There have been loads of goals in this World Cup. Many have been amazing goals, worthy of the top tier of world football. It's definitely the best Cup I've ever watched and it's even got those beautiful upsets that can only happen under these conditions.
One of those surprises have been Costa Rica. Their victory over Italy was everything any football fan ever dreamed of. Tenacious defence coupled with a ferocious attack is something the Italians themselves have been famous for. In the old days of Cannavaro and Matterazzi, Italy didn't mess about in defense and Pirlo and Inzaghi ruled the roost up front. In Joel Campbell, Costa Rica have a serious runner and in intelligent playmaker to boot. In Gamboa, they have a defender who is a proper no nonsense man the like of which England used to produce in swathes. I am so looking forward to seeing them in the next round, it's exciting.
Ecuador managed to do what England couldn't and beat Honduras to tip themselves in favour of qualification for the next round. A somewhat laborious victory after going a goal down, but we'll deserved as they fought hard and managed the two goals needed. Ecuador face France next up, so I doubt they'll go through.
Switzerland and France faced each other in a rare local derby. France look extremely impressive this year. As I always say, they're due a good World Cup as the last one was dreadful. Goals flew in from every corner of the park. Benzema and Giroud in amongst them. They are looking good value for money this year and there's no reason why they can't progress far. Their victory over Switzerland, even though they conceded twice, was better to watch than the Netherlands against Spain as they picked off a team with professionals under the age of a hundred.
It's an exciting prospect as all the matches open up. Bring on the next round!
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