World Cup Thread 2018

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/44467548

Irritated indeed...

The Spanish football federation (RFEF) said it had dismissed the 51-year-old because the negotiation occurred "without any information to the RFEF".
"I know it's a very difficult situation. I know there's going to be criticism whatever I do," said RFEF president Luis Rubiales, who was told of Lopetegui's new role five minutes before it was announced. "You can't do things this way, two or three days before the World Cup. We have been compelled to make this decision."

 

I think Spain should have kept him for the World Cup tournament.

Rafa Benitez linked to the job!

 

are they allowed to change personel aftwer the submission date?

ps don't forget your groups forcast if you haven't already....

 

For players I think you can only call up from a pre-determined 'stand-by' list, but I don't think there are any such rules for coaching staff. If there are, then Spain would be made to look rather silly!

 

The first match of the tournament showed me that neither team will go very far. Saudi Arabia were very poor and Russia took advantage of all the opposition’s weaknesses which proved very little, particularly when they play the stronger teams - but you never know because they are a strong country host.

 

For me it's Russia Vs Egypt to qualify alongside Uruguay. I expected more from Saudi Arabia, but they were dreadful. Hard to gauge Russia on that basis, though they scored some nice goals.

 

depends on what the Russians diet is? wholesome food or ………………….

 

Portugal - Spain what a game! Good start to this World Cup!

 

yep even some of us old phartz have still got it …. what used to take 2 mins now takes half an hour!!!!!

 

Portugal - Spain....A lesson in how football should be played....

 

Another great day! A worldie free kick from Kolorov, a stunning goal from Coutinho before Brazil were pegged back by Switzerland, but the day belongs to Mexico! I thought they might sneak a draw, but to beat ze Germans is a great start.

Just need England to do their job - on paper they should win, but Tunisia have the potential to upset much like Mexico & Iceland already have. I'm looking forward to it. ☺

 

I think maybe some people have been a bit unfair accusing past England players of not caring, but I do agree that there does seem to be a better vibe with this side than others. I get the sense there's a greater feeling of togetherness & more attacking intent. Hopefully they pass the first acid test.

 

I was very unsure of Southgate when appointed, in fact I'd go as far to say. it seemed like a boring appointment.....And I know we haven't won anything yet...but I do like the way he conducts himself and how he seems with the players.......defo grown on me....fingers crossed, him and the team will give us some respect back!!

 

Same old problem for Brazil. Players are amazing on the ball and not half clinical enough in front of goal.

I wanted Argentina to beat Iceland but they had the same problem. Plus Iceland had 11 players behind the ball for long periods.

Peru and Costa Rica also very wasteful when they had opportunities to score.

The Achilles Heel of South America ?