BristolUK

A couple of things help.
Accept that it's a different game - much like men's and women's tennis, albeit perhaps not so different as it used to be - and embrace the differences like the (relative) absence of serial divers and whingers.

Also accept there are some things they are less able to do but recognise the improvements. For example, just a couple of years ago any sort of lofted shot just under the bar was a guaranteed goal because the keepers couldn't jump and reach. Now they are better in that respect. But this is the same as watching kids with full size goals; you don't think any less of them being unable to reach a high shot.

Of course it also helps if the matches are played at "proper" venues. I sat down to watch a televised match last weekend that involved a fair sprinkling of international players but it was like a match "up the park" on a pitch with a small stand each side.

That's fine for your local County League, division 2 match but not a top level game. Even Liverpool vs Man City wouldn't be right at a place like this

Beoz

It's a sad state of Australian football when they need to pick people from the A League

spouse of scouse

Well done Socceroos

Beoz

I am a doubter but great to see that.

brits1

A fab win and well deserved they worked so right hard up until the final whistle, it’s looking like an interesting World Cup.

the troubadour

Another favoured team Germany out. Australia meets Argentina next. Now that would be history in the making if they were beaten. (Argentina) How well has Japan done to head their group? I'd go for Brazil to take the cup. Portugal an outsider but looking good.

brits1

I watched both games (I had to keep turning over the channels lol) the Japanese 2nd goal definitely looked out but glad they progressed as it makes it all the more interesting at one stage it looked like Costa Rico and Japan would go through. South Korea v Portugal today, maybe another shock exit.

scotty9000

The socceroos kept it exciting until the whistle, shame about the gk blunder. One of the best 16 international sides in the world. Great achievement.
Now, come on England!!

spouse of scouse

Yes to all of that

Beoz

Yep. Did very well considering the quality of the team. Quality will never improve here while they keep poorer kids from progressing.

England France is mouth watering

brits1

Sacre Bleu it had to be the French lol, it’s going to be a interesting one for sure, I just hope that Southgate chooses the best squad and not his favourite players. The Socceroos should be very proud they gave everything and that’s all you can wish for, let’s hope they build in this go further next time.

the troubadour

Portugal is doing very well (demolishing Switzerland 6-1 last night , without Renaldo) Now probably the easiest match of the remaining eight against Morocco. (well done Morocco to get to this stage) Great game in prospect between England and France. Probably place my money on the latter though, but hope England can pull it off. Croatia no slouches either.

brits1

It was a great game we’ll dine to Morocco it’s always good to have new countries “in the mix” but my oh my those Spanish penalties were “soft” this seems to be a bit of a trend at the moment., It’s a bit sad how Ronaldo is behaving he should be going out of the game with good grace it is tarnishing his glittering football career

scotty9000

Marco Tilio has been bought by Celtic. Big loss for Melbourne City but hopefully will help his development for further Socceroos games.

Beoz

Nice transfer fee no doubt.