World cup 2018 - First round thoughts
- Gilad Meiri
- Jun 20, 2018
- 2 min read
So the world cup games in Russia have just concluded their first round. So far, it's hard to get too excited about the general level of the games, but I'm not sure it's an isolated thing. World cups are always held in the peak of the summer, and soaring temperatures have never been football's best friend. Russia or not, it's still pretty warm.
The most pleasant thing about this tournament so far has been Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal's everlasting superstar. It was hard to envision a scenario in which he'll be able to torment Spain, considering most of Portugal's squad aren't world class players, but his hattrick has once again proven that even if you detonate a nuclear bomb on a football field, it still won't stop Ronaldo from scoring. He is an absolute alien. Never drops his fitness, always striving for more. A true perfectionist. His free kick, that completed his hattrick, got me jumping from my seat.
A kind word also goes to Belgium and the hosts, Russia. Both teams have shown actual efficiency in their game. The ability to take advantage of scoring situations. Their organization in the field. Belgium, Western Europe's least inspiring country, might actually have a shot at bringing the cup back to a major celebration in Brussels.
The biggest disappointment so far has been Lionel Messi. I knew Iceland were tough, but I doubted they could silence him as effectively as they did. He barely moved. He was constantly dispossessed and seemed lost and out of ideas. Still, Messi can turn it around. He could still deliver what Argentina need, but if they rely too much on him, chances are they won't get far.
The current champions, Germany, began with a shock defeat to Mexico. They actually, for the most part, played better than Mexico did, but were simply unable to equalize, no matter how much they tried. They have Sweden and South Korea coming up, neither of which impressed in the opening match, so if Germany just keep calm and collected, they should still advance from their group.
A final kind word for Japan. They outperformed Colombia, something not many expected. They were tenacious and relentless in their pursuit of a match winning goal, and they got it. They have no star players, but a solid team foundation and spirit. I hope they advance from their group. I'd love to see them throw a wrench in some big team's wheels.
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