Oh Good, It Looks Like Brazil Is Going To Win The World Cup Again!
June 8, 2006 7:02 AM Subscribe
Sorry, But Only One Of These Countries Can Win The World Cup. But which one will it be? And what are the odds? The Guardian's Fiver can be as funny about it as it likes, but this is no laughing matter, not anymore, as we will soon be surrounded by 31 unmistakable, irredeemable, inconsolable losers. Anyway, whatever happens, I'm sure everyone here at MetaFilter will join me in wishing it's one of the countries that speak Portuguese.
Heck no. I kinda hope it's not Brazil because in my lifetime, well it's always Brazil (or they get into the finals. Also, I hope the Germans lose, since they got lucky with that handball last time when we outplayed them and lost in the quarters).
posted by dig_duggler at 7:10 AM on June 8, 2006
posted by dig_duggler at 7:10 AM on June 8, 2006
I'm sure that someone in Australia can speak Portuguese, hang on, I know some of them. Does that mean we can win?
posted by tellurian at 7:11 AM on June 8, 2006
posted by tellurian at 7:11 AM on June 8, 2006
Azzzuuuurrrriiiii!
posted by CunningLinguist at 7:15 AM on June 8, 2006
posted by CunningLinguist at 7:15 AM on June 8, 2006
I'm sure everyone here at MetaFilter will join me in wishing it's one of the countries that speak Portuguese.
Uh, no.
But allow me to use this opportunity to repeat the greatest lede ever written, by a (typically jingoistic and eloquent) English sportswriter on the eve of their 1966 World Cup winning match against German:
"If, on the morrow, they should beat us at our national sport, remember: We beat them twice at theirs."
posted by docgonzo at 7:16 AM on June 8, 2006 [1 favorite]
Uh, no.
But allow me to use this opportunity to repeat the greatest lede ever written, by a (typically jingoistic and eloquent) English sportswriter on the eve of their 1966 World Cup winning match against German:
"If, on the morrow, they should beat us at our national sport, remember: We beat them twice at theirs."
posted by docgonzo at 7:16 AM on June 8, 2006 [1 favorite]
That's "Two world wars and one world cup, doo dah, doo dah" in journalistic form!
posted by vbfg at 7:18 AM on June 8, 2006
posted by vbfg at 7:18 AM on June 8, 2006
QUOTE OF THE DAY from the Fiver link.
"As captain, I would rather put my name up to take a penalty and miss it than not offer at all" - big-boned striker Cartman Viduka sends out a worrying message to the Sheilaroos and their fans.
Inflammatory.
Sexist, fattist, jingoistic. Me likey!
posted by uncanny hengeman at 7:23 AM on June 8, 2006
"As captain, I would rather put my name up to take a penalty and miss it than not offer at all" - big-boned striker Cartman Viduka sends out a worrying message to the Sheilaroos and their fans.
Inflammatory.
Sexist, fattist, jingoistic. Me likey!
posted by uncanny hengeman at 7:23 AM on June 8, 2006
All the people I know who speak Portuguese live in London, so...
And can anyone explain this image and caption from the team weblogs sidebar?
posted by jack_mo at 7:26 AM on June 8, 2006
And can anyone explain this image and caption from the team weblogs sidebar?
posted by jack_mo at 7:26 AM on June 8, 2006
Thanks for visiting Miguel. Can we expect a prolonged stay?
posted by Catfry at 7:28 AM on June 8, 2006
posted by Catfry at 7:28 AM on June 8, 2006
I am backing Portugal.
Pauleta has to shine eventually.
posted by fire&wings at 7:29 AM on June 8, 2006
Pauleta has to shine eventually.
posted by fire&wings at 7:29 AM on June 8, 2006
Argentina. And if the Argentines don't do it, Brazil.
I kinda hope it's not Brazil because in my lifetime, well it's always Brazil
I understand your feelings and ordinarily would share them, but somehow I don't. I think Brazil would have to win about the next five World Cups in a row before I started thinking "Gee, I'm getting a little tired of this." Unless, of course, they lost their Brazilitude and started playing like the Italians or something.
/old Boca Juniors fan
posted by languagehat at 7:45 AM on June 8, 2006
I kinda hope it's not Brazil because in my lifetime, well it's always Brazil
I understand your feelings and ordinarily would share them, but somehow I don't. I think Brazil would have to win about the next five World Cups in a row before I started thinking "Gee, I'm getting a little tired of this." Unless, of course, they lost their Brazilitude and started playing like the Italians or something.
/old Boca Juniors fan
posted by languagehat at 7:45 AM on June 8, 2006
At least the world can agree: as long as it aint the Germans.
posted by CunningLinguist at 7:48 AM on June 8, 2006
posted by CunningLinguist at 7:48 AM on June 8, 2006
[derail] BTW could anybody suggest where I could buy the Panini 2006 World Cup sticker book & sticker packs in the USA that isn't out-the-ass expensive? [/derail]
posted by contessa at 8:01 AM on June 8, 2006
posted by contessa at 8:01 AM on June 8, 2006
Argentina would be OK, I've got them in one of the office sweepstakes. Of course, I also have Sweden, Poland and the Czech Republic. I like to think I've got my bases covered, it's less depressing than thinking that I've wasted £11.
posted by featherboa at 8:05 AM on June 8, 2006
posted by featherboa at 8:05 AM on June 8, 2006
Anyone except the US. Because I am a liberal and I hate America. I'll root for the home team after the second civil war.
posted by Mayor Curley at 8:06 AM on June 8, 2006
posted by Mayor Curley at 8:06 AM on June 8, 2006
As an Englishman I've managed to nicely hedge my bets by drawing Germany in the office sweepstake.
Ukraine are the dark horses - Shevchenko for the golden boot...
posted by patricio at 8:13 AM on June 8, 2006
Ukraine are the dark horses - Shevchenko for the golden boot...
posted by patricio at 8:13 AM on June 8, 2006
I'm sure everyone here at MetaFilter will join me in wishing it's one of the countries that speak Portuguese.
Very greedy, aren't we?
I, of couse, am rooting for Iran (one can dream). Either way, June 17th should be an interesting day.
posted by Devils Slide at 8:14 AM on June 8, 2006
Very greedy, aren't we?
I, of couse, am rooting for Iran (one can dream). Either way, June 17th should be an interesting day.
posted by Devils Slide at 8:14 AM on June 8, 2006
Panini 2006 World Cup sticker book & sticker packs
Are they still doing those? Wow. *fond memories of my Mexico 86 sticker book*
I've drawn Ivory Coast in the office sweepstake. I haven't got a prayer...
posted by greycap at 8:20 AM on June 8, 2006
Are they still doing those? Wow. *fond memories of my Mexico 86 sticker book*
I've drawn Ivory Coast in the office sweepstake. I haven't got a prayer...
posted by greycap at 8:20 AM on June 8, 2006
[derail] BTW could anybody suggest where I could buy the Panini 2006 World Cup sticker book & sticker packs in the USA that isn't out-the-ass expensive? [/derail]
I don't know. But be warned: if you buy unofficial merchandise you might die.
People buying unofficial World Cup merchandise risk possible illness, injury or even death, top customs officials said on Tuesday.
No I did not make that up.
posted by uncanny hengeman at 8:35 AM on June 8, 2006
I don't know. But be warned: if you buy unofficial merchandise you might die.
People buying unofficial World Cup merchandise risk possible illness, injury or even death, top customs officials said on Tuesday.
No I did not make that up.
posted by uncanny hengeman at 8:35 AM on June 8, 2006
I don't know. But be warned: if you buy unofficial merchandise you might die.
But the party lights in that picture look so cool & I want them! Safety, be damned!
posted by contessa at 8:41 AM on June 8, 2006
But the party lights in that picture look so cool & I want them! Safety, be damned!
posted by contessa at 8:41 AM on June 8, 2006
No, risk.
posted by Devils Slide at 8:41 AM on June 8, 2006
posted by Devils Slide at 8:41 AM on June 8, 2006
I've set up a Metafilter group in FSC's "Predict the Cup" game. If anyone is interested in joining, shoot me an e-mail (in profile) and I'll send you the code to join.
posted by Otis at 8:43 AM on June 8, 2006
posted by Otis at 8:43 AM on June 8, 2006
Austrailia only has to beat Brazil (current World Cup holders), Japan (AFC champions) or Croatia (qualified for every World Cup that they have entered as an independent nation) to get to the next round. It's a snap. I have renamed my cat 'Pickles' and have acquainted her with 'objects wrapped in newspaper' (not that she wasn't already, just not gold nuggets).
posted by tellurian at 9:06 AM on June 8, 2006
posted by tellurian at 9:06 AM on June 8, 2006
Are they still doing those?
About half my office have these and are avidly doing swapsies.
Ghana is the sweep stake :(
posted by ninebelow at 9:09 AM on June 8, 2006
About half my office have these and are avidly doing swapsies.
Ghana is the sweep stake :(
posted by ninebelow at 9:09 AM on June 8, 2006
As long as it's a European team I'll be happy enough - France, Germany, Croatia. I'm not fussy. It's hard to get to excited when yer own country isn't involved.
posted by jamesonandwater at 9:13 AM on June 8, 2006
posted by jamesonandwater at 9:13 AM on June 8, 2006
My girlfriend lives by little Portugal (and little Italy for that matter.) For her sanity I'd have to disagree.
posted by maledictory at 9:19 AM on June 8, 2006
posted by maledictory at 9:19 AM on June 8, 2006
ABB. anybody but Brazil, even Germany's OK. this aura of inevitability and the lame Joga Bonito corporate drooling for the Brazil necessary win is really lame. and boring. and they're wya too cocky, in their insincere "we're just in it for the pleasure of the game". most of the Brazil key players (Roberto Carlos, Adriano, Kakà) played a shit season in their clubs because they wanted to save themselves for the World Cup, the only competition they care about.
losing would teach them a lesson.
but seldom the best team wins. Brazil won by sheer dumb luck in '94. Argentina was robbed by the Germans in '90 (the final's ref was later banned for life) and was robbed again in '94. I still don't think Brazil did such awesome things in '02. France in '98 was only memorable because of Zizou, it was a shit team of ultra-defensive, unimaginative play. it was catenaccio, and then just pass the ball to Zidane.
and of course, the best Brazil team of the post-Pelè era, Telé Santana's 1982 squad, didn't win (an inferior team, Italy, kicked them out in the quarter finals and then went on to win).
I'm rooting for Argentina, but Pekerman made some crazy choices: no Samuel, no Javier Zanetti. bah. we'll see. anyway, ABB. losing, for once, would teach them a lesson. Joga Bonito my ass.
posted by matteo at 9:23 AM on June 8, 2006
losing would teach them a lesson.
but seldom the best team wins. Brazil won by sheer dumb luck in '94. Argentina was robbed by the Germans in '90 (the final's ref was later banned for life) and was robbed again in '94. I still don't think Brazil did such awesome things in '02. France in '98 was only memorable because of Zizou, it was a shit team of ultra-defensive, unimaginative play. it was catenaccio, and then just pass the ball to Zidane.
and of course, the best Brazil team of the post-Pelè era, Telé Santana's 1982 squad, didn't win (an inferior team, Italy, kicked them out in the quarter finals and then went on to win).
I'm rooting for Argentina, but Pekerman made some crazy choices: no Samuel, no Javier Zanetti. bah. we'll see. anyway, ABB. losing, for once, would teach them a lesson. Joga Bonito my ass.
posted by matteo at 9:23 AM on June 8, 2006
jamesonandwater: Not too much of a stretch to expect that. Every World Cup, with host continent listed first, and continent of the winner listed second:
30: South America, South America
34: Europe, Europe
38: Europe, Europe
50: South America, South America
54: Europe, Europe
58: Europe, South America
62: South America, South America
66: Europe, Europe
70: North America, South America
74: Europe, Europe
78: South America, South America
82: Europe, Europe
86: North America, South America
90: Europe, Europe
94: North America, South America
98: Europe, Europe
02: Asia, South America
That's nine World Cups hosted in Europe, and eight European victories. That's seven World Cups hosted in the Americas, and all seven have been won by teams from the Americas.
Brazil '58 are the only non-European side ever to win a World Cup hosted in Europe. They, along with Brazil '02, are the only sides ever to win it outside their own hemisphere.
The pundits say Brazil. History says bet on a European side.
posted by sellout at 9:26 AM on June 8, 2006
30: South America, South America
34: Europe, Europe
38: Europe, Europe
50: South America, South America
54: Europe, Europe
58: Europe, South America
62: South America, South America
66: Europe, Europe
70: North America, South America
74: Europe, Europe
78: South America, South America
82: Europe, Europe
86: North America, South America
90: Europe, Europe
94: North America, South America
98: Europe, Europe
02: Asia, South America
That's nine World Cups hosted in Europe, and eight European victories. That's seven World Cups hosted in the Americas, and all seven have been won by teams from the Americas.
Brazil '58 are the only non-European side ever to win a World Cup hosted in Europe. They, along with Brazil '02, are the only sides ever to win it outside their own hemisphere.
The pundits say Brazil. History says bet on a European side.
posted by sellout at 9:26 AM on June 8, 2006
My office is doing a World Cup of Food - Everyone draws from the 32 countries and gets money to research/cook/procure some cuisine from their drawn country and share with the rest of us. Should be an interesting month for my stomach.
And I'm rooting for England, mainly because I watch more English football than any other brand, though in the past my love of Arsenal has made me a default France backer.
posted by jalexei at 9:26 AM on June 8, 2006
And I'm rooting for England, mainly because I watch more English football than any other brand, though in the past my love of Arsenal has made me a default France backer.
posted by jalexei at 9:26 AM on June 8, 2006
I think I'll identify with Europe. That's a safer bet than identifying with just the Netherlands.
Unless the Dutch win of course.
posted by jouke at 9:35 AM on June 8, 2006
Unless the Dutch win of course.
posted by jouke at 9:35 AM on June 8, 2006
It's a shame about Rooney, because I would love to see England take it. Now there's no chance.
I think Brazil's a little bit vulnerable to counterattack than they've been in the past. At any rate, they're not the overwhelming, unbeatable squad that's repped by the press.
I think it's Italy or Germany, although my porteno cousins have me for Argentina among the elites.
And if my U-S-A can get out of the death group, I will be a very proud fan.
posted by kosem at 9:45 AM on June 8, 2006
I think Brazil's a little bit vulnerable to counterattack than they've been in the past. At any rate, they're not the overwhelming, unbeatable squad that's repped by the press.
I think it's Italy or Germany, although my porteno cousins have me for Argentina among the elites.
And if my U-S-A can get out of the death group, I will be a very proud fan.
posted by kosem at 9:45 AM on June 8, 2006
Lots of rope with small orange triangular flags span my street. Are these decorative efforts confined to the Netherlands?
posted by jouke at 9:46 AM on June 8, 2006
posted by jouke at 9:46 AM on June 8, 2006
I have a student friend from Angola (here in Nebraska, USA) who (though a typically poor student) went out and got cable for her apartment just for the World Cup. I intend to see a number of the games with her, though I've never watched more than 10 minutes of a match before (typical American).
I'm told that rooting for Brazil is the equivelent of being a Yankees fan in American baseball. boo
I have to find a bit of humor/irony in the fact that Angola plays Portugal in their first game. Apparently I'm not the only one:
For buried in the worst of it are bound to be some moments worth savouring: the 11 June group match between Portugal against Angola, for example, could easily go the way of 2002 and Senegal's humiliation of France. For five centuries, Portugal were the dominant power in that country. They introduced the Angolans to starvation and slavery. Would it really be so wrong for a left-winger to take pleasure if Portugal lost? It will also be interesting to see how team USA goes down in Germany: a country which once had the last two Michael Moore books at 1, 2 and 3 in its bestseller charts (numbers 1 and 3 were the German editions, an English-language edition was at number 2). And ignoring their odds (which are pitiful) I think a modest socialist case could indeed be made for backing Trinidad and Tobago: the team was built from nothing, and managed for most of the post-war period and until as recently as 1971 by none other than Eric James, CLR's brother.'
posted by spock at 9:46 AM on June 8, 2006
I'm told that rooting for Brazil is the equivelent of being a Yankees fan in American baseball. boo
I have to find a bit of humor/irony in the fact that Angola plays Portugal in their first game. Apparently I'm not the only one:
For buried in the worst of it are bound to be some moments worth savouring: the 11 June group match between Portugal against Angola, for example, could easily go the way of 2002 and Senegal's humiliation of France. For five centuries, Portugal were the dominant power in that country. They introduced the Angolans to starvation and slavery. Would it really be so wrong for a left-winger to take pleasure if Portugal lost? It will also be interesting to see how team USA goes down in Germany: a country which once had the last two Michael Moore books at 1, 2 and 3 in its bestseller charts (numbers 1 and 3 were the German editions, an English-language edition was at number 2). And ignoring their odds (which are pitiful) I think a modest socialist case could indeed be made for backing Trinidad and Tobago: the team was built from nothing, and managed for most of the post-war period and until as recently as 1971 by none other than Eric James, CLR's brother.'
posted by spock at 9:46 AM on June 8, 2006
That's interesting, sellout, I haven't seen those statistics anywhere else.
jouke, you guys are going to do well.
posted by jamesonandwater at 9:46 AM on June 8, 2006
jouke, you guys are going to do well.
posted by jamesonandwater at 9:46 AM on June 8, 2006
That's the great thing about being a Chelsea supporter - we have men on all of the top sides.
That way I won't feel bad when Peter Cech stops every ball that comes his way (including the Brazilian shots).
posted by jmgorman at 9:47 AM on June 8, 2006
That way I won't feel bad when Peter Cech stops every ball that comes his way (including the Brazilian shots).
posted by jmgorman at 9:47 AM on June 8, 2006
Hereby I declare thee, jamesonandwater, Honorary Dutchman for the duration of the Weltmeisterschaft.
I'm sure an orange moustache or orange Stahlhelm looks good on you.
posted by jouke at 9:52 AM on June 8, 2006
I'm sure an orange moustache or orange Stahlhelm looks good on you.
posted by jouke at 9:52 AM on June 8, 2006
Hereby I declare thee, jamesonandwater, Honorary Dutchman for the duration of the Weltmeisterschaft.
Honourary Dutchwoman, jouke!
Dark Horses...
England.
Dear god, no.
posted by jamesonandwater at 10:00 AM on June 8, 2006
Honourary Dutchwoman, jouke!
Dark Horses...
England.
Dear god, no.
posted by jamesonandwater at 10:00 AM on June 8, 2006
Honourary Dutchwoman, jouke!
So, you mean, you don't like the orange Hitler moustache?
and thank you for correcting my spelling
posted by jouke at 10:04 AM on June 8, 2006
So, you mean, you don't like the orange Hitler moustache?
and thank you for correcting my spelling
posted by jouke at 10:04 AM on June 8, 2006
And if my U-S-A can get out of the death group, I will be a very proud fan.
Just so long as they remember not to pick up the ball and run with it.
posted by Artw at 10:11 AM on June 8, 2006
Just so long as they remember not to pick up the ball and run with it.
posted by Artw at 10:11 AM on June 8, 2006
It's a shame about Rooney, because I would love to see England take it. Now there's no chance.
FWIW, Rooney's been cleared to play and has rejoined the team...
posted by jalexei at 10:13 AM on June 8, 2006
FWIW, Rooney's been cleared to play and has rejoined the team...
posted by jalexei at 10:13 AM on June 8, 2006
All of you winging about your sweepstake picks can shut up. I got Iran :(
Jouke: Group C is looking quite interesting: lots of potential in there for some upsets. I'd like to see the US do well but by god, that's an awful group. Still, best of luck, chaps.
posted by blag at 10:13 AM on June 8, 2006
Jouke: Group C is looking quite interesting: lots of potential in there for some upsets. I'd like to see the US do well but by god, that's an awful group. Still, best of luck, chaps.
posted by blag at 10:13 AM on June 8, 2006
Thanks blag. May the best team etc.
Nobody reacts to my mentioning of shockingly insensitive dutch supporters artefacts. I suck at godwinizing a thread.
posted by jouke at 10:24 AM on June 8, 2006
Nobody reacts to my mentioning of shockingly insensitive dutch supporters artefacts. I suck at godwinizing a thread.
posted by jouke at 10:24 AM on June 8, 2006
Go Canada, eh.
Seriously though, I want England to win but their captain is just one giant bad luck charm. If Brazil manages to find that offensive magic they are capable of, then they will be fantastic to watch and hard to beat. The Germans always play good football, lets see if home field advantage helps them at all. Lastly the Dutch will be a force to reckon with.
posted by Vindaloo at 11:03 AM on June 8, 2006
Seriously though, I want England to win but their captain is just one giant bad luck charm. If Brazil manages to find that offensive magic they are capable of, then they will be fantastic to watch and hard to beat. The Germans always play good football, lets see if home field advantage helps them at all. Lastly the Dutch will be a force to reckon with.
posted by Vindaloo at 11:03 AM on June 8, 2006
FWIW, Rooney's been cleared to play and has rejoined the team...
I hope he's 100%, but something tells me he won't be the force England needs him to be.
and re: That old chestnut.
Looks like somebody didn't watch in '02. Quarterfinals, son. Lost in a much more competitive match than England, I may add.
posted by kosem at 11:08 AM on June 8, 2006
I hope he's 100%, but something tells me he won't be the force England needs him to be.
and re: That old chestnut.
Looks like somebody didn't watch in '02. Quarterfinals, son. Lost in a much more competitive match than England, I may add.
posted by kosem at 11:08 AM on June 8, 2006
I cheer for Brazil, because I used to live there, followed by Germany, because that's where my family is from.
posted by jacquilynne at 11:08 AM on June 8, 2006
posted by jacquilynne at 11:08 AM on June 8, 2006
jouke writes 'Nobody reacts to my mentioning of shockingly insensitive dutch supporters artefacts. I suck at godwinizing a thread.'
Heh. I would have expected the Dutch to be waving bicycles at them...
posted by blag at 11:57 AM on June 8, 2006
Heh. I would have expected the Dutch to be waving bicycles at them...
posted by blag at 11:57 AM on June 8, 2006
This might be a good year for a surprise given the relative parity of the field, and the fact that, IMHO, some of the typical giants are stuffed shirts--Germany is a mess, Brasil has most of the talent, as usual, but maybe not the cohesion, England is sunk without Rooney but good enough to knock off some of the other contenders in the later rounds, Spain and Portugal can be expected to choke, as usual.
If I had to bet money, I'd put in on Brasil, but if I had money to burn, I might take a shot on the Czechs or even Ukraine, just to be a bit daring.
Speaking as an American, it's a shame that we have our best team ever and won't do nearly as well as we did in 2002. Them's the breaks.
posted by bardic at 12:17 PM on June 8, 2006
If I had to bet money, I'd put in on Brasil, but if I had money to burn, I might take a shot on the Czechs or even Ukraine, just to be a bit daring.
Speaking as an American, it's a shame that we have our best team ever and won't do nearly as well as we did in 2002. Them's the breaks.
posted by bardic at 12:17 PM on June 8, 2006
rollbiz, that's an awesome piece. Quotation: "Serbia -- The Pistons from the ‘90s. REALLY dour, defensive and brought up in the school of hard knocks. Maybe you'll beat them, but you'll know about it physically after."
Well Jesus Christ, what else would you expect from Serbs?
posted by bardic at 12:48 PM on June 8, 2006
Well Jesus Christ, what else would you expect from Serbs?
posted by bardic at 12:48 PM on June 8, 2006
I'm supporting Africa. If Togo or Angola don't get beat out of their senses, I'll be happy. If Ghana and Cote d'Ivoire advance from the two toughest groups, I'll be ecstatic. And I expect Tunisia to finish top of group H.
There is a place in my heart, though, entirely reserved for Trinidad and Tobago.
posted by underer at 12:54 PM on June 8, 2006
There is a place in my heart, though, entirely reserved for Trinidad and Tobago.
posted by underer at 12:54 PM on June 8, 2006
Yeah, thanks for that, rollbiz. I like this:
Argentina -- The 2005 Chicago White Sox. Nowhere near as colorful as their illustrious neighbors (The Cubbies/Brazil), but built to perform as a team. They just keep on winning.
posted by languagehat at 1:12 PM on June 8, 2006
Argentina -- The 2005 Chicago White Sox. Nowhere near as colorful as their illustrious neighbors (The Cubbies/Brazil), but built to perform as a team. They just keep on winning.
posted by languagehat at 1:12 PM on June 8, 2006
Costa Rica! Costa Rica!
And, I suppose, the United States. Someone has to, right?
I'm going to be e-mailing that piece to a few people I know, rollbiz.
It's funny, as a child I played soccer (can't really say I played football, that would have been a whole other story) so I know the rules all right. But players and styles of play and all that jazz - even the American ones - are as much of an unknown to me as American football must be to the rest of the world.
posted by anjamu at 1:34 PM on June 8, 2006
And, I suppose, the United States. Someone has to, right?
I'm going to be e-mailing that piece to a few people I know, rollbiz.
It's funny, as a child I played soccer (can't really say I played football, that would have been a whole other story) so I know the rules all right. But players and styles of play and all that jazz - even the American ones - are as much of an unknown to me as American football must be to the rest of the world.
posted by anjamu at 1:34 PM on June 8, 2006
Like many other Livepool supporters without a nation at the World Cup - I'm with Spain.
Go Xabi!!
posted by Sk4n at 1:41 PM on June 8, 2006
Go Xabi!!
posted by Sk4n at 1:41 PM on June 8, 2006
Let us hope that none of the matches are determined by the supernatural means.
posted by craniac at 1:50 PM on June 8, 2006
posted by craniac at 1:50 PM on June 8, 2006
Re: "World Cup, USA Style"...
- I would never expect to hear my horrifying Chicago Cubs to be compared to the most successful footballing nation in the world, in any sense.
- France, recent World Cup and European Champions, as well as perennial favorite: the 2004 Red Sox?
- His description of the Dutch team matches with the Dutch from '98, but now? This is the most cohesive Dutch team in years, mostly because most of the old egos are gone.
- I don't recall the Mets being overrated between 2000 and 2005. I just remember them sucking. England doesn't suck.
Otherwise, the descriptions of Poland and Serbia are dead on.
posted by sellout at 2:29 PM on June 8, 2006
- I would never expect to hear my horrifying Chicago Cubs to be compared to the most successful footballing nation in the world, in any sense.
- France, recent World Cup and European Champions, as well as perennial favorite: the 2004 Red Sox?
- His description of the Dutch team matches with the Dutch from '98, but now? This is the most cohesive Dutch team in years, mostly because most of the old egos are gone.
- I don't recall the Mets being overrated between 2000 and 2005. I just remember them sucking. England doesn't suck.
Otherwise, the descriptions of Poland and Serbia are dead on.
posted by sellout at 2:29 PM on June 8, 2006
Like many other Livepool supporters without a nation at the World Cup - I'm with Spain.
Er, England are in the world cup.
posted by jack_mo at 3:56 PM on June 8, 2006
Er, England are in the world cup.
posted by jack_mo at 3:56 PM on June 8, 2006
Yes Jack_mo - but I was referring to those Liverpool supporters without a nation in the World Cup. Meaning I'm not English. I'll be rooting for them too, though.
posted by Sk4n at 4:26 PM on June 8, 2006
posted by Sk4n at 4:26 PM on June 8, 2006
Put me down as supporting England and the USA. But more than seeing "my" teams do well, I'm just really excited to see some incredible soccer.
posted by 27 at 4:47 PM on June 8, 2006
posted by 27 at 4:47 PM on June 8, 2006
27 writes 'Put me down as supporting England and the USA. But more than seeing "my" teams do well, I'm just really excited to see some incredible soccer.'
Well said. Keep an eye on Group C, then: it's going to be great. 4 very different styles of play will make for some fascinating matches.
posted by blag at 5:48 PM on June 8, 2006
Well said. Keep an eye on Group C, then: it's going to be great. 4 very different styles of play will make for some fascinating matches.
posted by blag at 5:48 PM on June 8, 2006
I'm confident México will keep at least one of the Portuguese speaking nations out of the second round.
Whatever happens, I just hope México will not get knocked out by the US again. Really, anything but that.
posted by Penks at 6:04 PM on June 8, 2006
Whatever happens, I just hope México will not get knocked out by the US again. Really, anything but that.
posted by Penks at 6:04 PM on June 8, 2006
I see similarities between the English fixation with Germany ("Blitz Fritz"?) and Red Sox fans' fixation on the Yankees. I remember in Euro 2000 when the only English win was against Deutschland, and English fans were *ecstatic*. If baseball playoffs featured some kind of round robin, er, round, I could picture a lot of Bostonians quite happy with a victory over the Yankees, if neither team were going to advance.
Except, of course, NYC never tried to bomb the shit out of Boston.
posted by A dead Quaker at 6:47 PM on June 8, 2006
Except, of course, NYC never tried to bomb the shit out of Boston.
posted by A dead Quaker at 6:47 PM on June 8, 2006
Except, of course, NYC never tried to bomb the shit out of Boston.
You have never been to a Yankees v. Red Sox game have you?
posted by caddis at 7:37 PM on June 8, 2006
You have never been to a Yankees v. Red Sox game have you?
posted by caddis at 7:37 PM on June 8, 2006
I don't tend to pay too much attention, but still: I am contractually required to support Korea. If they make it to the final 8, I'll be somewhat surprised and well-pleased.
posted by stavrosthewonderchicken at 9:04 PM on June 8, 2006
posted by stavrosthewonderchicken at 9:04 PM on June 8, 2006
If you're not already aware, no national side outside of Europe has won the WC when it's been held in Europe, and no European side has won when held outside of Europe. Just FYI.
I reckon Italy, France or Spain will come out of hiding this year and surprise everyone with a stunning tournament. I'd like the Englishmen to win, myself, though.
posted by Haarball at 11:44 PM on June 8, 2006
I reckon Italy, France or Spain will come out of hiding this year and surprise everyone with a stunning tournament. I'd like the Englishmen to win, myself, though.
posted by Haarball at 11:44 PM on June 8, 2006
> If you're not already aware, no national side outside of Europe has won the WC when it's been held in Europe, and no European side has won when held outside of Europe. Just FYI.
Apart from 1958, when Brazil won it in Europe.
posted by catchmurray at 2:50 AM on June 9, 2006
Apart from 1958, when Brazil won it in Europe.
posted by catchmurray at 2:50 AM on June 9, 2006
Azzzuuuurrrriiiii!
Brava! We'll let matteo sit in our section after his paddling for being a bad Italian ;) Forza Azzurri!
At least the world can agree: as long as it aint the Germans.
Or the Dutch. Nothing against the Dutch or the team, but I cringe thinking about the migranes that will be induced by the shiteous screaming orange hued jerseys.
posted by romakimmy at 5:35 AM on June 9, 2006
Brava! We'll let matteo sit in our section after his paddling for being a bad Italian ;) Forza Azzurri!
At least the world can agree: as long as it aint the Germans.
Or the Dutch. Nothing against the Dutch or the team, but I cringe thinking about the migranes that will be induced by the shiteous screaming orange hued jerseys.
posted by romakimmy at 5:35 AM on June 9, 2006
BBC Guidelines for World Cup Commentators:
1 -Within 1 minute of kick off in the opening match (Germany v Costa Rica), the commentator must mention England.
2 - Regardless of what two teams are contesting the final, England has to be mentioned within the first minute.
3 - The commentator shall refer to the Falkland Isles in passing at some point in the match if England play Argentina.
4 - Whenever a hat trick is scored, comparisons with Geoff Hurst will be made within seconds of the third goal hitting the net.
5 - Should England wear their red jerseys, then ‘1966’ should be mentioned approximately 20 times.
6 - 1966 will be mentioned approximately 10 times a match, or only on 4 or 5 occasions for matches not involving England.
7 - Prior to the captain of the winning team lifting the trophy, the commentator will mention Bobby Moore. And 1966.
8 - When Germany are playing, they must be referred to as being arrogant by the commentator on at least 14 occasions. This must refer to their style, their passing, their haircuts and their general footballing ability.
9 - Should England play Germany, mentions of Winston Churchill, Dam busters, The Luftwaffe and Adolf Hitler will be compulsory. And 1966.
10 - All Scottish members of our commentary team must continue to refer to England as “we” and “us”.
11 - We must ensure that nationalistic stereotypes are adhered to. Of course, the Germans are arrogant. The Spanish are bottlers, The Ivory Coast are fast but bad at defending, The Angolans are disorganised, The Argentineans are cheats and the French are only good because their best players play in England.
12 - For matches not involving England, we must only discuss the players that are playing in England. e.g. - Holland v Argentina should be referred to as Van Nistelroy v Crespo).
13 - The mythical “bulldog spirit” phrase should be used as often as possible.
14 - Each match involving England should begin with the phrase “England Expects.”
15 - Should any player be involved in an injury that involves the loss of teeth, then references to Nobby Stiles and 1966 are compulsory.
16 - If in doubt, mention 1966.
17 - Praise all of the stunning new stadiums in Germany but emphasise that they lack the presence of Wembley, the spiritual home of football since 1966.
18 - Commentators should feel free to imitate the style of Kenneth Wolstenholme, the hero of 1966.
19 - Should any team feature brothers playing together, then Jackie and Bobby Charlton should be mentioned.
20 - When England bow out after the first stage, we must emphasise that it is a massive blow to football and a serious loss to the World Cup.
posted by the cuban at 8:06 AM on June 9, 2006 [1 favorite]
1 -Within 1 minute of kick off in the opening match (Germany v Costa Rica), the commentator must mention England.
2 - Regardless of what two teams are contesting the final, England has to be mentioned within the first minute.
3 - The commentator shall refer to the Falkland Isles in passing at some point in the match if England play Argentina.
4 - Whenever a hat trick is scored, comparisons with Geoff Hurst will be made within seconds of the third goal hitting the net.
5 - Should England wear their red jerseys, then ‘1966’ should be mentioned approximately 20 times.
6 - 1966 will be mentioned approximately 10 times a match, or only on 4 or 5 occasions for matches not involving England.
7 - Prior to the captain of the winning team lifting the trophy, the commentator will mention Bobby Moore. And 1966.
8 - When Germany are playing, they must be referred to as being arrogant by the commentator on at least 14 occasions. This must refer to their style, their passing, their haircuts and their general footballing ability.
9 - Should England play Germany, mentions of Winston Churchill, Dam busters, The Luftwaffe and Adolf Hitler will be compulsory. And 1966.
10 - All Scottish members of our commentary team must continue to refer to England as “we” and “us”.
11 - We must ensure that nationalistic stereotypes are adhered to. Of course, the Germans are arrogant. The Spanish are bottlers, The Ivory Coast are fast but bad at defending, The Angolans are disorganised, The Argentineans are cheats and the French are only good because their best players play in England.
12 - For matches not involving England, we must only discuss the players that are playing in England. e.g. - Holland v Argentina should be referred to as Van Nistelroy v Crespo).
13 - The mythical “bulldog spirit” phrase should be used as often as possible.
14 - Each match involving England should begin with the phrase “England Expects.”
15 - Should any player be involved in an injury that involves the loss of teeth, then references to Nobby Stiles and 1966 are compulsory.
16 - If in doubt, mention 1966.
17 - Praise all of the stunning new stadiums in Germany but emphasise that they lack the presence of Wembley, the spiritual home of football since 1966.
18 - Commentators should feel free to imitate the style of Kenneth Wolstenholme, the hero of 1966.
19 - Should any team feature brothers playing together, then Jackie and Bobby Charlton should be mentioned.
20 - When England bow out after the first stage, we must emphasise that it is a massive blow to football and a serious loss to the World Cup.
posted by the cuban at 8:06 AM on June 9, 2006 [1 favorite]
Not my work unfortunately, it's an email doing the rounds amongst Scottish football fans.
I'm listening to Radio 5 - Alan Green has already labelled the Germans as arrogant and 1966 is being mentioned an awful lot.
posted by the cuban at 8:30 AM on June 9, 2006
I'm listening to Radio 5 - Alan Green has already labelled the Germans as arrogant and 1966 is being mentioned an awful lot.
posted by the cuban at 8:30 AM on June 9, 2006
Hmm. A German team that's dynamic on offense but lacking basic fundamentals on defense.
I'm curious to see more "against type" play.
posted by bardic at 11:48 AM on June 9, 2006
I'm curious to see more "against type" play.
posted by bardic at 11:48 AM on June 9, 2006
Oh good. The BBC and, I guess, ITV will be showing football for the next month and channnel 4 will be showing the lab-rat TV that is Big Brother. That leaves either watcing BBC2 or, woohoo, reading books. I had Sky but resented giving money to Murdoch so ditched it. "57 channels and there's nothing on", etc. Er, go England? Ah, what's the point, we're never going to win it - all this "40 years from 1966" stuff is crap. I can't wait until all these pound-shop-tat flags come off the cars and people just stop acting like dicks. Damn, I hate football. Overpaid tossers.
posted by TheDonF at 3:25 PM on June 9, 2006
posted by TheDonF at 3:25 PM on June 9, 2006
Looks like the Times are reading Metafilter again. Miguelcardoso quoted.
posted by lloyder at 2:49 AM on June 10, 2006
posted by lloyder at 2:49 AM on June 10, 2006
I think the Scots should stage a tet offensive over the border while this lot are watching the world cup.
It's the only way.
posted by sgt.serenity at 4:48 AM on June 10, 2006
It's the only way.
posted by sgt.serenity at 4:48 AM on June 10, 2006
Scotland über alles!
(Save the world for drunken 16-year-old pram-pushing red-heads named Julie! I really mean it this time!)
posted by stavrosthewonderchicken at 9:22 AM on June 10, 2006
(Save the world for drunken 16-year-old pram-pushing red-heads named Julie! I really mean it this time!)
posted by stavrosthewonderchicken at 9:22 AM on June 10, 2006
Bizarrely, a guy I grew up around the corner from in Dublin wrote the World Cup for Americans guide that rollbiz links. And he sent it to a paper in Boston, which is linked here and I read it in Toronto. Small world.
This bit from the article cracked me up. After today's effort, we can only hope . . .
England -- The 2000-06 New York Mets. Massively, ridiculously overrated by their local media, always involved in some sort of comical downfall, insane injuries, woeful management. A huge car crash waiting to happen, at which stage the local media go absolutely berserk in berating the team that they themselves told literally everyone was going to win the tournament
posted by jamesonandwater at 12:56 PM on June 10, 2006
This bit from the article cracked me up. After today's effort, we can only hope . . .
England -- The 2000-06 New York Mets. Massively, ridiculously overrated by their local media, always involved in some sort of comical downfall, insane injuries, woeful management. A huge car crash waiting to happen, at which stage the local media go absolutely berserk in berating the team that they themselves told literally everyone was going to win the tournament
posted by jamesonandwater at 12:56 PM on June 10, 2006
the cuban - The reason the BBC are so 'England-centric' is that the BBC stands for 'British Broadcasting Corporation'. They would be pretty gung ho about Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland too, but none of them managed to qualify.
And Geoff Hurst is the only man ever to score a hatrick in a World Cup Final. Something worth mentioning maybe?
Anyway, shite performance today, but three points. Stick that in your big fat cigar and smoke it.
posted by MrMustard at 2:28 PM on June 10, 2006
And Geoff Hurst is the only man ever to score a hatrick in a World Cup Final. Something worth mentioning maybe?
Anyway, shite performance today, but three points. Stick that in your big fat cigar and smoke it.
posted by MrMustard at 2:28 PM on June 10, 2006
Brits confiscate passports from 3,500 soccer hooligans to keep them away from world cup matches
posted by caddis at 9:21 PM on June 10, 2006
posted by caddis at 9:21 PM on June 10, 2006
MrMustard: Hurst's 2nd didn't cross the line.
1966 blah blah blah.
posted by the cuban at 8:19 AM on June 11, 2006
1966 blah blah blah.
posted by the cuban at 8:19 AM on June 11, 2006
It was a goal. Look it up. There's nothing to argue about here.
posted by MrMustard at 12:59 PM on June 11, 2006
posted by MrMustard at 12:59 PM on June 11, 2006
Actually, it's a matter of some controversy and people do argue about it. Look it up.
1966 - a hollow victory.
posted by the cuban at 1:32 PM on June 11, 2006
1966 - a hollow victory.
posted by the cuban at 1:32 PM on June 11, 2006
Brits confiscate passports from 3,500 soccer hooligans to keep them away from world cup matches
posted by caddis at 9:21 PM PST on June 10 [+fave] [!]
Are the British the only EU members that need to show a passport to travel within the EU member states? All I have to do is show my Spanish ID Card.
posted by sic at 3:57 PM on June 11, 2006
posted by caddis at 9:21 PM PST on June 10 [+fave] [!]
Are the British the only EU members that need to show a passport to travel within the EU member states? All I have to do is show my Spanish ID Card.
posted by sic at 3:57 PM on June 11, 2006
Are the British the only EU members that need to show a passport to travel within the EU member states? All I have to do is show my Spanish ID Card.
Try getting into Britain with a Spanish ID card. For reasons I don't fully understand, the British govt. (then Tory) decided to be a bit sniffy about borders, which is bloody annoying on a number of levels, both practical and political.
Sk4n said 'Yes Jack_mo - but I was referring to those Liverpool supporters without a nation in the World Cup. Meaning I'm not English. I'll be rooting for them too, though.'
Yes, Sk4n - but I was referring to the fact that supporting Liverpool should mean that you are from Liverpool. Which rather involves being English. (Er, not in a Norman Tebbit cricket team sense, in a 'born or brought up there' sense.)
posted by jack_mo at 5:18 PM on June 11, 2006
Try getting into Britain with a Spanish ID card. For reasons I don't fully understand, the British govt. (then Tory) decided to be a bit sniffy about borders, which is bloody annoying on a number of levels, both practical and political.
Sk4n said 'Yes Jack_mo - but I was referring to those Liverpool supporters without a nation in the World Cup. Meaning I'm not English. I'll be rooting for them too, though.'
Yes, Sk4n - but I was referring to the fact that supporting Liverpool should mean that you are from Liverpool. Which rather involves being English. (Er, not in a Norman Tebbit cricket team sense, in a 'born or brought up there' sense.)
posted by jack_mo at 5:18 PM on June 11, 2006
Try getting into Britain with a Spanish ID card.
I get past security at Heathrow with an Italian ID card. all the time.
posted by matteo at 10:56 AM on July 3, 2006
I get past security at Heathrow with an Italian ID card. all the time.
posted by matteo at 10:56 AM on July 3, 2006
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posted by jonson at 7:08 AM on June 8, 2006