INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY
Amsterdam ArenA, Netherlands
Referee: Pedro Proença | Attendance: 51000
* Local time based on your geographic location.
Watch Live on: ESPN3.com
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Netherlands
| Line-up | ||
|---|---|---|
| POS | No | Name |
G |
1 | Kenneth Vermeer |
D |
2 | Ricardo Van Rhijn |
| D | 12 | Darryl Janmaat |
D |
3 | John Heitinga |
| D | 13 | Stefan de Vrij |
D |
5 | Bruno Martins Indi |
D |
10 | Rafael Van der Vaart |
| M | 20 | Urby Emanuelson |
M |
4 | Ron Vlaar |
M |
6 | Nigel De Jong |
M |
7 | Ruben Schaken |
M |
8 | Ibrahim Afellay |
| G | 18 | Marco van Ginkel |
F |
9 | Dirk Kuyt |
F |
11 | Arjen Robben |
| M | 17 | Eljero Elia |
| Substitutes | ||
| POS | No | Name |
| G | 18 | Marco van Ginkel |
| G | 23 | Jeroen Zoet |
| G | 22 | Tim Krul |
| D | 12 | Darryl Janmaat |
| D | 13 | Stefan de Vrij |
| D | 14 | Joris Mathijsen |
| D | 15 | Jetro Willems |
| M | 17 | Eljero Elia |
| M | 19 | Jordy Clasie |
| M | 20 | Urby Emanuelson |
| F | 19 | Klaas-Jan Huntelaar |
| F | 21 | Bas Dost |
Germany
| Line-up | ||
|---|---|---|
| POS | No | Name |
G |
1 | Manuel Neuer |
D |
4 | Benedikt Höwedes |
D |
16 | Philipp Lahm |
D |
17 | Per Mertesacker |
D |
23 | Ilkay Gündogan |
M |
5 | Mats Hummels |
M |
13 | Thomas Müller |
| F | 9 | Andre Schürrle |
M |
15 | Lars Bender |
| M | 20 | Sven Bender |
M |
18 | Lewis Holtby |
| M | 2 | Roman Neustädter |
F |
19 | Mario Götze |
| F | 10 | Lukas Podolski |
F |
21 | Marco Reus |
| M | 14 | Julian Draxler |
| Substitutes | ||
| POS | No | Name |
| G | 12 | René Adler |
| D | 3 | Sebastian Jung |
| D | 6 | Heiko Westermann |
| M | 2 | Roman Neustädter |
| M | 14 | Julian Draxler |
| M | 20 | Sven Bender |
| F | 9 | Andre Schürrle |
| F | 10 | Lukas Podolski |
Match Stats
- Netherlands
- Germany
| Shots (on goal) | ||
| Fouls | ||
| Corner kicks | ||
| Offsides | ||
| - | Time of Possession | - |
| Yellow Cards | ||
| Red Cards | ||
| Saves |
James Tyler: Bye all! Thanks for spending your Wednesday afternoon with us!
James Tyler: Find us on Twitter:
@JamesTylerESPN (Andy Carroll)
@PCarrESPN (Ibra)
James Tyler: Join us for that. Please.
James Tyler: Right then. Time to go and do other things. Let's do this again on Saturday morning for ARSENAL v. TOTTENHAM.
James Tyler: OK, Steevens. Have it your way. San Iker is a majesty between the posts.
[Comment from Steevens]
JT, that also assumes that Casillas deserves his reputation. He is also overhyped if you ask me
James Tyler: Panama-Spain just kicked off. We're not sticking around for that.
[Comment from JamesTylerESPN via Twitter]
RT @honigstein: the good news is that German telly will be showing high-lights of all other interesting games in a minute. NED v GER 0-0
James Tyler: What have we learned? Nothing. Except that Ibra is a force never to be mocked lest he rear up and smack you in the teeth.
James Tyler: That's a comment of the day winner, right there.
James Tyler: Ha ha ha ha ha ha
[Comment from Old Guy]
Let's not get carried away with Ibra he did this against England not Barcelona or Real Madrid.
James Tyler: Well, he's English so it's natural to overrate. However, every goalie has a bad day. Remember Iker Casillas conceding 5 vs. Barcelona a couple of seasons back?
[Comment from Steevens]
So... How overhyped is Joe Hart? He is not now, nor was he ever, anywhere near the best GKs in the world.
[Comment from Chad]
Ahhhh.....Pirlo, I could watch you for another decade. Please help Mario with his pinnie.
James Tyler: Everyone, it's over. Our long Amsterdam fever dream has concluded. We're all still alive.
[Comment from JamesTylerESPN via Twitter]
Dear Holland and Germany: why can't you be more like Zlatan?
James Tyler: He totally does. People just prefer to mock his larger than life persona instead.
[Comment from USADave]
Why does Ibra get no real consideration for "best in the world"?
James Tyler: But everyone made it through without injury -- except for Afellay's hamstring tweak.
James Tyler: FT: Netherlands 0, Germany 0. A real undercooked turkey of a game.
[Comment from JamesTylerESPN via Twitter]
Grotesque. RT @BeyondthePitch: This is just sick. RT @Milanello: Ibra's overhead kick goal vs. Eng youtu.be/EQhuE3b_GBU #Ibracadabra
James Tyler: Chance for Germany! Marco Reus unmarked in the box skipping onto a lot ball, he volleys over after chesting it down.
James Tyler: France still 2-1 up on Italy with 15 to play.... Greece leads Ireland 1-0 with 10 left, Uruguay up 3-1 on Poland with 10 left.
James Tyler: Err, without a doubt. Plays in massively.
[Comment from Rugger]
Players keeping in mind not only league play but CL coming up next week perhaps?
James Tyler: Man of the Match: Me. For enduring it. And all of you, too.
James Tyler: Two once-feral rivals engaging in light, cautious sparring.
James Tyler: Not a showpiece, but a gentle knockabout.
James Tyler: Two minutes left in Amsterdzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
James Tyler: Sorry, FT: Zlatan 4, England 2.
James Tyler: FT: Sweden 4, England 2.
James Tyler: It was a thing called a joke, Mike.
PCarrESPN: Cursory research indicates that no one had ever scored four against England.
[Comment from Mike]
And u compared him to Andy Carroll...*throws up*
James Tyler: Falcao. (ducks)
[Comment from Charles]
If you could choose one to play for you right now, Falcao or Ibra?
James Tyler: SUB FOR GERMANY: Lewis Holtby off, Roman Neustadter on.
James Tyler: A 45-yard, OVERHEAD KICK by Ibra. Joe Hart with footballing egg on his face.
[Comment from Travis]
PCarr who was the last person to score 4 against England?
James Tyler: An absolutely thumping, stunning, insouciantly flippantly wonderful goal by Ibra.
PCarrESPN: 2nd four goal game for Zlatan.
[Comment from JamesTylerESPN via Twitter]
It's Zlatan's world. We all merely ask for gruel on a cobbled street in it.
James Tyler: GOAL -- Sweden 4, England 2 -- Zlatan, 90"+
PCarrESPN: and this was RIDICULOUS!
PCarrESPN: FOUR for Zlatan.
James Tyler: L.A. to repeat, sadly. It will beat Houston by 2. We'll all grimace.
PCarrESPN: Last player to score a hat trick vs England: Marco van Basten at Euro 1988.
[Comment from Grande]
So how about them MLS playoffs...
James Tyler: SUB FOR GERMANY: Thomas Mueller off, Andre Schurrle on.
James Tyler: Proenca has called a miserly game today.
James Tyler: Foul called against Dirk Kuyt on the right flank.
James Tyler: He's English, so overrating comes with the territory.
[Comment from Lfc fan]
Wilshere might be the most overrated player ever... Or just good but affected by injury
James Tyler: Chance for the Netherlands! Neuer springs off his line and misjudge the ball completely. Scrambled clear though.
James Tyler: Positives for the Dutch: they're not losing.
Positives for Germany: not entirely sure. Low used a fairly strong XI yet has little if anything to show for it.
James Tyler: I may have predicted a France win before kick-off. Les Bleus have 20 minutes left to prove me a worthwhile clairvoyant.
James Tyler: GOAL -- Italy 1, France 2 -- Bafetimbi Gomis, 67"
James Tyler: SUB FOR GERMANY: Bender off, Bender on. Lars removed in favor of Sven.
James Tyler: Jogi Loew knows all. Including which scarf to pair with a pink dress shirt.
[Comment from YanksAreComing]
Does Loew know he can use 6 subs?
James Tyler: Lovely interplay and footwork by the Dutch on the left flank. Dirk Kuyt finds Elia central but he's dispossessed.
James Tyler: Oh yes, Paul, I like Zlat Trick.
James Tyler: 12 minutes left at the Amsterdam Sleepy Time Tea ArenA.
PCarrESPN: 3rd career hat trick (Zlat trick?) for Ibrahimovic, assuming the goal is his.
[Comment from Chad]
Zaha is on.
James Tyler: Joe Hart not showering himself with glory at the Rasunda Stadium.
[Comment from JamesTylerESPN via Twitter]
Zlandy Carrohimovic!
James Tyler: Euro 2012 revenge is the sweetest revenge.
James Tyler: GOAL -- Sweden 3, England 2 -- Zlandy Carrollhimovic, 84"
James Tyler: Chance for the Netherlands! Daryl Janmaat of all people plays a 1-2 with Kuyt and continues his run into the box. Low drive to the near post is sharply turned around the upright by Neuer. Dutch corner driven in but cleared.
James Tyler: Nah, Dude. Maybe he's just choosing to keep him bottled up. After all, Klaas-Jan has precious little to prove.
PCarrESPN: In their 39 previous meetings, Netherlands and Germany have played only two scoreless draws, in 1923 & 1988.
[Comment from Dude]
Huntelaar not even being the 5th sub is one of those "I know it better than all of you" moves by van Gaal. Van Gaal loves to travel from genius to embarrassing and back.
[Comment from Chad (Minneapolis)]
Jack Wilshere and Lewis Holtby are about to become heroes with late winners.
James Tyler: FT: Luxembourg 1, Scotland 2. Amazing.
James Tyler: GOAL -- Austria 0, Cote D'Ivoire 3 -- Lacina Traore, 76"
James Tyler: GOAL -- Poland 1, Uruguay 3 -- Suarez, 66"
James Tyler: GOAL -- Poland 1, Uruguay 2 -- Obraniak, 64"
James Tyler: Podolski's first action, picking up the ball inside the left bit of the box, Vlaar muscles it off him though and concedes the corner. Set piece ends up with Vermeer, who cues a quick break... Emanuelson wins a throw-in off Lahm.
James Tyler: The Stoke Test is legendary from sorting the wheat from the chaff. Ibra not man enough yet to try it, clearly.
[Comment from John]
I'd like to see Ibrahimovic do that on a cold, rainy night in Stoke!
James Tyler: Martins Indi tries to dribble through three German midfielders. He fails to beat the first man.
PCarrESPN: 37th goal for Zlatan, tying Henrik Larsson for third on Sweden's all-time list.
[Comment from Chad]
Showcross' first contribution is getting spun in a circle by Ibra and then proceeded to watch him lash one past his keeper.
James Tyler: England update...
James Tyler: Gabon's second goal -- also from the penalty spot.
James Tyler: Fine volley by Ibra to level the score there.
James Tyler: He was injured, Rhee
[Comment from Rhee]
Was Kevin Strootman dropped from the Netherland's squad?
James Tyler: GOAL -- Sweden 2, England 2 -- The Swedish Andy Carroll, 77"
James Tyler: SUB FOR GERMANY: Mario Gotze off, Lukas Podolski on.
James Tyler: SUB FOR NETHERLANDS: Rafa van der Vaart off, Urby Emanuelson on. The ex-Spurs midfielder's had a nice 70-minute jog today.
James Tyler: GOAL -- Hungary 0, Norway 2 -- Abdellaue, 79"
James Tyler: Goals in Gabon: 2-2 there. Lopez scored for Portugal and Gabon just levelled.
James Tyler: He has Finnish roots, Nate. Though wants England.
[Comment from Nate]
I thought Jenkinson was with sweden
James Tyler: Wow. I'm saying Cameroon.
[Comment from Spalding]
Poll: Which game has a goal first NEDvGER or Albania v. Cameroon.
[Comment from Adam]
Arsenal has now two players on the field for England in Wilshere and Jenkinson.
James Tyler: Yeah, but you're still paying with your time, which is arguably more valuable than the price of a game ticket.
[Comment from Monty]
I am glad I didnt pay money for this. Poor Fans at the ArenA
James Tyler: Tantalizing cross by Martins Indi aimed at Elia in the middle. Nodded clear. Still, better from a rather moribund Oranje side.
James Tyler: It is? Were you doing something more appealing this afternoon? Date with a filing cabinet? Licking envelopes?
PCarrESPN: I see that De Jong leads the team with five fouls...looks like I'm up to date.
[Comment from America]
Guys, this Ned-Ger game is setting soccer back about 20 years here.
[Comment from Andy]
Ryan Shawcross coming in for England, he now has 16 minutes to break someone's leg.
James Tyler: Holtby doesn't read Gotze's run, ball dribbles out for a goal kick.
[Comment from David]
Go back to sleep.
James Tyler: SO MUCH, Paul. You missed all the everything.
PCarrESPN: I fell asleep...did I miss anything?
James Tyler: 67th minute.
James Tyler: Corner aimed at the near post, Thomas Mueller reaches it before Bruno Martins Indi but falls over. Goal kick, Oranje.
James Tyler: It's certainly not as fun as one may have expected.
[Comment from Dude]
Wow, NED-GER is torture on the eye...beyond boring!
James Tyler: Marco Reus earns a corner off Ron Vlaar.
James Tyler: Interesting approach, John.
[Comment from John]
Mertesacker is in his element with the Germany team - an attractive team with no end product.
James Tyler: Still 1-0 Greece. Jose Holebas scored after 28 minutes. About 30 to play there.
[Comment from Mike]
Any update on Greece/Ireland or lineups...? missed the beginning
James Tyler: Cote D'Ivoire leading Austria 2-0 in Austria... Didier Drogba scoring just two minutes after coming on to pad the visitors' lead.
James Tyler: FT: Chile 1, Serbia 3
James Tyler: FT: Romania 2, Belgium 1. Oops.
James Tyler: Schaken's cross from the right is blocked and cleared by Mertesacker. He's had a comfy game tonight.
James Tyler: Tackles getting a little zestier now.
James Tyler: YELLOW CARD, NETHERLANDS: Nigel de Jong goes all de Jong on Gundogan in midfield.
[Comment from Ryan]
Pirlo on for Italy. Game Over.
James Tyler: Chance for Germany! Benedikt Howedes thumps a header wide from 12 yards following a nice free kick into the box.
James Tyler: Kuyt concedes a free kick for the limpest of ankle taps on Gundogan. Fans unhappy. Proenca calling a very tight game. Trying to ensure no injuries, I suppose.
James Tyler: Reports that England fans are taunting Ibra with "You're just a ____ Andy Carroll." I approve.
James Tyler: Gerrard seeking a goal on his 100th appearance for England. Lashes a volley wide in true Stevie G fashion.
[Comment from Jesse N.]
Portugal-Gabon John
[Comment from PAt]
Six is the max number of subs
James Tyler: Hmm. Keep Greece-Ireland in check, could you?
[Comment from John]
Watched first half of Germany game and saw no goals - switched to England game for second half and no goals. Which game should I ruin next?
James Tyler: Believe it's free subbing. Klinsmann used at least five this AM.
[Comment from Rugger]
Sub limits for the Friendlies or free subs?
James Tyler: Mueller fouled on halfway by Martins Indi. So says Proenca.
[Comment from Cris]
Valbuena's goal was sensational. And El Sharaawy's goal was beautiful interplay. Better game than England one.
James Tyler: Italy/France musings...
James Tyler: Afellay off with a hamstring tweak, it's suspected.
James Tyler: About 25 minutes left, RA. Keep your prayer beads handy.
[Comment from RA]
been at work, what's the time in the England game? How long will jack be on the field for? he better not get injured
James Tyler: Another Dutch debut.
James Tyler: SUB FOR NETHERLANDS: Afellay off, Marco van Ginkel on.
James Tyler: Still so young. Really hard to judge. Yet to get a proper run for United so I'm guessing he's not there yet.
[Comment from Frigo]
James, is Angelo Henriquez the real deal? I've heard varying reviews on him.
James Tyler: HT: Italy 1, France 1
James Tyler: FT: Turkey 1, Denmark 1
James Tyler: Almost an hour gone. Both sides taking this game like interval training: burst of pace amid lots of jogging.
James Tyler: Half-chance for the Dutch as Ruben Schaken gets behind Lahm on the right, only the veteran defender has enough energy to toe-poke the ball back to Neuer, who booms it downfield. Relax...
[Comment from Mike]
Bruno Martins Indi is going to be a very good player. expect him in a big club in the near future
James Tyler: GOAL -- Chile 1, Serbia 3 -- United's Angelo Henriquez with a late consolation strike.
James Tyler: Subs for England vs. Sweden: Wilshere and Sturridge on, Young and Cleverley off. UNITED CONSPIRACY, obviously.
[Comment from KevNJ]
annnnnd Wilshere is about to be back in the fold.
James Tyler: Chance for Germany! Mueller's flick-on finds Holtby wide right. The midfielder cuts onto his left foot and tries to play it through the middle for Reus but the BvB man's touch lets him down. Vermeer was vulnerable but the ball skids out for a goal kick.
James Tyler: Janmaat fouls Gundogan in midfield. Ref Proenca has called almost everything tonight.
James Tyler: ... decent out-swinger but Mertesacker and Hummels sort it out.
James Tyler: Bruno Martins Indi surges infield from the left, winning a free kick near the left edge of the box. Van der Vaart to deliver...
James Tyler: No. This is Vermeer's first cap. Van Gaal in an experimental mode with today's XI.
[Comment from Monty]
Is Stenklennberg(sorry for my dutch) done as a goalie for the Dutch. He had a terrible Euro2012 and wIth Vermeer and Tim Krul in the wings it seems he is through.
James Tyler: La Roja is facing Panama. Hardly a seismic contest.
[Comment from Guest]
So Mata goes from not in the sqaud to starter?
James Tyler: Quite disgustingly unfair how many great midfielders are being grown in Spain. Oh well.
James Tyler: Wonderful playmaker/maestro playing for Real Betis.
[Comment from Nate]
I don't follow La Liga that closely....who is Benat?
James Tyler: van der Vaart's delivery is reasonable but Mats Hummels clears comfortably.
James Tyler: Half-chance for the Dutch as Eljero Elia is released down the left. Per Mertesacker heads the cross out for a corner.
James Tyler: SPAIN XI to face Panama, kicking off in 15 minutes: Valdes; Juanfran, Albiol, Javi Martinez, Alba; Busquets, Benat, Iniesta; Pedro, David Villa (c), Mata.
James Tyler: Belgium with a glorious chance to equalize -- sub Romelu Lukaku clean through, puts it wide.
James Tyler: Dear oh dear. Thomas Mueller played in down the right flank, only to shank his cross behind goal. Poor.
James Tyler: Think Afellay has slotted into Robben's role with Elia taking up a wide berth.
James Tyler: Honestly, I'm not sure what style Klinsmann wants to play. Every game brings such wildly different looks. But we're back with the Dutch-Germany game now.
[Comment from Steevens]
Altidore feels like a square peg in a round hole. Great player in great (club) form, but he is too dependent on specific types of service that are not the style JK wants to play.
[Comment from Matt]
JT for what its worth Klinnsman heaped some praise on Altidore today after the game, perhaps hes starting to show JK something new.
James Tyler: So much for Belgium...
James Tyler: GOAL -- Romania 2, Belgium 1 -- Gokhan Torje
James Tyler: Here's a fun one:
James Tyler: GOAL -- Turkey 1, Denmark 1 -- Mevlut Erdinc
James Tyler: SUBS FOR NETHERLANDS: Elia, De Vrij, Janmaat on. Robben, Heitinga, van Rhijn off.
James Tyler: Let's try again.
James Tyler: I was right, almost.
James Tyler: Gomez is so streaky. But then again, nearly all strikers are. Was impressed at how Boyd and Agudelo changed this morning's game.
PCarrESPN: I'm not the biggest Gomez fan, and I'd love for Boyd/Agudelo (or even Altidore) to grab that spot, but they're not ready yet.
James Tyler: We're off again!
James Tyler: SUB FOR NETHERLANDS: Stefan de Vrij on also. Waiting to figure out who is off. Think it's Heitinga, Van Rhijn and Schaken assuming these are position-for-position swaps.
James Tyler: I just don't know. A wild card. Not a man to start or lead a campaign but an intriguing in-game option.
[Comment from Monty]
What about Brek Shea. Or is he to all over the board. He seems to inject spirit into the team.
James Tyler: SUB FOR NETHERLANDS: Eljero Elia and Daryl Janmaat on.
James Tyler: They were tried today, sans Clint. It was, well.... ok.
[Comment from Grande]
It's always one or the other with Altidore or Gomez. Why not try both sometime with Demps behind them
James Tyler: At Malaga not doing much.
[Comment from Brian]
Whatever happened to Onyewu btw.. he kind of fell off the face of the earth
James Tyler: Holden's been out too long. Big road back for the American Wilshere.
[Comment from Brian]
Glad to see you guys aren't on the "Stuart Holden will solve everything" bandwagon
James Tyler: Yeah, sure. He makes the trip.
[Comment from Matt R]
Would you have Boyd on the bench, he's impressed me from what I've seen?
James Tyler: They're virtually the same, but you're right obviously.
[Comment from Kevin]
PCarr's is way better except altidore over gomez please
James Tyler: Of course, Omar Gonzalez should be groomed up immediately, too. Lovely defender. Quality. Poised.
James Tyler: Thanks Paul. Must say I feel a lot better knowing our XIs are so similar.
James Tyler: Good shout. That was my real debate, Paul: Donovan in LM or not?
James Tyler: Too old by 2014, Misty. Parkhurst the future. Not sold on Chandler yet and certainly don't think he's earned it.
PCarrESPN: Here's mine: Howard; Cherundolo, Bocanegra, Cameron, Johnson; Zusi, Bradley, Williams, Donovan; Dempsey, Gomez. I'm optimistic about Donovan.
[Comment from Misty]
No Dolo?
James Tyler: I'm also assuming Donovan isn't interested. Obviously he comes in if so.
James Tyler: No -- still sorting it. Some obvious gamesmanship in play. Not just organizing logistics but head games aka Columbus for Mexico, etc.
[Comment from Matt R]
JT, Do you know when the location of the US home games for the Hex stage will be decided?
James Tyler: There. I'm on the cross. Vulnerable. I'm rubbish, etc.
James Tyler: Howard -- Parkhurst, Cameron, Bocanegra, Johnson -- Zusi, Bradley, Williams, Eddie Johnson (don't laugh) -- Dempsey, Gomez.
Something like that. Changes every 10-15 minutes. I like the idea of Johnson as a winger. Different. Bradley/Williams can handle the middle. I've a Zusi fondness that is borderline irrational. Lovely player. Gomez and Clint the right combo of brawn and pace.
James Tyler: You were right to.
PCarrESPN: Sorry...hit enter too early.
PCarrESPN: THAT'S AWFUL!!!
James Tyler: Ugh. Here goes nothing...
[Comment from Brian]
Alright, time for your USMNT Hex 11, so we can crap all over your choices.
James Tyler: That didn't last long.
James Tyler: GOAL -- Italy 1, France 1 -- Mathieu Valbuena, 37"
James Tyler: (Sounds Apocalypse Klaxon)
[Comment from KevNJ]
ATTENTION!!! Nicklas Bendtner has scored. That is all.
James Tyler: Danish League House Mafia
[Comment from trevgunner]
Is that a techno group?
James Tyler: Maybe, but they're hardly hurting in midfield. Defour and Witsel pulling strings, Fellaini marauding, Kevin De Bruyne, Dries Mertens....
[Comment from Jules Verne]
James - don't you think Hazard has to capture some of his club form for Belgium to become a real threat, though?
James Tyler: But he's no Mix Diskerud.
PCarrESPN: First international goal of his career!
James Tyler: GOAL -- Italy 1, France 0 -- El Shaarawy
James Tyler: They're the fashionable one right now. But plenty of teams in that mix.
[Comment from Charles]
Do you think Belgium is the dark horse for the 2014 WC?
James Tyler: Edinson Cavani with the second goal for Uruguay....
James Tyler: Um. Moving on...
[Comment from Ned Stark]
Why don't we get rid of the friendly dates and play more CL? That way Ronaldo can prove his worth with a black eye and Messi doesn't get a gun in his face.
James Tyler: Real deal.
[Comment from Marc from WV]
Holtby- real deal, or product of transfer hype machine?
James Tyler: Good player. Physical and quick. Think he fits nicely with Belgium's legion of tricky wide players and attacking midfielder. The exclamation point at the end of the sentence.
[Comment from KevNJ]
JT, do you rate Benteke?
James Tyler: GOAL -- Poland 0, Uruguay 2
James Tyler: HALF TIME: Netherlands 0, Germany 0.
James Tyler: Was going in, that.
James Tyler: Chance for Germany! Vermeer off his line and out of position for Gundogan's shot. Johnny Heitinga on the spot blocks it on the line.
James Tyler: Um, maybe? Though I did play a rousing game of Borderlands 2 with Ilkay Gundogan last night.
[Comment from Marc from WV]
Are any of these guys lacking stamina due to Black Ops-inspired all nighters?
James Tyler: He's not in the squad today, sadly.
[Comment from Chad]
It will be interesting to see if Zaha gets on for England. Ollie has been waxing quite lyrical over the lad since his move to Crystal Palace FC last week.
James Tyler: Ruben Schaken found down the right by Super Dirk Kuyt, only Marco Reus tracks back all the way to break up the young Oranje's run.
James Tyler: Free kick for the Germans, wide right. Vermeer catches it comfortably.
[Comment from KevNJ]
Lux with one back against scotland
James Tyler: His Gambling Anonymous sponsor is less than impressed, Jim. (Note: I'm kidding.)
[Comment from Jim from Reno]
I love Paul's subtle gambling nods.
James Tyler: Greece is leading 1-0 vs. Ireland... Jose Holebas with the goal.
PCarrESPN: The under.
James Tyler: Still 0-0, 23 minutes in.
[Comment from SG]
JT, who's winning the Italy vs France game?
James Tyler: It's all gently happening now.
James Tyler: Chance for Germany! Left-flank cross flicked on for (I think) Mueller, only Nigel de Jong flies in to knock it off his boot as he readied to shoot. Quickly up the other end, Schaken whips in a teasing low cross that Howedes clears.
[Comment from Ian (LFC)]
Sublime volley from Reus. Even looked like it went it, after hitting the bar behind the net and turning inward.
James Tyler: Manuel Neuer, clearly bored by this game so far, comes all the way out of his box to intercept a through-ball intended for Dirk Kuyt. Hoofs it clear under mild duress.
James Tyler: Still 50 minutes left, Jesse.
[Comment from Jesse N.]
so much for dreaming of a goal-laden game JT
James Tyler: Oh dear. Kuyt flicks on a cross for Afellay at the top of the box, only his shot goes toward the corner flag on the volley.
James Tyler: Chance for Germany! Ricardo van Rhijn clears as far as Marco Reus, who unleashes a ferocious first-time shot from the left side, 25 yards out. It razzes narrowly past the post. Woof.
James Tyler: Less than 10 minutes to half time in Amsterdam. Neither side has truly threatened net besides Gotze's failure to convert from close range and Robben's blocked shot after rounding Neuer.
James Tyler: Was an own goal by Kamil Glik.
[Comment from Saul]
JT- Who scored for Uruguay?
[Comment from JamesTylerESPN via Twitter]
Blasphemy. RT @LeanderOnFOX: This Netherlands-Germany game is terrible. Somehow, I blame Dirk Kuyt. Just for old times' sake.
[Comment from Chad]
Got back to my desk, turned on the England live-stream and the Three lions scored twice. Surely it's me.
[Comment from Ray]
Caulker goal. Hasn't defended well but he should feel good about that
James Tyler: Portugal has equalized vs. Gabon, too. So no need for further panic there.
James Tyler: Uruguay up 1-0 in Poland.
James Tyler: What majesty. England is amazing. Truly. World Cup 2014 in a walkover.
PCarrESPN: The 20-year old scores on his debut.
James Tyler: Gerrard's free kick!
James Tyler: GOAL -- England 2, Sweden 1 -- Stephen Caulker take a bow!
PCarrESPN: Steven Caulker goal off a Steven Gerrard set piece!
James Tyler: Bad keeping by Vermeer to sprint off his line and not get to it.
James Tyler: Half-chance for Germany but Heitinga stops Hummels getting to a free-kick. Still 0-0.
PCarrESPN: This Welbeck goal was no back heel though. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pIISt3iNs2M
James Tyler: Afellay fouls inside his own half. Germany to begin again.
James Tyler: 33 minutes gone in Amsterdam. The passing is lovely but the finishing ain't.
James Tyler: It was Benedikt Howedes who blocked Robben's off-balance shot with Neuer beaten. Lovely defending.
PCarrESPN: Welbeck has played Sweden twice...scored both times.
James Tyler: Also, GABON 1, PORTUGAL 0. A Seleccao in crisis. Obviously.
James Tyler: Sterling with a lovely pass to Ashley Young, the United man gets a cross right and Welbeck poaches in front of net.
PCarrESPN: Hammered in a cross from (I think) Ashley Young.
James Tyler: GOAL -- England!
PCarrESPN: Goal for Welbeck!
James Tyler: Chance for the Netherlands! Robben through on goal, clever angled run to sneak behind Hummels. He rounds Neuer but can't correct his balance to shoot on his left foot. His shot is blocked.
James Tyler: Gabon has a penalty vs. Portugal!
James Tyler: Van der Vaart's fouled in midfield as the Germans try to break once more.
James Tyler: Because it's fun.
[Comment from Charles]
Not sure why everyone is ripping on England, the whole point of friendlies is to try new ideas and players.
[Comment from Brian]
Should be 2-1 Sweden, instead it's 1-0 Sweden.
James Tyler: 28 minutes gone. Germany looking far smoother but unable to break through.
PCarrESPN: England defense made a mess of a cross, and Sweden had two great chances, including one at an open net...that was sent high.
James Tyler: Chance for Germany but Holtby's shot from the top of the box is blocked by Heitinga.
James Tyler: At half-time, Spalding. At half-time. There's footy on, you know.
[Comment from Spalding]
Hey, how about that projected starting XI for the HEX that was promised not less than 3 hours ago?
[Comment from Seamus]
Cleverley's miss was something, but 'tap-in' is a derisory description. Tough to handle that coming in at pace- should have dispatched with his left, I think.
James Tyler: Ref Proenca has a word with the nudging mob in the box. Decent delivery but Vermeer sees it all the way through and comes out to collect.
James Tyler: Another free kick for Germany, this one wide right. Reus to bop it into the box.
James Tyler: Some friendlies at half-time:
Chile 0, Serbia 1
Romania 1, Belgium 1
Turkey 0, Denmark 0
James Tyler: Hardly a resounding prediction, friend. Zlatan's rather good.
[Comment from Who Am I?]
I told you ppl Zlatan will kill England
[Comment from KevNJ]
Pull Sterling off! He's getting beat up and LFC need him badly!
[Comment from Morty]
Cleverley misses a tap-in in front of the Swedish goal.
James Tyler: Chance for Germany! Heitinga cleans up off his line as Mario Gotze has two chances to beat Vermeer from close range but can't get the ball through the melee.
James Tyler: So Jamaica can't convince him to play for them instead.
[Comment from Austin]
Yes, Sterling is just 17, but why is he starting for England?
James Tyler: Half-chance for the Dutch as Ruben Schaken picks up a glorious ball wide right following a 40-yard crossfield pass, only the young winger plays a poor ball to Kuyt in the middle.
James Tyler: Good defending by Germany to force Afellay away from goal following good work by Kuyt down the left. Afellay then picks out van Rhijn wide right only the full-back is offside.
James Tyler: Dutch free kick, wide left. Lofted in towards Heitinga but comfortably cleared. First real Oranje foray forward.
PCarrESPN: Zlatan has 36 career goals, 4th-most in Sweden history. Sven Rydell 49, Gunnar Nordahl 43, Henrik Larsson 37.
James Tyler: Indeed. Must be because not enough people are talking about him lately.
[Comment from Jesse N.]
Zibra has looked like a man possessed (probably is) the last few weeks. 4 assists in CL..etc.
James Tyler: He's just 17!
[Comment from Lennons Eyebrow]
Your boy Raheem Sterling gave away the ball that led directly to the goal. Thanks for nothing, JT
PCarrESPN: Ibrahimovic has scored in 3 straight appeareances for Sweden.
James Tyler: GOAL -- Sweden 1, England 0 -- Zlatan Ibrahimovic, 20"
James Tyler: Sure, they could flirt with the QFs if they continue to gel.
[Comment from Cake]
JT - Thoughts on Belgium as a dark horse contender in 2014?
James Tyler: FFF banned him until 2014, I believe, for consistently poor behavior.
[Comment from Joe]
Refresh our collective memories, what did M'Villa do to deserve his ostricism?
James Tyler: Well, that too. But injuries happen. Can happen at home getting out of the Lamborghini in the 10-car garage.
[Comment from Monty]
It is the best interest of the clubs to exaggerate because they pay all the money. Country does not pay enough when injuiries happen.
James Tyler: That was the joke, Travis. Thank you.
[Comment from Travis]
Won't be any M'Vila for a while
PCarrESPN: Winner: fans.
James Tyler: Right, put that in a time capsule.
[Comment from Who Am I?]
WC 2014 SEMI-FINAL: Espana vs Brasil, Germany vs ARG, FINAL: Espana vs ARG. Winner:???????
James Tyler: No Yann M'Vila for Les Bleus. (chuckles)
James Tyler: FRANCE: Lloris -- Debuchy, Yanga-Mbiwa, Sakho, Evra -- Matuidi, Capoue, Cabaye -- Menez, Giroud, Ribery.
James Tyler: ITALY: Buffon -- Maggio, Barzagli, Chiellini, Peluso -- Marchisio, Pirlo, Giaccherini -- Montolivo -- Balotelli, El Shaarawy.
James Tyler: Think I've got the squads right here:
James Tyler: Italy/France about to kick off...
James Tyler: If a player is healthy, he should be available. That said, it should be his choice. Not just told to play because the NT boss says so.
James Tyler: Yes, but everyone does it. Honestly, players care more about club than country at this point. At least I think enough do for managers to spare them the bother of these games.
[Comment from Guest]
Do you think it's unethical for club teams to exaggerate injuries to keep players out of friendly?
James Tyler: Very gentle opening 10 minutes to this one. Germany enjoying all of the ball. Getting comfy. Lahm gets free down the left but Mats Hummels' outlet ball over the top is wonderfully overhit as only a center back can.
[Comment from JohnBrewinESPN via Twitter]
@_DavidReid I know, amazing
James Tyler: Oh, he knows that Mike. But he's still hopeful. Bless.
[Comment from Mike]
But the cheerleader is way out of his league.
PCarrESPN: Germany is currently the fourth betting favorite for WC2014, behind Brazil, Spain and Argentina.
James Tyler: Absolutely. But will the same mental fragility travel with them also?
[Comment from USADave]
JT, Germany was a huge let down at Euro 2012, but isn't fair to say that at WC2014 they will have an EVEN BETTER team (Reus, Gotze, Grosskreutz, etc) than they did at the Euros?
James Tyler: GOAL -- Luxembourg 0, Scotland 2 -- Rhodes has his second.
James Tyler: Germany looking so smooth moving forward. Yet Reuben Schaken gets free down the right wing for the Dutch, causing Lahm a moment of panic before the cross is blocked.
James Tyler: I think he's simply got cold feet. As long as there's uncertainty, he's trying to keep his options open. He's hesitant to marry the girl that loves him while the head cheerleader is making the occasional eye at him to string him along.
[Comment from Matt R]
Why do you think he is hesitant about playing for the US then?
James Tyler: Ron Vlaar does well to lurch in and break up a hypnotizing spell of German possession.
James Tyler: GOAL -- Romania 1, Belgium 1 -- Alexandru Maxim, 33"
James Tyler: Foul in the Dutch half.
James Tyler: He wouldn't. Honest.
[Comment from Jesse N.]
any thoughts on if Timmy Chandler would even make this German squad?
James Tyler: Kenneth Vermeer's international debut tonight for the Dutch. Not tested yet as the Germans enjoy some sedate passing in midfield.
PCarrESPN: Messi has 13 goals in his last 9 caps...I think he's breaking that perception.
[Comment from RKSmithy]
JT why is Messi so successful in Spain but not for his own country??
James Tyler: Right then. I'll leave the furious manifesto scribbling to you. I'm sure they gave it their all.
[Comment from Travis]
Hard to read much into it? Messi and Aguero couldn't break down SAUDI ARABIA. Plenty to read there.
[Comment from TottBot]
In Buddhism, we say identity is an illusion. So, the England squad not having an identity is natural.
PCarrESPN: Argentina played most of its big guns too...Messi, Aguero, Di Maria.
James Tyler: Good work by Lewis Holtby -- who could have picked England, but didn't -- down the left, but Mueller fouls in the box trying to reach Holtby's ball upfield.
James Tyler: Aye, they drew 0-0 in Saudi Arabia. Hard to reach much into it. Which is what's funny about this international mini-break -- results mean little if you don't get a good one.
[Comment from Mike]
Also can we talk about how argentina was held to a draw for a second?
[Comment from Mike]
So is Brendan Rodgers praying Suarez doesnt go 90 today in Poland
James Tyler: van der Vaart's delivery is good but Bruno Martins Indi and Dirk Kuyt miscommunicate as to who will have the header. Germany clears.
James Tyler: Early corner for the Dutch as Ibrahim Afellay gets down the right and has his cross blocked.
James Tyler: It's a wishy-washy work in progress. The desire to be something it's not.
[Comment from Jerry]
I don't think the England squad is weak, I just don't think they have an identity, they have no real sense of "their own style" which is kind of sad from the Country that created the game as we know it
James Tyler: England still 0-0 after 5 minutes.
James Tyler: We're off from Amsterdam ArenA!
James Tyler: Even the likes of Gundogan frighten me. That said, they're becoming that team that can't get it done at a big tournament. Euro 2012 was eye-openingly disappointing.
James Tyler: So much scary young talent for Germany.
James Tyler: Plumping for 3-3. Pure entertainment and uncynical fun.
James Tyler: Sounds good, Paul. I've got it on my side monitor so no fear either way.
James Tyler: I do? Without Jack "Played maybe 3 games in 18 months" Wilshere? Or Theo "I'm more inconsistent than Ryan Babel" Walcott?
PCarrESPN: I can try on England-Sweden...I'm going with 2-2 for Germany-Netherlands.
[Comment from nayven]
you have to admit though that without any Arsenal players this England squad looks weak
James Tyler: Doubt he makes it that far.
[Comment from Scouse, eh?]
JT, you think Gerrard is going to go the full 90 today? It looks like her had to shake off an injury during the Chelski game
James Tyler: Like it. He's a CAM who shouldn't be burdened too much with the defensive business.
[Comment from RKSmithy]
JT what do you think of Cleverly playing a forward position?
James Tyler: GOAL -- Romania 0, Belgium 1 -- Christian Benteke, 28"
James Tyler: I count precisely zero Arsenal players in today's squad.
James Tyler: Everton has Osman, Baines. Spurs has Caulker, Huddlestone. Chelsea with Bertrand, Sturridge, Cahill.
James Tyler: Looks like Liverpool (Gerrard, Sterling, Johnson) at a cursory glance. And United (Young, Welbeck, Cleverley)
[Comment from Mike]
JT which premier league side has the most players in the england squad? can we at least say it's not arsenal so we can stop hearing arsene whine?
James Tyler: us*
James Tyler: Afternoon, Paul! Where's your money for this one? And can you keep up abreast of England v. Sweden?
PCarrESPN: Made it back...let's see if Netherlands can beat Germany for first time since 2002.
James Tyler: Malta leading Liechtenstein 1-0 also. 20 minutes left there.
[Comment from PCarrESPN via Twitter]
Steven Gerrard is 6th English player w/ 100 caps. Shilton 125, Beckham 115, Moore 108, Charlton 106, Wright 105.
James Tyler: Scotland's beating Luxembourg! 1-0, Jordan Rhodes after 11 minutes!
James Tyler: Ha! Afternoon, LE. Of course you're referring to Sterling and Leon Osman. Not sure about the last bit, obviously.
[Comment from Lennons Eyebrow]
England have one of their youngest ever debutantes and oldest ever debutantes in the same game. But the real story is Steven Caulker, the future heart of England's defense.
James Tyler: He could if he doesn't play a competitive game for England. As soon as he reps the Three Lions in a game of consequence, the door is closed.
[Comment from Brian]
Can Sterling still switch to Jamaica? Because that would be terrifying.
James Tyler: Yeah, bit puzzling that. Big show and dance between the FA and Arsene Wenger. I'm guessing Arsenal won that battle.
[Comment from Nate]
So Wilshire was dragged out to training for...what reason?
James Tyler: AUSTRIA v. COTE D'IVOIRE:
Austria: Lindner -- Garics, Dragovic, Pogatetz, Suttner -- Leitgeb, Alaba -- Arnautovic, Ivanschitz, Jantscher -- Janko.
Ivory Coast: Copa -- Aleksandr, K Toure, Bamba, Boka -- I Tiote, Romaric -- Gradel, A Kone, Ya Konan -- Bony.
James Tyler: More XIs...
James Tyler: Sturridge needs more than one goal at this point. I fear his steady marginalization is souring him beyond belief for Chelsea. Expect him to move if the offer is right.
[Comment from Matt R]
I'm feeling a super sub goal by sturridge here he needs it
[Comment from FOP Aaron]
I demand to know where Pog was for the USMNT/Russia game.
James Tyler: He's wonderful. Almost won it for Fulham vs. Arsenal this past weekend. And I don't need to remind you he came via the Liverpool academy.
[Comment from Pog]
Kacaniklic with the start for Sweden! Special K!
James Tyler: Ibra sitting behind a striker in a 4-2-3-1. Coach has been trying that since before Euro 2012. Worked to middling effect this past summer.
James Tyler: England's subs: Ruddy, Huddlestone, Jagielka, Forster, Bertrand, Sturridge, Shawcross. TWO GOALKEEPERS.
[Comment from JeremyW]
Stevie's 100th and a Sterling goal. I'm calling it!
[Comment from Jim from Reno]
Cold hard, cash.
James Tyler: Gerrard's 100th international cap today.
James Tyler: ENGLAND: Hart -- Glen Johnson, Caulker, Cahill, Baines -- Osman, Gerrard -- Sterling, Cleverley, Ashley Young -- Welbeck.
James Tyler: SWEDEN: Isaksson -- Lustig, Granqvist, Jonas Olsson, Martin Olsson -- Elm, Kallstrom -- Larsson, Ibrahimovic, Kacaniklic -- Ranegie.
James Tyler: Right, lineups for other games...SWEDEN v. ENGLAND
James Tyler: Given that national teams have precious few opportunities to try new players, test things, etc, these cash-grab friendlies serve that purpose nicely.
[Comment from Mike R.]
JT, what exactly is the point of this particular set of friendlies, other than entertainment? The USMNT doesn't play again until February, and England not until March. What are they warming up for?
James Tyler: Great understanding in attack. Germany's best assets moving forward, arguably.
[Comment from Phil]
I'm hoping for a big performance from Reus and Gotze. Those two are pure quality and have had a nice showing so far when performing in Europe for Borussia.
James Tyler: That too. Sadly, Dirk's age counts against him. Massively. This is a nice run-out though.
[Comment from TottBot]
Kuyt is only a short-term solution. His playing days are numbered at this level.
James Tyler: Hearing that Raheem Sterling is starting for England...
James Tyler: Look, you're touching on the core of my being here. Dirk Kuyt is incredible. I'll obviously approve comments in favor of the ex-Liverpool man. That said, RvP/Kuyt would be an intriguing pairing.
[Comment from Joe]
I know these friendlies don't mean much in the greater scheme, but starting kuyt before huntelaar could speak towrads a solution for the huntelaar/van persie quandry; start kuyt with van persie. high work rate, makes different runs. boom, problem solved
James Tyler: Yeah, I thought so too. Dispelled a few myths about his character. Until we see him dive in another game, of course.
[Comment from Ed]
CR7 showed an impressive amount of grit in that game. It was refreshing compared to the recent diving controversies of late
[Comment from PCarrESPN via Twitter]
@soccerreform Never played more than 4 games per year then though. Only one year w/ 10+ games before 1990 WCQ.
James Tyler: Paulo Bento selecting the most experimental lineup since Frank Zappa formed the Mothers of Invention. And why not....
James Tyler: No Ronaldo as obviously, he's got a nasty eye injury from this past weekend's Levante game.
James Tyler: Beto -- Nelson, Pepe, Ricardo Costa, Silvio -- Custodio, Joao Moutinho, Ruben Micael -- Varela, Eder, Pizzi.
James Tyler: Anyone want Portugal's XI vs. Gabon? Of course you do....
James Tyler: And Huntelaar's been in equally scintillating form.
James Tyler: Well obviously, but he and Huntelaar pair about as well as David Lee Roth and Sammy Hagar.
[Comment from Joe]
you can't keep van persie out of the squad...if his form holds into the next world cup (big if) he has the quality to win a major tournament
James Tyler: Ohh boy. What have I done...
[Comment from Streak-er]
Switzerland wins at the buzzer! Thanks for the Streak tip fellas!
James Tyler: Think France wins by a goal.
[Comment from Phil]
JT, What's your prediction on Italy v France today, especially with Italy most likely going without De Rossi?
James Tyler: Y'know, you're not the first to suggest that the Oranje should detonate the current squad and start anew. Let them cohere from a younger age.
[Comment from Locke]
Holland have a better chance than usual with no Schneider or van Persie. No more bickering and quabbling to get in the way...
[Comment from Rugger]
You misspelled 'Tiago Messi' as the #1 young player JT.
James Tyler: Belgium put out quite a fun XI tonight vs. Romania: Mignolet -- Gillet, van Buyten, Kompany, Vertonghen -- Witsel, Defour, Fellaini -- Mertens, Benteke, De Bruyne.
James Tyler: Let's have fun and say 3-3. At least I hope for goals. Yearn for them.
[Comment from Matt R]
What is your prediction for the game JT?
James Tyler: Must be a joke, PC. Borussia Dortmund not "big" enough? And we all know the #1 young player in Europe is RAHEEM STERLING.
[Comment from PC]
Is Mario Gotze now considered the #1 young player in europe? When will he make the move to a 'big' club?
James Tyler: GERMANY: 1-Neuer; 4-Howedes, 5-Hummels, 17-Mertesacker, 16-Lahm; 15-Lars Bender, 23-Gundogan; 13-Mueller, 21-Reus, 18-Holtby; 19-Gotze.
Subs: Adler, Jung, Westermann, Neustadter, Draxler, Sven Bender, Schurrle, Podolski
James Tyler: NETHERLANDS: 1-Vermeer -- 2-Van Rhijn, 3-Heitinga, 4-Vlaar, 5-Martins Indi -- 6-De Jong, 7-Schaken -- 10-van der Vaart, 11-Robben, 8-Afellay -- 9-Kuyt.
Subs: 18-van Ginkel, 23-Zoet, 22-Krul, 12-Janmaat, 13-de Vrij, 14-Mathijsen, 15-Willems, 17-Elia, 19-Clasie, 20-Emanuelson, 19-Huntelaar, 21-Dost.
James Tyler: Your teams...
James Tyler: No -- Robin van Persie has an "injury."
[Comment from Morty]
Has SAF ordered RVP not to play for his national team?
James Tyler: Indeed. Though the rivalry has mellowed in recent seasons -- good piece by the Guardian's Sean Ingle to that very point yesterday -- it should still bring the fun. For me, it doesn't get much better than Ruud Gullit and Rudi Voller having a spitting contest at World Cup 1990.
[Comment from Justen]
Germany - Netherlands has got to be one of the best international rivalries, it'll be a top match no matter who is out.
James Tyler: You can find Leander ABC at Fox Sports these days, Jan. We spend our time making menacing gestures at one another.
[Comment from Jan in Cardiff]
What happened to Leander ABCs? He has to be involved in any Andy Room featuring the Netherlands.
James Tyler: Murmurs that Marco Reus will be deployed up top for Die Mannschaft are as yet unconfirmed.
James Tyler: RvP and Sneijder out for the Dutch.
James Tyler: Germany missing quite a few usuals: Badstuber, Boateng, Kroos, Ozil, Klose, Schweinsteiger and Sami Khedira.
James Tyler: I think there will be. A decent expectation.
[Comment from Matt R]
Back to the Andy Room hope theres more magic in this game as well
James Tyler: Still waiting on confirmed lineups for all the afternoon's most intriguing fixtures. Stand by.
[Comment from JamesTylerESPN via Twitter]
RT @ESPNFC: #FCBootroom is LIVE with Germany-Netherlands, England friendly and all your updates with @JamesTylerESPN tinyurl.com/bnknk84
James Tyler: Let's hope so, Rugger.
[Comment from Rugger]
I think I got enough work done during the interlude to justify slacking off for the rest of the day. (Or at least for the Boot Room portion of it)
James Tyler: Oh my gosh Becky, look at this fixture list.
James Tyler: After this morning's befuddling fun with the U.S. in Krasnodar, we get a decently tasty slate of afternoon friendlies: Netherlands v. Germany, Italy v. France and Sweden v. England. Phwoar.
James Tyler: Back so soon? Wouldn't miss the Dutch vs. the Germans for anything.