The Football Thread - 17/18 Season

[Soma]

Barozi said:

Soma said:

LipeJJ said:

Come on guys, you can't fully expect something based on 1 or 2 matches. As many coaches already said, there's some parity between the teams that survived the tournament. For example, Mexico would have eliminated Netherlands if the coach wasn't so stupid, and we all know they are miles ahead of Mexico in terms of quality. Things like that show that every single match is a war, the teams do all they can, so anyone can win. There is no super team or something in this world cup, we need to face it.

Why was the coach stupid?

He took of Dos Santos, by far the best Mexican player, in the 61st(!) minute. That was the moment the Mexican offense collapsed.

After the goal at minute 48 Mexico stopped attacking, or better said, Netherlands pushed forward. At minute 56 Depay entered and started causing some trouble. That's why Aquino subbed Gio, to help in the right flank.  Herrera moved to Gio's position so there was no change of system or formation. And to be honest, Gio was not the best mexican player and already looked tired. He scored a beautiful goal but he was not doing much besided that. That's why Herrera took his position.

I think it was a good idea and it certainly helped the team to cover the right flank. Problem is the coach probably had to do something similar to help the left flank where Robben started causing a lot of trouble. Also, is not like Aquino is a defender or something, his crosses are certainly awful but he knows how to attack, and I think he did.

In the end I don't blame the coach, I blame the players. Aquino was responsible for the first goal, he was marking Sneijder and left him alone. Second goal was Marquez fault, penalty or not, there was no need to do that tackle.