FIFA World Cup 2022: Learnings from the primary spherical of matches
The excessive press
Maybe probably the most placing features of the World Cup has been the willingness of the so-called weaker groups to advance additional up the pitch to win the ball in opposition territory. Arsene Wenger, FIFA’s chief of worldwide soccer improvement, had mentioned urgent has turn into “completely common” the world over earlier than the beginning of the World Cup. And it has been a way that has confirmed helpful for groups which have modified their strategy to pressure the difficulty off the ball when they don’t have the person expertise to compete on the ball.
The emphasis is on successful the ball again in areas of the pitch the place groups can threaten offensively, and make use of the little possession they get, versus successful the ball again in defensive areas, solely to face fixed assaults later. (Learn Extra)
Argentina vs Mexico: Lionel Messi & Co play ‘first closing’
Emi Martinez mentioned it the perfect: “Saturday can be our first World Cup closing.”
These eight phrases captured Argentina’s aspiration in addition to desperation. The Albiceleste landed in Doha as agency contender for the title. Now, they threat making a group-stage exit.
Their stunning defeat to Saudi Arabia within the World Cup opener means Saturday’s (12.30 am Sunday, IST) match towards Mexico turns into – because the goalkeeper put it – a digital closing. One other exit they usually may as nicely be on the primary flight again residence. (Learn Extra)