Special Event: World Cup 2018 - Matchday 3
June 25, 2018 12:05 AM - Subscribe
On to the next round, here's your place for Matchday 3 livewatching and discussion.
Seeing the slimness of Iceland’s chances of qualifying represented graphically like that certainly helps to temper my hopes.
posted by Kattullus at 2:49 AM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by Kattullus at 2:49 AM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
Seeing the slimness of Argentina’s chances of qualifying represented graphically like that fills me with rage and despair. I have warned my wife that tomorrow may be a difficult day.
posted by languagehat at 4:42 AM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by languagehat at 4:42 AM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
It looks like groups E, F and H are where the action is, in the sense that all or nearly-all of the teams in each group have reasonable chances of being either promoted or eliminated (sorry, Poland and Senegal). This won't necessarily make for fun game-watching, of course, but it at least means that in no games do teams have excuses to coast through their third matches.
posted by ardgedee at 5:04 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by ardgedee at 5:04 AM on June 25, 2018
I'm still hoping Iran beats Portugal out of the World Cup just to see the pundits and analysts completely lose their shit. However, the team is playing so badly the odds are closer to stumbling to a trophy again.
posted by lmfsilva at 5:08 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by lmfsilva at 5:08 AM on June 25, 2018
Senegal has a very good chance of advancing as long as they beat Colombia. Poland and Costa Rica are the only teams from those three groups that are already eliminated.
posted by ChuraChura at 5:13 AM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by ChuraChura at 5:13 AM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
well, that's embarrassing - I can't really make heads or tails out of those very attractive and colorful charts. <> tells me... nothing. These are written according to some very common, normal chary-method, aren't they?
posted by From Bklyn at 5:17 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by From Bklyn at 5:17 AM on June 25, 2018
OK, in the Group A one: The top left cell of the Russia's situation says if Saudi Arabia beat Egypt by 7 goals and Russia beat Uruguay by 7 goals, Russia will qualify and finish first in their group. Moving down that chart until you get to the word "tie" (this is a mistake, it should be "draw") that row says that if SA draw with Egypt, Russia qualifies first in the group if they beat Uruguay by 7 goals, 6, 5...1 or if they draw (the middle cell). But if Uruguay win by a goal or more, Russia qualifies second in their group.
posted by hawthorne at 6:19 AM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by hawthorne at 6:19 AM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
> Senegal has a very good chance of advancing as long as they beat Colombia.
Whoops yeah. Saw "Costa Rica", typed "Senegal". My bad.
posted by ardgedee at 6:21 AM on June 25, 2018
Whoops yeah. Saw "Costa Rica", typed "Senegal". My bad.
posted by ardgedee at 6:21 AM on June 25, 2018
Suarez scores!
posted by languagehat at 7:10 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by languagehat at 7:10 AM on June 25, 2018
Didn't have to go awfully far around the wall, did he?
posted by hawthorne at 7:12 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by hawthorne at 7:12 AM on June 25, 2018
I know the Russian players are all doped to the gills and God knows I despise the government, but I’m still rooting for the home team.
posted by languagehat at 7:12 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by languagehat at 7:12 AM on June 25, 2018
Man, is it just me or is Uruguay looking far more fit?
Almost as though, except on the counter, Russia aren’t seeing the ball.
posted by Seeba at 7:15 AM on June 25, 2018
Almost as though, except on the counter, Russia aren’t seeing the ball.
posted by Seeba at 7:15 AM on June 25, 2018
Yeah, Uruguay is looking good.
posted by languagehat at 7:18 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by languagehat at 7:18 AM on June 25, 2018
Another URU goal! Not looking good for the home team...
posted by languagehat at 7:24 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by languagehat at 7:24 AM on June 25, 2018
I’m watching Uruguay-Russia on the television, but have Saudi Arabia-Egypt streaming off my local broadcaster’s site. Not that I’m particularly bothered which country gets the bragging rights, but because I hope to see goalkeeper Essam El Hadary do something spectacular. At 37 I had resigned myself to this being the last World Cup featuring players older than me but El Hadary is a whole two World Cup cycles older than me. I could still be picked for Iceland! Except for the fact that I’m not very good at football.
posted by Kattullus at 7:25 AM on June 25, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by Kattullus at 7:25 AM on June 25, 2018 [3 favorites]
El Hadary sure did something spectacular he just went and GODDAMN SAVED A PENALTY!
posted by Kattullus at 7:41 AM on June 25, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by Kattullus at 7:41 AM on June 25, 2018 [3 favorites]
Huzzah! Maybe there’s hope for the old
folks yet! Though I’ve given up on my dreams of playing for Team Canada. In any sport. Wait, internet snark isn’t a sport, right?
posted by nubs at 7:50 AM on June 25, 2018
folks yet! Though I’ve given up on my dreams of playing for Team Canada. In any sport. Wait, internet snark isn’t a sport, right?
posted by nubs at 7:50 AM on June 25, 2018
*hands flail*
Guuuuuys Diego Forlan is doing commentary for Telemundo, I would've started watching an hour ago if I had known that.
posted by grandiloquiet at 7:51 AM on June 25, 2018
Guuuuuys Diego Forlan is doing commentary for Telemundo, I would've started watching an hour ago if I had known that.
posted by grandiloquiet at 7:51 AM on June 25, 2018
Well, damn. Egypt should stop fouling people in the penalty area. El Hadary deserved to be able to relish that save a little longer.
posted by languagehat at 7:56 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by languagehat at 7:56 AM on June 25, 2018
Though the Graun says the penalty looked a little harsh.
posted by languagehat at 8:00 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by languagehat at 8:00 AM on June 25, 2018
The power just fluctuated here in Rotterdam so we lost the Russia 0-2 Uruguay feed just before halftime.
It led to a bar-wide discussion of “well. If there’s a way to get the entire world on a “let’s fuck with Putin” train, then fucking with the WK tv broadcast just because you’re losing is... about the fastest way to do it...
posted by Seeba at 8:06 AM on June 25, 2018
It led to a bar-wide discussion of “well. If there’s a way to get the entire world on a “let’s fuck with Putin” train, then fucking with the WK tv broadcast just because you’re losing is... about the fastest way to do it...
posted by Seeba at 8:06 AM on June 25, 2018
I'm trying to watch both games simultaneously and it feels like I might be bleeding inside my brain. How did I do this 4 years ago while also doing a full day's work.
posted by poffin boffin at 8:16 AM on June 25, 2018 [4 favorites]
posted by poffin boffin at 8:16 AM on June 25, 2018 [4 favorites]
What heartbreak for Egypt! That was an undeserved loss.
posted by Kattullus at 8:59 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 8:59 AM on June 25, 2018
ok fuck it i'm watching ronaldo.
posted by poffin boffin at 11:03 AM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by poffin boffin at 11:03 AM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
Every time I glance at Spain-Morocco someone’s getting salty or spicy. If it keeps going that way there will be red cards. That said, if Pique didn’t get carded for that studs-up two-footed challenge then OH HEY MOROCCO SCORED!
posted by Kattullus at 11:14 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 11:14 AM on June 25, 2018
Lovely run and goal for Morocco!
posted by languagehat at 11:15 AM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by languagehat at 11:15 AM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
And Spain equalizes!
posted by languagehat at 11:20 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:20 AM on June 25, 2018
I'm single screening it on the Iran v Portugal game, but yay for Morocco!
posted by 256 at 11:20 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by 256 at 11:20 AM on June 25, 2018
who got spain's goal just now?
posted by poffin boffin at 11:21 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by poffin boffin at 11:21 AM on June 25, 2018
I’m sticking with this one — plenty of excitement.
posted by languagehat at 11:21 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:21 AM on June 25, 2018
The ref just carried the ball two touches towards Portugal's goal for Iran.
posted by 256 at 11:21 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by 256 at 11:21 AM on June 25, 2018
Isco.
posted by languagehat at 11:22 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:22 AM on June 25, 2018
Wait... I don’t see the Spain goal... but we’re watching Iran/Porto. Iran are doing well.
posted by From Bklyn at 11:24 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by From Bklyn at 11:24 AM on June 25, 2018
More fully, Iniesta to Isco to Costa to Iniesta to Isco. Tiki-taka!
posted by languagehat at 11:25 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:25 AM on June 25, 2018
And Patricio (Portugal's keeper) may be legitimately injured. He took a pretty hard (and clearly accidental) kick to the head diving for a save.
posted by 256 at 11:25 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by 256 at 11:25 AM on June 25, 2018
I really don't like the way Portugal is set up. Andre Silva makes a good attacking partnership with Ronaldo on a 442. With 433 he lacks the skillset to play on the flanks, and the killer instinct to play solo in the middle.
posted by lmfsilva at 11:29 AM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by lmfsilva at 11:29 AM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
Morocco’s got four yellow cards already. Not good.
posted by languagehat at 11:31 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:31 AM on June 25, 2018
Iran just had a very good looking free kick opportunity, but couldn't finish it.
posted by 256 at 11:35 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by 256 at 11:35 AM on June 25, 2018
portugal scores the precise second i decide to go for a quick wee
posted by poffin boffin at 11:45 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by poffin boffin at 11:45 AM on June 25, 2018
Awww, poor Team Melli. But at least that was an absolutely stunning goal by Quaresma. Not that will make any Iranian fans feel better.
posted by Kattullus at 11:46 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 11:46 AM on June 25, 2018
Quaresma’s goal was such a beauty that I said “fuck me” out loud.
posted by Kattullus at 11:47 AM on June 25, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by Kattullus at 11:47 AM on June 25, 2018 [2 favorites]
That's more or less his trademark play. Quaresma can do more with the outside of his right boot than most left-footed players with their left.
posted by lmfsilva at 11:53 AM on June 25, 2018
posted by lmfsilva at 11:53 AM on June 25, 2018
Silva’s save at the penalty kick was exceptional - We were totally ready to cheer a surprise, clever goal, but Silva was there! Nice.
Then Queresma’s inhuman goal, the one shot he looks like he’s flying through the air, driving the ball towards the net without ever touching the ground.
posted by From Bklyn at 12:00 PM on June 25, 2018
Then Queresma’s inhuman goal, the one shot he looks like he’s flying through the air, driving the ball towards the net without ever touching the ground.
posted by From Bklyn at 12:00 PM on June 25, 2018
OH what a fucking save.
posted by poffin boffin at 12:12 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by poffin boffin at 12:12 PM on June 25, 2018
WHAT A SENSATION
This was an incredible save by Beiranvand. Ronaldo looked so pissed with himself.
posted by Kattullus at 12:14 PM on June 25, 2018
This was an incredible save by Beiranvand. Ronaldo looked so pissed with himself.
posted by Kattullus at 12:14 PM on June 25, 2018
Oh... 11 meter. It’s fair but this might put a button on Iran’s game
posted by From Bklyn at 12:14 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by From Bklyn at 12:14 PM on June 25, 2018
Today is really messing with my "the goalkeepers are not great this World Cup" take.
posted by grandiloquiet at 12:15 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by grandiloquiet at 12:15 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
!!!!
posted by From Bklyn at 12:15 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by From Bklyn at 12:15 PM on June 25, 2018
oh he got close to the ball all right
posted by poffin boffin at 12:23 PM on June 25, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by poffin boffin at 12:23 PM on June 25, 2018 [2 favorites]
So if Iran equalizes for a draw and Morocco manages to score and beat Spain 2-1, then Iran will be tied for second with Spain on both points and goal differential, right?
posted by 256 at 12:38 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by 256 at 12:38 PM on June 25, 2018
Holy shit, Morocco scored again!!
posted by languagehat at 12:40 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by languagehat at 12:40 PM on June 25, 2018
On a gorgeous header!
posted by languagehat at 12:40 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by languagehat at 12:40 PM on June 25, 2018
Radio commentators are calling for a red card for Ronaldo.
posted by clawsoon at 12:42 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by clawsoon at 12:42 PM on June 25, 2018
and he gets off with a yellow
posted by poffin boffin at 12:42 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by poffin boffin at 12:42 PM on June 25, 2018
I don't think that should've been a booking at all - Ronaldo shouldered past him, he didn't strike him, to my eyes.
posted by Dysk at 12:44 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by Dysk at 12:44 PM on June 25, 2018
256: So if Iran equalizes for a draw and Morocco manages to score and beat Spain 2-1, then Iran will be tied for second with Spain on both points and goal differential, right?
A draw wouldn’t send Iran through as things stand because Spain have scored more goals.
posted by Kattullus at 12:44 PM on June 25, 2018
A draw wouldn’t send Iran through as things stand because Spain have scored more goals.
posted by Kattullus at 12:44 PM on June 25, 2018
Ronaldo's best "I'm Ronaldo and you're not gonna kick me out of the game" face
posted by grandiloquiet at 12:44 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by grandiloquiet at 12:44 PM on June 25, 2018
Though the yellow made both coaches mad, which is a good sign of a correct call.
posted by 256 at 12:45 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by 256 at 12:45 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
(But then I think the refereeing has been all over the bloody shop this game)
posted by Dysk at 12:45 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by Dysk at 12:45 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
I don't think that should've been a booking at all - Ronaldo shouldered past him, he didn't strike him, to my eyes.
It looked like he intentionally elbowed him in the chin on the way through. Though I was with you the first two times they replayed it in slow motion, but on the third through sixth it looked more and more intentional each time.
posted by 256 at 12:46 PM on June 25, 2018
It looked like he intentionally elbowed him in the chin on the way through. Though I was with you the first two times they replayed it in slow motion, but on the third through sixth it looked more and more intentional each time.
posted by 256 at 12:46 PM on June 25, 2018
I'm expecting like 10 minutes of added time in the Portugal v Iran game at this point.
posted by 256 at 12:48 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by 256 at 12:48 PM on June 25, 2018
It looked a deliberate elbow shot, particularly as the ball was not in play. I'd card the Iranian player for initiating contact, and send off Ronaldo for retaliating.
posted by lmfsilva at 12:48 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by lmfsilva at 12:48 PM on June 25, 2018
Looked the same all twenty billion times they replayed it to me!
posted by Dysk at 12:48 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by Dysk at 12:48 PM on June 25, 2018
so much stoppage in por-iran that it feels like american football
posted by poffin boffin at 12:50 PM on June 25, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by poffin boffin at 12:50 PM on June 25, 2018 [2 favorites]
So if Iran scores in extra time, they need to either score one more for a win, or have Morrocco score one more for a 3-1 result.
posted by 256 at 12:50 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by 256 at 12:50 PM on June 25, 2018
Wow, it looked like Spain equalized but the ref said no... but VAR says yes!!
posted by languagehat at 12:51 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by languagehat at 12:51 PM on June 25, 2018
TWO SCREEN VAR DRAMA I JUST CANNOT TAKE ALL THAT VAR
posted by Kattullus at 12:51 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by Kattullus at 12:51 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
they added six minutes and then the ref immediately went back into the VAR booth...
posted by 256 at 12:51 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by 256 at 12:51 PM on June 25, 2018
It’s 2-2!
posted by languagehat at 12:52 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by languagehat at 12:52 PM on June 25, 2018
GOAL FOR IRAN
posted by poffin boffin at 12:52 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by poffin boffin at 12:52 PM on June 25, 2018
What a game!
posted by languagehat at 12:52 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by languagehat at 12:52 PM on June 25, 2018
The VAR refs are stupidly handball-happy with what they choose to review, and in what they give. This is Denmark Australia all over again.
posted by Dysk at 12:52 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by Dysk at 12:52 PM on June 25, 2018
And 1-1! I can't keep up!
posted by doublenelson at 12:53 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by doublenelson at 12:53 PM on June 25, 2018
Judicious cowardice/shameless expediency edition: ref caps it at six minutes and hopes no one pulls another Draymond Green in the meantime.
posted by grandiloquiet at 12:53 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by grandiloquiet at 12:53 PM on June 25, 2018
i am sWEATING and i don't even actually care who wins, what an excellent day for sports
posted by poffin boffin at 12:54 PM on June 25, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by poffin boffin at 12:54 PM on June 25, 2018 [3 favorites]
I’M WAVING MY HANDS AROUND LIKE A DRUNK KERMIT AT A HAPPY HARDCORE SHOW
posted by Kattullus at 12:54 PM on June 25, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by Kattullus at 12:54 PM on June 25, 2018 [3 favorites]
my heart breaks for the Iranians... they gave everything and achieved more than anyone expected and got so close and still they are on the first plane home to Tehran
posted by Kattullus at 12:58 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 12:58 PM on June 25, 2018
Can the elimination phase live up to all these nail-biting group games?? What a Cup!
posted by languagehat at 12:58 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by languagehat at 12:58 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
I'm not wrong in thinking the laws of football still say handball has to be deliberate to be a foul, right?
posted by Dysk at 12:59 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by Dysk at 12:59 PM on June 25, 2018
can someone please hug iran
posted by poffin boffin at 12:59 PM on June 25, 2018 [6 favorites]
posted by poffin boffin at 12:59 PM on June 25, 2018 [6 favorites]
What a tense final ten minutes! I really think that Iran deserved to go through, but they can be happy with an incredible performance against a top-rated team. Great result for Morocco as well.
posted by 256 at 1:00 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by 256 at 1:00 PM on June 25, 2018
I'm not wrong in thinking the laws of football still say handball has to be deliberate to be a foul, right?
That's correct. And some of these handball VAR calls have been very suspect.
posted by 256 at 1:00 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
That's correct. And some of these handball VAR calls have been very suspect.
posted by 256 at 1:00 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
And Spain tops the group.
Uruguay will play Portugal and Spain plays Russia in the Round of 16.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 1:04 PM on June 25, 2018
Uruguay will play Portugal and Spain plays Russia in the Round of 16.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 1:04 PM on June 25, 2018
Yeah, and I will be very surprised if Spain doesn't beat Russia, but the Portugal we've seen so far could well struggle against Uruguay.
posted by 256 at 1:05 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by 256 at 1:05 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
The act of playing the ball does not have be deliberate IF the player willingly increases his volume with his arms prior to the touch, which is why you see players with the hands behind their backs while covering a cross. If the ball happens to hit a dangling arm, it's completely up to the referee.
posted by lmfsilva at 1:10 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by lmfsilva at 1:10 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
The handball against Porto was ... questionable but earlier Porto fouled the crap out of Iran in the box. So I kinda felt it was fair
posted by From Bklyn at 1:12 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by From Bklyn at 1:12 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
The rules about handball say that “handling the ball involves a deliberate act of a player making contact with the ball with the hand or arm”. It doesn’t have to be deliberate per se. Personally I’m surprised that this was a handball but a team of referees reviewed that and they know infinitely more about the laws of the game than I do.
posted by Kattullus at 1:12 PM on June 25, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by Kattullus at 1:12 PM on June 25, 2018 [2 favorites]
If the last few minutes of Argentina-Nigeria and Iceland-Croatia are anything like that I think I actually might expire, making Group D a proper Group of Death. Then again, if things go in the right way it might become Group :D
posted by Kattullus at 1:28 PM on June 25, 2018 [4 favorites]
posted by Kattullus at 1:28 PM on June 25, 2018 [4 favorites]
As I understand it they have to have either deliberately handled the ball, deliberately made a play where handling was a likely result (i.e. playing it off their chest when it's coming in at a sharp angle, or deliberately made it more likely that the ball would strike their hand/arm (i.e. making themselves bigger).
But in all these cases, intention matters. Ideally, no one should ever get called out for a handball without knowing in their heart of hearts that they put themselves in that position.
posted by 256 at 1:43 PM on June 25, 2018
But in all these cases, intention matters. Ideally, no one should ever get called out for a handball without knowing in their heart of hearts that they put themselves in that position.
posted by 256 at 1:43 PM on June 25, 2018
If I’ve read the outcome tables posted above right, then Iceland and Argentina both need to win by one goal for Iceland to advance. Unfortunately Iceland is facing Croatia, which lowers their chance of pulling this off significantly.
posted by From Bklyn at 1:43 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by From Bklyn at 1:43 PM on June 25, 2018
That moment at the end when Pepe was consoling one of the Iranians at the end was an image I think I'll keep with me for a long time.
posted by Kattullus at 1:45 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 1:45 PM on June 25, 2018
Iceland needs to win or they can't advance, but they don't necessarily need Argentina to.
If Iceland and Argentina both win their games by the same number of goals (or Iceland wins by more), ISL advances. But if Argentina and Nigeria draw (certainly possible), Iceland can still advance as long as they beat Croatia by at least 2.
(Oh, and if Argentina wins by one goal more than Iceland wins by, it goes on down the tiebreak ladder)
posted by 256 at 1:49 PM on June 25, 2018
If Iceland and Argentina both win their games by the same number of goals (or Iceland wins by more), ISL advances. But if Argentina and Nigeria draw (certainly possible), Iceland can still advance as long as they beat Croatia by at least 2.
(Oh, and if Argentina wins by one goal more than Iceland wins by, it goes on down the tiebreak ladder)
posted by 256 at 1:49 PM on June 25, 2018
No matter what though, Iceland basically needs to play the game of their lives tomorrow. And they need to simultaneously hope that Messi isn't the only Argentine to show up against Nigeria.
posted by 256 at 1:53 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by 256 at 1:53 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
As I understand it they have to have either deliberately handled the ball, deliberately made a play where handling was a likely result (i.e. playing it off their chest when it's coming in at a sharp angle, or deliberately made it more likely that the ball would strike their hand/arm (i.e. making themselves bigger).
Yeah, this. If there was nothing the player could have done to prevent his arm/hand from touching the ball, then it shouldn't be a penalty.
I wouldn't call that penalty because he was on a regular heading motion (it's not like pogoing is the better way to reach a high ball) and the ball hit him from above and behind. I think the play where William Carvalho ran over some dude would be a fairer call (although I'm not finding the video, and don't know what minute it was so I can rewind it).
posted by lmfsilva at 1:59 PM on June 25, 2018
Yeah, this. If there was nothing the player could have done to prevent his arm/hand from touching the ball, then it shouldn't be a penalty.
I wouldn't call that penalty because he was on a regular heading motion (it's not like pogoing is the better way to reach a high ball) and the ball hit him from above and behind. I think the play where William Carvalho ran over some dude would be a fairer call (although I'm not finding the video, and don't know what minute it was so I can rewind it).
posted by lmfsilva at 1:59 PM on June 25, 2018
It looks like groups E, F and H are where the action is
I wouldn't count out groups C or D tomorrow for drama.
In group D Croatia has already booked passage, but Nigeria is not going to be a walk in the park for Argentina, and either of those teams can potentially advance. Plus there's the Cinderella story chance of the stars aligning and Iceland booking a spot in the knockouts.
In Group C, France has already advanced, and Peru is already eliminated. But there's a second ticket forward and it could belong to either Denmark or Australia. The Socceroos can only advance if both they and France win, but both those sides go into tomorrow as favorites. If AUS and FRA do both win, then it's going to come down to goal differential with Australia currently two goals behind Denmark. So, Australia is going to be doing everything in their power to beat Peru by at least two goals (since a France win automatically means Denmark's GD is decreasing by at least one).
posted by 256 at 2:06 PM on June 25, 2018
I wouldn't count out groups C or D tomorrow for drama.
In group D Croatia has already booked passage, but Nigeria is not going to be a walk in the park for Argentina, and either of those teams can potentially advance. Plus there's the Cinderella story chance of the stars aligning and Iceland booking a spot in the knockouts.
In Group C, France has already advanced, and Peru is already eliminated. But there's a second ticket forward and it could belong to either Denmark or Australia. The Socceroos can only advance if both they and France win, but both those sides go into tomorrow as favorites. If AUS and FRA do both win, then it's going to come down to goal differential with Australia currently two goals behind Denmark. So, Australia is going to be doing everything in their power to beat Peru by at least two goals (since a France win automatically means Denmark's GD is decreasing by at least one).
posted by 256 at 2:06 PM on June 25, 2018
For context, FiveThirtyEight is giving Denmark an 86% chance of advancing from Group C, versus 14% for Australia. I think they're underestimating the Socceroos though.
In Group D, they have Argentina and Nigeria pretty much neck in neck at 48% and 45% respectively, with Iceland snagging the last 7%. Those odds seem pretty realistic from this armchair.
posted by 256 at 2:17 PM on June 25, 2018
In Group D, they have Argentina and Nigeria pretty much neck in neck at 48% and 45% respectively, with Iceland snagging the last 7%. Those odds seem pretty realistic from this armchair.
posted by 256 at 2:17 PM on June 25, 2018
I'm praying fervently to La Mano de Dios...
posted by languagehat at 2:27 PM on June 25, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by languagehat at 2:27 PM on June 25, 2018 [2 favorites]
I was crunching it and I'm pretty sure there's not a way for Iceland / Argentina fighting to move on to come down to something absurd like "number of yellow and red cards," so at least we've been spared that.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 2:41 PM on June 25, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by the man of twists and turns at 2:41 PM on June 25, 2018 [3 favorites]
Imagine they weren't running the games simultaneously and the Iceland v Croatia games was first and further that Iceland managed to pull off a win by one goal.
Can you imagine being an Icelander watching the Argentina v Nigeria game later in the day? You'd be cheering for Argentina to score. Argentina scores! Hooray! Argentina scores again! Oh no! Now suddenly you're cheering for Nigeria to score one and exactly one goal.
I don't think Katullus would survive.
posted by 256 at 3:25 PM on June 25, 2018 [2 favorites]
Can you imagine being an Icelander watching the Argentina v Nigeria game later in the day? You'd be cheering for Argentina to score. Argentina scores! Hooray! Argentina scores again! Oh no! Now suddenly you're cheering for Nigeria to score one and exactly one goal.
I don't think Katullus would survive.
posted by 256 at 3:25 PM on June 25, 2018 [2 favorites]
On this day in 2014 Argentina beat Nigeria 3-2 (with two Messi goals). I'm taking that as a Sign.
posted by languagehat at 3:43 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by languagehat at 3:43 PM on June 25, 2018
I can't cheer for Argentina, languagehat, but for the sake of not jinxing Brazil, I promise not to gloat no matter what happens. Lord knows we have no right to gloat at anyone after the way we went out last time.
posted by J.K. Seazer at 5:40 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by J.K. Seazer at 5:40 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
Not gloating is all I ask. I'm used to losing—I'm a Mets fan.
posted by languagehat at 6:40 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by languagehat at 6:40 PM on June 25, 2018
I missed all of the games today, but at one point a commentator brought up the Battle of Nuremberg, where the refs gave out four red cards and 16 yellow cards. I am trying to remember where I was that I have very little memory of this game, because it sounds amazing.
posted by fifteen schnitzengruben is my limit at 7:37 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by fifteen schnitzengruben is my limit at 7:37 PM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]
Fantastic games yesterday! I was at a book event while also keeping tabs on the football. Today is a hot, rainy day here and I'm waiting for the presidential decree to stay in and watch. Maybe it will be out until I arrive to work.
posted by ersatz at 11:16 PM on June 25, 2018
posted by ersatz at 11:16 PM on June 25, 2018
saw this piece by Romelu Lukaku, thought some might enjoy it.
posted by From Bklyn at 12:55 AM on June 26, 2018 [6 favorites]
posted by From Bklyn at 12:55 AM on June 26, 2018 [6 favorites]
I've been avoiding reading that Romelu Lukaku piece because I knew I would cry over it. I was right.
posted by Kattullus at 2:58 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 2:58 AM on June 26, 2018
Yeah, I didn't think I'd be shedding years for a few millionaire footballer today, but here I am.
posted by Dysk at 4:28 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by Dysk at 4:28 AM on June 26, 2018
Although it would be pretty cool to be able to shed years.
posted by languagehat at 5:52 AM on June 26, 2018 [4 favorites]
posted by languagehat at 5:52 AM on June 26, 2018 [4 favorites]
I suspect these games are going to make me put a few years on instead. There's a lot that can go wrong for Denmark this afternoon. Come on Peru!
posted by Dysk at 6:58 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by Dysk at 6:58 AM on June 26, 2018
Drinking an Australian Coffee IPA to keep me sharp, mellow and paranoid.
posted by hawthorne at 7:08 AM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by hawthorne at 7:08 AM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
Jedinak with the high boot to the face. Surprised he didn't follow with a leg drop.
posted by lmfsilva at 7:12 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by lmfsilva at 7:12 AM on June 26, 2018
Great play by Peru and a neat volley by Carrillo. A bit unsure if Guerrero was onside.
posted by lmfsilva at 7:19 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by lmfsilva at 7:19 AM on June 26, 2018
What an outstanding goal by Carrillo! If only they could have scored against Denmark. Meanwhile, France-Denmark, the game I’m mainly watching, has been rather dull.
posted by Kattullus at 7:20 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 7:20 AM on June 26, 2018
Come on Peru! :D
Denmark are looking like they might just keep up with France as well.
posted by Dysk at 7:21 AM on June 26, 2018
Denmark are looking like they might just keep up with France as well.
posted by Dysk at 7:21 AM on June 26, 2018
David Squires on … hostility, culture and Nordic noir at the World Cup
posted by the man of twists and turns at 7:31 AM on June 26, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by the man of twists and turns at 7:31 AM on June 26, 2018 [3 favorites]
Spending 4-5 hours a day watching soccer is doing a lot to keep me off Twitter (and, because I'm rudely insistent, to keep others from watching cable news). I know FIFA to is garbage, but it might have actually saved my sanity this month. Honestly, bless the World Cup.
posted by grandiloquiet at 7:36 AM on June 26, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by grandiloquiet at 7:36 AM on June 26, 2018 [3 favorites]
I'm watching the Australia v Peru game on Telemundo and I am strangely charmed by the Middle America English accent the Spanish-speaking announcers put on whenever they pronounce the names of the Australian players.
posted by 256 at 7:46 AM on June 26, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by 256 at 7:46 AM on June 26, 2018 [2 favorites]
Wait... foul, card, no kick?
Never seen that before...
posted by Seeba at 7:48 AM on June 26, 2018 [2 favorites]
Never seen that before...
posted by Seeba at 7:48 AM on June 26, 2018 [2 favorites]
grandiloquiet, while I can't watch many of the games during the week, this is the thread I hang out in...which is better than hanging out in the US Politics megathread for my psychological health.
So hoping for Iceland to smite their way into the round of 16 today...
posted by nubs at 7:49 AM on June 26, 2018 [4 favorites]
So hoping for Iceland to smite their way into the round of 16 today...
posted by nubs at 7:49 AM on June 26, 2018 [4 favorites]
Esquina... La pelota al centro... Cabeza.. (drawls) Sainsbury
posted by 256 at 7:49 AM on June 26, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by 256 at 7:49 AM on June 26, 2018 [2 favorites]
Guerrero scores. Almost certainly it's curtains for Australia.
posted by lmfsilva at 8:10 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by lmfsilva at 8:10 AM on June 26, 2018
That's a shame for the Socceroos. I wish Denmark didn't need them to go out to advance.
posted by Dysk at 8:11 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by Dysk at 8:11 AM on June 26, 2018
are you kidding me have i slept through excellence again
posted by poffin boffin at 8:24 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by poffin boffin at 8:24 AM on June 26, 2018
For me, the two most fun matches of the group were Peru-France and Peru-Den. I don't know why I thought the France-Denmark game was where to be this morning. (I'm going back to Telemundo, they always knew.)
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:27 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:27 AM on June 26, 2018
It’s looking like France-Denmark is drifting to a nil-nil, the first one of this World Cup. Though Nabil Fekir and Benjamin Mendy are doing their best to add excitement to the game and thereby putting their names up for consideration as starters in the second round.
posted by Kattullus at 8:32 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 8:32 AM on June 26, 2018
I'm still hoping for a denmark goal and france equalising in extra-time - but yeah, it's not a very entertaining game
posted by motdiem2 at 8:35 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by motdiem2 at 8:35 AM on June 26, 2018
The Guardian live blog is very excited about the game ('this ... nothingness')
posted by ersatz at 8:39 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by ersatz at 8:39 AM on June 26, 2018
Did... Did the referee just award a free kick to France because a Danish player fouled a Danish player?
posted by Dysk at 8:40 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by Dysk at 8:40 AM on June 26, 2018
I think it was for the obstruction that happened right after.
posted by sapere aude at 8:41 AM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by sapere aude at 8:41 AM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
The British commentators are terrible at explaining what's going on. Or at doing anything other than moaning, really.
posted by Dysk at 8:44 AM on June 26, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by Dysk at 8:44 AM on June 26, 2018 [2 favorites]
The last 10 minutes have raised the odds of a Roger Milla-like appearance for Cahill at the next World Cup finals.
posted by hawthorne at 8:46 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by hawthorne at 8:46 AM on June 26, 2018
I just watched the last few minutes of this disgrace and am very glad I didn’t watch the whole thing.
posted by languagehat at 8:52 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by languagehat at 8:52 AM on June 26, 2018
Well, Denmark are through. I hope your match was exciting and your beer good at least, hawthorne, commiserations.
posted by Dysk at 8:52 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by Dysk at 8:52 AM on June 26, 2018
Ooph, France-Denmark was a dreadful game. At least the French were trying. Well, at least Mendy, Fekir and Mbappé were trying. Denmark basically put everyone inside the 18-yard box after the 75th minute.
posted by Kattullus at 8:55 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 8:55 AM on June 26, 2018
and with a 0-0 draw (first in the cup this year) that's France in 1st and Denmark in 2nd. France will play second place of upcoming Group D, and Denmark to play the winner.
Coming up, Nigeria v Argentina, #NGAARG liveblog, with Double goal-scorer Musa on a mission while it's a last-ditch chance for Messia and ARG.
And Iceland v. Croatia, #ISLCRO liveblog. With Croatia already through, Iceland mustwin (and hope for an Argentina victory) in order to continue.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 9:02 AM on June 26, 2018
Coming up, Nigeria v Argentina, #NGAARG liveblog, with Double goal-scorer Musa on a mission while it's a last-ditch chance for Messia and ARG.
And Iceland v. Croatia, #ISLCRO liveblog. With Croatia already through, Iceland mustwin (and hope for an Argentina victory) in order to continue.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 9:02 AM on June 26, 2018
Well, the Guardian is being ambiguous:
It’s all done and dusted and one of the worst games of football it’s ever been my displeasure to watch very closely for a living ends in an entirely predictable stalemate...One things for certain - on the strength of their performances in this tournament thus far, neither France nor Denmark will going too much further. They’ve both been garbage.
I'm having a hard time parsing how they felt about the match.
posted by nubs at 9:07 AM on June 26, 2018 [4 favorites]
It’s all done and dusted and one of the worst games of football it’s ever been my displeasure to watch very closely for a living ends in an entirely predictable stalemate...One things for certain - on the strength of their performances in this tournament thus far, neither France nor Denmark will going too much further. They’ve both been garbage.
I'm having a hard time parsing how they felt about the match.
posted by nubs at 9:07 AM on June 26, 2018 [4 favorites]
Yeah, those Brits are so inscrutable, you can never tell what they are really thinking.
I agree that the match was atrocious. I started and deleted multiple comments to vent about it. I disagree that it necessarily means either team is doomed, though. I wish I'd checked the chart for the group before watching, it would have reminded me that there was no reason for thinking it would be anything more than a snooze.
posted by sapere aude at 9:15 AM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
I agree that the match was atrocious. I started and deleted multiple comments to vent about it. I disagree that it necessarily means either team is doomed, though. I wish I'd checked the chart for the group before watching, it would have reminded me that there was no reason for thinking it would be anything more than a snooze.
posted by sapere aude at 9:15 AM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
on the strength of their performances in this tournament thus far, neither France nor Denmark will going too much further. They’ve both been garbage.
Euro 2016 says "Olá"
posted by lmfsilva at 9:20 AM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
Euro 2016 says "Olá"
posted by lmfsilva at 9:20 AM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
In the World Cup brackets thing that FIFA had on their website, I chose France as my tip for World Champions. This game really dampened my faith in their chances.
posted by Kattullus at 9:21 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 9:21 AM on June 26, 2018
> The British commentators are terrible at explaining what's going on.
We will swap you 1:1 for American commentators.
posted by ardgedee at 9:27 AM on June 26, 2018
We will swap you 1:1 for American commentators.
posted by ardgedee at 9:27 AM on June 26, 2018
Oooh, by the way, Denmark held on to the unofficial football world cup belt. Croatia will more than likely be the next challenger.
(I kinda wish FIFA would actually adopt the concept on a semi-official basis to make the years between tournaments more interesting)
posted by lmfsilva at 9:38 AM on June 26, 2018
(I kinda wish FIFA would actually adopt the concept on a semi-official basis to make the years between tournaments more interesting)
posted by lmfsilva at 9:38 AM on June 26, 2018
I don't know what the unofficial football world cup belt is, but the comment exchange on that article is priceless.
posted by clawsoon at 9:49 AM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by clawsoon at 9:49 AM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
We will swap you 1:1 for American commentators.
I'll literally take whoever in exchange for Martin Keown or Mark Lawrenson.
posted by Dysk at 10:03 AM on June 26, 2018
I'll literally take whoever in exchange for Martin Keown or Mark Lawrenson.
posted by Dysk at 10:03 AM on June 26, 2018
I kind of want to do the commentator swap so that everyone can fervently agree that they're all terrible, but Alexi Lalas feels uniquely bad to me. (He has neither skill at explaining sport nor general broadcasting charm. He is on television constantly.)
posted by grandiloquiet at 10:33 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by grandiloquiet at 10:33 AM on June 26, 2018
where are the german matt damons of yesteryear
posted by poffin boffin at 10:37 AM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by poffin boffin at 10:37 AM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
I don't know what the unofficial football world cup belt is, but the comment exchange on that article is priceless
Some more information on the unofficial world cup belt. Basically, it derives from the "belt" going to the winner of the first international soccer match (actually, the second as the first was a draw) and then whoever beats that country next takes the belt, and so on through the years. Peru held the belt going into this World Cup, and lost it to Denmark.
posted by nubs at 10:39 AM on June 26, 2018 [2 favorites]
Some more information on the unofficial world cup belt. Basically, it derives from the "belt" going to the winner of the first international soccer match (actually, the second as the first was a draw) and then whoever beats that country next takes the belt, and so on through the years. Peru held the belt going into this World Cup, and lost it to Denmark.
posted by nubs at 10:39 AM on June 26, 2018 [2 favorites]
I was nervous before the Nigeria game, but I feel pretty serene tonight. Whatever happens Iceland got to a World Cup. I can remember being sixteen years old and spending an afternoon lazing about in a park on a warm day jokingly sketching out the possibility of Iceland being at a World Cup. It was a bit of fun and no one expected it to ever come true. Now Iceland goes into the third match still with a slim possibility of advancing. My inner sixteen-year-old is ecstatic. I will enjoy this game.
posted by Kattullus at 10:51 AM on June 26, 2018 [5 favorites]
posted by Kattullus at 10:51 AM on June 26, 2018 [5 favorites]
So, given that Denmark made it to the Knockouts, the eventual winner of the Official World Cup will, at least for a short time, also be the Unofficial World Champion, yes?
posted by 256 at 10:57 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by 256 at 10:57 AM on June 26, 2018
Man, the passing is awful.
posted by languagehat at 11:07 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:07 AM on June 26, 2018
Shot on goal! Not a good one, but at least they’re trying.
posted by languagehat at 11:08 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:08 AM on June 26, 2018
MESSI!!!!!
posted by languagehat at 11:14 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:14 AM on June 26, 2018
Oh baby!!
posted by languagehat at 11:14 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:14 AM on June 26, 2018
What a beautiful goal!
posted by languagehat at 11:15 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:15 AM on June 26, 2018
Okay, Argentina. Now hold on there and let Iceland score one.
posted by 256 at 11:16 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by 256 at 11:16 AM on June 26, 2018
You betcha!
posted by languagehat at 11:17 AM on June 26, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by languagehat at 11:17 AM on June 26, 2018 [2 favorites]
I could watch a million replays of that goal.
posted by languagehat at 11:18 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:18 AM on June 26, 2018
Damn, I thought it was going to be 2-0.
posted by languagehat at 11:28 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:28 AM on June 26, 2018
Oh man. That was so close to being an Iceland goal....
posted by 256 at 11:41 AM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by 256 at 11:41 AM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
Argentina looking a lot better controlling the ball today, but there's still some issues in the last third of the field. Game far from decided.
posted by lmfsilva at 11:46 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by lmfsilva at 11:46 AM on June 26, 2018
lol sleeping Maradona
posted by the painkiller at 11:47 AM on June 26, 2018
posted by the painkiller at 11:47 AM on June 26, 2018
Did I dream it, or did Iceland deploy an arcane “butt block” maneuver there?
posted by GenjiandProust at 11:52 AM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by GenjiandProust at 11:52 AM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
Is it just me, or is Iceland's Aron Gunnarsson looking a lot like bearded Wayne Rooney from the Write the Future ad?
posted by 256 at 11:52 AM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by 256 at 11:52 AM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
Oh fuck.
posted by languagehat at 12:07 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by languagehat at 12:07 PM on June 26, 2018
WTF Mascherano?!
posted by languagehat at 12:08 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by languagehat at 12:08 PM on June 26, 2018
oh great we all know how well the Argentina squad holds up under stress
posted by grandiloquiet at 12:10 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by grandiloquiet at 12:10 PM on June 26, 2018
Tied up.
posted by languagehat at 12:10 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by languagehat at 12:10 PM on June 26, 2018
Ah well. I wasn’t really expecting anything else.
posted by Kattullus at 12:11 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by Kattullus at 12:11 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
ISL has to win by 3 in case of a Argentina-Nigeria tie.
EDIT: GOAL Croatia, Badelj!
posted by the man of twists and turns at 12:12 PM on June 26, 2018
EDIT: GOAL Croatia, Badelj!
posted by the man of twists and turns at 12:12 PM on June 26, 2018
Goddamnit, Iceland!
posted by GenjiandProust at 12:14 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by GenjiandProust at 12:14 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
If Argentina had more Banegas, that would help.
posted by ersatz at 12:14 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by ersatz at 12:14 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
Ingason really working those headers, one of them is gonna go in ...
posted by the man of twists and turns at 12:15 PM on June 26, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by the man of twists and turns at 12:15 PM on June 26, 2018 [2 favorites]
What is Fox Sports' problem? Seven minutes after the Nigeria PK and they are still showing 0-1 score, even though the goal shows up in their running commentary. This happened yesterday too.
posted by sapere aude at 12:17 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by sapere aude at 12:17 PM on June 26, 2018
Please do not castrate your goalie on international television. It gives the opponents a significant psychological advantage.
posted by GenjiandProust at 12:23 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by GenjiandProust at 12:23 PM on June 26, 2018
I'm watching on Fox Sports Go and while I think I'm a few seconds behind live, I still have an accurate goal count of 1-1.
posted by yasaman at 12:24 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by yasaman at 12:24 PM on June 26, 2018
Argentina seems to be expecting Messi to be in build-up and up front at the same time. That's a problem by itself, let alone when the rest of the playmakers can't make a through pass that stays inbounds.
posted by lmfsilva at 12:27 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by lmfsilva at 12:27 PM on June 26, 2018
Well, that was scary.
posted by languagehat at 12:30 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by languagehat at 12:30 PM on June 26, 2018
I'm really enjoying this game, go Eagles!
posted by ChuraChura at 12:32 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by ChuraChura at 12:32 PM on June 26, 2018
VÍTI!
That’s Icelandic for penalty. It also means “hell”, incidentally.
posted by Kattullus at 12:33 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
That’s Icelandic for penalty. It also means “hell”, incidentally.
posted by Kattullus at 12:33 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
Honestly, I like all three of these teams, and I'll be excited to watch whoever goes through playing in the Round of 16.
posted by 256 at 12:33 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by 256 at 12:33 PM on June 26, 2018
I'm so torn here because I love the Super Eagles and want them to win but Messi's return to form is giving me great joy; he's such a delight to watch.
posted by karayel at 12:33 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by karayel at 12:33 PM on June 26, 2018
Sorry, I got confused. Castrating the opposing goalie, however metal, is still bad form.
posted by GenjiandProust at 12:35 PM on June 26, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by GenjiandProust at 12:35 PM on June 26, 2018 [2 favorites]
Hell, another penalty??
posted by languagehat at 12:35 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by languagehat at 12:35 PM on June 26, 2018
No! Whew!
posted by languagehat at 12:35 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by languagehat at 12:35 PM on June 26, 2018
GOAL Iceland, Sigurdsson on a PK. Now 1-1. ISL needs to 1) win and 2) score as many as Argentina in an ARG win or 2a) win by 3 in a ARG-NGA tie.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 12:36 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by the man of twists and turns at 12:36 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
Oh what a terrible shot on goal.
posted by languagehat at 12:40 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by languagehat at 12:40 PM on June 26, 2018
GOAL Iceland, Sigurdsson on a PK. Now 1-1. ISL needs to 1) win and 2) score as many as Argentina in an ARG win or 2a) win by 3 in a ARG-NGA tie.
posted by the man of twists
So I should be cheering for both ARG & ICE to score once more? Is that the easiest way for Iceland to advance? But then, no Argentina which would be sad for languagehat! I can't handle this.
posted by nubs at 12:42 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by the man of twists
So I should be cheering for both ARG & ICE to score once more? Is that the easiest way for Iceland to advance? But then, no Argentina which would be sad for languagehat! I can't handle this.
posted by nubs at 12:42 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
If ARG lose I’ll be sad but they will have deserved it. They’re not playing like winners.
posted by languagehat at 12:44 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by languagehat at 12:44 PM on June 26, 2018
ARG are playing ... not exceptionally.
On Edit a lovely goal
posted by From Bklyn at 12:45 PM on June 26, 2018
On Edit a lovely goal
posted by From Bklyn at 12:45 PM on June 26, 2018
You should be cheering for an Argentine goal right now. Because that is the most exciting timeline. If that happens then a last minute Iceland goal will put Iceland through, a last minute Nigeria goal will put Nigeria through, and no goals (or more Argentine goals) will put Argentina through.
posted by 256 at 12:45 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by 256 at 12:45 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
I know they didn't deserve it but this is so excitiiiing
posted by grandiloquiet at 12:45 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by grandiloquiet at 12:45 PM on June 26, 2018
Oh me of little faith! GOOOL!!!
posted by languagehat at 12:46 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by languagehat at 12:46 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
GOAL Argentina, Rojo. 2-1 ARG.
ARG currently 2nd in group.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 12:46 PM on June 26, 2018
ARG currently 2nd in group.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 12:46 PM on June 26, 2018
I would like to live in the most exciting timeline please
posted by nubs at 12:46 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by nubs at 12:46 PM on June 26, 2018
Oh, rats.
posted by ChuraChura at 12:47 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by ChuraChura at 12:47 PM on June 26, 2018
Stay classy, Maradona
posted by the painkiller at 12:47 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by the painkiller at 12:47 PM on June 26, 2018
Oh no. Oh well.
posted by Kattullus at 12:48 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by Kattullus at 12:48 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
GOAL Croatia, Persic. 2-1.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 12:48 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by the man of twists and turns at 12:48 PM on June 26, 2018
Oh hell.
posted by GenjiandProust at 12:49 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by GenjiandProust at 12:49 PM on June 26, 2018
That didn't last long. Damn thing about exciting timelines.
posted by nubs at 12:49 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by nubs at 12:49 PM on June 26, 2018
But they can go home with their heads held very high. What an incredible showing at their first World Cup.
posted by 256 at 12:49 PM on June 26, 2018 [4 favorites]
posted by 256 at 12:49 PM on June 26, 2018 [4 favorites]
*sad thunderclap*
posted by nubs at 12:51 PM on June 26, 2018 [5 favorites]
posted by nubs at 12:51 PM on June 26, 2018 [5 favorites]
we're in stoppage time, it's not over until the whistle (looking at you ARG defenders)
posted by the man of twists and turns at 12:51 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by the man of twists and turns at 12:51 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
(screaming)
posted by grandiloquiet at 12:54 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by grandiloquiet at 12:54 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
CRO-ISL is over, and it sounds like Messi is getting booked for wasting time?
posted by nubs at 12:54 PM on June 26, 2018
posted by nubs at 12:54 PM on June 26, 2018
ARG are through! Deserved or not, I’ll take it.
posted by languagehat at 12:55 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by languagehat at 12:55 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
and that's it - Croatia over Iceland, 2-1 and Argentina over Nigeria, 2-1.
Croatia tops the group, and will face Denmark. Argentina takes second, and will face France.
Winner of CRO-DEN faces winner of SPA-RUS, and winner of ARG-FRA faces winner of URU-POR.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 12:55 PM on June 26, 2018
Croatia tops the group, and will face Denmark. Argentina takes second, and will face France.
Winner of CRO-DEN faces winner of SPA-RUS, and winner of ARG-FRA faces winner of URU-POR.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 12:55 PM on June 26, 2018
Congrats, lh!
That sight of Messi tackling and defending.
posted by ersatz at 12:56 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
That sight of Messi tackling and defending.
posted by ersatz at 12:56 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
Well, it would be nice if Iceland could have continued, but they couldn’t. And it’s nice that Messi will get to keep going. France-Argentina might be a heck of a game, probably better than France-Iceland would’ve been.
I’m still a bit sad, but the whole “Iceland got to the World Cup” glow is rising again. And now I can go back to enjoying the World Cup, which is a pretty special thing.
posted by Kattullus at 3:07 PM on June 26, 2018 [6 favorites]
I’m still a bit sad, but the whole “Iceland got to the World Cup” glow is rising again. And now I can go back to enjoying the World Cup, which is a pretty special thing.
posted by Kattullus at 3:07 PM on June 26, 2018 [6 favorites]
Everyone, Kattullus is overdoing it with Icelandic candy. Send him good thoughts.
posted by GenjiandProust at 3:52 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by GenjiandProust at 3:52 PM on June 26, 2018 [1 favorite]
In case anyone missed it, the tale of the game from the wonderful Reykjavik Grapevine
posted by nubs at 5:13 PM on June 26, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by nubs at 5:13 PM on June 26, 2018 [2 favorites]
I was half expecting to be made sad by the discussion about Iceland-Croatia on the Guardian's World Cup Daily podcast, but I was quite heartened by how they talked about the team admiringly without condescension, saying that they could've won if luck had been on their side. It starts at 10:45 and goes to about 13:20.
We didn't quite achieve as much as Iran, to give another example of a team that could've gone through if the ball had bounced their way, but we came out of it as footballing nation in good standing. Hopefully there's a next time and hopefully next time we win a game.
posted by Kattullus at 1:49 AM on June 27, 2018 [6 favorites]
We didn't quite achieve as much as Iran, to give another example of a team that could've gone through if the ball had bounced their way, but we came out of it as footballing nation in good standing. Hopefully there's a next time and hopefully next time we win a game.
posted by Kattullus at 1:49 AM on June 27, 2018 [6 favorites]
Oh, and for Argentina fans, the first part of the podcast is worth listening to if only to hear the great Marcela Mora y Araujo discuss Argentina.
posted by Kattullus at 1:51 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by Kattullus at 1:51 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
*sigh* So only Japan and Korea are left from the Asian Football Confederation.
My hope for Korea is that it loses by less than 5 goals. Maybe get one goal.
I'll be rooting for Japan tomorrow.
posted by needled at 4:26 AM on June 27, 2018
My hope for Korea is that it loses by less than 5 goals. Maybe get one goal.
I'll be rooting for Japan tomorrow.
posted by needled at 4:26 AM on June 27, 2018
Based on their abysmal performance against Mexico I’m not hopeful for a goal. It was embarrassing, I’ve not seen such a bad side for Korea in recent memory. No organisation, no teamwork, no ideas. And yet plenty of whining and attitude. Sigh.
posted by like_neon at 4:51 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by like_neon at 4:51 AM on June 27, 2018
I can see Son exploiting the slow german defense. If he gets a chance of doing that is the question.
posted by lmfsilva at 5:49 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by lmfsilva at 5:49 AM on June 27, 2018
> Oh, and for Argentina fans, the first part of the podcast is worth listening to if only to hear the great Marcela Mora y Araujo discuss Argentina.
Thanks, I enjoyed that!
posted by languagehat at 6:06 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Thanks, I enjoyed that!
posted by languagehat at 6:06 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Some more information on the unofficial world cup belt. Basically, it derives from the "belt" going to the winner of the first international soccer match (actually, the second as the first was a draw) and then whoever beats that country next takes the belt, and so on through the years.
Ah, so it's the "man who beat the man" idea of the lineal championship in boxing, as applied to international football.
Funny that it works so much better for international football than it does for boxing, since national football teams are so much less likely to retire. I suppose that the only international football equivalent to the boxer-retiring-without-losing-the-title would've been if some miracle had led to the re-unification of Korea while North Korea held the unofficial world cup belt.
posted by clawsoon at 6:49 AM on June 27, 2018
Ah, so it's the "man who beat the man" idea of the lineal championship in boxing, as applied to international football.
Funny that it works so much better for international football than it does for boxing, since national football teams are so much less likely to retire. I suppose that the only international football equivalent to the boxer-retiring-without-losing-the-title would've been if some miracle had led to the re-unification of Korea while North Korea held the unofficial world cup belt.
posted by clawsoon at 6:49 AM on June 27, 2018
That would just mean a reunified Korea would hold the belt, surely?
A bigger issue would be if somewhere held it and then split into two countries, but I guess you could settle that with a match between the two teams with a partial claim to it.
posted by Dysk at 7:01 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
A bigger issue would be if somewhere held it and then split into two countries, but I guess you could settle that with a match between the two teams with a partial claim to it.
posted by Dysk at 7:01 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
Okay, so Mexico needs a win or a draw to guarantee a trip to the Round of 16. A Mexico win almost certainly means it's Mexico and Germany, as does a Mexico draw (with a little less certainty). A Mexico loss means it's Sweden and Germany going through unless South Korea can pull off a draw or a win against Germany (unlikely, though this is the only case in which Korea stays alive).
Or, in the corner case where Mexico loses by one and Germany only wins by one, we could end up cascading down the tiebreaks.
posted by 256 at 7:10 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Or, in the corner case where Mexico loses by one and Germany only wins by one, we could end up cascading down the tiebreaks.
posted by 256 at 7:10 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
I'm watching the Mexico v Sweden game and pulling hard for Mexico. I think Mexico is the better team, but Sweden is not going to be a pushover.
If South Korea miraculously goes up by a goal against Germany, I am switching to that game immediately.
posted by 256 at 7:14 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
If South Korea miraculously goes up by a goal against Germany, I am switching to that game immediately.
posted by 256 at 7:14 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
what is chicharito doing there with that pass? just baffling
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 7:16 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 7:16 AM on June 27, 2018
Usually when there's a split one of the countries "inherits" the competition records. Russia, Czechia and Serbia are the recognized successors of the Soviet Union, Czechoslovakia and Yugoslavia, this despite Ukraine being the primary force of Soviet football for most of the 70s and 80s, and Croats being very well represented in Yugoslavia.
posted by lmfsilva at 7:19 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by lmfsilva at 7:19 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
Mexico look as confused as Argentina did in their first couple of games.
posted by languagehat at 7:19 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by languagehat at 7:19 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
South Korea with the two best chances so far (including a total clanger Neuer turned into a great save) and Germany not looking threatening at all.
posted by lmfsilva at 7:28 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by lmfsilva at 7:28 AM on June 27, 2018
VAR to potentially give Sweden a PK on a Chicharito "handball"? Yes???
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 7:30 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 7:30 AM on June 27, 2018
No penalty for Mexico! This handball stuff is confusing.
posted by languagehat at 7:31 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by languagehat at 7:31 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
No. Saw the ref make the tv sign a second time which I thought meant call reversal???
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 7:32 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 7:32 AM on June 27, 2018
Whyyyyy no penalty? That was clearly a penalty! Gaaaaah. Heja, Sverige!
posted by gemmy at 7:33 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by gemmy at 7:33 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Yeah, by the precedent set earlier in the tournament, I feel like that should definitely have been a PK, despite being happy for Mexico that it wasn't.
It's always a confusing feeling when your team benefits from a bad call.
posted by 256 at 7:33 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
It's always a confusing feeling when your team benefits from a bad call.
posted by 256 at 7:33 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
Mano de dios for México!
posted by languagehat at 7:34 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 7:34 AM on June 27, 2018
Does anyone know the tiebreaks well enough to say who of Sweden or Germany go through if both of these games are scoreless draws?
posted by 256 at 7:36 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by 256 at 7:36 AM on June 27, 2018
Man, this is an exciting game!
posted by languagehat at 7:38 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 7:38 AM on June 27, 2018
Wouldn't it be Germany on the strength of having beaten Sweden? They'd be tied on points, goal difference, and goals scored
posted by Bulgaroktonos at 7:39 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by Bulgaroktonos at 7:39 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
Yeah, I couldn't remember what came after goals scored, which is why I asked. I was thinking it might be bookings or something silly, but head-to-head result makes more sense.
posted by 256 at 7:41 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by 256 at 7:41 AM on June 27, 2018
the guardian has Germany over Sweden but it doesn't say why
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 7:43 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 7:43 AM on June 27, 2018
lmfsilva: You still watching the Korea v Germany game? Is the 0-0 a sign that SK has a greater than 1% chance of winning, or just that Germany hasn't bothered to score yet?
posted by 256 at 7:45 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by 256 at 7:45 AM on June 27, 2018
Yea. Mexico needs a tie with Sweden to move on as group winner. If Sweden wins and Germany wins, the tiebreakers will kick in.
If they have identical points, goal difference, and goals scored. The next tiebreaker would go to Germany, thanks to its 2-1 win over Sweden. If South Korea wins, it would lead to a three-way tie and another tiebreaker.
The tiebreakers are: Points head-to-head among the teams concerned; goal difference in the group matches between the teams concerned; goals scored in all group matches between the teams concerned; fair play points (a team’s number of yellow cards and red cards in group matches).
posted by gemmy at 7:45 AM on June 27, 2018
If they have identical points, goal difference, and goals scored. The next tiebreaker would go to Germany, thanks to its 2-1 win over Sweden. If South Korea wins, it would lead to a three-way tie and another tiebreaker.
The tiebreakers are: Points head-to-head among the teams concerned; goal difference in the group matches between the teams concerned; goals scored in all group matches between the teams concerned; fair play points (a team’s number of yellow cards and red cards in group matches).
posted by gemmy at 7:45 AM on June 27, 2018
Yeah, it's the "fair play" thing where they tally up yellow and red cards. After that, I think it's a coin toss.
posted by grandiloquiet at 7:46 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by grandiloquiet at 7:46 AM on June 27, 2018
Great attacks from both sides in the last two minutes!
posted by languagehat at 7:48 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 7:48 AM on June 27, 2018
Germany is playing terribly and can't get shots on goal. Very unlikely they'll score unless something changes now at half time.
posted by lmfsilva at 7:50 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by lmfsilva at 7:50 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
I thought Germany were settling... but did turn over to Mex/ Swe.
posted by hawthorne at 7:52 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by hawthorne at 7:52 AM on June 27, 2018
this might be the round where a ‘favorite’ doesn’t get through. Or, Löw will remind them they need some goals or they go home, and somehow they listen...
posted by From Bklyn at 7:54 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by From Bklyn at 7:54 AM on June 27, 2018
Oh man, I might have to switch games. If Mexico and Korea go through in this group, I might just explode from joy.
posted by 256 at 7:55 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by 256 at 7:55 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Also, I think the Group F chart at the top of the thread might be wrong if I am understanding tiebreaks properly now.
It shows Korea as being only a "may go through" if they win by one, no matter how much Mexico wins by. But if South Korea wins by one, they will be tied on goal differential and total goals with Germany, and they will of course win the head-to-head. So they only need to worry about Sweden. But, if Korea wins by one, their goal differential will be -1, and if Mexico wins by more than one, Sweden's goal differential will be -2 or worse.
posted by 256 at 7:59 AM on June 27, 2018
It shows Korea as being only a "may go through" if they win by one, no matter how much Mexico wins by. But if South Korea wins by one, they will be tied on goal differential and total goals with Germany, and they will of course win the head-to-head. So they only need to worry about Sweden. But, if Korea wins by one, their goal differential will be -1, and if Mexico wins by more than one, Sweden's goal differential will be -2 or worse.
posted by 256 at 7:59 AM on June 27, 2018
Fantastic save by the Korean goalkeeper from a Goretzka header.
posted by lmfsilva at 8:07 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by lmfsilva at 8:07 AM on June 27, 2018
Oh my — goal for Sweden!
posted by languagehat at 8:09 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 8:09 AM on June 27, 2018
Booooo
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:09 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:09 AM on June 27, 2018
Oh no! And literally seconds after I switched to watching Germany v. Korea!
posted by 256 at 8:10 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by 256 at 8:10 AM on June 27, 2018
cry
posted by poffin boffin at 8:10 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by poffin boffin at 8:10 AM on June 27, 2018
Werner wide from a volley. They're getting more open in the box.
Son managed to get between a through pass and Neuer, but couldn't control the ball.
posted by lmfsilva at 8:11 AM on June 27, 2018
Son managed to get between a through pass and Neuer, but couldn't control the ball.
posted by lmfsilva at 8:11 AM on June 27, 2018
Jaaaa, bra jobbat Sverige! My poor interns are wondering why I'm yelling.
posted by gemmy at 8:12 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by gemmy at 8:12 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Although the Korea v Germany game just got a lot more important, since a draw over here still guarantees that Mexico advances.
posted by 256 at 8:12 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by 256 at 8:12 AM on June 27, 2018
Plenty of time for México if they can get their act together.
posted by languagehat at 8:12 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by languagehat at 8:12 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Reading The Guardian's live blogging it doesn't sound like Korea is doing much better than I thought they would but German is really falling apart. This is insane.
posted by like_neon at 8:13 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by like_neon at 8:13 AM on June 27, 2018
But Sverige almost scored again. Get your act together, México!
posted by languagehat at 8:14 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 8:14 AM on June 27, 2018
I wouldn't be surprised if this was Ozil's last game for Germany. Bloody hell, he's absolutely useless.
posted by lmfsilva at 8:16 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by lmfsilva at 8:16 AM on June 27, 2018
crap , penalty, dont know how mexico can come back from this
posted by dhruva at 8:19 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by dhruva at 8:19 AM on June 27, 2018
OMG, PK goal for Sweden!!
posted by languagehat at 8:20 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 8:20 AM on June 27, 2018
This is why I don't like cheering for people, this is horrible.
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:20 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:20 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Oh god, if Mexico don't advance.....
Come on Korea, score dammit!
posted by 256 at 8:22 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
Come on Korea, score dammit!
posted by 256 at 8:22 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
I AM DISTRESSED
posted by poffin boffin at 8:22 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by poffin boffin at 8:22 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
Det var Grankvist, Granen, en Viking, en ÖRN!!! Wow. I'm happy for Sweden, but sorry Mexico supporters that must be distressing.
posted by gemmy at 8:24 AM on June 27, 2018 [4 favorites]
posted by gemmy at 8:24 AM on June 27, 2018 [4 favorites]
Omg lol stop being so Swedish about it 💙
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:25 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:25 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
That would just mean a reunified Korea would hold the belt, surely?
No doubt. Perhaps a more realistic way for the lineal championship to go extinct would be for a nation to shut down their national team.
Seems remote amidst this excitement.
posted by clawsoon at 8:27 AM on June 27, 2018
No doubt. Perhaps a more realistic way for the lineal championship to go extinct would be for a nation to shut down their national team.
Seems remote amidst this excitement.
posted by clawsoon at 8:27 AM on June 27, 2018
should I switch over to the korea game for the last 20 mins?
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:28 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:28 AM on June 27, 2018
Cheering for South Korea to score would probably be less stressful than shouting at Mexico, but I can't do it
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:30 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:30 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
From what I've seen so far, a 0-0 draw looks very possible, but both teams keep putting together strong attack after strong attack.
posted by 256 at 8:30 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by 256 at 8:30 AM on June 27, 2018
oh my god why this
posted by poffin boffin at 8:32 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by poffin boffin at 8:32 AM on June 27, 2018
Hell, a third Swedish goal.
posted by languagehat at 8:33 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 8:33 AM on June 27, 2018
Germany definitely putting on more pressure right now though...
posted by 256 at 8:33 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by 256 at 8:33 AM on June 27, 2018
yeah I cant watch that any more.
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:33 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:33 AM on June 27, 2018
OKAY WE JUST CAN'T HAVE NICE THINGS IN 2018
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:33 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:33 AM on June 27, 2018
Horrifying.
posted by languagehat at 8:33 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 8:33 AM on June 27, 2018
Guardian liveblog: As a neutral, of course, you want results that leave both sets of players and fans at one venue in ecstasy, while both sets of players and fans at the other are in despair.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 8:33 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by the man of twists and turns at 8:33 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
Switching to Korea-Germany, my heart can't take it
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:35 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:35 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Glad I got the chocolate stains out of my Sweden jersey.
posted by robocop is bleeding at 8:35 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by robocop is bleeding at 8:35 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
Own goal? I'm sorry, Mexico. That is not how one wants to win. GG.
posted by gemmy at 8:35 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by gemmy at 8:35 AM on June 27, 2018
I’ve switched too.
posted by languagehat at 8:36 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 8:36 AM on June 27, 2018
México’s disintegration is quite startling. Is it even worth them going through now?
posted by hawthorne at 8:36 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by hawthorne at 8:36 AM on June 27, 2018
I wonder if the South Korean players know the score. If they do they’re only playing for pride.
posted by Kattullus at 8:36 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 8:36 AM on June 27, 2018
i am staying because i love to suffer and experience existential darkness
posted by poffin boffin at 8:37 AM on June 27, 2018 [5 favorites]
posted by poffin boffin at 8:37 AM on June 27, 2018 [5 favorites]
Own goal? I'm sorry, Mexico. That is not how one wants to win. GG.
they were up by two when it happened, so it isn't "how" they won.
Damn korea has a solid chance there in the 78th minute
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:37 AM on June 27, 2018
they were up by two when it happened, so it isn't "how" they won.
Damn korea has a solid chance there in the 78th minute
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:37 AM on June 27, 2018
Son grazes the post.
Germany still looking pretty hopeless near the box.
posted by lmfsilva at 8:38 AM on June 27, 2018
Germany still looking pretty hopeless near the box.
posted by lmfsilva at 8:38 AM on June 27, 2018
Korea with a sub for sub in the 79th???
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:38 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:38 AM on June 27, 2018
Mexico had two very good games before this one. They could easily get their shit back together for the knockouts.
posted by 256 at 8:38 AM on June 27, 2018 [4 favorites]
posted by 256 at 8:38 AM on June 27, 2018 [4 favorites]
They could easily get their shit back together for the knockouts.
Not if Germany doesn't give them the chance.
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:40 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Not if Germany doesn't give them the chance.
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:40 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Buahhhhhh Germany looks shit today.
Miro Klose is in the stands, get the man a trikot and put his ass in...
posted by Seeba at 8:41 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Miro Klose is in the stands, get the man a trikot and put his ass in...
posted by Seeba at 8:41 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Oh and even if Korea knows the SWE-MEX score, what better way to go out of the tournament than beating the defending champs in your final game?
A one-zero victory here will buy them a LOT of pride.
posted by 256 at 8:42 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
A one-zero victory here will buy them a LOT of pride.
posted by 256 at 8:42 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
That shot of the Mexican fans all looking at their phones really says it all. The rest of Mexico-Sweden has no bearing on what will happen, everything is riding on the other match’s result.
posted by Kattullus at 8:44 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by Kattullus at 8:44 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
Wait, I don't understand why Mexico wouldn't advance. They have 6 points and if Sweden win they will also have 6 points. Germany looks set for a draw which gives them 4, so thats Mexico and Sweden through right? Even if Germany eke out a single goal to win and get to 6 points, that's still not enough to go through based on goal difference is it? What am I getting wrong here?
posted by like_neon at 8:46 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by like_neon at 8:46 AM on June 27, 2018
Hummels misses an easy header for goal. "I could score that" easy.
posted by lmfsilva at 8:47 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by lmfsilva at 8:47 AM on June 27, 2018
Germany has a knack for 90+ minute goals.
posted by robocop is bleeding at 8:47 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by robocop is bleeding at 8:47 AM on June 27, 2018
If Germany wins 1-0 they will be ahead of Mexico on goal difference.
posted by 256 at 8:48 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by 256 at 8:48 AM on June 27, 2018
I have to admit despite all my shit talking about Korea, their goalkeeper has been quite good and has saved their hide more times than they deserve.
posted by like_neon at 8:48 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by like_neon at 8:48 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
"man getting hit by a football", world cup edition.
6 minutes to go.
posted by lmfsilva at 8:49 AM on June 27, 2018
6 minutes to go.
posted by lmfsilva at 8:49 AM on June 27, 2018
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
posted by 256 at 8:50 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by 256 at 8:50 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
Goal Korea... maybe?!
posted by languagehat at 8:51 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 8:51 AM on June 27, 2018
was that a korean goal or not TELL US VAR SORCERERS
posted by poffin boffin at 8:51 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by poffin boffin at 8:51 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
I think its good
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:52 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:52 AM on June 27, 2018
Just let it go through and I'll forgive var everything
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:52 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:52 AM on June 27, 2018
I don't understand what is being reviewed. That was a clean goal no?
posted by 256 at 8:52 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by 256 at 8:52 AM on June 27, 2018
...and it’s GOOOL!!
posted by languagehat at 8:52 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 8:52 AM on June 27, 2018
IT IS GOOD
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:52 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:52 AM on June 27, 2018
WHAT IS HAPPENING!! I'm just reading reports on the computer and it's too exciting to stand!
posted by Homeboy Trouble at 8:53 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by Homeboy Trouble at 8:53 AM on June 27, 2018
I SCREAM
posted by poffin boffin at 8:53 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by poffin boffin at 8:53 AM on June 27, 2018
Man, this Cup!!
posted by languagehat at 8:53 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 8:53 AM on June 27, 2018
Sadly, I'm sure this won't lead to the end of the phrase "efficient German machine".
posted by clawsoon at 8:53 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by clawsoon at 8:53 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Germany needs some reggie miller level stuff here
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:53 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:53 AM on June 27, 2018
My whole office has apparently been watching on the sly, the entire floor just erupted.
posted by like_neon at 8:54 AM on June 27, 2018 [7 favorites]
posted by like_neon at 8:54 AM on June 27, 2018 [7 favorites]
Mexico and Sweden!! Wow! Holy cow, Korea what a fantastic thing!
posted by gemmy at 8:54 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by gemmy at 8:54 AM on June 27, 2018
Mexican players crying from relief is a whole country’s worth of mood.
posted by Kattullus at 8:54 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by Kattullus at 8:54 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
who else won a previous year and didn't advance aside from italy in the last few cups? don't make me wiki.
posted by poffin boffin at 8:54 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by poffin boffin at 8:54 AM on June 27, 2018
Homeboy Trouble: South Korea is up 1-0 against Germany in Stoppage time.
That SK goal means that Mexico advances! And Korea go home as conquering heroes!
posted by 256 at 8:54 AM on June 27, 2018
That SK goal means that Mexico advances! And Korea go home as conquering heroes!
posted by 256 at 8:54 AM on June 27, 2018
MY BRACKET
MY PRECIOUS BRACKET
YOU LIED TO ME PSYCHIC RACCOON
posted by robocop is bleeding at 8:55 AM on June 27, 2018 [5 favorites]
MY PRECIOUS BRACKET
YOU LIED TO ME PSYCHIC RACCOON
posted by robocop is bleeding at 8:55 AM on June 27, 2018 [5 favorites]
poffin boffin: A lot of teams. It's considered a curse at this point.
posted by 256 at 8:55 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by 256 at 8:55 AM on June 27, 2018
Humiliations galore.
posted by biffa at 8:55 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by biffa at 8:55 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
WOW
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:55 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:55 AM on June 27, 2018
HOLY SHIT ANOTHER GOAL!!!
posted by languagehat at 8:55 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 8:55 AM on June 27, 2018
lmao omg
posted by theodolite at 8:55 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by theodolite at 8:55 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
KOREA GOAL!!!
posted by the man of twists and turns at 8:56 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by the man of twists and turns at 8:56 AM on June 27, 2018
My feed cut out before the second goal, but I can see it in my mind's eye and it is glorious!
posted by 256 at 8:56 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by 256 at 8:56 AM on June 27, 2018
A lot of teams. It's considered a curse at this point.
yeah i just can't remember back far enough
posted by poffin boffin at 8:56 AM on June 27, 2018
yeah i just can't remember back far enough
posted by poffin boffin at 8:56 AM on June 27, 2018
France, world champions, went home in the group stages in 2002, Italy in 2010, as mentioned, and also Spain in 2014. And now Germany.
posted by Kattullus at 8:56 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by Kattullus at 8:56 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
holy shit guys
posted by progosk at 8:57 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by progosk at 8:57 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Hummels really could have won this game for them.
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:58 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:58 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
What a relief. Thank you Korea, congrats Sweden, actually feel bad for my dear Jogi but he's won a lot so I guess we should let Brazil have this one.*
*obvi I don't want that to happen either
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:58 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
*obvi I don't want that to happen either
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:58 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
I don’t believe what I just saw!
posted by languagehat at 8:59 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 8:59 AM on June 27, 2018
Some South Korean players are celebrating as if they made the 2nd round. Honestly, the team should be given honorary Mexican citizenships and the freedom of Mexico City, because they did one hell of a service to the nation of Mexico.
posted by Kattullus at 8:59 AM on June 27, 2018 [5 favorites]
posted by Kattullus at 8:59 AM on June 27, 2018 [5 favorites]
Holy crap.
posted by ChuraChura at 9:00 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by ChuraChura at 9:00 AM on June 27, 2018
Every South Korean is an honorary Mexican on this blessed day!
I want to go to a Korean bar in Montreal right now and buy a round of tequila.
posted by 256 at 9:00 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
I want to go to a Korean bar in Montreal right now and buy a round of tequila.
posted by 256 at 9:00 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
No words, that was insane all around!
posted by doublenelson at 9:00 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by doublenelson at 9:00 AM on June 27, 2018
As I said to my coworker, AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!
posted by Homeboy Trouble at 9:01 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by Homeboy Trouble at 9:01 AM on June 27, 2018
I do kinda wish I were in Los Angeles right now hah
posted by grandiloquiet at 9:02 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by grandiloquiet at 9:02 AM on June 27, 2018
Now Mexico.has five days to come up with a plan to defeat Brazil. We can do it!
posted by 256 at 9:04 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by 256 at 9:04 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
France, world champions, went home in the group stages in 2002, Italy in 2010, as mentioned, and also Spain in 2014. And now Germany.
In every occasion it seems that is caused by a generation that hangs around one cycle too much because of status.
Interested to see if the DFB is pulling the plug on Löw, and Klinsmann (who built the 2006 team and oversaw the post-2000 program) is brought back.
posted by lmfsilva at 9:04 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
In every occasion it seems that is caused by a generation that hangs around one cycle too much because of status.
Interested to see if the DFB is pulling the plug on Löw, and Klinsmann (who built the 2006 team and oversaw the post-2000 program) is brought back.
posted by lmfsilva at 9:04 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
I like to think that the Korea win is a collective thank you to all the Mexican immigrants who work in Korean restaurants like where my mom used to work.
posted by like_neon at 9:04 AM on June 27, 2018 [5 favorites]
posted by like_neon at 9:04 AM on June 27, 2018 [5 favorites]
Bottom of the group for Germany, which is something to celebrate for Koeea, this is a big scalp in their football history.
posted by biffa at 9:05 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by biffa at 9:05 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
I'm in LA right now and STUCK IN THE OFFICE BOGGLING at today's result. But yeah, def wishing I was in Koreatown or something right now.
posted by yasaman at 9:05 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by yasaman at 9:05 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
The Dutch bartenders comped all Germany suppporters drinks.
This is how low we’ve sunk.
I’m going to go sit in a dark room and cry.
posted by Seeba at 9:07 AM on June 27, 2018 [5 favorites]
This is how low we’ve sunk.
I’m going to go sit in a dark room and cry.
posted by Seeba at 9:07 AM on June 27, 2018 [5 favorites]
Treat yourself to Manuel Meyer's touch map, at 18.02 in the BBC live feed.
posted by biffa at 9:09 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by biffa at 9:09 AM on June 27, 2018
AAAAAAH! Why am I at work and only reading about this now? I missed all the drama!
posted by nubs at 9:10 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by nubs at 9:10 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Though it wasn't a goleada, the fact that it was mere Korea ousting them, the Champions, their humiliation has notes of Brazilian revenge karma...
posted by progosk at 9:10 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by progosk at 9:10 AM on June 27, 2018
Korea has earned the right not to be referred to as "mere."
posted by 256 at 9:11 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by 256 at 9:11 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
indeedy.
posted by progosk at 9:11 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by progosk at 9:11 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Treat yourself to Manuel Meyer's touch map
OK, it didn't actually make a difference at that point, but Neuer handed a personal dunce-cap feels deserved, given his past smugness.
posted by progosk at 9:13 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
OK, it didn't actually make a difference at that point, but Neuer handed a personal dunce-cap feels deserved, given his past smugness.
posted by progosk at 9:13 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Was my impression from the radio broadcast that the Korean goaltender made some spectacular saves correct?
posted by clawsoon at 9:16 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by clawsoon at 9:16 AM on June 27, 2018
My old man is definitely smiling somewhere. And I've got a big dopey grin on my face, too.
posted by Capt. Renault at 9:16 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by Capt. Renault at 9:16 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
A commanding loss by die Manschaft.
They worked really hard to earn that loss and despite it looking wobbly a few times, they managed never to follow up when the ball rebounded from the goal, often they were scattered Willy-nilly across the field. At some point I’d swear I saw someone take a call. On his mobile, he was quick and fairly discrete about it but still, dude.
Sigh. Ok, let the show go on. Congrats to Mexico and the Zlatan-less Swedish 11.
posted by From Bklyn at 9:18 AM on June 27, 2018
They worked really hard to earn that loss and despite it looking wobbly a few times, they managed never to follow up when the ball rebounded from the goal, often they were scattered Willy-nilly across the field. At some point I’d swear I saw someone take a call. On his mobile, he was quick and fairly discrete about it but still, dude.
Sigh. Ok, let the show go on. Congrats to Mexico and the Zlatan-less Swedish 11.
posted by From Bklyn at 9:18 AM on June 27, 2018
My SO just read out a report that the Korean keeper came in as third choice but made the team as he was tallest and they were worried about the Swedes. He had a cracking game, better than Neuer certainly but a shout at man of the match.
posted by biffa at 9:18 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by biffa at 9:18 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
A commanding loss by die Manschaft.
it writes itself: Mannshafted.
posted by progosk at 9:19 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
it writes itself: Mannshafted.
posted by progosk at 9:19 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
In fairness not just the keeper, the back four plus two deep central midfielders did a great job of baffling and closing down the German attack.
posted by biffa at 9:20 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by biffa at 9:20 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
I was listening to the Swedish radio for the Mexico game, scaring my interns by cheering every Swedish goal loudly. My favorite part is the radio announcer's description after the first goal [loose translation]:
Ludwig Augustinsson scores for Sweden. The ball bounces just right and he scores! He is the whole world's sun reflection!* He climbs up the tree trunks, out on the branches, shakes the squirrels awake, turns them into soap bubbles and then sends them into a joyous spray of bubbles all over the cosmos!
GGs all. See you in the next round!
* In Swedish it's Solkatt "Sun Cat." Not sure if there's a word for it in English, I can't find one.
posted by gemmy at 9:21 AM on June 27, 2018 [6 favorites]
Ludwig Augustinsson scores for Sweden. The ball bounces just right and he scores! He is the whole world's sun reflection!* He climbs up the tree trunks, out on the branches, shakes the squirrels awake, turns them into soap bubbles and then sends them into a joyous spray of bubbles all over the cosmos!
GGs all. See you in the next round!
* In Swedish it's Solkatt "Sun Cat." Not sure if there's a word for it in English, I can't find one.
posted by gemmy at 9:21 AM on June 27, 2018 [6 favorites]
Was my impression from the radio broadcast that the Korean goaltender made some spectacular saves correct?
There was a great save right at the start of the second half, and one with the score already 2-0. The rest, he did a good job on keeping stray balls and crosses away from the goal.
Looking at the called-up Germany squad, I doubt Ozil, Khedira, Gundogan and Gomez will be returning. My brother said Wagner was missed, and considering his MO is more or less panzering over the defenders, it's hard to argue against that.
As for Mexico, I have some concerns on how the team holds up together against adversity. At the Copa Centenario they were legitimately looking one of the better teams on the tournament, and then collapsed again Chile. Well, swallowed whole doesn't even make what happened justice.
posted by lmfsilva at 9:27 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
There was a great save right at the start of the second half, and one with the score already 2-0. The rest, he did a good job on keeping stray balls and crosses away from the goal.
Looking at the called-up Germany squad, I doubt Ozil, Khedira, Gundogan and Gomez will be returning. My brother said Wagner was missed, and considering his MO is more or less panzering over the defenders, it's hard to argue against that.
As for Mexico, I have some concerns on how the team holds up together against adversity. At the Copa Centenario they were legitimately looking one of the better teams on the tournament, and then collapsed again Chile. Well, swallowed whole doesn't even make what happened justice.
posted by lmfsilva at 9:27 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Sweden and Mexico come together: "Bye bye Germany!"
posted by like_neon at 9:28 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by like_neon at 9:28 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
Some amusing Wiki-vandalism taking place at the moment.
posted by 256 at 9:38 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by 256 at 9:38 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
I’m at work and just saw the result of the S. Korea-Germany game and I am boggling.
There’s been noise in the Korean press since the previous match that the goalie, Cho Hyun-woo, might not be long for the K-League, where he’s in one of the lower paying teams, and might be heading overseas due to his World Cup performance.
posted by needled at 10:02 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
There’s been noise in the Korean press since the previous match that the goalie, Cho Hyun-woo, might not be long for the K-League, where he’s in one of the lower paying teams, and might be heading overseas due to his World Cup performance.
posted by needled at 10:02 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
I generally root for underdogs but never would have suspected that Spain, Ronaldo and Messi escaped group play and Germany is heading back home.
That was some tense action.
posted by mmascolino at 10:05 AM on June 27, 2018
That was some tense action.
posted by mmascolino at 10:05 AM on June 27, 2018
The last few World Cups, I've managed to watch Germany games at the local German pub, but I missed it entirely this year. Probably for the best.
Neuer playing so far forward to allow that empty-netter at the end reminded me of how far forward Patrick Roy used to play for the Colorado Avalanche. It mostly worked, except when it didn't.
posted by fifteen schnitzengruben is my limit at 10:16 AM on June 27, 2018 [4 favorites]
Neuer playing so far forward to allow that empty-netter at the end reminded me of how far forward Patrick Roy used to play for the Colorado Avalanche. It mostly worked, except when it didn't.
posted by fifteen schnitzengruben is my limit at 10:16 AM on June 27, 2018 [4 favorites]
The nice thing about tournaments is that motivation and form count for a lot.
Source: Euro 2004
posted by ersatz at 10:17 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Source: Euro 2004
posted by ersatz at 10:17 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
That Greece team in 2004 was amazing; heroes one and all.
posted by Kattullus at 10:24 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 10:24 AM on June 27, 2018
Sweden and Mexico come together: "Bye bye Germany!"
@HarryLow49: Chants of "Korea" here in Mexico City after footage of the goal against Germany is shown #MEXSWE
This game has done so much for the cause of Swedish/Mexican/Korean friendship.
I've said it before, one of the great things about being in Canada for the World Cup is there's always a supporter of some team or another around; my Iranian colleague was proud of the effort her team put in yesterday. (It would possibly be nicer if Canada ever made it and we actually had a team in the tournament, and in 2026 with the presumptive automatic qualification if we could score a goal.)
posted by Homeboy Trouble at 10:32 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
@HarryLow49: Chants of "Korea" here in Mexico City after footage of the goal against Germany is shown #MEXSWE
This game has done so much for the cause of Swedish/Mexican/Korean friendship.
I've said it before, one of the great things about being in Canada for the World Cup is there's always a supporter of some team or another around; my Iranian colleague was proud of the effort her team put in yesterday. (It would possibly be nicer if Canada ever made it and we actually had a team in the tournament, and in 2026 with the presumptive automatic qualification if we could score a goal.)
posted by Homeboy Trouble at 10:32 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Also, as has been pointed out, the World Cup has never had a surprise winner, with the possible exception of West Germany in 1954, and subsequent history has dulled that surprise. It’s due a surprise winner. This might be the year.
posted by Kattullus at 10:37 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by Kattullus at 10:37 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
I don't see any reason to slag on Neuer about the second Korean goal. Any Korean goals after 1-0 were entirely irrelevant to the outcome if Germany didn't score, so there's no disincentive to becoming an attacker.
posted by The Notorious SRD at 10:37 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by The Notorious SRD at 10:37 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Own Goal is the best player of the 2018 World Cup
Own Goal leads scoring, breaking previous WC records, not even end of group yet.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 10:43 AM on June 27, 2018 [6 favorites]
Own Goal leads scoring, breaking previous WC records, not even end of group yet.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 10:43 AM on June 27, 2018 [6 favorites]
What's the German word for 'Schadenfreude'?
posted by Capt. Renault at 10:43 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by Capt. Renault at 10:43 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
I missed these games because the upstairs toilet decided to leak through the light fittings and fusebox downstairs :( Still no power, really looking forward to getting everything back on to see some highlights at least.
The round of sixteen is going to be great. Based on results so far, I don't think I know anything any more, so each match will be a mystery.
posted by Dysk at 10:51 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
The round of sixteen is going to be great. Based on results so far, I don't think I know anything any more, so each match will be a mystery.
posted by Dysk at 10:51 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
That Greece team in 2004 was amazing; heroes one and all.
Never expected we'd actually win it in football. Until the moment we passed the semis, that is.
And now, vai Brasil!
posted by ersatz at 10:59 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Never expected we'd actually win it in football. Until the moment we passed the semis, that is.
And now, vai Brasil!
posted by ersatz at 10:59 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
The Koreans played wonderfully and, even if they didn't progress, can go out honourably, having defeated Germany on their way out.
I am slightly disappointed in the Mexicans. If they had beat Sweden they might have taken the Koreans onward with them so I sort of feel like we let Korea down!
posted by vacapinta at 11:03 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
I am slightly disappointed in the Mexicans. If they had beat Sweden they might have taken the Koreans onward with them so I sort of feel like we let Korea down!
posted by vacapinta at 11:03 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Okay, so Telemundo has decided that their stream is no longer free if you don't have a cable membership. I have a VPN that allows me to browse from any of Canada, USA, Switzerland, UK, Netherlands, France, Germany, Japan, and Hong Kong.
What is my best option for free online viewing? English or Spanish language preferred, but any language better than nothing.
posted by 256 at 11:04 AM on June 27, 2018
What is my best option for free online viewing? English or Spanish language preferred, but any language better than nothing.
posted by 256 at 11:04 AM on June 27, 2018
@AdrianaTerrazas: Mexican fans arrived at the South Korean embassy in Mexico City to chant: “Korea, brother, you are now Mexican” (it rhymes in Spanish)
This is the best thing. 🇲🇽🇰🇷 I wish there was a bulgogi taco place near me.
posted by Homeboy Trouble at 11:05 AM on June 27, 2018 [10 favorites]
This is the best thing. 🇲🇽🇰🇷 I wish there was a bulgogi taco place near me.
posted by Homeboy Trouble at 11:05 AM on June 27, 2018 [10 favorites]
256: I am in the Netherlands and this link works for me.
posted by vacapinta at 11:06 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by vacapinta at 11:06 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Korea, Hermano, Eres Mexicano I presume? That's a catchy chant.
posted by 256 at 11:09 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by 256 at 11:09 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
BRA-SRB is another good one!
posted by languagehat at 11:09 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:09 AM on June 27, 2018
256, Telecinco has the games in Spanish and there's an online stream. Not on my computer, so I can't link.
Ert 1 live is also broadcasting the game in Greek.
posted by ersatz at 11:09 AM on June 27, 2018
Ert 1 live is also broadcasting the game in Greek.
posted by ersatz at 11:09 AM on June 27, 2018
I lived and worked in Holland for a year about a decade ago. Time to dust off my Dutch!
posted by 256 at 11:11 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by 256 at 11:11 AM on June 27, 2018
Uh-oh, Marcelo has to come out...
posted by languagehat at 11:11 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:11 AM on June 27, 2018
Not sure which British broadcaster has today's games, but both the BBC and ITV have decent free online streaming.
posted by Dysk at 11:13 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by Dysk at 11:13 AM on June 27, 2018
I assume you would have to be in Spain to view telecinco? My spanish is much fresher than my Dutch.
posted by 256 at 11:14 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by 256 at 11:14 AM on June 27, 2018
navas please do not knock your own teammates unconscious
posted by poffin boffin at 11:14 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by poffin boffin at 11:14 AM on June 27, 2018
Not to continue the VPN derail overmuch, but I tried watching on ITV before and they seemed to want me to create an account that required things I couldn't provide.
posted by 256 at 11:15 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by 256 at 11:15 AM on June 27, 2018
can I ask why any neutrals would be watching anything but the Srb-Bra match (assuming you, like me, are only watching one match at once)?
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 11:20 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 11:20 AM on June 27, 2018
ITV verify nothing. I'm registered with a random London postcode, as Dr Totally A Realname with a tempmail email address.
posted by Dysk at 11:20 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by Dysk at 11:20 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Have any of your commentators provided details as to what happened to Marcelo? It’s always most concerning when a player has to leave the field seemingly for little or no reason.
posted by Kattullus at 11:20 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 11:20 AM on June 27, 2018
There are non-register Telecinco streams online too.
posted by ersatz at 11:21 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by ersatz at 11:21 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Okay, thanks everyone! I'm going to watch the Dutch stream today and then investigate my English and Spanish options when there's not a game going on!
posted by 256 at 11:22 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by 256 at 11:22 AM on June 27, 2018
I don't see any reason to slag on Neuer about the second Korean goal. Any Korean goals after 1-0 were entirely irrelevant to the outcome if Germany didn't score, so there's no disincentive to becoming an attacker.
I think the issue was that instead of dragging his gigantic, well toned ass to the front of the box where he could distract the defenders, he stayed with the playmakers and sure, he's one of the goalkeepers with better ball control, but that good-ish ball control is worth shit if you're facing a midfielder who actually knows how to dispossess opponents.
posted by lmfsilva at 11:26 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
I think the issue was that instead of dragging his gigantic, well toned ass to the front of the box where he could distract the defenders, he stayed with the playmakers and sure, he's one of the goalkeepers with better ball control, but that good-ish ball control is worth shit if you're facing a midfielder who actually knows how to dispossess opponents.
posted by lmfsilva at 11:26 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
I couldn't tell. Was that going in if the keeper didn't get his fingers on it?
posted by 256 at 11:26 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by 256 at 11:26 AM on June 27, 2018
can I ask why any neutrals would be watching anything but the Srb-Bra match
bc ticos
posted by poffin boffin at 11:30 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
bc ticos
posted by poffin boffin at 11:30 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
Oh, and I do agree with The Notorious SRD about Neuer. Regardless of how useful or not he was going to be on the attack, he was more useful there than in goal given that Germany needed TWO goals in five minutes to advance (assuming the Germans were aware of the MEX-SWE scoreline).
posted by 256 at 11:30 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by 256 at 11:30 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
navas why. why do you betray me like this.
posted by poffin boffin at 11:31 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by poffin boffin at 11:31 AM on June 27, 2018
Looked like it was. Brasil have been in good spots a few times but haven't followed through so far.
posted by ersatz at 11:31 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by ersatz at 11:31 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Is it ok to say that I have utter comptempt for Neymar for that puerile rolling around and play acting?
posted by daveje at 11:34 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by daveje at 11:34 AM on June 27, 2018
So, as it turns out, I remember basically zero Dutch....
posted by 256 at 11:34 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by 256 at 11:34 AM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
GOL Brazil!!
posted by languagehat at 11:36 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:36 AM on June 27, 2018
daveje: Is it ok to say that I have utter comptempt for Neymar for that puerile rolling around and play acting?
He’s a good, fast player who takes an almighty amount of kicks and body slams. Yet he keeps running at defenders, inviting more. I think your contempt is misplaced.
posted by Kattullus at 11:39 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
He’s a good, fast player who takes an almighty amount of kicks and body slams. Yet he keeps running at defenders, inviting more. I think your contempt is misplaced.
posted by Kattullus at 11:39 AM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
I agree with Kattullus — Neymar is no Messi, but he’s certainly not contemptible.
posted by languagehat at 11:41 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:41 AM on June 27, 2018
Yeah, he's small and he gets fouled more than almost any player. He also acts more than almost any other player, but that's still, unfortunately, part of the game at this point, and Neymar didn't invent simulation.
posted by 256 at 11:41 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by 256 at 11:41 AM on June 27, 2018
I'm pretty forgiving of all the players who roll around hysterically on the floor after hits. The best talent on the field gets the most vicious defending, and soccer bodies have some pretty glaring weak spots: screw up someone's ankle or knee and they won't be doing a lot of running around.
posted by grandiloquiet at 11:45 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by grandiloquiet at 11:45 AM on June 27, 2018
the rolling was excessive though, especially given how fast he popped up once he got the call.
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 11:45 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 11:45 AM on June 27, 2018
Players who (as shown by a replay) grab an entirely different part of their body than the point of impact to try and draw a foul are contemptible, though.
posted by grandiloquiet at 11:47 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by grandiloquiet at 11:47 AM on June 27, 2018
I mean, I agree, but as long as simulation as an infraction remains essentially unenforced, it's hard to fault players who do it.
I do have extra respect for the players that pop right back up after a hard hit though.
posted by 256 at 11:47 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
I do have extra respect for the players that pop right back up after a hard hit though.
posted by 256 at 11:47 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Nice shot from Neymar! A bit high, but a good try. Peep!
posted by languagehat at 11:48 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:48 AM on June 27, 2018
A couple of good tries for Brazil and first half is over. Their speed and ball control seem to be making the difference so far.
posted by ersatz at 11:48 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by ersatz at 11:48 AM on June 27, 2018
I have every respect for his talent, and appreciate how much he gets targeted - especially in the last game - but he’s just tried to claim he got hit in the face when he wasn’t, ten minutes after the rolling around incident. He’s too good a player to need this level of simulation.
posted by daveje at 11:50 AM on June 27, 2018
posted by daveje at 11:50 AM on June 27, 2018
Oh, crazy Dutch commercials. I didn't realize I had missed you so.
posted by 256 at 11:52 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by 256 at 11:52 AM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Okay, it's too nice of a day to sit inside. So I have gone to the park and will be counting on you folks to keep me updated on the game.
posted by 256 at 12:03 PM on June 27, 2018
posted by 256 at 12:03 PM on June 27, 2018
Apparently Costa Rica scored!
Brazil have been resting on their laurels in the second half so far.
posted by ersatz at 12:16 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Brazil have been resting on their laurels in the second half so far.
posted by ersatz at 12:16 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
what an opportunity for Serbia!
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 12:19 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 12:19 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Serbia getting closer though. I have the feeling that the Brazil defense is a bit panicky since Marcelo came off.
posted by daveje at 12:20 PM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by daveje at 12:20 PM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
Yeah, if Brazil go on like this, they’re going to give up a goal sooner rather than later.
posted by languagehat at 12:21 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by languagehat at 12:21 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Barely saved...
posted by languagehat at 12:23 PM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 12:23 PM on June 27, 2018
Bringing on Fernandinho to give the defense better cover.
posted by daveje at 12:25 PM on June 27, 2018
posted by daveje at 12:25 PM on June 27, 2018
2-0 Brazil!
posted by languagehat at 12:25 PM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 12:25 PM on June 27, 2018
If Costa Rica pulls off a win somehow, them Serbia gets through on a draw, right?
posted by 256 at 12:26 PM on June 27, 2018
posted by 256 at 12:26 PM on June 27, 2018
Thiago Silva, the player Brazil were very much missing in the semifinal 2014. Mind you, they probably would still have lost, but not 7-1.
posted by Kattullus at 12:26 PM on June 27, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 12:26 PM on June 27, 2018
Aww I was starting to hope the disaster gods would stay with us long enough to give Serbia and Switzerland a couple of goals...
posted by grandiloquiet at 12:27 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by grandiloquiet at 12:27 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Nearly another goal for Brazil...
posted by languagehat at 12:29 PM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 12:29 PM on June 27, 2018
I'm not the biggest fan of Neymar, but sometimes when he gallops while keeping perfect control of the ball, it's quite a nice sight.
posted by ersatz at 12:30 PM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by ersatz at 12:30 PM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
Serbia need at least another point, regardless of what happens elsewhere. They won’t get that point.
posted by daveje at 12:30 PM on June 27, 2018
posted by daveje at 12:30 PM on June 27, 2018
GOAL! Switzerland, Drmic 88'. Now 2-1 SWI.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 12:45 PM on June 27, 2018
posted by the man of twists and turns at 12:45 PM on June 27, 2018
Serbia have completely fallen apart.
posted by languagehat at 12:46 PM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 12:46 PM on June 27, 2018
Also that Brazil have taken control of the game. Since Fernandinho came on, Serbia have hardly troubled them.
posted by daveje at 12:49 PM on June 27, 2018
posted by daveje at 12:49 PM on June 27, 2018
Poor Mexico, for all their work they get Brazil in the 2nd round. If they beat this Brazil they’ll be legitimate contenders for the title.
posted by Kattullus at 12:49 PM on June 27, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 12:49 PM on June 27, 2018
Costa rica getting a PK
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 12:51 PM on June 27, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 12:51 PM on June 27, 2018
BRYA RUIZ SCORES FOR CRC!!!!
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 12:51 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 12:51 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Oh man, Neymar should have had another goal... but now it’s all over!
posted by languagehat at 12:51 PM on June 27, 2018
posted by languagehat at 12:51 PM on June 27, 2018
And the Brazil game is over. Would prefer both teams to advance.
posted by ersatz at 12:52 PM on June 27, 2018
posted by ersatz at 12:52 PM on June 27, 2018
well that was exciting.
is the height difference between the swiss and costa rican coaches the solid 2.5 feet it seemed from tv?
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 12:54 PM on June 27, 2018
is the height difference between the swiss and costa rican coaches the solid 2.5 feet it seemed from tv?
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 12:54 PM on June 27, 2018
OWN GOAL STRIKES AGAIN!
posted by the man of twists and turns at 12:55 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by the man of twists and turns at 12:55 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
anyway what would have to happen tomorrow for colombia to make it through to next week
posted by poffin boffin at 12:55 PM on June 27, 2018
posted by poffin boffin at 12:55 PM on June 27, 2018
anyway what would have to happen tomorrow for colombia to make it through to next week
They need to beat Senegal.
posted by firechicago at 12:59 PM on June 27, 2018
They need to beat Senegal.
posted by firechicago at 12:59 PM on June 27, 2018
Actually, correction: they need to beat Senegal or tie and have Japan lose to Poland.
posted by firechicago at 1:00 PM on June 27, 2018
posted by firechicago at 1:00 PM on June 27, 2018
Or, if they draw, they need Poland to beat Japan. Ideally by multiple goals.
posted by 256 at 1:00 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by 256 at 1:00 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Ideally by multiple goals.
According to Google, they're already ahead on goal differential, so I don't think it matters, since if they draw and Japan lose, by definition Japan will not improve its goal differential.
posted by firechicago at 1:03 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
According to Google, they're already ahead on goal differential, so I don't think it matters, since if they draw and Japan lose, by definition Japan will not improve its goal differential.
posted by firechicago at 1:03 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Ah! I misread the chart. quite so. Any Polish win would do.
posted by 256 at 1:07 PM on June 27, 2018
posted by 256 at 1:07 PM on June 27, 2018
[Colombia] need to beat Senegal or tie and have Japan lose to Poland.
I want Japan and Senegal to advance, because they're the only non-European, non-Latin American countries left, so I'm cheering for the opposite of this scenario.
posted by J.K. Seazer at 1:42 PM on June 27, 2018 [4 favorites]
I want Japan and Senegal to advance, because they're the only non-European, non-Latin American countries left, so I'm cheering for the opposite of this scenario.
posted by J.K. Seazer at 1:42 PM on June 27, 2018 [4 favorites]
It's important at times like this to reflect on how far Neymar has come. When he was a child he often cried himself to sleep at night, perhaps an old lady's coat had brushed his arm or a photon had caught him wrong. But it has taught him to carry the pain of a nation whenever an opposition player comes within four feet of him.
posted by biffa at 1:43 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by biffa at 1:43 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
I'm with you Seazar. I'm all aboard team Japan for group H.
posted by 256 at 1:47 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by 256 at 1:47 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Not to keep stanning for Marcela Mora y Araujo, but her piece on Maradona is well worth reading.
posted by Kattullus at 1:59 PM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by Kattullus at 1:59 PM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
It sure is (and so is that clip of his goal) — thanks for that!
posted by languagehat at 2:09 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by languagehat at 2:09 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
I'm looking at the almost completed bracket and wondering what's on Southgate and Martinez minds for tomorrow.
See, the winner of the group falls into a path that could have Portugal, France, Argentina and Brazil. The runner up... Spain, and not before the semi-final. Who they play now, it's a toss between Japan, Colombia or Senegal, with a good chance of Japan beating a broken Poland team and actually winning the group.
Sure, there's also the "no teams are easy at this point" thing, but experience at this level of grinding matches counts a lot. On one side are teams that have been in finals two years ago (plus Brazil, who I'd argue are the ones worse equipped to deal with some bad shit happening - Neymar being Bane'd against Colombia was the catalyst for that 7-1 beating, plus the historic precedence of the 98 final where Ronaldo had a literal fit and the whole team looked soulless in the field and went on to be beaten with the same record goal difference in a final), on the other you have Spain and a bunch of teams that might be hungrier, but haven't played a semi final since the nineties.
Of course, this is theory and we could end up with a bunch of upsets, play Mexico and then face Uruguay in the semi-final. Or get knocked out by who wins Group H.
posted by lmfsilva at 2:15 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
See, the winner of the group falls into a path that could have Portugal, France, Argentina and Brazil. The runner up... Spain, and not before the semi-final. Who they play now, it's a toss between Japan, Colombia or Senegal, with a good chance of Japan beating a broken Poland team and actually winning the group.
Sure, there's also the "no teams are easy at this point" thing, but experience at this level of grinding matches counts a lot. On one side are teams that have been in finals two years ago (plus Brazil, who I'd argue are the ones worse equipped to deal with some bad shit happening - Neymar being Bane'd against Colombia was the catalyst for that 7-1 beating, plus the historic precedence of the 98 final where Ronaldo had a literal fit and the whole team looked soulless in the field and went on to be beaten with the same record goal difference in a final), on the other you have Spain and a bunch of teams that might be hungrier, but haven't played a semi final since the nineties.
Of course, this is theory and we could end up with a bunch of upsets, play Mexico and then face Uruguay in the semi-final. Or get knocked out by who wins Group H.
posted by lmfsilva at 2:15 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
This means I will be IN SWEDEN FOR THE SWEDEN-SWITZERLAND MATCH.
posted by Chrysostom at 2:25 PM on June 27, 2018 [4 favorites]
posted by Chrysostom at 2:25 PM on June 27, 2018 [4 favorites]
Have fun!
posted by Quasirandom at 2:28 PM on June 27, 2018
posted by Quasirandom at 2:28 PM on June 27, 2018
Also, the knockouts being so Euro-heavy - 10 out of 16, same as in 2006 and 1998, compared to 2014 when only 6 advanced and 2010 with 5 (2002 is the outlier, with 9) is why I think the UEFA allocation should be affected by the location of the tournament. Taking out three or four UEFA teams for tournaments organized in the Americas, Africa or Asia in favour of the local teams (or distributed in some other way) wouldn't be a bad idea.
Of course, since we're likely to have more 16 teams it won't matter anymore because from those, 10 or so will be terrible anyway, so this was probably more interesting to discuss when they decided on the current format.
posted by lmfsilva at 2:49 PM on June 27, 2018
Of course, since we're likely to have more 16 teams it won't matter anymore because from those, 10 or so will be terrible anyway, so this was probably more interesting to discuss when they decided on the current format.
posted by lmfsilva at 2:49 PM on June 27, 2018
Belgium-England looks interesting. On the one hand, you want to keep your momentum going. On the other, the loser goes into by far the easiest half of the draw. It's quite plausible that winning group G means that the route to the final goes through Senegal, Brazil and France, while the loser gets Japan, Switzerland and Croatia.
posted by daveje at 3:00 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by daveje at 3:00 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Yeah, and it's even worse that the Group H matches are played first.
Given the way the bracket looks, and assuming that Japan and Senegal go through (and, honestly, even if Colombia makes the cut), if I were England or Belgium, I would just be intentionally kicking the ball into my own net over and over again. Is there a rule against that?
posted by 256 at 3:08 PM on June 27, 2018
Given the way the bracket looks, and assuming that Japan and Senegal go through (and, honestly, even if Colombia makes the cut), if I were England or Belgium, I would just be intentionally kicking the ball into my own net over and over again. Is there a rule against that?
posted by 256 at 3:08 PM on June 27, 2018
I'm hoping not, because I'd really like to see a 70-68 scoreline with both teams desperately trying to prevent the other from scoring own goals.
posted by 256 at 3:22 PM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by 256 at 3:22 PM on June 27, 2018 [3 favorites]
If both teams would very deliberately throw the game, I wouldn't rule out an emergency disciplinary committee meeting where both teams would be disqualified and Panama and Tunisia advance, as well as a ban, but we're talking about really blatant stuff, like deliberate penalties and own goals.
The reality is any team that wants to lose will forget to adjust to the midfield, maybe play their passes a bit riskier, never put the players in a situation to score, Kane taking corners, etc. Basically, half-assing it, which is what they've been meaning to do, anyway.
posted by lmfsilva at 3:36 PM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
The reality is any team that wants to lose will forget to adjust to the midfield, maybe play their passes a bit riskier, never put the players in a situation to score, Kane taking corners, etc. Basically, half-assing it, which is what they've been meaning to do, anyway.
posted by lmfsilva at 3:36 PM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
To be clear, what I'm actually hoping for is to see England and Belgium play as though this was the final. It's just an indication of how weird this cup has been that the winner of Group G ends up in a bracket populated by mostly A-list teams, while the runner-up ends up in a bracket populated mostly by overperforming underdogs.
posted by 256 at 3:39 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by 256 at 3:39 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Okay, but Harry Kane is currently in the lead for the Golden Boot. This is the same Harry Kane who swore on his daughter's life to claim credit for a goal from Christian Eriksen during regular season. Is he gonna half-ass anything if it endangers his record? Hm...
posted by grandiloquiet at 3:46 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by grandiloquiet at 3:46 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
if I were England or Belgium, I would just be intentionally kicking the ball into my own net over and over again. Is there a rule against that?
Sounds like it’s Phil Jones and Gary Cahill’s time to shine!
posted by Huffy Puffy at 3:48 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
Sounds like it’s Phil Jones and Gary Cahill’s time to shine!
posted by Huffy Puffy at 3:48 PM on June 27, 2018 [1 favorite]
I was playing around with the 538 world cup bracket thingy, and it's interesting. If England win and are in the harder (Brazil/France) side of the bracket, they have a lower chance of progressing to the finals. They'd have a better chance of winning their first game, 73% vs 67% which makes sense since they'd be playing the 2nd place team in H rather than the winner.
They would have a lower chance of making it past the next two rounds -- 31% chance of making it past a QF with (presumably) Brazil versus 41% of making it through the QF with SWE/SUI. Similarly, they have a 19% chance of making it through the semi vs the winner of the France bracket, vs. 17% of making it to the finals on the other side.
However, the odds of them actually winning the whole tournament are better if they're on the harder side -- not by a lot, 8% vs 9% -- because they'd have to face a monster side in the final, Brazil or France or one of the other sides on a real streak versus facing most likely Spain.
Interestingly, according to 538's thingy, if England make the finals, the most likely opponent with a 37 or 38% chance is Brazil or Spain, depending on which side of the bracket they are on. The second most likely team, in either case, is... Belgium.
The most likely final is Brazil/Spain (13.9%) followed by Brazil vs the loser of Eng/Bel (7.5%), followed by Spain vs. the winner of Eng/Bel (6.1%). The next two are Brazil/Croatia and Spain/France at 5.3% and 5.2% respectively.
posted by Homeboy Trouble at 3:56 PM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
They would have a lower chance of making it past the next two rounds -- 31% chance of making it past a QF with (presumably) Brazil versus 41% of making it through the QF with SWE/SUI. Similarly, they have a 19% chance of making it through the semi vs the winner of the France bracket, vs. 17% of making it to the finals on the other side.
However, the odds of them actually winning the whole tournament are better if they're on the harder side -- not by a lot, 8% vs 9% -- because they'd have to face a monster side in the final, Brazil or France or one of the other sides on a real streak versus facing most likely Spain.
Interestingly, according to 538's thingy, if England make the finals, the most likely opponent with a 37 or 38% chance is Brazil or Spain, depending on which side of the bracket they are on. The second most likely team, in either case, is... Belgium.
The most likely final is Brazil/Spain (13.9%) followed by Brazil vs the loser of Eng/Bel (7.5%), followed by Spain vs. the winner of Eng/Bel (6.1%). The next two are Brazil/Croatia and Spain/France at 5.3% and 5.2% respectively.
posted by Homeboy Trouble at 3:56 PM on June 27, 2018 [2 favorites]
That's super interesting. I wonder about taking this to the extreme. If England had a 5% chance of becoming champion and a 95% chance of going out in the Round of 16 in one bracket vs a 100% chance of making the final but losing in the other bracket, which is better? I feel like the fans would definitely choose the first option, but what about the management?
posted by 256 at 5:14 PM on June 27, 2018
posted by 256 at 5:14 PM on June 27, 2018
While I can see that a quarterfinal against either Sweden or Switzerland would be preferable to one against either Brazil or Mexico, whichever teams get out of Group H are going to be a hell of a challenge to relatively untested England and Belgium. Can you imagine Yannick Carrasco coming off the better against Sadio Mané? Or John Stones against Radamel Falcao? I mean, it's possible, but neither defense has been tested against quality opposition.
posted by Kattullus at 2:18 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 2:18 AM on June 28, 2018
@danielstorey85:
‘The list of countries that England have beaten during the last four World Cups is pathetic:
Tunisia
Panama
Slovenia
Paraguay
Trinidad and Tobago
Ecuador
Now is not the time for beggars to get choosy.
https://www.football365.com/news/playing-for-second-would-be-foolish-for-england’
posted by Bloxworth Snout at 2:20 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
‘The list of countries that England have beaten during the last four World Cups is pathetic:
Tunisia
Panama
Slovenia
Paraguay
Trinidad and Tobago
Ecuador
Now is not the time for beggars to get choosy.
https://www.football365.com/news/playing-for-second-would-be-foolish-for-england’
posted by Bloxworth Snout at 2:20 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
We haven’t won a single knock-out game since 2006, it might be a good time for England fans to live in the moment.
posted by Bloxworth Snout at 2:23 AM on June 28, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by Bloxworth Snout at 2:23 AM on June 28, 2018 [3 favorites]
Senegal potentially awarded a huge PK in the 17th minute
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 7:17 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 7:17 AM on June 28, 2018
NO ERA PENAL
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 7:19 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 7:19 AM on June 28, 2018
Columbia really got out of jail there. A penalty and at least a yellow card, if not a red, but it was overturned after the referee had consulted the video.
posted by Kattullus at 7:21 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 7:21 AM on June 28, 2018
Kattullus do you not agree with the decision to reverse?
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 7:22 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 7:22 AM on June 28, 2018
Man, this is a great game so far.
posted by ChuraChura at 7:31 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by ChuraChura at 7:31 AM on June 28, 2018
Did Rodriguez look that bad?? I admit I wasn't paying a ton of attention, but we're only thirty minutes in...that's some very proactive coaching.
posted by grandiloquiet at 7:34 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by grandiloquiet at 7:34 AM on June 28, 2018
I almost had a surprise* meeting at 10:00, but thankfully my coworkers never show up to work, a fact I won't complain about for a couple days at least.
*In the sense that it was on my calendar, which I had not looked at.
posted by Bulgaroktonos at 7:34 AM on June 28, 2018 [2 favorites]
*In the sense that it was on my calendar, which I had not looked at.
posted by Bulgaroktonos at 7:34 AM on June 28, 2018 [2 favorites]
Japanese goalkeeper with what might be the save of the tournament.
posted by lmfsilva at 7:35 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by lmfsilva at 7:35 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
Rodriguez is taken off for Muriel on the 30th minute. Tactical substitutions in the first half are really controversial. It’s one of the interesting ways football culture impacts tactics. I can’t think of another sport where something like that is so controversial, but I can’t remember any other sport with such strict substitution rules.
posted by Kattullus at 7:37 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 7:37 AM on June 28, 2018
Yeah, that was a spectacular save. But I’ve switched over to SEN-COL now based on the comments here.
posted by languagehat at 7:38 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by languagehat at 7:38 AM on June 28, 2018
Good morning all! Just tuned in to the Columbia-Senegal game. Is that the game to be watching?
posted by 256 at 7:39 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by 256 at 7:39 AM on June 28, 2018
seems more than likely James substitution was a mix of tactical and medical
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 7:39 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 7:39 AM on June 28, 2018
james my tiny son
posted by poffin boffin at 7:39 AM on June 28, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by poffin boffin at 7:39 AM on June 28, 2018 [2 favorites]
The Guardian seems to think it was an injury substitution, but it seemed to me that Columbia was being overrun in midfield and something needed to be changed. If James isn’t completely fit, then that’s the obvious change.
posted by Kattullus at 7:40 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by Kattullus at 7:40 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
ive gone two-screen
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 7:42 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 7:42 AM on June 28, 2018
Exceptional_Hubris: Kattullus do you not agree with the decision to reverse?
It probably was correct to reverse, but on first viewing and first replay it seemed like a penalty to me.
posted by Kattullus at 7:44 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
It probably was correct to reverse, but on first viewing and first replay it seemed like a penalty to me.
posted by Kattullus at 7:44 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
My least favorite person is Colombian and deeply loves Falcao, so I'm deeply enjoying Falcao's obvious frustration at being so intensely defended.
posted by ChuraChura at 7:45 AM on June 28, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by ChuraChura at 7:45 AM on June 28, 2018 [2 favorites]
Colombia look rather like the are playing with ten men.
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 7:45 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 7:45 AM on June 28, 2018
I don't see how a neutral wouldn't be supporting Senegal and I don't even have a Colombian nemesis.
posted by Bulgaroktonos at 7:47 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by Bulgaroktonos at 7:47 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
I’m cheering on Senegal, and I’d be happy for either Colombia or Japan to go through.
posted by Kattullus at 7:50 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 7:50 AM on June 28, 2018
colombia is where i am fleeing when the ICE death squads come for me over a parking ticket from 2006, so.
posted by poffin boffin at 7:50 AM on June 28, 2018 [4 favorites]
posted by poffin boffin at 7:50 AM on June 28, 2018 [4 favorites]
I've been cheering for Senegal and Colombia so far in the group, which makes this game kind of complicated. Cheering for Poland and Colombia is a little too unfair on Japan, though... I'll just hope someone scores today and be happy with any results from this group. I'm still calming down from the last few days of excitement.
posted by grandiloquiet at 7:53 AM on June 28, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by grandiloquiet at 7:53 AM on June 28, 2018 [2 favorites]
Yeah, we’ve all been spoiled by the run of great games.
posted by languagehat at 7:58 AM on June 28, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by languagehat at 7:58 AM on June 28, 2018 [2 favorites]
Looking at the permutations, things seem very safe for Japan in terms of advancing. A draw gets them through, and even if they lose the stars need to align against them in the other game (I mean, Senegal is in the exact same situation, except that they are playing Colombia, who is better and more motivated than Poland are).
I really don't expect to see Columbia AND Senegal advancing.
posted by 256 at 7:59 AM on June 28, 2018
I really don't expect to see Columbia AND Senegal advancing.
posted by 256 at 7:59 AM on June 28, 2018
I believe that a Poland goal and no change in the Senegal-Colombia would mean both of those teams go through and japan is out?
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:05 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:05 AM on June 28, 2018
Yes. But despite the current scorelines, I see a Poland win combined with a Columbia-Senegal draw as very low probability.
I'm prepared to eat my words
posted by 256 at 8:08 AM on June 28, 2018
I'm prepared to eat my words
posted by 256 at 8:08 AM on June 28, 2018
Imagine them as a delicious arepa
posted by poffin boffin at 8:13 AM on June 28, 2018 [8 favorites]
posted by poffin boffin at 8:13 AM on June 28, 2018 [8 favorites]
yeah im pulling for Colombia only bc I was there until two days ago and the scene after game 2 was terrific.
Poland with a decent opportunity on the counter a couple seconds ago but it fizzled without a compelling last touch.
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:16 AM on June 28, 2018
Poland with a decent opportunity on the counter a couple seconds ago but it fizzled without a compelling last touch.
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:16 AM on June 28, 2018
POLAND HAS SCORED
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:18 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:18 AM on June 28, 2018
Poland scores from a neat set piece from a free kick.
posted by lmfsilva at 8:18 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by lmfsilva at 8:18 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
Those words are going to be delicious.
posted by 256 at 8:19 AM on June 28, 2018 [5 favorites]
posted by 256 at 8:19 AM on June 28, 2018 [5 favorites]
Dang it -- come on, Japan! Kick it!
posted by Quasirandom at 8:22 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Quasirandom at 8:22 AM on June 28, 2018
On FiveThirtyEight, the chance of Japan advancing just dropped from 78% to 56%
posted by 256 at 8:23 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by 256 at 8:23 AM on June 28, 2018
If Japan and Senegal both lose 1-0 (or with any other identical scoreline), I think who advances will come down to "fair play."
posted by 256 at 8:25 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by 256 at 8:25 AM on June 28, 2018
Senegal have three more yellow cards than Japan, so the latter would advance.
posted by Kattullus at 8:27 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 8:27 AM on June 28, 2018
According to Simon Burnton at the Guardian, it’s down to a two card advantage. If the fair play record is identical, lots would be drawn to decide who advances.
posted by Kattullus at 8:30 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 8:30 AM on June 28, 2018
I wish every round had tiebreaker PKs. I wish everything in life had tiebreaker PKs though.
would also accept fan excitement as a tiebreaker metric
posted by poffin boffin at 8:31 AM on June 28, 2018 [2 favorites]
would also accept fan excitement as a tiebreaker metric
posted by poffin boffin at 8:31 AM on June 28, 2018 [2 favorites]
It's like the soccer gods are still trying to apologize for that France-Denmark game. I wonder if I should switch to Japan-Poland?
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:32 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:32 AM on June 28, 2018
im fine with head-to-head as a tiebreak but past that yeah, no excuse for this fair play nonsense, PKs all the way.
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:32 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:32 AM on June 28, 2018
VAMOS CAFETEROS
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:33 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:33 AM on June 28, 2018
OH i am excite
posted by poffin boffin at 8:33 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by poffin boffin at 8:33 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
Goal Colombia!
posted by languagehat at 8:33 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by languagehat at 8:33 AM on June 28, 2018
Lewa just skyed a shot he scores like 9 out of 10 times.
posted by lmfsilva at 8:33 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by lmfsilva at 8:33 AM on June 28, 2018
Poland almost made it 2-0 right there also. . .
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:33 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:33 AM on June 28, 2018
Uh glad I didn't
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:33 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:33 AM on June 28, 2018
I wish that instead of fair play or drawing lots, they made the captains play a game of Nintendo World Cup to decide who advances.
posted by 256 at 8:34 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by 256 at 8:34 AM on June 28, 2018
Dammit!
posted by ChuraChura at 8:34 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by ChuraChura at 8:34 AM on June 28, 2018
lmfsilva, the Guardian is of the opinion that scoring was the easier option there for Lewa.
posted by nubs at 8:35 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by nubs at 8:35 AM on June 28, 2018
The suspense in those matchday 3 games has been intense so far. I've switched to two screens.
posted by motdiem2 at 8:35 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by motdiem2 at 8:35 AM on June 28, 2018
Nice save from Ospina!
posted by languagehat at 8:36 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by languagehat at 8:36 AM on June 28, 2018
Another!
posted by languagehat at 8:36 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by languagehat at 8:36 AM on June 28, 2018
WOW OSPINA IS EPIC
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:36 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:36 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
Waste of a good opportunity for Senegal.
posted by languagehat at 8:38 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by languagehat at 8:38 AM on June 28, 2018
Poland threatening for a second
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:41 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Exceptional_Hubris at 8:41 AM on June 28, 2018
If Poland does score again, here are your directions to the after party.
posted by 256 at 8:42 AM on June 28, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by 256 at 8:42 AM on June 28, 2018 [3 favorites]
Japan playing to waste time? They might think they are safe...be hilarious if they draw some yellows now
posted by nubs at 8:47 AM on June 28, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by nubs at 8:47 AM on June 28, 2018 [3 favorites]
I'm pulling for both Senegal and Japan to equalize in stoppage time...
posted by 256 at 8:50 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by 256 at 8:50 AM on June 28, 2018
They were pulling tackles even when defending. With three minutes to go, both teams disengaged. Japan passing on their own half, Poland just looks
posted by lmfsilva at 8:51 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by lmfsilva at 8:51 AM on June 28, 2018
This is not the Japan game I was hoping for. Not at all.
posted by Quasirandom at 8:52 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Quasirandom at 8:52 AM on June 28, 2018
what a terribly disappointing game.
posted by ChuraChura at 8:54 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by ChuraChura at 8:54 AM on June 28, 2018
I'm happy for Japan, but I feel so bad for Senegal. Eliminated on yellow cards.
posted by 256 at 8:54 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by 256 at 8:54 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
I was more eager to see Colombia in the next round than Senegal or Japan, so I'm happy with this result. Terrible for Senegal and Mane, but...they started it playing defensively, so I'm not too surprised.
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:55 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by grandiloquiet at 8:55 AM on June 28, 2018
This African is devastated
posted by doublenelson at 8:55 AM on June 28, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by doublenelson at 8:55 AM on June 28, 2018 [2 favorites]
I'm so sad for senegal
posted by motdiem2 at 8:55 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by motdiem2 at 8:55 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
This is the first time since the World Cup expanded to 32 teams the first knockout round was expanded to 16 teams in 1986 that we have gone to the knockout stage without at least one African team.
posted by 256 at 8:58 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by 256 at 8:58 AM on June 28, 2018
The Guardian suggests that the decibel level of player anthem singing would be a better tiebreaker than the discipline record
posted by nubs at 9:01 AM on June 28, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by nubs at 9:01 AM on June 28, 2018 [2 favorites]
I rescind my NES suggestion and say that instead they should pick 23 random supporters for each team out of the crowd and make THEM play.
posted by 256 at 9:02 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by 256 at 9:02 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
This is the first time since the World Cup expanded to 32 teams in 1986 that we have gone to the knockout stage without at least one African team.
That was 1998. Between 1982 and 1994 it was the 24 team format.
The Guardian suggests that the decibel level of player anthem singing would be a better tiebreaker than the discipline record
Disciplinary record isn't a good way of sorting teams because it's possible one of the teams got a referee that is less afraid of pulling a card, or one that misjudged the severity of foul. Even earlier this week, both Piqué got away and Ronaldo with a yellow in plays that could easily be a straight red with a lot of referees.
I'd much rather they tallied something like shots on goal+corners+(shots wide/2) to advance what should be the most attacking team. I can probably dig the stats and see how that would go.
posted by lmfsilva at 9:09 AM on June 28, 2018 [4 favorites]
That was 1998. Between 1982 and 1994 it was the 24 team format.
The Guardian suggests that the decibel level of player anthem singing would be a better tiebreaker than the discipline record
Disciplinary record isn't a good way of sorting teams because it's possible one of the teams got a referee that is less afraid of pulling a card, or one that misjudged the severity of foul. Even earlier this week, both Piqué got away and Ronaldo with a yellow in plays that could easily be a straight red with a lot of referees.
I'd much rather they tallied something like shots on goal+corners+(shots wide/2) to advance what should be the most attacking team. I can probably dig the stats and see how that would go.
posted by lmfsilva at 9:09 AM on June 28, 2018 [4 favorites]
I’ve been engaging in some seriously magical thinking to find ways to keep Senegal from exiting the World Cup. The disciplinary tiebreaker is just so absurdly unfair.
posted by Kattullus at 9:53 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by Kattullus at 9:53 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
So, bored guy stuff:
shots on goal + corners + shots wide/2 scores
Japan vs Colombia: 6+6+2.5
Japan vs Senegal: 3+2+3.5
Japan vs Poland: 3+5+1.5
Total: 12+13+7.5=32.5
Senegal vs Poland: 4+3+4
Senegal vs Japan: 5+5+7
Senegal vs Colombia: 4+1+4
Total: 13+12+15=40
Senegal would advance, based only on wide shots, which they had a lot. There's also official stats for shots hitting the woodwork, which could also be factored in because that's as close to a goal as it can get. Maybe taking that in and decrease the ratio for shots wide (although it wouldn't make any difference in this case, Senegal clearly seems a lot more on the offensive).
posted by lmfsilva at 9:59 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
shots on goal + corners + shots wide/2 scores
Japan vs Colombia: 6+6+2.5
Japan vs Senegal: 3+2+3.5
Japan vs Poland: 3+5+1.5
Total: 12+13+7.5=32.5
Senegal vs Poland: 4+3+4
Senegal vs Japan: 5+5+7
Senegal vs Colombia: 4+1+4
Total: 13+12+15=40
Senegal would advance, based only on wide shots, which they had a lot. There's also official stats for shots hitting the woodwork, which could also be factored in because that's as close to a goal as it can get. Maybe taking that in and decrease the ratio for shots wide (although it wouldn't make any difference in this case, Senegal clearly seems a lot more on the offensive).
posted by lmfsilva at 9:59 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
Yup, both England and Belgium taking this match as seriously as one could expect: England have made 8 changes from the last game, Belgium have made 9!
posted by daveje at 10:45 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by daveje at 10:45 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
I'm hopeful that as it might be better to lose, neither team will try to hard to defend and it'll be a match where both teams try to score more than the other instead of trying to concede less. Something like a 5-3 scoreline with both teams trying out plays on set-pieces. And maybe if its tied at the 80th minute then both teams trying to pick up as many cards as possible for dissent in order to lose on fair play.
posted by any portmanteau in a storm at 11:01 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by any portmanteau in a storm at 11:01 AM on June 28, 2018
Just checking, there is no esoteric edge-case situation in which the result of this match or the number of goals scored or anything could have any impact on later rounds (aside from obviously deciding who face Colombia and who faces Japan), right?
posted by 256 at 11:05 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by 256 at 11:05 AM on June 28, 2018
Shot on goal from Belgium! A welcome bit of action.
posted by languagehat at 11:07 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:07 AM on June 28, 2018
Both teams seem reasonably serious about attacking.
posted by languagehat at 11:08 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:08 AM on June 28, 2018
Anybody watching PAN-TUN? No? All right then.
posted by languagehat at 11:10 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:10 AM on June 28, 2018
Not bad so far.
posted by lmfsilva at 11:14 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by lmfsilva at 11:14 AM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
Is Belgium pulling ahead (behind) on the fair play ranking?
This game could be worse, but it's a shame it wasn't the first game of the group. I'm starting to really hope Japan beats whoever they play next.
posted by grandiloquiet at 11:21 AM on June 28, 2018
This game could be worse, but it's a shame it wasn't the first game of the group. I'm starting to really hope Japan beats whoever they play next.
posted by grandiloquiet at 11:21 AM on June 28, 2018
Yellow card for Tielemans!
posted by languagehat at 11:21 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:21 AM on June 28, 2018
I'm watching PAN TUN bc the commentators are the mexican guys who are excellent
posted by poffin boffin at 11:22 AM on June 28, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by poffin boffin at 11:22 AM on June 28, 2018 [2 favorites]
Belgium has 2 yellow cards more than England right now. I'm imagining this coming down to yellow cards due to time wasting.
posted by lmfsilva at 11:27 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by lmfsilva at 11:27 AM on June 28, 2018
Yeah, as the Graun says, they’ve gone into Friendly Mode. Guess I’ll go back to reading Russian and keep it on in the background. Let me know if anything happens!
posted by languagehat at 11:30 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by languagehat at 11:30 AM on June 28, 2018
panama goal, everyone is weeping in a giant hug, it is v delight
posted by poffin boffin at 11:33 AM on June 28, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by poffin boffin at 11:33 AM on June 28, 2018 [3 favorites]
Instead of the ludicrous situation of each side trying to lose goals, we might be seeing the even more ridiculous spectacle of the squad players trying to collect the most yellow cards.
posted by daveje at 11:34 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by daveje at 11:34 AM on June 28, 2018
I'm watching PAN TUN bc the commentators are the mexican guys who are excellent
I tuned in just in time to hear GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL, thanks for the tip
posted by egregious theorem at 11:35 AM on June 28, 2018
I tuned in just in time to hear GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL, thanks for the tip
posted by egregious theorem at 11:35 AM on June 28, 2018
Kind of daring of them, since yellow cards aren't wiped out after the group stage. Then again, these teams aren't exactly playing their starters.
posted by grandiloquiet at 11:38 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by grandiloquiet at 11:38 AM on June 28, 2018
I think a brawl would be more entertaining that anything else that ENG-BEL will show today...
posted by Seeba at 11:38 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Seeba at 11:38 AM on June 28, 2018
That was such a delightfully fluky goal too! Unlike some other last round group games, it’s not very mentally taxing to follow these two at once.
posted by Kattullus at 11:39 AM on June 28, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 11:39 AM on June 28, 2018
Tunisia are laying siege to the Panamanian goal, but very ineptly. It’s like when pre-Hun steppe nomads surrounded a Roman city with high walls and had neither the equipment nor know-how to breach the city’s defenses. But Tunisia can take hope in that Panama don’t seem to have much expertise in constructing defenses either.
posted by Kattullus at 11:46 AM on June 28, 2018 [6 favorites]
posted by Kattullus at 11:46 AM on June 28, 2018 [6 favorites]
That was a pretty goal. Nothing like a pretty goal to lift the spirits.
posted by Kattullus at 12:08 PM on June 28, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 12:08 PM on June 28, 2018
tunisian equalizer while i was cleaning my glasses, because god mocks me
posted by poffin boffin at 12:10 PM on June 28, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by poffin boffin at 12:10 PM on June 28, 2018 [3 favorites]
Beautiful goal for Tunisia — I’m glad I switched stations!
posted by languagehat at 12:10 PM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by languagehat at 12:10 PM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
The Finnish commentators chuckled for nearly a minute after the replay of Batshuayi’s glorious shot in his own face.
posted by Kattullus at 12:16 PM on June 28, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by Kattullus at 12:16 PM on June 28, 2018 [2 favorites]
But England is still playing to script, that was a shocking miss.
posted by daveje at 12:23 PM on June 28, 2018
posted by daveje at 12:23 PM on June 28, 2018
The second Tunisian goal was nice too, but I wish Panama manage to claw back a draw.
posted by Kattullus at 12:26 PM on June 28, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 12:26 PM on June 28, 2018
I was really confused why the Panamanian second goal had been chalked off, but the Guardian’s Paul Doyle also thinks it should have stood.
posted by Kattullus at 12:38 PM on June 28, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 12:38 PM on June 28, 2018
Well, that’s over. Panama gave it their best, but Tunisia were just that little bit better. The other game had a pretty goal, but let us never speak of that match again.
posted by Kattullus at 12:59 PM on June 28, 2018
posted by Kattullus at 12:59 PM on June 28, 2018
Will there be more Fanfare posts?
posted by languagehat at 1:53 PM on June 28, 2018
posted by languagehat at 1:53 PM on June 28, 2018
Nah, we're done here aren't we? I mean, who cares about the last 16 teams?
I suspect we should ask for a new thread for the Elimination round - When I'm able to watch the games, I'm usually using a mobile device to post comments, and these threads get full fast.
posted by nubs at 1:57 PM on June 28, 2018
I suspect we should ask for a new thread for the Elimination round - When I'm able to watch the games, I'm usually using a mobile device to post comments, and these threads get full fast.
posted by nubs at 1:57 PM on June 28, 2018
Honestly though, I can't be the only one who always seems to feel a cloud of indifference set in once the group stage is over, can I? Like, even though the stakes are higher and the teams are, on average, better, it feels like the best is behind us.
It's been a pattern for the last few world cups where I work myself up into a frenzy of excitement during the group stage and then sort of lose interest until the final. I'm going to try to avoid it this year, and I'm definitely going to be watching with passion every game that Mexico is in from here on out, but I already kind of feel it setting in.
There's something magical about the feeding frenzy of the group games that the knockouts can't seem to replicate for me.
posted by 256 at 2:05 PM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
It's been a pattern for the last few world cups where I work myself up into a frenzy of excitement during the group stage and then sort of lose interest until the final. I'm going to try to avoid it this year, and I'm definitely going to be watching with passion every game that Mexico is in from here on out, but I already kind of feel it setting in.
There's something magical about the feeding frenzy of the group games that the knockouts can't seem to replicate for me.
posted by 256 at 2:05 PM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
At the Euros, the knockouts still had 320, 182, 63 and 72 comments (from R16 to the final). That's still more than all posts on the first page put together most of the times, so I don't see why not.
posted by lmfsilva at 2:06 PM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by lmfsilva at 2:06 PM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
I can't be the only one who always seems to feel a cloud of indifference set in once the group stage is over
Yeah, I'm being a little tongue in cheek - the group stage produces some wild & memorable moments, along with stinkers like yesterday. Obviously the games now are bigger, but the drama somehow isn't quite the same.
posted by nubs at 2:38 PM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
Yeah, I'm being a little tongue in cheek - the group stage produces some wild & memorable moments, along with stinkers like yesterday. Obviously the games now are bigger, but the drama somehow isn't quite the same.
posted by nubs at 2:38 PM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
It's similar to how I feel during the NCAA men's basketball tournament - I'm tremendously excited during the first week, when the 68 teams get whittled down to the Sweet 16. That's when the crazy upsets happen, some team you've never heard of puts on an amazing performance, etc. And then it just becomes less and less exciting as 16 become 8, 8 become 4, and the final often ends up being a snoozer.
posted by needled at 3:43 PM on June 28, 2018
posted by needled at 3:43 PM on June 28, 2018
It depends on tournaments. Euro 2000, to give an example, started excitingly and then just built and built and built to an incredible crescendo. The 2010 World Cup was the opposite. The last World Cup had enough interesting things happening to stay interesting throughout the knockouts, but the final was a bit of a let down after the shock of the 7-1. I wouldn't bet the farm on another Euro 2000 style tournament, but things feel open enough to give me hope that it'll at least be as good as Brazil 2014.
posted by Kattullus at 3:52 PM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by Kattullus at 3:52 PM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
Euro 2000 was peak football to me, almost all games were entertaining with a lot going on. I don't think I heard so much noise in the street because of the national team than after Costinha's stoppage time goal against Romania, this including Euro 2016 (well, also because there were more places with the game)
posted by lmfsilva at 4:12 PM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by lmfsilva at 4:12 PM on June 28, 2018 [1 favorite]
The first day of the world cup without football is always a reminder of the ultimate emptiness of our lives.
posted by biffa at 10:24 AM on June 29, 2018 [4 favorites]
posted by biffa at 10:24 AM on June 29, 2018 [4 favorites]
But tomorrow there will be football again!
posted by needled at 11:16 AM on June 29, 2018 [1 favorite]
posted by needled at 11:16 AM on June 29, 2018 [1 favorite]
This is where my idea (it came to me after seeing The Other Final) of bringing along some of the bottom ranked teams in the world to the World Cup could come in. Instead of a day where the pitch is dark, you could stage some friendlies for those teams, give them a chance to have some time in the light and maybe develop their programs a little bit and grow the game.
But it would depend on being kind, generous, and invested in the game rather than the spectacle and the money. So my idealism crumbles in the face of FIFA.
posted by nubs at 12:15 PM on June 29, 2018 [3 favorites]
But it would depend on being kind, generous, and invested in the game rather than the spectacle and the money. So my idealism crumbles in the face of FIFA.
posted by nubs at 12:15 PM on June 29, 2018 [3 favorites]
Here's an article on the Guardian about Quaresma's goal and technique, which reminded me of an argument I had many years ago with a youth team coach, over treating the trivela and the toe kick like they used to "fix" left-handed kids in school. I mean, they're completely valid techniques that should be trained to effectiveness because there are situations where a quick toe kick like Ronaldinho's against Chelsea or a arching trivela shot like Quaresma are the best solutions. I've seen a lot of times, even world class players, miss a chance because they got hammered in their heads to take "proper" shots, even if that includes losing time to getting to the ball to the inside of the foot.
posted by lmfsilva at 1:31 PM on June 29, 2018 [3 favorites]
posted by lmfsilva at 1:31 PM on June 29, 2018 [3 favorites]
I went ahead and made a new thread for the round of 16.
posted by LobsterMitten at 12:02 AM on June 30, 2018 [2 favorites]
posted by LobsterMitten at 12:02 AM on June 30, 2018 [2 favorites]
You are not logged in, either login or create an account to post comments
Russia (2-0-0) 6 points
Uruguay (2-0-0) 6 points
Egypt (0-0-2) 0 points
Saudi Arabia (0-0-2), 0 points
Group B Standings
Spain (1-1-0) 4 points
Portugal (1-1-0 ) 4 points
Iran (1-0-0), 3 points
Morocco (0-0-2) 0 points
Group C Standings
France(2-0-0) 6 points
Denmark (1-1-0) 4 points
Australia (0-1-1), 1 point
Peru (0-0-2) 0 points
Group D Standings
Croatia (2-0-0) 6 points
Nigeria (1-0-1) 3 points
Iceland (0-1-0) 1 point
Argentina (0-1-1) 1 point
Group E Standings
Brazil (1-1-0) 4 points
Switzerland (1-1-0) 4 points
Serbia (1-0-1) 3 points
Costa Rica (0-2-0) 0 points
Group F Standings
Mexico (2-0-0) 6 points
Germany (1-0-1) 3 points
Sweden (1-0-1) 3 points
South Korea (0-0-2) 0 points
Group G Standings
England (2-0-0) 6 points
Belgium (2-0-0) 6 points
Tunisia (0-0-2) 0 points
Panama (0-0-2) 0 points
Group H Standings
Japan (1-1-0) 4 points
Senegal (1-1-0) 4 points
Colombia (1-0-1) 3 points
Poland (0-0-2) 0 points
Schedule of matches
Monday 25 June
Uruguay v Russia
Saudi Arabia v Egypt
Spain v Morocco
Iran v Portugal
Tuesday 26 June
Australia v Peru
Denmark v France
Nigeria v Argentina
Iceland v Croatia
Wednesday 27 June
Korea Republic v Germany
Mexico v Sweden
Serbia v Brazil
Switzerland v Costa Rica
Thursday 28 June
Japan v Poland
Senegal v Colombia
Panama v Tunisia
England v Belgium
Some redditor made these outcome tables for each group:
Group A
Group B
Group C
Group D
Group E
Group F
Group G
Group H
posted by the man of twists and turns at 12:27 AM on June 25, 2018 [1 favorite]