13 Days. Never has so much expectation been placed on England before, a result is required, a win against the Slovenians. Its not all about England, Germany could be out if they aren't too careful. USA need to perform and Australia, ideally need to try and keep all 11 men on the pitch. World Cup Day 13, my word, we should be in for a treat and a half.
At least we're not as bad as France
Groups A and B are now all sorted. Six teams are now confirmed for the next round, six teams are confirmed to be heading home (and in France's case, in second class). Uruguay, Mexico, Argentina and South Korea all join the Netherlands and Brazil in the Round 16, while the hosts South Africa, France, Greece and Nigeria won't be taking any further part.
France, did go out in style, losing 2-1 to South Africa. They also managed to get a player sent off and Raymond Domenech even refused to shake Carlos Alberto Parreira's hand. Brilliant stuff. Glad they go out without even winning a game and stone dead last.
Greece are also out, and for the first time since they believed in the Gods, they went into attacking mode. Ultimately, it didn't pay off as Argentina (or RGentina now) ended up with a comfortable 2-0 win.
In one of the games of the tournament, South Korea got the all important point against Nigeria in a 2-2 draw. But it could have been so much more for the Africans had Yakabu (or Yak-a-boo if you're Greg Brady) scored from two yard out, into an open goal.
And Mexico v Uruguay happened, both teams went through.
I'll end this section off with something that Janna mentioned in the comments yesterday. 5 Live allow a bloke called David Henson to write a parody song about the World Cup every Monday. His latest effort, which I've possibly nicked for the header, is nothing short than brilliant. Do check it out before any of today's games, probably before Englands as it still applies then.
Nations expect
Slovenia. USA. England. Algeria. Ghana. Germany. Serbia. Australia. Any of these teams could qualify, any of these teams could be playing their final game today. It is ridiculously close in both groups. Group C sees three points between first placed Slovenia and fourth placed Algeria, its the same in Group D.
England have the weight of the nation behind them. Fail and a catastrophic moment in recent English football history occurs. In what was originally seen as an easy group, they have drawn two games. In both games they have been unimpressive, lacking the desire, especially against Algeria. Everyone has come under critisicm (except for, possibly the first time in his career, David James). John Terry then made a blunder during a press conference in which he had to apologise for, this isn't the most glamorous moment in football history.
Germany should have qualified already. But they find themselves in a must win match against group leaders Ghana. A perfect performance against Australia was cancelled out when they lost to Serbia 1-0. They even missed a penalty. Ghana will be worthy opponents, and they know they could be eliminated if results go against them in the Serbia-Australia match. It is a tricky game for Germany and they don't want to slip up. Ghana is Africa's best chance of a team in the knockout stages.
The games
Slovenia v England, Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Kickoff: 15:00 (GMT+1), BBC1
This game is bigger than massive. Players need to perform for England. Slovenia have found themselves to be difficult opponents, beating Algeria and drawing to the USA. A result against England will see Slovenia qualify for the next round, a defeat could also see them through assuming Algeria and the USA draw. For England, they must win this game, anything but will likely see them out. This game should have an England win written all over it, but I am not so sure. Slovenia will fancy their chances and if star players like Robert Koren perform. But England will be playing in red, on the BBC. A lucky combination? Lets hope so.
Key Players: Robert Koren (Slovenia), Steven Gerrard (England)
USA v Algeria, Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Kickoff: 15:00 (GMT+1), BBC Red Button
The English will be keeping an eye out on this game as well. The result from this could have a bearing on if England go through. USA will qualify if they win, if they draw, they must hope that England loser or fail to score as many as them in a draw. Algeria qualify if they win, a draw will not be good enough. USA have shown they have the capability to score, but in my eyes I think they can play better. Algeria played alright against England, but that didn't take much, I don't think they stand much chance of beating them.
Key Players: Landon Donovan (USA), Madjid Bougherra (Algeria)
Australia v Serbia, Mbombela Stadium, Kickoff: 19:30 (GMT+1), ITV4
Poor Australia stand little chance of qualifying, the must beat Serbia and then hope that Ghana beat Germany. If that game is a draw they need to beat Serbia by eight goals, an unlikely task. Serbia just need a win and they would be through, and if Ghana v Germany is drawn they would go through as winners. They can also draw this game and go through as long as Germany get beat. This game is hard to call, in my eyes Serbia have underperformed and were highly lucky to beat Germany. However, Australia haven't been the best team of the tournament and with their disciplinary record as it is too. This should be an attacking match with both teams going for the win.
Key Players: Tim Cahill (Australia), Nicola Zigic (Serbia)
Ghana v Germany, Soccer City Stadium, Kickoff: 19:30 (GMT+1), ITV1
The top two, my oh my this could be an epic. Ghana will look for a draw, that will guide them safely into the next round. A defeat could see them in the clutches of Australia or Serbia should either of them win. Germany need a win ideally, a draw along with a Serbia win will see them out. Now that will be a massive shock especially after a big performance against Australia. Miroslav Klose is suspended for this game for the Germans, the German sounding Cacau will probably be a crucial man in the German attack. They will go for the win, and I fear for the Ghanian defence.
Key Players: Kevin-Prince Boateng (Ghana), Cacau (Germany) - If Jerome Boateng plays for Germany, they will be the first siblings to play for different countries at the World Cup.
As ever, here are my predictions for today:
- Slovenia 1-2 England
- USA 2-0 Algeria
- Australia 0-1 Serbia
- Ghana 1-1 Germany
There we have it, what a day for football. This is going to be fantastic (and quite possibly, unbearable to watch).
Great post RG.
This is also quite useful for silly people like me: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2010/8749652.stm
^^ Ah excellent optimism!
am so annoyed i'm gonna miss the afternoon match. i coulda planned this better methinks.
But that would involve planning.
true enough.
Ditto. If only I'd taken short lunches.. or booked a half day..
so, France left us yesterday, today England and Germany, tomorrow Italy, the day after Spain :-)
that would be shocking. who for the win then?
no idea, Holland ? Brazil ? Argentina ?
The whole thing? I'm saying Brazil.
I see someone at BBC got the permutations wrong here: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2010/8753285.stm
Why despite a win Slovakia would still need New Zealand to beat Paraguay to advance ? New Zealand has a point more ... In the unlikely event of Slovakia beating Italy Slovakia would need New Zealand to loose or draw, not to win ...
I didn't say it would be pretty though :D
I do believe this is the England team
In goal, David James
In defence, Glen Johnson - John Terry - Matt Upson - Ashely Cole
In defensive midfield, Gareth Barry
In midfield, James Milner - Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard
And up front, Wayne Rooney and Jermaine Defoe
Come on England, don't think I can wait two and a half hours...
will that strike fear into the hearts of the opponents?
Not a clue. No Joe Cole though
Who is Matt Upson?
Defender for West Ham, a team that nearly got relegated.....
Oh. Dear.
Where's Gadget Legs?
On the bench. He's a good impact player...
Does that mean he runs into people a lot?
Err, no. He plays well when he comes on as a sub.
Oh. Not quite as exciting.
Greggs have special donuts with England flag icing. I regret to say I did not buy one.
RG, are you still around or have you died of waiting?
On the verge of dying of waiting.
I thought so.
We're playing in red, right? How do they decide which team has to change colour?
Yeah, red.
Not really that sure which team has to change colour, but I think usually the team that is listed first, like 'Slovenia v England' would be Slovenia, then they get to wear the home shirt.
Red is awesome. Pretty much all the England fans I hung out with last week wore red shirts...
I don't know that I've ever seen them play in red. It doesn't seem right.
Do we know what this ref is like? Referee: Wolfgang Stark (Germany)
Hello everyone! Ready to condemn England when they go out? :P
Apparently the England team doesn't like him...
Ohhhh yes :)
Card happy. I believe Terry once said he 'disrespected' them.
And could make England play ze Germans in the next round.
I wonder if Wolfgang has ever refereed whilst Wolfiman was playing. That'd be fun.
I think it is either England play Germany or England go home and play tennis. Unless Germany screws up again.
There's a team in Germany called Wolfsburg.
It gets better!
Drawing of lots???
FIFA managed to find a worse way to decide results than penalties ;)
My only concern is this, Slovenia only need 1 point to progress. I feel they will literally play 10 men on the goal line for this game.
FOREST!!!
My office is providing beer in the office during the match. However fourstar and I have a 2 hour meeting during the match...
...
...
...
with a vendor... with... a superscreen... and free beer... and fish and chips...
They should make football more like netball, where only certain people are allowed to cross certain lines.
careful now!
Hehehehe!! I'd forgotten again!!! :)
:)
so had I... And Amy wasn't even there!
Amy is omnipresent.
I am so going to say this at the event I'm going to...
part of being good at holding grudges is having a super-duper memory :D Not that this is a grudge :D
Giggles V. FishAndChips - The Grudge Match
Half an hour only now...
Till England get put out of their misery?
I am pretty sure Russia has been on the wrong end of that decision in football before...
:D
Lennon is injured which is why he isn't starting today..
are we all moving into this room now?
My predictions for today:
USA 2-0 Algeria
England 1-0 Slovenia (or possibly 1-1; I can't decide)
I really really think England will get knocked out today.
I have recorded a little exemplar of how to speak when discussing this match... (thanks RG)
http://www.flickr.com/photos/alexandronov/4726888355/
Soviet Union, I mean.
On the Beeb commentary: "Sat in front of the Pyramid Stage with an estimated 10,000 people. Cider in one hand, vuvuzela in the other. It's baking hot, life doesn't get any better than this."
...sounds awful to me!
That's an essential meeting. Can't miss that one.
Sounds ideal apart from the vuvuzela. Depends how tightly packed the crowd is... I've been to places with that many and had loads of room.
I think perhaps I put the words baking hot cider together as well, which is definitely not appealing :)
ooh no, certainly not!
Oooh look - a BBC heatmap!
I picked an interesting time to tune in. ;)
Come on England. For the love of god don't muck it up.
Wow - such confidence.......
Great enthusiasm, but that was some horrid singing by Slovenia. :D
The kit is very nice...
Oh God... A German ref??? :(
Listening on the radio, so am drawing it in my head
This is being built up so much, just feels like it will all come crashing down.
Slovenia kick off!
Algeria kick off in that other match not involving England
:)
I'm expecting nice and descriptiony comments, by the way, for those of us not blessed with audio/visual.
i have pics, no audio :(
we look good in red.
blimey, ref is an angry chap. was that such a bad tackle?
I have text commentary but it is always behind.
I envision y'all going GOALLLL. and me going who, who who!?
Err, yes. Late into the tackle and didn't get the ball.
Seconded, please!
bad, erm... glen?
damn this is fast football.
Lovely crossfield ball from Barry to Milner.
Close by Algeria there.
:D
we at least look like we give a damn.
Gahhhh, come on lads, stop with the stupid challenges.
ref giving us more grief. still no idea what we did wrong.
Brilliant play, Johnson plays great ball, neat cross by Rooney, corner kick
Great ball from Glen Johnson then.
awesome control and cross by rooney.
Ooh, get you.
He's being kind, really two bookable offences.
their men run faster than ours. there should be an investigation.
'ey up chaps and chapesses. How be we?
Hi all
How did Glen Johnson not get booked at least once. Kaka was sent off for less
Hey TM, I be very nervous.
+1
Great! Lots of sports going on.
meh to be honest
Hehe, me too. Only 2 of us stayed in the office, one who doesn't like footy, 2 went to the pub, I'm watching it online with 5-live commentary. Go me! I never get away with this when F1's on....
Hello Steven!
German referee does not want to be accused of being biased against England so he becomes biased towards them ;)
slovenia fall over a lot.
Sounds like he is Max and England are Ferrari
Long free kick, Lampard makes the keeper save.
Does the ball have a tendancy to move a tad?
35m free kick, taking by number 8. into the keepers hands.
NUTMEG!!!
This is much better play by England.
Slovenia defense in tatters there.
Corner to England, good chance.
Brilliant stuff by England, corner... Rooney shoulda passed to Milner
That's good news in itself!
Terry flicks the ball across, somehow we get another corner.
+1
Pushy.
The final ball has just been lacking at the moment... need to improve there.
Huzzah, Terry does some decent play!
Pass! So close to the opening goal by Slovenia there.
USA have just had a goal ruled out for offside.
Ooh, Calamity James with a decent showing!!!
USA (not) Goal!
DEFOE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
England actually scores!
Defoe scores!!
ABOUT SMEGGING TIME!!!!
wowowowo
Great ross from Milner, volley six yards out from Defoe.
Jermaine Defoe scores from a Milner cross.
Vuvuzela gone weak?
Excellent :)
Gooooooooooollll Great!
Go England!
YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEES!!!!!!!
England relying on Spurs players yet again...
From soccernet:
Referees ruling this world cup still. :(
:P
Should we just be done with it and have Spurs players in the squad? :P
idiots
Ooooh, Lampard, just place it.
Slovenian goalkeeper having a bad day.
I have TV feed + 5Live audio ... strangely, my HD feed is behind the SD on?
Lampard go home, you're ******* useless.
+1, something's a bit outta sync.
hd is always behind. encoding/decoding takes longer.
heehee. Not Chelsea's world cup. :P
Aha!
wasted ball. who kicked that?
Oh my word, keeper nearly did a Rob Green there.
LOL What was that? Like 3 chances for England and they somehow DON'T bury it?
That pitch is terrible!
We need to play in all red more often.
bit harsh!
:D 'Rob Green' is now officially in the dictionary.
There was issues with that part of the pitch, couldn't train there if i remember rightly
good control by number 16.
i need a list of names.
But really, Slovenia was in tatters there. Should have been 2-0 up.
so, does this mean Green will never play for England again?
As it stands... 1) England - 5 points, 2) Slovenia - 4 points, 3) USA - 3 ponts, 4) Algeria - 2 points
Neither team was allowed to.
All on here: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2010/matches/match_37
Here.
Scroll down.
Soccernet has them under the replay thing
Their goalie is quite good and that pitch is worse than Wimbledon!
cheers peoples.
After that near Rob Green?
Perhaps worse than Wembley is more suited?
:D
Well both are battered bits of turf, so...
Jozy Altidore has missed a brilliant chance for the USA.
I had to do a tour of the building, and when I get back... England have scored. Perhaps I should go again.
Clalamity just fell over while clearing there. :D
are you working somewhere else then?
go tour some more.
I was being an inter-building postperson.
Lampard, seriously. GTFO!!!
Yellow for Jokic, misses next match
He's not so bad.
First substitution at half time. Lampard off, somebody else on.
Hehehe: http://twitter.com/gcreighton/status/16854561752
won't happen.
Won't happen.
James!!!!!
bad timing!
Right, out behind the bikesheds. Now.
Sorry ref, but surely if someone gets whacked in the head you tell them to kick the ball out immediatly
This is a well known effect in football. All the tactical/formation stuff is nonsense but goals being scored because someone left happens all the time. When my local team score it is almost always followed by a comment from someone that they missed the goal because they went to the toilet, or for something to eat etc. This is always followed be a comment from someone next to him saying that he always misses goals for that reason.
They don't have to do they? Is it in the rules?
Half Time: Slovenia 0-1 England
They really should be doing some scientific research into this.
I'm sure it is when its a head injury.
Sidepodresearch!!!!!! :D
and half time: USA 0-0 Algeria
It happens a lot with my dad, so my sis and I used to shout "GOALLL!" whenever he went to the loo for a laugh;)
:D :D :D
I seem to remember some controversy aboutthis in the champions league- somthing to do with a team kicking it out and the opposition not giving it back afterwards - in fact they scored a goal from it. The reason they did it was because they were not obliged by the rules to give it back...
Small break, catch ya back in 15
:( My internet cut off just before half time too! Thankfully it is back now...
I'm getting a whole lot of whale :(
Complaints in our building that the broadband's a bit slow. Got LQ TV stream with 5-live commentary on our cable network hopefully.
Power cut in Teddington. Small huddle of AUTOSPORT staff watching the bbc stream on my laptop. Viva batteries.
No whale for me
England kick off!
Thanks, not good! Presumably if there was any more F1 news we won't hear their take on it today...
Oh my gods Defoe!
oooh. Missed a sitter there.
Okay, for the 2nd half I want another England goal and for the USA to get one too, would be nice to see 'em in round 2 if only to spite the refs.
A later update:
F1 Racing has now effected a lash-up to power a TV using several extensions from a socket with emergency supply. Resourceful.
Phew!
It seems our office connection is slow right now. I reckon the downstairs people are streaming the game :)
Dive
I think Glen was booked for diving when he didn't dive. What?
That could have been his third booking
good or bad call from the ref?
Bad call. The opponent's elbow did hit him.
Oh smeg offiside....
Offside Rooney, offside. :P
Say what you want about Alan Green, he's not afraid to voice his opinions!!!
5Live says Johnson went down too easily...
Is that the 5Live guy?
"I'm still being offered paper. What do I want the paper for?!?!?!"
<3 Alan Green.
Yup, he's a hoot. Not at all partial for a BBC commentator. :P
David James is determined to make Rob Green look bad isn't he?
Good. He had no intention of doing anything but diving
Rooney caught in possession there.
Oh for gawd's sake boys, keep it together....
The England game is a couple of minutes ahead of the USA game..
Is back, dinner was lovely.
And Terry almost scores from a corner.
GAH!
Barry and Terry are getting my commentator confused.
blasted post.
Rooney, post, noooo.
Rooney is pulling off a Messi here.
so close :(
Woodwork. My favourite subject at school!!!
Ooooohh. Almost a split by the defender there. :D
USA hit the post, and he misses the rebound too
Careful how that's interpreted. :P
You get the feeling he's a bit desperate to score...
Can't believe they still call the post woodwork. It hasn't been wood since the 70s
ooh, what is it now?
I meant:
:D
Its like Argentina v Nigeria this, Argentina score and then can't seem to score for the rest of the game.
via espn
:D
Kung Fu!
Karate Kid!
Show me.
Pictures!
Metal. Not sure which metal but it is basically 3 pipes joined together
Probably stainless, but let's consult the almighty Wikipedia.
stop me if they're annoying just thought it might help those who don't have images.
Temper Rooney, temper. #feelslikeanoldlady
Rooney injured?
Don't think so.
One
Two
THREEEEEEEE!
Soooo close for Slovenia there!
Ohh, Slovenia with 3 chances and really really good defending.
Jeez it's a good job Slovenia ae rubbish!
I'm not too sure how USA aren't leading against Algeria.
Me neither.
What happens if USA win?
England and USA go through, USA finish 1st.
no-one told espn either:
Wayne Rooney has been denied by the woodwork eight times in his England career.
They'll go through with England.
Yup. Which mean England vs. Germany :D
Depends... Germany aren't guaranteed 1st...
Algeria drag a great chance wide.
It is a common term. I can't believe even in America they have stats like that
Agreed...
Joe Cole!!! Finally.
Rooney off! o.O
But for Rooney???
rooney going off?
Injured... had a knock earlier.
According to Lawrenson anyway.
This reminds me of the 1970 world cup when England took Bobby Charlton off to save him for the next round and then West Germany scored twice or three times
When? He doesn't look injured...
Which means if England finishes 1st, they're still not spared the opportunity of meeting Germany in the round of 16. ;)
+1
5 minutes ago...
OI! Mr Bad Omen.....
Read 16:21, just a precaution probably: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2010/matches/match_37
Seems that England are doing their best to try and score, but just can't.
No more Kung Fu!
USA are doing that better, at least England scored...
from the bbc live text:
My boss tells me his two-year-old son has just punched his eight-year-old sister and knocked her tooth out. World Cup tension affects everyone.
ooohkay
:(
Kung Fu!!!
Oh gawd, Heskey.
bye bye goalscorer
Heskey? HESKEY?!
Wow - football makes for great role models
Is one of them English and one of them Slovenian by any chance?
:D
Double :(
5 minutes..
:)
risky business from england.
I hate watching England.
making hard work of this.
jeez.
Ditto.
Come on Slovenia! :P
I still can't believe they are struggling in such an easy group
So does my wife. She's decided to start frying bacon so I can't hear the TV :(
:)
But Danishhhh bacon
Smell of bacon + footy on the telly? :D
on the plus side - bacon!
Waste time....just waste time.
Go Milner. What an awesome game he's had.
Well yes, that is true :P
what are the US doing?
still 0-0
Trying not to score.
Nothing really. Not scoring. Yet.
did we do it?
Thank.God.
Yes.
USA match has 4 minutes of extra time! Cliff hanger for Slovenia!
USA SCORE!!!!!!!! 90th minute goal, they go through!!
usa scored?
OMG USA score!
Looks like a script meeting at the end there
USA goal, added time.
OH, 2nd place, not good. Damn you America.
Fantastic!
And the US just got one too. Perfect result.
Wooo!
doesn't that mean we escape germany?
No, that means we don't.
Nope.... If Germany win tonight = England v Germany at Bloemfontain in the next round.
:D *evillaugh*
Depends on the results of tonight's games
Well it's good for my tips sheet at least ;)
When do the fans start singng The Great Escape? ;)
:P
Red card for Algeria.
If Germany wins their group, we're up against them next
unmissable then.
Red card. Bye bye Slovenia and Algeria.
Smeg, and I was looking forward to a little sim-racing.
WOW!!!
I love the way the commentators have totally changed their attitude. Fabio was rubbish before and now he is great
Right, I have work to do. Cheers guys, speak to you laters.
Harsh on Slovenia, last minute goal and all that.
See ya TM
I'm not sure that's what the studio pundits said...
Bye bye. See you later!
Not surprising.
sounded like usa deserved it though.
when do we next play?
Sunday afternoon apparently...
The one who didn't deserve it was the winner in Port Elizabeth. :(
Tonight if Germany win they play England and if they don't win they could go out
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/football/world-cup/fixtures-results/group-d.html
what time, and will the gp be on?
27th June
I vote for winning. They always beat England anyway.
Remember Gary Lineker's quote?
15:00 according to the BBC: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2010/fixtures_and_results
Not to put a downer, but if we do beat Germany... it's Argentina in the quater finals.
Oh dear :(
3pm http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/football/world-cup/fixtures-results/
GP starts 1pm.
phew. cheers.
giggles might want to delay his radio show.
do NZ play tomorrow?
Yes.
Yep - 3pm UK time. Nobody is showing it outdoors here :(
how nice of them to play on the opposite day to Roger.
Unlike the Swiss. ;)
I think we got lucky today. England didn't play that well and will need to improve in the next game. I really hope it's not against Germany!
Watching a different game again? Fantastic English performance, getting space, looking lively. The only problem is seemingly the lack of goals being scored.
No, I just have a different opinion of what I saw. You hve to count England lucky that Slovenia couldn't score. IMO the commentators are going a bit over the top right now.
+1
I don't think it was a bad match, just that England can in no way compare to Germany. Especially if both teams are in top form.
It may have something to do with teamgeist. And the lack of it in England.
If we get the Germany that lost to Serbia then England will be ok ;)
Lucky? Apart from the three chances Slovenia didn't offer that much. You have to consider that England have the majority of possesion and the majority of shots against them. They should have won by more but you can't consider that a poor performance at all.
I wasn't really watching the match but on what I saw the commentators are going over the top. England played well but they were only playing Slovenia. Had any of those same people been asked their opinion on a 1-0 win before the tournament it would not be what it is now.
I never said England were poor - I just reckon that their next opponents should be able to exploit their weaknesses very easily...
But that will mean lousy refereeing decisions again! :(
But really, Germany wasn't that bad even with Klose sent off. It is just that the only other striker on at that time was having a bad day.
I agree. Before the World Cup, this was the Easiest group England could have had - now England did 'brilliant' against a team with no stars, in no good teams from a country with only 2 million by beating them 1-0?
You have to wonder what would have happened today had the referee been really strict and given Glen Johnson a couple of yellows early on
I'm just messing with you alittle - never write off the Germans!
I don't think there are that many weaknesses, apart from maybe Johnson and the lack of scoring, thats it.
Lampard
Rooney can't score
Johnson
Our Goalies
nervousness
not being able to finish off a team
SO yeah, not many there :P
Tis all fun here at sidepodcast. ;)
I can't wait for another high scoring match from Philipp's team! (am liking the absence of Ballack very much indeed.)
Wow - the USA game looked like a belter!
I can't see Ghana holding a candle to them tonight...
majority of it wasn't very good. Especially by the strikers.
RG - Your 'arry's on TV :D
What? David James couldn't have played better, his handling was absolutly perfect today.
Don't buy that either, they weren't nervous. That was a calm performance, and it let them play well.
Messi can't score for Argentina, doesn't make too much difference to them really. He played well today, and just because he can't score doesn't mean its all bad.
I suppose most games look good when reduced to 2 minutes :P
Seriously? They have struggled to get through the easiest group in the tournament. A group they should have strolled through and finished second. They have managed to score 2 goals in 3 matches.
They have James in goal who is prone to being dodgy. Upson is totally unproven at this level as is his partnership with Terry. Gerrard wide left is a bad ideaand I am not convinced about Milner. Rooney and Defoe was not even anyone's second choice never mind first.
Against what? Slovenia
Well put Steven. Now everyone thinks that England will do well, and I think they will be lucky to get much further...
They have the same number of goals as New Zealand! Rubbish New Zealand who don't deserve to be there!
Gabby Logan keeps asking if the Shackles were off today ... what does she know about Fabio Capello's methods that we don't :D
I couldn't believe all the pre-tournament hype that had this as the greatest generation of England players ever and winning the world cup was a realistic proposition. I have seen and heard it all before a few times and have never been convinced by it.
The idea that this lot are better than Beckham Scholes and co at their peak is nonsense
If it wasn't for a lapse of concentration by Green, we would have beaten the USA. Yes, the Algerian performance was shocking, but what I was talking about was the Slovenian performance, not the dodgy ones before hand.
Look, this is against Slovenia I'm talking about, not the performances as a group against the whole three teams. Not sure what you mean by Rooney and Defoe not being anyones second choice but look at today, they played brilliantly, Defoe scored.
I don't like Upson, but when called on he performed, Gerrard should be playing behind the strikers, I agree with you there.
Rubbish New Zealand who drew with World Champions while England couldn't score against Algeria and could only get one against Slovenia ;)
New Zealand have 2 goals from 2 games not three though.
David James couldn't have played better with what he had to deal with. A lot of shots he dealt with today people sometimes expect him to spill. He caught everything. You can't ask for more, his performances against Algeria and Slovenia have been what England needed.
Why is it people in the media who deal with foreigners all the time keep using language that non-native speakers will not understand? Thet drives me nuts
But he's supposedly the best England have - which isn't sayingmuch!
We might not score in our next match though, but up until today, us>you :D
Beaten the USA 1-0. The USA are not Germany. England convincingly beat SLovenia 1-0. In an easy group they managed to beat one easy team 1-0.
Everyone said it had to be Ronney and Heskey or Roone and Lurch. No-one mentioned Defoe.
I don't agree with that. Paul Robinson is and he isn't even at the World Cup, he got dropped after he made 1 mistake. That horrendously affected his form for Spurs and even got dropped there. David James is alright, brilliant shot stopper, yes he is prone to the odd howler, but he is a good keeper
Rob Green was supposed to be the best. James is supposed to be second best
What do you mean you? We didn't qualify.
that was a generalised 'you' as in England, not 'you' as in Scottish :D #sorrySteven
USA beat Spain and were 2-0 up against Brazil at last years Confed Cup to be fair to them.
Does anyone take the Confed cup seriously?
If I remember the reactions of Brazil when they won it... then Brazil.
I hear about the confed cup but I never hear anything about it when it is being played. I doubt I have ever seen a single result anywhere ever. I guess if England are in it then that will change.
England need to win something first so it isn't going to change anytime soon.
Exactly. They should hve got 9 points from this group. 7 would have been acceptable 5 isn't.
Unbeaten though...... ;)
Bah the England talk! Shouldn't we be building up to fantastically-beautiful-but-stopped-from-playing-by-referee Germany? :P
So which game are we watching tonight?
GERMANY! #maybegoingfootballmad
Come on Die Mannschaft! Rock Jo-burg with goals!
does anyone have a feed for the Aussie game?
Jerome boateng is starting? Wow. Brothers clash!
Germany Ghana
There are a couple listed here
http://www.channelsurfing.net/
I'm in mixed minds, I want Germany to win so we play them in the next round... but I also want Ghana to win for the good of an African tournament.
Hmm tough one...
Same. Except that I want Germany to win purely because they were so cool in the 1st match.
oooohhh. My coverage stressing how German journalists and Germany as a country is behind the team. As opposed to England.
Journalist, behind.team. What a strange thing to do...
:D
That was the 2nd time Muller winked at the camera! I'm liking him very much now. :D
Mensah brothers also playing! Plenty of siblings on the pitch today.
hey everyone,
just back in the door - recovered from the england match yet?
:)
Recovered what? Waiting for Germany this whole time.
Kick off!
Both games kick off at the same time...
;)
Early chance for the very German Cacau
That was so tame. :( But lovely pass by Philipp (not sure he intended it though) all the same.
Why are Germany playing in black? Green is their normal change colour
I wonder if he is chocolatey at all?
But black looks good. Especially black with real gold trimmings. (unlike Aussie 'gold')
It looks good but it doesn't look like Germany.
Germany getting physically tangled there. :)
I don'twant to be obsessed with the German kit but they have white strips on the shorts suggesting they don't normally wear them with the black shirts
I find it stupid when people nick the ball of each other. Such a thing as talking.
GERMANY!
Mensah (Jonathan) nearly with an own goal there.
http://twitter.com/OptaJoe/status/16868827574
Gosh, those dirty Australians....
Oooooh, blonde haired Serbian who uses straighteners misses a great chance.
Serbia goes close!
Ghana should have scored
What was Gyan doing there?
Again, the wrong decision. Not his day.
Khedira getting messed up there.
Ghana definatly going for this.
More like Germany uncharacteristically fluffing their defense and Ghana taking advantage.
Philipp!!!! Take the shot next time! You ALWAYS score awesome goals anyway!
Oooh the captain messed up there
May have forgot how to spell his name
Close shave there! Per!!!
Oooh, whats up with the German defence?
OZIL!!!! YOU PHAILL!!!!
Ozil should have scored there, poor finish.
CAPTAIN PHILIPP!!! He is like always great at blocking goals isn't he?
On an unrelated note, commentary for the Australia game on 5Live Extra is being held while the longest game in the history of all tennis is going on
So many shots on goal! 1 will go in for Germany's attack sooner or later...
Boateng is not playing well. send on Badstuber!
Lahm used his arm there, same as the Kewell situation!
Serbia misses again! And I think it is the same guy...
More chest. :P
Another dive from Worzel Gummidge - and a handball on the line from Lambchops.... great refereeing yet again!
Hmmmmm
Ozil didn't try to claim anything.
Ooooh crikey: http://g.sports.yahoo.com/soccer/world-cup/news/algeria-star-slaps-female-reporter--fbintl_ro-algeria062310.html
GOODNESS. :(
He should get a life time ban for that. ANd good on her for hitting him back
Stop complaining and get on with it! Deserved yellow card.
Basti!
LOL I love how you're so biased towards the Germans tonight ;)
Can't help it. Philipp is just that adorable.
But that was a yellow card for Muller. :(
Half time in both games, 0-0 in both
;)
It is amazing how different teams play when they realise that they are in a "Cup Final" Situation...
Half time: Ghana 0 Germany 0
Prepare for 6 goals after the break! #isoptimistic
Half time at the football and the tennis is still going
:D
And I do mean a hat trick for Lukas, and 1 each for Basti, Cacao and dear captain Philipp Lahm. :P
Germany kick off!
Football is back
Kloser and Klose...
AAARGGGH THERES TOO MUCH SPORT ON TV!!!
SAVE! I (heart) you Neuer!
Germany need to score because if they don't and Serbia do Germany is out
Fantastic footwork by captain fantastic there. :D
That wasn't offside!!!! :(
The more I watch the more I think we could take Germany.
Shame its going to be Ghana at this rate.
Never ever ever ever discount the Germans!
:D Thanks!
I know. Worst team in the world to do that with.
GOOOOOAAAALLLLL!!!!!!!
OZILLLLLLL!!!!!
You were saying
1-0 Germany
And thats why you shouldn't discount the Germans.
I AM HAPPY! :D
Not gonna happen
An image of John Cleese just popped into my head there
Wow - you're like a minute ahead of the ITV feed...
Worzel Gummidge socres!
I thought that was going to be an eqauliser straight away
yay for Boateng. I take back my comment about subbing him.
What does 1-0 Germany mean? They top the group, but who finishes second?
Group is 1) Germany, 2) Ghana, 3) Serbia, 4) Australia
Ghana through on goals scored.
What if there's a winner in the other game?
Ghana on goals scored
Then they go through in second.
Than Serbia if they win, or Australia if they win crazy.
If Serbia wins they have the same points as Germany so it depends on the scores
Actually, only if Serbia score, I think I mentioned Aus need to win by like 5 goals.
Because they got thrashed by Germany. :D
Australia's goal difference is pretty desperate though so they have to win by about 4 or 5
Right - I see that now. Too many permutations!
If Serbia wants to top the group, they have to win crazy too. :D
AWESOME!!!!!! Philipp!!!!
Ghana have been poor going forward.
Australia score!
Wooooo AUSSIES. :D Evertonian Tim gets it!
Just saw that - Tim Cahill??
WOW
Australia need a swing of 3 goals if they have any hope of going through
byebye Boateng. Hello Jansen. And I think Muller was subbed earlier....
2-0 Australia!!!
They might, just might, do the impossible.
Muller was subbed
GOAL Aussies score again!
Holman this time. :D
uNBELIEVABLE
Caps fail
Tim imitation fail. :P
WATCHING TENNIS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! IS VERY LONG!!!!!!!!!!!
:D
YAY!!!!!!!
Do Ghana really deserve to go through? They haven't even scored a goal in open play yet...
oooohhh. Neuer was almost Reina-like there. Ultimate defense to attack!
Basti is off! Kroos on.
Totally missed the Serbia goal
Schwarzer howler.
Ops. Something happened in tennis and drew my attention away. :(
I think so. Watching replays now.
Me too
waste. time. waste. time. waste. time. :D
One goal changes everything... Serbia on the attack... and miss a brilliant chance
Full time: Ghana 0 Germany 1
England v Germany, 27/06/10 15:00, see ya there.
And USA v Ghana too.
Ghana don't deserve to go through IMO...
GERMANY!!!!!! AND CAPTAIN PHILIPP!!!!!!!! (in Tim-mode)
Meh, nice to have African team. In all fairness, between Ghana/Australia/Serbia, none of them really deserve too.
USA should walk that. England have no chance :(
Well yeah, nice to have an African team I guess. Aussie were Rubbish and I dunno about Serbia...
Well, we wanted an African team.
We'll do them, we'll do them good.
Penalties! Though a thrashing ala the 1st match will do too. ;)
I was disapointed in Serbia, in all honesty could have ended up with 0 points.
I'd love it too go to penalties, just to show the Germans how to take them.... I have some funny dreams.
I call Captain Philipp Lahm for man-of-the-match for his amazing Jamie Carragher like blocks and covering for the left back and central defenders when he is playing right back.
Circa 2002?
Hehe.
Like in Istanbul 2005. Though not nearly as dramatic.
Keegan reckons England will beat Germany. Does he know how often that has happened at the world cup
Just like his England team did?
like 0 in 100 chances? :P
I remain optimistc...
That was the european championships ;)
And that was a better England team than this one
I don't think it is that bad
We did em in 66.
I don't care if it was only half a country at the time.
To be fair, Germany coulda done with second place...
http://twitter.com/DTguardian/status/16875353077
Someone did a computer analysis of the dodgy goal earlier in the week and said it was 5 inches short of being a goal
:D
I knew it. ;)
I have argued it for years. No way it could have been a goal
I knew that.
But the referee's decision is final... (I don't care if that makes me very hypocritical)
Nah. Catch the bigger teams out unawares first. Am not really happy that Spain vs. Germany is not the final though.
It was the Russian linesman with the dodgy moustache that made the decision. The ref wan't going to give a goal
#conspiracy
Rooney was injured: http://www.skysports.com/football/world-cup-2010/story/0,27032,12016_6225344,00.html
Capello completely dismissed Ghana. Good for him that he won't be facing them then.