[WC] GDT II Group G -> 1/Switzerland - 2/ France

13/06
S. Korea 2-1 Togo (3 PM)
France 0-0 Switzerland (5 PM)

18/06
France 1-1 S. Korea (9 PM)

19/06
Togo 0-2 Switzerland (3 PM)

23/06
France 2-0 Togo (9 PM)
Switzerland 2-0 S. Korea (9 PM)


1- Switzerland 7 pts, +4
2- France 5 pts, +2
3- South Korea 4 pts, -1
4- Togo 0 pt, -3

France won't make it threw ;)

The only good bet is Togo finishing last.
The other three I don't know. I place France a notch ahead, but 2002 is still fresh in my memory, and I sure don't think it's a given France will make it through, even with a loaded roster like they have.

I would have to imagine France and Switzerland go through, but this group is tricky. I think there is a big rivalry growing between the French and Swiss, is that the case Evilo? They could do some damage to each other both physically and in regards to the standings. The Koreans arent too bad either.

Rivalry, probably not.
The two teams have had enough of meeting each other though.
France eliminatedf Switzerland in the last Euro group stage, and sneaked by them in the qualifyiers.
Switzerland has all the tools to beat France IMO, even if France should be considered the favourites.

Rivalry, probably not.
The two teams have had enough of meeting each other though.
France eliminatedf Switzerland in the last Euro group stage, and sneaked by them in the qualifyiers.
Switzerland has all the tools to beat France IMO, even if France should be considered the favourites.
I agree, they are a good side. Surely getting knocked about by France would stick in the players minds, I would think so atleast.

After what happened in 2002, I'd have to believe that France is on a mission

Togo and the Koreans will be no match for the French or the Swiss. I see Henry dominating all these games like he should, brilliant with the ball

France/Swiss

France and the Swiss will go through.

Francs and Korea will go through

After what happened in 2002, I'd have to believe that France is on a mission

Totally agree. If France doesn't go through form this group then they better run and hide for the next 4 years and drop out of the top 20 in the world.

France should eat these guys up.

Swiss will follow.

SK 2 Togo 0

FRA 3 SWI 1

France will advance easily. it'll be like shooting fish in barrel for them. second place will be between the swiss and s.korea with the final game deciding who advances

France and the Swiss, the cup is is Germany (Europe) and history shows us that europeans dominate when they are playing at home (or next to it)

So who will get called up to replace Cisse? Anelka? Giuly? Both have been pretty annoyed that they weren't included.

France and Switzerland, though Korea will put up a good fight.

After what happened in 2002, I'd have to believe that France is on a mission
They were expected to be in 2004 too. And they produced average football (even if they beat England) and stopped in the quarters (even if it was against the winners).

France's team it the oldest in the tournament. Weird because we have such amazing youngsters, but that's how Domenech (and most french coaches) go : play the experience.

That said, I expect Zidane to be completely fired up. His last month of football, a lot of will.

So who will get called up to replace Cisse? Anelka? Giuly? Both have been pretty annoyed that they weren't included.
Well, Anelka and Giuly seem like obvious choices, but both have hard harsh words for not being selected, so...

So who will get called up to replace Cisse? Anelka? Giuly? Both have been pretty annoyed that they weren't included.
Govou

Cisse's injury. Ouch!! :eek: (WARNING: it's pretty graphic, his leg is twisted very awkwardly. If you can't handle this kind of thing- don't click!)

http://www.koptalk.com/admin/images/uploads/temp/2006/cisseinjury.jpg

France/Switzerland should be interesting. I actually see Switzerland winning this group with France coming in second.

There is a tremedous amount of hype and the expectations are way to high in Korea. Many Koreans are expecting at least a repeat of their 2002 semi-final run.
I think they should be happy just to make the second round.

France - Qualifies at a canter. Not sure what to make of this team, this group won't tell us much either.
Switzerland - Will make it just ahead of S Korea. A very boring side and will make easy pickings for a team in the second round.
S Korea - Never won a game outside of Asia and i can't see that record changing unless they beat Togo.
Togo - Neither here nor there, a typical fodder side.

There is a tremedous amount of hype and the expectations are way to high in Korea. Many Koreans are expecting at least a repeat of their 2002 semi-final run.
I think they should be happy just to make the second round.

Without the referees on their side this time, Korea is going nowhere.

Anyone hear about the controversy with Togo? Apparently the players are demanding about $200,000 each to play in the World Cup, even the average income per capita of their countrymen is well below $1000. Talk about a bunch of ungrateful brats!

Here's France supposed starting lineup in their tough game against Switzerland :

----------Barthez-----------
Sagnol-Thuram-Gallas-Abidal
------Vieira---Makelele-----
--Wiltord-Zidane-Ribery--
----------Henry----------
Malouda is injured and forced a complete overhaul of France's lineup (which was supposed to be a 4-4-2 with a diamond in the middle).
That said, I love it. I would love it even more with a second striker and Vieira on the bench, but as we all know, it won't happen.
France's bench features guys like Trezeguet and Saha now.

Here's France supposed starting lineup in their tough game against Switzerland :

----------Barthez-----------
Sagnol-Thuram-Gallas-Abidal
------Vieira---Makelele-----
--Wiltord-Zidane-Ribery--
----------Henry----------
Malouda is injured and forced a complete overhaul of France's lineup (which was supposed to be a 4-4-2 with a diamond in the middle).
That said, I love it. I would love it even more with a second striker and Vieira on the bench, but as we all know, it won't happen.
France's bench features guys like Trezeguet and Saha now.

My first look at Ribery can't wait

Anyone hear about the controversy with Togo? Apparently the players are demanding about $200,000 each to play in the World Cup, even the average income per capita of their countrymen is well below $1000. Talk about a bunch of ungrateful brats!

They are without a coach(first one quit,assitant went home) and haven't praticed for most of the week, looks like the Koreans should beat them handily if there is a game

I hope South Korea moves on and builds on top of their success in 2002. Togo seems to be in disarray, if what you say is true, AtG. Clearly, SK must take advantage and drop a proverbial train on Togo.

I hope South Korea moves on and builds on top of their success in 2002. Togo seems to be in disarray, if what you say is true, AtG. Clearly, SK must take advantage and drop a proverbial train on Togo.

Togo coached returned today after quiting three days because Togo confederation stated they will handle the problem. Still without the practice time I still think there in trouble, let's go Ji- Sung Park :handclap: the asian assassin

I'm really looking forward to the Switzerland/France game...should be a good one. I think the Swiss pull out a 2-1 win in a great game.

My first look at Ribery can't waitI hope he'll disappoint you...

To be honest, I'm afraid of him. The Ribery-Henry connection could be our downfall. On the other hand, we can also qualify without getting points against France.

Our starting lineup is either a 4-4-2 or 4-5-1, with Zuberbühler in goal, Magnin - Senderos - Müller/Djourou - P. Degen at defense, a midfield where Vogel, Cabanas and Barnetta are set and Frei in the attack. Behrami, Gygax, Streller, Wicky and maybe H. Yakin are options for the two remaining spots in midfield or attack.

Behrami, Gygax, Streller, Wicky and maybe H. Yakin are options for the two remaining spots in midfield or attack.I hope Behrami is given his chance as soon as today.

Here's France supposed starting lineup in their tough game against Switzerland :

----------Barthez-----------
Sagnol-Thuram-Gallas-Abidal
------Vieira---Makelele-----
--Wiltord-Zidane-Ribery--
----------Henry----------

France's bench features guys like Trezeguet and Saha now. :shakehead
You have Henry and Trez available and you leave David out? I don't get it. I would take out Wiltord and Makelele replacing them with Trez and another midfielder.

:shakehead
You have Henry and Trez available and you leave David out? I don't get it. I would take out Wiltord and Makelele replacing them with Trez and another midfielder.
Well, Zidane wants to play as central midfielder.
In a 4-4-2, if you don't play the diamond, Zidane is one side and Ribery on the other.

I think people are afraid to use Henry and Trez together because of 2002 and 2004 (both were shut down).
But they were not responsible for not having any decent ball.
Before 2002, these two playing together were flying over defenses because they had good players feeding them.
With Ribery and Malouda... we have the weapons.
But in all honesty, Zidane is blocking us.

The good choices would be :
----------Coupet--------
Sagnol-Mexes-Gallas-Abidal
-----Toulalan-Bodmer-----
Ribery--------------Malouda
-----Trezeguet-Henry-------

Won't happen until after the WC though.

LET'S GO TOGO!!!!!!!!!

:yo: :joker: :yo:

has the game started yet? i couldn't find updates anywhere and sportsnet still has their: "game has not started yet".

What a goal!!!! GOALLLLLLL TOGO!!!

On another note I'm ****ing sick of the diving that's been going on this entire WC!

has the game started yet? i couldn't find updates anywhere..Yes of course and.. Togo is up 1-0!! :yo:

Togo nearly gets another but a nice save from the Korean goaltender nonetheless.

Well, Zidane wants to play as central midfielder.
In a 4-4-2, if you don't play the diamond, Zidane is one side and Ribery on the other.

I think people are afraid to use Henry and Trez together because of 2002 and 2004 (both were shut down).
But they were not responsible for not having any decent ball.
Before 2002, these two playing together were flying over defenses because they had good players feeding them.
With Ribery and Malouda... we have the weapons.
But in all honesty, Zidane is blocking us.

The good choices would be :
----------Coupet--------
Sagnol-Mexes-Gallas-Abidal
-----Toulalan-Bodmer-----
Ribery--------------Malouda
-----Trezeguet-Henry-------

Won't happen until after the WC though.

Wow, complaining that the best french midfielder maybe player since Platini is blocking the development of the French team is saying something

Well...that BS red card will definately open things up for the Koreans...

Koreans score off of the red card.

What a strike!!
1-1

And they do! Winning Eleven superstar Lee Chun Soo (seriously, I owned WE7 with him) puts it in!

Well...that BS red card will definately open things up for the Koreans...
It was right, it was a 2nd yellow and thus a red. This ref has got everything spot on so far. He hasn't blown every time a player hits the deck.

It was right, it was a 2nd yellow and thus a red. This ref has got everything spot on so far. He hasn't blown every time a player hits the deck.


Yup, 2nd yellow!
It was a vicious tackle too...he was breaking thru

Is that keeper Metz's starter??

Togo player got away with a push in the box.

And they do! Winning Eleven superstar Lee Chun Soo (seriously, I owned WE7 with him) puts it in!

How many Lee's are there on the Korean team anyways, I can't remember which one is which.

Togo player got away with a push in the box.
He dived, it was a slight nudge and nowhere near hard enough to go down, the ref got it right IMO.

If the player chooses to fall over, the refs shouldn't give it.

How many Lee's are there on the Korean team anyways, I can't remember which one is which.

Thanks to Yahoo!'s gamecast, I can find out.

Right now, there are five on the field (Lee Woon Jae, Lee Young Pyo, Lee Eul Yong, Lee Chun Soo, and Lee Ho) and none on the bench. There are far more Kim's, though most are riding the pine (or plastic lumber or whathaveyou).

Yahoo!'s gamecast also tells me the game has really opened up since the SK goal. Uh, fight on Reds?

Yikes, that knee does not look good.

We got a substitution: Forson in for Assemoassa, who took a nasty injury as I understand it.

We got a substitution: Forson in for Assemoassa, who took a nasty injury as I understand it.

Not sure but Forson went down hard and was carried off in a stretcher, his knee looked really funky.

Thanks to Yahoo!'s gamecast, I can find out.

Right now, there are five on the field (Lee Woon Jae, Lee Young Pyo, Lee Eul Yong, Lee Chun Soo, and Lee Ho) and none on the bench. There are far more Kim's, though most are riding the pine (or plastic lumber or whathaveyou).

Yahoo!'s gamecast also tells me the game has really opened up since the SK goal. Uh, fight on Reds?

A Kim just got off the plastic pine and replaced a Lee.

Nice goal by Ahn, Korea goes up 2-1.

I wish I could see all this! At least I got no work due to construction being all around my office (and I can't get there).

Ahn Jung Hwan puts South Korea up a goal!

I wish I could see all this! At least I got no work due to construction being all around my office (and I can't get there).

Ahn Jung Hwan puts South Korea up a goal!

A brilliant strike even though it was slightly deflected. Koreans are looking like a different team with the sub of the striker regardless of the red card.

Man their jersey is pretty crazy too.

Togo has had some decent scoring chances since going down a man, they're not giving up.

Is that keeper Metz's starter??
No.

And it's over, South Korea wins 2-1. They not only led in goals, but also in shots (16 to 9), shots on goal (6 to 3), and ball possession (64% to 36%).

Those who actually saw the game, was it that exciting to watch? And who was YOUR Man of the Match(tm)?

And it's over, South Korea wins 2-1. They not only led in goals, but also in shots (16 to 9), shots on goal (6 to 3), and ball possession (64% to 36%).

Those who actually saw the game, was it that exciting to watch? And who was YOUR Man of the Match(tm)?

It was a pretty good match, man of the match for me was Lee Chun Soo with that nice free kick for the tieing goal

It was a pretty good match, man of the match for me was the blonde Korean guy forgot his name with that nice free kick for the tieing goal

Lee Chun Soo?

Incidentally, Yahoo!'s gamecast also list a Man of the Match according to the FIFA Technical Study Group and a FAN of the Match according to...somebody else. Ahn Jung Hwan is the Man of the Match according to this and Heyok Yang is the Fan of the Match with his friggin' stupid helmet.

And it's over, South Korea wins 2-1. They not only led in goals, but also in shots (16 to 9), shots on goal (6 to 3), and ball possession (64% to 36%).

Those who actually saw the game, was it that exciting to watch? And who was YOUR Man of the Match(tm)?

Korea early on couldnt hit the net, and once Togo went down a men, they were done.

Man of the Match: Hwan (GWG)

Overall, good match.

Good game to watch overall.

I only watched with half an eye (cycling on TV so I had to switch) towards the end. Koreans were very awful defensively I thought.

However they had the better of the game in the second half and once they started passing and moving there was only going to be one winner.

By the way that was awful goalkeeping on that free kick goal.

By the way that was awful goalkeeping on that free kick goal.Indeed.

Ahn is on his way to becoming a World Cup legend. :yo:

:eek: Just caught a glimpse of Ribery and his face looked kinda messed, maybe I was seeing things

Ahn is on his way to becoming a World Cup legend. :yo:

Just call him Mr Clutch lol.

It wasn't just me ,yikes :eek:

:eek: Just caught a glimpse of Ribery and his face looked kinda messed, maybe I was seeing things
Yes, his nickname is "Scarface".
He had a freaky car accident as a child.

Yes, his nickname is "Scarface".
He had a freaky car accident as a child.

Oh ic, nickname is kinda cool

Does someone knows where I can watch the game on the web for free?

Oh so close for the Swiss, what a stunner that would have been...

What a breakdown by France on that free kick.

Very lucky they are not down

What a breakdown by France on that free kick.

Very lucky they are not down
Not a breakdown by France.
Breakdown by Lilian ******ing Thuram.
The offside trap was played to perfection except for the most experienced of them all, who handed Switzerland the goal.
For some reason, Frei missed it.
Well done Patrick ****ing Vieira for making a useless foul that could have resulted in a goal as well.

Switzerland is playing very aggressively, and the ref should hand out a couple of cards.

Domenech should wake up and put two strikers out there. When Henry beats everyone for a cross next time, maybe King David could put it home!

Not impressed with Ribery much he looks like the French version of Simao Sabrosa .Quite impressed with Sagnol

Accidental Handball but... I've seen penalties for less.

Ribery should have put that away

Hehe, Ribery is a bit shy, but he's going to take the world by storm surely at one point in this WC. Don't forget it's his first NT start.

Absolutely incredible decision by the ref not to whistle a penalty on that obvious handball int he box. Without that handball, it's a goal!

What the hell was that, first Viera runs toward Henry for no reason and then Henry basically passes the ball to the goalie

What the heck is going on :dunno: a yellow for what? Henry was not on the playing field

This is such a terrible game atm

Hehe, Ribery is a bit shy, but he's going to take the world by storm surely at one point in this WC. Don't forget it's his first NT start.

Absolutely incredible decision by the ref not to whistle a penalty on that obvious handball int he box. Without that handball, it's a goal!

Looking at the replay, the goalie looked in great position to make that save

What the heck is going on :dunno: a yellow for what? Henry was not on the playing field

I think the ref told him to put it away? But why, Henry put himself out of the play.

This is such a terrible game atm

I disagee the game is quite good with some great scoring chances just little finish

Nah the game is very defensive. Quite usual with Switzerland.
They play a very tight defensive game and rely on counter attacks and set plays.
This game is not looking good for either side.
Switzerland created nada but could (should) have scored on that awful Thuram offside trap.
France should have scored on Ribery's solo run (he should have shot and would have if it wasn't Henry beside him), and Henry's shot stopped by the hand. Frankly from 6 meters, there were a huge chance it was going in. It should have been a penalty.

I'd say all in all logical tie. France may lead in points, but that doesn't mean anything in football.

Is it an unwritten rule that you put the ball out if a player is injured?

Meh, slow, boring ... I guess it's the result of the heat.

Tactically both teams cancel each other out well. Swiss plan is working well, France can't pass it fast enough to create anything, I think the heat is the main culprit.

Hopefully Domenech will realise his mistake and put Trez next to Henry and put Wiltord where he belongs: the bench.

Is it an unwritten rule that you put the ball out if a player is injured?

Yes, it is

However Henry was already out of the lines receiving treatment.

Therefore there was absolutely no need for the Swiss to put it out. I can't believe the French fans were booing at that point.

I predicted a tie and I pretty much still think it's gonna end that way.

BTW, what the #$%^ is Wiltord doing out there? Isn't he one of those players who should have been taken out back and shot four years ago? Evilo?

I predicted a tie and I pretty much still think it's gonna end that way.

BTW, what the #$%^ is Wiltord doing out there? Isn't he one of those players who should have been taken out back and shot four years ago? Evilo?
You'll only hear praise form me about Wiltord, so I'm not sure what you mean.

Yes, it is

However Henry was already out of the lines receiving treatment.

Ok so what I don't get is how the ref can tell them what to do then. If the ref can say put it out, and then give the other team a yellow card for not doing it, why not make it a rule?

Ok so what I don't get is how the ref can tell them what to do then. If the ref can say put it out, and then give the other team a yellow card for not doing it, why not make it a rule?

I have no idea why that yellow card was given personally that left me bewildered. Also I wouldn't know how the ref COULD tell them what to do and I don't think that in this instance the ref actually told the Swiss to put it out of play.

Maybe Magnin said something or did something else in the next play because I really don't understand the yellow either. It couldn't possibly have been for not putting the ball out of play because there is no rule about that.

My substitution for the next half: Wiltord off, Trezeguet on

You'll only hear praise form me about Wiltord, so I'm not sure what you mean.


Wasn't he phased out of the team after the Euro in 2004?

My substitution for the next half: Wiltord off, Trezeguet on

Amen to that...

"France have been very poor. If Ludovic Giuly, who is not even in the French squad, is not a better player than Sylvain Wiltord, then I'm a Dutchman. And Franck Ribery is just not up to it."
BBC analyst Martin O'Neill


:biglaugh: :biglaugh: :biglaugh:

what a dismal strike after the great setup by Zidane

Nice effort Vieira :biglaugh:

Nice effort Vieira :biglaugh:

It looked like he was aiming more for Henry then the net

Is it an unwritten rule that you put the ball out if a player is injured?
Yes, they used to do it when someone was seriously injured, now they do it when someone breaks a bootlace.

Id fine my team if they did that or gave the ball back. Ive never, ever seen a player have to be substituted when a team kicked the ball out of play. Most of the time the other player jumps straight back up as soon as the game is stopped.

It looked like he was aiming more for Henry then the net


Talking about Vieira, he was probably aiming for the net. :shakehead

Wasn't he phased out of the team after the Euro in 2004?
No :dunno:

:biglaugh: :biglaugh: :biglaugh:
That's why BBC sucks :D

That's why BBC sucks :D
I thought it was rather hilarious.....

The Koreans will be sitting pretty if this one ends in a draw

Magnien got a card because he was sitting in front of Makelele's free kick.
Or am I mixing with another play?

Great shot of the head butt. :biglaugh:

What is Ivanov doing ??

No penalty for France and two yellow cards for Switzerland which didn't make any sense at all. First time he didn't even whistle for a fault but the leftback (Magnien ??) got yellow anyhow. The second time it was Zidane who made a fault and the Swiss got yellow and a freekick. :confused:

I'm afraid we won't see this man back, man is crazy.

Bring on Trez already

What a chance for the Swiss!

What is Ivanov doing ??

No penalty for France and two yellow cards for Switzerland which didn't make any sense at all. First time he didn't even whistle for a fault but the leftback (Magnien ??) got yellow anyhow. The second time it was Zidane who made a fault and the Swiss got yellow and a freekick. :confused:

I'm afraid we won't see this man back, man is crazy.
You missed the reason for the yellow.
The first was as I said because he was in front of the free kick, and the second one was because he threw an elbow at ZZ 1 minute before the yellow. We can clearly see the ref pointing at him after the foul saying he would be booked.
It was actually well reffed.

WOW ... what a great ball for the Swiss ... but an even more spectacular save by Barthez

:biglaugh: Barthez can't see **** but some how stopped that ball

Bring on Trez already

Tell me about it.
France needs offense

Swiss had a couple of good chances, but can't capitalize.

Dangerous free kick coming up for the Swiss.

Saha coming on instead of Trezeguet, interesting

Zidane giving it to his teammates.

Scarface getting treatment on his face :biglaugh: sorry but :biglaugh:

20 something minutes to play ... and Switzerland has controlled a good amount of play of late

Zidane with the card :o ... :biglaugh:

C'mon Switzerland, keep holding on for dear life!

Ref is card-crazy.

Saha coming on instead of Trezeguet, interesting


He gives you more for your buck than Trez. He's quick, moves well and he's a clinical finisher.

Almost 4 straight games without a goal for France in a WC. :help:

We may suck, but we don't suck nearly as much as our coach.
****.

Ribery was way too shy, no idea if it's the heat, but he was nowhere near what he usually does.

Makelele sucks, Vieira sucks.
Wiltord didn't bring anything.
My only satisfaction was the defense if you forget Thuram's stupid play that nearly cost a goal.

Oh and yeah, Barthez kicks ***, as usual.

We may suck, but we don't suck nearly as much as our coach.
****.

Ribery was way too shy, no idea if it's the heat, but he was nowhere near what he usually does.

Makelele sucks, Vieira sucks.
Wiltord didn't bring anything.
My only satisfaction was the defense if you forget Thuram's stupid play that nearly cost a goal.

Oh and yeah, Barthez kicks ***, as usual.

Too shy? :biglaugh: what does that have to do with anything? nervous maybe but shy :confused: . You certainly won't see him on the cover of GQ though

Too shy? :biglaugh: what does that have to do with anything? nervous maybe but shy :confused: . You certainly won't see him on the cover of GQ though

Shy as in tentative :dunno: i.e., Why not strike the ball instead of trying to pass to Henry?

You missed the reason for the yellow.
The first was as I said because he was in front of the free kick, and the second one was because he threw an elbow at ZZ 1 minute before the yellow. We can clearly see the ref pointing at him after the foul saying he would be booked.
It was actually well reffed.
You're confused with the first one. He got yellow when Henry was injured, not that Swiss who blocked that shot, although that was lame as well because that Frenchman didn't have any intention to play the ball.

About that second one, okay, I've missed that one.

Shy as in tentative :dunno: i.e., Why not strike the ball instead of trying to pass to Henry?

Had he passed the ball in the correct position instead of behind Henry it would be 1-0 for France

0-0 with only 5 minutes to go.

I wonder what the American sports writers, the American television networks, and the American public think of this game.

How long is it before we start seeing 6-4 soccer games?

0-0 with only 5 minutes to go.

I wonder what the American sports writers, the American television networks, and the American public think of this game.

How long is it before we start seeing 6-4 soccer games?

When players get jet packs on there backs

When players get jet packs on there backs
;)

Come on,I got money on France :madfire:

Had he passd the ball in the correct position instead of behind Henry it would be 1-0 for France

:dunno: Doesn't change the fact that a more confident or less "shy" player would have taken a shot.

Shy as in tentative :dunno: i.e., Why not strike the ball instead of trying to pass to Henry?
He tried passing it to Henry because Henry is their gunner.

So close :cry: ,my money

So close for Vikash.

This ref is terrible. :shakehead

He tried passing it to Henry because Henry is their gunner.

Was my point that cryptic? I'm only saying that Ribery did not look that confident, that he played a tentative game.

The Swiss have done really well, I was neutral about them at the start and would have banked on them rolling over. (Thats it, Im out of Swiss references :D ) but France have been shocking, absolutely shocking.

Okay what the hell is wrong with the ref?

This ref is terrible. :shakeheadI think hes got most of the fouls right but the cards handed out have been a bit bizarre to say the least.

Okay what the hell is wrong with the ref?

Nothing Maradona retired all ready, no fist of God ;)

If that guy didn't handball it, it looked like the guy behind him could've put it in.

France hasn't scored a goal in World Cup play since the 1998 World Cup. :eek:

How can Zuberbuhler still be the starter for his national team is beyond me.

France hasn't scored a goal in World Cup play since the 1998 World Cup. :eek:


They are pulling a GREECE!!! :biglaugh:

Too shy? :biglaugh: what does that have to do with anything? nervous maybe but shy :confused: . You certainly won't see him on the cover of GQ though
Sorry "timide" in french means shy, timid or tentative.

I'm thankful to have only viewed the "highlights" of this match :shakehead . Hopefully Domenech will come to his sense and get David Trezegeut in the starting line up.

Seriously, that idiot deciding to try hand of god II cost his team a goal AND got himself a MUCH DESERVED yellow card.

Korea is in a good position now.

Korea is in a good position now.
As are the Swiss, they should beat Togo and have 4 points and that could be enough but 5 will for sure.

Awful game, no movement, no idea, no danger.
We have a team that features Henry, best striker in the world, Trezeguet, best pure sniper (or one of the very best anyway), Ribery, one of the top youngsters in the game, Wiltord, a good veteran striker, Saha, a regular scorer for ManU and the legend Zinedine Zidane (we left Micoud, Anelka and Giuly at home) and still we created nothing.
Our best opportunity came from a not called penalty and a last minute shot by Dhorasso.

Absolutely awful.
Awful coach.

On Switxerlands last play on that free kick, Willy Sagnol is grabbing a swiss player, and the ref gives him a yellow card. Shouldn't be a penalty kick?

Awful game, no movement, no idea, no danger.
We have a team that features Henry, best striker in the world, Trezeguet, best pure sniper (or one of the very best anyway), Ribery, one of the top youngsters in the game, Wiltord, a good veteran striker, Saha, a regular scorer for ManU and the legend Zinedine Zidane (we left Micoud, Anelka and Giuly at home) and still we created nothing.
Our best opportunity came from a not called penalty and a last minute shot by Dhorasso.

Absolutely awful.
Awful coach.
who hired that domenech crap .. seriously ???
the worst coach i've ever seen !
it's sad because i really like the french team but somehow I want them to fail because of that coach ! :madfire:

And now the French meet the ever dangerous Koreans who are giant killers

They are pulling a GREECE!!! :biglaugh:
What?!?! Break that **** up. Leave those poor sheep alone! It's bad enough that you played poorly, buggering a sheep won't improve things.

On Switxerlands last play on that free kick, Willy Sagnol is grabbing a swiss player, and the ref gives him a yellow card. Shouldn't be a penalty kick?

Ball hadn't been played

Putting Vieira and Makalele in the same side is hopeless and I don't know if Zidane did too well either, why not try...

--------Henry--------Trez
---------------Ribery---------
---Malouda--------------Wiltord
----------------Makalele----------
-Abidal----Gallas----Thuram---Sagnol
------------------Barthez

What are the French team doing? It almost seems like they have no interest in winning.

The ref was poor in his decisions to hand out those cards.

_Zidane wasn't elbowed it was an accident and ZZ made the most of it by ostentatively grabbing his nose (Degen).
_The yellow in the first half still mystifies me (Magnin).
_Makelele played the free kick way to quick to give the Swiss guy a chance to move out of the way (Cabanas I think).
_Zidane got yellow for what? Playing a free kick too early? I have no idea honestly
_Abidal's was also pretty strange.



France was very poor and slow. Henry can't cut it when he's got no support. Zidane isn't going to give it so Wiltord (who was waty too passive in his running towards the box - besides being all round pretty useless) couldn't give it either and Ribéry isn't the guy you expect to infiltrate and score.

I'm mystified as to why Trez wasn't brought on.
Vieira was HORRIBLE! Makelele way below average. Henry bad...
The only good thing was the defense and Bartheze made that one save he had to make.


By the way listening to Desailly on the BBC he kind of unwillingly said that Henry didn't like playing with Trez as he feels he gets less space that way.
Putting all these tidbits together I think it's fair to say that Makelele (wants to play with Vieira) - Zidane (wants a central role) - Henry (likes Ribery - 'dislikes' playing with Trez) are putting the XI out there and not Domenech, or at least they are incredibly influential, maybe a bit too much.


Swiss played solidly and had a few chances to nab a winner. The key match for both these teams will be against the Koreans now. If France doesn't find a different gear it could be 2002 all over again... do they play any more early matches?

Awful game, no movement, no idea, no danger.
We have a team that features Henry, best striker in the world, Trezeguet, best pure sniper (or one of the very best anyway), Ribery, one of the top youngsters in the game, Wiltord, a good veteran striker, Saha, a regular scorer for ManU and the legend Zinedine Zidane (we left Micoud, Anelka and Giuly at home) and still we created nothing.
Our best opportunity came from a not called penalty and a last minute shot by Dhorasso.

Absolutely awful.
Awful coach.

That saids it all right there. Dhorasoo is crap.

I can see Trezeguet pulling his hair out on the bench. He should have got the call before Saha.

What?!?! Break that **** up. Leave those poor sheep alone! It's bad enough that you played poorly, buggering a sheep won't improve things.

Why do you think they played so well in the Euro Cup? :sarcasm:

That saids it all right there. Dhorasoo is crap.


He provided more danger in 5 minutes then Wiltord in 85: had that good shot and played a good ball into Henry (which the latter failed to do anything with).

Why do you think they played so well in the Euro Cup? :sarcasm:
Maybe the French should import some Greek sheep then ... for luck that is.

Putting Vieira and Makalele in the same side is hopeless and I don't know if Zidane did too well either, why not try...

--------Henry--------Trez
---------------Ribery---------
---Malouda--------------Wiltord
----------------Makalele----------
-Abidal----Gallas----Thuram---Sagnol
------------------Barthez

Zidane on the bench after he came out of retirement, he won't have that,neither will the French federation either, I bet.

_Zidane got yellow for what? Playing a free kick too early? I have no idea honestlyIts a dumb rule, imagine if they scored from the 2nd kick after the 1st one was wasted. They should just award the Swiss a kick there instead and have no yellow. That was the player doesn't get a yellow for nothing and the side who infringed cant gain an advantage but that's too logical for FIFA to introduce.

I dont think Desaillys insight on Henry was meant for public knowledge but good on Oneill for bringing it up!

Maybe the French should import some Greek sheep then ... for luck that is.
They'd probably get burned alive at the ports like the English ones do. :D

Pretty boring game. My dad will be annoyed that another taped game is boring for him.

The French lacked any imagination. How, when you have Henry, Zidane, Wiltord, and Ribery on the field to manage that? Not to mention Saha and Trez on the bench. I think it was a case of too many chiefs over the fire. They all wanted to do it all, especially Zidane. He looked very selfish to me.

I dont think Desaillys insight on Henry was meant for public knowledge but good on Oneill for bringing it up!

Yep he was seemingly embarrased when O'Neill brought it up. I agre that he didn't want it out there


"Was that Dowie walking behind me!! Did you see that? "


Classic Lineker :biglaugh: :biglaugh:

That saids it all right there. Dhorasoo is crap.

I can see Trezeguet pulling his hair out on the bench. He should have got the call before Saha. :confused:

Evilo - remember you found it hard to understand why England (fans) really didnt like Frei? His attempt to punch the ball into the net with a Superman dive was classy wasnt it? Poetic justice was done with the booking and the probability he cost his team the goal by deflecting it away from Djourou who was perfectly positioned to score!

France werent very good but I'd rather give full credit to Switzerland who were incredibly difficult to play against.

I wish yellow cards could be rescinded after the match for incidents such as Magnin's which was beyond ridiculous. They should hand them out for proven dives as well. But Magnin was very good and now he may be forced to miss a game because of a referee's mistake.

:confused:

LOL, I forgot he has a shaved head. But leaving him on the bench is a pure travesty. BTW, that was the worst referee-ed game so far. There was at least 3 phantom yellows given.

The ref was poor in his decisions to hand out those cards.

_Zidane wasn't elbowed it was an accident and ZZ made the most of it by ostentatively grabbing his nose (Degen).
_The yellow in the first half still mystifies me (Magnin).
_Makelele played the free kick way to quick to give the Swiss guy a chance to move out of the way (Cabanas I think).

Indeed

The worst is that analysts here are rather happy with the way the team has played :
yes the result isn't great but the defense was solid and the preparation was targeted towards the second part of the tournament, blah, blah, blah...
Nobody is bringing Trezeguet in the discussion (well it must be said all analysts here are convinced Henry is better alone in front).

Seriously, how is it hard to understand that against teams that defend with 10 guys, having a sniper in the box who is tall and great with the header is a MUST?
And when you have him, it serves NO PURPOSE to have him on the bench???

Not to mention Pascal Cygan, Evilo.

He should have been present as well.

Maybe the French should import some Greek sheep then ... for luck that is.

Zidane can skin the sheep after and use it as hair.

Domenech: "We stole 2 points from our biggest opponent." :innocent:


The French have a couple of great players with Henry and Trezeguet. Zidane is not the player anymore what he was before. Good youngster with Ribery, from what I read because I haven't seen much from him. Vieira is getting older. Makelele, I like him but the rest is above average at best.

It's No coincidence they got eliminated in 2002. In 2004 it was trouble and strife too. Now they got a draw against a country that is no high-flier either and I'm not even talking about the qualification.

People still remember those days in 1998 and 2000. France is still living off that success but are currently nothing more than a faint shadow of their former self.

The roster is loaded Frolov.
Gallas is among the best CB.
Sagnol is probably the best RB.
Abidal one of the best LB.
We have two of the top goalies (Coupet and Barthez).
Our midfield is made of bad choices, but we have Micoud, Pires, Toulalan, Bodmer and Giuly left out. Still we have Malouda and Ribery.
Our strikers are Henry, Trezeguet, Saha, Cissé and Anelka.

No matter how you look at it, the team is loaded, even with all these bad choices.
But in all honesty, if Zidane wants to play a 4-4-2, then put Trez in and put three DMs (Domenech wasn't smart enough to select them) and put Ribery and Malouda are on the bench.
The problem is that Makelele, Vieira and Zidane are assured of a starter sport, when they shouldn't. Zidane I could understand, but then he doesn't have to choose how the rest of the team plays.

Obviously I missed a few names, I give you that.

Still, you can't always blame the coach because the coach is as good as his material. If these players are so good then why don't we see it? I even lost €100 because these fellows couldn't win from Switzerland (0-0) in a friendly one year ago or so. I'm still pissed off.

This tourney is just 1 game old, so anything can still happen but if they get an early exit again than you may ask yourself, is France overrated ?

No, they're not overrated.
They need to get rid of vets that aren't good enough (Thuram, Vieira, Makelele) and get a system that fits their strengh (Malouda and Ribery on the wings, two DMs that can actually contribute something).

It's not a coincidence France is the oldest team in the WC even though they produce tons of young talent : most french coaches like to use vets over better youngsters.

So yes I blame it on the names I gave you and on the coach.
Really, how many teams could afford to put Trezeguet on the bench?

Still, you can't always blame the coach because the coach is as good as his material.
Domenech has never won a single trophy in his coaching career. Not a single one. Even when he coached the best french youth team France has ever known (the Henry-Trez-Anelka generation).

With all the negativity I've thrown tonight, I'll throw one positive :
France has always sucked against Switzerland. Either in the qualifications or at Euro 2004 (even if we won).

Really, how many teams could afford to put Trezeguet on the bench?Well, the Dutch left Roy Makaay at home.

Domenech has never won a single trophy in his coaching career. Not a single one. Even when he coached the best french youth team France has ever known (the Henry-Trez-Anelka generation).I actually mean that coaches are overrated.



And I do think you overrate some players. Malouda, Ribery still have everything to prove. If I should believe you than France has the world's best player on every position. Henry. Trezeguet, Gallas, Sagnol..

For Christ sake, Willy is a nice player but have you gone crazy ?

Did you ever hear me say that Michael Reiziger was one of the best backs in the world ? Things are a lot different than you think.

Trezeguet > Makaay

Anyway, Malouda has proven in the CL that he was top notch. Ribery has proven enough for me, but I can understnad the doubt for those that haven't seen him play.

As for France having the best player per position, I've never said that.
I said Henry is arguably the best striker in the world and that Sagnol is the best RB in the world.
After that, Gallas, Coupet, Abidal, Trezeguet are all top 5 in their position.

Honestly, I don't think I'm overrating anyone by saying that.
What other RB is better than Sagnol? Zanetti is very good, but Sagnol is better.
It's the weakest position in football, and Sagnol ermerges as the strongest at this postion.
Henry? Well, I think most people would agree with me.

Gallas, Abidal, Coupet and Trezeguet, again, I don't see how you can say I overrate them by saying they're among the best at their respective position.

FIFA elected Makelele man of the match... :shakehead

What did he do well? Shooting into a guy's foot on a free kick to get him carded?

Trezeguet > Makaay

Anyway, Malouda has proven in the CL that he was top notch. Ribery has proven enough for me, but I can understnad the doubt for those that haven't seen him play.

As for France having the best player per position, I've never said that.
I said Henry is arguably the best striker in the world and that Sagnol is the best RB in the world.
After that, Gallas, Coupet, Abidal, Trezeguet are all top 5 in their position.

Honestly, I don't think I'm overrating anyone by saying that.
What other RB is better than Sagnol? Zanetti is very good, but Sagnol is better.
It's the weakest position in football, and Sagnol ermerges as the strongest at this postion.
Henry? Well, I think most people would agree with me.

Gallas, Abidal, Coupet and Trezeguet, again, I don't see how you can say I overrate them by saying they're among the best at their respective position.
At home (Makaay) > Bench (Trezeguet)

Anyway, I could name a dozen others who excelled in the CL. The fact you like Ribery and that he is a talent doesn't mean he's a star already.

*You* think they are all the best in their postion. I like Henry very much but there's still Shevchenko, Adriano whoever who are top players as welll.

I rest my case about Sagnol because this is too ridiculous for words. Do they really think that way about Willy in France ? That's worrysome.

Coupet, Abidal, Gallas...all top 5, yeah I'm sure one of them is but I know enough. How come Barthez is the French goalie ?

Can't you just say that France has some good players instead of talking in extremes always ?

At home (Makaay) > Bench (Trezeguet)

Anyway, I could name a dozen others who excelled in the CL. The fact you like Ribery and that he is a talent doesn't mean he's a star already.

*You* think they are all the best in their postion. I like Henry very much but there's still Shevchenko, Adriano whoever who are top players as welll.

I rest my case about Sagnol because this is too ridiculous for words. Do they really think that way about Willy in France ? That's worrysome.

Coupet, Abidal, Gallas...all top 5, yeah I'm sure one of them is but I know enough. How come Barthez is the French goalie ?

Can't you just say that France has some good players instead of talking in extremes always ?

I think calling Sagnol the best RB isn't too far off and right now, I think Henry has distinguished himself as the best striker.

At home (Makaay) > Bench (Trezeguet)

Anyway, I could name a dozen others who excelled in the CL. The fact you like Ribery and that he is a talent doesn't mean he's a star already.

*You* think they are all the best in their postion. I like Henry very much but there's still Shevchenko, Adriano whoever.

I rest my case about Sagnol because this is too ridiculous for words. Do they really think that way about Willy in France ? That's worrysome.

Coupet, Abidal, Gallas...all top 5, yeah I'm sure one of them is but I know enough. How come Barthez is the French goalie ?

Can't you just say that France has some good players instead of talking in extremes always ?
Actually, I'm not talking into extremes at all.
I already said Malouda and Ribery would be good, but I never said they were stars (you just made that up).
Henry is generally considered the best, and you sure could make a case for Sheva or Eto'o. But pointing Henry as world's best (arguably) sure isn't extreme.

About Sagnol, weirdly enough, you couldn't name one RB you'd take over him. Sagnol has developped very well, is steady defensively, and is among if not the best crosser in the world.
So seize to make it sound ridiculous and provide a damn list.

And Gallas, Coupet and Abidal aren't among the best at their position?

Actually, you talked out of "you know what" by saying France didn't have good players anymore (like in 98) and you once again got proven wrong by forgetting half the team (really saying the team is limited to Trez and Henry is showing very limited knowledge).
So you come up with sorry excuses as if I was overrating my whole team (even though I keep on criticizing them).
The fact is that France has plenty of world class players but can't find a decent system and make them play together.

I think calling Sagnol the best RB isn't too far off and right now, I think Henry has distinguished himself as the best striker.
You live in France?
Because that's worrysome... :lol:

You live in France?
Because that's worrysome... :lol:

Hehe, don't live there but I'll be visiting soon.

Seriously though, Henry was incredible this year, he's the best in my mind.

And even if he isn't, saying he arguably is doesn't sound too extreme to me.
I think that if coaches could agree on an all-world team, we'd find Sagnol and Henry in it.
Trezeguet would be on the bench probably, and Gallas as well. Coupet maybe to some (after Buffon and Cech, it's a matter of personnal preference).

And even if he isn't, saying he arguably is doesn't sound too extreme to me.
I think that if coaches could agree on an all-world team, we'd find Sagnol and Henry in it.
Trezeguet would be on the bench probably, and Gallas as well. Coupet maybe to some (after Buffon and Cech, it's a matter of personnal preference).

Do you think that Coupet should start for France? I thought he should have, but Barthez did really really well today.

Well, it's the usual stuff.
I think right now Coupet is the better goalie, but Barthez is always perfect for the NT, so I don't mind him being the starter.
Once again today he saved our *****.

About Sagnol, weirdly enough, you couldn't name one RB you'd take over him.
That's what you make up. I think that's always so lame, I never do that.

and don't put words in my mouth, I already said that Henry is a very good player.


And Gallas, Coupet and Abidal aren't among the best at their position?

Actually, you talked out of "you know what" by saying France didn't have good players anymore (like in 98) and you once again got proven wrong by forgetting half the team (really saying the team is limited to Trez and Henry is showing very limited knowledge).
So you come up with sorry excuses as if I was overrating my whole team (even though I keep on criticizing them).
The fact is that France has plenty of world class players but can't find a decent system and make them play together.I'm proven wrong ?

I think the 2002 WC and EC 2004 shows otherwise. You don't critisize them at all. France is no top team. Is that really so difficult to swallow ? It's not my business, I don't care. It's just an observation. Why should I come up with excuses. You keep saying they have plenty of talent but since 2002 they haven't proved anything at all. Not with the big tournaments, nor with the qualifications. 2002 is already 4 years ago and you still haven't seen the light. It's no shame, you know. These things happen.

Henry can't cut it when he's got no support.

Very perceptive comment ! No Pires or Bergkamp to supply the bullets Henry fires blanks. Unless he can score some goals at this tournament it will be levelled against him that he has failed at the ultimate levels of football.

Reading this thread one would feel the French are the best team on the world on paper when they are clearly not.Yes they have good players but they have yet to prove it.

The coach can take the blame.Hes kowtowed to the older players in the selections leaving Dhorasoo & Coupet in the cold & left out the likes of Giuly Mexes & Pires.Hes a poor man manager & any coach who believes in astrology like he does to make selections should be removed quickly.

Still both teams should make the next stage but I dont see France progressing much further unless they improve a great deal in the finishing stakes.

The game wasnt helped by the worst refereeing display of the tournament by a country mile either.

The French were ok. The Swiss made me want to vomit although they did defend well. The Swiss back four did really well but their "attack" was good for a laugh. Gygax nmade a difference but how could he not with Streller as the comparison. Plenty of effort very little quality. The French did some pretty moves which I enjoy but they cannot be happy with yet another goalless effort. Ribery had a solid game but not much was working. saha's chest down to Dhorasso was excellent and could have been a goal. Henry was not good enough. Looks like a group that will have some ties and tiebreakers deciding things.

This was one of our worst games of the last 2 years, but at least we got a point and it could even have been 3 points. You could see that a lot of our players were extremely nervous, but I hope that this will settle now and after a (hopeful) win against Togo the self-confidence should be ok.

That's what you make up. I think that's always so lame, I never do that.

and don't put words in my mouth, I already said that Henry is a very good player.

I'm proven wrong ?

I think the 2002 WC and EC 2004 shows otherwise. You don't critisize them at all. France is no top team. Is that really so difficult to swallow ? It's not my business, I don't care. It's just an observation. Why should I come up with excuses. You keep saying they have plenty of talent but since 2002 they haven't proved anything at all. Not with the big tournaments, nor with the qualifications. 2002 is already 4 years ago and you still haven't seen the light. It's no shame, you know. These things happen.

1/ No surprise, you can't come up with a single name of a RB.
2/ Yes you're proven wrong because football isn't limited to Euro 04 and WC 02. Henry has proven his worth on multiple occasions, so has Sagnol and the others. To deny France has great players based on their failures in these two tournaments is like saying this year's Red Wings had poor players.
3/ They're a top team on paper, but certainly don't play like a top team, which I've been saying for a while now.

So you say France doesn't have much talent besides Trez and Henry, you've been proven wrong.
No need to say others are biased.

Unless he can score some goals at this tournament it will be levelled against him that he has failed at the ultimate levels of football.
The game wasnt helped by the worst refereeing display of the tournament by a country mile either.
1- Henry was maybe the best player of Euro 00 and was WC's best scorer for France in 1998. Try again.
2- I honestly don't think the ref was that awful (certainly better than in a couple of games we've seen in this WC). I think he should have given the penalty, and some cards were doubtful, but overall, it wasn't that awful IMO.

The French were ok. The Swiss made me want to vomit although they did defend well. The Swiss back four did really well but their "attack" was good for a laugh. Gygax nmade a difference but how could he not with Streller as the comparison. Plenty of effort very little quality. The French did some pretty moves which I enjoy but they cannot be happy with yet another goalless effort. Ribery had a solid game but not much was working. saha's chest down to Dhorasso was excellent and could have been a goal. Henry was not good enough. Looks like a group that will have some ties and tiebreakers deciding things.


I'm watching the replay of the French/Swiss match on Spanish Television (advantage of living in San Diego).

So were the Swiss defenders really that good or are the French not playing up to their potential?

Also, is it me or were the French Forwards leaving Zidane's playmaking out to dry.

Zidane is getting some Chelios like calls going his way.

::edit::

The French Forwards are pretty playing really poorly.

Trezeguet, best pure sniper (or one of the very best anyway)

Trezeguet is maybe the best from 3 yards out, when he's one on one with the keeper.

And even then Van Nistelrooy is still better.

Trezeguet is maybe the best from 3 yards out, when he's one on one with the keeper.

And even then Van Nistelrooy is still better.
:confused:

Wow. Teams getting bashed left and right in these threads. Karma seems to be a ***** for some folks considering how Argentina were ripped on. Anyway...

Adriano and Sheva? Henry is easily better than Adriano. That was a laughable comparison to make. Sheva's up there, but I still think Henry tips even him. And I don't like Henry. Makaay better than Trezeguet? You could have at least made it an argument with RvN. I don't like Trezeguet either. Anyway, I think takharov is right to an extent though I think he's being a bit harsh. Some of these guys have proven it in the past, but they're not the best side on paper much less on the pitch. Either way, Domenech clearly has it wrong with some of his choices. Then so do most of the managers this World Cup.

As for Switzerland, they have a good side. A lot of these guys have come up through the NT ranks together and go back to the youth days. A lot of these guys are also play for high profile sides in high profile leagues. I don't see them going too far in the tournament, but they can cause problems for teams. The Swiss definately deserve some respect and considering the age of this team we could see them really show up in two years.

1/ No surprise, you can't come up with a single name of a RB.I'm sure you can read.

BTW I actually saw a very good Swiss rightback yesterday.
2/ Yes you're proven wrong because football isn't limited to Euro 04 and WC 02. Henry has proven his worth on multiple occasions, so has Sagnol and the others. To deny France has great players based on their failures in these two tournaments is like saying this year's Red Wings had poor players.
For the 5th time, when did I say Henry is not a good player, not mention France doesn't have any good players? You really don't get it, do you. It's not about Henry or whoever. Henry is not playing alone but has 10 teammates and France has looked very good over the years. Who cares if Henry excells in the EPL.
3/ They're a top team on paper, but certainly don't play like a top team, which I've been saying for a while now.Yes, it would be completely ridiculous to think otherwise. They have failed for more than 4 years now. It's not just one tournament. It would be nice if you take a one step back for once. If my team would play like crap for years than I wouldn't dare to act like you.



Trezeguet is maybe the best from 3 yards out, when he's one on one with the keeper.

And even then Van Nistelrooy is still better.Pssst...don't say that.

Makaay better than Trezeguet? You could have at least made it an argument with RvN.The point was that Makaay is at home and Trezeguet is sitting on the bench. At least Trezeguet has the chance to play. Nobody said Makaay is a better player.

Adriano and Sheva? Henry is easily better than Adriano. I haven't read that either. Adriano had a poor season and I'm not saying he is better but he sure is up there when is on form. Far from laughable actually.

The point was that Makaay is at home and Trezeguet is sitting on the bench. At least Trezeguet has the chance to play. Nobody said Makaay is a better player.

I haven't read that either. Adriano had a poor season and I'm not saying he is better but he sure is up there when is on form. Far from laughable actually.

Well you used the > symbol in the Makaay comment.

You said nothing of form and considering how long he's been out of form (or how long his out of form stretches are) you may as well mention Raul as well.

Well you used the > symbol in the Makaay comment.

You said nothing of form and considering how long he's been out of form (or how long his out of form stretches are) you may as well mention Raul as well.
No, I said at home > bench. You misunderstood. Makaay is sitting on his sofa in front of the television. It's going to be difficult to score from there. ;)

You said nothing of form and considering how long he's been out of form (or how long his out of form stretches are) you may as well mention Raul as well.Correct but we all have seen what Adriano is capable of and Raul is just running on his last legs, that's no form anymore.

No, I said at home > bench. You misunderstood. Makaay is sitting on his sofa in front of the television. It's going to be difficult to score from there. ;)

Oh whatever! I'm sure that the bench is more comfortable than Makaay's cheap couch. ;) Besides, I thought Makaay was finding it difficult to score from anywhere lately. :amazed: ;)

Correct but we all have seen what Adriano is capable of and Raul is just running on his last legs, that's no form anymore.

Well somebody should show Adriano an old tape of his past performances. Maybe playing alongside El Gordo is rubbing off on him.

Yeah, but Raul starts every match for Madrid. He came up through their youth ranks and is the biggest Galactico ever! :shakehead Heard he wasn't starting today. Hopefully.

I'm sure you can read.
BTW I actually saw a very good Swiss rightback yesterday.
I sure do. But you sure seem not to be able to.
Otherwise, I'm sure you'd close this by throwing two or three names out there. And if Degen is your guy, then : :biglaugh:


For the 5th time, when did I say Henry is not a good player, not mention France doesn't have any good players? You really don't get it, do you. It's not about Henry or whoever. Henry is not playing alone but has 10 teammates and France has looked very good over the years. Who cares if Henry excells in the EPL.

Here was your first post about this :

The French have a couple of great players with Henry and Trezeguet. Zidane is not the player anymore what he was before. Good youngster with Ribery, from what I read because I haven't seen much from him. Vieira is getting older. Makelele, I like him but the rest is above average at best.
YOU brought Henry and Trez as being the only great players. YOU forgot Gallas, Sagnol, Abidal and Coupet.
So maybe YOU don't get it, but that post SURELY meant that Gallas, Sagnol, Abidal or Coupet are "ABOVE AVERAGE PLAYERS AT BEST".
There you go, now don't ask me if I can't read.


Yes, it would be completely ridiculous to think otherwise. They have failed for more than 4 years now. It's not just one tournament. It would be nice if you take a one step back for once. If my team would play like crap for years than I wouldn't dare to act like you.

It would be nice if you could take a look at the top teams in the world. Nearly each features one or two french players as starters or important players. Barca, Juve, Arsenal, Chelsea, ManU, Real, etc....
The depth of french players is huge and the quality is there. Once again, that is undeniable.
Coupet is among the best in the world, same for Abidal and Gallas.
WHO CAN DENY THAT?


Pssst...don't say that.
Don't say what? I said Trezeguet is among the best if not the best pure sniper in football.
HOW CAN YOU DENY THAT?

The worst is that you call me biased for saying something obvious (France has grest players) even though I keep on criticizing my team, my coach and some of its players. :shakehead

I sure do. But you sure seem not to be able to.
Otherwise, I'm sure you'd close this by throwing two or three names out there. And if Degen is your guy, then : :biglaugh: He's not my guy. Again, don't put words in my mouth. He just surpised me.

Here was your first post about this :

YOU brought Henry and Trez as being the only great players. YOU forgot Gallas, Sagnol, Abidal and Coupet.
So maybe YOU don't get it, but that post SURELY meant that Gallas, Sagnol, Abidal or Coupet are "ABOVE AVERAGE PLAYERS AT BEST".
There you go, now don't ask me if I can't read.Dude please, I just made a quick reply, so don't use that nonsense against me. Afterwards I already said I forgot a few names but I sure didn't forget Sagnol, Abidal. You still haven't give any explanation why Barthez is in goal instead of that superb goalie Coupet.


It would be nice if you could take a look at the top teams in the world. Nearly each features one or two french players as starters or important players. Barca, Juve, Arsenal, Chelsea, ManU, Real, etc....
The depth of french players is huge and the quality is there. Once again, that is undeniable.
Coupet is among the best in the world, same for Abidal and Gallas.
WHO CAN DENY THAT?I'm sure you forget a couple of names. :sarcasm:

Don't say what? I said Trezeguet is among the best if not the best pure sniper in football.
HOW CAN YOU DENY THAT? He's among the best, yes.

The worst is that you call me biased for saying something obvious (France has grest players) even though I keep on criticizing my team, my coach and some of its players. :shakeheadOnce again, it would be completely outrages if you didn't critisize your team. We all see it. However, you still blame the coach, the tactics or the scapegoats like Dhorosoo & Co. You rarely look any further.

Dude please, I just made a quick reply, so don't use that nonsense against me. Afterwards I already said I forgot a few names but I sure didn't forget Sagnol, Abidal. You still haven't give any explanation why Barthez is in goal instead of that superb goalie Coupet.
"a few names"?
You forgot 4 names out of the remaining 9 starters!
So you think Sagnol isn't among the best at his position?
Interesting.
As for Barthez, it was all over the papers and explained here many times.
The reason he's is starting is the same reason why France isn't playing well : we gave the power to the old vets (Zidane, Thuram, Makelele, Vieira, etc...). These guys are Barthez' buddies.
That said, I don't have a problem with it since Barthez plays extremely well with the NT.
Are you implying that Coupet isn't among the best at his postion?


I'm sure you forget a couple of names. :sarcasm:
Not sure what you mean here.
You said France had two great players and average players, I say they have a loaded roster with plenty of players among the best at their position (list given above) and good rising players in Malouda and Ribery (I might add Toulalan and Bodmer).

He's among the best, yes.
Personal preference. Which is why I said OR AMONG.

Once again, it would be completely outrages if you didn't critisize your team. We all see it. However, you still blame the coach, the tactics or the scapegoats like Dhorosoo & Co. You rarely look any further.
Dhorasso?????
Why is that that you make up things all the time????
I never blamed Dhorasso for ANYTHING! I actually thought he brought some interesting energy when he came in!

I blamed the coach and the oldies (Zidane, Barthez, Makelele, Thuram, Vieira). They want to decide instead of the coach.
We would need a coach that has the balls of selecting young guys that would give it all for the team and don't worry about their buddies (a bit like Van Basten did).
BF hit it dead on when he said the players seem to decide what goes on the pitch. Zidane wants to play alone behind the two stikers, the oldies want Vieira to start, Henry wants Ribery and Wiltord to play and not Trezeguet (that's a rumor, but...), the oldies want Barthez to play, etc...

France will crach in this WC because of this. They should be much better when these guys are retired from the NT and we appoint a coach that actually has balls.

France is an old, arrogant side who has seen their best days come and go. The coach may not be the best, but I`d rather blame the french players for giving a piss poor effort on the pitch. Lets face reality here people. France is an average team that don`t scare anybody anymore. Take out Henry and you win or tie. Simple as that.

Here's a snippet from a reteurs article titled ''France's Henry blames Ribery for missed chance"

""Franck placed the ball behind me instead of placing it in front of me," Henry told reporters at France's training camp.

"If he had placed it in front me I could have pushed it inside an empty goal without controlling it and that would have been a goal. That's how close we came to scoring."


:shakehead Man is this guy ever a piece of work. What about the chances he wasted by tapping the ball lightly to the keeper? What did he create? And as one of the leaders of this squad, how is trashing the young guy helpful?

Henry is nothing more than a excuse making overrated club player.

Here's a snippet from a reteurs article titled ''France's Henry blames Ribery for missed chance"

""Franck placed the ball behind me instead of placing it in front of me," Henry told reporters at France's training camp.

"If he had placed it in front me I could have pushed it inside an empty goal without controlling it and that would have been a goal. That's how close we came to scoring."


:shakehead Man is this guy ever a piece of work. What about the chances he wasted by tapping the ball lightly to the keeper? What did he create? And as one of the leaders of this squad, how is trashing the young guy helpful?

Henry is nothing more than a excuse making overrated club player.
He actually didn't blame Ribery. He said France went close to winning and gave the Ribery pass that was inches too far and the handball that could have been a penalty.
He was not blaming it on Ribery.

That said, you're free to believe what you want.

Right, it took me about a day to diggest that very disappointing game by Les Bleus.

I went through that thread up and down and i can only fully agree with most of the criticism about the performance of the team.
I watched the game in disbelief, how come players with so much technical skill can't control the ball properly, can't do simple passes, can't release a decent shot on goal? This is unexcusable and I would expect a honest professional players to admit it. But they won't: for some of them 'it was too hot' or 'the pitch was quick enough' as per their comments post game. Embarassing attitude. I am half surprised that they didn't congratulate themselves for the clean sheet!!!

I don't rate Domenech, he has no tactical and managerial ability. Evilo made a clear statement about his Curriculum Vitae and I totally agree.
Domenech has built an hybrid team that doesn't look like nothing making any sense. The team during qualifiers and friendlies was so unbalanced (all on the play on the left flank through Malouda, nothing on the right) that it was fairly easy to counter.
Yesterday Malouda is injuried so the left flank was not even functionning properly.
Domenech doesn't assume choices and keep contracticting himself: you play for two years with two front men and then suddenly, in one of the most important game he has ever managed, he changes it. Why?

The team overall seems to have no pace, no enthusiasm, it is disturbing. As if there was something fundamentally wrong in there, maybe between players, between players and manager or something like that. On that evidence it will be very surprising if this team goes far in the tournament. I have been hoping for years now for that one game where things would click in the team but so far it has always ended with so much frustration. Now it is simple: or it clicks against South Korea or we are out. If we lose Sunday, we are done. It would be a waste but on the evidence provided until now, it would not be a loss for the playing quality of the tournament. Sad.

Agreed 100%.
I think France will be kicked early, and I don't see a change in their style anytime soon.
I was (naively) hoping they would find their game for this WC, but they haven't.
In fact, a part of me is hoping this team crashes.
So that we stop the Country Club atmosphere (vets making too many decisions) and we finally hire a GOOD coach.

Here's a snippet from a reteurs article titled ''France's Henry blames Ribery for missed chance"

""Franck placed the ball behind me instead of placing it in front of me," Henry told reporters at France's training camp.

"If he had placed it in front me I could have pushed it inside an empty goal without controlling it and that would have been a goal. That's how close we came to scoring."


:shakehead Man is this guy ever a piece of work. What about the chances he wasted by tapping the ball lightly to the keeper? What did he create? And as one of the leaders of this squad, how is trashing the young guy helpful?

Henry is nothing more than a excuse making overrated club player.

Henry was just stating how close they were, that headline is too sensational. Titi is a team player and leader, I don't think he'd ever go at a young guy in the press.

France is an old, arrogant side who has seen their best days come and go. The coach may not be the best, but I`d rather blame the french players for giving a piss poor effort on the pitch. Lets face reality here people. France is an average team that don`t scare anybody anymore. Take out Henry and you win or tie. Simple as that.


Agreed. They were arguing with each other during their first match of the Cup finals. Definitley not a good sign.

Here's a snippet from a reteurs article titled ''France's Henry blames Ribery for missed chance"

""Franck placed the ball behind me instead of placing it in front of me," Henry told reporters at France's training camp.

"If he had placed it in front me I could have pushed it inside an empty goal without controlling it and that would have been a goal. That's how close we came to scoring."


:shakehead Man is this guy ever a piece of work. What about the chances he wasted by tapping the ball lightly to the keeper? What did he create? And as one of the leaders of this squad, how is trashing the young guy helpful?

Henry is nothing more than a excuse making overrated club player.

Poor scarface can't catch a break

Agreed. They were arguing with each other during their first match of the Cup finals. Definitley not a good sign.
Actually, I thought that was one of the only bright sides.
Seeing Zidane blaming Thuram for something (and Thuram not even responding), and watching Gallas, the youngster (compared to them) going back to Zidane and shouting twice as hard was a good sign I thought.

What are you talking about???

I said Trezeguet was among the best if not the best pure sniper in the game, and Epsilon answered that Trezeguet was the best in the last 6 yards and adds "even then, Ruud is better".

I'd obviously take Trez over Ruud, but then again I would take Trez over most strikers as I've been a fan for years, I think dating back to the U-20 World Championship in 1997 when I first saw him play.


Trez is more clutch and a much better header anyway then Ruud :p:

I'd obviously take Trez over Ruud, but then again I would take Trez over most strikers as I've been a fan for years, I think dating back to the U-20 World Championship in 1997 when I first saw him play.


Trez is more clutch and a much better header anyway then Ruud :p:

I'm sorry, but this deserves a: :biglaugh:

What?

I said I'm a fan of Trez, which is true.

And then that Trez is better in the air and more clutch. Both statements are true.

No laughing matter I'd say :confused:

What?

I said I'm a fan of Trez, which is true.

And then that Trez is better in the air and more clutch. Both statements are true.

No laughing matter I'd say :confused:
You're BIASED!

What?

I said I'm a fan of Trez, which is true.

And then that Trez is better in the air and more clutch. Both statements are true.

No laughing matter I'd say :confused:

"I obviously would take Tevez over Ruud" - makes it sound like Ruud is some washed up, has-been primmadonna.

Tevez hasn't proven 1/10th of what Ruud has.

I'd obviously take Trez over Ruud, but then again I would take Trez over most strikers as I've been a fan for years, I think dating back to the U-20 World Championship in 1997 when I first saw him play.


Trez is more clutch and a much better header anyway then Ruud :p:

Ok, sentimentality aside, you would honestly take Trezeguet over most strikers in the world? 5 years ago maybe, but now?

What?

I said I'm a fan of Trez, which is true.

And then that Trez is better in the air and more clutch. Both statements are true.

No laughing matter I'd say :confused:

Never mind, somehow I read Tevez instead of Trez.

Ok, sentimentality aside, you would honestly take Trezeguet over most strikers in the world? 5 years ago maybe, but now?
Over most strikers is definately accurate I think.
How many have scored 23 goals in a big league this year?
Trezeguet is definately a top 10 stiker, arguably top 5 for some (not me BTW).

EDIT : about your "5 years ago maybe", how old do you think he is? He's not even 30!

Ok, sentimentality aside, you would honestly take Trezeguet over most strikers in the world? 5 years ago maybe, but now?

Obviously, the guy is still a top striker in the world today.

I think I might also take him over Ruud (sentimentality aside). Trez has never been in an open system such as Ruud and I think with his abilities he could score more or an equal amount then Ruud for instance at United.

However that is very debatable at the very least (I think very highly of Ruud as well you see) and there certainly isn't much to between them either way you look at it. Both are amongst the most deadly finishers in the game (I'm trying to think of people who are better and more proven and it's not easy) and are not brilliant or all that useful in all round play.
Just the way I like my strikers :D

Both are amongst the most deadly finishers in the game (I'm trying to think of people who are better and more proven and it's not easy) and are not brilliant or all that useful in all round play.
Just the way I like my strikers :DWill you ever grow up as for that matter? :innocent:

Will you ever grow up as for that matter? :innocent:

Nope, not planning to actually. :p:

Btw, I remember watching this Man U West Ham game last year... Ruud scoerd from outside box, supposeldy he hasn't scored outside the box in like 2 years before that or something.
That was (is) his only goal from outside the box since joining Manchester United.

(and it was the goalie's fault it even went in)

I must win for the frenchies in my opinion

Why isn't Trezeguet playing? :dunno:

South Korea's red uniforms stick out just as much if not moreso than Holland's orange uniforms. Wow. I guess no one watching this game will wonder why they are called "The Reds."

UPDATE: FRANCE DOES SOMETHING! Henry with a strike and a goal.

Henry!!!!! :handclap:

That was clinical from Henry

THAT WAS A GOAL
goddamnit

THAT WAS A GOAL
goddamnit

Agreed

Vieira was definitely a goal, really poor job by the linesman.

wow, korea scores! 1-1

Poor defense on the goal, then a poor strike by France.

Zidane gets a yellow!