Football

Japan has won the Women's World Cup!

Congrats to Japan on the win. I'd seen a few domestic cup games where the standard didn't look particularly high but the World Cup was a cut above. Granted, it lacks some of the pace and physicality of the men's game - I mean, how could it not? But it's also considerably less blighted by all the things we think are bad about the men's game, namely greed, dissent, intimidation, time-wasting, play acting and spoiling tactics. A most enjoyable and refreshing tournament.

I don't get it - how on earth did River Plate manage to get themselves relegated from the Argentine Primera Division (for the first time in their 110-year history, no less) off the back of finishing 4th in the Apertura and 9th in the Clausura?

That was a shocker for me, too. The funny thing is in Argentina they take a look at the overall record in the last 3 years. The funnier thing is, this rule was put in place to protect the bigger clubs. It's even more shocking that they were having bad seasons for 3 consecutive years. When I heard that River Plate was relegated I was like "La puta que te pario. . .", but I'm pretty sure they'll get back pretty soon.

eNe!

I was completely clueless about the inner workings of the Argentine Primera Liga until recently, when the Baron kindly gave me a beginner's guide. I do not envy the person charged with the task of calculating the permutations of each game one bit.

Japan has won the Women's World Cup!

Congrats to Japan on the win. I'd seen a few domestic cup games where the standard didn't look particularly high but the World Cup was a cut above. Granted, it lacks some of the pace and physicality of the men's game - I mean, how could it not? But it's also considerably less blighted by all the things we think are bad about the men's game, namely greed, dissent, intimidation, time-wasting, play acting and spoiling tactics. A most enjoyable and refreshing tournament.

Only started watching with about 15mins of normal time left, but was entertaining match.

Does it mean anything that my MLS team, in only its second year of existence, dominated and defeated Everton in an exhibition game?

^I wouldn't complain

Mildly amusing - a bizarre own goal by Arsenal's Carl Jenkinson in a recent friendly game with FC Koln.

^Great!

Uruguay champion of Copa America BTW. Congratulations!

Dear Mario Balotelli,

I wish there were another 100 nutters players like you in the Premier League. Don't ever change!

Balotelli... :facepalm:

I think they really have overreacted with that one. Sure it's a stupid thing to do, but it's a pre-season friendly FFS!

I think they really have overreacted with that one. Sure it's a stupid thing to do, but it's a pre-season friendly FFS!

I think so too. Generally, I quite like Roberto Mancini but his man-management leaves a lot to be desired at times. Instead of simply going "this is a largely meaningless game and hey, it's Mario Balotelli", he created a firestorm by unceremoniously dragging the poor guy off the park and shaming him in front of team-mates and fans alike. Balotelli, as volatile as he is, must feel as if he can't do anything right at this point.

Mildly amusing - a bizarre own goal by Arsenal's Carl Jenkinson in a recent friendly game with FC Koln.

Maybe he misunderstood Wenger's instructions when he told him he wanted Carl to be like Lee Dixon?

I don't think I've seen that Dixon one before. Nayim would be proud.

Hello Brotherhood,

Has this season's Fantasy League been set up yet?

I will get around to it shortly. Unless you want to get around to it now and put your name on there... The Frederick Cup...has a nice ring to it doesn't it?

By the way, please set up 2 leagues if you do decide to set it up.

If we need someone to start up the league, my services are available. I'm already signed up and my team is picked.

By all means, Michael.

The Frederick Cup? Oh lordy, anything but that!

Cue the music...

Yes, it's Fantasy Premier League time again! Will Messrs Ed and Freddy retain their titles? Will the mysterious Mr. Average make an appearance? Will Cesc Fabregas find long-awaited sanctuary on the Barcelona subs bench? Will Nemanja Vidic finally admit that he doesn't know how he gets away with it either?

First deadline is 13 August (11:30 GMT) but free transfers appear to be unlimited until then. So if you're struck by a sudden urge to swap Chris Brunt for Jonathan Walters, or if Man City sign Sergio Aguero Lionel Messi the day after you pick your team - fear not.

Classic League: 86795-177476

Head-to-Head League: 86795-177552

Joined. I lost interest a bit last season but I'm fully committed this time around.

Joined. I lost interest a bit last season but I'm fully committed this time around.