R16 July 2 Brasil v. Mexico [R]

Mexico going toe to toe. That's tough, but how it should be. Mexico plays with honor here, instead of being like the cowardly Russians. The notion that Mexico doesn't have a higher Elo ranking is astonishing to me. Too many games against CONCACAF rivals, maybe?

 

Ochoa again being a trouble to Brazil.

 

Enjoyable game to watch. Mexico was doing very well, but lost some steam while Brazil began to show their skill and carve out some chances. Great effort by both sides so far and I hope the 2nd half will not be disappointing.

 

Ochoa deserves a better club.

 

Good first half, both teams taking turns to press hard. Mexico making great moves but unable to finish. I think France vs Argentina is the best match so far. Hoping for some fast play making, I am not getting enough of it in this WC.

 

Mexico to me are usually much greater than the sum of their parts. And that has as much to do with their mentality as their skill. Otherwise, Mexico's star player, Lozano, plays in the Eredivisie and while one of the best players in Holland, still rates below Iran's Jahanbakhsh. But while Lozano gets served with nice balls in space, allowing him to shine and do well at the World Cup, our team plays a tactic that sees Jahanbakhsh behind the ball trying to focus on defending. In the process, games involving Mexico will give both Mexico and their opponent good chances to score. Games against Iran, or Russia against Spain, involve very few chances on either side. A jaded coach will like the latter fine if the opponent is favored but neutrals will certainly prefer the former.

 

I like the no call on the handball. Fewer silly handball calls, more holding/tackling calls, thanks!

 

Game is pretty much going the way I expected. Mexico has no fear of Brazil and Osorio has Mexico well prepared.

Halftime adjustments will be crucial now.

 

Because it wasn't handling. Despite a touch, it had zero effect on the outcome. Ball was still going in that direction and still reached where it was going.

 

Brazil showing more life offensively this half.

 

Gallardo should have passed it there.

 

Beautiful Goal.

 

That was freakin great play right there

 

And just like that. Neymar with the sliding finish at the far post. 1-0.

 

The passing was just too good and the off the ball movement fantastic.

 

That was coming as this half started. Nicely done.

 

Great scuff shot pass from Willian

 

That goal gets nicer on each replay.

 

Mexico not going down without a fight here. Good chances.

 

Finally...1-0

 

I can see Brazil vs France WC final again

 

Didn't quite look yellow worthy. Willian sold the contact more that I thought there was.

 

Maybe in 2022

 

I just want to see a Belgium Brazil QF first.

 

Mexico completely lost shape