LiveBlog: Portugal-Iran

June 17th, 2006 | by: Peter |

Portugal took a 1-0 lead in the 62nd minute after a goal by Deco, and a penalty kick by Cristiano Ronaldo put the game away in the 89th minute. Portugal is going through and Iran is headed home, and now we can all go about figuring out the various ways that Angola can still make it through to the second round.

Final: Portugal 2-0 Iran

95:15 A goal for Portugal called offsides a few seconds before time runs out.

94:05 Portugal almost gets another one off the goal kick is headed downfield and a portugal player takes a pass/shot that goes just wide.
93:00 Obligatory close up shot of the adidas ball disappearing on the goal kick.

92:12 Corner for Iran!

91:01 Corner for Portugal. Iran may go this entire game without one.

90:00 5 minutes of injury time.

87:55 Ronaldo just misses on a bending free kick.

87:32 He’s booked as he limps off the field.

85:04 GOLMOHAMMADI down with his hand on his face and the stretcher next to him. I can’t tell what is hurt after watching the replay.

83:48 The facial welt from Figo’s mid-air collision seems to be growing by the minute.

82:00 Good to see this kind of result after Portugal outplayed Iran all game long.

80:15 Looks like Iran won’t be heading through the first round.

79:32 Penalty’s good, goal Portugal.

78:21 Figo is tripped up in the goal box and Ronaldo is taking the Penalty kick

77:07 Cross from the right to an Iran forward looks good headed toward the goal but the goalie’s there.

75:47 Iran’s free kick is sent off the two man wall and after checking for a bloody nose play resumes.

73:57 Ronaldo breaks out of two defenders but can’t quite get the pass through.

72:38 Kaebi booked for tripping Ronaldo on the sideline. Good call.

71:25 “Ecken” means “corner” in German (I think) and Portugal is leading in that category 10-0.

70:20 Corner for portugal taken short and then taken away by Iran who again doesn’t get past midfield.

68:38 Iran’s Khatibi gets open about four feet in front of the net and beats the goalie but sends the ball wide. Iran may not get another chance like that.

67:11 Iran’s Hashemian with a nice shot from long distance, no goal.

65:31 Four or five subs between both teams, I can’t keep up with everyone but Petit for Portugal in for Maniche.

64:39 I just want to say that that was kind of a dive by Ronaldo and it was kind of late.

63:45 Deco connects from just outside the goal box, blowing the ball past the goalie on the left post.

62:31 Goal Portugal!

60:08 Figo gets a shot through but the save is a foregone conclusion. Iran counterattack gets tripped up and Portugal’s Costinha gets booked.

58:12 Portugal has run out of ideas. Iran really didn’t have any to begin with and everybody seems happy to hang around midfield.

55:45 Mahvadikia beats one guy all by himself but gets caught up in the remaining three. On the counterattack, Iran once again just kinds of runs out of ideas after midfield.

55:02 Ronaldo beats his man one on one and makes the goalie dive to the post. Solid shot.

52:45 Fancy behind the back, back heel pass goes out, but it wasn’t a terrible idea.

51:42 Portugal one touching around midfield, I’m still thinking they’re just trying to make Iran run and wear them out.

50:20 Irn on the counter attack can’t seem to get organized or any kind of spacing.

45:38 Portugal looks like they’ve got a more refined plan for the half. Yellow card for Deco after what looks like a replay of the Figo incident.

45:01 I’m going to (try to) lay off the Ronaldo comments for the half.

Halftime: 45 minutes, no goals, a foot to Figo’s face and a bunch of unnecessary dancing around the ball. Portugal should be thrashing this Iran team but can’t seem to get anything through.

47:04 Off the scale Ronaldo pout. That brings it up to like a 9.7 on the scale.

45:00 Ronaldo watches too many Nike commercials.

43:50 Miguel back on, makes a run for the goal on the right side and gets it under the goalie, who deflects it just wide of the goal. Miguel looks fine now.

41:45 Miguel gets a knock to the head and he’s down for a minute. He looks woozy and doesn’t sem to know where he is. Incidental contact.

40:30 Iran stays onsides in an attack but in doing so forfeits their advantage. They’re still looking for that first corner kick.

38:50 Ronaldo gets knocked down and the camera kindly cuts away. I will say, he’s always around the ball and making things happen.

37:50 Iran puts some passes together but at the end the attack just kind of runs out of gas.

36:11 Figo takes a boot to the nose and on the replay of Ronaldo’s barely missed shot we actually see more of a grimace. Amazing.

34:45 Ron. almost puts it in but misses by about 4 inches wide right. Figo catches a boot in the face a few seconds later and he’s still down.

34:05 Ronaldo’s header is nice to the far post but an Iran player is there with his chest.

33:24 Portugal’s leading on corner’s 7-0

32:18 Ronaldo’s dancing around the ball… superfluous or unnecessary?

31:11 The crowd cheers Madanchi knocking Ronaldo down but Madanchi still gets the yellow card.

30:00 Iran goes offsides then sends the ball off the left post.

29:07 Figo’s corner is sent in the direction of the goal after a header, stupid camera angles make it look like it went in but it was wide right.

27:01 Figo dancing around the ball on the sideline just looks so much more productive.

25:00 Portugal keeps pushing the ball up the right side, probably to avoid the locker room whining because you know who plays on that side.

24:07 That was reminiscent of the great Angola performance last night, and wouldn’t you know it, both keepers are named Ricardo.

23:30 Free kick for Iran is almost sent into the net off a header, goalie gets there first.

20:30 Deco sends a pass a little too far, brings the goalie out and it looked like prime time for a Portugal goal.

19:10 Iran yellow card for Nekounam. That’s his second of the first round, so he’s out against Angola.

18:28 Iran’s 20 minute fitness collapse may be coming up.

17:01 C Ronaldo on camera pout count: 3.

15:34 Maniche is going to score from outside of 30 m tonight, another deflected strike off a set piece.

13:20 Iran gets a perfect pass over the top of the defense and for a moment has a clear path. He has to slow up though and gets nothing.

11:44 Deco with a nice shot on goal that turns into a corner for Portugal.

10:28 Ok, nice play Cristiano, turned the corner around the defense and put it right in front of the goal. If only Portugal had better players to finish those godsent passes.

7:00 Ronaldo moves for position against a defender during a corner, throws his hands in the air because the guy is getting in his way. Ref comes over, “He spent over $90 on that haircut, don’t mess it up!”

6:40 Looks like Iran’s pacing themselves by abandoning the ball somewhere near midfield. Probably smart after the fitness levels demonstrated.

5:17 Long shot attempt by Maniche.

4:40 Mostly midfield play so far after that first Portugal chance about 3o seconds into the game.

3:07 We’ve gotten several games so far with a goal in the first four minutes, doesn’t look like this is going to me one of them. Iran keeping a slow pace.

01:00 Figo with some fancy sideline footwork, ends up kicking the ball out and falling down. He’s slow getting up, looks like he could have used that pregame carpet as a mat.

00:23 We’re back from commercial and it seems we missed the kick-off and the first few seconds. Almost missed Portugal goal too but it didn’t quite go through.

Iran somehow escaped from the last game with only one yellow card.

Iran wins the award for the best pre game gifts. Another Persian carpet.

First pout comes before the anthem: C. Ronaldo’s pouting because the kid walking him out is better looking than him.

So if you were Iran’s coach and your team had demonstrated an utter lack of fitness last game, how would you have reacted? Run your team into the ground between games? Let them rest?

All of the teams are still mathematically alive, but if Iran loses this game they’re done. Angola can still qualify if they can win a game and Mexico can lose… and there are about 100 different variations of this scenario that can still play out.

If anyone understands the possible outcomes of this group based on this game, I’d like to see you try to explain it in the comments.

45 minutes to kick off, it’s cloudy out, so I’m predicting at least a 9.5 on the C. Ronaldo pout meter today.

Pregame: Should be an interesting match. Who do you think will win?

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http://enotes.blogsome.com Bahador

Hey Persian Stars. It’s time to start shining. Shine! Right now!
steven

GO Iran!! An Iranian victory would sure get mexico nervous
Bobbio

Iran qualifying would be so cool
Ali Siddiqui

I’m predicting a nice tie…seeing it that Portugal didn’t hold up to well against an agressive Angola in their last match with only 1 goal against an underdog team. However, after Irans tough game against Mexico it’s hard to say who will be on top. Hence, the tie.

I say a tie of 1 vs 1.
Ali Siddiqui

Oh and lots of pouting from C. Ronaldo…his apocalyptic pouts can stun anyone! :o
http://pepys_s.rediffblogs.com/ mohan

Can’t imagine Iran winning this. Portugal must start firm favourites and should easily qualify for the round of 16.
Ali Siddiqui

(@O@) RPT is up and running!
khalid

vive le Portugal.Elle va humilier le Iran
khalid

Christiano Ronaldo va les déchirer
http://sassan.blogspot.com Sassan

Hopefully Iran will win, but we have never got to the second round :( if we do then it will be written in the history books :)

I just want to see one of the best games of World Cup right now!!!
werttrew99

2-0 win for Portugal.
IranWIN

Trust me! IRAN shall win…
diego

Portugal is a really talented team, but they usually need a good kick in the behind before they get really going.
I think trying to avoid Argentina in the round of 15 will be enough of an incentive for them to beat both Iran and Mexico.
Bobbio

I wonder how many carpets Iran brought with them. Do you think they were optimistic and brought seven?
diego

ooops… I meant the round of 16… of course!
Sal

Portugal looking to attack early like they did against Angola
diego

And by the way, this group seems to have been matched by color. They are all somehow different shades of red, white and green. :)
Roland

Okay, I’m thinking Portugal 2 – 0 today, but Iran will be interesting to watch.
Pao

Iran is going to fold just like that carpet.
Ali Siddiqui

Figo is really old. Time for him to retire.
Pao

Portugal in charge thus far.
Ali Siddiqui

Oooh corner!
Sal

C. Ronaldo with a pout in the box. He is in good form today.
pwnawannab

My first time at this blog and live game :0
http://www.pierretristam.com Pierre’s Total Football

So far the game is living up to its question mark’s billing.
Roland

Oh man, Iran’s defense way too forgiving there. Even with 11 back, they’re going to get scored on with play like that.
Ali Siddiqui

2 Pouts on the count. RPT = 2
Matt

Hey, can someone tell the Iranian players that the game has started……
http://fifaworldcup.sporati.com/?p=119 FIFAworldcup.com – The Un Official Site of Fifa World Cup 2006

World Cup Diary: Portugal

Date Played: June 11, 2006 (Group Stage)
Opponent: Angola
Scorer/s: Pauleta 4’
Budweiser Man of the Match: Luis Figo

This was not a convincing win for Portugal but a good start nevertheless for a team that had a disastrous opening in FIFA Wor…
Roland

Portugal is reaching Iran’s penalty area almost at will. Iranian intensity on defense must increase or they will be scored on soon.
Ali Siddiqui

Portugal is really attacking now…they know this is an important game. Will the Iranians realize this?
sebastian

does anyone havea link so i can hear or see this game online???
http://pepys_s.rediffblogs.com/ mohan

Portugal had the first good chance of scoring. Good shot and good save
Sal

Portugal having a nice run but unable to score.
AJ

Iran again looking unimpressive.
AJ

Nice set play for Portuagl. They’re going to score soon.
Ali Siddiqui

http://clients.mediaondemand.net/theSun/?Channel=1

Try there Sebastian.
http://pepys_s.rediffblogs.com/ mohan

Lots of pressure on Iran goal
pwnawannab

Well if portugese going to drill like that – they will score a couple…
Roland

Guys, no offense to Iran (really) but Portugal is the class of the group. They would give Brazil problems.
Sal

Nice shot of Big Phil looking goofy on the sideline.
Sal

Ronaldo with another pout. He is in World Cup form today.
Ali Siddiqui

I’m still unimpressed with the way Portugal has been playing as of late but compared to Iran they look good.
Ali Siddiqui

Ronalod Pout Ticker @ 3
Roland

Iran having trouble coming out of their zone. They’re slow and Portugal is pressuring heavily.
http://pepys_s.rediffblogs.com/ mohan

first yellow…goes to Iran
Sal

There’s no way Portugal beats Argentina or Holland next round.
Ali Siddiqui

Tsk tsk silly idea for Neko to play so aggressive.
http://pepys_s.rediffblogs.com/ mohan

why pick on Ronaldo…C or otherwise??
Roland

Portugal can beat anybody on a good day.
Roland

But they do have questions in their defense.
http://pepys_s.rediffblogs.com/ mohan

Iran wins freekick by some smart acting
Ali Siddiqui

Sadly both Portugal and Iran seem to have problems with their defence. However, Portugal’s attacks are very strong today. Iran still a no show, huh.
AJ

Iran needs to work on its free kicks. Might be the only way they score today.
Roland

Great chance for Iran there. Actually, they’ve shown some decent set pieces today.
http://www.pierretristam.com Pierre’s Total Football

Good, the game’s temper is rising: more attacking by Iran’s Hashemian, more physicality by the Iranian side overall: a better performance so far than against Mexico. Portugal has controlled the ball 70 percent of the time however, and done well with it if not for the Iranian defense. Iran won’t be able to maintain this scorelessness very long.
IranWIN

Trust me, IRAN shall win this match.. hehe
http://pepys_s.rediffblogs.com/ mohan

Portugal clearly the superior side on the field
Ali Siddiqui

I think in the 2nd half Iran will press their attack?
Roland

Ronaldo plays so selfishly.
Ali Siddiqui

25:00 Portugal keeps pushing the ball up the right side, probably to avoid the locker room whining because you know who plays on that side.

LOL :) Even the commentators on The Sun seem to hate Ronaldo for delivering the end product. No love for him.
AJ

If Iran wins this one I will run naked through the streets in my neighborhood. I think my neighbors are safe from seeing that happen.
http://pepys_s.rediffblogs.com/ mohan

Portugal is good, but tad too slow to beat the Iran defence
http://www.pierretristam.com Pierre’s Total Football

Come on Portugal, give us some goals. Go Argentina on us.
Sal

Portugal have better talent than they are showing today.
Ali Siddiqui

AJ I wonder if you’ll really do that with the amount of ppl indoors watching the matches.
Franco Caliz

Can we stop with the snide remarks at C.Ronaldo? It’s getting a bit tiresome at this point.
http://pepys_s.rediffblogs.com/ mohan

Figo is the playmaker for Portugal and he is doing a good job, old or whatever
Roland

That was offsides.
Ali Siddiqui

Magic spray!
Matt

It seems like the Iran Team only practiced their acting last week
Roland

That seems to have momentarily woken Portugal up. Iran doing a good job slowing things down.
http://pepys_s.rediffblogs.com/ mohan

another yellow for Iran..shows their frustration
jaleel kp

very very bad play in this
macth
Roland

Franco Caliz, Ronaldo is a great player but he isn’t showing it today.
Sal

Iran hanging in there but this is the time in he game when they began to fold against Mexico.
http://www.pierretristam.com Pierre’s Total Football

Portugal is overcionfident and underperforming, assuming too much of a supposedly porous Iranian defense and coming up empty against a much better side than we saw in the Mexico game.
Ali Siddiqui

Hmmm…Iran is getting confidence? Oh Good Lord. Ronaldo messed it up with that header chance.
pwnawannab

Great sve Iran!!!!!
http://pepys_s.rediffblogs.com/ mohan

agree totally with Matt..Iran relying more on their acting rather than football skills
Sal

Good shot from Ronaldo. Keeper saves it.
Ali Siddiqui

71% vs 29% ball possession for Portugal.
Franco

Roland, he’s looked dangerous on the wing, he just connected badly with a header, shot cleared off the line, left footed shot just wide. He’s generating opportunities and playing well, does he have a bad attitude? Yes, but I don’t need the person doing commentary to do commentary only on him and not on the match. I watch him week in and out for Man Utd. I know him well enough.
pwnawannab

OUCH
Roland

Figo down. This isn’t good for Portugal. Don’t know how serious it is. Got hit in the face.
AJ

Ouch. Figo with the boot in the face. No magic spray will help that but they are trying water. Nasty.
Ali Siddiqui

Ouch. The Sun commentators are burning Figo.
Roland

If you watch him with Manchester then you know he was taking it is until just recently. I have nothing against him – I want him to step it up, and fortunately he now seems to be trying harder to help his team.
Ali Siddiqui

I thought the magic spray was cold water, AJ?
http://www.myspace.com/caloy Carlos

Looked like a poke in the eye… Ouch!
Sal

Portugal might just kick themselves if they let Iran hang around much longer.
Franco

Towards the end of the season, he cut out a lot of the flashy crap, began to score a bit more, send in dangerous crosses and do better overall. He has a short fuse, much a la Rooney, constantly fouling him may rile him up, not nec. a good thing.
Roland

Easy, rather. He was taking it easy, and not looking to pass.
http://pepys_s.rediffblogs.com/ mohan

Iran not allowed a clear sight of the goal..except for that one offside
AJ

Maniche sure does work hard or at least he sweats hard.
Ali Siddiqui

Irans confidence boosting through their conservation of sweat, amazing.
Franco

Iran is growing in this game, more attacking now, they’ve proven they understand their defensive assignments, game on.
NoX

We have nothing less than them. They just have a big name
Sal

Miguel with a head knock. Portugal’s players not diving in this one.
http://pepys_s.rediffblogs.com/ mohan

not just name NoX, Portugal has a bigger game too :)
Ali Siddiqui

That’s using their heads. :D Sorry I couldn’t resist.
AJ

Is there magic spray for a concussion?
Ali Siddiqui

AJ, I think using the magic sponge would work. ;)
Roland

How does Portugal not score there!!!???
Franco

I’m sensing we’re gonna end up having another Mexico-Angola finish where Portugal will throw EVERYTHING at the Iranians. Portugal just missed their goal I think. Ball went right across the line.
AJ

Miguel back to life and almost scores. Nice save by the Iran keeper.
Ali Siddiqui

68% vs 32% Portugal ball possession.
Ubi

Rinaldo is so HAAAAWWWWT!
AJ

Pauleta booked. That was not a yellow.
http://pepys_s.rediffblogs.com/ mohan

Yellow for Pauletta who scored in the last match
http://www.pertinentverge.blogspot.com Darkoze

Ronaldo!
Pretty Boy!
Pretty Play.
pwnawannab

Yeah keep on juggling boi – you’ll score in the next one :)
Roland

Too bad, header pass was just short to Ronaldo.
Bidemi

Ronaldo looks like he’s about to cry.
Sal

Portugal should be up by about 8 goals. Iran should be happy to be tied at half.
Ali Siddiqui

Oh tears?
Franco

Well done Iran so far, they’ve held tight, and they play Angola next correct? If this result holds it’ll be Mexico, and Portugal on 4 points and Iran and Angola in striking distance with 1. Will be interesting.
AJ

Crap half but I’ll still watch the second. It is Saturday and a full day of couch sitting is the plan.
sebastian

“Ronaldo seems like hes going to cry…”

LOL
Ali Siddiqui

OMG! O_o The RPT is off the meter!!
http://deleted NoX

Porties are crying! if this goes on we may even WIN…Iranian strikers are good but they dont have time to strike…anyways thanks to our defendants…
Ubi

What are you talking about SAL, Iran has a really good team. And portugal is sucking it up in these games. So the game is pretty evenly matched, although it may seem like Portugal has the higher level of play it just doesnt seem to matter cause Iran keeps takin away their chances.
http://www.myspace.com/caloy Carlos

Halftime, and still 0-0. Hmm… Iran is doing a fine job here.
Daniel Lourenço

How the hell does Figo get a boot to the face, but not even a card?!?! And then Figo runs with the ball and farts next to an Iranian, who takes a dive and Figo gets a foul against him!!!! Ahh, frustrating!!!
Ali Siddiqui

I wonder if that knock on Miguel gave him momentary super powers with that attack? :o
http://pepys_s.rediffblogs.com/ mohan

Portugal has more fouls (12) than Iran (9). That is because of Iran’s histrionics.
Roland

This group is more convoluted right now than the Gordian Knot. I could try to figure out the permutations, but I think I’ll just have another cup of joe instead.
http://www.CapamimosIranianossaounspanaleiros.com Luis Figueiro

Ca pa mim os Iranianos sao uns panaleiros
Ubi

Dont hate on the Iranians, they will soon be invaded. (shaking head)
Roland

Oh God, Ubi, let’s hope not.
Sal

Ubi – Iran is not a bad team but Portugal should be beating them easily in this game. They’ve had the better opportunities. But you are right, they are sucking it up so Iran has a chance. I wish both teams luck. I just want to see a good game.
Matt

Lets see who shows up for the 2nd half. I hope the Iranian’s don’t start protecting their 0-0, like the 2nd half of mexico game
IranWIN

Trust me, IRAN shall defeat Portual 1-0
Dan

ahaha Luis F., I was thinking the same thing…
http://www.palhaos.com Luis Figueiro

os irianianos sao uns ganda palhaços pa
Ali Siddiqui

I predict a frustrated Portugal will attack pretty soon in the 2nd. Iran may counter as well with a good attack…hopefully a goal in this one for one of the two.
Franco

“Dont hate on the Iranians, they will soon be invaded. (shaking head) ”

It’s sad when that’s funny because it’s true.
rett

I was hoping for an Iranian win to put some pressure on the cheating Mexicans but after watching the first half I think I’d rather see the Portuguese come away with a win here.

The Iranians are playing like thugs with obvious intentional late challenges on defense and unsporting diving and play acting on their offense.
Alessandro

Iranian team…WTF??? They don t play the ball they keep kicking the Portuguese players and cheat the referee…

What’s that? Asian way of playing, kung-fu and shit? No wonder there’s no football worth watching there…
Ali Siddiqui

When the heck did Portugal decide to invade Iran? :?
AJ

So what is Portugal’s problem in this game? They are moving the ball ok but can’t finish. I am still not a fan of Pauleta.
http://www.strangerinegypt.com/blog Stranger

Don’t forget forget Iran lost the game in the second half last week! every second matters!
We saw some runs from Iran so in one magical moment they may score! I think Iran keeps Karimi in the field just for that magical moment otherwise there is no point of having such an uneffective player in.
Ubi

Hey all im saying is that the Mid-East will soon be the Mid-Wests property. You can deny it but Irans President sure does like his “Nuclear Activities”. I hope though that he gives in and just lets it go. Cause otherwise, all I can say is poor poor Israel.
http://www.myspace.com/caloy Carlos

Halftime… now I can make my cup of coffee! :D
Franco

Alessandro, what the hell are you on about mate? ASians are known for their attacking, which Iran cna’t do because they’re pinned back. They’re known for their speed, which is evident, and their known not to play the long ball (a la England) but to instead dribble more with the ball, which we’ve seen. They’re tryign to get points off the Portugese and it’s working. Ronaldo is always fouled no matter what team because they can’t keep up with him, for club or country. They’ve dived a couple of times, but Portugal is one of the main culprits of that in the world. As for the kung fu comment, shut up if you’re gonna be a bigot.
Bidemi

Portugal has to change their game plan. Pauleta isn’t getting any balls to him.
Ali Siddiqui

I envy you Carlos. :o Bring on the cup of Java and Senka!
Alessandro

Hey, it’s no political blog here!

Go Portugal, Latin fever with you…!!!
Ubi

How tall is Ronaldo? He looks like hes around 6′6! That is pretty big for such a quick guy. Hes like a freak of nature.
http://deleted NoX

Yeah 1-0,Iran is what i guess too…we deserve it, after that DONT KNOW WHY iran’s loss against mex
SES

I think Iran will be a challenge for Portugal, but Portugal can still win if they can put the freakin’ ball in the goal!
Bidemi

Protugal needs to win this game. 4 points doesn’t secure their position in the next round- especially if Iran beats Angola.
Franco

How do you figure Iran deserves to win? I’m rooting for them, but surely Portugal who’s been knocking at your door all game, has had all the best opportunities deserves to win?
Ali Siddiqui

Ok, lets keep this blog nice and clean. Lay off the politics here.
Sofia

How frustrating the first half was. As much as I enjoy Pauleta, I would love to see Nuno Gomes in the game.
oh 1966…
http://www.myspace.com/caloy Carlos

Portugal should have scored by this time, what with so many shots on goal, and having the ball 69% of the time!

Iran is really doing a fine job denying them (Portugal) their goals. Great effort by the Iranians (they must already be nuclear-powered, lol)! :D
rett

Franco –

Good comments. However it isn’t just Ronaldo being fouled and fouled hard. How about how many time Figo has been taken down. Also due to his blazing speed in your opinion?
http://deleted NoX

can we resist another half?
Ubi

Allright no politics MY BADDDDDDDD, Go Iran, even though Portugal really should win cause I think they are the all around better team.
Alessandro

Where’s Euzebio?
Sofia

Eusebio was shown in the stands before the game began.
Ubi

They should use the magic spray on his arm
Ali Siddiqui

I wonder if Beckenbaur is anywhere there? Any sightings?
Franco

Figo’s just adifferent cass above everyone, hasn’t looked it today, but last game he was fantabulous. Aye, they’ve got to stop the main threats somehow. Pauleta is crap though does Portugal not have a decent striker up front? If you notice the teams trying to set up shop and hold on 0-0, all get booked create more fouls, etc.
AJ

Beckenbauer is at the game. Maradona is not.
Alessandro

Sofia are you one of these gorgeous looking portuguese women?

GO PORTUGALLLLLLLL
Franco

Cheers to the blogger for (trying to)lay off Cronaldo:)
http://deleted NoX

Figo will have a nice memoir on his cheek…hehe!
Ali Siddiqui

What happened to Deco? They say he’s on the ground? Eh?
Alessandro

Franco you are crap, Pauleta is great, give him time
shireen

iran’s #5 is pretty petite, but at least he gets things done. and the ref seems card happy. i wonder how much longer ’til a red card?

and iran needs to SPREAD OUT! and try not to trip over their own feet.
Franco

Don’t the qualifiers of this group have to play against the Dutch or the Argies?Man it’s looking dire for all 4 teams.
Matt

Iran’s performance so far:
Basic ball control: C-
Actin: A+
Alessandro

Pffff… Persians don t shoot the damn ball…
Sofia

Alessandro,
Haha – Don’t know about all that, but I am Portuguese.
Ali Siddiqui

Even 2 yellow cards for both teams.

68% vs 32% ball possession for Portugal.
Bidemi

Iran are the Ivory Coast of this group. They are a good team, put in decent showings, but will ultimately lose. Portugal will end up winning this match.
Dino

Greetings from Mobile Alabama USA
http://www.pierretristam.com Pierre’s Total Football

What this game cannot afford, what neither team should settle for, what we don’t deserve, ladies and gentlemen of the jury, is eleven angry men on each side playing to another scoreless draw, and spending more time playing Smackdown than football, as they are now. Portugal’s Deco just earned himself a yellw for high-kicking, like it was tit-for-tat in response to the Figo smack earlier(do they have the same retaliatry instinct as pitchers do in baseball, when a player gets beamed?)
Sofia

Bidemi – Let’s hope you’re right.
Alessandro

OOOOOH RRRRRRRONALDOOOOO!!
http://pepys_s.rediffblogs.com/ mohan

Portugal have lost the rhythm after the break..Iran is showing more purpose in their attacks
Ali Siddiqui

Slow so far. We need some crazy action soon or else I’m going to fall asleep soon. (stayed up all night working).
Franco

Row Z is under more of a threat than the Iranian goal with Pauleta.
AJ

Dino – Who do people in Mobile Alabama USA root for?
http://www.myspace.com/caloy Carlos

I sure hope Portugal doesn’t play like now when it faces The Netherlands or Argentina in the next round! *shudder*
Alessandro

Pauleta has style
Roland

When Ronaldo cuts out the cute stuff he is so much more dangerous.
Alessandro

My first love was portuguese and she was called Sofia, an amaaazing woman!
Ali Siddiqui

He’s a bit like a puppy isn’t he? Adorable until he starts biting. Then out comes the newspaper….:P
Alessandro

so I decided to root for PORTUGAL!!!
http://deleted NoX

Iran has a history more than the summation of all europians! dont compare us to any country Bidemi
Bidemi

Alessandro, stop flirting with a name.
Dino

AJ the majority offcourse root for USA others since as you know we are a melding pot of different national origins… root for different countries, myself I like the way Spain plays, one touch fast….how about you?
Sofia

Ronaldo really does need to stop with that “cute stuff”. He really pisses me off with that, his ego, and his selfishness.
But Go Portugal!
Ali Siddiqui

Hahaha Bidemi.
http://deleted NoX

Wow second half is for us…at least till now
AJ

Peter might not be ripping on Ronaldo this half but boy does he look stupid trying all that fancy stuff. What a waste of talent he is sometimes.
http://blue2rose.blogspot.com Blah-Me

Portugal aint good enuf. But then neither is Iran. But I wish the best of luck to Iran.

I know I’m late. But I fell asleep. And overslept even.
Roland

Iran hoping to score on the counterattack, but they don’t have the technical skill to finish. Portugal does, but hasn’t shown it.. Portugal too passive on defense.
Dino

Hello brother Ali keffak?
Bobbio

Iran’s lack of desire to win is really annoying me. They keep wasting all their chances!!
Franco

Figo doesn’t seem to have the legs anymore.
Dino

Sorry, keffalak.
Sal

Portugal looks like they don’t care.
Ali Siddiqui

Yo Dino! Late? :P Both you and Blah-Me came in late!! :D
Franco

Costinha a rather nasty challenge.
Sal

Too many soft yellow cards in this World Cup. The referees need to let them play like grown men.
Dino

Ali yep working again
Ali Siddiqui

Hahaha don’t worry you haven’t missed anything much…lots of drama not enough Football..ing.
Bidemi

Does Miguel have a part time job as a suphero? Let’s say- FLASH?

That guy is quick.
Alessandro

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL
Franco

DECOOOOOO!!!!!!!
Ubi

FIGOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOLLLLLLLLLLLLLAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
Sal

Deco comes through!!!!!
http://blue2rose.blogspot.com Blah-Me

I fell asleep. I was tired after the whole day at the hospital.

What’s Dino’s excuse?! *Ronaldo pout*
Sofia

YESSSSSSS!!
http://www.aresthetics.ch/trav Adrian Wagner

Figo is still ok. Not too fast but still with the eye and at least nobody can question his commitment. I’d not have put Ch. Ronaldo back on the field. Fantastic talent, but just waaaaay too much ego.

Nice goal by Deco…just right now. :)
http://pepys_s.rediffblogs.com/ mohan

finally what a GOAL !!
pwnawannab

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAL
Roland

Hah, sorry, two things at once.

GOLLLL POORTUGAAAALLL!!!!
Bidemi

Told you Sofia. You have nothing to worry about.
pwnawannab

nice curve deco
Ali Siddiqui

Deco goal! Portugal looks like it’s moving forward! Yay!
Dino

How’s pretty-boy Ronaldo doing?
http://deleted NoX

im just sad…nobody could do nothing…it’s just technic
Alessandro

Start packing IRAN with all your Asian mates…
http://www.myspace.com/caloy Carlos

Portugal GOOOOOL!!!!!

Its about time!!
Ubi

Rinaldos getting a lot of touches but not really doing much
Dino

who scored was it Figo?
Franco

Dino it was Deco.
Ubi

it was deco who scored
http://www.myspace.com/caloy Carlos

Dino: Deco scored.
Dino

Txs
Ali Siddiqui

Ronaldo has been playing a bit selfishly as of late. Rumour of him getting off soon if he doesn’t produce. So far about 3 pouts and 1 major pout during the half time that according to Peter was a 9.7 on the RPT.

Tsk tsk Blah-Me. *pouts*
jen

well that goal was a long time coming. I’ve seen better defense and aggression in little kids games. Is Iran playing hokey pokey.. “put your right foot in, put your right foot out”?
Roland

Thanks Peter, or whoever is monitoring the posts.
http://blue2rose.blogspot.com Blah-Me

DARN! Its a GOOOOAAALLL!! Finally!

Can Iran make one before the end of the second half? *drum roll*
Matt

Iran’s couch is at it again, take a good ones out now that we’re behind
Sofia

Bidemi – Yea, I just hope it stays this way.
http://www.aresthetics.ch/trav Adrian Wagner

I’d rather say that Ronaldo has a lot of touches and then gives away the ball.
http://pepys_s.rediffblogs.com/ mohan

one of the top goals of this tournament
http://deleted NoX

Khatibi are you drunk?
Bidemi

It looks like it’s going to be Argentina vs. Mexico and Holland vs. Portugal for next round.

That is going to be pretty interesting.
Franco

So Iran is being eliminated at the moment. Angola still alive. Currently Hollands-Portugal, Mexico- Argentina. Should Portugal beat Mexico and Angola Iran, Angola would face the Argies. Jeez.
Tony

Nice shot Deco!!!.

Ronaldo is a bit selfish but in football, the players usually overpass so it is refreshing to see someone shooting.
Ali Siddiqui

Looks like Iran is conceding this game. Hmmmm.
Ubi

ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh wow sooooo close
Ali Siddiqui

Blah-Me: You almost slept through this whole game, eh? ;)
http://pepys_s.rediffblogs.com/ mohan

Incredible miss by Iran
Roland

OOOHHHH, Iran was so close to tying…
http://blue2rose.blogspot.com Blah-Me

I hope Iran makes one. :(

Although they dont look good enuf for one.

Ali.. what you tsk-tsking me for?

Another missed chance for Iran!
Sal

Khatibi should have tied it. Iran will kick themselves after that one.
Sofia

Wow, that must of burned.
Alessandro

Hahhahahaha

Ridiculous… Franco you said Asian players were fond of attacks

mi piace! Forza Portugal!
Shireen

iran should have left 21 in…and i wonder ifvthey want their “giraffe” back?

i lied. 11’s hustling.

well, there’s still the US game tonight…
Tony

Man I hate diving!!!!!!
http://www.aresthetics.ch/trav Adrian Wagner

Well, dunno Tony. See, Figo set Deco up – Ronaldo would have taken on 5 Iranians and then lost the ball or missed the goal. He has excellent technique, but plays it too slow (not that he actually IS slow…he just does it for some reason). Messi and Tevez showed yesterday how you dribble: fast and furious. Not by stepping over the ball 17 times.
http://pepys_s.rediffblogs.com/ mohan

i must leave now..sad that i can’t see the finish..hope to be back for the next game
Franco

Alessandro, they are, see Japan or South Korea, Saudi Arabia. The problem is Iran is pinned back completely here so they had to hit on the counter, now they’re forced to attack, making them vulnerable at the back.
Dino

Allesandro are you Italian?
Shireen

another card!
Sel_gr

Who is this genious referee?
The guy almost killed Figo. Is he blind?
Ali Siddiqui

Lates Mohan. Be back soon!

Not like the late comers like Dino and Blah-Me. ;)
http://blue2rose.blogspot.com Blah-Me

Lol.. whoever is listening to the audio.. its funny how he was going on about how corners are so “infuriating” to him. haha.
Tony

For Portugal fans, this game was better then the Angola game (so far). The Mexico game is going to be even better!!!
Ali Siddiqui

The Referee:

http://fifaworldcup.yahoo.com/06/en/w/ref/1535_POULAT_Eric.html
Alessandro

si io sono, watch the game tonight!
Ali Siddiqui

Blah-Me, your listening to The Sun audio stream as well? LOL! Yeah, I agree it does infuriate anyone if that happens again and again.
Ubi

Figo got a serious boot to the face, it looks messed up
http://blue2rose.blogspot.com Blah-Me

Ba bye mohan. Later!

And dont push it Ali. *pouts*
Dino

Io sonno Greco pero parlo un poco Italiano da dove sei?
Shireen

Go U.S.A.!
Ali Siddiqui

Hehehehe ;)
Alessandro

sono di Firenze, tu?
Dino

ti o detto sono Greco pero stao vivendo qui ale USA
Ubi

HAHAHA Shireen!
OmarKhayyam

My flatmate is about to lose some $70 coz he’s bet that there’d be at least two goals in today’s match and is currently looking for options on whom to blame for his losses. I’m suggesting Portugal, and leave Iran alone for their dramatic ability. What do you guys think?
Ali Siddiqui

63% vs 37% Ball possession for Portugal.

3 yellow cards for both teams.
Roland

Franco, you’re point is partly true. Iran has been playing 10 or 11 back since the beginning of the game. It’s clear they knew their defense is their weakness and they hoped to wear Portugal out and then get lucky on a counterattack. We’ve seen this from other teams that were technically mismatched, and I’ll wager we’ll see more of it before this tourney is over.
http://blue2rose.blogspot.com Blah-Me

Ahan. I’m listening to that too. Cuz none of the streams work well for me. I see 2 seconds of it, and then frozen for 5 seconds and then works for 10 second and then freezes for 20 seconds.. and so on.

Does Iran “not” want to make a goal? I have a feeling.
Alessandro

no go USA, go Italia!
Shireen

hmm, im not sure if im watching soccer or “acting for dummies” :(
http://deleted NoX

Penalty!!?
Tony

Oh man!! Petit got a free kick right in the nose!!!

That’s gotta hurt
Ali Siddiqui

Blah-Me are you looking at the Chinese channel?
Franco

Aye, I’ve loved T&T’s run so far, but that’s what they’ve done, when badly outmatched you setup shop and counter.
Sofia

Beautiful save.
Roland

Hey, nice play Iran.
Alessandro

Penalty
Ubi

PHHHHHHHh could it be…..penalty?!
Shireen

hey, ubi, i have to cheer for my country!

..and is portugal getting tired?
Roland

Penalty shot Portugal. Well deserved.
Franco

Iran goes close via a header there. Penalty at the other end, Figo wins it.
Franco

Ronaldo better make it or i’ll feel like an idiot.
OmarKhayyam

PENALTY! Could this save $70 for a football betting fanatic sitting next to me? Only time will tell!
Alessandro

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL
Ali Siddiqui

What?! Penalty? Oh my!
Roland

GOOOLLLL POOORRRTUGAAALL!!!!
Franco

Get in!!!! 2-0!
Roland

My 2 – 0 prediction should be in the bag now. Good start to the day.
Sofia

YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!
http://blue2rose.blogspot.com Blah-Me

GOOOAAAALLLL!
Ali Siddiqui

Ronaldo is stepping up! :o
http://www.myspace.com/caloy Carlos

They’re really letting Figo have it huh?
Shireen

noooooooo!! its over.

and you flat mate gets his 70 bucks…
Ali Siddiqui

2-0!!
http://sassan.blogspot.com Sassan

Bye bye world cp for us Iranians :(
http://www.myspace.com/caloy Carlos

Portugal 2-0 Iran!!
Franco

Iran’s gone. Wolrd Cup can be harsh.
Roland

Iran had their chances, they really did, but they can’t hold off Portugal for 90 minutes. No way.
Ali Siddiqui

Best pack your bags Iran! It’s time to enjoy summer back home! Deco and Ronaldo scored both goals!
Ubi

This game is over!
http://blue2rose.blogspot.com Blah-Me

What chinese channel Ali?
Shireen

sassan, i feel your pain. so much for making orange juice out of them.
OmarKhayyam

GOOAL!

Oookay, I think now it’ll be stall-play from now on. Though, to be fair, Iran *has* been attacking a fair bit.
Alessandro

Acting + Talent + Ability + Foxy + Aesthetic = Latin Football the winning side
Ali Siddiqui

http://www.a7lakalam.com/worldcup2006/live.htm

The first one. That’s the channel that keeps on freezing on me and it’s Chinese. So far the one that has worked for me for a while was channel 2…but right now i think due to the traffic online it’s slowing down a bit.
Dino

GTG back to work see you guys later Roland,Ali, Alessandro and gang go USA!!!
Ubi

The Italy – USA is going to be the shit. I cant wait, and Shireen I think Italy is the lesser of those two evils. Maybe its cause im from Canada, who knows!
Shireen

yeah dino!!
Bobbio

Iran are going to have to take their carpets home.
Sal

Portugal deserves the win but I still question how good they are.
http://blue2rose.blogspot.com Blah-Me

USA has no chance against Italy. Puhleeessseee!!
Ali Siddiqui

Laters Dino! :D
http://sassan.blogspot.com Sassan

Shireen… I guess another 4 years we have to wait for another chance ;)

We should put our chins up… I mean their Portugol and all and we’re Iran, they spend soooo much on their football and we spend nothing compared to them…

Their champions of this one and I want them to win the world cup… GOOOOO PORTS WIN IT FOR US IRANIAN FANS :)
Dino

Bye signing out over and out, later!!! hehe
Tony

The ref’s need to learn what is a dive and what is a foul!
Ali Siddiqui

Iran’s vengence upon Figo’s face as we speak. ;)
Shireen

yeah but US needs to redeem themselves after their last game :/ and hey! youre against your neighbors!
http://blue2rose.blogspot.com Blah-Me

btw, Thanx Ali.
Sofia

I can’t wait to see the US go home.
Ali Siddiqui

Take care Dino be back soon! :D
Shireen

yes sassan! and hey, after the iran/mexico game, the iranians looked to be enjoying themselves at least a lil bit…tho the beer might have helped…
Ali Siddiqui

Hehehe! The ref looked like he’s enjoying the moment with that card. LOL! :D

No problem Blah-Me. :P
Ubi

Honeslty if i could see both Italy and USA score minus points and both end up losing in this game, I would love it but if I have to pick one, Im going to pick Italy just because I just dont get how the US was ranked 5th :s.
pawan

too many asian teams. fifa need to reduce the asia quota to two and give rest to african.
http://blue2rose.blogspot.com Blah-Me

Lol.. these guys are hilarious. Did you hear their commentory on the ref?
pwnawannab

wall sucked
Sofia

Neither do I, Ubi, neither do I.
Bobbio

Haha Greedy Ronaldo! What a child!
Ubi

Sofia agrees with me, why cant the rest of you? And sophia you never answered that previous question if you were a Portugese Hottie?
Ali Siddiqui

Hahaha yeah! Oh man! It sounded like they were enjoying it alot seeing the Ref taking his time with the booking. :D
Roland

See you Dino. And see you all next match!
Ali Siddiqui

Too many Asian teams? Eh? Counts on one hand. Iran, Saudi, Korea, and Japan…..yeah…..
Shireen

sofia, where are you from?
Franco

Pauleta is crap.
Ali Siddiqui

It’s all over!
http://sassan.blogspot.com Sassan

WHAT THE FUCK THE REF IS WITH THE PORTS I SWEAR TO GOD!~!!!!! WHOS SIDE R U ON!!!
Shireen

we didnt give him enough rugs…
Ali Siddiqui

First corner…so sad at this late time. No do overs!
Liliana

I want Mexico to go through to the next round. Do you think a Portugal win is helpful?
Sofia

Shireen, I’m from Portugal. I take it you’re from Iran by your name? Means sweet, yes?
Ali Siddiqui

The refs have been calling out some weird things as of late…like this moment! :?
pwnawannab

how much stoppage time?
http://blue2rose.blogspot.com Blah-Me

Is it just me? or is 5 minutes extra time a “LOT”?! More than the past couple at least.

Anyways, too bad Iran. Goodbye.

Lol.. “New rule – Must not get pulled back by two men.”
Bobbio

That’s not true. The ref’s given PLENTY of gree kicks to Iran even though they were undeserving. And he let off the guy who disfigured Figo’s manly looks.
OmarKhayyam

Although, pawan, I’d say it’s a better option to somehow reduce North America and increase South American presence; I, for one, would like to see Chile *and* Uruguay in the World Cup.

Nothing to take anything away from African teams, of course, and I agree; most Asian teams are crap, but look at it this way: Asia puts “billions of viewers” back into “World Cup”. So FIFA somehow *needs* us brownies and other colours.
Shireen

im from texas, actually. but im half iranian. and yes, your farci is correct.

and this game was over, could have been worse i guess.
Sofia

I am super excited! Bye all!
Ubi

Shes a portugese hottie i knew it. and Liliana I think Angola has to either tie or lose their next game for Mexico ensure a spot in the next round.
Bobbio

I love brownies!
Ali Siddiqui

It’s all over! Figo’s got a welt on his face! Ronaldo scored with Deco! Iran makes fabulous carpets! And I’m making breakfast!! :D
Bobbio

Ho hum. I was supporting Iran, but they utterly failed to impress.
Bidemi

I agree with you Omar. And the African teams that qualified this year are well below standard. Cameroon, Sengal and Nigeria are all in a re-building phase (for 2010).
Liliana

Ubi,
Do you think that’s a likely result for Angola?
Mexico play inspirationally under pressure and I’m crossing my fingers they will somehow beat Portugal. I’m already biting my nails…
pwnawannab

hahahahahahahaha
http://sassan.blogspot.com Sassan

Byeeee byeeeee byeee MR. IRANIAN SOCCERPLAYER

Anyway nice game… go Portugal what can I say? They are the brasil of europe ;)
Alessandro

FORZA PORTUGAL ….. FORZA ITALIA !!!!!
Shireen

ho hum, oh well. it was fun while it lasted…holdofus, all.

..and go USA!!! (hopefully.)
Shireen

ho hum, oh well. it was fun while it lasted…holdofus, all.

..and go USA!!! (hopefully.)
OmarKhayyam

Shireen, but looks like your English spelling is a trifle… farce-y.

*ducks and runs*
Shireen

hmm? what do you mean?
kaygee

Congrtulations! Your man of the match was a Brazilian.
kaygee

Congrtulations Portugal! Your man of the match was a Brazilian.
Pedro

Portugal was the better team in the field!The referee sucks.
Portugal will win the game with Mexico easly.
Pogue Maghon

So, is Group D the lamest group, top to bottom?
OmarKhayyam

@Shireen: farci… farsi. Oh well, don’t bother. :-D
Shireen

uggh…i tried.

three cheers for my classical education.
http://www.pierretristam.com Pierre’s Total Football

This was a game Omar Khayam would have appreciated.
http://enotes.blogsome.com Bahador

It was the best our guys could present. We had a nice show againts european stars such as figo, ronaldo, deco, pauletta and so on…
We had stars too such as Ando, Kaabi, Madanchi, Khatibi and even mirzapour but
They had Big Phil and we had Branco the Little!
Next time we’ll come stronger. Stay with us!
http://www.worldcupblog.org/daily-wrap-up/june-17-the-daily-world-cup-wrap.html June 17: The Daily World Cup Wrap – FIFA World Cup 2006 – World Cup 2006 Blog

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