a goal. Yuh could always call the play back (as is done when an advantage materialises). Perhaps Miranda should have dropped to the deck to emphasize the contact.

Ah jes vex Switzerland equalized.  :)
I like Brazil too, I want them to win it all. Although the replay of the push was showing on the big screen for all to see, the ref still ignored going to VAR.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 18, 2018, 02:13:37 PM
Congrats, Hengland. Sorry Panama lost by that wide margin. But next game. That first goal was thundah
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Brownsugar on June 19, 2018, 05:57:54 AM
The Panama fans remind me of T&T fans in the Stadium against Sweden and England.....more noise and vibes than the opposition.....

Panama was excellent today against Belgium: they defended well, good ball control and passing, and attacked when it was possible. In this world cup, I am strongly supporting both Belgium and Panama, although for slightly different reasons.  My fondest hope (for this match) was that Panama scored at least one goal and not collect too many from Belgium.  Love the spirit of my Panamanian brothers, from the time the game start (or before) they are on their feet cheering, really into the moment. A long time ago, when I lived in Los Angeles, when you hear the Panamanian Association of LA is throwing a party, it is a real party. To me, the Panamanians are one of the very few groups whose party can match the real vibes of a good Trini party.

It is my fondest hope that Panama beat England on Sunday.   


Panama beating England wouldn't be good for a match prediction game I'm playing on FIFA's website but I eh goh mind at all if they beat England.  Especially after seeing England play against Tunisia yesterday.  England lacking something in the final 3rd......and someone who could bend it like Beckham.....
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 19, 2018, 06:48:26 AM
Yuh wake up prepared to play the match of yuh life and 3 minutes after taking the field yuh get a red card. Agony!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Brownsugar on June 19, 2018, 06:50:19 AM
Yuh wake up prepared to play the match of yuh life and 3 minutes after taking the field yuh get a red card. Agony!

Boy.....
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 19, 2018, 09:41:39 AM
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_QIxbWIgV1X8/TA8rVyFxynI/AAAAAAAACSI/jCEimQ-uJl4/s320/Shakira-waka-video.jpg)

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 19, 2018, 10:23:53 AM
There's a Hitler joke in here somewhere...

How about a Polish joke...

Their defense!  :D :D
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Brownsugar on June 19, 2018, 10:30:27 AM
There's a Hitler joke in here somewhere...

How about a Polish joke...

Their defense!  :D :D

  :D :D ;D
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Brownsugar on June 19, 2018, 10:31:28 AM
Senegal in dey waist!!!   

:duel: :flamethrower: :wavetowel: :party: :whip: :applause: :cheers: :flamethrower: :flamethrower: :applause: :applause: :wavetowel: :wavetowel: :wavetowel:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 19, 2018, 12:43:23 PM
Egypt and Russia playing at 100 mph. check them men for steroids.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 19, 2018, 01:18:29 PM
Egypt was looking real good and they now falling apart. So sad. Pressure.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 19, 2018, 01:19:58 PM
(http://i0.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/facebook/000/353/279/e31.jpg)
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 19, 2018, 02:52:04 PM
Hard luck dey, pharoahs!!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: palos on June 19, 2018, 05:10:17 PM
Senegal in dey waist!!!   

:duel: :flamethrower: :wavetowel: :party: :whip: :applause: :cheers: :flamethrower: :flamethrower: :applause: :applause: :wavetowel: :wavetowel: :wavetowel:

What a waggonist!

By the way.....whey Robbing and dem?  :devil:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: palos on June 19, 2018, 05:14:21 PM
The very best line of this World Cup so far


Quote
Kalinic declined the chance to make his World Cup debut as a late substitute in Croatia’s 2-0 win over Nigeria. Mr Live Wire cannot confirm that the forward exclaimed: “Allyuh take me for Brent Sancho or wot? Fire fe dat!
  :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl:

 (https://wired868.com/2018/06/18/sputnik-2018-lukaku-has-seconds-in-sochi-harry-kanes-sassi-tunisia-and-and-croat-sent-home-for-snubbing-corbeaux-sweat/[/quote)
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 19, 2018, 10:57:53 PM
1 black coach in the tournament, like the WC need a Rooney rule  :devil:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Brownsugar on June 20, 2018, 04:39:43 AM
Senegal in dey waist!!!   

:duel: :flamethrower: :wavetowel: :party: :whip: :applause: :cheers: :flamethrower: :flamethrower: :applause: :applause: :wavetowel: :wavetowel: :wavetowel:

What a waggonist!

By the way.....whey Robbing and dem?  :devil:

If you was minding mih business properly over the years you would have known I always throw support behind ALL the African teams in addition to the Oranje.......just left mih!!

 :notlistening: :talktothehand:

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 20, 2018, 06:04:29 AM
CR7 strikes again.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 20, 2018, 10:51:49 AM
Yeah they have their issues, but I'm not convinced that Saudi Arabia is well-coached.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 20, 2018, 12:26:35 PM
So does Iran have a bus?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 20, 2018, 12:27:13 PM
Iran park the bus, but they counter-attacking like Uber.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 20, 2018, 01:10:14 PM
Iran in de terminal buh dey will soon be forced to drive.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 20, 2018, 01:13:45 PM
There it is. Gol de España. End of parking phase. Commence driving.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 20, 2018, 01:20:36 PM
The bus have wheels!

VAR to the rescue
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 20, 2018, 01:21:20 PM
VAR to the rescue.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: FF on June 20, 2018, 01:26:57 PM
Not VAR. the officials got it right.

They only went to VAR to confirm
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 20, 2018, 01:32:20 PM
Iran park the bus, but they counter-attacking like Uber.

Yuh bad-talking Uber.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 20, 2018, 01:36:09 PM
Anyhow Iran score, any Portuguese thoughts about resting CR7 will be put to bed. On the other hand, with the Golden Boot in his head, he would likely be vigorously against the idea.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 20, 2018, 01:53:43 PM
Luck is a valuable squad member.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 20, 2018, 01:56:50 PM
Iran park the bus, but they counter-attacking like Uber.

Yuh bad-talking Uber.

Actually is a kinda compliment. Uber giving taxi service a run for dey money
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Peong on June 20, 2018, 02:06:03 PM
Anyhow Iran score, any Portuguese thoughts about resting CR7 will be put to bed. On the other hand, with the Golden Boot in his head, he would likely be vigorously against the idea.

Cristiano too bad mind to take a rest. Man want goals
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 20, 2018, 03:57:50 PM
Anyhow Iran score, any Portuguese thoughts about resting CR7 will be put to bed. On the other hand, with the Golden Boot in his head, he would likely be vigorously against the idea.
And the Ballon Dor still up for grabs
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: FF on June 20, 2018, 06:18:10 PM
And Portugal not guaranteed 2nd round passage.

Portugal 4pts
Spain 4pts
Iran 3pts
Morocco 0pts

All to play for
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 20, 2018, 07:54:23 PM
So does Iran have a bus?

Sid Lowe writing in The Guardian (https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/jun/20/iran-spain-world-cup-2018-group-c-match-report):

"Iran ... soon settled into what was often in effect a 6-3-1, the first two lines close. The game squeezed into a 20-metre strip running the width of the pitch near Iran’s area."



Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 20, 2018, 08:13:23 PM
Germany players hold crisis meeting as Joachim Low is urged to axe Mesut Ozil
By James Ducker, The Telegraph


Joachim Low took a stroll along the beach in Sochi’s blazing sunshine on Wednesday but the heat will have felt a lot less intense for the coach than the inquest that has followed the dismal start to Germany’s defence of the World Cup.

From a crisis meeting between players and staff to growing questions over their controversial choice of training base and mounting calls for Mesut Ozil to be dropped, the fall-out from Sunday’s shock 1-0 defeat to Mexico has been brutal.

Indeed, for all the relief felt in the German squad at finally escaping their much maligned base camp in Vatutinki, 25 miles south west of central Moscow, for the tranquility of the Russian Riviera, there was simply no escaping the recriminations from the Mexico debacle.

No punches were pulled during a crisis meeting between the players, Low and Oliver Bierhoff, Germany’s general manager, on Tuesday, as they probed for answers ahead of Saturday’s crucial clash with Sweden at the Fisht Stadium on the banks of the Black Sea.

Manuel Neuer was honest enough to admit that he had never heard so many frank words exchanged during his nine years with the national team, with the prolonged internal inquiry prompting him to turn up 50 minutes late for a scheduled press conference.

“We didn’t mince words, because we want to make things better against Sweden,” the Germany goalkeeper said. “We talked a lot. We’re our harshest critics. It was a wake-up call - there has never been such strong words within the team.”

The disconnect on the pitch at Moscow’s Luzhniki Stadium was alarming, even if Mats Hummels had hinted at pre-match concerns about an imbalance in the team by decrying a lack of defensive cover that left huge spaces for Mexico to ruthlessly expose.

The conclusion was that the experienced players, in particular, needed to demonstrate far greater responsibility, although whether some get the chance to atone against Sweden remains to be seen.

Sami Khedira could make way for Ilkay Gundogan or Leon Goretzka in central midfield and Marco Reus seems likely to come in, probably for Julian Draxler.

Striker Timo Werner is also sweating on his place but there was little doubting the main source of German anger. Ozil could yet be granted a reprieve by Low, who has long been a staunch supporter of his, but there were former German players lining up to take potshots at the mercurial Arsenal playmaker on Wednesday.

“Ozil’s body language is like that of a dead frog, it’s pathetic,” Mario Basler, a Euro 96 winner with Die Mannschaft, told German television. Basler is known for being deliberately outspoken so Lothar Matthaus’s criticism in his column with Sport Bild was considered more damning.

“For a year or two, Özil has played much weaker and at a level that does not justify Jogi Löw's free ticket,” said Matthaus, who played in five World Cups for Germany and won the tournament in 1990. “With Özil on the pitch I often have the feeling that he does not feel comfortable in the German jersey, almost as if he does not want to play. There is no heart, no joy, no passion.”

Stefan Effenburg struck a similar tone and accused Low of making a “completely misjudgement” by starting Ozil over Reus against Mexico.

The problems are not confined to the pitch, though. Sochi was Germany’s base for their Confederations Cup triumph last summer and Bierhoff has been forced to defend calls over why he opted to break with a tried and tested formula by instead picking Vatutinki, which has been likened to a “boarding school”, as their World Cup HQ. Brazil and Poland are both based in Sochi and there are suspicions Bierhoff was slow off the mark in making arrangements.

“I continue to believe that Moscow is the right choice,” he said on Wednesday, although it is doubtful the players would agree. There was more than a hint of sarcasm in Toni Kroos’ voice when asked for his assessment of the Vatutinki Hotel. “I had water in my shower, so I was happy,” the midfielder said.

Yet much like Thomas Muller, who was busy urging Germans to get behind the team, Neuer had opted for a more upbeat tone on Wednesday and seemed to imply that their troubles were being blown out of proportion. “It’s probably something anchored in the German mentality to always look for problems and negative aspects,” he said. “Whether before the Olympics or a tournament - hair is always sought in the soup.”

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 20, 2018, 08:17:10 PM
Can Joachim Löw keep faith with old guard after Mexico loss?
Deutsche Welle


Germany's loss to Mexico in their World Cup opener was no fluke. They were out-run, out-thought and out-fought by their opponents. The display poses Joachim Löw serious questions about some of his most trusted players.

As the team news filtered through an hour before kickoff in Moscow, it emerged that this was the oldest eleven Germany had selected for a World Cup game since the 2002 final against Brazil. From the moment the first whistle blew, that looked painfully apparent.

Despite that statistic, this isn’t an old team, only Sami Khedira and Manuel Neuer are the wrong side of 30. But they were made to look ancient by a vibrant Mexico side who, had they made the right decisions in key moments, could’ve been out of sight at the interval.

Germany lost possession an incredible 36 times in a first half where the only surprise in Hirving Lozano’s goal was that it took so long. Khedira was particularly culpable. The Juventus man isn't naturally a true holding midfielder and with Toni Kroos alongside him, a pair of attacking fullbacks and a front four not renowned for their work rate, his can be a tough job when the world champions are on the back foot.

But Khedira completely abdicated his responsibility to protect his center backs. Time after time Jerome Boateng and Mats Hummels were forced to step out of the defensive line to meet Mexican runners driving into space in the middle of the pitch.

This is a particularly uncomfortable situation for Hummels, who lacks pace, and Germany were fortunate that the defensive pairing was able to save their bacon on more than one occasion. Their reluctance to trust the left-hand side in the absence of Jonas Hector and the questionable nature of Joshua Kimmich’s first-half positioning were also glaring issues.

Pace is a problem

Unfortunately for Germany, Hummels isn’t the only man who struggles to keep up with a rapid opponent. Of Germany’s starting XI, only Timo Werner has genuine speed and while watching Lozano, Carlos Vela and Miguel Layun pour forward on the break, it was impossible not to think of Leroy Sane watching from home after being omitted from the Germany squad by Joachim Löw.

Despite the poor quality of their performance, Löw made no changes at the break and, given how far his trusted crop of late-20s performers has taken this team, it’s easy to understand his faith.

But even the best sides need freshening up. And for all Germany’s vaunted squad depth, there are still areas where their options are limited. While there’s a glut of attacking midfielders, Löw’s squad doesn’t really offer him a genuine midfield smotherer in the mould of Sergio Busquets, Casemiro or N’Golo Kante.

That point was rammed home by Löw’s first change, when he ended Khedira’s misery by removing him in favor of Marco Reus, finally making his World Cup debut, and moved the anonymous Mesut Özil back into the middle of the park.

The world champions started to look a little more dangerous going forward after the Dortmund man’s introduction, though more in desperation than thanks to any creative spark, while Löw’s faith in Draxler was somewhat rewarded by a display that, although far short of stunning, put his senior partners Özil and Thomas Müller in the shade.

Time to ring the changes?

But the change did nothing to stem the flow of Mexican counterattacks, with Özil often the deepest of Germany’s midfielders, a role he couldn’t be less suited to.

Löw waited until the 80th minute to make his second change and the 86th minute to make his third. The men brought on — Mario Gomez and Julian Brandt — went as close as any German player all game.

With the exception of Boateng, Hummels and Neuer, his senior men let him down. All have plenty of credit in the bank but Löw must decide if that’s enough. Would Ilkay Gündogan, Leon Goretzka or  Sebastian Rudy stiffen the midfield? Is Reus a better bet than Özil or Müller? Or is this result enough to shake his leading men from their slumber?

As concerning as this display was, it’s unlikely to be fatal. In Spain in 1982, Germany lost their opener to Algeria, before going on to reach the final against Italy. Four years ago, they tied a group-stage match with Ghana before going on to win the World Cup. And even after Sunday, Sweden and South Korea should be easily swatted aside.

Many had felt the same way about Mexico. But the team in green offered a thoroughly convincing blueprint for how to topple the holders, one that’s available to any side with pace and the ability to counter-attack.

After months of buildup, Löw is left with far more questions than answers. He may be forced to choose between his heart and his head.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 20, 2018, 09:53:26 PM
Where is Sane, Mr. Low?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 20, 2018, 10:55:15 PM
This certainly issues a challenge to Messi to perform on this stage.

When it's all over Messi wont match him.  CRonaldo not only confident in himself but also his team. When they won Euro with him on the sidelines it gave both him and the team real belief and confidence that they can all perform when needed.  5 years ago Ronaldo wasn't putting that ball back to the top of the box for any of his national teammates. Sleep on this team at your own Peril.  I was not removing Costa from this game unless injured. He is a straight up battering ram!

RE: DIEGO COSTA

And in a sense it's that that got Spain out of today's bind. Not many players are showing a willingness to engage two defenders. The goal had an element of luck but Costa's presence in that situation was purpose-filled.

RE: CR7

Also, the dynamic might have been slightly different during the period when Bruno Alves was captain ... because there's still a difference between being a senior player and being the skipper.

I wasn't convinced when Ronaldo was handed the armband but he certainly has evolved in embracing the responsibility (even if there's still an egotistical component to his motivation).
 

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 21, 2018, 04:13:57 AM
1 black coach in the tournament, like the WC need a Rooney rule  :devil:

Well, "technically" there's also Oceano da Cruz who is clearly involved with good work and an active contributor to his team's success but he has low global name recognition that essentially translates into anonymity. Just on the stats alone, he should be getting props.

The  focus in the discussion is always on managers but lighting should equally be placed on the entire technical staff.


Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 21, 2018, 04:53:11 AM
1 black coach in the tournament, like the WC need a Rooney rule

This situation a real irony. When WC comes, teams want men with the coaching experience. It is obvious that Euros will ALWAYS have the upper hand. It is not their fault. That is just hard facts. They have the all the access top class coaching. That is why even Africans, most of the time pick Euro coaches. And  in the case of TT and Beenhaker.

 But in Europe and in South American, you don't see the former native born Blacks getting up the heirarchy. They have just as much access to the training courses. But after that, who will give them a chance. As much as Brazilians does big up their racial diversity, I don't see even Black assistant coaches on the national teams. And very few on the club teams. There was one exception. Didi did coach Peru in 1970. And they were excellent. They met Brazil in the 1/4 finals and did score 2 I think. After that, we never see him again. I thought he could have coached them in 74. And a former national called Peu coached Flamengo do Rio for one season.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 21, 2018, 06:43:58 AM
Without VAR Jedinak would be goalless. Two matches and two PKs.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 21, 2018, 07:46:58 AM
Sisto favours going right about 100% of the time yet the Aussie defenders keep thinking his deception will take him to the left.  ::)
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 21, 2018, 09:32:39 AM
Pogba and France better come and play today. They just scored. But Peru running.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 21, 2018, 10:03:36 AM
Without VAR Jedinak would be goalless. Two matches and two PKs.

That wasn't a penalty!  :bs:  :shameonyou:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 21, 2018, 12:29:23 PM
What a miss!
Higuain would be proud.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 21, 2018, 12:52:28 PM
What a miss!
Higuain would be proud.
He should've buried that.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 21, 2018, 01:09:56 PM
OMG keeper!!!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 21, 2018, 01:11:16 PM
What a Muppet!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 21, 2018, 01:16:01 PM
Why did The coach still take off Aguero? They need two strikers now.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 21, 2018, 01:37:15 PM
Damn Luka :notworthy:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 21, 2018, 01:38:21 PM
And he said ... "My friends call me Luka."
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on June 21, 2018, 01:38:39 PM
Damn Luka :notworthy:
I jus glad Argentina gettin bull.......hate d entitled  f**kers

Sent from my SM-J105B using Tapatalk
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 21, 2018, 01:43:11 PM
Acuna play anything? Sampaoli might revisit that selection.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 21, 2018, 01:45:09 PM
This might have a post-match boil. More cards may be in store.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on June 21, 2018, 01:47:24 PM
3-0 bull and cum in dey mout haha

Sent from my SM-J105B using Tapatalk

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 21, 2018, 01:48:31 PM
Damn Luka :notworthy:
I jus glad Argentina gettin bull.......hate d entitled  f**kers

Sent from my SM-J105B using Tapatalk


Well that's the insult. The fatal injury was Modric's.
They done. 3-0!!!!!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 21, 2018, 08:46:59 PM
Argentina just need some help from Nigeria tomorrow, as a avid fan of the sport it would be a travesty not to see Argentina and Messi in the 2nd round.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 21, 2018, 08:49:18 PM
Acuna play anything? Sampaoli might revisit that selection.
He have to start Dybala next game, enough of he and Messi plays the same position nonsense.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 21, 2018, 10:34:44 PM
Sampaoli's reputation is dented.
Messi will probably retire (again).
Aguero is not a happy camper.
Sampaoli might not even make it to the next match.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 22, 2018, 07:18:42 AM
Aside from Navas and Bryan Ruiz, the gap in quality between CRC players and the Brazilians is evident.  Venegas is particularly woeful today.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 22, 2018, 07:35:43 AM
And that's why VAR is useful.  But where's Neymar's card?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 22, 2018, 07:36:02 AM
Neymar ent get a card for that dive?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 22, 2018, 07:37:26 AM
All kinda fouling by CR now. Ref hadda call those too.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 22, 2018, 07:55:30 AM
Neymar ent get a card for that dive?

No. It was for dissent when he tossed/pounded the ball in anger.

From what I saw initially, he should/could have been carded for the elbow in the neck.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Mad Scorpion a/k/a Big Bo$$ on June 22, 2018, 08:10:10 AM
Argentina just need some help from Nigeria tomorrow, as a avid fan of the sport it would be a travesty not to see Argentina and Messi in the 2nd round.

If you are a true fan of the sport you'd want to see teams who deserve to be there make it, not a collection of mismanaged and underperforming stars.  Other teams are playing real ball for the opportunity to advance.  Even teams not expected to challenge are showing much more fight and resilience while losing than Argentina has thus far.  Between qualification and performance thus far Argentina needs to be put out of their misery and go home. 
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 22, 2018, 10:32:42 AM
NGR appear to be playing loosely on talent rather than with a disciplined structure
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 22, 2018, 10:34:40 AM
NGR appear to be playing loosely on talent rather than with a disciplined structure winning  ;D
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 22, 2018, 10:37:39 AM
For now :)
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 22, 2018, 10:49:15 AM
Se la perdió!!!!!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 22, 2018, 10:52:42 AM
Quote
90+3 min: Iceland refuse to give up and Savarsson eschews a shooting opportunity to square the ball. Nigeria clear.

The shot was on.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 22, 2018, 11:05:21 AM
(https://img.bleacherreport.net/cms/media/image/39/08/f3/cd/1415/444c/8150/91d6af755c19/crop_exact_Screen_Shot_2018-06-22_at_15.47.47.jpg?h=400&w=600&q=70&crop_x=center&crop_y=top)
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on June 22, 2018, 11:06:58 AM
Argentina just need some help from Nigeria tomorrow, as a avid fan of the sport it would be a travesty not to see Argentina and Messi in the 2nd round.

If you are a true fan of the sport you'd want to see teams who deserve to be there make it, not a collection of mismanaged and underperforming stars.  Other teams are playing real ball for the opportunity to advance.  Even teams not expected to challenge are showing much more fight and resilience while losing than Argentina has thus far.  Between qualification and performance thus far Argentina needs to be put out of their misery and go home.
I move to second this argument part of Argentina downfall is dey sense of entitlement and allowing one man to instigate a disrespectful show of player power. .....messi is ah arrogant  twat with no leadership quality

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 22, 2018, 04:06:57 PM
Al Davis was right. Just win, baby!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 22, 2018, 04:18:59 PM
The funny thing yesterday after the game was all about Messi, Argentina and Sampaoli. The better playing team got less than half the write up. I like Argentina because they play great football. And Messi, because he is the best attacking mid-fielder in this geration. But the better team won yesterday. Croatia scored 3. Argentina should not even cry. Is not like they got 7 in they own backyard. All they have to do is beat the Naija-Men. This will be the real final of the first round.If they cannot beat Nigeria, homeward bound.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sando prince on June 22, 2018, 09:44:43 PM

2010 World champion Fabregas says Germany is walking a tight rope and talks about why the big stars including Ronaldo have failed to shine thus far

https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/44567806
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 23, 2018, 06:16:58 AM
I was now about to write off Tunisia
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on June 23, 2018, 06:19:46 AM
I was now about to write off Tunisia
Serious cracker this one

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on June 23, 2018, 06:44:34 AM
At d rate Tunisians getting injured dey mightn finish d game with 11 men

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 23, 2018, 06:47:41 AM
I was now about to write off Tunisia
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sando prince on June 23, 2018, 07:43:09 AM

The Wildest, Craziest-Dressed Fans Of The World Cup ..So far

https://socamusictv.blogspot.com/2018/06/the-wildest-craziest-dressed-fans-of.html
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 23, 2018, 09:25:46 AM
That was no PK.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 23, 2018, 09:50:08 AM
On display is what Vela can do when his head is in the right place.

Somebody will buy Hirving Lozano this summer.

What a day of football and there is still more to come!

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 23, 2018, 12:26:02 PM
I blame Ozil for this Germany performance
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 23, 2018, 01:26:54 PM
I blame Ozil for this Germany performance

You know Ozil on the bench for this match. By the way ah the German forward try a flick to score.That reminds me of Tom Phillip trying that in a WC game in the oval many moons ago.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 23, 2018, 01:40:01 PM
Shims. Red for Boateng on that tackle.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 23, 2018, 01:53:24 PM
Sweden, Sweden, Sweden!!!!!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 23, 2018, 08:32:41 PM
I blame Ozil for this Germany performance

You know Ozil on the bench for this match. By the way ah the German forward try a flick to score.That reminds me of Tom Phillip trying that in a WC game in the oval many moons ago.

Was a joke breds. They blaming Ozil for the Mexico game.

That free kick was worthy of a world cup though.   :flamethrower:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 24, 2018, 06:08:10 AM
Panama ent even hold out for 10 minutes...  :-[
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 24, 2018, 06:26:54 AM
Game done.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 24, 2018, 06:39:38 AM
Panama even trying?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 24, 2018, 06:42:52 AM
This Panama team making concacaf look bad. So let's  rewind to 2006 where a substantial amount of people chastised Bernie-man for playing defensively. Panama is not even doing that. They falling apart. Now another penalty. Lord.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 24, 2018, 06:47:55 AM
Panama even trying?

They are not even contesting balls in areas where they always contest the ball aggressively.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 24, 2018, 07:01:50 AM
Ronaldo is advising Neymar in Russia
Marca


The strain of carrying a nation's hopes and dreams on his shoulders seemed to get to Neymar on Friday, as he broke down in tears on the pitch after Brazil's 2-0 victory over Costa Rica.

The 26-year-old is under intense pressure and, in order to help him cope with this burden, he has been receiving advice from Ronaldo Nazario.

Ronaldo knows what it's like to be in Neymar's position, given that he went through similar experiences in 1998 and in 2002, experiencing tremendous heartbreak in France and then incredible joy in South Korea and Japan.

The pair have been friends for several years and are regularly talking to each other during this World Cup, speaking face-to-face the day before a match.

Ronaldo's visits to the Brazil camp have become regular, with the legendary striker greeting the whole squad and then spending some private time with Neymar.

As well as this, Ronaldo has been publically backing the PSG star during his appearances as a pundit for O'Globo.

"We cannot forget that Neymar is just back from a very significant foot injury and that he is regaining his confidence right now," he said at the end of the Costa Rica win.

"I am sure that his goal will help to boost his morale and that things will go better for him now.

"He is trying everything, as he dribbles, runs, fights and looks for solutions.

"His goal will give him a lot of strength to be the leader of the Selecao."

Neymar's father is also offering support to the player and has regularly been visiting the hotel.

In fact, Neymar Sr. even has official Brazil team accreditation, rather than being listed as a fan like most other player relatives are.

Thiago Silva: Neymar insulted me when I returned a ball to Costa Rica

Neymar's attitude during Brazil's 2-0 victory over Costa Rica has been criticised by many, including by teammate Thiago Silva.

The defender, who wore the Brazil armband on Friday, has spoken of how the forward hit out at him when he kicked a ball back to Costa Rica in an act of fair play.

"He is like a little brother to me and I try to look out for him, but today I feel sad because he insulted me when I returned a ball to Costa Rica," Silva told the Brazilian press.

"He had a point as they had given him a lot, but this one ball wasn't going to earn us the victory.

"I was saddened by his attitude and I told him that afterwards."

Discussing the forward's post-match tears, Silva said that he could understand the outpouring of emotion.

"It's normal that Neymar needs to let off steam," the defender said.

"He carried a heavy weight.

"He'll now be a lot more relaxed for the third game."

That third match of the group will be against Serbia and will take place at 20:00 CET on Wednesday.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 24, 2018, 07:34:28 AM
Fans cheering like they score the winning goal
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 24, 2018, 07:46:33 AM
Well done, Baloy. Way to cap a memorable career.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 24, 2018, 07:54:52 AM
And of course, Alexi Lalas uses the opportunity to lament how the US home and this shit side getting licks in the World Cup.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on June 24, 2018, 08:04:48 AM
And of course, Alexi Lalas uses the opportunity to lament how the US home and this shit side getting licks in the World Cup.
leh dem stay dey,

in 2006 we were beaten but not humiliated, panama maybe can be faulted for being a bit too ambitious in their approach, Beenhakker knew what he had and what he could do with it, still say Latas coulda come after England score and started against paraguay, but ah goh take giving england and sweden fits ah frustration over being ah whipping pole any day
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 24, 2018, 10:07:59 AM
Japan will stick one in Senegal arse. They better score.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 24, 2018, 10:33:54 AM
WDA Senegal was doing there?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 24, 2018, 10:47:11 AM
Started with a needless back pass. We did something similar in Costa Rica, except we hadn't scored and the match had just started. But essentially the same principle.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 24, 2018, 01:34:36 PM
Like a hot knife through butter
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 24, 2018, 01:39:18 PM
Colombia is putting on a show with their display today
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 24, 2018, 01:41:03 PM
Fútbol!

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 24, 2018, 01:43:51 PM
Was not expecting this score against Poland. My Polish-American co-worker go be real sad.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 24, 2018, 01:54:19 PM
The first pass sequence + goal was world class. Movement, timing, pinpoint accuracy.

Then we see the 2nd one like Ray Hudson does say, Sharp like vinegar.

But the 3rd one....  :o To even see that pass, and then execute it perfectly from inside your half...  :notworthy: :notworthy:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 24, 2018, 01:56:35 PM
Mexico not guaranteed to advance despite sitting on 6 points. That would bun dem if dey doh move on.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 24, 2018, 01:59:36 PM
Senegal - Colombia go be pressure
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 24, 2018, 02:04:26 PM
Every time I see Cuadrado, Jose Mourinho comes to mind. Iz many very good players that man run eh. Yet, as happened today, yuh always see a glimmer of why and why he thrives elsewhere.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 24, 2018, 02:21:21 PM
Every time I see Cuadrado, Jose Mourinho comes to mind. Iz many very good players that man run eh. Yet, as happened today, yuh always see a glimmer of why and why he thrives elsewhere.
He was in his element, you saw the joy in how he played. He and James.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: 100% Barataria on June 24, 2018, 04:05:51 PM
Top shelf football from Colombia, how Poland was seeded is a mystery to me
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: pull stones on June 24, 2018, 08:58:15 PM
Serves Panama right. all these Central American teams are hackers and they get away with it all too often during qualifying and to our dismay. that is the standard of concacaf and their faulty officiating.

 too many times these dirty tactics went unnoticed in the qualifying rounds where Penalties were not given for obvious fouls which were committed and the bastard referees turned a blind eye and neglected their duties, but now they saw proper officiating for the first time and that nonsense they make a living of turned around to bite them in the ass.

I saw kenwin Jones kicked pulled down and pummeled, molino bullied and fouled repeatedly, jovin kicked down and tripped up over and over yet no call. I’m surprised Costa Rica and mexico did not concede any penalties thus far, they too are a nasty bunch. good on these top shelf referees, keep these cheats honest.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 24, 2018, 09:49:56 PM
Argentina in training on Sunday, June 24, 2018: a lesson in body language.

https://www.youtube.com/v/vZ03z28buIg

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 24, 2018, 10:02:22 PM
(http://blacknewszone.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Jennifer-Schulte-1-e1527190926239-269x300.jpeg)
"Hello the Senegal team is out here clapping, chanting and dancing"
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Flex on June 25, 2018, 04:02:00 AM
Ex-U.S. coach Bruce Arena: Panama's penalties never called in CONCACAF qualifying.
ESPN


Arena: Panama is an inferior team.

Former United States coach Bruce Arena believes the two penalties that England earned in their 6-1 World Cup rout of Panama on Sunday would not have been given in CONCACAF qualifying.

Egyptian referee Gehad Grisha awarded England a pair of penalties when Fidel Escobar and Roman Torres knocked over Jesse Lingard, and when Anibal Godoy wrestled Harry Kane to the ground. That led to two successful spot kicks by Kane as England built a 5-0 lead.

But Arena, who took over midway through the U.S.'s World Cup qualifying campaign but could not lead them to Russia, said Panama would have gotten away with the incidents back home and said sub-par refereeing in the region hurts teams when they advance to the global stage.

"The things that happened today with Panama were typical of CONCACAF competition, but they're never punished for it," Arena told the Associated Press. "In my view, the officiating hurts the progress of the region. You'd have to be hit over the head with a sledgehammer for them to call a penalty kick in CONCACAF."

CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani took Arena's criticism in stride.

"That's a bit of hyperbole from Bruce," he said. "We're always trying to improve refereeing. I think in this last qualifying, it's the best I've seen it in a long time in CONCACAF. Obviously, spoken like a true coach, Bruce has always been griping about referees."

Panama, beaten 3-0 by Belgium in their opener, looked like they did not belong on the same pitch in the first half as England, leading many to question how such a team qualified ahead of the United States.

The U.S. beat Panama 4-0 in their home qualifier but were held to a draw in Panama City. Meanwhile, Panama were able to take four points off of Costa Rica -- with the win coming in the final match after Los Ticos had already qualified -- while the U.S. lost both of their games to Costa Rica, who have also lost their first two games in Russia.

Panama ended up ahead of Honduras on goal difference and one ahead of the U.S. in the final qualifying table, and Arena said Panama's performance should not reflect on the competitive level of CONCACAF as a whole.

"Mexico is a good, solid team. So is Costa Rica. Panama is an inferior team in the competition," Arena said. "I feel strongly that we should have been the third team, but we have no one to blame but ourselves."

If Mexico moves on to the knockout rounds, 13 of 24 CONCACAF teams (54 percent) will have reached the round of 16 since 1990: Mexico seven times, the U.S. four and Costa Rica twice.

This will be CONCACAF's first World Cup since 2006 with fewer than two teams in the knockout stage, and Montagliani defended the region's record.

"I think we have a long way to go," Montagliani said. "We still rank behind only UEFA and CONMEBOL in terms of points per game in World Cups historically, but obviously now our fate in terms of a run is in the hands of Mexico."

Steve Sampson, the U.S. coach from 1995-98 said England's victory would not have come so easily had they been facing the Americans instead.

"If the United States had qualified, we would have done much better than Costa Rica and Panama," Sampson told the AP. "I know that Panama finished ahead of the United States in the qualification phase, but with all the previous experience the United States would have, I've got to believe and I do believe that they would have done much better than Costa Rica and Panama in this World Cup."

Former U.S. forward Taylor Twellman, now an ESPN analyst, told the AP that Panama's performance brought back bad memories.

"It's an extra twist of the knife,'' Twellman said. "It's another reminder that the failure to qualify is an absolute debacle."


Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on June 25, 2018, 04:23:37 AM
In short....boohoohoowaaaaaaah!

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Threap
Post by: pull stones on June 25, 2018, 05:39:31 AM
Ex-U.S. coach Bruce Arena: Panama's penalties never called in CONCACAF qualifying.
ESPN


Arena: Panama is an inferior team.

Former United States coach Bruce Arena believes the two penalties that England earned in their 6-1 World Cup rout of Panama on Sunday would not have been given in CONCACAF qualifying.

Egyptian referee Gehad Grisha awarded England a pair of penalties when Fidel Escobar and Roman Torres knocked over Jesse Lingard, and when Anibal Godoy wrestled Harry Kane to the ground. That led to two successful spot kicks by Kane as England built a 5-0 lead.

But Arena, who took over midway through the U.S.'s World Cup qualifying campaign but could not lead them to Russia, said Panama would have gotten away with the incidents back home and said sub-par refereeing in the region hurts teams when they advance to the global stage.

"The things that happened today with Panama were typical of CONCACAF competition, but they're never punished for it," Arena told the Associated Press. "In my view, the officiating hurts the progress of the region. You'd have to be hit over the head with a sledgehammer for them to call a penalty kick in CONCACAF."

CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani took Arena's criticism in stride.

"That's a bit of hyperbole from Bruce," he said. "We're always trying to improve refereeing. I think in this last qualifying, it's the best I've seen it in a long time in CONCACAF. Obviously, spoken like a true coach, Bruce has always been griping about referees."

Panama, beaten 3-0 by Belgium in their opener, looked like they did not belong on the same pitch in the first half as England, leading many to question how such a team qualified ahead of the United States.

The U.S. beat Panama 4-0 in their home qualifier but were held to a draw in Panama City. Meanwhile, Panama were able to take four points off of Costa Rica -- with the win coming in the final match after Los Ticos had already qualified -- while the U.S. lost both of their games to Costa Rica, who have also lost their first two games in Russia.

Panama ended up ahead of Honduras on goal difference and one ahead of the U.S. in the final qualifying table, and Arena said Panama's performance should not reflect on the competitive level of CONCACAF as a whole.

"Mexico is a good, solid team. So is Costa Rica. Panama is an inferior team in the competition," Arena said. "I feel strongly that we should have been the third team, but we have no one to blame but ourselves."

If Mexico moves on to the knockout rounds, 13 of 24 CONCACAF teams (54 percent) will have reached the round of 16 since 1990: Mexico seven times, the U.S. four and Costa Rica twice.

This will be CONCACAF's first World Cup since 2006 with fewer than two teams in the knockout stage, and Montagliani defended the region's record.

"I think we have a long way to go," Montagliani said. "We still rank behind only UEFA and CONMEBOL in terms of points per game in World Cups historically, but obviously now our fate in terms of a run is in the hands of Mexico."

Steve Sampson, the U.S. coach from 1995-98 said England's victory would not have come so easily had they been facing the Americans instead.

"If the United States had qualified, we would have done much better than Costa Rica and Panama," Sampson told the AP. "I know that Panama finished ahead of the United States in the qualification phase, but with all the previous experience the United States would have, I've got to believe and I do believe that they would have done much better than Costa Rica and Panama in this World Cup."

Former U.S. forward Taylor Twellman, now an ESPN analyst, told the AP that Panama's performance brought back bad memories.

"It's an extra twist of the knife,'' Twellman said. "It's another reminder that the failure to qualify is an absolute debacle."


Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.
believe me when i say that i’m no Bruce arena fan, but on the piss poor levels of officiating and the state of concacaf in general, I could not have said it better myself...... Bruce was on the money here the referees in concacaf all suck save a few like mark gyger, and I think for the most part TT demise came at the hands of the referees. Bruce arena was so right in that regard.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 25, 2018, 08:43:38 AM
Too easy for URU
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 25, 2018, 09:29:44 AM
Do we get to call Russia a fraud before everyone else jumps on?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 25, 2018, 09:37:06 AM
All them sour grapes from these Yankees, I need to make some wine.
Doh worry, yuh guaranteed to qualify in 2026.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 25, 2018, 10:36:53 AM
What’s wrong with Argentina? We now value ‘balls’ more than talent
Jorge Valdano, The Guardian


So many things are wrong with Argentina we do not know what is wrong; so much is happening no one knows what is happening. You could start an article on the news pages with that same line but they fit on the sports pages too because these are turbulent times for our football. It was not always like this. For many years, football made up for our long political, social and economic decline.

There is no identifiable moment when it all started, nor one place where it began, and there is no dominant theory. What is true is that bit by bit we got further away from the ball, the one thing we loved more than the game itself. We got further from a style that used to draw us to the stadium, where we longed to shout “olé!” every time we saw someone dribble, trick an opponent, tease them; every time we saw a lightning one-two or some expression of cunning, that astuteness – that was our life. There was talent of the highest quality and in the greatest quantity and we allowed ourselves an act of genius once in a while.

Football matters to us; it allows us to feel like we are among the best in the world at something with huge popular significance. Its relevance is such that, to give but one example, through football we thought we had recovered the Malvinas in 1986 thanks to Diego Maradona, a national hero ever since. So the disaster of the national team leaves us with a feeling of neglect and emptiness that is hard to explain. How are we supposed to know what to do with football if we do not even know what to do with Lionel Messi?

Let’s go back to the start. The street was always our school, which had the great virtue of teaching us the trade, giving football a cultural weight and developing and celebrating players who were different. But the street as a formative stage has gone and no one has known how to replace it with an educational model like those in countries such as Germany or Spain. We always had too little money, organisational ability and vision – and, in our arrogance, too much confidence in our status as a predestined footballing power.

On top of that, an imperious, almost delirious need to win overcame the enjoyment of playing. The desire to win at all costs sweeps away your values. Dividing the world into winners and losers is an illness that infected football at a formative stage.

At the same time a passion for football was overcome by a passion for a team, as if a society that has become ever more individualistic needed something to reconnect it with tribal feeling. Turning clubs into mini-nations constructs an identity, a community that must be defended as a matter of life and death. In the stands violence took over; on the pitch, we said goodbye to the olés and welcomed in a world where huevos – balls – are more important than talent.

We saw that against Croatia. People were shouting at the players to show more huevos and sitting in the stands Diego expressed that by grabbing his testicles. Yes, Diego: the man who represented better than anyone else the best of what we had, our former style. That desire to fight turns every game in the Argentinian league into an indecipherable swarm like an ants’ nest, where someone kicks it and everyone runs more than they think, and where in the middle of it all it can be hard to work out who the good player is.

There are other variables in the equation: economic crisis, institutional chaos, televised football as a political weapon, corruption at all levels among those who run the game. The world did not help either: globalisation made us an export economy in which any player, however mediocre, is three goals away from being sold abroad. This premature escape, our footballing diaspora, saw us lose one of the great teachers: emulation. Maradona is a purely Argentinian product; Messi is a mix of his origins in Argentina and his development and completion in Barcelona.

Nor do I want to overlook something of great importance: the mediocrity of the debate, where a base crassness more suited to bad actors than good journalists bastardises the play and denigrates players. This infernal racket conditions everything, a deafening noise that surrounds everything and made the Argentinian people believe that if Messi does not win a World Cup he will never be Maradona; that made Messi himself believe it.

hirty-three titles later, Messi has taken that message to heart and when the World Cup starts he becomes a tortured soul who carries the fierce demands of 45 million people on his shoulders. And yet it’s not true: Messi has defended Argentina’s footballing pride like no one else for 15 years now and he has done so with an astonishing, scandalous consistency. But that perception became received wisdom and Messi is treated as if he was any old player by journalists who demand an excellence from him they cannot even dream of.

In Russia, it has all come together. The crisis of talent. (Did we really only find out on the day Croatia put three past us that we do not have anyone comparable to Luka Modric or Ivan Rakitic?). The lack of leadership. (Is there really no one around the national team who can shake them out of it with words worthy of the impending crisis?) The vulgarity and paucity of the debate. (Have we really forgotten what it was that made us great?) We have to evolve and after the tournament we must begin a revolution in education that can return our lost prestige. We have the genetics that can help us, a history that can propel us, a pride that will give us energy and strength. But education requires time, not haste, and in Argentina we have all lost patience and calm. How can we come up with an urgent solution with problems of such magnitude?

As we wait to play Nigeria, the team appear lost, the rumours about internal conflicts spreading, and no one knows what is going on inside the head of Messi – one of the best-known men in the world but whose silences no one can interpret. If Argentina think their problems will be resolved by appealing to courage and fight, their emotional and footballing collapse will follow and with it their discipline. We will finish the third game with someone sent off, a red card to add to the disaster.

The decline begins with culture, and we have to recognise the lads gave all the huevos the fans demanded. But huevos are not enough. To wear down a team like Iceland, to overcome a great team like Croatia and to confront Nigeria’s sense of adventure, we will need all the qualities and the values that Argentinian football has lost along the way. Skill, quality, fantasy, cunning, precision; we need to bring that together in a style that can create a collective conviction, an identity, capable of turning this disperse group into a team. Not even a genius can make up for so many failings. Still less, a genius who is dispirited.

Jorge Valdano scored for Argentina in the 3-2 win over West Germany in the 1986 World Cup final and managed Real Madrid 1994-96.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 25, 2018, 10:47:16 AM
Check out this woman's  eyes and hands (https://twitter.com/FOXSoccer/status/1010914680120868865) once Baloy decides to give his shirt away.  :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 25, 2018, 12:12:52 PM
Iran goalie... :nailbiting: :praying:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 25, 2018, 12:48:05 PM
Hard luck dey
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 25, 2018, 12:58:29 PM
Sweet goal though
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 25, 2018, 01:11:06 PM
S***hong!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: palos on June 25, 2018, 01:25:31 PM
What’s wrong with Argentina? We now value ‘balls’ more than talent
Jorge Valdano, The Guardian


So many things are wrong with Argentina we do not know what is wrong; so much is happening no one knows what is happening. You could start an article on the news pages with that same line but they fit on the sports pages too because these are turbulent times for our football. It was not always like this. For many years, football made up for our long political, social and economic decline.

There is no identifiable moment when it all started, nor one place where it began, and there is no dominant theory. What is true is that bit by bit we got further away from the ball, the one thing we loved more than the game itself. We got further from a style that used to draw us to the stadium, where we longed to shout “olé!” every time we saw someone dribble, trick an opponent, tease them; every time we saw a lightning one-two or some expression of cunning, that astuteness – that was our life. There was talent of the highest quality and in the greatest quantity and we allowed ourselves an act of genius once in a while.

Football matters to us; it allows us to feel like we are among the best in the world at something with huge popular significance. Its relevance is such that, to give but one example, through football we thought we had recovered the Malvinas in 1986 thanks to Diego Maradona, a national hero ever since. So the disaster of the national team leaves us with a feeling of neglect and emptiness that is hard to explain. How are we supposed to know what to do with football if we do not even know what to do with Lionel Messi?

Let’s go back to the start. The street was always our school, which had the great virtue of teaching us the trade, giving football a cultural weight and developing and celebrating players who were different. But the street as a formative stage has gone and no one has known how to replace it with an educational model like those in countries such as Germany or Spain. We always had too little money, organisational ability and vision – and, in our arrogance, too much confidence in our status as a predestined footballing power.

On top of that, an imperious, almost delirious need to win overcame the enjoyment of playing. The desire to win at all costs sweeps away your values. Dividing the world into winners and losers is an illness that infected football at a formative stage.

At the same time a passion for football was overcome by a passion for a team, as if a society that has become ever more individualistic needed something to reconnect it with tribal feeling. Turning clubs into mini-nations constructs an identity, a community that must be defended as a matter of life and death. In the stands violence took over; on the pitch, we said goodbye to the olés and welcomed in a world where huevos – balls – are more important than talent.

We saw that against Croatia. People were shouting at the players to show more huevos and sitting in the stands Diego expressed that by grabbing his testicles. Yes, Diego: the man who represented better than anyone else the best of what we had, our former style. That desire to fight turns every game in the Argentinian league into an indecipherable swarm like an ants’ nest, where someone kicks it and everyone runs more than they think, and where in the middle of it all it can be hard to work out who the good player is.

There are other variables in the equation: economic crisis, institutional chaos, televised football as a political weapon, corruption at all levels among those who run the game. The world did not help either: globalisation made us an export economy in which any player, however mediocre, is three goals away from being sold abroad. This premature escape, our footballing diaspora, saw us lose one of the great teachers: emulation. Maradona is a purely Argentinian product; Messi is a mix of his origins in Argentina and his development and completion in Barcelona.

Nor do I want to overlook something of great importance: the mediocrity of the debate, where a base crassness more suited to bad actors than good journalists bastardises the play and denigrates players. This infernal racket conditions everything, a deafening noise that surrounds everything and made the Argentinian people believe that if Messi does not win a World Cup he will never be Maradona; that made Messi himself believe it.

hirty-three titles later, Messi has taken that message to heart and when the World Cup starts he becomes a tortured soul who carries the fierce demands of 45 million people on his shoulders. And yet it’s not true: Messi has defended Argentina’s footballing pride like no one else for 15 years now and he has done so with an astonishing, scandalous consistency. But that perception became received wisdom and Messi is treated as if he was any old player by journalists who demand an excellence from him they cannot even dream of.

In Russia, it has all come together. The crisis of talent. (Did we really only find out on the day Croatia put three past us that we do not have anyone comparable to Luka Modric or Ivan Rakitic?). The lack of leadership. (Is there really no one around the national team who can shake them out of it with words worthy of the impending crisis?) The vulgarity and paucity of the debate. (Have we really forgotten what it was that made us great?) We have to evolve and after the tournament we must begin a revolution in education that can return our lost prestige. We have the genetics that can help us, a history that can propel us, a pride that will give us energy and strength. But education requires time, not haste, and in Argentina we have all lost patience and calm. How can we come up with an urgent solution with problems of such magnitude?

As we wait to play Nigeria, the team appear lost, the rumours about internal conflicts spreading, and no one knows what is going on inside the head of Messi – one of the best-known men in the world but whose silences no one can interpret. If Argentina think their problems will be resolved by appealing to courage and fight, their emotional and footballing collapse will follow and with it their discipline. We will finish the third game with someone sent off, a red card to add to the disaster.

The decline begins with culture, and we have to recognise the lads gave all the huevos the fans demanded. But huevos are not enough. To wear down a team like Iceland, to overcome a great team like Croatia and to confront Nigeria’s sense of adventure, we will need all the qualities and the values that Argentinian football has lost along the way. Skill, quality, fantasy, cunning, precision; we need to bring that together in a style that can create a collective conviction, an identity, capable of turning this disperse group into a team. Not even a genius can make up for so many failings. Still less, a genius who is dispirited.

Jorge Valdano scored for Argentina in the 3-2 win over West Germany in the 1986 World Cup final and managed Real Madrid 1994-96.

What a fantastic article!  Thank you for sharing  :beermug:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 25, 2018, 01:57:10 PM
Nah man, VAR wouldn't mess up the game....

That was no penalty!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 25, 2018, 02:01:35 PM
VAR saved Spain
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: FF on June 25, 2018, 02:12:31 PM
Nah man, VAR wouldn't mess up the game....

That was no penalty!

I was quite disgusted with the use of VAR in these games but now after a moment, I realize that VAR isn't bad. Is the referees is still shit!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 25, 2018, 02:18:27 PM
Nah man, VAR wouldn't mess up the game....

That was no penalty!

I was quite disgusted with the use of VAR in these games but now after a moment, I realize that VAR isn't bad. Is the referees is still shit!

ent!

They still need lessons in what is a foul and what is a handball.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sando prince on June 25, 2018, 09:46:32 PM

Predicting Mexico and Colombia to go very deep in this year World Cup. No shorter than quarter finals
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Flex on June 26, 2018, 04:29:33 AM
Things might be different this time: England’s end-to-end dismantling of Panama gives hope
By Chuck Culpepper and Kendra Andrews (washingtonpost)


SOCHI, Russia — For a hint that things might really, really be different with England in 2018, check out its 21st-century history in dealing with the minnows, guppies and small carp of Concacaf, all the way up to that 6-1 blistering of Panama on Sunday way up in Nizhny Novgorod, a result that somehow managed to make the U.S failure at World Cup qualification even more macabre.

In 2006, England bested wee Trinidad and Tobago 2-0 in group play in Nuremburg, Germany, and it cheated to do that. Back then Trinidad and Tobago, long before it made the United States its . . . its . . . its . . . victim, stood as the smallest-ever World Cup contestant at the time, having wriggled through Bahrain in a two-leg qualifying scrap that followed the final round of regional qualifying out of North and Central America and the Caribbean. Yet England did not score for the first 82 minutes, and had you watched this in, say, a pub in Soho in London, you would have detected a mixture of tedium, long-rehearsed frustration, mild resignation and drinking.

In the 83rd minute of this occasion of both inspiration (a little country stays level) and dreariness (a “golden generation” of a major soccer country stays level with a little country), the 6-foot-7 English striker Peter Crouch needed a little extra propulsion to rise above the 6-1 Trinidadian defender Brent Sancho. Thus did Crouch yank himself upward by Sancho’s dreadlocks. Besides calling into question whether dreadlocks constitute an unwise gadget to carry around the sport, the moment managed to achieve preposterousness in multiple ways.

[For more on England’s 6-1 victory over Panama, scroll down to the in-game updates section.]

By now, the 1.3 million citizens of Trinidad and Tobago, roughly the same population as San Antonio, also can chatter about how last fall, they made the United States their . . . their . . . their victim, ousting from Concacaf qualifying the populous behemoth (if not soccer behemoth). From 2006 to 2017, they apparently often spoke of Crouch and dreadlocks.

“It is folklore here in Trinidad,” Sancho told BBC Radio Kent in 2015. “It is one of those things that anywhere I go, people will always remind me.”

A lukewarm England reached the quarterfinals that time, but never appeared worthy.

In 2010, Concacaf-wise, England opened the World Cup in Rustenberg, South Africa, by drawing 1-1 with the United States, a match of which the memory bank blares with one thing: English goalkeeper Robert Green’s blunder in the 40th minute.

Steven Gerrard had scored on four minutes for England, perhaps wreaking English optimism among young viewers who refused to listen to their parents about reality. On 40 minutes, that Texan Clint Dempsey whipped his left leg to propel one from atop the box toward Green, to whom it skittered directly and without any signs of mischief.

It then caromed off his glove and slowly trickled into the net as he slipped slightly and then lunged back for it in the kind of way that turns up in many an REM nightmare of human beings. Manager Fabio Capello, such a careful orchestrator of preparations, took on the kind of expression that shows there are so many things in life for which nobody can prepare.

England did emerge from the largely toothless group after drawing with Algeria and taking the measure of Slovenia, then went out convincingly to Germany immediately thereafter.

In 2014, England lost to Italy and Uruguay before drawing 0-0 with Concacaf’s Costa Rica in an episode of a deadness that felt deader than dead. Here’s Daniel Taylor in the Guardian (with occasional dialectic spelling changes): “Imagine, for one moment, England’s bland ignominy and just reflect on the moments at the final whistle. Costa Rica — little, patronized Costa Rica — have won Group D and their manager, Jorge Luis Pinto, could be seen punching the air and bellowing to the skies. As one team traipsed away apologetically, the other reflected on the prize of a knockout tie in Recife on Sunday. They have done it from a country of 4.8 million people. Or the equivalent of 10 Bradfords.

“It’s a conundrum,” as England Manager Roy Hodgson said.

That mirthless failure to show even a hint of an EKG of reaching the knockout stage seemed to quash whatever expectations still lurked within England. The famous loss to Iceland at Euro 2016 lent further quashing. Yet maybe it’s true that, as in, oh, the NHL, destroyed expectations might help out somehow. In the days before this World Cup, England Manager Gareth Southgate welcomed the quashed expectations without a trace of bitterness, even as scribes and others spoke of a 2018 team less inchoate and more unified even if not as anticipated.

The England that decimated Panama did business in the manner one would expect of the nation with the world’s most-watched league. If things really are different in 2018, maybe you can measure it partly by using little old CONCACAF.

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 26, 2018, 12:00:06 PM
Africa or Messi?   :thinking:

Nigeria wearing the boring uniforms, that is strike 1
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 26, 2018, 12:14:47 PM
Boom!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 26, 2018, 12:36:11 PM
Otamendi should be serving suspension! Flicking FIFA.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 26, 2018, 12:37:14 PM
Higuain and Mascherano should suspend themselves!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 26, 2018, 12:44:36 PM
NGR squandered early opportunities
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 26, 2018, 12:47:43 PM
Argentina got the start they wanted, 45 minutes to go.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 26, 2018, 12:51:24 PM
Musa and Iheanacho should have tested Armani
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 26, 2018, 01:10:18 PM
What is the point of VAR if we keep getting bogus penalties?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 26, 2018, 01:11:14 PM
That was a penalty.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 26, 2018, 01:37:56 PM
If that was a penalty, then every corner and free kick is a penalty
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on June 26, 2018, 01:42:17 PM
f**k Argentina

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on June 26, 2018, 01:43:03 PM
Well dais it

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 26, 2018, 01:47:52 PM
If that was a penalty, then every corner and free kick is a penalty

That's why it's called the penalty area?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 26, 2018, 01:50:39 PM
Did I miss the ref address the blood on Mascherano?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Controversial on June 26, 2018, 01:53:52 PM
The World Cup as it is now, is designed for teams of colour to lose..

It’s a farce...
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 26, 2018, 01:55:43 PM
Hide your cocaine!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 26, 2018, 02:26:47 PM
Nigeria gave Argentina too much of the ball. Giveaways, fouls(which they know they would not get the benefit of doubt) and missed opportunities. Maybe they not mature enough. Good Luck in the future. All the African teams(except Senegal) going home.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 26, 2018, 02:38:04 PM
The World Cup as it is now, is designed for teams of colour to lose..

It’s a farce...

Oh? Please expound.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 26, 2018, 02:45:58 PM
Nigeria gave Argentina too much of the ball. Giveaways, fouls(which they know they would not get the benefit of doubt) and missed opportunities. Maybe they not mature enough. Good Luck in the future. All the African teams(except Senegal) going home.

I blame the away kit.

Nike template: 0 points
Naija kit: 3 points.

Them fellas cyah play they Afrobeat soccer in them maintenance man colours.



Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 26, 2018, 02:51:32 PM
Happy for Messi. Thank goodness Rojo scored bc I don't think Higuain would've been welcomed in the country with that miss, AGAIN!
Let's see what France is really made of now.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: futbolfan on June 26, 2018, 02:53:46 PM
Hide your cocaine!
Nigeria gave Argentina too much of the ball. Giveaways, fouls(which they know they would not get the benefit of doubt) and missed opportunities. Maybe they not mature enough. Good Luck in the future. All the African teams(except Senegal) going home.
Not disciplined enough to realise that 1 point would get them to the next round. This has been the narrative of (most) African teams. If Denmark needed one point to advance, best believe they playing with 10 defenders and ah goalie.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on June 27, 2018, 03:42:50 AM
Nigeria didn't do what they had to, but apart from d penalty, Argentina was afforded far more leniency when straddling d thin line between physicality  and fouls, Argentina committed several clear fouls that was ignored in their desperation to win...i was even surprised nigeria  got the penalty call, dat could easily be considered as soft by some and I is ah believer in applying physicality fairly to win d ball



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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 27, 2018, 09:28:56 AM
Tentative play by MEX in the first half opened the door to the Swedes who were anything but tentative
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on June 27, 2018, 09:58:55 AM
Cyah recall a WC with so many tears!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 27, 2018, 10:02:06 AM
Once again.
Play in Green, get licks!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Cocorite on June 27, 2018, 12:25:15 PM
If it wasn't for VAR, Germany would have gone through to the next round.

The whistle would have been pressured to favor the "BIG" teams. . .Not that it's pure
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 27, 2018, 01:00:03 PM
Paulinho breaks the deadlock  :wavetowel:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 27, 2018, 01:02:29 PM
If it wasn't for VAR, Germany would have gone through to the next round.

The whistle would have been pressured to favor the "BIG" teams. . .Not that it's pure

Yes, That goal they scored would have put them through.  ::)
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 27, 2018, 01:20:19 PM
Brazil playing like Nigeria. They getting pressure. Serbia had enough chances to stick at least 2 on them. Ah see they bringing on Fernandinho.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 27, 2018, 01:24:52 PM
Neymar. What ah trap! They getting some breathing room with that goal.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 27, 2018, 01:55:26 PM
Brazil playing like Nigeria. They getting pressure. Serbia had enough chances to stick at least 2 on them. Ah see they bringing on Fernandinho.
Serbia did come out strong in the 1st 15mins of the 2nd half but Brazil withstood the pressure and converted. I still think Neymar tries too hard to make things happen at times, if he just play within the flow of the game he'll create and score more chances.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 27, 2018, 03:42:04 PM
Brazil playing like Nigeria. They getting pressure. Serbia had enough chances to stick at least 2 on them. Ah see they bringing on Fernandinho.
Serbia did come out strong in the 1st 15mins of the 2nd half but Brazil withstood the pressure and converted. I still think Neymar tries too hard to make things happen at times, if he just play within the flow of the game he'll create and score more chances.

I agree that he tries hard to make things happen. But better he try to make things happen than he just trot around and nothing don’t happen. Is like people says when Messi is not in the game. “boy, the game going on and We eh seeing Messi. He disappearing. He just get the ball and score”.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 27, 2018, 04:00:01 PM
I am skeptical about Brazil. Had Serbia scored two or one of those chances they had, Brazil would have been on pins and needles. I feel Gabriel Jesus does get push around and outmuscled as a striker. NO offense to the guy. He is a skillful striker, but he does get push around, hence the penchant to dive . But has been one of the most exciting opening rounds or the most exciting opening rounds in the WC since it was televised on a global level.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: boss on June 27, 2018, 08:19:48 PM
Imagine Leroy Sane did not make the cut for the Germany side.
Just another reason why dem gettin cutass... oops, did i say that out loud..yup, sure did.. hope it starts with Mexico

 :beermug: You predicted it  :applause:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 27, 2018, 09:49:01 PM
Imagine Leroy Sane did not make the cut for the Germany side.
Just another reason why dem gettin cutass... oops, did i say that out loud..yup, sure did.. hope it starts with Mexico

 :beermug: You predicted it  :applause:

Unless Sane did something real egregious, I don't see why he was not selected.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 28, 2018, 07:02:16 AM
Imagine Leroy Sane did not make the cut for the Germany side.
Just another reason why dem gettin cutass... oops, did i say that out loud..yup, sure did.. hope it starts with Mexico

 :beermug: You predicted it  :applause:

Unless Sane did something real egregious, I don't see why he was not selected.

Sane is the least of the reasons Germany didn't do well.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: pull stones on June 28, 2018, 07:16:23 AM
This is the nonsense that would actually kill football if it’s allowed to continue unabated. it’s been appalling to see the level of the officiating in FIFA and the power given to these referees to dash the hopes of teams that went through the trouble to prepare for this tournament, and yesterday was a prime example of the ineptitude of these referees.

the South Koreans went on a mission to foul the dickens out of the German team and ignored their skill level altogether and i have to lament that it was the ugliest display of unsportsmanlike conduct......... if you could call it that. now mark Geiger is one of the refs that I rate, but yesterday he was piss poor allowing all kinds of blatant fouls to go unpunished which could have seen at least two sending off.

the Koreans went out their way to hack and impede the Germans at all cost and nothing was done to check them, which to the watchful eye may seem like an agenda was at work here, and IMO so much power should not be given to these officials.

yes there are haters who are happy to see Germany exit the tournament, which begs the question, is it good for football and the spirit of fair play in the sport?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: palos on June 28, 2018, 08:49:29 AM
Looks like Senegal denied a penalty to me...even with VAR

VAR not perfect.....I can't see how you review that and not give a penalty.

And I want Colombia to go through as I love how they play....especially Quintero
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 28, 2018, 09:39:12 AM
Damn Africans...  >:(
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on June 28, 2018, 10:34:09 AM
The verdict on the pk was that the Colombian got the ball first before he got the opposing player. In slow mo it appears so. When I saw them draw against Japan I had a feeling that it was the end for them. They HAD was to get six points going into their final game. Nothing less for Africans.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 28, 2018, 12:02:05 PM
Damn Africans...  >:(
At least a Concacaf team made it though
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 28, 2018, 02:09:01 PM
The Draw looks favorable for England.

That other half is death.

(https://sportshub.cbsistatic.com/i/r/2018/06/28/78999e0b-07fc-4a51-968a-e993b1c32423/resize/670x377/83e6147d3938b5ca0e1dbfbc2835c686/world-cup-bracket-2018.jpg)

Based on the games I've watched, I think Croatia is the team to beat.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on June 28, 2018, 08:15:28 PM
England eh sure to get past Colombia but they are on the easier side of the bracket.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sando prince on June 29, 2018, 08:19:49 AM

My prediction for Quarter finals winners;

Argentina
Uruguay
Spain
Croatia
Brazil
Belgium
Sweden
Colombia

Colombia will beat England and not really an upset to me, since previous World Cup, we see Colombia has proved themselves to be in the big league. England performances in the last few WC's have demoted their prestige in world football
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: pull stones on June 29, 2018, 10:29:36 AM

My prediction for Quarter finals winners;

Argentina
Uruguay
Spain
Croatia
Brazil
Belgium
Sweden
Colombia

Colombia will beat England and not really an upset to me, since previous World Cup, we see Colombia has proved themselves to be in the big league. England performances in the last few WC's have demoted their prestige in world football
wish i knew you personally to make a huge wager on that one. there’s no way Columbia beating england. they struggled the whole way through and would be destroyed come next week. my prediction is that england will be in the semis, they Belgium and Portugal.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sando prince on June 29, 2018, 11:59:29 AM

My prediction for Quarter finals winners;

Argentina
Uruguay
Spain
Croatia
Brazil
Belgium
Sweden
Colombia

Colombia will beat England and not really an upset to me, since previous World Cup, we see Colombia has proved themselves to be in the big league. England performances in the last few WC's have demoted their prestige in world football
wish i knew you personally to make a huge wager on that one. there’s no way Columbia beating england. they struggled the whole way through and would be destroyed come next week. my prediction is that england will be in the semis, they Belgium and Portugal.

Few key points to consider here;

You say Colombia struggled, but look at the quality of teams Colombia has faced thus far compared to England.

Look at the head to head record between Colombia vs England in the last five years

When you say "no way" I get the impression you one of the few who still believe England is a powerhouse, watch them falter to reach far in the world cup again, England making WC semis have not happened for twenty four years and won't happen this year
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 30, 2018, 09:06:01 AM
France is like:  ??? ???
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 30, 2018, 09:14:04 AM
 :flamethrower:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on June 30, 2018, 09:19:47 AM
Argentina is like:  ??? ???
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on June 30, 2018, 09:25:56 AM
let dem entitled assholes go home
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: palos on June 30, 2018, 08:46:04 PM
Mbappé have some TOES sah.  Wheeyyy!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 01, 2018, 08:41:50 AM
Why even have a handball rule, if they going to call whatever they like?

Handling the ball involves a deliberate act of a player making contact with the ball with the hand or arm.

The following must be considered:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on July 01, 2018, 08:49:54 AM
Why even have a handball rule, if they going to call whatever they like?
unless they were certain dat header was on target and gave a decision based on dat, I can't understand how dat could be deemed deliberate iniesta doh have eyes behind he head
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 01, 2018, 09:06:12 AM
Why even have a handball rule, if they going to call whatever they like?
unless they were certain dat header was on target and gave a decision based on dat, I can't understand how dat could be deemed deliberate iniesta doh have eyes behind he head

Wuss yet! He handle the ball from on the bench...  ;D
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on July 01, 2018, 09:28:35 AM
Why even have a handball rule, if they going to call whatever they like?
unless they were certain dat header was on target and gave a decision based on dat, I can't understand how dat could be deemed deliberate iniesta doh have eyes behind he head

Wuss yet! He handle the ball from on the bench...  ;D
Ah mean pique. .....steups lolol

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 01, 2018, 10:35:39 AM
Penalties!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on July 01, 2018, 10:48:24 AM
spain gone apart from brazil and france how many former champs remain ???


edit 4 Uruguay and england
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 01, 2018, 10:56:41 AM
spain gone apart from brazil and france how many former champs remain ???


Uruguay, England
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 01, 2018, 10:59:40 AM
https://www.youtube.com/v/yDIlQ3_lsKE
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on July 01, 2018, 11:51:53 AM
^^^^ He get street cred now
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 01, 2018, 02:37:11 PM
More drama.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on July 01, 2018, 02:42:31 PM
More drama.
Ditto

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on July 01, 2018, 02:44:56 PM
Some ah dem penalty though

Congrats Croatia 

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 02, 2018, 07:02:23 AM

One of these countries will be in the World Cup Final!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 02, 2018, 08:23:15 AM
Mexico making Brazil look very ordinary.

Neymar playing in this game?

Of course, as soon as I type that, he dribble 2 man and take a shot.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 02, 2018, 09:05:03 AM
Waiting on the introduction of Oribe Peralta.

Brazil work HARD fuh that goal.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 02, 2018, 09:07:42 AM
Mexico making Brazil look very ordinary.

Neymar playing in this game?

Of course, as soon as I type that, he dribble 2 man and take a shot.

Had the same thought.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 02, 2018, 09:18:39 AM
I  think Vela should be played more centrally now.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 02, 2018, 09:25:18 AM
Mexico will go home. Just can't see how they get anything off this. Bringing on J. Dos Santos reads like a gift. He's not in sync with the play.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 02, 2018, 09:31:48 AM
Why critique the lack of a  red card for Layun when Otamendi played two matches in which he played 90+?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 02, 2018, 09:35:49 AM
I think if it was another player, he would have gotten a red. But Neymar does overdo it with the theatrics
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 02, 2018, 09:41:41 AM
Tactically, I doh see how MEX making any sense atm.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 02, 2018, 09:42:54 AM
And GOAL as I typed that.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 02, 2018, 09:52:22 AM
Hard luck dey Mexico. Good tournament though.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 02, 2018, 10:09:24 AM
Well, ah guess it's on to Lukaku's exit from the WC.  ::)
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 02, 2018, 12:25:11 PM
Well, ah guess it's on to Lukaku's exit from the WC.  ::)

Not looking likely unless you mean is Brazil who doing that.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 02, 2018, 01:06:56 PM
Eating my words.

That is what you get from a Spurs man in defense
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 02, 2018, 01:14:59 PM
(https://t2.genius.com/unsafe/220x220/https%3A%2F%2Fimages.genius.com%2Fecc3d00893761dc9a3b0376d8ac8ca63.270x270x1.jpg)
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 02, 2018, 01:32:18 PM
This went from boring to all-action
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on July 02, 2018, 01:35:15 PM
This went from boring to all-action
And I ketchin my ass to see it steups

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 02, 2018, 01:38:51 PM
This went from boring to all-action
And I ketchin my ass to see it steups

no link, or no venue?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on July 02, 2018, 01:44:57 PM
Coastal and urban broadband coverage is shit in trini and I on ah water taxi right now steups

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 02, 2018, 01:57:34 PM
Translators all over the world are being asked how to say WTF in Japanese
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on July 02, 2018, 02:00:58 PM
Translators all over the world are being asked how to say WTF in Japanese
Nanda ittai

In hoarse raspy anime voice

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 02, 2018, 02:07:28 PM
That was ridiculous!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on July 02, 2018, 09:52:33 PM
I feel it for Japan, losing like that is worse than penalty kicks
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on July 02, 2018, 10:07:41 PM
I feel it for Japan, losing like that is worse than penalty kicks
Well I don't feel sorry for them, they stop playing in dey last group game because dey was ahead on fair play......dat game make news for all d wrong reasons. ..sad Senegal couldn't find ah goal to qualify actually playing football

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on July 02, 2018, 10:58:18 PM
I feel it for Japan, losing like that is worse than penalty kicks
Well I don't feel sorry for them, they stop playing in dey last group game because dey was ahead on fair play......dat game make news for all d wrong reasons. ..sad Senegal couldn't find ah goal to qualify actually playing football

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You have a point but that was due to a stupid rule by FIFA, Japan advanced and they didn't play fair. They used the system to their advantage.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Tallman on July 03, 2018, 02:40:19 AM
I feel it for Japan, losing like that is worse than penalty kicks

Dat was pure naivety. Why at dat point in de game would you decide to launch a corner into de penalty area?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: FF on July 03, 2018, 04:29:44 AM
I absolutely love the subplots peppered throughout the World Cup. In the final group game against Poland, Japan stopped playing as the result in the Colombia-Senegal match was going in their favour and they didn’t want to risk conceding goals/yellow cards which would lead to elimination. Ironically they went through on Fair Play points!

The Japan manager was ashamed, he stated publicly that he regretted his own tactics, and promised to make up for it in the round of 16. The shadow of the ethical transgression was clearly looming large as Japan decided to attack Belgium even as they were 2-0 up. Many would call it tactical naivety. I would call it redemption.

They took something away from football in that last group game. They gave something back yesterday.


From a contributor on the UK guardian
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 03, 2018, 08:45:28 AM
This is the throwaway game.
Man barely able to put one on frame, but they getting nice chances.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 03, 2018, 09:34:30 AM
Hey, look something happened...
 :sleepy:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 03, 2018, 01:20:17 PM
Mark Geiger strikes again.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 03, 2018, 01:56:27 PM
 :wavetowel: :wavetowel: :wavetowel:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 03, 2018, 03:00:16 PM
Exquisite penalty by Rashford. Such composure and poise under immense pressure.

On balance perhaps a fitting outcome regarding which team advances. Nonetheless, Uribe, given the advantage that COL had on the 4th kick, should probably have gone for placement, less power and a higher percentage location on frame. Pickford had to dive.

:banginghead:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on July 03, 2018, 04:16:46 PM
Good game

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Brownsugar on July 04, 2018, 06:15:02 PM
  • Colombia
  • Croatia
  • England
  • Russia
  • Sweden
  • Swizerland

One of these countries will be in the World Cup Final!

Imagine dat!!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sando prince on July 05, 2018, 11:05:57 PM

Predicting a Brazil vs Croatia final


Brazil vs France will be a special semifinal but Brazil experience will win over a very young French side

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Brownsugar on July 06, 2018, 05:49:47 AM

Predicting a Brazil vs Croatia final


Brazil vs France will be a special semifinal but Brazil experience will win over a very young French side



Looking at how the brackets shaping up.....yeah that Final possible. 

Agreed on the Brazil v France outcome.....its most certainly been an interesting World Cup!!!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 06, 2018, 08:18:08 AM

Predicting a Brazil vs Croatia final

Brazil vs France will be a special semifinal but Brazil experience will win over a very young French side

Looking at how the brackets shaping up.....yeah that Final possible. 

Agreed on the Brazil v France outcome.....its most certainly been an interesting World Cup!!!

I like how allyuh overlooking Uruguay and Belgium.

Uruguay playing a robust game. Hard tackle right through
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sando prince on July 06, 2018, 09:57:49 AM

Predicting a Brazil vs Croatia final

Brazil vs France will be a special semifinal but Brazil experience will win over a very young French side

Looking at how the brackets shaping up.....yeah that Final possible. 

Agreed on the Brazil v France outcome.....its most certainly been an interesting World Cup!!!

I like how allyuh overlooking Uruguay and Belgium.

Uruguay playing a robust game. Hard tackle right through

well they aint tackle hard enough. final score France 2-0 Uruguay
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 06, 2018, 10:09:08 AM
RE: Cavani

Tough match to miss for a player who plays in France.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 06, 2018, 12:13:59 PM
Game On!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 06, 2018, 12:34:44 PM
Seems like Belgium is not Mexico...  :notworthy:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Cocorite on July 06, 2018, 12:48:21 PM
Let's see how Brazil respond . . . Game of the tourney . . .  :o

DeBrunye has GPS in them feet boy . . . whey sah
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 06, 2018, 01:10:22 PM
Nice dive.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sando prince on July 06, 2018, 01:54:12 PM

Well a WC with all semi finalists from Europe, not sure if I like this..turning more and more into the Euros
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on July 06, 2018, 01:58:51 PM

Well a WC with all semi finalists from Europe, not sure if I like this..turning more and more into the Euros
France from Africa

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on July 06, 2018, 02:01:56 PM
I don't care who wins now :frustrated:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: maxg on July 06, 2018, 02:02:57 PM

Well a WC with all semi finalists from Europe, not sure if I like this..turning more and more into the Euros
France from Africa

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How many of Brazil team actually train and ply their trade in Europe. Maybe Europe now got them figured out.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on July 06, 2018, 02:03:03 PM
Bitter sweet Brazil fan but not ah Neymar fan he was annoying mih...... Belgium football admirer dey Dev system amazing

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sando prince on July 06, 2018, 02:04:11 PM

Well a WC with all semi finalists from Europe, not sure if I like this..turning more and more into the Euros
France from Africa

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Funny but all their black players were born in France and developed their football in France  :)
.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sando prince on July 06, 2018, 02:05:43 PM

Well a WC with all semi finalists from Europe, not sure if I like this..turning more and more into the Euros
France from Africa

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How many of Brazil team actually train and ply their trade in Europe. Maybe Europe now got them figured out.

Same amount in the team when they won previous World Cup titles, so Europe now have them figured out in 2018..nah not buying that
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 06, 2018, 02:08:53 PM
The Kompany foul should have been a penalty. But that is ok. They could lament they misfortune on the plane home.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on July 06, 2018, 02:21:09 PM
Couldn't believe Augusto missed that equalizer.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 06, 2018, 02:28:48 PM
Let's all remember that Dennis departed his association with Belgium to be associated with us. Bless you, Dennis.

Roberto Martinez is inching closer to coach Spain one day. Perhaps.

Hazard  :notworthy:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 06, 2018, 02:31:19 PM

Well a WC with all semi finalists from Europe, not sure if I like this..turning more and more into the Euros
France from Africa

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Funny but all their black players were born in France and developed their football in France  :)
.

Read Pogba's biography and you'll appreciate that place of birth is only part of the equation. The people who came brought something with them.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 06, 2018, 02:35:52 PM
I don't care who wins now :frustrated:

I understand this sentiment. However, if yuh scrutinize those nations left it eh hard to hope against a couple ah dem. Certainly no Russia. And, ah sure Sweden's fan base is growing by the second. And so on and so on.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 06, 2018, 02:41:15 PM

Well a WC with all semi finalists from Europe, not sure if I like this..turning more and more into the Euros

Ah fella named Infantino loves the idea.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sando prince on July 06, 2018, 02:44:06 PM

Well a WC with all semi finalists from Europe, not sure if I like this..turning more and more into the Euros
France from Africa

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Funny but all their black players were born in France and developed their football in France  :)
.

Read Pogba's biography and you'll appreciate that place of birth is only part of the equation. The people who came brought something with them.

I read it, and still cannot agree that the French team is an African one when ALL their black players were born French, lived in France and developed their football in France. Sorry I have to call a spade a spade
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 06, 2018, 02:48:52 PM
Even in losing, Brazil delivered some pleasurable moments today. Ah well, it's time to start preparing for Qatar making the Rounds of 16 next rounds.

Past Brazilian losses didn't feel as odd as this one. This WC is a  :banginghead:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on July 06, 2018, 02:51:30 PM

Well a WC with all semi finalists from Europe, not sure if I like this..turning more and more into the Euros
France from Africa

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Funny but all their black players were born in France and developed their football in France  :)
.

Read Pogba's biography and you'll appreciate that place of birth is only part of the equation. The people who came brought something with them.

I read it, and still cannot agree that the French team is an African one when ALL their black players were born French, lived in France and developed their football in France. Sorry I have to call a spade a spade
I was being tongue in cheek due to ah meme that claimed there were only three African teams in Russia..... Senegal, Nigeria and france, wasn't looking for a debate, hence d Smiley's........ apparently much of Africa does disregard d north

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 06, 2018, 02:53:14 PM
Sando, then read it properly ... his youth coaches were not establishment coaches. His environment was not establishment. France didn't build Pogba from scratch.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Brownsugar on July 06, 2018, 03:30:41 PM
Well yes.....dais all I could muster.....
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on July 06, 2018, 03:48:36 PM
Well yes.....dais all I could muster.....
Eh brownie why yuh scarce so dis WC

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Brownsugar on July 06, 2018, 03:57:01 PM
Well yes.....dais all I could muster.....
Eh brownie why yuh scarce so dis WC

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Ah posting on Facebook mostly plus......well yuh know, mih side eh in it nah sooooo.....meh.... :)
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on July 06, 2018, 04:43:51 PM
Well yes.....dais all I could muster.....
Eh brownie why yuh scarce so dis WC

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Ah posting on Facebook mostly plus......well yuh know, mih side eh in it nah sooooo.....meh.... :)
Ah go to say sumting but decided to leave yuh be

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on July 06, 2018, 06:21:53 PM
I know a lot of people all over the world bubble buss this evening. Brazil is not going to the WC final. Is a Euro nation cup friggin final
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Brownsugar on July 07, 2018, 11:41:39 AM
Well yes.....dais all I could muster.....
Eh brownie why yuh scarce so dis WC

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Ah posting on Facebook mostly plus......well yuh know, mih side eh in it nah sooooo.....meh.... :)
Ah go to say sumting but decided to leave yuh be

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 :thinking: :waiting:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sando prince on July 07, 2018, 05:28:51 PM

Ah see some England fans on other football forums already booking dey seat in the final, England better be careful and not underestimate Croatia
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 07, 2018, 07:30:57 PM
This Is the England I want  to Win the World Cup
By Musa Okwonga, The New York Times



I hoped this would happen, but I have to admit that I was doubtful.
On Tuesday, England secured a spot in the World Cup’s quarterfinals for the first time since 2002. What’s more, the team did it by winning a penalty shootout, which they had never done before in the World Cup. Today they are playing against Sweden to enter the semifinals. As I write this, I am beyond excited.

Here’s the thing: Even if England loses today against Sweden, this World Cup still feels like something of a triumph for England fans. Our team is, I’m sorry to say, known for screwing up. Reared on years of tragedy, we had very low expectations.
So that’s why since Tuesday’s victory against Colombia, people in England have been freaking out with excitement. A favorite meme is “It’s coming home,” a reference to the fact that football is believed to have been invented in England. Much of the country is in a state of euphoria.

At least that’s the impression I get from reading the newspapers, looking at social media and chatting with friends. I was born and raised in England, but I don’t live there anymore. Almost four years ago, I moved to Berlin. (I’ve written about that before.) Watching England flourish from afar is tough: I feel oddly detached from that unique energy when the country, however briefly, feels united.

This England team is particularly likable. An engaging, affable manager, Gareth Southgate, presides over a group of gifted, charismatic players. With an average age of 26, it’s the second-youngest squad in this year’s tournament. In short, they’re making me excited to see the English flag again.

Ah, that flag … a red cross on a white background. It’s known as the St. George Cross. My relationship with this symbol is best summed up by lyrics from Kendrick Lamar: “Loving you is complicated.” When I was growing up in a small town just outside London, the flag was one of the emblems of the English far right — nationalists for whom that red cross symbolized exclusivity, purity, whiteness. Whenever I saw it in the windows of a pub, it was a warning to quicken my step.

The current England team, though, couldn’t be farther from the vision of the nationalists who like to wave that flag. Of the 11 players who started the game against Colombia, six had parents of non-English heritage. Southgate himself has emphasized this: “We are a team with our diversity and youth that represents modern England,” he said recently.

I agree — and I disagree. I think there are several modern Englands. There’s the England in which Southgate delights. But there’s also the England of The Daily Mail and The Sun, two of the country’s most-read newspapers, both of which routinely spout anti-immigrant invectives. (The Sun’s xenophobic headlines have even attracted the attention of the United Nations’ human rights commissioner.) There’s the England that wanted to leave the European Union because of its treatment of African farmers, and then there’s the England that wanted to leave the European Union because it didn’t want immigrants from, er, outside the European Union.

I want Southgate’s England to win. That’s the one I’m cheering for.

The last time Britain was so united — during the 2012 Olympics — was followed by years of austerity, which eventually led to the toxic climate that resulted in the Brexit referendum. I am cautiously optimistic that this World Cup bliss isn’t another false dawn. An English friend told me that he’d never seen the country connect with a team like it has with this one. Another friend posted a thread that went viral on Twitter with a message I can get behind: Englishness isn’t just for people with white skin. It’s for everyone.

That’s good enough for me, and a future I want to believe in. And frankly, if England can win a penalty shootout at a World Cup, anything is possible.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 07, 2018, 09:38:33 PM
Who feels it knows it. Mandatory listening. (And Sando P,  dis link is also related to previous comments about outside the establishment).

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p06cxwsc
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sando prince on July 07, 2018, 10:03:25 PM
Who feels it knows it. Mandatory listening. (And Sando P,  dis link is also related to previous comments about outside the establishment).

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p06cxwsc

I know about this Belgium player, my previous comment as intended was meant for the black French players. My point is they were all born, lived their adult lives and developed their football in France and not Africa. To me they are nothing else but French

This is different from some of the black players who were on the French 1998 World Cup team
.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sando prince on July 08, 2018, 08:12:14 AM
Look like people going with France or England https://tinyurl.com/yalg8dgv
.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on July 08, 2018, 09:49:10 AM
Look like people going with France or England https://tinyurl.com/yalg8dgv
.
It was ah tongue in cheek jab, but most of dem fellas coulda play for dey parents birth land if so motivated so....

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: E-man on July 08, 2018, 10:25:15 AM
Look like people going with France or England https://tinyurl.com/yalg8dgv
.
It was ah tongue in cheek jab, but most of dem fellas coulda play for dey parents birth land if so motivated so....

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France was a finalist in my original bracket vs Germany. So France is it for me, though any of these teams could do it. A new winner would be great, too.

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on July 08, 2018, 11:08:16 AM
I saw Spain released Hierro, I wonder if they regret the decision of letting their coach go 2 days before the 1st game.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on July 08, 2018, 12:47:12 PM
I thought Hierro did a decent job looking at the controversial nature under which he got the job. I blame the president and or the association for handicapping the tram.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sando prince on July 08, 2018, 03:16:14 PM
Look like people going with France or England https://tinyurl.com/yalg8dgv
.
It was ah tongue in cheek jab, but most of dem fellas coulda play for dey parents birth land if so motivated so....

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coulda play? there is no 'ifs' , 'coulda' or 'shoulda' in sports. Its what is the reality, bust since we speculating how about they coulda not wanted to play for any other country but their home country France?
.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on July 08, 2018, 03:48:54 PM
Look like people going with France or England https://tinyurl.com/yalg8dgv
.
It was ah tongue in cheek jab, but most of dem fellas coulda play for dey parents birth land if so motivated so....

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coulda play? there is no 'ifs' , 'coulda' or 'shoulda' in sports. Its what is the reality, bust since we speculating how about they coulda not wanted to play for any other country but their home country France?
.
Chill I made a point in jest, unravel yuh panty from yuh ass killjoy

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sando prince on July 08, 2018, 06:56:57 PM
Look like people going with France or England https://tinyurl.com/yalg8dgv
.
It was ah tongue in cheek jab, but most of dem fellas coulda play for dey parents birth land if so motivated so....

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coulda play? there is no 'ifs' , 'coulda' or 'shoulda' in sports. Its what is the reality, bust since we speculating how about they coulda not wanted to play for any other country but their home country France?
.
Chill I made a point in jest, unravel yuh panty from yuh ass killjoy

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Its ok old man, I am just pointing out facts. Go take yuh viagra next time you need a rise
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on July 09, 2018, 07:26:45 AM
Look like people going with France or England https://tinyurl.com/yalg8dgv
.
It was ah tongue in cheek jab, but most of dem fellas coulda play for dey parents birth land if so motivated so....

Sent from my BLU STUDIO C 8+8 using Tapatalk



coulda play? there is no 'ifs' , 'coulda' or 'shoulda' in sports. Its what is the reality, bust since we speculating how about they coulda not wanted to play for any other country but their home country France?
.
Chill I made a point in jest, unravel yuh panty from yuh ass killjoy

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Its ok old man, I am just pointing out facts. Go take yuh viagra next time you need a rise
Wow even your attempt at insult have no joy.......carry on :

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on July 09, 2018, 07:29:41 AM
Seeker thanks for d podcast have ah new found respect for lukaku

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Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: StoreBayLimer on July 10, 2018, 01:57:38 AM
Look like people going with France or England https://tinyurl.com/yalg8dgv
.
It was ah tongue in cheek jab, but most of dem fellas coulda play for dey parents birth land if so motivated so....

Sent from my BLU STUDIO C 8+8 using Tapatalk



France was a finalist in my original bracket vs Germany. So France is it for me, though any of these teams could do it. A new winner would be great, too.


Belgium and France are the two teams I wanted to see in the final. That kind of team from a small country like Belgium comes along once in a proverbial generation (in this case it might be twice) and it would be fantastic if they win the whole thing. 

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 10, 2018, 03:54:05 PM
France fulfills its destiny. No complaint.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on July 10, 2018, 06:54:14 PM
Every team I supported lost thus far, tomorrow I'm rooting for England!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Brownsugar on July 10, 2018, 07:35:32 PM
Every team I supported lost thus far, tomorrow I'm rooting for England!

 :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: fordy on July 10, 2018, 10:59:13 PM
Every team I supported lost thus far, tomorrow I'm rooting for England!

Good game on tap later today. Hopefully Croatia can muster up the energy to give England some trouble.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on July 11, 2018, 03:27:54 PM
Cyar catch a break :devil:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on July 11, 2018, 03:30:30 PM
See in Qatar, or 2026!!!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Brownsugar on July 11, 2018, 05:35:07 PM
Trophy's coming home!!! 

NOT!!!!

:rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl:

Better luck next time Hengerland...... :rotfl: :rotfl:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on July 11, 2018, 09:31:44 PM
Anyone noticed the T&T flag someone was waving at the game today? Was it a forum member?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: davyjenny1 on July 11, 2018, 10:14:34 PM
The brits were so badly wounded and beaten they ended up playing with ten men without any replacement cause they used all their subs. This is a cut arse they won't forget for decades.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: davyjenny1 on July 11, 2018, 10:16:44 PM
Anyone noticed the T&T flag someone was waving at the game today? Was it a forum member?

Yes... visible in the first half and segments of the game.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Bitter on July 14, 2018, 08:05:04 AM
I see England have turned into England
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Sando prince on July 15, 2018, 08:46:03 AM

prediction France 2-0 Croatia
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on July 15, 2018, 08:46:50 AM
I backing France
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 15, 2018, 08:55:44 AM
To good football. I doh have a sentimental favourite but iz hard to distance myself from the sons of Thuram and Desailly.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 15, 2018, 09:48:19 AM
Now I'm firmly in the Croatian camp. They merit lifting this trophy. Hope they equalize and move on. France hasn't played anything deserving.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 15, 2018, 09:52:46 AM

prediction France 2-0 Croatia

We could be building to a 3-2 finish with the score at 2-1.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: lefty on July 15, 2018, 10:27:46 AM

prediction France 2-0 Croatia

We could be building to a 3-2 finish with the score at 2-1.
Everybody wrong

Sent from my BLU STUDIO C 8+8 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: soccerman on July 15, 2018, 11:11:26 AM
This game can be cruel, Croatia played the better game but goals win matches.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 15, 2018, 01:21:36 PM
This game can be cruel, Croatia played the better game but goals win matches.

Would it be accurate to say Croatia played the better tournament?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 15, 2018, 01:27:15 PM
Two things that occurred in this match did not surprise me:

(1) Pitana's influence upon the match and (2) Lloris making that error.

Ah wonder how much licks de pitch invaders get?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 15, 2018, 01:28:21 PM

prediction France 2-0 Croatia

We could be building to a 3-2 finish with the score at 2-1.
Everybody wrong

Sent from my BLU STUDIO C 8+8 using Tapatalk



Dead.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on July 15, 2018, 04:00:53 PM
Never hadFrancois in the final far less winning.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Cocorite on July 15, 2018, 07:57:47 PM
This game can be cruel, Croatia played the better game but goals win matches.

Would it be accurate to say Croatia played the better tournament?

Disagree with both.

France played a more intelligent game . . . Smarter and better.

But these are all opinions.

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on July 15, 2018, 08:29:12 PM
This game can be cruel, Croatia played the better game but goals win matches.

Would it be accurate to say Croatia played the better tournament?

Disagree with both.

France played a more intelligent game . . . Smarter and better.

But these are all opinions.


I see that too but I doh know whether France should be credited for playing the only quiver in its arsenal.  Ah mean if I only have one bullet and you have bullets, axes, hammers, bombs etc. deciding to shoot is a no brainer and deciding to hold my bullet for an opportune moment is a no brainer too.

But if I get lucky along the way and you get wounded or injured, without me firing a shot, then my bullet counts for more.

To me, France exhibited some of the traits that saw them lose to Portugal in 2016. The brilliance came only after Croatia was wounded and bleeding.

As a collective Croatia was better. France had individual brilliance but Croatia has had the same.

Without the bad luck, my sense is that Croatia was going to purge France.

On the day, France decided it wasn't inclined to go toe to toe with Croatia and Croatia understood it could play France on any terms (but that of a disputatious call and bad luck).

This France for all its genius parts was an unconvincing champion.

What's Deschamps' playing identity? Something Dungaesque and opportunistic. Reminds me of Argentina under Pasarella with better outcomes but the same lack of collective conviction.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Tallman on July 15, 2018, 09:01:28 PM
This game can be cruel, Croatia played the better game but goals win matches.

Exactly. The score does not reflect the actual match. But so it does go sometimes.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: palos on July 16, 2018, 11:27:48 AM
Disagree with Asylum and Tallman

To say that France played with the only quiver they have in their arsenal (unless that was a sly dig at arsenal) is disingenuous IMO.

France was the most COMPLETE team at this world cup.  Bar none.

They didn't lose a match
They didn't have to go to penalties
They were in the toughest part of the knockout draw and purge everybody they played.  In normal time.  With relative ease to boot.

So they didn't turn on the style often enough for our liking.  So?

They did what they had to do....efficiently....even ruthlessly at times.

People bawling bout Griezmann dive.  So he did.  He didn't dive for Mandzukic to put the ball in the net though.  Mandukic did that all on his own.  Griezmann put in a quality ball.  And Griezmann is not the first to dive in this tournament.  Every single team did it.

As for the penalty.  Ball hit hand in the area.  Penalty.  Simple enough.   Unfortunate?  To some extent yes.  But that's the game.  Everybody plays the same game.

France were more than worthy champions IMO.  And I am not a France fan.  My team is Brazil.....the 2nd most COMPLETE team in the competition IMO. 


Quote
Croatia played the better game but goals win matches.
Again I disagree.  Croatia played the better 1st half.  Much better than France.

But yuh doh always win a game after the 1st half.

As dominant as Croatia were in the 1st half, France were just as, if not more dominant in the 2nd half than Croatia was in the 1st half.

Very similar to the Belgium vs Brazil game.  Except......while Belgium were better than Brazil in the first half, they weren't "dominant".  Brazil hit the bar and had numerous chances.    In the 2nd half....Brazil were dominant but failed to score the required number of goals.   That's the difference in the 2 games.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Flex on July 17, 2018, 05:41:30 AM
List of prize money for 2018 World Cup

$8 million: Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iran, Morocco, Peru, Australia, Nigeria, Iceland, Serbia, Costa Rica, South Korea, Germany, Tunisia, Panama, Senegal, Poland (knocked out in group stage)

$12 million: Portugal, Argentina, Mexico, Japan, Spain, Denmark, Switzerland, Colombia (reached Round of 16)

$16 million: Uruguay, Brazil, Russia, Sweden (quarterfinalists)

$22 million: England (fourth)

$24 million: Belgium (third)

$28 million: Croatia (runners up)

$38 million: France (winners)

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on July 17, 2018, 07:10:21 AM
Damn, we missed out on that 38 million.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Mad Scorpion a/k/a Big Bo$$ on July 17, 2018, 08:22:50 AM
Damn, we missed out on that 38 million.
:rotfl:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Brownsugar on July 17, 2018, 06:44:56 PM
Damn, we missed out on that 38 million.
:rotfl:
:rotfl: :rotfl:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on September 11, 2018, 05:28:09 PM
Maradona says Mexico vs Germany is the way football should be played and he seemed to recommend viewing the match again with a spliff at the ready. Said this during the media presentation of his unveiling as coach of Dorados (Ascenso MX).

Legend on and off the field.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Deeks on September 11, 2018, 06:43:41 PM
With a spliff!!! Fine example!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Tallman on September 11, 2018, 06:48:57 PM
With a spliff!!! Fine example!

It doh have tuh be ah spliff. Could be ah chillum. :devil:
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: Cocorite on September 11, 2018, 10:53:08 PM
With a spliff!!! Fine example!

It doh have tuh be ah spliff. Could be ah chillum. :devil:

Long time I ain't hear that one
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Thread
Post by: asylumseeker on February 21, 2020, 03:55:56 AM
Angel Aceña who contributed to Costa Rica's WC effort as "fitness coach" published yesterday research he did on assessing the difference in cortisol levels between players in the Starting XI and players not named as starters.

It'shere (https://ws072.juntadeandalucia.es/ojs/index.php/ramd/article/view/724) but I've posted an accompanying English summary.

These days Aceña is with Zambia.

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/D_BPDAxXsAAQjd0?format=jpg&name=small)
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