After having some time to think about it, I'm a little more 'depressed' about the loss than last night. Above all, it feels like we had a chance and didn't take it. Sure, we exceeded expectations overall, but once it's there for the taking it's a shame when you don't get to the final. I keep going round in circles in my head about the whole thing, apologies for rambling! I thought LVG was unlucky with BMI's injury (it's been confirmed he had to go off due to a knock). De Jong was a calculated risk and I still agree with it. Messi looked particularly dangerous in the first half (invisible after that) and de Jong played well. RVP was just not fit towards the end of that match otherwise he would have kept him in there as well in ET. At least if he had the choice between KJH and Krul. I really don't think Argentina has the qualities of a champion, but then again neither team does. Am sure the Argies would have felt the same had we taken it. It's not as cruel a defeat (no pun intended) as we didn't dominate and get knocked out as with out traditional Dutch style (98, 2000 in particular - still kinda hurts to think about that). We squeezed the most we could out of these oranges, so to speak. But I still have a double feeling with this match that I can't shake. I think I will remember the whole thing with fondness however. Some good memories: 2 goals at the end of Mexico match, amazing turnaround Memorable victory against Spain with some nice football Couple of beautiful goals, e.g. RVP header Robben finally confirming of being worthy amongst Messi, Ronaldo, Zlatan, etc (in my opinion) Penalty shootout win LVG with some tactical solutions that worked, great to see Germany Final: It would be a travesty if they don't take it. If we can't win (even with slightly ugly football sometimes), I always like to see the team that plays the football take the trophy. And Germany has certainly been the most positive. It would be good to see a creative generation of players be rewarded, encouraging the idea that you can win with good football as well. Hopefully we'll have a FULL generation of good players come through for next time and that the guys from the Eredivisie will be playing for top clubs.
I am sure he did what he had to do. Know this, the final is a new chapter. There is the favorite but Argentina has proven itself to be a resilient opponent. I think he got critized not because he took a 36 year old striker to the WC but by doing so he released two forwards who were in his preliminary 30 men roster.
Van Gaal stated Vlaar wasn't the first option for penalties, he had two other players in mind but they didn't want to shoot. Way to let your team down, being a midfielder/striker but letting a central back shoot the first penalty. Wouldn't nominate these guys again.
Agreed, it's a bit annoying. I mean if it's between two guys who can take good penalties and one says no, it's being honest and makes sense. But if two decent penalty takers said no and then proceeded to let Vlaar take the first one, it's a little shameful. But hey, ifs and buts now. Was really hoping for a final with Germany! Germany are favourites, I'm thinking more 65/35. It's funny when people jump to conclusions and say Germany will destroy Argentina, particularly after Brazil. I think the game will look entirely different and Argentina will be well organised and closed. Brazil were leaving gaps everywhere. The only way I see Germany destroying Argentina is if they score early and even then I highly doubt a high score. But hey, crazier things have happened.
Funny comment by Louis Van Gaal, Ace. He stated he taught Romero how to save penalties (You thought Romero had bad instincts) Having coached Romero in 2009 at AZ Alkmaar, when they won the Eredivisie championship.
You guys all took me seriously? I thought it was obvious I was messing with the Löw detractors (with whom I agree) but I have seen it written that this was some kind of plan which is ridiculous.
So pumped to see Messi in the Finals. Although he hasn't been performing at his GOAT level (most likely due to Sabella's conservative/defensive tactics and him not regaining his fitness level), Messi can put the stamp down with a great performance on Sunday.
He always takes the last. But i agree that one of our better shooters should take the first one (robben imho).
Meh but not all the time, not when the two teams are traditional powers and are devastated at not reaching the finals(unlike say a Croatia or Turkey). The Dutch were not in the mood in 98 vs Croatia at all. Also, where've you been the whole time? Spending the WC on Bigsoccer and giving them your posts instead of spending time with us, us, your CF friends an family on here. Is this how you treat us DrLudicrous? You just cast us aside when a major international tournament arrives, so you can go spend time with that harlot that is Bigsoccer? We are your internet family don't you ever forget that. (Lol just kidding breh:grin
