ENGLAND
Photo: EvertonFC.com
Nikica Jelavić played the full match for Everton at midweek in a 1-0 loss to Arsenal. Jelavić committed four fouls and only managed one shot on goal as Arsenal controlled ball possession for 62% of the match. Jelavić was called for an obvious flop during the match, following a chase with a Gunner defender. But Everton and Jelavić made up for it on Saturday, defeating Swansea 2-0 on the road. Leighton Baines scored off a curling free kick in the 59th minute and Marouane Fellaini found a wide open Nikica Jelavić in front of the net 76 minutes through to cap a 2-0 victory.
Jelavić is making the best of his opportunities at Everton since coming over from Rangers in January. If he keeps this form up, he is a sure lock to start for Croatia during Euro 2012.
Jelavić goal @ 0:40
Photo: AFP
Luka Modrić played the full 90 minutes against preseason club of interest Chelsea on Saturday. With Chelsea only five points behind Tottenham for England’s last Champions League spot going into this match, Spurs could have distanced themselves with the right result or shot themselves in the foot. After a scoreless and conservative first half, the game opened up for the last 45 minutes. Shots and headers were ringing off the woodwork for both clubs with Modrić working his magic in crunch time. Modrić lobbed a perfect pass to Spurs striker Emmanuel Adebayor late in the second half, not only keeping him onside, but putting the ex-Togo international on a breakaway as well. Adebayor made the cut, had Chelsea goalie Petr Cech beat, but didn’t put enough on the shot as defenseman Gary Cahill came to the rescue to deflect the ball out.
The game would end 0-0 with Tottenham keeping their five-point lead on Chelsea going into the last 10 games of the season. They should be happy with the result even though they deserved the win. Niko Kranjčar remained on the bench for Tottenham for the Chelsea match but started in the midweek encounter against Stoke City. He was pulled off at halftime in the 1-1 draw. It doesn’t look like Kranjčar will get much PT down the stretch run.
Ivan Klasnić came on for David Ngog in the 79th minute in a 2-1 win over Blackburn on Saturday. The match was an emotional one as it was Bolton’s first action since the Muamba collapse. Klasnić had little to do as Blackburn pressed for a goal in the closing minutes. With the win, Bolton remain one point free of relegation with one game in hand as their midweek match with Aston Villa was postponed due to the collapse of Fabrice Muamba. Bolton and Tottenham will replay that FA Cup quarterfinal match this Tuesday.
Germany
Photo:Bundesliga
Mario Mandžukić scores his 10th goal of the year against Hamburg on Saturday
Wolfsburg are thinking of a place in Europe next season after beating Hamburg 2-1 in a northern Germany derby on Friday. The Wolves have won three straight and find themselves only three points shy of Werder Bremen for the final Europa League spot in the highly competitive Bundesliga. Former Dinamo Zagreb striker, Mario Mandžukić, started and played the full 90 minutes for Wolfsburg in the win. After a scoreless first half, Mario opened up the scoring for the hosts just seconds after the restart by racing behind the defense and heading in a beautiful cross from Ashkan Dejagah.
Mario Mandžukić goal
Super Mario also came close to scoring in the opening minutes of the game, but his shot came off the side netting. Mario has been nearly unstoppable in the air this season for Wolfsburg, scoring ten goals in 25 matches this season.
“It was immensely important to win because now we will have nothing more to do with relegation,” he said. “Now the fans don’t need to panic until the end either.”
Mladen Petrić (center) couldn’t get anything going against Wolfsburg
HSV couldn’t get anything going at the Volkswagen Arena and finished the game with only one shot on goal. Former Croatian international, Mladen Petrić, started and played the full 90 minutes for the visitors. Mladen had a couple of half chances at goal and was fouled a game high six times. The 31-year-old striker probably doesn’t care as much since he will not be returning to Hamburg at the end of the season. Petrić has only managed six goals and one assist in 20 Bundesliga games for Hamburg this season.
“When you are in the lower regions of the table, bad luck tends to happen to you. We have had more than our fair share of it in the recent past.”
~Mladen Petrić after the game
Ivo Iličević(left) in action against Wolfsburg
German born Croatian, Ivo Iličević, made his fourth consecutive start for Hamburg on Friday. Ironically, Hamburg registered their fourth consecutive defeat as well. Ivo started and played 80 minutes in the loss. The Croatian international has struggled to get Hamburg over the hump and as a result they now find themselves in the relegation zone for a second time this season.
PHOTO: APA/EPA/Federico Gambarini
Ivan Perišić(right) scores for Dortmund on Sunday
After falling behind early in the 13th minute of play, Borussia Dortmund embarrassed Köln with six unanswered goals to keep the yellow submarine on course for consecutive Bundesliga titles. Former Hajduk Split midfielder, Ivan Perišić, came on in the 73rd minute for Kevin Großkreutz and scored Dortmund’s sixth goal just ten minutes later after beating the Köln offside trap and slotting the ball past a helpless Michael Rensing. Mato Jajalo sat this one out because of a red card suspension.
Ivan Perišić goal
Mario Gomez didn’t even want to look at Ivica Olić after subbing in for him on Saturday
Ivica Olić received a rare start for Bayern München against Hannover 96 as Jupp Heynckes opted to rest some of his starters for Bayern’s upcoming Champions League game on Wednesday. Ivica started in the lone strikers’ role in place of top goalscorer Mario Gomez and only managed one shot on goal after missing a one-on-one with the keeper. The former Dinamo Zagreb striker lasted only an hour as Mario Gomez came in and scored the game winner for the Bavarians. Bayern won 2-1 to keep pace with Dortmund atop the Bundesliga table.
Danijel Pranjić(right) in action against Hannover 96 on Saturday
Danijel Pranjić was also given a chance to impress as Jupp Heynckes opted to rest Thomas Müller for Wednesday’s Champions League game against Olympique Marseille. The 30-year-old Croatian international was subbed out for Anatoliy Tymoschuk in the 57th minute of play in the win. Danijel helped Bayern keep a clean sheet while he was in the game and picked up a yellow card after fouling Lars Stindl in the 7th minute of play.
Krassimir Balakov leaves Hajduk and joins FC Kaiserslautern
Former Hajduk Split manager, Krassimir Balakov, made his debut for FC Kaiserslautern on Saturday and faces an uphill battle to save his new team from relegation after registering a 2-0 loss at Freiburg. Kaiserslautern are dead last on the Budesliga table and seven points behind Freiburg for the final safe spot. HNL’s leading scorer, Ivan Santini, was left on the bench by Christian Streich for Freiburg in the loss.
Vedran Ćorluka is still recovering from injury as Bayer Leverkusen were shutout 2-0 at Schalke 04. Bayer have lost three of the four games without Vedran. Andre Mijatović looks to have lost not only his captaincy but his place on the Hertha Berlin squad after missing Hertha’s 3-1 win at Mainz 05. Andre hasn’t played since coming on in the 83rd minute against Werder Bremen on March 3rd. Srdjan Lakić remains sidelined because of a knee injury as Hoffenheim picked up a valuable win against Borussia Mönchengladbach on Sunday. The 28-year-old, former Hertha striker has been recovering since March 4th.
France
Dejan Lovren scores against Sochaux
Lyon extended their winning streak to four matches after registering a 2-1 win over Sochaux at Stade Gerland on Saturday. Former Dinamo Zagreb defender, Dejan Lovren scored his first goal in a Lyon uniform after finding the back of the net in the third minute, heading home a Kim Kallstrom free kick. The 22-year-old, Croatian international played the full 90 minutes and looks to be a shoe-in to start for Slaven Bilić and Croatia at Euro 2012.
“I’m really focusing on OL and I’m glad to be in Lyon. I want to win a trophy with OL. It’s been two years since I’ve been here and I want to win with this club. If they talk about me elsewhere, it makes me happy, it’s good for me. But my priority is OL.”
~Dejan Lovren for Le Progres on Wednesday
Dejan Lovren goal
UKRAINE
Photo: Shakhtar.com
Darijo Srna returned to the Shakhtar lineup on Friday after serving a two-match ban due to a yellow card accumulation. With Shakhtar up 1-0, Srna let Volyn midfielder Pilipchuk by him in the 39′ to tap in a cross coming through the box. Srna clearly didn’t meet his defensive responsibilities on the play which should worry those of you whose would like Srna to play right back for Croatia during Euro 2012. Srna was saved by an Adriano penalty in the 88′ to give Shakhtar a 2-1 win which keeps them three points behind Dynamo Kiev with only six games left to play in the Ukrainian season. Eduardo remains sidelined with a minor hamstring injury but should be back in the next 2-3 weeks.
Srna (33) can’t keep up on defense @ 0:43
Ivan Strinić (above) is back in the mix for Dnipro after starting 2012 off with an injury. The Croatian defenseman played the full 90 minutes for Dnipro in a 3-1 win over Zorya on Saturday. The win keeps Dnipro on track to play in Europa League next season. Nikola Kalinić received the start but was subbed out for Dnipro in the 70′. Still no production out of Kalinić in 2012. He will be lucky to even make Croatia’s final squad for Euro 2012 at this pace. Ivan Klasnić and Mladen Petrić should be selected before Kalinić.
Ognjen Vukojević played the full 90 minutes in a narrow 1-0 Dynamo Kiev win over Illichivets on Sunday. The win keeps Dynamo three points ahead of rivals Shakhtar for the Ukrainian lead with only six games remaining in the season. The champion receives automatic entry into next year’s Champions League group stage.
Who you got as defensive midfielder? Vuki or Dujmović?
RUSSIA
Stipe Pletikosa(left) watches as a light scuffle breaks out against Fakel Voronezh
Rostov had the quarterfinals of the Russian Cup, which started in April of 2011, on Wednesday. They played against Fakel Voronezh, a second division team. Despite playing an inferior side at home and being up a man for the final 50 minutes, Rostov was unable to score and it went to penalties. Rostov were able to pull it out 4-3 and play at Rubin Kazan in the semi-finals on April 11th. Pletikosa was left out of the side for unknown reasons.
Pletikosa started once again for Rostov on Sunday as they returned to league play against Spartak Nalchik. Rostov continued their winning ways, pulling out a 2-1 victory. The win leaves them in 2nd in the relegation group, and all but mathematically clear of relegation.
SPAIN
Tomislav Dujmović started again for Real Zaragoza in their big 1-0 win over Atletico Madrid. He had a headed chance but wasn’t able to put it on goal. He was subbed off in the 49th minute. They remain in last place, but are now six points from safety with nine games remaining.
Ivan Rakitić and Sevilla play at home to Granada on Monday.
Next Matches:
Tuesday, 3/27
Bolton Wanderers at Tottenham Hotspur(FA Cup)(Fox Soccer+ 2:30PM EST), Everton at Sunderland(FA Cup)
Wednesday, 3/28
Bayern München at Olympique Marseille(Champions League)(Fox Sports Net 2:45PM EST)
Friday, 3/30
Stuttgart at Borussia Dortmund
Saturday, 3/31
Bolton Wanderers at Wolverhampton, West Bromwich at Everton, Bayern München at Nürnberg, Freiburg at Bayer Leverkusen, Wolfsburg at Hertha BSC, Köln at Augsburg, Hamburger SV at Kaiserslautern, Real Zaragoza at Sporting Gijón, Dnipro at Tavriya, Rostov at Volga
Sunday, 4/1
Swansea City at Tottenham Hotspur(Fox Soccer Channel 11AM EST), Schalke 04 at Hoffenheim, Palermo at Bologna, Olympique Lyon at Stade Rennes, Shakhtar Donetsk at Vorskla, Chornomorets at Dynamo Kyiv
Monday, 4/2
Mallorca at Sevilla
~Ante Kvartuč and Denis Svirčić reporting from sunny Southern California, Zach Gilfix reporting from Minneapolis, MN
@Blackzodiac – ti si budala lol!
@HNK DALMATINAC CRNO
“I hate when people are also proud of the ustasa era i am proud of the 1990-1995”
Well said, X2
@ARMADA87
“But when you become a puppet state”
Some one who finally shows some background in knowledge in what they’re speaking of.
@nije bitno
“i think its a shame that people like Damir Kajin banned Thompson from singing in Pula (arena).”
Political gains.
“See that’s the problem, when you have a region that has that mentality ( which is a jugo way of thinking)”
Explain.
“To me”
“when I”
“you in my eyes”
“I’ve been”
All your arguments are personal beliefs not facts, it amuses me how you can continue a debate with such claims.
“during the show there was one person talking on behalf of Croatia’s history/past and what had happened during ww2 and these camps, and his name was Ivo Goldstein, a professor from ZG Univ I think, and yes he is a jew”
Why not, who knows the the ovens better then the Jews.
“My friend, jews control the media”
CNN: Ted Turner, not Jewish
“Turner’s latest outburst calling Israel a terrorist state (see Eric Fettmann’s fine op-ed column in yesterday’s Post) is just the latest slur the media billionaire and patron of the anti-Jewish United Nations has cast.”
BBC: Owned by the British crown , founded by a non jew.
Fox: is owned by news corp ( and owns other news outlets around the world) in which is own by Rupert Murdoch who is non Jewish.
Few examples that debunk your theory, bring facts to a debate not personal views & nonsense.
“Tell me, why is it not ok to say Merry Christmas anymore ?”
You must be from the western countries correct? It’s politics.
“Who do you think is behind all that.”
Politicians who are looking for votes, what better then reaching out to non white immigrants who are a big number & rising.
“To anyone who says they are istrian, dalmatian, etc, I feel sorry for them, they are uneducated and stupid. To me, your either a serb, croat, slovene, etc.”
Nothing wrong in showing pride in where you are from, I myself take pride of being a “Karlovac people” as many of my older figures on my fathers side of the family would say.
@mali HRVAT
“My church, has a Palestinian Christian wood carver sell his wares annually, prior to Christmas. After the homily the priest allows him to talk to the congregation for a few minutes about his experience in Israel. His stories are quite sad and I believe to be factually accurate.”
There are always two sides to the story, Israel is surrounded by enemies, launching rockets into their territory every week.
At least they aren’t saran wrapping people alive and dropping them into mortar pits as we did.
Jebali vas utase i partizani pivaj brate zivili Hrvati!
@ Ante -I always come on this site to talk sports and with no intent on getting into politics but when I see some of the stuff these people write I can’t hold back.
I kad mi je tesko, ja pjevam sve jace – pravi Ustasa nikada ne place!
Renato,
Samo tako stari. Please take over the reigns for me and this crusade of true hrvatstvo. You be the voice of reason
Bog i Hrvati
Za Dom Spremni
@Colin:
Jews definitely have a disproportionate amount of political power in America. If you tell a Jew that Israel is not a true democracy because they have millions of Christians and Muslims living in internment camps, they will call you an Anti-Semite. I am not pro or anti Jew, but they are using the Holocaust as an excuse for their own poor behavior.
My church, has a Palestinian Christian wood carver sell his wares annually, prior to Christmas. After the homily the priest allows him to talk to the congregation for a few minutes about his experience in Israel. His stories are quite sad and I believe to be factually accurate.
Join me in the political forum to talk about it.
fellas, fellas, fellas….
always gets heated with political talk. You all make some good points, but I wil not get into it.
Hopefully, Armada87 and I will hook up in New York for a couple drinks to dissect this in person.
Anyone else in NY? I had the honor of attending a Nets-Pacers game with AllenOutraged at the “Mecca of basketball” in New Jersey last night. Allen is a character, thats my boy. Dude knows his shit about bball.
Sitting 6 rows up behind the backboard, I got Joey Crawford to give a thumbs up after heckling him. Good times.
I will be in town for a few more days. Hit a bratic up.
Be cool
@nije bitno – “My friend, jews control the media”
hahahaha. Oh my. You sound like you’re 85 years old. You know who really controls the media? Me. People like me who write the stories and fill the media with advertising and influence how others think. God bless my job.
@Nije Bitno
I got Ivo Goldstein’s book “Croatia” as a gift, and when I researched the author I realised this guy’s views are not gonna be the same as the views of my family in Sovici, and Ljubuski.
I think there are some political forums on this site.
Say hello to Wallace while you are in there.
Hej remember the war in croatia the pravoslavni hrvatis fault, all they had to do was say that they are croatian but of orthodax religion thoe pravoslavni hrvati are assholes and dont konw shit about erbia never been to seriba yet they are some how serbian i see them everyday in zadar okolica crno, pojica,and more they are brain washed assholes a guy from belgrad didnt come to my town and blow my house up and stole all my belongings, Lastley i am proud of being croatian i have traveled the world and i dont care what JEW SERB OR ANGLO Says about croatian i wouldnt live anywhere else.
@allHRVATI ZA HRVATSKU What do you think these so called croats think about Our Ustase cardinal Stepinac the man is a Mayrtr they probably think he is evil aswell I cant believe these stupid selfhating Idiots -U-
@ ARMADA87 War is not pretty.Just because a white guy killed a black guy your gonna blame all white guys and hate your self… I dont get you guys….Ante Pavalic N.D.H should be digged.,…..
,I cant belive you really mean that thing you said about not disliking the serb you met from beograd, even though maybe he is nice to you and shows you no poltical side of him, that means you would put your arm around him call him your pal and bring him home Huuuh, might aswell spit on all of your families graves that have been done not good by them because I know how they are they cannot stand your so called croat face and blood BELIEVE ME…..your relatives would be rolling over in their graves, well I dunno about yours but mine certainly would-U-
You said…… “Most Istrians believe in Istra, first and foremost.”
See that’s the problem, when you have a region that has that mentality ( which is a jugo way of thinking) they are worthless to me as part of croatia.
Croats have been fighting and dying for hundreds of years not to be associated with a group that they do not belong to, ei jugoslavija.
Croats feared the Udba because they couldn’t say what they believed in.
To me when I hear someone call them selves as a Slav,Dalmatian, Istrian, and not Croatian, you in my eyes are a jugoslav. I’ve been to these “istra clubs” in the past, and not one thing represents them as being Croats.
And getting back to what you said earlier about not listening to baba i dida in the backyard…. Who else are you going to listen to ? Where do you think authors get there information from when they are writing a book ?
Listen, last year the military channel had a special about ww2 and the nazi collaborators, and it was about Dinko Sakic, during the show there was one person talking on behalf of Croatia’s history/past and what had happened during ww2 and these camps, and his name was Ivo Goldstein, a professor from ZG Univ I think, and yes he is a jew. Now how is someone (jewish) that represents .0001 percent of the Croatian people going to go on tv and talk about our history and what happened during ww2. Would a jew ever let anyone outside of there own get a high position to educated there own ? NO chance.
My friend, jews control the media, pay attention to the books you read, next time look at the name of the author. Every tv station is controlled by them.
Did the holocaust happen ? Yes it did, did 6 million jews get killed, I doubt it. Why aren’t the Croats remembered by the jews, why are we always making excuses for them.
Tell me, why is it not ok to say Merry Christmas anymore ? Who do you think is behind all that. Why did Ron Paul not get invited to a republican debate the week after he said ” usa should not support israel”, but all the other candidates who said we must support israel was invited? Why is that guy who killed that kid in florida, Zimmerman not in jail ? Because he is jewish and his father in a big time judge.
To anyone who says they are istrian, dalmatian, etc, I feel sorry for them, they are uneducated and stupid. To me, your either a serb, croat, slovene, etc. Tell those other idiots who are still crying that tito is dead to go to hell.
Let me ask you this, what is your opinion on Thompson being banned from playing in Pula, but having serb singers perform is ok ?
@ARMADA87
I wish everybody would think like you, and me.
It takes to be from Istra or Dalmacija to understand how you feel to be “used as a bargaining chip” by your own “fathers”.
Your analysis on the subject sumerized my feelings on it. Thanks.
I understand what you are saying but it wasn’t just Istra under control of the Austrian Hungarian empire, Venice or Italy. I’m a Dalmatinac and we were occupied as well. Hell all of Cro was occupied by the austro – hungarian empire. I don’t see the rest of us saying I’m dalmatinac first then croat, same goes for slavonci, zagorci etc. Their may be a few but are completely a minority. As for Istra i think its a shame that people like Damir Kajin banned Thompson from singing in Pula (arena). That doesn’t happen in cro other than in Istra. Why? Its frustrating to me cause i see Istra as jewel of Hrvatska its beautiful. All of cro is full of great traditions and I’m proud of all of them. I went to the post office in istra and the lady would only talk to me in Italian lol i spoke cro to her she responded in Italian. She understood everything i said but refused to speak it back. Cro has alot of rich history but who knows, maybe if it wasn’t for the radicals maybe it wouldn’t be cro anymore, we could be Turks, Austrians and so on. My arguement is, Istra wasn’t the only place occupied by others but yet we have this problem with Istirani the most. Why?
On last extra thing I forgot to mention in all of this
The NDH and the ustasa did have some right ideas and direction. First and foremost, they were looking for a free and independent Hrvatska. Kudos to them for fighting for that. But when you become a puppet state, then blend Croatian patriotism with Nazism and go off and kill hundreds of thousands of people. The bad outweighs the good in this instance.
How could we be followers, when regimes were forced upon us? Italy, Venice, Austria-Hungary, etc. We didn’t decide to follow these regimes or nation states. Istra was usually used as a bargaining chip when lines were redrawn. It even happened after the war in the 90’s. There were talks of us going back to Italy but Tudjman wasn’t stupid enough to let that happened. Then when elections came, he thought that by keeping Istra in Hrvatska and campaigning hard in Istra, he could make the region HDZ, meanwhile IDS sweeped the entire region anyway lol.
Back to my point though. Us Istrians aren’t confused at all. Most Istrians believe in Istra, first and foremost. Our food, music, culture, way of life is different from say Hrvati from Zagorje or Slavonia, etc. Most Istrians view themselves as Istrian first, Croatian second. Most of my family (dad’s side) is like that, due to the reasons I mentioned in my previous post. Personally – I’m not like that. I see myself as Croatian first, Istrian second. I wanted to make my own, informed decisions; I read up a lot on Croatian history, eventually majored in political science with a concentration on Eastern Europe and came to my own conclusions. My baba and dida as well as parents had plenty of stories for me as well. But that isn’t the end all, be all for me.
We don’t stick up for ourselves? lol Again, let me reference the foibe killings. We were being Italianized, Istra became Jugoslavija and as the Italians started to head back, the ones that decided to stick around we threw into naturally made sinkholes. If that’s not sticking up for ones homeland, culture, identity – I don’t know what is. Was it right,? No. But we got sick of what Mussolini was trying to jam down our throats and we acted against it.
And just to reiterate. I’m not pro-jugoslavija; obviously that was just a nightmare for all involved. I was just taught not to hate someone just because they’re Bosniak, Serb, Italian, etc. Do I like what certain Serb groups, regimes, the government promote? Of course not. But am I going to hate someone I just met because they’re from Beograd? Without even getting to know them? Of course not. That’s ignorance at its finest. But if they start telling me how they’re a cetnik supporter, think Kninska Krajina should be part of Greater Serbia, etc. well then… we would have trouble on our hands.
I’m Croatian first, Istrian second. But I don’t endorse everything just cause it’s Croatian. The NDH debacle and our current government wanting to go to the EU are two quick examples of things that Croatia pursued or have pursued and I don’t believe in. I also don’t agree with Istra’s attempt to become autonomous region. I just like to research what’s going around me, make informed decisions and take everything with a grain of salt.
Its all because you guys don’t know what you really believe in.
@ Armada – let me just clear up a heated situation. Some of the things you say i agree with, the whole Ustasa thing is a messed up situation, just because your an anti Ustasa doesn’t make you a non Hrvat. I agree with the NDH politics, but of course not the murdering.
But where you say…. “I was raised never to really believe in any of the politicans, regime, etc. (NDH, Jugoslavija, etc.) Many Istrians are the same way. We’ve been fucked over and taken over by so many different regimes (Austria, Austria-Hungary, Jugoslavija, Venice, Italy, etc.)” That is why Istriani are lost in my opinion because they are a bunch of followers and not leaders. You guys have been fucked over cause you don’t know how to stand up for yourselves and what you guys believe in. Excluding Grobnicari, i know they are hardcore personally.
@ Armada – hahahaha What side was your family on in the domovinski rat? have you ever heard of Vukovar and or Skabrnja? Da nije bilo HRVATA ko bi branija Hrvatsku za vrime domovinskog rata? nebi tvoji to je sigurno! Ako ti smeta hrvatstvo idi na neko jugo/srb stranicu i slusaj cecu jebenti sve, tebi i ceci i svakog jugoslovena i partizana!
@ nije bitno
First off, have you attended school past high school?
“You want us to read books that have been written by Jews, Serbs or Communists? Cause those are the only other people that write about Croatia and its WW2 history, other than Croats.”
LMAO – yeah, those are the only people that right about Croatia and it’s history. I can give you 10 books/journals written by Western European scholars, Eastern European scholars (non Balkan) and American scholars. People who have no ties to anything Balkan. See, those types of people seek the TRUTH, not some brainwashed ideology or trying to promote their own agenda.
Fact of the matter is this. I find it hard that on this site that people who are pro-ustasa and parade around singing Evo Zore, Evo Dana can be proud about systematically killing hundreds upon thousands of Jews, Romani and Serbs. Do I really care much for Serbs, Jews or Romani? Not much, to be honest. Should they be killed due to there ethnic origin? NEVER. It’s like saying Germany should be proud of the Holocaust lol.
Lemme use another example that hits home to me and many Istrians. The foibe massacres. Personally, I don’t like Italians. ESPECIALLY Italians who claim that Istra and Dalmacija are part of Greater Italy. Personally, I hate them as much as Serbs. They Italianized Istra for hundreds of years and they deserve to suffer. But to throw thousands of Italians in a sinkhole? It makes me sick! It’s one thing to beat them militarily, but to throw innocent people in sinkholes, still alive usually with thousands of other dead bodies?! Disgusting.
And just to address your little barb you threw out there about Istra and Rijeka. Personally, I had family members of mine killed by your great Ustasa regime AND Partisani. I was raised never to really believe in any of the politicans, regime, etc. (NDH, Jugoslavija, etc.) Many Istrians are the same way. We’ve been fucked over and taken over by so many different regimes (Austria, Austria-Hungary, Jugoslavija, Venice, Italy, etc.) sometimes you lose count. Do you blame a lot of Istrians then for not being ustasa loving, ‘veliki hrvati’? And personally, not to toot our own horn, but that’s what makes us more modern and realists, compared to other sub groups and part of the reason why we are more region-centric. What regime/government can you trust? The one led by Ivo Sanader and his merry mafia?! Even now, the clowns who are pushing us into the EU are a bunch of crooks. I don’t need Ante Pavelic and the NDH or Tito to tell me ‘how to be Croatian’ or what being Croatian is. Know what I’m proud of? Our beautiful scenic country, our sporting achievements, our culture and our people (common people, not the crooks/mafia at the top). Don’t feed me bullshit that I should be proud of the mass killing of thousands. Do you realize now how fucking stupid you sound?
So you, Mate Bulic and the rest of veliki Hrvati who hate on Istra and can blow me for all I’m concerned.
So keep listening to stories from your baba and dida (who are in no way brainwashed of course lol) and don’t pick up the books. There bad for you and turn you into a self hating Hrvat/Jugo lover. At least that’s what I’ve heard…
Dobar dan!
Ed Jurak
@ tom,
I believe the parking lot around Dodger Stadium is also included in the deal.That’s huge!! That’s probably worth $200 million right there.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Croatian_sportspeople#Baseball
Micky Lolich
Wow, Dodgers talk on CSR!?!
Since you mention baseball, does anyone know of any Hrvati (whatever generation) that play in the Bigs?
The only one I’ve ever heard about was Roger Maris (his family name was Maras), but that was 50 years ago when the sport was a lot whiter.
Dodgers sell for 2 billion
Who is embarrassed of their history no me im proud dont care what a jew, serb or Anglo says about croatia there is alway 2 sides to a story but our side of it is true! I live in croatia and the biggest problem is the komunisti who till this day run the country but i wouldnt live anywhere else but croatia!
There are three sides to every story. Croats in Croatia still argue the Ustashe-Partizan debate.
The main thing I have learned from the majority of posters here is that there is an overwhelming amount of self hating ignorant Hrvati. Thank God for the few of us who aren’t and will always be proud. We few…we happy few…we band of brothers.
@Armada – Vidi se da si ti iz Rijeke! lol
Why would we read books from other authors? You want us to read books that have been written by Jews, Serbs or Communists? Cause those are the only other people that write about Croatia and its WW2 history, other than Croats. So you either believe one story or the other. Cinjenica je da pobjednici povijest pisu! unfortunately From 1945 to 1992 Croatians heads were brainwashed in school and out with Communist garbage due to our defeat in the 40’s. This is why people like you exist and down talk people like me. And yes i do sit in my backyard and listen to my Baba and Dida cause they lived it and never got brainwashed after it. Like Mate Bulic says in his song ” sva Istra i Rijeka jos se na vas ceka” lol i wonder why ARMADA!
When did Marko Livaja go to Inter? I always thought he was on Cesena.
@Dukic:
He is young and needs more playing time @ the club level.
http://www.24sata.hr/nogomet/prvak-europe-pa-debi-za-inter-livaja-pozvan-u-prvu-momcad-259661
pretty big time i think
@ HNK kad je sivalo i give up on the politics on this site I thought all Cros thought like the people i know i cant believe so called hrvsti on this site are embarressed of there own history do you think any other nationslity are barressed of there own history and thats no they might tell you they are but with there own kind they are not like the wops i know for example Ive witnessed it first hand with them agreeing with people they are embarressed of musolini era and then see them when there all with there own kind they praise and love the regimn ,So thats why if anybody gives a shit why stoping to convince people on this sit to love and have pride for everything Hrvati fought won lost and got slaughtered for over history all you self haters should be ashamed its good i know who you are so from now on its just soccer talk folks ziveli Hrvati za Hrvatsku za dom -U-
@ HNK it really is “Bleiburg” not “Blieburg”
@Jarac good point about Viduka. Although, i would like to add that he gave the finger to fans in Maksimir after getting booed while missing a sure goal, which did not do him any favours. But, in his defense he just got jacked from management, informing him he signed a 4 year term instead of the 3 year contract he thought he signed (his lawyer should have read the contract), right before he thought he would become a free agent. Also, IMO at this point in their careers i think Viduka was a much stronger player, but i hope Jelavic continues to develop…
@ Mihovil, good point about Biscan. He was definitely good enough to make the national team in his prime, but skipped out before a repka game and was banned by Markovic until he would apologize, which he subsequently never did…
Is Jelavic really that good?
The website below says it all:
“Everton created and missed a host of opportunities in the second-half, with Jelavic the main culprit”
http://www.goal.com/en/news/808/australia/2012/03/28/2996585/tim-cahill-hails-everton-team-spirit-after-fa-cup-victory
For anyone who missed the Jelavic goals today:
http://www.footygoalsoccer.com/facup-sunderland%20vs%20everton%2027-03-12.html
It’s a shame that Feillani overpassed that pass to Jelavic on the second goal (which was an autogol by the Sunderland defender). It was a clear break for Jelavic.
@mail Hrvat….I think Kalinic will be the type of player who will play at another 4 or so clubs moving forward. Someone who is OK and teams view with potential, but will always be a player that leaves you thinking he should do more.
Was going to the Ukraine a good move for him???? Tough to say. You go were the money is. He is no star, so you have to go where you will get paid so you can take care of the rest of your life post-soccer career.
@Ziva:
I like Kalinic, however he seemed to disappear in the Ukraine. Do you think he made a good move?
When he played for Blackburn, I thought he was on an island on his own up front. He would win his fair share of long balls only to be stranded in enemy territory by himself.
Everton play similar balls, but Jelavic always seems to have supporting runners waiting for him to win the ball.
I agree with Ziva about Pletikosa. He isn’t that old.
Additionally, his potential immediate replacements aren’t ready and/or will never be ready.
Did Vedran Runje completely retire? I am surprised he hasn’t wound up in Druga HNL like his brother.
Everton-Liverpool FA cup semifinal which will get ugly. Pray Jelavic doesn’t get hurt.
I’m not worried about Pletikosa for this tourney. If history is any factor, then we have nothing to worry about him. God help us if Kelava or even serb Subasic is ever the #1 GK for the repka.
As for Jelavic……i”m not sure what he will do for the repka, but it it encouraging to see him be able to score goals for Everton. If he keeps this up he will cement the starting role for at least the first match with Ireland.
This has been discussed before, Bilic will call up Kalinic to the roster for one simple reason. He produced in the qualifiers for the repka. He came in as a sub and scored.
I think Plete will either step up and be his old self or Italy/Spain will light him up and he’ll call it a career soon after the tournament. If he is done soon after the tournament, I really really hope Keleva gets his head on straight so he can become our #1 and hopefully be a bridge to Delac or Sluga, once they mature and get more experience.
@ anonymous haa nevolim da se svadam ode to sam napisa jednoj osobi na ovaj forum!
@mali HRVAT i think those choics are logical knowing Bilic it will be His boy kalinic who is not playing that well from what i read in the ukrainian news papers, i was also reading that Pletikosa is the weakest goalkeeper in euro 2012 he plays in the wort league hes in the relegation russian league the only possitive for him wa it said he is experience veteran this was in a magazine this morning!
@HNK DALMATINAC CRNO
“E blago nekima na ovu stranicu mislu da sve znaju a disi ste bili kad je grmilo!”
Kad se vec piva na ovoj stranici, zapivaj im ostalo od te pisme. Pitanje je oce li razumiti.
@Slavonac:
I agree that Olic will not receive the same service in MLS that he has had in the Bundesliga.
However, he chases down every ball in every game. Some of his best goals have come from his hustle alone.
Nice right footed cross/assist from Klasnic in Bolton’s FA Cup loss.
@HNK:
I agree about those 5 strikers.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-ycoIKJkMM Great Slaven Bilic song!
Jelavic will be great for everton he is a EPL type player.
Modric playing ok for tott and klasnic rare start i think bilic should bring klasnic back as 5th striker for euros Olic mandzo edi jelavic klasnic
@ TheGoldenChild
I never said he was not a good midfielder. In my previous post I said he was a great player.
Everyone knows my stance on the EPL in regards to talent as I made that abundantly clear on previous commentaries. Pirlo is older and is still capable of doing what he is doing because he has played his entire career in a league in which there is less traffic in his workspace environment compared to EPL midfielders. That is the gist of what I was trying to get at as it is much harder to be an effective midfielder in the EPL than Serie A and Andrea would say the same. Pirlo walks around for long stretches of time in Serie A. Good luck doing that in the EPL.
If Luka and Pirlo want to swap teams that is fine with me.
E blago nekima na ovu stranicu mislu da sve znaju a disi ste bili kad je grmilo!
@Mihovil
That’s fine that he’s not able to do it in the Prem. Doesn’t mean that he’s a lesser of a midfielder. Like we talked about last time, the Premiership is fun to watch but that doesn’t mean it’s the most talented. The guy is that much older than everybody else and still doing this. That’s what should be looked at the most.
I just fucking missed the goal. Turned on the game and saw 1-0. Ugh
Watching the Everton-Sunderland game right now and Jelavic just scored on a beautiful 1-timer off a low cross. Pure class. He is definitely our most potent goal scorer since Eduardo pre-injury. His confidence and comfort in shooting is what a lot of our players lack. Lets hope he can stay healthy until June.
Gospodin Jelavić!
New Inter boss Stramaccioni to give youth a chance – Marko Livaja
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/27032012/2/new-inter-boss-stramaccioni-give-youth-chance.html
I am not sure if this was mentioned or not?
http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/news/newsid=119080.html#biscan+barred+baric
http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/news/newsid=144306.html
I remember Niko Kovac and Zlatko Kranjčar tried to have him reinstated during the WC 2006 qualifiers without success.
He was solid during the 2004–05 UEFA Champions League Liverpool run and started in most of the games along the way. He sat in the final game.
Biscan may not be able to cut it in the MLS, but but word at the rumor mill says the Rijeka deal is looking more and more plausible every day. If he goes, I wish him luck.
Pirlo would never be able to duplicate what he does in Serie A over in the EPL. Great player, but that is not going to happen.
Stats Analysis: Europe’s Best All-Round Midfielders
http://www.whoscored.com/Blog/6o4clfgshu-bp0oyzb7u3w/Show/Stats-Analysis-Europes-Best-All-Round-Midfielders
2. Luka Modric (Tottenham): Combined Averages – 8.81
@TheGoldenChild I apologize I promise I will keep Politics out of it from NOW on o.k dude ? -U-
@Denis I need a new approval on my avtar thankya-U-
Not only do I share a common heritage to everyone here, I also enjoy your opinions and our discussions.
@The Golden Child:
Amen
Going onto the ESPN message boards to talk soccer is a fucking circus. Hvala bogu for us. Those guys make our message boards look like a tea party.
@JARAC thanks for the info -U-
Glad to know you know Croatian history to bad you are a sheepole HNK DALMATINAC CRNO what a disgrace you are ajde RUKE -U-
Glad to here Ante is well looking forward to his posts -U-
@ mali hrvat – if Olic goes to the MLS I think he’d be just as frustrated as Henri and Beckham…its hard to perform if guys cant make a first quick pass and spring you free…which is what makes Olic dangerous!
Galaxy&Hajduk – both are #1 teams
@ TheGoldenChild – you make good points.
several weeks ago I commented on the youth and the quality several clubs get for their youth for coaching. kids are taught about how to create an option for each other…trokut! one comment you made -“those guys are fit to run up and down. Their consistent movement (opening themselves up for a pass) is embarrassing. I would say they’re fit to run a marathon, but not to play a good 90 minutes – I’m glad you brought that up goldenchild! from a young age all european kids are taught to play in triangles…at every given moment…the player with the ball must have at least 2 options (triangle) and if you watch closely during all european games…they all open up for each other. it is the players responsibility who doesnt have the ball to open up and give the ball carrier an option.
@ziva – like I have said before…I like what you add here, you have a lot of common sense and you are normally logical and factual. I think 95% of the time when you lash out its for good reason…the rest of the time…I think you’re too smart a guy and it isnt congruent of all your other posts to say some of the things you do! I hope you get my point! with regards to your point about you knowing soccer…you do…and so do I…its always nice to read another persons perspective on many of the topics we discuss…some of course are more valuable than others!
God I wish I had time to do things on youth development.
@Ziva and Mali
Both good points. Our club team in college used to punk our college team. Out of shape, hungover, and what have you and we still understood what it took to win. Like you guys said, the players aren’t to blame at all, as many of them do have the talent. If the coach is American, he is usually piss poor. If he’s English, he’s usually been hired for his accent and a little more skill at the coaching position.
That’s how it used to be and still kind of is, but things are getting better. I’ve seen a couple of youth games 11-13, where kids are actually moving the ball around the pitch instead of what you see now.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=DThjb_XyyoU
The problem is that the English game has obviously taken shape for most of the upper youth leagues. With the big kids that the US produces, it’s easier for it to establish itself here.
Another thing is, most of the kids playing are wealthy or middle class, since fees and travel are so expensive. Most of the greatest have come from disenfranchised backgrounds, who used the game to make themselves happy when the rest of their lives were shit. This is a generalization from my perspective, but most of the poor kids here are in you latin american and black communities. If you’re anywhere south of the border, you play with guys that love to dribble and dive since that’s what their papas teach em. If you’re black, you’re most likely going basketball, football, or music. It’s not racist…it’s just the statistic.
Just some of the problems we have so far. I don’t want to keep writing because people usually stop reading by this point.
Yes I will be at the Cro v Italy game in Poznan
@Ziva:
PS : I just bought a cologne bottle of Corluka’s “dates” ass sweat off EBAY. That should really go well with the jersey I purchased.
@Ziva:
It was a hypothetical. What if? Could he? I agree, he will not be playing in the MLS.
The NCAA system is all about winning and not about further development of American youth. Speed and size take precedence over skill and strategy.
The U.S.N.T soccer school in Braderton Florida is a good start. Honestly, I think the U.S. is improving at a pretty good clip. I foresee the status quo in Croatia and an ever-improving MLS and USMNT.
Anecdotally, I see a lot more kids wearing soccer jerseys now then 20 years ago (crotch sniffers in training). Kids can watch high level games every week on basic cable, which was not the case during my childhood.
I never liked the name “Croatia Zagreb”. It was confusing to outsiders because they would never refer to them as “Croatia Zagreb”….just “Croatia”. I remember those Croatia vs Newcastle, or Croatia vs Celtic games for CL qualifying. I hated that it sounded like our national team was playing these club teams, lol.
History aside, I hate the name “Dinamo” with a passion. Then again, it’s not like HAŠK-Građanski really rolled off the tongue either.
HAŠK Zagreb would’ve been cool. Though the team really is more Građanski than HAŠK.
NK Zagreb should go back to PNIŠK, Concordia, or ŽŠK Viktorija.
Man, so much history, lol.
@Nizic,
Viduka was hated on by BBB due to the fact he was Tudjman’s boy. And Franjo brought him to Dinamo, once the fans turned on Tudjman they also turned on Viduka, some also believe the fact that he was diaspora and was not born in Cro had something to do with it. I think the beef with Tudjman had to do with the politics he brought to the soccer club and fans disliked the name change from Gradanski to Croatia Zagreb during 90’s, seen as a political move. Stupid hrvati BBB turning on there own!
I am sure Ante BBB can comment more on the issue, but that was my understanding of it. Sure there’s more involved.
Regarding Biscan……what makes anyone think MLS would be interested in him. He is not a big name and a history if injuries. He won’t come here because you need to be wanted.
@TheGoldenChild……well said about MLS. While not all of the league is like that, there is a large part of it that does play like that. Two reasons why: 1. there are too many teams in the league and an overall lack of talent. 2. it is a product of the US youth system and college system. If you ever want to shake your head, go watch college soccer. The kids are in great condition, but the skills level is low.
it’s an entire different conversation, but this is why Klinsmann was a total overhaul of the US youth system and the structural pyramid that is used
@The Golden Child:
I am trying to get into MLS, but my local team the Red Bulls is hard to watch. Henry routinely gets frustrated, Rafa mails in his performances, Agudelo never plays and Rodgers is a washed up 3rd division English striker.
It is a simple formula.
English style – $$$ – talented foreigners = CRAP (MLS)
I wish Olic, would go to Seattle. He would be fun to watch.
Only reason I can think why Rijeka would want Biscan is because he would be a “big name” by their standards. Former Liverpool player and NT defender? Maybe they think it will put butts in their seats and they will get a leader on their team. Plus it would be their way of sticking it to dinamo. At least their new owner is making it look like he’s trying.
@ HNK DALMATINAC CRNO
Hey, stop picking on Nizic. You’ve got him all wrong.
That -U- signature he signs every post with stands for UDBA.
😉
Watching an MLS game last night, and those guys are fit to run up and down. Their consistent movement (opening themselves up for a pass) is embarrassing. I would say they’re fit to run a marathon, but not to play a good 90 minutes. As we know, soccer is less about running a marathon and more about quick bursts. There is little to none of that in the MLS and that’s something that they need to change.
It’s pretty embarrassing the tactics they still have in place. Watching the Red Bulls game I could see Henry’s frustration building. They played the ball between the two defenders for way too much time. There is 0 creativity and it’s a “go and get the ball, after I punt it 40 yards” strategy. I would love to see what a squad of older bu more talented players would do against a bunch of some of these MLS teams.
That being said, I’m not sure if Biscan would want to leave Croatia to come play here. He’s not a big name, they aren’t going to pay him any kind of good money that would make it worth his while, and he’d be done in a couple years. If he doesn’t retire, I guess he ends up playing pickup games in the HNL.
@mali Hrvat…….a match worn Corluka jersey is only good if it has the stench of one his who whores. His selection of women leaves a lot to be desired. But, they are comical.
@slavonac…….trust me I know my soccer. Just nothing at this present moment to discuss. We can only debate the logics of a specific formation for so long. But, I understand your point.
Not sure why Rijeka would even be interested in Biscan. Not like he has excelled the last few years with Dinamo. Next to Tudor, Biscan is the biggest head case that has played in the HNL, probably even more so.
@Colin:
I agree. However, Dinamo and the NT aren’t exactly picky when it comes to central defenders. Here is a former Liverpool player who isn’t getting much playing time. There must be a valid reason.
Just because he doesn’t start for the NT doesn’t mean he isn’t fit for league play, and the reason he can’t start for dinamo is because of discipline or whatever bs. He’s gotta find somewhere else to go besides hnl.
@mali – True, but I don’t really expect him to play anywhere for 90 minutes. He’s almost 34, but there’s still some action in him. He’s fit. MLS isn’t a horrible and I can see him play here.
@Slavonac:
You have to take Ziva’s snarky side with a grain of salt. Previously, it annoyed me, now I just laugh even if I don’t agree.
@Poglavnik:
I think some people do wear Ziva’s name on their back and just don’t know it.
@Nizic:
I like having HNK here. My Croatian is improving because of his posts. Please don’t chase him away.
@Ziva:
I was looking for a match worn Corluka jersey on EBAY. Much to my chagrin, none smell like his crotch. Do you still think it is a good buy?
@Colin:
Do you think Biscan can play 90minutes in July @ Houston? MLS may be crap, but the players are physically fit.
If Biscan can’t start for Dinamo or the NT he must be pretty rough (Simunic starts for both).
@The Golden Child:
Viduka and Jelavic are similarly sized, good at heading and proficient at long ball tactics. Additionally, both have similar career trajectories through multiple weak leagues.
Viduka varied greatly in his career, and Jelavic will hopefully improve as he acclimates to a top 4 league.
I agree. I don’t even think Rijeka is much of a step up from the Dinamo reserves. Is there any juice left in him to play in another decent league? I’m sure he could be able to make some sort of run on an MLS team.
If Dinamo practice like juniors, Rijeka practices like AYSO elite. If I was Biscan I’d be asking my agent to send me to any other league.
@Nizic
Ante is alive. Guessing he’s prepping for his big interview on Wednesday with a Canadian great.
Oh Ziva telling us to wear his name on our back?? Didn’t I tell him to wear my name on his back not two days ago? You know, if such a shirt existed, I’d wear a Ziva Istina CSR shirt. You sniff my jock, I’ll sniff yours.
Anyway… Rumor on other sites is Rijeka is looking to sign Biscan. BS or is there any substance to that?
Nizic i live in croatia dont tell me about my history, and its blieburg ovco bez proslosti!
Ziva – I’ve always said you are articulate and can add to this site…your opinions are good and funny but never do you say anything that is clearly from a knowledge perspective or from experience because you learned from playing…you could be a broadcaster like several others who’ve never actually played the sport but they know facts and stats…its always an opinion thats safe, logical and factual. These silly cheap shots get old and you start to show a level of confidence but I have no idea why? it seems if you arent the centre of attention you have a tantrum and start insulting people…you should realx man…I don’t appreciate you attacking people for no reason…its not always funny! and I take back my comment about allowing you to have a weekly column…you have called out soo many people about behaving or making comments like a kid…you should look in the mirror!
@Ziva
Yeah I think everyone here knows your views on the topic. No need to cut and paste that redundant shit. If you were actually talented enough to have people wear your name on their backs then I’m sure you’d be the proudest little troll in the world!
@Poglavnik……hey, if you want to wear another man’s name on your back, that is your call. I never understood why someone would be willing to glorify another human being for being able to kick a ball.
It’s jock sniffing at its finest. Wearing a jersey of a team is fine as long as you don’t have a name on it. Anything more is questionable and distrurbing. If you really want to be a jock sniffer and wear someone’s jersey, then I suggest you put my name on your back.
@HNK DALMATINAC CRNO have you ever heard of Beliburg and the pilgrimages our families still take to Austria Im sorry but you too are a sheepole you fool -U-
Kupovanje pravde i mukte karte, vaša je cijena za umjetno slavlje!!!!
I hate when people are also proud of the ustasa era i am proud of the 1990-1995 decki su bili heroji i borili a danas svi bacaju podnoge Hvala 112 brigade!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Since we’re talking about Viduka, I wanted to say how I went to a Kaiser Chiefs concert in Vancouver on Saturday and borrowed my friends Viduka – Leeds United jersey to wear, since the band are from Leeds, and man did I get a ton of respect from some people in that crowd. Great live band, great player, and a very exciting team about 10 years ago.
I hope my jersey wearing is cool with you Ziva! 🙂
Thats have not seen anything from him lately ; have you guys ever thought of ever putting a delete post in incase of mistakes just sayin -U-
@Armada….I get your point. One of my biggest pet peeves is when I see people singing ustase tunes and they have no clue about the ustase.
That said, I enjoy singing ustase tunes. I won’t post a U or anything else on my posts, but I know our history. I know what the ustase did (some good, some bad) and the end result is they lost and winners get to write the history books.
Still, I rather glorify the ustase than give any credit to self-hating hrvati who loved the commies.
Anyway, enough of this, back to discussing soccer.
@ Denis by the way whare has Ante been is everything o.k have seen anything from the lad lately -U-
Mati pijvaj sine ziveli HRVATI !! za HRVATSKU krista protiv komunista -U-
@Ante you hit the nail on the head some people are PROUD of what ther Grandfather’s and daidove fought for and against Im sorry certain shepole are embarressed of what they are or maybe not what they are all I have to say is (Mene je moja naucila
Also, to be fair, I know that those “songs” were meant to be insulting to both us but just take it at face value. These lyrics are being posted by people, no worries.
Poruka svima: jebes internet, odite na tekme.
Armada,
Some of us are proud for what our djedovi and ocevi fought for, both in the 40s and 90s. Jedna jedina opcija, Hrvatska! No need for insults.
@ HNK
No, it doesn’t bother me that people on here sing ustase songs. I could give a shit what they sing and support. But my two cents? All you morons on here who are so proud of that piece of history need to be slapped. It’s like – do you guys read books? from non Croatian authors? Or are you just sitting in baba and dida’s backyard and listening to their stories from the ‘good ole days’? So to all you idiots who are singing evo zore and signing every post with -U-, open a book or two (or maybe 3 for some of you…) about the NDH and stop reading wikipedia, stop watching ‘informative’ videos on the ‘great’ NDH and maybe stop listening to dida and deda’s stories…
@Nizic – I dont know all details surrounding the exit of Viduka…but I heard it wasnt pretty. He became friends with a guy I knew very well…and let me tell you, this idiot is street smart but also conniving and calculating and could easily have taken advanyage of Viduka not being so experienced. I heard they were invloved a lot in gambling, not such a good crowd and of course the party’s/clubs…not respecting several curfews! Viduka was a very good player who was starstruck pretty quickly. I dont believe he was prepared for the popularity and sometimes certain people can lead you in the wrong direction.
Goran Juric…in my opinion is a cigan…a little shit with little class but he thinks his shit doesnt stink! I dont like him at all and I can honestly tell you…he’s a little prick who weasels in with people better than him by sucking up! Vidika was a victim of becoming an instant star and this cigan took advantage of all that!
what was the reason for him being diliked in Zagreb again boy’s?? -U-
Depends who you talk to about Viduka’s popularity. The croats down in Australia like him, but you will find mixed feelings about him with Dinamo fans.
As for our guys this weekend…..it was another great and successful weekend on the field for croatian players. Nobody got hurt.
Wow, Viduka is popular here out of the blue.
Viduka was the man!
I also watched him through my teenage years when he started with melbourne croatia, and all throughout his career.
He just lived a couple minutes from my house. The guy was a gun, and made all us aussie croats proud.
i’ve watched Viduka since i was a kid back in the mid nineties while he was playing for Melbourne Croatia, he worked hard but he was a natural and something for us Aussoe Croats to be proud of, i love what Jelavic is doing but Dukes was something different!
@Nizic,
Good point. I agree. I’m tired of seeing players always looking for the call.
@ Poglavnik Yea very true he does go nuts I just dont like how he is always looking for a call from the ref stretching his arms out in disgust I wish he would just stick his nose back to the grindstone and keep digging hard I think it would look better on him no? -U-
@Nizic
Jelavic looks like he plays with a ton of heart! Just watch how much he celebrates with his teammates whenever they score.
It seems klasnic has to score a goal in every match to keep his place in starting lineup…When he didnt score in a match, he is dropped in the next match,..
Viduka:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4wYEhoW9cc
Viduka was a striker I looked up to biiiigggg time when I was younger. For me Viduka was more of a silky smooth big man who knew where to run and hammered the FUCK out of the ball. In his Prem years I remember wondering how he never looked sweaty or tired during any matches. Guy was a monster aerially and on the ground.
For me, though, Jelavic is more like a bull in a China shop, while Viduka had a little more finesse. Jelavic does most of his dirty work in the air, while Viduka was a little more well balanced.
like i said…i only saw him 2 times at most…he seems to get in the right positions and can hold up the ball…but he turns like a bus and awkwardly carries the ball. maybe i should reserve my judgement on him…some guys are amazing goalscorers and not much more…i’ll take that any day! if he keeps scoring then i’ll be extremely happy for him and for us!
@slavonac
yea the only way i see them as the same is there strength, i feel like they are both very physically strong players. Viduka was much better than Jelavic is now, but hopefully Jelevaic has not peaked and will develop.
viduka also had his issues…he hung around with a guy named goran juric…they gambled a lot and were considered unruly to the club! viduka remineded me more of christian vieri…big, strong, could shield the ball well and could score in many ways! I dont really see the comparison to jelavic but i have only seen him play twice at most!
@mali hrvat
Viduka,
Could have and should’ve been one of the best members of the HNS, but they ran him out of Zagreb, typical dinamovci. He does remind me of Jelavic, there both strong as bulls. He also single handedly kicked Hrvatskas ass in the world cup. We definitely could’ve used him. I do think Viduka had much better ball control.
Yeah I know who Aiden is. He’s the only player on the team that possess dangerous skill out of the wing. Duff and Hunt are over the hill. Aiden is pretty talented but he’s been a bust for Ireland according to people I’ve talked to at Irish bars.
90% of scoring a Texas Hat Trick against Andorra is mental.
Does anyone see any similarities between Viduka and Jelavic?
He also scored 4 against Andorra and I’ve heard so many people told me the pal against England was actually a curse. Like I said I hope Jelavic continues his success in the checkers.
@Ante B:
Funny analogy. Although, I do remember Petric scoring a goal at Wembley, that coincidentally we needed for the win.
Mandzukic and Jelavic are the future strikers for the national team. Both can score as many goals with the head or feet. Olic still has it in him too.
I just hope Jelavic won’t be another Mladen Petric. Scores for his club team like he’s nailing Cindy Crawford in every orofice but once he plays for Hrvatska can’t do anything to score a goal.
Tottenham fucking sucks. Oh hey, I’m sorry, I’m just a very happy Arsenal fan, laughing at Tottenham’s misfortunes.
@capitals55 – you make some good points dude…nice post!
@Svircicu – also some very good points…especially your comments about Bilic “having favorites” and the lack of testing some young new talent…I felt that was something he did well when he first became coach, but maybe so because he was more familiar with the talent available since he came from coaching many of them!
3 5 2 won’t ever happen. I’m telling you guys, we’re going to see a lot of the same from Bilic. Unless he pulls something ridiculous out of his ass, he’s not going to take all these months to play his formations then change everything up at the last minute. I want to be optimistic and say we’ll get some younger guys providing for us, but you have to be realistic.
With regard to the group stage at Euro 2012, think back to 2008. I thought we would do good to beat Austria & Poland and at best tie Germany. In that game the NT took it to Germany. Goals, Goals, Goals & more Goals will be needed. Give guys like Perisic & Illicevic a chance.
Jelavic is looking good in the EPL and I think this half a season with Everton will pay dividends in June 2012.
@HNK:
I think you may upset Armada with your verses.
@Allen:
The GoldenChild looks more like a young Roger Maris.
@HNK:
Too much Plavac Mali today?
@Allen:
Check out some footage of Aiden McGeady.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzqW5I8Lis4
Irelan seem to have a lot of UK style meathead, dickhead goons, but they also have some talented players.
Is this Croatian idol ?
Hey genius, this isn’t the site to sing. That can be used on Matt The Rotten Child/ Evil Twin of Steve Kerr Lebo’s Facebook page.
Hajduk zivi vjecno!
DALMATINAC SAM TU SAM RODEN JA PLAVO MORE ZNA DA GA VOLIM JA KLUB IZ CRNOGA!
ubili smo arkana,
ubit čemo cecu,
a najviše volimo
klati srpsku decu
A sve to more, more moje zna,
staru rivu di sam rođen ja,
tu je povist moga grada,
Sveti Donat i Kalelarga.
I nek se navik čuje pisma,
s onog mista di sam prvi put zaplaka,
nek masline navik niču,
tu je rođen i moj ćaća.
O Zadre moj, o Zadre moj,
mi smo luđaci bit ćemo prvaci
mi smo iz Zadra, mi smo u kurcu,
volimo tebe, ti si nam u srcu.
Ale ale, ale ale
Freze, traktori, poljski putevi,
to je selendra, nasrid Jadrana,
To je Šibenka.
Sveti Šime fala ti,
što smo sada sritni mi,
ljubav si nam da,
fala najlipša,
tebe Zadre volim ja.
Eo eo eo eo eee…
… igraj Zadre volim te
Što ste došli, kad ste znali
da ste ovdje najebali.
Što ste došli, kad ste znali
da ste ovdje najebali.
Oj purgeri, gdje ste da ste,
vi od Zadra naj*baste.
Oj purgeri, gdje ste da ste,
vi od Zadra naj*baste.
I bez sudaca i bez milijona
Dalmacija dobit će novog šampiona
OVE NOCI BITI CE FESTA
JER OVA PUBLIKA JE NAJLUDA
ZA HAJDUKA ZIVOT BI DALA
JER TORCIDA JE NAJVJERNIJA
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO…………….
Sugava Rijeko,
smrdljivi grade,
pobit” cu pola,
tvoje armade!
Sugava Rijeko,
puna si srba,
ne brini Rieko,
ima jos vrba!
Why can,t Niko be ten years younger , same thing I’ve been thinking now for the past what 3 years now, why can’t we have somone on our team that show’s love for Hrvatska like he did, the way he played with intensity,the man looked ten feet tall out there fighting for every ball yelling at his players he was ponoson to wear those kocke and emblem of the savez on his heart, dont get me wrong there have been a few of them out there like that Jarni,Asanovic, Boban, Suker, Stanic etc.. to name a few it seems like these players we have out there now think that we have to like them o.k I do like them because they are Croatian but I think they dont play with the same grit like the players I’ve mentioned they are all well payed brats that do not want to take on the same role that Niko and the other’s did for example when we played in wembly not only did we beat them on the field it seemed like Niko wanted to eat the England squad and that heartbreker Euro game against Turkey after Turkey scored the equalizer and we were waiting to shoot penalties he was the only one I heard yelling at our guy’s to try to boost their morale back up yelling “ustaj se Bogati” it got me going almost in tears just hearing him how much passion he had in his voice while the others looked all smotani and bewilderd fom that tying goal so to sum it up I hope to we can restore the pride of our country with a player that has some leadership and pride.-U-
@Allen,
Ireland can easily squeak out a 1-0 or 2-1 win against us. This would not be a shocker. If Georgia and Israel gave us problems, then I dont see why Ireland wouldn’t be able to give us problems.
I still say that we need a win against Italy to advance. Simple as that. One good game and we’re in. I am hoping for a draw against Ireland, a 0-0 draw. Italy would underestimate us again. Our strikers will have already shook that dust off from the first game. They will play without pressure and nothing to lose, just like in Euro 2004 against France.
@SeattleNate,
We should start an email list of everyone that is going to the tournament. I will keep you posted and connect you with Croatians in Poland. If you have a chance visit Krakow and Auschwitz. Don’t forget to try the Beet soup.
@Mali Hrvat,
We will keep an eye on Mirosevic. Try to get that guy on camera. Thanks for the update.
@Capitals55,
Great take!
I agree with you on Bilic and we are desperately missing a Niko Kovac as well as an in prime Robert Kovac. Bilic has done well with the talent that he has around him, but I still blame him for having favorites(Vukojevic, Mandzukic, Srna) that he continues to start and captain throughout the years. Bilic should have tested out the youngins during friendlies.
Bilic also instilled this confidence in our players as if they are worthy of representing Barcelona. This was exemplified a couple of days ago when Modric said that this team was better than the one in 2008. Did he forget about the Kovac brothers? Simunic was somewhat still in his prime. Olic was younger and producing. Pletikosa was actually playing at a club with Runje as an option if he went down with an injury.
@Olly,
Everyone gives our defense shit, but our offense isnt producing either. Our strikers suck right now. Our midfielders dont play defense. Dujmovic is an ok DM but he is no N Kovac.
@IvicA,
“Disappointing 0-0 draw against the Irish in an ugly game
– Optimistic 2-2 draw against the Italians in a well-played game (but disappointment that we couldn’t finish them off)
– Expected 4-2 loss to the Spanish”
I agree with your prediction. But with a little bit of luck, we beat Italy 2-1 and have a place in the quarters.
Dok mi Bilo srce bije!
I too agree with those out there who think illicevic should start, or bee given a serious look, one natural winger that plays north south will give pour mid a diffrent look, it dosent matter if hes missed some games due to injury if he can make our team better you put him in. all over the pitch this team needs added speed, also not one of our mids go after guys we need one player on the field to do this to open space for modric and rakitic, illicevic is no robben by no means, but his abilities is what this team needs, the slow mid needs a revamp.
Ivan “The Garbage Time Machine” Perisic scored again in a blowout victory for Dortmund. I can’t believe he has more goals than Rakitic and Kranjcar this year yet has had far less opportunities than them.
Ireland won’t be smashing Croatia anywhere. My good friend Kyle is Irish so I have the joy of watching some Ireland qualifiers with him when Croatia wasn’t playing. I caught them play Russia, Slovenia, and Armenia and they aren’t very good. They are probably the weakest team in the Euro Cup after the two hosts. You could argue Czech Republic may be, but Ireland is nothing to brag about. They are just a team full of pests that might crack one or two in if you are playing sloppy. Give me a break.
Does anyone plan on going to Euros? I might make the Ireland game, but will definitely will be at Croatia/Italy. It’d be cool to meet CSR fans for a beer.
Chilean-Croatians around the world update (MLS addition):
Mirosevic gets elbowed by opponent drawing red card. He converts on a PK ten minutes later.
Why cant Niko Kovac be 10 years younger? Wasnt the most skilled or flashiest of players but boy what a different team this is without him in the midfield or even in the locker room. Im a Bilic supporter and think hes done well with the hand that hes been dealt. I also think its time for him to go after the Euros and I would like to see Niko Kovac take his spot. The old Bilic that suspended 3 of our players before a big qualifier in Russia is gone. He is now more of a friend to the players than a coach. It doesnt make him a bad person or coach, it just means that its time to move on. Ive had the chance to meet him before the Ukraine qualifier in Zagreb. Although very jumpy and active on the sidelines, there probably isnt a more level headed, calm and cool person involved with croatian soccer.
Is it just me or should our national team try a different formation.
I think with the players we have (and our extremely weak back line) we should try to play with 3 center backs.
I think a 3-5-2 formation would help us actual attack and we will always have at least 3 defenders.
we have 2 solid wing backs for the flanks in Srna and Pranjic.
We still need a defensive midfielder but then you can allow Modric and Rakitic to concentrate on attacking in the middle of the park and do what they do best – feed the ball with their spectacular passing ability.
I think Jelavic (strong in the air and solid finisher) to partner Olic (a total workhorse).
If we keep playing the way we have for the past 12 months, Ireland will smash us of the park, Italy will win with a boring 1 nil and i don’t even wish to imagine what Spain will do top us.
In my opinion its too soon to start considering Croatia’s starting line up. Still have to see who will find their form as the season draws to a close.
Mladen Petric hasn’t been doing himself any favours in recent weeks. Is Eduardo out of the Euro? If so i wouldn’t discount Ivan Klasnic as a impact bench player. I think he prob will be the difference between Bolton staying up and going down and prob will make 10 goals this season which is good for a player that cant start many matches.
Well done to Nikica Jelavic. He is looking at EPL worthy player now and is making a case for selection again. He was threatening to get dragged down in the misery going on at Rangers, but this move was perfect for him.
Nothing coming from Lakic. Hoffenheim probably too big for him. Perisic only should be called for versatility and it should be him or Ilicevic not both. In fact Jajalo has done more than both of them, but has tailed off in the second part of the season and is too similar to players already in the squad.
Defence is where the lack of talent is. We’re scratching around for defenders. To be honest we’re scraping the barrle calling Josip Simunic but its likely to happen. Any one doing ok this year is in too small a league for anyone to take notice. Tomislav Puljic at Luzern has had a second good season in Switzerland. Roberto Puncec is finding his way in Isreal, and its been a better season for Tomislav Mikulic in Belgium but its a real struggle to find many Croatian defenders doing anything across Europe for consideration.
Dujmovic is a technically gifted defensive mid…has been playing more regularly in recent wks…against valencia last wk, he has the HIGHEST ratings among his teammates..he may be starting to show the form soon
Olic has been given the chance to showcase his ability…but he screwed up one on one chances with gk…and once gomez replaced olic, bayern seem to be playing to better…i really think screw up this chance to stake his place in starting 11..he may even be replaced by petersen as second striker soon…
Recently, i find srna cross not as good and accurate as before…his crosses are mainly low…maybe he has been playing RB at his club..and get the chance to take free kicks and play in attacking region…his attacking instincts seem to have dropped….he is not a pure right midfielder in my opinion..
I think kranjcar is already out of favour in spurs…he is given the start against stoke..but got sub off at HT….now he is difficult to get any playing time…even if bale in injured, i HR is gonna to play Lennon or VDV on left wing..
typical mandzukic goal…same as the goal against turkey…when he headed in at far end of goal post from srna cross
Jelavic did well. However, he did fail at two good chances on goal right before he scored. I think he will get acclimated to the faster pace of Everton and the EPL and be their leading scorer.
Playing this many games so close to each other, must be tough.
Ante,be nice
if you know how to post on this site, you should be able to figure out how to google when cros games are. uvijek kontra splita
Nista kontra Splita!
Modric should leave Tottenham for man u
Jelavic is doing pretty good for himself in everton
Lovren got lucky still a shaky cb
Pranjic is actually a good player he deserves to play
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/417289_269354689810468_130066773739261_580856_225322605_n.jpg
evo zore evo dana evo jarac iz londona
Jarac zove Dukic vice evo mene hajduce
bbb treba pregaziti i maksimir zapaliti
Hajduk zivi vjecno
Glad I didn’t make a complete fool of myself in the earlier post. Just realized that I wrote something last night, and was scared to even look at the responses.
evo zore, evo dana, evo splitskih huligana
evo zore, evo dana, evo splitskih huligana
huligani s Poljuda, napravit ce ovdje cuda
huligani s Poljuda, napravit ce ovdje cuda
maksimir smo pregazili, a kantridu zapalili!
maksimir smo pregazili, a kantridu zapalili!
Srce za Hajduka
jelavic scores again. hajduk zivi vjecno.
olic starts and fails to impress. not good.
@jerseycro nice to see there are other ppl with soccer sense…@ziva there is talent further proof bilic doesnt know what he is doing
Please tell me
Reason he plays guys out of position is further proof to the lack of talent. It’s not like the guys being mentioned are doing much to make their mark and force Bilic to select them.
Be grateful we qualified, anything extra is a bonus.
Bilic probably doesn’t even know what system he will use, I assume it will be the 4-4-2 used in Turkey which failed against Sweden. In a 4-4-2 anyway, Rakitic/Kranjcar cannot be wingers, which is why Ilicevic needs to be called up if healthy.
Over/under on how many players Bilic plays out of position at Euro is 3.5 😉
for everyone who thinks illicevic is a good player i 100% agree… ive been wanting him to start for the national team for a while now and i hope that he will be given the chance as he provides A LOT OF SPEED which we are most definitively lacking… plus he is just a good all round player… if krancjar starts in euro we will not do well
@ thegoldenchild – nowadays very few teams dominate…mark my words…Hrvatska most likely wont dominate ireland…there’s too much at stake to open up…you’ll see.
Pirlo isnt the player he once was…but saying that he has played at a top club with tough competition for year…he wont let too many opportunities slide by him…I’m not so sure I can say the same about our midfielders.
And about Vukojevic…he’s definitely a role player…a horse with blinders and not much more…I think he would be good to man mark and play completely defensive…other than that no value!
When is the 1st game 4 Croatia in the Euro?
When is the 1st game 4 Croatia in the Euros
I would take Ilicevic simply because he is a winger who runs at defenders, he has some imagination. Better than sticking central midfielders on the wing or Eduardo on right wing which Bilic tends to do
Croatian managers rather try to put the “best 11” out there rather than the best 11 in each position. This is a bigger problem with the U21s than the senior team, in the U21 team, Susak calls three defenders and plays midfielders as wingbacks.
watched the spurs/chelsea match. game was dull in the first half. when it opened up a bit in the 2nd half, it was nice to see modric get involved. he was not fantastic but did play well in that second half and should have won the game when he sent in adebayor on that 1-on-1 break. where is suker to chip that ball over the keeper when you need him???
hopefully this keeps tottenham far enough up on chelsea to get champions league football for them. it would be nice to see modric stay put for another year and play some high level european games next season with spurs.
I have a feeling this tournament may end up the same way as our Euro2004 Tournament with a draw, draw, loss and 2 points.
– Disappointing 0-0 draw against the Irish in an ugly game
– Optimistic 2-2 draw against the Italians in a well-played game (but disappointment that we couldn’t finish them off)
– Expected 4-2 loss to the Spanish
Much like the games against the Swiss, French, and English in 2004…it looks to be like a similar turn of events.
Of course, our 2012 team is much better than that 2004 squad, but at the same time, our opponents (though similar) are better than those 2004 ones as well.
The expectations are actually worse off today though (typical Cro pessimism) 😉
@ The Golden Child:
I like Ilicevic. He looks good at HSV. I also like the idea of a Jelavic / Olic combo up top.
With luck, good play and strategy Ireland and Italy should be do-able. The Spain match looks rough no matter how you slice it. A win, a draw and a loss seem likely.
@Allen:
Srna,Pranjic & Corluka are decent at crossing the ball. Additionally, Srna has the ability to take on and beat defenders 1v1.
Our defenders are what they are. I am optimistic that Lovren & Vida will mature into a decent combo. Lovren does have some mistakes in him, but he is young and getting experience at a good club. Hopefully, Vida gets an upgrade to at least a B class league.
The striker carousel will be sorted out after these Euros. Our aging fleet of strikers will be replaced by the young guns.
@Ziva:
We could use more diverse talent and depth. However, so can most national teams. We do have a lot of talent. Whether that translates into success these Euros, is another story.
Ilicevic?????? I like the kid, but what has he done this year to even warrant a call up. You can’t play him based on his production this year.
So, if we don’t have the talent how is that all bilic’s fault. Not his job to develop the talent. Some of you make it sound like we have the talent of a top four euro squad if only we had a better coach. We could use a better coach, no question, but we could use better players even more.
I was going to say that Allen…when’s the last time you saw a Croatian player whip in a cross like that Wolfsburg midfielder?!
Nice goal by Charlie Hustle but like I have to admit bilic is Controlled to much to put in our youngsters we should be putting in like yes Illicivic for one you have to start Perisic, and maybe not a youngster but a very well rounded attacking mid like pranjic even though he is not play bundis when I seen him come on the field late in the last couple of games the man knows how to find players aswell as keep the ball with authority when he carries the ball ‘it looks like Srna starting to feel some pressure from the cro fans aswell as he should remove the armband from him and give it to some one with heart and grit not falling down expertise and last I will say I hope Kranjcar does not start, he could be used very effectively in the final 20 I believe I dont even want to talk about our last line -U-
OLIC AND PRANJIC IN STARTING TEAM AGAINST HANNOVER!
Until Croatia gets a legit defensive midfielder and a center back that doesn’t make you cringe, they won’t be a team that I’ll take seriously. Way too many holes along with the fact that it’s still a carousel with the striker rotation. Its simple as that.
Also Manzo’s goal would never happen for Croatia because Srna is too small to win a challenge like that and even if somehow he did, his cross would end up somewhere in Row C.
Lay off the booze Rotten Child.
Here’s my drunken total truth rant:
I believe we have the players to do well in Euro Cup this year, but I feel like Bilic is going to hold back that progression. Against a team like Ireland, we should absolutely dominate. I’d have Jelavic and Olic working their asses off up top. I’d have Vukojevic playing defensive mid to be a “stuck in” player. We need that against a brute force team like that. I’d put a youngster like Perisic on Illicevic on the right or left side to help our progress up top. But realistically this won’t happen.
The same thing goes for Italy. I feel like Pirlo is going to tear us up in the middle if we play the same formation we’ve been playing. Kranjcar, Rakitic, and Modric are not good defensively. When you have a experience player like Pirlo distributing for the Italians, I feel like we’ll be screwed. Without anybody challenging their play in the middle and a lackluster defense we’ll be screwed.
I don’t even want to think about what Spain is going to do against us. In the end, I think it’s time for Bilic to give our wingers (perisic, illicevic, and pranjic) a chance. We were so successful in the past because we had a midfield that understood their role. Jarni and Srna swinging in balls. Asanovic being our distributor and smart midfielder. Boban being more of an attacker.
Until our players realize their roles, I feel like we’re a lost cause.
Along with that, the chemistry in the back is embarrassing. I’m very scared of what’s to come for us.
@ Machine,
I posted the remark from reports. His goal was scored from 4 yards out.Fact. The cross was sensational and the run was well-timed. All of Mario’s goals are within 4 yards though, do what’s the big deal?
I dont like the codensending manner of the ”Mandžukić scores header from four yards out in 2-1 Wolfsburg win” headline.