The world cup thread

[Aldo]

Cameroonian players ball watching and just jogging back. Swiss player had no one near him as he crossed!


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[easty]

I keep having the same overriding thought with a lot of games in the World Cup so far. JUST ****ING HIT IT!

Switzerland had 3 chances to take a shot there. Everyone wanting to pass sideways.

[Pretty Boy]

Switzerland had 3 chances to take a shot there. Everyone wanting to pass sideways.

It's ingrained in to so many players now to be risk averse because there is so much emphasis on stats that just weren't a concern even a decade ago.

I posted before that I know an ex Hearts player who was looking for a move (from his team after Hearts). He was quite open that the 1st thing he did was stop taking any risks with his passing or shooting. Everything was 5 yards sideways because he knew the 1st thing potential suitors would look at for a midfielder was pass completion stats and if it was below a certain percentage they would dismiss him out of hand. It wouldn't be the overriding factor on whether any team would sign him but without that stat being at the right level teams wouldn't even look at him. He was quite open about the fact it made him a less effective player for his team but he didn't care, all he wanted was the move.

Obviously that isn't why a Swiss player hasn't taken a shot today but if it's drummed into players taken into a pro set up at 8, 9 or 10 year old that their 'stats have to be right' then subconsciously it is going to impact how they play.

[hibsbollah]

What’s wrong with toblerone?

Cameroon been the better side so far, I expected a little more from the Swiss.

Changed the recipe so the chocolate was poorer and made it smaller to boot and changed the shape of the ‘alps’. Ruined it for me.

[Paulie Walnuts]

It's ingrained in to so many players now to be risk averse because there is so much emphasis on stats that just weren't a concern even a decade ago.

I posted before that I know an ex Hearts player who was looking for a move (from his team after Hearts). He was quite open that the 1st thing he did was stop taking any risks with his passing or shooting. Everything was 5 yards sideways because he knew the 1st thing potential suitors would look at for a midfielder was pass completion stats and if it was below a certain percentage they would dismiss him out of hand. It wouldn't be the overriding factor on whether any team would sign him but without that stat being at the right level teams wouldn't even look at him. He was quite open about the fact it made him a less effective player for his team but he didn't care, all he wanted was the move.

Obviously that isn't why a Swiss player hasn't taken a shot today but if it's drummed into players taken into a pro set up at 8, 9 or 10 year old that their 'stats have to be right' then subconsciously it is going to impact how they play.

:agree:

It’s like the xG stat. It gets brought out alot nowadays to counter the idea that a team (usually Hibs) were crap because our xG says so when everyone can see with their own eyes and their experience of watching football tells them that a team has been crap regardless of xG stats. Aberdeen game at Pittodrie being a prime example where we were soundly beaten but our xG apparently said we were the significantly better team.

The same thing applies here. Yes, there’ll be some players who have high pass completion because they’re playing really well. But there’ll be other players who are still playing well with lower pass completion rates than others because they take risks (Scott Allan as an example). We can all see with our own eyes how good a player he was but his stats would probably lead to him being considered a poorer player than someone like Joe Newell or JDH which is laughable really.

Stats are ruining the game to an extent when it’s getting to the stage players are giving up trying to do anything note worthy in favour of padding out their stats as they’ll not even be looked at if they don’t do that.

[HUTCHYHIBBY]

:agree:

It’s like the xG stat. It gets brought out alot nowadays to counter the idea that a team (usually Hibs) were crap because our xG says so when everyone can see with their own eyes and their experience of watching football tells them that a team has been crap regardless of xG stats. Aberdeen game at Pittodrie being a prime example.

The same thing applies here. Yes, there’ll be some players who have high pass completion because they’re playing really well. But there’ll be other players who are still playing well with lower pass completion rates than others because they take risks (Scott Allan as an example). We can all see with our own eyes how good a player he was but his stats would probably lead to him being considered a poorer player than someone like Joe Newell which is laughable really.

Stats are ruining the game to an extent.

Hard to disagree with any of that.

[Gatecrasher]

6 minutes stoppage time, no VAR, no major injuries and a few subs, why?

[easty]

Anguissa for Cameroon has walked about the pitch this whole game. I’m no sure he’s moved quicker than a slight jog all day.

[JeMeSouviens]

Changed the recipe so the chocolate was poorer and made it smaller to boot and changed the shape of the ‘alps’. Ruined it for me.

When Mondelez/Kraft bought Toblerone's maker Jacob Suchard. It's creme eggs all over again. :rolleyes:

Anyway

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRnqyEmL8YZKPsO40CCf7uO3nrKD_0UE iRd1qvn4AQ1&s

:aok:

[Pretty Boy]

:agree:

It’s like the xG stat. It gets brought out alot nowadays to counter the idea that a team (usually Hibs) were crap because our xG says so when everyone can see with their own eyes and their experience of watching football tells them that a team has been crap regardless of xG stats. Aberdeen game at Pittodrie being a prime example where we were soundly beaten but our xG apparently said we were the significantly better team.

The same thing applies here. Yes, there’ll be some players who have high pass completion because they’re playing really well. But there’ll be other players who are still playing well with lower pass completion rates than others because they take risks (Scott Allan as an example). We can all see with our own eyes how good a player he was but his stats would probably lead to him being considered a poorer player than someone like Joe Newell or JDH which is laughable really.

Stats are ruining the game to an extent when it’s getting to the stage players are giving up trying to do anything more worthy in favour of padding out their stats as they’ll not even be looked at if they don’t do that.

It's probably for a whole other thread really but I agree to an extent.

I think stats have their place, particularly when it comes to things like perceived effort in training. Quite often someone will feel like they are working at max effort but physiological data suggests otherwise, likewise a player can think he is running at an easy pace but in actuality their heart rate is elevated further than is ideal. That probably transfers to things like distance covered in a game, players who don't play or are are late subs often go out running after a game to make up the distance those who played 90 minutes covered to keep a uniformity of base fitness.

I think sometimes you just have to trust your own eyes though. Everyone watching the St Johnstone game could see Kyle Magennis was an accident waiting to happen as he visibly tired but because the in game data suggested that wasn't the case he remained on the park and we faced the consequences. Things like xG can be useful but I don't care what a stat line tells me; we were utterly toothless against Aberdeen and 1 goal was a fair reflection of what we actually created regardless of whether our Xg was actually 3.6585.

It's one of those situations where something that should have been a useful tool to assist has become one of the dominant drivers in how both decisions are made and games are assessed.

[hibee]

Five live have the worst commentator/best pundit double act on for the Swiss game, Vikki Sparks and Pat Nevin.

Andros Townsend said on ITV that the whole of the UK are feeling positive after beating Iran 6-2, when the commentator picked him up on it he corrected it to England and said oh yeah I forgot the other two hate us!

[J-C]

Andros Townsend said on ITV that the whole of the UK are feeling positive after beating Iran 6-2, when the commentator picked him up on it he corrected it to England and said oh yeah I forgot the other two hate us!

Haha he gets it.🤣

[eastterrace]

One thing you can say that Uruguay ain’t winning this World Cup. They are brutal to watch. Everything is so slow pass side ways.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Andros Townsend said on ITV that the whole of the UK are feeling positive after beating Iran 6-2, when the commentator picked him up on it he corrected it to England and said oh yeah I forgot the other two hate us!

The other 2? There’s 3. What a clown.

[SteveHFC]

That montage to the 1994 World Cup with Oasis in the background. :not worth

[Since452]

It's ingrained in to so many players now to be risk averse because there is so much emphasis on stats that just weren't a concern even a decade ago.

I posted before that I know an ex Hearts player who was looking for a move (from his team after Hearts). He was quite open that the 1st thing he did was stop taking any risks with his passing or shooting. Everything was 5 yards sideways because he knew the 1st thing potential suitors would look at for a midfielder was pass completion stats and if it was below a certain percentage they would dismiss him out of hand. It wouldn't be the overriding factor on whether any team would sign him but without that stat being at the right level teams wouldn't even look at him. He was quite open about the fact it made him a less effective player for his team but he didn't care, all he wanted was the move.

Obviously that isn't why a Swiss player hasn't taken a shot today but if it's drummed into players taken into a pro set up at 8, 9 or 10 year old that their 'stats have to be right' then subconsciously it is going to impact how they play.

It shows that stats don't tell the whole story. I'd rather players took risks than play it safe.

[Bobby's Cinema]

not much entertainment so far today. hoping for a good game here

[Haymaker]

It shows that stats don't tell the whole story. I'd rather players took risks than play it safe.

Stats tell you whatever you want them to tell you in my experience. The only one that matters is how many goals did you score and how many did they. :agree:

[Since452]

Hopefully Ronaldo shows why he's the greatest player that's ever lived. Talking on the park please.

[number9dream]

One thing you can say that Uruguay ain’t winning this World Cup. They are brutal to watch. Everything is so slow pass side ways.

So disappointing. Expected a lot more. Well, I certainly didn’t expect Nunez wide left and Valverde in the Doyle-Hayes role. Suarez looks about as fit as Leigh Griffiths…

[CockneyRebel]

The other 2? There’s 3. What a clown.



Jeezo - do you constantly trawl the entire media until you shout "Aha I found another one"?

[Steve20]

Hopefully Ronaldo shows why he's the greatest player that's ever lived. Talking on the park please.

He’s not in the top 3 of the best that’s ever been.

[Sylar]

He’s not in the top 3 of the best that’s ever been.

Can we **** off with this (again), please?

[Jim44]

At the Renaldo disallowed goal, Roy Keane says the defender did really well to win the free kick. Fair enough, but here in Scotland, if it’s bad boys like Porteous, it’s seen as cheating. Funny old game.

[HH81]

Another poor game.

Boring.

[Aldo]

That’s a dive for me.

Threw himself down


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[Mon Dieu4]

Ronaldo is a prick on so many levels

[hibsbollah]

God I hope he misses this.

[HoboHarry]

That's a shocker of a decision.

[Aldo]

Ronaldo is a prick on so many levels

O yes. Why is this not being checked by VAR?

Cheat


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[Gatecrasher]

That’s a dive for me.

Threw himself down


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Dunno about a dive but don't think it was a pen either.

[hibsbollah]

Never a pen.

[Aldo]

Dunno about a dive but don't think it was a pen either.

The both get the ball and Ronaldo throws himself down. Cheat for me


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[Hibs Class]

O yes. Why is this not being checked by VAR?

Cheat


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Expected at least that the ref would have been advised to look at the screen, and if so he'd have reversed the decision

[eastterrace]

The baws burst if that’s a penalty, disgraceful. There was one last night ( can’t remember the game) but the guy was tripped in the box and VAR didn’t even look at it. They can stick VAR we’re the sun don’t shine.

[Gatecrasher]

The both get the ball and Ronaldo throws himself down. Cheat for me


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No argument here but there was contact between the two players, not a pen though.

[J-C]

Missed the 1st half, so can't comment on the 2 teams but that's a dive by Ronaldo to get that penalty, it's a contact sport FFS.

[Aldo]

No argument here but there was contact between the two players, not a pen though.

Definitely but not enough for him to throw himself down like that!


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[Mon Dieu4]

Yaaaas

[Aldo]

Ha ha ha. Super goal!


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[hibsbollah]

Those Ghana fans are superb.

[SteveHFC]

Another poor game.

Boring.

Not anymore. :greengrin

[HH81]

Not anymore. :greengrin

Glad they took my advice and got the finger out 😃

[Joe6-2]

Hopefully Ronaldo shows why he's the greatest player that's ever lived. Talking on the park please.

He didn’t talk, just dived

[easty]

I’m surprised Joao Felix is still on the park. He’s been crap.

[Aldo]

I’m surprised Joao Felix is still on the park. He’s been crap.

[emoji102][emoji848]


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[Mon Dieu4]

Booooooo

[HH81]

I’m surprised Joao Felix is still on the park. He’s been crap.

That's why ha.

[I'm_cabbaged]

I’m surprised Joao Felix is still on the park. He’s been crap.

Haha!!

[easty]

I’m surprised Joao Felix is still on the park. He’s been crap.

Obviously 😂

[I'm_cabbaged]

Obviously 😂

Going say something else. I’ve got Portugal-1 🤣

[Mon Dieu4]

Boooooo x2

[MWHIBBIES]

Another poor game.

Boring.

Dreadful indeed.

[HoboHarry]

The both get the ball and Ronaldo throws himself down. Cheat for me


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Great player or not, there's an example of why I won't miss seeing him once he's retired. Cheating khant. Oh and the referee and VAR clown should be on the first plane home.

[HH81]

Dreadful indeed.

Football changes fast 🙂

[Jones28]

Nice to see a referee actually get stuck in and intervene instead of the *****bags here who just peep their whistles until the handbags stop.

I’d have given Danilo a red card for that kind of play acting.

[Aldo]

Great player or not, there's an example of why I won't miss seeing him once he's retired. Cheating khant. Oh and the referee and VAR clown should be on the first plane home.

I cannot understand either why VAR didn’t look at it.

Quite a few Portuguese ego’s with a very similar mentality in the cheating stakes for me!


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[MWHIBBIES]

Great player or not, there's an example of why I won't miss seeing him once he's retired. Cheating khant. Oh and the referee and VAR clown should be on the first plane home.

Refs had a cracking game. VAR official let him down.

[Sir David Gray]

What's the goalie doing?

[Sir David Gray]

Portugal 3-2 Ghana full time.

[Aldo]

Portugal 3-2 Ghana full time.

Booo.

I’ve decided I want Portugal pumped in every game!


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[MWHIBBIES]

Poor Inaki. That is a heartbreaking slip.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Jeezo - do you constantly trawl the entire media until you shout "Aha I found another one"?

I’ve no idea when I’ve previously trawled the media.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Poor Inaki. That is a heartbreaking slip.

Would have loved them to have scored that and had a whole team Siu

[gbhibby]

The both get the ball and Ronaldo throws himself down. Cheat for me


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Must be Scottish refs doing the VAR😆

[hibsbollah]

Booo.

I’ve decided I want Portugal pumped in every game!


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Massively dislikeable team and always have been. Funny because I’ve always liked the country and the people, but their national team have always been *****

[MWHIBBIES]

Would have loved them to have scored that and had a whole team Siu

Would've been an all time world cup moment

[JohnM1875]

What a ****ing size Micah Richards is!! Man mountain. Or maybe everyone else with him are small.

[Up-the-slope]

What a ****ing size Micah Richards is!! Man mountain. Or maybe everyone else with him are small.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/av/football/63739156

he sure is....

[Up-the-slope]

im conflicted... not sure I want Brasil to do well.

Considering I was married in Brasil and after Scots have more Brasilian friends than any other nationality you would think it was a no brainer.

But ever since his antics against Scotland in one of his early games and just his general persona, that I find very unlikable, I cant abide Neymar

[I'm_cabbaged]

Tam the kit man is on the Serbian back bench ! 🤣

Edit: please tell me someone noticed him

[Hibby70]

Tam McCourt seems to have found a role on the Serbia bench

[Hibby70]

Tam the kit man is on the Serbian back bench ! 🤣

Lol , Jinx!

[greenlex]

I cannot understand either why VAR didn’t look at it.

Quite a few Portuguese ego’s with a very similar mentality in the cheating stakes for me!


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They will have. Agreed it’s a penalty so crack on.

[greenlex]

im conflicted... not sure I want Brasil to do well.

Considering I was married in Brasil and after Scots have more Brasilian friends than any other nationality you would think it was a no brainer.

But ever since his antics against Scotland in one of his early games and just his general persona, that I find very unlikable, I cant abide Neymar
Anyone who cries racism when it doesn’t exist deserves all the disdain going.

[Mon Dieu4]

Brilliant, you have a game that's hopefully full of flair and tricks so we get Keown to tell us all about it

[I'm_cabbaged]

Lol , Jinx!

Glad I’m not the only one that saw him 🤣

[Up-the-slope]

Anyone who cries racism when it doesn’t exist deserves all the disdain going.

yup thats the game (was at Arsenals ground iirc) he also dived and moaned the whole match too. I think its also he seems to act as if he is too good to need to graft when its needed. Look at his Mbappe and you will see extraordinary talent AND exemplary work rate which is why i think history will view him as a better player

[Pretty Boy]

I'm probably in a minority of about one but I've never liked Brazil.

The big fuss about their strip in particular annoys me, it's really not all that different from Sweden or about 4 other South American nations but it get the 'oh so unique and iconic' treatment.

The fans screaming like they are at a Harry Styles gig every time Neymar gets the ball is doing my head in already as well.

[greenlex]

I'm probably in a minority of about one but I've never liked Brazil.

The big fuss about their strip in particular annoys me, it's really not all that different from Sweden or about 4 other South American nations but it get the 'oh so unique and iconic' treatment.

The fans screaming like they are at a Harry Styles gig every time Neymar gets the ball is doing my head in already as well.
The samba beat drums can GTF anaw. :agree:

[greenlex]

yup thats the game (was at Arsenals ground iirc) he also dived and moaned the whole match too. I think its also he seems to act as if he is too good to need to graft when its needed. Look at his Mbappe and you will see extraordinary talent AND exemplary work rate which is why i think history will view him as a better player
He was at it against Scotland too.

[Up-the-slope]

nasty elbow to the face there in the box... must have been missed

[Aldo]

Massively dislikeable team and always have been. Funny because I’ve always liked the country and the people, but their national team have always been *****

Funnily enough Portugal is our favourite family holiday destination. Been about 10 times.


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[HibbyAndy]

I'm probably in a minority of about one but I've never liked Brazil.

The big fuss about their strip in particular annoys me, it's really not all that different from Sweden or about 4 other South American nations but it get the 'oh so unique and iconic' treatment.

The fans screaming like they are at a Harry Styles gig every time Neymar gets the ball is doing my head in already as well.

Brazil used to play in Green shorts in years gone by did they no

[Betty Boop]

What a bunch of moaning Minnies on this thread :greengrin

[Sir David Gray]

Brazil used to play in Green shorts in years gone by did they no

Maybe they did at times but I've always associated them with wearing blue shorts, they wore them back when Pele played and also Ronaldo.

[HibbyAndy]

Neymar ? WTF he wasn't even touched !

[Lago]

Sorry folks I like Brazil, after all one player doesn't make a team.

[SaulGoodman]

There must be a better Brazilian striker than Richarlison somewhere out there surely.

[HibbyAndy]

There must be a better Brazilian striker than Richarlison somewhere out there surely.

Martinelli and Jesus

[Mon Dieu4]

Some good neck tattoos on display but not in the same league as quaresma

[green day]

Martinelli and Jesus

They might change 2nd half

[Up-the-slope]

Sorry folks I like Brazil, after all one player doesn't make a team.


yes but Neymar he thinks it does :greengrin...

And my point is probably made if you look at work rate and humility of a lot of his Brasilian team mates .

[pollution]

Serbia are rubbish. Negative football.

[Mon Dieu4]

Serbia are rubbish. Negative football.

The must hate their player on the left, anytime they get forward he's got acres of space but no one gives him the ball

[Up-the-slope]

Serbia are rubbish. Negative football.

They are playing very well... good defensive display

do you think its their job to play expansively so Brasil get more space to play:dunno:

[SaulGoodman]

Has the whole of Brazil ****ged Keown’s wife?

[Haymaker]

Some good neck tattoos on display but not in the same league as quaresma

No one is near his league. Legend.

[HibbyAndy]

Has the whole of Brazil ****ged Keown’s wife?

Bit strange coming from an Arsenal legend when asked who Brazil could turn to and he mentioned someone from west ham and not Martinelli and Jesus , Very odd

[hibsbollah]

Some good neck tattoos on display but not in the same league as quaresma

I miss Quaresma :boo hoo:

He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.

[Up-the-slope]

How good does Gilberto look - dosent look like hes put a pound in weight on since he finished playing.

[HibbyAndy]

How good does Gilberto look - dosent look like hes put a pound in weight on since he finished playing.

What a player he was by the way :agree:

[Up-the-slope]

Some good neck tattoos on display but not in the same league as quaresma

some HT viewing :greengrin

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cM_GGHgcE5M

[Donegal Hibby]

Dietmar hamann very critical of Neymar said he's not a team player but plays for himself, full of praise for Serbia . Watched Serbia a few times big physical team who's defensive , it works well for them but isn't all that great to watch.

[J-C]

So far Brazil passing the ball about nicely but haven't got all the hype about them for many a year, Serbia have handled then fairly well.

[hibsbollah]

Gudelj looks like one of the beards from Gomorrah

[Up-the-slope]

Dietmar hamann very critical of Neymar said he's not a team player but plays for himself, full of praise for Serbia . Watched Serbia a few times big physical team who's defensive , it works well for them but isn't all that great to watch.

:agree: thats I guess my feelings ( see free kick he just took - there are players in the team better than him at free kicks but hes billy big b**s so has to take them)

[BILLYHIBS]

Serbia are rubbish. Negative football.

Extremely well organised and very good technically and retaining possession

Aberdeen now that is negative football

[JohnM1875]

I get folk don’t like Neymar and think he’s a tit, but I’d suggest they watch the Netflix documentary on him. Billy big baws etc couldn’t really be further from the truth.

He’s an unbelievable footballer who gets the **** kicked out of him every match and still gives 100%. Unless it’s near his sisters birthday.

[hibsbollah]

Extremely well organised and very good technically and retaining possession

Aberdeen now that is negative football

But the upcoming Switzerland Serbia game doesn’t make me want to rush home for, you have to admit :greengrin

[Sir David Gray]

1-0 Brazil.

[Donegal Hibby]

No more than Brazil deserved , much the better team . Serbia awful to watch.

[Aldo]

Why did Serbia not get a foul for that tackle by Casemiro?


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[silverhibee]

Anyone know what the symbol is when they put up the score after a team scores, not the top left but the one at the bottom, Brazil 0 (symbol) 0 Serbia, been bugging me for the last couple of days. :thumbsup:

Looks like the Star of David.

[Mon Dieu4]

Amazing the things that cross your mind watching games, I've just googled "how much do electronic substitutes boards cost?"

[Aldo]

Neymar is such a pussy


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[Aldo]

Amazing the things that cross your mind watching games, I've just googled "how much do electronic substitutes boards cost?"

Well


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[Mon Dieu4]

Well


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Depends if you get it from AliExpress or not seems to range from £100-£400

[Green Reaper]

Well


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£3.50 on Wish, delivery in 4 Months

[Aldo]

Depends if you get it from AliExpress or not seems to range from £100-£400

[emoji23][emoji23]

Surprised the starting price is that dear at AliExpress


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[Aldo]

£3.50 on Wish, delivery in 4 Months

That’s more like it!


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[Aldo]

Cracking finish


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[Sir David Gray]

2-0 wow.

[Up-the-slope]

now that is a goal

[Green Reaper]

What a goal!!!!

[green day]

See these stats?
Total receptions etc. Get that American pish in the bin.

[HUTCHYHIBBY]

Pick that out! 👏

[Mikey_1875]

That’s more like it for Brazil. So much space in the box for him though.

[Irish_Steve]

That's a tad Brazilian lol

[marinello59]

Pick that out! 👏

That was special. Superb goal.

[Up-the-slope]

See these stats?
Total receptions etc. Get that American pish in the bin.

:agree:... i wonder if it was just me earlier in week... defensive line breaks ... thought i was on NFL

[Lago]

What a goal!!!!
Certainly is 👌

[JamesHFC]

I guess that's why he's Brazil's number 9. 9 goals in his last 7 appearances for Brazil. 25/1 to win the Golden Boot.

[HibbyAndy]

I guess that's why he's Brazil's number 9. 9 goals in his last 7 appearances for Brazil. 25/1 to win the Golden Boot.

Their he is bang on cue :greengrin

[SaulGoodman]

There must be a better Brazilian striker than Richarlison somewhere out there surely.

Nope. Probably not.

[hibsbollah]

That’s box office from Richarlison.

[MWHIBBIES]

I guess that's why he's Brazil's number 9. 9 goals in his last 7 appearances for Brazil. 25/1 to win the Golden Boot.

Does alright when he plays for a side that cross the halfway line. He shouldn't get too used to it.

[Donegal Hibby]

That richarlison is some player :greengrin

[JamesHFC]

Does alright when he plays for a side that cross the halfway line. He shouldn't get too used to it.

Plenty of years ahead of him in this Brazil team.

[Aldo]

That would have been some goal


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[Irish_Steve]

They even make hitting the post look beautiful!

[MWHIBBIES]

Plenty of years ahead of him in this Brazil team.

Aye. Just the other 45 weeks of the year he'll suffer at Spurs. Poor sod.

[Donegal Hibby]

Some performance by Brazil this half

[HibbyAndy]

Aye. Just the other 45 weeks of the year he'll suffer at Spurs. Poor sod.

Aye it's a strange one , Scores for fun for Brazil but can't buy a goal for Spurs

[JamesHFC]

Aye. Just the other 45 weeks of the year he'll suffer at Spurs. Poor sod.

3rd highest scorers in the PL so far this season, he be fine.

[JamesHFC]

Aye it's a strange one , Scores for fun for Brazil but can't buy a goal for Spurs

Jesus can't seem to buy a goal at either.

[Irish_Steve]

Not very Brazilian from Alisson, just blootering the ball down the pitch lol

[Trinity Hibee]

See these stats?
Total receptions etc. Get that American pish in the bin.

Agreed!

[hibsbollah]

Some good stuff in that game, enjoyed it. Still a lot of tired looking players and that’s been a feature of the whole tournament. No classic games as yet.

[JamesHFC]

Brazil looked excellent. So much quality in depth on the bench too which will help in the later stages of the tournament with extra time etc. Neymar's injury looked nasty though. I think they will win it.

[Donegal Hibby]

Of all the top nations Brazil have had the hardest opponent to play and in that 2nd half they tore them a part . Brazil's going to take some stopping in the tournament.

[Sylar]

Bah, I score goals like that at 5's every week :greengrin

Goal of the tournament level finish. Stunning.

[Hiber-nation]

Brazil looked excellent. So much quality in depth on the bench too which will help in the later stages of the tournament with extra time etc. Neymar's injury looked nasty though. I think they will win it.

Yeah, can't see past them. As well as that attacking flair they have an excellent defence and keeper as well.

[MWHIBBIES]

Yeah, can't see past them. As well as that attacking flair they have an excellent defence and keeper as well.

Someone will get at Alex Sandro, he's pretty average, but otherwise they're very strong.

[Up-the-slope]

Just to carry on my Neymar anti love in... :na na:

I hope his injury is not bad... but I think if he were sidelined then it would benefit the team overall. they have depth (as another poster has said) that will get used more if he is not available

[Donegal Hibby]

Delighted they won seeing we had a Brazil player who had played with us one time too.

[Up-the-slope]

Just to carry on my Neymar anti love in...&nbsp;<img src="images/smilies/taunt smiley.gif" border="0" alt="" title="na na" smilieid="142" class="inlineimg"><br><br>I hope his injury is not bad... but I think if he were sidelined then it would benefit the team overall. they have depth (as another poster has said) that will get used more if he is not available

[The Modfather]

I didn’t see the Brazil game but saw Richarilson scored 2. Is he good for Brazil? I’ve always thought he flattered to deceive at Everton and never particularly rated him.

[BILLYHIBS]

Someone will get at Alex Sandro, he's pretty average, but otherwise they're very strong.

I had never heard of him but looks a real weak link right enough :

One Brazilian Cup One South American Cup Two Brazilian Leagues Two Portuguese Titles One Portuguese Cup Five Serie A titles Four Italian Cups One Italian Super Cup One Champions League runner up

One Copa America One Under 20 World Cup and one South American U 20 Championship

[Donegal Hibby]

Had a feeling that both Spain and Brazil would meet in quarter finals ? Anyone confirm this ?

[JimBHibees]

I didn’t see the Brazil game but saw Richarilson scored 2. Is he good for Brazil? I’ve always thought he flattered to deceive at Everton and never particularly rated him.

Yep seems a brilliant player for Brazil. One of these guys that are better for their country

[Ryan91]

Just seen Richarlison's 2nd. That is truly one of those HOLY SH*T! type goals, will take some beating for goal of the Tournament.

[Michael]

Delighted they won seeing we had a Brazil player who had played with us one time too.


Who?

[Paulie Walnuts]

Yep seems a brilliant player for Brazil. One of these guys that are better for their country

21 goals in 40 games and he’s only 25. Really good record.

[CropleyWasGod]

Who?

The only one I can think of was Scheidt.

Then again, we've had a few like that.

[BILLYHIBS]

Who?

Benny Brazil

[hibsbollah]

I had never heard of him but looks a real weak link right enough :

One Brazilian Cup One South American Cup Two Brazilian Leagues Two Portuguese Titles One Portuguese Cup Five Serie A titles Four Italian Cups One Italian Super Cup One Champions League runner up

One Copa America One Under 20 World Cup and one South American U 20 Championship

I think MWs point is he’s more of an attacking force from wide positions and isn’t a top defender, which is true and is becoming more true as he gets older.

[BILLYHIBS]

I think MWs point is he’s more of an attacking force from wide positions and isn’t a top defender, which is true and is becoming more true as he gets older.
The point of my post was to highlight his experience and the strength in depth Brazil have in their squad

[hibsbollah]

The point of my post was to highlight his experience and the strength in depth Brazil have in their squad

Ok :greengrin

[BILLYHIBS]

Ok :greengrin

I take yours and MW’s point on board as well though

Their cover for all positions and every eventuality even without Neymar is frightening

[Donegal Hibby]

Who?
Sorry mate , bad joke there , Ally Brazil

[ekhibee]

Someone will get at Alex Sandro, he's pretty average, but otherwise they're very strong.

I wouldn't say his screamer that hit the post was average.

[Mibbes Aye]

That was special. Superb goal.

That was a proper World Cup goal, took me right back to watching the older tournaments when I was younger. Delightful to see from a Brazil player but fot me that's the kind of goal a Mexican scores to take them out of the group stge only to lose to a Belgium or the like in a knock-out game. That's proper World Cup :greengrin

[Donegal Hibby]

Really enjoyed watching Brazil in 2nd half and what a goal btw , so I decided to watch some more Brazil goals , think the 2nd one in this is a bit like the one we just seen , some cracking goals here too . enjoy 👍.
https://youtu.be/1e6DlM9SRsA

[Mibbes Aye]

Really enjoyed watching Brazil in 2nd half and what a goal btw , so I decided to watch some more Brazil goals , think the 2nd one in this is a bit like the one we just seen , some cracking goals here too . enjoy ��.
https://youtu.be/1e6DlM9SRsA

Great link and some magical stuff in there. The Brazil '82 team are well-represented and for me they're probably the greatest expression of sheer, joyful, beautiful football I've ever seen.

Amazingly, I''ve never seen the Carlos Alberto goal in 1970 from that camera angle before - makes it look even more special, especially Clodoaldo's dribble that takes out four Italians. Simply wonderful.

[HoboHarry]

Great link and some magical stuff in there. The Brazil '82 team are well-represented and for me they're probably the greatest expression of sheer, joyful, beautiful football I've ever seen.

Amazingly, I''ve never seen the Carlos Alberto goal in 1970 from that camera angle before - makes it look even more special, especially Clodoaldo's dribble that takes out four Italians. Simply wonderful.

:agree: Falcao and particularly Socrates were two of the finest players I've ever seen. Just imagine what Socrates would be worth today.

[Musselbound]

I wasn't very impressed with Brazil in the first half but second half they were excellent.

[HibeeHibernia]

I wasn't very impressed with Brazil in the first half but second half they were excellent.

You have to give serbia credit for that i think they nullified them in the first half mate, second was a different story though.

[HibeeHibernia]

Always had a soft spot for Brazil so it's good to see them getting back to their best again hopefully they draw England in the knockouts.

[MWHIBBIES]

I wouldn't say his screamer that hit the post was average.

No, just his performances for the last 2 years. Lost his way big time. I think Dembele or Saka could get at him.

[Sir David Gray]

Always had a soft spot for Brazil so it's good to see them getting back to their best again hopefully they draw England in the knockouts.

If they both top their groups they can't meet until the final.

[heretoday]

It's taken Brazil to kindle my interest in this tournament.

[hibstag]

If they both top their groups they can't meet until the final.

Ach well maybe next time….

[HibeeHibernia]

If they both top their groups they can't meet until the final.

never knew that mate cheers

[blackpoolhibs]

Some good stuff in that game, enjoyed it. Still a lot of tired looking players and that’s been a feature of the whole tournament. No classic games as yet.

Ive watched most of the games, and thats exactly what i said to my mate after watching the Germans and Belgium, in fact De Bruyne looked like he was running through treacle at times.

[Aldo]

I do like to see all the players singing the National Anthem!


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[Irish_Steve]

If Iran played Brunei, the match would be Irn v Bru lol

[SteveHFC]

Pleasing.

[Aldo]

That’s offside


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[Broken Gnome]

Every time I watch Wales, it's hard not to think all they have going for them is moments from Bale, and the fact they are Welsh - commitment, passion etc. Very little football about them.

As bad as Scotland have been in recent years, it's pretty sickening they've had so much relative success compared to us over the last decade. Should be next to nothing between us.

[Bobby's Cinema]

Another game lacking quality or goalmouth action with keepers untested. It could have been us!

[Paulie Walnuts]

Every time I watch Wales, it's hard not to think all they have going for them is moments from Bale, and the fact they are Welsh - commitment, passion etc. Very little football about them.

As bad as Scotland have been in recent years, it's pretty sickening they've had so much relative success compared to us over the last decade. Should be next to nothing between us.

Player for player I’d suggest Scotland should be well ahead of them. Although in saying that our terrible striker options hinder us so much.

[Aldo]

Either post in a minute. Wales are poor


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[Stairway 2 7]

So unlucky iran

[Irish_Steve]

Quite an exciting 0 - 0 so far. And both teams will have to go for it as a draw really isn’t a good result for either team

[HH81]

Think Wales aren't getting out this group.

Look poor.

[Up-the-slope]

open game in a semi chaotic way now

[Up-the-slope]

i think the Taffs spent too much energy playing on that inflatable dragon - there a bit flat

[neil7908]

Think Wales aren't getting out this group.

Look poor.

Yup. As others have said, so frustrating that Scotland can't make it to these tournaments when you see some of the teams.

[Mcbizz1998]

When you consider what England did to Iran, Wales should be worried about what England might do to them if they are up for it.

Only hope is England are already qualified and take the foot off the gas.

[Jim44]

Think Wales aren't getting out this group.

Look poor.

They’re not as good as that. Iran deserve to win this.

[Glory Lurker]

This has turned into a cracker.

Is this a different Iran to the one that played England?

[Up-the-slope]

Heat having more effect than we realise :dunno:.. radio pundit saying that pitside its 26/27 oC even with aircon (which is a whole other subject.. how can you be putting aircon in an open stadium (when announced years ago I assumed all would have roofs) and still claiming its a 'green' tournament :rolleyes:

[hibsbollah]

Heat having more effect than we realise :dunno:.. radio pundit saying that pitside its 26/27 oC even with aircon (which is a whole other subject.. how can you be putting aircon in an open stadium (when announced years ago I assumed all would have roofs) and still claiming its a 'green' tournament :rolleyes:

FIFA and Qataris claims to be ‘green’ have been widely rubbished by everyone.

[bod]

This has turned into a cracker.

Is this a different Iran to the one that played England?

5 changes from the England game but I think that includes the keeper who didn’t start the game

[Up-the-slope]

FIFA and Qataris claims to be ‘green’ have been widely rubbished by everyone.

Maybe FiFA got confused and referring to the volume of $ Greenbacks they have received

[Irish_Steve]

5 changes from the England game but I think that includes the keeper who didn’t start the game

The keeper who let in six lol

[Irish_Steve]

Wales manager has gone to the loo in the hope his team will score while he’s in there

[Glory Lurker]

Wales manager has gone to the loo in the hope his team will score while he’s in there

Known at the elite manager level as “daein a Stubbsy”.

[Up-the-slope]

red surely

[easty]

That’s a clear red

[HH81]

Red card incoming

[hibee_girl]

You’d imagine it’s going to be a red after he looks at it

[Up-the-slope]

almost kicked his head off

[green day]

This refs a diddy, imagine waiting on VAR to check thats a red :rolleyes:

[bigwheel]

Against the grain here - can’t actually see how that’s a red. I thought he simply Missed the ball and ending up slamming in to the player …do people think it was deliberate?

[Paulie Walnuts]

Forgetting the fact he’s the goalie that’s potentially a red for the tackle alone. Considering everything else it’s as clear a red as you’ll see.

[Up-the-slope]

ET guesses... i reckon 12 minutes given stoppages this half and method used so far in other games

[JohnM1875]

Refs embarrassed himself there by not seeing that as a red first time. Criminal

[Pretty Boy]

Hennessey is utter guff.

Said it during the last game. Playing a guy who has barely played in 3 seasons (and wasn't all that even when he did play regularly) over a guy who has been turning in top drawer performances in recent weeks out of loyalty is madness.

[Mcbizz1998]

Is it not the case in Scotland that if there is a yellow card, VAR can’t intervene to get it upgraded to a Red?

[Irish_Steve]

This has been a stonking second half. Iran really deserve to win it but we’ve all seen that movie before

[Broken Gnome]

Against the grain here - can’t actually see how that’s a red. I thought he simply Missed the ball and ending up slamming in to the player …do people think it was deliberate?

Any keeper foul outside the box runs some hint of a red, and when he's absolutely clattered the boy it's hardly in the yellow card bracket.

[neil7908]

Obviously a red but we can see the benefits of VAR here. Refs are terrible and technology is the only thing that will help.

[Renfrew_Hibby]

Odd group this. Quite conceivable that Wales, USA and Iran could all end up on 2pts.
Has anyone qualified for the knockout stages with 2pts?

[Up-the-slope]

This has been a stonking second half. Iran really deserve to win it but we’ve all seen that movie before

bale penalty / freekick incoming ?

[Glory Lurker]

Centimetres away from smashing the boy’s jaw! As red as red gets.

I’m not defending it at all here, just asking - should VAR have gone back to the pass to check it wasn’t offside first and would that have changed the decision if the lad was offside?

[bigwheel]

Any keeper foul outside the box runs some hint of a red, and when he's absolutely clattered the boy it's hardly in the yellow card bracket.

Thought I’d was more a yellow. But get your point. If you mistime your clearance or challenge outside the box , then it’s highly likely the goalie is going off

[HH81]

Odd group this. Quite conceivable that Wales, USA and Iran could all end up on 2pts.
Has anyone qualified for the knockout stages with 2pts?

USA will beat Iran.

[green day]

Iran lack composure, not sure they are going to get the goal

[Hiber-nation]

With a wee bit of composure Iran would be home and dry. They've battered Wales.

[Glory Lurker]

Odd group this. Quite conceivable that Wales, USA and Iran could all end up on 2pts.
Has anyone qualified for the knockout stages with 2pts?

If that is how it ends up, not being in this group in place of Wales would be the Scottishest thing ever.

Maybe not quite, right enough. We’d manage to be the second best two-point team on goal difference.

[Callum_62]

Khan Karn: No way that's a red card, high boot or not Taremi ran into the keeper's knee...very poor from the ref considering he made such a good call before his assistant at VAR intervened.

:faf:

[Mon Dieu4]

Hahahah brilliant

[SteveHFC]

Get in :thumbsup:

[Irish_Steve]

Pick that out!!!!!!

[easty]

Hennessey is utter guff.

Said it during the last game. Playing a guy who has barely played in 3 seasons (and wasn't all that even when he did play regularly) over a guy who has been turning in top drawer performances in recent weeks out of loyalty is madness.

Hennessey is guff, but Wards been terrible for Leicester this season, hasn’t he?

I’ve not noticed him the last couple of games, but he’s mostly been useless.

[Hiber-nation]

Totally deserved!

[HH81]

Unbelievable late drama. Iran deserve it

[Up-the-slope]

mayhem... what a poor clearance by Joe Allem

[HibbyAndy]

Goaaaaaaaaaaalllllllllllllllllll

[green day]

Ya dancer !

Get it right roond yeez

[B.H.F.C]

Against the grain here - can’t actually see how that’s a red. I thought he simply Missed the ball and ending up slamming in to the player …do people think it was deliberate?

Being deliberate or not makes no difference. Ended up tackling the boy at head height, potentially a goal scoring opportunity. Red all day.

[Glory Lurker]

He must have a foot like a traction engine!

[Renfrew_Hibby]

Wales experiencing a 'Scotland' World Cup.

[Mon Dieu4]

He must have a foot like a traction engine!

Liquid football

[Jim44]

Wales can have no complaints. They’ve no chance against England.

[SteveHFC]

:faf: :faf:

[Irish_Steve]

Ha ha ha ha

[bod]

Iran have the goal ( goals ) for they way they’ve played