Timetxu Posted October 9, 2020 Author Share Posted October 9, 2020 DAY 16 - GAME 4 Another game with a title favourite with the backs against the wall. This time against a team which has already been eliminated. Third Round of Pool Play Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City Lineups: Burkina Faso (Cautious 4-2-1-3 DM Wide): Koffi; Yago, E. Tapsoba, Koné, Coulibaly; Dabo, C. Kaboré, Touré; B. Traoré, Bandé ( 62' Nakoulma), L. Traoré ( 67' Koura) Belgium (4-2-2-2 DM Narrow): Courtois; Meunier, Alderweireld, Vertonghen, Bolingoli; Witsel, Dendoncker ( 79' Denayer), De Bruyne, Tielemans; E. Hazard ( 61' Mertens), Lukaku Report: Speaking of underwhelming. The Curse of the Third Place was in full swing as Belgium crash out of this World Cup without scoring a single goal. One of the biggest title favourites had no way to handle the exceptional midfield trio of Burkina Faso as Bryan Dabo, Charles Kaboré en Blati Touré combined for 411 passes with a 96% passing accuracy! The second half, Belgium switched on the gears and barraged the Stallions' goal, but just like Croatia, Belgium showed little creativity and were mostly reduced to long range shots. Statistics: 0 Goals 0 7 Shots 16 2 On Target 9 0.7 Expected Goals 1.9 63% Possession 37% Man of the Match: Charles Kaboré - Burkina Faso (clean sheet, 7 recoveries, 153 passes completed, 96% passing accuracy) ---------- Not a lot changes in the standings with that result as Belgium and Burkina Faso have now been officially eliminated. To be fair, Burkina Faso had already been eliminated beforehand because of the new threshold of 4 points. I noticed I forgot to take that into account as that means that Iraq has also been officially eliminated. For those who wish well upon Italy, the Azzurri can now finish no lower than 25th, so they will only need one result to go their way and they're through. 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted October 9, 2020 Author Share Posted October 9, 2020 (edited) DAY 17 - GAME 1 Enough of all that negativity. We continue with a game between two sides who have been doing excellent so far. Morocco is trough to the next round and Senegal pretty much is as well. Therefore, this game will be more of a top-of-the-standings shake up rather than a must-win for any of the two sides. If Morocco wins, they'll go through to the Round of 16. With a Senegal win, the Lions of Teranga might actually have a good chance of a direct Round of 16 ticket. With a draw, both teams will be confirmed through to the next round. Third Round of Pool Play FedEx Field, Washington D.C., United States Lineups: Morocco (4-4-2 Diamond Narrow): Bounou; Hakimi, Saïss ( 71' Abdelhamid), Feddal, Mendyl; Amrabat, Belhanda ( 77' Harit), Taarabt, Ziyech; Alioui ( 71' Mahi ), En-Nesyri Senegal (4-4-2 Diamond Narrow): Mendy; Wagué, Koulibaly , Sané, Souaré; Al. N'Diaye, Ndiaye, Gueye ( 85' Kouyaté), Saivet; Mané, Niang ( 71' Baldé) Report: It was a very interesting duel in Washington D.C. with both sides coming out to play. The first half had lots of action as goals were imminent. That moment seemed to come when Youssef En-Nesyri was brought down in the box, but Younes Belhanda missed the penalty kick. Not much later, Senegal took advantage of one of their chances as Henri Saïvet beautifully deposited a header in the bottom far corner to give the Lions of Teranga the lead. Morocco continued its attacking play after half time but that came to a halt when Senegal scored one of their rare chances in the second part of the game. Badou Ndiaye absolutely rocketed a shot into the top corner to give Senegal the 2-0 victory. Statistics:0 Goals 2 19 Shots 16 5 On Target 9 2.7 + 1 PK Expected Goals 1.7 45% Possession 55% Man of the Match: Badou Ndiaye - Senegal (1 goal, clean sheet, 3 crosses completed, 2 chances created, 8 recovieres, 89% passing accuracy) ---------- Senegal is now the fifteenth nation officially qualified for the next round and moves up to a seventh spot in the overall table. Therefore, they will be in the race for a free Round of 16 pass up until the final day of this set of games. Morocco falls out of the top 8 and knows it will have to play a game in the first knockout round. As for all the other effects on the table: the United States are now officially certain of a seeded spot in the first knockout round. Edited October 9, 2020 by Timetxu 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
bazhsw Posted October 9, 2020 Share Posted October 9, 2020 Some big shocks for Croatia and Belgium! The table doesn't lie though and if you can't pick up a win you don't deserve to go through. I'm interested that it looks like only two teams (Burkina Faso and Iraq) enter their last match with nothing to play for. Looks like Italy are through too! I was thinking Peru Vs Australia looked like a 'West Germany vs. Austria' situation where a draw should be enough for Peru and puts Australia into the top 8. I don't think it will though because someone below Australia will win and pass them on goal difference. Australia need the win to be sure. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted October 9, 2020 Author Share Posted October 9, 2020 44 minutes ago, bazhsw said: Some big shocks for Croatia and Belgium! The table doesn't lie though and if you can't pick up a win you don't deserve to go through. I'm interested that it looks like only two teams (Burkina Faso and Iraq) enter their last match with nothing to play for. Looks like Italy are through too! I was thinking Peru Vs Australia looked like a 'West Germany vs. Austria' situation where a draw should be enough for Peru and puts Australia into the top 8. I don't think it will though because someone below Australia will win and pass them on goal difference. Australia need the win to be sure. I like how you're analyzing this. It gives extra input into how this schedule works. I'm pretty stoked that there are hardly any teams who are playing useless games. And even with the scenario of Peru v Australia where a draw is enough, not going for the win can make a huge difference in who you're facing in the next round. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted October 9, 2020 Author Share Posted October 9, 2020 (edited) DAY 17 - GAME 2 It's the last game in the Eastern Hub and another potential table flipper. Australia has been one of the biggest surprises so far with 6 points from two games and they can qualify directly for the Round of 16 with a win. They would need to beat a tough Peruvian side who will probably advance with just the draw. Third Round of Pool Play M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, United States Lineups: Australia (4-2-3-1 Wide): Ryan; Karacic, Degenek, Jurman, Smith; Mooy, Luongo, Kruse ( 61' Leckie), Rogic, Troisi; Giannou ( 63' Maclaren) Peru (4-2-2-2 DM Narrow): Gallese; Advíncula, Araujo ( 87' Zambrano), Abram, Trauco; Fuentes, Tapia, Gonzáles ( 62' Flores), Santamaría; Ruidíaz, Guerrero Report: The game had a Disgrace of Gijón written all over it as both teams were happy with the 0-0 draw. Lots of sloppy passing and shots from distance made the game a real bore. The game was destined to end the way it started, but then suddenly all hell broke loose for Peru. Matthew Jurman was brought down in the box by Paolo Guerrero while defending a corner kick. A completely useless pushing foul by a defending striker is the recipe for disaster. Mathew Leckie did not waste the opportunity granted to the Socceroos as he made it 1-0. Peru was left befuddled and halfheartedly tried to attack for what it was worth, but it couldn't find the goal it needed to go through. It was a very strong and organized tournament of the Incas so far, but all of a sudden it comes to a halt. Statistics: 1 Goals 0 14 Shots 9 8 On Target 3 1.3 + 1 PK Expected Goals 0.8 55% Possession 45% Man of the Match: Matthew Jurman - Australia (clean sheet, penalty earned, 5 interceptions, 12 recoveries) ---------- This result fills out the standings in quite some ways. With three 1-0 wins, Australia is the fourth nation guaranteed of a free passage to the Round of 16. Peru has been eliminated, even though they finish with a positive goal difference. Because of that, another country that could have leapfrogged Italy failed to do so and that officially confirms that Italy has managed to sneak through to the next round, where it will be one of the eight unseeded teams. The last effect of the result is that Scotland was knocked out of the Top 8, which means the Tartan Army will be one of the 8 seeded sides in the first knockout round. As there are no other teams left who could finish on 9 points, the top 4 of the table is now confirmed, which means we can start filling out the knockout schedule: Edited October 9, 2020 by Timetxu 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
bazhsw Posted October 9, 2020 Share Posted October 9, 2020 The incentive of a Top 8 position leads to some interesting scenarios. I think with the exception of Ghana Vs Sweden every match really requires both teams to win, to either qualify or reach the top 8. It seems likely that only two games will have had one competitor with nothing to play for and since we have highlighted the Disgrace of Gijon there is a possibility that going into the last game Ghana and Sweden could engineer a draw for both to qualify (unless of course it kicks off at the same time as Austria vs Iran). There is also the excitement of waiting and being interested in other results once you have played your last game. I imagine every day the fans of those on 4 points are crossing off who cannot catch them. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted October 9, 2020 Author Share Posted October 9, 2020 10 minutes ago, bazhsw said: The incentive of a Top 8 position leads to some interesting scenarios. I think with the exception of Ghana Vs Sweden every match really requires both teams to win, to either qualify or reach the top 8. It seems likely that only two games will have had one competitor with nothing to play for and since we have highlighted the Disgrace of Gijon there is a possibility that going into the last game Ghana and Sweden could engineer a draw for both to qualify (unless of course it kicks off at the same time as Austria vs Iran). I'm simulating the games individually, so luckily the AI doesn't know there is another result involved, but I'd reckon FIFA could do a trio of day games and a trio of night games per Hub to make sure there is no watching the other results. But still, only the last two countries would probably be able to calculate anything. 12 minutes ago, bazhsw said: There is also the excitement of waiting and being interested in other results once you have played your last game. I imagine every day the fans of those on 4 points are crossing off who cannot catch them. I hadn't even thought of this. This would make for a great new World Cup watching tradition! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
mattyjames_ Posted October 9, 2020 Share Posted October 9, 2020 4 hours ago, Timetxu said: I'm simulating the games individually, so luckily the AI doesn't know there is another result involved, but I'd reckon FIFA could do a trio of day games and a trio of night games per Hub to make sure there is no watching the other results. But still, only the last two countries would probably be able to calculate anything. I hadn't even thought of this. This would make for a great new World Cup watching tradition! It would certainly give more purpose to watching the other games across the Hubs and I think this would be really cool! Good old Australia, sneaking through with three 1-0 wins. Gotta love it! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
corinthiano Posted October 9, 2020 Share Posted October 9, 2020 Wow, Croatia and Belgium out is certainly interesting with some unfancied sides making it through...this format keeps getting better and better! Last few games will be interesting! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted October 11, 2020 Author Share Posted October 11, 2020 (edited) DAY 17 - GAME 3 It's co-hosts Mexico's last game of the first round, but they're pretty close to coming back in the next round. All they will need to do is at least draw with Ecuador. Heck, even a small loss might be enough to go through. For the South Americans, however, only a win will be sufficient to stay in the tournament. Third Round of Pool Play Estadio Akron, Guadalajara, Mexico Lineups: Mexico (4-4-1-1): Ochoa; Sánchez, Álvarez, Salcedo, Calderón; Dos Santos ( 61' Pizarro), Herrera, Rodríguez, Guardado ( 78' Lozano); Vela ( 78' Corona), Jiménez Ecuador (Defensive 4-2-3-1 Narrow): Domínguez; Carabalí, Arboleda, Arreaga, Ramírez; Gruezo ( 79' Orejuela), Sierra ( 74' Gaibor), Bolaños, Sornoza, Cazares; Valencia Report: Mexico knew beforehand that a draw would be enough but the co-hosts were keen on entertaining the home fans. Mexico stormed out of the gates and after missing some big opportunties, it was Héctor Herrera who scored the first goal when he tapped in the rebound that followed a powerful header from Raúl Jiménez. El Tri continued to attack after that and just like the first goal, it was an inswinging free kick by Jonathan dos Santos that led to danger. This time, it was fullback Carlos Salcedo who volleyed the ball into the far corner. Ecuador was nowhere to be found in the first half, but they admirably recovered in the second half with some positive play. Unfortunately, they lacked some really big chances and when the game entered the final part of the game, the South Americans let all hope fade. Statistics: 2 Goals 0 21 Shots 13 13 On Target 9 3.0 Expected Goals 1.3 52% Possession 48% Man of the Match: Jonathan dos Santos - Mexico (1 assist, clean sheet, 8 crosses completed, 2 chances created, 13 recoveries) ---------- Mexico storms into the Top 8 with that win and is now the seventeenth nation to assure themselves of a spot in the second round of the tournament. Ecuador is unfortunately eliminated. The result has had some other effects on the standings as well, as Spain can no longer be caught up by more than four teams and will therefore receive a direct entry to the Round of 16. Senegal drops out of the Top 8 and is now assured of a seeded spot in the first knockout round. Consequently, Mali drops out of the Top 16 and will therefore be one of the eight unseeded teams in the knockout stage. Edited October 11, 2020 by Timetxu 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted October 13, 2020 Author Share Posted October 13, 2020 DAY 17 - GAME 4 Portugal can qualify for the next round with just the draw, but if they beat Ivory Coast by quite the margin, the Europeans can still clinch a direct passage to the Round of 16. For the Elephants, the objective is simple: win or go home. Third Round of Pool Play NRG Stadium, Houston, United States Lineups: Ivory Coast (Cautious 5-3-2 WB): Gbohouo; Koné, Dabila, Deli, Aurier, Kanon ( 83' Konan); Kessié, Sangaré ( 78' Fofana), Traoré; Zaha, Pépé Portugal (4-1-2-3 DM Wide): Patrício; Cancelo, Dias, Pepe, Guerreiro; Neves, Fernandes ( 67' Moutinho), B. Silva; Guedes ( 61' Rafa ), Félix ( 78' A. Silva), Ronaldo Report: For a match that had so many implications in the final table, the result sure was underwhelming. Both teams had enough opportunities to score, but none of them really managed to string together an extended period of dominance at any part of the game. Ivory Coast tried to neutralize the game with a possession oriented play along with some very good passing. Portugal was happy to leave the initiative to the Africans and counter its way to chances. Cristiano Ronaldo was closest to scoring when a powering headers was crushed onto the post, but that was all that was to this game. Statistics: 0 Goals 0 9 Shots 17 6 On Target 8 1.1 Expected Goals 2.1 61% Possession 39% Man of the Match: Serge Aurier - Ivory Coast (clean sheet, 5 interceptions, 7 recoveries, 8 fouls received, 89% passing accuracy) ---------- The result eliminates Ivory Coast from this World Cup, but there is positive news for other teams: let's start with Portugal, who have now officially clinched a spot in the next round. They are only in 16th place for now, though, so they might not even be one of the seeded teams in the knockout round. At the top of the table, we see that Brazil has now clinched a direct passage to the Round of 16 due to the fact Portugal can't leapfrog them anymore. It's Uruguay and Mexico, together with Argentina and Switzerland who will now battle it out for those final two spots. A little lower in the table, we see that Canada is guaranteed of a seeded spot in the first knockout round and all the way down in 21st it's Uzbekistan who can no longer finish lower than 24th and are therefore through to the knockout stages! Only five more spots left! 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
bazhsw Posted October 13, 2020 Share Posted October 13, 2020 A brilliant performance from Uzbekistan when you look at it! It will take a miracle for Egypt to qualify now as every permutation of Sweden vs Ghana puts one or both above them. Only Switzerland or Argentina losing by ten goals in games they are favourites in can save them now. I think if Austria win a draw in the last game would see Ghana pip Nigeria on 'goals scored' if Switzerland and Argentina win as expected. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
bazhsw Posted October 13, 2020 Share Posted October 13, 2020 I just revisited the rankings. Belgium, Denmark and Croatia are all Pot 1 teams who have underachieved by not making it through. Uzbekistan and Canada are the only Pot 3 teams who have qualified so far. Of course Canada have 'home' advantage but Uzbekistan are the second lowest ranked team in the tournament making their achievements all the more notable. Loving this! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted October 13, 2020 Author Share Posted October 13, 2020 33 minutes ago, bazhsw said: A brilliant performance from Uzbekistan when you look at it! It will take a miracle for Egypt to qualify now as every permutation of Sweden vs Ghana puts one or both above them. Only Switzerland or Argentina losing by ten goals in games they are favourites in can save them now. I think if Austria win a draw in the last game would see Ghana pip Nigeria on 'goals scored' if Switzerland and Argentina win as expected. Wow, that's a good calculation right there. As an Egyptian fan, you'd need to hope that the game will not end in a draw and then either Switzerland or Argentina has to suffer a historic loss. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
dcu4life Posted October 13, 2020 Share Posted October 13, 2020 (edited) Looks like a draw suits Ghana and Sweden pretty well, and they'll be in a position to know what result is needed. Shades of the Disgrace of Gijon perhaps . Nigeria will certainly be hoping they go for a victory, though it depends a lot of the Austria - Iran match (assuming Honduras doesn't beat Switzerland). Edited October 13, 2020 by dcu4life Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Brother Ben Posted October 13, 2020 Share Posted October 13, 2020 I'm getting right behind Uzbekistan here. Got to be the surprise package so far. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted October 13, 2020 Author Share Posted October 13, 2020 1 hour ago, dcu4life said: Looks like a draw suits Ghana and Sweden pretty well, and they'll be in a position to know what result is needed. Shades of the Disgrace of Gijon perhaps . Nigeria will certainly be hoping they go for a victory, though it depends a lot of the Austria - Iran match (assuming Honduras doesn't beat Switzerland). Luckily I'm simulating all games independently, so there will be no AI calculating results Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted October 13, 2020 Author Share Posted October 13, 2020 DAY 18 - GAME 1 Yes, you've made it! It's the last game of the first round. Four more games and then we're off to the knockout round. But the bracket is a long way from being filled out, so let's see whether title favourites Argentina can qualify directly to the Round of 16 or whether Iraq have a trick up their sleeve. Third Round of Pool Play Estadio BBVA Bancomer, Monterrey, Mexico Lineups: Iraq (Defensive 4-4-1-1): Gassid; A. Ala'a , Saad ( 90+3' F. Ali), I. Ahmed, Dhurgam ; Y. Ahmed ( 58' Jiloan), Rewan, Safaa ( 80' Karrar), A. Ali ; Humam, Hammadi Argentina (4-4-1-1): Rulli; Saravia, Romero, Kannemann , Tagliafico ; Bustos, Palacios ( 62' Domínguez), Lo Celso, Di María ( 67' Otamendi); Dybala ( 62' Agüero), Messi Report: It was Lionel Messi on full display in Monterrey today. The Barcelona striker scored a perfect hattrick in the second half and four overall as Argentina walked away with a comfortable 5-0 win. It took a while before the Albiceleste had its engine running as a fierce header by Messi from a Nicolás Tagliafico cross came after 30 minutes. After that, it was smooth sailing for the South Americans who pretty much scored every chance they got. Iraq crashes out of this World Cup without a single goal scored, but they would have deserved one today. Statistics: 0 Goals 5 8 Shots 20 7 On Target 10 1.2 Expected Goals 2.435% Possession 65% Man of the Match: Lionel Messi - Argentina (4 goals, 3 crosses completed, 8 recoveries, 5 shots) ---------- With that win, Argentina shoots up the ladder and comes into fifth place, thus confirming their free passage to the Round of 16. That one pushes Mexico out of the Top 8, who will be seeded in the first knockout round. Portugal is now out of the Top 16 and will be unseeded in the first knockout round. We're very close to filling out the knockout schedule now. The Top 8 is only waiting for the Switzerland result now. It's safe to assume that most of that Top 8 will stay like this as Switzerland will need to beat Honduras by three goals. But you never know! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
dcu4life Posted October 14, 2020 Share Posted October 14, 2020 9 hours ago, Timetxu said: Luckily I'm simulating all games independently, so there will be no AI calculating results I prefer my narrative approach Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted October 14, 2020 Author Share Posted October 14, 2020 DAY 18 - GAME 2 It's an interesting game on the roll as Honduras face Switzerland. Both teams will probably advance with a draw, but a Swiss win could even see them go to the Top 8. A Honduras win might grant the Central Americans a seeded spot in the first knockout round. So a lot of possible outcomes here. Third Round of Pool Play Estadio Azteca, Ciudad de México, Mexico Lineups: Honduras (4-4-2 Diamond Narrow): Morales; Beckeles, J. Palacios, Leverón, Figueroa ; Garrido, Acosta, W. Palacios ( 90+2' Mejía), Toro ( 68' García); Lozano, Quito (65' Elis) Switzerland (4-2-2-2 DM Narrow): Sommer; Lichtsteiner ( 63' Schär), Akanji, Elvedi, Rodríguez; Zakaria, Freuler ( 63' Shaqiri), Fernandes ( 71' Aebischer), Xhaka; Embolo, Ajeti Report: It was bitter agony for Honduras as Switzerland once again conquered their points late in the game. After an 89th minute equaliser against Argentina and a come-from-behind win against Sweden, the Swiss showed once again their character. After a drab first half where chances were rare, the spectators in the Estadio Azteca were awakened by a sudden penalty call which granted Honduras the chance go ahead. Johnny Leverón made good use of that opportunity, which had Honduras virtually being a seeded team in the knockout round. Switzerland then got a penalty kick of their own, which was scored by team goalscorer (and fullback) Ricardo Rodríguez. Switzerland's strikers then missed some great opportunities to put the team ahead and even had a goal disallowed, so it looked like the game was destined for a draw with both teams going through. However, Rodríguez was having none of that as he scored his fourth goal of the tournament to put Switzerland up ahead in the final minute of the game. The Honudran players looked distraught as they virtually were in the next round all game, but saw that ticket slip away with one of the last kicks of the match. Statistics:1 Goals 2 9 Shots 19 6 On Target 10 1.2 + 1 PK Expected Goals 2.4 + 1 PK 58% Possession 42% Man of the Match: Ricardo Rodríguez - Switzerland (2 goals, 5 crosses completed, 1 chance created, 4 tackles won, 11 recoveries, 9 fouls against ---------- This result probably had the most repercussions on the overall table of any match so far. Let's work our way from top to bottom. Switzerland should have won by a three goal margin to leapfrog Uruguay, which they didn't. This means that Uruguay is the final team guaranteed of a free passage to the Round of 16. Switzerland themselves come in in twelfth, which means that they have officially qualified for the next round as a seeded team. A little lower down, Slovakia is down to 17th, which means they will be an unseeded team in the next round. And even lower, we see Costa Rica in the 22nd position. They can't finish any lower than 24th, due to the fact the two remaining games only one of either teams can upend the Central Americans, which means that Costa Rica is also through to the next round as an unseeded team. Given that none of the remaining teams in this World Cup can finish higher than twelfth, this means that suddenly a big portion of the knockout stage has been set. Let's look at the situation for now: All the teams who have a direct passage to the Round of 16 have been filled out, together with the four best seeded teams. As either Ghana or Sweden can still finish in 13th position, we can't fill out the knockout schedule any further for now. As I think it's a lot more fun to fill out the schedule along the way, I've decided to play Ghana - Sweden first and then Iran - Austria, as either one of those teams can't finish any higher than 19th or 20th. 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
bazhsw Posted October 14, 2020 Share Posted October 14, 2020 Heartbreaking for Honduras! What a shame to be so close and to miss out. I notice there is a possibility of a Switzerland vs Argentina rematch. One of the things I enjoy about this experiment is the number of stories it has naturally developed. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted October 14, 2020 Author Share Posted October 14, 2020 (edited) DAY 18 - GAME 3 To be able to fill out the schedule more gradually and build some suspense, I moved the game between Ghana and Sweden ahead. It's a very interesting tie as both sides will be through with a draw, but could shoot up the ladder if they manage to clinch a win. Third Round of Pool Play NRG Stadium, Houston, United States Lineups: Ghana (Cautious 4-2-1-3 DM Wide): Ofori; Amartey, Aidoo, Adams, Asamoah ( 23' Rahman); Partey, Duncan, Acquah ( 58' Baba); Ekuban ( 68' Twumasi), Waris, Ayew Sweden (Cautious 4-2-3-1 Narrow): Olsen; Krafth ( 67' Jansson), Lindelöf, Gagliolo, Augustinsson; Larsson, Ekdal, Quaison, Tankovic ( 77' Olsson), Forsberg; Isak ( 72' Berg) Report: It was another game of last minute drama as Ludwig Augustinsson's thundering header completely flipped the overall table. Both Ghana and Sweden played most of the game with a positive approach, using the mentality that scoring a quick goal would probably be enough to lean back and sit out the rest of the game. Two beautifully headers by Caleb Ekuban and Emil Forsberg had the score at 1-1 by half time. In the second half, however, both teams started eagerly watching the clock and the game slowed down a little bit after that. By the last quarter of the game, Sweden decided it wanted to take its fate in own hands as they started a final rush to the goal. Just when everyone thought that was in vain, Augustinsson made the Tre Kronor shoot up to 14th spot in the overall table. Ghana was just a minute removed from the next round, but they are officially out. Statistics: 1 Goals 2 10 Shots 26 3 On Target 12 1.3 Expected Goals 2.8 44% Possession 54% Man of the Match: Emil Forsberg - Sweden (1 goal, 4 crosses completed, 3 key passes, 4 shots, 96% passing accuracy) ---------- We're almost there... Sweden shoots up the ladder thanks to that win and finishes in 14th overall. The repercussions are that, of course, Ghana have been eliminated, but also Egypt has finally left the Top 24. I don't think there will be a lot of Egyptian fans who still had hopes of going through, but it's remarkable that their elimination took so long. Another effect on the standings is that Morocco, who entered the final day with the chance of qualifying for the Round of 16, will now be one of the unseeded teams in the second round. Now let's look at the knockout schedule, because a lot has become clearer! The irony here is that none of the three co-hosts has managed to qualify into a spot in their own country. Especially that United States - Slovakia tie in Mexico City is..... inconvenient. Edited October 14, 2020 by Timetxu 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
iamnobody Posted October 14, 2020 Share Posted October 14, 2020 (edited) If my math is right the winner of Iran vs. Austria will qualify. I believe it's the only positive scenario for one of these countries. A draw will not help either of them. Is that correct? Edited October 14, 2020 by iamnobody Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
corinthiano Posted October 14, 2020 Share Posted October 14, 2020 Knockouts are getting interesting - Sweden/Portugal/Netherlands will be evenly matched whilst it looks like England will have an easy ticket to the quarters and potentially avoid any big nations up until the Semis. The US probably wont be playing at home in this WC anymore Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted October 14, 2020 Author Share Posted October 14, 2020 1 hour ago, iamnobody said: If my math is right the winner of Iran vs. Austria will qualify. I believe it's the only positive scenario for one of these countries. A draw will not help either of them. Is that correct? That's right! It's win or go home! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted October 15, 2020 Author Share Posted October 15, 2020 (edited) DAY 18 - GAME 4 It's time for nostalgia, as the final game of the first round will be played. 72 matches were all 48 nations started with an equal chance of going through. 23 have extended their stay in North America, 22 have been eliminated. Nigeria, Iran and Austria are the only three nations awaiting their faith. Well, awaiting... It's Nigeria doing the waiting as Iran and Austria face off in Guadalajara. The winner of that match will go through to the next round. If the encounter ends in a draw, Nigeria will be the dog running away with the bone. Third Round of Pool Play Estadio Akron, Guadalajara, Mexico Lineups: Iran (4-2-3-1 Narrow): Beiranvand; Ghafouri, Hosseini ( 72' Yazdani), Cheshmi, Hajsafi; Pouraliganji, Nourollahi ( 66' Amiri), Shojaei, Jahanbakhsh , Dejagah ( 52' Torabi); Azmoun Austria (Cautious 5-3-2 WB): Lindner; Posch, Dragovic, Hinteregger, Lazaro, Alaba; Sabitzer, Grillitsch, Schlager ( 77' Baumgartlinger); Arnautovic, Gregoritsch Report: It will be Austria running away with the final ticket for the second round as they dominated from start to finish against Iran. Despite their mildly defensive setup, the Europeans were in full control all game and passed their way to perfection as Iran was limited to just five shots. They could have made Austria nervous when Sardar Azmoun was sent through alone on goal in the 51st minute, but Iran's only shot on goal was held by Heinz Lindner. Despite being the far better side, Austria needed some help scoring both goals, as a communication error between defender Majid Hosseini and goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand granted Marko Arnautovic an easy tap-in. The 2-0 came from a rather easily awarded penalty kick which was slotted home by David Alaba. Definitely something that the Austrians will have to work on, as their two goals on the night have been the only goals they scored at this World Cup so far. Statistics: 0 Goals 2 5 Shots 24 1 On Target 11 0.4 Expected Goals 3.1 + 1 PK 43% Possession 57% Man of the Match: Valentin Lazaro - Austria (clean sheet, 10 crosses completed, 3 key passes, 3 chances created, 6 tackles won, 13 recoveries, 7 free kicks received) ---------- And that concludes the first round of this World Cup! Austria is the final team through to the next round, Nigeria and Iran are the last teams eliminated. You have to feel bad for Nigeria, as they had millions of chances to score against Mali in their last games, but they didn't. If they had only scored one goal, they would've finished seven spots higher. But that's the exciting thing of this format, I guess. Let's look at the full knockout bracket: There are some mouthwatering encounters already in the first knockout round. Three all-European encounters and a North American showdown between Mexico and Costa Rica. And just looking ahead in the schedule, there are possibilities for one of World Cup history's classic encounters in Argentina-Italy or the (for the Dutch traumatic) Netherlands-Portugal. Let alone what happens after! For now, all teams get two days off to rearrange their base camps, which gives us the chance to look back at the first round in the next update! Edited October 15, 2020 by Timetxu 4 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted October 15, 2020 Author Share Posted October 15, 2020 (edited) FIRST ROUND RECAP Three quarters of the full tournament schedule has been played but it feels like the World Cup is only getting started. Now that the first round is over and all teams have played three games, I thought it would be a nice moment to make a short recap. TOP GOALSCORERS 6 - Lionel Messi (ARG), Harry Kane (ENG) 4 - Álvaro Morata (ESP), Ricardo Rodríguez (SUI) 3 - Paulo Dybala (ARG), Roberto Firmino (BRA), Marco Reus (GER) 2 - Neymar (BRA), Lucas Cavallini (CAN), Duván Zapata (COL), Djaniny (CPV), Mohamed Salah (EGY), John Stones (ENG), James Maddison (ENG), Marcus Rashford (ENG), Tammy Abraham (ENG), Antoine Griezmann (FRA), Kylian Mbappé (FRA), Son Heung-min (KOR), Moussa Marega (MLI), Hans Hateboer (NED), Miguel Almirón (PAR), Paolo Guerrero (PER), Edinson Cavani (URU), Michael Bradley (USA) 1 - 114 players + 1 own goal MOST ASSISTS 4 - James Maddison (ENG) 2 - Lionel Messi (ARG), Juan Cuadrado (COL), Ahmed Elmohamady (EGY), Trent Alexander-Arnold (ENG), Ben Chilwell (ENG), Serge Gnabry (GER), Julio César de León (HON), Bobby Decordova-Reid (JAM), Younes Belhanda (MAR), Raúl Jiménez (MEX), Pape Souaré (SEN), Emil Krafth (SWE) 1 - 92 players TEAM OF THE FIRST ROUND In the background I've been keeping track of all the stats of all the players and converting them to fantasy points. It's a pretty basic scoring system, based on the official MLS Fantasy rules, but it has given me the possibility to present you this team as the "best" one (or rather, most prolific) of the first 72 games. Edited October 16, 2020 by Timetxu 5 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted October 18, 2020 Author Share Posted October 18, 2020 (edited) DAY 21 - GAME 1 The first stage is over and half of the participating nations have already returned home. We start this knockout bracket with eight games between teams who were good enough to stay in North America, but just not good enough to go straight to the Good Old Round of 16. We're starting of with co-hosts Canada, who are playing a great tournament, facing Morocco and their impenetrable defense. First Knockout Round MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, United States Lineups: Canada (4-1-2-3 DM Wide): Borjan; Córdova, Henry, James ( 78' Edgar), Davies; Hutchinson, Eustáquio ( 78' Piette), Arfield; David, Hoilett ( 67' Osorio), Cavallini Morocco (4-4-2 Diamond Narrow): Bounou; Hakimi, Saïss, Feddal ( 72' Abdelhamid), Mendyl; Amrabat, Belhanda, Taarabt ( 61' Harit), Ziyech; Alioui ( 67' Mahi), En-Nesyri Report: Morocco completely annihilated the Canadian fairytale with a 0-4 thumping in the Big Apple. Canada started with a positive attitude to the game, creating some early chances along the way, but two Moroccan corner kicks in quick succession both ended in center back Romain Saïss walking away cheering. The first one was a strong header, the second one an easy tap in at the near post. Canada did not let that early 0-2 hole get to them as they piled up the shots, but you are going to need something better to worry the Moroccan defense this tournament. Hardly any of the shots Canada created were on target and Morocco easily held its positions in the first half. In the second half, it were another two quick goals by the Atlas Lions. Youssef En-Nesyri slotted home a dry low shot from way outside the box and Hamza Mendyl then scored the most beautiful game of the night as he entered the fifteen yard area from the side and lined a thundering shot just under the crossbar. Statistics: 0 Goals 4 30 Shots 12 10 On Target 7 2.9 Expected Goals 2.1 58% Possession 42% Man of the Match: Romain Saïss - Morocco (2 goals, clean sheet, 8 recoveries) With that result, we now know that the Three Lions will be facing the Atlas Lions in Philadelphia in the Round of 16! Edited October 20, 2020 by Timetxu 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted October 20, 2020 Author Share Posted October 20, 2020 (edited) DAY 21 - GAME 2 We've seen co-hosts Canada being knocked out earlier today, how will other co-host Mexico fare? It's quite the change of scenery as they will face off with Costa Rica in Montreal. First Knockout Round Olympic Stadium, Montreal, Canada Lineups: Mexico (Cautious 4-2-2-2 DM Narrow): Ochoa; Sánchez ( 90+3' Corona), Montes ( 90+3' Araujo), Salcedo , Calderón ; Álvarez, Guardado, Rodríguez, Herrera; Vela, Jiménez ( 84' Lozano) Costa Rica (Defensive 4-4-2): Navas; Gamboa, González ( 91' Calvo), Duarte , Oviedo; Campbell, Borges , Guzmán, Ruíz; George ( 62' Ureña), Rodríguez ( 79' Bolaños) Report: Despite the cheering Costaricans on the field, it was mostly silence in the Olympic Stadium of Montreal as co-hosts Mexico were stunned by their Central American rivals. A breathtaking volley by Bryan Ruíz was the decisive factor in the first game that went to extra time. Over the first 90 minutes, both 9th seed Mexico and 24th seed Costa Rica were evenly matched. The Mexican offense, which had been so free-flowing in the first round, couldn't find a way to break down the solid Costarican defense. It looked liked extra time would be useless as both teams didn't really come close to scoring, but then Ruíz stepped up, sending the Ticos into frenzy. Statistics: 0 Goals 1 17 Shots 12 5 On Target 5 1.7 Expected Goals 1.6 44% Possession 56% Man of the Match: Bryan Oviedo - Costa Rica (clean sheet, 5 crosses completed, 3 key passes, 9 recoveries, 5 fouls received, 85% passing accuracy) That shock result sends Costa Rica through to face Uruguay in Toronto. Edited October 20, 2020 by Timetxu 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
corinthiano Posted October 20, 2020 Share Posted October 20, 2020 Very surprising result, surely Uruguay should get through and face England in the quarters... Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted October 23, 2020 Author Share Posted October 23, 2020 (edited) DAY 21 - GAME 3 We're onto the third game of the day. It's one of the tournament favourites Germany facing Mali and its extremely organized midfield trio. Will we see another shock result or can die Mannschaft make it out of this round to face Australia in Denver? First Knockout Round AT&T Stadium, Arlington, United States Lineups: Germany (4-4-2): Neuer; Kimmich, Süle, Tah ( 77' Rüdiger), Gosens ; Gnabry, Kroos , Havertz ( 71' Gündogan), Reus; Werner, Götze ( 65' Volland) Mali (Defensive 4-2-2-2 DM Narrow): Samassa; H. Traoré, Wagué , Konaté ( 90+6' Dibassy), Koné ; T. Doumbia , Samassékou , Haidara , Bissouma ( 77' A. Traoré); K. Coulibaly ( 82' C. Diabaté), Marega Report: Based on the scoreline, this one looks like a World Cup classic, but after 120 minutes, Germany were just happy to walk off the field victorious in a game they dominated. The first half was an absolute eyesore with only Mario Götze having a good opportunity, but he shot wide going clean throug on goal. The second half, Germany turned on the engines, but it was Mali who surprisingly went ahead after an Yves Bissouma free kick was terribly headed away by Timo Werner and Kalifa Coulibaly could tap in the goal at the near post. Germany was in all sorts of trouble then, but die Mannschaft continued to steadily attack and they were rewarded just six minutes later when Timo Werner was tripped in the box for a penalty kick and Marco Reus equalized. After that, it was a bombardment of shots on the Malinese goal, but Mamadou Samassa managed to keep his goal clean. Werner had a goal ruled out for offside just minutes before the end of 90 minutes, but he finally got his reward when he saw a powerful header from an Ilkay Gündogan cross hit the net just before a possible penalty series. Statistics: 2 Goals 1 32 Shots 5 13 On Target 4 3.9 + 1 PK Expected Goals 0.5 52% Possession 48% Man of the Match: Timo Werner - Germany (1 goal, penalty earned, 6 recoveries, 7 shots) Quite a scare for the Germans, but they're still in the tournament and will be facing Australia next. Edited October 23, 2020 by Timetxu 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
bazhsw Posted October 23, 2020 Share Posted October 23, 2020 That looks quite a bad tempered game with the Germans doing just enough. Some giants of world football coming together with potentially Italy meeting Argentina and the winner of that likely facing Germany. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jorgen Posted October 25, 2020 Share Posted October 25, 2020 Prediction semifinals: England vs Germany -> England // France vs Netherlands -> Netherlands Prediciton finals: Germany 4th, France 3rd, England 2nd, Netherlands 1st (or so I hope) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Carambau Posted October 27, 2020 Share Posted October 27, 2020 This is great! Loving every new update Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted October 28, 2020 Author Share Posted October 28, 2020 On 23/10/2020 at 15:43, bazhsw said: That looks quite a bad tempered game with the Germans doing just enough. Some giants of world football coming together with potentially Italy meeting Argentina and the winner of that likely facing Germany. Despite having the possibility of completely random ties because of the seeding system, I'm pretty happy with the way everything might fall together! On 25/10/2020 at 23:21, Jorgen said: Prediction semifinals: England vs Germany -> England // France vs Netherlands -> Netherlands Prediciton finals: Germany 4th, France 3rd, England 2nd, Netherlands 1st (or so I hope) I hope so too 21 hours ago, Carambau said: This is great! Loving every new update Thanks for following! 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted October 28, 2020 Author Share Posted October 28, 2020 (edited) DAY 21 - GAME 4 It's the fourth and final game of today and probably the most interesting one. Neighbours Switzerland and Italy face off for a spot in the Round of 16 against Argentina. Switzerland has been extremely good so far, guided by their fullback Ricardo Rodríguez. Italy has just snuck through but now doesn't have to calculate any results anymore. It's just win and avance. First Knockout Round Rose Bowl, Pasadena, United States Lineups: Switzerland (Defensive 4-4-1-1): Sommer; Lichtsteiner, Akanji, Elvedi, Rodríguez; Fernandes, Zakaria, Xhaka, Vargas ( 12' Ziegler ( 67' Aebischer )); Shaqiri, Embolo ( 62' Ajeti) Italy (4-2-3-1 Narrow): Donnarumma; Lazzari, Bonucci, Acerbi, Spinazzola; Verratti ( 67' Politano), Jorginho ( 80' Barella), Pellegrini , Insigne, Bernardeschi; Immobile ( 67' Sensi) Report: It was an absolute thriller in a stadium that won't bring fond memories for those who hold dear the Azzurri. The Rose Bowl, home of the lost 94' World Cup final against Brazil produced another traumatic moment for Italy. The game was tense and rather dull at times, much like we were watching a World Cup final already. Switzerland had the better part of the game, but that rather means anything when you're playing Italy. The Swiss did have midfielder Ruben Vargas leaving the game due to injury after only 12 minutes, but they kept a dominance in regard to scoring chances. As none of the teams scored, this game too had to go to extra time. Italy seemed to grab the winner with their first shot in the six yard box of the game as Federico Bernardeschi slotted home. However, it isn't a Switzerland game if there isn't any heroics of Ricardo Rodríguez involved. Of all players, the guy earning his bread in Italy managed to equalize on a beautiful free kick from far outside the penalty area. With that, this was the first game of the World Cup to go to penalty kicks and even those didn't manage to separate the two teams. After both sides had scored their opening five kicks, it was Stefano Sensi shooting wide and Manuel Akanji scoring the decisive one, sending Switzerland through to the Round of 16. Again, another World Cup penalty drama for Italy at the Rose Bowl. Statistics: 1 Goals 1 16 Shots 14 8 On Target 5 1.9 Expected Goals 1.7 53% Possession 47% Man of the Match: Ricardo Rodríguez - Switzerland (1 goal, 5 tackles won, 10 recoveries, 92% passing accuracy) This means we'll have a rematch of one of the First Round games in the Round of 16! Edited October 28, 2020 by Timetxu 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Carambau Posted October 28, 2020 Share Posted October 28, 2020 Yay!! Italy is out! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted October 29, 2020 Author Share Posted October 29, 2020 (edited) DAY 22 - GAME 1 It's the second day of knockout games and it's co-hosts United States taking on the tough Slovaks in, ironically, the Mexican Capital. First Knockout Round Estadio Azteca, Ciudad de México, Mexico Lineups: United States (4-2-1-3 DM Wide): Steffen; Yedlin, González, Brooks, Robinson; McKennie, Adams ( 60' Trapp), Bradley; Pulisic, Johnson ( 60' Arriola), Altidore ( 69' Zardes) Slovakia (Cautious 4-4-2 Diamond Narrow): Dubravka; Pekarik, Skriniar , Vavro ( 84' Valjent), Hancko; Hrosovsky, Hamsik, Lobotka , Duda; Bozenik, Kucka ( 79' Rusnák) Report: After Canada and Mexico, the United States are the last of the co-hosts who have failed to advance to the Round of 16. As we have come to expect from Slovakia, their organized midfield duo of Marek Hamsik and Patrik Hrosovsky, combined with a backline that's proven to be nearly impenetrable, was the foundation for a 1-0 victory. A close range shot from Robert Bozenik, who saw his shot saved by Zack Steffen, but did not waste his second chance, was the decisive factor of the match. Team USA did manage to get some good chances in the second half, partly because of an early red card after a two-footed tackle by Stanislav Lobotka, but the Europeans managed to hold on pretty easily. Statistics:0 Goals 1 11 Shots 8 6 On Target 2 1.8 Expected Goals 1.4 41% Possession 59% Man of the Match: Marek Hamsik - Slovakia (clean sheet, 6 key passes, 5 tackles won, 7 recoveries, 4 fouls received, 124 passes, 94% passing accuracy) With that result, we'll be sure of three all-European anecounters in the Round of 16. Edited October 29, 2020 by Timetxu 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted November 4, 2020 Author Share Posted November 4, 2020 DAY 22 - GAME 2 We continue the first knockout round with a game between African juggernauts Senegal and World Cup surprise Uzbekistan. Who will advance and face Brazil in the Round of 16? First Knockout Round NRG Stadium, Houston, United States Lineups: Senegal (4-2-3-1 Narrow): Mendy; Wagué, Koulibaly , Sané ( 81' Kara), Souaré; Gueye , Al. N'Diaye ( 81' Kouyaté), Am. N'Diaye ( 75' Niang), Ndiaye, Saivet ; Mané Uzbekistan (Defensive 4-4-2): Quvvatov; G'iyosov, Xoshimov, Krimets ( 75' Ismoilov), Zoteev; Masharipov , Ahmedov, Hamrobekov ( 56' Sobirxo'jaev), Salomov ; Shomurodov, Rashidov ( 74' Sergeev) Report: It was a stellar victory by Senegal as the Lions of Teranga easily disposed Uzbekistan. The Africans went ahead after only twelve minutes, when Badou Ndiaye scored a penalty kick after Alfred N'Diaye was fouled in the box. Senegal doubled their league on an easy tap in twenty minutes later. The same pattern resumed in the second half. The impenetrable Senegalese defense, flanked by the excellent supportive work of fullbacks Moussa Wagué en Pape Souaré were the standout for the day as the Africans ran out to a large win. Statistics:4 Goals 0 26 Shots 9 16 On Target 5 2.9 + 1 PK Expected Goals 1.1 56% Possession 44% Man of the Match: Moussa Wagué - Senegal (clean sheet, 2 assists, 9 crosses completed, 2 chances created, 13 recoveries, 5 fouls received, 87% passing accuracy) Senegal is the sixth nation making it out of the first knockout round and into the Round of 16. They will face Brazil in Guadalajara! 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
bazhsw Posted November 4, 2020 Share Posted November 4, 2020 The dreams of the Uzbeki's are over! It's been fun seeing their journey to do so well. The bottom of the draw looks great. Six European sides will lead to one semi-finalist, at least three of the sides will think they belong there! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
corinthiano Posted November 4, 2020 Share Posted November 4, 2020 We'll have some even games to complete the round, my predictions are Portugal and Austria through... Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted November 8, 2020 Author Share Posted November 8, 2020 (edited) DAY 22 - GAME 3 We'll finish off the first knockout round with two European encounters. Starting off with Sweden against Portugal. First Knockout Round Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, United States Lineups: Sweden (Defensive 4-2-1-3 DM Wide): Olsen; Krafth, Lindelöf, Gagliolo , Augustinsson; Larsson, Ekdal, Olsson; Kacaniklic ( 61' Tankovic), Forsberg , Isak ( 67' Quaison) Portugal (4-4-1-1): Patrício; Cancelo , Dias, Pepe , Guerreiro ; B. Silva , Neves ( 73' Moutinho), Fernandes ( 57' Pizzi), Guedes ( 73' Rafa); Félix, Ronaldo Report: Ecstacy in KC as Robin Quaison leads the Swedes onto the Round of 16. In a game where Portugal pretty much dominated for the full 90 minutes, it's the Tre Kronor who run away victorious. The Iberians pushed Sweden with their backs against the wall in the first half with the Scandinavians recording not a single shot. The second half was more in balance, but the Portuguese stormed the Swedish goal for the final remainder of the game. However, the aim of their shots was pretty poor as most ended up over the Swedish goal. Cristiano Ronaldo had a late opportunity, but he headed the ball straight into the hands of goalkeeper Robin Olsen. Late substitute Robin Quaison did the opposite. With the final kick of the game, Emil Forsberg sent a free kick from just over the halfway line into the penalty area, which Quaison then extended over the hands of Rui Patrício for a Swedish victory. Statistics: 1 Goals 0 6 Shots 21 4 On Target 5 0.6 Expected Goals 3.0 55% Possession 45% Man of the Match: Robin Quaison - Sweden (Pinchhit goal) Sweden will now face the Netherlands in the Round of 16. One final game in the first knockout round remains! Edited November 10, 2020 by Timetxu 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted November 10, 2020 Author Share Posted November 10, 2020 DAY 22 - GAME 4 It's the last game of the first knockout round and its another all-European encounter. Scotland have been doing quite impressively so far. Austria managed to just scrape through to the knockout stages. Who will prevail in Atlanta? First Knockout Round Mercedes Benz Stadium, Atlanta, United States Lineups: Scotland (4-4-2 Diamond Narrow): Gordon; O'Donnell ( 74' Paterson), Souttar ( 97' Findlay), Cooper, Robertson; Jack, McGregor, McTominay , Christie; Naismith, Griffiths ( 64' Fletcher) Austria (Cautious 4-4-1-1): Lindner; Lazaro, Dragovic ( 91' Posch), Hinteregger, Alaba; Sabitzer , Baumgartlinger ( 64' Grillitsch), Schlager, Ulmer ( 85' Onisiwo); Gregoritsch, Arnautovic Report: An absolutely sensational last second, extra time, stoppage time cannonball of a shot from Marko Arnautovic crashed Austria into the Round of the 16. The last of the first knockout stage games did not disappoint as both Scotland and Austria went into full attack mode for this one. Austria, which had such trouble scoring in their first three games of the tournament, came out flying when a Valentino Lazaro cross was met by the head of Michael Gregoritsch for an early Austrian goal. Scotland restored the deficit pretty quickly and even added onto that for the lead with goals from Callum McGregor and Ryan Christie after only eighteen minutes. The Tartan Army took the initiative from there and led the first half in terms of creating danger. The second half, however, continued to be an offensive spectacle as Lazaro decided to have a go at it himself for a change. The fullback crashed the ball behind Craig Gordon as the ball made its way in kissing the crossbar. With only fifteen minutes to go, Austria even received a penalty kick when Andreas Ulmer was brought down in the box, but Bayern München star David Alaba saw his penalty saved by an outstanding Gordon. The game eventually went into extra time and even though the Austrians were by far the most dangerous team in those final thirty minutes, it looked like penalties were underway. Arnautovic, however, was having none of that. His incredible volley in the 120+3rd minute provoked a thunderous roar in Atlanta as Austria sealed an encounter with Spain in the Round of 16. Statistics: 2 Goals 3 13 Shots 28 8 On Target 17 1.7 Expected Goals 3.2 + 1 PK42% Possession 58% Man of the Match: Valentino Lazaro - Austria (1 goal, 1 assist, 8 crosses completed, 7 tackles won, 11 recoveries, 87% passing accuracy) With that, the first knockout round is over and the Round of 16 is set! 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted November 10, 2020 Author Share Posted November 10, 2020 Would you just look at that thing! e0aec8329ce7c6966d56456dc14467b0.mp4 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted November 11, 2020 Author Share Posted November 11, 2020 DAY 25 - GAME 1 Eight nations had been awarded a free passage to the Round of 16. From now on, we will see whether that was an actual advantage or not. Joined by the eight winners from the first knockout round, it's a straight road to the Final now. Starting off with the best offense from the first stage against arguably the best defense of the first stage. It's England against Morocco! Round of 16 Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, United States Lineups: England (4-2-2-2 DM Narrow): Pickford; Alexander-Arnold , Gomez, Stones, Chilwell; Henderson, Dier, Maddison, Oxlade-Chamberlain ( 85' Grealish); Alli ( Abraham/90+1), Kane Morocco (4-4-2): Bounou; Hakimi, Saïss, Feddal , Mendyl; Ziyech, Belhanda, Taarabt, Harit; Alioui, En-Nesyri Report: Football isn't coming home this year. A truly shock result in Philadelphia as Morocco kicks out England from this World Cup in what might be the African nation's biggest result ever. Flashbacks to 2004 are becoming more relevant by the day as the Moroccan defense is the very foundation of the team's success so far as the Atlas Lions recorded their fourth clean sheet of the tournament. England were in control all game long and pounded the Moroccan goal with 37 shots, but Yassine Bounou set a World Cup record with no less than twenty saves in a single game. If he won't become Goalkeeper of the Tournament, we have no idea what will. Morocco's goal came from its only dangerous moment of the game, when Achraf Hakimi dribbled into the penalty area in the first half's stoppage time, crossed it low to Rachid Alioui and saw the Angers striker easily slot it home. Statistics: 0 Goals 1 37 Shots 5 20 On Target 2 4.8 Expected Goals 0.6 53% Possession 47% Man of the Match: Yassine Bounou - Morocco (clean sheet, 20 saves, 7 recoveries) Truly a shock result and with that, England waste one of their best shots at a World Cup Final if you ask me. Morocco are through and will face the winners of Uruguay vs. Costa Rica. 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
bazhsw Posted November 11, 2020 Share Posted November 11, 2020 Oh wow, I thought England had quite an easy route to the semi's at least. It's funny that they stuck nine past Morroco's North African rivals Egypt but here they really have slipped up. But what a performance from the Moroccan keeper! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted November 11, 2020 Author Share Posted November 11, 2020 17 minutes ago, bazhsw said: Oh wow, I thought England had quite an easy route to the semi's at least. It's funny that they stuck nine past Morroco's North African rivals Egypt but here they really have slipped up. But what a performance from the Moroccan keeper! Yeah, I'm really surprised. I know a lot has been said about FM20's match engine and the prevalence of FM'ing happening. I'm not here to judge about it, but I've seen it quite a lot in my saves so I hape we see it less in FM21. That performance by Bounou definitely was one of the best in World Cup history. Of course he only got a 7,1 rating from FM Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
bazhsw Posted November 11, 2020 Share Posted November 11, 2020 We do get games in real life where nothing goes right but I think many of us can identify with the 20 plus shots on goal and losing 1-0 (last night I had a ridiculous xg but still lost ) of course in Morocco the goalkeeper scored a 10! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
corinthiano Posted November 11, 2020 Share Posted November 11, 2020 Wow, that is the biggest shock of the tournament by far, also thought England would get to the semi-final easily, will be an interesting quarter final now! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timetxu Posted November 11, 2020 Author Share Posted November 11, 2020 DAY 25 - GAME 2 After the shock result earlier today, it's time for the second game in the Round of 16. Round of 16 BMO Field, Toronto, Canada Lineups: Uruguay (Cautious 4-2-2- DM Narrow): Muslera; Cáceres , Giménez, Godín, Olaza; Valverde, Vecino ( 85' Lodeiro), Torreira, Bentancur; Suárez, Cavani Costa Rica (Cautious 4-4-2 Diamond Narrow): Navas; Gamboa, González, Duarte ( 89' Waston), Oviedo; Tejeda, Guzmán, Borges ( 85' Azofeifa), Ruíz; Rodríguez ( 62' Ureña), Campbell Report: Without too much effort, Uruguay booked its place in the quarter-finals with a 2-0 win over Costa Rica. After an eyesore of a first half, a breathtaking goal in the top corner by Lucas Torreira put la Celeste ahead with just under half an hour to go. It was the story of Uruguay this World Cup so far: nothing flashy, but a decent performance by all eleven players on the field. A beautiful dropkick by Rodrigo Bentancur finished the game just before the final whistle. Statistics: 2 Goals 0 10 Shots 5 4 On Target 2 1.3 Expected Goals 0.3 57% Possession 43% Man of the Match: Lucas Torreira - Uruguay (1 goal, clean sheet, 5 crosses completed, 4 interceptions, 4 tackles won, 11 recoveries, 90% passing accuracy) The first quarter-final is set! 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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