Waving goodbye to Japan is hard

Waving goodbye to Japan is hard


In this edition of his World Cup analysis, Andrew Hallett sheds a tear for Japan, heaps praise on comeback kings Belgium, and has a bit of a go at Neymar.

Belgium and Japan
AFP

So sad to see you go, Japan

How desperately unlucky were Japan? They fought so hard against Belgium and took a deserved 2-0 lead, but the truth of the matter is that they were a little naive towards the end, especially with Belgium's third goal. With seconds left of the clock, you don't take a corner the regular way, you protect the ball in the corner. They did not abide by this simple rule and were punished by a counter-attack which led to Nacer Chadli's winner.


Regardless of their poor judgement at the end, Japan have been a joy to watch this World Cup, and here's hoping for even more from them in Qatar in 2022.

Yes, Japan did throw their 2-0 lead away, but Belgium deserve huge credit for coming from two goals down to win the match. That takes massive character and all their players deserve major praise. Yes, they have a much better side than Japan, but the psychological blow going 2-0 down in a big match brings would end most sides. Not Belgium.


Brazil through... just about


Yes, Brazil won their match with Mexico 2-0, but they hardly looked comfortable. Mexico took the game to them and the Brazilians struggled at times. This is exactly the way Belgium need to play if they want to beat Brazil and that should be a cracking match on Friday.


Neymar - Please stop this nonsense


Football is known for its fair share of play acting, but Neymar takes the cake. Dude, you are extremely talented, so please stop this nonsense - it's embarrassing.

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