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Originally Posted by troutman
It's fair comment for T99 to come on this thread and criticize the diving, whether or not he is a football fan. No sport should be immune from criticism, and this World Cup was a big disappointment IMO. I am a football fan, but this tournament has really turned me off - too much simulation, and not enough scoring. Also, I don't like penalty shoot-outs (Jim Rome is just hammering the penalty shoot-out - imagine the World Series being decided by a home run derby. They might as well play rock-paper-scissors).
So, what can FIFA do about this mess?
Scoring - I suggest a change to the off-side rule; maybe draw a line on the field (30 m from goal). No off-sides once the ball is brought over the 30 m line. The off-side trap makes it too easy for defenders to get out of trouble. Also, do something about players shooting the ball over the net 99% of the time from 20 m out - new ball, emphasis on accuracy not velocity, etc. Maybe more substitutions, and changes on the fly during extra time.
Simulation - strict fines and suspensions meted out retroactively after video review following the games. Too hard to detect during live action for the refs. Any player that goes down, necessitating the ref to add time, should cause the player to be substituted automatically.
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FIFA has been debating Penalty Shoot Out for 24 years, nothing has been agreed upon, it's part of the game now. Soccer is just fine its lasted all these years and it will continue to last as is.
I for one found the WC highly entertaining except for a few games, but I watched them all and enjoyed all the matches.
Congrats to Italy and France for making it to the final when everyone ruled them out of it also kudos to Portugal and Germany. And welldone Italy on a truly team effort for their 4th WC title.