Super Shaqiri Torches Honduras with Hat-Trick to Put Switzerland Through

World Cup ·

Xherdan Shaqiri scored the 50th World Cup hat-trick as he blitzed past Honduras in Manaus to put Switzerland through to the Round of 16.

BY NISAR KHAN

HONDURAS 0 – 3 SWITZERLAND

Super Shaqiri… BEIN SPORTS

Mexico 1 – 0 Cameroon

Oribe Peralta (62′)

Friday 13 June 2014

Kick-off: 5pm BST (UK time)

Estádio das Dunas, Natal

Group A, World Cup Game #2

– See more at: http://www.tsmbrazil.com/2014/06/WorldCup-Game2-MEXCMR_13.html#sthash.P8bOtK6q.dpuf

Xherdan Shaquiri guided Switzerland through to the knockout stages, opening his delightful game with a beautiful curling goal, before masterful Suiss breaks in either half added up for the total. Slow out of the blocks, Honduras’ improvement was eventually packaged and dispersed when Shaqiri completed his hat-trick in the 71st minute.

Honduras 0 – 2 Switzerland

Xherdan Shaqiri (6′, 31′, 71)

Wednesday 25 June 2014

Kick-off: 9pm BST (UK time)

Arena Amazônia, Manaus

Group E, World Cup Game #41

Xherdan Shaqiri set the tone early for his marvellous performance, smashing in after just six minutes. A beautifully-struck curling ball from outside the box, drifting majestically into goal after his shot was smothered four minutes earlier. Switzerland would take the lead.

Honduras took time to get back into the game, but when they did it opened up.

There was also some, rather, comical issues with the pitch in Manaus, seeming to cruble open in certain areas.

An explosive run from Shaqiri would give both him and Switzerland a second goal after half an hour. His run was picked out well on the break allowing him to pocket it away at ease.

Honduras were strides better in the second phase of play. Palacios penalty appeal was the peak of their awakening, although the referee adjudged it as no penalty. Replays would make you think otherwise.

After the Hondurans continued to somewhat threaten, Shaqiri would complete his hat-trick as the final blow, picked out well by Drmic and making it easy for the Bayern man to bury it.

Conclusion

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Costa Rica And England Battle to Hard Stalemate

World Cup ·

England and Costa Rica battled to a hard stalemate as many chances were created but none were converted. It marks the end to England’s World Cup campaign. 

BY @SUPPORTINGBROCK

COSTA RICA 0 – 0 ENGLAND

Mexico 1 – 0 Cameroon

Oribe Peralta (62′)

Friday 13 June 2014

Kick-off: 5pm BST (UK time)

Estádio das Dunas, Natal

Group A, World Cup Game #2

– See more at: http://www.tsmbrazil.com/2014/06/WorldCup-Game2-MEXCMR_13.html#sthash.P8bOtK6q.dpuf

Costa Rica 0 – 0 England

Tuesday 24 June 2014

Kick-off: 5pm BST (UK time)

Estádio Mineirão, Belo Horizonte

Group D, World Cup Game #37

As kick-off approached, the sun was shining down on the packed stadium in Estadio Mineirao. While England were hoping for the three points to end their dissapointing campaign on a high, Costa Rica wanted to win grab a third successive group stage victory, after knocking off Uruguay and Italy beforehand.

Only 11 minutes into the game and Daniel Sturridge received his first chance of the game as the speedy Jack Wilshere handed the Liverpool man the ball just outside the area. Sturridge took a swing and came very close with the ball just curling past the post. 

A high, spinning free kick was launched right into the grasp of Ben Foster, and the former Manchester United goalkeeper made a terrific save. He got a vital finger onto the ball, tipping it just over the cross-bar. 

England were up for a penalty shout as Daniel Sturridge was fouled in the box. The replay shows that it should have been a penalty, as the Costa Rica defender knocked Sturridge over without getting any of the ball.

Half time approached and no team was really able to get a grip of the game and create big chances. England came close with Daniel Sturridge taking a few shots but nothing could test the Costa Rica goalkeeper. At the other end, a high, spinning, looping free kick tested Ben Foster but there wasn’t anything else the Costa Ricans did to put England’s defence under real pressure. 

England made a positive start to the second half, having most of the possession and Daniel Sturridge had a great chance to put his side ahead. He was put through after a pass slid through the Costa Rica defence but the ball just crept away from the Liverpool striker, allowing Navas to retrieve the ball.

Superb play from Wilshere and Sturridge sees the highly rated striker put in on goal after a great one-two with the Arsenal midfielder. Sturridge got in on goal and sadly, put his shot just wide of the post. Probably the best chance England have had in the game.

Match breakdown

Man of the Match: My MOTM would be Daniel Sturridge
Flop of the Match: Daniel Sturridge misses great opportunity

Costa Rica Hold England’s attack at bay 
England tried to get a goal past the Costa Ricans but the tight defence saw the attack off. 

It’s come to an end for England. Costa Rica have impressed many as they top the group, when many expected them to finish bottom. Group D is settled.

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Spain Roll Past Aussies to Close Out Campaign

World Cup ·

David Villa, Fernando Torres and Juan Mata struck past Australia to ensure Spain ended their torrid campaign on a positive note in Curutiba.

BY NISAR KHAN

AUSTRALIA 0 – 3 SPAIN

David Villa played his final game for Spain THESCORE

Mexico 1 – 0 Cameroon

Oribe Peralta (62′)

Friday 13 June 2014

Kick-off: 5pm BST (UK time)

Estádio das Dunas, Natal

Group A, World Cup Game #2

– See more at: http://www.tsmbrazil.com/2014/06/WorldCup-Game2-MEXCMR_13.html#sthash.P8bOtK6q.dpuf

Australia 0 – 3 Spain

David Villa (36′), Fernando Torres (69′), Juan Mata (82′)

Monday 23 June 2014

Kick-off: 5pm BST (UK time)

Arena da Baixada, Curitiba

Group B, World Cup Game #33

A drastically-changed Spanish team dictated the opening of the match, passing it around at their discretion and building up. Villa snatched at an early chance, Iniesta’s free kick fizzled off target and on the other end, Reina collected long balls at ease. Spain were portraying glimpses of their renowned play, while Australia rushed.

Spain would emulate some of their finest play, but did so in the combination of lacklustre defending. Juanfran breached into the box and squared the ball to David Villa, in plenty of space, back-heeling the ball into goal.

At the half, the sides were separated by Villa’s goal. Spain were controlling although the Aussies were never too far away. 

David Villa sustained a knock approximately ten minutes into the second half and was subbed off for Juan Mata – that would be the last time we’d see David Villa in a Spain shirt. A prolific career ends how it played out, with a goal. More: David Villa Ends Spain Career 

Australia seemed less motivated as the second half progressed. There was more space, allowing Spain to do what they do best.

Iniesta orchestrated the move for Torres to bag Spain’s second, putting through the forward and allowing him to slot it past the keeper.

Spain would turn into cruise mode, easing past the Australians.

Match breakdown

Man of the Match: Andres Iniesta
Flop of the Match: Mathew Ryan
Possession: Australia 43% – 57% Spain
Shots: Australia 3 – 8 Spain

Ready to Rebuild
At least Spain’s whole campaign is not devastating – this win will do great measures in ensuring a much better bounceback at the Euros.

Aussies Run Out
Australia had been so entertaining over the course of the World Cup – but  in this game they lacked, and were just too many steps behind.

Passing Prominence
Spain did just that, as they reverted.

Australia finish bottom of Group B, while Spain’s win puts them third and registers points.

With nothing to be played for, motivation was low and at times the game was sombre, but both have a lot of work to do.

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Ruthless Algeria Sink South Korea in Porto Alegre

World Cup ·

Algeria fought to their first World Cup victory in over 32 years as they saw off a valiant South Korea in front of an electric crowd in Porto Alegre. 

BY @SUPPORTINGBROCK

SOUTH KOREA 2 – 4 ALGERIA

Mexico 1 – 0 Cameroon

Oribe Peralta (62′)

Friday 13 June 2014

Kick-off: 5pm BST (UK time)

Estátch das Dunas, Natal

Group A, World Cup Game #2

– See more at: http://www.tsmbrazil.com/2014/06/WorldCup-Game2-MEXCMR_13.html#sthash.P8bOtK6q.dpuf

South Korea 2 – 4 Algeria

Slimani (26′), Halliche (28′), Djabou (38′), Son (50′), Brahimi (62′) Jacheol (72′)

Sunday 22 June 2014

8pm BST (UK time)

Estádio Beira-Rio, Porto Alegre

Group H, World Cup Game #31

Playing in front of the passionate, electrified football fans in Porto Alegre, it was Algeria who got the better start as they had more possession, chances and attacking play. The closest chance was when a corner got whipped in, and an Algerian player who was poached at the back post, got onto the end of the ball but sadly for him, he put the free header just wide, stroking the side netting.

25 minutes in, and a goal finally came for Algeria, when a beautiful ball was put through to Slimani and the striker hooked it past the South Korea keeper. Great piece of play gives the Algerians a well deserved 1-0 lead. 

In a blink of an eye, Algeria were 2-0 up! A great corner in was rewarded when Halliche leaped up and fired the ball into the goal. Nothing more than they deserve. South Korea 0-2 Algeria.

Half an hour in, Algeria were practically dominating the game. Lots more chancing and attacking football than the South Koreans. Algeria also enjoyed a 55-45% possession lead.

A fantastic start for Algeria got even better as Brahimi knocked the ball to Djabou inside the box, and he tucked it away. A calm and composed finish, stroking the ball into the right hand corner. Terrific first half for Algeria, they’re dismantling South Korea! 3-0. 

South Korea came out with the intention to get a goal back, and they did just that. A 50 yard long ball went into the box and HM Son got on the end of it. The South Korean saw two Algerian defenders closing him down and smartly, he swerved away to one side and pulled a left foot shot away. It went straight under the legs of the Algeria keeper into the goal. South Korea pull a goal back. 

Algeria supporters were just starting to get a little anxious as South Korea were putting the opposition under pressure. A few headers came close and Algeria were forced to clear one off their line after a quick free kick on the right hand 

An hour into the game, and the Algerian keeper was tested to his top ability as absolute rocket shot from outside the box is thumped away by the Algerian goalkeeper.

Just as we thought South Korea were getting some traction, Algeria hit back as a great pass into the box fell to Brahimi. He calmly struck the ball into the net, restoring Algeria’s three goal lead. 

Even more drama was to follow as South Korea once again hit back. A short ball whipped in found the leg of substitute Koo Jacheol, and the ball bounced into the Algerian goal, making it 2-4. 

Final result: South Korea 2-4 Algeria.

Match breakdown

Man of the Match: Brahimi. Excellent game with an assist and goal.
Flop of the Match: No real flop to report about.

Brilliant game of football, such drama! Terrific effort from Algeria not to let South Korea right back into the game.

Algeria see off South Korea in a cracking game full of goals and drama. After this result, can Algeria defeat Russia?

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Origi Scores Late Winner For Belgium to See Off Russia

World Cup ·

Divock Origi scored an 88th minute winner to break through Capello’s Russia in Rio de Janeiro, sending the Belgians through in the process.

BY @IMWITHLESNARWWE

BELGIUM 1 – 0 RUSSIA

Mexico 1 – 0 Cameroon

Oribe Peralta (62′)

Friday 13 June 2014

Kick-off: 5pm BST (UK time)

Estádio das Dunas, Natal

Group A, World Cup Game #2

– See more at: http://www.tsmbrazil.com/2014/06/WorldCup-Game2-MEXCMR_13.html#sthash.P8bOtK6q.dpuf

Belgium 1 – 0 Russia

Divock Origi (88)

Sunday 22 June 2014

5pm BST (UK time)

Estádio Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro

Group H, World Cup Game #30

Belgium take all 3 points in an 88 minute 0-0 brawl until super sub Divock Origi scored in the 88th minute to seal the game at Estadio Maracana in Rio De Janeiro in Brazil.

After a first half of missed chances from corners and assists some passes were top notch from both Belgium and Russia, in the second half Belgium and Russia had a cluster of fabulous shots, none of which hit the target.

Single Player highlights- Alexander Kokorin missed the best chance of a lifeless opening half, heading wide from six yards, Substitute Kevin Mirallas hit a post with Belgium’s first shot on target, but Origi turned in from Eden Hazard’s cross to give all 3 points to a weak Belgium team to take them inches closer to round 16 qualification.

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Odemwingie and Nigeria Send Bosnia Crashing Out of World Cup

World Cup ·

Peter Odemwingie scored against Bosnia to give Nigeria their first World Cup win since 1998 and knocking out their opponents in the process.

BY NISAR KHAN

NIGERIA 1 – 0 BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA

Mexico 1 – 0 Cameroon

Oribe Peralta (62′)

Friday 13 June 2014

Kick-off: 5pm BST (UK time)

Estádio das Dunas, Natal

Group A, World Cup Game #2

– See more at: http://www.tsmbrazil.com/2014/06/WorldCup-Game2-MEXCMR_13.html#sthash.P8bOtK6q.dpuf

Nigeria 1 – 0 Bosnia-Herzegovina

Peter Odemwingie (29′)

Saturday 21 June 2014

11pm BST (UK time)

Arena Pantanal, Cuiabá

Group F, World Cup Game #29

After an early Bosnian stint that saw them assemble numbers to trouble Nigeria, the game swung towards the Africans’ favour. Peter Odemwingie’s sweetly-struck free-kick was just off target, inches wide from Asmir Begović’s goal.

Nigeria would soon emerge atop in the harsh conditions, and their pace would prove a valuable asset.

Edin Dzeko believed he had scored for Bosnia-Herzegovina put the linesman controversially ruled it offside. He was clearly onside and its a shame that a refereeing lead to Bosnian demise.

Emineke surged down the right, overpowered a defender then square the ball perfectly across to Odemwingie, smashing Nigeria in front for good.

They finished the first half strongly, and Bosnia couldn’t redeem themselves.

Edin Dzeko had plenty of chances but couldn’t do much with them – his late header was scooped by Enyeama and then his stoppage time shot was tipped onto the bar.

Nigeria were feeling the effect of the conditions, down on the ground throughout – fatigued after their hard work.

It came as a sweet win for Nigeria, but agony for Bosnia who crashed out.

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Klose Equals Record and Game For Germany in Thrilling Ghana Draw

World Cup ·

Miroslav Klose tied the record for most World Cup goals scored to take a point from Ghana in a thrilling encounter in a humid Fortaleza.

BY NISAR KHAN

GERMANY 2 – 2 GHANA

A thrilling second half saw Klose become joint-top all-time World Cup goal scorer. FIFA.COM

Mexico 1 – 0 Cameroon

Oribe Peralta (62′)

Friday 13 June 2014

Kick-off: 5pm BST (UK time)

Estádio das Dunas, Natal

Group A, World Cup Game #2

– See more at: http://www.tsmbrazil.com/2014/06/WorldCup-Game2-MEXCMR_13.html#sthash.P8bOtK6q.dpuf

Germany 2 – 2 Ghana

Mario Gotze (51′), Andre Ayew (54′), Asamoah Gyan (63′), Miroslav Klose (71′)

Saturday 21 June 2014

8pm BST (UK time)

Estádio Castelão, Fortaleza

Group G, World Cup Game #28

Ghana’s approach was much different to their game with USA. They had to come to terms with Germany’s landslide in possession and relied on the counter-attack as the primary source of scoring.

It was hot and humid in Fortaleza, the conditions would take its toll on the players. After Howedes’ attempted break was consumed, Christian Atsu registered the first chance, orchestrating the play that lead to Gyan heading over from just yards out.

Germany fought back though as Ozil ran out of his path and lost possession before Toni Kroos shot was blocked, after Muller set it up nicely with a backheel.

Ghana had much more pace to them – Ayew was symbolic of this as he raced down the left but crossing left Neuer’s goal un-threatened. Likewise, Mesut Ozil set up Khedira but the Madrid midfielder’s shot was poor. Ozil was troubling, but up to then it was a scattering of half chances. On the right, Gotze broke clear but was not clinical in front of goal.

Neuer was busy with two plays in succession, as Muntari fired at him for the parry before Gyan lost the ball to his smothering collection.

Fatuwa Dauda’s goal was left gaping but luckily Gotze was unable to latch onto the end of Muller’s cross, any touch would have been goal bound.

Reflecting on the first 45 at half-time saw it as slightly action-deprived but Ghana would be satisfied as they kept the Germans at bay. Conditions were a nuisance.

Germany would take the lead early in the second half to complete a positive opening. Thomas Muller delivered in a cutting ball to Gotze, who got his head (and knee) on it to guide it into goal. Quality ball from Muller who adds an assist to his tally.

But just over three minutes later, Ghana would respond with an excellent headed goal by Andre Ayew, latching onto another excellent ball and seeing it past Neuer.

Germany were reeling – especially after Ghana flipped the game around.

Philip Lahm failed to get rid of a troubling ball and it fell to Gyan, racing towards Neuer, before smashing it past the German keeper to put Ghana ahead.

Goals would come soon again, though.

Schweinsteiger and Klose were subbed on. The latter would make the impact.

In his first touch of the ball, Klose poked in from Howedes’ header to equal the record for most World Cup goals. What a second half.

As the time remaining decreased, the intensity would increase. 

First, Gyan smashed just wide before Klose did the same. Stoppage time emerged and we were treated to three extra minutes.

Ghana had the chance to seal a winner when they broke 3-on-2 from a corner. But a poor pass saw them ruled offside.

Muntari fouled Kroos with seconds to spare. A free-kick for Germany…

A header was blocked. The full time whistle blew to end a cracker of a game.

Superb, absolutely superb.

Ghana fight back from behind, then Germany do, to take a point in an amazing game. Battling through the humidity and relentless conditions, it’s an unforgettable one.

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Messi Scores Stoppage Time Winner to Overhaul Iran Resistance

World Cup ·

Lionel Messi broke Iran in stoppage time to seal three points and diffuse frustrations for Argentina in a dramatic clash in Belo Horizonte.

BY NISAR KHAN

ARGENTINA 1 – 0 IRAN

Argentina needed magic to outdo Iran SQUAWKA

Mexico 1 – 0 Cameroon

Oribe Peralta (62′)

Friday 13 June 2014

Kick-off: 5pm BST (UK time)

Estádio das Dunas, Natal

Group A, World Cup Game #2

– See more at: http://www.tsmbrazil.com/2014/06/WorldCup-Game2-MEXCMR_13.html#sthash.P8bOtK6q.dpuf

Argentina 1 – 0 Iran

Lionel Messi (91′)

Saturday 21 June 2014

5pm BST (UK time)

Estádio Mineirão, Belo Horizonte

Group F, World Cup Game #27

Iran keeper Maghighi had to make a top quality save just twelve minutes in to deny Gonzalo Higuain, put through by Gago and saved well. It was the first chance from a riveting start from the South Americans, troubling Iran and forcing them to reinforce an array of numbers behind the ball.

Satisfaction, in brief, was felt by Iran who held up against the onslaught. Argentina’s counter-attack from a corner kick was a stern warning of their sheer attacking power.

Alireza Haghighi was forced into action later on to deny Sergio Aguero. An excellent play to manoeuvre through the packed defensive setup saw the Man City man curl it towards goal, only to be denied well. Minutes later, Marcos Rojo squandered a chance to head Argentina in front.

Iran became more permeable for Argentina, but still they couldn’t find anything. Di Maria was cut out and Messi was stopped in his tracks. Messi’s free-kick shook some hearts for Iran but beat the bar, as well as the keeper.

There was around ten minutes left of the half and, for all their efforts, Argentina were still on level and goalless terms with Iran. Messi picked out Garay with a prompting ball but he couldn’t find a goalscoring header to compliment it.

Iran’s closest chance came through Hosseini, whose header from a corer kick went over. Argentina could very well have been down.

Frustration was abundant for Argentina as they made their way off the pitch. Iran breathed sighs of relief and somewhat disbelief as they kept on level terms. Argentina had been stuck with the barrage of red Iran shirts – they couldn’t get through or test enough. Messi was limited to his magic too as they had numbers around him. Game plans were in need of altering.

It was Iran who were quicker out of the blocks for the second. Reza Ghoochannejhad’s header was denied by Romero’s save after Iran broke away and got a cross off. Soon after, Dejagah had a viable penalty appeal when he believed he was impeded by Zabaleta. Iran were beginning to enjoy the game.

Argentina sent off some alarm bells though as Messi was free to run down and get a shot off, but it went stray of the post.

Things were frantic, things were slightly more open and things were frustrating for both.

Argentina’s chances, including a free-kick and headers, all withered to little as stoppage time was approached. Palacio could have buried it with a header but missed.

Then, Reza Ghoochannejhad had another huge chance, breaking down the left but blasted it straight at Romero.

Four minutes of stoppage time were issued.

In the first, Lionel Messi would diffuse all frustrations.

Touching it to his left, he curled it past Haghighi’s reach and scored a terrific goal for the winner.

Finally, Iran were broken. It took over 90 minutes.

Match breakdown

Man of the Match: Lionel Messi
Flop of the Match: Reza Ghoochannejhad
Possession: Argentina 70% – 30% Iran
Shots: Argentina 8 – 4 Iran

Iran Pride
Iran have nothing to be ashamed of with an incredible effort, gutted for them.

Learning Curve
Argentina had to dig deep through frustration and doubt to get the winner.

Argentina qualify for the second round. Magical from Messi.

It took some doing to undo the Iranians. It’s Messi’s day, can he lead Argentina further in Brazil?

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Ecaudor’s Valencia Double Topples Hondurans

World Cup ·

Enner Valencia scored twice in response to Honduras’ earlier goal to put Ecuador back in contention for second round progression.

BY MATT LYNCH

HONDURAS 1 – 2 ECUADOR

Valencia has emerged as the frontrunning scoring supply for the Ecuadorians FOX SOCCER

Mexico 1 – 0 Cameroon

Oribe Peralta (62′)

Friday 13 June 2014

Kick-off: 5pm BST (UK time)

Estádio das Dunas, Natal

Group A, World Cup Game #2

– See more at: http://www.tsmbrazil.com/2014/06/WorldCup-Game2-MEXCMR_13.html#sthash.P8bOtK6q.dpuf

Honduras 1 – 2 Ecuador

Carlo Costly (31′), Enner Valencia (34′, 65′)

Friday 20 June 2014

11pm BST (UK time)

Arena da Baixada, Curitiba

Group E, World Cup Game #26

A game between the bottom two sides in group E never really looked like a game to stay up for on paper. But in reality it turned out to be a tasty contest. 

In the early exchanges Caicedo Manchester City legend… Let fly twice in the opening minutes with one strike being well saved by Dominguez the other deflecting of a Honduras man. Honduras looked on edge with Bernadez going into the referee’s book after only eight minutes for hammering into the Ecuadorian man. 

Momentum kept with Ecuador with Enner Valencia wasting a good opportunity after latching onto a quick ball by his goalkeeper.

This proved to be costly, quite literally when the Honduras keeper played a long ball straight onto the chest of Carlo Costly who finished with great composure against the scrambled Ecuador keeper on 31 minutes.

The Honduras lead did not last long as on 34 minutes they were punished where Enner Valencia was saved more embarrassment by slotting home a wayward Paredes slice of a shot. The bombardment of the Honduras goal soon happened after the goal with the power certainly in Ecuador’s favour.

On the stroke of half time Bengtsons bundled in goal was disallowed rightfully by the Australian referee. 

Going into the second half Ecuador scorned some vital set pieces. But soon made Honduras pay with the red alert coming before the winning goal when once again Bengtson was a goal disallowed. But soon after Enner Valencia made it a brace for him and Ecuador with a world class header from a pin point cross from a free-kick. 

With the game flung open, Valencia was denied his hat trick in stoppage time with the flag once again ruling another Ecuador goal out. Ecuador could of had a bag full, in a game that was like a rugby match. Physical, feisty, and aggressive.

Match breakdown

Man of the Match: Enner Valencia, 5 goals in his past 5 games his confidence is rocketing.
Flop of the Match: Honduras were very poor in general. But for an individual it has to be Bengtson, having a goal disallowed once is understandable but twice is not right.
Possession: Honduras 16 – 9 Ecuador
Shots: Honduras 47% – 53% Ecuador

Ecuador pick up a big win in Group E elevating them to possibly challenge Switzerland.

Ecuador express their character through Enner Valencia’s double that turns their game around – and puts them back in contention.

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Benzema & Teammates On Target Against Switzerland as France Run Riot in Salvador

World Cup ·

France raided Switzerland in an exhilarating clash in Salvador as Benzema, Giroud and teammates thrashed them emphatically.

BY NISAR KHAN

SWITZERLAND 2 – 5 FRANCE

The Euro 2016 hosts dismantled Switzerland with a blistering performance

Mexico 1 – 0 Cameroon

Oribe Peralta (62′)

Friday 13 June 2014

Kick-off: 5pm BST (UK time)

Estádio das Dunas, Natal

Group A, World Cup Game #2

– See more at: http://www.tsmbrazil.com/2014/06/WorldCup-Game2-MEXCMR_13.html#sthash.P8bOtK6q.dpuf

Switzerland 2 – 5 France

Olivier Giroud (17′), Blaise Matuidi (18′), Mathieu Valbuena (40′), Karim Benzema (67′), Moussa Sissoko (73′), Blerim Džemaili (81′), Granit Xhaka (87′)

Friday 20 June 2014

8pm BST (UK time)

Arena Fonte Nova, Salvador

Group E, World Cup Game #25

Karim Benzema registered the first significant chance as his right-footed shot fizzed over the Swiss goal, culminating a delightful sequence of play from France.

Switzerland would be obliged to dig in to their substitute resources early on, as Steve von Bergen required treatment for a nasty-looking facial injury. Former Arsenal man, Philippe Senderos replaced him for the centre-back role.

France’s initial approach to the game prepared Switzerland – the 1998 World Cup hosts were intending to control possession and create chances. Cabaye blasted over to end an early buildup. Switzerland showed their threats on the counter, forcing the white t-shirts of France to scurry back.

France won a corner after Djourou poked out Giroud’s cross. However, Giroud would tower above others to meet Valbuena’s corner and head it into goal, too strong for Benaglio to push out. He proved himself as a valuable asset for Deschamps side.

Less than half a minute later, Blaise Matuidi would double the lead as Switzerland were dazed. 13 seconds from the restart, Benzema picked up a dispossession and played through Matuidi who was completely unchallenged powering down the left. Matuidi crept it past Benaglio with a first time shot to the near post. 

France scored their 100th and 101st World Cup goals to break the milestone in less than a minute. 

Switzerland managed to slow the tempo down for the next couple of minutes but that would not stop Karim Benzema, while later giving France a stern warning that their counter attacking is prolific, as Shaqiri hit on the rebound of Lloris but it crept inches past the post.

Karim Benzema surged down the left just moments after and broke into the box. He was however fouled clearly by Djourou and a penalty was awarded. Benaglio made a great save to deny him to the bottom left, before it rebounded out to Cabaye who hit the bar on the half volley from 3 inches out. A huge chance was squandered. 

Karim Benzema has a penalty saved, Yohan Cabaye follows up with possibly tournament’s worst miss yet. #fra https://t.co/ySr6dOCBRi
— Bleacher Report UK (@br_uk) June 20, 2014

France mastered an intense counter-attack to avenge the missed penalty. Varane picked out Giroud who surged down the left after a Swiss corner, and Valbuena was free in front of goal to smash in. Magnificent. 

Half-time was salvation for Switzerland in need of a break, while acknowledgement time for France’s flying start.

It would develop into a more frustrating outing for the Suiss – constant chances were cut out and France bossed the game.

Mahmadou Sakho was subbed off for Laurent Koscielny after acquiring a minor injury, limping off.

Benzema ensured the scoring rampage would not be over. A ball lofted over the box was not cleared away by Benzema, getting through and tucking it past the keepers legs at the near post.

Soon after, France’s football beauty would be further exemplified – as Moussa Sissoko was found free on the left and slotted it past the keeper. It was five.

Switzerland though would take a sweet constellation as Blerim Džemaili fired through the wall with a free-kick, beating Lloris in the bottom corner. He becomes the first player to score a free-kick in the tournament.

Granit Xhaka would continue the goalfest with an incredible first time volley to beat Lloris in the 87th minute. Simply extraordinary.

France conceded two great goals but it was absolute clockwork.

Benzema hit an extraordinary goal at the end but it did not count as the final whistle was already blown. 

Benzema scored the goal of the tournament but referee with full time whistle seconds before his shot http://t.co/NHghCGkpR7
— Football Vines (@FootballVines) June 20, 2014

Match breakdown

Man of the Match: Karim Benzema
Flop of the Match: Phillipe Senderos
Possession: Switzerland 54% – 46% France 
Shots: Switzerland 16 – 22 France
Combined shots on target: 24

Quick Recap
– France fire two within thirty seconds, Giroud and Matuidi
– Von Bergen off injured
– Shaqiri shot creeps past post
– Benzema misses penalty after being fouled by Djourou
– Cabaye hits bar from rebound
– Valbuena smashes in as Giroud leads counter attack
– France add in second half, Benzema, Sissoko
– Blerim Džemaili fires long-range free kick, Xhaxa adds Switzerland second

Exposed Vulnerabilities Left Wing
Switzerland were vulnerable in the flanks but most especially the left, where two goals were created in the first 45. Narrow play from Switzerland allowed France to run freely at them. They struggled to block them off in the second.

France’s Beautiful Game
I could honestly watch France play football for days. It is amazing. Entertainingly sublime.

Game of the tournament?
What a game of football. Extraordinary. France’s five-star performance and just full on action.

What a game. Catch your breath because that is some of the best football you’ll ever see.

France raid the Swiss in a phenomenal game. Superb, thrilling stuff. They have qualified in some style.

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