Viva Italia!

I had dinner this evening in Boston's (Italian) North End -- and the place was rocking. I can only imagine the area tomorrow. I'll be at City Hall Plaza with friends watching the match on the giant screen they've set up.

If it's possible for both to lose, they will.

Poor Migs. Portugal finished out of the money. They had a fantastic run though.

I'll take Italy. Although wendell has the right idea.

Italy (because it's not 1998 anymore).

In Kyoto by coincidence there are Italian and French Cultural Institute's literally right around the corner from each other, and they are both hosting Cup Final viewing parties. If there are a lot of disputes about dirty play or bad refereeing, there could be a hot time in the old city tonight when they spill out into the street!

Since European soccer seems to be based on WWII grudges, I suspect the French will be yelling "fascist," but what would the Italians yell?

Bonapartists!

Italy, hopefully.

Both a bunch of diving tarts. I suspect the Azzuri will run the legs of Les Bleus, as they're a fair bit younger.

Since European soccer seems to be based on WWII grudges, I suspect the French will be yelling "fascist," but what would the Italians yell?

"Chi non salta è francese/eh!/eh!" (while the entire section of Italian fans jumps up and down)
"BooohBahBohBohBohBahBoOhOhhOh" (White Stripes)
"Forza Azzurri!" (As Forza Italia has been purloined by Berlusconi for his political party)

I don't think anything very rude, though. Max would be "Francesi di merda" or the occasional fucktard making monkey noises. There seems to be a heavy amount of respect for the French footballers, Zidane especially.

Actually that pretty much goes for any country. Criticism & derision is usually saved for our own players, coaches and the refs. Rude songs & chants are more in the realm of rivalries between Italian teams.

definitely Italy

I can't believe LePen--he says there aren't enough "real French" (i.e., white people) on the French team--ass.

Yeah that Algerian Zidane -- what has he ever done for French football?

I will be pulling for France, but if I had money on the line it'd be on Italy.

Hooray.