Thread to discuss the football itself.
This is not a thread to discuss the hosting of the competition in Quatar.
You can discuss the hosting in the relevant thread.
It's the Spanish way. It is drilled into them from kids. Pass the ball around ad nauseam. Always go for the safe, short pass. They are practically afraid to hit the ball that might rise a metre off the ground.
In fairness, one of the co-commentators on Spanish TV (think it was Javi Martinez) was complaining that they weren't putting it into the box so maybe there are some people turning against it but, in my time here, it really seems like its been embedded into the Spanish football psyche that that is the only way to play football.
Surprised at Santos' selections. No Cancelo, Ronaldo, Neves, while Leao still left out. If you're Swiss, you're feeling pretty good about that line-up. Want Portugal to advance and thought they would, but leaning towards the Swiss to edge it now. I'd say France and England are hoping Portugal go out.
I can see Switzerland winning the next game although dropping Ronnie was a good move by the Portugal manger.
True I wasn't that serious about it threw me for a loop as I looked down and then up and then I saw a fez
Enough with the Bono puns. They’ll still be going by New Years Day at this rate.
Switzerland or Morocco in a WC semi-final, I reckon they'd fancy that alright...
Tuchel also did it at Wembley, against Liverpool. Brought on Kepa, who saved none and missed the deciding kick.
The Portugal manager sticking to his word of dropping the man child because of his attitude. Cancelo also being dropped is big news.
Portugal will be able to play as a team at least, all the sides trying to carry these players who wont or can't put in the hard yards have fallen away, outside of Argentina, but Messi still brings a hell of a lot to the team
The Morroco keeper had more Desire, I'd say the moving in mysterious ways put the Spanish lads off a bit. Where ever they kicked them he followed.
Some of the stuttery Spanish penalties, I mean it looked like they were running to stand still.
Spain didn't even score One, that was Bad - I'd love to be The Fly on the wall of that dressing room now after all that practice. They must feel like right Lemons.
Messi ie the youngest of them all I'd say too is he? 2/3 years between him and Ronaldo, not sure bout Lewa but I'm sure he's younger, who else is doing it that I'm forgetting? Uruguay maybe were?
The Portuguese way to keep it tight at the start and in that context holding back Ronaldo and Neves and Cancelo I guess makes sense, especially if your considering extra time and penalties
Ya he is younger then Ronnie not sure on lewa close enough I think, Messi and him were topping the walking charts after the group stages.
Wales deffo did it will bale and Ramsey like they either couldn't or wouldn't run.
It frustrates the life out if me especially at the world cup.
Watching some of the lesser talented teams who play tactically sound football and all put in a shift from Canada (who had no luck) USA Morocco Switzerland is refreshing to see.
I think the standard of managers the European teams have brought on average have been behind the curve
Jesus, Ronaldo loves the spotlight - but that is some spotlight at the bench there.
Not sure who he sat beside on the bench but he was struggling to contain his laughter at the situation.
Stadium not even nearly full is a joke for this stage of a world cup, joke for any stage really
Signori never missed a penalty and never ran up to a penalty.
Ballsy call by the Portuguese manager. I mean, I can’t stand the preening git, but he’s probably more likely than anyone else to get a goal. Manager will be slaughtered if the6 don’t win. I sense another Piers Morgan interview incoming !
Spain out and finally a side from Asia/Africa through and Ronaldo put back in his box. Best night of the 16 easily.
Stupid to finally drop Ronaldo and still not pick Leao though.
The Portuguese press still looks bad but at least they all run
Yea the Portuguese players all have the runs in them, Ronaldo static, but does get there if a chance falls
GOAL
Ramos
Not even Ronaldo scores that
I wonder will this finally kill possession for possession sake and actually have teams start developing/using strikers.
Managers call has payed off , absolute rocket of a strike
Did Ronaldo run down to celebrate like the rest of the subs?
Looks like a good call by the Manager so far. CR12 looks a bit green around the gills!😀
Okay.
But if Schar could turn back time he would have tried to get a block on Ramos's shot
Yeah he ran down.......the tunnel and back to the hotel
He might claim it though ☺️
Thats the big debate forming in Germany. Too many very similar classroom trained footballers not enough naturally commanding players at the front and back.
Pep must be home balling his eyes out at the thought of defensive defenders and goalkeepers that keep goal. He has already danced with the devil by having the big man up front.
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