Wednesday, June 30, 2010
World Cup Day 19
Paraguay 0-0 Japan (5-3 pens)
Spain 1-0 Portugal
Portugal in recent years have always been disappointing at major tournaments, playing cagey, negative football and offering little cuting edge upfront. Today was no different.
They succeeded in suffocating the "ticky-tacky" of the Spaniards in the first half but when Spain's quality shone through with an incisive passing move early in the sec
Paraguay were the better team in the first half with Japan sticking to their defensive, pressing game. The Japanese did start to come out and play in characteristic short, sharp attacks during the second half. As the game went on it looked like neither team was relishing the idea of Extra Time/Penalties as both side were positive but chances were at a premium.
The Blue Samurai looked the more likely team to score in Extra Time but ultimately went out after a strong display of penalties form their South American opponents. They can hold their heads high though as their fervourant woprk-rate and determination certainly added soemthing to the tournament.
Spain 1-0 Portugal
Portugal in recent years have always been disappointing at major tournaments, playing cagey, negative football and offering little cuting edge upfront. Today was no different.
They succeeded in suffocating the "ticky-tacky" of the Spaniards in the first half but when Spain's quality shone through with an incisive passing move early in the sec
World Cup Day 18
Netherlands 2-1 Slovakia
The Dutch, true to their form thusfar, played within themselves for large periods of a game that was heirs for the taking. When they did click into gear they looked a slick outfit especially with the return of Robben to inject some pace and incision. And it was he who opened the scoring in typical fashion, cutting inside onto his left foot and letting fly from outside the box.
Slovakia did get at the Dutch defense but only created one serious chance before being awarded a soft penalty in the 94th minute.
Brazil 3-0 Chile
Another side looking to win at a canter and successfully doing so. Having not looked too convincing in the opening half hour the men in the famous yellow jerseys found themselves scoring form a corner. This then built their platform as Chile were forced to come out and the space was duly exploited during a sublimely swift team goal before half time. Robinho's third was merely a bonus.
The Dutch, true to their form thusfar, played within themselves for large periods of a game that was heirs for the taking. When they did click into gear they looked a slick outfit especially with the return of Robben to inject some pace and incision. And it was he who opened the scoring in typical fashion, cutting inside onto his left foot and letting fly from outside the box.
Slovakia did get at the Dutch defense but only created one serious chance before being awarded a soft penalty in the 94th minute.
Brazil 3-0 Chile
Another side looking to win at a canter and successfully doing so. Having not looked too convincing in the opening half hour the men in the famous yellow jerseys found themselves scoring form a corner. This then built their platform as Chile were forced to come out and the space was duly exploited during a sublimely swift team goal before half time. Robinho's third was merely a bonus.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
World Cup Day 17
Germany 4-1 England
England were outclassed and embarrassed by a skillful and organised German team. Having gone two down after some horrendous defending they did show some resurgence but it was bitty, scrambled play but a goal back before half-time from a corner gave them some hope (although the second wrongly disallowed goal would have helped).
The second half saw a masterful counter-attack game from the young Germans as England naively threw men forward only to be caught by two swift breaks. Three down with 30mins to go the English were demoralised and hopeless as the Germans ran out comfortable victors.
The English choice to field 4-4-2 against a mobile and energetic 4-2-3-1 was questionable, the choice to field Defoe - a goal poacher with little else to his game who was never going to track back and help out his out-manned midfield - was disastrous. It would have required a supreme effort and work-rate to make up for this shortfall in the middle of the park which was never going to come form the lethargic Gerrard and Lampard and the sluggish Barry.
Argentina 3-1 Mexico
Argentina had the game won in the first half thanks to two gifts: one from the linesman (who failed to spot a blatantly offside Tevez) and the other from Mexican defender Osorio (who passed straight to Higuain on the edge of the box).
Mexico put their grievances into their play and looked as good as they have all tournament but only threatened on occasion. Argentina's third, in the second half, was a rocket from all of 30 yards by Tevez but really it was against the run of play.
The Mexicans did get a consolation against their dug-in opponents with Hernandez showing the type of clinical finishing missing from his compatriots.
England were outclassed and embarrassed by a skillful and organised German team. Having gone two down after some horrendous defending they did show some resurgence but it was bitty, scrambled play but a goal back before half-time from a corner gave them some hope (although the second wrongly disallowed goal would have helped).
The second half saw a masterful counter-attack game from the young Germans as England naively threw men forward only to be caught by two swift breaks. Three down with 30mins to go the English were demoralised and hopeless as the Germans ran out comfortable victors.
The English choice to field 4-4-2 against a mobile and energetic 4-2-3-1 was questionable, the choice to field Defoe - a goal poacher with little else to his game who was never going to track back and help out his out-manned midfield - was disastrous. It would have required a supreme effort and work-rate to make up for this shortfall in the middle of the park which was never going to come form the lethargic Gerrard and Lampard and the sluggish Barry.
Argentina 3-1 Mexico
Argentina had the game won in the first half thanks to two gifts: one from the linesman (who failed to spot a blatantly offside Tevez) and the other from Mexican defender Osorio (who passed straight to Higuain on the edge of the box).
Mexico put their grievances into their play and looked as good as they have all tournament but only threatened on occasion. Argentina's third, in the second half, was a rocket from all of 30 yards by Tevez but really it was against the run of play.
The Mexicans did get a consolation against their dug-in opponents with Hernandez showing the type of clinical finishing missing from his compatriots.
World Cup Day 16
Uruguay 2-1 South Korea
Uruguay made the early running with their 3 classy forwards and hard working midfield they overpowered their Asian opponents and within 8mins were ahead thanks to some slack defending.
The Koreans fought back throwing numbers forward in exciting fashion with Park Chu Young looking particularly dangerous. The second half saw a defensive Uruguay look to hold the game at one-nil as the rain got heavier in Port Elizabeth.
Korea eventually took one of their chances which saw a complete change of attitude in the South Americans who began to attack with the class they showed early in the first half. It wasn't long until that class showed as Luis Suarez curled a shot into the Korean net and with the lead again theirs Uruguay sat back. This time the Koreans didn't have enough to get back on level terms.
One of the best games of the World Cup so far. Uruguay will be a good bet for a semi-final place.
Ghana 2-1 USA (AET)
Ghana dominated periods of the match with their superior technique and range of passing and crucially during those periods they scored. The US took along time to get into the game after Ghana's early goal but the second half saw them display their typical spirit and enthusiasm to get back into the game.
The American's created some good chances, getting in behind the Ghanaian defence on numerous occasions but finishing poorly (Kingston in the Ghana goal wasn't making it easy for them either). A penalty saw them equalise and it looked like the momentum was theirs as Ghana appeared to have taken the foot off the gas.
Extra time saw a resurgent Ghana and a well-taken goal from Gyan 3 minutes in was enough to give them entry to the next round as the Americans looked deflated.
Uruguay made the early running with their 3 classy forwards and hard working midfield they overpowered their Asian opponents and within 8mins were ahead thanks to some slack defending.
The Koreans fought back throwing numbers forward in exciting fashion with Park Chu Young looking particularly dangerous. The second half saw a defensive Uruguay look to hold the game at one-nil as the rain got heavier in Port Elizabeth.
Korea eventually took one of their chances which saw a complete change of attitude in the South Americans who began to attack with the class they showed early in the first half. It wasn't long until that class showed as Luis Suarez curled a shot into the Korean net and with the lead again theirs Uruguay sat back. This time the Koreans didn't have enough to get back on level terms.
One of the best games of the World Cup so far. Uruguay will be a good bet for a semi-final place.
Ghana 2-1 USA (AET)
Ghana dominated periods of the match with their superior technique and range of passing and crucially during those periods they scored. The US took along time to get into the game after Ghana's early goal but the second half saw them display their typical spirit and enthusiasm to get back into the game.
The American's created some good chances, getting in behind the Ghanaian defence on numerous occasions but finishing poorly (Kingston in the Ghana goal wasn't making it easy for them either). A penalty saw them equalise and it looked like the momentum was theirs as Ghana appeared to have taken the foot off the gas.
Extra time saw a resurgent Ghana and a well-taken goal from Gyan 3 minutes in was enough to give them entry to the next round as the Americans looked deflated.
World Cup Day 15
Ivory Coast 3-0 North Korea
Brazil 0-0 Portugal
Neither side really pressed for a win in what was a dull game
Switzerland 0-0 Honduras
Spain 2-1 Chile
Spain (a well as some of the other more illustrious teams) seem determined to do just enough to beat their opponents. Chile showed their combative side but Spain's class won through in the first half exemplified by a great move finished off by Iniesta to make it 2-0 at the break.
Chile's misfortune in losing Estrada to a red card that never should have been made Spain's task all the easier. The South American's went at them in the second half and got a goal back thanks to a fortunate deflection. The Spanish went into game-killing mode from then on and passed and passed and passed without really threatening. It was a hard task for the ten men of Chile who rarely got a counter attack together.
Brazil 0-0 Portugal
Neither side really pressed for a win in what was a dull game
Switzerland 0-0 Honduras
Spain 2-1 Chile
Spain (a well as some of the other more illustrious teams) seem determined to do just enough to beat their opponents. Chile showed their combative side but Spain's class won through in the first half exemplified by a great move finished off by Iniesta to make it 2-0 at the break.
Chile's misfortune in losing Estrada to a red card that never should have been made Spain's task all the easier. The South American's went at them in the second half and got a goal back thanks to a fortunate deflection. The Spanish went into game-killing mode from then on and passed and passed and passed without really threatening. It was a hard task for the ten men of Chile who rarely got a counter attack together.
Friday, June 25, 2010
World Cup Day 14
Paraguay 0-0 New Zealand
Slovakia 3-2 Italy
The ruiners of many a knockout stage match are out! I'm happy about that!
Cameroon 1-2 Netherlands
An open game with chances at either end. I'd worry for the Dutch defence against some of the better strike-forces
Denmark 1-3 Japan
The Japanese work-rate was again evident and earned them their place in the second round. 2 excellent strikes form free kicks saw the game effectively over at half time.
Denmark lumped ball after ball into the Japanese box but they stood strong. In fairness if Tomasson hadn't have fluffed 2 good chances it might ahve been different and the late goals for either side were meaningless in the end
Slovakia 3-2 Italy
The ruiners of many a knockout stage match are out! I'm happy about that!
Cameroon 1-2 Netherlands
An open game with chances at either end. I'd worry for the Dutch defence against some of the better strike-forces
Denmark 1-3 Japan
The Japanese work-rate was again evident and earned them their place in the second round. 2 excellent strikes form free kicks saw the game effectively over at half time.
Denmark lumped ball after ball into the Japanese box but they stood strong. In fairness if Tomasson hadn't have fluffed 2 good chances it might ahve been different and the late goals for either side were meaningless in the end
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
World Cup Day 13
Slovenia 0-1 England
England huffed and puffed again but this time with a bit more conviction and actually got their passing going albeit infrequently. They really should have been 2 up at half time as they were clearly ther better side. Nerves crept in as the game drew on and only some last ditch defending gave them the victory they craved.
USA 1-0 Algeria
Unbelievable last minute goal from Landon Donavan sees the US top the group after a dour match
Ghana 0-1 Germany
A tight game saw the Germans trying to take the initiative whilst keeping Ghana's potent counter at bay. Germany missed Klose and didnt look as threatening without the veteran striker. Ozil's superb half-volleyed goal more than made up for his early miss and gave Germany the neccessary win to top the group.
Australia 2-1 Serbia
Serbia didn't look like they had any fight in them in any of the 3 games and are deservedly knocked out. The Ossies can consider themselves unlucky.
England huffed and puffed again but this time with a bit more conviction and actually got their passing going albeit infrequently. They really should have been 2 up at half time as they were clearly ther better side. Nerves crept in as the game drew on and only some last ditch defending gave them the victory they craved.
USA 1-0 Algeria
Unbelievable last minute goal from Landon Donavan sees the US top the group after a dour match
Ghana 0-1 Germany
A tight game saw the Germans trying to take the initiative whilst keeping Ghana's potent counter at bay. Germany missed Klose and didnt look as threatening without the veteran striker. Ozil's superb half-volleyed goal more than made up for his early miss and gave Germany the neccessary win to top the group.
Australia 2-1 Serbia
Serbia didn't look like they had any fight in them in any of the 3 games and are deservedly knocked out. The Ossies can consider themselves unlucky.
World Cup Day 12
France 1-2 South Africa
Such a contrast between the 2 sides, one hugely talented but without any desire and the other hungry for success but lacking the players to deliver it. It was looking good for the hosts chances of making it into the next round at one stage as they lead 2-0 with France down to ten men but it wasn't to be.
Mexico 0-1 Uruguay
Greece 0-2 Argentina
The anti-football approach of the Greeks looked to be a successful one for a while in the first half. They reduced Argentina's B-team to half chances whilst Nigeria lead against South Korea in the other group match. Greece's negative approach never altered depite the Koreans equalising which had them on the flight home long before Argentian went ahead in the 80th minute.
Such a contrast between the 2 sides, one hugely talented but without any desire and the other hungry for success but lacking the players to deliver it. It was looking good for the hosts chances of making it into the next round at one stage as they lead 2-0 with France down to ten men but it wasn't to be.
Mexico 0-1 Uruguay
Greece 0-2 Argentina
The anti-football approach of the Greeks looked to be a successful one for a while in the first half. They reduced Argentina's B-team to half chances whilst Nigeria lead against South Korea in the other group match. Greece's negative approach never altered depite the Koreans equalising which had them on the flight home long before Argentian went ahead in the 80th minute.
World Cup Day 11
Portugal 7-0 North Korea
North Korea lokked like they were goin got put in another respectable performance in the first half but they were badly exposed in the second. I can't see Portugal scoring this freely again.
Chile 1-0 Switzerland
Spain 2-0 Honduras
Spain bossed the first hour of the match and could have been 4 or 5 up but for Torres' lack of precision and Villa missing a penalty. They coasted the remaining half hour and may have added to their lead but for a drop in their energy levels and some robust defending from the Honduran centre-backs.
North Korea lokked like they were goin got put in another respectable performance in the first half but they were badly exposed in the second. I can't see Portugal scoring this freely again.
Chile 1-0 Switzerland
Spain 2-0 Honduras
Spain bossed the first hour of the match and could have been 4 or 5 up but for Torres' lack of precision and Villa missing a penalty. They coasted the remaining half hour and may have added to their lead but for a drop in their energy levels and some robust defending from the Honduran centre-backs.
Monday, June 21, 2010
World Cup Day 10
Slovakia 0-2 Paraguay
A very impressive forst-half display form Paraguay saw them pin their opponents in, aggressively closing down from the front and creating regular chances for their busy forwards.
They sould really have lead by more than a single goal at the break and their attitude in the second half reflected their dominance as they took the proverbial foot off the gas. Slovakia never really looked like making them sweat and the South American's late second sealed a confident win.
Italy 1-1 New Zealand
A labouringly slow Italian performance form a team that lacks pace, penetration and guile. New Zealand battled well in a typical underdog/backs against the wall performance and could probably consider themselves unlucky with the Italian's equaliser coming in the shape of a soft penalty. It was the All-Whites who came closest to a winner with Chris Wood's late effort just curling wide.
Brazil 3-1 Ivory Coast
Brazil hardly got out of 3rd gear yet eased passed the African side in a manner that sends out a message to the rest of the competition. They scored form their first real passing move of a lethargic first half. They regularly threated in the second half and were coasting a little too much when Drogba sneaked in behind for the Iveory Coast's consolation goal.
The vistory was marred by the unfair dismissal of Kaka after some incredibly cynical play-acting by Keita.
A very impressive forst-half display form Paraguay saw them pin their opponents in, aggressively closing down from the front and creating regular chances for their busy forwards.
They sould really have lead by more than a single goal at the break and their attitude in the second half reflected their dominance as they took the proverbial foot off the gas. Slovakia never really looked like making them sweat and the South American's late second sealed a confident win.
Italy 1-1 New Zealand
A labouringly slow Italian performance form a team that lacks pace, penetration and guile. New Zealand battled well in a typical underdog/backs against the wall performance and could probably consider themselves unlucky with the Italian's equaliser coming in the shape of a soft penalty. It was the All-Whites who came closest to a winner with Chris Wood's late effort just curling wide.
Brazil 3-1 Ivory Coast
Brazil hardly got out of 3rd gear yet eased passed the African side in a manner that sends out a message to the rest of the competition. They scored form their first real passing move of a lethargic first half. They regularly threated in the second half and were coasting a little too much when Drogba sneaked in behind for the Iveory Coast's consolation goal.
The vistory was marred by the unfair dismissal of Kaka after some incredibly cynical play-acting by Keita.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
World Cup Day 9
Netherlands 1-0 Japan
Both sides were much as they were in their first games, the Dutch plodding and the Japanese organised and defensive. It was all change in the second half though as Holland came out with more determination and within 8mins of the restart were ahead form Sneijder's long range effort (and some questionable goalkeeping).
The Japanese response was immensely positive and saw them committing men forward and troubling the Dutch defence. The Dutch finished the stronger with the introduction of the young Affellay and Elia but it was Japan who came closest in the dying minutes when Okazaki blazed over from close range.
Ghana 1-1 Australia
Cameroon 1-2 Denmark
A game full of attacking intent and fallible defensive which made for an exciting spectacle. Camroon made the early running and capitalised on a terrible pass in the Danish defence to allow Eto'O to slot home. The Danes responded well, trying to get their experience wingers into the match at every opportunity.
It was a run from Rommdahl in behind the Cameroon defence that set up a tap in for Bendtner on 33mins. The African side did plenty of attacking themselves and exposed more dodgy defending just before the break but the resulting shot ws just wide.
The second half was only slighlty less open and on the hour Rommedahl got in again, this time finishing himself. The final half-hour was end to end as Cameroon brought on strikers and chased the game. It was to no avail.
Probably the most entertaining game of the Word Cup so far.
Both sides were much as they were in their first games, the Dutch plodding and the Japanese organised and defensive. It was all change in the second half though as Holland came out with more determination and within 8mins of the restart were ahead form Sneijder's long range effort (and some questionable goalkeeping).
The Japanese response was immensely positive and saw them committing men forward and troubling the Dutch defence. The Dutch finished the stronger with the introduction of the young Affellay and Elia but it was Japan who came closest in the dying minutes when Okazaki blazed over from close range.
Ghana 1-1 Australia
Cameroon 1-2 Denmark
A game full of attacking intent and fallible defensive which made for an exciting spectacle. Camroon made the early running and capitalised on a terrible pass in the Danish defence to allow Eto'O to slot home. The Danes responded well, trying to get their experience wingers into the match at every opportunity.
It was a run from Rommdahl in behind the Cameroon defence that set up a tap in for Bendtner on 33mins. The African side did plenty of attacking themselves and exposed more dodgy defending just before the break but the resulting shot ws just wide.
The second half was only slighlty less open and on the hour Rommedahl got in again, this time finishing himself. The final half-hour was end to end as Cameroon brought on strikers and chased the game. It was to no avail.
Probably the most entertaining game of the Word Cup so far.
Friday, June 18, 2010
World Cup Day 8
Germany 0-1 Serbia
Another game in which an early sending off had a huge influence. Klose's harsh dismissal on 37mins and Serbia's goal a minute later left the Germans playing catch up. The Serbs made it easy for them though, inviting them on and playing deep.
Germany dominated the early second half and on the hour it looked like tey may get their rewards but Podolski's tame penalty was easily saved. The game became stretched allowing for some half-hearted Serbian counters as the Germans tired. Serbia held out as the Germans just ran out of steam.
Group D is now wide open but I've a feeling Serbia's poor attitude may undermine their efforts at some stage
Slovenia 2-2 USA
The first comeback of the tournament saw a a ragged looking USA ship two first-half goals a more technical Slovenian side. The Americans came flying out of the traps in the second half and within minutes Donovan found himself one-on-one with the keeper and finished well into the roof of the Slovenian net.
Slovenia looked to protect their lead against a determined and adventurous US side but it wasnt to be and with ten minutes to go the States were level. Having thrown on an extra forward for a defender they went seeking the winner and should have got it but for an unexplained decision to rule out a perfectly good goal.
England 0-0 Algeria
Oh dear, England are at it again. Woeful display from them, full of poor passing, terrible first touches and drained of belief. Perhaps it was nerves or tiredness (or insert excuse here) but they looked bereft of desire. Confidence is obviously low but where's the old "give it a go" mentality?
Another game in which an early sending off had a huge influence. Klose's harsh dismissal on 37mins and Serbia's goal a minute later left the Germans playing catch up. The Serbs made it easy for them though, inviting them on and playing deep.
Germany dominated the early second half and on the hour it looked like tey may get their rewards but Podolski's tame penalty was easily saved. The game became stretched allowing for some half-hearted Serbian counters as the Germans tired. Serbia held out as the Germans just ran out of steam.
Group D is now wide open but I've a feeling Serbia's poor attitude may undermine their efforts at some stage
Slovenia 2-2 USA
The first comeback of the tournament saw a a ragged looking USA ship two first-half goals a more technical Slovenian side. The Americans came flying out of the traps in the second half and within minutes Donovan found himself one-on-one with the keeper and finished well into the roof of the Slovenian net.
Slovenia looked to protect their lead against a determined and adventurous US side but it wasnt to be and with ten minutes to go the States were level. Having thrown on an extra forward for a defender they went seeking the winner and should have got it but for an unexplained decision to rule out a perfectly good goal.
England 0-0 Algeria
Oh dear, England are at it again. Woeful display from them, full of poor passing, terrible first touches and drained of belief. Perhaps it was nerves or tiredness (or insert excuse here) but they looked bereft of desire. Confidence is obviously low but where's the old "give it a go" mentality?
Thursday, June 17, 2010
World Cup Day 7
South Korea 1-4 Argentina
An excellent first half performance form Agrentina saw them pin the Koreans in their own half, playing more direct than the first game (perhaps due to the loss of Veron) and deservedly being 2up before calamity struck and a defensive error gifted Lee a goal.
South Korea had their opponents on the back foot for the first 20mins of the second half but missed the 2 good chances that came to them. They were punished as Argentina gradually got back into the game and eventually ran rampant towards the end bagging another 2 goals.
The Koreans showed that the Argentine back line can be got at but in doing so you leave yourself open to a marauding counter attack.
Greece 2-1 Nigeria
A game turned by a needless red card which will leave the Nigerians wondering what could have been. For the first 30mins the Africans were comfortable against a typically negative Greece but losing a man so early saw them relinquish the initiative. Something the Greeks hardly took with vigour and but for a fortuitous deflection they would have still trailed at the break.
Greece eventually began mounting some pressure after the hour but the Nigerians were still looking dangerous on the break. It was another slice of luck that gave Greece their second when Enyeama, having been superb all match, palmed a long shot to the onrushing Torosidis who tapped home.
South Korea will be favourites to join The Argentines in the second round.
France 0-2 Mexico
The French lack of commitment was again on show as Mexico's flowing attacks often saw their players ghost past their opponents. The Mexican need for a cutting edge to those attacks again reared its head but thanks to a dubious offside decision and a softish penalty they got the goals they deserved. France showed no fight or desire for a comeback.
Point of Note: This was the first game where I was able to hear the crowd! Perhaps the novelty of the plastic horns is wearing off?
An excellent first half performance form Agrentina saw them pin the Koreans in their own half, playing more direct than the first game (perhaps due to the loss of Veron) and deservedly being 2up before calamity struck and a defensive error gifted Lee a goal.
South Korea had their opponents on the back foot for the first 20mins of the second half but missed the 2 good chances that came to them. They were punished as Argentina gradually got back into the game and eventually ran rampant towards the end bagging another 2 goals.
The Koreans showed that the Argentine back line can be got at but in doing so you leave yourself open to a marauding counter attack.
Greece 2-1 Nigeria
A game turned by a needless red card which will leave the Nigerians wondering what could have been. For the first 30mins the Africans were comfortable against a typically negative Greece but losing a man so early saw them relinquish the initiative. Something the Greeks hardly took with vigour and but for a fortuitous deflection they would have still trailed at the break.
Greece eventually began mounting some pressure after the hour but the Nigerians were still looking dangerous on the break. It was another slice of luck that gave Greece their second when Enyeama, having been superb all match, palmed a long shot to the onrushing Torosidis who tapped home.
South Korea will be favourites to join The Argentines in the second round.
France 0-2 Mexico
The French lack of commitment was again on show as Mexico's flowing attacks often saw their players ghost past their opponents. The Mexican need for a cutting edge to those attacks again reared its head but thanks to a dubious offside decision and a softish penalty they got the goals they deserved. France showed no fight or desire for a comeback.
Point of Note: This was the first game where I was able to hear the crowd! Perhaps the novelty of the plastic horns is wearing off?
Round 1 Reflections
We've now seen all the teams at this year's World Cup, here are my views:
Defensive play
A lot of teams are playing 5 in midfield and choking the opposition. When both teams deploy such tactics it becomes like watching 2 snakes dueling, neither able to maneuver, locked in an embrace to avoid certain death.
Some have said this is down to first match nerves or teams not wanting a negative start to the tournament. I'm not so sure. Teams are coached to play in a certain way, they may slightly alter this from match to match but their general style is based on what the coach feels best utilises the players that they have. Unless up against far superior opponents (where defensive, cautious play is preferable - in the case of North Korea Vs Brazil) teams will generally play their "Plan A" approach, and unfortunately it looks for many teams like that is a negative one (see Japan Vs Cameroon, Slovenia Vs Algeria or even Portugal Vs Ivory Coast)
The Jabulani
Allegedly all the wayward shooting is down to the new ball! Anyone who regularly watches football will surely have seen more than their fair share of wayward long range shots, whether it be the Premier League, La Liga or Serie A most shots from distance sail far wide or are ballooned over the bar. The players who regularly execute these shots well are few and far between and at the World Cup it's no different. Ronaldo and Xabi Alonso seemed to have no trouble keeping the ball down.
Vuvuzuelas
Yes, they are annoying and Yes, you do get used to them but the absence of proper crown noise - chanting, singing and general oohs and ahs are sorely missing from this World Cup. What will it be like in latter stages during a penalty shoot-out? The crowd falls silent as the player approaches the penalty spot - not a chance! Whether he scores, misses or strips off it will be the same drone of the plastic horns!
Defensive play
A lot of teams are playing 5 in midfield and choking the opposition. When both teams deploy such tactics it becomes like watching 2 snakes dueling, neither able to maneuver, locked in an embrace to avoid certain death.
Some have said this is down to first match nerves or teams not wanting a negative start to the tournament. I'm not so sure. Teams are coached to play in a certain way, they may slightly alter this from match to match but their general style is based on what the coach feels best utilises the players that they have. Unless up against far superior opponents (where defensive, cautious play is preferable - in the case of North Korea Vs Brazil) teams will generally play their "Plan A" approach, and unfortunately it looks for many teams like that is a negative one (see Japan Vs Cameroon, Slovenia Vs Algeria or even Portugal Vs Ivory Coast)The Jabulani
Allegedly all the wayward shooting is down to the new ball! Anyone who regularly watches football will surely have seen more than their fair share of wayward long range shots, whether it be the Premier League, La Liga or Serie A most shots from distance sail far wide or are ballooned over the bar. The players who regularly execute these shots well are few and far between and at the World Cup it's no different. Ronaldo and Xabi Alonso seemed to have no trouble keeping the ball down.
Vuvuzuelas
Yes, they are annoying and Yes, you do get used to them but the absence of proper crown noise - chanting, singing and general oohs and ahs are sorely missing from this World Cup. What will it be like in latter stages during a penalty shoot-out? The crowd falls silent as the player approaches the penalty spot - not a chance! Whether he scores, misses or strips off it will be the same drone of the plastic horns!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
World Cup Day 6
Honduras 0-1 Chile
Chile dominated the game in exciting fashion, getting the ball quickly up the pitch to their 3 hyperactive forwards. It was a high tempo affair with Honduras battling well but clearly outclassed and but for some last ditch defending the scoreline would've been more flattering to the Chileans.
What I learned about Honduras: Very ordinary side, destined for bottom of the group
What I learned about Chile: The expected return of center forward Suazo should give them the extra firepower they missed
Spain 0-1 Switzerland
Spain though everything they had at the resolute Swiss, and by everything I mean pretty triangles of passing in front of the Swiss defence and crosses to no one. They did look vulnerable on the counter and Switzerland caught them short at the back on a few occasions most notably on 52mins when Fernandez bundled the ball over the line after Derdiok made a nuisance of himself. Teh Spanish can consider themselves unlucky as Xabi Alonso hit the bar and Navas also came close but ultimately the introduction of a rusty-looking Torres didn't have the desired effect.
What I learned about Switzerland: Nothing, they were predictably defensive
What I learned about Spain: They need Torres back fit asap
South Africa 0-3 Uruguay
Many of the teams at this tournament have shown they can be stubborn and organised in defence. In order to break these teams down you need a star player who, most importantly, is in form and Uruguay have just that in Diego Forlan. South Africa didn't play as well as they did in their resurgent second half against Mexico and Forlan was a class apart.
Chile dominated the game in exciting fashion, getting the ball quickly up the pitch to their 3 hyperactive forwards. It was a high tempo affair with Honduras battling well but clearly outclassed and but for some last ditch defending the scoreline would've been more flattering to the Chileans.
What I learned about Honduras: Very ordinary side, destined for bottom of the group
What I learned about Chile: The expected return of center forward Suazo should give them the extra firepower they missed
Spain 0-1 Switzerland
Spain though everything they had at the resolute Swiss, and by everything I mean pretty triangles of passing in front of the Swiss defence and crosses to no one. They did look vulnerable on the counter and Switzerland caught them short at the back on a few occasions most notably on 52mins when Fernandez bundled the ball over the line after Derdiok made a nuisance of himself. Teh Spanish can consider themselves unlucky as Xabi Alonso hit the bar and Navas also came close but ultimately the introduction of a rusty-looking Torres didn't have the desired effect.
What I learned about Switzerland: Nothing, they were predictably defensive
What I learned about Spain: They need Torres back fit asap
South Africa 0-3 Uruguay
Many of the teams at this tournament have shown they can be stubborn and organised in defence. In order to break these teams down you need a star player who, most importantly, is in form and Uruguay have just that in Diego Forlan. South Africa didn't play as well as they did in their resurgent second half against Mexico and Forlan was a class apart.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
World Cup Day 5
New Zealand 1-1 Slovakia
The first-half saw New Zealand's defensive 3-4-3 formation swamp the midfield with Slovakia unable to string many passes together.The Slovakians came out in the second half with more intent and began passing with alot more precision and with 5 mins they were ahead. NZ struggled to get to grips with the increase in tempo but somehow fashioned a late surge and found an unlikely equaliser in stoppage time
What I learned about New Zealand: They are like a Championship side, all set-pieces and crosses
What I learned about Slovakia: They seem to lack leadership/experience
Portugal 0-0 Ivory Coast
Brazil 2-1 North Korea
A Brazilian side full of out-of-form players struggled against the well organised Koreans. A higher tempo payed dividends for Brazil after the break scoring 2 excellent goals (although whether Maicon's was intentional is up for debate). North Korea struggled to get at Brazil but did manage a well taken consolation.
What I learned about Brazil: Kaka' appears to be still in the same lacklustre form he showed for Real Madrid
What I learned about North Korea: They're no pushovers
The first-half saw New Zealand's defensive 3-4-3 formation swamp the midfield with Slovakia unable to string many passes together.The Slovakians came out in the second half with more intent and began passing with alot more precision and with 5 mins they were ahead. NZ struggled to get to grips with the increase in tempo but somehow fashioned a late surge and found an unlikely equaliser in stoppage time
What I learned about New Zealand: They are like a Championship side, all set-pieces and crosses
What I learned about Slovakia: They seem to lack leadership/experience
Portugal 0-0 Ivory Coast
Brazil 2-1 North Korea
A Brazilian side full of out-of-form players struggled against the well organised Koreans. A higher tempo payed dividends for Brazil after the break scoring 2 excellent goals (although whether Maicon's was intentional is up for debate). North Korea struggled to get at Brazil but did manage a well taken consolation.
What I learned about Brazil: Kaka' appears to be still in the same lacklustre form he showed for Real Madrid
What I learned about North Korea: They're no pushovers
Monday, June 14, 2010
World Cup Day 4
Netherlands 2-0 Denmark
The Dutch struggled against a solid Danish side and if it weren't for a very fortunate O.G. and the introduction of the young Elia this looked destined for a 0-0. The Danish lacked ambition even when behind which made it very comfortable for the men on orange
What I learned about Netherlands: Elia looks like a real prospect
What I learned about Denmark: Any team that is reliant on Niklas Bendtner up front is in trouble
Japan 1-0 Cameroon
A turgid, stodgy affair that saw a defensive Japan come up against a lethargic Cameroon. It took until the 80th minute for Cameroon to try and take the initiative against an ever hardworking opponent but the best they could muster was a long range shot that came off the bar.
What I learned about Japan: They seem to play 4-6-0 at times!
What I learned about Cameroon: Eto'o on the wing doesn't work for them
Italy 1-1 Paraguay
The dearth of creativity on show was depressing especially from the holders. Bar a goalkeeping error they would never have equalised.
What I learned about Italy: Their traditional slow start is as evident as ever
What I learned about Paraguay: Hopefully there's more to come from them
The Dutch struggled against a solid Danish side and if it weren't for a very fortunate O.G. and the introduction of the young Elia this looked destined for a 0-0. The Danish lacked ambition even when behind which made it very comfortable for the men on orange
What I learned about Netherlands: Elia looks like a real prospect
What I learned about Denmark: Any team that is reliant on Niklas Bendtner up front is in trouble
Japan 1-0 Cameroon
A turgid, stodgy affair that saw a defensive Japan come up against a lethargic Cameroon. It took until the 80th minute for Cameroon to try and take the initiative against an ever hardworking opponent but the best they could muster was a long range shot that came off the bar.
What I learned about Japan: They seem to play 4-6-0 at times!
What I learned about Cameroon: Eto'o on the wing doesn't work for them
Italy 1-1 Paraguay
The dearth of creativity on show was depressing especially from the holders. Bar a goalkeeping error they would never have equalised.
What I learned about Italy: Their traditional slow start is as evident as ever
What I learned about Paraguay: Hopefully there's more to come from them
Sunday, June 13, 2010
World Cup Day 3
Algeria 0-1 Slovenia
A match characterised by workman-like approach play and wayward passing as two teams without much quality failed to make an impression on the tournament.
Algeria were beginning to shade it in the second half when they went down to ten men after 72mins but even with their new-found advantage Slovenia lacked any attacking intent and it took a goalkeeping blunder to gift them their goal on 79mins as Chaouchi misjudged Koren's tame effort from the edge of the box.
What I learned about Algeria: Belhadj is their best player (which says it all!)
What I learned about Slovenia: They are the least "silky skilled" team in their region
Serbia 0-1 Ghana
A tight game seeing two midfields packed with 5 men a piece. It was Ghana's more industrious approach that meant they edged most of the game as they pressed the Serbs well and limited them to long cross-field balls.
Both sides had their chances, albeit mostly from set-plays, and it was only a 84th minute penalty that separated them in the end. It took that goal to add some urgency to Serbia's play but at that stage it was too late.
What I learned about Serbia: They aren't too mobile in the centre of the park and struggle to supply their talented attacking players
What I learned about Ghana: They are well organised and will be no pushovers
Germany 4-0 Australia
Germany eased to victory in stylish manner as the Ossie's offside trap was caught out repeatedly by the talented young Germans. Australia did mount a revival after half time playing with a more typical intensity and keeping Germany on the back foot until the 55th minute when Cahill was, harshly, sent off.
What I learned about Germany: They have a dynamic midfield that gets forward with skill and pace and tracks back with equal exuberance
What I learned about Australia: They seem overly reliant on Cahill upfront
A match characterised by workman-like approach play and wayward passing as two teams without much quality failed to make an impression on the tournament.
Algeria were beginning to shade it in the second half when they went down to ten men after 72mins but even with their new-found advantage Slovenia lacked any attacking intent and it took a goalkeeping blunder to gift them their goal on 79mins as Chaouchi misjudged Koren's tame effort from the edge of the box.
What I learned about Algeria: Belhadj is their best player (which says it all!)
What I learned about Slovenia: They are the least "silky skilled" team in their region
Serbia 0-1 Ghana
A tight game seeing two midfields packed with 5 men a piece. It was Ghana's more industrious approach that meant they edged most of the game as they pressed the Serbs well and limited them to long cross-field balls.
Both sides had their chances, albeit mostly from set-plays, and it was only a 84th minute penalty that separated them in the end. It took that goal to add some urgency to Serbia's play but at that stage it was too late.
What I learned about Serbia: They aren't too mobile in the centre of the park and struggle to supply their talented attacking players
What I learned about Ghana: They are well organised and will be no pushovers
Germany 4-0 Australia
Germany eased to victory in stylish manner as the Ossie's offside trap was caught out repeatedly by the talented young Germans. Australia did mount a revival after half time playing with a more typical intensity and keeping Germany on the back foot until the 55th minute when Cahill was, harshly, sent off.
What I learned about Germany: They have a dynamic midfield that gets forward with skill and pace and tracks back with equal exuberance
What I learned about Australia: They seem overly reliant on Cahill upfront
Saturday, June 12, 2010
World Cup Day 2
South Korea 2 - 0 Greece
An interesting clash of styles between the Korean’s high-tempo 4-4-1-1 and the Greek’s agricultural 4-3-3 (I’m looking forward to the tactical analysis on www.zonalmarking.net). Neither teams’ defence looked particularly solid and it was Greece’s deficiencies in that area that was their downfall at the beginning of both halves.
After just 7mins Lee found himself unmarked from an in-swinging free-kick and guided home from point blank range. The second half was just 7mins old when a careless pass in Greece’s defence was intercepted by Ji Sung Park and the Man Utd winger showed pace and composure to make space and slot passed Tzorvas.
Despite bossing it for the opening hour South Korea were content to soak up the resulting pressure form Greece. The only chance for the 2004 European Champions came after 80mins when Gekas turned and shot from the edge of the box drawing a fine save from Jung in the Korean goal.
What I learned about South Korea: They could well get out of the group
What I learned about Greece: They wont make it out of the group
An interesting clash of styles between the Korean’s high-tempo 4-4-1-1 and the Greek’s agricultural 4-3-3 (I’m looking forward to the tactical analysis on www.zonalmarking.net). Neither teams’ defence looked particularly solid and it was Greece’s deficiencies in that area that was their downfall at the beginning of both halves.
After just 7mins Lee found himself unmarked from an in-swinging free-kick and guided home from point blank range. The second half was just 7mins old when a careless pass in Greece’s defence was intercepted by Ji Sung Park and the Man Utd winger showed pace and composure to make space and slot passed Tzorvas.
Despite bossing it for the opening hour South Korea were content to soak up the resulting pressure form Greece. The only chance for the 2004 European Champions came after 80mins when Gekas turned and shot from the edge of the box drawing a fine save from Jung in the Korean goal.
What I learned about South Korea: They could well get out of the group
What I learned about Greece: They wont make it out of the group
The Argentinians never really got out of 3rd gear outside of an electric first 10mins. In that period they could have been 3 up if it weren’t for poor finishing from Higuain. Despite all their intricate play and thrusting runs the goal came form a corner when Heinze arrived late into the box and delivered a diving header into the top corner of the net.
Nigeria were limited to half-chances given up by a less-than convincing Argetinian defence as the South Americans dominated the midfield throughout the match. The Africans came closest to an equalizer after 70mins when Taiwo struck form out side the box only to see the all go inches wide.
What I learned about
What I learned about
A match severely lacking in creativity as
The
What I learned about
What I learned about
Friday, June 11, 2010
World Cup Day 1
A decent opening match saw a first-half display from
After the break the hosts began pressing much more vigorously and higher up the pitch and early in the half they got their reward as a quick exchange of passes and a superb through ball put Tshabalala away and his left-footed shot found the top-corner of Perez’s goal.
This gave the home nation plenty of encouragement and saw them tackling and passing with a lot more assurance.
What I learned about
What I learned about
An edgy game that saw neither team display much in the way of attacking football.
Second half started much the same as the South Americans again played deep with their opponents unable to create much. Both teams made some positive substitutions but to little avail. Even when
What I learned about
What I learned about
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