Day 13 Review

Australia v Peru

Prediction: 1-1

Result: 2-0 Peru

Both teams surprisingly started the game the opposite to expected. Peru sat deep and defended whilst Australia were strong and forceful going forward. It was all looking well for Australia who created 2-3 really good chances before a long ball to Guerrero into a cut back lead to the Peru opening. Although replays showed Guerrero was offside, no VAR was used. Australia created even more chances in the half but suffer from a lack of quality striking options.

The 2nd half couldn't have started worse with Australia conceding just a few minutes into the half. At 2-0 all their hopes were sapped and the players were frustrated. Peru had their points they came for an sat back for the rest of the half, wasting time when they could. Australia continually attacked and pressed for goals but again were undone but not have a high quality striker up front. After all the talk of "a tough Australian team", they exit the Cup with a whimper.

France v Denmark

Prediction: 2-0 France (0-0)

Result: 0-0

France made 6 changes to their lineup resting Pogba and even Lloris. The first half was quite void of chances with only 1 shot on target from either side. Neither side wanted to press for a win and why would they, both only needed a point. Greizmann was awful and almost all his passes went to opposition or out of play. If you didn't know better, you'd think he was just trying to waste time.

The 2nd half Denmark pushed a little harder for a goal. No doubt hearing news Australia were 2 down settled their nerves as they realise a loss would no longer see them out of the Cup. France clearly didn't care about the game and Denmark only marginally tried. If Australia had of won their game you would feel a little hard done by, but alas they didn't so this clear agreement to take the draw by both sides effected no one.

Nigeria v Argentina

Prediction: 1-0 Argentina

Result: 2-1 Argentina

An end to end affair but with Argentina the only team creating a real goal scoring opportunities. Messi struck first with a brilliant Messi style goal to give the Argentinians the lead. Nigeria barely bothered the keeper at the other end and Argentina went into the break full of confidence.

Nigeria knowing they only needed a draw pushed hard. The game continued its end to end fashion from the first half but with both teams now creating opportunities. Nigeria finally got their equaliser thanks to a dubious penalty that could be construed as a dive. Argentina then pushed hard for the winner, and it took them all the way until the 90th minute to find it. With Rojo scoring just his 3rd international goal, and 2nd goal against Nigeria, to secure Argentina a place in the next round.

Iceland v Croatia

Prediction: 2-1 Croatia

Result: 2-1 Croatia

This game went exactly as planned. Iceland had to attack knowing only a win will keep them in the tournament which left them vulnerable on the counter. Croatia didn't look to fussed as to the result and were playing very nonchalantly. Iceland came close a number of times but the score was 0-0 at the break.

Croatia finally broke the deadlock after an error by an Icelandic defender basically gifting the ball to Croatia on the edge of the box which was calmly put away by Badelj. Iceland once again chased hard to keep themselves alive in the tournament and were gifted a penalty to equalise. However Croatia, although not really playing at 100% had enough skill and class to grab a late winner from a counter-attack and secure top spot.

Group C and D Wrap Up

AUSTRALIA v PERU             DENMARK v FRANCE

Much like Group B this is very simple. Denmark and France are in the same position as Portugal/Spain were and Australia is in Iran's position. Peru in Morcco's.

France need only a draw to secure top spot in the group and have no real reason to go for a win other than maintaining good form and momentum.

Denmark too, only need a draw to qualify 2nd in the group but with a win can top the group.

 Australia need to win and need Denmark to lose for Australia to progress. If both results are 1-0, Australia will go through on goals scored, if the result is 1-0 and 2-1 the deciding factor becomes Fair Play rules with the team with less cards going through, if that is even, the winner is simply drawn out of a hat. However if Australia win by more than one or Denmark lose by more than one Australia go through on GD.

Peru are already eliminated but being South American and very passionate they will not let Australia just have a free win. 

Australia have proven resilient and much stronger team then many people including myself gave them credit for. However they have started both their games very slow and conceded many early chances one of which was converted by Denmark last game. Peru love to come out of the blocks fast which just prove to be the Australians downfall. With the only 2 goals they have scored being Penalties it is hard to see where Australia will find the goals from. 1-1.

France and Denmark go into the game knowing a 0-0 benefits them both. It gives France top spot whilst guaranteeing Denmark a place in the next round. The may be some pre-game handshakes here. France may even decide to rest some players or give their bench players some game time. If the game was played out as it was meant to be, with France finding some attacking form against Peru, you would say they have ability to win this game cleanly. With only Eriksen to worry about from Denmark, the star studded midfield should easily boss the game. 2-0 France if they play properly, but I honestly expect a tame 0-0.

NIGERIA v ARGENTINA        ICELAND v CROATIA

The first group where all 4 teams are still in with a shout at going through. This should be interesting.

Croatia are through no matter the result today. A draw or win would guarantee top spot. They can still claim top even if they lose as long as Nigeria fail to win by enough goals to make up the GD.

Nigeria can guarantee progression with a win. A draw may also see them through however if Iceland beat Croatia the two will be on equal points. If Nigeria lose they will be jumped by Argentina.

Iceland need a win to need Nigeria to not win. This will put Iceland either equal points with Nigeria (if they draw) or Argentina (if they win). They will then be separated by GD/GS/FP/Lots.

Argentina need to win. If Iceland fail to win then Argentina go through. If Iceland also win then the 2 will be separated by GD/GS/FP/Lots.

Nigeria were awful in their first game but came to life last time against Iceland. With Croatia proving their worth against Argentina, perhaps Nigeria just looked bad against such a good team. It is do or die for the Argentinians who were put to the sword by Croatia. Messi who has already retied from international football once because of the "unfair criticism", may just do so again if his team fail to get out of the group. I think they will do enough though, despite Nigeria only need a draw, I have hope that Argentina find a way. 1-0 Argentina.

Croatia are through no matter the result and can play this game however they like. They could either rest stars for the next game or play hard to try and maintain momentum. Iceland are plucky little fighters who love the counter attack and defending to to walls of 5. It showed against Nigeria that they can';t really hold their shape when they have a lot of possession and have to chase the game but against Croatia it won't be like that. However with Iceland needing a win, if they commit to many forward it will spell disaster for them. 2-1 Croatia.

Day 12 Review

Saudi Arabia v Egypt

Prediction: 0-0

Result: 2-1 Saudi Arabia

Both teams played as if they would be killed if they returned home without a win. In an end to end game both defences were very open and perfect for attacking football. Mo Salah looked like he had finally overcome his injury, injecting himself into the game and demanding more of the football. Saudi Arabia had 2 penalties in the 1st half, the first was saved and the 2nd not so much.

The game was still very much an end to end affair however both teams lacked quality up front to really create or convert any chances. Saudi Arabia had the better of the chances and started the boss the game later in the half as Mo Salah effectively disappeared; barely touching the ball. Egypt in fact didn't have a single shot on target in the 2nd half. Saudi Arabia stole the points with a 95th minute winner to break Egyptian hearts and securing their first win at a World Cup since 1994.

Uruguay v Russia

Prediction: 2-1 Russia

Result: 3-0 Uruguay

The first 5 minutes were action packed with chances at both ends. The deadlock was broken by a smart free kick from Suarez who knew the Keepers of this World Cup had been cheating to their "wall side" of the freekicks, blasting it around the wall and into the corner. Although it was smart from him, it was definitely a Keeping error. The 2nd goal came from a deflection which took alot of power off the ball and again you can argue should have been saved by the keeper was caught flat footed. Russia looked lost defensively and eventually capitulated with one of their defenders red carded just before halftime. Uruguay and Russia now playing like people thought they would pre World Cup; Uruguay very dangerous in attack and Russia being dominated all over the park.

Russia came out hungry in the 2nd half and developed the better of the chances despite only having 10-men. Uruguay seemed satisfied with just winning the game and didn't really press the game for an extra goal but rather slowing the play down. Russia very much out enthused the South Americans in the 2nd half to no avail but it sends a message to their next round opponents that they will fight to the end. Russia seemed to run out of steam come the 80th minute which is understandable considering they were down to 10 and put in extra effort to try and get something back from this game. Russian keeper had a much better 2nd half making 3 great saves but couldn't keep Cavani out from a corner. Uruguay the first team to win all their group games without conceding since Argentina did so in 1998.

Iran v Portugal

Prediction: 2-0 Portugal

Result: 1-1

The game started as expected with Portugal having all the ball and Ronaldo using the Iranian goal as a shooting gallery. However the Iranians were resilient (and lucky) and managed to keep most of Portugals attacks at bay. They were even dangerous themselves on the counter. However the deadlock was broken just before halftime with an amazing outside of the foot shot by Quaresma.

Iran came into the 2nd half with more vigor and refused to let Portugal just walk away with the win. Although Portugal still had majority of the ball and field position, Iran counter attacked with more people int he 2nd half and defended stoutly to keep Ronaldo very quiet. The Iranian Keeper even saved a penalty from Ronaldo. A late 90th minute penalty gave Iran hope that they could still make it through the group but it just wasn't enough. Iranian players and fans alike had tears come the full time whistle but can be proud of how they played.

Spain v Morocco

Prediction: 1-0 Spain

Result: 2-2

The game started as you would expect with Spain passing the ball around while Morocco watch them doing so. However the referee certainly seemed to have a Spanish bias. Pique's early 2-footed challenge which should have been a straight red card was not even referred back to the referee by VAR which then followed a slew of questionable yellow cards for Moroccan players. But it was Spain's arrogance that cost them the early goal, with Iniesta and Pique standing still while the Moroccan striker stole the ball and ran off to give them the lead. Spain immediately picked up the pace and scored the equaliser just 5 minutes later.

Spain again started the half with a nonchalant attitude. They clearly knew a draw would see them through and didn't really care about winning the game. They tried very hard just to man manage the game and get out without exerting any effort. However when Morocco looked to have stolen the points with a late corner they were scrambling. Spain started to play the way you would expect them to and come the 90th minute, secured an equaliser and with it, top spot in the group.

Group A and B Finished

SAUDI ARABIA v EGYPT                URUGUAY v RUSSIA

A very simple group that has already been decided before the final matchday. 

Egypt and Saudi Arabia are merely playing for pride to see who can avoid coming last.

Russia and Uruguay face-off to see who can grab top spot. In the event of a draw, Russia stay in 1st spot.

I think Egypt will find it tough going against an improved Saudi team. With neither side impressing in front of goal I will expect this to be the tournaments first 0-0.

Russia are on fire after 2 large wins and momentum may just carry them through top of the group. Uruguay haven't been on-song, doing the bare minimum to win their games. If both play as they have been, Russia will nick this and top spot. 2-1 Russia.

SPAIN v MOROCCO                      IRAN v PORTUGAL

A more interesting set of games. Morocco are eliminated and are only playing for pride and to play spoiler against Spain. Spain currently sit top on "fair play" rules having the same GD and GF as Portugal but receiving less yellow cards.

Spain can guarantee a spot in the round of 16 with just a draw but will be hoping to secure top spot with a win.

Iran can still get through the group stage if they can secure a win.

A draw would see Portugal advance and Iran go equal points with Spain. They would need Spain to lose by 2 goals in order to go through on GD.

Portugal like Spain, only need a draw to go through but would like to win in order to fight for top spot.

Morocco have tried their hardest and probably should have gotten a point against Portugal. If they put that kind of effort in again they will certainly trouble Spain. Spain had trouble breaking down Iran and will find the same situation facing them in this game, but they will no doubt deal with it. 1-0 Spain.

Portugal were lucky against Morocco and face an arguably more stout defence in Iran. If other players do not pick it up, I don't think Ronaldo will be able to single-handedly break this game apart. Iran will have to do something in this game that they are very bad at. Attack. A draw is not enough to see them get through this group and not having actually scored a single goal yet themselves I can't really see how they will here. Portugal don't care about drawing that much since they go through either way. I think Iran will try to force the game too hard and get hit on the counter. 2-0 Portugal.

Day 11 Review

England v Panama

Prediction: 3-0 England

Result: 6-1 England

Panama came into the game thinking they needed to get a result after Belgium already were sitting on 6 points and England on 3. This meant giving up some defensive stability for more attack and they paid for it. A quick goal from a smart corner play and followed by a Penalty just minutes later saw Panama fall apart. Although they had a good attack or 2 they lacked the quality up front to even hit the target. Another smart set piece and penalty saw England go into halftime 5-0 up. The first time England have scored more than 3 goals in a half since their 1966 World Cup winning side.

A very lack luster second half. Kane capped off his hattrick before being substituted and Panama broke the World Cup duck with a good goal. England seemed too scared to concede more and instead of attacking to get a 7th just passed the ball around the back for the majority of the half.

Belgium and England are now both through and Panama and Tunisia will do battle to avoid bottom of the group. Seeing how Panama celebrated their goal even at 6-1 down, I'm excited to watch them both.

Japan v Senegal

Prediction: 2-0 Senegal

Result: 2-2

An even first half that was devoid of many chances, Senegal breaking the deadlock through some terrible defending and goalkeeping, a deflected save straight into Mane's knee that went straight in. Japan then had to chase the game and were able to get in behind the African defence with long balls to their front men. Inui equalising with a great curled shot. Those 2 goals really the only 2 chances of the half.

What was basically a mirror of the first half. Both teams creating some chances but no real clear cut ones. The only clear cut chances were however converted. Once again Senegal took the lead off some poor defending then Japan found a way to strike back.

A draw means neither team are yet guaranteed next round football and have everything to play for next week.

Colombia v Poland

Prediction: 2-1 Colombia

Result: 3-0 Colombia

A quite uninspired first half with neither team getting shots on target until the 40th minute which resulted in Colombia breaking the deadlock. Once again Lewandowski was left alone up front and never got involved int he game nor received good service form his midfield.

The 2nd half Poland pushed a little harder for the equaliser and Lewandowski had to come back to his own half to get the ball and try and inject himself more into the game but to no avail. Colombia were too quick in their passing and movement for the Polish defence who were carved apart 2 moire times for a comfortable 3-0 scoreline for Colombia.

Colombia now all but book their spot in their next round whilst Poland will only have pride to play for in the final game.

Round 2 Wrap-Up
Correct Scores: 1/16
(2-0 Brazil)

Correct Results: 11/16

Incorrect Results: 5/16

And So Ends Matchday 2

 Vs 

The final game in Group G seens England against Panama. Panama had an ok showing last time out against a very strong Belgium team and managed to hold a them to 0-0 until the 2nd half. A much stronger showing especially when you consider how Belgium dismantled Morocco yesterday.

England were stout in defence but pretty poor going forward. Sterling was not is usual self and failed to add anything to the England attack. Unlike the England of old, this team has some grit and will to win. Enter Harry Kane. This is the first english striker in a very long time who is a genuine finisher and poacher. Just what England need.

Although Panama showed they can hold out Belgium for long periods, you can't really seeing them doing it for 90 minutes against any kind of competent attack. England bagging all 3 points will end this group and send both themselves and Belgium through. 3-0 England.

 Vs 

Japan had a mixed game last time against Colombia, although Colombia went down to 10-men within the first 5 minutes, Japan could not control the game and eventually conceded and equaliser in the first half. They seemed to be overawed by the occasion and couldn't handle the swift penetrating attacks of Colombia.

Senegal were inspiring against Poland in both attack and defence. They didn't give an inch and attacked with ferocity and a well drilled plan. They look by far the strongest African team at the Tournament and will need the fly the flag for their continent as most the other African nations are now knocked out.

Japan although they sit on 3 points after beating Colombia, unless they improve dramatically that will be their only 3 points they get. If Senegal produce the same quality they did against Poland this shouldn't be a contest. 2-0 Senegal.

 Vs 

Colombia were unfortunate to be down to 10-men so early which scuppered any kind of hope at winning the game and playing to their plan. They had to substitute their attacking winger who was causing problems for Japan in order to get a defensive replacement on the field. Falcao showed his age not being able to outrun defenders when the long balls came in, but they still looked confident and managed to equalise even with a man down. If they stay with their full team for this game, they will have hopes for  a win.

Poland were very poor in their first game both defensively and in attack. Lewandowski was a no show and didn't help Poland that much. Their midfield and defence also made alot of unforced errors which eventually led to conceding the goals. They know they need to improve and probably will improve against a much more dynamic attack from Colombia.

Both these teams sit on 0 points after their first games and both suffered from "idiotic plays" that cost them the game. Both teams showed they have mistakes in them but Colombia showed they are still a force on attack. Both will NEED 3 points to get through this group. 2-1 Colombia.

Day 10 Review

Belgium v Tunisia

Prediction: 2-0 Belgium

Result: 5-2 Belgium

This game started like a house on fire with Belgium getting an early penalty and quickly nabbing a 2nd soon after. Within a minute of going 2-0 down Tunisia manage to grab one of their own to make the game a contest again.

The game remained open for its entirety and could have easily ended 9-4 if both teams took their clear cut chances. Its hard to judge Belgium's defence when there team seemed to be playing at a walking pace and picking forward balls at will. It seemed as though they just weren't too fussed at doing their job because they knew they would be scoring again even if they conceded. It will be a real challenge for them in their final game against England and a real test to see if Belgium indeed have what it takes to win the World Cup.

Belgium all but guarantee a round of 16 spot with such a large win whilst Tunisia will need Panama to beat England in order to stay in. Something that doesn't seem likely.

Korea v Mexico

Prediction: 2-0 Mexico

Result: 2-1 Mexico

Korea clearly learnt from their last game and realised Son was their main man, deploying him centrally as part of a front 3 instead of on the wing again. Sadly it didn't help with their defensive woes. Mexico split them apart again and again and only some poor shooting kept them from scoring. A 1-0 halftime lead from a penalty all Mexico could show for their dominance.

A very easy 2nd half for Mexico. A 90th minute strike from Son made it a little interesting but all-in-all Mexico were happy with the win and didn't feel the need to attack more. Korea generally just looked outclassed and could never really get good attacks going. They had 2 good chances but lacked quality up front and spurned them.

With 2 losses things are bleak for Korea. Mexico with 2 wins are all but confirmed for the next round.

Germany v Sweden

Prediction: 1-0 Germany

Result: 2-1 Germany

Germany again didn't look themselves. Their defence was static and slow and they had no creativity going forward. Sweden grabbing a quick first half goal didn't even give them a rise in their game. It looked for all money that they were going to be the 3rd straight defending champions to be knocked out in group stages.

2nd half Germany started showing glimpses of the the monster we know they can be. A quick equaliser to minutes into the half sparked them into attack. They looked more and more positive for the next 20 minutes until Sweden finally came back into the game and once again showed Germany's defence was not up to scratch this tournament. They created a few good breaks which eventually lead to Boateng being red carded. Kroos eventually saving the defending champions tournament with a 95th minute winner.

Germany were once again uninspiring, but seeing as their last game is against Korea they will probably make it through. Sweden would need to overcome a very competent Mexico to have any chance of qualifying through the group now. This result also means that technically, Korea are not yet knocked out.