One of the best World Cups in recent memory has now progressed to the knockout stages. Here's the lowdown on the best, and the worst so far.
Best Team: The Netherlands.
A young, inexperienced Dutch team came into the Cup with their place in the last 16 threatened by Spain and Chile, but Louis van Gaal's side started the tournament with a bang- decimating a surprisingly lackluster Spain side. Despite stuttering slightly against Australia's Socceroos, they have played brilliant attacking football and have been an absolute joy to watch. Another convincing win would see them as absolute favourites to reach a second semi final in a row.
Worst Team: Cameroon
The Indomitable Lions seemed anything but, capping a disappointing World Cup for Africa. Internal disputes turned into altercations between players on the pitch itself, while main players like Samuel Eto'o and Alex Song underwhelmed, the latter especially so. While they were plain boring against Mexico, the performance against Croatia was utterly woeful, with Alex Song being sent off for an utterly brainless elbow to the back of Mario Mandzukic and Benoit Assou-Ekotto attacking his own teammate, Benjamin Moukandjo. An absolute disgrace.
Most Promising Player: Divock Origi
Origi has been sensational for a Belgian side that have laboured for their three wins, despite boasting a vast array of attacking options. The previously unheard- of teen from Lille was impressive against the dogged Algerians and scored late to win it against Russia. He may not feature much in the coming rounds but he has had Europe's biggest clubs (and Spurs) sitting up and taking notice.
Most likely to win the Golden Ball: Lionel Messi (Again)
Yes, him again. Lionel Messi single handedly carried Argentina into the knockout stages with stunning goals in every match. While his team have appeared disjointed and have been largely underwhelming, The Little Flea has been at his best. A disastrous campaign for Cristiano Ronaldo means that he may still be in contention for the Ballon D' Or provided The Albiceleste fulfill their potential.
Most disappointing player: Luis Suarez, beyond a shred of doubt.
While he remains a brilliant player, Luis Suarez's cannibalistic tendencies are threatening to overshadow his prolific scoring. After a great season, which saw him break records for a resurgent Liverpool, his bite on Giorgio Chiellini has ruined his season and will ensure that his name remains infamous in World Cup folklore for years to come. What a shame.
While Brazil still remain favourites, sides like Costa Rica and Algeria have made history and deserve recognition for their achievements. It promises to be a humdinger of a World Cup, let's hope it doesn't disappoint.
Best Team: The Netherlands.
A young, inexperienced Dutch team came into the Cup with their place in the last 16 threatened by Spain and Chile, but Louis van Gaal's side started the tournament with a bang- decimating a surprisingly lackluster Spain side. Despite stuttering slightly against Australia's Socceroos, they have played brilliant attacking football and have been an absolute joy to watch. Another convincing win would see them as absolute favourites to reach a second semi final in a row.
Worst Team: Cameroon
The Indomitable Lions seemed anything but, capping a disappointing World Cup for Africa. Internal disputes turned into altercations between players on the pitch itself, while main players like Samuel Eto'o and Alex Song underwhelmed, the latter especially so. While they were plain boring against Mexico, the performance against Croatia was utterly woeful, with Alex Song being sent off for an utterly brainless elbow to the back of Mario Mandzukic and Benoit Assou-Ekotto attacking his own teammate, Benjamin Moukandjo. An absolute disgrace.
Most Promising Player: Divock Origi
Origi has been sensational for a Belgian side that have laboured for their three wins, despite boasting a vast array of attacking options. The previously unheard- of teen from Lille was impressive against the dogged Algerians and scored late to win it against Russia. He may not feature much in the coming rounds but he has had Europe's biggest clubs (and Spurs) sitting up and taking notice.
Most likely to win the Golden Ball: Lionel Messi (Again)
Yes, him again. Lionel Messi single handedly carried Argentina into the knockout stages with stunning goals in every match. While his team have appeared disjointed and have been largely underwhelming, The Little Flea has been at his best. A disastrous campaign for Cristiano Ronaldo means that he may still be in contention for the Ballon D' Or provided The Albiceleste fulfill their potential.
Most disappointing player: Luis Suarez, beyond a shred of doubt.
While he remains a brilliant player, Luis Suarez's cannibalistic tendencies are threatening to overshadow his prolific scoring. After a great season, which saw him break records for a resurgent Liverpool, his bite on Giorgio Chiellini has ruined his season and will ensure that his name remains infamous in World Cup folklore for years to come. What a shame.
While Brazil still remain favourites, sides like Costa Rica and Algeria have made history and deserve recognition for their achievements. It promises to be a humdinger of a World Cup, let's hope it doesn't disappoint.
No comments:
Post a Comment