Robben's Klass Shows As Oranje Sneak Into Quarters

Robben going down after a challenge from Rafael Marquez.
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

It was so close to being a La Rambla from Mexico. Miguel Herrera yelled 'No Manches!' (no way) when the referee pointed for a Dutch spot kick. Another 5 minutes and Chihuahua along with the whole of Mexico City would have went 'loco'. They bossed majority of the game, compounded with Louis Van Gaal's men being well below their best and credit has to go to Mexico for that. But in the end, as Dutch Airlines KLM tweeted, it was 'Adios Amigos' for Mexico as it was a case of 'close, but no cigar' for them.

Netherlands never really threatened Guillermo Ochoa's goal after Mexico had taken the lead, and a few comments were raining in after the 'cooling break', with the temperature cracking 39 degrees Celsius.

Ochoa has been the keeper of the tournament thus far.
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Wesley Sneijder on the other hand, had his best game in the World Cup, given the license to roam and cause havoc to Rafael Marquez and Co, but Robin Van Persie apparently was not on the same wave length. The Dutch also have Dirk Kuyt to thanks, after the 33-year-old blonde put in a shift and then some, playing left-wing back and then shifting flanks after the hour mark.

After looking at the penalty incident again, and again, and again, I have to agree with the referee as he got the decision spot on. Yes, Robben might have exaggerated but, the bottom line is, there was contact from Marquez and that has to result as a penalty.

The Dutch though have a lot to do if they harbour hopes of going into the latter stages of this competition, as Costa Rica will give them a right good go.

Joel Campbell never stopped running throughout the 120 minutes.
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Had the referee not send off Oscar Duarte, the Central Americans would have coasted through into the last eight. Yes, Greece did get back into the game, but they were totally poor in front of goal despite having a couple of glorious opportunities with a numerical advantage on the break.

Keylor Navas providing a marvelous save to earn Costa Rica their
first ever quarter-final berth.
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Jose Luis Pinto though, will have a bit of tactical reshuffling to do, in order to get a proper shape against Louis Van Gaal and the Dutch, as the Oranje will most certainly be looking to play on the break. Disallow them that opportunity, and they struggle big time. That match preview though will be done a bit later. Now, on to today's matches.

Germany v Algeria

I have a feeling that many Die Manschaaft fans will be hoping Joachim Loew's men go for the jugular and rack up a stack of goals tonight, but I do not for once think that will happen. Algeria are no pushovers, not by any stretch of the imagination.

Easily mistaken for Antonio Banderas, is Joachim Loew.
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Defensively resolute, they are aware on how to absorb unsurmountable pressure, and spring on the break to catch out opponents, as South Korea found out. For Germany to do well, they'd have to play an out-and-out centre forward to get in between Madjid Bouguerra and Esseid Belkalem, as even Nabil Bentaleb will be tasked to shield the Algerian defence.

The Hitman has been in fine form.
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

German efficiency will be put to the utmost test today, and they cannot be wasteful in front of goal. Too much cute play, and they could be in for a long night, but due to the class in their arsenal, I have to tip Germany for this one, albeit a low-scoring affair.

My take: Germany 1-0 Algeria

France v Nigeria

At this moment, the French seem like the most cohesive European unit, and yes, many will be surprised to hear that. But after a long time, there can be no rumblings heard from the French camp, unlike days gone by when murmurings were always building.

That is credit to Didier Deschamps and his choice of players, with Karim Benzema finding after long last, his goal scoring touch. The defence has been tight up to now, though do not be surprised to see Nigeria get a goal with Ahmed Musa in impeccable form.

The trio of Yohan Cabaye, Paul Pogba and Mathieu Valbuena look like a cogent mix, and would take some stopping, with Blaise Matuidi able to slot in at any given moment. France could just have too much for the Nigerians here.

My take: France 3-1 Nigeria

Brazil Hanging Onto The Post in Rio

Gonzalo Jara strikes the post in the final spot kick
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

3 inches of the crossbar saved Brazil in extra time as Mauricio Pinilla crashed his shot on 120 minutes. 3 inches of the post sent Brazil into the quarter finals in a tense penalty shootout. Brazil were hanging on by all of 6 inches at the end of it, largely second best throughout the encounter.

Charles Aranguiz and Marcelo Diaz ran the midfield for Chile, Alexis Sanchez a valuable outlet along with Arturo Vidal anytime a Brazilian attack was snuffed out. Going a goal down after about 20 minutes, Brazil seemed to retreat into their shell, handing Chile a chance to control the tempo of the game, and Luiz Felipe Scolari was far from satisfied.

Scolari gesturing to his players
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Neymar was quiet after the first half, Fred was like a passenger in the old Flinstones vehicle. There was no creativity on the part of Brazil, with Oscar being non-existent throughout the 120 minutes. Brazil will have to do better against Colombia. 

A mistake allowed the ball to roll to Alexis Sanchez, who gave Julio Cesar the eyes and slotted the ball into Brazil's net. Cesar would later though, redeem himself in the shootout against Sanchez. 

It seemed yesterday that Brazil's players were over-reliant on Neymar.
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Hulk offered some pace against the Chilean defence, but Brazil needed more. Chile though were absolutely marvelous. Many of them whose parents were miners back in Santiago, ran themselves into the ground and abided by Jorge Sampaoli's tactics. And what tactics they were. Sanchez and Vidal never let David Luiz rest, and it could have been a totally different story had Pinilla put the ball past Cesar in the dying seconds. Brazil though, have work to do.

Scolari visibly unhappy.
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

And Colombia will make them work very, very hard for a place in the semi finals. "Ole ole, ole ole, Hoy mi Colombia va a ganar" the fans chanted, as they filled the Cathedral of football at Rio's Maracana. "Today my Colombia will win." And win they did. 

The way they went about it though, was simply stunning. David Ospina between the sticks was unbreakable, but the players in front of him were equally great. James Rodriguez, take a bow sir, take a bow. A moment which will be revisited a thousand times over, that volley on his left foot will linger in the memory of many. 

By far the best strike in this year's World Cup
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

He tangoed gracefully with Juan Cuadrado all night, himself a professional dancer, and the duo ran rings around a toothless Uruguay who never had a sniff or even a chance to bite all night. The Colombian defensive wall is quite impressive, having conceded only a couple of goals, going into their 5th match against Brazil. Jose Peckerman will be licking his lips knowing he has a Superman in his ranks. Scolari will have lots of talking to do. 

Scolari needs a lot more talking to give his Brazilian players.
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Tonight's matches.

Netherlands v Mexico

It is imperative that the Dutch do not go into the game against Mexico thinking it is already a done deal. Brazil were taken to the brink by the men in green, and Van Gaal will have his work cut out, to get the tactics set just right against the speedy Mexicans. 

Robben and Van Persie will be key to how the Dutch set up, and they could be asked to play through Rafael Marquez to test his speed on the ground. On paper, the Dutch should win this, but as is known, games are not won on paper. When it comes to class though, the Dutch might just edge this encounter. 

My take: Netherlands 3-1 Mexico

Costa Rica v Greece

Another of those surprise packages come up tonight in Costa Rica, and they have been nothing but amazing. Jorge Luis Pinto has got his players performing to their fullest capability, and in the same vein, releasing the shackles off Bryan Ruiz and Joel Campbell. Christian Bolanos meanwhile, provides a solid out ball when the team is under pressure, as he is more than willing to take his man on along the right wing. 

This will not be a high-scoring affair, as the Greeks are not known to score plenty of goals. Costa Rica have the ability to rack up a few, but usually rely on teams coming onto them and springing on the break, as seen in their encounters with Uruguay and Italy. 

This game in theory, could go either way, but Costa Rica might just have a slight advantage due to their pace, and quickness of thought in their players to unlock the Greek vault. 

My take: Costa Rica 1-0 Greece

Till next time

An Upset on the Cards in Belo Horizonte?

Chilean players in a huddle before facing Netherlands.
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

When the topic of music is brought up, many a mind will wander to the conventional artists cum magicians, with Mozart and Beethoven being at the fore. Think Brazil. That might be all well and right, but in football, convention does not really mean much.

In my 'language' of music, Claudio Arrau and his silky skills with the keyboard jump to thought, as his arsenal allowed him to take what Beethoven and Mozart did, the verve and elegance he had on those black and white pieces. The raison d'etre for Claudio was to innovate what his predecessors have done, and come close to perfection. Think Chile.

For those who decided to watch the World Cup when the knockout stages began, they'd have without a doubt, ruled this game as a 'no-brainer.' Indeed, they might not be wrong, as history points us in the direction of Brazil, at least that is the case when these sides meet, the latest being in Pretoria, when Brazil knocked out La Roja 3-0, in the round of 16.

This though, is a different ball game. The clock has moved forward four years, European giants have fallen flat on their face, but Chile is still standing. No one gave them a chance against Spain, even their own fans thought they'd be slaughtered by the Dutch, but look back at that game and one will notice that there was barely anything which separated both teams, and Chile even rested their midfield anchor in Arturo Vidal.

Alexis Sanchez singing the national anthem against Netherlands
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

And in Alexis Sanchez, they have a David Copperfield. What Neymar is to Brazil, Sanchez is that, and more to this Chilean side. They do not play with a recognised forward, but he and Eduardo Vargas have proven that they can bag the goals.

Vargas applying the coup de grace against Spain
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

As much as Marcelo and Dani Alves are key to Brazil's forward play, they are liabilities defensively. That in turn, results in David Luiz being brought out of position, and he looks like a fish out of water when asked to do just that. Luiz Gustavo can be got at, as he lacks some pace to keep up with Sanchez.

Once he gets going and the gears start increasing, the amount of power in those feet of his is just staggering. Wait till he turns on the afterburners.

Brazil will certainly be on the front foot, as if they sit back, they will not stand a chance at all, as their defence is similar to a leaky faucet, which Luiz Felipe Scolari has yet to fix. It wouldn't be surprising to see him begin with two defensive midfielders today to nullify the Chilean counter attack.

The hosts have some elements about them too, with Oscar and Neymar being at the head of their armoury. Brazilian fans will be cheering them on along with shot after shot of caipirinhas. The hopes of a nation rest on their players, but more so on Neymar.

Neymar, after scoring against Cameroon.
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Fred has been a disappointment thus far, Jo is no greater a replacement. With that sort of a front line, any team, even Brazil, will struggle to win a World Cup. It would largely depend on Neymar providing the goals in this team, and he could be watched closely by Diaz and Medel should they start.

Football is going through some sort of transition at the moment, with it moving away (albeit disappointingly) from pure class and individual brilliance, to teamwork, excellent tactics and technical setup by managers on their teams. If this is taken into account, Jorge Sampaoli has a lot up his sleeve. Watch him on the touchline, with him moving with eagerness and energy, that is exactly what this Chilean side are about.

Mexico rattled Brazil, Croatia managed to throw a couple of blows but could not last the distance. I think Chile could send them packing.

My take: Brazil 0-1 Chile

Colombia v Uruguay

Suarez reacts in agony after leaving his mark on Giorgio Chiellini
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Out with the old, in with the new. That is a philosophy which not many prefer to adopt, but it goes more often than not with the cycle of life. Uruguay have been on the heights of the game in the last 4 years or so, but some of them look laboured.

Without sharp teeth up front, they might score a blank. They will miss Luis Suarez. Cavani has not offered much thus far and has to step up, and will result in Diego Forlan being brought back into the picture.

Colombia meanwhile, really do have something about them. Extremely solid defensively, they break with lightning quick pace and have caught teams off guard many times in their group games.

James Rodriguez is the oil which makes Colombia operate smoothly
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

James Rodriguez is an old head on young shoulders, displaying tonnes of class and ability to read the game ever so well, and he is the cog in this Colombian machine. Jackson Martinez and Juan Quintero love playing alongside the Monaco man, as his idea of 'passing and moving' is what players thrive on.

It would depend much on whether Uruguay can hang onto the coattails of these Colombians, as they can dance with anyone on their day. Without that sharp teeth I spoke of earlier though, Uruguay might just be all bark and no bite.

My take: Colombia 2-0 Uruguay

Famous for Romance on the Eiffel Tower, How Far Can France Go?

This lot are not to be taken lightly
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

In what was, in my opinion, the biggest shock of the tournament thus far, Costa Rica shut out the Italians. And it was not by any luck. They truly came, and deservedly grabbed the three points, dumping England out in the process. Truth be told though, Italy were never at the races, as Cesare Prandelli may have left the horses in the stable.

Pirlo was hardly given an inch in this game
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Pirlo was not given the chance to stamp his mark on the game, with credit going to the Costa Ricans high-pressing approach, denying the maestro time and space on the ball to make things work. Andrea Pirlo makes this Italian team tick, he feeds Balotelli with sumptuous balls, of which any striker would die for.

Bryan Ruiz heading in off the crossbar. Kudos to goal line
technology.
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Defensively though, he can be a liability. Often seen jogging back rather than harrying opposing players, Italy can be a man light without the ball. All of this leads to the most tight final game in any of the groups, as Prandelli leads his team to face Luis Suarez and Co.

Costa Rica though, could very well hammer the final nail in England's World Cup coffin, and top a group which arguably not a single person gave them a chance of even getting a point.

Speaking of French and their romance, these guys are more robust and Mona Lisa-like. I say that because with Mona Lisa, you either love or hate her. It's identical with the French. There are no 'in-between's' with this lot, without their talisman in Franck Ribery, many perceived them to not offer much.

With the quartet of Cabaye, Sissoko, Matuidi and Valbuena,
they'll be a match for anyone
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

However, they look to have gotten ahead of even the Dutch, I think, as the second-best European team behind the buccaneering Germans. Benzema had a goal ruled out as he curled a shot past the beleaguered Swiss keeper Benaglio, but saw the referee call time on the match. It was 5, it could have been 8, the Swiss were home before late.

They've got a good crop of young players in the Swiss side, but tactical indiscipline led them to end up with a tennis score, not that Roger Federer will face that sort of beating at the hands of a French tennis player, I hope. Do not rule out the French football team though. Unlike England, they've got good football and fabulous caviar.

Tonight's matches. Argentina v Iran, Germany v Ghana and Nigeria v Bosnia & Herzegovina.

Argentina v Iran

Sabella might have to tweak his structure, to get the best out of his players.
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Alejandro Sabella's side should beat Iran, they just have to. If they don't, something is really wrong somewhere. Something.


They were not at their best against Bosnia in their opening match but managed to eke out a win. Being the favourites of many to actually go on and lift this trophy, much better play is needed, between now and then. Argentina cannot suffer from the 'Portugal syndrome', of over-relying on one player, at the expense of the good ones around that superstar.

Aguero has not been in the form he was in, playing for League Winners,
Manchester City.
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

In Aguero, Ezequiel Lavezzi and Angel Di Maria, they have an excellent bunch of tactically intelligent, technically gifted, supremely fit players, with even Gonzalo Higuain to call upon. It is defensively though, which they have to alter slightly. Pablo Zabaleta and Javier Mascherano can do the job, but Ezequiel Garay has to step up and do his part too.

They can be shaken at the back.

My take: Argentina 5-1 Iran

Germany v Ghana

Ozil and Muller celebrating after scoring against Portugal
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Thomas Muller and Mesut Ozil are a match made in heaven. One is graceful, elegant, does his best to help his partner, while the other is about hard work, brawn, with tremendous power to finish off chances which come his way.

It will ride quite a bit on whether Ghana can test the Germans defensively, and do not be surprised if they do. In a clash which sees both Boateng brothers come head-to-head (Kevin-Prince plays for Ghana while Jerome lines up for Die Manschaaft), Germany will be forced to take the game to Ghana, as the Black Stars will almost certainly sit back.

I do not envision a thrashing of any sort here, with the Germans to be tested more than they were against Portugal, but to still come away with a win.

My take: Germany 3-1 Ghana

Nigeria v Bosnia & Herzegovina

The Nigerians were part of the first game to end in a draw in the World Cup this time around, as they did not offer much in the attacking department. That could have been attributed to a lack of guile, as this team is based solely on grit and pace up front, though to utilise that, a 'cowboy with a lasso' is needed to thread the eye of a needle.

Muhammad Besic vying for the ball with Maxi Rodriguez
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

This set of circumstances could favour Bosnia, as Ibisevic came very close to grabbing a draw against Argentina last week. Muhammad Besic is another to look out for, as he looks to be another 'cultured' player, in the mould of numerous Croats and Bosnians of the past. The craft of Bosnia could come up trumps, against the hard work of Nigeria.

My take: Nigeria 0-2 Bosnia & Herzegovina

A Country Now More Famous For Its Fish and Chips, Than Football

Wayne Rooney showing his fondness of Uruguay by keeping
the jersey of an opponent in a very secure place.
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

"Some are born great, some achieve greatness, others have greatness thrust upon them." And some are England. When it counted most, they came up short. If one speaks of thinking outside the box, England are a team which does its thinking inside the box, a very, very small box, in darkness, with no imagination. England created this game, now they have been left behind, and are falling further back.

They were devoid of ideas on ways to break down the Uruguay defence. Wayne Rooney, a man on whose shoulders rested the hopes of a nation, and most of its former colonies, looked nothing like the proverbial number 10. He is more of a hyena, rather than a gazelle. A number 10 needs to be the latter, just take a moment to compare his style of play, to that of Andrea Pirlo, Mesut Ozil, Andres Iniesta and even the Brazilian Oscar.

Their defence needs addressing, as no front line will be shivering coming up against Phil Jagielka and Gary Cahill. Jones and Smalling are not the answers, with the utmost of respect to supporters of Manchester United.

What England have though, is pace, and lots of it. The slaloming Sterling, the elegant Barkley, flanked by Oxlade-Chamberlain, with Sturridge ahead of this diamond. This team might be able to have a crack at the Euros, but fans have to be realistic. Everytime 'England expects', England fails. They do not have the 'never say die' mentality of a Luis Suarez.

Suarez rifling the ball past Joe Hart to clinch the win
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Uruguay were in truth, quite fortunate to get away with the three points, but in the World Cup, that's pretty much all that matters. By the looks of it, how far they advance will hang a lot on whether Suarez can be fit, as the majority of this team, Cavani included, look jaded.

England have work to do, Uruguay have matches to win.

Japan and Greece meanwhile, looked like it was a meeting between a group of men who had Samurais, with the other powered by Zeus. Football was not the order of the day in their matchup, though Japan were quite abject, playing against the ten men Greeks. Both teams' campaign might fizzle out.

Hoping for inspiration from Zeus?
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Tonight's matches. Italy v Costa Rica, Switzerland v France, Honduras v Ecuador.

Italy v Costa Rica

Truth be told, England do not have a chance. But Mario Balotelli might want them to remain in this competition, after posting this on Twitter.

Balotelli being Balotelli
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

 As this piece was being written though, Italy were probably of the thought that the World Cup will be alright without England in it, that abject in the way they have started their match against Joel Campbell and Costa Rica.

Pirlo's outfit, in the Italian dressing room.
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

A shadow of what they were against England, but they still do have a certain Andrea Pirlo in their ranks. A man who has been the most consistent midfielder in world football, could turn it on at the flick of a switch. But my oh my, Costa Rica have just put themselves ahead.

I'd still wait for a certain bit of magic from Balotelli, to spark Italy into life. If they get the ball moving quicker, and be more solid when in the opposing half, they could get back into this match.

My take: Italy 2-1 Costa Rica

Switzerland v France

In a clash between French speaking nations, Switzerland created the most exciting moment thus far in the World Cup, with a winner at the death against Ecuador. Whether they can pull off an upset against the French though, is questionable.

Xherdan Shaqiri is a tad too individualistic for my liking, and it could come as a detriment to the Swiss' mode of attack. One consolation for them, is that the French will always provide teams with a chance, due to their shaky back line.

France though, might just be in the mood for some condiments, and might make cheese out of their Swiss opponents, to go along with their wine from Bordeaux.

My take: France 3-1 Switzerland

Honduras v Ecuador

In their opening encounter against France, Honduras were hounds in a football match. Their anchorman, Wilson Palacios will be suspended for this game, and South America's weakest team might just be facing the Hondurans at the right time.

Predictable is what both teams are, and it could end up being another one of those stale draws. With the fact that this is being played closer to home for Ecuador than Honduras, I'm tipping the men in yellow today.

My take: Honduras 0-2 Ecuador.

A Chile Night For Spain in the Heat of the Maracana

Lost for words after an inexplicable 180 minutes
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

They came, they played, and they conquered. For 6 years, they were untouchable. They were European Champions, not once but twice. Back-to-back. In between those championships, they conjured up a brilliant month to be crowned World Champions.

They were Spain.
In the heat of the Maracana though, it was a Chile night for Spain. And blimey, did they feel the pain. But enough of playing with words, what on earth happened?

As with everything, there is a 'sell-by' date, similar to the bread which you buy. Whichever bakery you get it from, one fine day will arrive and the bread will be stale, fit only for the bin.

They are Spain. But changes have to be made. Their philosophy of play has earned plaudits the world over, but this night in the Maracana will have proven to them, what they lack, and what they should look to be.

That's exactly what Chile were. Confident with the ball, quick passing with the ball zipped across the park, high pressing when the need arose, a work ethic which other managers would die for, and most of all, that moment of brilliance when it was needed. These are the things one would, in days gone by, associate with Spain.

But no. Today, they were not Spain. They were a group of footballing maniacs from Chile. In next week's preview of their match against Netherlands, a more in-depth piece will be written on how the Chileans have got where they are today. For now, let's savour the moment.

Eduardo Vargas scoring against Ramos and Spain
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

In an earlier see-saw game between the Dutch and Socceroos, there was pretty much nothing separating the teams, except individual moments of brilliance.

Robben was terrific again. Van Persie was lethal, the Netherlands won. But can they go all the way? It is still quite doubtful, as to how they will perform against someone like Germany, or even Argentina, to see whether they can actually crack it against the big boys. Goodbye to Australia though, they put on a good show did the Socceroos.

A lot will depend on whether Robben can keep up his sparkling form
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Croatia, well they just ran riot. Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic are a spectacular pairing in centre midfield, with both men lining up against each other next season in the El Clasico (Rakitic has just been signed by Barcelona).

They have what it takes to do a number on the Mexicans next time out, and do not be surprised to see them get out of this group into the next round. Time will tell.

Games tonight:- Colombia v Ivory Coast, Uruguay v England, Japan v Greece.

Apologies to those who have been following these posts daily, as I was really caught up this past week and struggled to churn out pieces, and today was a marathon. But I will certainly try to, whenever possible, to come up with something ya!

At the time this piece was written, Colombia had won their game against Ivory Coast, by two goals to one.

The Colombian 'Cha-Cha' in progress
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

And they were magnificent. Juan Fernando Quintero and James Rodriguez are like little magicians performing sleights of hand, with their feet. The ball is like that little pigeon every magician uses to deceive his flabbergasted audience.

This took place against a bewildered Ivorian team. All the African teams seem to have difficulty being creative, relying instead on wing play to get the ball into their opponent's box. Play of this sort is largely predictable, and easy to defend against.

Jose Peckerman and his team could go quite a distance though, and if they escape this group with their key players free from injury, they could easily get into the quarters, and after that its a toss of a coin. Pace is what they have in abundance, and with that, nothing is impossible.

Uruguay v England

As is the case with England, "England expects" is a term which always gets put in the same sentence with the founders of football. Though this time around, even their own fans have not held high hopes on their team progressing, even beyond the group stages.

Uruguay's dressing room before the match
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Without that sort of expectation though, it seems that the shackles have been removed from their technically gifted lot, and they play with a whole lot more freedom. In a matchup where two of Liverpool's 'number 9's' go head-to-head, this could prove to be a mouthwatering, heart racing encounter.

Which number 9 will come out on top?
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Both these teams are better on the front foot than when being under pressure, with weak defences. With Cavani and Suarez in town, the Uruguayans have the stardust required to play 'Catch Me If You Can' with the English, though if Hodgson provides Sterling with the license to bamboozle Uruguay's defence, along with Rooney, they might actually have a chance here.

If Ross Barkley is introduced into the fold early in the second half, it could trouble this ageing Uruguay team.

Putting my neck on the line, and going for win to England, by two goals to nil.

Uruguay 0-2 England

Japan v Greece

In a drab performance against Ivory Coast, the Japanese flattered to deceive, not providing much width or guile to get into the Ivorian defence.

Greece meanwhile, had come up against a solid Colombian wall and had no reply. In what will almost certainly prove to be a tough match for both teams, this could be another draw.

Japan 1-1 Greece.

A Case of Belgian Waffles and Rotten Strawberries

Ochoa diving to his right to palm a
shot past the post.
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Spiderman would have been proud of Guillermo Ochoa's display against Brazil. So commanding was he, darting from one side of the post to the other, flying in to gather crosses, sprinting across his line to get down to a low shot, palming it around the post. Whatever Brazil threw at him, the Mexican net never bulged.

Immediately though, I could hear murmurs from Samba fans, "Hmm, I doubt Brazil can win the World Cup, better support Netherlands. What about Germany? Or maybe Germany. Belgium, can Belgium do it? Or what about Balotelli? I mean Italy, what about them?"

It might be better to just calm down. Yes, the Brazilians were woeful, no spark and cohesiveness, no Neymar and Oscar, although they were on the pitch, no intricate passing and fanciful wing back play. Simply put, they were horrible, and on this display, they might not be able to really have a go at the other top level teams.

But do not discredit Mexico, as these guys put their heart and soul into getting a result last night, and got it. They now have a chance to win the group, though Croatia might turn the tables and it will depends a lot on whether they can get past Cameroon tonight.

Dries Mertens saved Belgium's blushes with an 80th minute winner
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Many a fan expected much of Belgium, labelled as everyone's second favourite to lift the golden trophy.

Picture yourself going into one of the best dessert outlets in town, looking at the mouthwatering menu and picking out a Belgian waffle, with the picture displaying wonderful strawberries, lip-smacking chocolate syrup, sweet melted caramel and a cherry to go with it. So you have ordered the sinful dessert, but when it arrives, the waiter says, "Sorry sir/madam, we've run out of all the other ingredients, but here's your waffle."

Nothing but a flat, stale, unappetizing fawwel, I mean waffle.

Sofiane Feghouli giving Algeria a shock lead from the penalty spot
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

That was Belgium's performance last night. A team which promised so much looking at the brochure, but delivered almost nothing. The waffle was still there, but everything that made it special was missing. Marc Wilmots has to get into his players to step it up next time around, or they will struggle in the next round. Lukaku, Hazard and De Bruyne especially, have to pull their socks up and get the most out of their compatriots.

Aleksandr Kerzhakov grabbing the equaliser vs South Korea
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Russia decided to mimic Belgium's drab display, by not producing much throughout the game, except for Aleksandr Kerzhakov's moment of brilliance. South Korea though did not let themselves down one bit, deservedly taking a point from this match after the whole team put their bodies on the line for each other.

What they did lack though, was that one moment of pizzazz to unlock the Russian defence. Both these teams are capable of beating Algeria, so it would come down to how well they strut their stuff against Belgium. This group is by no means over.

Games tonight, Australia v Netherlands, Spain v Chile, Cameroon v Croatia.

Spain v Chile

Do they still have it in them? Defending champions, back-to-back European kings, teams could not get anywhere near them. But today the talk is, "Has the sun set on Spain?"

In the clash of the 'La Rojas', this could prove to be a decisive moment in history. Spain win, and they're right back in this group. A defeat though, changes not only the complexion of this group, but perhaps also the lives of many of those in Vicente Del Bosque's team.

It might come as a shock, but Chile really do have a proper chance in this match. A young, vibrant and well organised team, with players like Alexis Sanchez and Arturo Vidal who send shivers down opposing defenders' spines, they could do likewise to Spain.

With Spain's lack of pace, unless they start with Torres and Pedro, I'm going for another upset here, with Chile to nick this.

Spain 0-1 Chile

Australia v Netherlands

Before anything else, do not first hope for another 5-1 as it simply will not happen, unless the Australians do not show up. The Dutch under Louis Van Gaal will be brimming with confidence after their display against the World Champions, but they were under the cosh and were able to break away on the counter.

Australia will not play like that though. It is highly likely that they'll pack the defence, and look to hit the Dutch on the counter, sort of giving them the taste of their own medicine. When it comes to quality and class though, can we forsee anything but a Dutch victory here?

Australia 0-2 Netherlands

Cameroon v Croatia

Nico Kovac's side were extremely unlucky to lost agains the Brazilians last time out, despite bossing large parts of the game through Ivan Rakitic and Luca Modric. These two are real gems, and with Mario Mandzukic back in the Croatian side, look for them to score at least a couple of goals tonight against an abject Cameroonian side who do not have much to offer.

If they can get their act together, Croatia could probably run away with this.

Cameroon 1-3 Croatia

The first round of group games are over, with some shocks along the way. What did you make of it? Submit your thoughts in the comments below.

Till next time,

Thomas Mueller Pulled A Rabbit Out of a Hat-Trick, With Assistance From Pepe

There was never any doubt, was there? Muller went on
to grab his first hat trick for the national team.
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

After a mistake by Philip Lahm in the 8th minute, Cristiano Ronaldo came away with the ball, quickly moving through the gears onto Olympic sprinting territory. He was past the German defence in a flash, what with the likes of Mertesacker and Hummels playing in the centre. The World Player of the Year laid it off to Hugo Almeida, who scuffed his shot, sending the ball safely into the palms of the grateful Manuel Neuer. 

That was it for Cristiano and his team. 

Doesn't need a caption
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

That was what they played like, Cristiano and his team. It was never Portugal. It was more so about Ronaldo, and 10 other guys trying to get the ball to him. With someone like Messi though, it is quite a contrast. He loves support from his teammates, but he provides them with tonnes of assists as well. When Ronaldo is concerned though, individuality comes before the team. 

Some may say it's an unfair indictment of Portugal's superstar, but watch the game again, compare that with they way Messi went about his business in Argentina's opener. The difference is absolutely staggering. 

Joachim Loew's men were, however, simply spectacular on the night, buzzing around the Portuguese like a swarm of German wasps. Irritate someone like Pepe, and you know almost certainly how he would react. And react he did, extremely foolishly, costing his team any chance which they might have had. 

I can do better than Zidane!
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

If only Pepe had put more effort in heading the ball away, and stopping Germany's forwards, legally. But no, he's Pepe. Legal is not in his dictionary. Buffoonery, perhaps. 

After the first 45 minutes last night, I could not help but put the German team alongside the Spanish of 2008 and 2010. Supremely intelligent, with the right balance, adequate panache and players who can whip an omelette anywhere on the pitch. In Mesut Ozil, they have a 'scrambled egg' specialist, the ones you usually find at luxury hotels, who effortlessly puts the eggs where you want them. And makes it just right. But enough of eggs for now, what about Thomas Mueller?

He's neither a forward, nor an attacking midfielder, but hey, he's one heck of a player. Playing between the lines is what even the best defenders struggle with, and it was vividly displayed yesterday. The Germans will really take some stopping, but I will highlight them in a future piece, to see how far they can actually go in Rio 2014. 

If you were mesmerised by the German performance yesterday, you might have struggled to keep awake watching the Iranians take on Nigeria. Not because it was shown in the wee hours of this morning, but due to it being absolutely woeful. In terms of a spectacle, there was nothing in it whatsoever, so much so that even one of the Nigerian players took a nap on the fresh grass. (See below.)

Why don't we have a siesta, eh?
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Both teams will be lucky to stay in the competition, after playing out a stale draw. 

The Americans though, produced a shock. I say that due to the Ghanaians having gifted crop of young players including the Ayew brothers, sons of Ghanaian great Abedi Pele. Perhaps if Kevin-Prince Boateng had started the game to provide more support up front to Gyan Asamoah, they might have done better. 

With that being said though, it is somewhat a long shot for them to get at least four points against both Portugal and Germany, hence their survival chances might have already faded. 

Tonight's fixtures see Belgium v Algeria, Brazil v Mexico and Russia taking on the South Koreans. 

Belgium v Algeria

On paper, this might sound like a foregone conclusion, and it may well be. In spite of that, Belgian fans should tune in to this game, as it might serve as a gauge on how well this group can do this time. Fancied by many as dark horses in this competition, the Brussels-based men have the right ingredients to take on, and beat the best of them. The question is whether they can do it on the field, with the right tactical setup. 

Look for Axel Witsel to boss the midfield, with a view of Adnan Januzaj coming off the bench to support talisman Eden Hazard. This whole team is loaded with class, from Thibaut Courtois in goal, right up till Romelu Lukaku at the other end. Kompany and Vermaelen form a very solid centre-half pairing. 

Algeria have no chance in this one, though do not be surprised to see Nabil Bentaleb of Tottenham and Sofiane Feghouli of Sevilla to put on a good showing. 

My take : Belgium 5-0 Algeria

Brazil v Mexico

A chance for Brazil to put themselves almost certainly into the knockout stages, up against the Mexicans. Last time out, the hosts were quite shaky, needing a magnificent display from Oscar to get themselves out of a deep pit. If Mexico can get at the heart of this team, right at the spine as well as the flanks, they might well have a chance. 

Do not completely rule out Mexico in this one, though will anyone go against Brazil? I think it'll be tight, but Brazil to come away 2-0 winners. 

Russia v South Korea. 

Under Fabio Capello, the gentlemen from Moscow have been difficult to beat, with the Berezutsky twins in the centre of defence, and Igor Akinfeev between the sticks. Known for their vodka more than anything else, perhaps even Vladimir Putin, the Russians could put a few past the South Koreans tonight, if Alan Dzagoev and Aleksandr Kerzhakov can apply the coup de grace quickly. 

Russia 3-0 South Korea

Messi Lights Up The Maracana

(Lionel Messi reeling off in delight after a stunning individual
effort)
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Cometh the hour, cometh the man. 

Many doubted him, few believed him, some ridiculed him, others ignored him. Not Bosnia though. The Bosnians never for one moment, doubted, ridiculed, ignored or lacked belief in his capability, so much so that they were tasked to hack him with any chance they had. And so they did. 

In order to gauge how good a player is, people usually know what he is going to do before he does it, yet still fail to stop him. When Messi was bearing down on the Asmir Begovic's box, the crowd inside Brazil's iconic Maracana could see the net bulging before Messi struck his shot into the bottom corner, in off the post. 

In all honesty, though the scoreline seemed to suggest that it was a tight match, the men from Buenos Aires were playing with the handbrake on, in second gear at times. One had the hunch that if the need arose, they could pop the clutch and gather speed in no time. 

(Messi drives the ball past Asmir Begovic)
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

That's exactly what Messi did. Into third gear, then fourth, going pass five players before doubling Argentina's lead. 

Truly one of the great World Cup goals in recent history, made even better the fact that it lit up the Maracana. Can Argentina be stopped? Time will tell on that one, but their defence can be got at by the bigger more potent teams. They will coast out of this group though. 

Swiss fans having a gala time, after watching
their team nick the game at the death.
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

The remaining two matches last night were expected results, but the manner in which Switzerland got theirs was truly breathtaking. Coming from a goal down, they managed the almost impossible in the dying seconds in what was the last kick of that match, Haris Seferovic grabbed the winner. 

However, they might find it a bit harder to topple the French. Pace, power and strength is what Les Bleus have, with the quartet of Cabaye, Pogba, Griezmann and Valbuena buzzing in behind Karim Benzema, who could have bagged a hat trick had his shot gone in off the post. Thanks to goal line technology though, the goal was awarded and credited to Honduras' goalkeeper as an Own Goal. 

Karim Benzema "I'm the man for Les Bleus"
(Pic Courtesy of FIFA.com)

Today's fixtures present a bit of both, one cracker, and the remaining two which might not garner much attention.

Germany v Portugal

On one hand, there is a team which is shaped to get the best out of 11 players on the pitch, while the other has its base set, in order to support one superstar. Which will likely come out on top? 

It will come down to how solid DieManschaaft are tonight and whether they can defend as a pack of wolves, compact, organised in order to cut the feed to Cristiano Ronaldo. To nail him, they would have to keep an eye out for Joao Moutinho. Though not at Pirlo's level, this little guy at times can have the football tied to a string. 

Joachim Low's lack of backup to Miroslav Klose could prove telling, unless someone in the mold of Mario Gotze or Mesut Ozil start in that famous 'false number 9' up top, to bring out Pepe from his comfort zone. 

There is a question mark on Bastian Schweinsteiger's fitness to face the Portuguese tonight, though it might be better if he is left on the bench, in favour of Philip Lahm in centre midfield. The Germans lack a true holding midfielder in the engine room, but Lahm can more than do a job. 

I'm going for the team to come out on top against the individual tonight, though do not be surprised if Ronaldo turns on the magic. 

My take: Germany 3-1 Portugal

Ghana v USA

The Black Stars, as Ghana is known as, come into this one feeling a little aggrieved, after they went down to Uruguay in the last World Cup no thanks to Luis Suarez's ridiculous moment of 'Lev Yashin wannabe', but have a very balanced team this time around. 

Look for the Ayew brothers and Asamoah Gyan to be the standout performers in this encounter, but especially so when it concerns Kevin-Prince Boateng. He has had a terrific season with Schalke, and is primed to turn it on on the big stage. For the Americans though, I'm not exactly sure what sort of side Jurgen Klinsmann would put out in order to counter the Ghanaians pace, and might struggle if they are swarmed in constant attacks. 

My take: Ghana 2-1 USA

Iran v Nigeria

This one could turn out to be a dire affair, though Nigeria are the favourites going into this matchup, with the likes of proven goalscorers like Peter Odemwingie and Emmanuel Eminenke, flanked by Victor Moses. 

Iran though, might find it tough tonight, having to rely on team ethic and little else, unless of course Javad Nekounam can pull a rabbit out of a hat. 

My take: Iran 0-1 Nigeria

Till tomorrow