Copa América Centenario
June 3, 2016 7:40 AM - Subscribe
100 years ago, Argentina celebrated the centenary of their independence by inviting Uruguay, Brazil and Chile to a tournament (famed spoilers Uruguay won).
Today, the United States starts celebrating the longest-running international club football competition, with all 10 CONMEBOL teams and the US, Mexico, Costa Rica, Jamaica, Haiti and Panama making the 16 teams of this celebratory tournament - The Copa América Centenario.
Starting between rumours of a future CONMEBOL/CONCACAF merger - as the US TV market grows, South American teams look forward to tap that market, and a Champions League style club competition is already being discussed. The tournament was at a point at risk due to the number of corruption scandals of South American officials last year, but went ahead as scheduled.
It will be not only a chance for the US and Mexico to square off against South American national teams, but also for some players to reach international glory, most notably La Liga stars Leo Messi and Jamés Rodriguez. Luis Suarez could also bring a second winners medal, after winning the 2011 competition.
A few players will not take part - Thiago Silva, Marcelo and Tevez might have hit the end of his international career, Neymar selected (or, like many, had to choose) to focus on the Rio Olympics, Altidore, Javier Pastore and Keylor Navas are injured, or Jackson Martinez, who moved to China after a disastrous half-season at Atletico Madrid.
Considering last year the Copa America post didn't even break 20 comments, I think this one will do for the whole tournament.
Starting between rumours of a future CONMEBOL/CONCACAF merger - as the US TV market grows, South American teams look forward to tap that market, and a Champions League style club competition is already being discussed. The tournament was at a point at risk due to the number of corruption scandals of South American officials last year, but went ahead as scheduled.
It will be not only a chance for the US and Mexico to square off against South American national teams, but also for some players to reach international glory, most notably La Liga stars Leo Messi and Jamés Rodriguez. Luis Suarez could also bring a second winners medal, after winning the 2011 competition.
A few players will not take part - Thiago Silva, Marcelo and Tevez might have hit the end of his international career, Neymar selected (or, like many, had to choose) to focus on the Rio Olympics, Altidore, Javier Pastore and Keylor Navas are injured, or Jackson Martinez, who moved to China after a disastrous half-season at Atletico Madrid.
Considering last year the Copa America post didn't even break 20 comments, I think this one will do for the whole tournament.
Didn't start out great for the US. During the first half (fell asleep at half time) they've barely caused any trouble for Colombia and were caught napping on a corner early in the game, and that was a very avoidable penalty.
I wonder if Klinsmann will survive a bad outcome in the competition.
Today:
Costa Rica - Paraguay (5 PM ET)
Haiti - Peru (7:30 PM ET)
Brazil - Ecuador (10 PM ET)
posted by lmfsilva at 3:15 AM on June 4, 2016
I wonder if Klinsmann will survive a bad outcome in the competition.
Today:
Costa Rica - Paraguay (5 PM ET)
Haiti - Peru (7:30 PM ET)
Brazil - Ecuador (10 PM ET)
posted by lmfsilva at 3:15 AM on June 4, 2016
Good Luck to, uh, all of them except the USA, I guess!
Seriously, as an English person, I really do not want the USA to win anything, not after what happened in the Women's World Cup. Not that I'm bitter, no sirree, not at all!
More seriously, it is interesting that this is happening when the Olympics is in Brazil, and it must have been difficult for those taking part to chose. I am not sure which one I would prioritise if I was the manager of team in this area.
So, which is your team, and how do you rate it? And what do you think your chances are? Out at the group stage (a la England in the Euros - and the only reason we won't go out earlier is because it is not actually possible, although if it was I am sure we would be!); Quarter finals? Semis? Or do you think this might be your teams year?
posted by marienbad at 8:17 AM on June 4, 2016
Seriously, as an English person, I really do not want the USA to win anything, not after what happened in the Women's World Cup. Not that I'm bitter, no sirree, not at all!
More seriously, it is interesting that this is happening when the Olympics is in Brazil, and it must have been difficult for those taking part to chose. I am not sure which one I would prioritise if I was the manager of team in this area.
So, which is your team, and how do you rate it? And what do you think your chances are? Out at the group stage (a la England in the Euros - and the only reason we won't go out earlier is because it is not actually possible, although if it was I am sure we would be!); Quarter finals? Semis? Or do you think this might be your teams year?
posted by marienbad at 8:17 AM on June 4, 2016
I want Mexico to do well because, uh... we might get a better deal for Herrera if he plays well and has a shiny golden medal on his chest. It's been frustrating to see him play him so erratically for us and so well for the national team.
posted by lmfsilva at 9:49 AM on June 4, 2016
posted by lmfsilva at 9:49 AM on June 4, 2016
Paraguay surprisingly better so far, but few real chances. Weather going to be a factor in the second half.
posted by lmfsilva at 3:03 PM on June 4, 2016
posted by lmfsilva at 3:03 PM on June 4, 2016
after a mostly rough affair, a goalless draw looks appropriate.
Now Haiti is making Peru sweat. They had a few good chancesand just had another, and the only thing between a win and scandal was that masterful headert by Guerrero.
posted by lmfsilva at 6:22 PM on June 4, 2016
Now Haiti is making Peru sweat. They had a few good chancesand just had another, and the only thing between a win and scandal was that masterful headert by Guerrero.
posted by lmfsilva at 6:22 PM on June 4, 2016
Haiti surprisingly pulled one hell of a fight and could have tied the game in added time, despite the obvious skill differences.
Brazil was terrible, and there's no other way around it, and they were very lucky that the referee thought the ball was out (I don't think it was) on that laughably soft goal they conceded. While they were distributing the ball well (sideways and backwards), Jonas was playing alone and still expecting a loose ball to drop to his feet, the midfield was terrible at filling in space (every mis-aimed pass, every loose ball, every clearance felt like it ended up at an Equatorian feet) and they were attacking with so many players, every counter-attack posed a threat. Even with that, Dunga decided to do his first offensive sub 5 minutes before regulation.
Today just two games, but with two favourites squaring off:
Jamaica - Venezuela (5 PM ET)
Mexico - Uruguay (8 PM ET)
posted by lmfsilva at 6:33 AM on June 5, 2016
Brazil was terrible, and there's no other way around it, and they were very lucky that the referee thought the ball was out (I don't think it was) on that laughably soft goal they conceded. While they were distributing the ball well (sideways and backwards), Jonas was playing alone and still expecting a loose ball to drop to his feet, the midfield was terrible at filling in space (every mis-aimed pass, every loose ball, every clearance felt like it ended up at an Equatorian feet) and they were attacking with so many players, every counter-attack posed a threat. Even with that, Dunga decided to do his first offensive sub 5 minutes before regulation.
Today just two games, but with two favourites squaring off:
Jamaica - Venezuela (5 PM ET)
Mexico - Uruguay (8 PM ET)
posted by lmfsilva at 6:33 AM on June 5, 2016
Jamaica and Venezuela are two of the favourites? I am unable to watch any of this tournament as I don't have a TV and when I did I only had the 5 terrestrial channels, so am relying on people in this thread to keep me informed.
Interesting to hear of Brazil's problems - still not fixed things after the World Cup by the sounds of it.
posted by marienbad at 10:38 AM on June 5, 2016 [1 favorite]
Interesting to hear of Brazil's problems - still not fixed things after the World Cup by the sounds of it.
posted by marienbad at 10:38 AM on June 5, 2016 [1 favorite]
Well, Mexico and Uruguay are.
Brazil tactically is a mess, and still seems stuck in 2002. They need to get much better at pushing the ball forward in the middle in the ground instead of mindlessly crossing into the box and hope to get a break.
posted by lmfsilva at 12:43 PM on June 5, 2016
Brazil tactically is a mess, and still seems stuck in 2002. They need to get much better at pushing the ball forward in the middle in the ground instead of mindlessly crossing into the box and hope to get a break.
posted by lmfsilva at 12:43 PM on June 5, 2016
brasil was embarrassing to watch, like a peewee football team had wandered lost onto the pitch and had somehow nevertheless been allowed to play.
posted by poffin boffin at 2:37 PM on June 5, 2016
posted by poffin boffin at 2:37 PM on June 5, 2016
So, Jamaica started better and even hit the woodwork, but after a beautiful quick succession of passes, Venezuela found themselves in the front. Didn't help that a few minutes later, what seemed an unintended but still reckless challenge ended up with Rodolph Austin sent off. Fell asleep during half-time, but it seems Venezuela was closer to the second than Jamaica of putting up a challenge for the game.
Mexico - Uruguay was a cracking game. They started by playing the Chilean anthem instead of Uruguays, to the confusion of their players. And it didn't get any better for Uruguay, with a cross from the left too high for Chicarito but Herrera put the pressure on Alvaro Pereira who put the ball in his own net. Pereira had a shocking first half where Mexico kept pounding his flank creating a number of chances. Other than a one-on-one chance Cavani kicked right at Talavera, without Suarez they were toothless for the first half. As Tabarez was thinking what he could say in half-time to turn the game around, Vecino tried to put in practice the idea that "you couldn't kick someone and not hit a Porto player/former", and got a second yellow after a poorly-timed challenge turned into a kick on Jesus Corona's knees.
It wasn't, however, the end for Uruguay, as Mexico played the second half much less aggressively and allowed a few dangerous plays, including Rolan missing a sitter, and after coming in empty from a cross, Talavera almost punched the ball back into his own net. Midway in the second half, Guadado got a second yellow (that looked very much by request), and from the free kick, Godin connected perfectly with the ball to score the equaliser and also a few drinks from Mexico's supporters.
With both sides even on the scoreboard and on the field, the game looked it could be set for a tie, but on the followup of a short corner, Rafa Marquez torched the back of the net with an unstoppable kick that put Mexico back in front. A lot of nerves on Uruguay's defense, as Godin received a yellow card for arguing, and after the goal both Muslera and Cavani were mouthing off at the referee over some decision that led to the second goal (I think the corner might not have been one). With few minutes left, Mexico managed to hold off Uruguay, and on a counter attack, Lozano found Jimenez who couldn't control it well enough to shoot, but perfectly to find Herrera on the far post who headed it in calmly for the third. After the game was over, Muslera was still trying to get some answers from the linesman, and could find himself suspended.
So, your typical Copa America game.
Today, two games again, and the later is a rematch of last years' Copa America final.
Panama - Bolivia (7 PM ET)
Argentina - Chile (10 PM ET)
posted by lmfsilva at 6:21 AM on June 6, 2016
Mexico - Uruguay was a cracking game. They started by playing the Chilean anthem instead of Uruguays, to the confusion of their players. And it didn't get any better for Uruguay, with a cross from the left too high for Chicarito but Herrera put the pressure on Alvaro Pereira who put the ball in his own net. Pereira had a shocking first half where Mexico kept pounding his flank creating a number of chances. Other than a one-on-one chance Cavani kicked right at Talavera, without Suarez they were toothless for the first half. As Tabarez was thinking what he could say in half-time to turn the game around, Vecino tried to put in practice the idea that "you couldn't kick someone and not hit a Porto player/former", and got a second yellow after a poorly-timed challenge turned into a kick on Jesus Corona's knees.
It wasn't, however, the end for Uruguay, as Mexico played the second half much less aggressively and allowed a few dangerous plays, including Rolan missing a sitter, and after coming in empty from a cross, Talavera almost punched the ball back into his own net. Midway in the second half, Guadado got a second yellow (that looked very much by request), and from the free kick, Godin connected perfectly with the ball to score the equaliser and also a few drinks from Mexico's supporters.
With both sides even on the scoreboard and on the field, the game looked it could be set for a tie, but on the followup of a short corner, Rafa Marquez torched the back of the net with an unstoppable kick that put Mexico back in front. A lot of nerves on Uruguay's defense, as Godin received a yellow card for arguing, and after the goal both Muslera and Cavani were mouthing off at the referee over some decision that led to the second goal (I think the corner might not have been one). With few minutes left, Mexico managed to hold off Uruguay, and on a counter attack, Lozano found Jimenez who couldn't control it well enough to shoot, but perfectly to find Herrera on the far post who headed it in calmly for the third. After the game was over, Muslera was still trying to get some answers from the linesman, and could find himself suspended.
So, your typical Copa America game.
Today, two games again, and the later is a rematch of last years' Copa America final.
Panama - Bolivia (7 PM ET)
Argentina - Chile (10 PM ET)
posted by lmfsilva at 6:21 AM on June 6, 2016
Fabulous match report imfsilva!
I heard about the anthem mix-up on the BBC. Absolutely shocking.
posted by marienbad at 8:09 AM on June 6, 2016
I heard about the anthem mix-up on the BBC. Absolutely shocking.
posted by marienbad at 8:09 AM on June 6, 2016
For anyone who is visiting here before mefi, imfsilva has made a wonderful Euros FPP.
posted by marienbad at 8:23 AM on June 6, 2016
posted by marienbad at 8:23 AM on June 6, 2016
I'm pulling for Chile to win it. I feel for them, having won last year, and having this (as Bein Sports put it) cash grab set just a year later seems pretty unfair. They should be resting on their laurels, not doing this all over again. The 10pm start time for their match against Argentina pisses me off--I couldn't even stay away for the full US-Colombia match, not that I missed much. I would really like to see this one.
posted by ceejaytee at 9:15 AM on June 6, 2016
posted by ceejaytee at 9:15 AM on June 6, 2016
Panama started the game coming fast and strong, and after what looked a bad non-call on a penalty from a corner, they got their goal very early by Perez on and kept piling on, but after 20 minutes of intense pressure, they couldn't get another one in, and Bolivia got their balance back, and finished the half taking control. The game restarted under heavy rain, and Bolivia's Arce scored from a poor clearance from a free kick, and the game was level again.
After that, both teams started attacking the goal with less build-up and more vertically, and a the game got also a bit rougher. Panama was looking to gain confidence and was close to score twice, and after a fantastic dribble by Arroyo he found Perez again who easily kicked the ball past two helpless defenders for their first Copa America win.
(full highlights)
The game between both finalists last year started with a Pitbull recording cutting the end of the Chilean anthem (today: Pitbul raps the whole Uruguay anthem), and well for Argentina, with Di Maria and Gaitan wrecking their flanks, and the later even had a shot hit the top of the crossbar. However, the idea of an entertaining game quickly vanished, and Argentina lost focus. Without Messi, the whole offense was, well, messy. With Higuain alone, there were a number of crosses that either went too wide or just to nowhere. Maybe Messi's ghost is actually a thing. Still in the first half, Vidal managed to avoid a sending off after this tackle, and repeated fouling in the second half.
Chile restarted the game in better shape, with miscues from both sides, and Banega recovered a poorly controlled ball, made a through pass to Di Maria who got it past Bravo, who looked he could have protected the near post better. And just a few moments later, Di Maria found Banega who shot from a similar position for the second, and Bravo looked he could have done better again. One could argue both goals were against the flow of the game, but the game was more of a lake than a river, and it was a matter of who'd make less crucial mistakes. With most of the second half to play, Chile looked defeated, and got their consolation goal late in compensation thanks to a Fuenzalida header from a set piece Romero tried reach blindly.
Round 2 starts today:
USA - Costa Rica (8 PM ET)
The USMNT has to do a lot more than they did against Colombia. A defeat here will put them out, a tie isn't much better. Costa Rica knows to advance they must get as many points as they can before playing Colombia.
Colombia - Paraguay (10:30 PM ET)
Jamesless Colombia wins and they're set to take first place. Paraguay enters the field knowing what are their odds of advancing if they don't win.
posted by lmfsilva at 5:58 AM on June 7, 2016
After that, both teams started attacking the goal with less build-up and more vertically, and a the game got also a bit rougher. Panama was looking to gain confidence and was close to score twice, and after a fantastic dribble by Arroyo he found Perez again who easily kicked the ball past two helpless defenders for their first Copa America win.
(full highlights)
The game between both finalists last year started with a Pitbull recording cutting the end of the Chilean anthem (today: Pitbul raps the whole Uruguay anthem), and well for Argentina, with Di Maria and Gaitan wrecking their flanks, and the later even had a shot hit the top of the crossbar. However, the idea of an entertaining game quickly vanished, and Argentina lost focus. Without Messi, the whole offense was, well, messy. With Higuain alone, there were a number of crosses that either went too wide or just to nowhere. Maybe Messi's ghost is actually a thing. Still in the first half, Vidal managed to avoid a sending off after this tackle, and repeated fouling in the second half.
Chile restarted the game in better shape, with miscues from both sides, and Banega recovered a poorly controlled ball, made a through pass to Di Maria who got it past Bravo, who looked he could have protected the near post better. And just a few moments later, Di Maria found Banega who shot from a similar position for the second, and Bravo looked he could have done better again. One could argue both goals were against the flow of the game, but the game was more of a lake than a river, and it was a matter of who'd make less crucial mistakes. With most of the second half to play, Chile looked defeated, and got their consolation goal late in compensation thanks to a Fuenzalida header from a set piece Romero tried reach blindly.
Round 2 starts today:
USA - Costa Rica (8 PM ET)
The USMNT has to do a lot more than they did against Colombia. A defeat here will put them out, a tie isn't much better. Costa Rica knows to advance they must get as many points as they can before playing Colombia.
Colombia - Paraguay (10:30 PM ET)
Jamesless Colombia wins and they're set to take first place. Paraguay enters the field knowing what are their odds of advancing if they don't win.
posted by lmfsilva at 5:58 AM on June 7, 2016
I'll start by saying Nike does terrible kits. 0 imagination, it feels everyone is using a teamwear kit. Plus, that ball looks like Terry Butcher played keepie-uppie with it after that game against Sweden back in 89.
Now, Costa Rica started the game better and seem to have rattled the US. However, a stupid push in the box following a corner gave Dempsey a chance to score from the spot, and he did. After that, the US balanced the game out, and after a couple of missed chances both ways, Jones hits a pin-point shot from outside the box to make it 2, and just a few minutes later Wood makes it 3 before the break.
Since that was settled (really, in the past few years Klinsmann might have failed to give any flair to the US, but physically and tactically their game is sound), and went back to Top Spin, but between loading screens (really, that game has a lot of them) still saw the US controlling the game and Costa Rica hitting the woodwork once. Doesn't seem I missed much, mother than the fourth goal.
(full highlights)
James Lives! And he curls a perfect corner Bacca heads home to put Colombia one ahead early in the game. Then, in a counter-attack, after a couple of bouces he appears free on the left and finishes with class to give Colombia a very important early lead. Paraguay fought back, and got a goal rightly disallowed for offside, and just before the end of the half, a great free-kick hitting the crossbar. Between them, Colombia completely wasted a good counter-attack opportunity (started by a guy who kicked the ball seconds after being stomped in the same foot, and it surely looked both hurt as hell)
The second half started with another call for Paraguay not going their way, and after Ospina denied them with the save of the tournament, Ayala hit back with the goal of the tournament. That seem to have rattled Colombia, as they started to look more tired and feeling the pressure - Cuadrado was doing one bad decision after the other - but as Paraguay were tarting to look back in, Romero was sent off for a second yellow minutes after the first. It didn't stop them from trying: Colombia had to clear one off the goal line, and didn't look any comfortable until the final whistle.
It shouldn't feel like that, but Colombia might have gotten away here. But, two out of two, and they are the first team to advance to the knockout round.
Today:
Brazil - Haiti (7:30 PM ET)
Brazil shouldn't have much problem disposing of Haiti. As poorly as they played in the first game, they can put in a lot more pressure than Peru, and those poor receptions and loose control they got away with against Peru will turn into goal-scoring chances.
Ecuador - Peru (10:00 PM ET)
Peru wins and they advance. Ecuador wins and all they have to do is not lose against Haiti to advance at the expense of the loser of the other game.
posted by lmfsilva at 7:53 AM on June 8, 2016
Now, Costa Rica started the game better and seem to have rattled the US. However, a stupid push in the box following a corner gave Dempsey a chance to score from the spot, and he did. After that, the US balanced the game out, and after a couple of missed chances both ways, Jones hits a pin-point shot from outside the box to make it 2, and just a few minutes later Wood makes it 3 before the break.
Since that was settled (really, in the past few years Klinsmann might have failed to give any flair to the US, but physically and tactically their game is sound), and went back to Top Spin, but between loading screens (really, that game has a lot of them) still saw the US controlling the game and Costa Rica hitting the woodwork once. Doesn't seem I missed much, mother than the fourth goal.
(full highlights)
James Lives! And he curls a perfect corner Bacca heads home to put Colombia one ahead early in the game. Then, in a counter-attack, after a couple of bouces he appears free on the left and finishes with class to give Colombia a very important early lead. Paraguay fought back, and got a goal rightly disallowed for offside, and just before the end of the half, a great free-kick hitting the crossbar. Between them, Colombia completely wasted a good counter-attack opportunity (started by a guy who kicked the ball seconds after being stomped in the same foot, and it surely looked both hurt as hell)
The second half started with another call for Paraguay not going their way, and after Ospina denied them with the save of the tournament, Ayala hit back with the goal of the tournament. That seem to have rattled Colombia, as they started to look more tired and feeling the pressure - Cuadrado was doing one bad decision after the other - but as Paraguay were tarting to look back in, Romero was sent off for a second yellow minutes after the first. It didn't stop them from trying: Colombia had to clear one off the goal line, and didn't look any comfortable until the final whistle.
It shouldn't feel like that, but Colombia might have gotten away here. But, two out of two, and they are the first team to advance to the knockout round.
Today:
Brazil - Haiti (7:30 PM ET)
Brazil shouldn't have much problem disposing of Haiti. As poorly as they played in the first game, they can put in a lot more pressure than Peru, and those poor receptions and loose control they got away with against Peru will turn into goal-scoring chances.
Ecuador - Peru (10:00 PM ET)
Peru wins and they advance. Ecuador wins and all they have to do is not lose against Haiti to advance at the expense of the loser of the other game.
posted by lmfsilva at 7:53 AM on June 8, 2016
I actually managed to watch the Costa Rica - USA game, and while it was fun to see the US take the game to someone, I left feeling less reassured than like we'd gotten a stay. If Costa Rica had put up more resistance in midfield (by playing any defensive midfielders? maybe? like, one?), I think the US would have had a hard time breaking through. As it was, lots of dangerous-looking transition leading to poor final balls or bad touches around the box. Putting Wood up top was a definite improvement, and I can't help but think the time has come for Dempsey to become a "impact sub" instead of a nailed-on starter. Let Wood have the 9 role, put Pulisic on one side and Zardes (if only he had a decent first touch!) on the other with Bradley, Jones, and Bedoya or some reasonable combo in midfield and I think you've got an interesting and potentially incisive attacking setup.
posted by that's candlepin at 11:40 AM on June 9, 2016
posted by that's candlepin at 11:40 AM on June 9, 2016
I think the US would have had a hard time breaking through.
If there's space, they take advantage of it. When there's not, the offensive process stutters a lot. You can't expect the talent to replace any sort of plan, but also can't be as stiff as the US have been. Paraguay won't be a walk in the park.
Also, barely watched anything yesterday. Boo me.
Brazill, as expected, won easily. Fair play to Haiti - they could have spent all day kicking the ball upfield , but instead tried to play like it would be against any other team. Got rewarded with a goal in a game they had no chance of winning.
Ecuador got a goal late in the first and early in the second to bring them back from a two-goal deficit (highlights) that kept them in contention - and maybe looking on the inside as they'll play Haiti as Brasil plays Peru on a can't-lose match.
Today.
Uruguay - Venezuela (7:30 PM ET)
Suarez will be out again, and might not step inside a field this Summer... and after capitulating against Mexico, they can't drop more points. Venezuela wins, and the game against Mexico will be just to decide the group winner. I really don't except Uruguay to lose points here, but the ball is round and the game lasts 90 minutes.
Mexico - Jamaica (10:00 PM ET)
Likewise, Mexico can clinch qualification now and throw Jamaica out. I also don't expect surprises here, but...
posted by lmfsilva at 12:30 PM on June 9, 2016
If there's space, they take advantage of it. When there's not, the offensive process stutters a lot. You can't expect the talent to replace any sort of plan, but also can't be as stiff as the US have been. Paraguay won't be a walk in the park.
Also, barely watched anything yesterday. Boo me.
Brazill, as expected, won easily. Fair play to Haiti - they could have spent all day kicking the ball upfield , but instead tried to play like it would be against any other team. Got rewarded with a goal in a game they had no chance of winning.
Ecuador got a goal late in the first and early in the second to bring them back from a two-goal deficit (highlights) that kept them in contention - and maybe looking on the inside as they'll play Haiti as Brasil plays Peru on a can't-lose match.
Today.
Uruguay - Venezuela (7:30 PM ET)
Suarez will be out again, and might not step inside a field this Summer... and after capitulating against Mexico, they can't drop more points. Venezuela wins, and the game against Mexico will be just to decide the group winner. I really don't except Uruguay to lose points here, but the ball is round and the game lasts 90 minutes.
Mexico - Jamaica (10:00 PM ET)
Likewise, Mexico can clinch qualification now and throw Jamaica out. I also don't expect surprises here, but...
posted by lmfsilva at 12:30 PM on June 9, 2016
If there's space, they take advantage of it. When there's not, the offensive process stutters a lot.
Yeah, they're kind of the Liverpool of international soccer that way. *sigh*
posted by that's candlepin at 1:25 PM on June 9, 2016
Yeah, they're kind of the Liverpool of international soccer that way. *sigh*
posted by that's candlepin at 1:25 PM on June 9, 2016
Yup.
Uruguay did a lot of mistakes and poor passes, and Cavani played a terrible (to put it mildly) game in the box - two missed opportunities and he was hitting air on both. Then, Muslera avoided a Nayim, but couldn't do a thing on the rebound, and Uruguay got themselves into a bigger hole for the second half.
Uruguay played nervously and failed to create chances and adding to injury, Suarez was sent to warm-up as a last effort to tie the game, and then ordered to return, with this reaction. Why? He was excluded from the match report as an injured player, meaning he couldn't take part in it, no matter how (un)fit he was. Cavani added to his own misery, first by a great dribble followed by what should be an easy goal for a player of his caliber going wide, and then failing to connect on a loose ball in the goal area. The last chance was on a corner where Muslera arrived late, and on the counter Venezuela failed to get the ball into the empty net.
Uruguay is done, and now Venezuela will play Mexico for the top spot, after beating Jamaica. However, they started by struggling against their power and speed, and they had a few scares with players getting unmarked here and there with no consequences. Then, Jimenez crossed too deep to the far post, Corona collects it and place it perfectly on Chicharito's head, who puts just barely outside Blake's reach for the first. However, just like against Uruguay, Mexico struggled to keep on top of the game, and Jamaica wasted a couple of good opportunities and Ospina making a great save before half-time.
At the start of the second, Jimenez joined Chicharito in the middle, and Mexico got the game briefly back in control. Donaldson, one of Mexico's defense headaches tried to make way too much from a foul in the box, and got nothing from that. Didn't help it was the second or third similar play from him. As Mexico's backs struggled with the tactical changes, the game was broken and Donaldson had two chances to equalize, but it would be Mexico on the counter attack to put an end to the game by Peralta. I have my doubts if better teams wouldn't be able to make something more out of Mexico's "down" times, but they are looking one of the best teams so far.
Today
Chile - Bolivia (7:00PM ET)
Who loses goes home. After a defeat against Argentina, Chile has to win, but also perform a bit better than they did in the first game.
Argentina - Panama (9:30PM ET)
Messi should be playing, although at what form is the question. (Also, insert joke about Messi and Panama Papers here, or take this one)
posted by lmfsilva at 7:16 AM on June 10, 2016
Uruguay did a lot of mistakes and poor passes, and Cavani played a terrible (to put it mildly) game in the box - two missed opportunities and he was hitting air on both. Then, Muslera avoided a Nayim, but couldn't do a thing on the rebound, and Uruguay got themselves into a bigger hole for the second half.
Uruguay played nervously and failed to create chances and adding to injury, Suarez was sent to warm-up as a last effort to tie the game, and then ordered to return, with this reaction. Why? He was excluded from the match report as an injured player, meaning he couldn't take part in it, no matter how (un)fit he was. Cavani added to his own misery, first by a great dribble followed by what should be an easy goal for a player of his caliber going wide, and then failing to connect on a loose ball in the goal area. The last chance was on a corner where Muslera arrived late, and on the counter Venezuela failed to get the ball into the empty net.
Uruguay is done, and now Venezuela will play Mexico for the top spot, after beating Jamaica. However, they started by struggling against their power and speed, and they had a few scares with players getting unmarked here and there with no consequences. Then, Jimenez crossed too deep to the far post, Corona collects it and place it perfectly on Chicharito's head, who puts just barely outside Blake's reach for the first. However, just like against Uruguay, Mexico struggled to keep on top of the game, and Jamaica wasted a couple of good opportunities and Ospina making a great save before half-time.
At the start of the second, Jimenez joined Chicharito in the middle, and Mexico got the game briefly back in control. Donaldson, one of Mexico's defense headaches tried to make way too much from a foul in the box, and got nothing from that. Didn't help it was the second or third similar play from him. As Mexico's backs struggled with the tactical changes, the game was broken and Donaldson had two chances to equalize, but it would be Mexico on the counter attack to put an end to the game by Peralta. I have my doubts if better teams wouldn't be able to make something more out of Mexico's "down" times, but they are looking one of the best teams so far.
Today
Chile - Bolivia (7:00PM ET)
Who loses goes home. After a defeat against Argentina, Chile has to win, but also perform a bit better than they did in the first game.
Argentina - Panama (9:30PM ET)
Messi should be playing, although at what form is the question. (Also, insert joke about Messi and Panama Papers here, or take this one)
posted by lmfsilva at 7:16 AM on June 10, 2016
Well, that was the worst offside call I've seen in a while.
posted by lmfsilva at 4:28 PM on June 10, 2016
posted by lmfsilva at 4:28 PM on June 10, 2016
I didn't take my usual note, but Messi, huh, finds a way.
TODAY: Group A decision
EEUU - Paraguay (7 PM)
Colombia - Costa Rica (9 PM)
Colombia are in with 6 points and in the next round. The US second with 3,both Paraguay and Costa Rica have one. Assuming Colombia doesn't slow down, the other team to qualify comes from the first game.
posted by lmfsilva at 7:12 AM on June 11, 2016
TODAY: Group A decision
EEUU - Paraguay (7 PM)
Colombia - Costa Rica (9 PM)
Colombia are in with 6 points and in the next round. The US second with 3,both Paraguay and Costa Rica have one. Assuming Colombia doesn't slow down, the other team to qualify comes from the first game.
posted by lmfsilva at 7:12 AM on June 11, 2016
The US looked in control (although again, struggling against well positioned defense), even after Yedlin lost his mind and got sent off for two stupid fouls. Colombia played their b-side, and lost out on a highly entertaining game, but the folly will put them very likely against Brazil in the QFs.
TODAY: Group B decision
Ecuador - Haiti (6:30PM ET)
Brazil - Peru (8:30PM ET)
Ecuador should easily handle Haiti, and if that happens, Peru must beat Brasil to advance.
posted by lmfsilva at 1:54 PM on June 12, 2016
TODAY: Group B decision
Ecuador - Haiti (6:30PM ET)
Brazil - Peru (8:30PM ET)
Ecuador should easily handle Haiti, and if that happens, Peru must beat Brasil to advance.
posted by lmfsilva at 1:54 PM on June 12, 2016
Well, this will certainly give people something to talk about. Handball goal aside, Brazil was miserable throughout. Should have lost against Ecuador, played well against arguably the worst team in the tournament, and played terrible again tonight.
I don't see his Dunga can explain the results. He's not suited for this job, and Neymar missing out does not explain how void of ideas this team is, or his insistence on playing with two defensive midfielders.
posted by lmfsilva at 8:06 PM on June 12, 2016
I don't see his Dunga can explain the results. He's not suited for this job, and Neymar missing out does not explain how void of ideas this team is, or his insistence on playing with two defensive midfielders.
posted by lmfsilva at 8:06 PM on June 12, 2016
Yeah, read about the Brazil defeat on the BBC - amazing to see them go out to Peru. Fortunate for Columbia as you mentioned they would otherwise have met Brazil in the next round.
Gotta agree with you on your comment: "don't see how Dunga can explain the results" - he is not the man to manage Brazil, no matter his record as a Brazil player.
posted by marienbad at 7:23 AM on June 13, 2016
Gotta agree with you on your comment: "don't see how Dunga can explain the results" - he is not the man to manage Brazil, no matter his record as a Brazil player.
posted by marienbad at 7:23 AM on June 13, 2016
I spent most of the Brazil match frustrated at all the missed opportunities by Brazil and wondering how they expected Dani Alves and Felipe Luis to win match for them. i was expecting them to draw or lose and I was okay with it (I want Argentina v. Chile in the final) until that hand ball. And then I could not get over the righteous indignation, not just at the blatant hand ball but about how long it took to call it. That was just crazy.
posted by ceejaytee at 10:59 AM on June 13, 2016
posted by ceejaytee at 10:59 AM on June 13, 2016
Dunga seems on his way out, and lost all support inside the CBF, debrief tomorrow likely to end up with him fired. Tite (arguably the best Brazilian coach) likely to replace him. Neymar threw a fit on Instagram, and people are mad at him.
TODAY: Group C decision
Mexico - Venezuela (8:00PM ET) In all likelihood, the loser plays Argentina. The Winner, Chile. So, winning might well be in a very Charlie Sheen way.
Uruguay - Jamaica (10:00PM ET) Uruguay tries to save some face.
posted by lmfsilva at 2:23 PM on June 13, 2016
TODAY: Group C decision
Mexico - Venezuela (8:00PM ET) In all likelihood, the loser plays Argentina. The Winner, Chile. So, winning might well be in a very Charlie Sheen way.
Uruguay - Jamaica (10:00PM ET) Uruguay tries to save some face.
posted by lmfsilva at 2:23 PM on June 13, 2016
The Mexico-Venezuela match was thrilling. That goal by Tecatito Corona was spectacular. I've never seen him play before and he blew me away the whole time he was on the pitch.
posted by ceejaytee at 11:30 AM on June 14, 2016
posted by ceejaytee at 11:30 AM on June 14, 2016
Wish I could say the same. He started the season pretty well, but tanked with the rest of the team. Hopefully, the new management can squeeze more like this out of him.
Cavani had a horrible time. So many missed goals cost Uruguay a lot more than Suarez being injured.
TODAY: Group D decision time
Chile - Panama (8:00PM ET)
Argentina - Bolivia (10:00PM ET)
Argentina is in and other than two massive blowouts, they're playing Venezuela. Panama has to beat Chile.
posted by lmfsilva at 11:52 AM on June 14, 2016
Cavani had a horrible time. So many missed goals cost Uruguay a lot more than Suarez being injured.
TODAY: Group D decision time
Chile - Panama (8:00PM ET)
Argentina - Bolivia (10:00PM ET)
Argentina is in and other than two massive blowouts, they're playing Venezuela. Panama has to beat Chile.
posted by lmfsilva at 11:52 AM on June 14, 2016
Well Chile got a bit of a fright, and Argentina didn't even need Messi in the first half to beat Bolivia.
Meanwhile, Tite is the new Brazilian HC.
TODAY - Quarterfinals
USA - Ecuador (9:30 PM ET)
Winner meets Argentina or Venezuela in the semi-finals.
posted by lmfsilva at 8:58 AM on June 16, 2016
Meanwhile, Tite is the new Brazilian HC.
TODAY - Quarterfinals
USA - Ecuador (9:30 PM ET)
Winner meets Argentina or Venezuela in the semi-finals.
posted by lmfsilva at 8:58 AM on June 16, 2016
United States wins 2-1 in a... eventful game. Ecuador failed their share of chances, and after getting themselves two down, got one back and had a couple of chances to take this to overtime. Much criticised Klinsmann gets his big result, and some room for the next months.
Today:
Peru - Colombia (8PM ET)
Colombia finished the group stage on a low note, while Peru handled Brazil out of the competition. Colombia should be favourites, but as usual one error early in the game can come at a huge cost.
posted by lmfsilva at 8:59 PM on June 16, 2016
Today:
Peru - Colombia (8PM ET)
Colombia finished the group stage on a low note, while Peru handled Brazil out of the competition. Colombia should be favourites, but as usual one error early in the game can come at a huge cost.
posted by lmfsilva at 8:59 PM on June 16, 2016
Colombia beat Peru on penalties in a mostly uneventful match with a lot of pushing and shoving. Colombia got the cold sweats after Peru almost scored seconds before the final whistle.
Today
Argentina - Venezuela (7:00PM ET)
Mexico - Chile (10:00PM ET)
Argentina meets the a solid defense, while Mexico will try to show what they're capable off when on full strenght against the cup holders.
posted by lmfsilva at 11:59 AM on June 18, 2016
Today
Argentina - Venezuela (7:00PM ET)
Mexico - Chile (10:00PM ET)
Argentina meets the a solid defense, while Mexico will try to show what they're capable off when on full strenght against the cup holders.
posted by lmfsilva at 11:59 AM on June 18, 2016
who stuck that dead squirrel to messi's face
posted by poffin boffin at 6:00 PM on June 18, 2016
posted by poffin boffin at 6:00 PM on June 18, 2016
If that works, I want Ronaldo to dip his head on a vat of glue and roll all over the floor of a barbershop. Because that was a fantastic performance, and the long pass on the first goal is a thing of beauty.
posted by lmfsilva at 6:28 PM on June 18, 2016
posted by lmfsilva at 6:28 PM on June 18, 2016
Mexico imploding badly. 4 down with over 30 minutes to go. Lots of mistakes and nobody putting any pressure.
posted by lmfsilva at 8:21 PM on June 18, 2016
posted by lmfsilva at 8:21 PM on June 18, 2016
Wow, USA are into the semis!! Have been working and following the Euros and am unable to see the copa games. Dunga is gone then? Unsurprising - more surprising that it took this long after the World Cup.
From the sounds of it, Argentina are looking good, and could go all the way. Anyone want to predict the overall winners? How do Chile and Columbia look? Can they stop Argentina? Can the USA stop Argentina?
posted by marienbad at 5:44 PM on June 19, 2016
From the sounds of it, Argentina are looking good, and could go all the way. Anyone want to predict the overall winners? How do Chile and Columbia look? Can they stop Argentina? Can the USA stop Argentina?
posted by marienbad at 5:44 PM on June 19, 2016
The US are well organized, but that alone isn't enough to beat Argentina when Messi has his good boots on.
Chile looked as good as Mexico looked bad, and that makes it hard to predict how this might turn out.
I mean, Germany beat Brazil 7-1, but needed a goal in overtime to beat Argentina in the following match. It's a mean morale booster, but the next game starts even, and the other team is likely to be as hyped for it. If Colombia strikes early, Chile might find themselves in a hole of their own.
Dunga hasn't been the answer to any question Brazil had after the debacle. Just more boring play, with tough confrontational talk replacing tactics. I don't think they're in danger of missing the World Cup, but they are obligated to play much better than that.
posted by lmfsilva at 7:39 AM on June 20, 2016
Chile looked as good as Mexico looked bad, and that makes it hard to predict how this might turn out.
I mean, Germany beat Brazil 7-1, but needed a goal in overtime to beat Argentina in the following match. It's a mean morale booster, but the next game starts even, and the other team is likely to be as hyped for it. If Colombia strikes early, Chile might find themselves in a hole of their own.
Dunga hasn't been the answer to any question Brazil had after the debacle. Just more boring play, with tough confrontational talk replacing tactics. I don't think they're in danger of missing the World Cup, but they are obligated to play much better than that.
posted by lmfsilva at 7:39 AM on June 20, 2016
Just a reminder, today at 9 PM (ET), the US play Argentina in the first semi-final.
posted by lmfsilva at 4:42 AM on June 21, 2016
posted by lmfsilva at 4:42 AM on June 21, 2016
Sadly, the stadium in Houston has a retractable roof, so there's no chance of a downpour. Our only chance is if the Big Texan sent over 11 free 72 ounce steaks from Amarillo and convinced the Argentine starters to eat them. Like, just now.
posted by Huffy Puffy at 5:19 PM on June 21, 2016
posted by Huffy Puffy at 5:19 PM on June 21, 2016
"Both teams equally good so far at kicking the ball to Argentine players"
posted by Huffy Puffy at 7:10 PM on June 21, 2016 [4 favorites]
posted by Huffy Puffy at 7:10 PM on June 21, 2016 [4 favorites]
That Lavezzi fall was terrible, looked a broken arm. Argentina is having an easy game, but the injury report might be too heavy leading towards the final.
posted by lmfsilva at 7:40 PM on June 21, 2016
posted by lmfsilva at 7:40 PM on June 21, 2016
Well, 20 minutes in, and Colombia is on their way out. Chile is ruthless.
posted by lmfsilva at 5:29 PM on June 22, 2016
posted by lmfsilva at 5:29 PM on June 22, 2016
Well, there's one thing more ruthless than Chile: Chicago weather.
Not seeing this one being resumed tonight. Soldier Field pitch has to be a mess right now.
posted by lmfsilva at 6:52 PM on June 22, 2016
Not seeing this one being resumed tonight. Soldier Field pitch has to be a mess right now.
posted by lmfsilva at 6:52 PM on June 22, 2016
why does thor hate latinos
posted by poffin boffin at 7:24 PM on June 22, 2016 [1 favorite]
posted by poffin boffin at 7:24 PM on June 22, 2016 [1 favorite]
So, Argentina faces Chile in the final, in a rematch of past summer.
posted by lmfsilva at 9:19 PM on June 22, 2016
posted by lmfsilva at 9:19 PM on June 22, 2016
Funny that both the third place match up and the final match up happened in group play.
posted by matematichica at 9:24 PM on June 22, 2016
posted by matematichica at 9:24 PM on June 22, 2016
So, uh, the US ended up in fourth (all things considered, a good performance), and now, the rematch.
posted by lmfsilva at 5:03 PM on June 26, 2016
posted by lmfsilva at 5:03 PM on June 26, 2016
Sorry I can't comment; I've been sent off.
posted by Huffy Puffy at 7:57 PM on June 26, 2016 [2 favorites]
posted by Huffy Puffy at 7:57 PM on June 26, 2016 [2 favorites]
And Chile wins on penalties again. Pizzi, who might have entered the competition in the hot seat, is the hero.
Argentina losses their third consecutive final after regulation, Messi still only has an Olympic gold with Argentina, and missing his penalty had to hurt. Same with Higuain missing that sitter early in the game. I think they also were a bit too conservative with their choices during the second half - Lamela or Gaitan could have created a few chances and open more space.
I wonder if Argentina at this point is more afraid of losing than willing to win.
posted by lmfsilva at 8:06 PM on June 26, 2016
Argentina losses their third consecutive final after regulation, Messi still only has an Olympic gold with Argentina, and missing his penalty had to hurt. Same with Higuain missing that sitter early in the game. I think they also were a bit too conservative with their choices during the second half - Lamela or Gaitan could have created a few chances and open more space.
I wonder if Argentina at this point is more afraid of losing than willing to win.
posted by lmfsilva at 8:06 PM on June 26, 2016
BBC - Lionel Messi: Argentina forward retires from international football
posted by marienbad at 2:10 AM on June 27, 2016
posted by marienbad at 2:10 AM on June 27, 2016
The question is if he's hanging up for good, or is just taking a break before returning if the AFA leadership changes or 6 months before the 2018 World Cup (alternatively, if Argentina really screws up and they need a hero to rally behind to get there).
posted by lmfsilva at 6:15 AM on June 27, 2016
posted by lmfsilva at 6:15 AM on June 27, 2016
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posted by poffin boffin at 1:08 PM on June 3, 2016