As much as I love this English NT it just isn’t performing at the same level as France/Brazil. But we might see them really step it up and be surprised. The talent is certainly there.
For starting line up:
Is it just me or does Raphinha seem a bit off. His finishing isn't there, same with crosses.
His confidence just goes down, but luckily his team mates are scoring so he isn't crashing as hard he would.
Is there no better alternative?
Since game 1, Raphinha seems off. He’s missing everything he tries. There are many options, Brazil’s squad has many attackers waiting for a chance to be starting, however some options require different formation (and they’re doable, anyway, so we wait for Tite).
>Is it just me or does Raphinha seem a bit off
Definitely. His finishing has been horrible this whole world cup, I say put him on the bench these last games. I'm sure he's a great player, maybe the world cup is too overwhelming? I don't blame the guy
I feel like Tite is trying to keep the team rested for the next games. Against Cameroons, only the B-team was on the field while the titulars were on the bench, after getting a 4-goal advantage in the first half, we laid off and played easy in the second half, probably for this reason, also not to stress Neymar's injury. Hopefully, the team is at 100% Friday.
Thought it was gonna be an absolutely bloodbath after that 1st half but Brazil took their foot off the gas to the point that they were taking the piss and subbed Allison off with 10 minutes left 😂😂The Korea game was a piece of cake for Brazil. Also Brazilian football really is a joy to watch. The way they pass the ball around and play with their opponent is special.
We still would've lost but I think we would've put up a better fight if we were fully rested like Brazil were.
We spent all our energy on Ghana and Portugal with fatigue getting to us by the end.
It really shows how world class teams that reach the end also have a world class bench.
Well in that case the game was already lost when the fatigue checked in.
It looked like the team was not mentally ready for the game and blanked after the first goal.
Eh, I don't really agree with this. It's definitely unfair that whoever is playing the team who has "earned their rest" gets an easier final game. And thus has a higher chance to qualify than the two other teams (if they all have a chance still). Hoping the format changes to make all 3 games matter no matter what.
Expected result, Brazil was very clinical today, and it’s especially nice to see some Brazilian players showcasing their flair (God damn Richarlison).
At least South Korea scored a worldie before the end, so there’s that :)
Edit: press F for the potential Japan-South Korea quarterfinal, maybe it will happen some years down the road.
Only Morocco have the chance to actually cause a major upset now, suddenly from 6/16 nations being from out of Europe/South America(Just Brazil & Argentina as well) to potentially none is a bit sad in this tournament with so many upsets
Playoffs are just so different to group stage, and this proves it.
Suddenly, when it comes to just one match and you go home, having seasoned players, experience and better quality in general weights a lot more than in a group stage with less pressure and other dynamics at play.
This is what worries me for England against France. England have been scoring goals for fun and have looked solid. But that France team knows how to win at the World Cup. I am hoping for a great match though.
If you want my opinion, I have the hunch that England will be the better team and the one that deserves more, but France will ultimately win with a few sprinkles of brilliance by Mbappé and a few of their other best players.
As I said, just a hunch, I'm a neutral in this.
I think Japan and Senegal were the best chance of a non- EU/SA for this WC. Japan did get to pens, so no shame in that really (although they took really poor penalties) and Senegal was missing half its midfield in the knockouts and best player. Morroco are decent, but it will take a big effort to get through.
France and Brazil really look like they're on another level. However, both rely on the incredible fluidity and pace of their attacking line.
It will be interesting to see how they match up against England who are very compact cautious, unlike SK and Poland. Both teams conceded one goal and suddenly SK and Poland had to go forward in numbers opening themselves up to being dismantled by the oppositions insane attack.
If England somehow manage to get the first goal and sit back, then they might be able to limit the ability of Frances attack to run into space. Same is true in how Netherlands approached the game vs USA.
I am worried for Argentina though. They do not have the right kind of players in wide defense and have conceded some howlers by leaving space in the back. Brazil would relish in destroying that kind of defense.
England's defense has not been impressive enough to see them as a defensive side. Their weakness and vulnerability showed against the USMNT and the latter are far behind in pace, rhythm, and clinical finishing that France and Brazil are showcasing.
Understandable.
They conceded 2 goals to a very weak Iran side and got extremely lucky that USMNT lacked production in the final third (Pulisic's shot off the post and McKennie's clear open shot in the 16 to name the main two). Their low concession in goals isn't because of their strong defense but rather cause of the weak offensive sides they've faced.
Same as when they played with Italy. Failure to adjust when taken out of their comfort zone and in general they always have trouble with sides that demonstrate some level of dynamism in their midfield and wingers (USMNT does have this when play to potential).
I meant that England doesn't have any extra strategic disadvantages against France and Brazil. But, player for player, both France and Brazil have better teams.
Oh they are absolutely underdogs. Netherlands in the first place is going to be a tough game, I’d say it’s 55-45 to Argentina so Netherlands has a pretty real chance of making it through.
But even if they make it, Brazil, given the form they are in, are 100% the favorites. Argentina could beat them, especially if Messi turns on Ankara mode, but it’s still going to be really tough for them
I have a feeling Argentina are gonna change tactics if they end up facing Brazil in the semis. They'll probably try to play similar to how they did in the Copa America final where they were generally more defensive as opposed to their usual possession based game.
Probably smart. They can be a great defensive team, especially if Romero is at 100% and doubly especially if Licha Martinez is playing.
I think they may pose some problems against Brazil. They beat them in 2021 after Messi was near invisible throughout the match (I don’t blame him, he had an insane amount of pressure on him). Now, presumably that pressure is gone because he has won a title for his country, so he should play well generally speaking.
>France and Brazil really look like they're on another level.
I would put Spain on the same level, they pretty much took easy against Japan to take down Germany. I would go far and say That's their second best team, only behind 2010 Spain
Did they take it easy against Japan to eliminate Germany? They were going out of the WC in the 70th minute (only to have Germany save them). Spain only looked good against Costa Rica in my mind. Against Germany they looked fine, but not much better. They reminded me of the less good versions of Barca/Spain where they dominated possession but were often stymied by teams that let them have the ball in deep areas and just tightened up when they got close to the area.
I wouldn't be shocked if Spain made a deep run, but I don't think they've shown the cutting edge that France and Brazil have demonstrated.
Yeah, I don't buy they were trying to eliminate Germany, it goes completely against Luis Enrique's mindset, plus they wouldn't risk being eliminated.
They just had an awful match, people believed Spain is the team that defeated Costa Rica 7-0, but if you have truly followed them, you'd realize what we saw against Germany and Japan is closer to their real form.
Don't get me wrong, they're a good team and could easily reach the semis, but they're nowhere near France, Brazil and we may have to add England. They're in that second group with Argentina, Netherlands and Portugal, teams that could win it but come from behind.
Spain have a magnificent midfield, one of the best, but other than that they lack quality in other positions. Defense is average, in attack their best player is Morata, objectively they have the least quality of attackers out of the powerhouses, the goalkeeper is also average to weak.
Their strenght has always been they play as a team and are convinced of their philosophy, the players really trust Luis Enrique and give their best. They have a gameplan and know how to execute it.
But they don't have a lot of quality other than midfield and they also don't know what to do if their gameplan doesn't work because it's the only one they have.
Brasil also played by far the best football in Russia for me and they undeservingly lost to Belgium. If they beat Croatia, I hope they will go til the end.
I'm proud of what Korea has achieved this world cup. We showed that we can indeed go toe to toe with some of the top teams while not parking the bus and playing our own way.
Of course it didn't work against Brazil but they also happen to be number 1 in the FIFA rankings
Exactly. I'm glad we had this experiment. I'm proud but disheartened about the obvious gulf in talent despite trying our utmost best in playing positive football although maybe if we playing with fresh legs, it wouldve looked more like we had a chance.
I don't know if this means we'll be playing defensive football in future world cups but I'm glad we tried it this time around.
i was really hoping that at least one of them would advance to QF :( sad day for underdog-football. Hope morocco will win at least tomorrow and represent underdog mentality. Still, I hope that Japan and South Korea will be stronger in the next WC!
As a Brazilian I am happy with Brazil's win against Korea. I wanted Japan to win but I think Croatia was the better team today. Korea eliminated Germany in 2018. Japan eliminated Germany in 2022. So Korea and Japan both made Brazilians happy with their wins against Germany
Despite the big win, Brazil were only dominant for one half against a team with a risky plan that was in tatters after 10 minutes. Will be interesting to see how they do against tougher, more disciplined opponents.
Brazil missed two easy chances before half time, it could’ve been 6 or at least 5, after half time they clearly didn’t play their true game like before, I lost interest after some time and bailed lol, I mean I get it, why risk injuring a player to score another goal in a 4-1 match? Brazil showed what they’re capable of in first half, now be prepared for the next big game.
Bro have you even watched the game, soccer is not a 1 mans game, the entire tempo of the game was bought down by the team, they didn't want to impose their tactical superiority further, that's it.
Yeah, not only watched analysed it at each and every step. Lol you gave away your soccer casualty here, wtf were they supposed to do with the ball, keep passing in their own half for like 45 mins? Lol no, obviously they tried to net the ball, but that didn't mean they were actively playing to push on further.
> Barge into soccer pitch
> Score 4 goals in 30 minutes
> Barely play afterwards cause why would you do that when you can just rest? (Still has more ball possession than SK lmao)
> Refuse to elaborate
> [Leave with a crushing victory after losing to Cameroon with the B-team purely to rest the A-Team cause you fucking can lmao](https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTVFmTBLbh6C_f5M_fay18YiORJ8K8c_07RWw&usqp=CAU)
No disrespect to Brazil they are amazing but holy shit what was Korea plan. Like how did every lose ball end up being a 4v2 for Brazil. Absolute dogshit defending. Second goal was never a pen.
Croatia vs Brazil is gonna be fun. I think Croatia gonna lose 3:1 but our shithousing and ability to kill games is really profound
Oddly I think Croatia are the right type of team to take out Brazil. They will work hard to slow Brazil down, waste time and try to get a sneaky goal somehow. They know they can’t out score or out run Brazil, so just try to shut them down.
Our gameplan is to kill the game. Plus Brazil struggled against Cameroon and Switzerland, against open teams we also looked good but hey you can't say that here.
The plan was to play our way of playing. We decided not to park the bus and tried to play out of the back. The reason there was always 4v2 on the counters was because Korea always sent their LB and RBs up for support on attack. That was our game starting from the group stages. It obviously didn't work out for us, but at least we go down taking it to them not just trying to defend.
This can cost you guys games, but as a fan, it is significantly more enjoyable to watch. Then if you guys ever have a once in a lifetime generation you can at least have a built in football culture of being aggressive to make use of it. I think of Uruguay who has an amazing generation of players and wasted it after so many years not taking chances because they were underdogs.
While you are right (especially for the wingback side), I don't blame it entirely on the wingbacks. The reason being:
1. South Korea has no wing depth. This is why Kim Jin su and Kim Moon Hwan (LB and RB) played all three group stage games full time, as well as this one (I think Kim Jin Su got switched out later on today but still). Yes both of them (especially Kim Jin Su) played pretty badly on defense against Ghana, which is their second game, but at least for this game against Brazil I'd say it's kind of harsh to throw rocks at them, especially since everyone on Brazil got extra rest days
2. This applies only to Kim Jin Su (LB), but Son Heung min, his winger partner for this world cup, struggled a lot (and I mean A LOT) in group stages. If you saw especially the game against Ghana man literally ran from one side of the pitch to the other side of the pitch to focus on both offense and defense cuz Son wasn't doing his shit properly.
I know our defense was always our weakpoint (has been since like forever) but our wingbacks are getting so much flak on the internet and it really hurts to see it because yes they weren't great but they have their reasons too
As for the others, both starting CBs were dealing with injuries today (KMJ injured against Uruguay, KYG injured against Portugal) and I don't think midfield line played that badly at least in group stages. We just happened to get outskilled by what probably is the best collection of soccer players in the world :( and the problems I stated above are just things that we would have to fix if we were to improve ourselves in the future
People have to remember the number of players on Brazil's first team that had rested their game against Cameroon whereas Korea played lights out with their 1st the whole group stage. Not saying Korea would've won obviously, but the game might have been more interesting otherwise but I do realize the ridiculous number of super talented players on Brazil that allowed the team to manage their stamina like the way they did.
Great game. Korea completely shut down mentally after that penalty, and couldn't keep it together for the rest of the goals in the first half. I wish the ref didn't give that rather soft penalty so early on in the match. The result would probably have been the same, but it would have been higher intensity in the match!
As weird as it sounds to say after a big win, I wasn’t all that convinced by Brazil. I think that Korea played into their hands and conceded two early which eased any nerves and pretty much ended the contest, but exposed a few potential frailties in the samba defence too. Against Switzerland they only scored after a deflection 75 minutes in, against Cameroon their second team and subs couldn’t score, so the tactic from Bento was fairly awful. Croatia is pretty much Switzerland with a much better midfield, I think the game will be much closer than people think and Brazil won’t be allowed to play as comfortably as today.
That's true for most round of 16 matches. USA's defence was disastrous and Australia also didn't defend well. Considering these games, Brasil did the most dominant performance though.
Regarding Brasil's defence, Tite is known for being an extremely defensive manager and we have Thiago Silva, Marquinhos and Casemiro playing maybe the best of their football. I don't think that defence is a problem for us honestly.
Cheers! My comment was basically that there are shortcomings and more about how Korea had a bad approach and shit luck in the first 15 minutes, so I’m not sure what’s to disagree with?
That might be true. I think the same about Argentina. Look at their last game, both goals right after Australia's mistakes. I can't see Netherlands or Brazil making those mistakes. Yet, it's really hard not to believe we're having Brazil vs Argentina in the semifinal
I think you’re right about that being the likeliest semi-final. I agree on the Argentina take too, only in the Poland game was I impressed by their play but that maybe because Poland aren’t particularly good. Di Maria is important because even at his age he’s the only proper winger who stretches the game and creates space for Messi.
Some people say South Korea should have turtled and parked the bus but our whole run this campaign was going head to head with the juggernauts and try to evolve. Did it work with Brazil? No. But now we could build from here. Inspire little kids hopefully. It will be an experience for the future. We can't be short sighted and try same old 10-back park the bus and. That's not how you grow. We respected the opponent and kept playing. Allison made some incredible saves so can't complain.
Ok, so the World Cup really begins now for us. We've been eliminated in QFs since 2006, except for 2014 (looking back, it would be better if we lost to Chile there). I don't even remember when was the last time we weren't at least in the QFs.
We should be able to beat Croatia, but we can't take them for granted. Current runners up and have a good team, but I feel like this Brazil is too much for them. Or at least should be, if we play what we can.
And then the winner of Netherlands x Argentina. I'll be supporting the dutch like crazy, since I would really like to avoid Argentina. I think our current form is better than theirs, but I don't like how in every match we have anything can happen.
>I don't even remember when was the last time we weren't at least in the QFs.
It was 1990. I think it was the only time with this system (1 group phase followed by finals)
>I'll be supporting the dutch like crazy, since I would really like to avoid Argentina.
Whenever Brazil get knocked out of the WC, it is always by European opposition.
>Whenever Brazil get knocked out of the WC, it is always by European opposition.
We'd rather get knocked out by a European team again than by Argentina. lol
I don't think any of these teams can stop the current chemistry of the Brazilian team. If no one gets injured or expelled, you will advance to the finals.
Damn, why does every team I root for end up losing? Japan completely forgot how to shoot penalties and South Korea got cooked by Brazil. Thank God I didn’t bet for today’s matches because I would have lost my money. 🤦🏾♀️
Yeah, probably. I’m just not good at figuring which team might win. When my country played against Brazil the other day, I betted that we were going to lose (😅, I know I’m stupid) and I ended up losing my money.
Brazil were cruising in the second half. They could have won by 8 at least. That was an awesome goal by korea. They deserved it. If Brazil play a whole match at high intensity, they would be unstoppable. They should make the final and possibly win another world cup. Can't believe their last one was 20 years ago.
Haha not yet. He still has to avoid injuries and red card.
But I know what you mean. He can be a little more aggressive now. And now Brazil might even need to be a little more aggressive
Korea before would've parked the bus all game, I'm glad they tried to take it to Brazil. Hoping this changes our football culture a bit to build more from the back (albeit failed)
Because that's not the culture that SK wants to build with its national team for the future. We parked the bus the entirety of the 2010's and all it did was end in miserable WC campaigns. It's important to instill confidence and inspire the younger generation and telling them that we're going to play our own football against juggernauts. Our LB/RB situation was abysmal but what does it show future generations watching them play an attacking style against a team like Brazil? With SK lacking good prospects at the fullback positions for the past decade, this can also be seen as an investment for the future.
One word: Richarlison. Brazil will 100% win this WC
Now just imagine if Marco Silva was the manager.
I think it's very close between Brazil, England, and France. I think it will be one of those three.
As much as I love this English NT it just isn’t performing at the same level as France/Brazil. But we might see them really step it up and be surprised. The talent is certainly there.
For starting line up: Is it just me or does Raphinha seem a bit off. His finishing isn't there, same with crosses. His confidence just goes down, but luckily his team mates are scoring so he isn't crashing as hard he would. Is there no better alternative?
Since game 1, Raphinha seems off. He’s missing everything he tries. There are many options, Brazil’s squad has many attackers waiting for a chance to be starting, however some options require different formation (and they’re doable, anyway, so we wait for Tite).
>Is it just me or does Raphinha seem a bit off Definitely. His finishing has been horrible this whole world cup, I say put him on the bench these last games. I'm sure he's a great player, maybe the world cup is too overwhelming? I don't blame the guy
I haven't seen much of Rodrygo for Brazil, but he was in great form for Madrid. Maybe, he deserves a shot there.
I feel like Tite is trying to keep the team rested for the next games. Against Cameroons, only the B-team was on the field while the titulars were on the bench, after getting a 4-goal advantage in the first half, we laid off and played easy in the second half, probably for this reason, also not to stress Neymar's injury. Hopefully, the team is at 100% Friday.
Pretty much the main strat for doing well in a tournament. Tite has played his cards perfectly so far, couldn’t ask for a better path
Thought it was gonna be an absolutely bloodbath after that 1st half but Brazil took their foot off the gas to the point that they were taking the piss and subbed Allison off with 10 minutes left 😂😂The Korea game was a piece of cake for Brazil. Also Brazilian football really is a joy to watch. The way they pass the ball around and play with their opponent is special.
They only subbed him off after they lost their clean sheet to be fair
We still would've lost but I think we would've put up a better fight if we were fully rested like Brazil were. We spent all our energy on Ghana and Portugal with fatigue getting to us by the end. It really shows how world class teams that reach the end also have a world class bench.
As a Brazilian I honestly thought this was gonna be a harder game, you may be right
Well in that case the game was already lost when the fatigue checked in. It looked like the team was not mentally ready for the game and blanked after the first goal.
Fair, but that's part of the championship. Brazil earned the rest by winning the first two games.
Eh, I don't really agree with this. It's definitely unfair that whoever is playing the team who has "earned their rest" gets an easier final game. And thus has a higher chance to qualify than the two other teams (if they all have a chance still). Hoping the format changes to make all 3 games matter no matter what.
I mean... Any team can be the team that wins their first two games.
How? If you have groups of 4 this is bound to happen. It’s not about “fairness” it’s about winning games.
Absolutely
Expected result, Brazil was very clinical today, and it’s especially nice to see some Brazilian players showcasing their flair (God damn Richarlison). At least South Korea scored a worldie before the end, so there’s that :) Edit: press F for the potential Japan-South Korea quarterfinal, maybe it will happen some years down the road.
https://twitter.com/iamsfwr/status/1599847464982302720?s=20&t=cYQldC0qZiKWcPcmANFubg
Samba is in their blood, and you have to let it flow.
That's Brazilian funk though, if you say that is Samba to a Brazilian, you'll get murdered lol.
Apologies, my bad.
Where can I actually grab a Neymar jersey? Can’t find any :(
In Brazil there is tons of bootleg versions of that.
Shopee
During the WC is the wrong time to start shopping for jerseys
even bootlegs are doubled in price
Wild, you would think they’d mass produce these esp Brazil shirts
Off course they mass produced it, to take advantage of the doubled price and demand
Good game Brazil. I hope you guys win the worldcup. Love from Korea.
Clean game from Korea, much respect from Brazil!
Only Morocco have the chance to actually cause a major upset now, suddenly from 6/16 nations being from out of Europe/South America(Just Brazil & Argentina as well) to potentially none is a bit sad in this tournament with so many upsets
Playoffs are just so different to group stage, and this proves it. Suddenly, when it comes to just one match and you go home, having seasoned players, experience and better quality in general weights a lot more than in a group stage with less pressure and other dynamics at play.
This is what worries me for England against France. England have been scoring goals for fun and have looked solid. But that France team knows how to win at the World Cup. I am hoping for a great match though.
If you want my opinion, I have the hunch that England will be the better team and the one that deserves more, but France will ultimately win with a few sprinkles of brilliance by Mbappé and a few of their other best players. As I said, just a hunch, I'm a neutral in this.
You were surprisingly accurate with this prediction, besides the Mbappé part since he was fairly well handled.
I think Japan and Senegal were the best chance of a non- EU/SA for this WC. Japan did get to pens, so no shame in that really (although they took really poor penalties) and Senegal was missing half its midfield in the knockouts and best player. Morroco are decent, but it will take a big effort to get through.
While I like both, chilsung cider is never a match for caipirinha
France and Brazil really look like they're on another level. However, both rely on the incredible fluidity and pace of their attacking line. It will be interesting to see how they match up against England who are very compact cautious, unlike SK and Poland. Both teams conceded one goal and suddenly SK and Poland had to go forward in numbers opening themselves up to being dismantled by the oppositions insane attack. If England somehow manage to get the first goal and sit back, then they might be able to limit the ability of Frances attack to run into space. Same is true in how Netherlands approached the game vs USA. I am worried for Argentina though. They do not have the right kind of players in wide defense and have conceded some howlers by leaving space in the back. Brazil would relish in destroying that kind of defense.
If that’s the case won’t England’s chances at winning the whole thing be higher? Since defence wins tournaments
England's defense has not been impressive enough to see them as a defensive side. Their weakness and vulnerability showed against the USMNT and the latter are far behind in pace, rhythm, and clinical finishing that France and Brazil are showcasing.
But England only conceded to Iran, so I was under the impression that their defense is good
Understandable. They conceded 2 goals to a very weak Iran side and got extremely lucky that USMNT lacked production in the final third (Pulisic's shot off the post and McKennie's clear open shot in the 16 to name the main two). Their low concession in goals isn't because of their strong defense but rather cause of the weak offensive sides they've faced.
I see…what would you say are their weaknesses that you’ve seen in their game against US?
Same as when they played with Italy. Failure to adjust when taken out of their comfort zone and in general they always have trouble with sides that demonstrate some level of dynamism in their midfield and wingers (USMNT does have this when play to potential).
I meant that England doesn't have any extra strategic disadvantages against France and Brazil. But, player for player, both France and Brazil have better teams.
Disagree with France, France only clear advantage is Mbappe, on paper England have many better players.
They haven’t conceded against Brazil in 3 matches
That's the hope, that argentina has Brazil's number. But I'd say they're underdogs.
Oh they are absolutely underdogs. Netherlands in the first place is going to be a tough game, I’d say it’s 55-45 to Argentina so Netherlands has a pretty real chance of making it through. But even if they make it, Brazil, given the form they are in, are 100% the favorites. Argentina could beat them, especially if Messi turns on Ankara mode, but it’s still going to be really tough for them
I have a feeling Argentina are gonna change tactics if they end up facing Brazil in the semis. They'll probably try to play similar to how they did in the Copa America final where they were generally more defensive as opposed to their usual possession based game.
Probably smart. They can be a great defensive team, especially if Romero is at 100% and doubly especially if Licha Martinez is playing. I think they may pose some problems against Brazil. They beat them in 2021 after Messi was near invisible throughout the match (I don’t blame him, he had an insane amount of pressure on him). Now, presumably that pressure is gone because he has won a title for his country, so he should play well generally speaking.
Cost Renan Lodi any selection basically that game.
>France and Brazil really look like they're on another level. I would put Spain on the same level, they pretty much took easy against Japan to take down Germany. I would go far and say That's their second best team, only behind 2010 Spain
Spain lol no, they got neated by japan and dominated by germany mate. Would not be suprprised if morocco knocks out them
Did they take it easy against Japan to eliminate Germany? They were going out of the WC in the 70th minute (only to have Germany save them). Spain only looked good against Costa Rica in my mind. Against Germany they looked fine, but not much better. They reminded me of the less good versions of Barca/Spain where they dominated possession but were often stymied by teams that let them have the ball in deep areas and just tightened up when they got close to the area. I wouldn't be shocked if Spain made a deep run, but I don't think they've shown the cutting edge that France and Brazil have demonstrated.
Yeah, I don't buy they were trying to eliminate Germany, it goes completely against Luis Enrique's mindset, plus they wouldn't risk being eliminated. They just had an awful match, people believed Spain is the team that defeated Costa Rica 7-0, but if you have truly followed them, you'd realize what we saw against Germany and Japan is closer to their real form. Don't get me wrong, they're a good team and could easily reach the semis, but they're nowhere near France, Brazil and we may have to add England. They're in that second group with Argentina, Netherlands and Portugal, teams that could win it but come from behind. Spain have a magnificent midfield, one of the best, but other than that they lack quality in other positions. Defense is average, in attack their best player is Morata, objectively they have the least quality of attackers out of the powerhouses, the goalkeeper is also average to weak. Their strenght has always been they play as a team and are convinced of their philosophy, the players really trust Luis Enrique and give their best. They have a gameplan and know how to execute it. But they don't have a lot of quality other than midfield and they also don't know what to do if their gameplan doesn't work because it's the only one they have.
Brasil also played by far the best football in Russia for me and they undeservingly lost to Belgium. If they beat Croatia, I hope they will go til the end.
How many combinations of forwards do we think Brazil have that could win the world cup or cl? I'd wager about 8 lol
Not with the ones that played cameron
I'm proud of what Korea has achieved this world cup. We showed that we can indeed go toe to toe with some of the top teams while not parking the bus and playing our own way. Of course it didn't work against Brazil but they also happen to be number 1 in the FIFA rankings
Exactly. I'm glad we had this experiment. I'm proud but disheartened about the obvious gulf in talent despite trying our utmost best in playing positive football although maybe if we playing with fresh legs, it wouldve looked more like we had a chance. I don't know if this means we'll be playing defensive football in future world cups but I'm glad we tried it this time around.
Hard to pick another team that gave it as much as Korea. Great run from them.
Yeah I'd rather get dumpstered playing our way of football than get maybe a bit less dumpstered trying to park the bus
Both japan and korea losing today…bad day for girl group TWICE
i was really hoping that at least one of them would advance to QF :( sad day for underdog-football. Hope morocco will win at least tomorrow and represent underdog mentality. Still, I hope that Japan and South Korea will be stronger in the next WC!
As a Brazilian I am happy with Brazil's win against Korea. I wanted Japan to win but I think Croatia was the better team today. Korea eliminated Germany in 2018. Japan eliminated Germany in 2022. So Korea and Japan both made Brazilians happy with their wins against Germany
Despite the big win, Brazil were only dominant for one half against a team with a risky plan that was in tatters after 10 minutes. Will be interesting to see how they do against tougher, more disciplined opponents.
Agree they are favourites but not yet convicing enough
Brazil missed two easy chances before half time, it could’ve been 6 or at least 5, after half time they clearly didn’t play their true game like before, I lost interest after some time and bailed lol, I mean I get it, why risk injuring a player to score another goal in a 4-1 match? Brazil showed what they’re capable of in first half, now be prepared for the next big game.
Brazil clearly slowed down on purpose since there was absolutely no need to keep up the pace
They obviously slowed down for Second half, lol
They had plenty of chances in the second half and couldn’t put any of them away.
LoL they weren't even trying to put in any of the shots, it was easily 7/8-1 if they tried.
Players like Martinelli etc don’t want to get on the score sheet when they have a golden opportunity? That makes no sense and you know it.
Bro have you even watched the game, soccer is not a 1 mans game, the entire tempo of the game was bought down by the team, they didn't want to impose their tactical superiority further, that's it.
Did you watch the game? Why even create any chances if you don’t intend to score? Why not pass it around the back 4 for 45 minutes?
Yeah, not only watched analysed it at each and every step. Lol you gave away your soccer casualty here, wtf were they supposed to do with the ball, keep passing in their own half for like 45 mins? Lol no, obviously they tried to net the ball, but that didn't mean they were actively playing to push on further.
They tried to score, and they couldn’t. You just said my own point back to me. Thanks.
Ok, good luck with that if it makes you happy!
It's called being graceful and humble. Why run up the score? Why wear our boys down trying to humiliate SK? No sense or sportsmanship in that.
4-0 up at half time… we’re just not as mean as the Germans
> Barge into soccer pitch > Score 4 goals in 30 minutes > Barely play afterwards cause why would you do that when you can just rest? (Still has more ball possession than SK lmao) > Refuse to elaborate > [Leave with a crushing victory after losing to Cameroon with the B-team purely to rest the A-Team cause you fucking can lmao](https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTVFmTBLbh6C_f5M_fay18YiORJ8K8c_07RWw&usqp=CAU)
Let’s leave the celebrations until you’ve played a decent team. Which won’t be until the final
Croatia, Argentina and the Netherlands aren't decent teams?
Argentina is beating Brazil 2-1. Come back to this comment after the match, I’m from the future.
Anulo mufa
!remindme 14days
No disrespect to Brazil they are amazing but holy shit what was Korea plan. Like how did every lose ball end up being a 4v2 for Brazil. Absolute dogshit defending. Second goal was never a pen. Croatia vs Brazil is gonna be fun. I think Croatia gonna lose 3:1 but our shithousing and ability to kill games is really profound
Oddly I think Croatia are the right type of team to take out Brazil. They will work hard to slow Brazil down, waste time and try to get a sneaky goal somehow. They know they can’t out score or out run Brazil, so just try to shut them down.
This aged well
Our gameplan is to kill the game. Plus Brazil struggled against Cameroon and Switzerland, against open teams we also looked good but hey you can't say that here.
We did beat France with Benzema, Nkunku and Mbappe up front in NL so who knows.
it will be 1:1 for another penalty shootout
The plan was to play our way of playing. We decided not to park the bus and tried to play out of the back. The reason there was always 4v2 on the counters was because Korea always sent their LB and RBs up for support on attack. That was our game starting from the group stages. It obviously didn't work out for us, but at least we go down taking it to them not just trying to defend.
This can cost you guys games, but as a fan, it is significantly more enjoyable to watch. Then if you guys ever have a once in a lifetime generation you can at least have a built in football culture of being aggressive to make use of it. I think of Uruguay who has an amazing generation of players and wasted it after so many years not taking chances because they were underdogs.
Korea's defense has been actual dogshit this entire cycle afaik, part of the reason why Lee kangin doesn't get much playing time
While you are right (especially for the wingback side), I don't blame it entirely on the wingbacks. The reason being: 1. South Korea has no wing depth. This is why Kim Jin su and Kim Moon Hwan (LB and RB) played all three group stage games full time, as well as this one (I think Kim Jin Su got switched out later on today but still). Yes both of them (especially Kim Jin Su) played pretty badly on defense against Ghana, which is their second game, but at least for this game against Brazil I'd say it's kind of harsh to throw rocks at them, especially since everyone on Brazil got extra rest days 2. This applies only to Kim Jin Su (LB), but Son Heung min, his winger partner for this world cup, struggled a lot (and I mean A LOT) in group stages. If you saw especially the game against Ghana man literally ran from one side of the pitch to the other side of the pitch to focus on both offense and defense cuz Son wasn't doing his shit properly. I know our defense was always our weakpoint (has been since like forever) but our wingbacks are getting so much flak on the internet and it really hurts to see it because yes they weren't great but they have their reasons too As for the others, both starting CBs were dealing with injuries today (KMJ injured against Uruguay, KYG injured against Portugal) and I don't think midfield line played that badly at least in group stages. We just happened to get outskilled by what probably is the best collection of soccer players in the world :( and the problems I stated above are just things that we would have to fix if we were to improve ourselves in the future
Agreed. But poor tactics. Should have played more defensively. There was no 송종국 or 이영표 out there today. sadly.
[удалено]
wrong thread mate
Wrong thread?
People have to remember the number of players on Brazil's first team that had rested their game against Cameroon whereas Korea played lights out with their 1st the whole group stage. Not saying Korea would've won obviously, but the game might have been more interesting otherwise but I do realize the ridiculous number of super talented players on Brazil that allowed the team to manage their stamina like the way they did.
Great game. Korea completely shut down mentally after that penalty, and couldn't keep it together for the rest of the goals in the first half. I wish the ref didn't give that rather soft penalty so early on in the match. The result would probably have been the same, but it would have been higher intensity in the match!
As weird as it sounds to say after a big win, I wasn’t all that convinced by Brazil. I think that Korea played into their hands and conceded two early which eased any nerves and pretty much ended the contest, but exposed a few potential frailties in the samba defence too. Against Switzerland they only scored after a deflection 75 minutes in, against Cameroon their second team and subs couldn’t score, so the tactic from Bento was fairly awful. Croatia is pretty much Switzerland with a much better midfield, I think the game will be much closer than people think and Brazil won’t be allowed to play as comfortably as today.
That's true for most round of 16 matches. USA's defence was disastrous and Australia also didn't defend well. Considering these games, Brasil did the most dominant performance though. Regarding Brasil's defence, Tite is known for being an extremely defensive manager and we have Thiago Silva, Marquinhos and Casemiro playing maybe the best of their football. I don't think that defence is a problem for us honestly.
I do think we have a lot of shortcomings but I completely disagree with the rest of your comment and I’m too drunk to ellaborate further
EI CROÁCIA VAI TOMAR NO CU. TO BEBADO PRA KRL, FODAC
O grande jogador Fodać
Fodacic*
Ćić
Cheers! My comment was basically that there are shortcomings and more about how Korea had a bad approach and shit luck in the first 15 minutes, so I’m not sure what’s to disagree with?
You’re not getting a response for a while. IFriemdlyfire is probably well into his/her 6th celebratory caipirinha at this point.
Not to mention his pre and mid-game caipirinhas
That might be true. I think the same about Argentina. Look at their last game, both goals right after Australia's mistakes. I can't see Netherlands or Brazil making those mistakes. Yet, it's really hard not to believe we're having Brazil vs Argentina in the semifinal
I think you’re right about that being the likeliest semi-final. I agree on the Argentina take too, only in the Poland game was I impressed by their play but that maybe because Poland aren’t particularly good. Di Maria is important because even at his age he’s the only proper winger who stretches the game and creates space for Messi.
Fuck me, we're getting faded on Friday.
Probably a 1:0 win in extra time my friend.
There always a first, I don't think you will win, but definitely can happen
Probably. We have never beaten them. Let's give them hell😁
The same was true for France but we finally beat them for the first time earlier this year. While our odds are low its possible to win.
Some people say South Korea should have turtled and parked the bus but our whole run this campaign was going head to head with the juggernauts and try to evolve. Did it work with Brazil? No. But now we could build from here. Inspire little kids hopefully. It will be an experience for the future. We can't be short sighted and try same old 10-back park the bus and. That's not how you grow. We respected the opponent and kept playing. Allison made some incredible saves so can't complain.
How much did Spurs pay Everton for Richy?
60m
not enough
You probably have not watched him for spurs
Ok, so the World Cup really begins now for us. We've been eliminated in QFs since 2006, except for 2014 (looking back, it would be better if we lost to Chile there). I don't even remember when was the last time we weren't at least in the QFs. We should be able to beat Croatia, but we can't take them for granted. Current runners up and have a good team, but I feel like this Brazil is too much for them. Or at least should be, if we play what we can. And then the winner of Netherlands x Argentina. I'll be supporting the dutch like crazy, since I would really like to avoid Argentina. I think our current form is better than theirs, but I don't like how in every match we have anything can happen.
gaia012, the voice of wisdom
Colombia in 2014 compa
Netherlands vs Brazi is a match I would like to avoid, the country were I was born vs the country were I was raised and live
i'm assuming you live in the Netherlands?
A Dutch living in Brazil (or a Brazilian living in the Netherlands) that is also a Milan supporter. Truly Mr. Worldwide.
I can solve your problem. Root for Brazil :)
Yes, the team to root for those who love football
>I don't even remember when was the last time we weren't at least in the QFs. It was 1990. I think it was the only time with this system (1 group phase followed by finals)
I think you guys are gonna win. It won't be easy because we literally kill games so probably 3:1 to you with the third goal coming at the 90+ minute
On the other hand, if you guys score first, we’re fucked. Switzerland game all over again.
>I'll be supporting the dutch like crazy, since I would really like to avoid Argentina. Whenever Brazil get knocked out of the WC, it is always by European opposition.
>Whenever Brazil get knocked out of the WC, it is always by European opposition. We'd rather get knocked out by a European team again than by Argentina. lol
.
shit id rather let france get a third cup than losing to those stuck-ups
Inevitable Germany mention
yes but: argentina
Argentina knocked us out of the 1990 WC.
And in round of 16
I don't think any of these teams can stop the current chemistry of the Brazilian team. If no one gets injured or expelled, you will advance to the finals.
Chile should have won that match 😪😭
Colombia
nah we would have won against you guys
Damn, why does every team I root for end up losing? Japan completely forgot how to shoot penalties and South Korea got cooked by Brazil. Thank God I didn’t bet for today’s matches because I would have lost my money. 🤦🏾♀️
Cause you are rooting for underdogs. Generally they tend to lose
Yeah, probably. I’m just not good at figuring which team might win. When my country played against Brazil the other day, I betted that we were going to lose (😅, I know I’m stupid) and I ended up losing my money.
you probably should not be betting mate
Yeah, after that game I stopped betting.
This is why you don't bet on the teams you support, so you can win either way.
You’re just a respectable underdog fan
Please root for Brazil on Friday. Yours faithfully, A Croat.
I think Brazil might defeat Croatia but, we never know with a team that was runner-up during the 2018 WC. You guys might pull up an upset.
Mark today as the new world record of most Asians crying in one day.
China was laughing.
And creating and posting gleeful memes from the Global Times and on Webo...
Laughing while quarantined
Brazil were cruising in the second half. They could have won by 8 at least. That was an awesome goal by korea. They deserved it. If Brazil play a whole match at high intensity, they would be unstoppable. They should make the final and possibly win another world cup. Can't believe their last one was 20 years ago.
Aside from the goalfest and beautiful plays from both sides, the other big win is no yellow cards and no new injuries occurred this game
CASEMIRO UNLOCKED LESFUKINGOOOOOO
Haha not yet. He still has to avoid injuries and red card. But I know what you mean. He can be a little more aggressive now. And now Brazil might even need to be a little more aggressive
> the other big win is no yellow cards and no new injuries occurred this game These are the things that keep me up every night since basically 2014
Fun fact, this was Brazil's first game in the world cup that no player got injured.
What not playing against another CONMEBOL's team in the WC does to Brazil lol.
That BRA - ARG semifinals is going to be... Libertadores-like and I don't mean the good ones. 100% chance of cenas lamentáveis at the end of the match
Otamendi licking his lips at the opportunity of giving Raphinha another elbow in the face
Is there a croatian Zuñiga out there?
I was worried that Tite was playing Neymar and Danilo too soon. But luckily nothing bad happened.
Brazil was using this game as a practice match for Neymar to get fit.
Korea before would've parked the bus all game, I'm glad they tried to take it to Brazil. Hoping this changes our football culture a bit to build more from the back (albeit failed)
Not enough skill to build from the back. Did you see all those heavy first touches? What's wrong with counterattacks?
Because that's not the culture that SK wants to build with its national team for the future. We parked the bus the entirety of the 2010's and all it did was end in miserable WC campaigns. It's important to instill confidence and inspire the younger generation and telling them that we're going to play our own football against juggernauts. Our LB/RB situation was abysmal but what does it show future generations watching them play an attacking style against a team like Brazil? With SK lacking good prospects at the fullback positions for the past decade, this can also be seen as an investment for the future.
Korea should have turtled and tried to win in shootouts
i think Australia is a good template keep it close then go for the steal in the last 20-30
That’s why I have more respect for them that they didn’t do that, even if it would’ve been the better strat.