Monthly Archives: June 2014

Recapping Day 12: Both the Netherlands and Chile were without arguably their best player, so if they cancel each other out, this was another impressive performance from the Dutch.  There were a lot of Dutch Doubters coming into this tournament, … Continue reading →

Recapping Day 11: The US-Portugal game was a great one.  In some ways, it was the opposite of the first game for the Americans.  They gave up a goal very early, but then settled in and started to really control … Continue reading →

Recapping Day 10: So apparently this guy Messi is pretty good.  After Argentina was unable to score for a stunning 90 minutes vs. Iran, Messi comes to the rescue with a perfect strike from 30 yards out to allow his … Continue reading →

Recapping Day 9: Well, once again we learn the lesson: Vegas sharps know what they’re talking about.  As Bry noted, they were all over Costa Rica advancing out of this group, despite being up against three former world champions.  And … Continue reading →

Recapping Day 8: One thing you learn quickly from watching soccer at this level is just how hard it is to score a goal on individual brilliance alone.  Almost every goal comes off a set-piece, a great pass, or a … Continue reading →

Recapping Day 7: The big story, of course, is the reigning champs and one of the Big Four favorites for this tournament bowing out without a fight.  Sure, Spain had 56% of the possession and 9 shots on goal to … Continue reading →

Recapping Day 6: A great comeback win for Belgium, as both their weaknesses and strengths were on full display in their opening match.  Their depth was shown, with both goals scored by subs.  Eden Hazard had his usual flashes of … Continue reading →

Recapping Day 5: It occurred to me after putting up yesterday’s post that a German beer was especially appropriate, because not only was the German team playing, but so was the US team, featuring a German coach and five German … Continue reading →