USA SOCCER: USA VS. Mexico Wed 4pm

[heyholetsgogrant]

:saber: Thought I would start the thread early! GO USA!

[Toe Jam]

GO MEXICO!

Kick that American tail!

[desioreo87]

when is it ?

[Drop]

and what channel will it be on?

[skinsngibbs4life]

Game is on Wednesday.

U.S. fans kind of got screwed on this. The game was originally supposed to be at 7 or 8 eastern time, but they moved it up. Now, the game is only going to be broadcast on Mun2 (a friggin spanish channel I have never heard and don't think I get.).

So it basically went from national TV on ESPN to this. Complete crap.

Anyway, the U.S. is 0-22-1 playing at Azteca, so anytype of result would be helpful.

With that said, though, a loss would not hurt us TOO bad. We would just have to take care of our own winnable games after that.

IF we do get a tie, its nice to get that 1 point, but its even better to deprive Mexico of two extra points at home.

Im predicting a 3-1 Mexico win tommorow.

[Drop]

Apparently NBC Universal owns this Mun2 station. I have Universal HD through Comcast, but their listing doesn't show this coming on. i was hoping maybe they'd air it there as well.

[WARLORD1863]

Would be nice if they could get a win in Mexico. GO USA!

[703souljah]

for those who don't get the channel try justin.tv they should have it

[skinsngibbs4life]

Apparently NBC Universal owns this Mun2 station. I have Universal HD through Comcast, but their listing doesn't show this coming on. i was hoping maybe they'd air it there as well.

Yeah, im not sure.

I checked verizon fios' listing, and they carry mun2...i think its channel 265 or something around there.

Although mun2 is a spanish station, if you hit the sap button, it will give you an english play by play by former US national team player Marcelo Balboa.

[buenosdiaz]

so univision and telemundo arent even showing it? what the hell! they love freakin mexico

[Drop]

my comcast listing says I get Mun2, so i dunno, i guess i'll check it out when i go home this afternoon.

[RobertGoulet]

I got a message from Comcast saying they are making Mun2 available to all their customers for the game.

[The Brave Little Toaster Oven]

GO MEXICO!

Kick that American tail!

You Un-American bastard! GTFO of here! :silly:

[MattFancy]

Comcast is showing the game. I got a thing about how they were going to have the Mun2 channel just for the game.

[renaissance]

Mexico needs this game more than we do, we are playing in Azteca, and they're coming off a dominating Gold Cup win (even if it was our C team) over us.

God I hope we destroy them!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


http://atlasshrugs2000.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c60bf53ef01156f824471970c-500wi

[Kilmer17]

The game was never at night. Mexico chose to have it in the afternoon so our team couldnt fly in that day, play, and leave. Helps with the altitude rather than staying overnight which we now must do.

As for the TV. Mexico soccer fed owns the rights. They offered it to ESPN who balked at the price. Luckily Telemundo now has an English speaking channel "mun2" that they will broadcast it on. Most cable networks have it, Directv has it (Channel 203 or 204 I think) and they will be showing it for free.

As for the game. A loss would almost destroy Mexicos chances to even make the WC. A win for the US almost assures us a berth. A tie helps the US and hurts Mex a bit. And I think that is the best we can hope to see.

The loss in the GC final means little to either side. I dont think anyone from either of those squads is even on the roster for tomorrow. But it might make the Mexicans a bit cocky, which might help the US. But it would be minimal.

We need to play like we did in Africa. Put Altidore and Davies up top, Donovan, Deuce, Bradley and Clark in the midfield with a backline of either-

Spector, Gooch, Demerit, Boca
or
Cherundolo, Gooch, Demerit, Boca

But I wouldnt be suprised to see Bob move Boca back to the middle and play both Cherundolo and Spector on the wings.

A win would be monumental.

[buenosdiaz]

going home tomorrow to watch the game...thanks comcast...this still doesnt make up for your otherwise ****ty service

[skinsngibbs4life]

As for the TV. Mexico soccer fed owns the rights. They offered it to ESPN who balked at the price.



I heard otherwise. NBC Universal owns the rights to Mun2, and ESPN approached them about buying the rights but got turned down. Don't know which is true.


As for the game. A loss would almost destroy Mexicos chances to even make the WC. A win for the US almost assures us a berth. A tie helps the US and hurts Mex a bit. And I think that is the best we can hope to see.

A tie would be a great result for the U.S. Mexico HAS to get a win in this game to stay in the thick of this race. It will greatly hinder them if they can not pull out the victory.





The loss in the GC final means little to either side. I dont think anyone from either of those squads is even on the roster for tomorrow. But it might make the Mexicans a bit cocky, which might help the US. But it would be minimal..

Actually, Mexico I believe has 12 players on their roster that were also on the gold cup roster. 6 of those 12 will likely be starters for the game tomorrow.The US has three players from the GQ roster, although, it is questionable whether any of them will start. While I agree that the loss means little to nothing, they will be playing with a lot of the same players.


Also, Mexico could be facing two big losses to their roster. Out for sure, Rafael Marquez, the barcelona defender, tore a calf muscle and will miss the game.

Also, Andres Guardado was injured in his last club match, and might play. Even if he does play, he certainly won't be 100%. He is one of el tris best players, so obviously this would be a big blow.

[boysetsfire]

I'm getting out of work early for this game. I think tomorrow is the day the US squad finally ends the streak and gets one in the Azteca. I can't stand the Mexican National Team and all the hype of all they beat the US in the Gold Cup final hasn't gotten beyond annoying. Let's see how they do against the A squad.

[Drop]

I am no seasoned soccer fan by any means. Actually, i hardly know a thing about the sport. But i'm kind of excited to get off work tomorrrow, crack open a cold one, and watch this match. I followed what went down a couple months back and i've heard a lot about this game, so I want to see the US do well.

A couple friends of mine run their mouths about Brazil all the time, and it annoys the living hell out of me. So hopefully the US comes up big and puts on a show. I understand that the US has never won at the Azteca, but can someone tell me how long they've actually gone w/o winning there?

[renaissance]

I don't think we've ever beat them IN Mexico.

EDIT: And just for fun, Azteca's capacity is more than 105,000.

[skinsngibbs4life]

I don't think we've ever beat them IN Mexico.

EDIT: And just for fun, Azteca's capacity is more than 105,000.

You are right. We have never won in Azteca. I [believe] the record is 0-22-1 (with the one tie come back in 1997).

And it is amazing how big that stadium is. I never realized it until watching a pregame show yesterday.

Thats over 100,00 of the nastiest fans you will ever find. Definatly an intimidating place to play. And if the fans wern't enough for you, you are also playing ay 7,500 feet, in extreme temperatures, with a lot of smog. Luckily, Alex Lalas said that the smog won't be as bad as usual today, and the temperature has also dropped a bit, so maybe the conditions wont be THAT bad. But who knows.

Also, I heard sams army was going to be in attendance...all 100 if them!!!:hysterical:

[skinsngibbs4life]

I'm getting out of work early for this game. I think tomorrow is the day the US squad finally ends the streak and gets one in the Azteca. I can't stand the Mexican National Team and all the hype of all they beat the US in the Gold Cup final hasn't gotten beyond annoying. Let's see how they do against the A squad.

Yeah, I wouldn't get home until 6:00 or so, so im going to take an hour off work to go to a local bar and try and catch the game. I have two shots. Im hoping ESPN Zone in DC will somehow carry mun, or my other option is going to a local irish bar that plays soccer games.

Im going to call the places at lunch and see if they carry them. My fingers are crossed. :(

[desioreo87]

I am excited to see how the US play. Our midfield is never very strong and playing at altitude means that we prolly wont press them much this game. We really have to play this game at our tempo if we are gonna win, the problem is we don't have a midfielder that can run a game.

I think we have to look to get it in to Altidore early and play through him. He is strong and can hold up the ball in attack to allow other players to join. We can't control the ball in midfield so we prolly need to get it to our wide players or altidore as quickly as possible on counters or just regular attacks.

[Kilmer17]

They key to this game will be our backline.

They play like they did vs Spain,Egypt and Brazil then we'll win.

Anything less than that, and a tie would be a great result.

[buenosdiaz]

USA USA USA

hate mexicos soccer team!

[The Brave Little Toaster Oven]

USA USA USA

hate mexicos soccer team!

Congrats on assimilating :silly:

[renaissance]

**** you cox cable in williamsburg. those *******s aren't showing the game for free.

[The Brave Little Toaster Oven]

**** you cox cable in williamsburg. those *******s aren't showing the game for free.

http://stores.cuppajane.com/catalog/sweetthing.JPG

You dropped your name tag during that hissy fit you just threw....

[ixcuincle]

**** you cox cable in williamsburg. those *******s aren't showing the game for free.

I think I found an online link, it's listed for 4 pm today but not sure if it'll work

Later this afternoon when the game starts I'll check the link out and see if it works

[renaissance]

I think I found an online link, it's listed for 4 pm today but not sure if it'll work

Later this afternoon when the game starts I'll check the link out and see if it works

I should not have to watch my own national team play in a WC qualifier against our biggest rival ONLINE :mad:

[buenosdiaz]

you complain so much...lol

be greatful we live in an era where you can circumvent the restrictions your cable company places upon you

[renaissance]

Whatever, I just sent the following email to USA soccer

I love watching US soccer and this summer has been an awesome one for futbol in the USA.

From the Confederations Cup to the Gold Cup, to all of the great international friendlies and MLS games that have been played. I even got to travel from Washington DC to watch the USA vs Honduras WC qualifier at Soldier Field.

Today, I was very excited to be able to watch USA vs Mexico on tv, until I found out that the game isn't even available through my cable provider. I understand that mun2 is providing a free preview of their channel, but my cable provider does not even carry that channel.

I am quite angry and frankly embarrassed that USA Soccer, at such a critical time for growing the popularity of the sport and particularly the MNT in its own country, would not go the extra distance to make this game easily available to anyone who wants to watch it.

ESPN has fairly heavily advertised the game, but makes no mention (unless I missed it) that they're not even the ones showing it. Soccer highlights are regularly making Sportscenter's "top plays" this summer, yet when it comes to arguably the biggest soccer game thus far this summer, many Americans will not even be able to watch their own team fight for their first ever win at Azteca, which would put them a huge step closer to qualifying for SA 2010 while simultaneously all but crushing the hopes of hated rivals Mexico.

I hope in the future USA Soccer will make a much better effort of making games easily accessible to all Americans. With an epic run in the Confederations Cup, numerous WC qualifying games, and a great run in the Gold Cup, this summer has provided a great opportunity for USA soccer to promote the popularity of the sport and the team to current and potential US fans, and I hope you will do a better job taking advantage of that opportunity.

don't tread on me,

renaissance

[Kilmer17]

US Soccer has no control over this. The Mexican Soccer Federation controls the rights.

[renaissance]

We are the USA, we can do anything dammit!!!!

And yes I understand that Mexico owns the rights.

[Kilmer17]

We are the USA, we can do anything dammit!!!!

And yes I understand that Mexico owns the rights.

Yes we can. Including stealing it online.

http://www.watch-free.tv/sports/soccer-sports/watch-the-confederations-cup-2009-soccer-online-free/

[Hooper]

http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-us-mexico-soccer12-2009aug12,0,1163651.story

It turns out that the coach of Mexico's national soccer team is not only an NFL fan but a Cowboys fan. And not only a Cowboys fan but a Roger Staubach fan.

"I have to confess, I've been a Cowboys fan since birth," Aguirre told Jones. "I have everything when it comes to Roger Staubach. Everything."

[ixcuincle]

Beat those scum cowboys fans then

**** dallas

[MattFancy]

2 1/2 hours to go!

[The Brave Little Toaster Oven]

2 1/2 hours to go!

On my way home from work, I'm stopping and getting some Lomo Saltado and a couple Pupusas for the game :D

['Skins_&_'Stons]

I am actually really excited for this match. I don't want to get my hopes up to much, but I have a good feeling about today.

http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m239/thepistonsfanTRADEPAGE/REDSKINS%20PLUS/SMILEYS/Frequent/1ba29d71.gifhttp://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m239/thepistonsfanTRADEPAGE/REDSKINS%20PLUS/SMILEYS/Frequent/1ba29d71.gifhttp://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m239/thepistonsfanTRADEPAGE/REDSKINS%20PLUS/SMILEYS/Frequent/1ba29d71.gif


http://www.irqr.net/images/USA-flag.jpg

[pointyfootball]

ESPN has fairly heavily advertised the game, but makes no mention (unless I missed it) that they're not even the ones showing it. Soccer highlights are regularly making Sportscenter's "top plays" this summer, yet when it comes to arguably the biggest soccer game thus far this summer, many Americans will not even be able to watch their own team fight for their first ever win at Azteca, which would put them a huge step closer to qualifying for SA 2010 while simultaneously all but crushing the hopes of hated rivals Mexico.

Maybe ESPN is showing "Competitive Eating Championships" during that time?

I'll admit to not knowing all the "who's going to show" it wrangling going on , but how much would it cost ESPN to buy the rights? Seems like it would be a huge draw in our country.

Fortunately I have DD.

[pointyfootball]

I am actually really excited for this match. I don't want to get my hopes up to much, but I have a good feeling about today.

I really hope you're right. I would love for the US to win this.

[MattFancy]

I'm not even a big soccer fan, I just really only watch the World Cup and the WC qualifying, but I'm really pumped for this game!

[Hooper]

Does the US get out of the stadium alive if they pull off the upset? That place is crazier than a townhall meeting.

[renaissance]

Maybe ESPN is showing "Competitive Eating Championships" during that time?

I'll admit to not knowing all the "who's going to show" it wrangling going on , but how much would it cost ESPN to buy the rights? Seems like it would be a huge draw in our country.

Fortunately I have DD.

Bleh, I also emailed NBC Universal who owns mun2, asking why they couldn't show the broadcast on one of the other million channels they own instead of the one channel that probably the least amount of cable providers actually offers. I honestly don't care if they solve my problem (a little late for that at this point), I just want to express my ager to them since it's their channel.

Whatevs, I'm just going to watch online since I don't feel like driving all the way to my bro's house or going to a bar to watch with a bunch of Mexicans.

[renaissance]

ESPN Deportes is doing some kind of special about USA/MExico at Azteca and it's kind of cool watching Donovan and Lalas do interviews en espanol.

[buenosdiaz]

Usa usa usa

[Kilmer17]

Unreal.

Bob is starting Ching and Altidore up top.

Cherundolo is in for Spector.

[Kilmer17]

**** YOU BOB!!!

It's even worse.

It's DAVIES and Ching.

Jozy on the bench.

What a ****ing idiot.

[renaissance]

Pregame show on ESPN!!!!!!!!!!!!! At least they recognize how big the game is - doing a special even tho they aren't broadcasting the game!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NCqZsFM7Sg8

[Old Bay]

Why is he not starting Altidore? Sweet merciful crap...

[I_Bleed_B&G]

what channel will this game be on comcast?

[buenosdiaz]

yo the game is on telemundo

no need to stream pretty sure everyone ges telemundo

[I_Bleed_B&G]

yo the game is on telemundo

no need to stream pretty sure everyone ges telemundo
will it be in english?

[buenosdiaz]

nope

but whatevs its on tv

i nromally watch in spanish anyways

espn soccer commentating=zzzzzz

[Sticksboi05]

I'm streaming suckas!!! F Spanish audio.

[renaissance]

I hate cox cable so much. Telemundo is on the paquete latino tier for them. Bull****!

THank god for the interwebz!

[renaissance]

will it be in english?

If you have a SAP button on your remote I think you can switch it over

[I_Bleed_B&G]

if you have comcast, its on channel 178 (Mun2 Shuffle) in english :laugh:. Yes sirrrrrrr

[willygogo]

Comcast is carrying the game on mun2, which IS in english. On my tv here it's channel 178. Just a heads up.

[hkHog]

Wow, this is the dumbest **** ever! Despite numerous press releases by NBC Universal AND Time Warner Cable stating that mun2 will be shown for free today on Time Warner they are not going to show it in my area. I just bitched out a couple TWC people about this for the last 30 minutes. Instead, in my area they are offering telemundo to everyone to watch the game. If you want to get mun2 to watch the soccer, which should be free AND IS FREE ON ALMOST EVERY OTHER MAJOR CABLE PROVIDER, you have to purchase a SUBSCRIPTION TO THE SPANISH PACKAGE. That's right, if you don't have the Spanish package you can watch the game FOR FREE in spanish but to watchi it in ENGLISH YOU MUST PURCHASE THE SPANISH PACKAGE!!!:doh::doh::doh: Seriously, WTF!?!?!? Even the TWC guy who was dealing with me on the phone admitted that this policy made no sense. Time Warner is the worst!

[renaissance]

hk - try using the SAP button if you're watching on telemundo

[boysetsfire]

Alright boys, it's go time. Time to make history!!

[ixcuincle]

USA @ Mexico Video Link (http://atdhe.net/8417/watch-mexico-vs-usa)

Spanish commentators...wonder if there is a link with English commentators, get some JP Callamarera or something lol

[renaissance]

OMG I can't wait for the day that US home games have this kind of atmosphere.

[Sticksboi05]

Usa! Usa! Usa!

[The Brave Little Toaster Oven]

Ive got the MUN2 channel on Directv, but its playing SyFy **** instead...:wtf:

[Sticksboi05]

OMG I can't wait for the day that US home games have this kind of atmosphere.

I know but in the meantime, Caps playoffs games will satisfy me. :cool:

[Sticksboi05]

Everyone go to chat!

[ixcuincle]

USA @ Mexico (English Feed) (http://atdhe.net/8432/watch-mexico-vs-usa)

About time, I haven't taken Spanish in 7 years :silly:

[hkHog]

hk - try using the SAP button if you're watching on telemundo

Thanks dude, I'll try that.

Seriously, those DirecTV ads where they show the cable company execs are classic. Every time I have to deal with TWC I think of those ads. They're funny because they're true. TWC is such a joke. Thank god I have DirecTV, just getting ready to move though so staying at my buddies house until then. Can't wait to call DirecTV and get hooked up again.

[buenosdiaz]

OMG I can't wait for the day that US home games have this kind of atmosphere.

never gonna happen lol

[G.A.C.O.L.B.]

Ive got the MUN2 channel on Directv, but its playing SyFy **** instead...:wtf:

I got DirecTV and it's on channel 203 (in English) for me.

[I_Bleed_B&G]

yessss sirrrr!!!!!

[hkHog]

Thanks dude, I'll try that.

Seriously, those DirecTV ads where they show the cable company execs are classic. Every time I have to deal with TWC I think of those ads. They're funny because they're true. TWC is such a joke. Thank god I have DirecTV, just getting ready to move though so staying at my buddies house until then. Can't wait to call DirecTV and get hooked up again.

Sorry to Quote myself but:

http://cdn.directv.com/images/assets/home/videoPlayer/HP_VideoStills_LevelTheField_thumb.jpg

Time Warner Cable Exec: "We need to get more people to sign up for Spanish programming. The only problem is, most Americans speak English. My solution, we force people who want to watch soccer in ENGLISH to sign up for the Spanish Package."

(Applause all around)

[G.A.C.O.L.B.]

Ahahahaha! **** Mexico.

[BurntToast]

Jebus TapDancing Christ can there be a Kick clock for Goalies? Why does it take 90 seconds minimum for a goalie to place the ball down the yell at his defender then, point down field then, yell some more.

[dchogs]

Gooooaaaalllll!

[Destino]

I love watching this on Univision. GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL!

Hell yeah!

[buenosdiaz]

mexico sucks!

['Skins_&_'Stons]

gooooooooooooooaaaaaaaaaaalllllllllllllll

['Skins_&_'Stons]

Wow, I was late on that. LMAO. USA USA!!!!!!!

[I_Bleed_B&G]

oh ****. all tied up now

[G.A.C.O.L.B.]

Bull****...

[I_Bleed_B&G]

howard seemed to be too far out

[Skin'emAlive]

So are we going to play a bunker defense every single time we are in the lead? Damnit.

[Sticksboi05]

Stupid Mexicans.

[Destino]

BS no call on Donovan lead to that

[Destino]

So are we going to play a bunker defense every single time we are in the lead? Damnit.

The US coach is a moron. You think he would have learned from Brazil that a lead is not safe in soccer in the first half. ATTACK DAMNIT

[I_Bleed_B&G]

So are we going to play a bunker defense every single time we are in the lead? Damnit.
sounds like you are describing the redskins

[Skin'emAlive]

It is the same with every team that i like. Skins, US national team, Wizards...

[Destino]

wow the ref's are definately bias in this one. Even the spanish announcers are pointing it out. Mentioned the ref wasn't paying attention the last time they saw him either.

[I_Bleed_B&G]

the refs suck ass

[Skin'emAlive]

**** you bob. Would you please take your head out of your ass and start coaching?

[Sticksboi05]

Go to the chat people. Why would you want to repeatedly have to post?

[Skin'emAlive]

I mean, hell... What has Brian Ching done for the US team EVER? I just dont get how some people can keep their jobs.

[Destino]

How is that not a card!!!! WTF is this guys problem!

[Kilmer17]

Imagine that. The US on the short end of the screwjob officiating?

It would be funny if it wasnt expected.

[Skin'emAlive]

i give it 10 more minutes before bradley is out with a red card, US plays their ass off and loses, and Bob gives us the explanation that we lost because we were a man down.

[CaptainJames2004]

Effing tacos. That's all I have to say at the moment. US needs to hold on to the ball and establish some sold drives.

[Destino]

The heat excuse is getting old. They practice in Miami! It's not exactly cold there.

[JOSH8572]

any one got a score on the game

[I_Bleed_B&G]

any one got a score on the game
1-1. 25th minute in the second half

[terpfan]

UGgggh that was sitter for Davies... great cross in.

[bushwack]

The heat excuse is getting old. They practice in Miami! It's not exactly cold there.

The heat isn't an excuse, it's the elevation that's the main excuse used.

[Kilmer17]

Un****ingbelieveable.

I hope that grasscutting piece of crap ref dies a painful ****ing death.

I want players and coaches who would have broke his ****ing nose.

Worst cheating Ive ever seen.

Refs2-US1

And **** you too mexicraps.

[karmacop]

Loss 2-1.

Bradley's uber-defensive game plan sucked, as usual.

Only one point ahead of Mexico now. Nervous time.

[Aruna]

I see that you americans are starting to understand why we have soccer riots here in Europe.

[Skin'emAlive]

I would have been happier with a loss if ching would have broken someone's jaw in that match.

[Kilmer17]

I would have been happier with a loss if ching would have broken someone's jaw in that match.

Preferably the refs.

[willygogo]

And now it's obvious why they have such a good record at home. The refs were more one sided than a god damn cowboys game. Pitiful.

[karmacop]

Qualifying for the US may come down to that final game at home against Costa Rica. I had hoped that it wouldn't, since that's not a gimme.

[hkHog]

Disgraceful reffing, Mexico should have had about six or seven yellow cards by my count that weren't awarded for a multitude of bad tackles, fighting, time wasting, etc... The guy who came in and tried to pick up the US player should have gotten a straight red. As for the fans throwing crap on the field that was a disgrace too. Donovan got hit with bottle just before he took his corner. Terrible excuse for a fair game.

[renaissance]

Even without the refs we had what? 2-3 legit chances at scoring? You're never going to win playing like that. I don't know if it was lack of good midfield play or what.

Bradley should have been left in SA the first time around, win over Spain or not.

And people say the GC final didn't matter? Well it did. It was yet another perfect example of his inability to get a team to play well. Our C team was as flat then as our A team was for most of today. Were our guys tired from a long tourney? Probably. But WTF do you think happens when you get to the final round of a big tournament? That was our C team and they should have been playing like they actually wanted to earn a spot on the A team.

Having a great first half, making it to the finals, they're both awesome until you can't play WHEN IT COUNTS.

[karmacop]

We're big Costa Rica fans tonight. We want CR to run away with the group, so they've got nothing to play for that final game in the US. Plus it keeps fourth place (now Honduras) three points away from the US.

[Skin'emAlive]

Until there is a contingent of commentators or a media faction that is able to actually criticize the coaching of the team, there will never be any change. I cant believe how many times i heard that the US was playing well and that they should be happy with their result (which happened in the first half, halftime, second half, and the end of the game). Everyone is afraid of losing their job. In any other sport in america, is their is a coach who is not pulling his weight, he is castrated by the media in a matter of seconds. Then usually, when they are on the hot seat they are replaced.

Bradley will not be replaced until we lose miserably in the world cup. Its going to happen. Hell, we could not even make the cup. That would get him fired too. There are so many reasons why he shouldnt be the coach, abeit obvious ones such as HIS SON IS ON THE TEAM! That doesnt even happen in college.

The US were completely bamboozled by the officiating, the mexican players were as dirty as ever, and the fans were attrocious. But that is not an excuse for the halfassing that was going on out there. If every single fan of an entire country can see that Ching should not be playing, how does he get away with it? If you have 3 players with a yellow card in the first half, and you dont sub any of them out, what kind of game plan is that? If you have a team and strategy that worked extremely well against THE BEST TEAM IN THE WORLD, why change it at all? Ill just wait til the skins season starts. I cant handle two teams killing my blood pressure at the same time of the year.

[boysetsfire]

We're big Costa Rica fans tonight. We want CR to run away with the group, so they've got nothing to play for that final game in the US. Plus it keeps fourth place (now Honduras) three points away from the US.

As a native Honduran, bring it on!!!

LETS GO HONDURAS!!!

[karmacop]

As a native Honduran, bring it on!!!

LETS GO HONDURAS!!!

Don't get me wrong. I hope Honduras kills Mexico and takes third place. But for tonight, gotta root for CR if you're a US fan. ;)

[skinsngibbs4life]

**** YOU BOB!!!

It's even worse.

It's DAVIES and Ching.

Jozy on the bench.

What a ****ing idiot.

so you want someone whos not in game shape to come in and play 60+ minutes? yeah, real smart :doh:

While I agree that our best two strikers are altidore and davies, there is not way altidore would make it through these type of conditions

[Skin'emAlive]

Sorry man. Ill take a man who has a good chance of scoring over someone who has no chance of scoring. How many times did you see ching touch the ball? Now tell me how many times did he lose it immediately after he received it.

[skinsngibbs4life]

F'n unbelievable. A couple thoughts:

- **** Mexico. ALL OF THEM. I dont care if im racist. First of all, the US will never have that type of crowd for one simple reason: We will never have a crowd where 80% of the crowd is unemployed and has nothing better to do than to go to a soccer game at 3:00 on a wednesday. (okay, enough of that).

- But seriously, all this hate for bob is ridiculous. I dislike Ching as much as the next, but who else would you start up top? An Altidore that isnt in game shape? An Altidore that hasn't even been in preseason with his club team? Ching is in form and in game shape, and was the smart move over altidore at 7500 feet.

- U.S. will never get anywhere with these type of referee screw jobs. No matter where we play, it seems like we always get screwed out of a fair contest. I wouldnt expect this to change anytime soon.

- Mexico controlled the tempo. I am sick and tired of seeing other nations build out of the back while all we EVER do is boot the ball and pray that one of our guys gets to the ball. BULL****.

- I HATE MEXICO. for the second time. Diving players that yell bloody murder when our players are actually hurt "(see charlie davies). Thank god Boca and gooch stood up and didnt take **** from those little bitches.

- LOL at the mexico player trying to step in goochs' face. That was true comedy.

[skinsngibbs4life]

Sorry man. Ill take a man who has a good chance of scoring over someone who has no chance of scoring. How many times did you see ching touch the ball? Now tell me how many times did he lose it immediately after he received it.


and how many games in the past has the same happened to altidore? there have been plenty of games where you could interchange the names.

Fact is, you dont want someone who is going to be gassed by the 35th minute.

This game was in high altitudes where it is a lot more physically demanding. Altidore is obviously our best striker, but sometimes you need to put people in the match because of form (wern't kilmer and other yelling at BB because of this during the Confederations cup? Beasley anyone?)

[Elessar78]

What was up with the our first two subs? We kept bypassing the midfield with long balls so you sub out MFs? Idiotic.

And I'm not sure why we can't play short, possession passes.

The problem with US soccer ever since Bruce left is we don't have a style of play. Every game it seems like it changes to suit the opponent. Let's play to our strength and let our opponents adjust to what we're doing. Yes, you can tweak your approach every game, but to just to go schizo isn't working.

I hate to second guess Bradley 'cause he's infinitely more experienced than me but if you're worried about the elevation and your players lungs... having them run windsprints by playing long ball isn't the answer.

[renaissance]

- **** Mexico. ALL OF THEM. I dont care if im racist. First of all, the US will never have that type of crowd for one simple reason: We will never have a crowd where 80% of the crowd is unemployed and has nothing better to do than to go to a soccer game at 3:00 on a wednesday. (okay, enough of that).


It's very racist and it doesn't even explain why we'll never have such a crowd....at least not for a very very long time :silly:

For 1, we do not have a home stadium. US games are played at several stadiums, so we can never establish any sort of real "home field" tradition/environment.

For 2, soccer is obviously not our #1 sport, therefore soccer fans are scattered relatively sparsely/randomly throughout the country. Chicago isn't full of US soccer fans, nor is Columbus or any other city. If we're going to fill up a stadium with home fans, they're going to have to come from all over the US, which is not really going to happen at this point in US soccer.

For 3, if we struggle to even get soccer on national TV on the regular, how do we ever expect to get people to actually go to games? Unfortunately, they're not going to get good TV exposure unless the demand is higher, and the demand isn't going to be higher until the team is regularly good, etc., etc.

Ok that's my final rant for the day, and it's not even really a rant I don't think. But on a good note, someone on another board made a good point today though, that we really are just starting to see the first generation of US soccer players/fans who grew up not only playing soccer, but being able to watch homegrown professional soccer on the regular. This gives me a little more hope for the continued development of the sport here.

[Skin'emAlive]

and how many games in the past has the same happened to altidore? there have been plenty of games where you could interchange the names.

Fact is, you dont want someone who is going to be gassed by the 35th minute.

This game was in high altitudes where it is a lot more physically demanding. Altidore is obviously our best striker, but sometimes you need to put people in the match because of form (wern't kilmer and other yelling at BB because of this during the Confederations cup? Beasley anyone?)

Well if you use that logic, yes you are right. It is better to put in a player who is in game shape in a high altitude environment. However, Ching has done nothing for the national team. This isnt one game, this is almost every game. For some reason the coaches feel that ching is a good holding striker, but he is not. Once ching is in, the national team goes into long ball mode and launch it to him. If it hits him right on target, he loses it usually. If it is to the side of him, he is usually burnt on the way to the ball, or it just rolls out. Point is, yes altidore is out of shape, but atleast he can score... or at the very least get free kicks.

Beasley sucked. He was not ever good after he broke his knee, which was a long time ago. Sacha was never any good to begin with. I would have played Adu then over Sacha without hesitancy. BB is just not a good coach. Its that simple. We have decent players. But they are just neither on the field at the same time, or playing with a strategy that is suited to beat a national team.

[Sticksboi05]

The U.S. has a chance to explode soccer popularity next summer. If they do well in the WC, as in quarterfinals or better) people will notice especially after what they did in the Confed. Cup.

[buenosdiaz]

super pissed off..first usa now el salvador...lame lame day

[Elessar78]

I think the popularity of soccer in this country is already a foregone conclusion. It's just going to continue to grow and grow, regardless of how they do in the next WC or succeeding ones.

MLS already draws as much as the NBA and NHL on average and is actually expected to surpass those two leagues in 2009 with the addition of the very well attended Seattle Sounders.

MLS 16,222/game, NBA 17,393/game, and NHL 17,305/game

The fan base is continuously growing because of youth participation. Adults who had no prior interest, because of their kids are being drawn into the game. I grew up in a Fairfax, VA arguably a hotbed for soccer but recently moved to Western, PA. What I found surprised me when instead of a soccer wasteland I found pretty sophisticated teams and players around. And that observation rings true for Ohio as well. Granted, I would say that this area is prob about 20 years behind the DC area for soccer development, but still it's nothing to overlook.

I think in the next 20 years we may start producing "real" star soccer players. There's a guy that plays for the Italian national team that was raised in NJ.

The sports media is the arbiter of what's in and what's out for the sporting fan in this country. And as long as you get the likes of Rome and Cowherd poo pooing soccer, there will always be a negative perception for soccer. But we all know those guys pander to the "stereotypical" sports fan.

[Destino]

1 - Landon Donovan didn't come out for the second half. He was allowing people to blow by him and his crap defensive effort played a major role in Mexico's second goal.

2 - The US midfield is crap. They don't control the ball well and can't figure out their triangles to save their lives. All they do is charge forward like strikers or boot it downfield for a lone striker.

3 - The US can't pass for ****. Do they not do drills in the US? How many passes from the backs went almost directly to mexican players? 9? Ball control is #1 in soccer. Stop running all damn day (which is what passes for soccer practice in the US at the all important highschool level) and work on ball control and ball placement.

4 - US coach need to find his balls. Take a lead and back on your heels. The US needs to be aggressive. Backs need to charge up field with the attack and sustain pressure. They sit back worried about a counter and US attacks typically consist of two strikers and a midfield passer.

5 - Mexico fans put together one hell of a crowd. That stadium was going crazy. Wish I could see that envionment at FedEx!

6 - That Ref... wow man. He was spraying yellow at the US and swallowed him deck of cards when the Mexican squad did anything wrong.

7 - My other team Chile... is kicking some ass :)

[renaissance]

Ah the Sounders....god's gift to American soccer. Haha. Whatever, if they up attendance then I'm all for it though. And you can add to them the Portland and Vancouver teams (plus I believe a Philthy team) which will be coming up to the MLS next year. Portland's supporters group was actually in Sports Illustrated a couple months back. ANyway, with the addition of these teams we'll start to have even more regional/geographic rivalries in the MLS which IMO is great for the sport. Add to that the new, soccer specific stadiums that teams are getting (forgetting for a moment that DC continually ****s this up for themselves), and I'm pumped for what the MLS alone can become in the next several years.

[Zazzaro703]

Okay what does everyone think of Tim Howard. i have thought this for a long time but today it really showed. I really don't think he is all that great. The first goal was a great shot but he has to put a glove on that and tip it over the bar or something other than it going in. Second goal was a real unlucky bounce but he got beat near post. Granted it was from close range but a keeper should hardly ever be beaten near post. I just have never really thought he was all that great. A huge step down from Keller in my opinion.

[Sticksboi05]

Okay what does everyone think of Tim Howard. i have thought this for a long time but today it really showed. I really don't think he is all that great. The first goal was a great shot but he has to put a glove on that and tip it over the bar or something other than it going in. Second goal was a real unlucky bounce but he got beat near post. Granted it was from close range but a keeper should hardly ever be beaten near post. I just have never really thought he was all that great. A huge step down from Keller in my opinion.

Are you serious? Keller blew last WC. Howard's a beast. The defense left him to dry. They gave the dude 1 mile of room on the first goal and let them penetrate on the 2nd. I think he showed how good he is in the Confed. Cup.

[Destino]

Are you serious? Keller blew last WC. Howard's a beast. The defense left him to dry. They gave the dude 1 mile of room on the first goal and let them penetrate on the 2nd. I think he showed how good he is in the Confed. Cup.

He is a beast. I was watching on Univision and the announcers were falling all over themselves with praise for our keeper.

[Destino]

I think in the next 20 years we may start producing "real" star soccer players. There's a guy that plays for the Italian national team that was raised in NJ.

Giuseppe Rossi. He scored twice on us during the recent Confederation Cup. :/

[renaissance]

lol, glad to see we're all over that Rossi ****

And Tim Howard is a great goalie. Soccer is no different from most other sports in that you can only expect your defense, and especially particular position players, to carry you so far with no help from the offense.

[Sticksboi05]

Rossi's a piece of ****. No appreciation for the country he grew up in. Seriously, all the people who root against the U.S. because they are 1/16 Mexican make me sick.

[Zazzaro703]

Hmmm maybe im missing something. Yeah maybe i should have said Keller in his prime. I just always remember him making huge saves while recently Howard has let in some goals he should have saved. Great shot or not i just cant see how that first goal goes in if Howard is in position.

[Sticksboi05]

Hmmm maybe im missing something. Yeah maybe i should have said Keller in his prime. I just always remember him making huge saves while recently Howard has let in some goals he should have saved. Great shot or not i just cant see how that first goal goes in if Howard is in position.

I can't see how it goes in if he's not given a mile to set up the shot.

[Zazzaro703]

I've always felt like soccer in a way is like hockey. Great goalkeeping can win you a game or at least earn you a tie. I can think of maybe one or two games where i thought "Howard won us that game".

[renaissance]

Goalkeeping can only win you the game if your team can score goals. Beyond our 1 goal, we barely even tried to score more. Given that, hell no is Howard nor any other goalie going to win it for us.

[The Brave Little Toaster Oven]

super pissed off..first usa now el salvador...lame lame day

haha! take that! :finger:

[boysetsfire]

Honduras beats Costa Rica 4-0. Based on goal differential Honduras is in 2nd place and the US is now in 3rd with both team having 10 points each. Mexico remains in 4th.

[pointyfootball]

Okay what does everyone think of Tim Howard. i have thought this for a long time but today it really showed. I really don't think he is all that great. The first goal was a great shot but he has to put a glove on that and tip it over the bar or something other than it going in. Second goal was a real unlucky bounce but he got beat near post. Granted it was from close range but a keeper should hardly ever be beaten near post. I just have never really thought he was all that great. A huge step down from Keller in my opinion.

Howard's very good. When you let shooters have that much time - almost no GK will stop those shots. Especially the 2nd goal. That looked something like what you see in Rec Games at the local park. Seeing three defenders in a pile and the attacker with the ball on the ground, at his feet on the 6. The fact that Howard almost got a hand on that shot was a miracle.

I think I'm most frustrated with two things, only one of them soccer-related. The US seems to always fall apart in the 2nd half. Yesterday you could kind of understand it, but it wasn't the first time it's happened. To me, that's coaching.

The other thing that really torqued me, and I don't normally get upset about sports-related stuff, was the split-screen shot of some US Army soldiers waving the Mexican flag in front of the US flag. In my best Archie Bunker voice, I'd like to say, "Go back home if you love Mexico so much". I'm all about keeping your heritage, and all but that really bugged me.

All in all, until there is significant improvement in moving the ball through the midfield, the US is going to struggle against quality teams. When you've got a lead you can't continually turn the ball over and hope to protect that lead, and giving the ball away when you're behind is even worse.

PF

[skinsngibbs4life]

The other thing that really torqued me, and I don't normally get upset about sports-related stuff, was the split-screen shot of some US Army soldiers waving the Mexican flag in front of the US flag. In my best Archie Bunker voice, I'd like to say, "Go back home if you love Mexico so much". I'm all about keeping your heritage, and all but that really bugged me.



PF

I was at a socer bar yesterday, and everyone, including me, felt the exact same way. Everyone cheered and clapped the first time they showed them, but everyone had that WTF look on their faces when they showed them with the damn mexi flag.

So stupid. Like a poster before said, people 1/16th or 1/8th mexican heritage and cheering for their team is ridiculous. Not to mention people fighting for THE U.S.A. rooting against us.

[renaissance]

I saw other people complain about the soldiers thing and I think it's an absolutely ridiculous thing to complain about.

Here we have immigrants, or in some cases 2nd, 3rd, or 4th generation Americans, fighting for YOUR country and people want to boo them? Seriously? It's a ****ing soccer game. They are not cheering for Osama Bin Laden or Kim Jung Il to blow our **** up, they are rooting for the soccer team of the country they are from. Oh, and for the most part, 99 times out of 100, they cheer for USA in a game.

[Popeman38]

I saw other people complain about the soldiers thing and I think it's an absolutely ridiculous thing to complain about.

Here we have immigrants, or in some cases 2nd, 3rd, or 4th generation Americans, fighting for YOUR country and people want to boo them? Seriously? It's a ****ing soccer game. They are not cheering for Osama Bin Laden or Kim Jung Il to blow our **** up, they are rooting for the soccer team of the country they are from. Oh, and for the most part, 99 times out of 100, they cheer for USA in a game.From a former military perspective, it is insulting to sit through a national game and listen to fellow soldiers cheer for their parents homeland. They bust their balls to come here and serve in the military, yet they are constantly longing and cheering for "home". If a soldier swears his allegience to the US, they should never cheer against the US. Period. It is called national pride. And there should never be multinational pride in the US military.

[Popeman38]

Oh, and for the most part, 99 times out of 100, they cheer for USA in a game.No, they cheer for the US when they are playing anybody but their "home country". In the military, the "home country" should be the one for whom you wear the uniform.

[Elessar78]

Just to point out... I think the worst thing that happened to US Soccer recently was us beating Spain and taking Brazil to the limit. If not, there'd be a stronger case to can Bradley. We should make it to South Africa, but it's gonna be ugly. I hope I'm wrong, but I wont' be surprised if that's how it plays out.

[skinsngibbs4life]

Just to point out... I think the worst thing that happened to US Soccer recently was us beating Spain and taking Brazil to the limit. If not, there'd be a stronger case to can Bradley. We should make it to South Africa, but it's gonna be ugly. I hope I'm wrong, but I wont' be surprised if that's how it plays out.

Just out of curiousity, what makes you think its going to be "ugly" in south africa?

[renaissance]

From a former military perspective, it is insulting to sit through a national game and listen to fellow soldiers cheer for their parents homeland. They bust their balls to come here and serve in the military, yet they are constantly longing and cheering for "home". If a soldier swears his allegience to the US, they should never cheer against the US. Period. It is called national pride. And there should never be multinational pride in the US military.

Sorry, but I'll restate that it's a soccer game. They are not rooting against the USA, they are rooting against the soccer team. I'll also add that the US isn't exactly a country rich in soccer history. For most other American countries, on the other hand, soccer is a huge part of their culture. It is something they take pride in, therefore when they are away from that country, soccer is how they stay connected.

It is the job of USA Soccer and the MNT to earn the respect of the American people. They are not entitled to any kind of support just because those people live here.


No, they cheer for the US when they are playing anybody but their "home country".

Yea, that's what I meant when I said 99/100 times they'll cheer for the US. And there are several posters on this board who support the national teams of the countries they or their families are from, in addition to supporting team USA. Shall we just go ahead and kick them out of the country now for being un-American?

[Kilmer17]

Just to point out... I think the worst thing that happened to US Soccer recently was us beating Spain and taking Brazil to the limit. If not, there'd be a stronger case to can Bradley. We should make it to South Africa, but it's gonna be ugly. I hope I'm wrong, but I wont' be surprised if that's how it plays out.

QFT.


I loved watching it in South Africa, but it hurt us in the short term.

I'll play chicken little for a moment.

Right now the Hex standings are

Team MP W D L GF GA Pts
Costa Rica 6 4 0 2 9 9 12
Honduras 6 3 1 2 10 6 10
USA 6 3 1 2 11 8 10
Mexico 6 3 0 3 8 9 9
El Salvador 6 1 2 3 6 8 5
T and T 6 1 2 3 7 11 5

We're in 3rd place based on Goal Differential. 1 point ahead of Mexico in 4th place who would have to play a home and home vs 5th place from South America ( Think we can beat Ecuador, Argentina or Uruguay?), and 5 points ahead of not making it at all.

Our next game is hom evs El Sal. Make no mistake about it. This is a MUST WIN GAME. If we win, and get other good results meaning CR over Mexico and TnT over Honduras, we can breath a bit. But if we tie this game we're in alot of trouble. If we lose, we're completely ****ed.

[The Brave Little Toaster Oven]

Yea, that's what I meant when I said 99/100 times they'll cheer for the US. And there are several posters on this board who support the national teams of the countries they or their families are from, in addition to supporting team USA. Shall we just go ahead and kick them out of the country now for being un-American?

I support kicking Buenosdiaz and boysetsfire out of this country. :D

[buenosdiaz]

el salvador has made the world cup twice...ever.

the last time was 1982.

I am going to cheer for them to make the world cup...because it would be soooo rare for them to do it.

and as far as it making me unamerican, I am a salvadoran-american. I am going to cheer for el salvador because its in my blood and those are my people...just as much as the United States is. So when a team that my parents and family can be happy about maybe once in their lifetime for making the worldcup has a shot at making it...then i am going to cheer for el salvador

I mean if i were that good I would choose to represent the US and not El Salvador if given the choice to play for a country.

But my family coming to america in no way was meant to completely ignore our past

[pointyfootball]

No, they cheer for the US when they are playing anybody but their "home country". In the military, the "home country" should be the one for whom you wear the uniform.


I agree. What bugged me the most was seeing American soldiers essentially choosing another country's flag over "their own". It isn't just about soccer, and I can understand if they are first generation Americans, but if you are going to wave another country's flag around don't do it while wearing US Army gear with Stars & Stripes behind you. JMO, and maybe wrong, but that's my feeling.

[SkinsNumberOne]

But my family coming to america in no way was meant to completely ignore our past
Yeah there was a guy on the radio - I don't listen to ESPN radio too religiously, only for games, I'm not a big fan of sports talk so I don't know his name - who was talking about the World Cup hopes for the US. Anyway amidst his conversation he mentioned he was Irish-American and would root for Ireland in general. When Ireland has success he goes crazy. It doesn't mean he's rooting against the US or anything, just that he is rooting for a country his family has ties to. Nothing wrong with that.

There's never anything wrong with that, but it's particularly the case with soccer I think, because the popularity outside of the US is so much stronger.

I would say if you were rooting against the US I'd have more of a question (just my opinion), but I think that's very different than rooting more for another team to make it. It's not like you'd be sad that the US made it.

That's how I look at it anyway. (To be clear, my only interest in soccer is in the US, but I have heard things like this before- which is where I formed my opinion)

[buenosdiaz]

To add on i don't expect my kids to have the same level of enthusiasm for El Salvador's soccer team, and thats fine...

Some of you have european ancestry too but you have to understand that its much more removed than most hispanic-americans here in the states. 40 years ago my parents were living in a **** hole in El Salvador so I am going to feel a little more connected to it.

[Popeman38]

To add on i don't expect my kids to have the same level of enthusiasm for El Salvador's soccer team, and thats fine...

Some of you have european ancestry too but you have to understand that its much more removed than most hispanic-americans here in the states. 40 years ago my parents were living in a **** hole in El Salvador so I am going to feel a little more connected to it.No disrespect intended, just trying to understand your POV. If you parents lived in a ****hole in El Salvador, why would you want to feel connected to it? I lived in a ****** neighborhood growing up, and I want nothing to do with it today.

[Destino]

To add on i don't expect my kids to have the same level of enthusiasm for El Salvador's soccer team, and thats fine...

Some of you have european ancestry too but you have to understand that its much more removed than most hispanic-americans here in the states. 40 years ago my parents were living in a **** hole in El Salvador so I am going to feel a little more connected to it.

You don't have to explain yourself bro. You like both teams. There is nothing wrong with that. You just have to expect some static from the other soccer fans here because El Salvador is in the US's division. It's like liking the skins and eagles. If you have your reasons, what can you do? But don't expect the other to like it. Remember soccer isn't like football. International soccer is heated! (part of the reason I like it so much)

As for me I have two teams as well. USA and Chile. They are not in the same division and I can cheer happily for both. Nor will Chile place 5th in South America by the looks of it (cause they are kickin so much ass) so there is no chance they will play an elimination game against the USA. :)

[Popeman38]

You don't have to explain yourself bro. You like both teams. There is nothing wrong with that. You just have to expect some static from the other soccer fans here because El Salvador is in the US's division. It's like liking the skins and eagles. If you have your reasons, what can you do? But don't expect the other to like it. Remember soccer isn't like football. International soccer is heated! (part of the reason I like it so much)

As for me I have two teams as well. USA and Chile. They are not in the same division and I can cheer happily for both. Nor will Chile place 5th in South America by the looks of it (cause they are kickin so much ass) so there is no chance they will play an elimination game against the USA. :)If Chile and the US played each other, who would you be rooting for?

[Destino]

If Chile and the US played each other, who would you be rooting for?
The better team. I'd hate to see the stronger squad fall only to see the winner fail soon after. I want to see one of my teams make it deep into the world cup and I will be upset when either loses. I favor the US team personally and know more about it than I do Chile's team.

Keep in mind, I was born in Chile. I'm not 1st generation... I'm the immigrant here to take your jobs. :) (I came here legally 20 year ago)

[Popeman38]

Sorry, but I'll restate that it's a soccer game. They are not rooting against the USA, they are rooting against the soccer team. I'll also add that the US isn't exactly a country rich in soccer history. For most other American countries, on the other hand, soccer is a huge part of their culture. It is something they take pride in, therefore when they are away from that country, soccer is how they stay connected.

It is the job of USA Soccer and the MNT to earn the respect of the American people. They are not entitled to any kind of support just because those people live here.Well if you haven't noticed, national teams are passionately supported, and I would wager that most of it has to do with national pride. I have no issue with cheering for the club teams you grew up with. The national team represents the country. Even if you are the worst team in the world, you should pull for the country you represent. I have no issue with Jose in Manassas rooting for Mexico. I have an issue with Jose in the 25th Infantry Division (LI) from Hawaii wearing a uniform that carries the Stars and Stripes waving a Mexican flag and rooting for Mexico. That is like working for Northrop Grumman and showing up for work wearing a Lockheed Martin dress shirt (only worse).

[Popeman38]

The better team. I'd hate to see the stronger squad fall only to see the winner fail soon after. I want to see one of my teams make it deep into the world cup and I will be upset when either loses. I favor the US team personally and know more about it than I do Chile's team.

Keep in mind, I was born in Chile. I'm not 1st generation... I'm the immigrant here to take your jobs. :) (I came here legally 20 year ago)And like I said in response to Ren, I have no issue with you or buenosdiaz rooting for your original "home" team. I have an issue with uniformed US military rooting for another countries national team.

[Destino]

And like I said in response to Ren, I have no issue with you or buenosdiaz rooting for your original "home" team. I have an issue with uniformed US military rooting for another countries national team.

I have no issue with you taking issue. This is international soccer baby. Everyone takes issue with fans of other teams! Take issue and love every minute of it. That's part of the fun!

[Elessar78]

This discussion is another reason I think soccer has taken hold in this country. Now battle lines are being drawn. You're with us or against us. This didn't use to be the case, most soccer fans could care less if you rooted for more than one nation.

Once the regional rivalries start to flare up in MLS, that'll be the next step.

[renaissance]

As long as you're not rooting for like the Taliban or FARC soccer teams, then I say go for it...this isn't Nazi Germany and supporting another country's soccer team does not make someone un-American.

Of course, if some 5th generation American randomly starts rooting for like Italy or France over the US, then I will take issue!

But hey, like Destino said, whatever gets people fired up about the sport!!!!!!!!

[buenosdiaz]

No disrespect intended, just trying to understand your POV. If you parents lived in a ****hole in El Salvador, why would you want to feel connected to it? I lived in a ****** neighborhood growing up, and I want nothing to do with it today.


haha well that gets into foreign policy of the 20th century...my family didn't leave El Salvador because they hated the culture or people there, it was purely economical.

I don't resent the US because of that though, thats life...but at the same time thats where my parents...grandparents...and as far back as i can trace are from. Hell even my parents who lived through the mess that was the war down there and got out and came to the states still love el salvador, its where we are from. Cuzcatlan stadium looks a hell of a lot more familiar to me than any other stadium and those are my people. They are also historically the underdog so why not hope that they do well for once. The most high stakes game they play against each other are in the hex...and i honestly feel that an ES win over the US would not be the end of the world for the US...Call me a cynic but i feel like the us and mexico making the WC is a foregone conclusion

[karmacop]

and i honestly feel that an ES win over the US would not be the end of the world for the US...Call me a cynic but i feel like the us and mexico making the WC is a foregone conclusion

Interesting discussion, but I have to nitpick on this particular point.

If the US loses to El Salvador, they will likely finish fourth in the group and will have to play a tough South American team to get in, which is a long shot.

So for you, I think this upcoming game will be a telling one. Whoever wins will deal a likely fatal blow to the other's chances.

So who are you rooting for? A tie?

[Old Bay]

Of course, if some 5th generation American randomly starts rooting for like Italy or France over the US, then I will take issue!


This bugs me. A lot. Having a connection with your home is understandable, and having a connection with your heritage is understandable, even if you're slightly removed. But the random cherry picking is just absurd.

The FIFA 06 intro says it best, and I think this is applicable to any sport, especially to rabid fans:

"Some may say its just a game. But its about heroes and tribes, loyalty and devotion. Its our commitment and our passion, our battle and our belief. This is our faith."

And while I don't go so far as to think its a religious experience, I think that short bit explains fandom and how its near treason to go gallavanting to other teams when times get tough for your own.

Oh, I think I've found a new signature, too!

[skinsngibbs4life]

ok, this morning when I woke up I felt a little about my generalizations towards the Mexican fanbase in my drunken stuper.

However, after reading this, I feel no remorse for what I said. These people are barbarians. If this type of display happened in the U.S., there would be all types of ramafications that we would face. This happens EVERY game in Azteca and NOTHING is done. This happens overseas and what happens? A team plays behind "closed doors" so to speak. Why is this never done to Mexico? Just read the below quote (and the whole article for more) and tell me that this should be allowed on a regular basis.

http://sports.yahoo.com/sow/news;_ylt=AnDcrSrcvf1RL44.htB6le8mw7YF?slug=ro-usamexico081209&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

MEXICO CITY – The man with the tri-colored mohawk took a swig of beer, stuck his fingers down his throat and vomited the mixture back into his cup. In the next seat another man, who was wearing a T-shirt with a cartoon drawing of the decapitated heads of Barack Obama and Landon Donovan, poured out what remained of the Corona beer he had been chugging and urinated into his cardboard drinks container.

Then, according to a neutral bystander who witnessed these disgusting acts, the pair stood on their seats, high-fived and hurled their vile concoctions in the direction of Donovan, the United States men’s national team star who was preparing to take a corner kick 15 yards away.



And it seems like it is getting to the point now, where evens refs seemed scared to make calls because of what type of reaction the fans are going to give.

Benny Feilhabe gets CHOKED and the other player doesnt get thrown out of the game?

http://d.yimg.com/a/p/sp/getty/37/fullj.ccbd4b55c6a50dda20616d71c25820c4/ccbd4b55c6a50dda20616d71c25820c4-getty-88757821dm_usa_mexico.jpg

CONCACAF needs to step up do something. Is this considered acceptable behavior in Mexico?

[MattFancy]

Wow that Yahoo article is crazy. You're right, if something like that happened in the US you would never hear the end of it. But for some reason, this isn't getting anyones attention. CONCACAF should do something, no wonder why no one wins in Mexico. If we would've won yesterday, we might not have a soccer team anymore.

[Old Bay]

If we would've won yesterday, we might not have a soccer team anymore.

Its a scary thought. I was thinking on the way home from work yesterday, after Davies scored the 1st that if we did win that game there would be a freaking riot at the Azteca.

[buenosdiaz]

yeah mexicos soccer team is the dirtiest team i have ever seen...everytime they play the US somebody gets choked or hit...

and let them start losing they will play dirty and try to injure people...in response to karmacop i am going to cheer for el salvador to win

ask cobi jones about getting your dreadlocks pulled lol

Karmacop:
a loss for el salvador would all but shatter their dreams...i would be extremely surprised if the united states didn't end up in the top 3 and yes i understand that they have to play in honduras...

i mean i think subconsciously I understand that the likelihood of el salvador winning in utah of all places is highly unlikely.

i think a tie would be the worst case scenario for both teams lol

[karmacop]

I was wondering how long it would take for ND to make his obligatory (and lame) anti-soccer post. He does it in every single soccer thread. :doh:

I propose that we run a pool in the next US soccer post for the September game. We soccer fans PM a bet on what post number ND comes in with his usual tripe, and the winner gets a prize, to be determined. Closest without going over, or something like that.

[Destino]

1- If you think what happens in Mexico is crazy, you're new to international soccer. International soccer is insane. There are people attacked and beaten in many parts of the world when international soccer comes to town. Argentines like to fire bottle rockets into opposing fan sections.

2- US players need to stop being weak asses on the field. If you get choked THROW A DAMN PUNCH. This is sports people, you don't opposing teams pull at your injured player and choke you. Who cares if you get suspended?! HIT SOMEBODY. You think the brazilian squad would be like "help us ref!" is someone dared to do that to them? If you get hit and you do nothing it never becomes and issue and FIFA isn't forced to react.

Having said all that I hate the damn Mexican team. I don't like their brand of soccer and don't like their attitudes. I was hoping the US would win not just because I always want to see my team win but because I would have loved to see these stuck up bastards miss a WC. They'd be nothing if they competed in south america.

[Destino]

The Answer is:
ESPN paint ball championships
Public access Duckball tournament
ESPN2 Poker
ESPN Madden Nation
.................................................. ..............

What are popular(?) activities viewable on local TV less lame than Soccer, Alex?

Correct.

Thanks for that... now back to your pop-up books.

[skinsngibbs4life]

A win in both of our next two games ( El Sal at home, T&T away ) would ensure us a spot in AT LEAST the play in game ( with the possibility of completely qualifying )

Both of those games SHOULD be wins for us. It will be a lot better going into the game at honduras, and the last game at home against CR knowing that we have basically qualified. I do not want to go into either needing a result ( although, that is probably inevitable )

edit: If we get 6 points in those first two games, 2 points in the next two matches garuntees qualification.

[karmacop]

A win in both of our next two games ( El Sal at home, T&T away ) would ensure us a spot in AT LEAST the play in game ( with the possibility of completely qualifying )

Both of those games SHOULD be wins for us. It will be a lot better going into the game at honduras, and the last game at home against CR knowing that we have basically qualified. I do not want to go into either needing a result ( although, that is probably inevitable )

edit: If we get 6 points in those first two games, 2 points in the next two matches garuntees qualification.

I wouldn't count on a victory at T&T. It is incredibly difficult to win on the round at this point in qualifying. So far, only Costa Rica has managed to win on the road after six rounds in this hex, in any game, and that was a close 3-2 match against T&T. El Salvador is unbeaten at home, and actually beat Mexico (the US was lucky to get a draw). Honduras has already lost to T&T on the road, and that was before T&T gained two new premiership players to their roster.

I'd say we should be thrilled with a tie at T&T. This is also why a win at home against El Salvador is an absolute must.

Any team that doesn't win their last two remaining home games is in big trouble. For the US, that will mean beating Costa Rica. Given how Honduras gave them a beat-down at home yesterday, it seems a bit more likely than I would have thought. But it will still be tough.

As long as the US takes care of business at home against ES and CR, they should make it (although there are scenarios where they still finish fourth if they only get 16 points). Win both at home and tie at T&T, and an automatic qualification is pretty much guaranteed.

[sjinhan]

1- If you think what happens in Mexico is crazy, you're new to international soccer. International soccer is insane. There are people attacked and beaten in many parts of the world when international soccer comes to town. Argentines like to fire bottle rockets into opposing fan sections.

2- US players need to stop being weak asses on the field. If you get choked THROW A DAMN PUNCH. This is sports people, you don't opposing teams pull at your injured player and choke you. Who cares if you get suspended?! HIT SOMEBODY. You think the brazilian squad would be like "help us ref!" is someone dared to do that to them? If you get hit and you do nothing it never becomes and issue and FIFA isn't forced to react.


i fully agree with you there Destino... Seriously cry me a river.. other teams have gone to Mexico under the same conditions and won.. you dont think they dont drown out the national antheme of other countries as well?

I went to a club level game in Argentina to see what it was all about... We were sitting with the home fans and literally the entire home fan section was caged in. We were not allowed to leave the stadium until the away fans were able to peacefully leave the stadium and head home... AND THIS WAS CLUB LEVEL NOT INTERNATIONAL LEVEL...

so yes Mexico got some roudy fans and yes some crosses the line of good taste but all international soccer players face this... Probably the Mexican players get worse treatment when they play in the central americans countries than Americans do in Mexico city.

[Destino]

We were sitting with the home fans and literally the entire home fan section was caged in. We were not allowed to leave the stadium until the away fans were able to peacefully leave the stadium and head home... AND THIS WAS CLUB LEVEL NOT INTERNATIONAL LEVEL...

hahaha that's what I'm talkin bout. :hysterical:

America you don't know nothing about this... yet. Anyone that has a passion for soccer or think they might, travel somewhere and attend a big game. The feeling in the stadium is insane.

[pointyfootball]

Have US-CR tickets gone on sale yet? Is it being played at RFK or FedEx?

That would be a great game to go to.

[renaissance]

Mexico's players and fans act like that because it helps them win. If CONCACAF, USA soccer, and FIFA aren't going to do anything to stop them, then why the **** would they stop acting like *******s in their own house?

And honestly, Mexico's fans may be *******s, but don't act like America sports fans are harmless angels. I've seen grown men throw up on themselves at Redskins games. US fans will burn effigies before games, and start riots and destroy property after a game. Just because we don't throw **** at the players during games doesn't mean we have any less barbaric tendencies than they do, it just means we have better crowd control in the stadium.

[Popeman38]

i fully agree with you there Destino... Seriously cry me a river.. other teams have gone to Mexico under the same conditions and won.. you dont think they dont drown out the national antheme of other countries as well?1 team has gone in and won a WC qualifier. Costa Rica in 2001. Estadio Azteca has been around since 1966 and the Mexican national team has lost only once.

[Elessar78]

F Mexico. There's no team I hate more. That ref was a coward.

[sjinhan]

1 team has gone in and won a WC qualifier. Costa Rica in 2001. Estadio Azteca has been around since 1966 and the Mexican national team has lost only once.

kind of long read on home field advantage in international soccer but its a good one... according to the article.. Mexico had some more losses at home than 1 but still they are pretty dominate... However they are not the only ones who are dominate at home...

http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/ranking/news/newsid=76697.html





Home advantage is half way to winning(FIFA.com) Thursday 1 February 2001


On 29 April 1998 the world did not come to an end, nor did South America's largest country suffer any natural catastrophe. But Brazil's 0-1 defeat at home in a friendly against archrivals Argentina put the players of the four-times world champions and their fans in a mood of deep depression. Argentina's triumph was the first victory over the "Seleção" on the hallowed turf of the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro for over 40 years. Home advantage
The data which has been collected over the last eight years for calculating the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking is also studied regularly for other trends and information. In this article, the myth of "home advantage" is examined in the light of the international match statistics.
The study was based on 6,679 "A" international matches played during the last 15 years (1 January 1986 to 31 December 2000). Of the over 9000 matches played during this period, 2,388 were not counted since they were played on neutral territory (see chart A). Taken into consideration were matches that were part of the FIFA World Cup™ - including the preliminary rounds - as well as similar matches for continental championships and friendly games. All the match results can be seen on www.fifa.com (link "A" matches).
The results of this extensive statistical survey are remarkable in one respect in particular: whichever way the huge data bank is twisted and turned - be it according to the status of a match, or by competition or by region - the results are approximately the same as when the whole 6,679 games are considered:
Almost exactly half of all matches are won by the home team (chart B)
Only a quarter of the matches are won by the away side (B)
In competitive matches there are more home wins than in friendlies (C )
Whether it is the World Cup or a continental championship the proportion of home wins is about the same (D)
In Oceania the home teams win more often than elsewhere (E)
Europe is where the home team is least likely to succeed (E)
The lowest home win quota is to be found in inter-continental matches (E)
The group of teams with the best home records is almost identical to that at the top of the international rankings (See: Romania - A power at home)Article: ©FIFA, 2001, Graphics: FIFA



But other teams have seen their traditional invincibility on home soil disappear in recent years. In England's last game on the world famous pitch at Wembley - literally the last game here since the stadium was due to come down and be replaced by a more modern facility - the home team went down 0-1 to Germany. And even the Germans themselves, for ages reckoned to be unbeatable at home, are not the force in their own country that they used to be. Others countries too have suffered similar fates. So is there any such thing as home advantage? And if so, what is behind this particular item of football folklore?

Studies have been carried out to investigate this phenomenon in Germany and in the USA, particularly the spectator influences involved, and they have come to varying, at times contradictory, conclusions. That home crowds and the effect of their support on the players turned out to be one of the main factors in these investigations is mainly due to the fact that it was homogeneous leagues that were studied, at the highest professional level in the sports covered. In situations like these, other influences tend to be of minor importance when compared to the main factors - spectators, atmosphere, emotions. But in the "global league" which FIFA organises, the situation is quite different: Canada may have to play in El Salvador, Azerbaijan may be hosting Sweden, Saudi Arabia playing in Cape Town or Brazil in Seoul.


................

Continues.... (click on the link for article in between)

ROMANIA - A power at home
JAM MP W D L W%
ROM 62 50 6 6 81%
BRA 71 54 15 2 76%
ZAM 68 51 11 6 75%
ITA 71 52 12 7 73%
CIV 56 41 12 3 73%
URU 54 36 14 4 67%
MEX 57 38 15 4 67%
RUS 53 35 11 7 66%
GER 66 43 18 5 65%
ARG 50 32 13 5 64%
POR 56 35 15 6 63%
MOR 66 41 21 4 62%
NED 67 38 20 9 57%
Includes only teams who played at least 50 matches and did not lose more than 10% of these matches.


Romania, Brazil and Mexico
So which team has the best home record? There is no definite answer to that question, but it can be said that the teams at the top of the world rankings are those who make the most of playing on their own soil. But limitation to this conclusion must be added, in that it depends on the quality of the opposition, which helps to explain the absence of the strongest Asian and African teams. But from the whole picture the results that stand out are Romania's winning 81% of all its home games, Brazil's only losing twice at home and Mexico's remaining unbeaten in the Aztec Stadium.
The Romanians have every reason to celebrate: they are the hardest team to beat at home.


The study goes on to consider the major events in football. Even a superficial look at the latest success stories - France (World Cup 1998), Burkina Faso and South Africa (African Cup of Nations 1998 and 1996 respectively), Bolivia and Uruguay (Copa America 1997 and 1995 respectively) and the United Arab Emirates (Asian Cup 1996) - would indicate that the home advantage in the final round of a major competition such as the World Cup or a continental championship plays a much greater role. So we had better be prepared for some surprises from Japan and Korea at theWorldCupnextyear…


This study was performed in 2001 before the World Cup in Korea/Japan...

that last sentence they concluded with "So we had better be prepared for some surprises from Japan and Korea at the World Cup next year…"

Korea and Japan had their biggest success in those World Cup with South Korea making it all the way to Final 4....

[Popeman38]

kind of long read on home field advantage in international soccer but its a good one... according to the article.. Mexico had some more losses at home than 1 but still they are pretty dominate... However they are not the only ones who are dominate at home...Mexico has more than one loss at home, yes. But at Estadio Azteca, the National team has only lost one match. That is it. The US is now 0-18-1 at Estadio Azteca. Brazil has lost there. Argentina has lost there. The Mexican national team just doesn't lose there.

[sjinhan]

Mexico has more than one loss at home, yes. But at Estadio Azteca, the National team has only lost one match. That is it. The US is now 0-18-1 at Estadio Azteca. Brazil has lost there. Argentina has lost there. The Mexican national team just doesn't lose there.

ok well agreed.. but I guess my point is that in international soccer... such a dominate home field advantage isnt just with Mexico... as that article or "study" states that there are so many factors that play into giving the home players that "extra" boost or help or whatever you want to call it... Seems that this X-factor is big enough at the biggest stage of competitive soccer which are at the international level, its brutally hard to win on the road...

EDIT:: Basically to sum it up.. there is no shame in losing to Mexico in Mexico...

[skinsngibbs4life]

Mexico's players and fans act like that because it helps them win. If CONCACAF, USA soccer, and FIFA aren't going to do anything to stop them, then why the **** would they stop acting like *******s in their own house?

And honestly, Mexico's fans may be *******s, but don't act like America sports fans are harmless angels. I've seen grown men throw up on themselves at Redskins games. US fans will burn effigies before games, and start riots and destroy property after a game. Just because we don't throw **** at the players during games doesn't mean we have any less barbaric tendencies than they do, it just means we have better crowd control in the stadium.

so hurling vomit and urine at players is along the same lines as burning jerseys?

:doh:

Obviously US has some bad fans like that as well. But whats the difference? Its not tolerated in our country. Hell, just last night shane victorino had a beer thrown on him while trying to catch a fly ball to deep center. What happened to the person that threw the cup? Got thrown out of the park...along with ALL of his friends.

Mexican fans were sitting there praising the people that were throwing vomit on people. Hell, security guards were probably doing the same.

But to talk about the type of hooligans in america compared to those in mexico is a joke. That type of behavior happens every game, while it is in isolated insodents here. I know it is a part of soccer, but at some point CONCACAF needs to step in and do something. Its probably going to take a player getting seriously hurt before something is done though. Hell, I would advise Donovon to get a hepetitis shot after hearing about what type of stuff was thrown at him.

[skinsngibbs4life]

EDIT:: Basically to sum it up.. there is no shame in losing to Mexico in Mexico...

Theres never shame in it. It just happens that despite of our historical outcomes there, we always seem to get our hopes up and believe that this is going to be our year. Almost like Cubs fans saying that "this year is going to be the year".

[Popeman38]

ok well agreed.. but I guess my point is that in international soccer... such a dominate home field advantage isnt just with Mexico... as that article or "study" states that there are so many factors that play into giving the home players that "extra" boost or help or whatever you want to call it... Seems that this X-factor is big enough at the biggest stage of competitive soccer which are at the international level, its brutally hard to win on the road...

EDIT:: Basically to sum it up.. there is no shame in losing to Mexico in Mexico...Most home field advantages are held by really good teams. Brazil is just 11 studs whooping up on anyone and everyone. Same with Argentina. Costa Rica has the worst field in CONCACAF (and probably the world). How FIFA allows anyone to play on that field is beyond me. It is basically indoor/outdoor carpet rolled over cement. Mexico is not a dominant team on the world scene like Brazil or Spain or Argentina. Yet, their home field is ridonculous. Maybe they are allowed to intimidate? If the US wins that game, there is most likely a riot.

[Popeman38]

so hurling vomit and urine at players is along the same lines as burning jerseys?

:doh:

Obviously US has some bad fans like that as well. But whats the difference? Its not tolerated in our country. Hell, just last night shane victorino had a beer thrown on him while trying to catch a fly ball to deep center. What happened to the person that threw the cup? Got thrown out of the park...along with ALL of his friends.

Mexican fans were sitting there praising the people that were throwing vomit on people. Hell, security guards were probably doing the same.

But to talk about the type of hooligans in america compared to those in mexico is a joke. That type of behavior happens every game, while it is in isolated insodents here. I know it is a part of soccer, but at some point CONCACAF needs to step in and do something. Its probably going to take a player getting seriously hurt before something is done though. Hell, I would advise Donovon to get a hepetitis shot after hearing about what type of stuff was thrown at him.CONCACAF won't ever do anything about it. Who is CONCACAF made up of? Central America, North America and the Caribbean. So, no Caribbean team is really a threat. That leaves the US and Canada. Canada doesn't really care. The US has been an afterthought for years, until they started really playing in the '90s. Mexico is the driver of CONCACAF. Mexico, Honduras, Costa Rica. Do you think the Mexican fans hate on them as much as the US? Nope. We are the "Evil Empire", while everyone else is looked down upon.

[renaissance]

so hurling vomit and urine at players is along the same lines as burning jerseys?

:doh:


No, but starting riots after a game is. If you read my last sentence I said that the people aren't necessarily so different, we just have better crowd control. If allowed to act like barbarians during games, some US fans would too. So don't get mad at the fans, get mad at the governing bodies who don't control them. Or get mad at the fans because they're *******s, but don't act like it's just the Mexican fans who are *******s.

[Destino]

Just be glad we don't have to qualify in South America:

1 Brazil 27
2 Chile 26 <<<< hell yeah!
3 Paraguay 24
4 Argentina 22
5 Ecuador 20

That should show you why it is so important that we win out... 4th place puts the US against the 5th place south american team. Which could very well be Argentina, Ecuador, or Uruguay. Mexico isn't on the dirty meter compared to Uruguay IMO.

Costa Rica, El Salvador, and Mexico don't come close to what you have to face down there.

Speaking if which we need some more Copa de America games in the States. Get some more top notch soccer to see live.

[Skin'emAlive]

Just out of curiousity, what makes you think its going to be "ugly" in south africa?


If you have been watching any of the US national teams' games lately you can see it coming. We have good players that can compete at a national
level. We have players that have the heart and desire to win ( this excludes Dempsey who for some reason only has that at Fulham). But once we either have the lead, or the opposing coach changes the game plan to attack our weaknesses our coach does not step up to the task. The coach is responsible for creating a gameplan that can give his team success on the pitch. Bradley is ok at that. But he has shown a complete ineptness to adjust on the fly to an opposing teams change in strategy, and the ability to put the right subs on to the field to complement our strengths.

We will lose in the second half of games in South Africa. Unfortunately.

[Kilmer17]

1- If you think what happens in Mexico is crazy, you're new to international soccer. International soccer is insane. There are people attacked and beaten in many parts of the world when international soccer comes to town. Argentines like to fire bottle rockets into opposing fan sections.

2- US players need to stop being weak asses on the field. If you get choked THROW A DAMN PUNCH. This is sports people, you don't opposing teams pull at your injured player and choke you. Who cares if you get suspended?! HIT SOMEBODY. You think the brazilian squad would be like "help us ref!" is someone dared to do that to them? If you get hit and you do nothing it never becomes and issue and FIFA isn't forced to react.

Having said all that I hate the damn Mexican team. I don't like their brand of soccer and don't like their attitudes. I was hoping the US would win not just because I always want to see my team win but because I would have loved to see these stuck up bastards miss a WC. They'd be nothing if they competed in south america.

QFT.

The sad thing is that we wont play them again (barring some miracle in South Africa next year) for at LEAST 2 probably 4 years. So by the time we meet again, this will be an afterthought.

There were 2 flagrant red card offenses by the Mexicans, neither was called even a yellow. Yet the US got 2 undeserved yellows for nada.

If the ref had made the exact calls the opposite way, the mexican players would have accosted him, and the fans probably would have killed him after the game.

We've got milquetoast players,coaches,federation etc. So we did NOTHING.

We did nothing when Cobi Jones got his head split opened in 02. We did nothing when the Mexican keeper (Sanchez I think) went after Eddie JOhnsons legs in 05. We did nothing when McBride had his eye swollen shut in 01.

We need an enforcer. Gooch was going to sit out the next game anyway, he should have gone in hard, spikes up at the end and really hurt someone.

[Kilmer17]

CONCACAF won't ever do anything about it. Who is CONCACAF made up of? Central America, North America and the Caribbean. So, no Caribbean team is really a threat. That leaves the US and Canada. Canada doesn't really care. The US has been an afterthought for years, until they started really playing in the '90s. Mexico is the driver of CONCACAF. Mexico, Honduras, Costa Rica. Do you think the Mexican fans hate on them as much as the US? Nope. We are the "Evil Empire", while everyone else is looked down upon.

Which is also why we will NEVER get a fair game from any ref in Concacaf except a Canadian.

[skinsngibbs4life]

CONCACAF won't ever do anything about it. Who is CONCACAF made up of? Central America, North America and the Caribbean. So, no Caribbean team is really a threat. That leaves the US and Canada. Canada doesn't really care. The US has been an afterthought for years, until they started really playing in the '90s. Mexico is the driver of CONCACAF. Mexico, Honduras, Costa Rica. Do you think the Mexican fans hate on them as much as the US? Nope. We are the "Evil Empire", while everyone else is looked down upon.

Yet the US can get warned about being reprimanded for letting streamers of all things on the field? Please.

[skinsngibbs4life]

Also, apparently Landon Donovon has the swine flu?! (seriously)

http://www.fannation.com/si_blogs/grant_wahl/posts/74041-landon-donovan-has-h1n1-flu-virus

[Elessar78]

Who's to say that one of those drug cartels didn't get to the ref somehow or some other element. I mean it's like the wild west down there. The bad guys run the show. Plus, our guys abide too much by "the rule of law". The ref isn't always gonna take care of you in a hostile environment.

4 years is a long time for revenge, but just long enough to let stuff hit the boiling point. In the hands of a better coach, we walk out of there with a win.