[Fillipo Simone]

So, anyone attending?

[han2503]

So, anyone attending?

Nah, I honestly don't feel all that excited about it, it's probably that Azzurri squad that has me so depressed about the whole thing. Plus it's a tricky group and we might just end up seeing a repeat of the World Cup.

[Fillipo Simone]

Man, you're really depressing lately.

[X-Offender]

I am, France-Albania on the 15th in Marseille.

[han2503]

Man, you're really depressing lately.

I know...

Football has left me feeling that way. At least in the past if the Azzurri were sucking there was Milan or it was reversed. Now it's just suckage on all fronts.

I am, France-Albania on the 15th in Marseille.

Great to hear, hope you have a great time!

[X-Offender]

Great to hear, hope you have a great time!

Cheers. I'm flying tomorrow for a couple of days wandering in Paris, then I'm gonna take the train to Marseille. Kinda worried about any potential terrorists attacks cause I'm super-paranoid in nature, but hopefully all goes well.

[han2503]

Cheers. I'm flying tomorrow for a couple of days wandering in Paris, then I'm gonna take the train to Marseille. Kinda worried about any potential terrorists attacks cause I'm super-paranoid in nature, but hopefully all goes well.

Will keep you in my thoughts mate (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

Hopefully everything goes smoothly for the entire tournament.

[Fillipo Simone]

Have you guys seen who'll be Conte's successor? My God.

[Ry4n]

Have you guys seen who'll be Conte's successor? My God.

hmm

This post has been edited by Ry4n: Jun 11 2016, 05:23 AM

[Fillipo Simone]

Ventura. I thought he went straight into retirement, but...

[d'Arc.LP]

So today Albania and Swiss clash, I am really looking forward to this game, especially to T.Xhaka - G.Xhaka duel. The Swiss NT is clearly a favorite but personally I think that Albania can achieve something from this game, or at least I hope so.

[han2503]

Have you guys seen who'll be Conte's successor? My God.

Don't remind me. Tavecchio is clueless. Conte was a bad choice and this one is even worse.

Which games are you guys watching today? I'll try to catch them all. Definitely watching the England one tonight though

[d'Arc.LP]

Official lineups for Albania NT vs Swiss NT:

Albania NT XI: Berisha, Mavraj, Cana, Agolli, Hysaj, Kukeli, Xhaka, Abrashi, Roshi, Lenjani, Sadiku.

Swiss NT XI: Sommer, Djorou, Rodriguez, Schar, Lichtsteiner, Xhaka, Xhemaili, Behrami, Shaqiri, Mehmedi, Seferovic.

So, there are 5 Albanians in Swiss staring XI.

As for Albanias XI, I think that De Biasi chose the best, maybe Id give Gashi a start before Sadiku but lets see.

By the way, I read that Mavraj is fasting Ramadan, so Im curious to see if that will influence his game.

[Fillipo Simone]

I'm always watching all games.

[milanbuf88]

Don't remind me. Tavecchio is clueless. Conte was a bad choice and this one is even worse.

Which games are you guys watching today? I'll try to catch them all. Definitely watching the England one tonight though

Ventura has a track record of getting teams with young players and sub par talent to over perform. He's perfect for the Italy squad of today.

[Fillipo Simone]

Perfect my ***. What works for Pisa and Perugia, usually never does with big teams.

[Fillipo Simone]

Feeling for you guys from Albania. Should have at least got a point. Very unlucky, stupid beginners mistakes by Berisha and Cana.

[d'Arc.LP]

Feeling for you guys from Albania. Should have at least got a point. Very unlucky, stupid beginners mistakes by Berisha and Cana.

Thanks. In the first quarter of the first half we were looking like amateurs, including Canas mistake. But then the squad reacted very well. Even though Sadiku and Gashi should have scored in their great chances, I am pleased with teams efforts and I think that we can aim for a win against Rumania. Apart from his first mistake that led to the goal, Berisha was the best player for Albania. Hysajs and Lenjanis apparances should be noted also, both with a mark above 7.0 for me.

This post has been edited by d'Arc.LP: Jun 11 2016, 04:58 PM

[milanbuf88]

Perfect my ***. What works for Pisa and Perugia, usually never does with big teams.

Italy doesn't have the talent to be a "big team" on the international stage right now. Just take a look at the midfield and attack that Conte brought to France. It's a sad group. The talent in Italian midfielders drops off a cliff after Verratti and Marchisio. The attack is even worse. Maybe Ventura will be able to help some of the decent younger players grow into their role before 2018.

[han2503]

I'm always watching all games.

Well the 3 o'clock kick offs will be a major b!tch for me as I work till 4. Even worse that Italy have one of the games in that time slot and the one on the 22nd will coincide with this work get together thing they've organised. So I'm a bit out of luck with the fixture list in terms of Italy but I will definitely try to watch as many games as I can

Ventura has a track record of getting teams with young players and sub par talent to over perform. He's perfect for the Italy squad of today.

Well I really don't see that of any consequence when it comes to the NT. What he does with mid-table sides will never translate with big teams, especially not at the International level where you don't have nearly a fraction of the time that you get with a club side. It's why managers who are top man managers in club football rarely ever translate that type of influence when they cross over to coaching a NT. Think of Capello for example. Conte has been a let down as well imo, even taking into account that he's basically coaching his Juve team and still there isn't a fraction of the same cohesion as there was clearly evident while he was with Juve

Perfect my ***. What works for Pisa and Perugia, usually never does with big teams.

Agreed

Thanks. In the first quarter of the first half we were looking like amateurs, including Canas mistake. But then the squad reacted very well. Even though Sadiku and Gashi should have scored in their great chances, I am pleased with teams efforts and I think that we can aim for a win against Rumania. Apart from his first mistake that led to the goal, Berisha was the best player for Albania. Hysajs and Lenjanis apparances should be noted also, both with a mark above 7.0 for me.

Agree. Though Albania deserved a lot better and in the end that final end product was the difference between the 2 sides. Even when down to 10 men they were still very impressive imo

Italy doesn't have the talent to be a "big team" on the international stage right now. Just take a look at the midfield and attack that Conte brought to France. It's a sad group. The talent in Italian midfielders drops off a cliff after Verratti and Marchisio. The attack is even worse. Maybe Ventura will be able to help some of the decent younger players grow into their role before 2018.

But traditionally Italy are a big team with high expectations. And as I said, he's not going to have the same influence as he does when working all season with a club side. National football is a completely different beast to club football and the man after Conte should have been a more careful and well thought out decision considering the state of the talent pool.

[kurtsimonw]

Disappointing result. But that first half was the best 45 minutes I've ever seen by England. Should've won 3/4-0, but wasn't to be. Though it never is for us.

Apparently France are completely unprepared from a policing standpoint. Worrying, considering the terror threat across the country.

[Ry4n]

Disappointing result. But that first half was the best 45 minutes I've ever seen by England. Should've won 3/4-0, but wasn't to be. Though it never is for us.

Apparently France are completely unprepared from a policing standpoint. Worrying, considering the terror threat across the country.

I think it is more a case they are full prepared for the terror threat near the stadium since you have an exclusion zone and are being checked thoroughly way before you get to the stadium. Hopefully nothing happens.

[kurtsimonw]

Good luck today, Fillipo.

[d'Arc.LP]

Today Im cheering for Turkey. Croatia have some great players and they are favorites but in my opinon Turkey also can win this one.

[kurtsimonw]

A loss for Turkey is a victory for everyone. Good job Croatia.

[kurtsimonw]

I like how UEFA have warned the English and Russian FAs that any more fan trouble and the teams could get kicked out. How terrible of the English fans being attacked. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)

[d'Arc.LP]

A loss for Turkey is a victory for everyone. Good job Croatia.

Isnt this racism ? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

[kurtsimonw]

Isnt this racism ? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

Either I get a ban for racism, for being happy a team lose. Or I expect an apology from you, because being accused of being a racist is not something I take lightly. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

This post has been edited by kurtsimonw: Jun 12 2016, 08:17 PM

[han2503]

Come on guys! Let's not bring such an issue anywhere near here. d'Arc, I'm very certain kurt was not referencing race in any way shape or form when he made that comment so let's please not bring such a sensitive issue here.

[Fillipo Simone]

Good luck today, Fillipo.

Thanks. We should have won with a bigger margin, but anyone. A solid start.

[kurtsimonw]

English media raving about Perisic's performance. He was superb.

[d'Arc.LP]

Come on guys! Let's not bring such an issue anywhere near here. d'Arc, I'm very certain kurt was not referencing race in any way shape or form when he made that comment so let's please not bring such a sensitive issue here.

If you say so. But I dont think a Turkish Milan fan would feel the same if it was part of our forum. I know I would feel like that if someone said the same thing about Kosova or Albania. Cheers.

[Fillipo Simone]

If you say so. But I dont think a Turkish Milan fan would feel the same if it was part of our forum. I know I would feel like that if someone said the same thing about Kosova or Albania. Cheers.

But wait. It really doesn't add up, what you're saying. Kurt was referring to how Turkey played today. I don't think any honest Turk (Milan fan or not) would be pleased with the way his team stood on the ground today or what was displayed. No?

[d'Arc.LP]

But wait. It really doesn't add up, what you're saying. Kurt was referring to how Turkey played today. I don't think any honest Turk (Milan fan or not) would be pleased with the way his team stood on the ground today or what was displayed. No?

A loss for Turkey is a victory for everyone. Good job Croatia.

This comment has nothing to do with the level of gameplay that Turkey showed on the field. Eitherway, I just felt irritated by that comment, if you dont feel the same it is your opinion. I know that I would feel quite unpleased if someone in this forum said that a loss for Albania is a victory for everyone.

[kurtsimonw]

We all have our reasons. My first hand experiences, viewing experiences and experiences of people I know are all very negative in regards to Turkish football. Whether it's coming to my city and attacking families, stabbing tourists to death because they have an English shirt on, fans showing support for terror related deaths in Europe or their players "kick first, play football later" attitude on the pitch. I know people from the US, Bulgaria, Greece who have negative feelings towards Turkey in football - the less they are involved in big tournaments, the better IMO.

Anyway.

A good win for Germany tonight. I think defensively they do not look good at all. Ukraine are mediocre at best and should've scored a few. But I would say overall they put up the overall best showing so far. England played very well, but sloppy defending cost us, but our first half was probably the most dominant 45 minutes by a team so far. Croatia also very impressive and Wales didn't play particularly well but they were effective. Albania and Switzerland were quite equal and both played decent. I think France were bad, Romania were just as bad, Poland did what they had to do but NI are easily the worst so far so it is hard to judge. Ukraine had a good 10 minutes, but otherwise their midfield looks completely invisible both with and without the ball.

Still some big teams to play though. Belgium-Italy is probably the most interesting game of the first round of games.

[milanbuf88]

But traditionally Italy are a big team with high expectations. And as I said, he's not going to have the same influence as he does when working all season with a club side. National football is a completely different beast to club football and the man after Conte should have been a more careful and well thought out decision considering the state of the talent pool.

Traditional strength is irrelevant. Maldini and Baggio aren't taking the field in France. Unless there is some serious development or revelation in the next two years, Ventura will be coaching a team that will be far from the favorites conversation in Russia. Who would be your choice for the position? I'd love for Ancelotti but he's not interested in it just yet. My guess is that he'll be the coach for 2022.

This post has been edited by milanbuf88: Jun 13 2016, 03:27 AM

[Ry4n]

We all have our reasons. My first hand experiences, viewing experiences and experiences of people I know are all very negative in regards to Turkish football. Whether it's coming to my city and attacking families, stabbing tourists to death because they have an English shirt on, fans showing support for terror related deaths in Europe or their players "kick first, play football later" attitude on the pitch. I know people from the US, Bulgaria, Greece who have negative feelings towards Turkey in football - the less they are involved in big tournaments, the better IMO.

Anyway.

hmm...

This post has been edited by Ry4n: Jun 13 2016, 04:53 AM

[d'Arc.LP]

I am really not interested to start a debate, also Im not interested in reading your intentions because if you were sincere then you wouldnt have to exuse yourself.

As for the behavior of the Turkish fans that you mentioned, I wont fall into cheking if the stories that youre telling are true or not, but if we go by that logic, are not England fans even more `fanatics` ? They proved that in their long history, but also in Euro 2016. Ref: http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/footbal...n-a7077911.html

Does that mean that I can make the same comments about Englands NT and Englishmen ? I would never do it because that wouldnt be fair and my comments would be xenophobic.

As for the people from the countries that you mentioned and their opinion towards Turkey, of course they dont see it with their best eye, its like asking an Albanian to give an opinion about Serbs. You expect him not to be biased?

Eitherway, Im not interested to continue this, I leave it to your conscience.

[Jack Sparrow]

I must admit I was hoping for Ukraine to upset Germany. I thought Yarmolenko running at Hector would cause them problems. It did, but not enough to make the win.

[Ry4n]

I must admit I was hoping for Ukraine to upset Germany. I thought Yarmolenko running at Hector would cause them problems. It did, but not enough to make the win.

I think Sheva argued Milan should buy Yarmolenko but i doubt we will try , he will probably go to Tottenham or some club over there.

[kurtsimonw]

Does that mean that I can make the same comments about Englands NT and Englishmen ? I would never do it because that wouldnt be fair and my comments would be xenophobic.

There would be nothing wrong with it. I'd argue we're the most disliked national team there is. Do we care? I've also not said anything about Turkish people, just that I don't like their football fanatics and team, so don't put words in my mouth. I also expect their to be clashes at tournaments. Russia have been the worst so far, they attacked England fans in the stadium, two are in critical condition and over 30 injured. But I'm probably not allowed to dislike them, either.

Don't like it. Put me on block. I'm certainly doing the same with you and your shocking accusations. Any decent person would apologise, obviously you don't fall in to thar bracket.

[Jack Sparrow]

There would be nothing wrong with it. I'd argue we're the most disliked national team there is. Do we care? I've also not said anything about Turkish people, just that I don't like their football fanatics and team, so don't put words in my mouth. I also expect their to be clashes at tournaments. Russia have been the worst so far, they attacked England fans in the stadium, two are in critical condition and over 30 injured. But I'm probably not allowed to dislike them, either.

Don't like it. Put me on block. I'm certainly doing the same with you and your shocking accusations. Any decent person would apologise, obviously you don't fall in to thar bracket.

There. As mod, I hereby record this as kurtiepoo's clarification. I'm sure this clears what he meant by the original statement. So can we consider this issue closed?

I'd happily take Yarmolenko as an upgrade over Sharaawy. Trouble is he is a proper winger. We would have to play the Cruyff diamond or something to make it work. I really can't handle one more season of our team learning a new formation only to realise we suck at it.


--RB----CB---CB-----LB-----
--------HoldMid--------------
---RCM-----------LCM--------
-------False9/#10------------
--WingFwd1-----WingFwd2---

[han2503]

Conte couldn't have picked a more uninspiring side from the already meagre picking he took over there. Only person left to complete the mediocrity show is Motta

Giaccherini, Candreva, Parolo, Eder, Pelle. What a joke!!

[kurtsimonw]

JACKY BOY!

[han2503]

JACKY BOY!

Well that shut me up

Darmian has sadly been the worst one out there, followed by Parolo and Candreva equally

Glad the Juve defence + De Rossi are doing their job and keeping the difference makers in the Belgian squad quiet so far

[kurtsimonw]

I find it hard to take your opinions on certain players performances seriously. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif)

[kurtsimonw]

Candreva been a huge outlet all game long and caps it off with a superb assist.

[han2503]

Next time I'll slander the entire squad. Even Gigi

[han2503]

I find it hard to take your opinions on certain players performances seriously. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif)

He was absent in the first half, but I agree that he provided a good outlet. Especially when we've been pegged back

[han2503]

DS should be playing instead of Darmian if Conte plans on using either of them on that left side. Darmian seemed totally out of it there while DS takes to it more naturally

[CrazyMilanFan]

Good game overall to watch.. solid defense

[kurtsimonw]

DS should be playing instead of Darmian if Conte plans on using either of them on that left side. Darmian seemed totally out of it there while DS takes to it more naturally

Agreed, Darmian looked completely lost. I imagine there will be a couple of changes, especially with some yellow cards.

[han2503]

Agreed, Darmian looked completely lost. I imagine there will be a couple of changes, especially with some yellow cards.

Yep. Still think Conte should make use of his more talented players upfront, instead of using both Pelle and Eder he should put in Insigne instead who's capable of unlocking a defence. We're not going to be able to play this way against all the teams. If we have to unlock a stubborn defence I don't see where the goal will come from tbh

[d'Arc.LP]

Immobile was quite good too today for the time that he played.

[Fillipo Simone]

Can anyone help with a question I have; 2 years ago before Brazil I read somewhere that the two-colored kits of most NT selections (either shirts and pants in the same color like Germany back then, or pants and socks) is because of the new 3D (or HD?) television technology. Can someone verify this story?

[kurtsimonw]

Rule 2, section 35 of the World Cup 2014 regulations states: “Each team shall inform FIFA of two different and contrasting colours (i.e. strips). One predominately dark and one predominately light for its official and reserve kit.”

FIFA believe lights v darks help the referee clarify tussles, lunges, tackles and deflections. They don’t ask teams to wear one colour, but adidas, as an official partner of the governing body, followed the rule closely. Hence Germany resembling Leeds and Spain doing their Bayern Munich impression.

[d'Arc.LP]

Interesting read (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif) I expected them to be as civilized as another NTs fans.

https://www.total-croatia-news.com/item/124...ld-how-its-done

[Jack Sparrow]

Nah. The Irish and the Swedes are the best. They were belting out ABBA and Westlife outside the stadium. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) One Irish fan even got to kiss a really pretty Swedish girl. Luck of the Irish. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

[Ry4n]

Nah. The Irish and the Swedes are the best. They were belting out ABBA and Westlife outside the stadium. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) One Irish fan even got to kiss a really pretty Swedish girl. Luck of the Irish. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

haha yeah i saw that.

https://streamable.com/8rit

This post has been edited by Ry4n: Jun 15 2016, 09:24 AM

[kurtsimonw]

So many late goals.

[Fillipo Simone]

And boring games, yes?

[Jack Sparrow]

I'm hoping with a couple of rounds are over and once teams realise they desperately need wins the games will open up better. But yeah, so far this has been boring. I liked the Italy game but I'm not sure if it's just because I'm an Azzuri fan.

[Fillipo Simone]

Is Hodgson trying to single-handedly (with a little bit of help from Joe Hart) destroy England for good? That's what you get when you sign in with a manager who's spent most of his career training bizarre teams from Sweden, Finland and Switzerland.

(And it could happen to Croatia as well)

[kurtsimonw]

Talk is cheap. As Vardy says. Talk ****. Get banged. Enjoy Wales.

[Fillipo Simone]

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/huh.gif)

[X-Offender]

So many late goals.

And it sucks. I was devastated last night. One point against France and a possible win against Romania and we'd be through.

We held well in the first half, crumbled to the pressure in the second but didn't deserve to lose like that in the 90'. Considering what we've given in these two games, we shouldn't have zero points by any means. Football sucks sometimes.

[han2503]

Feel sorry for Wales, they did well, but in the end shot themselves in the foot when they defended so deep.

England looked much better in the first game, but I guess that goes down to Russia being terrible so far. They looked disjointed to me today

[Fillipo Simone]

England looks very bad overall. What's Alli doing there? And Dyer? And Rooney playing Pirlo. What a dreadful midfield.

[kurtsimonw]

England looks very bad overall. What's Alli doing there? And Dyer? And Rooney playing Pirlo. What a dreadful midfield.

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/huh.gif)

[Fillipo Simone]

You disagree?

[han2503]

You disagree?

I wouldn't go so far as to say they're bad, but it just all looks disjointed to me. They were good in the first game though.

Still I think they're far and away from ever being good enough to go deep into a competition like this. And 50% of this fact imo has nothing to do with the quality of the players

[Fillipo Simone]

It has to do with 1) a very limited coach and 2) with the lack of a proper metronome midfielder and a midfielder that would gel the team 3) lack of defensive quality.

Is it just me or is every match like the same?

[han2503]

It has to do with 1) a very limited coach and 2) with the lack of a proper metronome midfielder and a midfielder that would gel the team 3) lack of defensive quality.

Is it just me or is every match like the same?

Yeah, at least Germany not scoring at the death was the most shocking aspect of this game

[han2503]

Eder and Pelle are so terrible

[kurtsimonw]

Sorry Fillipo, but how do UEFA not kick you out? Poor steward, hope he's OK. Shouldn't have to see staff carried out of a football game like that.

[Fillipo Simone]

Agreed, shameful. But French security is also a joke. I think 50% of the blame for what happened goes to them as well.

But the tragic thing is, does huligans are counting on it. They did it to get us expelled.

[kurtsimonw]

Agreed, shameful. But French security is also a joke. I think 50% of the blame for what happened goes to them as well.

But the tragic thing is, does huligans are counting on it. They did it to get us expelled.

Why would your own fans want you expelled?

People I know their said the French security and policing has been pathetic. No intention to stop things, just react to things that do happen.

[Fillipo Simone]

Because this is how they intend to force the Football Federation officials to resign. It's a complete mess here in Croatia, I could go on and on about the situation, politically, socially, economically. But the basic idea behind these riots is to get us expelled, to ensure big financial and other penalties so that our football is paralyzed and the leading people of the FA are forced to resign.

[X-Offender]

I was searched twice in Marseille. Security was very tight. How the hell did these people manage to hide all those smoke bombs?

Anyhow, if UEFA kick Croatia out it would be unfair. By that logic, England and Russia should be out as well considering all the chaos and destruction their fans are creating.

[Ry4n]

Why would your own fans want you expelled?

People I know their said the French security and policing has been pathetic. No intention to stop things, just react to things that do happen.

Bilic explained somethings as i am a bit vague on the whole crowed trouble last night.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJVDioS-XXY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzwoXq44W_M...eature=youtu.be

But from reading the comments it may be Bilic isn't telling the full story..i don't know.

" It's not just about the rivalry between north and south. It's about corruption within the CFF. Bilic is simplifying the issue. These people (who in my opinion are choosing the wrong methods) are against certain people within the CFF who they see as having "privatized" the CFF and the Croatian NT for their own profit. I mean currently the main man (basically a "shadow boss") is Zdravko Mamic. This man spent several months in jail until he was released on bail (the trial is still ongoing) and is involved in some of the shadiest stuff within the federation. I mean there are loads of stuff about him on the internet...simple Google search will do and you will learn everything you need to know why this happened.

And BTW I in no way support this kind of beahvior. I would also like things to become more transparent within the Croatian football and I honestly hate ppl like Mamic...but this kind of stuff does not hurt them at all...quite the opposite. Mamic has been claiming for years he was being attacked by extremists and hooligans but in truth he was trying to hide his own criminal behavior...so basically this kind of BS gives him credence and gives him the right to say: "I told you so"; which is really really wrong and sad. And it is also unfair to the players and the normal fans who may not give a **** about CFF but they love the NT. I mean you saw the game today...after that break Croatian players were completely lost...you can barely keep playing after that.... "

another comment from a croation fan : We are ashamed that war profiteer Zdravko Mamić is still the head of our Nation Federation. Ultras groups did it so they would force him to resign, they want to kick Croatia out so he goes away. He has been involved in numerous affairs and has robbed tens of millions of euros. They didn't do it for fun.

Ry4n :What ever the reasons are for people to act like this. They should be thoroughly checked i mean wtf seriously if ISIS was going to strike now or any other terrorist group that wanted to bring **** in as easy as these guys did....security is bloody paramount. France does not cut it. All i can say is god help us when Russia WC rolls around. Qatar is actually looking stable choice atm...

This post has been edited by Ry4n: Jun 18 2016, 02:30 AM

[Fillipo Simone]

Yes, Mamić is a big problem. But those people are fanatical, and their means most harmful. I'm not a Mamić supporter, but I do believe that you have to go through trial to be sentenced and found guilty. Mamić spent weeks in a prison cell, but that doesn't necessarily mean he's guilty.

The bigger problem is with such individuals. They're basically undermining every progress. I'm sure as hell that if Mamić would go away and another person would come in they'd do the same in no time.

Football is full of corruption. Every big team has this; just look at Platini and Blatter.

[kurtsimonw]

I was searched twice in Marseille. Security was very tight. How the hell did these people manage to hide all those smoke bombs?

Anyhow, if UEFA kick Croatia out it would be unfair. By that logic, England and Russia should be out as well considering all the chaos and destruction their fans are creating.

UEFA only have jurisdiction for stuff happening inside the stadium. Russia were given a suspended ban because they were the ones causing trouble/using flares, not us. I do not condone any violence by any English supporters, but I will also say a lot of it is reactive.

We have some dumb fans, there is no doubting that, these fans will be looking for any reason to cause trouble and fortunately a few of them have been arrested. But there's also an issue with our own media trying to paint a bad picture of our fans because it looks better. What was reported on the first weekend? England fans chanting at police after they had just had tear gas used on them or German and Ukraine fans, fighting and being arrested, with German fans waving Nazi supporting flags? Of course it's whatever makes the English fans look bad. But when you have French police tear gassing English fans for no reason other than we're in a large group singing and chanting, local ultras attacking British while they're sitting down trying to eat or Russians who've admitted training for years just to fight English fans, it's no wonder some of our fans get more than a little pissed off. Our fans have had no protection at all and have been attacked repeatedly. There's also the fact that throwing flares that explode on to the field of play is extremely dangerous, had the steward gone to pick it up just one second earlier, his hand would've been blown off.

The French policing is a disgrace. They are absolutely not fit to host a major tournament.

As for football as a whole, it's a mess. Our next 2 World Cups are in a country where MPs are supporting their fans causing trouble, where there's a strong racist element and people have been training to fight fans. The other is in a country where thousands of people have died as a result of slave labour and awful health and safety.

This post has been edited by kurtsimonw: Jun 18 2016, 12:17 PM

[X-Offender]

UEFA only have jurisdiction for stuff happening inside the stadium. Russia were given a suspended ban because they were the ones causing trouble/using flares, not us. I do not condone any violence by any English supporters, but I will also say a lot of it is reactive.

We have some dumb fans, there is no doubting that, these fans will be looking for any reason to cause trouble and fortunately a few of them have been arrested. But there's also an issue with our own media trying to paint a bad picture of our fans because it looks better. What was reported on the first weekend? England fans chanting at police after they had just had tear gas used on them or German and Ukraine fans, fighting and being arrested, with German fans waving Nazi supporting flags? Of course it's whatever makes the English fans look bad. But when you have French police tear gassing English fans for no reason other than we're in a large group singing and chanting, local ultras attacking British while they're sitting down trying to eat or Russians who've admitted training for years just to fight English fans, it's no wonder some of our fans get more than a little pissed off. Our fans have had no protection at all and have been attacked repeatedly. There's also the fact that throwing flares that explode on to the field of play is extremely dangerous, had the steward gone to pick it up just one second earlier, his hand would've been blown off.

The French policing is a disgrace. They are absolutely not fit to host a major tournament.

As for football as a whole, it's a mess. Our next 2 World Cups are in a country where MPs are supporting their fans causing trouble, where there's a strong racist element and people have been training to fight fans. The other is in a country where thousands of people have died as a result of slave labour and awful health and safety.

Then it's UEFA and the French police's fault for failing to thoroughly check the supporters before entering the stadium. Why on earth should the Croatian players endure the consequences of their incompetence? Especially since a lot of people seem to be aware of the real reason why those Croatian "fans" acted like that.

Let Croatia finish the tournament, and ban all those idiots from France. End of story.

[kurtsimonw]

Then it's UEFA and the French police's fault for failing to thoroughly check the supporters before entering the stadium. Why on earth should the Croatian players endure the consequences of their incompetence? Especially since a lot of people seem to be aware of the real reason why those Croatian "fans" acted like that.

Let Croatia finish the tournament, and ban all those idiots from France. End of story.

They were fighting AND throwing flares on to the pitch. Whatever the reason, you can't allow it. Russia got a suspended ban for fighting, but this is worse, you have to go further. Whether it's a points deduction or kicking them out, who knows.

Serbia were given a points deduction, despite the fact that you had a drone which really incited the violence. For Croatia, there was no provocation. If anything, I'd argue the reason for it happening is more of a reason to kick them out. Because what is stopping them doing it again? With Russia the reason was that they admitted they were only attacking England fans, so their next game - not against England - meant that there was no trouble. For Croatia, what reason is there for them not to do this again?

[han2503]

I feel sorry for Croatia's NT, the players looked truly disgusted by their own fans and the fact that they threw away the game after the events happened is testament to how shook up they were.

That being said I have to agree with kurt here. Some type of action does need to happen. Don't know if deducting points will help much of anything. And to throw them out would be very harsh imo for the players and staff but if this keeps going on I don't know what else can be done

Which is truly sad for the tournament as a whole as I feel Croatia were one of the few teams so far who I personally have enjoyed watching

[Fillipo Simone]

Like I said, by punishing the Croatian NT those hooligans win. The true culprits should be punished/sentenced with jail time, while most of the other blame goes to the French. As I listened today I realized that our Football federation knew about the plan for an attack in St. Etienne and warned the French authorities, send them files etc. What more could they have done?

[X-Offender]

They were fighting AND throwing flares on to the pitch. Whatever the reason, you can't allow it. Russia got a suspended ban for fighting, but this is worse, you have to go further. Whether it's a points deduction or kicking them out, who knows.

Serbia were given a points deduction, despite the fact that you had a drone which really incited the violence. For Croatia, there was no provocation. If anything, I'd argue the reason for it happening is more of a reason to kick them out. Because what is stopping them doing it again? With Russia the reason was that they admitted they were only attacking England fans, so their next game - not against England - meant that there was no trouble. For Croatia, what reason is there for them not to do this again?

And who allowed them to carry those flares inside the stadium? The French police. And they even knew about it like Fillipo just said, yet they let it happen. This is on UEFA and the French's incompetence, nothing more. A few hooligans disrupting the peace shouldn't become the cause for kicking the Croatian players in the teeth and throw away all the hard work they put to get into these Euros.

And it's also totally different from Serbia-Albania, as the whole stadium was chanting racist slurs, and the Serbian authorities were responsible for the organization and security of the event, which they failed at. Albania-Serbia was played a few months later, what happened? Nothing.

This post has been edited by X-Offender: Jun 18 2016, 11:02 PM

[Ry4n]

I feel sorry for Croatia's NT, the players looked truly disgusted by their own fans and the fact that they threw away the game after the events happened is testament to how shook up they were.

That being said I have to agree with kurt here. Some type of action does need to happen. Don't know if deducting points will help much of anything. And to throw them out would be very harsh imo for the players and staff but if this keeps going on I don't know what else can be done

Which is truly sad for the tournament as a whole as I feel Croatia were one of the few teams so far who I personally have enjoyed watching

Anything impacting the actual team as a whole at the tournament would be harsh , but maybe they should just stop there fans going to the stadium next tournament , but that would probably mean the fans will start rioting in the streets. Its a hard situation...

[han2503]

What really irks me is the fact that disgruntled football fans could easily cause such a situation. All while the very real threat of a terrorist attack similar to what happened a few months ago could happen in France and the security is seemingly lax.

It's just inconceivable to me that security in and around the grounds could be so relaxed when lives could be lost there. I would have imagined that getting in the stadiums would be like trying to enter Fort Knox, which should be the case but it seemingly isn't

[kurtsimonw]

Given the terror threat, you would expect better. It's a legitimate thing to be concerned about.

I really do not know what you can do about Croatia. Even banning anyone with a Croatian passport entry to the game is harsh on the majority of supporters who are there to support their nation.

Let's hope their final game goes without incident and you can put it down to a one off.

It amazes me how so many flares get in though, after Hungary scored it was insane. I've never been near one, but apparently they're very dangerous.

[d'Arc.LP]

A very deserved win for Albania tonight. Now we have to wait and see the results of other teams

[X-Offender]

Historical win. It would be incredible if we went through. I'd say our chances are 40-45%.

[kurtsimonw]

Congrats X-Off. It will be very tough to get 3rd though, I'd rate the chances closer to 20%. There's already 3 groups that are very likely to finish above you, so it's really down to the Italy and Spain groups for you, which sucks because Czech/Turkey are playing each other.

[X-Offender]

Congrats X-Off. It will be very tough to get 3rd though, I'd rate the chances closer to 20%. There's already 3 groups that are very likely to finish above you, so it's really down to the Italy and Spain groups for you, which sucks because Czech/Turkey are playing each other.

Thanks! And yeah, chances are pretty slim. Groups B and C are out of the question. Our best hopes lie with groups D and E. If Czech-Turkey ends in a draw or Turkey wins by a one goal margin, and both Swden and Ireland don't win against Belgium and Italy respectively, then we're through. Group F also holds some hope as well.

We'll see. Either way, it's been an amazing adventure.

[kurtsimonw]

I think Group F is less likely than Group C personally. I think there's more chance Germany beat NI 4-0 than Portugal losing to Hungary.

Hopefully Italy resting so many players doesn't affect your chances. I don't think they will. I hope you go through - you might even play us.

[X-Offender]

Portugal have been far from stellar, I wouldn't be surprised if they lost to Hungary.

[kurtsimonw]

Portugal have been dominant though, they've never looked like losing.

Disappointed not to win the group but pleased overall. Only Spain have been as dominating as us so far.

The question for us whether we will have more space against better teams, or whether we struggle defensively. Because these 3 have been basically training exercises.

[X-Offender]

Watched the first half, thought England looked very good. Too bad I was hoping for a 0-3 win. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/tongue.gif)

[Fillipo Simone]

England looked solid, but they seem to have a scoring problem. Hodgson is creating a mess. Using 6 strikers, none of which (bar Vardy) seems able to finish it up. And don't forget, the opponents they had were Russia, Wales and Slovakia. I'm thinking a stronger opponent could do them much more harm.

[kurtsimonw]

England looked solid, but they seem to have a scoring problem. Hodgson is creating a mess. Using 6 strikers, none of which (bar Vardy) seems able to finish it up. And don't forget, the opponents they had were Russia, Wales and Slovakia. I'm thinking a stronger opponent could do them much more harm.

It works both ways, though.

We have struggled to score because teams have defended with 10 men. Our asset is our pace on the counter with the likes of Vardy, Rooney, Sturridge, etc. Against a better team, we will be under more pressure - but we will actually be able to play to our strengths then too.

We're at least 4 years away from being at our peak though. A QF I would be more than happy with at this tournament. I personally think the first time we come up against a good team we will lose, simply because the players do not have the mental strength. There is too much pressure on being an England player.

This post has been edited by kurtsimonw: Jun 20 2016, 11:49 PM