After the shocks in qatar, expect the unexpected
I’m not going to pretend that I expected Germany and Belgium to be knocked out of the World Cup at the group stages.
Like most people, I was totally taken aback. Despite their weaknesses, I didn’t see that coming.
Roberto Martinez has now stepped down as Belgium boss, and that’s what tends to happen.
We will wait and see who replaces Roberto and where, indeed, he ends up next.
But, moving on from that, what about Japan? They have been absolutely sensational.
If it was allowed to happen, I’d give them the World Cup trophy right now. I’ve really enjoyed them.
Hajime Moriyasu has used his squad excellently. They play at a ferocious pace, and need to have really high energy levels.
But he also makes his substitutions wisely. He changes things at the right times
to benefit the team.
After beating Germany and Spain, they topped Group E. What an achievement.
Ritsu Doan came off the bench at half-time to level the game. I like him as a player.
They then got the winning goal, albeit in controversial circumstances.
It’s great to see the so-called smaller nations doing so well, with Australia and Morocco also qualifying for the knock-out stages.
As expected, England are in the mix and they face Senegal tonight.
I think Gareth Southgate’s men will win and progress into the last eight.
When you get to the quarter-final stage, really anything is possible.
You need a wee bit of luck to go your way, or maybe a strange decision by VAR to help you along the way.
There is no doubt VAR has made some calls that I didn’t expect. But, again, as we’ve always said, it is down to opinion.
The very best technology is provided, but it’s a person that makes the final call.
A fortnight ago, I wasn’t particularly looking forward to this World Cup.
Now I’m watching on with interest.