Croatia don't feel destined to win the World Cup as much as their results are grounded in the realism of an attack that works hard in defending and transitions, a midfield that can control tempo against any opponent, and an on-form keeper. Read more »
Russia Analysis
A World Cup Abstract: Croatia 2 (4), Russia 2 (3)
A World Cup Abstract: Russia 1 (4), Spain 1 (3)
You knew who was winning this match if it survived to penalties. Read more »
The Defining Matches Of The 2018 World Cup Group Stage
The struggles of the traditional soccer powers gave an opportunity for bubbling sides like Belgium and Croatia to stamp their mark in Russia. Read more »
Aleksandr Golovin Breaks Through In The Group Stage
It was one thing to read of Aleksandr Golovin's quality from second hand reports, another to experience his drive and skill on the world's biggest stage. We've seen him play for 180 minutes; we can imagine Golovin dribbling, turning, and passing at Stamford Bridge or Juventus Stadium. Read more »
Tchau To All That
The individual brilliance of the early matches was eventually neutralized by countries with better all-around squads and this was a World Cup that became reasonably predictable once we escaped the group stage. But every single minute was thrilling and worth it. Read more »
Messi, Suarez & Costa Rica: An Ode To The 2014 World Cup Group Stages
The deluge of goals from Messi, Neymar, Müller, Robben and Van Persie, impressive play from Costa Rica and Colombia, and the bite seen round the world all overshadowed the changing of the era. Read more »
Group H: The Arrival Of Belgium's Golden Generation
The blend of strength and skill Belgium puts out there makes them one of the most balanced XI’s and why so many observers are bullish on their chances to go deep. Russia and South Korea are a virtual toss-up to also advance, though the former would be the tougher out moving forward. Read more »
The 2014 World Cup: A Tournament Of Transition
The best attacker in this 2014 World Cup will be a country’s press. Of course, games are won by brilliant moments from individual players. Genius does still exist. But the modern game is less Steve Jobs than it is Wikipedia. Read more »