World Cup hang over - looking back at Brazil 2014

It has been a week since Germany was crowned as World Cup champions, adding a fourth star to their kit. Since that game we have had a overwhelming number of pieces about the World Cup, so it was time for the Frog to chime in as well.

The all tournament team using a 4-2-3-1 formation:

• Goalkeeper - Neuer Germany. I can hear it now, "what about Howard!" from my USMNT fans. Yes Howard gave us a super human performance against Belgium. But he didn't win the game. Neuer on the other hand gave a superb performance versus Algeria as well as against France and Argentina. And he won the title. He should have

  

  A better sweeper than Luiz

  won the golden ball as well, more on that later.
• Left Back - Vertonghen Belgium. I can just feel the Gooner cringing right now. But looking at what the Tottenham defender did for Belgium during this World Cup elevates him to this position. He was a constant threat for the Red Devils bombing down the left flank. He also chipped in the winning goal against South Korea. Without his efforts on the left side for Belgium, the shocking performance by Hazard on that side would have been even more glaring. 
• Right Back - Lahm Germany. Shocking that Low stubbornly insisted on playing the Bayern man in the midfield. Were it not for some line up juggling in the beginning of the knock outs, we may never have seen Lahm back at his best position. Playing down the right side, Lahm gave Germany pace and width down the right side. He was constantly offering dangerous crosses from the flank. This also freed up some space for Ozil. Again, shocking that Low was forced to line him up in his natural position.
• Center Back - Hummels Germany.  The powerful central defender was a rock for the German back line. Chipping in vital goals as well. With Low asking his defense to play a very high line also forced the Hummels to be solid with his organization of the defense.
• Center Back - Vlaar Holland. The powerful Dutch center back was a rock playing for the Van Gaal's back 3. Playing with two wing backs, much of the defensive pressure fell on the shoulders of the back three defenders. In the middle of that was Vlaar. The Dutch defense were worthy of their 3rd place finish, giving up only one goal in the knock out stage. Their central defender has a lot to do with that result.
• Holding Midfielder - Mascherano Argentina. The Argentine pitbull lived up to his reputation. He was the rock that protected the Argentina back 4. His work rate constitently sat at a 10. His ability to act as a midfield destroyer coupled with his efficient linkage with the attack made him the most valuable Argentine player (yup more than a player wearing the 10 jersey).
• Holding Midfielder - Schweinsteiger Germany. Not to be repetitive...but what was Low doing the first half of the tournament? Once he lined up Lahm on the right with Schweiny and Kedira as his two holding midfielders, the Mannschaft took off. What took so long? Schweiny was the engine for the German team. His work rate, like Mascherano's, was off the chart. Seeing what he went through against Ghana or Argentina epitomizes his tournament. The man was spent in both matches, but he left everything on the pitch. Without his work effort I am not sure Germany adds that 4th star.
• Left Winger - Robben Holland. Yes I know he is a diver, could probably medal for the Dutch in the Olympics.  The sad part is, he does not need to dive! When you watch

  

  The grass got me this time...darn it

  him take on defenders 1v1 you realize he can get past most defenders and when he fights through the contact he tends to find himself in great goal scoring opportunities. He just seems to focus more on getting fouls called for him rather than get through the contact and get himself goal chances. Even with his diving, he had a fabulous tournament. At times he appeared to be the only player in orange to carry the attack.
• Right Winger - Neymar Jr Brazil - A bit of a surprise here, for a player that missed his last two games. That might be one of the reasons to build a case for Neymar. Until the semi-finals, Neymar was the one player that gave the Brazilians any hope. He carried the offense for the host nation. To be blunt, without Neymar, Brazil might not have made it past the group stages.
• Central Midfielder - James Colombia - The new darling of world football, earned his new found fame by having a monster tournament. Winning the golden boot with 6 goals and carrying his nation to a first ever 1/4 final, trusted the Monaco player into the lime light. His creativity and bag of tricks turned Colombia into a real dark horse this tournament. Just think how scary Colombia might have been had Falcao been on the pitch. The future is bright for this 23 year old.
• Striker - Messi Argentina - Shocking, but this is made by default. I am putting Messi here mainly on his performances early in the tournament (more on this later as well). He is also here because I do not consider Muller as a striker - I would have him as a second team left winger behind Robben. Messi saved his side in the group stages and had some decent spurts in the knock out rounds, but left much to be desired. His inclusion is indicative of the lack of world class strikers playing up to par this tournament.
• Other players - Navas Costa Rica GK, Zabeleta Argentina D, Boateng Germany D, Muller Germany MF, Pogba France MF, De Bruyne Belgium MF, Kroos Germany MF, Sanchez Chile F.

No surprise that this team is loaded with players from the German side. Of course there are always flops as well. Here are the top three flops - these players had to be on teams that made it to the knock out stages, otherwise I would just slot 3 players from Spain on this list!

• Fred Brazil - Wasn't he the leading scorer during the Confederations' Cup? What happened in the year between tournaments...oh right....teams actually try during the World Cup. He was a complete waste during the World Cup. Other than his atrocious flop against Croatia, he did nothing. What a waste.
• Bradley USA - Has been called Caillou by Boston based sports radio 98.5, isn't far from a good comparison. The best US player heading into the tournament was close to a disaster for the red white and blue. Too often Bradley was a negative for the US rather than his usual positive impact on the team. I place some of the blame on

  

  Caillou! You can't give up the ball that easily

  Klinsmann who played him out of position, but still his performance was awful.
• Oscar Brazil - Wasn't he suppose to be the creative lynchpin for Brazil? Creating space and opportunities for the likes of Neymar et al? So where was he? Like Fred, he was completely invisible. Yes he scored some goals, more than can be said for his countryman - Fred. But for all the hype surrounding this player heading into the tournament he was a huge flop.
• Honorable mention - the entire Brazilian back line and keeper. The 7-1 trashing exemplified how atrocious the Brazilian defense was starting with their donkey keeper - Cesar - who can thank his goal frame for beating Chile. But even more so with their excuses for outside backs - Maicon/Alves and Marcelo. They cannot defend and all think they are really strikers. One play that epitomized how pathetic they are was on the goal by Klose in the semi final game. Marcelo keeps Muller onside by giving him a 5 foot cushion...inside his penalty area. Marcelo almost ran over Cesar trying to "cover" Muller. But the worst of the lot is Luiz. Big Bird might be the worst central defender I have seen since Pascal Cygan. He has no positional awareness...wonder why Muller was so wide open on the first goal in the semi finals? Answer - Luiz was suppose to be covering him. Go back and look at the fifth goal...Luiz makes an attempted tackle in the midfield and got skinned. There is a reason why he ended up playing mostly as a defensive midfielder for Chelsea...at least there were players behind him to clean up his mess. Sigh...and PSG spent a boat load on him...why? Maybe we can get a refund from Chelsea.

The best team of the tournament, that didn't win the tournament, was Costa Rica. Los Ticos emerged from the "Group of Champions" besting, England, Italy and Uruguay. I was reading a pre-tournament publication that stated they had "no chances" of getting out of the group. They took Holland to the penalty kicks, so were that close to getting to the semi finals. A great run for the CONCACAF side.

The best manager of the tournament - Van Gaal. I put him above Low, since the German manager gets points deducted because of his stubborn Germaness when it came to Lahm in the midfield. But the Dutch manager pulled many of the right strings. It is ashamed that captain and striker - RVP - disappeared during the knock out stage, otherwise Holland might have expected a better result. Van Gaal's 3 back system with two deep lying wide players, including former striker Kuyt, was a perfect system for the Oranje. Swapping keepers during the penalty kicks against Costa Rica was a bold move that paid off...clearly one he wanted to make in the Argentina game but did not have any substitutes.

The player of the tournament - Yes Messi won the golden ball...but he did not deserve it, I think he knows that as well! Neuer was the player of the tournament. His performances against Algeria, France and Argentina were player of the tournament worthy. He made countless plays with his feet outside the area against Algeria that allowed his team to continue to play a dangerous high line. He made two imperial saves against France to keep a clean sheet. And was equally dominant against Argentina in the finals. On the other hand Messi completely disappeared in the knock outs, especially when it counted against Holland and Germany. There were many stories about how tired he was from a long season, but it isn't as if the other players were playing for amateur club sides....they all have been playing lots of football. It feels as if the moment overwhelmed the Barcelona magician.

2014 was a great World Cup, even if Germany won it all! See you all in 4 years in Russia. Actually see you in 2 years in France for the European Cup!

Don't cry for me Argentina...

Congratulations...grudgingly....to RFA for winning the 2014 World Cup. Once the game went into extra time it was clear that the Germans were the only team that would win the match. Argentina looked totally cooked, and Messi was a complete shell of himself.

The Good:

• For a 1-0 extra time game it was fairly entertaining, both sides had some legitimate chances in regulation. Oh yeah Palacio had a clear 1v1 in extra time but since he is of very little technical ability he made a mockery of the shot. In regulation, especially in the first half, it was clear that the organization and structure of Germany  was controlling the possession, but Argentina's pace was creating some serious problems for German's back line. Neither team was just sitting back, both were playing to their style and strengths.
• Gotze's goal was very good. A great foray down the right side by Schurrle, the Argentine defense chased, two players, the Chelsea player down the wing, allowing space to be created behind them. Demichelis was caught in no mans land and allowed Gotze to get behind him. Great control and finish. A deserved goal for the 1-0.
• Mascherano and Schweinsteiger were both huge for their respective sides. Both midfielders' work rates were superb and deserve a large amount of credit for keeping their sides in the match. Shows you why a team needs a strong defensive midfielder, and no Michael Bradley doesn't count.

The Bad:

• Higuain's finishing or lack there of. Okay he did put one in the goal...but was offsides. And that off sides was unnecessary. As a world class striker he should know how to make that run, it wasn't that complicated. That could have changed the game...yes stating the obvious. But his other clear chance was absolutely butchered. On a terrible back pass from Kroos, Higuain found himself 1v1 with Neuer...and shot the ball a good 10 feet wide. Awful. All he needed to take a simple touch and he had numerous options versus the keeper. Bad. Just bad.
• I have to question Sabella's substitutions. Much like 8 years ago in the 1/4 finals of the same match up when Argentina left a young Messi on the bench all game rather than bringing him on in a tied game. This time around I question taking off Lavezzi at the half for Aguero. Why? First Germany had already used a substitution so keep yours in the pocket and really force Germany on the back foot tactically. Second, Lavezzi was creating all kinds of problems for Germany. The Germans had no solutions for his pace. Why not allow the PSG winger to get another 15 to 20 minutes, let him go all out running at the German left? In addition you bring on Aguero who was coming off injury, not sure he was able to run for 45+ minutes. Finally, with Aguero - Higuain - Messi on the pitch, you had three players who refused to run back...this

  

  Sigh...lost opportunity

  substitution was poorly timed and advised.

The Ugly:

• Paging Messi, paging Mr Lionel Messi .... Yes Messi had a good start of the tournament, but was it a bit of fools gold? He was absolutely invisible in this game. He made a few runs, but clearly was not mentally nor physically in the game. At times he looked like he was just going for a walk, no urgency, no apparent desire...was the moment too big for him? Any comparisons to Maradona are a tad foolish now. He did not take over either the tournament and especially not this last game. 

A decent ending to a great tournament. Germany, I will grudgingly admit, was the deserved winner from the start of this tournament.

Uber Alles

Germany v Argentina: World Cup final rubber match

Later today Germany will face Argentina in a World Cup final rubber match. Argentina won the first match in 1986, 3-2, the World Cup that was defined by the evil genius that was Maradona. The two sides met again 4 years later in Rome, for the worst finals ever seen at a World Cup. That version was won by the Germans 1-0. That game was marred by ugly football, Argentina getting 2 red cards, Klinsmann at his flopping


best and a terrible penalty granted by an official that seemed overwhelmed by the situation. Let us hope that this round resembles more the 1986 version than the 1990 version.

After the 7-1 destruction of the hosts it would appear that this is Germany's final to lose. Or is it? Every since Low put out a line up with Lahm back at right fullback and playing two holding players - Khedira and Schweinsteiger - and even inserting a natural striker Klose, the side has been clicking on all cylinders. And any mistakes get cleaned up by Neuer in the goal. The Mannschaft were the second favorites behind Brazil, and we all saw what the second favorite thought of the favorites a few days ago.

Ended up a good day for Argentina

On the other side we have a team that seems to be an enigma wrapped in a riddle. A team that many, myself included, thought they would make this tournament theirs. On their home continent, on the ground of their fiercest rivals and playing with the best player on the planet. Instead the side has failed to flatter. They have been efficient - giving up 3 goals all tournament, but they have only scored 8 goals. Germany almost scored that many in the semi finals! Messi has shown flashes of his brilliance - saving Argentina from embarrassment against Iran. But he has not been consistent. Practically walking through the game against Holland. There are reports that he has "heavy legs" after a long season with Barcelona. I have even heard a rumor that he is saving himself for this game. Regardless he is now at a World Cup final. A game that will go a long way to define his legacy in global football and more importantly in his nation. It is well documented his living in the shadow of Maradona in his nation of Argentina. This will only  grow more intense if he does not show up for this game.

So who will prevail in the match between the German machine v the Argentine legacy? Germany has shown some ruthless efficiency - they already faced a team defined by a world class player, Portugal, and handled them with ruthlessness. They dispatched the upstart French with the bare minimum. And cleaned house against the hosts in the semi finals.  Germany have the right formation and the players hitting their stride at the right moment. With Klose up front, Low allows Muller to slot to his preferred left side and Ozil on the right. Khedira and Schweiny play the perfect holding roles and Kroos is quietly becoming a world class set piece player.

Argentina are missing their second most important offensive players - Di Maria. The midfield

No joy at the Maracana?

will fall even more on the shoulders of Mascherano. The other Barcelona player on the roster is a beast in the midfield, but he will have to deal with threats coming from multiple angles. Up front, Higuain has to step up his game which he seems to have been on the path of doing so, but he must bring his A game if Argentina hope to prevail. Of course there is Messi. The one weakness that Germany has shown is the ability to handle pace through the middle, something Messi could bring...if he stops walking around the pitch. Germany suffered when they faced Ghana and Algeria, two very quick teams up top. If Messi can get some space and time to run at the German defense they might have something. Especially if Germany continue to play a high defensive line, that might open them up for someone like Messi or Higuain or Aguero to make runs behind the defense.

But at the end of the day, I think a well run German team will prevail against the Argentina superstar. Messi does look tired and at half speed. Messi at his best could give this side some real problems, but not at this stage. Argentina will defend much better than the Brazilians did, how could you be any worse. They will also be motivated to try and win the title on Brazilian soil as well Messi having a chance to get out of Maradona's shadows. Alas, Die Mannschaft will win in a very methodical and very German way.

Germany 3 - Argentina 0

What time does the Germany v Brazil semi final start?

Wow, talk about humiliation. Germany hasn't been that ruthless since they bypassed the Maginot Line in 1940...an absolutely clinic on German efficiency.  7-1 and it could have been worse! You just don't see those score lines in international football anymore, you don't see them in the semi finals and you certainly do not see them where Brazil is on the wrong end

It is okay - just find some defensive midfielders and fullbacks who can defend

of the score line.

An absolute embarrassment but a deserved one. Why?

Brazil was a complete fraud team in this World Cup. For all the bluster coming from Scolari he will have to eat some serious humble pie. Yes the home side were without their most talented player - Neymar and their leader and defensive rock - Silva. But that is no excuse for giving up 7 goals...SEVEN!! Could have been 8 if Ozil put away his 1v1 late in the game. But that is not the reason why Brazil got trounced. It is because the team was over-hyped and had such a massive shortcoming it is somewhat shocking they reached this stage. They have ZERO defenders and their midfield is non existent. Take out Silva and you see how he was a one-man defensive core. David Luiz is atrocious, why why why did PSG sign him.

All the hair product in the world can't give this defense extra hold

There is a reason Chelsea ended up pushing him to a midfield role. He thinks he is Socrates and can make mazy runs through the opposing defense. Uh no. You can't Luiz, you are just a caricature and frankly just cause you have crazy hair doesn't make you the next Valderrama! He needs 4 defenders behind him to clean up the messes he makes. Look at the 5th German goal. Luiz makes an atrocious attempt at a tackle on Hummels ( who by the way started his run from his defensive 1/3 and no Brazilian striker or midfielder decided to check that run) and instead of stopping the ball, it finds its way to Ozil who has a 3v2 and bang - Germany 5-0.

Good to see Scolari has two stalwart fullbacks as well. Marcelo and Maicon are absolute jokes. You know when Maicon is started over Alves for "defensive" purposes you are in trouble. Maicon, like Alves, can really only run in one direction - forward. Marcelo is a total donkey. Watch what he does on the second German goal. He keeps the play onside because he runs parallel to Muller, almost runs into Cesar since his run was so deep he makes his run and allows Muller to just run to the penalty spot. Hey Marcelo, did you notice that your fellow defenders where holding the line up by the 18 yard box...you know...playing the offside? A donkey.

I also looked the replay and I still couldn't find a Brazilian midfield. Fernandinho and Gustavo were absolutely criminal in their play. Turning balls over with ease, not tackling anyone, allowing acres of space to the Germans. Pogba did more alone than these two did combined! Also not sure there were any offensive players on the field for Brazil - Hulk, Oscar, Fred and Bernard certainly aren't going to make anyone forget Pele, Zico, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho...

It is nearly impossible for me to root for Germany, but I will admit I was hoping for a larger

Sorry I think we scored again...

score line...maybe even 10 goals. The Brazilian team and Scolari sold fans a bill of goods. They had one of the world's best players in Neymar who masked many of the cracks. They also had one of the world's best defenders - Silva - who somehow kept a ragtag group of defenders together. But they had no spin no back bone. Once they went down a goal they seemed lost. Did not know what to do. I place that blame on Scolari for not preparing this squad and also not making the necessary changes during the tournament. Fred? Why did he insist on starting that donkey? Granted maybe he didn't see Jo as a real option...maybe he shouldn't have taken him along! Hulk played 45 minutes of good footy - second half against Chile.

So now Brazil have lost the second World Cup they have hosted. The nation is in mourning, but if the nation had taken an honest look at themselves they should have known that those gold shirts were fools gold.

World Cup semifinals - usual suspects present. Brazil v Germany

So we are heading to the final matches of what has been a great World Cup. For all the fire works we saw in the group stages and the upsets, we have four teams that are the usual suspects - Brazil, Germany, Argentina and Holland. Between them they have won 10 World Cups and reached the finals 21 times. While Holland has never won the cup they are clearly the greatest footballing nation to have never won a cup. Is this their year? Anyways, some great match ups between footballing powers...so what will happen?

Germany v Brazil: Die Mannschaft have made a record 4th semi final in a row. The last time they failed to reach the semi finals was 1998 where they were man handled by a young Croatian side. Since then they have made the 4 semi finals, but only reached the finals once. That was back in 2002 where they ended up losing to Brazil in the finals. They then lost to Italy in 2006 at "their" World Cup in Germany and 4 years ago got swept aside in the semi finals against Spain. So will this be the World Cup for Germany? They seemed to have found, or stumbled, back into the best formation. Lahm at right back, two holding midfielders in Kedhira and Schweinsteger and even having Klose up front as a natural striker allowing Muller to go back to the left. In front of them they will be facing a Brazil side that has really failed to impress this entire tournament.

I read somewhere that if Brazil win with Fred up front, it will be the worst striker for a winning

Who was this amateur striker playing w Zizou?

side since Guivarch in 1998...I couldn't agree more! Hulk has been useless other than running around and from time to time uncorking canon left footed shots....that are no where near going into the goal. Oscar has been a shell of himself, or at least what we are believed him to be. And let's not get too excited about Cesar and his tears after the PK shoot out win...he is still terrible.

Add to this the fact that Brazil will be without their two best players. Neymar and Silva are out. The former due to a broken vertebrate. The latter out because of yellow card accumulations. The Brazilian FA appealed, but come on, Silva picked up a yellow against Colombia for maybe the dumbest play - interfering with the keeper as he was trying to punt the ball down field. Just for the sheer stupidity of what Silva did, he should get a 2 game ban. Regardless, Brazil will be without their best player - people say Argentina is "Messi dependent," the same can be said for Brazil and Neymar. Brazil will also miss their captain and best defender, really their only defender since the other three that play on "defense" all see themselves as strikers forced to start their runs from their own penalty box. When you swap out Alves for Maicon, because Maicon is a better "defensive" option....yikes. Now that David Luiz scored on the free kick look for him to channel his inner Beckenbauer during the semis.

So Germany should roll...not so fast. From the reports, Scolari will pack his midfield, maybe slot Hulk atop of a 4-2-3-1 formation. Or go with a 4-3-3 and pack the midfield with Gustavo, Fernandinho and Paulinho. Also look for Brazil and their fans, to continue with intimidating the officials. Something that cannot be overlooked. I think Brazil will be embellishing, flopping more than usual and look for them to try and get in more little cheap fouls, like they did against Colombia, hoping to throw the Germans off their game. The reality is that the Germans also did not look that great in open play against the French. Where they did look deadly was on their set pieces. Each time Kroos took a free kick or corner it felt the Germans could score - something that Brazil will have to be aware of if they start fouling the Germans. But they are Neymar dependent. Without their #10 I cannot see how they can weasel their way past the Germans and if it goes to PKs I don't think Cesar will be given to gifts which even he cannot miss on.

Germany is too clinical, have the right formation (finally) and their keeper is in top form.

Germany 2 - Brazil 0

Merci Les Bleus - 1/4 final exit no surprise

Sigh, once again France fall to West Germany on the football pitch. Unlike the last two occasions this one wasn't full of the pain and suffering! It was a rather bland game, especially for a 1/4 final match up.

The Good:

• There is not much good from this game, but once the dust settles we will recognize that Les Bleus actually go to where this team deserved to go - the 1/4 finals. Yes France had an easy group and yes they had a relatively easy draw against Nigeria, but if the past showed us anything was that the team could easily succumb to the situation and melt. They didn't and they achieved what they were expected to. Anything more than a 1/4 final would have been pure gravy.
• This pains me to say, but Low finally got the right formation for the Mannschaft. Finally moving Lahm out to the right fullback role gave the formation more width and attacking pace down that side - granted Lahm seemed to disappear at times defensively and somehow let Benzema waltz into the penalty area for a last minute chance. Partnering Schweinsteiger and Khedira as the two holding midfielders completely shut down Pogba - Matuidi - Cabaye from taking more control of the midfield. The partnership also provided cover for the likes of Lahm to push up as well as allowing Ozil and Muller to worry more about the offensive side of their game rather than having to drop back and defend. Which they don't do very well regardless.
• Les Bleus are moving in the right direction. They got to the 1/4 finals. More importantly look at players that will make up their core for the foreseeable future -

  

  Not a bad pair to build around.

  Varane 21 years old, Sakho 24, Digne 20, Greizmann 23, Pogba 21, Schneiderlin 24, Sissoko 24, Cabella 24 - all under 25. Other players such as Benzema 26, Cabaye 28, Valbuena 29, Remy 27 and Giroud 27 are still on the right side of 30. This bodes well for the Euros in 2 years and as a core for the World Cup in Russia four years from now. The only starters that we will most likely not see again for France is Evra. All the others should showcase in France in 2 years for the Euros!

The Bad:

• I have been harping on this for a while, but the French finishing was bad. Valbuena, Benzema even Varane had some decent chances. But whether it was a bad first touch, like Griezmann in the first half on a wonderful deep ball. Or just a lack of creativity when it came to the attacking third. There was also a lack of communications. Ball through to what looked like an on rushing Valbuena that Benzema takes, while he still created a good opportunity, it seemed Le Petit Velo would have put on a cracker had he been allowed to make his run. Just not enough practicality and clinical finishing for Les Bleus.
• France seemed to sit back a little too much to start the game. They gave Germany lots of time on the ball and didn't put pressure on the back line. Les Bleus started to put some pressure on that back line late in the first half but there was not the type of urgency necessary in a 1/4 final match. This continued into late second half. Was it the heat? Maybe. Could be why these European nations seem to fade when playing in South America. Regardless, should have been more from Les Bleus in terms of urgency. 

 The Ugly:

• First let me start off by saying that I think Deschamps is a large reason why France have turned things around. Compare this World Cup to what transpired 4 years ago. Even look at what happened during the Euros 2 years ago. This team is much more unified and moving in the right direction. DD deserves the credit for this and thankfully will be managing France for another 2 years until the Euros in France. However...Deschamps' management of this game was a bit ugly.  First - why did Sakho start? Whether or not you think he deserves to start - I know the Gooner questions his ability and I was nervous about having him start this game. This is compounded by the need to take out the Liverpool man for Koscielny in the second half. My stance is you should never have to make a like for like substitution on defense during a game - baring injury. Especially your center pairing. They are expected to last the game. If they have to be taken out for another central back...you made a poor decision on your starting sheet. Second, I am not sure what was DD's substitution strategy. He brings on Remy in the 73rd minute for Cabaye. He had already brought

  

  Deserves a hug and a kiss for work with Les Bleus

  on the aforementioned Kos in the 71st minute. Why making an offensive change so late? Yes, Les Bleus had put together some sustained challenges to the German back line. So why not throw on a pacey wing players like Remy to build on this pressure? Throw him on in the 60th or 65th minute, let him get a good 30 minutes of run. Finally Deschamps brings on Giroud in the 85th minute! What? 5 minutes? He showed in the last play why he can be valuable, he can hold up the ball and hit smart passes to players filling the void - how Benzema got a free shot at the German goal. Maybe it would have been better to see this for more than 5 minutes...but this all stems, for me, from the Sakho inclusion in the starting line up. He hasn't been able to finish a full game all tournament. So why would it start today? Koscielny looked very good in Nigeria and looked comfortable next to Varane. Why not keep that pairing and not risk having to use a substitution for your center back? The fact DD also took out Valbuena for Giroud was a surprise for me. Had he taken out a Pogba or Matuidi I could see the reasoning, but taking out arguably your best creative player was a head scratcher. I do not think that DD was the reason why France lost this game, but Deschamps did not put them in the best position to mount a greater challenge to the Germans. Especially at the end of the game.

So France head home after a successful Brazilian adventure. Once the dust settles we will realize that this team achieved what they should have. A semi-final would have been nice, but that would have been pure bonus. France show they still need some maturity when it comes to finishing and being able to take their chances. As I stated there are may good things for Les Bleus moving forward, Deschamps staying on board will be a good thing and the team has some real talent in their ranks. They need to learn from this adventure and from this set back.

It will be interesting to see how the likes of Griezmann, Pogba, et al develop over the next two years before the Euros. Also, how will players like Lacazette, Grenier, Zouma, Rabiot and Thauvin might integrate into this side. Keep an eye on Rabiot and Thauvin, they might offer France that creative central player that they are lacking.

Good run from Les Bleus, difficult to lose to the Germans and the way they lost was bland which made it frustrating!

Allez les Bleus. 

Les Bleus to start with Griezmann over Giroud

After watching the Nigeria v France match it was clear that Deschamps needed to roll out a formation with a natural left winger on the pitch. This is even more important against Die Mannschaft. With that in mind DD rolls out his 4-3-3 with Griezmann on the left and Benzema in the center.

Lloris - Evra, Sakho, Varane, Debuchy - Cabaye, Matuidi, Pogba - Griezmann, Benzema, Valbuena

 Sakho finds his way back into the starting line up along side Varane. With a true left winger in place it should allow the left back - Evra to be more active on the offensive end of the game. Unlike against Nigeria, I expect to see the former Manchester United left back to push higher on the pitch. Why? With Griezmann, assume that the left winger will be more responsible with his defensive duties unlike Benzema who is too much of a center forward - doesn't run back!

Some interesting line up changes for Low as well. Lahm is back at right back, which is really where he should be. Klose is in at the top of the formation, a real center forward with Muller and Ozil as the wide players. This seems like the best formation for the collection of players on Low's roster. Wonder why it has taken this long to roll it out.

Why did it take this long to slot at right back?

To be blunt, I did not like France's chances before, now that I see what Low has rolled out I like them even less. With Klose up front, the Mannschaft has a natural and dangerous high striker that will keep Sakho and Varane occupied. What scares me with Sakho is that as talented as he is, he is also susceptible to serious mental lapses where he lunges in for a rash challenge. With someone like Klose roaming the penalty box...I fear we might see one from Sakho when Klose ghosts behind the French defense. I also think that Lahn as right back makes the most sense, especially when Low can put Khedira and Schweiny in the mid-field, making that stronger for Germany. France will have to give a herculean effort today and make no mistakes if they hope to have a chance at pulling off the upset.

Alas I have to go with my head again - Germany will win this game.

RFA 2 - France 0

Allez les bleus!!

1982 - the year my football life was born

In less than 24 hours, we will most likely know one of the semi-finalists for the World Cup. France and Germany will meet in the first 1/4 final game. There is not need for an artificial story line for this game. The history between these two nations is well documented both on and off the soccer pitch! On the football pitch, Germany will always hold a place in all fans of Les Bleus of a certain age. I am one of those fans.

As sports fans we all have events that have marked us, and will continue to mark our memories, dare I say, until the day we die? I realize that might be a tad dramatic. 1982 was that for me. Let me start with the background.

France's footy team had been in the waste lands of international football during the 1960s and 1970s, they had been able to find the talent nor system that could match the "golden generation" that went to a third place finish in the 1958 World Cup. However signs of turning the corner could be seen in 1978 in Argentina - a player by the name of Platini found his way into the side. Coming into 1982, Platini was no longer a young prospect, he was now seen as one of world's best players. A player that had starred on the powerful Saint-Eteinne squad and was heading to Juventus. Riding on his talents as well as players such as Bossis, Tresor, Giresse, Amoros, Tigana, Rocheteau the French national team felt as if it was on a cusp of a new golden generation. They had qualified for the World Cup and did so by beating the runner up from the 1978 World Cup - Holland. They had a club side, Saint-Eteinne that had allowed for some to dream that France would become a premier footballing nation on the world stage.

France did not start off the 1982 World Cup on the right foot, losing to another hated rival - England. They also gave up the fastest goal, at the time, in the World Cup during that game to Bryan Robson. France would go on to finish second in the group. During the 1982 World Cup teams would be placed back into groups to determine the 4 semi-finalists. I remember being at the beach at Saint Jean-de-Monts after France defeated Northern Ireland (yes they used to make it to major tournaments) and seeing cars honking horns and people celebrating the fact Les Bleus were heading to the semi-finals. At that moment I knew what football was, but I didn't appreciate the passion associated with the beautiful game. That would change.

The day of the semi-finals I remember my great-uncle's house buzzing. There must have been a dozen of us from the family there, not because of the game, but because we always came together during the summer and would spend time at the beach. But we had a bonus this summer - a World Cup semi final for Les Bleus. That afternoon leading up to the game, things were being put in place. The usual large family dinner we would have every night around the dining table, would be moved in front of the television. I also remember the larger than usual quantities of wine that was being rolled out, it felt like a celebration.

Once the game started I can remember feeling a slow boil of tension building. Germany scored early only to see Platini convert a penalty to level the score. Both sides then settled into a cautious match. And then the assault of Battiston occurred. On a caviar of a through ball from Platini, Battiston runs onto it and gets crushed by German keeper Schumacher.  I remember as an ignorant 10 year old that I knew something bad had happened but not to that extent!


The fact there was no foul given, let alone a card was criminal. The Dutch referee waved on play and was even slow in calling in medical services to tend to the fallen player. Rumors would run wild the next day that since France had eliminated Holland in the qualifiers that the official was biased against France. This vile act of aggression would only heighten the tension of the match. France should have had a penalty kick and possibly seen Germany go down a man...alas it was not to be! The game would then take on a new dimension.

The score line would stay 1-1 into extra time. France would find a way to score twice in the first half of extra time. Marius Tresor would hit a canon of a volley from the penalty spot. Watching it I remember wondering how did he possibly do that? How could he take a ball in

For a few minutes they were heading to the finals

full flight and hit it with some power and precision?? Especially since he was a stopper! A few minutes later Giresse hit a cracker from the 18 to allow France to go up 3-1. The resulting celebratory run was one of pure joy...France were going to a World Cup final....I certainly felt that way. As an innocent 10 year old, I remember running outside in wild celebration, I probably resembled Giresse and his celebration.

Alas there were still 15 minutes in the game. And a certain Rummeingge sitting on the bench. The rest lives on in infamy. Rummeingge scores in the 102nd minute and Fischer would score a few minutes later....what? Really?

How did that happen?? All of a sudden we were heading to the penalty kicks. The first time this torture device would be used to determine a winner and a loser. How could this be?

The penalty kick sequence drama could not have been any more tense. From the Schumacher mugging of Battiston, to the back and forth goals in the extra time and now penalty kicks. I remember watching Stielike missing his kick and crumbling in tears. He could barely walk back without help from his teammate. And there was Toni Schumacher, stone faced gaze, basically scolding Stielike to get out his kitchen because he would take care of it. Which he did. He stopped Six and brought Germany level again. The next kicks were converted...so we had sudden death in penalty kicks. How could you add more tension to this match?? Maxime Bossis strides up and misses his kick...Germany's turn...and they don't miss in penalty kicks.

France crash out. Germany will face Italy in the finals. 120+ minutes of football between fierce rivals. France had arrived, in defeat, onto the global stage of football. Germany the defending European Champion and at the time, two time World Champion, had weathered the storm of being embarrassed by losing to their "little brother" neighbor.

The innocent 10 year old, who minutes ago had run around in wild celebration, wasn't sure what had happened. That was the first football game I remember watching from start to finish. It was my first introduction to the highs and lows associated with sports - I would have others! Notably with the Red Sox in 1986!!

Looking back I realize that much of the game itself I remember more from having watched it again in documentaries and YouTube videos (I will admit that re-watching Giresse score the third French goal I still believe somehow they will find a way to hold on). Germany would go on to lose to Italy in the finals while France would lose the 3rd place match against Poland. No surprise. Both teams had empty their tank both from a physical stand point as well as mental.

Since 1982, France has more than earned its place at the table for tier one footballing nations. Winning the European cup 2 years later with an unstoppable Platini. They would get to another World Cup semi final in 1986...losing to West Germany again. But France has since then won a World Cup as well as another European Cup and reached another World Cup final in 2006. By all accounts that has propelled France closer to their footballing big brother - Germany. But that July evening in 1982 will always remain in the heart of a 10 year old who for a few minutes was overcome with uncontrollable joy.

And then there were 8...1/4 finals of World Cup approach

Phew, 48 hours without any World Cup football..how are we expected to survive this? It has actually been a good respite considering how tense some of the knock out games were. Starting tomorrow we are back in for 4 very different and fascinating matches. Since the Frog was 7-1 in the picks for the last round, we are feeling pretty confident in our prognostications! The one missed pick...The Frog had the US beating Belgium 2-1. Right score line...wrong teams. So here we go:

• France v West Germany: I have been surprisingly calm about this match, maybe it is the heat that has descended on the New England area that is warping my mind. I will most likely have a dedicated post to this match but here is my snap shot. France and Germany have a long story of match ups - 1986, 1982, 1940, 1914, 1870...1806 okay okay I completely digress from the football field. When it comes to their national football teams, France has always been in the shadow of Germany. Les Bleus have always seemed to be the little brother to Die Mannschaft. France and Germany have not met on the footy field at a major tournament since 1986. But those match ups - 1982 and 1986 - carry a lot of weight on this rivalry. More on 1982 in another post. But we are now in 2014, most players on both sides were not born in 1986! So what to

  

  We meet again!

  make of this match up? Both sides struggled in their knock out openers. France did not look good against Nigeria until the last 15 minutes while Germany, at times, looked old and slow versus the Algerians. But this is Germany, this is the World Cup - they know how to win when they have to. It might not be pretty, and often it is not, but they do what it takes. While Les Bleus, for all the good will they are starting to harvest, is still an experienced side when it comes to these types of games. For this reason I have a hard time to pick against the RFA. Here is why - Muller is not going to miss sitters like he did against Algeria, Ozil and Gotze are going to cause some real issues for Evra and Debuchy. The midfielders will cancel each other out. Muller is more clinical than the French options up front. I have to make this pick with head...not my heart. West Germany 2 - France 0
• Brazil v Colombia - Has there been a player with more hype than James Rodriguez? He deserves much of the praise, having scored in each of his nation's games at the World Cup, including a master stroke of a volley against Uruguay. Brazil also did not look very convincing against Chile. The Brazilians have the goal frame to thank for their victory. If I see Cesar weeping openly again, I might throw something at my television screen and vomit...so Brazil played terribly and still made it to the 1/4 finals. They are still the home side if anyone forgot. They are facing another South American side who they are very accustomed to playing in Brazil. Colombia has never reached this stage, even the sides with Valderrama and Asprilla. Colombia have been clicking since the group stages, where they have scored 11 goals and only giving up 2 goals since this World Cup has started. Strong numbers to say the least. But they are now facing off against Brazil. I think this game will be closer than the home fans will want to see, but at the end I cannot see Brazil falling to their neighbors from the north. Brazil 2 - Colombia 1
• Argentina v Belgium - France and West Germany are not the only nations that have footballing history from 1982 and 1986. Belgium defeated Argentina 1-0 in the 1982 group stage opener, at Camp Nou. The two sides met again 4 years later this time in the 1/2 finals where Maradona scored a brace to send Scifo and Pfaff to the third place match (where they lost 4-2 to France). So these two nations face off again on the world's biggest footballing stage. Argentina struggled against the Swiss last round.

  

  Messi to expect the same treatment?

  Once again it needed a run by Messi to get through on a 1-0 score line. Argentina's offense was better than it had been - especially Di Maria who seemed to step up his game. Becoming more active in carrying the game for the Argentines. The one troubling area, continues to be their back line. This is something of a concern for Les Albicelestes. Belgium showed against the United States that they have some lethal attacking options - Hazard, De Bruyen, Lukaku, Origi and even fullbacks like Vertonghen. Can the Argentine defense hold up against these attacking options? Or will Belgium be more cautious facing Messi and co as opposed to when they faced the powerful midfield of Bradley and Zusi...Argentina, similar to Brazil, have won unconvincing, even ugly. I think this continues, but it will be close. Argentina 1 - Belgium 1, Argentina wins 5-4 on kicks.
• Holland v Costa Rica - Of all the CONCACAF teams, who would have wagered it would be the Ticos that got to the 1/4 finals? Oranje could be considered fortunate having beaten another CONCACAF side - Mexico. But this is a new day. I cannot see how Costa Rica can continue their magical run. They also had to play an extra 30 minutes and a man down. That is a lot of extra wear on those players' legs. I also do not think that Costa Rica has handled a player like Robben nor Van Persie in the past. Look for Robben to carve up the Ticos with either his pace or his diving. Either way he is world class. Look for Los Ticos' run to end. Holland 2 - Costa Rica 0 

Some exciting 1/4 finals game coming up. I think we are still on course for a Brazil v Argentina finals...wow. And Holland v Germany 3rd place game which might be one of the better 3rd place games ever!

Biggest match in US history to be played today...

Okay okay, that was a little bit of a sensationalist headline. This might be the biggest hyped game for the US mens' national footy team. I certainly do not diminish the importance of this match. When the draw first came out this group was widely seen as one of the leading candidates for the moniker "group of death." Deservedly so. After a stunning first match win versus Ghana and maybe an as stunning draw against Portugal, the US sits in a position

What do I do during the anthems??

otherwise only reserved for dreamers - one foot into the knock out round. However, all the hype surrounding this game is a tad overblown. Why? The US has over a 75% of qualifying. Those are pretty good odds. This is not a "do or die" game that the US media would like to hype it up to be. Even with a loss the US could still go through. A draw or win guarantees the US goes to the knock outs.

Of course there are some interesting undertones - Low used to work for Klinsmann....when Klinsmann managed the German national team. We all know that Klinsmann is...German. The number of US/German players that play for the United States. Yes these are good story lines. But they are just that...stories to hype up an otherwise simple game. Draw and move on. Add to this the fact that the Ghanaian camp is starting to resemble France 2010! The Portugal v Ghana game might not even be played with both teams pouting!

This all makes a good story line. This game is key for another reason - an opportunity for the US to see how they stack up against a world power on the biggest stage - but not really for qualification. Or might I be proven wrong??

I see a cautious game between both sides.

1-1 draw. Goals from Klose and Dempsey (Again).

Deschamps back to the 4-2-3-1 with some surprises

DD will head into tomorrow's match against Germany with an "old fashion" 4-2-3-1. According to reports look for the Arsenal right back Sagna back on the starting sheet as well as Newcastle midfielder Sissoko lining up for a start. Interesting.

Lloris
Sagna, Koscielny, Sakho, Evra
Cabaye, Matuidi
Sissoko, Valbuena, Ribery
Benzema

Can he run the midfield?

I am a little surprised that we are not seeing a more "muscular" midfield, as I had suggested in my blog post.  Much will be expected of Cabaye and Matuidi to check Ozil in particular. Much like what France did in Spain, look for the PSG midfielder to be asked to do the yeoman's work in the midfield and try to shut down any creativity from the Mannschaft. Cabaye will be the link, but will need to ensure he keeps his defensive responsibilities top of mind. Three things to look for:

• Can Valbuena handle the #10 role? I am not sure he is disciplined enough to hold that spot and with Ribery on the left will he fight his urge to roam a bit on the pitch? Valbuena's showing against Italy was top shelf and he deserves getting the start, but not sure if in the middle of the midfield is best.
• How will the right side function? With Sagna back in the starting line up and Sissoko getting a start...on the right...not really where I envision him long term. Deschamps will be looking at a brand new right side of his formation. How will this work? With Menez and Debuchy sitting on the bench, it will be interesting to see if DD goes to those two if things are stale on the right.
• Is Dechamps settling on Kos-Sakho as his central defense pairing? At the beginning of his tenure, DD leaned on Yanga-Mbiwa/Sakho defensive pairing, which showed much promise. Due to circumstances, DD inserted the Arsenal defender in the back. Without Yanga-Mbiwa on the initial list from Deschamps, is the Kos-Sakho pairing becoming cemented as the #1 choice pairing? Let us see how this works out tomorrow.

It will be interesting to see how France answers these three questions. Of course a fourth question is - can Benzema find his scoring touch for France??

We will know tomorrow!

Allez les Bleus!!

Les Bleus get ready for test versus Germany

France v Germany, evokes many emotions...not all that good coming from a Frenchman! Then again at least on the football pitch, Les Bleus have had some good success. Most recently a 2-1 victory away to Germany. For this weeks match, Deschamps called upon many of the usual names...with a few surprises:

Les joueurs retenus :
Landreau, Lloris, Mandanda
Clichy, Debuchy, Evra, Koscielny, Rami, Sagna, Sakho, Varane
Cabaye, Capoue, Gonalons, Matuidi, Sissoko, Valbuena
Alessandrini, Benzema, Giroud, Gomis, Ménez, Ribéry.

The big surprise - the Rennes striker: Alessandrini. The left footed player has made his first appearance on the French national team list. Most recently, Varane had to withdraw and will be replaced by the Newcastle man - Yanga-Mbiwa.  It will be interesting to see who Deschamps leans on - does he stick with his tried and true formation or does he tinker? I say he goes with the former.

Back to running Les Bleus midfield

On defense I think you will see many of the same - Lloris in goal, Evra as your left back and Debuchy on the right. The question is, who does Deschamps look to as he center back pairing? Sakho will most likely get the nod, but does Yanga-Mbiwa get a start, even thought he was not in the original list? Or will we see Koscielny as we did in Spain? I think we will see the Arsenal man shoulder the PSG defender.

In the midfield - if Deschamps runs a 4-3-3 we should see a very "muscular" midfield of Capoue, Matuidi as well as the return of Cabaye. The Newcastle man should be seen as the player who will run the midfield with Capoue and Matuidi doing much of the dirty clean up work.

The front three should be Menez on the right, Ribery on the left and Benzema in the center. Look for Giroud to make a late game entry as well.

Should be a great test for Deschamps and Les Bleus.

Allez les bleus!!

Italy v FRG...I mean West Germany...I mean Germany

Now this is a rivalry that has a deep history on the pitch - Germany v Italy. They have met 30 times (7 times in World or European Cups), Italy has never lost in those 7 meetings. There are some that argue the 1970s World Cup semi finals is the greatest match of all time...




The game had some legendary names and some players who changed the way the game was played - Facchetti and Beckenbauer showed the world how defensive players could influence the game offensively. Sepp Maier revolutionized goalkeeping by introducing the use of special gloves (notice that the Italian keeper Albertosi is bare handed, old school!). Das Bomber Muller set the standard for strikers and goal scoring.

More recently there was the 2006 World Cup semi-final, where Italy scored 2 late goals to get into the finals, where they would eventually beat Les Bleus on penalty kicks...sigh. There was also the 1982 World Cup Finals, and one of the most iconic goal celebrations we have seen.

Tardelli gives the Azurri a 2-0 lead in 1982

Anyways back to Germany v Italy circa 2012. This match will pit two teams that know each other well and know each other's style on the field. I think this is the tournament that Germany finally gets the Italian monkey off their back, three reasons why:

• The German midfield will snuff out Pirlo and therefore the Italian metronome. Bastian Schweinsteiger and Sami Khedira will be too much for the Italian play maker. If you look at the two midfields, the advantage has to go to the Huns. In addition to the two I just mentioned, Ozil will create some headaches for the Italian midfield. If De Rossi is not 100% this will make the Italian midfield's task that much more of a challenge. In the battle for the center of the park, I look for Germany's talented players to keep Pirlo in check and create too many mismatches for the Italians to overcome.
• Germany is more rested and healthier than the Italians. With the aforementioned Schwinnie declared fit for the game, Germany do not have the amount of injury concerns that Italy has. Italy may not have the services of the likes of Abate, De Rossi and Chiellini, add to this that Maggio is suspended and Italy are starting to look thin at the back. Especially at right back if Abate cannot go. In addition, the Italians played two days ago while Germany had and extra two days of rest. Without some key players and assuming heavier legs, can Italy keep up with the attack minded Germany? I doubt that even the best catenaccio will hold the likes of Ozil, Muller, Podoloski, Klose, Gomez et al at bay.
• The German pace will be to much for the Italian back line. I never thought I would write the words "German" and "pace" in the same sentence....but one has to say that this German team is not the methodical bulldozer my uncle used to call them. This team has pace and speed down the wings as well as through the center. If the Italians are forced to play with 3 at the back (due to injury and suspensions) and do not have a full fit De Rossi to break up the attacks in the midfield, I think the German pace down the channels with the likes of Klose or Gomez in the box will be too much for Italy.

I think this game will be a tight one, but late on it will open up for the Germans. Italy will not go away easily but in the end - Germany 2: Italy 1.

Jup Oranje already in trouble!

Another reason why the Euro is a great tournament, and why I am not a fan of the expansion for the next version (I liked it when it was only 8 teams, made for instant drama) - 4 games in and already we have teams in crisis!

Day 1 turned out to be not as drab as one might have thought. The Poland v Greece game ended with some controversial officiating - yellow card for going to head the ball? Really? Red card, penalty and save for Poland...game ends 1-1 so both sides will fancy their chances to advance. The advantage might go to the  Greeks since they face what appears to be a sieve of a Czech team while Poland has to face the offensive minded Russians.



What is really interesting is what happened today. Denmark sprung the surprise, defeating the Dutch 1-0.  I was only able to listen to the game on satellite radio and from the high lights I saw afterwards it appears that the Dutch missed on a few opportunities while the Danes did what they do best - play steady and collective football. In the other match, Germany secured the essential 3 points of a win, but I was not impressed by the pre-tournament favorites. Then again style does not matter, the three points do. However the Germans should consider themselves fortunate that Pepe could not find the happy side of the woodwork at the end of the first half and that Varela couldn't beat Neuer late in the match. The German offense seemed slow - where was Ozil? Looking at the statistics one would think that Portugal would have at least earned a draw - 2 posts hit and 7 corner kicks (Germany had 2).

This sets up a wonderful second day for Group B. With Germany facing hated rival Holland and Denmark and Portugal squaring off. Holland has to win the game, they could be fine with only a draw but that would place a tremendous amount of pressure on them for the final game. Germany, in case of a win, would be assured to go through and could rest players for the final game. Plus both teams hate each other! Should make for a juice match. In the other match, Portugal and Denmark face off again after being in the same qualifiers where they split their matches and the Danes finished top of group. Denmark will be happy with a draw, while Portugal has to also look for a win. Much of how this group will turn out depends on the Germany v Holland match. Holland must win, so it should prove to be a charged up match! Looking forward to that!

France get the victory, but let's not get ahead of ourselves

Well at least I got the score right...just the wrong victors. Les Bleus get a famous 2-1 victory over Die Mannschaft in Bremen last night. Goals from Giroud and Malouda. France will head into the Euro preparation matches on a high note having defeated one of the tournament favorites. Of course, I am sure that the German supporters will point out that Germany were missing some key players...but so were the French. So what to make of the match?

1st Half - France were fortunate to not being down 2 or 3 goals. Ozil and his band of merry midfielders punished some sloppy French passing leading to quick counters. Were it not for Lloris, Les Bleus would have found themselves on the wrong end of the score sheet.
2nd Half - France seemed comfortable sitting back and hitting back at Germany on the counter and exposed some weakness on the German back line. Les Bleus could themselves, have scored a few more goals.

Let's dive in deeper:

The Good:

• A win,  a victory is a victory, just ask Mitt Romney. France showed that they could go into a hostile environment and win a game that at times they looked like they were going to let slip away. I was a little frustrated that they were not able to kill the game when they had a two goal advantage, but that is not uncommon these days.
• Who should be the new right back for France: Debuchy. The Lille right back was a surprise inclusion against the United States, but clearly has a little something extra the likes of Sagna and Reveilliere have failed to bring to the table - a regular offensive punch to the right side. Debuchy was incredible active all game making deep runs down the right channel and provided the assist on both French goals. He even had a cannon of a shot from distance forcing the German keeper to punch the ball to safety. France have been looking for a right back that can bring greater width and crossing to the game - ever since Sagnol retired. In my opinion Debuchy has not only punched his ticket to go to the Euros, but should be the starting right back for France.
• Giroud was inserted in the starting line up and also did well enough to earn his ticket to the Euros. The leading scorer for Ligue 1 was very active on the offensive side and actually did his fair share defensively as well, at times he seemed to be sweeping rather than Mexes. His goal was a pure striker goal, no wasted motion, nothing fancy - take a cross and simply touch it past the keeper. This does not put him above Benzema or Remy, but it gives Blanc peace of mind that he has some decent depth up front.
• France could have been down 2-0 were it not for the exploits of Lloris. He made some huge saves to bail out his defense who decided to turn over the ball for much of the first half. Saves on Klose from point blank as well as reflect save on a deflected Klose volley in addition to his command of the aerial game were more proof points of why his one of the world's best keepers. Blanc announced the Lloris would be the French captain this summer and he demonstrated why his coach had so much faith in him.
• Seeing Mexes and Rami back together at the center of the defense. Both players seemed at ease with the other which is vital for central defensive pairings. Mexes is allowed to be more free - roaming, more or a sweeper while Rami is the pit bull that sits back to defend. Assuming both stay healthy and do not punch anyone, this should be a strength for Les Bleus.
• Le Petit Velo - Valbuena - showed me something last night. He was the most dangerous and hard working attacking midfielder for Les Bleus. He could have and should have scored on two occasions for Les Bleus, had he done so I would have rated him higher. Overall I think he made a strong case for being the right midfielder for France something that he should have been allowed to do 2 years ago rather than Govou! He did pop up on the opposite flank and in the center from time to time, something that might be of service if the likes of Debuchy are behind him, this would give the Lille right back more space to run into and create some real defensive problems for France's opponents.

The Bad:

• The Manchester City playmaker, Nasri, was not fantastic. I would even venture that he was completely invisible the first half. The second half he was at least visible! What is frustrating is the fact he has one good game one off game for Les Bleus. The lack of consistency is maddening. Many of the problems France had in the first half is that their playmaker was not gaining control of the game, unlike his counter part Ozil, who was controlling the pace of the match. Les Bleus need their playmaker to be able to slow the game down or speed it up depending on the situation, Nasri did not do this the first half and it could have cost France dearly. Blanc still has some work to do with regards to who pulls the strings for Les Bleus, could this open the door for Gourcuff? Surprisingly Martin did not make his way onto the pitch to see if he could fare better. Something to watch for.
• Speaking of former Marseilles players - Ribery - wasn't exactly the Kaiser last night for France. After scoring a brace over the weekend for Bayern, he clearly forgot his good boots somewhere in Germany other than Bremen. Granted he picked up a knock early on in the game and did give it his all, but more is expected and needed from the left winger if France is to do more than site see in Ukraine - Poland this summer. He made some decent runs but just did not have the extra punch to really threaten the German goal.
• The German defense. I realize they were missing some key players, but still they allowed some terrible scoring chances and turned the ball over themselves in terrible positions on the pitch. Germany is still a favorite but they better shore up the defense. 

The Ugly:

• The French first half - Les Bleus looked awful in the first half...yes I am aware that they went into the dressing room up 1-0, but were it not for Lloris, a post and some wide shots, Les Bleus would have been down 2 of not 3 to 1 at the half. France cannot expect to go anywhere if they play like that at the Euros. Sloppy passes, silly give aways and poor defending will cost them dearly.   Had Germany been more clinical in front of the goal...it would have been ugly. In the second half Les Bleus seemed to calm down a bit and better control the game, the Germans then became a bit sloppy themselves.

Overall winning away to Germany is nothing to sneeze at, but Les Bleus need to take this in stride and realize that they did not dominate. The game showcased two talented teams, both with flaws. Both teams can cure these flaws, but France's might be more difficult to overcome...but if they can, they have the potential to be a real surprise this summer.

Allez les Bleus!

France v Germany - dont expect any major changes for Les Bleus

A few hours away from the France v Germany clash in Bremen. The last match before both nations will have to determine which roster to bring to the Euros. Both sides are also ravaged by injury - France without Remy and Benzema while Die Mannschaft will miss Lahm and Goetze to name a few. France will need to be wary of a young and dangerous German team, that surprisingly lost to Ukraine (granted the Germans were experimenting with a previously untested formation in that match) but then went on to spank a highly rated Holland team in their last matches.

France enter this game having not lost a game since they inexplicably dropped one against Belarus in Paris. Yet, Les Bleus have not been overly convincing in their form either...

I think that Blanc will not tinker too much with his line up, other than not being able to play some of his first choice players. How I expect Les Bleus to line up, assuming a 4-2-3-1:

Lloris in goal, he is also going to be wearing the captain's armband for the Euros, well deserved.

Debuchy - Mexes - Rami - Abidal: I would prefer to see the Lille right back start in place of the "safe choice" Reveilliere. I like Debuchy for his offensive punch and being able to bring more options on the right of the formation. Mexes/Rami will be good see after a long absence due to the Milan players injury. Abidal will move to his preferred role back on the left.

M'Vila and Cabaye: again not much change here, I think that Diarra has been pushed down the pecking order (reason why he is not in the conversation for captain), with M'Vila and Cabaye, both under 26, you might have the defensive midfield pairing for the next few years.

Ribery, Nasri, Menez: Ribery is a no brainer on the left and look for Nasri to be given his chances at pulling the strings from the middle, I do expect we will see Martin as well. On the right I waffle between Le Petit Velo - Valbuena and Menez, but I am going with Menez. With a smallish midfield, I think Blanc will go with a player with a bit more height and power.

Giroud - The Montpellier striker leads Ligue 1 and is better form than Gameiro and not sure Blanc wants to give Saha 80+ minutes. Giroud has all the chances to make himself stick with Les Bleus and, unlike Gameiro, offers more of an aerial threat in the penalty box.

I look for a very cautious match between these two sides, however if France are not careful with the ball, they could find themselves down 2 or 3 goals very quickly. I do think there is plenty of motivation to go around to show well in this game. Unfortunately I see Die Mannschaft winning at home: 2-1 on a brace from Klose and a goal from Ribery.

New France Away Kit...not bad

The new France away kit is out...

 Picture from the store on Les Champs Elysees taken earlier this evening. I must admit two days ago when I was in the Nike store and say the Brazil kit being highlighted I was a little surprised, now I know why, they were just waiting for today's release!

Unlike the other away stripe...this one has very few stripes. It does have some influence for the other "football," see the blue stripes on the sleeves. Otherwise, France will run out in all white when on the road. Look for this kit next week in Germany? We shall see since Germany usually plays in a white stripe themselves when they play at home, not sure Adidas and the Mannschaft would want to play second fiddle to Nike and France when it comes to which kit to wear!

In with the old and new - Blanc announces his 23 for Germany match

Well well well. I guess Blanc wants to give the veterans another bite at the apple...but is that a wise move? Le President announces his list of players -

GARDIENS: LLoris, Mandanda, Carrasso
DÉFENSEURS: Abidal, Debuchy, Evra, Mexès, Rami, Reveillère, Sakho
MILIEUX: Amalfitano, Cabaye, Diarra, M'Vila, Malouda, Martin, Nasri
ATTAQUANTS: Gameiro, Giroud, Ménez, Ribéry, Saha, Valbuena

In goal and defense no surprises. Clearly he did not think Sagna was back to 100% and welcomes back the likes of Mexes. Debuchy deserves another call up and might force his way into the team, could he even become Blanc's first choice right back?

Thumbs up on first national team call up

In the midfield, Blanc welcomes Amalfitano from Marseilles, a new comer to the national side but not a huge surprise. His play for OM has opened some eyes recently and he gives Les Bleus another creative option in the midfield. With the OM player, Nasri and Martin he has the options necessary to determine where the creativity will come from in the midfield. Add to this the presence of Ribery, Menez and Valbuena and you additional creative options on the wings. I am a bit surprised that Malouda was selected, it appears that Malouda is hanging on despite his lack of form with Chelsea.

I wish Blanc had selected one of the youngsters up front, not sure Saha will nor should be in the long term plans for Les Bleus - aka going to the Euros. It will be interesting to see which line up Blanc goes with in Germany. I picture Blanc will leverage what he hopes is his standard back line -

Lloris
Abidal - Mexes - Rami - Debuchy

In the midfield look for Cabaye - M'Vila to be the holding midfielders...with Ribery - Nasri - Valbuena as the creative midfield engine and Gameiro up front. A patch work no doubt, but one that should be able to hold its own.

Allez les Bleus

The International Dilemna - really doesn't need to be this complicated

I was reading this last article about another potential "issue" which with nation a player will represent at the international level, click here for SI article. The debate revolves around an American player born to a German mother in Germany while his American father was stationed there for the military. Timmy Chandler has already represented his father's nation, the United States, 4 times...however none have been "competitive" games, meaning qualifiers or FIFA tournament matches. Meaning...he could still be called up for Germany! Huh??? What???

Shifting to Die Mannschaft?

I know, but those are the FIFA rules. The basic gist of the international rule is that a player can switch national allegiance if said player qualifies for multiple nations and has not represented his nation at the 'A' level for a match such as Gold Cup, World Cup, European Cup or qualifiers. Which is a well intended rule, to allow players who could represent multiple nations be afforded the choice later on in their careers. But then you get a situation such as Chandler. The rule should really be - once you have been called up for the senior squad and accepted that call up, you have declared your eligibility for said nation. Let us take the Chandler situation and change some of the dynamics. Instead of of right back being an issue due to Lahm moving back to the left, lets say the situation is because Lahm has an injury that will keep him out for a few months. Low needs a right back for qualifiers so calls up Chandler, an opportunity the right back cannot pass up. So he plays for Germany, does okay, but once Lahm is healthy, he slots back at Right Back and Chandler no longer sees his name on the call up sheet, or at best a bench player. I realize this might happen with other players, but in the Chandler situation he has already PLAYED for the US National team! Why even allow the above situation to be contemplated?

Come on FIFA do something right, revise the international eligibility rule. My suggestion - player is allowed to play for his nation of birth, nation where he holds residency or parental nation. Eliminate the grandparent rule - under that rule my child could play for France, US, England, Greece, China, Bermuda or Canada...uh really? Institute the rule that once you have been selected for the senior national team and accepted that offer, you are now only allowed to play for that nation. Otherwise we might see more dicey situations as with Chandler.