International Break – England Qualify for Euro 2024!

The recent international break saw England play two matches, both of which were at Wembley Stadium in London. The first match was a friendly played against Australia that was largely not entertaining. The Three Lions won 1-0 thanks to a fairly routine finish from Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, who slid the ball home from close range after a low cross from Tottenham midfielder James Maddison. Always good to win of course, but no one really cared about this match. It was only a friendly, and England never play Australia outside of major tournaments. Everyone’s eyes were on the second match, a qualifier against Italy.

Italy and England have developed a little bit of a rivalry in recent years, largely thanks to the tense and bitter Euro 2020(1) final between the two nations a few years ago. England’s traditional rivals have always been Germany, France, and Argentina; yet Italy might be working their way into that conversation as well. Of course, Italy has historically dominated this matchup. It wasn’t even until earlier this year that England beat the Azzuri in Rome for the first time in 50+ years. This match carried extra importance as well. If England won (or earned a draw pending other results in the group), they would qualify for Euro 2024 next summer in Germany. It would be extra sweet to qualify by doing the double over Italy for England and manager Gareth Southgate. For the Italians and manager Luciano Spalletti, the alarm bells were beginning to sound. Despite winning Euro 2020(1), they have been fairly shambolic since. They failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup, and are in real danger of not automatically qualifying for the Euros next summer unless they won this match.

And to their credit, for the opening 20 minutes or so, Italy were the better side. They took the lead on 15 minutes thanks to a high and powerful finish from West Ham striker Gianluca Scamacca from about 10 yards out. Italy has needed a strong no. 9 for a few years now, and they seem to have found one in Scamacca. England needed a response, and they got one with a bit of luck from VAR. Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham was brought down in the box, and England were awarded a penalty on the half hour mark. After a lengthy VAR review, the call for a penalty stood despite it appearing that the defender got the ball before clipping Bellingham. But given how terrible VAR has been this year so far though, I will happily take VAR review going England’s way. Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane stepped up to the spot and sent Paris St. Germain and Italy keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma the wrong way with a finish into the right hand side of the net. It was Kane’s 60th goal in an England shirt, which of course continues to be the most for any England player ever. The sides went into the locker room at 1-1 after 45 minutes, with the home side in the ascendancy.

England continued their dominance into the early parts of the second half, and they were rewarded with a second goal on 57 minutes from Manchester United winger/forward Marcus Rashford. Bellingham was at the center of things again, playing the ball out wide to Rashford under pressure before running forward to join the attack. Rashford cut inside onto his right foot and skipped passed a challenge before finishing low into the right corner of the goal, with Donnarumma rooted to the spot. Rashford hasn’t gotten off to the best start at United this season, but he showed no signs of poor form with this goal. The Italian defense gave him space, and he punished them for it. Well done to Bellingham to beat the pressure he faced to provide the assist, as well. 2-1 to England, with Italy reeling.

England got a third to seal three points and Euro qualification on 77 minutes via the right boot of Kane. This was one of his more impressive England goals, as he showed how he has developed his game and evolved into a more complete striker as he has gotten older. He won a 50/50 ball on the halfway line against one of the Italian center backs, with the ball breaking kindly for him. As the Italians were playing with a high line while searching for their equalizer, Kane found himself through on goal after a nifty touch about 40 yards out. He is not known for his speed, but he used his strength and positioning skills to shield off challenges from behind him while he brought the ball forward. Donnarumma rushed out to try and narrow the angle, but Kane coolly finished over his left shoulder and made it look easy doing so. 61 goals for Kane, but more importantly, he sealed the win for England and sent the crowd inside Wembley into ecstasy.

The match ended 3-1, and there are many plaudits to be handed out. Well done to all the lads for showing composure after going down early and providing the response needed to book our tickets to Germany next summer. Italy now need serious help to qualify, as they find themselves in 3rd place in the group. It feels extremely satisfying to do the double over Italy this year and potentially send them into a tricky playoff in the process.

I could justifiably give Man of the Match to Kane for his two goals, but in this case it belongs to Bellingham. He had a hand in two of the three goals scored today and was a presence in midfield for most of the match. Jude Bellingham, Jude Bellingham, Jude Bellingham. I can’t say this young man’s name enough. He is only 20, but he is arguably the most naturally talented English player I have ever seen. This is a player who can truly do it all – dribble, pass, press, tackle, position play, and finishing. He’s been Real Madrid’s best player so far this season, and he continued his sensational form in an England shirt against Italy. Never seen a lad his size with such balance and composure. He also seems to be a bit more mature than his age would suggest, as most of his teammates for club and country describe how they love to play alongside him. The sky is the limit for Bellingham, and it’s arguable that he is (on form) the best player in the world even right now. I am so, so happy he plays for England. We have another 12 to13 years to look forward to of Jude Bellingham playing for us.

England have qualified with two matches to spare, which means that Southgate can treat the next two matches as friendlies if he wants to. This is a chance for him to experiment with line-ups and tactics, so as to be as prepared as possible for next summer’s Euros. He has hinted this will be his last tournament with England, and if it is, I hope he goes out on top. Of course, historically, qualifying for major tournaments has not been England’s problem. The disaster of 2008 notwithstanding, England usually qualify. The question remains though – can we win one? Can we win a trophy? This team looks insanely good on paper, and we have even more depth on the bench than we did last November at the World Cup. Bellingham and Kane are on fire, Rashford is coming on, and superstar Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka didn’t even play in this match. We are loaded at every position, and we need to win a trophy with this generation of players. Southgate has all the tools he needs to win, but can they finally get over the line for a nation dying of thirst for a trophy? We will see next summer!

Three Lions On the Shirts!

International Break: England Play a Qualifier and a Friendly

The first international break of the 2023/24 season saw England travel to Poland for a Euro 2024 qualifier against Ukraine, followed by a friendly in Glasgow against the Scottish.

England travelled to Wroclaw, Poland for the fifth match in their qualifying campaign for Euro 2024 next summer in Germany. This match would normally be held within the borders of Ukraine as it was a designated “home” match for them, but sporting events of all kinds are not happening in Ukraine currently due to the ongoing war with Russia. As such, there is no set of players more bonded and motivated to play well right now than Ukraine. England found that out the hard way. The match was slow and tepid for the most part; certainly not one that will be remembered down the road. The Ukrainians struck first through Arsenal wingback Oleksandr Zinchenko, and England were slow to respond. They got an equalizer in the second half however, when an excellent aerial pass from Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane found the run of Manchester City right back Kyle Walker, who poked home from close range for his first ever England goal. The match finished 1-1, which was probably the deserved result given England’s slow and conservative play. Despite dropping points for the first time in the qualifying campaign, they still are top of Group C. They have a six point lead over 2nd place Italy, having played one more game. The result must improve in the next match, but the Three Lions are still in the drivers’ seat to win the group and qualify for next summer’s Euros.

The match against Scotland was a lot more entertaining and fun to watch, despite it being a friendly. The match took place in the cauldron of atmosphere known as Hampden Park in Glasgow, Scotland. The match was held in commemoration of 150 years of football rivalry between England and Scotland. Indeed, the first ever international football match was played between these neighboring British Isles nations in 1873. It’s a fierce rivalry rooted in politics and nationalism, and you can always bet on both teams to play with intensity.

England were the better of the two sides for the opening 30 minutes by a considerable margin. They were all over Scotland, running at them and creating chances at a frenetic pace. They got the opening goal on 32 minutes from Man City midfielder Phil Foden, who redirected a fierce low cross/shot from Walker into the back of the net. Scotland keeper Angus Gunn couldn’t have done anything about it. A deserved goal and good technique from Foden, and he did especially well to be in the right place at the right time.

England doubled their advantage just three minutes later. A cross from the left hand side of the box was collected by Scotland and Liverpool left back Andrew Robertson, but in his attempt to clear the ball he mishit it and it fell to the feet of England and Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham. Bellingham, in sensational form for club and country right now, was largely unmarked and he hit a low shot just to the right of Gunn, who was too slow to get a block in. It was a little bit of a tap-in, but Bellingham had also been involved in the first goal and many of England’s chances. I don’t think this country has seen a central midfielder like him for quite some time, maybe ever. He’s only 20 and starting regularly for both England and Real freaking Madrid, and he has proven himself to be a star player on both teams. He has immaculate technique on the ball for a guy his size, and he has the footballing intelligence and talent to play absolutely killer passes to the forwards. I am beyond happy that he is going to be playing for England for another 10-12 years at least.

At halftime it was 2-0, and with the match in hand for England, manager Gareth Southgate elected to rotate the team a little. One of the players he brought on was center back Harry Maguire, a much maligned figure both for England and Manchester United. Most fans have made it clear they don’t want him to play for England anymore, but he was brought on by Southgate nevertheless. Unfortunately, he was the reason Scotland earned themselves a goal on 67 minutes when he accidentally turned a cross from Robertson into his own net. England keeper Aaron Ramsdale likely had the cross covered had Maguire left the ball alone, but he stuck his leg out and turned it into an empty net. Now it’s true that Scotland were playing better after the break and likely deserved a goal, but it was a poor decision from Maguire to stick his leg out at a cross that was probably going to be collected by the keeper. Did Ramsdale owe him a shout? Did Ramsdale shout for it and did Maguire ignore him? Unclear, but the ball still went in and it was 2-1.

Fortunately, England were not done. Kane decided he wanted to make his mark on the match, and he did so on 81 minutes. Bellingham was still full of pace and vigor, and after he wriggled around some challenges near the Scotland penalty area, he found Kane with an excellent through ball. Kane took the ball with a light touch and finished with his left foot into the opposite corner. A really beautiful goal to watch. As long as we let Kane, Bellingham, Foden, and winger/forward Marcus Rashford play in attack, the Three Lions are going to score goals. It’s absolutely brilliant to watch when they are in rhythm. It was also the 59th England goal for Kane, who breaks his own record every time he scores. England’s greatest ever center forward? Probably!

England won 3-1, and while it doesn’t mean anything in terms of competition, it’s always nice to beat Scotland at Hampden Park. I was happy to see the England away fans sing about Maguire after the final whistle. His place in the team is definitely in danger due to his own form and the good form of Brighton & Hove Albion center back Lewis Dunk, but he doesn’t deserve the hatred he gets. He takes a lot of criticism on social media and in the traditional media, so some positive support was probably good for him. He did not play well today to be sure and he likely needs some time away from the spotlight, but it seems that United will still need to rely on him for a while due to the injuries to all the other center backs.

England are off until the next international break in October. They will play Australia at Wembley Stadium on October 13th in another friendly, then they have a massive Euro qualifier against Italy again at Wembley on October 17th. If we can beat Italy again, we are virtually guaranteed to win the group and qualify for Euro 2024!

Three Lions On the Shirts!

Women’s World Cup: England Through to the Final!

With Spain securing a chaotic but nonetheless deserved victory over Sweden yesterday and advancing to the Final, the only remaining matter of business was the host nation Australia taking on England. The 80,000+ crowd inside the Stadium Australia in Sydney were obviously on the side of the Matildas, and all those fans were doing their best to create a hostile atmosphere. The Lionesses would need to use every single ounce of their tournament experience and resiliency to get a result in front of such a belligerent crowd. Australia came out in their usual 4-4-2, while England deployed the 3-5-2/5-3-2 that they have adapted over the course of this tournament.

England had the first real chance of the match on 9 minutes when midfielder Georgia Stanway ran onto a long ball over the top of the Aussie defense. She got a shot away first-time, but it was saved by Matildas keeper Mackenzie Arnold. The match was devoid of chances for a bit after that as both teams elected to settle in and feel each other out, but England were able to open the scoring on 36 minutes via attacking midfielder Ella Toone. England won a throw-in high up the pitch, and it was thrown in towards the end-line and collected by England strikers Alessia Russo and Lauren Hemp. Russo spotted an opening and played a cut-back cross along the ground, which took a slight deflection before reaching the run of Toone into the area. Australia failed to mark her properly, and she unleashed a vicious shot from the left hand side of the box high and into the opposite corner of the goal. It was a wicked strike with Arnold having no chance at all to save it. Australia switched off at the back, and England punished them for it. At halftime it was 1-0 and the Lionesses were 45 minutes away from history.

England came close to doubling their lead on 57 minutes when Hemp saw her long-range effort tipped over the bar by Arnold. It was the Aussies who got the next goal on 63 minutes though, and it was an absolute worldie from superstar striker Sam Kerr. She collected the ball near midfield and found herself in space for the first time all match. She carried the ball forward for about 30 yards while the England defense retreated, and it appeared she was going to lay off a pass to her teammate. She elected to shoot however, and she delivered a howitzer from 28 yards out that beat England keeper Mary Earps. Kerr is easily the best Australian player ever (man or woman), and goals like that are the exact reason why. England maybe could have done better to slow her down, but realistically it was just a fantastic goal from a fantastic player. Stadium Australia exploded in rapturous joy, and the game was very much on at 1-1 with 27 minutes to go.

England were undeterred however, and the momentum for Australia didn’t last long. They simply kept playing their game, calmly keeping possession while attempting to forge chances. Striker Rachel Daly and right back Lucy Bronze both had efforts that caused some nervy moments for Arnold in goal. England were in the lead again on 71 minutes, thanks to some poor defending and a dominating display of effort from Hemp. Center back Millie Bright played a long ball forward over the top, and Hemp was running with two Aussie defenders in an attempt to get it. The Aussies failed to clear the ball away properly, and Hemp was able to get a low shot away despite all the bodies in front of her. Arnold had come off her line to close the angle, but the shot went past her anyway and settled into the bottom opposite corner. 2-1 England! Very poor defending from Australia, but credit to Hemp for pushing them into their mistake. Hemp had an excellent match, and she wasn’t done contributing.

The Matildas regained some possession after that and attempted to find another equalizer. Kerr saw a header go over the bar, and then Earps was forced into a fine save by Aussie striker Cortnee Vine. Kerr’s best chance for an tying goal came just after that save on 85 minutes, when the ball fell straight to her after a Earps knocked away a corner. Mystifyingly though, Kerr skyed her effort wide and over the bar, and the chance went begging.

England took advantage of Australia’s misses and nailed the coffin shut on this match on 86 minutes. Hemp went another marauding run through the middle of the park, after which she slid the ball out to her right towards Russo just as she was being closed down. The precision and placement of the pass created an angle for Russo to shoot, and she re-directed the ball with her first touch back across goal and over the line for 3-1 on 86 minutes! A good finish from Russo, but Hemp’s run and pass after heavily exerting herself for almost 90 minutes bordered on the sublime. She played it perfectly, and Russo rewarded the pass with a great finish.

Despite 6 minutes of stoppage time, there were no more major chances. Russo’s goal killed off the game, and the Aussies had no hope of clawing their way back with so little time left. The referee blew her whistle and the Lionesses secured passage to their first ever World Cup Final, and the first World Cup final for any senior England team since 1966! The depth of the crowd’s shell-shock was inversely matched by the jubilation of England’s players and coaching staff on the pitch.

England has some very talented players, and of course you can’t win a football match at this level without talented players. But the most important piece of this England side is the woman in charge, manager Sarina Wiegman. She has instilled a resiliency and ruthlessness in these players that is requisite for going deep in a major tournament. It would be perfectly normal to expect a team to look a little fragile after conceding an equalizer in a World Cup semifinal, but England did not appear to be all that bothered about it. They just went straight back to playing their game knowing that more goals would come, and surely they did. Resilient and ruthlessness.

Wiegman is now the first manager (man or woman) to take two different countries to the World Cup final, having done so with her native Netherlands in 2019. Since then though she has guided England to victory at the Euros, and they also won the Finalissima over Brazil last summer during her tenure. Her tactical game is great of course, but the mentality she instills in her players is what makes her so special. She has figured out how to compensate for the losses of defender Leah Williamson, midfielder Fran Kirby, and superstar winger Beth Mead – all out due to injury. She was also unable to select winger Lauren James these past two matches as well due to suspension. Losing that many quality players would be enough to stump any manager, but not Wiegman. She crafts her game-plans exceptionally and has a plan for every scenario. If England win against Spain on Sunday and raise the trophy, she deserves a statue outside Wembley.

Fantastic matches today from Hemp, Bronze, Toone, and Russo. The ladies all celebrated in the locker room after the match and team chemistry is very high right now. But the job is not done, yet! There is one more match to be played, and it’s biggest one any footballer can aspire to play in. Spain will be a tough test, but England are in fantastic form right now and have conquered every challenge presented to them. The return of James from suspension will only give Wiegman and her staff more ammunition to use.

THREE LIONS ON THE SHIRTS! IT’S COMING HOME!

End of Summer Review: Women’s World Cup Reactions; Manchester United Season Preview

We are at the business end of the Women’s World Cup, with the semifinals all set to go. This tournament has been filled with surprises and upsets, which is indicative of a levelling playing field. Perennial favorites such as USA, Germany, Norway, and Brazil are all already out of the tournament, and we are left with four teams who have refreshingly never won the Women’s World Cup. Spain will play Sweden on Tuesday, with England pitted against co-host nation Australia on Wednesday. The matches will be played overnight in the United States and early in the morning Europe time. While the kickoff times have been absolutely brutal for anyone living in the USA, that’s really the only complaint anyone can have. The drama and level of competition in these matches has been nothing short of fantastic. England’s penalty shootout against Nigeria in the Round of 16 was electric, only for it to be topped by the longest penalty shootout in World Cup history (men or women) between Australia and France earlier today. 20 total penalties were taken before Australia finally won!

England have not been at their best so far this tournament in terms of style and flair, but they continue to win matches thanks to thoroughly resilient defensive performances and holding their nerve at the right moments. Pre-tournament injuries were always going to present issues to England this tournament, and unfortunately they have dealt with more player unavailability as the tournament has gone on. Superstar midfielder Kiera Walsh injured herself in the group stage and is not playing at 100%, while Lionesses winger and leading scorer this tournament Lauren James was suspended for this match and will also miss the semifinal against Australia after a red card in the Round of 16. England are fortunately blessed with strength in depth and experience at major tournaments, but they will need every ounce of willpower to get past the Australians in Sydney on Wednesday. The match atmosphere in the quarterfinal earlier today against Colombia was decidedly anti-England, but that will be amplified times ten in the match against the host nation and former British colony. The Matildas are in their first ever World Cup semifinal, and they will do all they can to secure a final on home soil.

But what happened to the Americans? They were the defending champs and a favorite to win it again this year before the tournament started. But they went out in the Round of 16 on penalties to Sweden, after struggling to make it out of their group. While their early exit was joyous to those of us who find USWNT fans’ arrogance and exceptionalism off-putting, it was certainly a major disappointment to a team that is filled to the brim with raw talent. Many casual “fans” who don’t follow the game closely pointed to the team’s political activism and collective attitude as reasons for the loss. That’s potentially a small part of the reason, but a much bigger on-the-pitch issue was their awful tactics. They seemed to be intent on walking the ball into the net, or in the alternative, waiting on a moment of individual brilliance to save them. There did not appear to be a coherent tactical plan from (soon to be former) manager Vlatko Andonovski. His substitutions usually did not make sense, and poor finishing from good chances didn’t help either. As referenced above, the playing field is much more level now in terms of talent and player development, and the Americans failed to take that into account. The result is a lackluster early exit.

Quick shoutouts to South Africa, Jamaica, Nigeria, Colombia, and Morocco. Everyone expected those five teams to go out early in the tournament, but they all defied expectations by making it to the knockout rounds.

***

Manchester United have completed their preseason tour, and the Premier League is officially back underway. The Red Devils’ first match of the new season is not until Monday 8/14 against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Old Trafford, but all other Premier League teams played today or will play tomorrow. My first post-match article will be for the 8/14 match.

This summer transfer window has been a very successful one from United’s point of view. Refreshingly, there are still three weeks left in the window and United have already completed three key signings, a far cry from their usual methods of waiting until the very end of the summer before making a desperation signing. One gets the sense that manager Erik ten Hag has been the main impetus and driving force behind getting all of these transfers done. At the end of last season I said we needed a goalkeeper, a a ball-carrying midfielder, and a striker. As of the beginning of August, we have signed a goalkeeper (Andre Onana), a ball-carrying midfielder (Mason Mount), and a striker (Rasmus Højlund). While Højlund is young and will not be available until early September due to injury, his ability to find the back of the net is something United desperately needed. I cannot count the number of chances we created last year that weren’t scored due to poor finishing.

Given that the window is not closed yet, it seems there will be additional signings made to cover some of the departing players. Midfielder Fred, defenders Harry Maguire, Alex Telles, Phil Jones, Axel Tuanzebe, Eric Bailly, winger Anthony Elanga, and goalkeeper David De Gea all left Old Trafford this summer. It’s a massive clearing out, with the goal being to bring some balance to the weekly wage bill and also to make room for players who better fit ETH’s tactical system. De Gea and (former club captain) Maguire are the most obvious examples of this. Both were on massive wages, yet neither really fit the club’s overall football philosophy. It’s a tough decision to let them go, but I believe it’s the correct one. I’d like to thank all of these players for their services to United and I wish them all the best. United are heavily linked with midfielder Sofyan Amrabat and defender Benjamin Pavard, both of which could still come to Old Trafford before the end of August to replace some of the outgoing players.

United need to aim for the Premier League title this season. It has been over a decade since they last won it, and we finally have the manager and the squad to achieve it. Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal, and even Newcastle will present staunch opposition, but there is no reason why a team with this level of talent can’t make a title push. I think the main thing supporters want to see is improvement to our away form, which was horrendous against the “top 6” clubs last season. Moreover, it is no longer enough to shoot for the top-4 and being happy with meeting that goal. We need to be winning trophies. A deep run in the Champions League and one of the domestic cups is also expected. I am sick and tired of watching Man City win everything, like they did last year.

Unfortunately, there are no major updates on the sale of the club. Indeed, it looks more and more likely every day that the despised Glazer family will stay in control. They were supposedly close to selling over the summer, but it’s very unclear just how genuine those intentions were. They still need to go, and fan groups are planning protests throughout the season that will not stop until the leeches have finally left our club alone.

Speaking of protests, there is another batch of controversy brewing among supporters, and it has to do with the potential reinstatement of winger/forward Mason Greenwood to the team. Greenwood has been away from the club for the better part of two years, having been accused of domestic violence and sexual assault from his former (current?) girlfriend, and many have called for him to never wear a United shirt ever again. His criminal charges over the matter have been dropped, but many in the court of public opinion have already deemed him guilty based on social media videos posted by Greenwood’s girlfriend. The author of this blog is not qualified to make a judgment either way as to the veracity of the claims, but I think it is for the best if Greenwood went to play somewhere else. Whether the allegations are true or not, they will be discussed every time he touches the ball. This is the kind of locker room distraction that can really hurt team chemistry, and Greenwood (despite his obvious natural talents) was supposedly not one for team camaraderie anyway. The club should listen to the open letter posted by a female supporters group and terminate his contract permanently.

Here’s to the Red Devils in 2023/2024! Glazers Out!

World Cup Round of 16 – Yanks Out, Argentina Hold On

FIFA is a corrupt institution and Qatar loves that about them. They’re both disgusting.

No more draws at this point! We have to have a winner in all matches, which means extra time and penalties if the score is level after 90 minutes.

USA vs. Netherlands

The Dutch were favored to win this match and they did so, 3-1. Today was a lesson for the Americans. A lesson in tactics, and a lesson on how to properly utilize talent.

That being said, the Americans probably should have scored the first goal today. It was only the third minute when attacking midfielder Christian Pulisic found himself 1-on-1 with Dutch keeper Andries Noppert, but Pulisic’s angled shot was saved by the keeper’s legs and then cleared by the Dutch defense. A lack of finishing has haunted the Yanks this whole tournament, and it came back to bite them again from the off.

The Dutch then opened the scoring on 10 minutes via forward Memphis Depay, who slotted home past keeper Matt Turner after an extremely slick 21-pass move from the Dutch. Wingback Denzel Dumfries got a cutback cross in for the final ball, and the Americans failed to pick up the late run of Depay. Naïve defending, really. Every attacker has to be accounted for when the opposition is running forward, and the Yanks simply didn’t account for Depay. The Americans then poured men forward to find an early-ish equalizer, but that unfortunately played right into the hands of the Dutch. They won a throw-in in their final third, and the Americans failed to recover the ball quickly enough and clear it. Dumfries crossed in from the right again, and fellow defender Daley Blind was quickest to the cross. He also slotted home past Turner relatively easily after beating his marker to the ball. It was 2-0 at halftime and the Dutch were very much in control.

That control continued into the second half. It was very much more of the same. The Dutch were happy to sit back and concede possession to the Americans, betting on the idea that the Americans couldn’t break them down. That strategy was effective until 76 minutes, when the USMNT got a goal back from striker Haji Wright. A low cross in from the right wing by Pulisic caught the heel of Wright and the ball deflected up into the air at an odd angle. Noppert couldn’t get near it as it flew in at the far post, and the Americans were right back in it! A fluke goal that needed more than a bit of luck, but as has been said many times both on this blog and other places, it doesn’t matter how the ball goes in – as long as it does.

Optimism for the USA was shattered just five minutes later though, as the Dutch got a third via Dumfries after more naïve defending. Dumfries was completely unmarked at the back post, and it was child’s play for Blind to cross it to him. Dumfries hit it first time on the half volley, with Turner having no chance at saving it. Again, very poor defending and the Dutch wingbacks got the Americans again. The Yanks kept trying and kept creating half-chances here and there, but the Dutch also came very close to a fourth late on as well. No more goals were scored though and the Americans found themselves going out.

Dutch manager Louis Van Gaal deserves a lot of credit for his tactical set-up in this match. He is a wizened warrior of football management, and he completely outplayed his USA counterpart Gregg Berhalter today. He told his team to sit back and be happy with letting the Americans have possession, but when they won the ball they were running forward immediately. It’s the same thing the Americans do to bigger teams, in the end. His players were also patient off the ball and clinical in finishing their chances, whereas the Americans were not. As has been stated by many in recent days, the Americans need a ruthless center-forward. Not only to finish off chances, but also to aid in hold-up play and defend aerial crosses into the box. Berhalter could not figure out what to do about the Dutch wingbacks today either. Dumfries and Blind were absolutely brilliant today, as was the Dutch defense overall. The Americans, somewhat mystifyingly, kept trying to aerially cross the ball into the box, which is a bad idea when the hulking figure of Virgil Van Dijk is in central defense.

While the Americans will of course be disappointed, there are some positives to take away. They got out of their group, and the core of this team is still in its early 20s. Players like Pulisic, Giovanni Reyna, Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, Yunus Musah, and others will all be in the prime of their careers at the North American World Cup in 2026. I do think however its time to move on from Berhalter as the coach. I do not believe he is tactically astute enough to lead the Americans to success down the road. His tactics were all wrong today and he’s been more of a hindrance to this team than an asset in several matches now. The Americans still have a bit to go before they are world-beaters, but they’re on their way there.

Australia vs. Argentina

This matchup was similar to the first one today in the sense that it is a powerhouse of world football taking on a side that isn’t known for footballing prowess. But there was still a ton of pressure on Argentina to deliver, while the surprising Aussies were almost playing with house money. Argentina won 2-1 in an affair that was much closer than many would have expected it to be.

Argentina dominated the possession in the opening thirty minutes or so, but their possession lacked an overall purpose and they were usually passing it between their center backs at the halfway line. Australia set up to zealously defend their penalty area, and they were using their height and size to keep the smaller Argentines at bay for the most part.

The Albiceleste got their breakthrough on 35 minutes though, and it was once again That Man Lionel Messi who got the goal. The Argies won a free kick on the right wing, but the initial cross into the box from Messi was cleared. The ball eventually came back to him though, and this time he played the ball along the ground back out towards the edge of the area. A diagonal pass back into the box found center back Nicolas Otamendi, who deftly laid the ball off for Messi. He took a touch, and the Aussie defenders were too far off of him. They were only about a yard and a half away from him, but for a player like Messi that is more than enough room. He slotted home a low shot that keeper Matthew Ryan saw too late and couldn’t get to. Good build-up play from the Argentines, and Messi is still Messi.

The Socceroos managed to get to halftime only down one, and in the second half they came out with a little bit more pressure on the Argentine back line. They seemed to be trying to force an error from keeper Emiliano Martinez, and to be fair they almost got to him twice. Ironically, it was an error from their own keeper that allowed Argentina to get their second. Ryan received a back pass in his own area, but two Argentine forwards were closing on him rapidly. He took a touch to try and get himself out of trouble, but the loose ball was seized upon by striker Julian Alvarez, who then had a simple finish for 2-0. It was a bad goal to concede for the Aussies, just as they were starting to grow into the game.

It was a nervy finish for the South Americans though, as Australia got a goal back on 77 minutes when a wild shot from forward/winger Craig Goodwin took a massive deflection off center back Enzo Fernandez and flew into the back of the net. This was the bit of luck the Aussies desperately needed. Replays showed that Goodwin’s shot was probably going to go well wide, so it was credited as an own goal by Fernandez. Say it with me now – it doesn’t matter how they go in, as long as they do.

The Aussies kept pushing, although they were almost caught out by the Argies on more than one occasion. They came insanely close to finding an equalizer in the 7th minute of stoppage time, when keeper Emiliano Martinez made a game-winning save from substitute Australia forward Garang Kuol. The whistle went shortly after that though and the Argies got themselves over the line. Given their dominance in the match, it was much closer than it needed to be. Argentina will have to find more goals going forward, but anything is possible for them because they have put a decent squad of attackers together who can support Messi.

I don’t think Australia should be too down on themselves. They were beaten by arguably the greatest player of all time today, and it took him 35 minutes to get going. They also have a good crop of players coming through right now, and I would expect them to make noise in 2026 as well. Their tactics weren’t too bad, there is just a massive gulf in talent between them and the bigger sides. Talent doesn’t always win matches, but it did this time.

Quarterfinals: Argentina vs. Netherlands – Friday, December 9th 11 AM PST

World Cup Roundup – Groups G and H

Qatar is engaging in the hypocrisy of inviting the world to their country then getting mad when the world brings its culture along. FIFA don’t care because they’ve already been paid.

In my blog post yesterday I called for more high drama, and while today wasn’t as dramatic as yesterday, our drama reservoirs are nowhere near empty.

Group G

Winners – Brazil

Runners Up – Switzerland

Eliminated – Cameroon, Serbia

Brazil came into their match against Cameroon knowing they were already through to the next round, which is perhaps a partial explanation of their 1-0 loss to Cameroon today. While they bossed possession and chances for the most part, they really struggled in the final third. The absence of all-world forward Neymar was noticeable. I do think Brazil boast plenty of attacking talent and they should have won this match without him, but their inability to breakdown a usually below-average Cameroonian defense is a concern for them in the next match if Neymar is unavailable again.

Even though the west African side is going out today, they can hang their hats on a very solid performance today against one of the favorites to win the tournament. Striker Vincent Aboubakar was on hand in stoppage time to head home the winner, after which he was promptly sent off due to removing his shirt in celebration and receiving a second yellow. Some people called this a boneheaded move by Aboubakar as he knew he was on a yellow already and removing the shirt after a goal is an automatic yellow card by rule. But given the late stage of things and the result in the other match, I suppose his actions are understandable. He likely knew Cameroon were going out, so he figured he’d exit with a bit of panache. Can’t say as I blame him. If you’re going to go out, go out with style!

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Serbia vs. Switzerland was the thriller in this group, with five total goals scored and a 3-2 final result in favor of the Swiss. The Swiss knew they could potentially get away with a tie to secure progression, while Serbia needed a win and help from Cameroon. There was also an element of rivalry about this match, as two Swiss players (midfielders Xherdan Shaqiri and Granit Xhaka) are ethnically Albanian, and there is a long and very messy history of sectarian conflict between Serbs and Albanians that still exists to this day. The animosity shown towards Xhaka in particular was apparent. To be clear, I am not taking sides on this particular conflict, I just find the idea of an ethnic/cultural rivalry spilling over into football fascinating.

The first half of this match was madness! Shaqiri struck first for the Swiss on 20 minutes, but in-form Serbia forward Aleksandr Mitrovic got an equalizer just six minutes later. The Serbs then took a vital lead on 35 minutes thanks to striker Dusan Vlahovic. The pendulum swung back the other way though just before halftime, when Swiss striker Breel Embolo leveled the score once again. After 45 minutes the match was finely poised, and given that neither side was defending all that well, we appeared to be in store for more goals.

There was only one more goal scored though, though it came off the back of a very well-worked team goal from the Swiss. Midfielder Remo Freuler finished off the neat move by wrong-footing Serb keeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic for 3-2. I thought the Serbs would respond immediately to going behind, and while they did throw men forward to try and find an equalizer, the Swiss stabilized themselves at the back a bit and held on for the rest of the half. Serbia tried their damnedest to find a winner, with Mitrovic having most of the chances, but they could not find another goal.

The Swiss have progressed out of their group at four of the last five World Cups, and they have the talent to cause problems for any opposition they face. I wonder if their defending is consistently good enough for a deep run, though (here would be the place to make a Swiss cheese joke). Serbia can take pride in fighting until the end, but ultimately there will be disappointment as they probably had enough talent to get out of this group as well. But their defending was even worse than the Swiss defending today, so they will be going home.

Group H

Winners – Portugal

Runners Up – South Korea

Eliminated – Uruguay, Ghana

This group was the more dramatic one of the day, and it’s difficult to know where to start. The big upset was South Korea stunning Portugal 2-1. Portugal were already through going into this match, but they showed no signs of complacency early on as they had the lead from winger Ricardo Horta just 5 minutes into the match. It was a simple cutback cross from right back Diogo Dalot that opened up the Korean back line, and Horta was in the right place at the right time to fire home. Portugal looked good to go on and win the match, but were pegged back on 27 minutes after center back Kim Young-gwon swept home from close range. The ball was played in from a corner and took a deflection off a Portuguese defender before it fell to Kim, who was less than 5 yards from the goal.

But a draw wouldn’t be good enough for the Koreans. They needed a win today, although they found themselves penned-in their own half for much of the rest of the game. Portugal went close to a second goal several times, with striker Cristiano Ronaldo missing some clear opportunities to score. The Koreans got their next chances on 65 and 67 minutes, but were denied a goal thanks to saves from keeper Diogo Costa. They kept Portugal at arm’s-length over the next 20 minutes or so, and finally got their winner in stoppage time.

South Korea’s superstar forward Son Heung-min had been rather quiet by his high standards over the course of the group stage, but he wrote his name all over the headlines today by providing the game winning assist. The ball broke to him and he carried it up the pitch in space, eventually meeting three Portuguese defenders on the edge of the penalty area. He did well to hold on to the ball and control it while waiting for support, and once it arrived he played a neat pass to forward Hwang Hee-chan. Hwang took a touch to create space and then powered a shot home with his second touch. Great work from Son down the right, and a clutch finish from Hwang to see them through. South Korea’s supporters and players were beside themselves!

Son had to drag this team to victory today, and I feel he is going to have to do that again as the tournament progresses. As goes Son, as goes South Korea. He is their national hero right now though, and if he even gets just half a yard of space in the right area, he will punish the opposition. Portugal for their part will be disappointed to have conceded a late winner, although it must be said they could have finished it off several times today had they not been so wasteful in front of goal. The world saw today what Manchester United fans have seen all season; Ronaldo is simply not what he once was. Fortunately though the Portuguese have a strong squad around him, so I still think they will go far in this tournament.

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With the South Korean’s win they secured second place, but that spot was very much up for grabs until their stoppage time winner.

Ghana thought they might take the lead in the opening 20 minutes of their match against Uruguay after being awarded a penalty, but keeper Sergio Rochet saved forward Andre Ayew’s rather tame effort to keep the match scoreless. Uruguay then finally got some goal-scoring thanks to attacking midfielder Giorgian de Arrascaeta, who netted twice in the span of six minutes in the first half. Striker Luis Suarez was heavily involved in the build-up to both goals, registering an assist on the second one.

But Uruguay knew they needed to score as many as possible, because if South Korea beat Portugal, both sides would be level on points. The two sides were all level on goal difference, but South Korea found the tiebreaker on goals scored with their late goal. The Uruguayans for their part kept attacking and attacking, but they could not find a third goal no matter what they tried. Ghana were creating the occasional half-chance here and there, but they never really looked like seriously threatening Rochet’s goal aside from the penalty. Their final ball was either lacking or their shots were going wide/high.

The Uruguayans were furious late on when they felt they should have a penalty after an alleged foul on striker Darwin Nunez in the box, but it wasn’t given to them. That led to some ugly scenes at full time, with the Uruguayan players surrounding the referee and appearing as if they were going to assault him. The referee did well to stand up to them, but it was a fairly classless display by a team that had no one but themselves to blame today. Had they played better earlier in the tournament, the penalty decision wouldn’t have mattered either way.

Ghana had one thing on their minds coming into this match: revenge. At the 2010 World Cup during the Round of 16, Suarez made himself public enemy number one in that country when he flagrantly used his hand to clear a Ghanaian goal-bound shot away. He was sent off for that, but the Ghanaians missed their penalty and Uruguay advanced. Although they did not beat Uruguay today, they did just enough to keep them from advancing and thus exacted some degree of revenge. To be fair, Suarez is a generally despicable person. I think he’s a racist, a cheat, a shithouser of the worst variety, and he generally has one of the most punch-able faces I have ever seen. He looks like a rat, to put it simply. It’s no wonder he’s viewed in Ghana by many as an incarnation of the Devil himself. But his tears on the bench after Uruguay went out will sustain me for several days, as this was probably his last World Cup. It’s always nice to see a villain get what’s coming to him.

And with that, the group stage is over! Congrats to everyone who progressed, commiserations to all who did not (except Suarez). The Round of 16 kicks off tomorrow, and there are no more draws at this point. We have to have a winner in all of these upcoming matches, which means the prospect of a penalty shootout is very much on the table. Who will advance to the quarterfinals, and who will be going home? We will soon find out!

Brazil vs. South Korea – Monday, December 5th – 7 AM PST

Portugal vs. Switzerland – Tuesday, December 6th – 11 AM PST

World Cup Roundup – Groups C and D

Qatar is a socially backwards country but FIFA doesn’t care because they have money. There is nothing FIFA loves more than money.

Group D

Winners – France

Runners Up – Australia

Eliminated – Tunisia, Denmark

The French knew they were already through to the next round, so manager Didier Deschamps changed up his team significantly for this final group match against Tunisia. France are so deep in talent though that starting some bench players doesn’t necessarily mean a big drop off in quality for them. Tunisia needed a win from this match and then for the Denmark/Australia match to go their way as well. Even against a rotated side, Tunisia were still heavy underdogs.

But all credit to Tunisia for going out and earning themselves a famous 1-0 victory. France defended well in this match generally, but were rather toothless going forward until it was already late on in the match. Tunisian attacking midfielder Wahbi Khazri got what was ultimately the winner on 58 minutes, after he went on a long run with the ball in the center of the park. France did not get a challenge in until he was already in a position to shoot, and although his effort was rather tame it fooled France keeper Steve Mandanda just enough. It rolled over the line and the Tunisians were ecstatic.

Make no mistake – France were outplayed today. Tunisia were the ones playing the ball forward the most and had the most attacking intent. Les Bleus did have an Antoine Griezmann goal ruled out for offside late on, but that was their deadliest attack. France will need to be better in the Round of 16, especially going forward.

Tunisia did their part to advance, but needed a draw between Australia and Denmark to secure progression. After their final whistle blew, the Tunisians flocked to video monitors to see the final few minutes of the other match.

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Australia/Denmark was a much more intense affair, probably because both sides were fighting for their World Cup survival instead of just the one. Both sides really went for the winning goal, but it was Australia that came away with the surprising, maybe even shocking, 1-0 victory.

Denmark were the better side for the opening 45 minutes, as they created most of the chances. Aussie keeper Matthew Ryan made 2-3 fine saves to stop them, and on other occasions his defenders made a last-ditch tackle to help him out. They improved and started creating half-chances of their own in the second half, and it was on the hour mark that they finally got their breakthrough. They recovered the ball in their own final third, and it was eventually collected by attacking midfielder Riley McGree. He spotted striker Matthew Leckie in front of him making a run between two defenders. He played the ball to Leckie, who brought it forward while being closely marked by a single Danish defender. Leckie was allowed to carry the ball into shooting distance, and after some nifty dribbling he got a low shot away from just inside the Danish box that nutmegged his marker and beat Danish keeper Kasper Schmeichel at the far corner. It was a well-worked counter-attack that could go down as one of the most famous goals in Australian history.

The Danish had more possession after that and tried to find a winner, but their finishing was truly woeful. Headers going wide or high every single time. Well done to Australia for holding on, but Denmark were just as poor today as they have been the whole tournament. A team with that level of quality in it should not be struggling as much as they are. They had a lot of injuries pre-tournament and several of the players were rusty as a result, but that’s not really an excuse. Against Australia and Tunisia at least, the Danish should be winning. Very toothless in attack for all three of their matches.

But Australia’s famous win sees them through to the knockouts for the first time since 2006. They can defend well and got just enough offense to progress. The win wasn’t without drama though. Had Leckie not scored and the match ended 0-0, it would have been Tunisia going through instead. Well done to the north Africans for getting a famous victory as well, but it wasn’t enough to secure progression. If such a thing as a “bittersweet victory” exists, this one for Tunisia was one of them.

Group C

Winners – Argentina

Runners Up – Poland

Eliminated – Mexico, Saudi Arabia

There was even more drama in this group than there was in Group D! Argentina beat Poland 2-0 today thanks to goals from midfielder Alexis Mac Allister and striker Julian Alvarez. Poland were in this match until the Mac Allister goal just after half time, as keeper Wojciech Szczęsny had saved a penalty from Lionel Messi on 39 minutes. The Poles were struggling in attack, but Szczęsny did well to make the save and keep his team in it for a little while longer. Poland looked rather toothless today, but I think that’s because psychologically they knew they were in a good place to advance, even with a loss. They went through today as runners’ up, but they will need to play much better in attack to have any chance at winning their next match. Credit to Argentina for improving over the past two games and getting the results needed to win their group. Their defense in particular has looked much stronger.

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The high drama was in the Mexico vs. Saudi Arabia match. The Mexicans were desperate for a victory, and needed not only to win but to do so by several goals to overtake Poland on goal difference. Saudi Arabia knew that a draw might be enough for them to go through, but realistically they needed to win to guarantee progression.

Mexico were the better team in this match, although it was 0-0 at halftime again. Carlos Vega had the best chance early on, although his effort after being through on goal was snuffed out by Saudi keeper Mohammad Alowais. The Mexicans kept their impetus though and found the back of the net (for the first time at this World Cup) just after halftime thanks to a header from forward Henry Martín. 1-0 wasn’t enough though, as they needed at least two more to overcome the goal difference tiebreaker. They either needed to score themselves or hope that Argentina could get a third against Poland. The Mexicans got their second however just 6 minutes later from a thunderous free kick from midfielder Luis Chavez. This was another Goal of the Tournament candidate, given that he was almost 30 yards out and still placed it into the top corner. World-class strike!

For the next 30-35 minutes or so, Poland and Mexico were level on points, goal differential, and goals scored. The final tiebreaker kept Poland ahead though, and much to my surprise that tiebreaker was/is yellow card accumulation. Poland had two fewer yellow cards at that point, so they were placed ahead of Mexico in the standings. That rule needs to be changed. Instead of punishing teams that are playing aggressively, why not have shots on target be the final tiebreaker? The rules of the game should be set up to reward attacking football, after all.

Ultimately however the yellow card tiebreaker did not matter, as the Saudis got a goal back in stoppage time from attacking midfielder Salem Al-Dawsari. That was a hammer blow to Mexico, as it largely ruined their chances of overcoming their negative goal difference. Mexico had the ball in the back of the net twice after they got their second, but each was called back for offside. The second decision was correct, but Hirving Lozano’s run and shot just a few minutes after the second goal was a much closer call. In all reality, it was too little too late for El Tri.

I think Mexico’s fate at this World Cup was sealed before a ball was even kicked though. There was no call up for Javier Hernandez or Carlos Vela by manager Tata Martino, and it was clear that Martino would be fired once Mexico’s World Cup run ended due to his contract situation. Martino is positively reviled by the Mexican media, and I can’t say as I blame them. His failures here are numerous. He did not call up two of Mexico’s best players, and no one seems to know why. He did not set up his team to win with his tactics, and he did not make the right substitutions when needed. Mexico have a fair amount of talent, but they need play in a tactical system that suits them. They did not do that until the second half of today’s match, when it was far too late to start doing so. If this is the last World Cup for legendary keeper Guillermo “Memo” Ochoa, it is a rather lackluster way to go out.

The Saudis got off to a fantastic start in this tournament, and their upset of Argentina in the opening group game is probably the most famous one in their history. They did not do enough in the other two group games, and were particularly poor today against Mexico. They can take pride in their improvement, but they ultimately will need more talent to make a deep run at any World Cup going forward.

Argentina vs. Australia – Saturday December 3 at 11 am PST

France vs. Poland – Sunday December 4 at 7 am PST

World Cup Roundup – France Secure Progression and Argentina Arrives

Qatar is actually the perfect host country from FIFA’s point of view. It’s run by an authoritarian regime that is absolutely loaded with money. What a double bonus for them!

Australia vs. Tunisia

Australia got an absolutely vital victory today over Tunisia, winning 1-0 thanks to a goal from striker Mitchell Duke on 24 minutes. He did well to get good contact on the ball, straining all the muscles in his neck to redirect a deflected cross from fellow striker Craig Goodwin past the Tunisian keeper. The Socceroos had to endure a torrid 68+ minutes after that from the overwhelmingly Tunisian crowd who created an extremely hostile atmosphere, but they kept them out and secured all three points.

Tunisia find themselves at the bottom of Group D with one point, with Australia in a surprising second place thanks to this victory. The Aussies would have been eliminated with a loss today, but they showed some real nerve and put themselves in good position to progress instead. The one thing Tunisia have going for them is that France might play reserves in their final match, so they might have a better chance at a result than normal. Unlikely given France’s talent, but possible.

France vs. Denmark

The other match in Group D saw defending champions France take on Denmark. Many tipped Denmark to be dark horses candidates for a deep run in this tournament, but that has so far proven to not be the case. They lost today 2-1 and find their World Cup hopes hanging by a very thin thread. Two scintillating goals from superstar striker Kylian Mbappe saw France through, despite being pegged back from a set piece header by Danish defender Andreas Christiansen. Both goals from Mbappe were from close range, but he was in the right place at the right time. Sometimes that’s all you have to do.

France have a lot of injuries right now, but as long as they have Mbappe, that’s really all that matters. While there are questions as to his ego and locker room presence, there is no denying his abilities on the pitch. The numbers speak for themselves. He has 7 World Cup goals at age of 24, something only Pelé has done. He has 32 goals for France as well. He is going to smash numerous international records if he keeps going like this.

By virtue of their victory today, Les Bleus have qualified for the Round of 16 and are the first nation to do so. They need only a draw against Tunisia in their final group game to guarantee 1st place in the group. The Danish are not eliminated, but they need a victory over Australia to secure progression. Anything less will do them no good, and would be a disappointment for team that is underrated in terms of talent.

Poland vs. Saudi Arabia

Group C was also in action today, with the surprising Saudis taking on a (so far) lackluster Poland team. This match ended 2-0 to the Poles though and was notable for the antics of the Saudis, who were flopping and diving so effectively they should have been awarded gold medals. They are a well-coached team, so it was no accident that the plan was to slow the game down as much as possible and make Poland really work to beat them.

Poland got their first from a swift move down the right flank, which ended with a deflected pass from striker Robert Lewandowski straight into the path of midfielder Piotr Zielinski, who blasted the ball into the roof of the net from close range on 29 minutes. The Poles were overjoyed at scoring their first goal of the tournament.

Polish keeper Wojciech Szczęsny was called into action on 55 minutes and made a fine double-save from close range to keep the Saudis out. The highlight of the match then came on 82 minutes, when Poland sealed the points via Lewandowski, who stole the ball off a Saudi defender on the edge of the box and slotted home Poland’s second and his first-ever goal at a World Cup. The joy on his face was impossible to miss, as he is 34 and therefore potentially at his last World Cup. His lack of goals at this tournament over the years has been the one black mark on his illustrious goal-scoring career, but today he can take pride in helping his nation go top of Group C on 4 points. Poland can advance with a draw against Argentina, and they can win the group if they beat them.

For the Saudis I have to feel that perhaps the success of the Argentina match was still lingering in their minds. They went behind fairly early and aside from the aforementioned close range chance on 55 minutes, they did not offer much in attack. They will need to regroup for their final group match against Mexico, as they are 3rd on 3 points. A win over Mexico sees them through for sure, although they might be able to get away with a draw depending on how the other match goes.

Argentina vs. Mexico

This match was highly anticipated by both sides, as there is a little bit of a rivalry between them internationally. For one reason or another, they always seem to be playing each other come the World Cup. Lots of shit-talking was happening online between supporters of both sides before kickoff. The Argentines would win 2-0, but it took two glorious strikes to get it done.

Before getting to the goals, a quick moment of recognition for how the Mexicans played for the first hour of this match. They were the better team in the opening 45 minutes. No two ways about it. They had the possession, they were passing better, and they had more attacking intent. Mexico’s best chance of the half came when winger Alexis Vega forced keeper Emiliano Martinez into a fine save from a free kick just before half time. It was 0-0 at the half but you sensed that the negative headlines in Buenos Aires were probably already being written.

The problem with Argentina however is that you cannot lose concentration when playing them, not once and not even for a second. They have a player named Lionel Messi that some may have heard of, and he proved today why he will go down as maybe the greatest player to ever kick a ball. He received a pass from winger Angel Di Maria and found himself in the most space he had been in the whole match, in the middle of the field just outside the penalty area. He took a touch or two forward and then lashed a low and powerful left-footed shot towards the right hand corner of the goal that beat Memo Ochoa and settled into the net just inside the post. The expression of joy on Messi’s face was similar to that of Lewandowski’s, and the Argentines inside the stadium were ecstatic.

Messi then turned provider on 87 minutes for the Argentine’s second, when he found midfielder Enzo Fernandez on the left side of the penalty area. Fernandez dribbled to create space and then lashed a beautiful curling shot into the opposite corner of Ochoa’s net. Points sealed, and it was largely thanks to Messi. Time and time again he has saved Argentina, and he was clearly not ready to bow out of this World Cup just yet.

Mexico will be disappointed with not capitalizing on their dominance in the first half, and for the momentary lapse in defensive concentration that led to Messi’s opener. They simply backed off him too far and let him do what he does best – run at defenses in space in the center of the pitch. That is a recipe for disaster against him, and it must be said that Ochoa did not cover himself in glory with his positioning either. The goal wasn’t his fault, but he maybe could have done better. Nothing he could do about the second goal.

Mexico’s problems are deeper than losing by two wonder strikes though. They are bottom of the group with just 1 point, and must beat Saudi Arabia to have any chance at progression. They were uninspired in attack against Poland and again today. They can play a lot of neat and tidy passes in the buildup, but then they fall apart when it comes to the final ball or getting a shot on goal.

It seems this team lacks a center forward, so one has to ask yet again why Mexico’s all-time leading goal scorer Javier Hernandez was not included in this team. He is fit to play and was in good form pre-tournament, yet it seems there are some internal politics and ego in play here. Mexico manager Tata Martino apparently has some kind of personal, non-football related issue with the man nicknamed “Chicharito”, and it has led to him not being called up to this tournament. If that is the truth, and by all accounts it is, then Martino must be sacked as manager. Hernandez is arguably Mexico’s best player, so to leave out over a personal dispute is completely unprofessional and outright negligent. Couple this baffling decision with some of the questionable tactical decisions Martino has made during this tournament, and it becomes clear why so many Mexican fans are calling for his head.

World Cup Groups C/D Roundup – Saudi Arabia Shocks the World; and the Canonization of Santo Memo

Starting off as we always do – Qatar is an awful host country and FIFA are the most corrupt, hypocritical, and money-grubbing bastards on the planet.

Saudi Arabia vs. Argentina

Truthfully, this match was a blip on the radar of this World Cup when the groups were announced. Argentina are one of the top teams at this tournament in terms of talent, and given that it’s the last World Cup for the legendary Lionel Messi, many thought Argentina would be extra motivated to play well. Further, the gulf in talent between the teams in this particular match is about the size of the Grand Canyon. Everyone thought this would be a neat and tidy result for the Argentines without too much fuss from the Saudis. However, those predictions not have been more wrong. What happened in this match is arguably the most stunning upset in World Cup history, and it’s certainly the biggest upset in at least 25 years.

Argentina were on the front foot first via Messi, who slotted home easily from the penalty spot after a Saudi defender pulled down an Argentine in the box during a corner. It was a pretty clear penalty, as the tackle in the box was probably more appropriate for rugby than football. But with a 1-0 lead early on, everyone fancied the South Americans to kick on and win comfortably. They even had the ball in the Saudi net again a few minutes later, only for it to be called back for offside in the build-up. It was close call, but VAR was consulted and it was ruled out.

As the first half wore on though, it became clear that Argentina was going to struggle to get a second goal. The tactical discipline of the Saudi back line in this match was among the best I have ever seen. Every single player along that back line of defenders was on exactly the same page today, probably even the same line and word. They executed the offside trap perfectly at least three or four times, despite Argentina finding the back of the net those three or four times. To rely on the offside trap is dangerous, as a defense has to rely on the linesman to call offside when the trap is sprung. Relying on an official to get the call right/in your favor is risky, but the Saudis played it to perfection today.

They got their equalizer in the opening moments of the second half via striker Saleh Al-Shehri. Argentina lost the ball in midfield and it was played forward in the air towards Al-Shehri and fellow striker Firas Al-Buraikan. Al-Buraikan got a touch on the ball with his foot that directed it straight into the path of Al-Shehri. He took a touch to go around his marker on the outside before slotting home across the face of the Argentine goal and into the far corner. A goal from nowhere to be sure, but a very good goal nevertheless. Well done to Al-Shehri for maintaining his composure on the finish and to the Saudi players as a whole for pouncing at just the right moment. The Argentines were stunned.

They went from stunned to downright dizzy just five minutes later though when Saudi Arabia went ahead. The ball was being passed around in and near the Argentine penalty area, and the Albiceleste (as they are sometimes called) failed to clear their lines properly. The ball fell to winger Salem Al-Dawsari, and after controlling the ball he dribbled around just inside the left hand portion of the penalty box a bit to try and create an opening. He eventually found one and placed an excellent shot high into the opposite corner and beyond keeper Emiliano Martinez for 2-1. The Saudis players and supporters were jubilant!

The Saudis then had to hold on for another 35+ minutes and the Argies had their chances to find an equalizer, but the Saudi defense and keeper Mohammad Alowais held firm and the match ended 2-1. This is by far the biggest result for Saudi Arabia at a World Cup and the goals scored by Al-Shehri and Al-Dawsari will go down as the most famous goals in their national team history. The level of upset pulled off here cannot and should not be understated, especially given that this is the same nation that lost to Russia 5-0 in their opening match in 2018 and have generally been World Cup whipping boys for at least 25 years.

This is what I’m talking about when I say that team spirit and tactical discipline can overcome a lack of talent. Argentina should be playing a team like this off the pitch on paper. They are simply better in every which way. But this victory for the Green Falcons was no accident; it is the result of a specific plan put in place by French manager Hervé Renard and his staff. They offside trap was the key feature, and they also clogged up the midfield effectively in the second half. It also helps that nine of the starting XI players for the Saudis today all play at the same club in Saudi Arabia. They all know each other very well, to say the least. Renard also said that after the match he felt that Argentina did not take them seriously, which could explain some of their misfiring in attack in the second half.

Whatever the reasons, all citizens of Saudi Arabia get the day off tomorrow to celebrate this victory, as declared by the King himself. That’s a bit of sportswashing for sure, but it’s also sure to be enjoyed nevertheless. I like this Saudi team, but I have the same level of disdain for their government that I do for Qatar, maybe even more. I expect Argentina to bounce back from this defeat as well, and rather emphatically. Today was embarrassing for them, but it should serve as a wake-up call.

Mexico vs. Poland

With Saudi Arabia turning Group C on it’s head, both Mexico and Poland knew that a win for them in this match would take them top of the group and strongly increase their respective odds of progression. This match was very close on paper. Poland have all-world striker Robert Lewandowksi and a very good goalkeeper in Wojciech Szczęsny, but the rest of the team around them is fairly average. Mexico do not have a world class player at any position, but their talent is more evenly spread throughout the team. They have many above-average to good players, and today they had the support of the crowd. Credit to the Mexico supporters today for a fantastic atmosphere.

Mexico were on the front foot for almost the entire first half. They were pressing, passing well, and generally doing all the things a team needs to do to find a goal. Poland by comparison were poor. They didn’t appear to have a plan for Mexico’s press and were caught in possession several times and had to rely upon Szczęsny to bail them out. Lewandowski was isolated by the Mexican midfield and defense, and he can’t work his magic when he doesn’t have the ball. The tactics from Mexico were simple but effective in terms of keeping Poland out. Mexico failed to score at their end in the first half as well, but they looked like the team more likely to score when the halftime whistle blew.

Poland changed their tactics somewhat at halftime though, and they were better after the resumption of play in terms of pressing and getting the ball forward towards Lewandowski. They were rewarded for their attacking intent on 57 minutes when the referee gave them a penalty after a VAR check for a foul in the box. This penalty incident was a little more questionable than some others I have seen, but the decision stood and Lewandowski stepped up to the spot to take it.

But now we pause. We pause to stop and talk about Mexico’s keeper, Guillermo “Memo” Ochoa. This man has been between the sticks for Mexico since the 2006 World Cup. He is adored nationally not only for his flying saves and wild hairstyle but for his leadership and reliability. The man is truly fearless, and that attitude is loved by Mexicans far and wide. He has saved their skin numerous times, and he was called upon today again to do so. Despite the big occasion and moment, Memo was certainly not going to be over-awed, even when facing a striker the caliber of Lewandowski. His nickname is “Santo Memo” for a reason.

With all of Mexico and Poland waiting with baited breath, Lewandowski struck the ball to low and to his right, but Memo was equal to it and parried it away after he dove. The overwhelmingly Mexican crowd roared in approval and there was a mad scramble in the box to clear the ball. Memo had done it again! Even if you’re not Mexican, you have to appreciate the level of goalkeeper he ascends to whenever playing for El Tri. His save today was celebrated as if the Mexicans had already won the tournament, and the fans were singing and chanting his name for the rest of the half! From a Polish perspective, Lewandowski’s shot was rather poor. It wasn’t far enough away from the keeper and it lacked a bit of power.

Despite Poland’s good spell of pressure for 20 minutes or so, the Mexicans regained a foothold as the match wore on. They created several half chances, but could not find a winning goal. Memo’s save was the highlight of this match, and it ended 0-0. Mexico can take some positives from the day, but it is clear they are missing a good center forward. They need a finisher, plain and simple. The absence of one Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez from this squad is rather conspicuous.

Group D

This part will be shorter, don’t worry.

France came from behind to beat Australia 4-1, while Denmark and Tunisia tied 0-0. The French keep losing players through injury, but that was not a problem for them today. Australia looked confident at times in the first half but it was clear the French were a step ahead today in terms of talent in attack. Kylian Mbappe is simply the best striker in the world when he’s in the mood. Their injuries could be a problem later in the tournament though. They are the defending champions and are easily the deepest team at this tournament talent-wise, but I worry that the French are due for an implosion soon. Injuries interfere with team chemistry, and the French have to be clicking with one another for them to be at their most deadly.

Both Denmark and Tunisia were both largely uninspiring in their match today, but it was nevertheless a massive result for the Tunisians against a Danish side many have picked as a dark horse to make a run in this tournament. Australia vs. Tunisia now becomes a very interesting match indeed, should the Danish lose to France. The winner of Aus/Tun could easily find themselves in second place in the group, perhaps somewhat unexpectedly.

Red Devils Take Down Old Rivals Leeds United in Australia

Manchester United soundly beat Championship side Leeds United in Perth, Australia today 4-0 thanks to 2 goals in each half from Mason Greenwood, Marcus Rashford, Phil Jones, and Anthony Martial. Even though on paper this game is listed as an “international friendly”, I can assure you there is nothing friendly about the rivalry between Leeds and Man United. Even though Leeds have been down in lower leagues in recent years and United haven’t played them very much, there is still a lot of negative sentiments between both sets of fans. Australian police were out in full force at the match, and fortunately it seems there were no incidents of violence. That would not have happened in the days of the football firms (hooligans) in the 1970s and 80s, but at least today there were no problems.

On the pitch, United were in dominant form in the first half, with everything being run through the midfield general Paul Pogba. Every time he got the ball he was looking to play it forward, and it was obvious that he was the most naturally talented player on the pitch today. He clearly loves playing the long ball forward to United’s pacy forwards and wingers, and I think a lot of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s offensive tactics this season will involve Pogba playing it forward into dangerous areas for Rashford, Greenwood, Jesse Lingard, or Daniel James to run onto. Pogba must stay at United, at least for this season. I don’t care how much money is on the table, or what club he’s been linked with. There is simply no way to replace what he does for this team.

New signing Aaron Wan-Bissaka looked impressive as well, and it was his cross that led to Greenwood’s tap-in for the first goal. More about Greenwood below.

Rashford got United’s second after Scott McTominay played the ball to him on the left side a few yards outside the box. Rashford sold a sweet dummy-move that confounded two Leeds defenders, after which he danced around them and slotted into the right side of the goal. The Red Devils were in firm control and OGS rang the changes for the second half, substituting on 11 new players. You normally can’t do that in a football match since you’re usually limited to 3 substitutions per match. This was a friendly though so this time substitutions were virtually unlimited.

Even though it was mostly youth players on in the 2nd half, I was still very impressed with United’s play though, with some standout work by Angel Gomes, Tahith Chong, and Daniel James. It’s very clear that United are not lacking in players with pace and technical skill. All of those players I listed are extremely fast and extremely good on the ball. It’s also becoming more obvious that OGS wants us to be a high-pressing team, and now we are starting to cultivate the players to do that. I am not sure if Chong is ready to start for United yet, but I think Gomes definitely is. He was a revelation tonight. He’s short but he’s very strong on the ball and almost got a goal himself after some tight dribbling in the penalty area. All of the above players, along with Greenwood, represent a strong contingent of players coming out of United’s Youth Academy. I want to see Greenwood and Gomes to be incorporated into the first team as the season gets going.

Phil Jones got United’s third off a corner, and then it was Gomes’s dangerous ball into the box that earned United a penalty after Chong was taken out by a Leeds defender. Anthony Martial stepped up and converted the penalty easily into the bottom left corner of the goal. It was 4-0 and the match was well and truly over. United passed it around the final 20 minutes and did just enough defensively to keep Leeds from getting a consolation goal.

I hope that players like Martial, Lingard, and Juan Mata take notice of the good performances from the younger guys and step their respective games up as well. Competition for places in the starting XI is always a good thing, since it makes everyone motivated to play their best. OGS has to have the courage to play the younger lads too. Managers often think that experienced players are the best players, but it must be noted that given how successful this club has been with youth over the decades, OGS would be a fool to ignore them.

Good match against sub-par opposition, but United now travel to Singapore to play a much more formidable foe in Inter Milan, a giant from the Italian league. It’s still a friendly, but Inter definitely have much more talented players than Leeds do. The preseason is never a good measure for how the real season will go, but if United perform well against Inter I think I won’t be able to help feeling optimistic.

Still need a Director of Football. Still need another center-back and a true right winger, unless the plan is to play Greenwood on the right. I like what I see so far from United, but I can’t help but feel like there is a lot left to be sorted out.

United play Inter Milan next Saturday, 7/20. Early in the morning!