Wednesday, November 16, 2011

World Cup 2010 Blog: “Euro 2012 Lineup Done And Dusted” plus 1 more

World Cup 2010 Blog: “Euro 2012 Lineup Done And Dusted” plus 1 more

Link to International Football News - World Cup Blog

Euro 2012 Lineup Done And Dusted

Posted: 15 Nov 2011 02:52 PM PST

euro2012-1

Nothin’ left but the friendlies. Playoffs have ended, sadly for some – tragically, really, since none of the aggregates were even close – and the lineup is set with a couple of surprises, like Ireland and…no, just Ireland. The list of those who failed to RSVP is devoid of titanic names, leaving us with a heavy battle royale to be had in Polkraine.

The partygoers have been now split into two factions, one not boys and girls.

Spain & Germany

Spain
Germany

Here for the parting gifts.

Poland
Ukraine
Russia
Italy
France
Netherlands
Greece
England
Denmark
Sweden
Croatia
Czech Republic
Ireland
Portugal

The pots, which do not take into consideration that hostessing skills may not equate to footballing prowess.

Pot 1

Ukraine, Poland, Spain, Netherlands

Pot 2

Germany, Italy, England, Russia

Pot 3

Croatia, Greece, Sweden, Portugal*


Pot 4


Denmark*, France, Czech Republic, Ireland

* – Highly likely seeding. Portugal’s coefficient has yet to be announced.

This does leave the possibility of a group consisting of Spain, Germany, Portugal and France. Which, while probably not entirely optimal within the frame of the competition, would be delightful. Though utterly diabolic in its pre-tournament whining.

The draw is December 2nd – earplugs at the ready.


Your New World Champions: The DPRK

Posted: 15 Nov 2011 09:50 AM PST

North Korea Japan WCup Soccer

No one really takes the Unofficial Football World Championships seriously; it’s merely a nice bit of fun. But even with its inherent flaws – the best team ever (as in…ever) is Scotland – no one probably expected the trophy to head to Pyongyang anytime soon. Or ever. But they beat former title holders Japan (Spain -> Argentina -> Japan) today 1-0 in a WCQ and thus….everyone bow down to the DPRK.

And you can be damn sure there will be a parade in the capital in the coming days. You know – to be coupled with the celebration of their actual title in South Africa, of course.

(Though they may not even be the most unexpected champion – the Netherlands Antilles takes that plaudit.)

And yes, he was watching.

JAPAN/