The world cup thread

[Onion]

Don't you just hate it when the 2nd half of a WC semi-final gets in the way of the perennial hand-wringing by BBC England pundits ?

[hibsbollah]

Mazraoui a massive loss for the Moroccans.

[jeffers]

What happened in ‘66???

Pickles found the stolen trophy.

[Iain G]

I do like the French top, it's a lovely classy football shirt.

[hibsbollah]

BBC are pathetic

No they’re not, all other nations broadcasters behave like this apparently.

[hibsbollah]

Amrabat is the player of the tournament. What a machine he is.

[Scorrie]

Who are these two bellends commentating? Awful

[Paulie Walnuts]

Morocco knocking on the door

[Mon Dieu4]

What a ball that was from the Moroccan

[theonlywayisup]

Morocco knocking on the door

Very good team

[hibsbollah]

Morocco doing really well now. What a tournament they’re having.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Amrabat is the player of the tournament. What a machine he is.

He’s been exceptional. 35 as well.

[Jones28]

Think this referee has been excellent.

[JamesHFC]

He’s been exceptional. 35 as well.

35 years old?

[Aldo]

He’s been exceptional. 35 as well.

He was born in 1996 so is only 26

[green day]

Who are these two bellends commentating? Awful

They don't like Mbappe, that's for sure

[hibsbollah]

He’s been exceptional. 35 as well.

Nah, that’s another Amrabat. Sofyan Amrabat is the centre mid. Easy mistake to make though.

[SHODAN]

I love Morocco.

[SteveHFC]

They don't like Mbappe, that's for sure

Mbappe to score and to hear Murphy in tears would be wonderful.

[Onion]

BBC desperate for France to get beat. Palpable.

[SteveHFC]

I love Morocco.

Swap the red for white on their shirt and that would make a decent Hibs away kit.

[green day]

Griezman is brilliant

[Scorrie]

Griezemann is some player. Really hard worker but loads of quality as well. Brilliant

[Sir David Gray]

Why's that not being hit?

[SteveHFC]

The state of Danny Murphy 😂

[Iain G]

Morocco just have no end product

[Onion]

Someone needs to tell Morocco that the object is to put the ball in the net. Got zero up front.

[HoboHarry]

Griezman is brilliant
Player of the tournament for me. I think it's pretty clear that Messi will get it but its Griezmann for me by a mile.

[Sir David Gray]

2-0 game over.

[Onion]

Someone needs to tell Morocco that the object is to put the ball in the net. Got zero up front.

And it is game over.

[Paulie Walnuts]

35 years old?

Wrong one :greengrin

[Iain G]

That's France through then! Been an entertaining second half

[Aldo]

Griezman is brilliant

He’s been superb in that free role. Works hard but is absolute quality!

[Iain G]

Player of the tournament for me. I think it's pretty clear that Messi will get it but its Griezmann for me by a mile.

But he isn't English 😉😁

[JamesHFC]

Argentina v France. Should be a good one.

[Keyser Sauzee]

Surely that’s not 2 assists for Mbappe when he’s tried to shoot both times?

[Lago]

That's France through then! Been an entertaining second half
Entertaining game

[Donegal Hibby]

2-0 yasss :sauzee:

[Callum_62]

Not a bad impact from the sub there [emoji23]

Sent from my VOG-L29 using Tapatalk

[SteveHFC]

Argentina v France. Should be a good one.

England fans won’t know who to support.

[Sir David Gray]

Just rewound it and the guy scored 30 seconds after the ball was back in play - that's quite the impact sub!

Doesn't beat the record for the fastest World Cup goal by a sub though - 18 seconds set in 2002.

[Onion]

England fans won’t know who to support.

They juist won't tune in, but the rest of us will be left to share in the suffering of their commentators :greengrin

[cameronw-hfc]

Not impressed with France despite making it yo the finals. Would say the quality of the teams has been shocking at this WC, which in turn has made it pretty fun, but Spain, crap, Brazil, crap, Germany, lol, Italy didnt even make it, Belgium, crap, France have been alright but never looked amazing yet, England, crap, Argentina have looked better the last 2/3 games but started poor. Been a weird world cup. Usually one or two teams that tend to stand out but this one has been a lottery the whole way.

Not complaining though as it's made for much more drama, just Int football in a weird transition phase I think.

[SteveHFC]

They juist won't tune in, but the rest of us will be left to share in the suffering of their commentators :greengrin

BBC should be a right laugh on Sunday.

[ronaldo7]

I've loved watching Morocco. They played to their strengths in the group stages and it worked really well for them. Their strength and energy has been phenomenal. The injuries tonight and lack of a world class striker has cost them a place in the final.

Take a bow Morocco.

[JammyDoidger]

That’s savage, should’ve called them out on Twitter, they’re the type to pay out for the publicity

I messaged and argued my case but they just pointed to opta. Was spewing.

[hibsbollah]

I've loved watching Morocco. They played to their strengths in the group stages and it worked really well for them. Their strength and energy has been phenomenal. The injuries tonight and lack of a world class striker has cost them a place in the final.

Take a bow Morocco.

I think they would’ve beaten England, or at least run them close. Some quality individuals and the team ethic is almost indescribable.

[Iain G]

I've loved watching Morocco. They played to their strengths in the group stages and it worked really well for them. Their strength and energy has been phenomenal. The injuries tonight and lack of a world class striker has cost them a place in the final.

Take a bow Morocco.

Needed Benji in the box 😁

[Onion]

Not impressed with France despite making it yo the finals. Would say the quality of the teams has been shocking at this WC, which in turn has made it pretty fun, but Spain, crap, Brazil, crap, Germany, lol, Italy didnt even make it, Belgium, crap, France have been alright but never looked amazing yet, England, crap, Argentina have looked better the last 2/3 games but started poor. Been a weird world cup. Usually one or two teams that tend to stand out but this one has been a lottery the whole way.

Not complaining though as it's made for much more drama, just Int football in a weird transition phase I think.

Completely agree. Usually, you find 5 or 6 teams rise to the surface as clearly better than the rest, and their quality shines through.

[Sir David Gray]

That should have gone in.

[Mon Dieu4]

Morocco could play all night and not score, just not their night

[cameronw-hfc]

Completely agree. Usually, you find 5 or 6 teams rise to the surface as clearly better than the rest, and their quality shines through.

Yeah, it's been odd. France have shown glimpses and Argentina have looked more like a top team as the tournament goes on, but otherwise, it's been pretty weird in terms of quality.

[Donegal Hibby]

Who's the favourite in the final?

[Mon Dieu4]

Who's the favourite in the final?

50/50 for me, both teams are capable of doing each other over and have their weaknesses

[hibsbollah]

Who's the favourite in the final?

I think the bookies will find that tricky. France by a whisker maybe?

[J-C]

Well done France but very hard lines Morocco, gave it their all and just fell short.

[Donegal Hibby]

50/50 for me, both teams are capable of doing each other over and have their weaknesses
Your probably right though if I had to put a few quid on one I'd choose Argentina which means France will win it😂

[SteveHFC]

I think the bookies will find that tricky. France by a whisker maybe?

France favourites to lift the trophy on SkyBet.

[Since452]

France will be too strong for Argentina

[Glory Lurker]

Go on, France. All the way.

[Sir David Gray]

Who's the favourite in the final?

France 8/11
Argentina 1/1

SkyBet.

[HoboHarry]

France for me unless Messi puts on a performance to end all other performances.

[Onion]

Yeah, it's been odd. France have shown glimpses and Argentina have looked more like a top team as the tournament goes on, but otherwise, it's been pretty weird in terms of quality.

Maybe the whole Qatar controversy, being played mid-season and more important issues in the world have just devalued this WC ? Feels like just another tournament.

Bring on the Hibs :greengrin

[hibsbollah]

I think it’s interesting that the pundits are broadly down on France and how they played. Two consecutive World Cup finals and the chance for the first repeat for 60 odd years. Quite an achievement.

[Donegal Hibby]

France 8/11
Argentina 1/1

SkyBet.
Going to be a cracking final 😃

[Donegal Hibby]

I think the bookies will find that tricky. France by a whisker maybe?
Very tasty final , should be a good game on paper and even Croatia v Morocco wil be a interesting game . Amazing world cup.

[Carheenlea]

Can't say I`ll really have a particular preferred winner so will be nice to just watch a World Cup Final and enjoy it for simply the football.

[Donegal Hibby]

Can't say I`ll really have a particular preferred winner so will be nice to just watch a World Cup Final and enjoy it for simply the football.
Id absolutely love to see Messi lift the trophy 🏆

[B.H.F.C]

Argentina to win IMO. Sounds daft as they’ve both got to this stage but just feel they have the momentum, they’ll have all the support and they have a team who will run through a brick wall simply to let Messi do his stuff.

[StirlingHibee]

Thoroughly enjoyed this World Cup. Highlights for me have been the gap narrowing between the so called big and small teams, the rise of the Arab footballing nations and the first all female refereeing team. Morocco were immense this evening, as previous posts have already stated just lacking a world class striker. Would like to see Argentine win on Sunday.

[Hibbyradge]

Absolutely pathetic from the BBC. Half time of a World Cup semi final and instead of reviewing the first half we're talking about a beaten quarter finalist. 🙄

Most viewers will have been happy with that.

[Forza Fred]

Not impressed with France despite making it yo the finals. Would say the quality of the teams has been shocking at this WC, which in turn has made it pretty fun, but Spain, crap, Brazil, crap, Germany, lol, Italy didnt even make it, Belgium, crap, France have been alright but never looked amazing yet, England, crap, Argentina have looked better the last 2/3 games but started poor. Been a weird world cup. Usually one or two teams that tend to stand out but this one has been a lottery the whole way.

Not complaining though as it's made for much more drama, just Int football in a weird transition phase I think.

I see it differently.

While there is a perception…especially in Europe…that what are considered ‘established ‘ sides will continue to dominate, I think that ignores the possibility that other nations are not that far away and the ‘divide’ is narrowing.

Morocco would not have been on many people’s predictions of the final 4, and to me at least they were there on merit.

Saudi Arabia…who most people in Scotland would Have not been surprised to see them go home pointless, beat Argentina…similarly unfancied Australia only lost two games…one to France and one to Argentina…the eventual finalists.

I guess it depends on an individual’s viewpoint as to whether this means that the ‘established’ nations are rank rotten, or whether the emerging nations are rapidly catching up with them.

The answer I suggest, lies somewhere in the middle.

[CB Hibs 68]

Completely agree. Usually, you find 5 or 6 teams rise to the surface as clearly better than the rest, and their quality shines through.
Interesting point .Hadn’t considered it myself but there is definitely an absence of 5 or 6 teams stepping up to the plate .Mind you the Final is between at least two of the teams who should’ve been part of the 5 or 6 you are talking about.Roll in Sunday

[The Modfather]

Most viewers will have been happy with that.

How come they didn’t talk about Wales or review their tournament as well. It’s not the end of the world, but little things like that which are annoying.

[Donegal Hibby]

How come they didn’t talk about Wales or review their tournament as well. It’s not the end of the world, but little things like that which are annoying.
Probably because they have a bigger amount of English viewers than Welsh and cater for the bigger amount of viewers 🤔

[The Modfather]

Probably because they have a bigger amount of English viewers than Welsh and cater for the bigger amount of viewers 🤔

I just think it’s a little poor to spend most of half time in semi final when England are out of the tournament talking about England. They could have at least mentioned Wales and probably the last tournament for their golden generation.

As I say, not the end of the world but a bit more awareness there’s a bigger world out there than England, especially as they weren’t the only home nation at the tournament, wouldn’t go amiss.

[Sir David Gray]

I just think it’s a little poor to spend most of half time in semi final when England are out of the tournament talking about England. They could have at least mentioned Wales and probably the last tournament for their golden generation.

As I say, not the end of the world but a bit more awareness there’s a bigger world out there than England, especially as they weren’t the only home nation at the tournament, wouldn’t go amiss.

It was very poor but sadly not unexpected.

[ekhibee]

I see it differently.

While their is a perception…especially in Europe…that what are considered ‘established ‘ sides will continue to dominate, I think that ignores the possibility that other nations are not that far away and the ‘divide’ is narrowing.

Morocco would not have been on many people’s predictions of the final 4, and to me at least they were there on merit.

Saudi Arabia…who most people in Scotland would Have not been surprised to see them go home pointless, beat Argentina…similarly unfancied Australia only lost two games…one to France and one to Argentina…the eventual finalists.

I guess it depends on an individual’s viewpoint as to whether this means that the ‘established’ nations are rank rotten, or whether the emerging nations are rapidly catching up with them.

The answer I suggest, lies somewhere in the middle.

I'm glad England didn't go through but tbh like it or not I thought they were the better team against France, who for me are heavily reliant on 2 players, Mbappe and Griezman, and for me the latter is the most important player for them in terms of his contribution in virtually every area of the park. Mbappe is a fast, skillful player with great technical ability but not a defensive player in any way. Today we saw Griezman all over the pitch, in defence, controlling midfield, and up front. The only player I could really compare him with would have been Modrij when he was younger. I think France are a good team, but not a brilliant one, and that probably applies to Argentina as well. Morocco matched France in virtually every area of the pitch, and in the 2nd half anyway put them under real pressure. But the difference was finishing again, a skill in itself, as England, and now Morocco are paying the price for.

[cameronw-hfc]

I see it differently.

While their is a perception…especially in Europe…that what are considered ‘established ‘ sides will continue to dominate, I think that ignores the possibility that other nations are not that far away and the ‘divide’ is narrowing.

Morocco would not have been on many people’s predictions of the final 4, and to me at least they were there on merit.

Saudi Arabia…who most people in Scotland would Have not been surprised to see them go home pointless, beat Argentina…similarly unfancied Australia only lost two games…one to France and one to Argentina…the eventual finalists.

I guess it depends on an individual’s viewpoint as to whether this means that the ‘established’ nations are rank rotten, or whether the emerging nations are rapidly catching up with them.

The answer I suggest, lies somewhere in the middle.


I agree that it's somewhere in the middle, but you also have the surprise packages at every world cup. There's usually a few outliers, ie, 2010, it was blatantly obvious to everyone that Spain were gonna run away with it. Nobody was even close to them. Germany were miles ahead as the best team in 2014 throughout the tournament, or at least if felt like it. The 2006 one, Italy and France were also very, very good. This world cup it feels like France have almost stumbled their way to the final, despite the results maybe not backing that up. There just doesn't seem to be any really, really strong team's.

I think we will see an African winner in my lifetime as well. The strides the African nations have made in 10 years is mental, I don't think we will ever see an Asian team win it, at least not in my life, but then all the big guys have been really off this year. Even if we account for other nations catching up.

[Forza Fred]

I agree that it's somewhere in the middle, but you also have the surprise packages at every world cup. There's usually a few outliers, ie, 2010, it was blatantly obvious to everyone that Spain were gonna run away with it. Nobody was even close to them. Germany were miles ahead as the best team in 2014 throughout the tournament, or at least if felt like it. The 2006 one, Italy and France were also very, very good. This world cup it feels like France have almost stumbled their way to the final, despite the results maybe not backing that up. There just doesn't seem to be any really, really strong team's.

I think we will see an African winner in my lifetime as well. The strides the African nations have made in 10 years is mental, I don't think we will ever see an Asian team win it, at least not in my life, but then all the big guys have been really off this year. Even if we account for other nations catching up.

I’d never say never, when it comes to Asia.

Certainly not in my lifetime, but on sheer population alone….and with the amount of money being thrown at the game there, I wouldn’t write them off

Most people in Scotland are not very much up on The Asian leagues…and that’s not a criticism….as there are not many people in Dunedoo who are aware of the delights of the SPFL either..

[cameronw-hfc]

I’d never say never, when it comes to Asia.

Certainly not in my lifetime, but on sheer population alone….and with the amount of money being thrown at the game there, I wouldn’t write them off

Most people in Scotland are not very much up on The Asian leagues…and that’s not a criticism….as there are not many people in Dunedoo who are aware of the delights of the SPFL either..

In fairness I'm a bit of a football geek in that sense, and whilst the Asian leagues are doing better, they're nowhere near it yet. Some cracking players in Japan and Korea specifically, but not enough yet. China looked like it was going in a good direction growth-wise, but that's gone down the drain in the last 3/4 years.

If anyone's got a chance it'll be Japan or Korea I imagine. Two very decent team's, just think they've a long, long way to go and a lot needs to go right for them as well.

Truly think in the next 20/30 years we will have at least one African champion.

[Hibbyradge]

How come they didn’t talk about Wales or review their tournament as well. It’s not the end of the world, but little things like that which are annoying.

Wales didn't go out yesterday.

Most of their viewers are English.

[HoboHarry]

Watching highlights here and Kate Abdo is wearing thigh height leather boots while Mo Adu (ex-Rangers) and Stu Holden are wearing white trainers with pink and orange laces as well as trousers that are too short. Honestly don't know if they are fashion disasters or I'm just an outdated old khant :faf::faf:

[J-C]

I just think it’s a little poor to spend most of half time in semi final when England are out of the tournament talking about England. They could have at least mentioned Wales and probably the last tournament for their golden generation.

As I say, not the end of the world but a bit more awareness there’s a bigger world out there than England, especially as they weren’t the only home nation at the tournament, wouldn’t go amiss.

Just like how BBC Scotland spend most of their time talking about Rangers and Celtic, cater to the bigger audience.

[hibsbollah]

I'm glad England didn't go through but tbh like it or not I thought they were the better team against France, who for me are heavily reliant on 2 players, Mbappe and Griezman, and for me the latter is the most important player for them in terms of his contribution in virtually every area of the park. Mbappe is a fast, skillful player with great technical ability but not a defensive player in any way. Today we saw Griezman all over the pitch, in defence, controlling midfield, and up front. The only player I could really compare him with would have been Modrij when he was younger. I think France are a good team, but not a brilliant one, and that probably applies to Argentina as well. Morocco matched France in virtually every area of the pitch, and in the 2nd half anyway put them under real pressure. But the difference was finishing again, a skill in itself, as England, and now Morocco are paying the price for.

It needs to be remembered that Griezmann wasn’t considered an automatic starter before the tournament, and has been fine for Atleti but not the superstar he thought he was when he moved to Barca and was MOTM in the last World Cup final. Frances whole midfield has had to be rebuilt with no Pogba and Ngolo swearfilter, and they’re missing key defenders. Missing Benzema. Rabiot is no great shakes but has been just doing the dirty stuff to allow Mbappe to run in front of him, and Tchoumeni has been excellent in the Ngolo role.

So if you factor in the injuries and how some of the forgotten veterans like Giroud and Griezmann have done I’d say they are the least dependent team on two players I can think of. They have ridiculous strength in depth because they have so much world class talent.

Saying that, I have no idea if they can On remet ça…Literally nothing between the two teams for me.

[Since452]

Best WC since France 98 for me. Been brilliant entertainment and my reservations about it being at this time of year have been blown away. Really enjoyed it. Distracted from some of the doom and gloom all over the news at the moment.

[hibsbollah]

Best WC since France 98 for me. Been brilliant entertainment and my reservations about it being at this time of year have been blown away. Really enjoyed it. Distracted from some of the doom and gloom all over the news at the moment.

:agree: Although I think this WC might even had had more instant classic games than 98, what a world cup that was, even the quarter finals, the Brazil-Denmark and Holland-Argentina games live long in the memory.

1998 FIFA World Cup France™ (https://www.fifa.com/tournaments/mens/worldcup/1998france)

I looked at the news headlines earlier and your point rings true, I felt exactly the same. Sometimes being an obsessive follower of news isnt great for the old mental health. Being able to lose yourself in international football has been a welcome relief.

[JimBHibees]

Wales didn't go out yesterday.

Most of their viewers are English.

It is meant to be the BBC though.

[Since452]

:agree: Although I think this WC might even had had more instant classic games than 98, what a world cup that was, even the quarter finals, the Brazil-Denmark and Holland-Argentina games live long in the memory.

1998 FIFA World Cup France™ (https://www.fifa.com/tournaments/mens/worldcup/1998france)

I looked at the news headlines earlier and your point rings true, I felt exactly the same. Sometimes being an obsessive follower of news isnt great for the old mental health. Being able to lose yourself in international football has been a welcome relief.
:top marks

[StirlingHibee]

Best WC since France 98 for me. Been brilliant entertainment and my reservations about it being at this time of year have been blown away. Really enjoyed it. Distracted from some of the doom and gloom all over the news at the moment.

Agree. The concerns over high temperatures have never really materialized (I believe the conditions were more of an issue in 1982 (Spain) and 1986 (Mexico). For me also it has been a welcome distraction from the woes of the world (Football for me has that ability - although that doom and gloom may return this evening at Ibrox).

[MWHIBBIES]

I agree that it's somewhere in the middle, but you also have the surprise packages at every world cup. There's usually a few outliers, ie, 2010, it was blatantly obvious to everyone that Spain were gonna run away with it. Nobody was even close to them. Germany were miles ahead as the best team in 2014 throughout the tournament, or at least if felt like it. The 2006 one, Italy and France were also very, very good. This world cup it feels like France have almost stumbled their way to the final, despite the results maybe not backing that up. There just doesn't seem to be any really, really strong team's.

I think we will see an African winner in my lifetime as well. The strides the African nations have made in 10 years is mental, I don't think we will ever see an Asian team win it, at least not in my life, but then all the big guys have been really off this year. Even if we account for other nations catching up.

Italy struggled past Australia in 2006, Germany struggled past France and Algeria in 2014, Higuain should've won the final for Argentina. Don't think Spain ran away with it in 2010. Very lucky not to lose the final actually, Robben had the best chance, although they were certainly the best side (absolutely tedious as well). Germany were very good in 2006 and 2010, could've won them both with a bit of fortune.

Think you definitely need some fortune in world cups. In other cup competitions you get 2nd legs and replays to put bad performances right. The world cup is brutal.

[blackpoolhibs]

I see it differently.

While there is a perception…especially in Europe…that what are considered ‘established ‘ sides will continue to dominate, I think that ignores the possibility that other nations are not that far away and the ‘divide’ is narrowing.

Morocco would not have been on many people’s predictions of the final 4, and to me at least they were there on merit.

Saudi Arabia…who most people in Scotland would Have not been surprised to see them go home pointless, beat Argentina…similarly unfancied Australia only lost two games…one to France and one to Argentina…the eventual finalists.

I guess it depends on an individual’s viewpoint as to whether this means that the ‘established’ nations are rank rotten, or whether the emerging nations are rapidly catching up with them.

The answer I suggest, lies somewhere in the middle.


I agree with that Fred, and i'd also throw in people are watching better sides in the Champions league, and the standard of the world cup is in my opinion a level down to that.

Might be a bit of folk comparing the likes of PSG, Liverpool, Hibs, Man City and Real Madrid who in all probability would beat Sundays Finalists.

[hibsbollah]

I agree with that Fred, and i'd also throw in people are watching better sides in the Champions league, and the standard of the world cup is in my opinion a level down to that.

Might be a bit of folk comparing the likes of PSG, Liverpool, Hibs, Man City and Real Madrid who in all probability would beat Sundays Finalists.

Hibs :faf:

[blackpoolhibs]

Hibs :faf:
:greengrin

[hibsbollah]

I liked Brazil 2014 as well. Some big shocks, Chile and Colombia separately playing some of the best football I’ve seen at any World Cup, and a certain 1-7 game…

https://youtu.be/Q3VEn6wcDx4

[Up-the-slope]

I know as the tournament has progressed the ire about rights and legalities around how hosting was won and by whom and all the issues around migrant workers / environmental impacts etc have subsided....

BUT cant help feeling a bit uneasy that the final will all be about Mbappe & Messi who both play for Qatari owned PSG as they are showcased by the state that bought the World Cup hosting and will have them - their employees - as chief cheerleaders..

It seems money can really buy anything - and its a further nail in the coffin of 'the sport of the people'

on different but similar

Anyone who thinks FIFA / UEFA corruption / European Super League moves are not going to continue are naïve. Its now also getting close in EPL to the number of American owners who could be a block that brings in any change they want - think Franchise / no relegation / TV being even more prominent etc ...

Having just depressed myself Im off for dinner and then hoping Hibs can lift my mood :rolleyes:

[Hibbyradge]

It is meant to be the BBC though.

Yes, and they cater to a British audience.

England are a British team.

85% of the audience, if not more, would have been interested in the England discussion.

However, if Scotland had been in the QF and lost to France, I'm certain that exactly the same post mortem would have occurred.

We weren't and neither were Wales or N Ireland hence no discussion.

[Sir David Gray]

Yes, and they cater to a British audience.

England are a British team.

85% of the audience, if not more, would have been interested in the England discussion.

However, if Scotland had been in the QF and lost to France, I'm certain that exactly the same post mortem would have occurred.

We weren't and neither were Wales or N Ireland hence no discussion.

Was there the same level of discussion during half time of the BBC's first match after Wales went out?

Genuinely unsure.

[Nakedmanoncrack]

Was there the same level of discussion during half time of the BBC's first match after Wales went out?

Genuinely unsure.

Of course not, Great Britain/UK/England are interchangeable in a way that no other'partner' in this union will ever be.

[ekhibee]

It needs to be remembered that Griezmann wasn’t considered an automatic starter before the tournament, and has been fine for Atleti but not the superstar he thought he was when he moved to Barca and was MOTM in the last World Cup final. Frances whole midfield has had to be rebuilt with no Pogba and Ngolo swearfilter, and they’re missing key defenders. Missing Benzema. Rabiot is no great shakes but has been just doing the dirty stuff to allow Mbappe to run in front of him, and Tchoumeni has been excellent in the Ngolo role.

So if you factor in the injuries and how some of the forgotten veterans like Giroud and Griezmann have done I’d say they are the least dependent team on two players I can think of. They have ridiculous strength in depth because they have so much world class talent.

Saying that, I have no idea if they can On remet ça…Literally nothing between the two teams for me.

Obviously it's all about opinions, we can only go on the team that's been playing in this World Cup, there's lots of teams in this tournament that are missing important and significant players, not just France. It would be easy to say the French team that included the players you mentioned were the team that were deservedly beaten by Switzerland in the Euros, but Benzema was a big loss to them in this tournament, and there must be a possibility that he won't play in another World Cup. For me they're a bit lopsided at the moment, and they looked a better team when Thuram came on and Mbappe moved into the middle, but for me they're in the final more because other teams didn't finish well, not because they've been devastatingly good. They could still win it in my opinion, but they'll have to improve on their last 2 performances to do it. Nothing to say they can't mind you.

[CropleyWasGod]

Trivia question. Shoot me if it's been asked already.

2 clubs have had a player in every final since 1982. There's a good chance that will continue on Sunday.

Who are they?

[oneone73]

Trivia question. Shoot me if it's been asked already.

2 clubs have had a player in every final since 1982. There's a good chance that will continue on Sunday.

Who are they?

It must be Celtic and Rangers.
Yours, the Scottish media.

[Haymaker]

Trivia question. Shoot me if it's been asked already.

2 clubs have had a player in every final since 1982. There's a good chance that will continue on Sunday.

Who are they?

Bayern Munich and I think Inter Milan?

[CropleyWasGod]

Bayern Munich and I think Inter Milan?

Yep.

Aiui, the usual line-ups will maintain Inter's run. For Bayern, either Coman or Pavard? will need to come on.

[hibsbollah]

Trivia question. Shoot me if it's been asked already.

2 clubs have had a player in every final since 1982. There's a good chance that will continue on Sunday.

Who are they?

Also, which club team is most represented in the squads of the two finalists?

[Hiber-nation]

Also, which club team is most represented in the squads of the two finalists?

Got to be Atletico.

[Haymaker]

Yep.

Aiui, the usual line-ups will maintain Inter's run. For Bayern, either Coman or Pavard? will need to come on.

Upamecano will surely start for France?

Impressive though that those two teams will be represented. I think Bayerns goes back to the 60s as well.

[hibsbollah]

Got to be Atletico.

Wrong.


It’s Hearts :greengrin


No, you’re correct, it’s Atleti. Quite a collection of Argies down there as well as Griezmann.

[CropleyWasGod]

Upamecano will surely start for France?

Impressive though that those two teams will be represented. I think Bayerns goes back to the 60s as well.

Forgot about him.

Especially after Lee Dixon kept telling us how bad he was.

[HoboHarry]

It must be Celtic and Rangers.
Yours, the Scottish media.

:greengrin

[theonlywayisup]

Just read that England can still win the 2022 World Cup.

All it needs is for Croatia and Morocco to both get four players sent off in today's third-place play-off the game, which would then be abandoned and deemed null and void. Then if the same happens in Sunday's final between France and Argentina, England due to receiving just one yellow card in the entire tournament, being the best disciplinary record out of all the quarter-finalists, would win the 2022 World cup.

Not a lot of people know that!

[Sir David Gray]

1-0 Croatia

[theonlywayisup]

Great goal

[Mr Grieves]

Some header that

[cabbageandribs1875]

after watching a few videos of the behaviour of Moroccon fans after games, including a group of them surrounding a French fan in his car having the temerity to fly the flag of his country, in France


c'mon Croatia

[JimBHibees]

What a goal that is brilliant

[Mr Grieves]

1-1 after 8 minutes

[cabbageandribs1875]

Boooo

[theonlywayisup]

Goalie should have stayed on his line for the Morocco goal.

Good game this.

[cabbageandribs1875]

bummer for Modric :(

[ronaldo7]

Very open match. They'll not be able to keep this up.

[Sir David Gray]

2-1 Croatia

[theonlywayisup]

Another great goal

[cabbageandribs1875]

nice

[Donegal Hibby]

Cracking goal by Croatia

[Donegal Hibby]

Got the feeling there's another goal in this game ( famous last words 🤣) good enough game as well

[SHODAN]

What's the ****ing point of VAR

[Sir David Gray]

Stonewall penalty for Croatia not given.

Please scrap VAR now.

[cabbageandribs1875]

quite astonishing

[Bobby's Cinema]

VAR awful. That's a stonewaller.
Just bizarre, If the ref gives that on the field at the time there's no way it gets overturned.

[JimBHibees]

Definite penalty imo

[EGL2000]

Won't see a more clear penalty than that.

[Donegal Hibby]

Definite penalty imo
Stonewall penalty, did VAR not even look at it ?

[Sir David Gray]

Stonewall penalty, did VAR not even look at it ?

My understanding is that VAR looks at everything but the on field referee didn't stop the game to look at it, no.

[Donegal Hibby]

My understanding is that VAR looks at everything but the on field referee didn't stop the game to look at it, no.
Crazy stuff in that case .

[Bobby's Cinema]

Treatment of the ref from Morocco has been really poor. More needs done on that.

[SaulGoodman]

Morocco bad losers

[Sir David Gray]

Really poor behaviour from some of the Moroccan players towards the referee at full time.

Real shame for their World Cup to end on a sour note.

[cabbageandribs1875]

Moroccan coach maybe thinks he can get the result overturned on appeal


players are acting like their fans do

[SaulGoodman]

The 3rd place games always confuse me. They run on the pitch at the end and start jumping about and celebrating.. yet if they got to the final and finished second they would be gutted.

[Donegal Hibby]

Can't put your hands on the referee like that and crowd around him , disgraceful stuff from the Morocco team!

[Glory Lurker]

Ref should have been dishing out reds there. Players behave badly enough as it is and get away with it. Hands on the ref can't be tolerated or the game's burst.

[Sir David Gray]

Ref should have been dishing out reds there. Players behave badly enough as it is and get away with it. Hands on the ref can't be tolerated or the game's burst.

He seemed to be laughing about it, I agree a couple of them should have been sent off.

[Donegal Hibby]

Ref should have been dishing out reds there. Players behave badly enough as it is and get away with it. Hands on the ref can't be tolerated or the game's burst.
I agree totally shocked by referee who was so claim and laid back about it . Delighted for Modric btw one of the worlds greats🇭🇷🇭🇷

[Trinity Hibee]

How does a country as small as Croatia (3.9m approx) become runners up once and 3rd place twice in 25 years? Impressive achievement for such a small country that has had very serious issues in the recent past.

[Donegal Hibby]

How does a country as small as Croatia (3.9m approx) become runners up once and 3rd place twice in 25 years? Impressive achievement for such a small country that has had very serious issues in the recent past.
I was recently told on here it's because they've banned PlayStation's and Xbox's 😂

[Lago]

He seemed to be laughing about it, I agree a couple of them should have been sent off.
I'm still trying to work out why they are so upset, they got away with a blatant penalty so what's their beef?

[Stairway 2 7]

Some of the funniest moments from the finals. Sad its over and back to hibs..

https://mobile.twitter.com/ufcfooty/status/1604411597237022720

[hibsbollah]

I was also reminded that the last time they played at the WC was that 4-3 when Pavard lashed in the goal of the tournament. I’d take another game like that :greengrin

https://youtu.be/Ov39iGAgEn4

[Donegal Hibby]

Polish referee " szymon marciviak " will take charge of the world cup final , from what I've read it's the first time someone from Poland has taken charge of a world cup final . Another bit of history made !

[StirlingHibee]

Almost time - heart wants Argentine but head says France!

[Donegal Hibby]

Almost time - heart wants Argentine but head says France!
Much the same here , think France will win it but would absolutely love to see Messi lift the trophy it would be a fitting end for him and the world cup 🇦🇷🇦🇷

[Key West]

Similar to other posters my head says France my heart Argentina.

[Sir David Gray]

I have Argentina in the sweepstake so hoping they can do it.

[SHODAN]

I was recently told on here it's because they've banned PlayStation's and Xbox's 😂

Taken down all the No Ball Games signs and uninstalled the TikToks etc.

[Paul1642]

World Cup final kicks off in 80 minutes. BBC sport top headline - “Southgate to remain an England manager”

[CropleyWasGod]

Why are the BBC team wearing black?

[SteveHFC]

BBC not showing the closing ceremony.

[CL0762]

Do it for the wee man 🇦🇷🇦🇷🇦🇷

[SteveHFC]

Neville 👏🏻

[cabbageandribs1875]

not bothered who wins it but i'd like the Argentines to win for the huge amount of fans they have there

think France will win it though

[marinello59]

This should be a classic. I’ve thought France would win the whole thing since their first game, I still can’t see past them. So put your cash on Argentina. :greengrin

[Scorrie]

Great from Gary Neville. Putting the boot right in the UK government over low pay 👍

[Glory Lurker]

Mon then, France. Dae it.

[PHeffernan]

Great from Gary Neville. Putting the boot right in the UK government over low pay 👍

A rich guy criticising rings hollow.

[hibsbollah]

A rich guy criticising rings hollow.

No it doesn’t. Successful people can also believe in fairness.

[Donegal Hibby]

Cmon Argentina 🇦🇷🇦🇷🇦🇷

[marinello59]

France still to get going.

[Alfred E Newman]

not bothered who wins it but i'd like the Argentines to win for the huge amount of fans they have there

think France will win it though

Does the same go for the Hearts? :greengrin

[Sir David Gray]

France have been garbage so far.

[NORTHERNHIBBY]

An iffy penalty award

[Pretty Boy]

Well deserved lead from Argentina.

France look so sluggish. Admittedly Argentina have been so sharp it must be hard for anyone to get going against them.

[Sir David Gray]

Penalty Argentina.

[GlesgaeHibby]

Di Maria diving to win a penalty. What is the point of VAR

[Sir David Gray]

1-0 Argentina, Messi penalty.

[HendoDelivered]

The Goat scores

[Donegal Hibby]

Penalty for me , clipped his heels , yasss Messi 👏

[marinello59]

A soft penalty for me but Argentina deserve to be in the lead.

[Colr]

One of these days, I’ll do a count on how many times the commentators mention bloody England in games which have absolutely nothing to do with England.

Double points when they mention 1966!

[Chorley Hibee]

As much as I love Messi, he doesn't half get awarded some soft decisions in his favour.

Never a penalty either.

[Jim44]

After the penalty, France’s odds jumped to 7/1 but the site crashed and you can’t get a bet. This happens now and again with them.

[Pretty Boy]

A soft boiled egg is still a boiled egg.

Dembele is having an absolute nightmare. Miles off it.

[Lago]

Di Maria diving to win a penalty. What is the point of VAR
Soft penalty yes, penalty yes

[J-C]

Argentina playing well and deserve their lead, slightly soft penalty but still one nonetheless.

[Donegal Hibby]

Lovely football from Argentina it's a joy to watch 😃

[Mon Dieu4]

Magnificent goal

[Sir David Gray]

"Defensive line breaks".

Didn't realise I was watching the Superbowl!

[Pretty Boy]

What. A. Goal.

Game over.

[SteveHFC]

:thumbsup:

[cabbageandribs1875]

Game

[J-C]

2-0 cracking goal, theirs to lose.

[Lago]

England would have given Argentina a better game than France are.

What a goal for number 2

[NORTHERNHIBBY]

Great goal.

[seanshow]

The game would have been gubbed if the world cup had been won by a penalty for a touch on the arm.

He tries the old kick your own heel with your toe and the ref buys it.

Nice sweeping move for the 2nd tbf :)

[hibsbollah]

Wonderful five pass move. Amazing goal.

[easty]

World Cup final…and that Tchoumeni was running at about 60% to track back there. He should’ve been blowing oot his arse to try to get back.

[Sir David Gray]

2-0 game over.

[Callum_62]

Beautiful 2nd goal there for Argentina

Brilliant team goal

Bossing the game, France look lethargic

The titanic effort against England must've took it out of them [emoji23][emoji57]

Sent from my VOG-L29 using Tapatalk

[easty]

England would have given Argentina a better game than France are.

What a goal for number 2

So would Scotland

[CL0762]

That is counter attacking football at its finest. 4 passes then boom

[flash]

Fantastic goal that one.

[Donegal Hibby]

Fantastic goal :top marks

[wookie70]

Great move. Was he lucky with the finish. Hits it into the ground and bounces over the keeper. Brilliant passing in the lead up

[SteveHFC]

Giroud off.

Dembele is a overrated player.

[Pretty Boy]

Dembele subbed off about 40 minutes and 50 seconds after he checked himself out.

[marinello59]

France really aren’t at the races. That’s a huge substitution. It looks like illness has ruined the final.

[Sir David Gray]

Double change for France.

[Lago]

So would Scotland
Bit of a stretch but, we can but dream

[Donegal Hibby]

Bit of a stretch but, we can but dream
Was going to to say Ireland too. 😂

[Lago]

Was going to to say Ireland too. 😂
Now we're into fantasy 😊

[Since452]

France really disappointing. Wouldn't want the Argies to win a coin toss though.

[Donegal Hibby]

If France had played like this in the semi Morocco would have beaten them possibly!

[SteveHFC]

https://www.pieandbovril.com/forum/uploads/monthly_2022_12/20221218_154936.thumb.jpg.350e809000377514238f144d 2fe865c9.jpg

[hibsbollah]

Outrageous cheating Fernandez

[Stairway 2 7]

Argentina also making France play like they are. The close control and first touch is as good as you will ever see. From centre backs all the way up great control then passing all at a fast pace, how do you play against that

[easty]

France need to change something in centre mid. Rabiot and Tchoumeni sitting doing nowt in there.

[Trinity Hibee]

Outrageous cheating Fernandez

How can this stuff be stopped? Infuriating to watch wee tw@ts like that rolling about on the ground.

[Scottie]

******g hate the Argies. Whining bunch of cheating bassa’s :giruy2:

[NORTHERNHIBBY]

Hopefully France can score early into the second half and make a game of it.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Outstanding half from Argentina.

If people thought Maradona single handedly won a World Cup (which is ridiculous) then I’d love to see what they think Messi has done here.

More goals, more assists, more match winning goals if it stays France 0 and a goal in the final that Maradona never got.

[Glory Lurker]

This is like watching Hibs.

I can't see what France can do about it. Really disappointing.

[Onion]

Argentina playing with freedom and belief - astonishing performance for a World Cup final. France been abysmal and forgotten what they are playing for. Messi = sensational.

[hibsbollah]

France need to change something in centre mid. Rabiot and Tchoumeni sitting doing nowt in there.

Agree. Looks like a boring straight swap with the two changes already made. I’d give them the flanks and bring Camavinga on for Tchoumeni and move him up with Griezmann.

[MWHIBBIES]

Messi first player to score in all 4 knockout matches at a world cup

[BroxburnHibee]

Messi first player to score in all 4 knockout matches at a world cup

If he wins then he's the greatest ever imo...

[MWHIBBIES]

If he wins then he's the greatest ever imo...

Also if he loses.

[Paulie Walnuts]

If he wins then he's the greatest ever imo...

He’s that regardless imo, and by a distance.

If he wins though then I’m not sure what argument could even be put forward any more, other than that Maradona got kicked sometimes (as if Messi doesn’t).

[supermcginn]

If he wins then he's the greatest ever imo...

He's the greatest even if they lose 5 2 here. Incredible player I feel very privileged to have watched.

[Jim44]

A lot of folk here are disappointed at the (so far) walk over by Argentina. I’ve no love for them but you have to bow to good football and the negation of France, who haven’t turned up and have completely bottled it.

[cameronw-hfc]

We will never see another statistical anomaly quite like wee Leo ever again. Messi doesn't owe football a world cup, football owes him one.

[Northernhibee]

I want Argentina to win this, but a France goal makes this a lot more exciting.

[SteveHFC]

He's the greatest even if they lose 5 2 here. Incredible player I feel very privileged to have watched.

At least we’ve all seen him play against us.

[Paulie Walnuts]

At least we’ve all seen him play against us.

A game I decided not to go to as I had football training. Pre season of all training.

What the **** was I thinking.

[Northernhibee]

So many empty seats. Doesn’t feel like a world Cup final.

[Sir David Gray]

So many empty seats. Doesn’t feel like a world Cup final.

Shocking.

[SteveHFC]

A game I decided not to go to as I had football training. Pre season of all training.

What the **** was I thinking.

Still got the programme 👍🏻

[easty]

Why are there so many empty seats?

[Lago]

Wonder if Villa will be able to hold onto Martinez, had an excellent W. C.

[cameronw-hfc]

Wonder if Villa will be able to hold onto Martinez, had an excellent W. C.

Of course players say this all the time, but after the Copa America Atletico tried to sign him and he came back and gave an interview saying he's going nowhere and wants to repay the faith Villa showed him. He does interviews talking about finishing his career at Villa, so it's looking good. If a huge bid comes in though, you never know.

Edit- he even went and signed a new 5 year deal until 2027 to squash the rumours. Seems to be more interested in showing loyalty at the moment. If Villa don't keep improving I can see that changing in the next few years though.

[Lago]

Of course players say this all the time, but after the Copa America Atletico tried to sign him and he came back and gave an interview saying he's going nowhere and wants to repay the faith Villa showed him. He does interviews talking about finishing his career at Villa, so it's looking good. If a huge bid comes in though, you never know.
Nice to know 👍

[Donegal Hibby]

Why are there so many empty seats?
It's a strange one ! Happened in a few of the games directly after half time maybe they have all passed out paying for half time snacks and drinks 😂

[Pretty Boy]

Messi standing with the World Cup aloft is my generations Maradona or Pele.

Genuinely can't wait to see it, it will be a proper iconic moment that will be shown for decades to come.

[HH81]

We will never see another statistical anomaly quite like wee Leo ever again. Messi doesn't owe football a world cup, football owes him one.

Load of crap. You win what you deserve in football.

[cameronw-hfc]

Load of crap. You win what you deserve in football.

You must be fun at parties

[Aldo]

Every single time there’s the slightest of touches the Argentinians go down screaming like they’ve been hammered!

[Sir David Gray]

A game I decided not to go to as I had football training. Pre season of all training.

What the **** was I thinking.

I didn't go either as I was annoyed at it being at Murrayfield instead of Easter Road.

[Lago]

You must be fun at parties
😂

[Stairway 2 7]

Wonder if Villa will be able to hold onto Martinez, had an excellent W. C.

First player to play for Oxford or Rotherham to win the world cup?

[hibsbollah]

Every single time there’s the slightest of touches the Argentinians go down screaming like they’ve been hammered!

Yep. De Paul has been properly hacked twice in the last minute but you just assume he’s faking it because of all the other histrionics.

[HH81]

You must be fun at parties

I wasn't wrong though.