rho21
1864
Trust in them to fall at the first hurdle just when the draw opens up and it looks as though they should be almost favourites to reach the final? That certainly sounds like England.
Well this would technically be the second hurdle.
At this point, England have a solid shot at reaching the final hurdle before failing!
England are not even my favourites to beat Colombia let alone get to the final.
My guess for the final is Brazil/Croatia with Brazil winning it.
This is England’s best chance in more than a generation. Many of the familiar powers either never made the Cup (Italy) or have been eliminated (Germany, Spain, Argentina). And they’re on the side of the draw that avoids Brazil until the very end.
Today’s matches: I really hope Mexico pulls off a miracle somehow against Brazil. I know they weren’t very impressive in their last match against Sweden, which makes me think this is the longest of long-shots.
In the other match, I hope Belgium pulls through, but I would also be pretty happy if Japan as the last Asian team standing makes it through to the Quarterfinal as well. I guess I’ll have to see which way my emotions tug at me during that match.
I don’t think my work schedule will allow me to watch Live today. We shall see. If it doesn’t, I’ll check into the thread later tonight.
Mexico is living dangerously right now. Brazil is living in their box the last couple minutes.
JD
1871
So far, a welcome change in pace and goal opportunities after yesterday’s snooze fests.
Mexico is a good squad, but they look like they’re up against a great squad. Feels like it’s only a matter of time before Brazil converts.
And less than 30 seconds after I typed that, Brazil converts on a beautiful cross.
Mexico all about running into a good attacking position, drawing the the defender to open space for a teammate… Then completely ignore that teammate and fire a shot into the nearest defender’s legs.
JD
1875
The fast break Mexico had right before Brazil scored was insanely wasted by Gallardo taking the shot instead of paying attention to any of the two fellow players in better positions whom he could have easily passed to.
Stupid move, Mexican player. Stupid move in the age of VAR.
Brazil with the late dagger.
JD
1878
2-0 … aaaand we’re done here.
Brazil look terrifying. Hoping Japan pulls out a win just because I would like them as a nation to go further in the competition.
This very high line from Japan can’t possibly go horribly wrong.
That Japanese defender saved a goal by that last-second shove
I’ve already lost count how many times Belgium has delivered the ball in front of the net and failed to convert
“They’re showing their teeth, Japan.”
-xtien
