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D3soccer.com => Men's soccer => Topic started by: blooter442 on June 08, 2018, 12:57:56 PM

Title: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on June 08, 2018, 12:57:56 PM
There's no D3soccer/EPL/La Liga, but I thought it might be fun to do a World Cup bracket challenge. This will be a bit different since — instead of the NCAA challenge where you just pick teams to advance based on the rounds — there will be points awarded for the correct group winner. Also, since the top two from each group are not pre-determined, there will likely be big misses on points as well as gluts. Go big or go home!

Here (https://www.cardschat.com/news/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/v1-SmartCoder247-World-Cup-Russia-2018-GMT1-time-chart-1.jpg) is a bracket with the groups listed as well.

1 point per Round of 16 participant
2 points per correct group winner
4 points per quarterfinalist
8 points per semifinalist
12 points for correct third-place finisher
16 points per finalist
32 points for correct champion

Note: You cannot "double-dip" in terms of points for picking the correct group winners, third-place finisher, or champion. So, if you pick the correct group winner, you get a maximum of two points. If you pick the correct third-place finisher, you get a maximum of 12 points. And, if you pick the correct champion, you get a maximum of 32 points.

Edited to post corrected bracket (Australia is not winning the group) below.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: Ejay on June 08, 2018, 03:53:29 PM
Quote from: blooter442 on June 08, 2018, 12:57:56 PM
Round of 16 (group winners underlined): Uruguay, Egypt, Spain, Portugal, France, Denmark, Australia???, Iceland, Brazil, Switzerland, Germany, Mexico,
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on June 08, 2018, 03:56:06 PM
Quote from: EB2319 on June 08, 2018, 03:53:29 PMUruguay, Egypt, Spain, Portugal, France, Denmark, Australia???, Iceland, Brazil, Switzerland, Germany, Mexico,

Good catch on the brain fart — Argentina. With that in mind, here's my corrected bracket below.

Round of 16 (group winners underlined): Uruguay, Egypt, Spain, Portugal, France, Denmark, Argentina, Iceland, Brazil, Switzerland, Germany, Mexico, Belgium, England, Senegal, Colombia.
Quarterfinals: Portugal, France, Brazil, Belgium, Spain, Argentina, Germany, England
Semifinals (third-place finisher underlined): Spain, France, Brazil, Germany
Finalists: Germany, Brazil
Champion: Brazil

Now, are you going to join in, or just make snarky comments about other people's brackets? ;)
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: Ejay on June 08, 2018, 04:07:00 PM
Round of 16 (group winners underlined): Uruguay, Russia, Spain, Portugal, France, Denmark, Argentina, Croatia, Brazil, Serbia, Germany, Sweden, Belgium, England, Colombia, Poland
Quarterfinals: Uruguay, France, Spain, Argentina, Brazil, Belgium, Germany, England
Semifinals (third-place finisher underlined): France, Brazil, Spain, Germany
Finalists: France, Germany
Champion: Germany
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: FCGrizzliesGrad on June 09, 2018, 12:33:00 AM
Round of 16 (group winners underlined):
Group A: Uruguay (9), Egypt (4)... Russia (2), Saudi Arabia (1) [I think Uruguay cruises, the other three will all be close but Egypt will get a win somewhere and take 2nd]
Group B: Spain (7), Morocco (5)... Portugal (4), Iran (0) [Tough group... I can see any of the four advancing. I'm picking Morocco and Spain to open with wins]
Group C: France (5), Peru (4)... Australia (3), Denmark (2) [Going with a lot of draws in this group. Peru wins/losses will decide the group]
Group D: Argentina (9), Croatia (6)... Iceland (1), Nigeria (1) [Argentina should easily advance... the others are all struggling a bit. Heart wants Iceland but I think Croatia gets 2nd]
Group E: Brazil (9), Switzerland (6)... Serbia (3), Costa Rica (0) [Fairly straightforward group. Serbia-Costa Rica opener decides 3rd place]
Group F: Germany (7), Mexico (7)... Sweden (3), South Korea (0) [Goal difference will decide the winner here. Germany finishes with SK while Mexico will have Swedish trying to advance]
Group G: Belgium (9), Tunisia (4)... England (4), Panama (0) [A win in the opener between Tunisia and England would see them through. Otherwise it's who beats up on Panama and keeps it close with Belgium]
Group H: Colombia(7), Poland (7)... Senegal (1), Japan (1) [I don't see Senegal or Japan troubling Colombia and Poland]

Quarterfinals: Uruguay, France, Brazil, Belgium, Spain, Argentina, Germany, Colombia [All the group winners advancing... I'm sure at least one will lose]
Semifinals (third-place finisher underlined): Uruguay, Brazil, Argentina, Germany [I've ended up with 4 UEFA-CONMEBOL games in the QF with S America winning 3]
Finalists: Brazil, Germany [The media frenzy over 7-1 will be unbearable]
Champion: Brazil 2-1 a.e.t.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: JFPIV on June 09, 2018, 09:14:52 PM
Round of Sixteen (group winners underlined): Uruguay Russia Spain Portugal France Peru Argentina Nigeria Brazil Serbia Germany Mexico Belgium England Columbia Poland

Quarterfinals: Uruguay France Brazil Belgium Spain Peru Germany Columbia

Semifinals (third place underlined) France Brazil Spain Germany

Finals: Brazil v. Germany

Winner: Brazil (3-0)
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: truenorth on June 11, 2018, 08:22:53 AM

Round of Sixteen (group winners underlined):  Uruguay, Portugal, France, Croatia, Brazil, Sweden, Belgium, Colombia, Spain, Egypt, Argentina, Peru, Germany, Costa Rica, Poland, England

Quarters: Uruguay, France, Brazil, Belgium, Spain, Argentina, Germany, England

Semis: Uruguay, Brazil, Argentina, Germany

Finals: Brazil, Germany

Champion: Brazil
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: EasyGoer27 on June 11, 2018, 10:04:17 AM
Round of 16 (group winners underlined): Uruguay, Egypt, Spain, Portugal, France, Denmark, Argentina, Nigeria, Brazil, Switzerland, Germany, Mexico, Belgium, England, Poland, Colombia.[/u]
Quarterfinals: Portugal, France, Brazil, England, Spain, Argentina, Germany, Poland
Semifinals (third-place finisher underlined): Argentina, Portugal, Brazil, Germany
Finalists: Germany, Brazil
Champion: Germany

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: Mr.Right on June 11, 2018, 02:23:51 PM

Good work Bloots...Before getting started TWO THUMBS DOWN to FOX for only sending 2 of 6 commentating teams to Russia. John Strong and Stu Holden which is their #1 team so get used to Holden's voice all the way up to the final and JP Dellacamera and Tony Meola their #2. Here is the Deadspin article going into how Fox is doing this on the cheap. I like John Strong and Holden is decent but not of JP. Meola is ehh. Cannot stand Derek Rae...Just some really bad announcing teams...Will miss Darke and McManaman and John Champion...I do give Fox credit for bringing along a solid studio team especially Guus Hiddink.

My favorite quote of the article and possibly the funniest thing I have read in a couple days..."Fox Sports is essentially punting on the World Cup, its entire broadcast plan a limp clusterf*ck, and I for one will be watching the tournament on Telemundo."

https://deadspin.com/fox-sports-is-half-assing-the-world-cup-1825544146






Group Winners in Bold and Underlined with 2nd place Bold.

Group A-----Uruguay and Russia-----Russia is one of the weakest hosting nations ever but I cannot remember a host nation not advancing except for South Africa in 2010. 1986 Mexico was not a contender but they won a decent group with Belgium, Paraguay and Iraq. 1994 USA got out of the group of death with Romania with one of the best players in the world at the time in Hagi and quite possibly the most talented team in the world at the time in Colombia and a decent Switzerland team. In 2002, I think Japan got through as well. So whether its the Home Field or a corrupt ref / player or 2 Russia will get through this group. Uruguay is everyone's sleeper pick and I agree they are mighty talented with the 2 CB's and Suarez / Cavani and company. BUT there is ALWAYS one talented team at every World Cup that absolutely SELF-DESTRUCTS. Think France in 2010. I think Uruguay is primed for this role especially if they lose their 1st game. Tons of talent / A manager on his last leg / possible in-fighting and like the USA in 1998 all you need is one player sleeping with another's wife and there you have it. 50/50 Uruguay either cruises or self destructs.

Group B-----Spain and Morocco------Interesting Group dynamics here. You have Portugal and every Portuguese favorite coach Carlos Queiroz coaching Iran. I actually am a fan of Queiroz and will not count Iran out just yet. Spain v Portugal matchup as the 1st game is fantastic for the neutral. The defending Euro 2016 Champs run out of luck in this group. I think the upstart Morrocains snag 2nd.

Group C-----Peru and France------The French have so so much talent but if they play like they did at Home against the US on Saturday against a side with an average of Caps of 6 they are not going far. This is a difficult group IMO. Peru just got fantastic news that their top striker is ok'd to play and their Argentine Coach Ricardo Gareca is a solid manager. When they defeated Brazil in the Copa Am in 2016 at Gillette to end Dunga's run and get to the quarters they proved they belonged. A real slow start in COMMEBOL looked ominous but they went on a tear to qualify with a little help from others. First WC since 1982 and they will be busting. They play defensive against better competition but counter well. Ever since their amazing run to the 1992 Euro Title in Sweden when they did not even qualify but were admitted because of the brewing Yugoslav Wars in the former Yugoslavia forced them to drop out after qualifying. Denmark proceeded to advance out of their group on the final day and defeat Germany and Holland on their way to the title. Amazing story. Anyway, I will not count out Erickson and company but their match against Peru should decide who advances. Australia I do not see moving on with a 38 year old Tim Cahill an company but I have seen more shocking things before. Decent Group for sure with different styles.

Group D-----Argentina and Croatia-----This group will go as planned. This is not Nigeria of 1994. Everyone's favorite team Iceland could possibly get blown out of Russia by Argentina 6-0. Winner of Croatia / Nigeria gets 2nd but Croatia is the better side with better talent.

Group E-----Brazil and Costa Rica-----Brazil is just loaded and breezed through a tough COMMEBOL. They will go 3-0-0 to win the group. I was impressed with Costa Rica in qualifying and think they could snag 2nd but Serbia has more talent and Switzerland will play a tedious style that could get them through. A total toss-up honestly for 2nd.

Group F-----Germany and Mexico----See Group E...Germany cruises to 3-0-0 and a total battle for 2nd. This is not Guus Hiddink's South Korea of 2002 or Sweden of 1994 but they both still have talent.

Group G----Belgium and England-----Belgium has SO MUCH talent that they will win this group if they could defend they would be my sleeper to win it all but they cannot defend. Secretly every American's team to root against England will snag 2nd. I do think Gareth Southgate was a good choice and they have the talent to get to the Quarters but they will screw it up somehow. I know nothing about Tunisia and while I was impressed with Panama in qualifying I do not see them getting a result against either Belgium or England.

Group H----Colombia and Senegal----Colombia just to much talent to not win this group even though I wish they would sack Pekerman as I am not a fan of his conservative tendencies especially with the quality that Colombia has. Still they are mighty tough to break down. Senegal is my upset pick as I think Poland crashes and burns. The Japanese will bust ass but it will not be enough to qualify BUT if there is a Group(which there always is) that gets turned on its head and defy's all predictions this would be my Group to pick.




Round of 16---Winners underlined and in bold.

Germany v Costa Rica

Colombia v England

Spain v Russia

Argentina v France-----Hope my predictions are right and we get this R16 matchup.

Brazil v Mexico

Belgium v Senegal

Uruguay v Morocco

Croatia v Peru

Quarters----Winners underlined and in bold

Germany v Colombia
Spain v Argentina
Brazil v Belgium
Uruguay v Croatia---I know I said Uruguay would self destruct but jesus the winner of Group A has the absolute easiest route to the Semi's.

Semi's-----Wilnners underlined and in bold with score

Germany v Spain  2-0
Brazil v Uruguay   3-1

3rd Place

Spain v Uruguay   5-4

Final

Brazil v Germany  1-1 PK's
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: Off Pitch on June 13, 2018, 01:36:05 PM
Round of 16:
Group A:   1. Uruguay         2. Russia
Group B:   1. Spain             2. Portugal
Group C:   1. France           2. Denmark
Group D:   1. Argentina       2. Croatia
Group E:   1. Brazil             2. Switzerland
Group F:    1. Germany       2. Mexico
Group G:   1. Belgium         2. England
Group H:   1. Colombia       2. Poland

Quarterfinals: Portugal, France, Brazil, Belgium, Spain, Argentina, Germany, Colombia

Semifinals: France, Brazil, Spain, Germany

Finalists: Brazil, Germany

Champion: Germany
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: JFPIV on June 13, 2018, 02:04:16 PM
Are we going to get the opportunity to re-do our Spain selections? 

Kidding! 

What a mess!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on June 13, 2018, 02:22:45 PM
Quote from: JFPIV on June 13, 2018, 02:04:16 PM
Are we going to get the opportunity to re-do our Spain selections? 

Kidding! 

What a mess!

A mess indeed. I have been a Spain fan since before Euro 2008 — I started following Liverpool closely in 2007 and pretty much half of Liverpool (Torres, Garcia, Alonso, etc.) played for Spain — but they have really gone off the boil in the last few years. Though they fully deserved to win Euro 2008 and WC 2010, they were running on fumes at Euro 2012 and lucky to win that tournament. 2014 WC was a disaster and while they have rebounded OK since then I would have assumed they'd do whatever in order to not rock the boat, as they have (perhaps "have" should be changed to "had") a decent shot this year with a lack of a clear-cut favorite. The news came as a shock yesterday, but van Gaal was appointed Man Utd manager in 2014 before the World Cup with the understanding that he'd lead the team through the WC finals. Obviously the timing here was perhaps not as good, but I would still think the best decision would be to keep things as normal as possible. Clearly that is out the window here.

Regarding Zidane's sudden resignation that set this whole thing in motion, I personally think it was a wise choice on Zidane's part to leave Madrid, as — while I think he made some good tweaks that helped Madrid to its unprecedented UCL success — I am not sure he is a managerial great. That may sound ludicrous given that no other manager has won two, let alone three, UCL titles in a row, but it's my opinion that he might not have the same success at a club without similar riches, both on and off the field. Also counterintuitive (but still my opinion), it would appear that sometimes it's easier to be a "tinkerer" of established teams — Ancelotti/Guardiola/etc. — rather than someone who is focused on building a dynasty like Ferguson did. With Ronaldo and Bale potentially leaving, as well as key players like Modric and Ramos aging, as well as a goalkeeper who is absolute pants in Keylor Navas (to be fair, he didn't pull a Karius in the UCL final), he may have found it difficult to keep up that level of success. Go out while you're on top!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: truenorth on June 14, 2018, 07:57:09 AM
I completely agree with this assessment.  It's a rare athlete or coach who has the vision and the will to go out on top rather than wait for the inevitable decline...
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on June 14, 2018, 01:10:47 PM
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1uI7xbkQz3Y/WyKggRwRasI/AAAAAAAAAfk/g0vpz8Gwz3IS0n__GXf0BjYM0RMAMtJlgCL0BGAYYCw/h675/Dfqr8-QWsAMSPaF.jpg)

Think we may have already peaked in terms of tournament entertainment with this reaction to Russia's fifth goal. (4th and 5th goals were bangers, btw.)
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: JFPIV on June 14, 2018, 08:52:34 PM
The one thing that I heard that at least gave some justification to letting Lopetegui go comes from the Wahl-Strauss SI podcast.  Strauss got this spin on the decision from a Spanish writer that covers La Coruna.  The essence of it is this: by taking the Real job every decision he would make during the competition would be called into question and judged against the Real-Barca dynamic.  Who he started.  Who he benched.  Who he pulled out.  Everything he did would be called into question.  Both Wahl & Strauss indicated that, according to Spanish writers, this created a firestorm.

I'm not a Spaniard or a supporter of either Real or Barca but that's at least one explanation coming out of Spain.

Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on June 14, 2018, 10:28:31 PM
Quote from: JFPIV on June 14, 2018, 08:52:34 PM
The one thing that I heard that at least gave some justification to letting Lopetegui go comes from the Wahl-Strauss SI podcast.  Strauss got this spin on the decision from a Spanish writer that covers La Coruna.  The essence of it is this: by taking the Real job every decision he would make during the competition would be called into question and judged against the Real-Barca dynamic.  Who he started.  Who he benched.  Who he pulled out.  Everything he did would be called into question.  Both Wahl & Strauss indicated that, according to Spanish writers, this created a firestorm.

I'm not a Spaniard or a supporter of either Real or Barca but that's at least one explanation coming out of Spain.

I can see that, but this isn't the first time that a coach of Madrid or Barcelona has also coached La Roja -- just look at Del Bosque, winner of a World Cup and two Euros, who led Madrid in the late 90s/early 2000s.

To be fair, there was a five-year gap between Del Bosque coaching Madrid and Spain, which is certainly different than being appointed Madrid coach days before the World Cup starts, but I guess my point is that it's not completely foreign territory (no pun intended) to have someone who's coached RM/FCB also coach Spain.

My own inclination would be to keep from rocking the boat (e.g. not firing the coach while the team is already in Russia) but maybe they thought that the waters would get choppier with a coach who is potentially distracted by his next adventure?

Either way I would have to think that -- if Spain thought it had a good chance -- it wouldn't have been so concerned with the collateral resulting from big decisions but would rather try to see things through as smoothly as possible. Maybe they think they are smoothing things out by making this change. Who knows.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on June 15, 2018, 10:15:18 AM
All second half I was wondering when Salah would come on. Cuper appeared to have vindicated himself with that big call as it was 0–0 going into the last five, but now he looks foolish for not going for it while his team was on the up. Hindsight is 20/20, but I have always thought that parking the bus works great until you concede. Not saying they parked the bus, but they didn't go for it and the gamble went bad. Of course, if Salah had come on and re-injured himself, people may have criticized Cuper, but at least they would have gone for it. Shame it happened in the last minute. He is going to have some big questions to answer.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: Greek Tragedy on June 15, 2018, 10:23:08 AM
Not sure why I don't check the soccer boards more often. Missed out on another fantasy league. I guess I'll just troll you guys and make fun of you.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: Greek Tragedy on June 15, 2018, 10:26:31 AM
I think Salah named to the bench was all show. Ratings boost for sure. I don't think there was any way he was getting on the field today. I'm not so sure he'll get in during the group stages at all.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on June 15, 2018, 11:06:14 AM
 
Quote from: Greek Tragedy on June 15, 2018, 10:23:08 AM
Not sure why I don't check the soccer boards more often. Missed out on another fantasy league. I guess I'll just troll you guys and make fun of you.
Missed it by less than 24 hours. Rough. #suckstosuck ;) (All in good fun.)

Quote from: Greek Tragedy on June 15, 2018, 10:26:31 AM
I think Salah named to the bench was all show. Ratings boost for sure. I don't think there was any way he was getting on the field today.
The coach said yesterday he "would almost 100% play, barring any unforeseen factors at the last moment." Would appear that — after today — Salah isn't as fit as Cuper wanted us to believe. Would appear that he was feeding us all a line and trying to strike fear into Uruguay. Almost worked — until it didn't. Certainly helped ratings though.

Quote from: Greek Tragedy on June 15, 2018, 10:26:31 AM
I'm not so sure he'll get in during the group stages at all.
Then he may not get in during the tournament — Russia is looking a force after yesterday's result. Egypt needs two big results now to get out of the group.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: 1970s NESCAC Player on June 15, 2018, 12:23:02 PM
Quote from: Greek Tragedy on June 15, 2018, 10:26:31 AM
I'm not so sure he'll get in during the group stages at all.
Then he may not get in during the tournament — Russia is looking a force after yesterday's result. Egypt needs two big results now to get out of the group.


- Bloots, your post raises the question whether Egypt needs two big results (to overcome the present -6 GD with Russia) or if they just need to beat Russia and match Russia's point total for the group stage (i.e., going through on the head-to-head result).  Is GD the first tie breaker or head-to-head?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on June 15, 2018, 12:26:56 PM
Quote from: 1970s NESCAC Player on June 15, 2018, 12:23:02 PM
- Bloots, your post raises the question whether Egypt needs two big results (to overcome the present -6 GD with Russia) or if they just need to beat Russia and match Russia's point total for the group stage (i.e., going through on the head-to-head result).  Is GD the first tie breaker or head-to-head?

Ah, I believe you're right — I think it is H2H. Either way, banking on that is playing with fire...but I guess that's what makes it fun to watch.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: 1970s NESCAC Player on June 15, 2018, 12:45:25 PM
Quote from: blooter442 on June 15, 2018, 12:26:56 PM
Quote from: 1970s NESCAC Player on June 15, 2018, 12:23:02 PM
- Bloots, your post raises the question whether Egypt needs two big results (to overcome the present -6 GD with Russia) or if they just need to beat Russia and match Russia's point total for the group stage (i.e., going through on the head-to-head result).  Is GD the first tie breaker or head-to-head?

Ah, I believe you're right — I think it is H2H. Either way, banking on that is playing with fire...but I guess that's what makes it fun to watch.

I agree with the "playing with fire" assessment, but they possibly always contemplated a loss to Uruguay and knew a result against Russia would be needed, so today's loss may not have changed expectations much.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on June 15, 2018, 12:58:05 PM
Quote from: 1970s NESCAC Player on June 15, 2018, 12:45:25 PM
[T]hey possibly always contemplated a loss to Uruguay and knew a result against Russia would be needed, so today's loss may not have changed expectations much.

Very true. Well, it's even more clear-cut now!

Just now: Great header; wrong goal.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: Mr.Right on June 15, 2018, 01:00:11 PM
50/50 that Moroccan substitute that just scored an own goal to give Iran a 1-0 win off a set piece is on the "take"...That was a beautiful finish into his own net. Yes cynical but just way to much money in this global behemoth now to not think some of this stuff happens. I mean that looked suspicious as h*ll
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on June 15, 2018, 01:09:05 PM
Quote from: Mr.Right on June 15, 2018, 01:00:11 PM
50/50 that Moroccan substitute that just scored an own goal to give Iran a 1-0 win off a set piece is on the "take"...That was a beautiful finish into his own net. Yes cynical but just way to much money in this global behemoth now to not think some of this stuff happens. I mean that looked suspicious as h*ll

Right, you're not the only one who saw that as suspicious. Twitter just erupted.

I am not sure it was intentional, but (even having never played competitively myself) I do have to wonder what he was thinking. He would have known he was on the front post and — even with guys lurking behind — was it worth attempting to play the ball if he wasn't sure he could head it clear? Obviously too high to just thwack it clear with the foot, and you're under a lot of pressure as it is, but you'd think if you're going to head it you go away from the net, or at least behind for a corner. Maybe he misplayed it? Either way, wouldn't think you'd try to go towards your own net in hopes of it clearing the bar.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on June 15, 2018, 03:26:19 PM
Nacho with a blooter for La Roja. What a hit!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: FCGrizzliesGrad on June 15, 2018, 03:37:28 PM
Quote from: blooter442 on June 15, 2018, 12:26:56 PM
Quote from: 1970s NESCAC Player on June 15, 2018, 12:23:02 PM
- Bloots, your post raises the question whether Egypt needs two big results (to overcome the present -6 GD with Russia) or if they just need to beat Russia and match Russia's point total for the group stage (i.e., going through on the head-to-head result).  Is GD the first tie breaker or head-to-head?

Ah, I believe you're right — I think it is H2H. Either way, banking on that is playing with fire...but I guess that's what makes it fun to watch.

Quote
5.
The ranking of each team in each group shall be determined as follows:
a)
greatest number of points obtained in all group matches;
b)
goal difference in all group matches;
c)
greatest number of goals scored in all group matches.
If two or more teams are equal on the basis of the above three criteria, their
rankings shall be determined as follows:
d)
greatest number of points obtained in the group matches between the
teams concerned;
e)
goal difference resulting from the group matches between the teams
concerned;
f)
greater number of goals scored in all group matches between the teams
concerned;
g)
greater number of points obtained in the fair play conduct of the teams
based on yellow and red cards received in all group matches as follows:
– yellow card:
minus 1 point
–    indirect red card:
minus 3 points
(as a result of a second yellow card)
– direct red card:
minus 4 points
– yellow card and direct red card:
minus 5 points
Only one of the above deductions shall be applied to a player in a single
match;
h)
drawing of lots by FIFA
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on June 15, 2018, 03:58:03 PM
Wow, great hit by Ronaldo! He used to be the master of the knuckleball free kick but — after going off the boil on the free kick front in recent years — that was a great curling strike into the top corner. Not sure if I've ever seen him curl one, but — either way — fair play.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: EasyGoer27 on June 18, 2018, 11:26:06 AM
Right now we are looking at Brazil/Germany in the first round.......
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on June 18, 2018, 05:38:40 PM
Young taking free kicks is the new Kane taking corners.

At least for now, "football's coming home!"
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: JFPIV on June 19, 2018, 01:25:12 PM
Loved watching the English commentators on twitter yesterday.

They went from nervy to WORLD CUP WINNERS to nervy to crap to horrible crap to putrid to WORLD CUP WINNERS!  In a two hour span.  it was almost as entertaining as the game.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on June 19, 2018, 03:52:26 PM
Salah looked not 100% but great penalty nonetheless. Too bad the rest of Egypt didn't look at the races at all. Thought there could have been a foul on the first goal but the second and third were legit, although I do wonder if they get either of those two after the first (every goal is an independent event but momentum is huge). Anyway, Russia deserved winners, and based on current form you wouldn't bet against them.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: truenorth on June 19, 2018, 04:25:04 PM
Russia have certainly won both of their opening group stage games in convincing fashion, but I don't seem them being at the same level of quality as Brazil, Germany, Spain, Belgium, France, etc.  They are playing in their home country, which as we know can cut both ways.  We'll see how they do in the knockout rounds.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: Mr.Right on June 19, 2018, 04:32:46 PM
As I said before the winner of Group A has the absolute easiest road to the Semi's. Take a look for yourselves. The winner of Russia v Uruguay is huge.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: Mr.Right on June 19, 2018, 04:35:46 PM
I don't speak a lick of Spanish but I cannot tell you how much more enjoyable it is to watch Telemundo. Fox announcers are just terrible.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on June 19, 2018, 04:49:50 PM
Quote from: truenorth on June 19, 2018, 04:25:04 PM
Russia have certainly won both of their opening group stage games in convincing fashion, but I don't seem them being at the same level of quality as Brazil, Germany, Spain, Belgium, France, etc.  They are playing in their home country, which as we know can cut both ways.  We'll see how they do in the knockout rounds.

Absoultely, truenorth, I don't think they are at the same level as those countries you mentioned. That said, bar Belgium, all underwhelmed at least in their opening games (could perhaps excuse France since they won, but I think they were fortunate). I think we will have a better understanding of the other teams' relative strengths after the second round of group games, or, better yet, after the first knockout rounds.

Quote from: Mr.Right on June 19, 2018, 04:35:46 PM
I don't speak a lick of Spanish but I cannot tell you how much more enjoyable it is to watch Telemundo. Fox announcers are just terrible.

I agree. I seem to be biased against American commentators. I find the Brits much more enjoyable, except for Arlo White on NBCSN, who seemingly starts every sentence with "the cross comes in!" Bring back the glory days of Martin Tyler and Andy Gray. Or, if you've gotta go with past WC commentators, Ian Darke improves just about anyone (and he put together one of the funniest sports commentary parodies (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbZ0AALh8Jg) ever, although I think it was even funnier watching him dance to Macklemore's Thrift Shop during half time of the Everton-Man City game back in 2013).
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: truenorth on June 20, 2018, 07:51:33 AM
I have found this World Cup tournament to be highly enjoyable thus far...probably for a couple of reasons.  1) There has been relative parity in the form of unanticipated draws or losses by the traditional powers (e.g. Brazil, Germany, etc.); and 2) I don't have a dog in the fight without a U.S. team.  I would normally be hyper focused on all of their ups and downs...
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: JFPIV on June 20, 2018, 12:29:42 PM
I started watching football regularly back around 2006 when Fox Soccer began broadcasting the Premiership.  (That's what they called it back then.)  At that point Fox relied solely on the English commentary of the games.  I loved the clean and simple commentary.  Generally little more than a simple recitation of the name of the player that had received the ball.  it was simple and quiet and perfect.

The replacement of that English commentary with the constant chatter that we hear now detracts from the game and is deeply frustrating.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: Greek Tragedy on June 20, 2018, 01:32:05 PM
I think American commentators don't understand that you don't need constant play by play with soccer. We don't need, "he passes, he dribbles, he shoots" commentary.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on June 20, 2018, 01:36:28 PM
Quote from: Greek Tragedy on June 20, 2018, 01:32:05 PM
I think American commentators don't understand that you don't need constant play by play with soccer. We don't need, "he passes, he dribbles, he shoots" commentary.

(https://i.imgflip.com/m7ibq.jpg)
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: truenorth on June 21, 2018, 03:57:51 PM
Croatia with a convincing beatdown of overrated Argentina...I really like this Croatia side!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: JFPIV on June 21, 2018, 04:24:47 PM
My selections of Argentina and Nigeria in that group are looking pretty dubious at this point.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on June 21, 2018, 04:40:15 PM
Quote from: JFPIV on June 21, 2018, 04:24:47 PM
My selections of Argentina and Nigeria in that group are looking pretty dubious at this point.

I had Argentina winning the group, which obviously isn't happening now, so I've missed out on the group winner points.  ::) That being said, I'd be thrilled if Iceland made it through to the next round. They were my sentimental pick but I really like their attitude and the way they battled Argentina on Saturday was admirable. What a story that would be.

Quote from: truenorth on June 21, 2018, 03:57:51 PM
Croatia with a convincing beatdown of overrated Argentina...I really like this Croatia side!

Agreed. As I stated above, I picked Argentina to win the group and Iceland because why can't you like Iceland? (unless you're English) but in the back of my mind I thought Croatia was quite capable of pulling a surprise. What a team they have. Their midfield absolutely rolled over Argentina and a pair of well-taken goals from Modric and Rakitic (not to mention the composure in the opener!) were just rewards for that performance.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on June 22, 2018, 09:50:38 AM
Obviously happy that Brazil's bid to win the group is still alive, but that is HEARTBREAK for Costa Rica. I have been quite critical of Navas but he stood on his head the whole game.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: JFPIV on June 23, 2018, 10:07:51 AM
The Belgians are firing on all cylinders right now!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: Mr.Right on June 23, 2018, 10:38:48 AM
That was a fun game to watch. Serbia v Switzerland also was a well played game. If Belgium could defend they could win it all
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on June 23, 2018, 03:56:45 PM
Kroos did a thing. That is rough on Sweden.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: JFPIV on June 23, 2018, 06:22:56 PM
I appreciate the fact that stout defense is Sweden"s standard operating procedure, but after the first goal was scored they should have pressed for the second and put Germany out.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: Falconer on June 24, 2018, 04:27:05 PM
As it happens I am in Gdansk tonight, and I just watched Poland get squashed by Columbia, 3-0. The winners capitalized on their chances and the losers didn't. The officials let them play, a very physical affair that often wasn't pretty. But two of the goals were gorgeous breakaways--the Poles looked bad in the back. Their fans are devastated. The game rather reminded me of their national history: waves of foreigners overrun them; they gallantly rebuild, only to suffer more of the same. Lewanowski was mugged multiple times, but the Columbian keeper also stoned the Poles twice or it would have been closer.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: Saint of Old on June 24, 2018, 04:53:25 PM
Columbians are very silky with the ball and calm under pressure.
James' 90th minute dance with the ball in the middle of the pitch illustrated their strength perfectly.
Problem with a team like this, when they get confidence, they are unstoppable.
These guys can do some damage.
The 3rd minute red card in the first game affected them badly, though they also fought hard in that game..

Game on in this group or what.
2 spots, 3 teams chasing it.
Each with their own destiny in own hands.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on June 24, 2018, 09:27:06 PM
Obviously a bit exaggerated, but (almost) what it's like listening to John Strong do World Cup games on FS1 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=awNAzmTK2Tg). I certainly couldn't do better, and I get why they want to have Americans do the broadcast, and that a number of Americans aren't familiar with the ins and outs of the game. Moreover, I know that Strong does MLS broadcasts, as does that other guy who was doing the Brazil game on Friday, so it's not like they have zero clue about the game in the way that Gus Johnson did when he had that ill-fated UCL announcing gig back in 2013. Either way, I got a laugh out of it.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on June 25, 2018, 01:12:33 PM
Anyone see Vlad during or after the game? Perhaps the Russia furor was a bit premature (fully acknowledging I praised them earlier in these boards).
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: Flying Weasel on June 25, 2018, 04:03:24 PM
What a wild turn of events in extra time of the Spain and Portugal matches--it went from Portugal winning the group by a clear 3 pts to Spain taking the top seed on tie-breakers.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: FCGrizzliesGrad on June 25, 2018, 04:28:34 PM
Quote from: Flying Weasel on June 25, 2018, 04:03:24 PM
What a wild turn of events in extra time of the Spain and Portugal matches--it went from Portugal winning the group by a clear 3 pts to Spain taking the top seed on tie-breakers.
Iran had a chance late when they hit the side of the net. Had that gone in then Iran wins with Spain 2nd and Portugal goes from group winner to eliminated in a matter of minutes.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: FCGrizzliesGrad on June 26, 2018, 11:53:26 AM
The streak is over. 36 games to start the tournament without a scoreless game ends with France-Denmark
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: 1970s NESCAC Player on June 26, 2018, 12:27:48 PM
Quote from: FCGrizzliesGrad on June 26, 2018, 11:53:26 AM
The streak is over. 36 games to start the tournament without a scoreless game ends with France-Denmark

I suspect that we will see several more going forward in group deciding and knockout stage games . . .
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: truenorth on June 26, 2018, 04:18:24 PM
I feel the same way about Argentina as I felt about Germany...they were not impressive and were lucky to get through.  Yes, you could attribute some of their "luck" to experience and overall talent, but some it truly is just luck...
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: FCGrizzliesGrad on June 27, 2018, 12:08:01 PM
So who saw that coming? Sweden handles Mexico 3-0 to win the group while South Korea takes it late to relegate Germany to the bottom. Germany now the 4th defending champion in the last 5 Cups to be knocked out in the group stage.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: JFPIV on June 27, 2018, 12:30:01 PM
WOW!  First time the Germans have failed to make it out of their group since 1938!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: truenorth on June 27, 2018, 12:37:17 PM
I was fortunate to arrive home after a morning of work to catch the last 15 minutes of regulation and all 10+ minutes of stoppage time.  What an amazing game.  The South Koreans were poised and tenacious.  The Germans were profligate, and I was so pleased to see Neuer finally pay the big price for roaming out of his half of the pitch (let alone his box).  Sweden goes from 3rd to 1st in the group on day, and Germany goes from 2nd to last!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: Gray Fox on June 27, 2018, 02:49:48 PM
Quote from: FCGrizzliesGrad on June 27, 2018, 12:08:01 PM
So who saw that coming? Sweden handles Mexico 3-0 to win the group while South Korea takes it late to relegate Germany to the bottom. Germany now the 4th defending champion in the last 5 Cups to be knocked out in the group stage.

"relegate"   :P  :D
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: FCGrizzliesGrad on June 27, 2018, 03:57:24 PM
Costa Rica is the last of the 32 teams to score at this World Cup. 30 of the 32 have scored at least 2 goals with Panama and Poland having an opportunity tomorrow to get their 2nd.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: FCGrizzliesGrad on June 28, 2018, 12:45:32 PM
Advancing to the knockout stage:
UEFA: 10/14
CONMEBOL: 4/5
CONCACAF: 1/3
AFC: 1/5
CAF: 0/5
OFC: 0/0

Europe gets 10 in the final 16 without the likes of Germany, Italy or Netherlands
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: Ralph Turner on June 29, 2018, 09:03:09 PM
Quote from: JFPIV on June 27, 2018, 12:30:01 PM
WOW!  First time the Germans have failed to make it out of their group since 1938!
Ominous....
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: FCGrizzliesGrad on July 01, 2018, 12:49:11 PM
Two big saves in the shootout sees Russia headed to the quarterfinals over Spain. Apparently it's the 3rd biggest upset by rankings and the largest in the knockout stage at the WC.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: FCGrizzliesGrad on July 01, 2018, 02:08:53 PM
4 minutes into Croatia-Denmark and they've already matched the scoreline after 2 hours of Spain-Russia. Hopefully it stays open like this and doesn't turn into the struggle the first game was.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: Ralph Turner on July 01, 2018, 02:50:55 PM
How many brackets around the world were just destroyed by the Russians?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on July 01, 2018, 06:48:22 PM
Quote from: Ralph Turner on July 01, 2018, 02:50:55 PM
How many brackets around the world were just destroyed by the Russians?

I didn't have them getting out of the group (I sentimentally went with Egypt), so I guess I'm in that group.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on July 02, 2018, 03:02:01 PM
Unofficial standings after the Group stage (hastily done on lunch break — let me know if you see any errors):

OffPitch: 20
EB2319: 19
Bloots, JFPIV: 17
Mr.Right, truenorth: 16
Easy, Grizzly: 15
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on July 02, 2018, 03:27:40 PM
SETTING: KITCHEN AT WORK

Bloots walks in to fill up a glass of water. On the television, Japan has just taken a 1-0 lead against Belgium, who was highly-favored going into this game. Hazard has just hit the post for Belgium, but the game remains 1-0. A coworker stands nearby, filling up a glass of water. Though he is not a soccer fan, he recognizes that this is not expected, but is curious to know more about this upset-in-the-making.

BLOOTS
Well, this goal makes things interesting, but this happens a lot. The underdog scores against the favored team, it wakes up the favorite, and they go on to tie and then win convincin...

* Japan's second goal flies in. *

BLOOTS
Oh, wow.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on July 02, 2018, 03:33:48 PM
Well, that potential movie scene died a quick death.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: FCGrizzliesGrad on July 02, 2018, 03:35:18 PM
Belgium wakes up and now it's tied 2-2  :o After Mexico's loss earlier, Japan is the last non-Europe/South America side left
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: FCGrizzliesGrad on July 02, 2018, 04:02:18 PM
1) Germany - group stage
2) Brazil - QF vs Belgium
3) Belgium - QF vs Brazil
4) Portugal - R16
5) Argentina - R16
6) Switzerland - R16 vs Sweden
7) France - QF vs Uruguay
8) Poland - group stage
9) Chile - missed WC
10) Spain - R16
11) Peru - group stage
T12) Denmark - R16
T12) England - R16 vs Colombia
14) Uruguay - QF vs France
15) Mexico - R16
16) Colombia - R16 vs England
17) Netherlands - missed WC
18) Wales - missed WC
19) Italy - missed WC
20) Croatia - QF vs Russia
24) Sweden - R16 vs Switzerland
70) Russia - QF vs Croatia

We have #14 vs #7, #2 vs #3, #70 vs #20 in the quarterfinals with #24 vs #6 and #16 vs #12 tomorrow

Of the top 20:
4 missed the World Cup (Chile, Netherlands, Wales, Italy)
3 eliminated in the group stage (Germany, Poland, Peru)
5 eliminated in the round of 16 (Portugal, Argentina, Spain, Denmark, Mexico)
3 still to play round of 16 (Switzerland, England, Colombia)
5 in the quarterfinals (Brazil, Belgium, France, Uruguay, Croatia)
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: rudy on July 03, 2018, 10:11:34 AM
Quote from: FCGrizzliesGrad on July 02, 2018, 04:02:18 PM
1) Germany - group stage
2) Brazil - QF vs Belgium
3) Belgium - QF vs Brazil
4) Portugal - R16
5) Argentina - R16
6) Switzerland - R16 vs Sweden
7) France - QF vs Uruguay
8) Poland - group stage
9) Chile - missed WC
10) Spain - R16
11) Peru - group stage
T12) Denmark - R16
T12) England - R16 vs Colombia
14) Uruguay - QF vs France
15) Mexico - R16
16) Colombia - R16 vs England
17) Netherlands - missed WC
18) Wales - missed WC
19) Italy - missed WC
20) Croatia - QF vs Russia
24) Sweden - R16 vs Switzerland
70) Russia - QF vs Croatia

We have #14 vs #7, #2 vs #3, #70 vs #20 in the quarterfinals with #24 vs #6 and #16 vs #12 tomorrow

Of the top 20:
4 missed the World Cup (Chile, Netherlands, Wales, Italy)
3 eliminated in the group stage (Germany, Poland, Peru)
5 eliminated in the round of 16 (Portugal, Argentina, Spain, Denmark, Mexico)
3 still to play round of 16 (Switzerland, England, Colombia)
5 in the quarterfinals (Brazil, Belgium, France, Uruguay, Croatia)

Nice job with this list. Japan was oh so close to being an underdog moving on...Belgium managed to bounce back though!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: FCGrizzliesGrad on July 03, 2018, 04:54:42 PM
England actually win a shootout. ???
They're still tied with Italy and Spain with 3 shootout losses at the World Cup... and now join them with 1 win as well. Mexico and Romania are now the only ones who are winless in multiple shootouts at 0-2.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: FCGrizzliesGrad on July 03, 2018, 05:01:53 PM
On one side of the bracket are #2 vs 3, 7 vs 14... on the other side is #12 vs 24, 20 vs 70. The only way the right side would be ranked higher in the final is if it's England vs Uruguay
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: truenorth on July 04, 2018, 07:33:29 AM
Yeah...simply based on the quality of the teams and their play, you could make a very strong case that one side of the bracket (France, Uruguay, Belgium and Brazil) are all more deserving of being semi-finalists than any of the teams on the other side...
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: Falconer on July 06, 2018, 03:10:28 PM
Anyone who wants to read an interesting story about religion, culture, and the Brazilian team can do so here: https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2018/july-web-only/brazil-soccer-world-cup-christian-neymar.html?utm_source=ctweekly-html&utm_medium=Newsletter&utm_term=23600828&utm_content=592784213&utm_campaign=email

I will not add commentary, but perhaps FW will have some insights. I hope that link works for all, but I can't test it fairly b/c I get those stories on a server.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: JFPIV on July 06, 2018, 04:11:30 PM
Brazil, Out!  No one gets any points in the final.

Every single member of the English sporting press is having a kitten right now!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: FCGrizzliesGrad on July 06, 2018, 04:12:08 PM
So... who will win Euro 2018?
With Uruguay and Brazil both losing today that leaves us with all 6 remaining teams coming from Europe.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: 1970s NESCAC Player on July 06, 2018, 04:36:35 PM
Quote from: FCGrizzliesGrad on July 06, 2018, 04:12:08 PM
So... who will win Euro 2018?
With Uruguay and Brazil both losing today that leaves us with all 6 remaining teams coming from Europe.

France and Belgium have so much firepower, it would appear the winner will come from that semifinal.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: FCGrizzliesGrad on July 07, 2018, 04:52:13 PM
Croatia is just the 2nd team to win shootouts in back to back rounds, the first being Argentina in 1990. They are also now one of two teams with a 100% record after multiple shootouts (Germany 4 for 4).
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: JFPIV on July 09, 2018, 02:14:25 PM
France v. Belgium will be a shootout.  France wins: 4-2.

Croatia v. England.  If Croatia were fully healthy I would pick them to win this, as it stands: England wins: 1-0.

France v. England.  Too much French firepower:  France wins: 3-1.

Il rentre à la maison

(BTW, it would appear that none of us should attempt to pick international football matches for a living.)
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: lastguyoffthebench on July 10, 2018, 11:15:44 AM
If Belgium rolls out in a 3-4-3, I don't expect them to advance.   I'm expecting Verma to start in a 4-3-3.  You can talk all you want about the Belgium front 3, but if you have side show bob holding the midfield vs the likes of Griezmann and Mbappe, GOOD LUCK.  Japan was able to exploit the spaces, so I expect the pace of France to wreak havoc.  Add the fact that Les Bleus have the best holding mid duo in the world, that will break up most of the counter attacks.

I'd like to see Belgium start Januzaj at RW and KDB as the #10 in a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3   

                       Courtois

Alderweireld Vertoghen Kompany Verma

                   Fellani  Witsel
                                       
   Chadli             KDB         Hazard

                        Lukaku       

OR

Courtois

Alderweireld  Vert  Kompany  Verma

                      Fellaini
    Witsel                          Chadli

  KDB            Lukaku         Hazard


The only bad news is that I have futures plays on France and England...   I have the worst luck in the world.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on July 12, 2018, 09:47:44 AM
Since none of us selected a champion from the two teams in the final (or the 3rd place team from teams playing in that match), I was able to tabulate the final scores, as the one person who had France in the final — EB2319 — will get 16 points from that game, regardless of outcome, while none of us will be getting points for the 3rd place match.

With that:

EB2319: 63
Bloots, JFPIV: 41
OffPitch: 40
truenorth: 36
Mr.Right: 32
Grizzly: 31
Easygoer: 27

Obviously the tournament has been a wild one. All eight of us had Germany at least in the Final, and they didn't even make it out of their group. Meanwhile, only Mr.Right had Croatia making it past the first knockout round, and that was only as far as the quarters. Bring on Sunday!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: Ejay on July 12, 2018, 01:55:36 PM
First, I'd like to acknowledge all the other competitors and congratulate you on a job well done.  Second, I'd like to thank Blooter for creating this fantastic opportunity, not only for me, but for all the D3 soccer community.  I'd be remiss if I didn't also thank my wife, who I'd publicly like to ask for forgiveness as I haven't done crap around the house in the last month.  Until we meet again in 2022.... Vive la France!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: truenorth on July 12, 2018, 03:50:26 PM
Thanks Blooter for making the effort to create the bracket challenge and to update the scores.  Although my bracket was busted very early on, I have found this to be a thoroughly entertaining and inspiring World Cup tournament...with an endless number of great story lines!  I'd now love to see Croatia complete their Cinderella story!
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: JFPIV on July 12, 2018, 09:32:32 PM
Thanks, Blooter!  Good Times!

A bit of trivia: every twenty years since 1958 we've had a first time winner of the World Cup.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: FCGrizzliesGrad on July 13, 2018, 01:20:06 AM
I'm just happy to avoid last. I can pick D3 basketball and football, but international soccer I tend to struggle with :-\

At the last 7 tournaments, the final went to extra time 4x and went to a shootout twice. There were a combined 10 goals. The only one of those games where both teams scored was 2006 which was 1-1.
In the third place games, none went to extra time but there were 27 goals scored. You have to go back to 1974 to find a 3rd place game that didn't have at least 3 goals scored.
So while Sunday will have the drama and pressure (and likely the first team to score wins), Saturday's rematch of the group stage should see more fireworks. Unless Belgium and England decide to sit everyone again.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: SoccerMom_5 on July 13, 2018, 08:40:05 PM
Lol.  I literally only signed in to see if Mr. Right was complaining about France's defensive-style games.  Now I wish I would have signed in earlier, because I had France to win it all. 

On another note, and don't know if it will help on this world cup, but for future reference, there are some really easy solutions for watching international games.

I have been using my VPN, and signing in as though I am in France and watching it on TF1.  Then I just Chromecast the game to the big screen.  If you don't speak French and you want to follow the announcers, just sign in as though you are in London and watch on the BBC sports channel.  It's free both places.   If you don't have a VPN (your work probably does), you can always get  super-easy to use VPN access pretty cheaply from ExpressVPN or something similar. . 

I have found a VPN is absolutely always the best way to watch international soccer.  And Both France and England have done a great job with this year's World Cup coverage

Anyway...  Just FYI if the coverage is disappointing you.



Quote from: Mr.Right on June 11, 2018, 02:23:51 PM

Good work Bloots...Before getting started TWO THUMBS DOWN to FOX for only sending 2 of 6 commentating teams to Russia. John Strong and Stu Holden which is their #1 team so get used to Holden's voice all the way up to the final and JP Dellacamera and Tony Meola their #2. Here is the Deadspin article going into how Fox is doing this on the cheap. I like John Strong and Holden is decent but not of JP. Meola is ehh. Cannot stand Derek Rae...Just some really bad announcing teams...Will miss Darke and McManaman and John Champion...I do give Fox credit for bringing along a solid studio team especially Guus Hiddink.

My favorite quote of the article and possibly the funniest thing I have read in a couple days..."Fox Sports is essentially punting on the World Cup, its entire broadcast plan a limp clusterf*ck, and I for one will be watching the tournament on Telemundo."

https://deadspin.com/fox-sports-is-half-assing-the-world-cup-1825544146






Group Winners in Bold and Underlined with 2nd place Bold.

Group A-----Uruguay and Russia-----Russia is one of the weakest hosting nations ever but I cannot remember a host nation not advancing except for South Africa in 2010. 1986 Mexico was not a contender but they won a decent group with Belgium, Paraguay and Iraq. 1994 USA got out of the group of death with Romania with one of the best players in the world at the time in Hagi and quite possibly the most talented team in the world at the time in Colombia and a decent Switzerland team. In 2002, I think Japan got through as well. So whether its the Home Field or a corrupt ref / player or 2 Russia will get through this group. Uruguay is everyone's sleeper pick and I agree they are mighty talented with the 2 CB's and Suarez / Cavani and company. BUT there is ALWAYS one talented team at every World Cup that absolutely SELF-DESTRUCTS. Think France in 2010. I think Uruguay is primed for this role especially if they lose their 1st game. Tons of talent / A manager on his last leg / possible in-fighting and like the USA in 1998 all you need is one player sleeping with another's wife and there you have it. 50/50 Uruguay either cruises or self destructs.

Group B-----Spain and Morocco------Interesting Group dynamics here. You have Portugal and every Portuguese favorite coach Carlos Queiroz coaching Iran. I actually am a fan of Queiroz and will not count Iran out just yet. Spain v Portugal matchup as the 1st game is fantastic for the neutral. The defending Euro 2016 Champs run out of luck in this group. I think the upstart Morrocains snag 2nd.

Group C-----Peru and France------The French have so so much talent but if they play like they did at Home against the US on Saturday against a side with an average of Caps of 6 they are not going far. This is a difficult group IMO. Peru just got fantastic news that their top striker is ok'd to play and their Argentine Coach Ricardo Gareca is a solid manager. When they defeated Brazil in the Copa Am in 2016 at Gillette to end Dunga's run and get to the quarters they proved they belonged. A real slow start in COMMEBOL looked ominous but they went on a tear to qualify with a little help from others. First WC since 1982 and they will be busting. They play defensive against better competition but counter well. Ever since their amazing run to the 1992 Euro Title in Sweden when they did not even qualify but were admitted because of the brewing Yugoslav Wars in the former Yugoslavia forced them to drop out after qualifying. Denmark proceeded to advance out of their group on the final day and defeat Germany and Holland on their way to the title. Amazing story. Anyway, I will not count out Erickson and company but their match against Peru should decide who advances. Australia I do not see moving on with a 38 year old Tim Cahill an company but I have seen more shocking things before. Decent Group for sure with different styles.

Group D-----Argentina and Croatia-----This group will go as planned. This is not Nigeria of 1994. Everyone's favorite team Iceland could possibly get blown out of Russia by Argentina 6-0. Winner of Croatia / Nigeria gets 2nd but Croatia is the better side with better talent.

Group E-----Brazil and Costa Rica-----Brazil is just loaded and breezed through a tough COMMEBOL. They will go 3-0-0 to win the group. I was impressed with Costa Rica in qualifying and think they could snag 2nd but Serbia has more talent and Switzerland will play a tedious style that could get them through. A total toss-up honestly for 2nd.

Group F-----Germany and Mexico----See Group E...Germany cruises to 3-0-0 and a total battle for 2nd. This is not Guus Hiddink's South Korea of 2002 or Sweden of 1994 but they both still have talent.

Group G----Belgium and England-----Belgium has SO MUCH talent that they will win this group if they could defend they would be my sleeper to win it all but they cannot defend. Secretly every American's team to root against England will snag 2nd. I do think Gareth Southgate was a good choice and they have the talent to get to the Quarters but they will screw it up somehow. I know nothing about Tunisia and while I was impressed with Panama in qualifying I do not see them getting a result against either Belgium or England.

Group H----Colombia and Senegal----Colombia just to much talent to not win this group even though I wish they would sack Pekerman as I am not a fan of his conservative tendencies especially with the quality that Colombia has. Still they are mighty tough to break down. Senegal is my upset pick as I think Poland crashes and burns. The Japanese will bust ass but it will not be enough to qualify BUT if there is a Group(which there always is) that gets turned on its head and defy's all predictions this would be my Group to pick.




Round of 16---Winners underlined and in bold.

Germany v Costa Rica

Colombia v England

Spain v Russia

Argentina v France-----Hope my predictions are right and we get this R16 matchup.

Brazil v Mexico

Belgium v Senegal

Uruguay v Morocco

Croatia v Peru

Quarters----Winners underlined and in bold

Germany v Colombia
Spain v Argentina
Brazil v Belgium
Uruguay v Croatia---I know I said Uruguay would self destruct but jesus the winner of Group A has the absolute easiest route to the Semi's.

Semi's-----Wilnners underlined and in bold with score

Germany v Spain  2-0
Brazil v Uruguay   3-1

3rd Place

Spain v Uruguay   5-4

Final

Brazil v Germany  1-1 PK's
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: JFPIV on July 16, 2018, 10:59:31 AM
Soccer Mom, would VPN work for European club games as well?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: blooter442 on July 19, 2018, 09:42:23 PM
I can't say if VPN would work in the way JFPIV wondered (I might guess so), but I have had success going to /r/soccerstreams (http://www.reddit.com/r/soccerstreams) on reddit. Pretty much every game of a given day will have at least a few high-quality streams. Of course, I am not endorsing it (it is probably not on the legal side of things), and you'll definitely want an adblocker of some sort, but I prefer to listen to Martin Tyler on Sky over Arlo White on NBCSN if I can.
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: lastguyoffthebench on July 20, 2018, 10:49:13 AM

Coverage of the tournament by Fox was absolutely sub par... it's like the knew they were losing money with USMNT out, so they half-assed the entire broadcasts.    No tactical analysis on computer screen shots, captain obvious statements, and just a total let down.

I'm way beyond tired of Alexi smug Lalas...   
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: SoccerMom_5 on July 20, 2018, 11:49:37 PM
Sorry for the delay in response.

Yes!!!  Using a VPN works great!  You just have to know what local channels carry the game (BBC Sports and TF1 are a good bet for big games...)   and sign in on your VPN for that country and then log in to the channel's live stream.  It is pretty easy to do.  I recommend ExpressVPN if you don't have one from work.  It is very reliable, extremely user-friendly, and not at all expensive :)
You can probably also find a free VPN service for use now-and-then, but sometimes they aren't worth much.   


Quote from: JFPIV on July 16, 2018, 10:59:31 AM
Soccer Mom, would VPN work for European club games as well?
Title: Re: 2018 World Cup Bracket Challenge
Post by: JFPIV on July 23, 2018, 12:37:54 PM
Thanks for the information!