We almost had another shock at the World Cup as Japan scared hot favorites Belgium only to lose out in the dying seconds.
The defeat can be termed to ‘genetics’?
Belgium were not superior technically, but they had ‘height and strength’ which the Japanese were unable to combat.
Genetically, we Asians are behind. Incidentally, Japan is one of the shortest teams at the World Cup.
LITMUS TEST FOR BRAZIL
Belgium move ahead to give Brazil a litmus test.
So far, Brazil do not look to be as special as the Champion Brazils of the past. Not the Brazil I remember of the1994 winning squad that had Dunga, Bebeto and Romario; nor the likes of Roberto Carlos-Ronaldo-Ronaldinho-Rivaldo of 2002. They were sheer class without the amateur dramatics, dishonesty and nastiness.
Neymar is one of the world's greatest players – an icon for young footballers. But when he goes down the ground, I just don't get it. Pathetic antics.
Neymar's behaviour is embarrassing and people see that above his skill as a footballer. The rolling around is simply disgusting.
ONE OF THE GREATEST PLAYERS?
No doubt, Neymar was excellent against Mexico especially in the second half – scoring a gaol and assisting another. But he has a very long way to go before being considered in the same class as Ronaldo and Messi.
Neymar’s play acting is a serious embarrassment. Okay, the Mexican player stood on Neymar’s ankle, and to be fair he should have had a red card, but equally Neymar should have had a red card for acting as if he was shot -- the most disgusting behavior since Rivaldo had a ball kicked at his leg and went down holding his face in the 2002 World Cup.
Players who play act as intentionally as Neymar should be given yellow cards to force them to grow up and stop it. Hopefully, Neymar won’t play a spoilt brat in the coming matches.
The World Cup has simply made its own stars. But it has not had an outstanding trophy-winning individual performance for some time – of the likes of Maradona, Pele, Zidane, etc.
Hopefully we will see Neymar on that pedestal, we all want to see him 'star' the show till the end.