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Subject: World Cup 3
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WC GUIDE
The World Cup is closing in soon, so why not make a little guide? :p Inspired by Julius' WC guide, I've tried to retrieve some information and give a little info about the participating teams. Seca and Borkos helped me with it.
The stars next to the countries name gives a superficial indicator of the teams strenght. The teams with many stars are the favorites to make it pretty far in the tournement, while the teams with 1 or 2 stars generally are the underdogs who can surprise.
I gave every coach the opportunity to talk about their team and explain their perspectives for the WC. Also, some intruiging players and history of the team at the previous WC's have been added.
Enjoy it ;)))
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••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••[color=red size=3]GROUP A[/color]
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[color=darkblue size=2]Suomi[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪✪[/color]
Suomi, or Finland, has known a fan-tas-tic qualification season. In a group with Argentina, Suomi managed to win every single game and thus realise a 30 out of 30. Only Poland was able to equalise that result! Now, they're in group A with England, Mexico and Portugal. Hard to tell if Suomi will qualify, even after their superb season as they'll meet England and Mexico early in the tournement. They still have the biggest chance to make it to the 1/8 final.
Coach: theKarsten (1 season experience as Suomi coach)
"Suomi goes to the WC as a challenger, but I can assure you that no team affords to underestimate us! Our qualifications, 10 matches and 30 points says it all; we are hungry and dangerous! ;) Our goal is, no less, than to make it to the semi-finals."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Hannu Ala-Aho
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Heikki Starkki
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Joona Leppäkangas
History in the World Cup:
WC1: 1/8 final
WC2: Group stage
[color=darkblue size=2]England[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪[/color]
The English team has known a better season then the two before. They collected 25 points, which is pretty nice, but it has to be said that the group they were in wasn't very hard. England can count on a great defensive line, but has some problems up front. They miss some profilic strikers over there. For now, qualifying for the KO rounds will be very hard as Suomi has more individuel class. The game against Mexico will be crucial.
Coach: Greg H (1 season experience as England coach)
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Trevor Henchoz
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Adrain Marlet
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Corey Bridge
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Semi final
WC2: 1/8 final
[color=darkblue size=2]Mexico[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪[/color]
Mexico can surprise, that's for sure, like in the qualification series where they managed to beat Eesti, but the week after they lose 6-1. Mexico has got some decent quality and with Bravo a true legend up front. He can surely make the difference. If Mexico can win the game against England, the ticket for the eight finals should be up for grabs.
Coach: Chuyuyuuy (1 season experience as Mexico coach)
"We only have a strong defensive line (high levels) and one good attacker (Bravo), but he's in bad form. Also our keeper and some of our mids and attackers are in low form. Generally, our midfield and attack (and keeper) are only medium skilled players. "
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Maximiliano Bravo
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Hugo Méndez
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Ricardo Ayala
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: Group stage
[color=darkblue size=2]Portugal[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪[/color]
Last season's results weren't at all spectacular. Portugal qualified for the World Cup with a goal difference with Srbija. That's why I don't see them proceeding from this group. They also don't possess the same quality of players like the other teams of this group do. But who knows, maybe they can surprise.
Coach: lowmem (No experience as NT coach)
"I expect to win all matches one at a time! Now seriously, we are the worst ranked team in group stage, but I expect to qualify. From there on is "mata-mata" game as Scolary says."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Paco Ehlers
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Eusebio Lombardo
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Emilio Finandinos
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: Group stage
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••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••[color=red size=3]GROUP B[/color]
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[color=darkblue size=2]Hrvatska[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪[/color]
Croatia was "best of the rest" for a long time, but 2 seasons ago they knew a set back. This season they showed a better performance by being able to obtain 28 points in the qualifications, a very nice result! Their sensational strikers are extremely hard to stop so that can be a decisive factor in the Croatian squad. Croatia's group B is a very hard one to qualify in. If they can beat France or Romania, they are through.
Coach: Hobotshy (No experience as NT coach)
"we hope to reach semi finals, but it is not going to be easy goal to achieve "
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Oleg Malec
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Vedran Duvnjak
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Josip Karpić
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Semi final
WC2: Quarter final
[color=darkblue size=2]France[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪✪[/color]
La France is a nation that is becoming very close to the absolute top of the world, as they showed by winning the unofficial U21 World Cup. The young players have had more then a season to grow and gain experience and they are ready to play a role in the big boys tournement. In the qualification series, only Italy could stop les Bleus. With some good tactics, France can get very far, although their first job is qualiying from the group, which is not easy with Croatia and Romania in it.
Coach: Benwa (1 season experience as French NT coach)
"France team has still a quite young squad and with a few experience. The most of the actual players were in the champion team of the U-21 WC. Our goal will be to reach the 8th final (and our pool is not that simple) and if we reach that level we will do the best as we can."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Evrard Micoud
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Barthelemy Vimbouly
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Gaspard Le Bréton
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: 1/8 Final
[color=darkblue size=2]Romania[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪[/color]
Romania is one of the up and coming nations in Sokker. Have been pulling a lot of quality youth lately. For now, they have to rely on their more then solid defense. They've also got some quality strikers up front. The midfield is the achillesheel though. Realised some very nice results in the qualifiers as they have managed to beat België (0-2) and Brazil (1-0). Romania will have a lot of difficulties advancing as the the group is very strong.
Coach: ciumegul (1 season experience as Romania coach)
"I want to qualify Romania team from groups and after that if we meet an accesible team,to pass them."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Lucaş Hancu
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Cătălin Valerie
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Helmuth Apreotesei
History in the World Cup:
WC1: not qualified
WC2: 1/8 final
[color=darkblue size=2]Rossiya[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪[/color]
For Russia, it is important to sit back and enjoy their first official tournement. The group with Croatia, Romania and France will most likely be killing them. It would be a victory to get a point as they miss decent players.
Coach: Sevvol (2 seasons experience as Rossiya Coach)
"This is the first WC in Russian SK-history. The fact that we qualified is a great achievement for us. It emphasizes that we develop in the right way. I wouldn`t expect a lot from our performance. The ideal scenario is the third place in Group B. But even scoring a goal or gaining a point would be a good result for us."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Mikita Davydov
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Jaroslav Tumilovich
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Filipp Zabotkin
History in the World Cup:
WC1: not qualified
WC2: not qualified
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••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••[color=red size=3]GROUP C[/color]
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[color=darkblue size=2]Lietuva[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪✪[/color]
Lietuva is still capable of lining up a great starting eleven, but they don't stick out anymore as they used to. Partially by the small user base, but also because the other teams are closing in fast. The Lietuvian attack is still one of the best out there and the defense is pretty solid too. There should be no problems qualifying as they are in perhaps the easiest group on this World Cup. The maximum of the point is almost a must for them.
Coach: WilyJackal (4 seasons experience as Lietuva coach)
"I expect for nothing, just for a good performance.... [;"
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Emilijus Kuèinskas
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Jaunius Kisielius
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Arminas Grybauskas
History in the World Cup:
WC1: 1/8 final
WC2: Quater final
[color=darkblue size=2]Peru[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪[/color]
Peru has been showing off in the qualifications as they won the group, before Scotland and USA. Some of the matches were won on luck, luck that they might lack at this WC. They'll fight with New Zealand for the second place in the group. A good tactic will be necessary to advance to the KO rounds for the first time.
Coach: Luiginho
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Ignacio Saco Vertiz
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Augusto Malbernat
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Filomeno Yamashiro
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: Group stage
[color=darkblue size=2]New Zealand[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪[/color]
New Zealand qualified for the second time for the World Cup, an excellent prestation for such a small country. The team is known for it's strikers. A few holes elsewhere, and not much depth. Should challenge Peru and Chile for second spot in the group. Lietuva will probably be out of their reach.
Coach: Seca (4 seasons experience as NT coach, 1 as NZ coach)
"It's all about form and depth. Form has been a real struggle for the squad. If players stay healthy and get in game shape, the team can do some damage."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Johnny Bodger
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Alan Hird
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Brent Gilbert
History in the World Cup:
WC1: not qualified
WC2: 1/8 final
[color=darkblue size=2]Chile[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪[/color]
Chile is most likely one of the weaker teams present but luckely for them, they aren't in a killer group. Against Peru and NZ, Chile is capable to get some points and thus qualify from the groups. That would be the first time ever.
Coach: pipegol
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Jaime Valentín
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Omar Villaseńor
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Marcos Rasmussen
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: Group stage
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••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••[color=red size=3]GROUP D[/color]
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[color=darkblue size=2]Italia[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪✪[/color]
Italy has been showing of all their power during last season. Confident wins over Nederland (4-0) and Lietuva (7-3!) have only pointed out that they form a suberb nation with absolutely world class players. Who can keep them from making it to the final? My guess is that they are only to be stopped by Poland, or by having bad luck like in their last game against France (2-2) The group stage should be no problem at all for Italy.
Coach: sydval (1 season experience as Italy coach)
"I expect to win this World Cup...every other result would be a loss for me"
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Rino Gioia
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Gaetano Cipriani
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Roberto Baronio
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Final
WC2: Quarter final
[color=darkblue size=2]Slovensko[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪[/color]
Slovensko is a very balanced team with no real weaknesses, but also no real strenghts. The forwards are capable of doing some damage though. Slovensko are favorite to qualify for the next round, although Norge and Australia will be hard to beat.
Coach: Flex (1 season experience as Slovensko coach)
"I expect and hope to reach 2nd place in the group, advance and then we´ll see"
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Adolf Lehota
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Gergely Meixner
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Bohuš Partel
History in the World Cup:
WC1: not qualified
WC2: 1/8 final
[color=darkblue size=2]Norge[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪[/color]
Norway used to be much higher on the ranking, but faded away over the last few seasons. They are still capable of putting in a good effort, but should watch out for Australia and Slovensko. In the qualifications, Norge and Australia were in the same group. Norway ended before the Kangaroos. In the duels between both countries, each won their away game with 0-2.
Coach: tordenskiold
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Halvor Michelsen
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Atle Skogheim
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Robert Hennum
History in the World Cup:
WC1: 1/8 final
WC2: 1/8 final
[color=darkblue size=2]Australia[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪[/color]
Australia was always a team with good mids and weak strikers. They have beaten Norge (in the qualifcations) and Slovensko before, so they can promote to the next round. It won't be easy though, in their first appearence at the World Cup.
Coach: cometer (1 season experience as Australia coach)
"As far as expectations go, I don`t really expect anything except to be competitive. As for what I would like to happen, well I`d like to finish 2nd in the group and make the final 16."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Stuart Widera
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Vince Veart
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Brendan Ando
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: not qualified
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••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••[color=red size=3]GROUP E[/color]
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[color=darkblue size=2]Polska[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪✪✪[/color]
Normally, Poland is the clear favorite for the cup. The players are unbelievebly good and there is great depht in the squad. But for now, we still have have to wait if Shadow will continue to call up the worst players for his NT. That could be good news for the other teams in this group. We'll see in the first game against Belgium if Poland will want to become champions for the third consecutive time.
Edit: just recently a good squad was called up.
Coach: Shadow (3 seasons experience as NT coach, 2 as Poland coach)
"We will win of course :P"
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Paweł Turkowski
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Sławomir Kiemlicz
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Włodzimierz Niedzielan
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Champions
WC2: Champions
[color=darkblue size=2]België[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪✪[/color]
After their very succesful campaign in the 2nd World Cup, Belgium probably won't be able to do it over again. There is a major gap in the squad as they are missing a good 22-23 year old generation. The oldies are still occupying the spots in the first team. Belgium ended the qualification group in 1st position, but had some trouble with Romania (0-2 loss) and Brazil (2-6 loss). First objective: winning against Scotland = 90% sure of qualification.
Coach: Maqoma (3 seasons exp. as NT coach, 1 as Belgian Coach)
"We really want to survive the groups. With Poland, Scotland and Colombia.. not a easy goal. When we`ll past the group stage everything can hapen.. A big dream is to become a finalist again such as the last world cup."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Timmy Verbauwhede
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Sven Boon
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Bram Huysegems
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Quarter final
WC2: Final
[color=darkblue size=2]Scotland[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪[/color]
Scotland has always been a team to watch out for. The results are remarkable if you know they currently have got about 90 users. It will be a battle with Belgium for the 2nd place in the group. Against Colombia they should be able to win. When Poland plays as they should do, the Scots haven't got a chance.
Coach: dandy (3 seasons experience as Colombia coach)
"Scotland are in a very tough WC group. Poland will be virtually impossible to beat, Belgium will be very hard and Columbia will be a close game. If we get out of the group it will my best achievement so far."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Derek James
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Adam Rodgers
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Keith McBride
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: 1/8 final
[color=darkblue size=2]Colombia[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪[/color]
Colombia are in a very though group this time. The qualification group was fairly easy (finished in third after Nederland and Schweiz), but now it is virtually impossible to reach the eight finals. Poland normally is unstoppable and Belgium and Scotland have got the better players. Miracles and a good attack through the middle can cause surprises.
Coach: Jorantru
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Sergio Ardila
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Alex León
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Augusto Murcia
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: not qualified
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••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••[color=red size=3]GROUP F[/color]
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[color=darkblue size=2]España[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪✪[/color]
Spain has always possessed one of the most powerful NT's in Sokker. That's not any different today. 27 points in the qualifications and some nice wins versus Belgium, Slovensko and Germany have showed that Spain is a potential candidate for the semis or even further up in the tournement. Although the coach seems to be new, he has been working for the NT for a while as an assistent, so the experience is present.
Coach: sebaxin (no experience as NT coach)
"We expect to get qualified to the quarter-finals. Then we will have to fight against the elements because spain in football use to be eliminated at this phase :)"
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Clemente da Silva Cunha
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Héctor Alvarez Abrante
[color=green size=4]★[/color] García Torres Fernández
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Quarter final
WC2: Semi final
[color=darkblue size=2]Schweiz[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪[/color]
Although Swiss is a country that appears to be the underdog in this group, one thing is sure: they can surprise. Just take a look at last season's results: 7-0 win against Colombia, draw against Finland, wins against Nederland, Germany and Croatia. Says it all, doesn't it?
Coach: Ganzengeile (2 seasons experience as Schweiz coach)
"I don`t expect much as we`re in a tough group in which Spain and Estonia is by far stronger than we are. I`d like to score a goal, it would be the first one for Switzerland in a WC! ;-) Every point we get would be a big surprise!"
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Camil Morf
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Diego Blaesi
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Jean lHofer
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: not qualified
[color=darkblue size=2]Brasil[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪[/color]
Brasil is, just like Romania, one of the coming forces in Sokker. In a few seasons, the selecao will make it to the top10 in the world, maybe even faster. Now the team may lack some true class to be the favorites to go through to the eight finals. Spain and Estonia have got slightly better player as it seems. But it is for sure that Brasil can beat them.
Coach: rgbirro (1 season experience as Brasil coach)
"I`m expecting at least pass by the group fase of the WC. We are in a difficult group, with Eesti and Spain, but I think if we win one of those games we have great chances to on 3º game, against Schweiz, to conquer our objectives."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Rui Marinho
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Rui Gonçalves Jesuino
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Camilo Roza Ribeiro
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: Group stage
[color=darkblue size=2]Eesti[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪✪[/color]
Experienced coach, great players - an ideal recepy for a good performance at the WC. After the dramatic start in the qualifications, Eesti managed to qualify for the World Cup, but they had to pay a price as they are in the group with Brasil and Spain. Still, Eesti can count on a great back four (or five) who can keep the 0 on the scorebord if they want to. And that's what you need really, if you want to reach the semi's one more time.
Coach: borkos007 (4 seasons exp. as NT coach, 1 as Eesti coach)
"I think, that Eesti won`t have an easy way because of the last season problems. Still, first 10 position in ranks makes Eesti a pretendant to try to achieve same position as in last WC. It will be a nice challenge :)"
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Mart Saviauk
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Toomas Sai
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Uku Mäeorg
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: Semi final
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••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••[color=red size=3]GROUP G[/color]
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[color=darkblue size=2]Deutschland[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪[/color]
Germany can line up a very strong team, but it's hard to predict what the result will be against Canada and Argentina, both crucial games. Previous season, the wins vs England (3-1) and Slovensko (1-5) were amongst the only really good results. Losses against Spain (4-0) and in the return against England (1-0) have showed that the mannshaft is vulnerable against highly ranked teams.
Coach: mauser (1 season experience as Germany coach)
"1/8 final would be ok, 1/4 final like in the first WC would be very fine :) but at least argentinia and canada are strong teams in our group, so we will need a bit of luck in any case"
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Kim Hill
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Emmanuel Sackmann
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Dominik Suster
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Quarter final
WC2: Group stage
[color=darkblue size=2]Argentina[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪[/color]
Argentina that will need good tactics to get far. They lack some pure individual class but the 'team' is very strong. Normally, Argentina should qualify for the KO rounds, but Germany and Canada can cause some problems. This group is still easier then their last one though.
Coach: Catenaccio (2 seasons experience as Argentina coach)
"We expect at least to repeat Argentina`s best performance in WCs (1/8 finales, in WC1) and, with all odds on our favor, to reach 1/4 finales. More would be a dream. Not to pass the first round (Group Stage) would be disappointing."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Ezequiel García
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] David Bonano
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Matías Eve
History in the World Cup:
WC1: 1/8 final
WC2: Group stage
[color=darkblue size=2]Canada[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪[/color]
The squad's midfield has improved alot in recent seasons, to match a fairly rugged defense corp. Depth at striker could be an issue. Not a favourite to advance, but good enough to worry Germany and Argentina.
Coach: slavko74 (1 season experience as Canada coach)
"Canada is satisfied with the draw and are almost sure we are past the group stage."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Sean Amado
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Felix Iginla
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Joe Parker
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: Group stage
[color=darkblue size=2]Belarus[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪[/color]
Belarus is the underdog in this group. Every point will be a victory and maybe they can be decisive in which country will proceed to the next round. Nevertheless, Belarus must enjoy their first WC as can be their last in a long time time. (Belarus has only got 37 users atm)
Coach: Dragster (4 seasons experience as Belarus coach)
"Belarus reached second phase of WC for the first time. It`s an incredible achievements for us, mostly for the teams we battled with in the first phase. For the next phase we are realist: we have no chance to pass to the final phase. But nevertheless we will battle every game as we play a final, with the target to score some points and maybe to reach the third place..."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Francishak Nikifarenka
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Radzislau Lagodzich
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Uladzimir Tamukevich
History in the World Cup:
WC1: not qualified
WC2: not qualified
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••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••[color=red size=3]GROUP H[/color]
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[color=darkblue size=2]Nederland[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪✪[/color]
Nederland have finished first in the qualifications with 27 points, but has lost against Schweiz. They should be able to survive the group stage as they have a bit more individual player class then the other teams in this close group. Every game will still be hard fought.
Coach: Hellsangel (4 seasons exp. as NT coach, 1 as Nederland coach)
"Normally, we should qualify from the group stage with Ceska coming in second. Semi finals are the minimum for me. After that, we'll need luck to proceed."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Peter Mulders
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Dick Stadwijk
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Mike Van den Eede
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Quarter final
WC2: 1/8 final
[color=darkblue size=2]Ceska Republika[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪[/color]
Czech republic knew a nice qualification season as they won the group with 22 points. The question is if they can perform against better teams then them. The 7-1 and 1-4 losses against Italy and Spain don't work as confidence boosters. In a group with The Netherlands, Danmark and the USA, they should be able to make it to the KO rounds. Luckely they can count on a great midfield and on a strong 23 year old generation which played the final on the U21 World Cup.
Coach: jookiss (No experience as NT coach)
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Václav Horejš
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Hynek Holeňák
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Bonifác Pátek
History in the World Cup:
WC1: 1/8 final
WC2: Group stage
[color=darkblue size=2]Danmark[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪[/color]
Danmark ain't the team it used to be 2 seasons ago. It seems like they slipped a bit on the ranking so this is the perfect time to make things right. Normally, they should make a chance against the other teams in this group, but as MontyBurns says, they will need a good tactic and luck.
Coach: Montyburns (1 season experience as Danmark coach)
"Denmark is in a tough group in the WC, so the main goal is just to qualify from the group. That`s possible, but requires good tactics and luck."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Gorm Vestervig
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Jonas Vinding Jensen
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Adam Grundsten
History in the World Cup:
WC1: 1/8 final
WC2: Group stage
[color=darkblue size=2]USA[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪[/color]
A strong team still on the rise, in large part due to a young and ever improving defense corp. Form issues with Stokes and Pickens meant MacLeish and Russell led the team through most of last season. A couple bad breaks in qualifying has USA as a 4th seed, but they are more then capable of making some noise in this group.
Coach: Lakay (1 season experience as USA coach)
"I plan on making it to the Knock out stage, after that I don`t know."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Charles Stokes
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Bradley Ritch
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Glenn Beasley
History in the World Cup:
WC1: 1/8 final
WC2: Quarter final
(edited)
The World Cup is closing in soon, so why not make a little guide? :p Inspired by Julius' WC guide, I've tried to retrieve some information and give a little info about the participating teams. Seca and Borkos helped me with it.
The stars next to the countries name gives a superficial indicator of the teams strenght. The teams with many stars are the favorites to make it pretty far in the tournement, while the teams with 1 or 2 stars generally are the underdogs who can surprise.
I gave every coach the opportunity to talk about their team and explain their perspectives for the WC. Also, some intruiging players and history of the team at the previous WC's have been added.
Enjoy it ;)))
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••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••[color=red size=3]GROUP A[/color]
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[color=darkblue size=2]Suomi[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪✪[/color]
Suomi, or Finland, has known a fan-tas-tic qualification season. In a group with Argentina, Suomi managed to win every single game and thus realise a 30 out of 30. Only Poland was able to equalise that result! Now, they're in group A with England, Mexico and Portugal. Hard to tell if Suomi will qualify, even after their superb season as they'll meet England and Mexico early in the tournement. They still have the biggest chance to make it to the 1/8 final.
Coach: theKarsten (1 season experience as Suomi coach)
"Suomi goes to the WC as a challenger, but I can assure you that no team affords to underestimate us! Our qualifications, 10 matches and 30 points says it all; we are hungry and dangerous! ;) Our goal is, no less, than to make it to the semi-finals."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Hannu Ala-Aho
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Heikki Starkki
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Joona Leppäkangas
History in the World Cup:
WC1: 1/8 final
WC2: Group stage
[color=darkblue size=2]England[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪[/color]
The English team has known a better season then the two before. They collected 25 points, which is pretty nice, but it has to be said that the group they were in wasn't very hard. England can count on a great defensive line, but has some problems up front. They miss some profilic strikers over there. For now, qualifying for the KO rounds will be very hard as Suomi has more individuel class. The game against Mexico will be crucial.
Coach: Greg H (1 season experience as England coach)
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Trevor Henchoz
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Adrain Marlet
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Corey Bridge
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Semi final
WC2: 1/8 final
[color=darkblue size=2]Mexico[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪[/color]
Mexico can surprise, that's for sure, like in the qualification series where they managed to beat Eesti, but the week after they lose 6-1. Mexico has got some decent quality and with Bravo a true legend up front. He can surely make the difference. If Mexico can win the game against England, the ticket for the eight finals should be up for grabs.
Coach: Chuyuyuuy (1 season experience as Mexico coach)
"We only have a strong defensive line (high levels) and one good attacker (Bravo), but he's in bad form. Also our keeper and some of our mids and attackers are in low form. Generally, our midfield and attack (and keeper) are only medium skilled players. "
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Maximiliano Bravo
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Hugo Méndez
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Ricardo Ayala
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: Group stage
[color=darkblue size=2]Portugal[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪[/color]
Last season's results weren't at all spectacular. Portugal qualified for the World Cup with a goal difference with Srbija. That's why I don't see them proceeding from this group. They also don't possess the same quality of players like the other teams of this group do. But who knows, maybe they can surprise.
Coach: lowmem (No experience as NT coach)
"I expect to win all matches one at a time! Now seriously, we are the worst ranked team in group stage, but I expect to qualify. From there on is "mata-mata" game as Scolary says."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Paco Ehlers
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Eusebio Lombardo
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Emilio Finandinos
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: Group stage
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••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••[color=red size=3]GROUP B[/color]
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[color=darkblue size=2]Hrvatska[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪[/color]
Croatia was "best of the rest" for a long time, but 2 seasons ago they knew a set back. This season they showed a better performance by being able to obtain 28 points in the qualifications, a very nice result! Their sensational strikers are extremely hard to stop so that can be a decisive factor in the Croatian squad. Croatia's group B is a very hard one to qualify in. If they can beat France or Romania, they are through.
Coach: Hobotshy (No experience as NT coach)
"we hope to reach semi finals, but it is not going to be easy goal to achieve "
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Oleg Malec
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Vedran Duvnjak
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Josip Karpić
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Semi final
WC2: Quarter final
[color=darkblue size=2]France[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪✪[/color]
La France is a nation that is becoming very close to the absolute top of the world, as they showed by winning the unofficial U21 World Cup. The young players have had more then a season to grow and gain experience and they are ready to play a role in the big boys tournement. In the qualification series, only Italy could stop les Bleus. With some good tactics, France can get very far, although their first job is qualiying from the group, which is not easy with Croatia and Romania in it.
Coach: Benwa (1 season experience as French NT coach)
"France team has still a quite young squad and with a few experience. The most of the actual players were in the champion team of the U-21 WC. Our goal will be to reach the 8th final (and our pool is not that simple) and if we reach that level we will do the best as we can."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Evrard Micoud
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Barthelemy Vimbouly
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Gaspard Le Bréton
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: 1/8 Final
[color=darkblue size=2]Romania[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪[/color]
Romania is one of the up and coming nations in Sokker. Have been pulling a lot of quality youth lately. For now, they have to rely on their more then solid defense. They've also got some quality strikers up front. The midfield is the achillesheel though. Realised some very nice results in the qualifiers as they have managed to beat België (0-2) and Brazil (1-0). Romania will have a lot of difficulties advancing as the the group is very strong.
Coach: ciumegul (1 season experience as Romania coach)
"I want to qualify Romania team from groups and after that if we meet an accesible team,to pass them."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Lucaş Hancu
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Cătălin Valerie
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Helmuth Apreotesei
History in the World Cup:
WC1: not qualified
WC2: 1/8 final
[color=darkblue size=2]Rossiya[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪[/color]
For Russia, it is important to sit back and enjoy their first official tournement. The group with Croatia, Romania and France will most likely be killing them. It would be a victory to get a point as they miss decent players.
Coach: Sevvol (2 seasons experience as Rossiya Coach)
"This is the first WC in Russian SK-history. The fact that we qualified is a great achievement for us. It emphasizes that we develop in the right way. I wouldn`t expect a lot from our performance. The ideal scenario is the third place in Group B. But even scoring a goal or gaining a point would be a good result for us."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Mikita Davydov
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Jaroslav Tumilovich
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Filipp Zabotkin
History in the World Cup:
WC1: not qualified
WC2: not qualified
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••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••[color=red size=3]GROUP C[/color]
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[color=darkblue size=2]Lietuva[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪✪[/color]
Lietuva is still capable of lining up a great starting eleven, but they don't stick out anymore as they used to. Partially by the small user base, but also because the other teams are closing in fast. The Lietuvian attack is still one of the best out there and the defense is pretty solid too. There should be no problems qualifying as they are in perhaps the easiest group on this World Cup. The maximum of the point is almost a must for them.
Coach: WilyJackal (4 seasons experience as Lietuva coach)
"I expect for nothing, just for a good performance.... [;"
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Emilijus Kuèinskas
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Jaunius Kisielius
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Arminas Grybauskas
History in the World Cup:
WC1: 1/8 final
WC2: Quater final
[color=darkblue size=2]Peru[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪[/color]
Peru has been showing off in the qualifications as they won the group, before Scotland and USA. Some of the matches were won on luck, luck that they might lack at this WC. They'll fight with New Zealand for the second place in the group. A good tactic will be necessary to advance to the KO rounds for the first time.
Coach: Luiginho
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Ignacio Saco Vertiz
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Augusto Malbernat
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Filomeno Yamashiro
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: Group stage
[color=darkblue size=2]New Zealand[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪[/color]
New Zealand qualified for the second time for the World Cup, an excellent prestation for such a small country. The team is known for it's strikers. A few holes elsewhere, and not much depth. Should challenge Peru and Chile for second spot in the group. Lietuva will probably be out of their reach.
Coach: Seca (4 seasons experience as NT coach, 1 as NZ coach)
"It's all about form and depth. Form has been a real struggle for the squad. If players stay healthy and get in game shape, the team can do some damage."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Johnny Bodger
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Alan Hird
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Brent Gilbert
History in the World Cup:
WC1: not qualified
WC2: 1/8 final
[color=darkblue size=2]Chile[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪[/color]
Chile is most likely one of the weaker teams present but luckely for them, they aren't in a killer group. Against Peru and NZ, Chile is capable to get some points and thus qualify from the groups. That would be the first time ever.
Coach: pipegol
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Jaime Valentín
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Omar Villaseńor
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Marcos Rasmussen
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: Group stage
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••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••[color=red size=3]GROUP D[/color]
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[color=darkblue size=2]Italia[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪✪[/color]
Italy has been showing of all their power during last season. Confident wins over Nederland (4-0) and Lietuva (7-3!) have only pointed out that they form a suberb nation with absolutely world class players. Who can keep them from making it to the final? My guess is that they are only to be stopped by Poland, or by having bad luck like in their last game against France (2-2) The group stage should be no problem at all for Italy.
Coach: sydval (1 season experience as Italy coach)
"I expect to win this World Cup...every other result would be a loss for me"
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Rino Gioia
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Gaetano Cipriani
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Roberto Baronio
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Final
WC2: Quarter final
[color=darkblue size=2]Slovensko[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪[/color]
Slovensko is a very balanced team with no real weaknesses, but also no real strenghts. The forwards are capable of doing some damage though. Slovensko are favorite to qualify for the next round, although Norge and Australia will be hard to beat.
Coach: Flex (1 season experience as Slovensko coach)
"I expect and hope to reach 2nd place in the group, advance and then we´ll see"
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Adolf Lehota
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Gergely Meixner
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Bohuš Partel
History in the World Cup:
WC1: not qualified
WC2: 1/8 final
[color=darkblue size=2]Norge[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪[/color]
Norway used to be much higher on the ranking, but faded away over the last few seasons. They are still capable of putting in a good effort, but should watch out for Australia and Slovensko. In the qualifications, Norge and Australia were in the same group. Norway ended before the Kangaroos. In the duels between both countries, each won their away game with 0-2.
Coach: tordenskiold
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Halvor Michelsen
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Atle Skogheim
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Robert Hennum
History in the World Cup:
WC1: 1/8 final
WC2: 1/8 final
[color=darkblue size=2]Australia[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪[/color]
Australia was always a team with good mids and weak strikers. They have beaten Norge (in the qualifcations) and Slovensko before, so they can promote to the next round. It won't be easy though, in their first appearence at the World Cup.
Coach: cometer (1 season experience as Australia coach)
"As far as expectations go, I don`t really expect anything except to be competitive. As for what I would like to happen, well I`d like to finish 2nd in the group and make the final 16."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Stuart Widera
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Vince Veart
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Brendan Ando
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: not qualified
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••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••[color=red size=3]GROUP E[/color]
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[color=darkblue size=2]Polska[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪✪✪[/color]
Normally, Poland is the clear favorite for the cup. The players are unbelievebly good and there is great depht in the squad. But for now, we still have have to wait if Shadow will continue to call up the worst players for his NT. That could be good news for the other teams in this group. We'll see in the first game against Belgium if Poland will want to become champions for the third consecutive time.
Edit: just recently a good squad was called up.
Coach: Shadow (3 seasons experience as NT coach, 2 as Poland coach)
"We will win of course :P"
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Paweł Turkowski
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Sławomir Kiemlicz
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Włodzimierz Niedzielan
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Champions
WC2: Champions
[color=darkblue size=2]België[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪✪[/color]
After their very succesful campaign in the 2nd World Cup, Belgium probably won't be able to do it over again. There is a major gap in the squad as they are missing a good 22-23 year old generation. The oldies are still occupying the spots in the first team. Belgium ended the qualification group in 1st position, but had some trouble with Romania (0-2 loss) and Brazil (2-6 loss). First objective: winning against Scotland = 90% sure of qualification.
Coach: Maqoma (3 seasons exp. as NT coach, 1 as Belgian Coach)
"We really want to survive the groups. With Poland, Scotland and Colombia.. not a easy goal. When we`ll past the group stage everything can hapen.. A big dream is to become a finalist again such as the last world cup."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Timmy Verbauwhede
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Sven Boon
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Bram Huysegems
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Quarter final
WC2: Final
[color=darkblue size=2]Scotland[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪[/color]
Scotland has always been a team to watch out for. The results are remarkable if you know they currently have got about 90 users. It will be a battle with Belgium for the 2nd place in the group. Against Colombia they should be able to win. When Poland plays as they should do, the Scots haven't got a chance.
Coach: dandy (3 seasons experience as Colombia coach)
"Scotland are in a very tough WC group. Poland will be virtually impossible to beat, Belgium will be very hard and Columbia will be a close game. If we get out of the group it will my best achievement so far."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Derek James
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Adam Rodgers
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Keith McBride
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: 1/8 final
[color=darkblue size=2]Colombia[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪[/color]
Colombia are in a very though group this time. The qualification group was fairly easy (finished in third after Nederland and Schweiz), but now it is virtually impossible to reach the eight finals. Poland normally is unstoppable and Belgium and Scotland have got the better players. Miracles and a good attack through the middle can cause surprises.
Coach: Jorantru
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Sergio Ardila
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Alex León
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Augusto Murcia
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: not qualified
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••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••[color=red size=3]GROUP F[/color]
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[color=darkblue size=2]España[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪✪[/color]
Spain has always possessed one of the most powerful NT's in Sokker. That's not any different today. 27 points in the qualifications and some nice wins versus Belgium, Slovensko and Germany have showed that Spain is a potential candidate for the semis or even further up in the tournement. Although the coach seems to be new, he has been working for the NT for a while as an assistent, so the experience is present.
Coach: sebaxin (no experience as NT coach)
"We expect to get qualified to the quarter-finals. Then we will have to fight against the elements because spain in football use to be eliminated at this phase :)"
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Clemente da Silva Cunha
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Héctor Alvarez Abrante
[color=green size=4]★[/color] García Torres Fernández
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Quarter final
WC2: Semi final
[color=darkblue size=2]Schweiz[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪[/color]
Although Swiss is a country that appears to be the underdog in this group, one thing is sure: they can surprise. Just take a look at last season's results: 7-0 win against Colombia, draw against Finland, wins against Nederland, Germany and Croatia. Says it all, doesn't it?
Coach: Ganzengeile (2 seasons experience as Schweiz coach)
"I don`t expect much as we`re in a tough group in which Spain and Estonia is by far stronger than we are. I`d like to score a goal, it would be the first one for Switzerland in a WC! ;-) Every point we get would be a big surprise!"
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Camil Morf
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Diego Blaesi
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Jean lHofer
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: not qualified
[color=darkblue size=2]Brasil[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪[/color]
Brasil is, just like Romania, one of the coming forces in Sokker. In a few seasons, the selecao will make it to the top10 in the world, maybe even faster. Now the team may lack some true class to be the favorites to go through to the eight finals. Spain and Estonia have got slightly better player as it seems. But it is for sure that Brasil can beat them.
Coach: rgbirro (1 season experience as Brasil coach)
"I`m expecting at least pass by the group fase of the WC. We are in a difficult group, with Eesti and Spain, but I think if we win one of those games we have great chances to on 3º game, against Schweiz, to conquer our objectives."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Rui Marinho
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Rui Gonçalves Jesuino
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Camilo Roza Ribeiro
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: Group stage
[color=darkblue size=2]Eesti[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪✪[/color]
Experienced coach, great players - an ideal recepy for a good performance at the WC. After the dramatic start in the qualifications, Eesti managed to qualify for the World Cup, but they had to pay a price as they are in the group with Brasil and Spain. Still, Eesti can count on a great back four (or five) who can keep the 0 on the scorebord if they want to. And that's what you need really, if you want to reach the semi's one more time.
Coach: borkos007 (4 seasons exp. as NT coach, 1 as Eesti coach)
"I think, that Eesti won`t have an easy way because of the last season problems. Still, first 10 position in ranks makes Eesti a pretendant to try to achieve same position as in last WC. It will be a nice challenge :)"
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Mart Saviauk
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Toomas Sai
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Uku Mäeorg
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: Semi final
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••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••[color=red size=3]GROUP G[/color]
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[color=darkblue size=2]Deutschland[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪[/color]
Germany can line up a very strong team, but it's hard to predict what the result will be against Canada and Argentina, both crucial games. Previous season, the wins vs England (3-1) and Slovensko (1-5) were amongst the only really good results. Losses against Spain (4-0) and in the return against England (1-0) have showed that the mannshaft is vulnerable against highly ranked teams.
Coach: mauser (1 season experience as Germany coach)
"1/8 final would be ok, 1/4 final like in the first WC would be very fine :) but at least argentinia and canada are strong teams in our group, so we will need a bit of luck in any case"
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Kim Hill
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Emmanuel Sackmann
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Dominik Suster
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Quarter final
WC2: Group stage
[color=darkblue size=2]Argentina[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪[/color]
Argentina that will need good tactics to get far. They lack some pure individual class but the 'team' is very strong. Normally, Argentina should qualify for the KO rounds, but Germany and Canada can cause some problems. This group is still easier then their last one though.
Coach: Catenaccio (2 seasons experience as Argentina coach)
"We expect at least to repeat Argentina`s best performance in WCs (1/8 finales, in WC1) and, with all odds on our favor, to reach 1/4 finales. More would be a dream. Not to pass the first round (Group Stage) would be disappointing."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Ezequiel García
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] David Bonano
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Matías Eve
History in the World Cup:
WC1: 1/8 final
WC2: Group stage
[color=darkblue size=2]Canada[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪[/color]
The squad's midfield has improved alot in recent seasons, to match a fairly rugged defense corp. Depth at striker could be an issue. Not a favourite to advance, but good enough to worry Germany and Argentina.
Coach: slavko74 (1 season experience as Canada coach)
"Canada is satisfied with the draw and are almost sure we are past the group stage."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Sean Amado
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Felix Iginla
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Joe Parker
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Group stage
WC2: Group stage
[color=darkblue size=2]Belarus[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪[/color]
Belarus is the underdog in this group. Every point will be a victory and maybe they can be decisive in which country will proceed to the next round. Nevertheless, Belarus must enjoy their first WC as can be their last in a long time time. (Belarus has only got 37 users atm)
Coach: Dragster (4 seasons experience as Belarus coach)
"Belarus reached second phase of WC for the first time. It`s an incredible achievements for us, mostly for the teams we battled with in the first phase. For the next phase we are realist: we have no chance to pass to the final phase. But nevertheless we will battle every game as we play a final, with the target to score some points and maybe to reach the third place..."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Francishak Nikifarenka
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Radzislau Lagodzich
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Uladzimir Tamukevich
History in the World Cup:
WC1: not qualified
WC2: not qualified
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••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••[color=red size=3]GROUP H[/color]
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[color=darkblue size=2]Nederland[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪✪[/color]
Nederland have finished first in the qualifications with 27 points, but has lost against Schweiz. They should be able to survive the group stage as they have a bit more individual player class then the other teams in this close group. Every game will still be hard fought.
Coach: Hellsangel (4 seasons exp. as NT coach, 1 as Nederland coach)
"Normally, we should qualify from the group stage with Ceska coming in second. Semi finals are the minimum for me. After that, we'll need luck to proceed."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Peter Mulders
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Dick Stadwijk
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Mike Van den Eede
History in the World Cup:
WC1: Quarter final
WC2: 1/8 final
[color=darkblue size=2]Ceska Republika[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪✪[/color]
Czech republic knew a nice qualification season as they won the group with 22 points. The question is if they can perform against better teams then them. The 7-1 and 1-4 losses against Italy and Spain don't work as confidence boosters. In a group with The Netherlands, Danmark and the USA, they should be able to make it to the KO rounds. Luckely they can count on a great midfield and on a strong 23 year old generation which played the final on the U21 World Cup.
Coach: jookiss (No experience as NT coach)
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Václav Horejš
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Hynek Holeňák
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Bonifác Pátek
History in the World Cup:
WC1: 1/8 final
WC2: Group stage
[color=darkblue size=2]Danmark[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪[/color]
Danmark ain't the team it used to be 2 seasons ago. It seems like they slipped a bit on the ranking so this is the perfect time to make things right. Normally, they should make a chance against the other teams in this group, but as MontyBurns says, they will need a good tactic and luck.
Coach: Montyburns (1 season experience as Danmark coach)
"Denmark is in a tough group in the WC, so the main goal is just to qualify from the group. That`s possible, but requires good tactics and luck."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Gorm Vestervig
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Jonas Vinding Jensen
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Adam Grundsten
History in the World Cup:
WC1: 1/8 final
WC2: Group stage
[color=darkblue size=2]USA[/color] [color=blue size=3]✪✪[/color]
A strong team still on the rise, in large part due to a young and ever improving defense corp. Form issues with Stokes and Pickens meant MacLeish and Russell led the team through most of last season. A couple bad breaks in qualifying has USA as a 4th seed, but they are more then capable of making some noise in this group.
Coach: Lakay (1 season experience as USA coach)
"I plan on making it to the Knock out stage, after that I don`t know."
Players to look out for:
[color=green size=4]★★★[/color] Charles Stokes
[color=green size=4]★★[/color] Bradley Ritch
[color=green size=4]★[/color] Glenn Beasley
History in the World Cup:
WC1: 1/8 final
WC2: Quarter final
(edited)
Hows the draw made? Is it like actual draws with pots etc?
4 baskets, 8 groups. In each group one team from every basket.
hmm...
Netherlands, Romania, Poland and whose 4th??
@borkos:
Estonia?? :P
(edited)
Netherlands, Romania, Poland and whose 4th??
@borkos:
Estonia?? :P
(edited)
anyone know what teams are in what baskets??
did somebody make standnings with all teams after the end of WC Qual.??
did somebody make standnings with all teams after the end of WC Qual.??
A
1. Suomi 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
2. England 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
3. México 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
4. Portugal 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
B
1. Hrvatska 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
2. France 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
3. România 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
4. Rossiya 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
C
1. Lietuva 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
2. Perú 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
3. New Zealand 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
4. Chile 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
D
1. Italia 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
2. Slovensko 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
3. Norge 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
4. Australia 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
E
1. Polska 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
2. België 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
3. Scotland 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
4. Colombia 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
F
1. España 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
2. Schweiz 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
3. Brasil 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
4. Eesti 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
G
1. Deutschland 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
2. Argentina 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
3. Canada 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
4. Belarus 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
H
1. Nederland 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
2. Česká republika 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
3. Danmark 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
4. USA 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
I really like group F :)
1. Suomi 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
2. England 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
3. México 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
4. Portugal 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
B
1. Hrvatska 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
2. France 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
3. România 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
4. Rossiya 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
C
1. Lietuva 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
2. Perú 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
3. New Zealand 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
4. Chile 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
D
1. Italia 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
2. Slovensko 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
3. Norge 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
4. Australia 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
E
1. Polska 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
2. België 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
3. Scotland 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
4. Colombia 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
F
1. España 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
2. Schweiz 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
3. Brasil 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
4. Eesti 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
G
1. Deutschland 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
2. Argentina 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
3. Canada 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
4. Belarus 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
H
1. Nederland 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
2. Česká republika 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
3. Danmark 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
4. USA 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
I really like group F :)
3 WCs, 3 times Brazil and Switzerland at same group. Booooooooo!
Edit: Forget it... It was Norway.... [whistle]
(edited)
Edit: Forget it... It was Norway.... [whistle]
(edited)
Columbia might as well quit now.
I'm looking forward to Group F
(edited)
I'm looking forward to Group F
(edited)
Haha yeah, me too :)
I think we will know everything after 1st game, Eesti-Brasil.
I think we will know everything after 1st game, Eesti-Brasil.
A
1. Suomi
2. England
3. México
4. Portugal
Favourites should be England and Suomi.
Also Mexico isn`t much weaker, for example they surprised against Eesti. If Bravo plays, then anything can happen.
England is the "joker" of this group - they have great players, but tactics are not the best ones.
Portugal should be the outsider of this group.
B
1. Hrvatska 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
2. France 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
3. România 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
4. Rossiya 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
Rossyia is the sure outsider, other teams will fight for first and second place. I have a hunch, that France and Hrvatska will go through,
C
1. Lietuva 0
2. Perú
3. New Zealand
4. Chile
One of the most excaiting groups. All teams look equal. Peru surprised in qualification phase, when Scotland and USA were beat. Difficult to say, which teams will be promoted. I´d put my money on Lietuva and New Zealand.
D
1. Italia
2. Slovensko
3. Norge
4. Australia
Italia will go through for sure. Fight for the second place will be very interesting. I think Norge or Australia will take it. Tough to say and give out any predictions.
E
1. Polska
2. België
3. Scotland
4. Colombia
World Champion Poland will go through for sure, no problem. Colombia is outsider, I think they won´t get any points. Belgie or Scotland - I think Belgium, they looked better in qualifications.
F
1. España
2. Schweiz
3. Brasil
4. Eesti
Espana and Eesti should be bettet than others. Eesti will win this group, Borkos is just too good in tactics. Brasil might surprise, but I don`t believe so - their current NT manager isn`t good at tactics. Schweiz is the outsider and will have no chances imo.
G
1. Deutschland
2. Argentina
3. Canada
4. Belarus
I´d say that Germany and Argentina are the favourites. Belarus might surprise and steal some points. Canada....Dunno why, but I hope they will play good.
H
1. Nederland
2. Česká republika
3. Danmark
4. USA
The strongest group in this World Cup! Nederland is the favourite for sure, and getting 1-2. place shouldn`t be a problem.
USA was terrible in qualification phase, theit nt manager is not good tactician. So I guess Česká republika might go through aswell. Danmark is the joker, might surprise.
1. Suomi
2. England
3. México
4. Portugal
Favourites should be England and Suomi.
Also Mexico isn`t much weaker, for example they surprised against Eesti. If Bravo plays, then anything can happen.
England is the "joker" of this group - they have great players, but tactics are not the best ones.
Portugal should be the outsider of this group.
B
1. Hrvatska 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
2. France 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
3. România 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
4. Rossiya 0 0 0 0 0-0 0
Rossyia is the sure outsider, other teams will fight for first and second place. I have a hunch, that France and Hrvatska will go through,
C
1. Lietuva 0
2. Perú
3. New Zealand
4. Chile
One of the most excaiting groups. All teams look equal. Peru surprised in qualification phase, when Scotland and USA were beat. Difficult to say, which teams will be promoted. I´d put my money on Lietuva and New Zealand.
D
1. Italia
2. Slovensko
3. Norge
4. Australia
Italia will go through for sure. Fight for the second place will be very interesting. I think Norge or Australia will take it. Tough to say and give out any predictions.
E
1. Polska
2. België
3. Scotland
4. Colombia
World Champion Poland will go through for sure, no problem. Colombia is outsider, I think they won´t get any points. Belgie or Scotland - I think Belgium, they looked better in qualifications.
F
1. España
2. Schweiz
3. Brasil
4. Eesti
Espana and Eesti should be bettet than others. Eesti will win this group, Borkos is just too good in tactics. Brasil might surprise, but I don`t believe so - their current NT manager isn`t good at tactics. Schweiz is the outsider and will have no chances imo.
G
1. Deutschland
2. Argentina
3. Canada
4. Belarus
I´d say that Germany and Argentina are the favourites. Belarus might surprise and steal some points. Canada....Dunno why, but I hope they will play good.
H
1. Nederland
2. Česká republika
3. Danmark
4. USA
The strongest group in this World Cup! Nederland is the favourite for sure, and getting 1-2. place shouldn`t be a problem.
USA was terrible in qualification phase, theit nt manager is not good tactician. So I guess Česká republika might go through aswell. Danmark is the joker, might surprise.