2022 FIFA World Cup
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Who will win the World Cup?
2022 FIFA World Cup
First topic message reminder :
The strangest World Cup of them all will begin in Qatar in just a couple of weeks. The first World Cup (and surely not the last!) to be held in Arabia; the first World Cup not to take place in May, June or July; only the second World Cup to be hosted in Asia; and the last World Cup to be played with the 32-team format, as from 2026 the tournament will expand to 48 teams.
Free-scoring Brazil are, as usual, the bookmakers' favourites for the World Cup. It's been quite a barren run for the five-time winners - 20 years since they last won the tournament, and they've only made it past the quarter-finals once in the last four iterations. They were runners-up in last year's Copa America, but have since gone on an unbeaten run which has seen them cruise through qualification.
Argentina, the Copa America champions, are installed as the second favourites, in what will surely be Messi's last chance of World Cup glory. The Argentines are on a very long unbeaten run, having not experienced defeat in any fixture for over three years. Will Messi finally emulate Maradona and lead his side to their first World Cup in 36 years? Uruguay and Ecuador are the only other South American entrants; Colombia and Chile have missed out.
Turning to Europe, France are defending their second World Cup crown - they will be hoping it will go better than their first defence when they were dispatched in the group stage in 2002. On paper they still retain a strong side; in reality they're on a poor run of form, having been knocked out of the last Euros in the Last 16, and some key players will miss the World Cup through injury.
Europe, of course, has a wide range of potential winners extending beyond France. England, with an array of exciting attacking talent, will try to end all those years of hurt and misery, having come so close last year to breaking the duck. But they have also struggled in recent times, with Southgate struggling to get the best out of his creative talents. Germany and Spain both won the World Cup in the last decade, and are hoping to bounce back from disappointments in 2018. Belgium's golden generation has one last chance to deliver, as does Ronaldo for Portugal. The Dutch and the Danes will remain optimistic, and Wales are in it for the first time since 1958.
Or, perchance, for the very first time a winner outside of Europe and South America? African champions Senegal are likely leading this charge, with Mane and Koulibaly at the heart of their side, although no African nation has ever made the semi-finals of this competition. The North Americans are well represented with all three host nations of 2026 - Canada, USA and Mexico - and Costa Rica making an appearance, although you'll have to go back to 1930 for the last, and only, time a North American team made the semi-final stage.
Oceania have zero representation - unless you count Australia, but in footballing terms Australia are as Asian as Israel are European - and haven't done so since New Zealand's unbeaten run in 2010. The Asian continent hasn't done anything of note since South Korea in 2002, and their best hope this year probably comes from the South Koreans or Japanese, although hosts Qatar will be hoping to navigate themselves through a tricky group.
Um...come on, England?
The strangest World Cup of them all will begin in Qatar in just a couple of weeks. The first World Cup (and surely not the last!) to be held in Arabia; the first World Cup not to take place in May, June or July; only the second World Cup to be hosted in Asia; and the last World Cup to be played with the 32-team format, as from 2026 the tournament will expand to 48 teams.
Free-scoring Brazil are, as usual, the bookmakers' favourites for the World Cup. It's been quite a barren run for the five-time winners - 20 years since they last won the tournament, and they've only made it past the quarter-finals once in the last four iterations. They were runners-up in last year's Copa America, but have since gone on an unbeaten run which has seen them cruise through qualification.
Argentina, the Copa America champions, are installed as the second favourites, in what will surely be Messi's last chance of World Cup glory. The Argentines are on a very long unbeaten run, having not experienced defeat in any fixture for over three years. Will Messi finally emulate Maradona and lead his side to their first World Cup in 36 years? Uruguay and Ecuador are the only other South American entrants; Colombia and Chile have missed out.
Turning to Europe, France are defending their second World Cup crown - they will be hoping it will go better than their first defence when they were dispatched in the group stage in 2002. On paper they still retain a strong side; in reality they're on a poor run of form, having been knocked out of the last Euros in the Last 16, and some key players will miss the World Cup through injury.
Europe, of course, has a wide range of potential winners extending beyond France. England, with an array of exciting attacking talent, will try to end all those years of hurt and misery, having come so close last year to breaking the duck. But they have also struggled in recent times, with Southgate struggling to get the best out of his creative talents. Germany and Spain both won the World Cup in the last decade, and are hoping to bounce back from disappointments in 2018. Belgium's golden generation has one last chance to deliver, as does Ronaldo for Portugal. The Dutch and the Danes will remain optimistic, and Wales are in it for the first time since 1958.
Or, perchance, for the very first time a winner outside of Europe and South America? African champions Senegal are likely leading this charge, with Mane and Koulibaly at the heart of their side, although no African nation has ever made the semi-finals of this competition. The North Americans are well represented with all three host nations of 2026 - Canada, USA and Mexico - and Costa Rica making an appearance, although you'll have to go back to 1930 for the last, and only, time a North American team made the semi-final stage.
Oceania have zero representation - unless you count Australia, but in footballing terms Australia are as Asian as Israel are European - and haven't done so since New Zealand's unbeaten run in 2010. The Asian continent hasn't done anything of note since South Korea in 2002, and their best hope this year probably comes from the South Koreans or Japanese, although hosts Qatar will be hoping to navigate themselves through a tricky group.
Um...come on, England?
- Odds on the outright winners:
- (Bet365) - Brazil 4/1; Argentina 11/2; France 6/1; England 8/1; Spain 17/2; Germany 10/1; Netherlands 12/1; Portugal 14/1; Belgium 16/1; Denmark 28/1; Croatia 50/1; Uruguay 50/1; Senegal 80/1; Serbia 80/1; Mexico 80/1; Switzerland 100/1; Poland 150/1; USA 150/1; Canada 200/1; Ecuador 200/1; Morocco 200/1; Wales 200/1; Cameroon 250/1; Ghana 250/1; Japan 250/1; Qatar 250/1; South Korea 250/1; Australia 350/1; Iran 500/1; Tunisia 500/1; Costa Rica 750/1; Saudi Arabia 750/1.
- Odds on Golden Boot:
- (Bet365) - Kane 7/1; Mbappe 9/1; Benzema 12/1; Messi 12/1; Neymar 14/1; Ronaldo 16/1; Jesus 25/1; Depay 25/1; Lukaku 25/1.
- World Cup Schedule:
Sunday November 20
Group A: Qatar vs Ecuador (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor; kick-off 7pm)
Monday November 21
Group B: England vs Iran (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 1pm)
Group A: Senegal vs Netherlands (Al Thumama Stadium, Al Khor; kick-off 4pm)
Group B: USA vs Wales (Ahmed bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 7pm)
Tuesday November 22
Group C: Argentina vs Saudi Arabia (Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail; kick-off 10am)
Group D: Denmark vs Tunisia (Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 1pm)
Group C: Mexico vs Poland (Stadium 974, Doha; kick-off 4pm)
Group D: France vs Australia (Al Janoub Stadium, Al Wakrah; kick-off 7pm)
Wednesday November 23
Group F: Morocco vs Croatia (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor; kick-off 10am)
Group E: Germany vs Japan (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 1pm)
Group E: Spain vs Costa Rica (Al Thumama Stadium, Al Khor; kick-off 4pm)
Group F: Belgium vs Canada (Ahmed bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 7pm)
Thursday November 24
Group G: Switzerland vs Cameroon (Al Janoub Stadium, Al Wakrah; kick-off 10am)
Group H: Uruguay vs South Korea (Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 1pm)
Group H: Portugal vs Ghana (Stadium 974, Doha; kick-off 4pm)
Group G: Brazil vs Serbia (Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail; kick-off 7pm)
Friday November 25
Group B: Wales vs Iran (Ahmed bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 10am)
Group A: Qatar vs Senegal (Al Thumama Stadium, Al Khor; kick-off 1pm)
Group A: Netherlands vs Ecuador (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 4pm)
Group B: England vs USA (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor; kick-off 7pm)
Saturday November 26
Group D: Tunisia vs Australia (Al Janoub Stadium, Al Wakrah; kick-off 10am)
Group C: Poland vs Saudi Arabia (Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 1pm)
Group D: France vs Denmark (Stadium 974, Doha; kick-off 4pm)
Group C: Argentina vs Mexico (Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail; kick-off 7pm)
Sunday November 27
Group E: Japan vs Costa Rica (Ahmed bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 10am)
Group F: Belgium vs Morocco (Al Thumama Stadium, Al Khor; kick-off 1pm)
Group F: Croatia vs Canada (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 4pm)
Group E: Spain vs Germany (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor; kick-off 7pm)
Monday November 28
Group G: Cameroon vs Serbia (Al Janoub Stadium, Al Wakrah; kick-off 10am)
Group H: South Korea vs Ghana (Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 1pm)
Group G: Brazil vs Switzerland (Stadium 974, Doha; kick-off 4pm)
Group H: Portugal vs Uruguay (Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail; kick-off 7pm)
Tuesday November 29
Group A: Netherlands vs Qatar (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor; kick-off 3pm)
Group A: Ecuador vs Senegal (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 3pm)
Group B: Wales vs England (Ahmed bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 7pm)
Group B: Iran vs USA (Al Thumama Stadium, Al Khor; kick-off 7pm)
Wednesday November 30
Group D: Australia vs Denmark (Al Janoub Stadium, Al Wakrah; kick-off 3pm)
Group D: Tunisia vs France (Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 3pm)
Group C: Poland vs Argentina (Stadium 974, Doha; kick-off 7pm)
Group C: Saudi Arabia vs Mexico (Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail; kick-off 7pm)
Thursday December 1
Group F: Croatia vs Belgium (Ahmed bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 3pm)
Group F: Canada vs Morocco (Al Thumama Stadium, Al Khor; kick-off 3pm)
Group E: Costa Rica vs Germany (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor; kick-off 7pm)
Group E: Japan vs Spain (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 7pm)
Friday, December 2
Group G: South Korea vs Portugal (Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 3pm)
Group G: Ghana vs Uruguay (Al Janoub Stadium, Al Wakrah; kick-off 3pm)
Group H: Serbia vs Switzerland (Stadium 974, Doha; kick-off 7pm)
Group H: Cameroon vs Brazil (Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail; kick-off 7pm)
Round of 16
Saturday December 3
49 - Winners of Group A vs Runners-up of Group B (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 3pm)
50 - Winners of Group C vs Runners-up of Group D (Ahmed bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 7pm)
Sunday December 4
52 - Winners of Group D vs Runners-up of Group C (Al Thumama Stadium, Doha; kick-off 3pm)
51 - Winners of Group B vs Runners-up of Group A (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor; kick-off 7pm)
Monday December 5
53 - Winners of Group E vs Runners-up of Group F (Al Janoub Stadium, Al Wakrah; kick-off 3pm)
54 - Winners of Group G vs Runners-up of Group H (Stadium 974, Doha; kick-off 7pm)
Tuesday December 6
55 - Winners of Group F vs Runners-up of Group E (Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 3pm)
56 - Winners of Group H vs Runners-up of Group G (Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail; kick-off 7pm)
Quarter-finals
Friday December 9
58 - Winners of 53 vs Winners of 54 (Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 3pm)
57 - Winners of 49 vs Winners of 50 (Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail; 7pm)
Saturday December 10
60 - Winners of 55 vs Winners of 56 (Al Thumama Stadium, Doha; kick-off 3pm)
59 - Winners of 51 vs Winners of 52 (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor; kick-off 7pm)
Semi-finals
Tuesday December 13
61 - Winners of 57 vs Winners of 58 (Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail; kick-off 7pm)
Wednesday December 14
62 - Winners of 59 vs Winners of 60 (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor; kick-off 7pm)
Saturday December 17
63 - Third place play-off (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 3pm)
Final
Sunday December 18
64 - The World Cup final (Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail; kick-off 3pm)
Duty281- Posts : 34575
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
Maguire is awful. It's amazing Tomori is left at home.
Duty281- Posts : 34575
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
Well that was nicely done...
Hadn't been much threatening before but the old and the new midfielders combined well to get that. Bit of a relief but with Senegal looking dangerous when they go forward there is still plenty to do.
Hadn't been much threatening before but the old and the new midfielders combined well to get that. Bit of a relief but with Senegal looking dangerous when they go forward there is still plenty to do.
alfie- Posts : 21901
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
First time all tournament Kane is in position to receive a cross and he spoons it over
GSC- Posts : 43496
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
And Harry's on the board now
Good way to finish the half...
Good way to finish the half...
alfie- Posts : 21901
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
That's more like it.
Good start, pressed high and forced some turnovers. But only some half chances really.
Senegal started turning us over in midfield and forced two good chances (albeit I'm pretty sure the second would not have survived a VAR check for what looked a reasonably clear handball)
Move the ball at pace for the first time and score, Senegal largely fell apart for the rest of the half. Jude's been different class unleashed in the final third
Good start, pressed high and forced some turnovers. But only some half chances really.
Senegal started turning us over in midfield and forced two good chances (albeit I'm pretty sure the second would not have survived a VAR check for what looked a reasonably clear handball)
Move the ball at pace for the first time and score, Senegal largely fell apart for the rest of the half. Jude's been different class unleashed in the final third
Last edited by GSC on Sun 04 Dec 2022, 7:53 pm; edited 1 time in total
GSC- Posts : 43496
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
Think I'd have Rashford on fairly soon. Direct pace against a chasing Senegal team
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
Nice to see Kane bag one and it's job done by HT. Into the quarters England go.
Bit of a relief to be honest because, overall, it wasn't the best half by England. The shape has been a bit bizarre with Henderson and Bellingham both playing in further advanced roles than Rice, leaving Rice as the lone man sitting in. This has made it difficult to transition, sometimes, between defence to attack in possession, but has helped the press. Saka perhaps unfortunate not to win a penalty early on. Very slow and ponderous for the most part, but when England have moved it quick they've done damage.
Two brilliant moves have put the game to bed. First one you see the value of Kane dropping deep with someone making a run beyond him, helped by a superb flick from Foden along the way. Second one was just a smooth counter-attack. England can score against anyone with moves like that. I just hope Southgate fields enough attacking players v France to allow England to do that, because the counter-attack will be a key weapon in the quarter-final and I think England can excel with it.
Defence hasn't looked great and, similar to France earlier, perhaps England were a little lucky not to be behind at some point. One great save from Pickford helped in particular. Maguire has looked dodgy on both occasions a Senegalese player has run at him, and Walker isn't having the best defensive battle of his life.
Saka may also be injured, he was hobbling. With Sterling possibly out for the remainder of the tournament, England don't want to lose players to injury.
Bit of a relief to be honest because, overall, it wasn't the best half by England. The shape has been a bit bizarre with Henderson and Bellingham both playing in further advanced roles than Rice, leaving Rice as the lone man sitting in. This has made it difficult to transition, sometimes, between defence to attack in possession, but has helped the press. Saka perhaps unfortunate not to win a penalty early on. Very slow and ponderous for the most part, but when England have moved it quick they've done damage.
Two brilliant moves have put the game to bed. First one you see the value of Kane dropping deep with someone making a run beyond him, helped by a superb flick from Foden along the way. Second one was just a smooth counter-attack. England can score against anyone with moves like that. I just hope Southgate fields enough attacking players v France to allow England to do that, because the counter-attack will be a key weapon in the quarter-final and I think England can excel with it.
Defence hasn't looked great and, similar to France earlier, perhaps England were a little lucky not to be behind at some point. One great save from Pickford helped in particular. Maguire has looked dodgy on both occasions a Senegalese player has run at him, and Walker isn't having the best defensive battle of his life.
Saka may also be injured, he was hobbling. With Sterling possibly out for the remainder of the tournament, England don't want to lose players to injury.
Duty281- Posts : 34575
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
Should be different second half as Senegal have to chase. Thought they had handled things very well up until the goal : hadn't let England really get much of a look at their goal and had made two or three very dangerous counter attacks - England indebted to Pickford for keeping them out , and it probably wasn't just the fans who'd been getting nervous.
Bit of a different view at two up.
Bit of a different view at two up.
alfie- Posts : 21901
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3-0, should be that. One dodgy spell but thoroughly professional performance outside of that
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Beautiful stuff. Loads of space for England now, Kane running the show, Foden all class down the left and Saka finishes it off.
Please, Southgate, please keep it to four at the back for France. Let's not have an Italy repeat.
Please, Southgate, please keep it to four at the back for France. Let's not have an Italy repeat.
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Doesn't look like Saka is injured
Took that easily enough....more good work from Foden and the goals keep flowing
Took that easily enough....more good work from Foden and the goals keep flowing
alfie- Posts : 21901
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Saka and Foden being wrapped in cotton wool I see
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Changes starting to be rung now. Got six days until France, which is a relatively long break, but good to not be pushed all the way.
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Thank goodness this is the last England game of this World Cup that we have to endure with the commentary of Matterface and Dixon.
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England France on paper the tie of the tournament so far. Will Gareth revert back to safety first
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
The game was done by half-time, but a really professional showing from England in the second half. Pickford the first goalkeeper to keep a clean sheet at the Last 16 thus far. Kane looking sharp and hungry is superb to see.
France next. First game England will be outsiders for. And the first big hurdle for England at this tournament. Southgate hasn't surmounted a big hurdle at a World Cup or European Championship yet, coming up short v Croatia in 2018 and Italy in 2021.
I'd be happy to keep the same team, just with Henderson dropping deeper and playing alongside Rice. Try to win the possession battle. Give France something to worry about. Trust the attackers that have done so much.
But what Southgate will probably do is play three centre-backs, Walker joining Stones and Maguire, with Trippier going to right back. Foden the man sacrificed and possibly Sterling playing instead of Saka, if Sterling is available. Then you'd have Henderson and Rice as the holding midfielders. Kane will have to field long punts and try and hold it up or flick it on. England would have to be clinical and they'd be spending a lot of time chasing the ball. A repeat of Italy 2021, essentially.
I just hope I'm wrong and that England play a back four. I feel it gives England the best chance.
France next. First game England will be outsiders for. And the first big hurdle for England at this tournament. Southgate hasn't surmounted a big hurdle at a World Cup or European Championship yet, coming up short v Croatia in 2018 and Italy in 2021.
I'd be happy to keep the same team, just with Henderson dropping deeper and playing alongside Rice. Try to win the possession battle. Give France something to worry about. Trust the attackers that have done so much.
But what Southgate will probably do is play three centre-backs, Walker joining Stones and Maguire, with Trippier going to right back. Foden the man sacrificed and possibly Sterling playing instead of Saka, if Sterling is available. Then you'd have Henderson and Rice as the holding midfielders. Kane will have to field long punts and try and hold it up or flick it on. England would have to be clinical and they'd be spending a lot of time chasing the ball. A repeat of Italy 2021, essentially.
I just hope I'm wrong and that England play a back four. I feel it gives England the best chance.
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3-0. That'll do.
Nervous early period : but once Henderson scored it was basically cruise control the rest of the way.
France is a step up , sure. But hard to be critical of what England have done in these matches so far. Could mount an argument that whoever wins this QF might be considered title favourites
Nervous early period : but once Henderson scored it was basically cruise control the rest of the way.
France is a step up , sure. But hard to be critical of what England have done in these matches so far. Could mount an argument that whoever wins this QF might be considered title favourites
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I'd be surprised if the 3 CB formation comes back out honestly. Just have to back ourselves
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
Think the big takeaway Gareth and co can takeaway is when England move the ball with tempo they hurt teams. Spend too much time on Maguire and Stones swapping passes between them and we don't have a playmaker to play with Kane to unlock teams that are well set.
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
Gareth saying Raheem is heading home and couldnt say if he'll return.
Beeb saying armed intruders broke into his house while his family was home which is horrific
Beeb saying armed intruders broke into his house while his family was home which is horrific
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GSC wrote:Gareth saying Raheem is heading home and couldnt say if he'll return.
Beeb saying armed intruders broke into his house while his family was home which is horrific
Awful news, can only hope his family are alright. Seems to be a lot of these burglaries where footballers are specifically targeted.
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Dreadful business that has seen Sterling off home . Obviously alarming for him personally and hope things are settled down OK.
But not good news for England , as although a lot of people are happier seeing other forwards starting instead of him, he is clearly a very handy alternate to have on the bench. Can't be helped : family comes first.
But not good news for England , as although a lot of people are happier seeing other forwards starting instead of him, he is clearly a very handy alternate to have on the bench. Can't be helped : family comes first.
alfie- Posts : 21901
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France v England will be a fantastic game.
I am not so sure that Walker can contain Mbappe and Maguire looks very shaky at the back. The game has goals written all over it but I would be confident if I was an England fan. France must also look at the English performances, so far, and be very concerned how to play them.
I am not so sure that Walker can contain Mbappe and Maguire looks very shaky at the back. The game has goals written all over it but I would be confident if I was an England fan. France must also look at the English performances, so far, and be very concerned how to play them.
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
Wow, have been reading through the comments on the BBC. The general dislike for Gareth Southgate is unbelievable. England have only won games because of the players but if/when they do lose it will all be down to Gareth Southgate's incompetency as a manager.
Its unthinkable that a man who has brought England such results in his tenure is disliked so much. Its as if many England fans want England to lose just so they can say 'see, told you Southgate was bad'.
The mind boggles...
Its unthinkable that a man who has brought England such results in his tenure is disliked so much. Its as if many England fans want England to lose just so they can say 'see, told you Southgate was bad'.
The mind boggles...
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Galted likes this post
Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
eirebilly_01 wrote:Wow, have been reading through the comments on the BBC. The general dislike for Gareth Southgate is unbelievable. England have only won games because of the players but if/when they do lose it will all be down to Gareth Southgate's incompetency as a manager.
Its unthinkable that a man who has brought England such results in his tenure is disliked so much. Its as if many England fans want England to lose just so they can say 'see, told you Southgate was bad'.
The mind boggles...
The BBC HYS does attract some massive a-holes.
There is the feeling that Southgate's tenure has involved easy draws, which is true to some extent, and that as soon as England come up against strong opposition (Belgium, Croatia, Italy) they invite pressure and inevitably lose. Doesn't get much harder than France so I think the attitude to him will change if England get through, lose and there'll be the usual spontaneous orgasm of vitriol.
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
eirebilly_01 wrote:Wow, have been reading through the comments on the BBC. The general dislike for Gareth Southgate is unbelievable. England have only won games because of the players but if/when they do lose it will all be down to Gareth Southgate's incompetency as a manager.
Its unthinkable that a man who has brought England such results in his tenure is disliked so much. Its as if many England fans want England to lose just so they can say 'see, told you Southgate was bad'.
The mind boggles...
There is some truth in it, his negative tactics in the Euros final cost England massively. That isn't easily forgotten.
Soul Requiem- Posts : 6564
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
How many managers actually get teams to semi finals or finals, let alone win them, not many.
Southgate may not be perfect or the best manager in the world but what he has done is formed a team with pure self belief, got the to the latter stages of recent tournaments and got some very good performances out of England. I think he is a proper tournament manager myself and is pacing this England team nicely.
There seems to be so much focus on England failing and yet, as I said earlier, nobody is thinking how the French feel. They must be nervous about playing this English team as the weight of expectation is on them and England do look very good.
Just do not understand the not getting behind your team approach.
Southgate may not be perfect or the best manager in the world but what he has done is formed a team with pure self belief, got the to the latter stages of recent tournaments and got some very good performances out of England. I think he is a proper tournament manager myself and is pacing this England team nicely.
There seems to be so much focus on England failing and yet, as I said earlier, nobody is thinking how the French feel. They must be nervous about playing this English team as the weight of expectation is on them and England do look very good.
Just do not understand the not getting behind your team approach.
eirebilly_01- Posts : 915
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
Southgate's successes are few, his flaws are many.
If he sets England up the same as he did v Italy, and England lose, it'll be time to go.
If he sets England up the same as he did v Italy, and England lose, it'll be time to go.
Duty281- Posts : 34575
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
I think on paper Gareth has probably achieved the results one would expect, but that ignores that a vast succession of higher paid/touted managers have failed to even hit that bar.
Ultimately you win tournaments by not conceding and that's kinda where the defensive first philosophy comes from I think. But the best teams achieve that by controlling games and England have never had the players to do that, leading to some very defensive lineups that leave us hemmed in. Now we might have that midfield trio, and France have had a number of injuries in that area. Not sure we'll win, France are rightfully favourite and have probably the best player in the world in form. But we don't have to be fear them
Only change I'd contemplate is Trippier back in. Walker looked well short of match fitness against a less compliant team than Wales
Ultimately you win tournaments by not conceding and that's kinda where the defensive first philosophy comes from I think. But the best teams achieve that by controlling games and England have never had the players to do that, leading to some very defensive lineups that leave us hemmed in. Now we might have that midfield trio, and France have had a number of injuries in that area. Not sure we'll win, France are rightfully favourite and have probably the best player in the world in form. But we don't have to be fear them
Only change I'd contemplate is Trippier back in. Walker looked well short of match fitness against a less compliant team than Wales
GSC- Posts : 43496
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
eirebilly_01 wrote:
There seems to be so much focus on England failing and yet, as I said earlier, nobody is thinking how the French feel. They must be nervous about playing this English team as the weight of expectation is on them and England do look very good.
Just do not understand the not getting behind your team approach.
Are we surprised by this though? Welcome to the all consuming world of English sports fans. It's a national pastime to moan and whinge about our teams. The genesis of which is some strange embedded belief that we, the armchair coaches, somehow know more than the professionals.
Also what happens when Millennials and Gen Z are given access to the Internet. Should only be allowed for Generation X and/or miserable f*ckers (I am both).
Mind the windows Tino.- Beano
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
GSC wrote:I think on paper Gareth has probably achieved the results one would expect, but that ignores that a vast succession of higher paid/touted managers have failed to even hit that bar.
Ultimately you win tournaments by not conceding and that's kinda where the defensive first philosophy comes from I think. But the best teams achieve that by controlling games and England have never had the players to do that, leading to some very defensive lineups that leave us hemmed in. Now we might have that midfield trio, and France have had a number of injuries in that area. Not sure we'll win, France are rightfully favourite and have probably the best player in the world in form. But we don't have to be fear them
Only change I'd contemplate is Trippier back in. Walker looked well short of match fitness against a less compliant team than Wales
I think a lot of fans underestimate the difference between managing at club and international level - an international boss has to mould a disparate set of players into a team in a short interval, which Southgate is good at, and then come up with a tactical system that suits the available squad. Perhaps the second is something Southgate is less good at than some of the other international coaches.
Looking forward to what should be a good competitive match on Saturday - I'd say the full strength France team is stronger on paper, but they are missing a few, which probably brings it closer to level.
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
Two very interesting games today.
Japan - Croatia
Head says Croatia as the have the experience in big KO matches but my heart says Japan who, for me, have been an absolute breath of fresh air. Can look ordinary one minute and scintillating the next. Goals in this one.
Japan 2 - Croatia 3
Brazil - South Korea
Really cannot see past a Brazil win but I am not so sure it will be crushing that many would expect.
Brazil 2 - 1 South Korea
Japan - Croatia
Head says Croatia as the have the experience in big KO matches but my heart says Japan who, for me, have been an absolute breath of fresh air. Can look ordinary one minute and scintillating the next. Goals in this one.
Japan 2 - Croatia 3
Brazil - South Korea
Really cannot see past a Brazil win but I am not so sure it will be crushing that many would expect.
Brazil 2 - 1 South Korea
eirebilly_01- Posts : 915
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
Brazil should win. Not sure SK are a massive step up from what their first choice already dealt with. Probably go 2-0 or 3-1
Head says Croatias big names can summon one more performance to manage Japan out of the tournament, maybe on penalties. Heart says Japan have been miles better, and in truth Croatia are incredibly fortunate to get out of the group after Lukaku managed to miss a series of incredible chances. 2-1 Japan but I have no confidence in it.
Head says Croatias big names can summon one more performance to manage Japan out of the tournament, maybe on penalties. Heart says Japan have been miles better, and in truth Croatia are incredibly fortunate to get out of the group after Lukaku managed to miss a series of incredible chances. 2-1 Japan but I have no confidence in it.
GSC- Posts : 43496
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
Mind the windows Tino. wrote:
The genesis of which is some strange embedded belief that we, the armchair coaches, somehow know more than the professionals.
Actually, I could do what he does, and I think he knew that, even back then. Probably what spurred him on.
Galted- Galted
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
Brazil are more than a myth these days for me. Teams seem to be beaten by them before they play them these days by having too much respect for them. They are not a patch on what they used to be and have looked very pedestrian this tournament.
If you pressure Brazil and do not give them the space, they struggle. I think this is something that South Korea can do. You have to frustrate Brazil to beat them.
Of course, at some stage as in any close game with Brazil, that tactic of professional diving will come into play and Brazil will win a penalty. A Brazilian player will receive a slight brush on the shoulder on the half way line and roll into the penalty box to win a penalty.
If you pressure Brazil and do not give them the space, they struggle. I think this is something that South Korea can do. You have to frustrate Brazil to beat them.
Of course, at some stage as in any close game with Brazil, that tactic of professional diving will come into play and Brazil will win a penalty. A Brazilian player will receive a slight brush on the shoulder on the half way line and roll into the penalty box to win a penalty.
eirebilly_01- Posts : 915
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
GSC wrote:I'd be surprised if the 3 CB formation comes back out honestly. Just have to back ourselves
Keep the back 4 (maybe Trippier coming back for Walker, who looks like a player just back from injury) and either the same midfield 3 or bring Phillips back in for Henderson, but play with them really as 2 holding players and Bellingham further forwards, linking with the two wide attackers. We need to remember to try and impose our patterns of play on the game, like we did for the first 20 minutes in the Euro final against Italy, not let play be dictated by the opposition.
I have a horrible feeling that this could be one of those games like we've seen in previous generations of England teams, where we play well but can't force a result, to lose in extra time or penalties.
dummy_half- Posts : 6497
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
Think Brazil have been fine. Played some well organised teams who made them work for it, then put a reserve team out for the final game. As strong as anyone has been in this world cup
GSC- Posts : 43496
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
Exactly my part of my point GSC, teams that have pressured Brazil have put them under pressure. Its also not a great sign for their squad depth if they put out a supposed B team that gets beaten 1-0 by Cameroon.
3 goals in 3 games for a Brazilian side who are supposedly the best in the world? I would say they are one of the weakest 'elite' teams remaining myself.
They should make the Semi's, given their half of the draw, but i think that is as far as they will go.
3 goals in 3 games for a Brazilian side who are supposedly the best in the world? I would say they are one of the weakest 'elite' teams remaining myself.
They should make the Semi's, given their half of the draw, but i think that is as far as they will go.
eirebilly_01- Posts : 915
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
I think Walker is crucial and needs to play because he's the only one that can keep pace with Mbappe. Hopefully five days of rest will get him tip-top for France. Henderson, because of his leadership and experience, also has to play - Phillips probably isn't sharp enough in any case -and I'd agree with dropping him deeper to play alongside Rice this time. Presuming England have a back four, those two holding midfielders will be crucial because Mbappe and Dembele love to cut in.
Sterling may also be available for selection because his family don't appear to have been harmed during the burglary.
I hope I'm incorrect but I think Southgate will go for three centre-backs, one of them being Walker, and Trippier playing as the right-back. It's what he usually does against big teams, as we saw last year v Germany and Italy and in two Nations League games this summer. Southgate also loves the set-piece element that Trippier supposedly brings, though we haven't really seen much of it in the last four years.
The one hope with this is that the last time he deployed three centre-backs, v Germany in the Nations League, England were dominated and went 2-0 down. Southgate adjusted it to a more attacking shape and England drew 3-3 in the end. So maybe Southgate doesn't like 3 centre backs anymore? Whatever shape it is England will have to play a lot deeper to accommodate Maguire. If we see Mbappe or Dembele running at Maguire with a bit of space in behind it's curtains.
Today, I think Japan will beat Croatia. Japan have been something else at this tournament, beating Spain and Germany but losing to Costa Rica. They're a well organised unit and they've been clinical thus far. Croatia have been in a long decline since losing the last World Cup final and they've done very little at this tournament so far, beating an exhausted Canada and scraping through thanks to Lukaku's inability to finish (x4).
Brazil should cruise against South Korea. Bit like Poland yesterday South Korea have one star name and little else. I think Brazil have done fine at this tournament so far, they've got another couple of gears to go to, and I'm expecting them to get to the final.
Sterling may also be available for selection because his family don't appear to have been harmed during the burglary.
I hope I'm incorrect but I think Southgate will go for three centre-backs, one of them being Walker, and Trippier playing as the right-back. It's what he usually does against big teams, as we saw last year v Germany and Italy and in two Nations League games this summer. Southgate also loves the set-piece element that Trippier supposedly brings, though we haven't really seen much of it in the last four years.
The one hope with this is that the last time he deployed three centre-backs, v Germany in the Nations League, England were dominated and went 2-0 down. Southgate adjusted it to a more attacking shape and England drew 3-3 in the end. So maybe Southgate doesn't like 3 centre backs anymore? Whatever shape it is England will have to play a lot deeper to accommodate Maguire. If we see Mbappe or Dembele running at Maguire with a bit of space in behind it's curtains.
Today, I think Japan will beat Croatia. Japan have been something else at this tournament, beating Spain and Germany but losing to Costa Rica. They're a well organised unit and they've been clinical thus far. Croatia have been in a long decline since losing the last World Cup final and they've done very little at this tournament so far, beating an exhausted Canada and scraping through thanks to Lukaku's inability to finish (x4).
Brazil should cruise against South Korea. Bit like Poland yesterday South Korea have one star name and little else. I think Brazil have done fine at this tournament so far, they've got another couple of gears to go to, and I'm expecting them to get to the final.
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
I'm not sure they've been under massive pressure if I'm honest, they've contained opponents pretty well. Just sometimes takes a while to unlock well organised teams that are prepared to dig in. Don't think there's been many times like Senegal's yesterday where the other team really got on top of them.
But it's as much I'm just not convinced South Korea are that much better than Serbia or Switzerland who were eventually handled. Then it's Japan or Croatia if they survive that
But it's as much I'm just not convinced South Korea are that much better than Serbia or Switzerland who were eventually handled. Then it's Japan or Croatia if they survive that
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
I remember the great game England had against France at Euro 2004. These two teams were superb and how neither won the competition - but flipping Greece did - is quite something.
France: Barthez, Gallas, Thuram, Silvestre, Lizarazu, Pires, Vieira, Makelele, Zidane, Trezeguet, Henry.
England: James, Gary Neville, King, Campbell, Ashley Cole, Beckham, Lampard, Gerrard, Scholes, Rooney, Owen.
England lost that day, because of Zidane, but they have beaten France in both World Cup meetings so far (1966 and 1982).
France: Barthez, Gallas, Thuram, Silvestre, Lizarazu, Pires, Vieira, Makelele, Zidane, Trezeguet, Henry.
England: James, Gary Neville, King, Campbell, Ashley Cole, Beckham, Lampard, Gerrard, Scholes, Rooney, Owen.
England lost that day, because of Zidane, but they have beaten France in both World Cup meetings so far (1966 and 1982).
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
Duty281 wrote:I remember the great game England had against France at Euro 2004. These two teams were superb and how neither won the competition - but flipping Greece did - is quite something.
France: Barthez, Gallas, Thuram, Silvestre, Lizarazu, Pires, Vieira, Makelele, Zidane, Trezeguet, Henry.
England: James, Gary Neville, King, Campbell, Ashley Cole, Beckham, Lampard, Gerrard, Scholes, Rooney, Owen.
England lost that day, because of Zidane, but they have beaten France in both World Cup meetings so far (1966 and 1982).
Good omens ! Let's make it three
alfie- Posts : 21901
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
Galted wrote:Mind the windows Tino. wrote:
The genesis of which is some strange embedded belief that we, the armchair coaches, somehow know more than the professionals.
Actually, I could do what he does, and I think he knew that, even back then. Probably what spurred him on.
Go and get the guitar.
Mind the windows Tino.- Beano
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
Duty281 wrote:I remember the great game England had against France at Euro 2004. These two teams were superb and how neither won the competition - but flipping Greece did - is quite something.
France: Barthez, Gallas, Thuram, Silvestre, Lizarazu, Pires, Vieira, Makelele, Zidane, Trezeguet, Henry.
England: James, Gary Neville, King, Campbell, Ashley Cole, Beckham, Lampard, Gerrard, Scholes, Rooney, Owen.
England lost that day, because of Zidane, but they have beaten France in both World Cup meetings so far (1966 and 1982).
On paper, England probably haven't had a significantly better team in my lifetime (born 1971, so missed the Banks-Moore-Charlton era). OK, James was a bit hit and miss as a keeper, but had some very good days. Very decent back 4 - would probably take each of them over the current back 4. 4 very good to great midfielders, but no balance and no genuine left sided player - ironic that Giggs was England schoolboys captain but wasn't eligible to play for England mens team (also, would he have done so if the opportunity had been there?).
Fance line up isn't too shabby either - thought Trezeguet was over-rated (benefitted by playing with such good team mates) and the full backs and Barthez were no more than decent, but the rest is pretty incredible.
dummy_half- Posts : 6497
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
Greece the only team ever to win on a silver goal
GSC- Posts : 43496
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
dummy_half wrote:Duty281 wrote:I remember the great game England had against France at Euro 2004. These two teams were superb and how neither won the competition - but flipping Greece did - is quite something.
France: Barthez, Gallas, Thuram, Silvestre, Lizarazu, Pires, Vieira, Makelele, Zidane, Trezeguet, Henry.
England: James, Gary Neville, King, Campbell, Ashley Cole, Beckham, Lampard, Gerrard, Scholes, Rooney, Owen.
England lost that day, because of Zidane, but they have beaten France in both World Cup meetings so far (1966 and 1982).
On paper, England probably haven't had a significantly better team in my lifetime (born 1971, so missed the Banks-Moore-Charlton era). OK, James was a bit hit and miss as a keeper, but had some very good days. Very decent back 4 - would probably take each of them over the current back 4. 4 very good to great midfielders, but no balance and no genuine left sided player - ironic that Giggs was England schoolboys captain but wasn't eligible to play for England mens team (also, would he have done so if the opportunity had been there?).
Fance line up isn't too shabby either - thought Trezeguet was over-rated (benefitted by playing with such good team mates) and the full backs and Barthez were no more than decent, but the rest is pretty incredible.
Yeah, I was born in 1995 and I think the Euro 2004 team was the best I've seen so far. Could have been even better if Rio hadn't missed a drugs test and been banned. Of course the problem with that England team, aside from Scholes on the left, was the lack of depth and that's something England have got now in abundance.
The team from 1998 perhaps pushes it close, with a tremendous mix of youth and experience - Seaman, Anderton, Neville, Adams, Campbell, Le Saux, Beckham, Ince; Scholes, Owen and Shearer.
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
GSC wrote:Greece the only team ever to win on a silver goal
What a silly rule silver goal was. I wouldn't mind seeing golden goal brought back, to be fair.
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
Glorious chance for Japan wasted after just 2 minutes.
Croatia seem a bit more lively than the group stages
Croatia seem a bit more lively than the group stages
GSC- Posts : 43496
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
Neither team sitting back. I think this favours Japan as they look the fitter team. Croatia will feel this later in the game. Substitutions may pay a huge factor in this game.
eirebilly_01- Posts : 915
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Re: 2022 FIFA World Cup
3 very presentable chances for Maeda now
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