The world cup thread

[Sir David Gray]

This is up there with Brazil last night.

Fantastic performance.

[Up-the-slope]

Never heard of G Ramos until this evening. What an absolute baller he is!

looks like a Pep player... loads of skill but a work ethic within a team structure

[Donegal Hibby]

the Swiss have just rolled over
This games has gone cuckoo😆

[Lago]

What a superb game from the Portuguese youngster
Plays with a smile on his face and obviously enjoys playing, plus his value has gone way up following this performance.

[HoboHarry]

This games has gone cuckoo😆
You'll get clocked if you keep that kind of jokes going...

[hibsbollah]

Likewise.

Cracking record at Benfica as well.

I watched a couple of Benfica games against Juve this season and the attacking five were fantastic, I didn’t make a major connection with any of their players, they all just seemed young fast and skilful up front.

[cabbageandribs1875]

This games has gone cuckoo😆


watch it

[Donegal Hibby]

watch it
😂👍 . First hat trick of world cup I think in all

[BILLYHIBS]

How many free-kicks does Ronaldo actually score ?

[Irish_Steve]

You'll get clocked if you keep that kind of jokes going...

Only neutral comments from me

[HoboHarry]

How many free-kicks does Ronaldo actually score ?
Fewer than the number of pigeons he's killed in row z

[Up-the-slope]

How many free-kicks does Ronaldo actually score ?
wouldn't be banking on him to score one these days

[Up-the-slope]

only thing that make this a better game for me would be Ronaldo getting subbed with 5 to go :greengrin

[cabbageandribs1875]

they've punched holes in that Swiss defence tonight

[HoboHarry]

Complete vindication for the Portugal coach in dropping Ronaldo. If Ronaldo doesn't learn a valuable lesson and quit throwing strops then he deserves to be getting splinters in his erchie.

[MWHIBBIES]

Complete vindication for the Portugal coach in dropping Ronaldo. If Ronaldo doesn't learn a valuable lesson and quit throwing strops then he deserves to be getting splinters in his erchie.

Ronaldo can't beat a man anymore. He shouldn't start anyway. A brilliant impact sub to have.

[HoboHarry]

Ronaldo can't beat a man anymore. He shouldn't start anyway. A brilliant impact sub to have.
No disagreement from me on that but had they lost tonight it would have been a long way back for the coach. He would have been blamed regardless.

[Sir David Gray]

5-1

Switzerland dead as a country.

Portugal give them a reprieve by scoring a sixth.

[Up-the-slope]

ronaldo waiting on pass there and just leathers it in

ronaldo turns away in disgust

[cabbageandribs1875]

pick that one out

[Donegal Hibby]

You know a part from a couple of games and all the political stuff about Qatar I think it's been a very good world cup so far , quarter finals are all interesting games , Argentina v Holland and England v France look tasty. If the favourites get thru , we are looking at Argentina v Brazil and France v Portugal 😜

[cabbageandribs1875]

You know a part from a couple of games and all the political stuff about Qatar I think it's been a very good world cup so far , quarter finals are all interesting games , Argentina v Holland and England v France look tasty. If the favourites get thru , we are looking at Argentina v Brazil and France v Portugal 😜


brilliant semi-finals

[The Modfather]

Did Portugal go out? Ronaldo looks gutted at the final whistle.

[MWHIBBIES]

No disagreement from me on that but had they lost tonight it would have been a long way back for the coach. He would have been blamed regardless.

The coach is very much disliked anyway. He'll probably be away regardless. I don't think tonight would've changed much. Ronaldo has been dreadful so far.

[neil7908]

Complete vindication for the Portugal coach in dropping Ronaldo. If Ronaldo doesn't learn a valuable lesson and quit throwing strops then he deserves to be getting splinters in his erchie.

He's done at the top level now. It happens to all great players but he doesn't have the grace or humility to go quietly.

Just another overwhelming piece of evidence that he makes teams worse.

Saudi league is about right for him right now.

[Pretty Boy]

You know a part from a couple of games and all the political stuff about Qatar I think it's been a very good world cup so far , quarter finals are all interesting games , Argentina v Holland and England v France look tasty. If the favourites get thru , we are looking at Argentina v Brazil and France v Portugal 😜

It's been a great world cup football wise imo.

The political stuff is relevant and well worthy of discussion but as a stand alone the football has largely been excellent. I think people would be a lot more invested in it if it was summer and they were enjoying a few beers outdoors around the games.

[HoboHarry]

Did Portugal go out? Ronaldo looks gutted at the final whistle.
His strop at Man Utd won him a victory, on this occasion it backfired spectacularly.

[Potty78]

Really enjoyed watching Portugal tonight. Look a really good side. Commentator spent far to much time talking about a guy who wasn't playing though.

[The Modfather]

He's done at the top level now. It happens to all great players but he doesn't have the grace or humility to go quietly.

Just another overwhelming piece of evidence that he makes teams worse.

Saudi league is about right for him right now.

Are there not too many variables to be able to say that? :duck:

[marinello59]

I didn’t see that performance coming from Portugal. They look like genuine contenders now.

[Jim44]

When Ronaldo came on, I noticed that Pepe ran over and put the captain’s armband on his arm. I thought that Pepe was going off and therefore gave it to him. But Pepe wasn’t going off. What a stupid, almost subservient action…….. unless I’m missing something here.

[Up-the-slope]

You know a part from a couple of games and all the political stuff about Qatar I think it's been a very good world cup so far , quarter finals are all interesting games , Argentina v Holland and England v France look tasty. If the favourites get thru , we are looking at Argentina v Brazil and France v Portugal 😜
:agree: its been better than I expected after getting over the weird time of year and other stuff you mention.

We are going out tomorrow night... I made mistake of saying to Mrs UTS not to worry as no games on tomorrow (after 17 straight days of games)

hindsight is a great thing :rolleyes:

[bingo70]

England, Brazil, Holland, Argentina, France and Portugal all looked very strong in their last 16 games and will fancy their chances. Croatia are no mugs as well and shouldn’t be written off. Disappointed Morocco got through in all honesty but I’m being greedy now.

Absolutely outstanding end to this tournament coming up. I’ve really enjoyed it. I’ve watched a lot of it at work with no commentary and I think that’s helped some of the 0-0 games, IMO some of those games have been really interesting and at times commentators can talk these games down as it makes their job a bit harder.

[J-C]

He's done at the top level now. It happens to all great players but he doesn't have the grace or humility to go quietly.

Just another overwhelming piece of evidence that he makes teams worse.

Saudi league is about right for him right now.

Better tell Messi that because he was superb the other night

[bingo70]

I didn’t see that performance coming from Portugal. They look like genuine contenders now.

I think to play against the likes of Portugal and Brazil you need a water tight defence, would be really interesting to see them play against each other in the final.

[bingo70]

Better tell Messi that because he was superb the other night

What’s that got to do with Messi?

[Donegal Hibby]

I didn’t see that performance coming from Portugal. They look like genuine contenders now.
Yeah totally agree , Actually I underestimated them , thought they were excellent

[The Modfather]

Portugal looked excellent, however they were up against a nothing Swiss performance. Still can’t see past France or Brazil, but would like to see Messi win it.

[J-C]

What’s that got to do with Messi?

He said he's done at the top level, it happens to all great players, just saying Messi is still playing to that great level.

[neil7908]

He said he's done at the top level, it happens to all great players, just saying Messi is still playing to that great level.

And it will happen to Messi aswell surely? He's a bit younger than Ronaldo though, and I have no doubt he will handle his waning powers with a lot more class.

[Smartie]

I didn’t see that performance coming from Portugal. They look like genuine contenders now.

I didn't see it coming either but that performance really was superb.

Some decent options off the bench too, a deep squad.

They'll take a bit of beating.

[Pagan Hibernia]

He said he's done at the top level, it happens to all great players, just saying Messi is still playing to that great level.

he’s two years younger than Ronaldo

[Nakedmanoncrack]

You know a part from a couple of games and all the political stuff about Qatar I think it's been a very good world cup so far , quarter finals are all interesting games , Argentina v Holland and England v France look tasty. If the favourites get thru , we are looking at Argentina v Brazil and France v Portugal 😜

Its been a great world cup, on and off the pitch which must really disappoint those who were determined to ensure it wasn't.
Morocco's momentous triumph, and Portugal's magnificent display today being major highlights.

[MWHIBBIES]

Its been a great world cup, on and off the pitch which must really disappoint those who were determined to ensure it wasn't.
Morocco's momentous triumph, and Portugal's magnificent display today being major highlights.

You do know thousands of workers died right? If anyone was determined for this world cup to fail it was Qatar.

[hibsbollah]

You do know thousands of workers died right? If anyone was determined for this world cup to fail it was Qatar.

It should never have been played there but some of the excitement and drama on the pitch has been off the charts, especially the last few days.

[Donegal Hibby]

Its been a great world cup, on and off the pitch which must really disappoint those who were determined to ensure it wasn't.
Morocco's momentous triumph, and Portugal's magnificent display today being major highlights.
Morocco 2nd half is 45 minutes of my life I will never get back , between Spain lacking a killer touch and Morocco shutting up shop it for me was as exciting as watching paint dry on a wall , do think Portugal game was a major highlight as well as Brazil , Japan , Argentina and France and a few others . Suppose we all have our different favourite highlights though

[MWHIBBIES]

It should never have been played there but some of the excitement and drama on the pitch has been off the charts, especially the last few days.

It has been good on the park, although I doubt that is much comfort to the families of the dead.

[hibsbollah]

It has been good on the park, although I doubt that is much comfort to the families of the dead.

#sirens#

Stating The Obvious Alert

[MWHIBBIES]

#sirens#

Stating The Obvious Alert

Sigh

[hibsbollah]

Sigh

Chill out, I’m agreeing with you :greengrin

[Donegal Hibby]

When's the first of the quarter finals on ?

[ekhibee]

It has been good on the park, although I doubt that is much comfort to the families of the dead.

Sometimes I know there are times when we just disagree on Hibs things, but I'm glad that on a topic like this we are both in total agreement.

[J-C]

And it will happen to Messi aswell surely? He's a bit younger than Ronaldo though, and I have no doubt he will handle his waning powers with a lot more class.

Only a couple of years younger but he's a team player unlike Ronaldo, he was class the other night. Yes Messi is getting older, not as sharp or as quick but his football brain is still different class, out of the 2, give me Messi all day long.

[Sir David Gray]

When's the first of the quarter finals on ?

Friday at 3pm - Croatia v Brazil.

[Paulie Walnuts]

When Ronaldo came on, I noticed that Pepe ran over and put the captain’s armband on his arm. I thought that Pepe was going off and therefore gave it to him. But Pepe wasn’t going off. What a stupid, almost subservient action…….. unless I’m missing something here.

Think that happens most times a captain gets subbed on. Whilst I think the guy who was captain for the game should just keep the armband I don’t think it’s been done simply because it’s Ronaldo.

[Jim44]

Think that happens most times a captain gets subbed on. Whilst I think the guy who was captain for the game should just keep the armband I don’t think it’s been done simply because it’s Ronaldo.

Did Pepe start the game as captain? Seems a pretty pointless act or gesture, given they were doing so well under the game captain.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Did Pepe start the game as captain? Seems a pretty pointless act or gesture, given they were doing so well under the game captain.

Yeah he did.

I agree, seems a total waste of time.

[Since452]

Yeah he did.

I agree, seems a total waste of time.

Happens all the time. If Marshall wasn't playing and Hanlon was on the bench and then subbed on whoever had the armband would give it to Hanlon.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Happens all the time. If Marshall wasn't playing and Hanlon was on the bench and then subbed on whoever had the armband would give it to Hanlon.

:agree:

[cabbageandribs1875]

no games until friday


Boooooooo :(

[Donegal Hibby]

no games until friday


Boooooooo :(
Going to feel like a eternity waiting till Friday 😂 . Didn't see it at the time , only read and seen footage of it a wee while ago but Ronaldo's carry on after there game was a bit bizarre , was it not ?

[cabbageandribs1875]

Going to feel like a eternity waiting till Friday 😂 . Didn't see it at the time , only read and seen footage of it a wee while ago but Ronaldo's carry on after there game was a bit bizarre , was it not ?


i only saw one wee clip of him walking off at the end about 40 yards away from the rest of the players, he didn't appear to be in a celebratory mood

[HoboHarry]

i only saw one wee clip of him walking off at the end about 40 yards away from the rest of the players, he didn't appear to be in a celebratory mood
Genuinely worry about him for the future. He may have more money than anyone could possibly spend, but it seems that he is going to struggle badly with his star fading and becoming a player who used to be great.

[Donegal Hibby]

i only saw one wee clip of him walking off at the end about 40 yards away from the rest of the players, he didn't appear to be in a celebratory mood
Yeah that was it , he had went to the fans briefly on his own but when the team were going to them he was walking off and didn't look to happy , yet he celebrated with is teammates when they scored, found it really strange behaviour from Ronaldo to be honest.

[bingo70]

Going to feel like a eternity waiting till Friday 😂 . Didn't see it at the time , only read and seen footage of it a wee while ago but Ronaldo's carry on after there game was a bit bizarre , was it not ?

I’ve not seen the incident you mean but some of the coverage of him last night was really unfair. He celebrated the first goal as much as any of the subs, he was jumping on top of the player to celebrate and was clearly delighted. The cameras then panned to him a bit later when he was sitting on the bench making out he was miserable.

Feels a bit like there’s an agenda against Ronaldo just now, I get he’s brought some of it on himself but I also think it’s a shame as he’s been an unbelievable player over the last 10-15 years.

[KeithTheHibby]

Yeah that was it , he had went to the fans briefly on his own but when the team were going to them he was walking off and didn't look to happy , yet he celebrated with is teammates when they scored, found it really strange behaviour from Ronaldo to be honest.

It's all about Ronaldo. The way he managed to construct his exit from Man U was nothing short of disgraceful.

[Donegal Hibby]

I’ve not seen the incident you mean but some of the coverage of him last night was really unfair. He celebrated the first goal as much as any of the subs, he was jumping on top of the player to celebrate and was clearly delighted. The cameras then panned to him a bit later when he was sitting on the bench making out he was miserable.

Feels a bit like there’s an agenda against Ronaldo just now, I get he’s brought some of it on himself but I also think it’s a shame as he’s been an unbelievable player over the last 10-15 years.
That's what I found so strange , he was celebrating with the rest of his teammates and everything seemed fine after a rumoured row with manager , I actually understand the bit about him on the bench looking miserable as he probably wanted to be playing , it's the bit at the end with him going to the fans on his own briefly yet walking off as all his teammates went to celebrate with them , there was also a couple of looks he gave his teammates that didn't look like he was happy with them , all in all it was really rather bizarre from Ronaldo . Agree with what you said he's been a fantastic player and there's a lot of stuff going on with him that's not nice now ,some he's brought on himself btw. My own thoughts on it is he's no longer top dog now and he's struggling with that fact.

[The_Exile]

Ronaldo seems to have lost the joy in playing football these days, maybe that's harsh, maybe what I mean to say he's lost the joy of being part of a team. Likely because he's not the top dog anymore and so the entire team doesn't revolve around him. Something Messi seems to have coped quite well with at PSG with M'Bappe being top dog there. Seems Ronaldos stock is at rock bottom now. He should try to stay in European football and just swallow his pride, take a massive pay cut and play for the love of it again with the understanding he's not going to play every game. I always thought he would end up back at Sporting and I kinda hope that's where he lands after the world cup.

[Donegal Hibby]

It's all about Ronaldo. The way he managed to construct his exit from Man U was nothing short of disgraceful.
The Man United carry on should never have happened even though a lot what he said was true about it , like they say " never air your dirty laundry in public" . Though I think he wanted out and it suited him to do it , so I'd agree Keith it was disgraceful. What's happening now though is madness ' we have a 37 year old world class player playing for his country who have just made the quarter finals of the world cup and he's not celebrating with his teammates and looking totally unhappy and miserable , when he should be showing them leadership and encouragement , all in all I don't think its doing Portugal any good at all the way he's carrying on.

https://twitter.com/adriandelmonte/status/1600232837801979904

[Hibbyradge]

It's all about Ronaldo. The way he managed to construct his exit from Man U was nothing short of disgraceful.

He actually said that he'd crawl over broken glass to get to Saudi Arabia.

[Donegal Hibby]

He actually said that he'd crawl over broken glass to get to Saudi Arabia.
For over 200 million I would in all 😉

[Nakedmanoncrack]

Morocco 2nd half is 45 minutes of my life I will never get back , between Spain lacking a killer touch and Morocco shutting up shop it for me was as exciting as watching paint dry on a wall , do think Portugal game was a major highlight as well as Brazil , Japan , Argentina and France and a few others . Suppose we all have our different favourite highlights though

Indeed, from a Eurocentric view Morocco v Spain may not have been particularly exciting, but to millions of Arabs & Africans it has been the highlight - so far.

[cabbageandribs1875]

For over 200 million I would in all 😉


my monetary demands would be much MUCH lower


very very much lower

[Donegal Hibby]

my monetary demands would be much MUCH lower


very very much lower
Never underestimate your true worth , it's hard to beat a good cabbage and ribs any day of the week 👍😂👍

[Hibbyradge]

my monetary demands would be much MUCH lower


very very much lower

Exactly how little would it take to get you to crawl over broken glass to get to Saudi Arabia?

[HoboHarry]

Exactly how little would it take to get you to crawl over broken glass to get to Saudi Arabia?

If Emma Stone was crawling naked about 5 yards ahead of me I'd crawl there for free.

[Since452]

Not liking this lack of football. I'm going to be forced into watching the Hibs game on youtube at this rate.

[bingo70]

Not liking this lack of football. I'm going to be forced into watching the Hibs game on youtube at this rate.

Steady

[Donegal Hibby]

Read in a article there are 23 players on the verge of a one match ban for the world cup anyone know who has the most and least bookings ?. Also came across this article, now Portuguese federation denying it but does seem to be a lot of unrest in that camp which the media have latched on too!
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-11515993/World-Cup-Cristiano-Ronaldo-wanted-WALK-Portugal-axed-Switzerland-clash.html

[OldEast]

Not liking this lack of football. I'm going to be forced into watching the Hibs game on youtube at this rate.

Maybe don't bother. Only because the camera work is awful.

[Jones28]

Read in a article there are 23 players on the verge of a one match ban for the world cup anyone know who has the most and least bookings ?. Also came across this article, now Portuguese federation denying it but does seem to be a lot of unrest in that camp which the media have latched on too!
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-11515993/World-Cup-Cristiano-Ronaldo-wanted-WALK-Portugal-axed-Switzerland-clash.html

He is just the worst. Honestly.

Makes it hilarious that they managed just fine without him.

[HoboHarry]

He is just the worst. Honestly.

Makes it hilarious that they managed just fine without him.
It's really very sad if those stories are true, he's always had an enormous ego but it's still a pity that his star seems to be fading surrounded by such bitterness.

[Sir David Gray]

Read in a article there are 23 players on the verge of a one match ban for the world cup anyone know who has the most and least bookings ?. Also came across this article, now Portuguese federation denying it but does seem to be a lot of unrest in that camp which the media have latched on too!
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-11515993/World-Cup-Cristiano-Ronaldo-wanted-WALK-Portugal-axed-Switzerland-clash.html

If that's true then Portugal should be sending him home now and let him sign his £3 million per week contract in Saudi Arabia.

Players on a booking;

Croatia

Dejan Lovren
Luka Modric
Borna Barisic
Mateo Kovacic

Brazil

Fred
Bruno Guimaraes
Eder Militao

Netherlands

Matthijs de Ligt
Nathan Ake
Frenie de Jong
Teun Koopmeiners

Argentina

Gonzalo Montiel
Marcos Acuna

Morocco

Sofyan Amrabat
Abdelhamid Sabiri
Romain Saiss

Portugal

Danilo Pereira
Bruno Fernandes
Ruben Neves
Joao Felix
Ruben Dias

England

None

France

Jules Kounde
Aurelien Tchouameni

[Donegal Hibby]

Even though Croatia are a decent side I fancy Brazil to win fairly comfortable , the other game between Netherlands v Argentina I think will be much closer and with Netherlands playing 5 across the back it will be tight game possible Argentina just edging it

[bingo70]

Even though Croatia are a decent side I fancy Brazil to win fairly comfortable , the other game between Netherlands v Argentina I think will be much closer and with Netherlands playing 5 across the back it will be tight game possible Argentina just edging it

I think Croatia might beat Brazil. They know how to win games like this and still have plenty quality, suits them better Brazil being favourites I think. Obviously by no means a banker, I just wouldn’t be surprised if there’s a wee shock tomorrow.

I think Argentina will beat Holland. Two very even sides but Argentina have Messi who will make the difference.

In the other games I think England will beat France, England on their day capable of beating anybody (I don’t think they’ll beat 3 big guns in a row though) and there’s a reason teams rarely win two world cups in a row, France will get put out before the final and every chance England will do it IMO.

Portugal to beat Morroco in the other game doesn’t need much explanation.

[Donegal Hibby]

I think Croatia might beat Brazil. They know how to win games like this and still have plenty quality, suits them better Brazil being favourites I think. Obviously by no means a banker, I just wouldn’t be surprised if there’s a wee shock tomorrow.

I think Argentina will beat Holland. Two very even sides but Argentina have Messi who will make the difference.

In the other games I think England will beat France, England on their day capable of beating anybody (I don’t think they’ll beat 3 big guns in a row though) and there’s a reason teams rarely win two world cups in a row, France will get put out before the final and every chance England will do it IMO.

Portugal to beat Morroco in the other game doesn’t need much explanation.
Fascinating predictions bingo 70 . I agree about the Portugal game can only see one winner there and agree about Argentina game with Messi being the difference. Brazil will have to much for Croatia . I've got a feeling Southgate might go 5 in defence and possible play a bit to defensive which won't suit them and France will win by a couple of goals. Personally I'm hoping Brazil or Argentina win it now reasons Pele being ill and it being Messi's last world cup. Got some exciting games to look forward to in what's been a good world cup so far 👍

[hibsbollah]

Andrew Jennings (1943-2022), the incomparable (playthegame.org) (https://www.playthegame.org/news/andrew-jennings-1943-2022-the-incomparable/)

Ive just been reading about this fascinating and impressive journalist who exposed FIFAs corruption. I know folk think this should be on the holy ground but its relevant i think.

I have no strong feelings about who i want to win both games today, just two proper heavyweight contests. Argentina Holland in particular is just dripping with nostalgia; the 78 world cup final the first one i watched, and the De Boer to Bergkamp dream goal in Marseille in 1998.

[ekhibee]

I don't have a strong preference tbh, although Brazil and Portugal have played some great stuff in the last round. Not watched much of the Netherlands after watching their1st two games, they were awful to watch then but they've clearly got their act together now. I've put a bet on Skybet for a 2-2 draw after 90 mins for Netherlands v Argentina, and 3-1 Brazil to beat Croatia, but in all honesty both games could throw up different results. I think France will beat England comfortably, and for me Portugal v Morocco could be interesting from a betting perspective, because I just don't think Portugal will be able to do as much damage to Morocco as they did to Switzerland and Morocco are fast on the break. but again I'll probably be proved wrong. And the tournament so far has been interesting, but I will not be applauding Qatar in any way.

[MWHIBBIES]

Hate making predictions but I think that Croatia side, especially in midfield, could cause Brazil some problems. 3 potential 4 against 2. First big test for Brazil imo.

[Since90+2]

Hate making predictions but I think that Croatia side, especially in midfield, could cause Brazil some problems. 3 potential 4 against 2. First big test for Brazil imo.

I think Brazil will deal with them fairly comfortably IMO.

[CL0762]

Mon the Brazilians.

So good going forward but as mentioned, could lose it in the midfield.

[hibsbollah]

Some great stories, some media generated but most authentic, with these quarter finalists.

Brazil- Neymar, can he join the real greats? Can Brazil win a 6th?
Argentina- Messi.
Portugal-Ronaldo-a Messi Ronaldo final?
Morocco- the great outsiders.
England- years of hurt blah de blah, southgate?
France-Mbappe the best in the world, France doing an unique repeat in the modern era?
Holland-Managing while battling cancer.
Croatia-end of a golden generation.

[hibsbollah]

I can’t believe west ham have got Paqueta, such a great player, joy to watch.

[ekhibee]

I think Brazil will deal with them fairly comfortably IMO.

Not so far, Croatia have been the better team so far.

[hibsbollah]

Croatia doing well so far.

[Irish_Steve]

That could have easily been a red!

[SJNB Hibby]

That's the first-time I've noticed the refs name on the back of his shirt

[hibsbollah]

Juranovic playing so well.

[Mon Dieu4]

Can't help but feel Cabraja would have scored by now

[hibsbollah]

Can't help but feel Cabraja would have scored by now

Have we ever had a Brazilian player at Hibs? Can’t think of one

[EGL2000]

juranovic is some player, another great bit of business for them. Could easy see they getting 12+mil in Jan.

[heretoday]

The BBC commentator so desperately wants Brazil to win.

[hibsbollah]

Is Modric playing as a sweeper here? Total free role from deep

[Curried]

Not so far, Croatia have been the better team so far.

Agreed. Looking very comfortable in possession.

[heretoday]

Is Modric playing as a sweeper here? Total free role from deep

Great player.

[Dmas]

juranovic is some player, another great bit of business for them. Could easy see they getting 12+mil in Jan.

Just said the same to my mate any other league that’s a £30m player, think they’ve signed the Canada RB so must be expecting him to leave ?

[EGL2000]

Just said the same to my mate any other league that’s a £30m player, think they’ve signed the Canada RB so must be expecting him to leave ?


Yeah he's not signing a new contract and got 2.5 years left so best time to sell. Betis and A Madrid interested so imagine they will get a solid fee.

[MWHIBBIES]

Hate making predictions but I think that Croatia side, especially in midfield, could cause Brazil some problems. 3 potential 4 against 2. First big test for Brazil imo.

Certainly winning the midfield battle so far. Think Brazil need an extra man in there. Perisic is one of the best international tournament players of this era as well. Brilliant so far.

[Jim44]

Croatia doing well and the better team. Brazil haven’t got going but have got plenty in the tank for the second half. I expect them to win this in normal time.

[hibsbollah]

Certainly winning the midfield battle so far. Think Brazil need an extra man in there. Perisic is one of the best international tournament players of this era as well. Brilliant so far.

He’s had a great tournament so far.

[Dmas]

Certainly winning the midfield battle so far. Think Brazil need an extra man in there. Perisic is one of the best international tournament players of this era as well. Brilliant so far.

Incredible how good he’s been in major tournaments agree about midfield as well they need someone in there to work alongside Casemiro, raphinia been missing first half should be hooking him

[MWHIBBIES]

He’s had a great tournament so far.

10 international tournament goals. Absolutely incredible record.

[JeMeSouviens]

Croatia doing well and the better team. Brazil haven’t got going but have got plenty in the tank for the second half. I expect them to win this in normal time.

Croatia haven't looked especially like scoring either, tbh. I think Brazil need an extra man in midfield. They've still got the individuals to win this if they can get a bit more of the ball.

[Green Reaper]

Croatia playing really well but can't see where a goal will come from.

[hibsbollah]

They need to make more of a fuss about that save with the Croatia keepers feet. Amazing block.

[Paulie Walnuts]

How is that not a handball? His arm is out from his body and the ball lands on it :confused:

[CL0762]

Great player.

He is unbelievable. Incredible to think he was voted the worst La Liga signing after his first season in Madrid.

[SJNB Hibby]

How is that not a handball? His arm is out from his body and the ball lands on it :confused:

Offside prior to ??+

[hibsbollah]

Modric is definitely playing as a sweeper. Total throwback, surprised the pundits don’t talk about it more.

[EGL2000]

livakovic is a top quality GK aswell surprised he's never moved away from Zagreb.

[hibsbollah]

Croatian keeper on a game here. Another great block.

[EGL2000]

Croatian keeper on a game here. Another great block.

Been brilliant in the champions league this season aswell.

[Iain G]

Croatia are a very neat passing side, they control the ball well when in possession.

[MWHIBBIES]

Modric is definitely playing as a sweeper. Total throwback, surprised the pundits don’t talk about it more.

I dunno. Certainly isn't now, well up the park. Think he was just sitting deep really.

[Iain G]

That Neymar is like the Brazilian McKirdy 😁

[Mon Dieu4]

Some of the tracking back from both teams in this game has been magnificent

[hibeg]

Croatia have been magnificent, Lovren outstanding in defence.
This from a guy who thought they would get humped in prediction league 😂

[JeMeSouviens]

Brazil have been much the better team in the 2nd half. Croats defending well but good goalkeeping and poor finishing needed too.

Croats look like they're dug in for pens now.

[bingo70]

Brazil have been much the better team in the 2nd half. Croats defending well but good goalkeeping and poor finishing needed too.

Croats look like they're dug in for pens now.

I fancied Croatia today (said it earlier on the thread in case anybody wasn’t paying attention 😜) as I thought that’s what would happen. I’m not watching the game but thought there would come a point they would just try to see out the draw.

[Jim44]

I really expected Brazil to exert some authority in the second half. It hasn’t happened and it could go any way now. Even if Brazil scrape through, they’ve shown that they can be as mediocre as the rest.

[hibsbollah]

I dunno. Certainly isn't now, well up the park. Think he was just sitting deep really.

He’s certainly moving around as the games gone on. Definite free role if not a sweeper.

[heretoday]

That Neymar is like the Brazilian McKirdy 😁

I've always been unimpressed by Neymar but his record is pretty good!
Brazil will eventually beat that keeper I reckon.

[hibsbollah]

I really expected Brazil to exert some authority in the second half. It hasn’t happened and it could go any way now. Even if Brazil scrape through, they’ve shown that they can be as mediocre as the rest.

Och im not sure about that! Some of the quality on the ball has been outstanding? I think it’s just they’re up against a tactically competent team playing really well in defence.

[J-C]

Unsurprised it's going to extra time, Croatia are a very well organised team and have done this before in big tournaments, add in Brazil being either very hot or cold and then you have a tight game like today.

[hibeg]

Och im not sure about that! Some of the quality on the ball has been outstanding? I think it’s just they’re up against a tactically competent team playing really well in defence.

All the teams left will be tactically competent with good defences. Not impressed with Brazil at all in this game. The Croats could win this !

[Donegal Hibby]

Anthony definitely deserves a oscar for his acting 😂

[Curried]

Neymar could have been off for that kick.

[HibbyAndy]

Penalties written all over it


Crap game

[Dmas]

Penalties written all over it


Crap game

Think for a 0-0 it’s been decent quite a good battle, tidy football from both quite enjoyed it

[Mon Dieu4]

What a goal

[Aldo]

What a goal.

Deserved

[hibsbollah]

That’s genius.
The great ones turn up in the big moments.

[Betty Boop]

Neymar!!!!

[BILLYHIBS]

Naaaaaayyyyymmmaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!

[J-C]

Neymar can do bugger all for a whole game and then does a bit of genius to score.

Modric is still an amazing player even at the age of 37.

[Lago]

Brazilian McKirdy 😂 get in what a goal.

[HH81]

1-1

[Aldo]

Scenes

[heretoday]

Neymar can do bugger all for a whole game and then does a bit of genius to score.

Modric is still an amazing player even at the age of 37.

Spurs should never have sold him.

[heretoday]

Gooooooooaaaaaalllllll

[Dmas]

Goooaal

[hibsbollah]

Wow, 1-1.

This is a Tremendous tournament!!

[hibeg]

Go on Croatia 👍

[J-C]

Croatia don't give up.

[hibsbollah]

‘We could be going back all the way!’ Says Jenas.

What does that mean Jermaine.

[JeMeSouviens]

First shot on target. :greengrin

[Johnny_Leith]

How frustrating is watching Croatia? They can clearly play and have some quality players yet spent most of the game in a low block.

If they had come out to play from the start they could have beaten Brazil, who have been very underwhelming, in normal time.

[JimBHibees]

‘We could be going back all the way!’ Says Jenas.

What does that mean Jermaine.

Surely not talking about England

[Donegal Hibby]

Brilliant tournament . And what a spirit in the Croatian team . Still for Brazil though 😁

[hibsbollah]

Antony is a total wide oh. I want him at Hibs.

[Iain G]

Two very good goalies in the shootout

[MWHIBBIES]

Anthony is perfect for Man United. An absolute welt.

[hibsbollah]

Anthony is perfect for Man United. An absolute welt.

Cmon, hes funny. Hes played well too.

[Mon Dieu4]

Ball took a "little" deflection according to Richards

[Aldo]

This could be a very special evening the Croatian keeper.

He’s been watching a bit of Logan I think?? [emoji102]

[Iain G]

Cmon, hes funny. Hes played well too.

He is a good old-fashioned winger 😁

[hibeg]

Lottery of pens upcoming
Can’t see either team winning the tournament though !

[Aldo]

O dear…

[Aldo]

What a penalty from Modric

[HH81]

Great pen 4-2. Unsaveable

[HH81]

Croatia through.

[Sir David Gray]

Wow!

This is another huge bonus for England.

[Aldo]

Oft the scenes

[Curried]

Bye Bye Brazil

[CmoantheHibs]

Very happy with that. Would only have been better if Neymar had missed the crucial spot kick.

[SteveHFC]

Really hope Argentina win tonight or England have a great chance

[marinello59]

I’m confused as to why Neymar didn’t take one. Well done Croatia though. :greengrin

[MWHIBBIES]

First good team Brazil played, pumped out. Been the norm for 20 years now.

Well done Croatia, absolute ****ing warriors.

[The Modfather]

Aww man. Let’s hope France do the job tomorrow and allay any fears now Brazil are out.

You also have to hand it to Croatia. The Modric generation and slightly under have been amazingly consistent.

[eastterrace]

Anti football wins again. Great for Croatia but they are so defensive to watch.

[hibeg]

Croatia were excellent. Well deserved victory.

[Pretty Boy]

Never like when the star player is left until the end of a shoot out. Get him in and get it scored. I know people will argue you want your best man on the 5th but you always run the risk that he might not take one at all. There's no guarantee the 5th will be the winning one anyway.

[whiskyhibby]

Tough luck Neymar, if you spent more time on your feet rather than rolling around on your arse then Brazil may have beaten them, well done Croatia, brilliant result

[Donegal Hibby]

Unbelievable tournament . Though I'm getting a bit worried now that it could be England's year 😳

[Joe6-2]

Raging
Croatia played for penalties, one f****** shot on target in 120mins of football

[HibsGW]

I’m confused as to why Neymar didn’t take one. Well done Croatia though. :greengrin

It’s this daft “i want all the limelight so let me take the winning one” nonsense, I love when it goes balls up and they don’t get to take one.

[Pretty Boy]

All set up for Messi's international swansong imo.

Win tonight, get past Croatia then he runs the show in the final v Portugal whilst Ronaldo sits like the unwanted man on the touchline.

[hibeg]

Anti football wins again. Great for Croatia but they are so defensive to watch.

Bollox, anti football 😂. Excellent defensively, great pressing and deserved victory

[J-C]

Had to miss the pens to go pick up the wife, not surprised by Croatia as they've been here before, disappointed more by Brazil.

[Pagan Hibernia]

Not displeased at all by that. Brazil were overhyped and overrated.

such a streetwise team, Croatia. Pleased for them

[essexhibee]

I think we all just need to come to terms with the fact England are gonna ****ing do it this year. Grim.

Twitter be getting deleted for the next 6 months :greengrin

[MWHIBBIES]

Raging
Croatia played for penalties, one f****** shot on target in 120mins of football

They really didn't. They played plenty of good football. They were brilliant in midfield.

[SHODAN]

If England win tomorrow then they'll win the whole thing.

[NORTHERNHIBBY]

Funny kind of dancing that Brazil are doing now.

[SteveHFC]

If England win tomorrow then they'll win the whole thing.

IF

[eastterrace]

Bollox, anti football 😂. Excellent defensively, great pressing and deserved victory
You said it DEFENSIVELY

[hibeg]

If England win tomorrow then they'll win the whole thing.

A distinct possibility.
I reckon the winner tomorrow will win it as well

[Iain G]

Raging
Croatia played for penalties, one f****** shot on target in 120mins of football

Did you have the telly on? Croatia played very well and deserved their win. No way did they play for penalties FFS 🤣

[Sir David Gray]

Once again Croatia defy the odds in terms of population size.

A country of less than 4 million people and they're into the semi finals of the World Cup and that's off the back of being finalists 4 years ago.

[007]

It's going to be an England Argentina final with Messi to do a hand of god winner in extra time.

[Steve20]

You can still get 5/1 on England.

If you’re a ‘anyone but England’ person, I’d be backing that because the winner is coming from that game.

[Pagan Hibernia]

If England win tomorrow then they'll win the whole thing.

If they win tomorrow they’ll certainly go to the Final.

still a few teams on the other side of the draw that they could struggle against.

[hibeg]

You said it DEFENSIVELY

Midfield was excellent as well but defence was superb.
That was in no way an anti football performance, overall superb team play
I have seen plenty anti football in my life, Croatia don’t compare !

[Mantis Toboggan]

That was fantastic. But England really do have a great chance now. Time to get some money on them to ease the pain

[MWHIBBIES]

Is Modric the best midfielder ever?

[DIXIHIBS]

Croatia should be an inspiration for other small nations. Amazing how many quality players they produce. Wonder why their set up is much more successful than most.

[JamesHFC]

If they win tomorrow they’ll certainly go to the Final.

still a few teams on the other side of the draw that they could struggle against.

Portugal wouldn't be straight forward, if they can beat France though then they can beat anyone.

[Donegal Hibby]

Raging
Croatia played for penalties, one f****** shot on target in 120mins of football
The more entertaining team out again ! Knowing our luck we are heading for a Croatia v Morocco final 😴 .

[Hibernia&Alba]

Once again Croatia defy the odds in terms of population size.

A country of less than 4 million people and they're into the semi finals of the World Cup and that's off the back of being finalists 4 years ago.

Yes, a tremendous achievement for such a small country. All credit to them, they are punching miles above their weight. It gives hope that Scotland might emulate that, but it's a rare thing for a country of that size.

[bingo70]

Portugal wouldn't be straight forward, if they can beat France though then they can beat anyone.

Portugal were outstanding the other night against a relatively decent side.

[Onion]

Anti football wins again. Great for Croatia but they are so defensive to watch.

Agreed, not great for the tournament. Could see Croatia winning the WC on pens.

[Joe6-2]

The more entertaining team out again ! Knowing our luck we are heading for a Croatia v Morocco final 😴 .

this exactly, mind you that would mean no England

[Donegal Hibby]

Been looking up on Croatia's world cup record since 1998 they have only failed to qualify once which was in 2010.They have finished 3rd and 2nd plus are now in the semi final of this year's competition. I find this quite amazing considering there population is less than both Ireland and Scotland's and have not banned PlayStation's and Xbox's 😂

[Jones28]

What side of the draw are Croatia on?

[The Modfather]

All set up for Messi's international swansong imo.

Win tonight, get past Croatia then he runs the show in the final v Portugal whilst Ronaldo sits like the unwanted man on the touchline.

That scenario would be poetic!

[cameronw-hfc]

Is Modric the best midfielder ever?

Xavi and Iniesta both better

[bingo70]

Is Modric the best midfielder ever?

Jude Bellingham?

[Hibernia&Alba]

Xavi and Iniesta both better

And Scholes and Gerrard. IMHO.

[Aldo]

Croatia were excellent. Well deserved victory.

If sitting in playing negative football for 105 minutes is excellent then they were!

Well deserved. My opinion is no however you’ve gotta be in it to win it!

[JimBHibees]

What side of the draw are Croatia on?

Play winner of tonight's game

[The Modfather]

Jude Bellingham?

Newell?

[bingo70]

Newell?

😂

I was hoping for more bites to be honest but that’ll do.

[Potty78]

It’s this daft “i want all the limelight so let me take the winning one” nonsense, I love when it goes balls up and they don’t get to take one.

Exactly,I said it in the pub. Madness

[007]

Newell?

He couldn't lace his boots.

[Pretty Boy]

I hate this teams wearing block colours things. I know it has been a rule for years but it still irks me.

Argentina wear black shorts, Netherlands wear black or white shorts, Germany wear black shorts, Spain and England wear navy shorts. The strips just look wrong in recent years.

[Donegal Hibby]

Come on 🇦🇷🇦🇷

[Donegal Hibby]

England's full of Irish men and now one in Argentina" McAllister" .what's the world coming too🙄

[bingo70]

I hate this teams wearing block colours things. I know it has been a rule for years but it still irks me.

Argentina wear black shorts, Netherlands wear black or white shorts, Germany wear black shorts, Spain and England wear navy shorts. The strips just look wrong in recent years.

What’s the logic behind it?

[Pretty Boy]

I'm always amazed that no matter where a WC is held the Argentina fans seems to always be close to the most numerous and most vocal. Plenty other teams take numbers but they seem to take over entire stadiums time after time.

[Pretty Boy]

What’s the logic behind it?

It was a FIFA directive a few years backthat kits should be consistently light or consistently dark or something like that so the kit manufacturers started having England and Germany play in white shorts, Spain in red etc etc.

[Donegal Hibby]

I'm always amazed that not matter where a WC is held the Argentina fans seems to always be close to the most numerous and most vocal. Plenty other teams take numbers but they seem to take over entire stadiums time after time.
Very vocal fans ,been the best in competition imo

[Pretty Boy]

Very vocal fans ,been the best in competition imo

Unreal.

You get how they took over in Brazil in 2014 but they were among the top dogs in Russia as well. Then you have Qatar, the usual big travellers like the English and Dutch are in nothing like their usual numbers but Argentina games are just a sea of blue and white.

[bingo70]

It was a FIFA directive a few years backthat kits should be consistently light or consistently dark or something like that so the kit manufacturers started having England and Germany play in white shorts, Spain in red etc etc.

I like to think it’s got something to do with helping colour blind fans but not sure that stands up to any scrutiny.

[HoboHarry]

I like to think it’s got something to do with helping colour blind fans but not sure that stands up to any scrutiny.
Way back in the day, we were always told we couldn't wear black to avoid clashing with the referee. That was before referees started wearing different colors obviously.

[hibsbollah]

Striking absence of diving and squealing from these two teams so far. Good to see.

[Iain G]

This is dull

[Up-the-slope]

The more entertaining team out again ! Knowing our luck we are heading for a Croatia v Morocco final 😴 .


That would be tremendous on many fronts... No England in final and gets it right up the continual attempted fixing of nations with more TV potential getting easier routes.

look at next finals when groups of 3 with only one progressing... total nonsense just like CL which is being also 'fixed' further in an attempt to get more cash...

[Mon Dieu4]

Stop it Messi

[Sir David Gray]

1-0 Argentina

[hibsbollah]

Messi magic again.

[Mikey_1875]

Thank god. Surely the game opens up a bit now.

[Since452]

Messi passes the ball. "Oh it's magnificent".

[Callum_62]

That is Scott Allan esque

Beautiful

Sent from my VOG-L29 using Tapatalk

[JamesHFC]

He didn't even look at Molina and put it on a plate for him. The goat.

[hibsbollah]

My mate Paco going mental. Getting stuck into his Malbec. Got to love Argentinans.

[Aldo]

Stadium erupts.

[Donegal Hibby]

Messi magic again.
A little magician 😁 .pure class

[Irish_Steve]

How didn’t that Dutch defender see that pass, is he blind……

[Jim44]

The best pass of the tournament so far, Messi magic.

[J-C]

Glad someone scored as I was bored senseless for 30 mins, hopefully makes the Netherlands more adventurous instead of a thousand sideways passes they've been doing.