View Full Version : Portugal vs Russia
Tinto
10-11-2004, 07:12 PM
Leave the karma of last week behind, and begin a new thread.
Looks like Scolari is opting to move Ferreria to the left now that Miguel is available for the right again. Likely lineup is,
Miguel, Ricardo Carvalho, Jorge Andrade, Paulo Ferreira, Costinha, Maniche, Cristiano Ronaldo, Deco, Simão e Pauleta.
england66
10-11-2004, 07:40 PM
Leave the karma of last week behind, and begin a new thread.
Looks like Scolari is opting to move Ferreria to the left now that Miguel is available for the right again. Likely lineup is,
Miguel, Ricardo Carvalho, Jorge Andrade, Paulo Ferreira, Costinha, Maniche, Cristiano Ronaldo, Deco, Simão e Pauleta.
I'm no huge fan of Ribeiro but he is a much better option at left back than Paulo Ferreira. I understand the more defensive left back but don't make a right back a left back for that alone.
Let's hope Ronaldo and Simao have better games and hopefully Pauleta will finish the chances he gets.
Soccer Star
10-11-2004, 10:06 PM
I'm actually curious at seeing how this line-up works out.
Couto 5
10-12-2004, 05:13 AM
I'm actually curious at seeing how this line-up works out.
watch the 2nd half V Estonia
3pts needed here or were in the shit. We have to beware of Smertin he has been on fire for Chelsea though been card happy all the same .
I'll go for a repeat euro scoreline 2-0
Tinto
10-12-2004, 08:00 AM
U-21's play today at 4:00.
21:10 16:10 05:10 FUTEBOL: CAMPEONATO EUROPA 2006-Sub-21
Portugal vs. Rússia
Damn it, didn't set my TiVo.
Tinto
10-12-2004, 08:41 AM
It's even deader than usual around here...lookin good for an early departure so I can get home in time to catch it.
Penguin
10-12-2004, 01:00 PM
I agree with Eng66 - I don't know if just moving Ferreira to the left is the best option. If he wants a more defensive presence, then I would suspect he would go with Caneira who is more comfortable playing on the left.
Where are they playing Wednesday's game? Porto or Lisboa?
I agree with Eng66 - I don't know if just moving Ferreira to the left is the best option. If he wants a more defensive presence, then I would suspect he would go with Caneira who is more comfortable playing on the left.
Where are they playing Wednesday's game? Porto or Lisboa?Lisbon. Alvalade, to be exact.
Soccer Star
10-12-2004, 02:12 PM
watch the 2nd half V Estonia
3pts needed here or were in the shit. We have to beware of Smertin he has been on fire for Chelsea though been card happy all the same .
I'll go for a repeat euro scoreline 2-0
Yes I saw that game, but I want to see how it works as we play more games.
Bwhahahahahahaha! Fuckin hilarious....
http://www.abola.pt/nnh/index.asp?op=ver¬icia=70962&tema=7
In addition to that, JVP is asking the FPF why he's not being considered on the selecao....What a bumb!
Tinto
10-12-2004, 02:51 PM
"Technical questions" indeed.
Flo...so you DO read Portuguese? Ya got me guessin here.
U-21 game just started,
I see Almeida, Ribeiro (Pedro), Danny, Quaresma, Viana, Perreira, Meireles out there...
"Technical questions" indeed.
Flo...so you DO read Portuguese? Ya got me guessin here.
U-21 game just started,
I see Almeida, Ribeiro (Pedro), Danny, Quaresma, Viana, Perreira, Meireles out there...
Broken Portuguese...I can spell out a few phrases...
Tinto
10-12-2004, 09:38 PM
Oi...don't let the 2-0 score line fool ya, our U-21's barely escaped with this one.
They were out played for long periods and our bacon was saved by Vale more than once. The Quaresma goal was the product of another inspired bit of skill from the cocky selfish bastard, and the second came from a very bad breakdown of the Russian defense. Best part of the game for me was the introduction of Varela, who set up the second goal beautifully. He came on full of spirit and did so well that the (tiny) crowd went nuts everytime he touched the ball.
Danny was injured, and it looked like it could be serious. Very bad for Sporting if so. He played a hard game, and was our most dangerous attacker for much of it.
Caught the second half - Thought Manuel Fernandes played his usual hard-working self. Danny missed some easy chances, but he was the most dangerous man for us for a long stretch. Queresma's goal was brilliantly witty and masterfully placed. Varela was just a madman - leaves us wondering the kind of damage he would've done had he a few more minutes of playing time. The knappy hair just adds to the his mistique.
Penguin
10-13-2004, 11:50 AM
Hopefully, Danny's injury isn't too serious. How did Bruno Vale look in net?
I'm pleasantly suprised to hear about Varela! I was a little afraid that Sporting's next batch of youngsters (born in 84/85) weren't going to be good as the previous group (82/83). Sounds like this kid could be pretty good.
Hopefully, Danny's injury isn't too serious. How did Bruno Vale look in net?
I'm pleasantly suprised to hear about Varela! I was a little afraid that Sporting's next batch of youngsters (born in 84/85) weren't going to be good as the previous group (82/83). Sounds like this kid could be pretty good.Bruno Vale saved our asses on two clear pending scores from the Ruskies.
Fee-Go
10-13-2004, 12:10 PM
I'm predicting a loss today. 1-0.
Tinto
10-13-2004, 02:16 PM
3-2 for Portugal, Maniche from outside the area, Pauleta after he misses five, and Ronaldo in the dying seconds.
Tinto
10-13-2004, 02:20 PM
How did Bruno Vale look in net?
I thought he started out looking nervous, and he badly misjudged a Russian effort that dipped behind him and was only stopped by the crossbar. But he gained confidence as the game went on. Made some game saving stops, and really took ownership of the box on several corners towards the end.
Surge40
10-13-2004, 03:29 PM
Portugal looking good with a 2-0 lead at the 39' minute.
Goals by Pauleta and C.Ronaldo. ROnaldo is playing well out there.
Surge40
10-13-2004, 03:31 PM
3-0 with a great individual effort by Deco.
Penguin
10-13-2004, 03:32 PM
Deco makes it 3-0 right before the halftime whistle.
Sounds like an inspired performance by the boys. It's amazing what you can accomplish when you put your mind to it.
Tinto
10-13-2004, 03:34 PM
Deco has been phenomenal this first half. Last time I saw him play this well, it was against Russia and I was there. This is nice. First two goals were neat little setups, Deco's yanked everyone out their seats. Very pretty.
Ronaldo has played well, once he stopped holding on to the ball a bit too long.
icarus7
10-13-2004, 03:40 PM
Deco has been phenomenal this first half. Last time I saw him play this well, it was against Russia and I was there. This is nice. First two goals were neat little setups, Deco's yanked everyone out their seats. Very pretty.
Ronaldo has played well, once he stopped holding on to the ball a bit too long.
must you remind me..ha ha
Tinto
10-13-2004, 03:46 PM
I must.
And if you'd sold me tickets for the final, we'd be champs today. Obviously my return to Canada jinxed them. ;)
Marco
10-13-2004, 04:09 PM
Ronaldo and Costinha should pick up some yellows this game (if they haven't already). Our next game is against Luxembourgh, and we have a tougher set of matches in March methinks.
So the national team rebounds after a disaster. Boy. It's not like we're not used to this sort of thing :D
Couto 5
10-13-2004, 04:14 PM
What a gol !!!!
4-0
How's Leichenstein form 4-0 V Luxembourg.
A new world superpower has awoken
Couto 5
10-13-2004, 04:27 PM
Simao what a goal !!
5-1
Ricardo btw get your eyes checked for fuck sake
Bring in Vale
Marco
10-13-2004, 04:34 PM
wow. 6-1. Everyone knew they'd rebound...but this is huge. What a rebound. What an effort by the team! Everyone deserves high marks for today's effort!
Russian coach left the bench after the 6th goal and went straight to the dressing room.
PS----We better be careful about playing these guys in Moscow next March. They'll be out for blood.
Timmy
10-13-2004, 04:37 PM
Petit just scored the goal of his career- Roberto Carlos-like.
I would worry about "rubbing" it in, expect I remember that goal differential is a tie breaker.
The pounding leaves Portugal even with Slovakia on points and GD.
Tinto
10-13-2004, 04:37 PM
Holy shit. That Russian keeper is going to be marked for life by this game.
7-1! And that last one by Petit was just unstoppable.
Deco and Ronaldo were scary good. Quite a team effort.
Pauleta9
10-13-2004, 04:38 PM
7!!!!
What a rebound from the weekend.
Couto 5
10-13-2004, 04:39 PM
all over 7-1 !!!
Fuck me dead what a fucken game !!!
saturday already forgotten
Tinto
10-13-2004, 04:41 PM
The Russian coach left when it was 5-1. He should resign after pulling a stunt like that.
7-1!!!! What happened Saturday? I forgot.
Pauleta9
10-13-2004, 04:42 PM
Anyone tape this game - I gotta watch this - whose gottit? I gotta watch this game. I'm buyin - whose sellin
AssimMesmo
10-13-2004, 04:44 PM
WHOOOA!!!!!
I wonder if that was the attitude change Scolari wanted to see.
I haven't seen game, only uefa summary, but whoaaaa!!!!
Interesting competition for the 2-way holder, the order is
Maniche, Tiago then Petit....
Costinha's role still seems locked up, Petit is too short, Maniche too much two way, and Tiago may not have the required level of defensive quality
I look forward to watching the game later!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
:bright:
The Russian coach left when it was 5-1. He should resign after pulling a stunt like that.
Hey Tinto, we didn't get to see such a beating when we were there in June against these guys (Sorry Icarus).
Fee-Go
10-13-2004, 04:47 PM
So much for my stupid prediction!
MOM: the greatest player in the world today...young Cristiano Ronaldo!
Special mention: Deco
Kudos to Petit. Last time I saw him play like this was when he was with Boavista.
Miguel and Fereirra playing in the back makes perfect sense, why didn't I think of that? Forca Scolari for an inspired move. Good bye Jorge Ribeiro, Nuno Valente and Rui Jorge. Good riddance.
Fee-Go
10-13-2004, 04:49 PM
The Russian coach left when it was 5-1. He should resign after pulling a stunt like that.
They'll probably fire his ass now.
Marco
10-13-2004, 04:50 PM
:happier: :happier:
Tinto
10-13-2004, 04:52 PM
Hey Tinto, we didn't get to see such a beating when we were there in June against these guys (Sorry Icarus).
Still, Icarus would have like the game we were there for, if only he hadn't sold the tickets. :fire:
(Fuck, I can still surprise myself with my own cruelty )
Good as Ronaldo was tonight, Deco's blend of skill and smarts made him MOM this game.
Good bye Jorge Ribeiro, Nuno Valente and Rui Jorge. Good riddance
You're kidding right? Valente owns that spot. Ferreira did his defensive responsiblities tonight, but he looked quite uncomfortable at times, and he barely led any attacks. With his present form, I admit Miguel is our first choice on the right.
Maniche had another quiet night, but at least he was trying, which is a lot more than appearances suggested on Saturday. Simao was also iffy except for that beautiful goal.
Soccer Star
10-13-2004, 04:55 PM
Great game. Although I believe there were some problems in the defense early on, we completely turned it on after that. This game proved without a doubt that C. Ronaldo deserves to be on that FIFA player of the year list and should have a realistic shot at winning it. That also goes for Deco, who also played a great game. Petit scored 2 goals, one of which was spectacular. I also think Miguel being back was definitely a plus, he didn't look like himself for parts of the game, but the guy is coming off an injury. He did however proved that he is a great asset to the team already and today he reassured everyone.
Oh and by the way, Smertin got away with murder tonight. His ass should've been shown the door early in the second half.
Ricardo is still a bum in the net. He can't make the save unless the ball is directly at him. That's what seperates him from the greats in the world. He's :ass:
Ronaldo and Deco were MOM. Honorable mention to Pauleta as well. Paulo looks shaky on the left and I saw him blow a couple of easy passes. If he can learn to play the left that would be great but right now that's Valente's spot and on the right Miguel's got that locked up.
Soccer Star
10-13-2004, 05:13 PM
I'll have to agree. Ricardo is still shaky and it's starting to become annoying. One more slip up and I can see Scolari putting someone else in for a try. However the question is, is he the best keeper Portugal has at the moment?
Tinto
10-13-2004, 05:16 PM
Good point about Smertin. If they weren't taking a drubbing, I'm sure the ref would've ejected him before the end of the first half. I guess he figured it wasn't worth pouring salt into the Russian wound and risking the game getting out of hand.
Ricardo had very little to do. He did well to make that one save off the deflection, and the goal, (this time), was not his fault. Is Portugal so starved for quality keepers?
Best goalie in Portugal at the moment is Moreira and that's the bottom line. He deserves a call-up. :stuckup:
With all due respect Tinto, has Ricardo made a tough save lately. That goal would have been saved by Buffon, Toldo, Kahn, Howard and I'll dare even say Dida. Ricardo is quicksand. Slow reflexes and it scares me when they pass the ball back to him. He takes his time with it or shanks it.
Soccer Star
10-13-2004, 05:40 PM
You know what strikes me is that he was at great form when Boavista went to the semis of the UEFA Cup. What has happened to him?
Pantera
10-13-2004, 05:42 PM
Why is'nt Moreira in the U21s?
I cant remember a game where so many goals from outside the box were scored.
AssimMesmo
10-13-2004, 06:07 PM
You know what strikes me is that he was at great form when Boavista went to the semis of the UEFA Cup. What has happened to him?
Agreed. I used to think Petit was a stunning 2-way player, then he sucked. Another problem I still get nervous with Petit is his temperment and/or tackling judgement. He lays some doozies on people, he is a red card scare when he is on the pitch!!!!
Hopefully he can get that straightened out and be a force to challenge the Maniche or Costa position.
:sun:
Soccer Star
10-13-2004, 06:56 PM
Agreed. I used to think Petit was a stunning 2-way player, then he sucked. Another problem I still get nervous with Petit is his temperment and/or tackling judgement. He lays some doozies on people, he is a red card scare when he is on the pitch!!!!
Hopefully he can get that straightened out and be a force to challenge the Maniche or Costa position.
:sun:
Well I don't know about Petit. I just think that Maniche and Costinha are just above him. I used to believe he had lost much of his game, but now it's different. I see him as a hard working player and he is a possible free kick specialist for the NT. Although I do agree with you on the point you made about being nervous when he comes on pitch because of his tackling. I as well become nervous when he comes on pitch, I guess it's one of the disadvantages of having an agressive player.
Tinto
10-13-2004, 07:13 PM
After the game Yartsev said he is thinking of quitting as coach .
meJonny
10-13-2004, 08:32 PM
What..again C.Ronaldo is tearing it up internatonally :rotfl2: What a player
The Ruusian coach couldnt handle the whoopin :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :grin:
Fee-Go
10-13-2004, 08:34 PM
Ferreira must have been doing something right, the ball barely went near him tonight. Either he had magnificent positioning or our midfield was picking up all the slack.
As for Valente, I see your point Tinto, I want to see Ferreira in the left back position once more. Also, if you all haven't noticed, Ferreira always looks shaky. He has a nervous style. He won't live past 50.
Soccer Star
10-13-2004, 09:17 PM
Ferreira must have been doing something right, the ball barely went near him tonight. Either he had magnificent positioning or our midfield was picking up all the slack.
As for Valente, I see your point Tinto, I want to see Ferreira in the left back position once more. Also, if you all haven't noticed, Ferreira always looks shaky. He has a nervous style. He won't live past 50.
Yea, I caught that too. He looked nervous in the opening game of Euro with his blonde hair( :rotfl2: ) and I guess since he screwed up he has always been. Oh well, if he gets the job done I can careless, but I also want to see how this LB switch works out as they play more games.
Now that's how you respond to critique!
Great game all-around, but especially to Deco who was absolutely fantastic. It's been a long while since I've seen him this inspired.
Ronald was what we've come to expect, brilliant. Pauleta was especially sharp today. Though that isn't surprising considering the production of our striker is usually tied directly to the production of the midfield.
And the unusual elevated score is completely deserved too, btw - Russia didn't lie down. They burned out. They burned out because of the onslaught of the number of elements making runs at them from every angle and position on the field was too overwhelming for them to keep up with over the course of an entire game. This is the dynamic that Miguel adds to this team - a dynamic that forces a defense to constantly defend with not only the defenders, but their wingers. This, especially together with inspired play from our play maker, Deco, over the course of a game, simply wears down a team like a good old fahioned NY police beating.
This is an incredibly difficult team to beat when we have our full squad playing to capabilities – it’s simply too fast. And speed kills.
RedEagle
10-14-2004, 07:11 AM
What a game. They responded like champions to that 2-2 draw. Deco was indeed magical. He's got his form back after a full year. Barcelona is going to trample the Spanish League. CRonaldo is simply the best player in the world right now. Case closed. THe only problem I have with this team is left back, where Paulo Ferreira is not up to par. The only reason it didn't show so much in the game, was because of the great game Simao had on the left. How many balls did he win? Ricardo has no confidence yet again, especially after a good Euro. It's puzzling?
The right side of Portugal is simply unstoppable. With Miguel and CRonaldo, at their best there's no defense that can hold them. That is the best back- wing combination in the world right now. Can't wait for Miguel to destroy Porto!
Fee-Go
10-14-2004, 07:35 AM
Miguel is indeed one of our hottest players right now. Benfica will cash in on this youngster after this season.
Ferreira wasn't that bad. The ball hardly went near him, which in my eyes speaks well of his positioning. And Red, you're right about Simao. Simao was winning balls out there, he played his heart out.
england66
10-14-2004, 08:00 AM
Paulo Ferreira should never start at left back. Unless, Rui Jorge, Nuno Valente, Caneira and Boa Morte are all injured. I'm not against playing a non-left footed player on the left side but I am opposed to playing a guy who rarely(if ever) plays on the left side.
The only lowlight for me was Simao. Outside of his goal he was nowhere on the offensive side of the ball.
Clear MOM match to Deco, followed by Ronaldo and Miguel.
Fee-Go
10-14-2004, 08:04 AM
[QUOTE=england66]
The only lowlight for me was Simao. Outside of his goal he was nowhere on the offensive side of the ball.
QUOTE]
Simao was winning plenty of balls in the midfield and he played an effective part of maintaining the passing game. It was unbelievably fluid and Simao was a big part of this.
Also, Simao has a confidence that is hard to find in young players. He's indispensible to us.
england66
10-14-2004, 08:13 AM
[QUOTE=england66]
The only lowlight for me was Simao. Outside of his goal he was nowhere on the offensive side of the ball.
QUOTE]
Simao was winning plenty of balls in the midfield and he played an effective part of maintaining the passing game. It was unbelievably fluid and Simao was a big part of this.
Also, Simao has a confidence that is hard to find in young players. He's indispensible to us.
Winning balls is not what I expect from Simao. I expect creating scoring chances. If we needed another trinco on the team, I would put in Petit.
Right now, the only player on this team that is untouchable is Deco. He has now showing the confidence that was lacking when he was playing second fiddle to guys like Figo and Rui Costa. Best sign for a No. 10 is a guy who is always looking for the ball and asking for the ball. He will be the key to our success.
AssimMesmo
10-14-2004, 08:32 AM
Yeah I agree with Ferreira not playing left-back. He is a right-back and if that means being sub/cover for Miguel well fine....
I cannot watch game till I pick up the tape as I no longer have RTP at my place....but regardless of how he did as LB, we should have a 1st team players who is quality and who is a regular LB.
My question, is there any youngster or otherwise who can step up and do this position or more importantly could become top-class like a Miguel or Carvalho?
Right now the order would seem to be:
Valente (ok, but not top notch)
Rui Jorge (too old and not really solid)
Caneira (haven't really seen him much, isn't he normally a centre-back at club level)
Thoughts, afterall Ferreira/Miguel seemed to come from nowhere (well 1-2 years lead time before whoa this guy is damn good).....I still remember the days when I though Frechaut would be the next NT RB and there was no other in the horizon.
RedEagle
10-14-2004, 08:50 AM
The only lowlight for me was Simao. Outside of his goal he was nowhere on the offensive side of the ball.
Talk about contradictional statements. The man scored a goal but that's not offense enough for ya. His job apparently throughout the game was to make sure Ferreira didn't get eaten up. I thought he was masterful at it. When you have Deco and Ronaldo clicking, Pauleta and Miguel playing like they were, Simao's offensive role was not necessary. His defensive role however was key.
I just hope he doesn't carry that mentality to the Porto game. We'll need him to step up big time(ala Deco and Ronaldo) if we're gonna beat Porto.
Thoughts, afterall Ferreira/Miguel seemed to come from nowhere (well 1-2 years lead time before whoa this guy is damn good).....I still remember the days when I though Frechaut would be the next NT RB and there was no other in the horizon.Those in the know have been mocked for stating such fact wayyyy before it proved itself on the pitch.
In fairness, Ferreira is better than what he's shown lately. He's seriously suffering in confidence. Boy needs to get his head on straight, our squad needs all its bench warmers mentally and physically ready in case their number gets called.
england66
10-14-2004, 09:07 AM
Talk about contradictional statements. The man scored a goal but that's not offense enough for ya. His job apparently throughout the game was to make sure Ferreira didn't get eaten up. I thought he was masterful at it. When you have Deco and Ronaldo clicking, Pauleta and Miguel playing like they were, Simao's offensive role was not necessary. His defensive role however was key.
I just hope he doesn't carry that mentality to the Porto game. We'll need him to step up big time(ala Deco and Ronaldo) if we're gonna beat Porto.
Sometimes scoring one goal isn't enough. Pauleta against Liechenstein was a good example.
The Russians had no offensive opportunities whatsoever but it wasn't due to how great we played defensively. It was due to the the fact that we controlled the ball (possesion), in addition they came to tie the game and weren't too keen on attacking except on counters.
RedEagle
10-14-2004, 09:25 AM
Those in the know have been mocked for stating such fact wayyyy before it proved itself on the pitch.
You remember that...Tinto et company thought I was nuts when I stated that Miguel was better than Ferreira.
THen again Tinto and company must have surely learned something in evaluating players, after the beatings they've taken all year.
AssimMesmo
10-14-2004, 09:38 AM
Those in the know have been mocked for stating such fact wayyyy before it proved itself on the pitch.
In fairness, Ferreira is better than what he's shown lately. He's seriously suffering in confidence. Boy needs to get his head on straight, our squad needs all its bench warmers mentally and physically ready in case their number gets called.
Well Miguel came from nowhere for me, since I rarely watched Benfica. I thought Ferreira had huge potential during Porto's run in UEFA cup. Ferreira is improving every game in EPL, he is making timely runs, and is setting up alot of players, his crosses have been sweet. He doesn't have the same threat/offensive BABOOM as Miguel, but some may argue he is more solid all around.
Anyway, no thoughts on who could do likewise on LB?
Agreed with having lotsa bench warmers ready to go.....RB is certainly a sweet competition right now for NT.
You know what we also have alot of? Depth to the extreme. With Petit, Nuno Gomes, Tiago, Boa Morte, Caneira, and Nuno Valente on the bench for this game it makes me comfortable that Scolari has those options/weapons at his disposal. Qauresma and Viana would be nice additions but both have their set of issues at this time and it's good to know we've got others to rely on. Even Figo we have if we need to break the glass in case of emergency which I thought was the case Sunday morning.
On our best day there is only one team in the world that can match us, that is my friends, our brothers in South America. The Brasileiros!!! Other than that, I don't see anyone who can handle what we dished out yesterday which is how we should play each and every game.
BTW, Kudos to the USA. Thoroughly gave me something to watch while I was preparing dinner. Eddie Johnson is a "G" and I think before long the USA will be a force in World Football. :thumbup2:
You remember that...Tinto et company thought I was nuts when I stated that Miguel was better than Ferreira.
I'll pretend you didn't forget the other nut who actually led that parade. You hurt my feelings.
AssimMesmo
10-14-2004, 10:14 AM
On our best day there is only one team in the world that can match us, that is my friends, our brothers in South America. The Brasileiros!!! Other than that, I don't see anyone who can handle what we dished out yesterday which is how we should play each and every game.
:
Well yes and no. Our shooting yesterday was awesome and yes it would be unstoppable. However I doubt such open space would be available against a better team. Although 7-1 is great, there were 2 types of goals, crosses to men in box and long shots from outside box. For the prior, better marking would be there from better team and wouldn't be as easy. For latter, once again the space wouldn't be there AND you don't get this kind of shooting every game...often they hit post, shots aren't right on, etc.
I think the NT still need to develop a greater variety of offensive weapons, ie type of goals, still not alot of through balls for Pauleta, still not the level of creative passing/interchange that could break down a defensive NUT/WALL...
...afterall this was an injured plagued Russia....not ITALY or equivalent.
FORCA WC2006!!!!
...afterall this was an injured plagued Russia....not ITALY or equivalent.
You mean the Italy that lost 1-0 to Slovenia and surrendered 3 goals to Belarus yesterday? :zany: Sure buddy.
My top 5 in the world are as follows:
1. Brasil
2. Portugal
3. Argentina
4. Czech Republic
5. England
AssimMesmo
10-14-2004, 10:50 AM
You mean the Italy that lost 1-0 to Slovenia and surrendered 3 goals to Belarus yesterday? :zany: Sure buddy.
My top 5 in the world are as follows:
1. Brasil
2. Portugal
3. Argentina
4. Czech Republic
5. England
lol, yeah that Italy, hey all NTs' have their Leichenstein moments.....but when it comes to big games that's where you see a team's mettle.
Basically my point was, their isn't alot of merit in crushing Russia 7-1, it doesn't mean much. How would PT do against a good team that hunkers down and throws up the WALL, I do not think PT has developed enough to take down these teams that do this, more variety and better passing/movement still have a long way to go..
Ranking doesn't mean squat, but here's my list:
1) Brazil
2) Argentina
3) Portugal
4) England
5) Italy
What has Italy done lately to merit such a high ranking in your eyes?
In addition, 7-1 is more of a result we should have against Andorra or Liechenstein not Russia. Russia is mid-major if you will in the European Qualifying and were the toughest team in our group next to us when the groups were called out. They should've done better with us but we dismantled them completely and that's what good teams do.
RedEagle
10-14-2004, 11:09 AM
I'll pretend you didn't forget the other nut who actually led that parade. You hurt my feelings.
You didn't lead the parade...you simply banged on the drum loudly!
As far as the LB question, my opinion still holds. The best one we have is J. Ribeiro.
And as far as playing teams that hunker down, the key is not through balls to Pauleta, that has always failed, even when we had Sa Pinto and JVP upfront. THe key to beating those teams, are vicious balls into the box, delivered from all corners of the field. The key is a striker committed to delivering from all angles, and to run to empty spaces. That's why Miguel is so important to Benfica and the NT. He has the ability to put balls in the box either through hard crosses or shots from way back.
My top 5:
Brazil
Checz Rep.
Argentina
Portugal
Spain
Italy is a shell of what they used to be. Can no longer defend, and simply too predictable up front. Great goalies though. France has neither the midfield nor the defense it used to have.
I also like the Nordic teams...Sweden and Denmark in particular.
The US will make the 1/4 finals if not the semis in the 2006 WC. Book it.
Timmy
10-14-2004, 11:28 AM
...are vicious balls into the box...
I'll second this motion.
RedEagle
10-14-2004, 11:35 AM
I'll second this motion.
hehehe...first Red Sox fan I hear from today. "Who's your daddy?" chants still ringin'?
england66
10-14-2004, 11:41 AM
[QUOTE=RedEagle]And as far as playing teams that hunker down, the key is not through balls to Pauleta, that has always failed, even when we had Sa Pinto and JVP upfront. THe key to beating those teams, are vicious balls into the box, delivered from all corners of the field. The key is a striker committed to delivering from all angles, and to run to empty spaces. That's why Miguel is so important to Benfica and the NT. He has the ability to put balls in the box either through hard crosses or shots from way back.
QUOTE]
When did we become Scotland?
Patience, passing, and creating space is the what is going to beat the defensive team. You will have to possess the ball, bring them out of their shell through quality passing and lastly stretching both horizontally and vertically to open up bigger spaces.
Miguel is good because he is able to take people on an create "numbers" up situation. This shifts the other's team shape and allows for space behind their central defenders. His biggest, weakness, however is his crossing.
Top Five
Brazil
England
France
Argentina
Portugal/Holland/Spain
AssimMesmo
10-14-2004, 11:45 AM
So it appears as only Ribeiro is the great Porkchop hope at LB!
As for team ranking, everyone has own opinion, but he most credible ranking I believe is what online odds are for WC2006 Outright (except for host, obviously their odds are skewed). So without delay, the ranking from a popular online site is:
Brazil 5.50
Germany 7.50
Argentina 8.00
Holland 9.00
France 9.00
England 9.00
Italy 10.00
Portugal 15.00
Spain 17.00
Czech Rep 21.00
U S A 67.00
Top Five
Brazil
England
France
Argentina
Portugal/Holland/Spain
Someone tamper with your coffee this morning Eng? This list is ludacrous.
RedEagle
10-14-2004, 12:03 PM
When did we become Scotland?
Patience, passing, and creating space is the what is going to beat the defensive team. You will have to possess the ball, bring them out of their shell through quality passing and lastly stretching both horizontally and vertically to open up bigger spaces.
Miguel is good because he is able to take people on an create "numbers" up situation. This shifts the other's team shape and allows for space behind their central defenders. His biggest, weakness, however is his crossing.
Top Five
Brazil
England
France
Argentina
Portugal/Holland/Spain
You must have lost a connection somewhere? I'm simply tired of watching Portugal play paddle ball up front with possession against these defensive teams and then leaving themselves susceptible to counter attacks. They have to keep possession, but they need to create chances inside the penalty area and shoot on target, not dance around outside the box, feed it to Deco so he can fire it into the clouds. Thus the need for wicked crosses and vertical lobs into the box in order to break up defensive strongholds. We don't need to become Scotland, only more like England.
Agreed on Miguel. His crosses can improve, and if he shot better on target he'd be devestating, still doesn't take away from the fact that if he crosses or shoots it certainly has an effect on a teams defense.
Disagree, Portugal can play with any of these boys including Brazil and beat them. The only reason why Brazil is better at the moment, is that they don't choke in big games, while we do.
Why did England, France and Holland even make your list?? And the Checzh didn't?
england66
10-14-2004, 02:18 PM
Disagree, Portugal can play with any of these boys including Brazil and beat them. The only reason why Brazil is better at the moment, is that they don't choke in big games, while we do.
Why did England, France and Holland even make your list?? And the Checzh didn't?
I think Portugal can play with anyone in the world right now but if I were a betting man and it was a seven game series, I wouldn't see Portugal coming out ahead in the overall series.
Czechs are fine but let's not crazy over their performance at the Euro. They also happen to have lost their best player in Nedved. They were impressive in the first round in Euro but very flat in both the Denmark and Greece game.
England is just solid from top to bottom. Their "espinha" is probably the best in the world right now.
France is on the downslope but they still have the best player in the world in Henry. In addition Vieira is by far the best trinco in the world.
Holland has RVN. Who unlike Pauleta scores half chances that either turn games around or finish off teams.
AssimMesmo
10-14-2004, 02:33 PM
What has Italy done lately to merit such a high ranking in your eyes?
In addition, 7-1 is more of a result we should have against Andorra or Liechenstein not Russia. Russia is mid-major if you will in the European Qualifying and were the toughest team in our group next to us when the groups were called out. They should've done better with us but we dismantled them completely and that's what good teams do.
I am a fan of Serie A, I know what Italians are capable of. Sure they (Italian NT)have not won anything in a while, but there is only a major every 2 years. Serie A remains one of the best leagues in the world, with most top teams having an a strong Italian NT contingent, you have to count Italy NT as top 5 for sure.
Also agreed with earlier comments about England....they are solid with Centre backs Ferdinand, Terry, King and Campbell, Central mids - Gerrard and Lampard, Striker - Rooney.....the only weakness to their "espinha" would be in net, not sure if the guy from Liverpool can ever stay healthy and James is never a rock, albeit often a gamesaver.
Timmy
10-14-2004, 02:52 PM
Assim- Another weakness for England is Gerrard's health. He is very injury prone, and the options to replace him are do not bring what he does to the table. Paul Scholes early retirement also eats away at their midfield depth.
RedEagle
10-14-2004, 04:05 PM
I think Portugal can play with anyone in the world right now but if I were a betting man and it was a seven game series, I wouldn't see Portugal coming out ahead in the overall series..
Are you shittin' me...Portugal has eaten up England and Holland recently, and if it went to a 7 game series it would be a sweep. France is on a downslope, Henri is rendered meaningless with that midfield and defense. The only series that would go the distance for Portugal if not outright loss would be against the Brazilians/Argentinians and the Czechs.
Czechs are fine but let's not crazy over their performance at the Euro. They also happen to have lost their best player in Nedved. They were impressive in the first round in Euro but very flat in both the Denmark and Greece game.
They were the best team in Euro. Period!
England is just solid from top to bottom. Their "espinha" is probably the best in the world right now.
They're the Arsenal of international futebol the English are. Big game against top skillfull teams they're at their mercy. That "Espinha" although tough, can easily be broken by a clever flick of the imagination on the pitch.
France is on the downslope but they still have the best player in the world in Henry. In addition Vieira is by far the best trinco in the world.. Best player in the world right now is Cristiano Ronaldo.
Holland has RVN. Who unlike Pauleta scores half chances that either turn games around or finish off teams. Holland has no Espinha! Without Stam and Davids, they're useless!
Portuguese Poet
10-14-2004, 04:23 PM
What about Miguel on the left and Ferreira on the right?
From what I hear Miguel has had a lot more experience than Ferreira playing down the left flank...
As for The Game.....WOW
Tinto
10-14-2004, 05:31 PM
Yesterday was great to watch, but I think we're getting a bit ahead of ourselves with all this euphoria. Our NT is a mercurial beast and does not have the habit of psyching itself up the way you must to make winning regular. The moment the pressure is off they expect to win easily - and then they never do.
I hope they study tapes of last night's game before every big game in the future. That speed in the last third of the pitch is what so completely undid Russia. Usually, we build up fast, and then play hot potato in front of the opponent's net. Last night they were giving the Russians no chance to organize before peppering them with shots. The Russians cooperated spectacularly by giving Ronaldo and Deco ridiculous amounts of space, but even against a good team, Portugal can expect 2 or 3 of those to go in if they can maintain the pace.
Fee-Go
10-14-2004, 07:09 PM
It absolutely baffles me how people can't see that Ronaldo is the best player in the world right now. I don't mean 5 years from now, I mean now! The kid is 19 and he's the best. Period. End of story. I hope this argument ends here. There are a few reasons why he's better than Thierry Henry, not the least of which is his capacity to supply, supply, supply!
He's got tricks in his bag that Henry would die for. And those tricks are useful! It's not like he's doing a whipper snapper and then running out of steam. He's delivering the goods on his awesome runs and they keep coming and coming.
I'm afraid he's going to run out of steam. I'm afraid I'll wake up tomorrow and their will be a headline: RONALDO ADMITS THAT HE CAN'T CONTINUE AND THE PARTY IS OVER.
I suspect this won't happen however.
Soccer Star
10-14-2004, 08:21 PM
Seriously, why should England make the list at this moment either? What makes them different from Italy. England beat Wales 2-0 in a game which they should have dominated. They beat Azerbaijan 1-0 and although they have improved, England should have been much more dominating in that win with a greater scoreline. Beckham,Owen, Gerrard are all overrated. They're best players right now are Wayne Rooney and Frank Lampard.
Timmy
10-14-2004, 09:45 PM
Beckham,Owen, Gerrard are all overrated. They're best players right now are Wayne Rooney and Frank Lampard.
The more I think about it, the more I think I have short changed Gerrard. All those wankers are injury prone.
Couto 5
10-15-2004, 11:16 PM
Those in the know have been mocked for stating such fact wayyyy before it proved itself on the pitch.
In fairness, Ferreira is better than what he's shown lately. He's seriously suffering in confidence. Boy needs to get his head on straight, our squad needs all its bench warmers mentally and physically ready in case their number gets called.
I dont know whats with all the Ferriera knocking. I watch him week in & week out with Chelsea & then saw the Russia game , & if you ask me I will tell you he has been one of Chelsea's best this season & V Russia I can not name one incident where he failed to collect a ball or turned a pass over ?? If we think he was quiet I have to ask was Jorge Andrade on the pitch ???
england66
10-16-2004, 08:12 AM
It absolutely baffles me how people can't see that Ronaldo is the best player in the world right now. I don't mean 5 years from now, I mean now! The kid is 19 and he's the best. Period. End of story. I hope this argument ends here. There are a few reasons why he's better than Thierry Henry, not the least of which is his capacity to supply, supply, supply!
He's got tricks in his bag that Henry would die for. And those tricks are useful! It's not like he's doing a whipper snapper and then running out of steam. He's delivering the goods on his awesome runs and they keep coming and coming.
I'm afraid he's going to run out of steam. I'm afraid I'll wake up tomorrow and their will be a headline: RONALDO ADMITS THAT HE CAN'T CONTINUE AND THE PARTY IS OVER.
I suspect this won't happen however.
I think the kid is a very good player but let's wait a little bit before we promote him to worlds best. He has played a great 8-10 games for Man United this year. His Euro was average, at best. Let's not crown him just yet.
Anyone who has seen Henry play at Arsenal in the last year can't argue that he is the best player in the world. He scores, he creates chances for himself and others. He is the most feared player in the world.
england66
10-16-2004, 08:13 AM
I dont know whats with all the Ferriera knocking. I watch him week in & week out with Chelsea & then saw the Russia game , & if you ask me I will tell you he has been one of Chelsea's best this season & V Russia I can not name one incident where he failed to collect a ball or turned a pass over ?? If we think he was quiet I have to ask was Jorge Andrade on the pitch ???
Couto5,
I personally don't think he is bad but he is clearly not as good as Miguel on the right side of defense. When it comes to playing left back there are better options who play that position day in and day out.
Basically, he will be a good backup for Miguel.
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