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 brilliance, especially with a great turn, run, and perfect pass out to Mertens for the game-winning goal.
But with all the talent Belgium has, they somehow have no fullbacks. That meant Jan Vertonghen, a very solid center back in the Premier League, started at left back. Being in an unfamiliar position may have led to his penalty that gave Algeria their penalty kick goal, and he offered nothing in attack, either. They had another central defender at right back, so they just don’t get much in support on the attack from those positions.
Meanwhile, Brazil and Mexico showed how even a goalless draw can make for a great game. There continues to be questions about how good these two teams are. Brazil was the better team in this game, but not by a whole lot, and Mexico had some very good chances to win it. Of course, Brazil had their chances, as well. Mexico’s Guillermo Ochoa turned in the best performance from a goalkeeper in this tournament, so far.
Today’s Games:
Noon: Australia vs. Netherlands
3PM: Spain vs. Chile
6PM: Croatia vs. Cameroon
Today’s Drink:
Estrella Damm. After a series of some “high class” beers, this is a beer of the people. Basically the Budweiser of Spain, Estrella Damm is the oldest beer brand in Spain, having been founded by a German brewer in Barcelona in 1876. Will this inspire Xavi, the FC Barcelona captain who is showing his age, to a vintage performance with his team’s back against the wall today? Or, will it perhaps inspire his club teammate who he goes up against today, Chilean star Alexis Sanchez?
Highlighted Game:
Will we witness the death of the Spanish dynasty in Rio today? There is no more seasoned team in the world, but their confidence has to be shaken after that thrashing by the Dutch last week. Whether Del Bosque decides to make line-up changes or not, the fact is that a number of the starters have had to wonder since Friday if they would keep their spot. It would be a lot better for them if they had Australia in their second game so they could regain their composure against a lesser opponent, but no such luck. They get a talented, attack-minded Chilean team that will be looking to exploit the same weaknesses as the Dutch.
