Big Question: How would you rate this World Cup so far?

It’s been pretty lackluster compared to 2002 even with all the controversies back then, at least the refs were also making good calls.

But this year’s poor refereeing makes the 2006 World Cup a joke and so not very enjoyable. I hope they get their acts together for the remainder.

Posted from  United States

The argument against replay that it would slow the game down is a strong one, but it’s not prohibitive. First of all, the game is not nearly as non-stop as is represented, and a lot of that is due to players diving, feigning injury, and time-wasting. If there were instant replay, and players knew that their shameful actions in this regard could be caught–and they could then be sent off–a lot of that nonsense would stop, actually speeding up the game instead of slowing it down. Second, as with the NFL, there could be a limited number of replay challenges allowed by each team (in the NFL, it’s two), and penalties could be associated with challenges that are found wanting (in the NFL, you lose a time-out; in soccer, perhaps you would give up a free kick from a dangerous area to the opponent as a means of discouraging frivolous challenges).

Adrian is right–20 years ago we wouldn’t have any idea how many calls refs were blowing–but the fact of the matter is that replay as part of the presentation of soccer isn’t going away, so now we do know. Don’t get me wrong–I much prefer the pace of soccer and every other aspect of it to any other game out there, but because like NFL football (and unlike baseball or basketball) where (a) so much is sacrificed by the players–after all, the Cup is only once every four years (I wish it were played more often!) (b) so much can turn on a single play, I think it shows real disrespect to the players and to the game not to make at least some available effort to get the game right. I mean if Markus Merk is really one of the best refs in the world, God help us all (and I say that as a fan of Ghana as much as a fan of the US–i.e. would really have liked to see Michael Essien on the field on Tuesday)

On another note, I join those who are sorry not to see Cameroon, Nigeria, Turkey, and Ireland here. Some of the other European squads in particular have been really tedious to watch. But at least no 0-0 ties, and no penalty shoot-outs (talk about a modern travesty applied to the beautiful game) so far.

Posted from  United States

I got to say that I don’t understand pf’s reference to the 1982 world cup. I was on vacation in Germany in 1982 and saw the infamous Austria – Germany game. Shortly after Germany got it’s 1-0 lead it was like both teams decided to make this a practice game. They goalies could have put a hammock between the posts because after about 20 mintes their work was done for the day. This game is what caused FIFA to make the change the third round 1 games in each group be played simulatenously. The German press in 1982 was incensed at what it’s team had done and rightfully so.

Skipping ahead to 2006 there have been some real surprises and some big disappointments. Among the surprises would be the great play of Germany. I know the German defense has been critizised but the Argentina game on Friday should settle that issue once and for all. It was great to see some new blood in the way of the Socceroos advancing and of course Ghana. The way Mexico played Argentina was a real surprise, I was expecting Argentina to have an easy time.

One of the big disappointments has been England. They have looked so boring but they have gotten the job done. I hated to see that Portugal – Netherlands game, a real display of bad sportsmanship and that some hooligans even made it on the pitch this summer. Shame on Portugal and Netherlands. Hopefully when the world cup ends we will have memories of some great matches like Argentina and Mexico and we will have forgotten about games like Portugal – Netherlands and USA – Italy. Go Germany Go. Deutschland 2006 Weltmeister. Hop Hop Hop!!!

Posted from  United States

It has been outstanding from a fans perspective – no matter what your favorite team is.

Tons of Americans travelled to Germany and have a great time partying.

Posted from  Germany

The 1990 world cup is the first one that i have clear memory of, and of all the world cups i’ve seen since then, i think this is the most exciting. It’s got a bit of everything…great football, great strategy, passion, drama, and the occasional surprises. All in all, i think the refereeing has’nt been all that bad throughout this WC, yesterday being an exception, but i place alot of the blame on the portugese and dutch players themselves for their ridiculous actions.

I’m agree w/ the fans here who dont want to see video replays introduced into the WC…i think it would take alot of the suspense and emotion out of the game if they did. The vast majority of the time the refs get it right, but the few times they dont, they leave us w/ very memorable moments, good or bad depending on which team u support, but it all adds to the allure of the WC.

Posted from  Canada

Well put, OilerFan. With controversial decisions and dramatic games, rivalries are formed, i.e. Argentina – England, Germany – Italy, etc.

I’m really looking forward to Germany – Argentina, a two-time final reprise! And then Switzerland will kick out the winner to proceed to the final. Hahaha.

Posted from  Australia

Good performance so far, is good that all the good teams did it for the next round.

Re: technology: we can discuss about pauses, replays,.. slowing down the game, but what about a sensor in the goal line?? this will cost nothing and will save some bad refering and the refs alaready wear a headshet. Anyway, I woulnd’t mind to see an extra ref on each goal lines, they will have a better view of the box and could help the main one.

Posted from  Luxembourg

Good World Cup but on the point of referees and instant replays. I think its a good idea to introduce a system where teams have a limited number of opportunities to request a replay and decision from the 4th official.

In a game where goals are premium and can be the difference between so much, they are too precious for a poor refereeing decision to influence a game so much, it is needed for “did it cross the line” and penalty appeals etc.

In terms of it slowing down the game, I think this would add to the excitment and tension to await the result of a challenged decision and besides, this diving and going down like they’ve been shot and rolling around is pathetic. We need to get this out of the game. period.

Posted from  United Kingdom

If you people only judge a World Cup based on ref-descisions and results … well, then you might consider it average indeed.

However, take into consideration atomsphere, friendliness among fans and organization and you will recognize this year’s World Cup for what it really is – the most fun one could hope for, the biggest party the world has seen so far and an unequalled meeting of cultures.

Ever been to one of the major public viewing points in Germany (Berlin, Dortmund et al)?

Posted from  Germany

I agree with a lot of what Adrian had to say. I’m a 50+ American female (don’t hate me for that; I didn’t vote for any of the bozos)who is considered a soccer nut by most of my friends. I fell in love with the beautiful game in the early 80’s while I lived in Europe and grow to appreciate it more with the variety of styles and formations I see in each World Cup.

At the beginning of this year’s Cup I knew the yellow & red cards would be out in abundance. They always are in the first rounds. And they lessen as the teams approach the quarterfinals. I hope that will stay true this year. I absolutely don’t want to see any kind of instant replay. I honestly think that’s a very western approach to the game. Many of the nations I value in the World Cup canot afford that kind of computer equipment; and I want the WORLD involved in the Cup – not just western nations.

On a personal note I’ve been appalled at many of the comments left by my fellow Americans. Honestly, who ranked the USA squad as #5? I was just pleased they made it to the Cup. And they played as respectably as I hoped and expected. I’m appalled that the game is being denigrated by so many USA fans because we won’t be coming home with the trophey. Soccer keeps us real – we are not a “super power” in everything.

For me this Cup has been average +. I’m always bothered by the amount of fake dives (I accept it and sometimes they are good for a laugh)and I’m really sorry the Dutch are out so soon. I missed them so much in the last Cup. It’s a personal wish of mine that I live long enough to see an African team in the quarterfinals. I am transfixed by their style of play. I always like the times when the underdogs have a moment. This year it was Ecquador surprising Poland and Austrailia beating Japan.

Even an average World Cup beats anything else in sports on the planet. Play on!!!

Posted from  United States

i realy think this worldcup is very amazing & nice.
see this blog for my reasons:
http://fifawc6002.blogspot.com

Posted from  Islamic Republic Of Iran

Somewhat boring to me. Only two games have gotten my blood moving, although there have of course been some nice efforts on the pitch. I am especially disappointed in my long-time favorite, Brasil, getting away from “jogo bonito” and playing more of that set pieces, nibbling around the box bullcrap. That isn’t the beautiful game. Timidity doesn’t cut it, but this may be indicative of how tired some players are, the many yellow cards in group play, and the fact that some are well past their prime. My attitude will improve when Brasil OPENS IT UP. I want to see 35m laserlike passes that never leave the pitch and stick to player’s feet, THROUGH BALLS, brutal but clean tackles, fierce headers, FLOWING and attacking football, and keepers making great saves while eating DIRT like Isaksson did the other day (but he did this all day out of necessity, something Dida does not have to do). Some of these games have literally put me to sleep!

Dave hamildav@yahoo.com

Posted from  Germany

Great World Cup so far.

The Germans have organised the tournament very well and they have everything under control.

Public transport has been fantastic which is something that being a South African I know we cannot match in 2010. It is very scary to think we will be hosting a tournament of this magnitude. Rampant crime, AIDS and a total lack of adequate infrastructure to deal with millions of tourists will cripple the World Cup in 2010, not to mention the inability of our economy to carry the financial burden of preparing for a World Cup. Ultimately though a World Cup is remembered more for the excitment on the pitch than what goes on off it. This World Cup still has to produce the goods on the field for it to be remembered as a great tournament.

Posted from  United Kingdom

Some games were exciting, But some didn’t worth watching. But I must say there were really good games. I think this worldcup is based more on individual technics, more dribbling and aggressive players.
Wow one player passing 3 defenders, and you can see lots of that.
I cant compare this wordlcup with 2002-Korea & Japan.
I love it.

Posted from  Islamic Republic Of Iran

LACK OF CHICKS ACTION MATE!!!
BRING THE FOOTBALL BABES ON!!

Posted from  Australia

So far this WC was average I think, there were only a few games that were played very intesively, and we saw some great goals. The thing that is missing is the presence of a great player (like Ronaldinho?) that make a great performance in one game that will be remember in the future (like the Arg – Eng match in ‘86). Other thing, Brazil this far was more the Nike advertisement than a real great team.

About the replays and that stuff I prefer than in the next WC they put two referees (one in each half of the field) like basket rather than TV replays. It will not stop the pace of the game and it is been using in competitions like the NBA were the action is very fast and the referees don’t use monitors.

Posted from  United States

gooD GERMANY GOOD BEST WC

CROATIA DIDNT make it to vs itlay

Posted from  Canada

To FIFA

The penalty given in the last 5 seconds of the Italy v Australia match tonight is dubious when camera caught the italian player falling over the australian defender, when the ball went too far ahead of the italian who appeared to dive. This is what FIEA can do when cameras are installed to catch the actions of player. Why dont FIFA change the rules to allow camera evidence as final proof instead of relying on a referee, as in most cases make gross mistakes. It is sickening to watch a match with a poor decision towards the end of a game. I have decided not to watch your brand of world cup again

Posted from  Singapore

Overall the world cup has been ok, but I still can’t believe that a referee can give the game so easily.. Bernard, I am very disappointed too. Do you know if there is any website or email address to complain about this. That “penalty” wasn’t dubious at all, the referee should’ve given the italian player (grosso) a yellow card for diving.
That is so unfair. Other sports use video playback for questionable moments, and they are doing well. All I feel now is rage against Cantalejo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luis_Medina_Cantalejo)
and FIFA for allowing these stupid decisions. I also think that the games are rigged and it makes me sick.

Posted from  Australia

Guys, here’s an online petition:

http://www.petitiononline.com/aurobbed/

Please sign it if you disapprove several referee’s decisions.

Posted from  Australia

I don’t undesrtand why all these people say this is a good WC; obviously they haven’t watched many before

there were bery few exciting matches and even fewer quality matches. Somebody said it:

“I want to see 35m laserlike passes that never leave the pitch and stick to player’s feet, THROUGH BALLS, brutal but clean tackles, fierce headers, FLOWING and attacking football”

Well, we just don’t see that. All I see is a lot of players that just don’t have the skills needed to play football, a lot of players who only “work” on the field and very few “artists”. It seems that only Brazil and Argentina have theat kind if players in their squads but we’re still waiting to see them playing at their best

I see a lot of defensive tactics and I don’t think it’s enitrely because coaches are afraid, it is much more because they just don’t have the players needed. Most teams just don’t have a true playmaker to organize the game plus they have some really unimaginative forwards so they choose defensive tactics and hope for a minimal win. Swiss is a perfect example.

Only teams who semm to be able to bring some excitemetn are Brazil, Argentina and to a lesser extent Spain. All the rest play more or less anti-football

All this makes for a very boring worldcup maybe the worst in history. 1990 was the worst by far, if this one keeps going the same way it will certainly top 1990. By far the goal average is slightly higher than the 2.21 from 1990 but with 8 goals in 6 games in the eliminations it will come close to that number

1990 was much more interesting though

Posted from  Bulgaria

Below average!
No really outstanding player
No really amazing goal
No really memorable match
No really big upset

If you remember any match (Portugal-Netherlands, Italy-Australia) it is for the wrong reason. Referees have been sub-standard. Most teams have played below par and far too defensively.

7 out of the 8 quarter-finalists have been favourites. Ukraine, the only outsider is not exciting.

Posted from  India

GM from Bulgaria has it right. Very intelligent post. Atmosphere at this WC is great;
the play has sucked. It’s not so much defensive as inept.
Terrible passing, tackling + the finishing is disgraceful
(with the exception of Brazil + Argentina.)
Where are the memorable goals– long range blasts (so much for ‘Teamgeist’)+ great headers?
Also, this 5-man midfield crap
+ holding players have just bogged down the game even more.
To be frank, a lot of these highly, very highly-paid “stars” just don’t seem to be in to it that much. I don’t see a lot of fire + passion out there. If they get seriously injured, it could cost them big bucks. The only guys really busting are young dudes like Ribarry + the Argentines who stand to get rich. Of course, the Germans have also played admirably with much skill + enthusiasm.

Posted from  United States

worst world up in a long time becuz the reffing is so biased and unconsistant, players diving and fifa fixed every damn match! its terrible, i am a big netherlands fan and i couldnt even stand to watch the portugal/netherlands game, or even the england/portugal game or any of the other games like italy/australia or the germany/argentina game becuz they were all fixed. players dive and and act like drama queeens. and the refs only call it on the teams that they werent instructed to win! take portugal for example, on all of their games they have dived more than any other team, and should have gottem more cards than anyone, but they won all their games. they beat out england with only 2 men down when they should have had at least 5-6 men down from the last game including FIGO. and they used an ARGENTINE ref in the portugal/england game! there is just no excitement in the game anyone more because u know its ruined by the refs and its fixed to the max!

Posted from  Canada

i think that this world cup has been full of supriceses
i have watch most of the matches.
the elimination of brazil,argentina,spain,germany and england the finals are not going to be the same as emotional as if any of this teams would had been there well i hope that itany wins the finals

Posted from  United States