Thread to discuss the qualifiers and later final tournament the best international competition in the world, not stained with inferior Asians and Africans (except France & Belgium), although sadly missing the Americas. Expanded to 24 teams which is a bit iffy since 16 was plenty I thought, but pretty much should make sure the best teams and players are all there. Early call is a France v Spain final.
Expanded tournament is an awful idea, especially as 3rd place getting through in the group stage is dire, but it should save us English some stress through the qualifying phase In theory
I like the expansion, as do most fans of countries that wouldn't expect to make it otherwise, but I agree that it sucks that it messes with the group stages and those are the best part. Just make it 32 teams and get it over with, we know it'll happen eventually anyway.
Making it 24 teams or 32 teams has basically ensured that I have no interest whatsoever in watching any of the pool games. Why would I when almost everyone gets through anyway?
Shit, that changes everything. What's the point of even having a tournament if Notsure isn't going to watch it? Cancel the whole thing imo. No reason for it to exist anymore. I'd be glad to see both doing well, but probably like Ireland ever so slightly more.
& when several of the 54 are micro-countries like Andorra, San Marino, Lichtenstein, the Faroes and now Gibralter it makes even less sense. As recently as 1976 (in my lifetime, being an old get and that) the finals tournament was limited to 4 teams.
Kolarov sent off from the bench today and Matic sent off a minute after. Serbia maaaaad Also Greece came from behind 3 times to win. Good thing I cashed out my bet on Hungary while they were still leading
Really praying for a miracle with the Dutch. Appalling from them to let it get this far, IMO it goes back to not appointing Koeman, he built the formation with Feyenoord that LVG took to the World Cup, Hiddink and Blind have both been terrible managers in the qualifying.
Turkey to lose and a Dutch win. Can't see Turkey losing at home to Iceland who have one of the biggest away trips (distance wise) and nothing to play for.