My World Cup Review

Germany 0 : 0 Argentina

Germany 1 : 0 Argentina (aet)

The World Cup final is here. We will have a winner. Either Germany or Argentina will come away from Brazil the champions of world football for the next 4 years. 

Can Germany bring their devastating form into this match after the very public humiliation of the hosts, Brazil. Or will it be a moment of magic from the most gifted footballer of modern football, Messi?

Many expected the game to be a tight affair with both teams taking their time to settle, but it was quite the opposite. Germany kicked off and immediately went on the attack. They had brought the confidence into this game.  Their passing tidy, slick, effortless. Argentina on the ball, direct, with pace looking to surprise the German defence. So far the game is showing signs of an epic. The first chance of an opening goal fell to Higuain. A careless header back from Kross was intercepted by the Argentinian but he rushed his shot and it went wide. Germany let off the hook and Kross can breath again. Higuain did put the ball in the net but he was correctly flagged offside. Argentina became more of a threat as the half continued and Lavezzi was causing a few problems of his own. Germany were a little rattled. They weathered the storm and found their rhythm again. Messi is winning the running race against the German defence as he got through again. No end product yet but you feel it's coming. A glorious chance for the Germans as a free header from Howedes struck the post. He should have done better. 

For a 0-0 in a World Cup final this first half was a thoroughly enjoyable 45 minutes. More of the same please, but let's have a few more goals. 

The second half exploded into action with Argentina already into an early assault on the German goal and this time it was Messi breaking through. Surely he is to score? No! It went narrowly wide. Germans again with a sigh of relief. There was another nasty collision as Neuer came running out to punch the ball but clattered into Higuain, but the ref gave a foul against the striker. It was reminiscent of the horrific incident between Schumacher and Battiston in 1982. 

The game became more unsettled as there were little niggley challenges creeping into the game. More yellow cards were being brandished. A different tale to the first half. Messi again trying to weave his way through but even he was finding it difficult. As the half drew to a close the Germans were taking their turn in dominating the game. They were pressing high and looking dangerous. 

The game finished and we now have extra time again in the final. Will we get a winner or will it be decided by penalties?

Wow, what a start to the extra time. Both teams taking turns to attack. Schürrle with a good shot saved. Palacio clear through and a lob going wide. No one is backing down or sitting back. 

15 minutes to go, anyone willing to take the game by the scruff of the neck? 

We really do have blood sweat and tears. Schweinsteiger was caught in the face from a flailing arm from Aguero. Naughty. Tempers increasing. The German bench not happy. 

WE HAVE IT!! A goal!! Germany scored. The young Gotze with a cool finish. Schürrle with a run down the left, clipped in and the German controlled on the chest and dispatched the ball into the goal. 8 minutes remain. Argentina HAVE to go for it, but this will leave them light at the back. Are those 2 chances from Higuain or Messi haunt them? 

That's its, it's over GERMANY - WINNERS OF THE 2014 WORLD CUP!! 

The game was a right affair, and it was a great game to watch for the neutrals. Germany over the years have been building up for this. Their philosophy of young players being bedded into a team and given the opportunity to grow. Now they are world champions after 24 years. 

Argentina still wait for their next World Cup win, heartbreaking to watch but it wasn't their year. 

Congratulation Germany

My World Cup Review

Brazil 1 : 7 Germany 

It's semi final time and Brazil take on Germany. This has been a match we have been looking forward to. 

Brazil are without two of their instrumental players Neymar (injured) and Silva (suspended) whereas Germany field a full strength squad. 

As expected Brazil on the front foot from the beginning and Germany happy to soak it up. When they had possession of their own, Germany also passed the ball well. They were showing Brazil that they will be up for this game. It took 10 minutes for the first goal and it's a goal that stuns the stadium to a hollow silence. Muller gets a gift from a corner as no one is picking him up on the 6 yrd box and he volleys past Cesar. Can Brazil break down a well structured Germany team? They are rattled, they give the ball away time after time and Germany continue to look dangerous on the counter. Klose becomes the all time goal scorer in World Cup history as he scored Germany's second goal. And again it was all too easy. Slick passing found Klose with a simple finish and Germany didn't stop there. It was 3 within 25 minutes, Kross finished another great passing move with a sweet strike from the edge of the box. It's 4!! As I write this I cannot keep up with what is happening. Straight from kick off Germany pounce on sloppy passing at the back, Kross has another tap in. Tears are flowing in the stadium. Brazil have crumbled in spectacular style. Have they really relied on 1 player to win the World Cup? That's not the Brazil way, they need to collect themselves and quick! It's going to be a cricket score! 5-0!! Really?! Is this happening? Khedira adds his name to the score sheet. Germany have got everything right, tactics have been spot on, Brazil are not looking good. 

The world will be in stunned silence, even the Germans. As the half concluded, Germany continued to taunt Brazil. Their passing, their tactics, everything they were doing was just adding salt into a very open Brazilian wound. Boo's ring out at half time. 200 million Brazil fans not happy. 

Scolari has one hell of a team talk. He has stuck to his squad selection every time, but this squad has let him down. 

As the teams take to the pitch for the second half, Brazil kick off and immediately go on the attack. They need to score early just to give themselves and their fans 'hope'. They look better, but Germany are now sitting back. They don't need to rush at all. Neuer for Germany keeps his clean sheet in tack with a great reaction save. That man is a brick wall. Even though Germany are more 'relaxed' they still look dangerous on the attack. A brilliant save from Cesar kept out a Muller shot which was heading for the top corner. They went through on goal but again for Cesar, the score remains the same. The inevitable happened as Germany score their sixth. Again direct and accurate passing gave Schürrle another tap in. Fred was booed off as he was substituted which was harsh as yes he has been poor, but Scolari insisted on continuing to pick him. 

It continued in the second half in the sense that Germany would not let Brazil breath or get anything from this game. They scored a wonderful 7th as Schürrle got his 2nd with a sweet strike from a cute angle into the roof of the Brazilian goal. Even the Brazilian fans had enough and they 'olè' the Germans passing. They realise this has been impressive. Ozil had a glorious opportunity to get an 8th but his shot went wide. 

Oscar scored the most pointless of World Cup goals as an uncharacteristic German error let the Chelsea man to score. The German 'keeper is furious. 

The 'Canarinho' have let themselves and their fans down. It was a shambolic performance from all players on the pitch, but it wasn't helped by a well structured German machine. 

They are in the final, and either Argentina or Holland will face them, that's if they want too. 

A great game to watch, for the neutrals. World Cup 2014, epic. 

My World Cup Review

Holland 0 : 0 Costa Rica

The last of the World Cup quarter finals. Holland against Costa Rica and the winner faces Argentina. 

Again Costa Rica are considered underdogs against a very strong Dutch squad with Van Persie, Sneijder, Robben in their line up. The opening quarter of the game was dominated by Holland, they had numerous chances and Navas made some good saves to deny the Flying Dutchmen. Costa Rica didn't sit back as they also looked dangerous on the counter attack. Robben also has a point to prove after his comments about his sportsmanship in the previous game and it looked as though he was making a conscious effort to be more 'honest'. How long it would last, we will never know. He went down off the ball and won a free kick. The Costa Ricans said he dived but he had been brought down. The free kick was well saved again by Navas. More orange pressure towards the end of the half but both teams leave the field all square. 

Holland continued in the way they finished the first half. They controlled the play but unable to get that all important goal. Costa Rica also looking dangerous on counter attacks. Everything that the Dutch did, the Costa Ricans were able to stop. They were defending like true warriors and the longer the game progressed, the Dutch looked more nervous. The closest any team got to a goal was in the 81st minute when a wonder free kick crashed against the post from Sneijder. He managed to whipped the ball in, over the wall from a difficult angle. Unlucky. Tempo finally increased to another notch as Holland wanted to finish this game in the 90 minutes. Another free kick on Robben resulted in a shot from RVP but that 'keeps Navas again was in the way. He has been incredible. A glorious chance fell to Van Persie but he missed the ball. In the last minute of added time Holland could have won it when the ball was skimmed in and the players in the middle missed, fell to RVP and his shot was defended on the line, deflected up onto the bar and cleared! Frantic. Full time and this Match somehow finishes goalless. 

Another 30 minutes to be played. A tidal wave of orange was what the Costa Rica has faced all throughout this match and the onslaught continued against their goal. How Holland are not winning is anyone's guess? Costa Rica though did have a claim for a penalty as Vlaar clumsily stumbled into Urena but nothing from the ref. 

The second half of extra time turned into an epic 15 minutes as costar looked like the team that may nick the win. Urena somehow wiggled his way into the Dutch box and a great save from Cillessen kept the game tied. Holland then went straight on the attack (again) and Sneijder struck the ball from 30 yards which smashed against the bar. Then a bizarre decision from Van Gaal as he subbed the Dutch 'keeper Cillessen with Krul in the last minute ready for penalties. I have never seen that before. 

Penalties

Netherlands - OOOO

Costa Rica  - OXOOX

Have we witnessed a great tactical mind in work? Or an ego getting a bit of luck? What every the outcome Holland progress to face Argentina. A tasty encounter. 

My World Cup Review

Argentina 1 : 0 Belgium

Quarter final number 3 as Argentina take on Belgium. Argentina are out to prove that they do not rely on one man whereas Belgium are out to stop one man; Messi. 

Both teams full of great players looking to take authority early on, took time to settle. On the 10th minute Messi got the ball in the centre of the pitch, twisted and turned and fed the ball out wide. When played in it deflected to Higuain who instinctively shot first time which caught Cortuois off guard. 1-0. The tempo slowed and Argentina were controlling the game, Messi showing his class with an exquisite pass like a hot knife through butter found Di Maria who's shot was blocked.  Belgium managed to contain Argentina but it took them until the 41st minute to threaten as a Mirallas header just went wide. A predictable end to the first half and Argentina lead. 

Argentina started the brighter of the two in the second half and a great run from Higuain gave him the opportunity to unleash a fierce shot which skimmed the top of the bar. Considering that Belgium are playing for a place in the semi final they had no urgency about their play, they looked out of ideas. This wasn't helped though as Argentina continued to command the game. The attitude of Belgium was summed up in the 75th as they won a dangerous free kick and with it a chance to cause damage. Instead Mertens went for goal and went well wide. His teams mates perplexed with his decision. As the time ran out, Belgium's attitude changed and they attacked more. They could not get through and they were very nearly punished for be too adventurous as Messi went 1 on 1 with Cortuois but he pulled off a great save and still gave his team that 1 last chance. They did get it but Lukaku's pull back was cleared and the follow up volley went sky high. 

Argentina now face either Holland or Costa Rica in the semi final and whoever they face, it's going to be a great encounter. 

My World Cup Review

Brazil 2 : 1 Columbia

The second quarter final as Brazil take on Columbia who many have capped as Brazils toughest game yet. And it is also the battle of the number 10's. Neymar against Rodriguez. 

As expected the atmosphere is deafening. Support for both teams amplified.  Will Brazil cope with the expectations?  Tempo is high from the off and Brazil are into the flow straight away and a delicate pass through the Columbian defence set the tone of the game. Everyone looks to be in the mood. An early corner for Brazil found its way through to Silva who reacted well to poke in. The hosts lead. They are passing the ball well, crisp, slick. Brazil are not allowing Columbia to take any control on the game. There were no real chances for Columbia during the first half as Brazil succeeded in making them rush their play and in doing so, restricted them in their attacks. 

The second half started and there were the odd challenge from both teams which broke the play up so the game lost it's fluidity. It took a good 10 minutes for the game to pick up. The tempo picked up again and Columbia attacked with pace. They won a free kick and as it was taken the flag went up for offside. None of the players knew and as the ball went in they were livid that it didn't count. There will be questions asked about the referee in tonight's game as when Rodriguez committed a foul (his first) he was booked, and he remonstrated that he had been targeted throughout the match and seemed as though no punishment was given. The free kick from Luiz was a thunderbolt. Struck with power, the ball dipped and swerved and there was nothing Ospina could do. Emotions are high and in Luiz's celebration you could see what it means to the hosts. The last 10 minutes were made extremely interesting as Columbia were awarded a penalty as Cesar brought down Bacca and Rodriguez very cooly dispatched. Columbia had to push on at Brazil, but they didn't help themselves as even though time was against them, they continued to give away silly free kicks. And this resulted in Brazils poster boy being taken off on a stretcher after being kneed in the back. He looked in pain.   With 5 minutes added time, Scolari was furious, it gave Columba the chance to get that equaliser. A free kick was whipped but Yepes headed sky high. Full time was called. 

The party continued for Brazil as they now face Germany in the semi final. Their fist semi final since they won their last cup world 12 years ago. Can a well structured German squad stand in the way? 

My World Cup Review

Belgium 0 : 0 USA

Belgium 2: 1 USA (aet)

The final game in the first round of knockouts aiming for the last place in the last eight if the World Cup. 

USA started slowly in the game and Belgium took 40 seconds to register the first decent attack in the game. This unsettled USA and it took time before they relaxed and steadied themselves. Belgium looked dangerous. Origi, Hazard, De Bryne all looked to drive forward at Howard's goal. And in the 25th minute Belgium had a shot cleared from the line. The tempo has been high, with both teams attacking but none found that clear cut chance. Another decent save from Howard towards the end of the half and both teams equal at half time. 

The second half started in a similar fashion to the first. Belgium were very strong on the attack and had the USA on the ropes. USA escaped the early onslaught and when they settled into the flow of the game they passed the ball well and caused a few problems of their own. We were now watching a great game of end to end football. The stats were showing that Belgium were dominating the play, with their corners, shots on and off target exceeding those of the USA. But they could not convert any chances. The man of the moment was Howard. He had made 4 great saves to keep his country in this game. When it looked as though Belgium would be breaking the goal duck he was rock solid and blocked every shot coming his way. The tempo did not drop, players were seriously fatigued, couldn't put any more effort in, but somehow they kept going. In the last minute the miss of the World Cup was witnessed (luckily for Wondolowski, he was waved ((incorrectly)) offside and the match goes to extra time. 

An immediate impact from Lukaku as he powered down the right, played the ball across goal and De Bryne cooly slotted in. This early goal still gave the Americans opportunity to get back into the game. The tactical change to bring on Lukaku paid dividends as another great break from Belgium playing in the big centre for forward who smashed home the second. 

Can the USA pull 1 back and get back into this game? Yes they can. A  lovely goal by Green made the score 2-1. Ball into the box, Jones?!? GOAL-kick. So close. Team USA was being chanted in the stands. A well worked free kick fell to Dempsey and if Courtois hadn't saved it would have been a brilliant goal. They are throwing everything (including the kitchen sink) but they did not get that important goal. 

It's finished 2-1 but we have watched an epic game that was full of ingredients that make a fascinating game of football. Tempo, heart, commitment, it had it all. USA should be very proud of their squad and their attitude. Belgium, looked great and if it wasn't for Howard they would have scored 5-6. 

My World Cup Review

Argentina 0 : 0 Switzerland

Argentina 1 : 0 Switzerland (aet)

Messi leads Argentina against Switzerland in this first round knockout. Both teams looking to progress and set up a quarter final game against either Belgium or USA. Switzerland defended well, and they had to with Messi on the opponents team! They kept him at bay not giving him any opportunity to cause any damage. Switzerland had a glorious chance to take the lead. A through ball found Drmic who had plenty of time and space but he may have seen the headlines in his head and went for a cute, delicate chip but Romero just stood there and grateful caught it easily. Will the Swiss regret that chance?

Argentina continued to dominate and  the second half was mainly one sided. Argentina had numerous chances but no one could convert. Switzerland tried to conjure up attacks of their own but as they entered the final third they seemed to lose ideas. Even though Messi has had one of his quieter games he almost produced a wonder goal with a fierce volley from out if the box. The more the game progressed the more Argentina increased their intensity. And with this added pressure the more Switzerland 'parked the bus' and stifled out any dangerous attack. Though the Argentines looked the dominant Messi looked lonely in regards to being the only player to get the goal. He really needs to rally his team if they are to progress. Switzerland are looking to try and take the game to penalties. 

90 minutes were up and it remained goalless. Extra time next up. 

After the first half of extra time the story of the game continued. Argentina were knocking at the door but unable to get in. Switzerland controlled everything that was being thrown at them. 

The players are exhausted, can they muster enough strength to be able to cope with another 15 minutes? The game looked destined for penalties. But in a quick break Messi found Di Maria the slot home with only 2 minutes remaining. Have they won it? The referee added 3 minutes for added time and the Swiss 'keeper was up joining the attack. A corner was put in and a header hit the post. Unlucky! Argentina hang on. 

An overall poor game, both teams victim of nerves. It's only going to get worse for Argentina. 

My World Cup Review

Costa Rica 1 : 1 Greece 

A huge game for both Costa Rica and Greece with the quarter final against Holland waiting for them. 

With so much at stake for both teams, tactics were more on the cautious side. No one wanted to concede the first goal. Costa Rica did look the more likely to score but the Greek defence was solid. Between the sparing Greece were unlucky not to take the lead. A guided cross found Salpingidis who volleyed from close range, and the great save ensured that the scores remains level. No water breaks were needed during the first half and both teams left the field at half time to a chorus of boos from the fans who are looking for a more attack minded game which has come to be expected in this World Cup.  

Both teams know that they had to change their tactics in the 2nd half if either of them wanted to win. Greece were the more direct, looking to open the scoring as early as possible but it was Costa Rica who actually beat them to it. A quick passing move on the left, found Ruiz to place the ball (albeit a miss hit) into the corner of the goal. This obviously resulted in Greece having to change their approach and go more attack minded. This however left them more open and gave Costa Rica the opportunity to press and increase their lead. There was more twists to the game as a red card was shown and Costa Rica now down to 10 men. Could they hold on? Greece threw everything and everyone forward. This game has come to life. 

Would you Adam and Eve it, again, in added on time. GOAL!! Greece equalised and the celebrations followed. There was still time for a winner and Greece, with their tails up  nearly got it but another fine save prevented them stealing the win. 

Into extra time for the second time this tournament. Costa Rica are now just hanging on. They are now running on empty and Greece are looking for the win.  The first half of ET started in the same way as the match ended, with full on Greece offence. No breakthrough came. The remaining 15 minutes were frantic, like a pair of boxers trading blows. It could have gone either way. No goals scored, penalties again. 

Costa Rica - OOOOO

Greece - OOOX

Costa Rica reach their first ever World Cup quarter finals winning 5/4 on penalties. They have Holland in the next round but need to be tactically aware to stop a fast flowing  Dutch team. 

My World Cup Review

Holland 2 : 1 Mexico

An exciting game predicted between two teams who have been performing well at this years tournament. 

Both teams have been very positive in their approach to each game and in the opening 30 minutes they seemed to cancel each other out after each attack, neither really had that clear cut chance. We also had the first 'cooling break' where both teams were able to rehydrate mid way through the half as the players were in the very uncomfortable playing conditions as temperatures were exceeding 30 degrees and 70% humidity. Though vital for a players health some may feel it could disrupt a teams momentum. In the heat both teams continued to try and take advantage but no one found that opening. The half finished 0-0 and both teams felt as though they should have had a penalty each. 

The second half started and temperatures were confirmed at 38 degrees! No wonder the players were looking lethargic. I would not cope at all. Mexico knew that Holland would struggle in the heat the more the game progressed, so they hit Holland at the beginning of the half with another wonderful long distance goal from Dos Santos.  Holland though still looked dangerous on the counter attack and from a corner the Mexican 'keeper Ochoa produced another great saves to add to the collection he has made during this World Cup. And his work hadn't stopped there as again he was called upon and another  save to deny Robben. Corner after corner Holland started to dominate and Sneijder thundered in the equaliser. With the water break in the second half 6 minutes extra time was added and in the 93rd minute a penalty was award and cooly dispatched by Huntelaar. A cruel end to the game for Mexico as their road in this completion comes to an end. 

Holland progress and their hopes of a World Cup win still look likely. For Mexico, heartache in the way they lost the game. 

My World Cup Review

Columbia 2 : 0 Uruguay

The winner of these two take on Brazil in the quarter final. Columbia who have become a fans favourite through their style and celebrations take on a Suarez-less Uruguay. 

A very attack minded Columbia set out what they had in mind for this game. They drove at the Uruguayan goal with jinxing runs. The only way Uruguay could stop them was to take them out. Uruguay struggled to get into the game and the absence of a Mr Suarez was an obvious factor to their lack of creativity as it was his goals that took them through. The opening goal will be considered for goal of the tournament as the highly rated James Rodriguez controlled a ball on his chest, spun and struck a sweet volley which rocketed off the bar, into the goal. GOALLLLLLL! This goal sparked Uruguay into life and they finally forced themselves on the Columbia's goal but with no end result. 

At the start of the second half Uruguay started in a more positive manor and had a few half chances. Columbia did well to shut them out and on the 50th minute they extended their lead with a lovely team goal. Cute passing, and unselfish attitude lead to a tap in for Rodrigeuz for his second. From that moment Columbia eased off the gas which allowed Uruguay to attack more. There where numerous opportunities for Uruguay but they could not convert any chances. They were running out if ideas and could not make that crucial break to give them any chance to get back into the game. 

So the first game of the quarter final is Brazil and Columbia. The way Columbia have been playing this should turn out to be a great game. And wear your sun glasses as it going to be yellow. 

My World Cup Review

Brazil 1 : 1 Chile

It's the first round of the knockouts. Hosts Brazil take on Chile, who Scolari quoted as saying he didn't want to play. 

This game was always going to be fast, fiery, exiting. The atmosphere that greeted the players was electrifying. If any players needed any more motivation then they got it during the national anthems. Inspiring. 

The games started as we all expected. With tempo. Both teams wanted to stamp their authority on the game and quickly. With end to end attacks. Both also put in some heavy challenges just to ensure that no one was taking this lightly. The breakthrough came early on with Luis in the right spot to flick in a nod on header from a Brazilian corner. The hosts lead. Neymar was playing with a target on his back as he was the victim of a few tasty challenges. Chile continued to apply pressure and some careless defending from Brazil allowed Chile in and the reliable Sanchez equalised.  Many more chances fell to both teams but none took their opportunity to take advantage. All square at half time. 

The second half continued as the first left off. Lots of pace, but it brought with it errors. Both teams were careless in their passing with their eagerness to attack. A diagonal pass found Hulk who controlled on his chest, and sliced a shot in. However his celebrations were cut short as he was booked for handball ball in his control. No goal. From there on Brazil lost some of their swag as Chile tried to take advantage and bombarded the Brazilian goal. They very nearly got their reward if it wasn't for Ceasar who produced a wonder save to keep the game 1-1. Towards to end of the game the tempo fell (who could blame the players), and another world class save prevented Hulk getting the goal he thought he should have in this game. 

Into extra time. 30 more minutes of game play for someone to find a winner. Most players will be running on empty but will be carried on with pure adrenaline. 

Brazil were the strongest of the two in the fist half of ET but could not break a solid Chilean defence.  Into the last 15 minutes of open play in extra time and Brazil where the team who looked as though they could snatch the win and prevent the game going to penalties. Chilean tactics were to defend, and defend well. The bar was rattled, and it was Chile who NEARLY scored. A matter of inches kept Brazil in the competition.  

Penalties will decide who progresses...

BRAZIL - OXOXO

CHILE - XXOOX

Brazil progress, heartache for Chile. 

World Cup Review - Suarez bite ban

So the breaking news today was that Suarez was given 9 game ban and no football activity for 4 months. 

Now is this the punishment a footballer (professional) should be given for biting another footballer? BITING! And this is the 3rd time he has been punished for it. 

Now correct me if I'm wrong but why should he still be given the opportunity to serve his ban, and then return the 'job' that everyone dreams of? I mean, if I was to bite someone, unprovoked, I would be arrested, fined, sued, given a sentence for GBH, sacked. An endless list. But as he is a 'sportsman' who is on a worldwide stage, and all he is technically getting is a slapped wrist. 

I know there have been bans for players who have spat, fought each other, drug use but this man is a serial offender; banned for 3 biting offences, racial remarks, gestures towards fans. No saint. 

Suarez though has no one to blame other than himself, and the fact that he is trying to blame others is not helping his case. Again, on the biggest stage as a footballer, World Cup South Africa 2010, he was sent off for handling the ball on the line stopping it going in. Only to celebrate when the penalty was missed like he had 'saved' Uruguay's World Cup hopes. Is this the sign of a true, honest professional? To cheat his way to get success? Alarm bells started ringing in many peoples minds.

To give an indication of how damaging the Suarez name is now becoming here is a stat no one wants to see: Since 2010, Luis Suarez has been banned for 34 games, without ever receiving a red card. 

The recent act of controversy has now unfortunately tarnished what is an amazing World Cup. There has been fantastic games, goals and samba, but will always be the World Cup that had 'the bite' in it. Just like Zidanes head but. FIFA had an opportunity to make themselves be respected again, what with the corruption allegations that have come to light, by implementing a lengthy, tough punishment for a dangerous player who is in danger of bringing the game into a bad place. If they had given him 12 month ban, the majority of the footballing world would have welcomed it. The fact he will be playing agin in October is not really a punishment where he will turn around and say "you know what, I've learned my lesson". The only way he will ever learn or learn to control his actions was if he was to be punished like any other person. 

FIFA didn't do what we were expecting. 

It's this sorted of action/reaction that drives people away from this sport. The fact that these individuals are actually being (over)paid to play football every week is, well, pushing even the most hardcore fan away. But knowing that when an act of stupidity, madness happens and to be 'punished' in this way sums up what is wrong with the beautiful game. With the amount of television rights, sponsorships, image rights there will never be an end to the high demand of sport celebrities, and with that, the divide between the real world and the fantasy world of the footballer will continue to grow. 

My World Cup Review

South Korea 0 : 1 Belgium

The very last games of the group stages of the 2014 World Cup. South Korea take on Belgium in what everyone thought would be a one way game. 

The first half was very open with neither side being the dominant team. S.Korea defended resolutely against a quick Belgium attacking formation and even created a few chances of their own. That lack of composure was the Koreans downfall. Mertens for Belgium, who has been one of their better players so far had a glorious chance to give his team the lead, but he rushed his shot and blazed over from 6yrds. Just before half time, Belgium was reduced to 10 men as Defour was shown a straight red for a needless tackle where he stamped on the shin of Kim Shin-wook. Belgium had a poor first half, but it was the result of a well structured S.Koren tactics. 

The second half was an opportunity for S.Korea to take advantage of the extra man they had. They started well, strongly but could not break through the Belgium defence. Belgium, who had already qualified to the knockout rounds sat back and soaked up the constant pressure. They even pushed on themselves with counter attacks of their own, unable to break Korean hearts. More possession and more chances to take the lead the fell to S.Korea but on the 77th minute Vertonghen did crush the hearts of the Koreans as another quick break from Belgium resulted in a shot from distance being saved and pushed into the path of Vertonghen to pass into the Korean goal. Even after the goal Belgium continued to be a threat, now that Hazard was brought on. The last few minutes of the game Korea were unlucky not to equalise after some well struck shots. 

Belgium held on to take the win and the group as winners with Algeria taking the runners up spot with a draw against Russia. 

BELGIUM - group winners

ALGERIA - runners up 

Russia

South Korea

My World Cup Review

Ecuador 0 : 0 France

Everything was to play for in the last group E game as all 4 teams had a chance of progressing. 

Ecuador played France in their final game and had to beat them to guarantee their position in the knockouts. France made numerous changes but they still looked threatening with Benzema looking to increase his impressive start to the competition. There was the odd attack from Ecuador but they could not unlock the French defence. As the half progressed the Ecuadorian defenders were working tirelessly to halt any dangerous advances from the French and a good save from the 'keeper (one for the cameras) tipped over a clever header from Pogba. Around the 40th minute Ecuador sparked into life and launched a dangerous attack which was well saved by Lloris. 

A 1-0 win was all that was needed for Ecuador to progress ahead of Switzerland, but that task was made even harder after Antonio Valencia was shown a straight red card for a stamp tackle, and though he did connect with the ball first, his momentum took him onto the shin of Digne and the referee deemed the tackle as dangerous. This left Ecuador with 10 men for the last 40 minutes of the game. But going down to 10 men boosted Ecuador's mentality and they nearly scored from a swift counter attack. They tried and tried but could not get that goal they needed. France had opportunity after opportunity to score themselves but Domingez was not letting anything past. The score in the other game increased to 3-0 which meant that Ecuador had to score 2. Into the last 10 minutes and even though Ecuador had plenty of desire and courage, their chances faded and the match ended goalless. 

FRANCE - group winners

SWITZERLAND - runners up

Ecuador

Honduras 

My World Cup Review

Greece 2 : 1 Ivory Coast 

Final group game between Greece and Côte d'Ivoire turned out to be an roller coaster of emotions. 

A result for either team would take them through to the knockout stages of the World Cup. The first half was cagey, as both dreams looked nervous. There were chances here and there and Greece almost took the lead after rattling the bar. As it was heading for the end if the first half Greece did get their lead after a cool finish after a direct passing movement. As it stood, they were going through. 

In the second half Ivory Coast had to attack and attack they did. They continued to knock at the Greek door but they were not getting through. With the constant pressure it left them susceptible to the counter attack and time and time again Greece could have/should have extended their lead. Wilfred Bony was brought on and with an attacking formation that include Drogba, Toure, Kalou, Bony, Gervinho surely Côte d'Ivoire would get that equaliser? It was Bony who did get what they wanted after some basic defending let them in and now with the score at 1:1 it was Ivory Coast who would progress. Time to get nervous. The last 10 minutes was constant Greek pressure and into added time (90+3), PENALTY. Could Samaras keep his cool to take Greece through for the first time in their history..? Yes he could. With the final kick Greece won the game and into the knockouts. 

This is what makes the World Cup special. Games like this with a mixture of emotions in 90 minutes. Congratulations Greece. 

COLUMBIA - group winners

GREECE - runners up

Ivory Coast

Japan

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England 0 : 0 Costa Rica 

Shit. Just utter shit 

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Cameroon 1 - 4 Brazil

We are into the final week of group games and Cameroon take on hosts Brazil. 

One thing is for sure, the atmosphere when Brazil play is electric.  The passion and emotion expelled from the fans singing the national anthem would give you goose bumps, just like the watching the Haka in New Zealand. Powerful. The first 20 minutes was somewhat of a stalemate. No one giving any room to each other, but Brazil took the lead from Neymar after a low cross found him in the box to slot home. Cameroon though were being party poopers. After conceding the goal they became more aggravated (in a positive way) and went on the offensive and after a corner which was headed against the bar, they broke down the left to play a ball right across goal and all that was left to do was to tap the ball in. 1-1. There was more pressure from Cameroon but they could not take advantage and Brazil made them pay as Neymar again got on the score sheet after a direct run, who was left was unopposed, ended up giving Brazil the lead. 

The samba beat was running through the veins of the Brazilians as they erupted onto the scene in the 2nd half as they scored a 3rd goal through Fred. Who hasn't been praised so far in this competition but Scolari has stuck by him and he returned the faith with a simple nod in (though there was a hint of offside about it). Once Brazil had scored their third they reduced their urgency and became more comfortable on the ball and some showboating was bring displayed. Cameroon unfortunately could not respond to what Brazil were bringing to the game and they became a little heavy handed (well, footed) in their tackling. Now Mexico in the other game in group A had scored a 3rd goal, filtered through to the ground and the atmosphere dropped. Could they steal top spot on goal difference and set up a game between Brazil and Holland? Some very careless defending as Cameroon tried to take a quick free kick on the edge of their own box was intercepted and poked in from Fernandinho. And top spot was confirmed when Croatia scored against Mexico. 

Group A finished with excitement as it was so very close to being a twist in the tale of the World Cup. 

BRAZIL - group winners

MEXICO - runners up 

Croatia

Cameroon

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S.Korea 2 : 4 Algeria

Group H game between South Korea and Algeria. 

An open and exciting game between two teams that have been dubbed the teams to make up numbers. Algeria did not let off the gas from the first minute as the pressed towards to the S.Korean goal and created numerous chances. S.Korea however, didn't just lie down and role over as the also attacked with pace. Algeria took the lead on 25 minutes and quickly doubled their lead from a well worked set piece.  After the second goal S.Korean heads dropped and they struggled to string more than 5 passes together. Algeria took advantage of this and they scored their 3rd and controlled the game up to half time. 

What ever was said to S.Korea during the team talk worked as they scored after a number of promising attacks from kick off. There was always going to be danger with constant pressure from S.Korea, as it left them light at the back and Algeria took advantage of this to scored their 4th. There was still plenty of time for more goals in this game and we weren't disappointed as S.Korea scored again to make it 4-2 and they still pushed on. No more goals were scored however we were treated to a very good, quick, open game. 

Algeria won to give themselves the best ever chance to progress and they will be taking on Russia in their final game. 

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Belgium 1 - 0 Russia

Belgium against Russia in group H's second game. A win for Belgium would take them through to the knockouts. 

After Belgium's opening game victory they should have brought a confidence into this game which would have been no match for Russia, considering after their opening performance against South Korea and a 'keeper who was looking nervous every time the ball went near him it was the opposite. Belgium, even with the majority of the possession could not take advantage and as the first half progressed Russia looked comfortable with anything that the Belgium's threw at them and even looked like punishing them on the counter. 

The second half started in the way the first half finished. Lacklustre and stale. There was no tempo, no drive, do none of these teams want to progress? It was looking to be heading for a bore draw but around the 60th minute an inspired substitution form Belgium seemed to lift their spirits. A young 19 year old Origi, full of pace and confidence dragged Belgium back up towards their best and gave the neutrals who have Belgium as the dark horses of the competition reason why they have been tipped as the 'maybes'. Hazard slipped down the left to cooly play a pass back to Origi to smash home an 85th minute winner. 

Belgium through (just) needing the Algeria - South Korea game to do them a favour. 

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Germany 2 : 2 Ghana

Germany face Ghana for the 2nd game in group G

In this game we all presumed that this again would have been a walk over for the Germans who looked so comfortable in their victory over Portugal in their first game. Both teams though produced a great first half which would have brought concern to the Germans as they couldn't break down Ghana. The first half ended with both teams equal and all to play for in the second half. 

The second half turned out to be a more memorable half. Both teams wanted to take all 3 points away from the game and the way both teams played, it could have gone to either team. The Germans took the lead from a well placed cross which found Gozte who somehow found the net after heading the ball onto his knee. The lead only lasted 3 minutes when Ghana equalised from another header from a well placed cross. To everyone's surprise Ghana took the lead through a Gyan well struck goal. 2-1! Tactical substitutions from the Germans was key to their equaliser as Klose scored another World Cup goal equaling Brazilians Ronaldo's total tally of World Cup goals. Could he break that that? Both teams huffed and puffed but no one could break the door down to grab that 3rd goal and after lots at German pressure it could have been Ghana who could have taken the win. 

In the end a very entertaining game for us neutrals and this leaves group G open with still everything to play for in the final game