World Cup Round up – Tuesday 8 July 2014

In the first semi-final of the tournament, Brazil faced Germany at the Mineirão in Belo Horizonte. Germany absolutely humiliated Brazil as they defeated them by 7 goals to 1. Germany go through to the final of the World Cup and will face the winner of the other semi-final between Holland and Argentina. Brazil now have to place a game for 3rd place against the loser of the other semi-final. The hosts started brightly against Colombia in the quarter-finals, but looked nervous early on and Germany took full advantage when Müller put them in front just 11 minutes in courtesy of some dreadful defending. It was all too straightforward for the Bayern Munich forward, who side-footed home after being left unmarked from an outswinging Kroos corner. Brazil looked disjointed as they gave the ball away far too easily, while Germany were playing with a swagger and doubled their lead with a landmark Klose goal after 23 minutes. Müller was involved once again, as he cut in from the right and laid the ball off for Klose after being picked out by an incisive Kroos pass. The veteran striker slotted into the corner with his right foot after Julio Cesar had kept out his initial attempt. Luiz Felipe Scolari’s men were stunned, but far worse was to come as Germany capitalised on more shambolic defending to score another three goals in the space of five minutes. First, Kroos was on hand to fire home with his left foot from 18 yards after Müller had failed to make contact with a Philipp Lahm pass, then the midfielder struck again almost straight from the kick-off as Brazil fell apart. The Bayern Munich man robbed Fernandinho as he dithered in possession and laid the ball off for Khedira, who unselfishly cut it back for his fellow midfielder to net. And the outstanding Khedira got in on the act by adding a fifth with only 29 minutes gone, driving forward and passing to Mesut Özil and then finishing with his right foot after the Arsenal midfielder cut the ball back to him inside the penalty area. Scolari replaced Fernandinho and Hulk with Paulinho and Ramires at half-time and both substitutes were in the thick of the action early in the second half as they brought saves out of Manuel Neuer. But normal service was resumed as Germany showed no mercy and Cesar produced a fine save to tip over Müller’s goal-bound striker on the hour mark. Cesar could do nothing to deny substitute Schürrle a sixth goal 69 minutes in, though, and once again it was all too easy as Lahm fed Khedira, who in turn picked out the Chelsea forward and he made no mistake with a simple finish. And Schürrle put Germany in seventh heaven with a clinical left-foot finish at the near post 11 minutes from time that prompted Brazil fans to sportingly applaud despite their heartbreak. Oscar pulled a goal back when he cut inside Jerome Boateng and finished a minute from time, but the damage had long since been done.

This game has shown why I tip Germany to win the Cup, they are more than a incredible team, no one else could of done that to Brazil and whoever they face in the final doesn’t stand a chance of defeating them. We might as well crown them as winners now. If Brazil had Neymar and Silva this game would of gone differently but I’d expect Germany still to win. They are Brazil’s top 2 key players and to lose both was a reason why they scored so little and conceded so much. Brazil deserved what they got, throughout the whole tournament they have been poor but they still managed to win, before this game they hadn’t really faced a big side and when they did, they got punished.

Meanwhile in Manchester United news Patrice Evra looks more than likely to join Juventus sooner rather than later. Juventus are negotiating Evra with Manchester United, he’s one of their big targets ahead on next year’s European campaign. They like the French left-back a lot, the player is evaluating the transfer. The Italian club is optimistic and is pushing, the deal could be closed in the next day. They offer €2M and they hope they can complete the negotiation with that fee, but United want €5M.

This transfer is more than done, it’s sad to see him leave after many great years at this club, to me he will leave as a legend, he is one of the most passionate players I have ever seen play in a Manchester United shirt and I thank him for that. Obviously as Evra leaves, we will need to replace him with another left back as we only have one again. Who could join, Daley Blind? Ricardo Rodriguez? Time will tell.

World Cup Round up – Saturday 5 July 2014

In the first quarter-final game of the day, Argentina faced Belgium at the Estádio Nacional in Brasilia. Argentina defeated Belgium 1-0 and they advance to the Semi-Finals. Argentina came in for criticism following their disjointed display against Switzerland in the last 16, but started on the front foot and were rewarded when Higuain put them in front with a fine finish on eight minutes. Unsurprisingly, Messi was involved, carrying the ball forward from the middle of the park and picking out Angel Di Maria, whose pass deflected invitingly for Higuain to swivel and dispatch a fierce effort into the far corner of the net. Argentina were brimming with confidence, but they were almost caught out four minutes before the break, when Mirallas’ powerful header flew narrowly wide after he was picked out by an inviting Jan Vertonghen cross. Higuain was a real handful for the Belgium defence and almost doubled his side’s lead with a stunning solo goal nine minutes into the second half. The striker embarked on a bursting run, in which he skipped past Kompany all too easily before unleashing a venomous right-footed shot that struck the top of the crossbar. Chances were few and far between up the other end, but Marouane Fellaini should have tested Sergio Romero when he headed off target after Vertonghen whipped in another dangerous cross. Belgium threw men forward in an attempt to force extra time and saw a late deflected Kevin de Bruyne shot flash just wide. Messi then spurned a chance to finish Belgium off three minutes into time added on when he raced clear, but Thibaut Courtois stood tall to thwart him. Axel Witsel sliced a late volley over the bar from the edge of the box, leaving Argentina to hold on to seal their place in the semi-finals, where they will face the winner of the quarter-final between Netherlands and Costa Rica.

Argentina do not deserve to be in the semi-final, in every game they have played awful but yet somehow won, they have won all their games and won them all by 1 goal, some matches they left it late. Also, they have had a really easy route to the semis, they faced Bosnia, Iran and Nigeria in their group, Switzerland and Belgium in the knockout rounds. These are teams I expect them to score lots of goals against but they have struggled against every side. I can see them coming to life for once though when they face a top side, most likely in the final. Belgium have also been slightly disappointing just like Argentina, winning games by 1 goal, leaving it late and having an easy route. I expected them to lose against Argentina but I didn’t expected them to play as poor as they did.

Manchester United’s Marouane Fellaini played the full game for Belgium, He played like the average Fellaini we have seen at United. He was up and down the field but he couldn’t get anywhere near Messi when attempting to help his team defend, he also conceded a numerous amount of unnecessary fouls. Adnan Januzaj was yet again an unused substitute for Belgium.

The final quarter final game of the tournament was a match between Costa Rica and The Netherlands at the Arena Fonte Nova in Salvador. Holland defeated Costa Rica 4-3 on penalties and they face Argentina in the Semi Finals. Memphis Depay, starting having twice netted from the bench in this tournament, gave Van Persie the game’s first clear opening in the 21st minute but Navas closed the angle well and stopped Sneijder’s follow up.
Navas saved well in the 29th minute as Van Persie and Depay reversed their earlier roles, while a frantic Dutch clearance as Johnny Acosta looked to turn home Celso Borges’ set-piece knockdown underlined a developing end-to-end feel. Robben’s admission that he dived during the Netherlands’ win over Mexico in the previous round dominated the pre-match build-up and Umana followed Diaz into the book after he too fouled the forward, who cleverly set up Sneijder to blaze over from the resulting 53rd-minute set play. It was Joel Campbell and not his illustrious opponent who went to ground easily in the 60th minute as a promising Diaz raid down the left came to nothing, before Giancarlo Gonzalez headed over from another fine Christian Bolanos delivery to increase Dutch anxiety. There was contact from Gonzalez and another booking as Robben went to ground theatrically in the 81st minute. Sneijder watched his free-kick from the left-hand corner of the area cannon back off the post. Van Persie was then denied by Navas and he somehow failed to connect with Sneijder’s delicious 88th-minute cross. The Manchester United man was not done there and – after Navas punched his free-kick away in stoppage time – Costa Rica midfielder Yeltsin Tejeda cleared Van Persie’s shot off the goal line via the crossbar, Daley Blind’s low centre having caused complete chaos. The start of extra time brought little let-up and Navas produced further acrobatics to keep out Ron Vlaar’s header, but a flap at the resulting corner showed the Levante man was not infallible. Vlaar was unimpressed as Urena sought a penalty at his expense, although Pinto’s men were restricted to a largely defensive brief as the additional period progressed. Urena crafted his team’s best chance, drawing a nerveless 117th-minute save from Cillessen at the end of a jinking run and penalties arrived after Sneijder rattled the crossbar from distance with Navas rooted to the spot. Krul came on as substitute in the 119th minute to be the keeper for the penalty shoot-out, this raised many eyebrows. But Van Gaal’s genius tactics worked as Holland scored all of their taken penalties and Krul saved 2 to take them through to the semis.

The Netherlands shouldn’t be happy with the performance they put up today, they was poor in front of goal despite having most of the possession and shots. But Louis Van Gaal has proved he is a genius with another amazing substitution and won the game on penalties. I don’t think Holland will beat Argentina, Argentina may have been poor but I can see them getting lucky once again without playing well. Costa Rica have been outstanding in this tournament, I thought they was one of the worse teams in the tournament before it started and so did everyone else, but they have proved everyone wrong and won the hearts of many, defeating Uruguay, Italy and Greece. They also held England to a 0-0 draw. I hope to see more of the same from them next time, they have done their country proud.

Manchester United’s Robin Van Persie played the full 120 minutes for Holland and took a penalty in the shoot out. He played okay as he missed a lot of chances but he scored his penalty in the shoot out to help his team win.

World Cup Round up – Friday 4 July 2014

In the first Quarter-Final of the tournament, Germany faced France at the Maracanã in Rio de Janeiro. Germany defeated France 1-0 and it takes them through to the Semi-Finals. Germany made the better start, but it was France who had the first effort on goal in the seventh minute when Benzema volleyed Mathieu Valbuena’s chipped pass narrowly wide. Hummels made France pay for that miss five minutes later when he broke the deadlock with his second goal of the 2014 World Cup. The defender beat Raphael Varane to Kroos’ set-piece and sent a glancing header in off the underside of the crossbar. Twice Germany had appeals for penalties waved away, claiming fouls by Mathieu Debuchy on Miroslav Klose and Thomas Müller, but on each occasion referee Nestor Pitana signalled for play to continue. Neuer was finally called into action for the first time 11 minutes before the break, and reacted brilliantly to keep out Valbuena’s left-footed volley, before Hummels deflected Benzema’s rebound over the bar. The striker continued to threaten as half-time approached, seeing his header blocked by the body of Hummels and then firing a strike straight at Neuer after cutting in from the left shortly afterwards. France cautiously pressed for an equaliser after the break, but Varane’s header from Valbuena’s right-wing cross on the hour-mark was comfortable for the goalkeeper. Benzema worked some space inside the area with 14 minutes to play, but once again Hummels was there to block and Neuer parried away Blaise Matuidi’s effort from a tight angle. With France forced to push men forward, they left themselves vulnerable on the break and Lloris saved well from Schürrle, who ought to have done better eight minutes from time. Neuer then palmed away Benzema’s angled drive late on as Germany held on to seal yet another semi-final berth and send France crashing out.

Germany have been showing their dominance all tournament and the have shown it against a big side to prove they can win this World Cup, which I believe they will. They were lacking creativity in attack but they were solid at the back, which was all they needed to win. France had faced easy sides before this game and looked like a really strong team, but when they faced a really strong team they couldn’t prove they are good enough.

Manchester United’s Patrice Evra played the full game for France, I thought he played okay, he didn’t allow Özil a lot of room to maneuver on his flank, but provided little attacking support. He is most likely leaving Manchester United for Juventus this summer, even though he recently signed a contract extension he has agreed personal terms with Juve and they are awaiting a reply from United and Louis Van Gaal.

In the second Quarter Final, Brazil faced Colombia at the Arena Castelão in Fortaleza. Brazil defeated Colombia 2-1 and they face Germany in the semi-final. Despite such scrutiny, the hosts made a flying start to surge ahead after seven minutes. Silva was the hero, silencing his critics by sneaking behind Carlos Sanchez and kneeing home at the back post from close range after Colombia fatally failed to clear Neymar’s corner. Behind for the first time in the competition, Colombia found an immediate response as Juan Cuadrado’s effort was deflected just wide. Yet it was still Brazil looking the more purposeful, Hulk twice forcing good stops from David Ospina. The second period did not assume the same pace, Jose Pekerman’s side failing to find the fluency that has been their calling card. Indeed, the biggest moment of those exchanges came when Silva collided with Ospina as the Colombia shot-stopper attempted to kick from his hands, the subsequent yellow card ruling him out of the next phase. With chances few and far between, it took a moment of brilliance from Luiz to leave Brazil on the brink of the last four after 69 minutes. James, so often Colombia’s star, crucially brought down Hulk 30 yards from goal, paving the way for Luiz to send a stunning strike beyond Ospina. But just when it seemed a nation could calm down, there was a twist in the tail when Julio Cesar felled Carlos Bacca in the area. The goalkeeper was fortunate not to be shown a red, although that had little impact on tournament top-scorer James – who continued his record of scoring in every game when he coolly sent Cesar the wrong way.
As if the tension was not palpable enough, many in attendance were left with heads in hands late on as Neymar was taken from the field after being caught by Zuniga in the dying minutes. Brazil defended defiantly during injury time to seal their semi-final spot against Germany and continue their quest for a sixth world title.

Brazil probably put up their best performance of the tournament but it still wasn’t impressive and still managed to win, with the help of the referee. I think when they face Germany next they will be simply overpowered and beaten, due to the fact they have not been playing well and there is a possibility of having no Neymar, who is their key man. Colombia gave been unfortunately been eliminated, they have been playing amazing until this game, hopefully they come back better and stronger in 2018.

Evra agreement with Juventus – Wednesday 2 July 2014

Juventus have reached an agreement on a contract with the 33-year old French left-back, on the basis of a two-year 3.5 million euro net per season. Before the World Cup Evra renewed the contract for one season with Manchester United, the signal that indicates the intention of the Red Devils not to leave on a free transfer. Juventus are waiting for an answer from Manchester United and Manager Louis Van Gaal.

I personally do not want this to happen, Evra might not be a great left back anymore but he is the one in the team with the most passion and knows what it means to wear the Manchester United shirt. He can teach knew left back Luke Shaw and help him become a better player. It would also mean us having a new left back when we just thought we had that position finally covered. Top candidate to replace Evra would be Daley Blind. The telegraph reported that our top target is Vidal plus any of Nigel de Jong, Daley Blind, Stefan De Vrij, Edinson Cavani and William Carvalho.

World Cup Round up – Tuesday 1st July 2014

In the first Last-16 game of the day Group F winners Argentina faced Group E runners up Switzerland at the Arena Corinthians in São Paulo. Argentina defeated the Swiss 1-0 after extra time. Chances were few and far between for both sides in the opening stages in Sao Paulo – a Gonzalo Higuain header that comfortably cleared the crossbar was as close as either came to hitting the target inside the first 25 minutes. Switzerland injected some life into an otherwise dormant half in the 28th minute when Granit Xhaka and Stephan Lichsteiner were both denied by Sergio Romero in the Argentina goal, before Lavezzi called Diego Benaglio into action at the other end with his team’s first accurate effort moments later. Romero was far from convincing in keeping out a Shaqiri free-kick from 25 yards five minutes into the second half, and Argentina looked short of ideas going forward, evoking memories of their last-gasp 1-0 victory over Iran in the group stage. Benaglio’s reflexes were put to the test shortly after the hour mark as he tipped over from a powerful Higuain header, and Messi shot narrowly over soon after as the Argentinian pressure started to build. Messi went close again with a drilled effort that Benaglio got down well to meet, but both nets remained untroubled as a last-16 clash entered extra-time for the fourth time this tournament. Having disappointed for much of the game, Di Maria ultimately emerged as the hero for Argentina. The 26-year-old, who had earlier forced Benaglio into a fine save at his near post in the second half of extra-time, received the ball following a probing run from Messi and calmly slotted a left-footed finish across Benaglio and into the far corner. Dzemaili remarkably had a chance to equalise in injury time, but headed against the post from close range before failing to convert the rebound.

Argentina have shown in every game in this World Cup that they have to make it hard for themselves, they have won every game but they have left it late most times. They are yet to play a big side but they cannot play like they have been doing when they do. I think Argentina can win it only because they have Messi and they have a easy route to the final, they only have to face one strong side but I think they would lose against someone like Germany. Switzerland have had a good campaign, expect against France but they played well today, they parked the bus most of the time but they kept Argentina at bay until they gained confidence and started to attack when Di Maria scored.

In the final Last-16 game Group H winners Belgium faced Group G runners up USA at the Arena Fonte Nova in Salvador. Belgium defeated the Americans 2-1 after extra time and they face Argentina in the Quarter Finals. Divock Origi almost enjoyed a dream start, stealing in behind the defence to draw a fine save from Howard on the angle inside the first minute. But the United States quickly settled into the contest and Michael Bradley combined with Dempsey for a 20th-minute opening, although the latter’s shot lacked the power to trouble Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Vertonghen was proving a potent attacking threat from full-back and he forced DaMarcus Beasley into a vital goalmouth clearance, with Marouane Fellaini poised to convert. Influential USA right-back Fabian Johnson departed with a hamstring injury after the half hour, although the pacey runs of replacement DeAndre Yedlin provided a useful counter-point to Belgium’s razor-sharp threat on the break. Howard was forced into an acrobatic stop to touch Dries Mertens’ looping header behind two minutes into the second period, and Belgium settled into the groove of calm, assured possession football they were denied during the opening half. De Bruyne and Origi somehow both failed to convert Vertonghen’s brilliant 54th-minute cross and the young striker flicked a header onto the crossbar two minutes later. There was an air of inevitability in Howard keeping out Origi’s rasping shot and turn after Hazard smashed into the side-netting, while Kompany instigated a 90th-minute counter only to have a scuffed attempt impressively saved.
Somehow the USA retained an attacking threat amid the onslaught and the sight of Chris Wondolowski blazing over unmarked from an offside position served due warning to Belgium heading into extra time. Having almost single-handedly brought about the additional period, Howard was beaten by De Bruyne after Lukaku’s fresh legs proved decisive down the left flank, and the powerhouse striker made it two as a Belgium break finally came to fruition. With the game seemingly up, Jurgen Klinsmann threw on Green and his swivelled volley put the match back in the balance. After Jones’ close shave, Dempsey looked destined to send it to a shoot-out but it was Courtois’ turn to provide goalkeeping heroics after a brilliant set-piece routine as Wilmots’ charges held on.

Belgium have a 100% win record in this World Cup and have made every game look like hard work, they haven’t scored in the first half yet and they just held on against USA. They are playing like their next opponents Argentina, leaving it late to find a winner, but I think Argentina will be the stronger team against Belgium and they will progress. USA have had an Amazing World Cup, I never thought they would get out of their group but poor performances from Portugal helped them. They have shown they are a strong team but all their fans will go back to not caring about football until USA are back in the World Cup.

Manchester United’s Marouane Fellaini played the full 120 minutes in this game and he had a quiet game lying in a deep midfield role. He struggled to make his mark on the game and gave away to many cheap free kicks. Adnan Januzaj was on bench for the game but was an unused substitute.

World Cup Round up – Monday 30 June 2014

In the first Second Round game of the day Group E winners France faced Group F runners up Nigeria at the Estádio Nacional in Brasilia. Les Blues defeated the Super Eagles 2-0 and they progress to the Quarter Finals. Nigeria’s pace and drive in attack left France disorganised early on and when Olivier Giroud hacked over from Benzema’s 15th-minute pass, it marked a rare moment of encouragement for Didier Deschamps’ team. Emenike was similarly off-target from a promisingly-placed free-kick, before the Nigeria forward was denied by a 19th-minute offside flag. France right-back Mathieu Debuchy breathed a sigh of relief having horribly sliced a clearance to Ahmed Musa, whose low cross was touched home by Emenike at the near post. Enyeama made a remarkable reaction save after Pogba drove forward and smashed a 23rd-minute volley goalwards on the end of Mathieu Valbuena’s return cross. A drop in tempo around the half-hour mark clearly suited France, but Debuchy could not capitalise when a patient spell of possession sent a half-chance his way. A frantic close to the half matched its opening, with France goalkeeper Hugo Lloris far from convincing behind a speculative Emenike drive. Peter Odemwingie tested Lloris with a 65th-minute drive that bounced awkwardly, while tension in the French ranks was increasingly shown by sloppy errors in possession. Benzema’s low cross was cleared for Cabaye to thunder a rasping shot against the bar and Enyeama excelled himself again to keep out a Benzema header. But he erred from Valbuena’s resulting corner as France took the lead when Paul Pogba headed home into a empty net, making a later outstanding stop to thwart Griezmann seem particularly cruel. Nigeria’s defence became disjointed in the closing minutes and Yobo’s own goal under pressure from Griezmann made the defender’s 100th cap one to forget. The last five times that France have taken part in the knockout stages of the World Cup, they have reached the semi-finals or better.

France are still yet to face a big side in this tournament and they need to put on a good performance against one to prove they can win the World Cup. France were outstanding in the Group Stages but didn’t look to good in today’s game. In my opinion France will not make it past the next round as they are most likely to face Germany. Nigeria have had an good campaign, but I never saw them getting past the Group Stage. I’m sorry to say they will never be good enough to win the World Cup, but they can rule Africa.

Manchester United’s Patrice Evra played the full game for France. He was solid at most times, but he drifted out of position sometimes and didn’t put in effort to get back. He was also troubled by Musa sometimes.

In the second Last-16 game of the day Group G winners Germany faced Group H runners up Algeria at the Estádio Beira-Rio in Porto Alegre. Germany defeated Algeria 2-1 after extra time and they face France in the Quarter Finals. Algeria made a flying start and Manuel Neuer had to make a sliding tackle to deny Slimani an effort on goal from wide on the left in the ninth minute, after the goalkeeper had initially misjudged a charge from his line. Slimani converted Faouzi Ghoulam’s wonderful cross from the left with a diving header in the 17th minute, but the referee’s assistant correctly ruled that the Sporting Lisbon man had strayed offside, before Ghoulam flashed another effort narrowly off target as Algeria continued to dominate.
Germany gradually grew into the game towards the end of the first half, Müller heading wide and Özil testing Rais M’Bolhi with a dipping effort.
Yet Algeria hit back in the 39th minute, Mehdi Mostefa thumping in a shot from 25 yards which deflected off Jerome Boateng and past the left-hand post with Neuer completely wrong-footed. Germany enjoyed a more assured opening to the second period, Schürrle seeing an effort deflected just wide before Skhodran Mustafi, who replaced Mats Hummels in defence with Boateng switching to centre-back, headed straight at M’Bolhi from Kroos’ delivery. As the game wore on the play became stretched and Slimani sent a rasping effort from distance straight into the arms of Neuer 15 minutes from time. Germany responded strongly and Müller ought to have scored his fifth goal of the tournament shortly afterwards, but his powerful header was beaten away by M’Bolhi. Müller had another clear chance moments later, stabbing the ball wide after a glorious touch to bring the ball under control, while Bastian Schweinsteiger was unable to seriously trouble M’Bolhi with a weak header from Lahm’s chipped pass. Löw’s side then struck early in the first extra period, Schürrle adjusting brilliantly to backheel Müller’s cross from the left into the net. Algeria could have levelled through Mostefa, who snatched an effort wide from 10 yards after Germany failed to deal with a corner. Özil then made the game safe in the closing stages, lashing high into the net after Schürrle had been denied just in front of the goalline by Essaid Belkalem, although there was one final twist as Djabou converted a right-wing cross at the back post to net a deserved consolation for Algeria.

Germany are doing great in this competition so far but if they want to get past France, they cannot play like they did here. They were far from their best and you would expect them to easily beat Algeria. I still tip the Germans to win the tournament but they must play a lot better. Algeria have had a great campaign and they play incredibly well today. It came as a surprise when they advanced out of the group but they cannot be written off, they have a fast attacking side but unfortunately they couldn’t put enough chances away against the Germans.

World Cup Round up – Sunday 29 June 2014

In the first Last-16 game of the day Group B winners Netherlands faced Group A runners up Mexico at the Arena Castelão in Fortaleza. Louis Van Gaal’s Netherlands defeated Mexico 2-1 due to two late goals. Netherlands advance to the Quarter Finals. Van Persie returned from a one-match ban and slotted straight back into Louis van Gaal’s starting XI. Van Gaal was forced into a change in the ninth minute when Nigel de Jong was replaced by Bruno Martins Indi, although signs of any injury were unclear. Mexico, who had Carlos Salcido back in place of the suspended Jose Juan Vazquez, had the first sight of goal in the 17th minute when Hector Herrera fired wide of the left-hand post from just inside the area following good work from Oribe Peralta. Miguel Herrera’s men felt they should have had a penalty shortly afterwards, but Ron Vlaar’s high foot on Hector Herrera went unpunished by referee Pedro Proenca. Following the first of two cooling breaks in which the players took on fluids to combat the searing temperatures, Mexico went close again just before the interval, Dos Santos seeing his effort saved by the legs of Cillessen. The Dutch were denied a penalty of their own in stoppage time, Robben going down under a challenge from Hector Moreno, but once again the match official waved play on, with the latter carried off on a stretcher following the incident. Mexico made a flying start to the second period, Dos Santos lashing a bouncing ball into the bottom right-hand corner from 25 yards three minutes after the restart. Netherlands came close to an equaliser in the 58th minute, but Ochoa made a superb reaction stop from Stefan de Vrij, tipping the ball onto the post after the defender met Robben’s corner four yards from goal. Ochoa was called into action again in the 74th minute, rushing from his line to deny Robben as the Bayern Munich man bore down on goal, while Vlaar headed the resulting corner over the bar from six yards.
Then came the late drama. Robben’s corner was headed back into the centre of the area by Huntelaar, and Sneijder met it unchallenged to lash a shot into the bottom corner past a motionless Ochoa. And deep into the extended injury-time period – brought about due to the essential water breaks during the clash – Robben was again the architect, driving into the area before turning inside Marquez, who clipped the winger with an oustretched foot to concede a penalty which was swept home stylishly by Huntelaar. The victory keeps Netherlands’ hopes of going one better than in South Africa 2010 alive, while Mexico are cruelly denied a place in the quarter-finals once again, having last gone beyond the last-16 on home soil in 1986.

Louis Van Gaal hasn’t even joined Manchester United yet but he is showing he fits in, scoring last minute goals to win games. Oranje didn’t play to well in this game, they sat back a lot waiting for a chance to break, but the chance never came. They changed their game late on when they realised they needed a goal. Games like these show we can’t expect Van Gaal to do everything, he is human and we will lose on a lot of occasions. Don’t expect us to be winning straight away, it will take time. Something we should of give David Moyes. I still reckon Holland will do well in this Competition, I think they can win it but I don’t think they will. I expect them to keep their nickname as ‘The Greatest Team to not win the World Cup’. I believe they will get the final again but will lose yet again. I feel for Mexico, they played incredible during this World Cup but 2 late goals broke their hearts, hopefully they will come back stronger next time.

Manchester United’s Robin Van Persie and Javier Hernandez featured in this game. Van Persie started the game and was subbed off in the 76 minute. He had a couple of chances but the Mexican defenders kept him quiet for most of the game. Hernandez played 15 minutes for Mexico and I don’t think he touched the ball once so their is nothing to say about his performance.

The next second round game featured Group D winners Costa Rica and Group C runners up Greece at the Arena Pernambuco in Recife. It was a 1-1 draw for 120 minutes but Costa Rica won 5-4 on penalties and they face The Netherlands in the Quarter-Finals. The game initially lived up to its billing of vibrant attack meeting dogged defence as Costa Rica surged forward with verve. Costa Rica’s endeavour almost brought early reward, too, when Christian Bolanos powerfully struck over from a tight angle. Greece enjoyed a good spell themselves thereafter, although their final ball left a lot to be desired. That was also the story at the other end as Costa Rica failed to make the most of good openings with the match becoming increasingly stretched. When a good delivery finally did come, it almost brought an opener as Jose Holebas’ superb left-wing cross to the back post located Dimitris Salpingidis, whose cushioned finish was brilliantly kept out by Navas’ right foot. That was the sole bright moment of a largely turgid first period, yet Costa Rica ensured the second would be decidedly more exciting by scoring in the 52nd minute. Ruiz was the man to find the net, his fortuitous finish from 20 yards wrong-footing goalkeeper Orestis Karnezis following Bolanos’ slide-rule pass. Seemingly holding all of the aces at that stage, Costa Rica were reduced to 10 men midway through the second period when Duarte was sent off for a second bookable offence following an ill-judged sliding challenge on Holebas. Suddenly sparked into life, Greece pressed forward in numbers and got their equaliser in the 91st minute when Papastathopoulos rifled home after Navas had produced a fine save to deny Gekas. Costa Rican disappointment quickly turned to relief, however, when Navas produced a stunning save to turn Konstantinos Mitroglou’s header over the crossbar. Inspired by the efforts of their goalkeeper, Costa Rica’s defenders were similarly heroic in the first period of extra-time, producing a host of crucial late blocks. Remarkably, it was the 10 men prospering in the second half – although Greece missed the best chance when Lazaros Christodoulopoulos hit straight at Navas following a quick counterattack in which Fernando Santos’ side had a five-on-two chance in their favour. There was still time for one last opening, too, as Navas produced another fine save, this time denying Mitroglou from point-blank range. An impressive shootout ensued as the first seven were converted until Navas athletically kept out Gekas. Umana then made no mistake, his conversion sending the Costa Rican supporters into delirium.

Costa Rica are truly showing they are the best underdogs of the tournament, yet to be defeated and only drew one game, surprisingly against England. They show that this World Cup is unpredictable, but I see their road coming to an end against Holland. They may have pulled off upsets against Uruguay and Italy but I can’t see them beating a powerful Dutch side who have won every game this tournament. Greece have been poor in this competition, they have only won one game and they struggled in every match. But they deserved to win this match, they hammered the Costa Rican goal with shots but we’re not clinical enough and that cost them.

World Cup Round up – Saturday 28 June 2014

In the first game of the second round, Group A winners Brazil faced Group B runners up Chile at the Mineirão in Belo Horizonte. Brazil were held by Chile to a 1-1 in 90 minutes but beat Chile 3-2 on penalties, to take them into the Quarter Finals. Brazil started brightly, beating Chile at their own game as they pressed high and afforded their South American counterparts little space. After 18 minutes their endeavour brought the corner that created the opening goal, Thiago Silva flicking on Neymar’s delivery to the back post – where Gonzalo Jara tussled with David Luiz. The Paris Saint-Germain-bound defender was officially credited with the goal, although replays suggested that Jara had got a decisive touch to divert the ball goalward. Far from assuming control, though, Brazil were made to pay for some sloppiness at the back 14 minutes later, Eduardo Vargas intercepting a stray Hulk pass and sliding in Sanchez, who produced the coolest of side-footed finishes. Suddenly end-to-end in nature, the game almost had a third goal before the break as Neymar, Fred and Dani Alves all went close. Chile gave another reminder of their threat just prior to the interval, Alexis denied his second only by Luiz’s last-ditch sliding challenge.
Another flashpoint came quickly after the restart, Brazil prevented from taking the lead when Hulk was crucially adjudged to have handled Marcelo’s ball over the top, which had preceded a fine left-footed finish. Brazil continued to look dangerous at the other end, although Neymar’s customary composure deserted him as he headed Alves’ cross straight at goalkeeper Claudio Bravo – who was later on hand to keep out a powerful Hulk strike. Extra time brought with it an added caginess – albeit with the exception of Hulk, who – apparently spurred on by a sense of injustice – was at the heart of everything, epitomised by a powerful effort that forced Bravo into a stop. With Chile suddenly camped on their own box, further chances did not materialise but Jorge Sampaoli’s underdogs almost snatched it right at the end of the added period – substitute Pinilla rattling the woodwork with a thunderous drive in the final minute as the hosts were afforded a huge slice of good fortune. And it was one they took full advantage of. Brazil immediately took control of the shoot-out as David Luiz sent Bravo the wrong way and Pinilla saw his effort saved by Julio Cesar. And, despite misses from Willian and Hulk, Jara rattled the post with the final kick to leave Neymar’s cooly taken effort as the winning one.

Yet again Brazil win despite struggling. They have struggled in all their games and their poor performances will haunt them soon if they keep playing like they are. I don’t think they will win the tournament as they rely on Neymar and that isn’t enough when they play a big side. I can’t see them getting further than the semi-finals. Chile have had a good tournament and they should be proud of themselves, they outplayed Spain and put up a good performance against Brazil but they let the pressure get to them on penalties.

The next game was Group C winners Colombia against Group D runners up Uruguay at the Maracanã in Rio de Janeiro. Colombia defeated Uruguay 2-0, so they face Brazil in the Quarter Finals. Colombia dominated possession in a nervy opening, although they were mainly limited to shots from distance against a Uruguay side without star man Luis Suarez on the back of his four-month suspension. Oscar Tabarez’s men appeared content to sit deep but their resistance was broken when Rodriguez produced a spontaneous moment of brilliance to light up the match. A lofted header back towards the Celeste penalty area was chested down on the turn by the Monaco man, who then swivelled and struck the ball first time on the volley into the top left-hand corner. Stunned into action – with the rest of the stadium still taking in that wonder strike – Uruguay sought a swift response and Edinson Cavani found space on the left before his teasing cross was headed away by Carlos Sanchez. Despite the improvement, Uruguay’s task became even more difficult in the 50th minute as Rodriguez doubled his tally. Colombia worked the ball from right to left and Pablo Armero put in a wonderful cross to the back post, where Juan Cuadrado unselfishly nodded the ball down and back into the path of the youngster, who swept home from close range for his fifth of the tournament. Uruguay desperately needed a quick goal and Cristian Rodriguez forced a fine stop from Ospina with an accurate left-footed shot that would have found the top corner but for the goalkeeper’s intervention, before Cavani flicked a header just over the crossbar in the 70th minute.
The Paris Saint-Germain forward went close again with a low-angled drive late on but Uruguay’s pressure was comfortably soaked up, as Colombia stormed into the quarter-finals.

Colombia have been amazing in this World Cup so far and so has their star man James Rodriguez, he has scored in every game and is now the top scorer with 5 goals, I think a really big team will be after him soon and it will be for a hefty fee, unfortunately he is to unrealistic for Manchester United. If Colombia keep up their performances I have no doubt they will beat Brazil, but I don’t think they will. The fact that Brazil are the host country will get to them. They are capable of beating Brazil and but if they do I can’t see them getting past the Semi-Finals.
Uruguay have shown they are nothing without Luis Suarez, they were defeated by Costa Rica without him, won the two games with him and have now lost again without him. They have quality players in their team but they are carried by one player, just like Neymar with Brazil.

Meanwhile in Man Utd news, some minor reports are saying MUFC has agreed a £8 million deal for Stefan De Vrij from Feyenoord. The newspapers say United hijacked Lazio’s deal for De Vrij, with the Serie A side expecting he would be joining them after the World Cup in Brazil. The highly rated 22-year-old is currently with the Holland team at the World Cup, where he is being managed by new United boss Louis van Gaal. However, Van Gaal has used his influence to tempt De Vrij, and a transfer is now firmly on the cards.
United need new centre backs with Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand both departing, and De Vrij could be partnering Thomas Vermaelen next season, with the Arsenal defender also likely to join the Red Devils.

In my opinion I’m not sure about De Vrij, I have never seen him play so I can’t rate him but I believe we should be after a bigger name, I had never heard of him before the World Cup so I don’t think he will be the answer to our defensive problems. I think we should try for people like Hummels, Mangala, Varane ect. Some may say they are unrealistic but if the right bid is put in, it can happen, we have the money so why not? A Man Utd target Ezequiel Garay has joined Zenit from Benfica for €16 million. I wish we would have gone after him, I don’t see why we didn’t. He is a rock at the back and was very cheap. I will be disappointed if we end up with De Vrij and Vermaelen when we could have had someone much better.

Manchester United Transfer Update – Friday 27 June 2014

Just one day after completing the signing of Ander Herrera, Manchester United have announced the signing of Luke Shaw from Southampton on a four year contract with an option to extend for a fee of an excess of £30 million. Reports said he had completed a medical this morning at Carrington. Luke Shaw changed his twitter bio, saying ‘Manchester United player’ and he followed the Man Utd twitter account before they had made the official announcement and deleted it soon after.

Luke Shaw said: “I am thrilled and excited to be joining Manchester United. I have been at Southampton since I was eight years old and I would like to thank them and the fans for everything they have done for me. I want to continue to progress my career and joining United is the ideal place for me to do that. I am looking forward to this new chapter in my life and also looking forward to learning from the world-class players and management at the club.”

Manchester United assistant manager Ryan Giggs said: “Luke is a very talented young left-back with great potential. He has developed immensely during his time at Southampton and has all the attributes to become a top player. I am delighted he has joined Manchester United as I believe this is the right club for him to continue his development as a young player and eventually fulfil that promise.”

Also some reports are saying Man Utd are showing strong interest in Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal. Also, some say we have reached an agreement for Feyenoord defender Stefan De Vrij.

World Cup Round up – Thursday 26 June 2014 + MUFC transfer Update

One of today’s games featured Group G’s Portugal and Ghana at the Estádio Nacional in Brasilia. Portugal defeated Ghana 2-1 but the result sees both teams eliminated from the tournament. Portugal finished in 3rd place with 4 points and Ghana finish in 4th place with 1 point. Ronaldo had the first effort of note in the fifth minute as his audacious lob from wide on the right caught out Dauda but struck the crossbar and rebounded to safety. The Portugal captain threatened again seven minutes later, testing Dauda with a trademark dipping free-kick from 30 yards. Ronaldo was at the forefront of all of Portugal’s attacking play and ought to have put his side ahead in the 19th minute. Joao Pereira delivered a pinpoint ball from the right and the Real Madrid man, unmarked six yards from goal, directed his header straight at Dauda, who parried away. Portugal continued to make most of the running and got their noses in front on the half-hour mark, Boye slicing Veloso’s cross from the left into the net via the bar and right-hand post.
Ronaldo brought another save out of Dauda two minutes later, while Gyan continued to pose a danger, heading wide after meeting Christian Atsu’s cross. After a quiet start to the second half Ghana equalised with 57 minutes gone, Gyan nodding home at the far post following a superb cross from Kwadwo Asamoah with the outside of his left foot. Waris wasted a glorious chance to put Ghana in front four minutes later, somehow heading wide from six yards after being picked out by Gyan. Ronaldo – relatively quiet throughout the tournament – ultimately had the final say as he lashed in a left-footed strike after Dauda feebly palmed Mensah’s wayward header into his path, but it mattered little as both sides’ hopes were dashed.

I expected more from Portugal they should be easily beating sides like USA and Ghana but they struggled against both, I expected Germany to beat them but not by the scoreline they did. I don’t know what’s changed since Euro 2012 but Portugal have been awful in this World Cup and when Ronaldo retires from the Portugal side they will be 10 times worse. Ghana played better than expected but I still thought they would get a least a point against USA.

Manchester United’s Luis Nani played in Portugal’s win, but yet again played poor for his side. Some people say he isn’t consistent, he is consistent but he’s consistently poor. He flattered to deceive at times but was just one part of a largely out-of-sorts attack. I’m disappointed in Nani, he played amazing in his debut season at United, he did better than Cristiano Ronaldo did on his debut season but ever since he has been woeful. His time is up now and needs to be sold. Reports say Inter Milan will offer £12 million for him and I wouldn’t hesitate to accept it.

The other Group G game featured USA and Germany at the Arena Pernambuco in Recife. Germany beat USA 1-0 and the result sees both of the teams go through to the second round. USA finished in 2nd place with 4 points and Germany topped the group with 7 points. Joachim Low handed Lukas Podolski a first start of the tournament on the left side of his attack and the Arsenal forward blazed over in the second minute, as Germany pinned back their opponents during the opening stages. By the time Tim Howard shovelled a Mesut Özil effort to safety in the 34th minute, following a shimmying run from the Arsenal man, a more even contest had developed, although that was at the expense of the earlier intensity. At half-time Low introduced veteran striker Miroslav Klose, hunting for an outright claim to the all-time World Cup finals goal record following his equaliser against Ghana last Saturday. Pressure told in the 55th minute when Müller smashed home emphatically from the edge of the box after Howard had parried Per Mertesacker’s header. The USA visibly rallied as news of Asamoah Gyan’s equaliser for Ghana filtered through – a victory for the African nation would have seen them progress on goals scored, pipping the States for a third tournament in succession. But a late Cristiano Ronaldo goal ensured Klinsmann’s side, who went close in stoppage time as Alejandro Bedoya saw a goal-bound shot blocked by Lahm and Clint Dempsey headed over, will face the winners of Group H in Salvador on Tuesday.

I expected Germany to take all 9 points in this group after thrashing Portugal 4-0 but they struggled against Ghana and USA, probably the two weakest side of the group. I still tip them to win the World Cup, but they can’t be playing like they have been. USA have shocked me in this tournament, I didn’t think they would get a point out of any games but everyone they have played has been poor. I don’t think they will get past the Last-16 but I think they could give Belgium a run for their money.

Next up was a Group H match between Belgium and South Korea at the Arena Corinthians in São Paulo. Belgium defeated Korea 1-0 and they finish top of Group H will all 9 points and they face USA in the last-16. South Korea finish bottom of the group with 1 point and they have been knocked out. Marc Wilmots insisted in the build-up that his side would not go easy on their opponents despite only needing a draw. But the he made seven changes from the Russia win, with Adnan Januzaj making his first international start. The Manchester United youngster and Belgium’s other attackers were exceptionally quiet in the opening stages, though, as South Korea were routinely invited forward. Hong’s men lacked any creative spark, however, allowing Belgium to gain a foothold and Dries Mertens inexplicably failed to give them the lead in the 25th minute as he blazed over from close range after pouncing on a loose ball. Korea eventually came to life in the final third after half-an-hour and Courtois was forced into action twice in quick succession. Hong and his team received a significant boost to their chances just before the break as Defour received a straight red card for a callous stamp on Kim Shin-Wook. With a place in the next round slipping from their grasp, Korea began the second half with renewed determination. South Korea took the game to Belgium as much as they could, but Wilmots’ men finally punished them on the counter-attack with 13 minutes to go.
Second-half substitute Divock Origi blasted a ferocious effort at Jung Sung-Ryong and, having failed to push the ball to safety, the goalkeeper was helpless on the rebound as Vertonghen smashed Belgium into the lead.
The Koreans almost levelled in stoppage time, but Courtois did well to stop Lee Keun-Ho’s flick at the front post and Belgium subsequently earned a third consecutive World Cup victory – sending them into the last-16 in high spirits.

Belgium won this group with ease as expected but struggled to score goals. They left it late in all their games to find a winner but in the end they all eventually came. The Red Devils are yet to face a big side in the competition and they will need to play well against one to prove if they are the dark horses. They will most likely face Argentina in the Quarter Finals if they beat USA, but I can’t see them getting past the South American giants. South Korea never looked wining as the quality of their team isn’t good enough and in the end they finish with a deserved point.

Marouane Fellaini played the full game for Belgium and played really well, he passing was on point and he won plenty of headers in each penalty boxes, but maybe he could of grabbed himself a goal. Adnan Januzaj made his first international start in this game and played 60 minutes in Belgium’s win. He showed glimpses of quality but was quiet for most of the night.

The other Group H game featured Algeria and Russia at the Arena da Baixada in Curitiba. Russia were held to a 1-1 drew by Algeria, the result sees Algeria finish in 2nd place with 4 points and face Germany in the second round while Russia finished in 3rd place of their group with 2 points and have been eliminated from the tournament. Kokorin, whose place in the starting XI had been the subject of discussion in the build-up to the game, gave Russia a dream start when he rose to head Kombarov’s perfect left-wing cross into the top corner. Russia continued to have the better of the play and Oleg Shatov went close in the 26th minute with a swerving drive from distance that drifted narrowly wide of the right-hand post. Algeria tested Akinfeev for the first time in the 30th minute, the goalkeeper flying high to his left to tip Slimani’s header over the crossbar. Slimani tried his luck with another header two minutes before the interval, but this time his effort lacked power and was comfortably held by Akinfeev. Aleksandr Samedov went close to doubling Russia’s tally shortly after the resumption, but Rais M’Bolhi raced from his line to deny the midfielder. That save proved crucial as, on the hour-mark, Akinfeev came to palm away Brahimi’s free-kick but was beaten to the ball by Slimani, who nodded into an empty net.
Kerzhakov tested M’Bolhi 10 minutes later as Russia pressed to regain the lead, but the keeper got down well to his right to smother the well-struck shot. Although Russia saw a lot of the ball in the final stages, they were unable to breakdown a stubborn defensive line as Algeria celebrated a landmark achievement.

Russia have been really poor in this tournament and I expected them to progress before but their first performance against Korea have cost them.
Algeria on the other hand have been great, they scored the only goal Belgium have conceded in this World Cup and they put up an amazing performance against Korea Republic. They progress out of the group stage for the first time in their history but I don’t think they have a chance of getting past Germany.

Early today, Manchester United confirmed the news that Man United fans have been waiting for. They have signed Spanish Central Midfielder Ander Herrera from Athletic Bilbao on a four year deal with the option to extend after triggering the buy out clause on his contract.
Earlier in the morning Athletic came out and said they had rejected a bid from Manchester United for Ander Herrera due to tax on payment had not been paid. Shortly after Athletic said Herrera has paid himself out of his contract to leave Athletic which Man United would have give Herrera the money for. Then Man Utd announced he had been signed and is a Man Utd player.

Manchester United assistant manager Ryan Giggs said: “Ander is a fantastic young player, with great energy and creativity. We believe him to be one of the brightest young prospects in Spain and I am certain he will be a big hit with the United fans. I’m delighted he has made the decision to come to Manchester and play his part in the club’s future. I’m looking forward to seeing him in action on our summer tour to America.”

Ander Herrera said: “Signing for Manchester United is a dream come true. I have played at Old Trafford for Athletic Club in the UEFA Europa League and it was one of the highlights of my career so far. I have joined United to do all I can to help the team reach the club’s objectives. Having arrived on Tuesday, I’m excited to now be living in Manchester and I can’t wait for my first game in United’s famous red shirt. I will never forget my time with Athletic Club and I’d like to thank the fans and staff for all their support and, above all, wish all my fantastic former team-mates all the best for the future.”

Herrera said to MUTV both David De Gea and Juan Mata have been in touch. “They told me this is the biggest club in the world.” He also said “Louis van Gaal is one of the best managers in the world. I want to learn a lot of things & can’t wait to play for #mufc.”

I’ve been told great signing for MUFC, I have never seen Herrera play so I don’t know what to expect from him. €36 million seems like a lot of money for him but Athletic would not let him go for less. Hopefully we will see a central midfield signing, I will be disappointed if we don’t but it’s nice to see us actually signing someone. Hopefully this is the first of many signings of the summer.

Also reports say a £30 million fee has been agreed for Southampton Left Back Luke Shaw and he has either had a medical at Carrington tonight or he will have one tomorrow. This has been a long anticipated transfer, Man Utd submitted a £28 million bid back in May and no news had been heard of since. But finally I looks like we will get our target and he will fill the position of Alexander Büttner who has just left Man Utd for Dinamo Moscow. He could be announced tomorrow morning.

People say MUFC are in big need of a Left Back, we are now because Büttner has left, but I think we need a Right Back, we only have one natural Right Back in Rafael. He is gets injured a lot and he is replaced by either Phil Jones or Chris Smalling who are Centre Backs and also get injured a lot.

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