World Cup 2018 Thread 4

I'm looking forward to it ! Following the matches with you guys, really adds to the experience !

Just realized my fractions are off. Less confusing to say the 8 remaining quarterfinal teams will be whittled down to 4 semi-finalists by Saturday night.

I’m guessing bacon buttys will be flying off the griddle on Saturday night.

doping works big time. esp in endurance sports. like soccer where you gotta run for 90 min.

I hope France win. They're the more interesting team to watch. Plus, Suarez is a disgrace.

Hello, folks! Time to put those nerves to test again!

But before opening the works, I'd like to take a moment to send good vibes to the thirteen people (12 children + 1 adult) trapped in a cave in Thailand. They are playing the game of their lives and we're rooting for them!!!

"Mon coeur est bleu!"

I stand by my blue boys once again, although I don't want to say "they're favorite" for Uruguay has Luizito (the cannibal of football) and may (or may not) have Cavani.

I'll probably join you for the second half of the game (my father asked me to run an errand for him while HE - the old weasel - watches the game!).

See you!

Suarez is the one to watch. No Cavani this game. I say France will win but will be very physical, like Colombia, South American teams are dirty fuckers. Suarez might do something stupid if he is desperate enough...

It's almost time!!!!

R7, or hungry enough

Go France!

France has to score first--that will force Uruguay to come out and play. Easier said than done of course. Otherwise, it will be very dull as Uruguay sits back and absorbs pressure. They would be happy for it to end 0-0 and go to penalties.

The French don't have a good history in Russia, do they?

Next up This Shit's FINALLY Getting Serious!, France v. Uruguay at Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, current temp 22C.

J'aime Le Marsaillese (sp)

Allez Les Bleues!

Not that he is--Cavani looks like a serial killer.

Bonne chance La France!

Buena suerta Uruguay!

^^^ suertE^^^

Unlike the Colombians, Uruguayans know how to foul hard and get away with it.

Who were the final four at the last World Cup? Germany Argentina and?

Ref not having any more of it from Suarez?

Hmmm...Uruguay have had the better chances so far.

For fuck sake, Mbappe, how do you miss THAT?!

I love that Qatar Airways is a primary sponsor.

Please visit Qatar in 4 and a half years for the next World Cup. Christmastime in Qatar is refreshingly hot. And we won that bid fair and square, just like our Russian friends!

last world cup quarterfinals-brazil, colombia,france,costa rica,argentina,belgium,netherlands.

Viva La France!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

yay! Varane!

Yes! Cheese eaters!

Varane celebrating but that look like an own goal.

Another hot young Frenchman scores! Varane! Oui Oui

France leading but Uruguay has been knocking on the door all game. Don't think the French will keep them out so another goal or two needed.

Does Suarez like French food?

Asking for a friend

R24 thanks!

Yesss!!!

Fortunately, France has already scored! Uruguay is marking the French players so close that the least they can do after the game is to take the French out for dinner! Although, truth be told, Giroud almost stripped an Uruguayan player of his shorts! (lol)

Some of these guys look way too old to be playing football.

Oh dear. Another keeper klanger.

Viva La France!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Uruguay doesn't have the firepower to come back unless the French play as naively as the Japanese did.

Wow.

Sexy eyes grietzman damn the french can get it

"Allons enfants de la Patrie" (with a little help from Muslera)!!! (lol)

Boys, boys. You're all pretty.

Almost all

The more frustrated Suarez becomes, the hungrier he gets.

The French team is ridiculously sexy

Oh dear the uragayians complaining about someone exagerrating injury lol Did mbappe go to neymar’s acting school?

French have to keep their cool as Uruguay will look for anyway back. That was embarrassing from Mbappe, he deserved that yellow. Still, I hope the referee keeps on top of Uruguay. Pogba is a hothead. I bet Deschamps was asking him if he wants to blow his chance of playing in the semifinal.

R43 Lots of variety also only thing they are missing is a hot blonde.

I am there in the spirit, and watching so very closely, r46.

Adios Uruguay!

I'm glad France are about to win, but I have to admit they've been doing more than their fair share of diving

Why do the South American teams play so dirty? The asshole trips the French player resulting in a free kick and he CRIES? Basta!

R50 calm down avenatti

And France is a Top 4! "Allez les bleus!!!"

Congratulations, mes garçons!

Uruguay: the best defense it the attack! See you in Qatar!

C'est si beau

Krietzman just kissed someone from uragay?

Crying number 8 for uruguay is very sexy!

R50, Giminez is a basketcase. I've watched Atletico Madrid the last few years because of Torres so I know the other players pretty well. Giminez gets really emotional. He's prone to brain freezes. The guy is definitely not captain material. I bet he was crying because he felt the ref was unfair and/or realized time was running out.

Do all the players on the team from Sweden look like Alexander Skarsgard? If so, then France vs Sweden will be a real feast for the eyes.

Uruguay had the tighter jerseys, but I guess that wasn't enough.

So, folks, place your bets: who's going to win next, Brazil or Belgium? One thing is for sure, the next Top 4 will begin with a "b"! (lol)

I think it will be Brazil. But hoping for Belgium

I don't know much about the individual teams. I go for the over-all best looking with the perkiest asses.

On paper, Brazil versus Belgium is the best game. Too bad it's not the final. I mean Belgium tried by playing that game against England with 9 benchwarmers but England were more competent in losing.

I have no dog in the fight though I did start off the tournament by saying I wanted a first time winner and that Belgium were the likeliest of candidates. And I'm sure Neymar will do something or more during the game which will induce everyone in the world to root for Belgium.

Most of all, just be a good game.

Mbappe pulling a Neymar. Now to see whether Neymar uses antics or actually plays football (my guess is the latter so he can shut us all up!)

Was Alexi Lalas of the US a flopper, diver, embellisher in his day? He's been defending those antics on Fox for days.

Lalas was a plodding defender--wasn't in the position to flop much. But he's from the school of do what you must to win. Not surprising as he wasn't blessed with much talent.

I'm betting on Belgium. Either way, the winner of this takes on my team - France. So we shall see.

let's guess how many times Neymar will dive and roll on the ground. There is a NYT article about him and diving today lol. The acting teachers were evaluating his acting abilities lol basically said he's like many actors starting out, they oversell lol.

Here we go!

Lots happening, a bit frantic. Brazil could have had 3 by now.

Ahh there it is

Just when I thought Belgium looked outgunned, they score.

Martinez using the same back 3 system which barely handled Japan. Brazil has been close a number of times already.

But of course, Belgium scores from a corner. Own goal or at least a deflection.

Own goal. Embarrassing for the Brazilian defenders.

FUCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Brazil down 2 goals!!!!

De Bruyne! Stud boy!

It's going to be difficult for Brazil to come back from this. Two Belgian goals in half an hour.

Brazil has some great individual talents, but they have a huge problem when trying to play as a group. Besides, they must learn to live the moment and believe that they will win just because of their glories!!!

And Belgium scores again! Bye-bye, Brasil?

They are supposed to be winning the WC! oh boy, it will all be blamed on Neymar if they don't win, his fucking terrible acting!

Such an open game and the Brazilians can't keep up. Said in the last thread that Brazil would miss Casemiro who is the anti-Brazilian as he does the grunt work in the midfield.

R77

I'm sorry! "and don't believe"; "past glories"

Brazil’s defense isn’t good enough. Marcelo should have prevented that goal.

that fucking Jesus is supposed to be the next fat ronaldo but has not scored shit! take him off!

R78

Neymar needs a reality check! Perhaps, this will make him grow up a little!

R83, he was supposed to be grown up since last WC lol....surrounded by yes men...not sure how that is gonna happen.

Yeah, Jesus arrived at City with lots of hype and tailed off (there were injuries, but he has been invisible in Russia.

The commentator said that the last time Brazil came back from 2 goal down to win is 1938.

R84

Giving the reins of his life to his father doesn't help either.

Thibaut Courtois is the hero so far in this game. So many attempts by Brazil and he has kept them scoreless. Tres bien!.

Next match: Le Bleus x Les Rouges!

The last three keepers for Atletico Madrid : De Gea, Courtois, and Oblak. The last is the current keeper but his country didn't make it to Russia. Three of the best keepers in the world. Not a bad track record for Atleti, eh?

Brazil has to score! Has Belgium ever won the WC?

R91

Nope!

R91

Complementing: Belgium was in the 4th place in 1986.

In this Round of 8, we have/had 4 World Champions: France, Uruguay, Brazil and England.

Brazil is not winning this game. Belgium is too good.

So maybe England has a chance!

R94

As long as someone prevents Mick Jagger from going to Russia... (lol)

wow, that was a fucking penalty. wtf? more proof this is rigged.

I think FIFA would love Brazil to go through, but, yes, that was a penalty.

I don't want Belgium to win WC coz I fucking hate Fellaini!

Jesus, Belgium can't seem to get close to Brazil's goal. Co sidering how many chanmces Brazil has had to score Belgium is playing much better defense. Oh! So close, Belgium!

Tired to watch and type. Shit. You get the gist.

I couldn't be a regular soccer fan because the game is so anxiety inducing! On the edge of my seat every minute!

Belgium has great defense, all big and tall, strong dudes.

it's over. They are not even fighting. It's written in their faces. I can clearly see it.

Kevin De Bryne looks like a 12 year old

Well, no one wants Fellaini to win the cup. I can't stand Vertonghen myself. I want them to win mainly because they are the best team remaining. I also like to see a fulfill their talent--I'm a big admirer of Hazard and to a lesser degree, De Bruyne. If I was a footballer, I would want to play like them. They are flair players with fantastic skills without being complete show ponies *cough, cough*.

Brazil hasn't been bad--they're one OG away from making this a nailbiter. It's not the Germany game in 2014. They need to be sharper in front of goal and a huge dose of luck. But it may just be one of those days.

R102

And the Brazilian attackers are smaller and less build.

The Brazilian fans look deflated.

[quote]I couldn't be a regular soccer fan because the game is so anxiety inducing! On the edge of my seat every minute!

It's not always like this. It's a very good tournament so far.

Yeah, if you watch league/club football, there are plenty of meh games throughout the long season.

So can you explain what happens with a penalty instead of just a yellow card, r108? Was the player suspended? Great fucking save by Courtois! Don't really know the rules. Thanks.

Courtois is one cool motherfucker.

Oh, game on!

Brazil is still alive!!!

Remember what happen to Japan ...

There you go. It finally happens for Brazil. Fantastic pass and a good header beats Courtois. With a keeper that good, he put it in out of reach.

If Brazil had been given that penalty earlier, there's a chance things would be equal now.

Props to the guy calling this match. It's like calling a fucking horserace.

Good god, if only Brazil could shoot at goal...

Missed the incident, R110, but here are the rules on penalties inside normal time. Penalty shootouts are different. Two yellow cards in one match equals a red, and they get sent off. A red card or two yellow cards accumulated over the tournament means a one match ban.

If only Belgium could get CLOSE to the goal!

Whoa no one cares about this game glad Brazil is on its way out

Thank you, r119. Will read up on the rules before next Sunday so I have my head in the game.

Will we have a last minute surprise?

Courtois! Courtois! Courtois!

That Neymar curl was going in. Bad luck Brazil are up against a brilliant keeper today.

Was that expected? I thought Brazil was a powerhouse?

It's over! Brazil is out! The favorites have been bounced.

To be fair, Brazil scored more than Belgium, just unfortunate that one of them was an own goal.

Neymar isn't going to talk much shit today.

Belgium have to be favorites now. Heavy is the crown...

Belgium and Courtois deserve that win. The match with France on Tuesday should be excellent.

Only European teams left now.

Courtois is cute in a goofy sort of way.

One of the hottie on the Belgian side just showed off his hot bod

France-Belgium is the best game remaining in the tournament. Nothing on the other side is going to be as good.

Congratulations, Belgium! You're Top 4 again!

Brazil, my boys, you're good but you're not the best; and even if someone tells you "You're the best!", don't believe it! There's always room for improvement. I'm sure you'll be back in 4 1/2 years. Better luck!

R128

There's an old saying that goes: "Goalkeepers don't win games, they just lose." Luckily, for Cortois this proved to be wrong!

And tomorrow is a Viking day! (Sorry, England!)

[quote]Only European teams left now.[/quote] Think the tournament loses something for the absence of the South American teams.

[quote]Only European teams left now.

Think the tournament loses something for the absence of the South American teams.

I'm so happy right now! I'm hoping Belgium wins the cup but either way the game with France should be fantastic.

I just googled that Belgium only has population of about 11m vs Brazil's 210m. Such disparity.

Giselle must be cussing up a storm right about now. And Mrs. McConaughey.

This has been my favorite big sporting event in years. I have to try to plan to have Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons free next week To see the semifinals live.

Still rooting for England, and I hope they defeat the Swedes tomorrow (apologies, Lag). But if Belgium ends up taking the whole show, good on them!

France will win

Allez Les Bleus !

Kane leading the cup in goals and most have been gifts from the refs.

I have a feeling the finals will be France - Russia

with Macron flipping the bird to Putin in the stands

France looks strong as well. I have faith in Harry Kane. Lukaku is built like an ox, very good player. I would be happy if England wins.

The game is gonna be so rigged for Russia. All refs probably got $$ deposited into their swiss bank accounts.

For Tuesday, I have to root for the underdog therefore I root for Belgium. They have resillience. I can see France is strong. So it will be a very interesting match.

Eden Hazard's ass is in the semis. Can't complain.

All the teams I'm rooting for have been eliminated so I couldn't give two shits about the world cup anymore.

Oh boo, R148 ! My team was Italy and they didn't even made the tournament. I'm still watching. I discovered I enjoy more a good match when there are no teams I can't stand to see eliminated. I have a lot of fun.

Football's coming home, innit?

I've asked this in every thread: now would be a good time to post gossip about the players' sex lives (straight or gay) or link to a site that does. And they don't have to be still in, teams that have been knocked out are probably wilding out right now.

Neymar, football's most overrated twerp. At least Messi and CR7 earned their reps.

I think Lukaka is the stand-out star of the games so far.

Germany, Argentina and Brazil all out; England still in (for now). Basil Brush essentially predicted this weeks ago.

Gag!

Nice to read your live commentry here. Great tun!

So my predictions for this now European championship

France Belgium (which is a pity to see in the half Finals) France will win.

Tomorrow Croatia Russia. Probably Croatia, but Russia is the host, So. Difficult to predictions.

Sweden England. Probably England. They've just learned, that they can win in a penality shootout.

My predictions:

So. Half finalists: France, Croatia, England and Belgium.

Half final: France Belgium and Croatia England

Final: France Croatia

If the home country always exceeds expectations might we expect Mexico in the semifinals or finals? Usa in the quarters or semifinals and canada in knock out rounds come 2026?

Sweden, you have one job tomorrow.

Croatia, you have one job tomorrow.

I think England and Croatia are slight favorites. I really hope Croatia shows up because the thought of any of the other 3 teams making it to the final is horrifying. Though it would be interesting to see a rematch of Belgium and England. Only because England fans and pundits claimed they lost the game on purpose. Each team playing their best players--I would hope Belgium gives England a hiding.

Also it depends how many yellow cards certain players got, they might be suspended the following match and the team misses their talent and lose.

England will be fucked if Kane has to miss any of the games due to cards or illness.

I looked up Ronaldo Nazario being drugged in the 98 finals as I’d never heard it before. There’s about a dozen conspiracy theories in this article but no answers. I can’t believe they let him play after having a seizure (if that’s what really happened), no matter what caused it.

Go Vikings!!

Ladbroke World Cup 2018 Winner odds:

France: 2/1

Belgium: 5/2

England: 7/2

Croatia: 11/2

Russia: 20/1

Sweden: 22/1

Sweden worst odds than russia? Please

Ronaldo Lima was caught with 3 trannies (whores) in Brazil. was reported in the NYT He claimed he didn't know they had dicks.

But that was more than a decade after the France final.

R166 fat ronaldo likes fucking trannies

Gods of the Norse, grant victory to our warriors! But if they are to fall in battle, may it be with honor and may Odin, All-father, receive them at the Gates of Valhalla!

P.S.: If you could arrange for Mick Jagger to be at the arena during the game, we'd appreciate!

This is one busy day in international sports, at least three events that I enjoy following here in the US.

First day of the 3-week Tour de France (which I love as much for the gorgeous scenery as anything) now live on NBCSN. Wimbledon continues on ESPN, Live play starting about now.

But it is all about the two remaining quarterfinals in the WC, starting in less than two hours on Fox.

R169

You meant "Thor de France", right? (lol)

P.S.: I'm still too disappointed with Lance Armstrong.

Go Sweden!

I thought this was fake at first, but the Independent reported on it - the royal band plays "Three Lions" during the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace in support of the England team:

Pre game show about to start in US on Fox. Alexi Lalas seems to have backed off his perceived defense of diving / flopping from earlier in the week. Yesterday he said Neymar's treatment by ref was a cautionary tale for players who get a rep for that kind of behavior

Just while we’re waiting - retired Norwegian cyclist Thor Hushovd had a notorious photo where his white world champion kit was see through. I can’t find it so here’s a similar one.

When England does well: Brilliant! Good on him!

If they do poorly: Bollocks! Bolloxy bolloxy bollocks!

Next up This Shit FINALLY Gets Serious, Sweden v. Britain at Samara Arena, current temp 26C

The main referee, hot in that silver daddy kind of way, owns a chain of successful supermarkets in Holland, according to the Englishman calling the game on Fox

A little lower and to the right . . .

R177 his name is Björn Kuipers

I've got dibs on fucking Kane senseless during half-time.

R179, thanks for the picture. He looks familiar.

R180

As long as he doesn't come back for the second half and Sweden scores, fine!!! (lol)

Is it fair that when Sweden is playing, the match official is named Bjorn? Isn't half of Sweden named Bjorn?

OH SHITTTTTTTTTTTT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

ENGLAND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! yay !

Bollocks!!! England scores!

R183

Because of ABBA, there's a lot of Björns outside Sweden.

Watching this match, it's hard to believe these two teams play the same game as Brazil and Belgium.

There's almost zero chances Sweden will score from open play.

Plodders versus clodders

Brilliant strike, that was. I wish I was watching in one of my old favorite Camden Town pubs.

Stupid Sterling, should have passed the ball!!! I hate him.

The Swedish goalie should be shot, drawn, quartered, etc.

Typical Sterling.

But his speed and movement will continue to cause problems for Sweden. If he doesn't score, someone else will. It's hard to fathom all that stands between England and the final are Russia/Croatia.

If Harry Kane gets it on with anyone at halftime, it's the other Harry who scored the goal. McGuire! 1st international goal ever for the lad

England is going through...Sweden is just not good enough.

Only hope is a ball accidently bounces off of a Swedish player for a goal (and not OG).

I must admit the goal was beautiful, but ... urgh.. . I don't enjoy that match that much, after the two we had yesterday. Can we bring back the Japanese team ?

So glad I overslept and didn't go to a viewing party at a bar. This game isn't worth the shlep and money.

Wow, how did Mexico lose to this sad sack Sweden team 3-0? Utter rubbish.

Excellent footballing from the English soccerball players in this game against the Swedes!!! Very convincing header from my favorite player, Michael Kane! Excellent striking!!!

England Scores Again!!

Bye bye Sweden

To quote R175, "Bollocks! Bolloxy bolloxy bollocks!"

England scores again!

Second goal for England. If they keep this up, they will make it to the semi-finals for the first time in 28 years.

R200

Not yet! There are 30' more minutes to go!

Oh, I've liked watching that Dele boy in EPL for a couple years! Nicely done, young man!

R203 First Iceland, then the Danes, and now Sweden. Vikings suck at football.

R196 which game featuring england has been though?they have all been pretty boring

R205

We fare better at boat races, and snow and ice sports! But we don't "suck" at football, the weather is clearly affecting us! Yes, that's the explanation! (lol)

The Englishman calling the game on Fox is no Arlo White, then, is he?

(Video is for your viewing pleasure after the final whistle)

Lol bye bye Neymar. How it must be to know the entire world loathes you.

R209

He's sheltered from reality by his father!

Pickford is a good goalkeeper

Gorgeous save by the England keeper

2 minutes left. It's over.

Well done England!

Farewell my valiant Vikings!

Uruguay and Sweden's inapacity at overcoming a 0-2 deficit, underlines what Belgium has accomplished. It's a difficult feat.

I don't want to get ahead of myself and I am rooting for Belgium, but imagine if we end up with a France-England final ?

It will end up in murder and in another 100 year war.

[quote]It will end up in murder and in another 100 year war.

All according to plan of myself and a new stupid powerful friend who coming to see me soon.

Yellow carded a Swedish player. Like he gives a fuck at this point.

Congratulations, England! I abide by Thor's decision to favor the Team of the "Hurricane"; they had, indeed, the upper hand!

Sweden, my fierce Viking warriors, you fought until the end; the dream was postponed but still lives on. Join Iceland and Denmark at Odin's Table. Who knows, perhaps the Gods want to prepare you for the next battle themselves!

I woke up for this horse shit? Congrats to England, they play crap but efficient football. Sweden, that was shambolic.

Sorry it was so bad for you, r218. I enjoyed the hell out of that game.

So many hot swedes of both genders crying, though.

After several shots of blonde Swedish gals looking despondent the British Fox commentator said “A lot of beautiful women are sad right now.” Dick.

I guess he could have said "need consolation right now."

The black guy doing the post-game analysis agrees with the poster here who hates sterling;)

yes, Sterling hasn't scored in 23 games. He ain't gonna score. It's probably mental at this point. But he does run fast.

I suspect that was Clarence Seedorf, R222. His analyses have been sound throughout the tournament.

Do you agree with the brit that sterling should be benched, r223?

I think that guy's name is Ian Wright. He was saying Rasford should start.

Seedorf isn't a Brit though--he's Dutch. If it was definitely a Brit-accented commentator, it wasn't Seedorf. But I agree Seedorf makes sound punditry--from what little I have seen. I can't stand Lalas and the British-centric pre/post game segments, I only watch as the game starts, mute half time and grab the remote as soon as the game ends.

Sweden such a useless country that capitulates to England because they look up to them in every single way. And I'm not even joking. There's was no chance they were going to show any fight against people they consider their betters.

Sweden was so weak today.

The kids hand in hand with the players in the tunnel and walkout. I said in thread 1 that I love it. So nice.

I wonder if part of it is to prevent trash talk between the sides?

I didn't even realize that Wright is commentating for Fox. I, too, tend to mute and ignore. Lalas is just that annoying to me.

Let's see how effective Russian doping is--enough for a World Cup semi-final?

Go, Croatia!!!

Wow, all Russia right now.

I'm rooting for Croatia, mildly, in this one. If Only to cleanse the tournament of rumors of home-team "unfairness"

It's odd to see Croatia in black and not in their classic white/red checkered shirt. Have had to tell myself not to cheer on the guys in red shirt/white shorts.

R235

I'm rooting for Croatia because I can't stand Comrade Putin's guts since the Kursk tragedy! His arrogance robbed those brave men of any hope of survival; and, since then, he has done nothing to improve his image, quite the contrary.

If Russia wins, he'll boast it as his own victory!

I really want Croatia to win, but I have to admit that's mostly for political reasons

The thought of any of today's teams winning it all...I mean, I like rooting for the underdog, but they're all just so uninspiring. Croatia have a bit of magic with Modric and Rakitic but then they are also saddled with Lovrejen in defense and Mandzukic as their striker. Mandzukic is pretty decent, but he's a lumberjack in shorts. Not exactly poetry in motion.

You have got to be kidding. Russia scores.

Damn it!!!

Nice strike, but oh good Christ, really?

That was powerful.

If it is a semi final England-Russia, who mwill wear red ? I bet Russia insist to keep the red jersey.

Okay, that was a great strike. But since the start of the game, have the Croatians seem a little loose with the ball in and around their box? A little loose with the passes, a little lax in front of goal...

Due to the circumstances, I may be hyper-focused on every little mistake. Maybe they're just really not that good...

Since when are the Russians good ? Wasn't the population afraid their team would embarrass them in the tournament just before it started ?

Croatia weren’t that good against Denmark, that’s why the game went to penalties.

God, if only one of Belgium, France and Brazil had made it to this side of the Cup.

YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Fantastic cross by Mandzukic, you lumbering fool you.

At last!!!

Sometimes, there's God, so quickly.

Both team are agressive and motivated, as opposed to this morning. It is a fun match to watch.

I wonder if the Russians would have even qualified had they not been the home team.

Jesus, if Croatia loses...one or two inches difference.

Come on, Croatia. You can win this walking away.

And of course not, r251. The host country gets to play in the group stage without qualifying, as you know. But does getting the sweetest group in the draw come automatically? Hmm.

I can't believe one of the three teams I detest the most (England, Croatia, and Russia) has a guaranteed spot in the final. Just fucking shoot me if one of them actually wins in the end.

Go France/Belgium!

R253 doesn’t the host country automatically get the top seed like in the olympics meaning their pools are not as difficult wonder what they will do when mex,usa and canada host who gets the easiest pool usa?

Wow, how I wish I was in London tonight. Between Wimbledon and today's win in the World Cup, isn't it probably the hottest and most fun place to be in the universe between now and Wednesday ?

Croatia finding every way NOT to win this game.

Where the hell is Rakitic? Totally anonymous today. If there are questions, they better look into him first.

Does the croatian goalie have a cramp whats wrong with him?

May have pulled a hammy.

That's the guy, r226. He got up and left the desk. Sick of the snippy Americans I guess. LOL. That little Croatian guy is doing everything he can to win but isn't getting much help. This is another anxiety inducing game like Belgium and Brazil. Fun but fucking nerve-racking.

Also, props to the guy calling the match. He really makes it exciting.

Great, Croatia now have a one leg keeper.

Extra-time, now they can replace him.

So basically, England are in the final, right?

R264

Not yet! They're in the semi-finals now.

They're still giving him the magic spray--is he staying in the game? Yep,he sure is. Maybe the injury isn't that bad?

Laggy, that was a rhetorical question as both of these teams look to be weak sauce. Croatia probing but can't finish it off.

It would be such an england thing to lose to russia

R267

If Russia wins this game, it may not a rhetorical question! (*coughs* "doping" *coughs*) lol

Imagine how Orange Julius is going to spit shine Putin's ass on Twitter if the Russians win? I'm going to puke up my vodka tonics.

R269

Sorry! "...it may not be a rhetoriical question!"

R270

Do you think Cheetos, Comrade and Kim-berly have a threesome or something?

If that was fugly kane he would be kicking a penalty kick

Such a Lovren brain fart. Was wondering why it happened yet. The guy is comedy.

YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!

About goddamn time, Croats!! Nice

Twenty minutes left though...plenty of time.

Lucky bounce but we'll take 'em.

That was an ugly goal but no extra points for style

I like extra time in futbol unlike football where it’s over when the first team scores..

I stepped away for one minute and the motherfuckers score? Yessss! Go Croatia!

R280

How about stepping away for two minutes now? (*winks*)

R279, for a few years, around 2000, there was the golden goal rule. Score in extra-time and the game is over. That's how Italy lost the Euro Championship to Germany. They changed it back to playing out the entire extra-time shortly after.

Damn, too much time left and the Croatian keeper is fucking crocked. Why the hell didn't he get subbed out?

If he really can't carry on, I'd rather replace him and defend with 9. Better than a keeper who can't jump or move.

R283, ignore the previous post. It makes no sense at all. Just realized they can't replace the keeper--no more subs.

I'm guessing Trump watches himself jerk off in a mirror listening to Putin tell him how he's never seen one sooo bigly, r272. Melanoma is probably off shopping. Kim is still trying to find his beans and frank.

Croatia needs to go Spain and play keepaway with the ball.

Will do, r281. I'll just watch the re-play.

Russia being eliminated would be a delight.

R287

Replay and pause: if people could do this, I bet there are more than 200 million Brazilians that would have paused after Germany's first goal in 2014! (lol)

Idiotic elbow ball

Yeah, you knew that was coming.

Noooooooooooooooooo!!!!

Of course russia ties it They have some kind of voodoo magic thing set up

Both these teams are kind of fug ( like england) a few hotties here and there but mostly butterfaces.

FUCK FUCK FUCK

R293

Russia is the land of many powerful Shamans, especially Siberia. But, in this case, I suspect more mundane explanations.

Ugh. At this point, I'm okay if RUS wins. Let them, and then on Wednesday they can be demolished by England.

The Russians are playing as though they will be arrested if they don’t win.

R297 england will pull an england and choke

R298

Do you have any doubts?

And here we go again... the lottery!

I can't watch the Russians celebrating. Too much like watching a Trumper Nazis Scumbag rally. So which team has a better chance of winning in a penalty shoot-out?

Penalty kicks with an injured croatian goalkeeper... Fuck that shit.

It's a lottery.

Fox just said "this tournament has not been scripted"

If the Croatian goalie is truly injured then why didn't they take him out? This would never stand in American football. Or any American sport. They don't get to decide if they stay in. The trainer and the team doc does.

R305 maybe they feel their backup is worst than their starter on one leg

can't they make sub?

wow, that was a weak penalty shot lol.

Ah ha yeah

HAHAHAHA fucker

Shit!!!!

And russian goalie makes a save lol

The drama

Another Russian miss!!

that guy can't even shoot LOL

I have been petitioning Yemaya, the Great Witch, to make Russia lose. She's never let me down.

The Russian team should never have made it this far.

Bam!!

COME ON one more Croatia!!!

The correct team went through...but they will have tired legs against England. I still favor England to go through to the final

YEAAAAAH !!!!

The two russians that missed choked big time

France - England in the finals

Congratulations, Croatia! You're back to Top 4!

Russia: you may have lost, but you're great guests, save some minor(ity) details.

We meet again on Tuesday for France and Belgium and on Wednesday for England and Croatia.

Replenish your energies, beverages and snacks!!! (lol)

Peace

Modric is, low-key, Real Madrid’s best player. I’ve never seen him show this kind of emotion.

Not that wxcited about seeing them shirtless way too many ugly men on that field.

You are fine company, Lagertha. See you Tuesday.

Ok, Rakitic, you weren't on the take. Just a bit shit all game but you've done it now!

Luka Modric, what a player.

The global nightmare of Russia in the semi-final has been averted. Thank you Croatia.

I love how every Fox employee must say it's the greatest world cup ever. I mean, it's been terrific but it's so obvious, "greatest world cup ever" has been promoted as a on-air talking point.

R324

Sorry! Where it says "guests" read "hosts".

England will dispatch with Croatia with little effort. Of course, that means I'll have a heart attack during that England-France/Belgium final because I'm on the #AnyoneButEngland team.

Well, that went the way it should have, ultimately. That poor young Russian who just missed completely... I worry for his safety. Send your family abroad, young man. And then sneak out yourself.

Ha ha, Russia lost. Perfect!

[quote]I love how every Fox employee must say it's the greatest world cup ever. I mean, it's been terrific but it's so obvious, "greatest world cup ever" has been promoted as a on-air talking point.

It doesn't even make sense as that's a totally subjective thing. And how the fuck can it be the greatest World Cup ever if the USA didn't even qualify? Traitorous cunts much?

[quote]way too many ugly men on that field.

It was, possibly, the least attractive 22 on the pitch at any point since the start of the tourney.

[quote] I'm on the #AnyoneButEngland team.

Why?

[quote] That poor young Russian who just missed completely...

The goals are 9 fucking meters wide. Missing is unforgivable at this level. It's just horrible.

i would be happy if England wins. I do not want Belgium to win.

France has the most talented team and are a pleasure to the eyes. Allez les bleus !

Both teams looked utterly exhausted by the time it went to penalties. I think Croatia will struggle against England.

Belgium vs Croatia finals would be a snooze. France vs England has FLAVAH !

R339 the refs will give england plenty of penalty kicks, kane is their little pet

R330, same here. I can't lose my every two year fix of England failing in a big tournament. Winning the freaking cup means I'll have to hear about it for the rest of my life. I'm halfway through so literally, the rest of my life as the English still go on about their 1966 win.

A tiny bit of me will be happy for Ian McCulloch of Echo and the Bunnymen, my music hero, who is a fanatical football fan. I feel the same way about Liverpool, again loving the 'never winning the premier league' bit. But I'd be a bit happy for McCulloch as he's a die-hard LFC fan. Did you know he tried to reschedule a concert in May because Liverpool were in the Champions League final? Announced it and then had to revert back to the original date when there was a huge backlash. Fans didn't appreciate having to change their travel plans just so he could watch a football match. Only the Bunnymen.

Did you guys just see the post-match "interview" with the Russian coach ? lolololol Salty motherfucker refused to answer anything.

C'mon, Russia rigged the Draw and got "lucky". They will never come this far again.

Gee, I wonder if they drug test the losing team ? lol.

Russia would have never qualified had they not hosted, so... I think it's fair to say we won't have to look at their sorry asses in 2020.

Russia clearly lacked talent and are Probably the weakest host team to ever make it this far, they just played hard and had some luck.

And again, how much fun it must be to be in Europe tonight. Especially England and Croatia

First time ever that the last rounds are all-European teams, I think I(ve read. Crazy stuff when you think about it, they have eliminated every other continent !

It’s coming home!

No, I don't think it would be fun in England right now. Piss and vomit all over the streets. no thanks.

R350 to france

R351 you mean like every other saturday night?

When is Trump supposed to meet with the Queen? She is going to want to watch the game!

We dodged a World Cup-winning Russian team visiting the White House and being honored by the president.

Thank you, Croatia!

Russia is beatable.

VOTE!

Putin: Who missed that 1st penalty?

Man on the phone: His name is Smolov

Putin: You know what to do #RUSCRO

England fans in the US, check out the live radio on BBC 5 tonight and going forward.

Am I the only one rooting for Belgium ? Yes, France is excellent and confident. But Belgium has shown character, catching up two points against Japan and winning against largely favorit Brazil. Besides, they are always treated like an inconsequential, bumpkin, country cousin by the French. I would love for them to win and prove everybody wrong.

For England/Croatia, I don't really mind, but once again, beating Sweden today was a lot easier than beating Russia. Therefore, shouldn't Croatia have an edge ?

I enjoy seeing other countries than the usual suspects (Germany, Italy, Brasil, Spain, Argentina ) shining.

R360 russia is terrible had lost its last 7 matches before the cup started, somehoe they advanced to the quarters but they are not a talented team

I'd be happy for either France or Belgium to win the cup, R360. Both teams have a lot of talent. And of course, Belgium would be first-time winners, which is a nice bonus.

Pointless trivia: neither England nor Croatia even survived the group stage in 2014. This time, one of them will make the final.

France has that 19yr kid. They have a lot of talent. I'm rooting for England and Harry kane!

r360. No. Not the only.. A lot of the croation players play in the German Bundesliga, same for Belgium. This means a lot of us here in Germany are familiar with those guys. Anyway, at the end of the day we will see a final between the best players from the European Champions League Clubs.

The only difference will be, that they are playing for there home countries.

And. All my predictions for the quarter finals came true.

Thank you for all your answers, guys. Your opinion and extra information are really interesting.

I want England to go all the way just so it will really send Wayne Rooney spiraling into depression. God, I hate that asshole.

Comments like yours, R47,are like reading an old comic book next to a mug of hot chocolate.

That would be sweet, R366. Beckham, too. I know he hasn't participated in a World Cup for twelve years, but his ego is so massive that he would still take it as a personal insult if England won without him.

England has had a cupcake draw to the finals they better not blow it.

Deplorable. God, I fucking hate England and its fans.

R370, the fans seem to only be jumping on beds and kicking around a few pillows and poufs at Ikea. That's not exactly "trashing an Ikea".

R370 is probably annoyed because he was one of the posters further up who predicted an orgy of gay-bashing at London Pride yesterday after the match which, to no-one's surprise, didn't happen.

They jumped on an ambulance and trashed it, though.

London gays, what did you to celebrate yesterday's victory?

own goal player got death threats

some images of England after win. Nobody is gonna show up for work if they make it to the finals lol

At least the semifinals will be after regular work hours for most people in Europe. Those of us who want to watch live (and be live here on the fun DL thread) from the US have to manage to be able to do so at 2 pm Tuesday and Wednesday.

The Neymar Challenge... (lol)

No lie, I am traveling for work on Wednesday. Originally I was going to take an Amtrak in the mid-afternoon, switched it to early evening so I can watch the game and extra-time, if needed. I can eat dinner on the train and all I need to do really is get to the hotel and get ready for bed.

[quote]he fans seem to only be jumping on beds and kicking around a few pillows and poufs at Ikea. That's not exactly "trashing an Ikea".

Since when is property destruction in the order of thousands in damages not trashing an Ikea? The cleaning fees and costs alone for mopping up and disinfecting the sodden mess will be in the thousands. The attitude sounds like "poor innocent fans accused fans." Who's going to pay? Why are you trying to normalize drunken, loutish, uncivilized behavior? From the winners, no less.

Why is Suarez such a dick? He could start a fight in an empty room.

A British journalist covering the World Cup was reportedly drugged and robbed Friday in Moscow.

Two men have been detained in the Russian capital, according to Russia's Interior Ministry, after a BBC reporter drank a spiked cup of coffee, lost consciousness and woke up at a metro station without his cell phone and bank cards, a police source told The Sun.

The victim reportedly was taking a taxi from the Bolshoi Theatre around 3:30 a.m. and received the beverage from strangers.

"As a result of the search operation, a suspect in the robbery of a British national has been detained," a spokesperson for the Russian Interior Ministry said Saturday. "Yesterday, the British national reported to the police that he had been robbed in a taxi.

"As a result of the search operation, officers of the criminal police found the car which the man had taken and one of the suspects had been detained. He is now being questioned."

The spokesperson later added that an additional suspect had been detained.

While a BBC spokesperson would only say there was "an incident" that's "in the hands of the Russian police," a source at the outlet told The Sun that the victim is "absolutely fine and back working now."

R381, good that Griezmann didn't join Barcelona then. Not that Suarez will be at Barca for much longer anyway. He's past his best and Barca only really take care of their own (La Masia)--the other players are upgraded as soon any decline is apparent.

PSG wants Suarez

I've come to like Suarez (purely as a player, of course) in a perverse sort of way. Yes, he's a hyper competitive asshole, but that not the worst thing for a player to be. He's always trying to win, even in ordinary league games. You never sense that he's just grinding it out for the paycheck. And Barca got him to stop biting people.

Gareth Southgate, the whole of England is behind you (again).

R379, I get it. For Wednesday I moved an important meeting that requires me to drive an hour each way up to 10 am, from 1pm, so that I can be back home or at least in my office to watch the England-Croatia game live.

Can't do much about tomorrow's France -Belgium match except DVR it and hope not to hear results ahead of time, because of commitments I can't change. But because everyone I know well is either into this WC or at least knows that I am, I have a feeling I'll be spoiled with the result before getting to watch.

R385, he reminds me of Roy Keane in that sense.

R379 here, I've now managed to get out of the trip altogether! Granted I was already set to watch the game, but it's a busy week and my manager agreed with my suggestion that my time would be better spent staying put rather than traveling for a near-useless meeting.

I'm rooting for Belgium--will want to see this "Golden Generation" actually fulfill their potential. Also supporting them as they've never won before. I would like to see Croatia win for the same reason but I don't think they are deserving based on performance and talent.

My preference in order: Belgium France Croatia England

Tomorrow's match is pretty even steven and I think it's the real World Cup Final.

I hate Fellaini so I don't want Belgium. But I can't stand Pogba either...

Ready to see the french hotties cocks bounce around.

Astérix, Obélix & Co vs The Smurfs, which are your favorites?

Astérix & Obélix, only because they sorta look like Vikings.

All 12 boys are out and the coach is out! Wonderful news!

R394

Astérix, Obélix and Co are my favorites, too. After all, they resisted the expansion of the Roman Empire.

R395

The Wild Boars and their coach will live to play many other days! Unfortunately, they won't be able to watch the Final in Russia. Anyway, they're safe and we need to thank all the volunteers and experts who worked hard for their rescue: true heroes!!!

So excited that the first semi-final is today! It feels like ages since the last game, even though it was only a few days ago.

Those non-football days are hard, now that I got spoiled by daily matches. It’ll be so sad when the whole tournament is over.

....

so are all the divers out ? what were they doing in there still? removing the tanks etc?

Apparently the doctor and the Navy SEALs are all out as well, R400.

great, so now the kids can watch some world cup games!

Fernando Torres signs with Sagan Tosu of the J-League. A bit surprised with that one--Twitter, last night, was saying he was going to sign with the Chicago Fire. I don't watch MLS but would have started if he had joined. Also surprised he's joining a fairly small team who are 2nd to last in the J-League. Tosu is a far ways off from London and Madrid. According to Wikipedia, the population is only 72k, though it's not too far away from Fukuoka, which has 2.5M people. I bet that's where he and his family will be based.

Good adventure for Nando and Japan is probably a better place for his family of 3 kids than Chicago.

didn't another player sign for Japan just recently? The money must be good

where is that in Japan? Maybe it's close to a nice city.

He joins Iniesta and Podolski in the J. League!

R405, Tosu, according to maps, is about 40 minutes away from Fukuoka City. It's in Kyushu Island which is the southern end of Japan so it should be nice and muggy when he joins the the team next week. Atletico Madrid played Sagan Tosu a couple of years ago during a summer tour--perhaps Fernando made some contacts and was impressed with the area/team? But yeah, a city 72K isn't exactly Tokyo or Osaka. Good on him though. When I graduated from college, my first job was in Japan teaching English. I went from LA to a village 2.5 hours away north of Tokyo. I wanted to do something different and I feel like Torres is doing the same. His pay packet is much bigger though!

one of the boys in the cave is a bayern fan!

They won't be going to the world cup but I just heard on bbc that they will going to visit Manchester United, they have received many offers according to reports.

Also saw a boy in a Real Madrid jersey.

Crispy to Juve!

Since you bitches refuse to use the Footballers in Love thread.

yeah, there were leaked pictures of CR7's new juve jersey last week. Knew it was coming and there is a huge tax advantage for him too.

I honestly can't understand Ronaldo moving to Juventus. A huge club but a declining league. How can they afford him and still meet financial fair play rules?

And as a mild AC Milan fan , fuck!

They gonna have to sell Dybala, lots of rumors going around.

so now real madrid can buy neyamr !

R412, Supposedly part of the deal is being underwritten by a “sponsorship” deal with Fiat.

Real will make one or two huge signings then. Hazard leaving Chelsea?

Juventus paying over 100M for a 33 year old and paying him 550K weekly for four years. Crazy.

The background to the sale is, allegedly, this: Florentino Perez, Real Madrid's President-for-Life, never liked Cristiano. He's put up with Cristiano's demands and hurt feelings and the little escapade with Badr Hari, but never liked it. When Cristiano asked Perez for a salary increase (so he would be on par with Messi and Neymar), Perez told him to look for another gig. It will be announced as Real Madrid reluctantly caving into Cristiano's demands, but that's probably not what really happened.

It's potentially good business for Juve, despite the cost, because of the increased visibility, etc. Hazard is a logical and doable target. I don't know if PSG will let zany Neymar go.

So who is everybody's winner for today? I want France but think it will be Belgium.

La Liga won’t be the same! I hate change.

R418, it’s a tough call. Probably the best game left of the Copa. I’d be happy with either winning except I don’t like Manu lol.

Too close to call, R418.

Priorities, r392. Priorities;)

I read Iniesta will be playing for Kobe. Interesting how the J league has drawn these guys over the usual bone yards like China (Drogba, Anelka) or the Middle East like Xavi and so many others. It may very well be a matter of what they want their families exposed to. Japan is a cultural bonanza, overcrowded Chinese cities and the ME, not so much

[quote]I honestly can't understand Ronaldo moving to Juventus. A huge club but a declining league.

At 33 Ronaldo is a declining player who is smart enough to go somewhere he will stand out, still earn the recognition a narcissist thrives on and still earn a pretty high salary. Easy peasey.

Go Belgium!

how is belgium gonna stop the 19yr old kid? his pace is out of this world!

Every time I listen to "La Marseillaise", it gives me goosebumps! Go, France!!!

Allez les Bleus

Belgium is hell bent on scoring first; France must find its mojo soon!

France has had soo many chances and they are blowing it

I would hit Griezmann like a freight train. Those blue eyes...

France need to up their game if they want to win. That save from Lloris, though...

Damn soo many hotties on france.

lukaka was the best player on the field in the Brazil game. (So far) it's Hazard today

Ouiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii!!! Umtiti!!!

France scores!

sacré bleu!

c'mon Belgium!

Damnit. Belgium, time to wake up.

France scores

Did Mick Jagger think england was playing today?

Mick Jagger is watching the game!!! Red alert! Red alert!

P.S.: He's probably going to watch England vs Croatia. Poor, England!

what a backheel!!

Girard is soo fucking hot but he’s clearly choked on two easy goal attempts!

Giroud is a hardworking striker, he does a lot of grunt work but he's not a prolific goalscorer.

Well, I guess that settles the debate of why Dembele doesn't start for Belgium regularly.

so close!

I blame De Bruyne for that yellow card. Crap pass put Hazard in a difficult position and he had to foul.

Ahhhhh.... this is too tense

Pavard looks like he has a big long dick.

Come on Asterix!

Giroud's über hipster haircut/beard saddens my soul.

It doesn't feel like Belgium has a goal in them today

R450

Actually, we need Idéfix to bite some Belgian ankles!

France isn't allowing Belgium to counter attack. That's their bread and butter. Without it they'll struggle to score

Counter attacking is not Belgium's bread and butter...They certainly play on the front foot

A bit flat this game. De Bruyne has been poor so that doesn't help as far Belgium go.

That was a foul!

bad no-call on Hazard

That should have been a free kick, R455.

I think France are deliberately trying to wear Belgium down. Their quarter final probably took a lot out of them.

You can really feel the Belgian players' desperation now. Poor guys.

Five minutes to goal...

Aboutfuckingtime, he called a foul for Hazard!

Chadhli's a bit shit, isn't he? Yep, going off.

6 minutes added time, a lot could happen.

6 is a lot of stoppage minutes. Ugliness could ensue

If Belgium loses, the good news is that Vertonghen will not be a world cup winner.

The belgian waffles are playing desperat and dirty

So are the French, in fairness, R465.

Back to earth for Roberto Martinez, B-list coach.

We're all French now! France over England would be brilliant!

Did Lukaka get more than 3 touches?

Well that was disappointing. Belgium were so flat but credit to France as they made them so.

So is this the end of the Belgium Golden Generation? Their best players are in their prime so they could come back in 4 years. But will they be past their prime then?

Fair result. Two great teams, one great goal

C'est fini! France is in the great Final!!!

Allez le bleus!!!

Belgium, you've been great so far! There's a bronze medal with your name on it!

P.S.: Here, have some Astérix and Obélix fun to ease our collective nerves...

I hope Croatia wins, tomorrow.

France is just so young and virile and HOT , if this was a who can cum the most as a team contest they would also win easily by a bucket!

Incredible defense from France in the second half. What a great team all around.

r473 I hope so as well, even though it'll never happen.

R469, yeah, my initial reaction was that he didn't show up, but more likely the French were very well-organized and snuffed out Belgium's top 3 threats (Hazard, DeBruyne and Lukaku). So credit to them and Deschamps. Questions will be asked of Martinez as there seem to be little adjustment and his subs did nothing. Probably starting Dembele, Chadli and Felliani all at the same time was a step too far or retrograde.

R473 R476

If Mick Jagger sticks around, it may happen!

And the guy in R399 will have to go Mass every Sunday! (lol)

Non R473 you want a France/Angleterre! The english still have not yet accepted the french win in 1998, just to repeat it against them would "la goutte qui fait déborder le vase" (the drop making the water going over board in a vase)

R479

Teacher in a far future: "...And that's, children, how the Second 100 Years War began - over the World Cup Final of 2018!"

Re R399

My prediction : a France - Croatia final ending with France winning 2-0.

Either Croatia or England - France will win the World Cup! They are really, really good.

The Champs Elysees are filling up with supporters. Beautiful !

R478

Sorry! "...they guy in R399 WON'T have to go..."

I'm still rooting for England and yes, a France v England final will be high drama.

Sucks that this Brexit nonsense over the past few days is dividing people in the country over domestic politics when otherwise the whole country is super chuffed about the tourney.

Too bad they'll all be too hungover to protest the turd's visit on Thursday.

Where are you seeing that R484? What channel?

Online stream, r488

But Croatia has tired legs. I'm rooting for England. France is so good!

1/2 of France team looks like they're from Wakanda. cool ;)

Arc de Triomphe !

R491

T'Challa, Killmonger... (*drools*)

Wakanda, forever!!!

Beautiful !

That's truly amazing, r494.

wow! but looks like Giroud is injured? maybe?

I would love to own Panini (sp?) trading cards of Mbappe, Pavard and Kreizman.

The place did blow up. Glad for them. They are a great looking team.

Crowd's reaction to French goal in Paris

Reaction in Strasbourg. Goosebumps!!

Umtiti's goal celebration was something else:

R497, Pavard doesn't have a Panini card

R481, that is brilliant! Best thing I’ve seen all day.

According to BBC reports, England supporters have been flooding into Moscow yesterday and this morning, finally, at least compared to their small numbers previously in Russia for the WC... and many are paying exhoribant plane fares to get there without anywhere to stay overnight.

They will be sleeping in the streets. passed out from too much booze. either drowning their sorrows or celebrating...depending on the result today.

Fun segment on BBC News with French being interviewed about who they want France to face in the final. Of course all of them want it to be England. “We want ze Channel Battle!”

Tunnels, walkouts and anthems coming right up. Have at it, lads!

Rooting for Croatia but most of all, a great game. No dudsville, please.

Imagine if Croatia wins the World Cup--it would be an extraordinary sporting feat for a young small country.

My heart is torn: I like England and I have many English friends who I want to be happy, but R399's heartfelt plea touched my heart. Besides, if Croatia wins it'll be a first-time: an underdog reaching the peak of the football world. )And, oddly enough, every time I look at Croatia's jerseys, I think of lasagna, pizza, calzone, etc... and this makes me feel good!

For the English out there, I motivational song:

Finally, my Harry Kane withdrawal is over. The game is starting!

England certainly has the tighter jerseys.

Modric, for fuck's sake...

You should look up pictures of footballers from the 1970s-80s. Short shorts and tight tops.

I fucking knew it! Goddamnit. Modric, you have some making up to do!

O-M-G!!!!! England!!!!

Great strike, but surely the keeper should have got to that.

Actually, it's Enger-lund!

R516, how? By being super-human? Having an armspan of 12 feet?

Trippier! Brilliant, good on him!

R 518, it's a set-piece. What the wall doesn't cover, the keeper should.

England's happiness may be short-lived: Mick Jagger has just posted on Twitter that he's there and rooting for his country! Poor, kids!!!

R520, yeah, so did you see the part where the ball went OVER the wall and into the corner? The kick was coming from the middle in front of goal, the keeper didn't have the luxury of cheating to either side.

How does one pronounce Trippier's name?

Trip-ear

I saw, R522. I think he could have done better, you don't, that's fine.

I think the wall blocking his view was the main problem.

That was a foul on Kane.

That should have been a yellow, bitch

Sterling is just about useless in most departments but his speed keeps the other team on their toes.

So many unforced errors by Croatia so far.

Pickford!

R519 Trippier is getting polished off royal by someone tonight. And that’s before he leaves the locker room.

Second half now with an oddly quiet thread

I think England have been the better team so far. Croatia are formidable when they're on form, but they just haven't brought it for this game.

Kane is getting thrown around like a ragdoll by these Croats.

It’s weirdly kind of hot.

R534

Kane begs to differ! (lol)

Two American commentary team on Fox and it's England this, England that...Another reason why it would be great for England to lose.

Croatia has been pretty crap so far though.

Several of the Croat players look like mean bastards. And I say that especially about Lovren, even as a Liverpool fan myself

"I’d like to see Pickford and Modric star in a series about a young boy who befriends an elf"

I wonder if the Queen is watching the game at some private study in Buckingham Palace (with no one to watch she can curse like a sailor)! (lol)

Croatia--heavy touches, passes to nowhere...if they lose, they will deserve it. Granted they must have heavy legs after two extra-time games.

With a Gin and Dubonnet in hand, Lagertha!

Tied!!

Now we have a tie!!!!! Croatia scores!!!!!!!!!!!!

ugh. Not happy, Jan.

U knew the lads wouldn’t make it a easy even wih the cupcake path to the final!

Bollocks!

Wow, didn't really see that coming! That might wake up the game.

What the hell, England? This should have been 5:0 by now!

From my rudimentary lip-reading, Pickford always seems to be screaming “ARRY!” up the pitch.

And that “FUCK’s SAKE” just then was fantastic.

Great goal from Croatia there

Big ugly kane is so over rated, he can only score on PK!

If this goes to PKs again . . .

R548

Mick Jagger is there, rooting for England! And I believed the curse had been broken...

Lads falling apart, the choke is coming

Her Majesty and beleaguered PM May might be getting the cursing out of their systems now, in advance of the visit from that unwanted foreign buffoon in a couple days

Croatia has stunned England. They need to get their groove back.

Fuck, was that first half a trap? That sneaky little goblin Modric had a plan, it seems...

Finally! I was in the bathroom scooping the litterbox when Croatia scored. Should I go back?

Harry & The Henderson.

R558

Please! BTW, your cat said "Why are you stealing my poop?".

Shouldn’t the ugly croatians be tired by now?

Their ugliness is fuel.

I can't help thinking that whoever wins will just end up being thrashed by France anyway (and whoever loses will be thrashed by Belgium)

The adverts on the bounce boards....McDeliver Us from this, please.

R563, if France and Belgium play to their talent level, you would be right.

It's coming home! It's coming... oh!

It's at the station, waiting for a delayed train...

It's at the airport, on standby...

Based on how Croatia are playing in this half, I'd bet on them if they weren't so obviously exhausted. Can't see them lasting through extra time.

R569

Russians used ammonia, which, apparently, is not considered doping.

Fuck off Lovren! You can just about play football, what makes you think you can score from there?

I'm getting confused by all the Croatian names.

They all sound similar to 'spinach'.

Damn. It. Free at the beginning of the game. Free kick at the end.

Rakitic can rack right off.

England will squeak through, as usual, only to be schooled by the French (Belgians would've done the same.) I shudder to think about what's going to happen if the English win the whole thing - I'm heading off to the UK in a couple of days and those people do not need another reason to drink and create mayhem.

Ahhhh not there yet

R575 the result doesn’t matter, Brits will get hammered and cause mayhem either way,

Unbelievably, the Croats haven't used a sub yet.

Drug-testing needed...

R577 And probably trash some French businesses while they're at it...

Stop referring to the English as Brits. Scotland and Wales have their own national teams and trust me, they're not cheering on the English.

Oh, smell YOU, R580. They’re Brits. The rarely, if ever, identify as English. It’s always as British.

Please create a new thread NOW so we won't have to panic LATER. Thank you.

Too bad the Croatians couldn't capitalize after their first goal and they had England on the ropes. Don't see how they're going to last another 30 minutes and winning a third PK shootout.

Ok creating one now..

Thread 5 ready as we reach 600.

Would it be fair to characterize the English fans as nervous right about now?

r585 Thanks, I feel better already. This could get nuts at any moment.

R586

Desperate?

Croatia's three unused subs are going to be key

[quote]I'm getting confused by all the Croatian names. They all sound similar to 'spinach'.

Itches all over.

pickford is an alpha top

Great save by Pickford.

r591 Um, what? He looks like an angry little boy to me.

No, Luka, go ahead and take your time...

Goodness no closeups on croatia team huddle please I can’t handle that much ugy.

Damn, tension.

R593, him standing over a wounded Mandzukic, bellowing at him, was a good look.

Gareth Southgate has a great ass. That is all.

Again, next thread is at the link.

Dont choke lads

CROATIA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!