I had a Uruguay/Croatia final so ill stick with half of that and go France/Croatia. I'll be rooting for Belgium but something is telling me France pulls it out.
Japan opened Belgium up easily. Japan has some good technical players (I'm excited to see Inui at Betis this season - great fit there), but they're obviously a notch or two below what France offers. France also doesn't have Brazil's problem of needing to placate and go through an overrated and unfit diva like Neymar.
I'm rooting for Belgium today because I've always liked Roberto Martinez and feel he gets a bad rap, but this feels like a good matchup for France. The speed of Mbappe and Griezmann could be a problem for them today. I wonder also if they'd consider swapping Giroud for Dembele. I doubt it as Giroud has been the reference point for them, but if Belgium wants to replicate what Japan did I wonder if Dembele's speed should be the answer over Giroud's power.
Tomorrow should be good too. I'm looking for Sterling to have a big day. His movement against Sweden was superb, and against a potentially gassed and already suspect Croatian back line he might enjoy himself.
before the Brazil game, I'm not sure how much can be made of Belgium-Japan.
Each World Cup we see a team that has a match where they struggle and then they survive.
Belgium conceded two goals, but they roared back to win the game, even before it could go to extra time.
Japan played a very technically sound game.
But after watching it, you could make the case Belgium took them too lightly until they saw they truly were in trouble. That can be the sign of a problem, but they appeared to be completely focused vs. Brazil.
I think it will be a Belgium-Croatia final, but I've got as many wrong as I've gotten right so far.
to an English buddy and a French buddy arguing their countries' causes (and it drew a funny retort from one D Hirshey]:
Quote:
Alas, me lads, it shall be told,
Yea, the Three Lions playing so bold, well may reach Luzhniki,
a nod to welcoming Swedes, playing passive and playing deep,
And to savant Sir Hirshey, it must be said, his (at long last)
Wenger-less Gunners come up small, being Tottenham’s Spurs made Colombia weep,
Gallant Kane will lead them, Lingard, fiery Pickford, workman Henderson too,
All EPLs Trippier, Walker, mallet head Maguire, elegant Dele Alli,
Yet in this lesser borough was the Russian bear laid Croatia low, fair Modrić their best,
Rebic, the one-legged Subasić, all spent, on the morrow give England the talley,
Mon France, mon France
Electric Mbappe, rock Griezemann, humble Hugo and Pogba the Enigmatic,
Still, in Duchamps’ telling it's nimble, energetic Kanté, the poacher, the fixer,
Who holds the key to unseating mighty Belgium et le grand Courtois,
the scintillating Hazard, DeBruyne, Lukaku and their magic elixir,
In the end, in Red Square, where oligarchs, thieves, and traitors connive,
It is Légion d’honneur Thierry Henry aids Belgium's reign supreme,
They will hoist the Cup and shatter your dreams
[Verily suckitude disgrace to iambic pentameter, but you get the idea]
that's a great suggestion. At the arena I usually would attend in Germany, the stands are only on either side of the pitch.
I went to a match between Juventus and Bayern in Charlotte and sat in the end zone. Awesome view! You could see the plays develop and the strategy much better from that vantage point. Transformed the way I want to watch the action.
You'll get a good view either way - at that point it's a matter of personal preference. What match are you planning to see? I had season tickets for a couple years in the lower level (about 10 rows) behind a goal, and that was really cool. I got a real appreciation for Thierry Henry's technique - man could that guy hit the ball clean. If that's the kind of thing you're looking for, sit down low.
But if you prefer to see the whole game develop, sit up high behind a goal. The arena is still tight enough that you can see the expressions on players' faces, but you also get the "All 22" view.
I can't stress enough wait a great venue it is. Not a bad seat in the place.
Great save. Belgium definitely with the better chances but I feel like France has missed atleast 2 passes that could have led to breakaways. They are very close to scoring as well.
I think it's a mistake to read Belgium's lineup as uncreative Â
any team with DeBruyne and Hazard on the field is not that. They're just funnelling chance creation to the wings with a stronger center to recycle posession/mitigate Pogba. I like their structure.
Both De Bruyne and Hazard have been pulled away from Kante, and Fellaini is providing an ongoing Plan B drifting forward when Belgium is in possession.
- both sides showing respect for the game, minimum of fouls, no flopping, though thought Vertonghen on Griezemann and Dembele could have earned cautions, ref saving cards
- Pavard looked nervous early on, poor touches, and Hazard had his way with him, Duchamps needs to figure that out, fast, and Pavard and Varane on a miscommunication at ~ 25 minutes almost let Hazard walk through
- as predicted Kanté so critical in MF
- Griezemann has been poor with his FKs this tournament
Both De Bruyne and Hazard have been pulled away from Kante, and Fellaini is providing an ongoing Plan B drifting forward when Belgium is in possession.
Don't underestimate the role Henry is playing, one of the masters of off-ball movement and runs.
GT: can you post again when you have the chance that link to the in-depth tearing apart of USSF, excellent article, but can't track it down.
by both sides in the first half, there were a lot of excellent chances and plays by both teams. What a save by Lloris, some great runs by Hazard, and Mbappe flashing that Randy Moss like game-breaking ability over the top.
that always stands out for me as a difference between the US and the top teams is how solid some of these defenders are. Vertongen has been so strong 1 v 1 and there is a strong team D cohesion for almost every one of these squads
rightly and richly deserved, but Matuidi and Giroux, tracking back, repeatedly, Rick Nash like playing a two-way game and not being able to buy a goal smh
just earned Vertongen a yellow card.
It's embarrassing that flops get rewarded
And it's a shame that the game was virtually devoid of that until the last minutes. Don't know why it is so often the brightest lights who feel the need. So unnecessary.
They just have such depth and talent all over their squad. Belgium has 2-3 players as good as anybody but they can’t match the depth the French have
I expressed some confidence before the tournament in this French squad. I just really liked how they were set up in the midfield. I know Pogba has his critics but I think he’s had a really tournament and he and Kante have controlled the center of the field. I think they’ll bring home the cup
I don't think there has been a better CB in the World then Varane. He is fucking phenomenal for club and country. He just dominates the opponent and hardly ever is caught out of position because of his speed.
They were--ably supported by the work of Pogba, Kanté and Matuidi in front of them
Agreed here, Varane especially has impressed me. With Varane, Umtiti, Kante, Pogba down the middle and then Loris behind them, that’s a really strong spine of the squad
There was one play where Varane outran Hazard and shielded the ball out of bounds. It was absolutely absurd...I had no idea that Varane had that kind of speed.
but then again I couldn’t see them losing to Portugal without Ronaldo two years ago. So we’ll see, but this is a better team than they had at the Euros. Kante and Varane didn’t play in that final. Such a huge difference.
There was one play where Varane outran Hazard and shielded the ball out of bounds. It was absolutely absurd...I had no idea that Varane had that kind of speed.
He's insanely fast. Especially for a guy his size. I can't even count the number of times he's saved Real Madrid's (Mostly Ramos & Marcelo's ass) with his speed. They are constantly caught out of position and he has a long ass sprint to stop an attack basically by himself.
Kante is entering the exalted Makelele territory as a defensive midfielder. What a force...and in combination with the Varane/Umtiti combo that is tough to beat.
That said, France is weak at fullback and I was disappointed that Hazard and De Bruyne weren't able to exploit those areas more. It looked very promising early on for them.
Kante is entering the exalted Makelele territory as a defensive midfielder. What a force...and in combination with the Varane/Umtiti combo that is tough to beat.
That said, France is weak at fullback and I was disappointed that Hazard and De Bruyne weren't able to exploit those areas more. It looked very promising early on for them.
Set pieces, set pieces, set pieces.
I don't think Martinez set them up for success. They should have been playing Hazard and Mertens into those spaces out wide, where, as you said, Pavard and Hernandez could be exposed, but he instead played with basically 4 holding midfielders.
Chadli went 1-11 for crosses into the box. I wonder what would have happened if that was a natural left winger.
Kante is entering the exalted Makelele territory as a defensive midfielder. What a force...and in combination with the Varane/Umtiti combo that is tough to beat.
That said, France is weak at fullback and I was disappointed that Hazard and De Bruyne weren't able to exploit those areas more. It looked very promising early on for them.
Set pieces, set pieces, set pieces.
Kante is so technically sound when it comes positioning and stopping the ball. If this was hockey - he'd be Scott Stevens. A rare talent, who always seems to be where he needs to be.
Kante is entering the exalted Makelele territory as a defensive midfielder. What a force...and in combination with the Varane/Umtiti combo that is tough to beat.
That said, France is weak at fullback and I was disappointed that Hazard and De Bruyne weren't able to exploit those areas more. It looked very promising early on for them.
Set pieces, set pieces, set pieces.
I don't think Martinez set them up for success. They should have been playing Hazard and Mertens into those spaces out wide, where, as you said, Pavard and Hernandez could be exposed, but he instead played with basically 4 holding midfielders.
Chadli went 1-11 for crosses into the box. I wonder what would have happened if that was a natural left winger.
FWIW, if I had to bet today, I would put money on Martinez becoming the next USMNT coach.
Why have they taken so long? In the time since Arena left teams have qualified for the World Cup, competed in the World Cup, and hired a new manager since (Spain has already hired Luis Enrique).
It's been an entire human gestation period since Arena left. What the fuck.
Why have they taken so long? In the time since Arena left teams have qualified for the World Cup, competed in the World Cup, and hired a new manager since (Spain has already hired Luis Enrique).
It's been an entire human gestation period since Arena left. What the fuck.
This whole GM process has really slowed things down. Fortunately they got the right guy with Ernie Stewart. But yeah, I'm not sure why it's taken so long, unless they are targeting someone still in the WC.
That said, France is weak at fullback and I was disappointed that Hazard and De Bruyne weren't able to exploit those areas more. It looked very promising early on for them....
I mentioned at end of 45 that Hazard was just abusing Pavard, and said Duchamps needed to figure it out, because Pavard was leaving his jock on the pitch, several runs in a row. And then...it just stopped. As far as I could tell, Hazard shifted mostly toward the center of the pitch, I didn't see whether Kanté was cheating to deny him space on the left flank.
That said, I thought Hazard has a really strong game in both roles. Lukaku seemed lost, without possession if he were hold-up and not playing in space in any counter attacking role. DeBruyne was rendered irrelevant for the most part. In 2H Belgium played to French defensive strength after going wide most of 1H.
[Link to the dissection piece of USSF and its managerial disasters?]
Why have they taken so long? In the time since Arena left teams have qualified for the World Cup, competed in the World Cup, and hired a new manager since (Spain has already hired Luis Enrique).
It's been an entire human gestation period since Arena left. What the fuck.
This whole GM process has really slowed things down. Fortunately they got the right guy with Ernie Stewart. But yeah, I'm not sure why it's taken so long, unless they are targeting someone still in the WC.
Or they’re allowing Berhalter to finish the season with Columbus.
it turns out that Mounieur ended up being their most essential player. No width, no service with him on suspension. France got a real break not having to worry about him, just like they caught a break with the Cavani injury.
This whole GM process has really slowed things down. Fortunately they got the right guy with Ernie Stewart. But yeah, I'm not sure why it's taken so long, unless they are targeting someone still in the WC.
Maybe not somebody still in the WC, but somebody who coached in the World Cup and they are waiting for it to finish before announcing a hiring.
Why have they taken so long? In the time since Arena left teams have qualified for the World Cup, competed in the World Cup, and hired a new manager since (Spain has already hired Luis Enrique).
It's been an entire human gestation period since Arena left. What the fuck.
This whole GM process has really slowed things down. Fortunately they got the right guy with Ernie Stewart. But yeah, I'm not sure why it's taken so long, unless they are targeting someone still in the WC.
Or they’re allowing Berhalter to finish the season with Columbus.
more PL than any other league, but what France did in the last 15-20 minutes of the game last night was disgraceful. I understand the art of stalling, but their was not art in their attempts to do it yesterday. It was just frankly terrible for the sport on such a big stage and the ref should have done more to stop it. I think the 6 minutes stoppage time was a result of that crap and then during stoppage time I would have added 2 more minutes at least if I was the ref. France is also beatable. I actually think England or Croatia could, but probably won't, do it. Modric would give France fits and I think England's midfield would expose the soft underbelly of France. Anwyay, I will not be rooting for them in the final after that display of garbage at the end of the game. Rant over.
I'm not learned about MSL rosters, let alone managers, but as to the process dragging on, maybe relevant to point out that there's a new guy at the top. As we've seen with the last two USMNT managers, problems abound above and behind them. I have zero sense of Cordeiro either, but there is a lot to be put in order both before and after a hiring is announced.
Doesn’t know a thing about soccer. He ran as a business guy, and the powers that be liked that they could continue to get rich with little transparency. He was the status quo pick, basically. Earnie Stewart is the guy picking the next coach. I wouldn’t be upset with Berhalter. He smart as hell, a hard worker, a student of the game, and adaptable. I also wouldn’t be upset with Juan Carlos Osorio
One thing that could work against Berhalter, is that his brother Jay is third in command of US Soccer, and would probably be second in command if Dan Flynn retires. I guess that could help Gregg??
USSF realities same as FIFA's, why should I be surprised, and a Giant Squid (GS) alum to boot. Osorio would be a hoot: he took such heat early on, but I liked Mexico's tournament, guys on the pitch all seemed on the same page, couldn't stay with BR
I agree that Martinez made a lineup error in the 2nd half and probably should have put in Mertens earlier BUT these victories so much depend on performance at key seconds in the match:
That awesome save by Lloris on the Alderweireld shot in the first half really should have been a goal. Also, that cross by DeBruyne in the first half that Umtiti foiled was going straight to Lukaku for an easy goal. If Belgium scores on those opportunities - and they should have on both - they probably go on to win.
Whether the coach lineup decisions look smart or dumb really depends on these key moments. In fact, the biggest lineup mistake I saw was to start Giroud and France won the game anyway. The Giroud we saw in the World Cup was exactly the Giroud I see in the Premier league. He's always screwing up and failing to put shots on target. That's his MO. You know how Ronaldo has an instinct for the net? Well, Giroud has an anti-instinct. He's always wide.
Two terrific teams played their hearts out. France was slightly luckier and won 1-0. Let's not cast aspersions on the players or the coaches, most of whom were absolutely excellent and gave us a wonderful game.
would pave the way for Courtois and Hazard also to depart, both of whom are in need of contract-extensions.
Unless Kanté wants the move, Chelsea won’t let him go at any price. Though I agree all these teams should be targeting him. He’s fantastic
Looks like Chelsea has snaked Man City’s deal for Napoli’s Jorginho. Perfect player to pair with Kanté. Along with Sarrin coming in to manage, hopefully that convinces Hazard, Kanté, and the rest to stay
I agree...lots and lots of quality on display yesterday. Martinez said it himself afterwards - Belgium lost because of one detail. That's what makes this the best tournament in the world in any sport, and the hardest to win - 4 years of preparation and work can be undone by a single moment. And in these elimination matches the margins are so small.
It's why I think today's winner is going to have a tough time with France on Sunday. France's "problem preventers" - Kante, Varane, Umtiti, and Lloris - are all excellent and all in great form. They have conceded 4 goals in 6 matches...but 3 of those goals came in the Argentina match. It just seems like any goal they concede on Sunday will have to come at an enormous cost of work, because they aren't going to gift anything.
So who has the better chance? Croatia has the genius in Modric, but England looks better equipped to attack the flanks and their system will be quite different from what France has faced to this point.
but for all the versatility Manzudic offers, he's not that differential tier of player - further, any team with Lovren as a centerback is ripe for exploitation. I like England in this one!
lol - I posted something similar after the last Croatia win. Hey - I'm sure he's happy about it, and that's great. Let's just hope he was watching somewhere he doesn't need to drive home from.
I really wanted England to win. Croatia deserve it but I have no interest in watching them in the final to be honest. Wanted the best story and that was France v England. Would have been a really fun event on Sunday in the US where England are incredibly popular.
I'm glad Croatia won and I hope they win on Sunday. Â
In my lifetime. This tournament broke beautifully for them and they were up 1-0 in the sixth minute and couldn’t get the job done. Will never have a chance like that again.
Generally speaking they are not good enough to consistently compete with the best countries. Need to seize a chance like that when it comes.
My countrymen did it! Well 1/4 of my countrymen. I'm on the Croatian bandwagon and proud of it. My mom asked me to root since the US and my other 3 background, Cuba, Ireland and Italy were all out. Her mom was 100% Croatian so we're all a 'ic during this tournament.
I think we have to give credit where credit is due Â
Modric, Rakitic and Mandzukic have been been world-class players for a long time - even Perisic. They knew how to win - England's players are still growing into their stardom.
Or you can also say when your top players are from Spurs... just kidding.
Not the majority maybe, but the “very serious” US national team fans are a strange bunch. I think international soccer as a rule is not that serious of a thing, it’s supposed to be fun. Of course you should be invested in the results and enjoy it but to viscerally HATE other teams is weird to me in the context of international soccer. Games are so infrequent and the whole thing is such a carnival atmosphere I genuinely don’t really understand hating another team.
Particularly think about this with regards to Mexico, who many “very serious” US soccer fans HATE. But I always root for Mexico in these tournaments. They are our neighbors, I interact with Mexicans every day of my life, our cultures are intertwined. I like seeing them do well.
Same thing applies to anyone who dares to root for a country other than the US though.
As an objective viewer it's probably been my favorite ever. Part of that comes from the much improved general coverage of it. Some of the podcasts (Totally Football Show, Guardian's World Cup Daily, Grant Wahl's Planet Futbol, Graham Hunter's Big Interview) and YouTube channels (Guillem Balague, BBC coverage) have all really added to the experience of following the tournament.
On the field the margins are finer than they've ever been. For us USMNT fans - Croatia is NOT a long time established soccer power. They participated in their first tournament in 1996 after the dissolution of Yugoslavia. They also entered this particular tournament under an enormous amount of turmoil that could legitimately see Luka Modric go to prison on perjury charges. My point is that if you pick the right players, are well organized, and get a couple breaks this level of success is possible. If Croatia can come out of these politically, culturally, and athletically revulsive 25 years with a World Cup semifinal appearance in '98 and a final appearance in 2018 - it isn't beyond the US either. It can be done.
Oscar, rivalry is only a part of the feelings with Mexico. Â
Hate is probably a bit strong, but I have a very strong dislike for the Mexico team. Rivalry is certainly a part of it. The bigger part, in my case, is their absolutely horrible fan base. Have you ever been to a match with Mexican fans? They make Eagles fans look tame. Obnoxious and vulgar.
As an objective viewer it's probably been my favorite ever. Part of that comes from the much improved general coverage of it. Some of the podcasts (Totally Football Show, Guardian's World Cup Daily, Grant Wahl's Planet Futbol, Graham Hunter's Big Interview) and YouTube channels (Guillem Balague, BBC coverage) have all really added to the experience of following the tournament.
I completely agree with this sentiment. I have shared this WC with my kid, watching games and the sticker album collection, as well as the all of media. I basically listened to the Totally Football Show every morning on my commute and on the weekends and it was a great journey - I even appreciated Fox's World Cup Tonight for what it was. As Terps points out, there was so much good content that you couldn't possibly interact with it all.
Now if only Greece could've drawn Denmark or Sweden instead of Croatia ....
Bubble guys for me were Courtois, Lloris, Umtiti, Mina, Hazard, Perisic, and Kane.
The big themes for me have been:
1. Obviously set pieces are more important than ever. This may speak to how organized teams are, and how that makes it harder to score from open play.
2. The fullbacks have, with few exceptions, had little impact on this tournament. Part of that was down to injuries to Alves and Marcelo, as well as Spain's general inability to function with Alba, but I wonder if that's indicative of something deeper on a tactical level.
3. The re-emergence of the midfield destroyer, embodied of course by Kante (who I would name as player of the tournament).
4. The two giants that base their game on possession, Spain and Germany, need to come up with a way to overcome teams that play with 5 man defenses and generally park the bus. I don't think either country should overhaul what they do, but I think some fresh ideas are needed.
I've said that to myself about a hundred times the last month. I also love the usage of movie quotes from Hunt for Red October, Rocky IV, and the like. The other day they used a clip of the Soviet boxing rep in Drago's camp deriding how our boxing was indicative of how our decrepit society was falling apart or some shit - I laughed my ass off.
I just subscribed to the Totally Football League show too. I've taken to following Forest Green Rovers (mainly because of FIFA), and I'm hoping it's to the same standard.
I've said that to myself about a hundred times the last month. I also love the usage of movie quotes from Hunt for Red October, Rocky IV, and the like. The other day they used a clip of the Soviet boxing rep in Drago's camp deriding how our boxing was indicative of how our decrepit society was falling apart or some shit - I laughed my ass off.
I just subscribed to the Totally Football League show too. I've taken to following Forest Green Rovers (mainly because of FIFA), and I'm hoping it's to the same standard.
I listen regularly to Golazzo - their Serie A podcast with Jimbo, Horncastle and Gabriele Marcotti. Really fun because it splits between diving into figures and teams of the past (from Batigol to 90 Parma) and covering the league. In fact they announced they are doing a special Golazzo regarding Ronaldo going to Juventus (Marcotti just wrote a lengthy piece about it for ESPN).
As an objective viewer it's probably been my favorite ever. Part of that comes from the much improved general coverage of it. Some of the podcasts (Totally Football Show, Guardian's World Cup Daily, Grant Wahl's Planet Futbol, Graham Hunter's Big Interview) and YouTube channels (Guillem Balague, BBC coverage) have all really added to the experience of following the tournament.
On the field the margins are finer than they've ever been. For us USMNT fans - Croatia is NOT a long time established soccer power. They participated in their first tournament in 1996 after the dissolution of Yugoslavia. They also entered this particular tournament under an enormous amount of turmoil that could legitimately see Luka Modric go to prison on perjury charges. My point is that if you pick the right players, are well organized, and get a couple breaks this level of success is possible. If Croatia can come out of these politically, culturally, and athletically revulsive 25 years with a World Cup semifinal appearance in '98 and a final appearance in 2018 - it isn't beyond the US either. It can be done.
I think the relevant comparison would be to a run by South Korea in 2002. I could see the U.S. making the WC in that fashion.
This is a terrific Croatia team, with a midfield that likely is the best in the world or at least top three. We do not have a single midfielder who is close to a Rakitic, let alone Modric.
We don't have a Modric, but many teams have gone far with lesser players. We don't have a Kroos either, but he had his lunch handed to him by LAFC's Carlos Vela in the first match.
My point is simply that it can be done. We have to get our shit together first, and IMO it is decidedly NOT together.
Croatia has been advancing hasn't been because of Modric or Rakitic though. It's because they're been organized and take their opportunities well. In other words, they exact opposite of the US over the past few years.
Croatia has been advancing hasn't been because of Modric or Rakitic though. It's because they're been organized and take their opportunities well. In other words, they exact opposite of the US over the past few years.
I am not contesting the virtues of organization and opportunism. I entirely agree with you and Terps that the U.S. has underachieved principally because they have lacked those things. Our absence from the WC was not due to a lack of talent.
I'm making two claims instead:
1. Croatia's talent level is being underrated. Their midfield quality has had a LOT to do with their advancing this far.
2. We'd obviously (and Terps has noted this) need a good bit of luck in addition to organization and identity to reach the semis. Without these things I think we're squarely a round of 16 to quarterfinal (occasionally) level team.
I will say that I have come to so enjoy and appreciate the play of Hazard and DeBruyne (and, ok, Lukaku too) together, so attuned to reading each other's runs, feints, and passes, their hell for leather attacking verve on counters, that it seems like they have played together always and should play together always, for Club as well as for country (even if the former is obviously not the case).
One of the many joys of watching this WC.
RE: RE: Keeping the thread open for 3rd place game Â
I will say that I have come to so enjoy and appreciate the play of Hazard and DeBruyne (and, ok, Lukaku too) together, so attuned to reading each other's runs, feints, and passes, their hell for leather attacking verve on counters, that it seems like they have played together always and should play together always, for Club as well as for country (even if the former is obviously not the case).
One of the many joys of watching this WC.
At one time or another all three were Chelsea players
I'm rooting for Belgium today because I've always liked Roberto Martinez and feel he gets a bad rap, but this feels like a good matchup for France. The speed of Mbappe and Griezmann could be a problem for them today. I wonder also if they'd consider swapping Giroud for Dembele. I doubt it as Giroud has been the reference point for them, but if Belgium wants to replicate what Japan did I wonder if Dembele's speed should be the answer over Giroud's power.
Tomorrow should be good too. I'm looking for Sterling to have a big day. His movement against Sweden was superb, and against a potentially gassed and already suspect Croatian back line he might enjoy himself.
Each World Cup we see a team that has a match where they struggle and then they survive.
Belgium conceded two goals, but they roared back to win the game, even before it could go to extra time.
Japan played a very technically sound game.
But after watching it, you could make the case Belgium took them too lightly until they saw they truly were in trouble. That can be the sign of a problem, but they appeared to be completely focused vs. Brazil.
I think it will be a Belgium-Croatia final, but I've got as many wrong as I've gotten right so far.
Yea, the Three Lions playing so bold, well may reach Luzhniki,
a nod to welcoming Swedes, playing passive and playing deep,
And to savant Sir Hirshey, it must be said, his (at long last)
Wenger-less Gunners come up small, being Tottenham’s Spurs made Colombia weep,
Gallant Kane will lead them, Lingard, fiery Pickford, workman Henderson too,
All EPLs Trippier, Walker, mallet head Maguire, elegant Dele Alli,
Yet in this lesser borough was the Russian bear laid Croatia low, fair Modrić their best,
Rebic, the one-legged Subasić, all spent, on the morrow give England the talley,
Mon France, mon France
Electric Mbappe, rock Griezemann, humble Hugo and Pogba the Enigmatic,
Still, in Duchamps’ telling it's nimble, energetic Kanté, the poacher, the fixer,
Who holds the key to unseating mighty Belgium et le grand Courtois,
the scintillating Hazard, DeBruyne, Lukaku and their magic elixir,
In the end, in Red Square, where oligarchs, thieves, and traitors connive,
It is Légion d’honneur Thierry Henry aids Belgium's reign supreme,
They will hoist the Cup and shatter your dreams
[Verily suckitude disgrace to iambic pentameter, but you get the idea]
France XI: Lloris, Pavard, Varane, Umtiti, Hernandez, Pogba, Kanté, Mbappé, Griezmann, Matuidi, Giroud.
France XI: Lloris, Pavard, Varane, Umtiti, Hernandez, Pogba, Kanté, Mbappé, Griezmann, Matuidi, Giroud.
Oh Dembele.... Martinez rolling the dice.
This is not a creative midfield. I expect France to dominate possession.
Chadli seems to be creating more than I thought he would and has put some very good deliveries into the box
Upstairs in the 200s or say 10-12 rows back in the lower bowl? Thanks!
I went to a match between Juventus and Bayern in Charlotte and sat in the end zone. Awesome view! You could see the plays develop and the strategy much better from that vantage point. Transformed the way I want to watch the action.
But if you prefer to see the whole game develop, sit up high behind a goal. The arena is still tight enough that you can see the expressions on players' faces, but you also get the "All 22" view.
I can't stress enough wait a great venue it is. Not a bad seat in the place.
Great save. Belgium definitely with the better chances but I feel like France has missed atleast 2 passes that could have led to breakaways. They are very close to scoring as well.
What a save just there from Courtois.
It's smart to keep the creative players away from Kante, but I think De Bruyne would be more effective centrally
- Pavard looked nervous early on, poor touches, and Hazard had his way with him, Duchamps needs to figure that out, fast, and Pavard and Varane on a miscommunication at ~ 25 minutes almost let Hazard walk through
- as predicted Kanté so critical in MF
- Griezemann has been poor with his FKs this tournament
- humble Hugo, holding his own and then some
GT: can you post again when you have the chance that link to the in-depth tearing apart of USSF, excellent article, but can't track it down.
He does what he needs to for this team, but man he is wasteful for both club and country.
No idea.
the Carmelo Anthony dilemma.
It's embarrassing that flops get rewarded
I'm old enough to remember a Puma commercial with Deschamps to Korn's Make Me Bad.
It's embarrassing that flops get rewarded
like The Producers
It's embarrassing that flops get rewarded
I expressed some confidence before the tournament in this French squad. I just really liked how they were set up in the midfield. I know Pogba has his critics but I think he’s had a really tournament and he and Kante have controlled the center of the field. I think they’ll bring home the cup
Agreed here, Varane especially has impressed me. With Varane, Umtiti, Kante, Pogba down the middle and then Loris behind them, that’s a really strong spine of the squad
I can't see how England or Croatia beat them. They are ridiculous.
He's insanely fast. Especially for a guy his size. I can't even count the number of times he's saved Real Madrid's (Mostly Ramos & Marcelo's ass) with his speed. They are constantly caught out of position and he has a long ass sprint to stop an attack basically by himself.
I wouldve started Batshuayi instead
That said, France is weak at fullback and I was disappointed that Hazard and De Bruyne weren't able to exploit those areas more. It looked very promising early on for them.
Set pieces, set pieces, set pieces.
That said, France is weak at fullback and I was disappointed that Hazard and De Bruyne weren't able to exploit those areas more. It looked very promising early on for them.
Set pieces, set pieces, set pieces.
I don't think Martinez set them up for success. They should have been playing Hazard and Mertens into those spaces out wide, where, as you said, Pavard and Hernandez could be exposed, but he instead played with basically 4 holding midfielders.
Chadli went 1-11 for crosses into the box. I wonder what would have happened if that was a natural left winger.
That said, France is weak at fullback and I was disappointed that Hazard and De Bruyne weren't able to exploit those areas more. It looked very promising early on for them.
Set pieces, set pieces, set pieces.
Kante is so technically sound when it comes positioning and stopping the ball. If this was hockey - he'd be Scott Stevens. A rare talent, who always seems to be where he needs to be.
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Kante is entering the exalted Makelele territory as a defensive midfielder. What a force...and in combination with the Varane/Umtiti combo that is tough to beat.
That said, France is weak at fullback and I was disappointed that Hazard and De Bruyne weren't able to exploit those areas more. It looked very promising early on for them.
Set pieces, set pieces, set pieces.
I don't think Martinez set them up for success. They should have been playing Hazard and Mertens into those spaces out wide, where, as you said, Pavard and Hernandez could be exposed, but he instead played with basically 4 holding midfielders.
Chadli went 1-11 for crosses into the box. I wonder what would have happened if that was a natural left winger.
FWIW, if I had to bet today, I would put money on Martinez becoming the next USMNT coach.
Why have they taken so long? In the time since Arena left teams have qualified for the World Cup, competed in the World Cup, and hired a new manager since (Spain has already hired Luis Enrique).
It's been an entire human gestation period since Arena left. What the fuck.
Why have they taken so long? In the time since Arena left teams have qualified for the World Cup, competed in the World Cup, and hired a new manager since (Spain has already hired Luis Enrique).
It's been an entire human gestation period since Arena left. What the fuck.
This whole GM process has really slowed things down. Fortunately they got the right guy with Ernie Stewart. But yeah, I'm not sure why it's taken so long, unless they are targeting someone still in the WC.
That said, I thought Hazard has a really strong game in both roles. Lukaku seemed lost, without possession if he were hold-up and not playing in space in any counter attacking role. DeBruyne was rendered irrelevant for the most part. In 2H Belgium played to French defensive strength after going wide most of 1H.
[Link to the dissection piece of USSF and its managerial disasters?]
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That would be wonderful.
Why have they taken so long? In the time since Arena left teams have qualified for the World Cup, competed in the World Cup, and hired a new manager since (Spain has already hired Luis Enrique).
It's been an entire human gestation period since Arena left. What the fuck.
This whole GM process has really slowed things down. Fortunately they got the right guy with Ernie Stewart. But yeah, I'm not sure why it's taken so long, unless they are targeting someone still in the WC.
Or they’re allowing Berhalter to finish the season with Columbus.
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[Link to the dissection piece of USSF and its managerial disasters?]
Is this the piece you were looking for, in The Ringer?
Own Goal - ( New Window )
Maybe not somebody still in the WC, but somebody who coached in the World Cup and they are waiting for it to finish before announcing a hiring.
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In comment 14010153 Go Terps said:
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That would be wonderful.
Why have they taken so long? In the time since Arena left teams have qualified for the World Cup, competed in the World Cup, and hired a new manager since (Spain has already hired Luis Enrique).
It's been an entire human gestation period since Arena left. What the fuck.
This whole GM process has really slowed things down. Fortunately they got the right guy with Ernie Stewart. But yeah, I'm not sure why it's taken so long, unless they are targeting someone still in the WC.
Or they’re allowing Berhalter to finish the season with Columbus.
This is another good point.
One thing that could work against Berhalter, is that his brother Jay is third in command of US Soccer, and would probably be second in command if Dan Flynn retires. I guess that could help Gregg??
This would be a smart and winning move.
That awesome save by Lloris on the Alderweireld shot in the first half really should have been a goal. Also, that cross by DeBruyne in the first half that Umtiti foiled was going straight to Lukaku for an easy goal. If Belgium scores on those opportunities - and they should have on both - they probably go on to win.
Whether the coach lineup decisions look smart or dumb really depends on these key moments. In fact, the biggest lineup mistake I saw was to start Giroud and France won the game anyway. The Giroud we saw in the World Cup was exactly the Giroud I see in the Premier league. He's always screwing up and failing to put shots on target. That's his MO. You know how Ronaldo has an instinct for the net? Well, Giroud has an anti-instinct. He's always wide.
Two terrific teams played their hearts out. France was slightly luckier and won 1-0. Let's not cast aspersions on the players or the coaches, most of whom were absolutely excellent and gave us a wonderful game.
Unless Kanté wants the move, Chelsea won’t let him go at any price. Though I agree all these teams should be targeting him. He’s fantastic
Looks like Chelsea has snaked Man City’s deal for Napoli’s Jorginho. Perfect player to pair with Kanté. Along with Sarrin coming in to manage, hopefully that convinces Hazard, Kanté, and the rest to stay
It's why I think today's winner is going to have a tough time with France on Sunday. France's "problem preventers" - Kante, Varane, Umtiti, and Lloris - are all excellent and all in great form. They have conceded 4 goals in 6 matches...but 3 of those goals came in the Argentina match. It just seems like any goal they concede on Sunday will have to come at an enormous cost of work, because they aren't going to gift anything.
So who has the better chance? Croatia has the genius in Modric, but England looks better equipped to attack the flanks and their system will be quite different from what France has faced to this point.
I think England moves on to the final. Could see Sterling getting on the score sheet today. He should have had a few against Sweden.
Where does the fucking time go?
Excellent shot!
Wow.
It's a shame because his movement is fantastic.
Croatia with the momentum
I don't know. There are huge spaces between Croatia's midfield and defense...they could get caught.
Horrendous.
Doesn't seem accurate. They were pushing forward as much as earlier.
Their forwardsarent outrunning anyone.
They had some good albums.
That's a joke right?
Like...ever.
lol - I posted something similar after the last Croatia win. Hey - I'm sure he's happy about it, and that's great. Let's just hope he was watching somewhere he doesn't need to drive home from.
Generally speaking they are not good enough to consistently compete with the best countries. Need to seize a chance like that when it comes.
Or you can also say when your top players are from Spurs... just kidding.
Particularly think about this with regards to Mexico, who many “very serious” US soccer fans HATE. But I always root for Mexico in these tournaments. They are our neighbors, I interact with Mexicans every day of my life, our cultures are intertwined. I like seeing them do well.
Same thing applies to anyone who dares to root for a country other than the US though.
On the field the margins are finer than they've ever been. For us USMNT fans - Croatia is NOT a long time established soccer power. They participated in their first tournament in 1996 after the dissolution of Yugoslavia. They also entered this particular tournament under an enormous amount of turmoil that could legitimately see Luka Modric go to prison on perjury charges. My point is that if you pick the right players, are well organized, and get a couple breaks this level of success is possible. If Croatia can come out of these politically, culturally, and athletically revulsive 25 years with a World Cup semifinal appearance in '98 and a final appearance in 2018 - it isn't beyond the US either. It can be done.
I completely agree with this sentiment. I have shared this WC with my kid, watching games and the sticker album collection, as well as the all of media. I basically listened to the Totally Football Show every morning on my commute and on the weekends and it was a great journey - I even appreciated Fox's World Cup Tonight for what it was. As Terps points out, there was so much good content that you couldn't possibly interact with it all.
Now if only Greece could've drawn Denmark or Sweden instead of Croatia ....
-----------------Pickford
-Trippier--Varane--Godin--Laxalt
------------------Kante
-Mbappe-----Modric-----Cheryshev
------------------Lukaku
Bubble guys for me were Courtois, Lloris, Umtiti, Mina, Hazard, Perisic, and Kane.
The big themes for me have been:
1. Obviously set pieces are more important than ever. This may speak to how organized teams are, and how that makes it harder to score from open play.
2. The fullbacks have, with few exceptions, had little impact on this tournament. Part of that was down to injuries to Alves and Marcelo, as well as Spain's general inability to function with Alba, but I wonder if that's indicative of something deeper on a tactical level.
3. The re-emergence of the midfield destroyer, embodied of course by Kante (who I would name as player of the tournament).
4. The two giants that base their game on possession, Spain and Germany, need to come up with a way to overcome teams that play with 5 man defenses and generally park the bus. I don't think either country should overhaul what they do, but I think some fresh ideas are needed.
Unbelievable, Unbelievable This!
I just subscribed to the Totally Football League show too. I've taken to following Forest Green Rovers (mainly because of FIFA), and I'm hoping it's to the same standard.
I just subscribed to the Totally Football League show too. I've taken to following Forest Green Rovers (mainly because of FIFA), and I'm hoping it's to the same standard.
I listen regularly to Golazzo - their Serie A podcast with Jimbo, Horncastle and Gabriele Marcotti. Really fun because it splits between diving into figures and teams of the past (from Batigol to 90 Parma) and covering the league. In fact they announced they are doing a special Golazzo regarding Ronaldo going to Juventus (Marcotti just wrote a lengthy piece about it for ESPN).
Seems like I do the same thing every year for a team I'm trying to move up the ranks.
Honestly though, it improves my knowledge of the game and of International soccer a lot more than the average person.
Link - ( New Window )
On the field the margins are finer than they've ever been. For us USMNT fans - Croatia is NOT a long time established soccer power. They participated in their first tournament in 1996 after the dissolution of Yugoslavia. They also entered this particular tournament under an enormous amount of turmoil that could legitimately see Luka Modric go to prison on perjury charges. My point is that if you pick the right players, are well organized, and get a couple breaks this level of success is possible. If Croatia can come out of these politically, culturally, and athletically revulsive 25 years with a World Cup semifinal appearance in '98 and a final appearance in 2018 - it isn't beyond the US either. It can be done.
I think the relevant comparison would be to a run by South Korea in 2002. I could see the U.S. making the WC in that fashion.
This is a terrific Croatia team, with a midfield that likely is the best in the world or at least top three. We do not have a single midfielder who is close to a Rakitic, let alone Modric.
My point is simply that it can be done. We have to get our shit together first, and IMO it is decidedly NOT together.
I am not contesting the virtues of organization and opportunism. I entirely agree with you and Terps that the U.S. has underachieved principally because they have lacked those things. Our absence from the WC was not due to a lack of talent.
I'm making two claims instead:
1. Croatia's talent level is being underrated. Their midfield quality has had a LOT to do with their advancing this far.
2. We'd obviously (and Terps has noted this) need a good bit of luck in addition to organization and identity to reach the semis. Without these things I think we're squarely a round of 16 to quarterfinal (occasionally) level team.
Article from Michael Cox on the return of the traditional CF as reflected through Giroud and Mandzukic.
Link - ( New Window )
Article from Michael Cox on the return of the traditional CF as reflected through Giroud and Mandzukic. Link - ( New Window )
Do not stop there. Bring back the traditional sweeper or "libero." Best position for a defender who was bold and creative.
Fine but 5 of the 6 goals were against Tunisia and lowly Panama. Kind of a disappearing act in the bigger games.
One of the many joys of watching this WC.
One of the many joys of watching this WC.
At one time or another all three were Chelsea players