All-Group E XI
Could probably have inserted the France lineup and no one would argue.
Also Considered:
Ecuador: N/A
France: Sissoko, Pogba, Griezmann, Debuchy
Honduras: Boniek Garcia
Switzerland: Drmic, Mehmedi, Inler, Xhaka
Showing posts with label Ecuador. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ecuador. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
All-Group Teams: Group E
Here's my selection for the All-Group E team. Let me know if you think there should be any corrections or changes.
All-Group E XI
Could probably have inserted the France lineup and no one would argue.
Also Considered:
Ecuador: N/A
France: Sissoko, Pogba, Griezmann, Debuchy
Honduras: Boniek Garcia
Switzerland: Drmic, Mehmedi, Inler, Xhaka
All-Group E XI
Could probably have inserted the France lineup and no one would argue.
Also Considered:
Ecuador: N/A
France: Sissoko, Pogba, Griezmann, Debuchy
Honduras: Boniek Garcia
Switzerland: Drmic, Mehmedi, Inler, Xhaka
Game 44 Recap: Ecuador 0-0 France
ECUADOR 0-0 FRANCE
A fine performance from Alexander Dominguez in Ecuador's goal stifled the potent French offence but the draw was not enough to send Ecuador through to the knockout round.
France meanwhile, secured first place in Group E despite failing to score in the contest and will meet Nigeria in the Round of 16.
France struggled a bit to get going in this game, with a roster that featured several new starters as Didier Deschamps looked to rest players ahead of the knockout round. Antoine Griezmann and Moussa Sissoko opened things up after a dozen minutes with shots at goal but they either flew wide or were well collected by Dominguez.
While they struggled to maintain possession or get any runs going in the half, it was Ecuador with the best chance in the first 45 minutes. Enner Valencia rose above Lucas Digne on a cross but his header went straight down instead of forward and allowed time for Hugo Lloris to get over and make the save.
Griezmann again nearly found the back of the net to open the second half, but his shot from close range deflected off Dominguez's arm and the post and stayed out. Ecuador's chances of picking up the win they needed took a nosedive just after when captain Antonio Valencia was sent off with a straight red card. A harsh call to say the least, Valencia appeared to accidentally get a leg up over the ball which ended in a studs up challenge on Digne.
The balance of the half became a shooting gallery for France. Time and again Benzema and others would load up and fire but some poor shooting from the French resulted in save after save for Dominguez. Ecuador did their best to get offensive pressure with 10 men but could not break down the French lines to pick up the goals they needed.
Goals
Ecuador: N/A
France: N/A
Discipline
France: N/A
Man of the Match
Alexander Dominguez. Far and away the best (or at least busiest) player on the field for Ecuador and time and again turned away France from scoring. Majority of saves were on shots directly at him but was constantly positioned correctly and kept Ecuador in the game despite them being down to 10 men.
Key Moment
Early in the second half, Ecuador captain Antonio Valencia appeared to slip off the ball and ended up getting his studs high in to the leg of Lucas Digne. Didn't appear deliberate but it earned Valencia a straight red card and forced Ecuador to try and win the game down a man. It was too much to ask of Ecuador who could only prevent France from scoring in the end.
What we learned from Ecuador
If they got this defensive performance in the Switzerland game then they'd likely have at least 1 more game to go in this tournament. They did surrender too many chances on goal but closed out the French players from the very dangerous chances and got great goalkeeping from Dominguez to pick them up. The only South American not to make the Round of 16, they have strong core of players to build on for next tournament run.
What we learned from France
You can't be on offensively all the time. Scored 8 goals in their first 2 games but held off the score sheet in this one by a strong performance from Dominguez in Ecuador's goal. Part of the scoring woes may have been experimenting with personnel but everything looked a little off for France today. Defensive line held strong for third game in a row and had good performances from young replacements like Digne and Schneiderlin.
Ecuador knew they would likely need a win and some help in this game and they were unable to pull out 3 points. The worst of the South American teams in the tournament, Ecuador actually outperformed a lot of expectations in this tournament.
France face Nigeria in the Round of 16. Should be favoured in that game but cannot afford to look past Nigeria to a potential Germany match in the quarterfinals.
Game 44 Starting Lineups (Ecuador vs. France)
Game Preview here.
Starting lineups below:
Ecuador
1 change for Ecuador as Arroyo replaces Caicedo up front.
Substitutes:
Goalkeepers: Maximo Banguera (#1), Adrian Bone (#12)
Defenders: Gabriel Achilier (#21), Oscar Bagui (#18)
Midfielders: Carlos Gruezo (#23), Renato Ibarra (#5), Fidel Martinez (#20), Edison Mendez (#8), Joao Rojas (#9), Luis Saritama (#19)
Forwards: Jaime Ayovi (#17), Felipe Caicedo (#11)
France
Equal mix of starters and subs as Deschamps appears to be experimenting/resting players.
Substitutes:
Goalkeepers: Mickael Landreau (#23), Stephane Ruffier (#16)
Defenders: Mathieu Debuchy (#2), Patrice Evra (#3), Eliaquim Mangala (#13), Raphael Varane (#4)
Midfielders: Remy Cabella (#7), Rio Mavuba (#12), Mathieu Valbuena (#8)
Forwards: Olivier Giroud (#9), Loic Remy (#20)
Starting lineups below:
Ecuador
1 change for Ecuador as Arroyo replaces Caicedo up front.
Substitutes:
Goalkeepers: Maximo Banguera (#1), Adrian Bone (#12)
Defenders: Gabriel Achilier (#21), Oscar Bagui (#18)
Midfielders: Carlos Gruezo (#23), Renato Ibarra (#5), Fidel Martinez (#20), Edison Mendez (#8), Joao Rojas (#9), Luis Saritama (#19)
Forwards: Jaime Ayovi (#17), Felipe Caicedo (#11)
France
Equal mix of starters and subs as Deschamps appears to be experimenting/resting players.
Substitutes:
Goalkeepers: Mickael Landreau (#23), Stephane Ruffier (#16)
Defenders: Mathieu Debuchy (#2), Patrice Evra (#3), Eliaquim Mangala (#13), Raphael Varane (#4)
Midfielders: Remy Cabella (#7), Rio Mavuba (#12), Mathieu Valbuena (#8)
Forwards: Olivier Giroud (#9), Loic Remy (#20)
Game 44 Preview: Ecuador vs. France
ECUADOR vs. FRANCE
Date: June 25, 2014
Time: 4:00 p.m. EDT
Venue: Maracana - Estadio Jornalista Mario Filho, Rio de Janeiro
Overall Head-to-Head Record (W-L-T): 1-0-0 France
Last Match: 2008 Friendly. France def. Ecuador 2-0.
Line: France -150
Group E Preview here.
Starting Lineups posted separately once they're announced.
Team Profiles
World Ranking: Ecuador (26th), France (17th)
Managers: Reinaldo Rueda (ECU), Didier Deschamps (FRA)
Captains: Antonio Valencia (ECU), Hugo Lloris (FRA)
World Cup Appearances: 3 (ECU), 14 (FRA)
Best Finish: Ecuador (Round of 16, 2006), France (Champions, 1998)
Qualifying Records: Ecuador (7-5-4, GF: 20, GA: 16), France (5-2-3, GF: 18, GA: 8)
Previous Game Results
Ecuador
France
June 15th - France def. Honduras 3-0
June 20th - France def. Switzerland 5-2
Rosters
Injuries/Discipline
France: Yohan Cabaye (Suspended - Card Accumulation), Patrice Evra (Yellow Card), Paul Pogba (Yellow Card), Mamadou Sakho (Questionable - Thigh)
Overview
It would take nothing short of a miracle for France to finish anywhere but first in this group. Meanwhile Ecuador likely need to upset what his been to-date the best team in the tournament if they want to continue their run in this World Cup.
It's desperation time for Ecuador. Currently second in Group E but with Switzerland likely facing a win against Honduras at the same time, Ecuador will have to find a way to top the French in order to secure a place in the knockout round.
France will definitely be without one starter this game as Yohan Cabaye is suspended due to an accumulation of yellow cards. Will be interesting to see if Didier Deschamps wants to rest players in this match or keep their fantastic momentum going through to next game.
Regardless of personnel, France will be a tough out for Ecuador. Very strong defensively but absolutely deadly on the attack. Karim Benzema leads the way with 3 goals but could easily have 6 to his credit already. If he plays, shutting down Benzema is of the utmost importance for the Ecuador defence.
Ecuador have their own striker making waves in this tournament though. Still a relative rookie internationally, Enner Valencia has all 3 Ecuador goals this tournament and will be counted on as the best chance Ecuador have of defeating France today.
Personnel
Operating under the assumption France does not sit players
In the Ecuadoran Third: This could be another bloodbath. Ecuador are easily drawn out of position and can lose track of players in the defensive end. That plays exactly in to what France wants. France have scoring from everywhere and are great at playing balls to places the defence isn't, knowing a French player will be there. Ecuador have to be aware at all times of where the French attackers are and that still probably won't be enough to stop them. Advantage: France.
In the Midfield: No Cabaye for France but wouldn't expect Ecuador to celebrate too much as France have loads of players they can plug in all over the field without missing a beat. France's ball movement in the midfield is superb and they can get the ball forward quickly in no time at all. May be a bit more passive defensively today but Ecuador will be on their heels here without the ball. Advantage: France.
In the French Third: They let off against the Swiss up 5-0 but this is an impressive French back line. There were concerns about the inexperience in the middle but Varane and Sakho have proved more then up to the task. Ecuador have gotten a bevy of goals from Valencia but aren't the best when it comes to creating and setting up chances and France should smother them in their own third. Advantage: France.
Goalkeeping: Lloris far and away the class of the group in goal. Advantage: France.
It's desperation time for Ecuador. Currently second in Group E but with Switzerland likely facing a win against Honduras at the same time, Ecuador will have to find a way to top the French in order to secure a place in the knockout round.
France will definitely be without one starter this game as Yohan Cabaye is suspended due to an accumulation of yellow cards. Will be interesting to see if Didier Deschamps wants to rest players in this match or keep their fantastic momentum going through to next game.
Regardless of personnel, France will be a tough out for Ecuador. Very strong defensively but absolutely deadly on the attack. Karim Benzema leads the way with 3 goals but could easily have 6 to his credit already. If he plays, shutting down Benzema is of the utmost importance for the Ecuador defence.
Ecuador have their own striker making waves in this tournament though. Still a relative rookie internationally, Enner Valencia has all 3 Ecuador goals this tournament and will be counted on as the best chance Ecuador have of defeating France today.
Personnel
Operating under the assumption France does not sit players
In the Ecuadoran Third: This could be another bloodbath. Ecuador are easily drawn out of position and can lose track of players in the defensive end. That plays exactly in to what France wants. France have scoring from everywhere and are great at playing balls to places the defence isn't, knowing a French player will be there. Ecuador have to be aware at all times of where the French attackers are and that still probably won't be enough to stop them. Advantage: France.
In the Midfield: No Cabaye for France but wouldn't expect Ecuador to celebrate too much as France have loads of players they can plug in all over the field without missing a beat. France's ball movement in the midfield is superb and they can get the ball forward quickly in no time at all. May be a bit more passive defensively today but Ecuador will be on their heels here without the ball. Advantage: France.
In the French Third: They let off against the Swiss up 5-0 but this is an impressive French back line. There were concerns about the inexperience in the middle but Varane and Sakho have proved more then up to the task. Ecuador have gotten a bevy of goals from Valencia but aren't the best when it comes to creating and setting up chances and France should smother them in their own third. Advantage: France.
Goalkeeping: Lloris far and away the class of the group in goal. Advantage: France.
Ecuador will win if:
Rotate well defensively for 90 minutes and prevent France from getting open men in their penalty area or clear shots. Offensively, have to use their wingers to get behind Debuchy and Evra and allow them to get downfield and find ways to deliver the ball to Enner Valencia in the centre.
France will win if:
No changes need to be made. Keep up the free-flowing movement of the ball offensively and understand when the play is gone and get back defensively when necessary. Has been no team more impressive in group play then this French side. Don't change what you don't have to in a short tournament like this.
Ecuador is the latest team to feel the French wrath in this tournament, whether they rest players or not.
France 3-0 Ecuador
Friday, June 20, 2014
Standings Update: June 20th
Group C
Colombia's 2 wins put them free and clear and all but locked in to first place in the group. It's a 3-way battle for second place and all 3 teams have a shot. Ivory Coast are the favourite to advance. They face Greece and should be through with a draw. Greece and Japan absolutely need wins in their final game in order to have a shot at the knockout round. I have a tough time seeing Japan beat Colombia which eliminates them. And Greece have yet to score at all this tournament against a fast, physical Ivory Coast team. Look for Ivory Coast to grab second in the group.
Group D
England are out after two losses to open their tournament. Costa Rica are the darling of the tournament meanwhile having knocked off two prior champions and wrapped up a knockout round spot today.. They'll secure first place if they can take a point off a third former champion in their final group match against England.
All eyes will be on Italy-Uruguay in their group match. Only one of the teams will make the Round of 16 and the edge goes to Italy, as they hold the goal differential tiebreaker. An Italy win or tie sends them through to the knockout round, while only a win will get Uruguay through.
Group E
All 4 teams still mathematically in contention to advance or be eliminated. France are through for all intents and purposes though. Honduras is likely out needing a win against Switzerland and some goal differential to go their way in their last match.
With Ecuador set to face France as well, Switzerland look to be the likely team to take second place in this group, despite their blowout loss today.
|
Team
|
W
|
L
|
T
|
GF
|
GA
|
+/-
|
Pts
|
|
Colombia
|
2
|
0
|
0
|
5
|
1
|
4
|
6
|
|
Ivory Coast
|
1
|
1
|
0
|
3
|
3
|
0
|
3
|
|
Japan
|
0
|
1
|
1
|
1
|
2
|
-1
|
1
|
|
Greece
|
0
|
1
|
1
|
0
|
3
|
-3
|
1
|
Colombia's 2 wins put them free and clear and all but locked in to first place in the group. It's a 3-way battle for second place and all 3 teams have a shot. Ivory Coast are the favourite to advance. They face Greece and should be through with a draw. Greece and Japan absolutely need wins in their final game in order to have a shot at the knockout round. I have a tough time seeing Japan beat Colombia which eliminates them. And Greece have yet to score at all this tournament against a fast, physical Ivory Coast team. Look for Ivory Coast to grab second in the group.
Group D
|
Team
|
W
|
L
|
T
|
GF
|
GA
|
+/-
|
Pts
|
|
Costa Rica
|
2
|
0
|
0
|
4
|
1
|
3
|
6
|
|
Italy
|
1
|
1
|
0
|
2
|
2
|
0
|
3
|
|
Uruguay
|
1
|
1
|
0
|
3
|
4
|
-1
|
3
|
|
England
|
0
|
2
|
0
|
2
|
4
|
-2
|
0
|
England are out after two losses to open their tournament. Costa Rica are the darling of the tournament meanwhile having knocked off two prior champions and wrapped up a knockout round spot today.. They'll secure first place if they can take a point off a third former champion in their final group match against England.
All eyes will be on Italy-Uruguay in their group match. Only one of the teams will make the Round of 16 and the edge goes to Italy, as they hold the goal differential tiebreaker. An Italy win or tie sends them through to the knockout round, while only a win will get Uruguay through.
Group E
|
Team
|
W
|
L
|
T
|
GF
|
GA
|
+/-
|
Pts
|
|
France
|
2
|
0
|
0
|
8
|
2
|
6
|
6
|
|
Ecuador
|
1
|
1
|
0
|
3
|
3
|
0
|
3
|
|
Switzerland
|
1
|
1
|
0
|
4
|
6
|
-2
|
3
|
|
Honduras
|
0
|
2
|
0
|
1
|
5
|
-4
|
0
|
All 4 teams still mathematically in contention to advance or be eliminated. France are through for all intents and purposes though. Honduras is likely out needing a win against Switzerland and some goal differential to go their way in their last match.
With Ecuador set to face France as well, Switzerland look to be the likely team to take second place in this group, despite their blowout loss today.
Game 26 Recap: Honduras 1-2 Ecuador
HONDURAS 1-2 ECUADOR
Wasn't the most technical or tactical display of soccer brilliance but it was an entertaining night in Curitiba as Ecuador put themselves right in the thick of contention for a knockout round spot from Group E.
Honduras broke a World Cup goal-scoring drought that dated back to 1982 but came up just short and find themselves in an almost insurmountable hole at the bottom of the group standings.
It was a physical game as expected. It took no longer then about 5 seconds for the first foul to be called and there were several cards and hard tackles throughout the match that had tempers high on both sides
It was also a game that was all about Ecuador striker Enner Valencia. The 25 year old newcomer to the national team notched a brace for Ecuador and the leading goalscorer in the Mexican league this year now has 3 goals in 2 World Cup matches and is averaging more then 1 goal every 2 games for his country.
Valencia's first chance came in the 20th minute after Emilio Izaguirre played Valencia onside on a long ball up the middle. Valencia brought the ball down neatly but pushed his shot too hard and it floated wide of the Honduran goal. Ecuador began to take control of the game but it was Honduras finding the back of goal first.
Yet another long ball (the game was full of them) made its way to Honduran striker Carlo Costly. Left alone after Jorge Guagua went for the ball, it was a clinical finish from Costly, hard and inside the near post for a 1-0 lead.
The Honduran lead was short-lived though. Just minutes later, Juan Carlos Paredes played a low ball through the box. No one on the Honduras back line was able to make a play on the ball and Enner Valencia snuck behind his man to tip the ball past Noel Valladares at the far post.
Bizarre play at the end of the first half. Carlo Costly got his head on to the end of a cross and rang the ball off the crossbar. It fell to Jerry Bengtson who directed to the back of the net. Honduras celebrated as the offside flag stayed down but the referee correctly saw Bengtson scored off his arm. It was no goal and a yellow card for Bengtson's troubles.
Ecuador continued to take over possession and momentum in the second half until the 65th minute when again Valencia struck. After Ecuadoran defenders missed a pair of free headers in the penalty area, the diminutive Valencia rose above everyone on a corner kick and headed inside the back post to give Ecuador the 2-1 lead and eventual victory.
Valencia volleyed home another ball in injury time that was called back due to an earlier handball on the play though.
Goals
Honduras: Carlo Costly (31')
Ecuador: Enner Valencia (34', 65')
Discipline
Honduras: Victor Bernardez (Yellow 7'), Jerry Bengtson (Yellow 45+3')
Ecuador: Antonio Valencia (Yellow 57'), Enner Valencia (Yellow 72'), Jefferson Montero (Yellow 80')
Man of the Match
Enner Valencia stole the show for Ecuador, nothing a brace in this game and putting himself in a tie for the Golden Boot race lead. Valencia was a constant thorn in the side of the Honduras defence and showed great versatility to his game, notching goals with both his speed and touch as well as his aerial ability.
Key Moment
After several wasted chances to begin the second half, Enner Valencia climbed above Juan Carlos Garcia and headed home the winning goal for Ecuador in the 65th minute.
What we learned from Honduras
Defensively still a lot of questions. Left players unaccounted for in the attacking third and really sloppy on the ball in their own penalty area. Showed a bit more attacking initiative but settled too often for long balls to Costly and Bengtson. Almost no movement through the midfield in the game and they struggled to sustain possession as a result.
What we learned from Ecuador
Made a mistake on the Honduras goal as Guagua challenged and got neither ball or man but otherwise held their opponent outside their penalty area for the second straight game. Showed some better finishing in this game but limited offensively to Enner Valencia. Felipe Caicedo had one bursting run up the middle in the opening stages and disappeared afterwards. Need to beat France in all likelihood to advance and need a second reliable option up front in order to be successful.
Going Forward
Honduras need to beat Switzerland and get a lot of goals in the process if they want to advance. I don't see that happening although they're technically not out of it. Ecuador actually find themselves in second place right now on tiebreakers. But with the Swiss looking at 3 points against Honduras, they'll need a Herculean effort against France in order to advance to the knockout stage.
Honduras need to beat Switzerland and get a lot of goals in the process if they want to advance. I don't see that happening although they're technically not out of it. Ecuador actually find themselves in second place right now on tiebreakers. But with the Swiss looking at 3 points against Honduras, they'll need a Herculean effort against France in order to advance to the knockout stage.
Game 26 Starting Lineups (Honduras vs. Ecuador)
Game Preview here.
Starting lineups below:
Honduras
2 changes for Honduras. Claros replaces the suspended Palacios and Garcia in for Najar.
Substitutes:
Goalkeepers: Donis Escober (#22), Luis Lopez (#1)
Defenders: Osman Chavez (#2), Juan Carlos Garcia (#6), Juan Pablo Montes (#4)
Midfielders: Marvin Chavez (#23), Edder Delgado (#12), Mario Martinez (#10), Andy Najar (#17)
Forwards: Rony Martinez (#16), Jerry Palacios (#9)
Ecuador
1 change for Ecuador as Gruezo replaced by Minda.
Substitutes:
Goalkeepers: Maximo Banguera (#1), Adrian Bone (#12)
Defenders: Gabriel Achilier (#21), Oscar Bagui (#18)
Midfielders: Michael Arroyo (#15), Carlos Gruezo (#23), Renato Ibarra (#5), Fidel Martinez (#20), Edison Mendez (#8), Joao Rojas (#9), Luis Saritama (#19)
Forwards: Jaime Ayovi (#17)
Starting lineups below:
Honduras
2 changes for Honduras. Claros replaces the suspended Palacios and Garcia in for Najar.
Substitutes:
Goalkeepers: Donis Escober (#22), Luis Lopez (#1)
Defenders: Osman Chavez (#2), Juan Carlos Garcia (#6), Juan Pablo Montes (#4)
Midfielders: Marvin Chavez (#23), Edder Delgado (#12), Mario Martinez (#10), Andy Najar (#17)
Forwards: Rony Martinez (#16), Jerry Palacios (#9)
Ecuador
1 change for Ecuador as Gruezo replaced by Minda.
Substitutes:
Goalkeepers: Maximo Banguera (#1), Adrian Bone (#12)
Defenders: Gabriel Achilier (#21), Oscar Bagui (#18)
Midfielders: Michael Arroyo (#15), Carlos Gruezo (#23), Renato Ibarra (#5), Fidel Martinez (#20), Edison Mendez (#8), Joao Rojas (#9), Luis Saritama (#19)
Forwards: Jaime Ayovi (#17)
Game 26 Preview: Honduras vs. Ecuador
HONDURAS vs. ECUADOR
Date: June 20, 2014
Time: 6:00 p.m. EDT
Venue: Arena da Baixada, Curitiba
Overall Head-to-Head Record (W-L-T): 3-2-8 Ecuador
Last Match: 2013 Friendly. Ecuador tied Honduras 2-2.
Line: Ecuador -165
Group E Preview here.
Starting Lineups posted separately once they're announced.
Team Profiles
World Ranking: Honduras (33rd), Ecuador (26th)
Managers: Luis Fernando Suarez (HON), Reinaldo Rueda (ECU)
Captains: Noel Valladares (HON), Antonio Valencia (ECU)
World Cup Appearances: 3 (HON), 3 (ECU)
Best Finish: Honduras (Group Stage, Last in 2010), Ecuador (Round of 16, 2006)
Qualifying Records: Honduras (7-4-5, GF: 25, GA: 15), Ecuador (7-5-4, GF: 20, GA: 16)
Previous Game Results
Honduras
Ecuador
June 15th - Switzerland def. Ecuador 2-1
Rosters
Injuries/Discipline
Honduras: Victor Bernardez (Questionable - Knee), Boniek Garcia (Yellow Card), Luis Garrido (Yellow Card), Wilson Palacios (Suspended - Card Accumulation)
Ecuador: Juan Carlos Paredes (Yellow Card)
Overview
A must-win game for both sides to have any hope of advancing in this group. Also a game that should lack some of the quality of the other games in this World Cup but will make up for it in entertainment value.
2 of the weaker teams in the tournament, Honduras and Ecuador both like to play physical, are undisciplined in their fouls and defensively. All that should lead to a wide-open and physical scoring affair. Exactly what every casual fan of the game will love.
Honduras come in with some personnel decisions to make. Wilson Palacios is suspended after his WWE audition against Paul Pogba in the France game. Honduras is also likely to be without Victor Bernardez defensively after he picked up an injury against France.
Formations aside, expect this game to be chaotic. Both teams need 3 points and should throw players forward in an attempt to get goals, regardless of what that means defensively.
Personnel
In the Honduran Third: Honduras spent the France game bunched behind the ball even though they were trailing. This was largely due in part to being down a man and I would not expect the same from them today. Ecuador have speed to penetrate the Honduran lines but lack the finishing quality of other teams. Advantage: Ecuador, I guess.
In the Midfield: Honduras are without their top midfielder and will be relying heavily on the wings. Ecuador is similar on the attack so battle in the midfield should be determined by who wins the centre. I think Honduras' size is the difference there. Advantage: Honduras
In the Ecuadoran Third: Honduras put up one of the worst offensive performances I've ever seen in a World Cup against France. Ecuador on the flip side looked largely competent in the back against Switzerland even if they stopped playing with 30 seconds to go. Advantage: Ecuador
Goalkeeping: All 6 goalkeepers on these squads play in unheralded domestic leagues. They also gave up 5 goals in their openers. Valladares the slight advantage on name recognition and experience only. Advantage: Honduras
Honduras will win if:
They can work the ball to Bengtson and Costly up front without sending a lob 2/3's of the field and hoping something happens. Honduras have to get stronger midfield play so they can properly link up with their strike pairing and allow them to actually work at the Ecuador defence rather then chase down punts.
Ecuador will win if:
They can repeat their defensive effort from the Swiss game. I have full confidence that Honduras will fall apart at times and Ecuador will have scoring chances. They keep their back line strong and neutralize the front two for Honduras and they'll be in the clear.
MAYHEM. Ecuador more quality throughout their roster but Honduras have the forwards to punish their inevitable defensive lapses. Guessing on scoreline, counting on fun.
Ecuador 3-1 Honduras
Monday, June 16, 2014
Standings Update: June 16th
As promised, updated Standings for Groups E-G:
Group E
About exactly as anyone could have predicted to this point. France look to be the class of the group and with a win against Honduras all the Swiss should need to get through, they will feel good about their chances. Golden opportunity squandered by Ecuador in their loss to gain a footing in this group. Would be stunning if France and Switzerland don't advance, just a question of order at this point.
Group F
Argentina were always expected to be the top of the group and handled Bosnia well. Iran and Nigeria gave us a dreary contest and both look to be inept in the offensive end. 3-way race for second and despite the loss, Bosnia should be tipped to recover and pick up second place.
Group G
The U.S. is the big winner today in the fight for second in this group. Germany were tipped as group favourites and their thrashing of Portugal only cemented that. The margin of defeat for Portugal though will bring joy to U.S. fans. With Germany and Portugal remaining, Ghana are likely in a spoiler role after losing to the U.S. That makes the U.S.-Portugal game on June 22nd the critical one for the group. A Portugal win and they'll be the likely second place team to advance. A U.S. win should have them clinched in the knockout round. A draw could make things dicey but the 5 goal difference in +/- right now is a huge boon to the U.S. chances.
Group E
Team
|
W
|
L
|
T
|
GF
|
GA
|
+/-
|
Pts
|
France
|
1
|
0
|
0
|
3
|
0
|
3
|
3
|
Switzerland
|
1
|
0
|
0
|
2
|
1
|
1
|
3
|
Ecuador
|
0
|
1
|
0
|
1
|
2
|
-1
|
0
|
Honduras
|
0
|
1
|
0
|
0
|
3
|
-3
|
0
|
About exactly as anyone could have predicted to this point. France look to be the class of the group and with a win against Honduras all the Swiss should need to get through, they will feel good about their chances. Golden opportunity squandered by Ecuador in their loss to gain a footing in this group. Would be stunning if France and Switzerland don't advance, just a question of order at this point.
Group F
Team
|
W
|
L
|
T
|
GF
|
GA
|
+/-
|
Pts
|
Argentina
|
1
|
0
|
0
|
2
|
1
|
1
|
3
|
Iran
|
0
|
0
|
1
|
0
|
0
|
0
|
1
|
Nigeria
|
0
|
0
|
1
|
0
|
0
|
0
|
1
|
Bosnia
|
0
|
1
|
0
|
1
|
2
|
-1
|
0
|
Argentina were always expected to be the top of the group and handled Bosnia well. Iran and Nigeria gave us a dreary contest and both look to be inept in the offensive end. 3-way race for second and despite the loss, Bosnia should be tipped to recover and pick up second place.
Group G
Team
|
W
|
L
|
T
|
GF
|
GA
|
+/-
|
Pts
|
Germany
|
1
|
0
|
0
|
4
|
0
|
4
|
3
|
USA
|
1
|
0
|
0
|
2
|
1
|
1
|
3
|
Ghana
|
0
|
1
|
0
|
1
|
2
|
-1
|
0
|
Portugal
|
0
|
1
|
0
|
0
|
4
|
-4
|
0
|
The U.S. is the big winner today in the fight for second in this group. Germany were tipped as group favourites and their thrashing of Portugal only cemented that. The margin of defeat for Portugal though will bring joy to U.S. fans. With Germany and Portugal remaining, Ghana are likely in a spoiler role after losing to the U.S. That makes the U.S.-Portugal game on June 22nd the critical one for the group. A Portugal win and they'll be the likely second place team to advance. A U.S. win should have them clinched in the knockout round. A draw could make things dicey but the 5 goal difference in +/- right now is a huge boon to the U.S. chances.
Sunday, June 15, 2014
Game 9 Recap: Switzerland 2-1 Ecuador
SWITZERLAND 2-1 ECUADOR
A stunning finish and a result that will haunt Ecuador for years to come. It was by all accounts one of the slower games of the 2014 World Cup and yet this tournament found a way to provide excitement because that's simply how things are this edition.
A slow start to the game with things going according to script for the most part. Ecuador found little in the way of quality scoring chances, stifled by the Swiss defence while Switzerland looked the part of its #6 World Ranking until they got near the penalty area.
Ecuador was the team to surprise with the first goal in the 22nd minute. Given a cheap free kick beside the goal after a Stephan Lichtsteiner foul, Ecuador made no mistake with a header from 5 yards by Enner Valencia to give Ecuador the 1-0 lead. It was a questionable missed call that created the goal as Jorge Guagua set an illegal pick on Granit Xhaka who was marking Valencia. The referee missed it though and Ecuador surely weren't complaining.
That goal woke the Swiss up who turned up the pressure for the rest of the 1st half and desperate defending along with the halftime whistle bailed Ecuador out. It was a temporary relief though. On the field for less then 3 minutes, halftime substitute Admir Mehmedi headed home his own close-range goal from a set-piece to tie the game. More questionable defending as Carlos Gruezo barely moved to defend Mehmedi who was as good as unmarked.
Wasted chances from both teams set up a frantic last few minutes of the game. Ecuador looked close to a winner on multiple occasions. A free kick from 32 yards out took a strange deflection off the Swiss wall and forced a huge save from Diego Benaglio who was caught going the wrong way. Deep in to injury time, Antonio Valencia found Michael Arroyo in the area but he was unable to take the shot on the first touch and his second was blocked by Valon Behrami.
That set up the shock finish. Behrami took the ball upfield and despite being taken down, Behrami wisely played the advantage awarded by referee Ravshan Irmatov leading to an odd-man rush for Switzerland. Ricardo Rodriguez's cross with no time left found another substitute Haris Seferovic in the box who finished things off smartly. The whistle blew after the restart.
Smart finish by Switzerland and evidence of why you have to play to the whistle as Ecuador showed no back-checking whatsoever on the final play.
Goals
Switzerland: Admir Mehmedi (48'), Haris Seferovic (90+3')
Ecuador: Enner Valencia (22')
Discipline
Switzerland: Johan Djourou (84')
Ecuador: Juan Carlos Paredes (53')
Man of the Match
Xherdan Shaqiri was my choice and fans agreed. The tiny midfielder for Switzerland was all over the field and his dribbling ability and shooting was the source of the majority of the Swiss chances. Honourable mention to Ricardo Rodriguez who was a constant source of quality crosses and assisted both Swiss goals.
Key Moment
Phenomenal effort from Behrami with 30 seconds left to block Arroyo's shot, get up from a very hard foul and deliver the ball to Rodriguez to set up the winning goal. Dead tired at the end of the game, it took a ton of heart to make that play and was the only reason the game ended in favour of the Swiss and not potentially for Ecuador.
What we learned from Switzerland
They may have found a couple of strikers. Seferovic's contribution was minimal in his 15 minutes but Mehmedi looked the part of a central striker, contributing the goal through the air to start the second half and threatening in rushes with the ball. Some questions about assignments defensively and what Benaglio was doing on the Ecuador goal but I think Guagua's bodycheck was the biggest factor in that goal. Solid play otherwise.
What we learned from Ecuador
Not much that wasn't already known. They had some success on the wings with their speed and with long balls through the back line but couldn't finish and don't have a lot of natural finishers in their lineup. Alternated between being able to close out the Swiss attack effectively and completely disappearing which led to both goals. Inconsistent effort from Ecuador and it cost them dearly at the end.
Going Forward
The result that was expected but not the scoreline and how it happened. Ecuador needed at least a draw in this game and will rue that they missed out not just on the 1 point but that Arroyo could not finish his chance to give them a potential win. Switzerland will have a challenge with France but should see themselves through now with Honduras completing the group.
Game 9 Starting Lineups (Switzerland vs. Ecuador)
Game Preview here.
Starting Lineups Below:
Switzerland
Substitutes:
Goalkeepers: Roman Burki (#21), Yann Sommer (#12)
Defenders: Michael Lang (#6), Fabian Schar (#22), Philippe Senderos (#4), Reto Ziegler (#3)
Midfielders: Tranquillo Barnetta (#7), Blerim Dzemaili (#15), Gelson Fernandes (#16)
Forwards: Mario Gavranovic (#17), Admir Mehmedi (#18), Haris Seferovic (#9)
Ecuador
Substitutes:
Goalkeepers: Maximo Banguera (#1), Adrian Bone (#12)
Defenders: Gabriel Achilier (#21), Oscar Bagui (#18)
Midfielders: Michael Arroyo (#15), Renato Ibarra (#5), Fidel Martinez (#20), Edison Mendez (#8), Oswaldo Minda (#14), Joao Rojas (#9), Luis Saritama (#19)
Forwards: Jaime Ayovi (#17)
Starting Lineups Below:
Switzerland
Substitutes:
Goalkeepers: Roman Burki (#21), Yann Sommer (#12)
Defenders: Michael Lang (#6), Fabian Schar (#22), Philippe Senderos (#4), Reto Ziegler (#3)
Midfielders: Tranquillo Barnetta (#7), Blerim Dzemaili (#15), Gelson Fernandes (#16)
Forwards: Mario Gavranovic (#17), Admir Mehmedi (#18), Haris Seferovic (#9)
Ecuador
Substitutes:
Goalkeepers: Maximo Banguera (#1), Adrian Bone (#12)
Defenders: Gabriel Achilier (#21), Oscar Bagui (#18)
Midfielders: Michael Arroyo (#15), Renato Ibarra (#5), Fidel Martinez (#20), Edison Mendez (#8), Oswaldo Minda (#14), Joao Rojas (#9), Luis Saritama (#19)
Forwards: Jaime Ayovi (#17)
Game 9 Preview: Switzerland vs. Ecuador
SWITZERLAND vs. ECUADOR
Date: June 15, 2014
Time: 12:00 p.m. EDT
Venue: Estadio Nacional, Brasilia
Overall Head-to-Head Record (W-L-T): N/A
Last Match: N/A
Line: Switzerland +125
Group E Preview here.
Starting Lineups posted separately once they're announced.
Team Profiles
World Ranking: Switzerland (6th), Ecuador (26th)
Managers: Ottmar Hitzfeld (SUI), Reinaldo Rueda (ECU)
Captains: Gokhan Inler (SUI), Antonio Valencia (ECU)
World Cup Appearances: 10 (SUI), 3 (ECU)
Best Finish: Switzerland (Quarterfinals, Last in 1950), Ecuador (Round of 16, 2006)
Qualifying Records: Switzerland (7-0-3, GF: 17, GA: 6), Ecuador (7-5-4, GF: 20, GA: 16)
Pre-Tournament Game Results
Switzerland
June 6th - Switzerland def. Peru 2-0
Ecuador
May 31st - Mexico def. Ecuador 3-1
June 4th - Ecuador tied England 2-2
Rosters
Injuries/Discipline
Switzerland: N/A
Ecuador: Christian Noboa (Questionable - Leg)
Overview
It's the first-ever meeting between the two countries as Group E kicks off in the capital Brasilia. And while goals have been pouring in to nets through this World Cup, that trend may come to a screeching halt in this game.
Switzerland come in having surrendered just 1 goal against in their past 7 World Cup matches. It's an unheralded group on the back end mostly that shut down opposing attackers with easy and shut make life very frustrating for Ecuador going forward.
As good as the Swiss are in the back though they are without any proven goalscorer on their squad and have to scrap and fight for every goal that comes to them. Winners of both pre-tournament games on late second-half goals, don't expect any fireworks from this still young team.
Ecuador are the decided underdog of all of the South American teams in Brazil. Having picked up most of their qualifying points in their home stadium at Quito (almost 10k feet above sea level), they struggle away from home and have difficulty with teams like Switzerland who use their organization to shut down any forays forward.
Ecuador thrives on a chaotic game where individual skill becomes the focal point. They can outrun and outdribble the Swiss in man-on-man situations but lose track of their field awareness and gameplan quickly which is where they have problems.
It's a defence for Ecuador that love to close down attackers quickly in their own end, but they have a tendency to leave men open when doing so and when they don't close down the ball properly, they find themselves in some real tight spots.
Personnel
In the Swiss Third:1 goal in 7 games in World Cup play? No matter who you're facing, that's an incredible statistic. Their is an offence in this group that will create problems. It isn't Ecuador. Advantage: Switzerland
In the Midfield: Switzerland have a number of young players capable of moving the ball effectively and finding space in the opposition. Ecuador either allow players too much space to advance or try and close down aggressively, often at their peril. Advantage: Switzerland
In the Ecuadoran Third: A defensive line that can allow massive holes at times against a team that's allergic to scoring goals. Get your popcorn ready kids. Advantage: LOL
Goalkeeping: All 3 goalkeepers for Ecuador play domestically and there is no clear starter. Diego Benaglio has been a stalwart for the Swiss and Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga for years. Advantage: Switzerland
Switzerland will win if:
ANYONE CAN PUT THE BALL IN THE NET. That sounds horrendously cliche but Ecuador's attack will get shut down by the Swiss defence with some ease. The case for the Swiss is also who will provide goals for them. They're great in the midfield but fall apart in the opposing area. If anyone can find a scoring touch in this game, it will be enough.
Ecuador will win if:
Peru played Switzerland in pre-tournament action and found a couple of breaks on long through balls to players at full speed towards the Swiss back line. Ecuador have the wingers to provide the same kind of problems for the Swiss defence. Send the ball long to a winger and get forward in numbers to connect on a cross. They also need to hold their line defensively and not break down like they often do. They can afford to be passive against this Swiss front.
Prediction
Even a blind squirrel occasionally finds a nut. I'll only believe the Swiss are an offensive threat when I see it but I think Ecuador are too disorganized on the back end to hold them off forever. It's also the 2014 World Cup and the concept of a scoreless draw is laughable.
Switzerland 1-0 Ecuador.
Even a blind squirrel occasionally finds a nut. I'll only believe the Swiss are an offensive threat when I see it but I think Ecuador are too disorganized on the back end to hold them off forever. It's also the 2014 World Cup and the concept of a scoreless draw is laughable.
Switzerland 1-0 Ecuador.
Friday, June 6, 2014
Group E Preview
Schedule
All times Eastern Daylight Time (UTC -4)
June 15th, 12:00 p.m., Estadio Nacional, Brasilia
Switzerland vs. Ecuador
June 15th, 3:00 p.m., Estadio Beira-Rio, Porto Alegre
France vs. Honduras
June 20th, 3:00 p.m., Arena Fonte Nova, Salvador
Switzerland vs. France
June 20th, 6:00 p.m., Arena da Baixada, Curitiba
Honduras vs. Ecuador
June 25th, 4:00 p.m., Arena Amazonia, Manaus
Honduras vs. Switzerland
June 25th, 4:00 p.m., Maracana - Estadio Jornalista Mario Filho
Ecuador vs. France
Teams
Goalkeepers: Maximo Banguera (#1, Barcelona), Adrian Bone (#12, El Nacional), Alexander Dominguez (#22, LDU Quito)
Defenders: Gabriel Achilier (#21, Emelec), Walter Ayovi (#10, Pachuca, MEX), Oscar Bagui (#18, Emelec), Frickson Erazo (#3, Flamengo, BRA), Jorge Guagua (#2, Emelec), Juan Carlos Paredes (#4, Barcelona)
Midfielders: Michael Arroyo (#15, Atlante, MEX), Segundo Castillo (#14, Al-Hilal, KSA), Carlos Gruezo (#23, Stuttgart, GER), Renato Ibarra (#5, Vitesse, NED), Fidel Martinez (#20, Tijuana, MEX), Edison Mendez (#8, Santa Fe), Jefferson Montero (#7, Morelia, MEX), Christian Noboa (Dynamo Moscow, RUS), Joao Rojas (#9, Cruz Azul, MEX), Luis Saritama (#19, Barcelona), Antonio Valencia (#16, Manchester United, ENG)
Forwards: Jaime Ayovi (#17, Tijuana, MEX), Felipe Caicedo (#11, Al-Jazira, UAE), Enner Valencia (#13, Pachuca, MEX)
Possible Starting XI
Offence
The least impressive offence of all the South American teams in the tournament. The other squads have organization and balance to their attacks, whereas Ecuador tend to resemble chickens with their heads cut off at times.
Ecuador's best shot at offence comes off runs on the sides of the field, primarily from the right with Antonio Valencia. The central midfielders are suffering due to injuries and are mainly defensively oriented in their style of play so Ecuador needs it's wingers to open up the field and give them space to attack. Felipe Caicedo and Enner Valencia lead the way up front. Caicedo has size and was Ecuador's top scorer this past season, but is primarily a one-touch finisher only and has been playing in the lowly UAE league this past season. Valencia on the other hand has had a phenomenal season and will likely be Ecuador's top goal-scoring threat.
Defence
Just as disorganized as their offensive front, Ecuador's defence alternates between flashes of brilliance and times when you can't tell what they're doing. This was blatantly evident in their pre-torunament game against Mexico. One play in particular, there were 3 defenders and a midfielder all swarming to a ball in the defensive third. They didn't get there and Mexico was left with a 4 on 2 around the Ecuador penalty area. Poor decision-making and field awareness will lead to problems for this Ecuador squad.
Perhaps the biggest concern for this Ecuador squad is that they're the only team without a consensus number one goalkeeper. Alexander Dominiguez is expected to be the number one by media, but Maximo Banguera has been the one in the net for all 3 tuneup games so far. It's the same adage as in American football, if you have 2 quarterbacks, you have no quarterback, and that's a problem Ecuador are quickly running out of time to solve.
3 Key Players
Antonio Valencia. The captain and leader of this team, the Manchester United winger is one of the only Ecuadoran players that sees significant time for a European club. Valencia is coming off of one of his best seasons with United, and is counted on to provide width and play-making ability to an otherwise limited Ecuador offensive front. Valencia has exceptional speed and dribbling ability and should often find himself with a free look at crosses to the penalty area in the group games.
Enner Valencia. No relation to Antonio, Enner blew up with Pachuca in the Mexican League this season, scoring an astonishing 18 goals in 22 games. Primarily a winger but on a team filled with those, Valencia will be filling an offset forward role for Ecuador. Valencia is the most complete offensive player in the Ecuador lineup. His record with Pachuca is testament to his finishing ability, but he also has a neat passing game that gets the ball to players around in open spaces and frees himself up for runs to the area to finish plays off.
Carlos Gruezo. Slotted currently in a starting role after Segundo Castillo injured his leg in the same challenge that ended Luis Montes' World Cup for Mexico. Castillo is in the squad but doesn't look ready for action so the 19 year old Gruezo looks to be set for significant playing time in Brazil. It will be a trial by fire for Gruezo. He played just 7 games for Stuttgart this past season and only got his first cap for Ecuador in pre-tournament action. Look for Gruezo to be targeted by opponents attacks if he does find himself on the field.
Other Name to Know
Christian Benitez. One of their most reliable players in qualifying and a prolific goalscorer both for country and club, Benitez died tragically last July, after complications from cardiac arrest. Benitez was 27 years old, and a big presence in the Ecuador front line. World Cup teams have to number their players from 1-23, so Felipe Caicedo will wear Benitez's #11 jersey. The number has been retired outside of the World Cup finals.
Overall Impression
I didn't expect to be this negative about the team when I started writing, it just worked out that way. They have some individual skill at places, but they lack cohesion in all parts of the field and don't provide the offensive threats that other Latin American teams do to counter that.
Playing in the heat on their own continent will certainly be an advantage. Ecuador can also outrun most opponents, with much of their squad playing their club soccer domestically at altitude. And it's a relatively weak group compared to others. All of that plays in to Ecuador's favour and despite my negative review, they will be a threat to advance from this group.
Edited to reflect Ribery and Grenier being replaced by injury. No word if numbers will be shuffled yet.
Goalkeepers: Mickael Landreau (#23, Bastia), Hugo Lloris (#1, Tottenham Hotspur, ENG), Stephane Ruffier (#16, Saint-Etienne)
Defenders: Mathieu Debuchy (#2, Newcastle United, ENG), Lucas Digne (#17, Paris Saint-Germain), Patrice Evra (#3, Manchester United, ENG), Laurent Koscielny (#21, Arsenal, ENG), Eliaquim Mangala (#13, FC Porto, POR), Bacary Sagna (#15, Arsenal, ENG), Mamadou Sakho (#5, Liverpool, ENG), Raphael Varane (#4, Real Madrid, ESP)
Midfielders: Yohan Cabaye (#6, Paris Saint-Germain), Remy Cabella (Montpellier), Antoine Griezmann (#11, Real Sociedad, ESP), Blaise Matuidi (#14, Paris Saint-Germain), Rio Mavuba (#12, Lille), Paul Pogba (#19, Juventus, ITA), Morgan Schneiderlin (Southampton, ENG), Moussa Sissoko (#18, Newcastle United, ENG), Mathieu Valbuena (#8, Marseille)
Forwards: Karim Benzema (#10, Real Madrid, ESP), Olivier Giroud (#9, Arsenal, ENG), Loic Remy (#20, Newcastle United, ENG)
Possible Starting XI
Offence
This is a revamped French squad from the one that imploded in the 2010 World Cup, and is led up front by Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema, and inexplicable exclusion from that 2010 squad. Comfortable playing up front as a lone striker, Benzema can be used as back-to-goal provider, aerial target man or as a finisher when in the penalty area. One of the things that makes Benzema successful with his club is the high-class players around him, which France has in spades.
The French offence relies heavily on its wingers to use their speed to stretch the ball upfield and then create ways to get the ball to the centre of the field for Benzema or the central midfielders. The central midfielders are always strong in possession of the ball and can find the wingers or Benzema up front in dangerous scoring positions. Also look for Evra and Debuchy to push up frequently from the wing back possessions to support the front group and create opportunities for crosses. Franck Ribery was officially ruled out of the world cup today, replaced by Montpellier's Remy Cabella. Antoine Griezmann has been impressive in pre-tournament play and is the likely replacement in the starting lineup at left wing.
Defence
France boasts possibly the youngest and most inexperienced central defence pairing in the tournament. Expected to be anchored by Raphael Varane and Mamadou Sakho, the two combine for less then 25 international caps, and are just 21 and 24 respectively. They are joined on the wings by Mathieu Debuchy and former captain Patrice Evra. Debuchy and Evra bring more experience to the table but are both offensive-minded fullbacks and are susceptible to mental lapses on the defensive end.
France have found their central defensive pairing it seems for at least the next 6-8 years if all goes well. There's a question of whether or not this stage may be too much, too soon for them though. They'll be relying on defensive midfielder Blaise Matuidi for support in countering their opponent's attacks. France love to push their wings forward so more then anything, this defence will depend on Varane and Sakho's abilities in the centre of the field to defend their goal by themselves at times.
3 Key Players
Mathieu Valbuena. Brings many of the same qualities to the right wing that Ribery would have brought to the left wing. Ribery's absence will shift attention of the French attack from the left side of the field to the right and make Valbuena one of the key playmakers in this squad. Speed to spare and phenomenal in ball control, Valbuena has to step up and fill the role Ribery would have as the playmaker in this French attack.
Paul Pogba. Has blown on to the world stage in the past 2 years with his performances for Juventus and having led France to a U-20 World Cup title last year. Pogba has cemented himself as both the future of the French team as well as securing a starting position for Brazil. France's 3 midfield set is similar to England in responsibilities. With Cabaye in offensive support and Matuidi hanging back, Pogba's role is to provide support from both and fly up and down the field for both roles. One of the most complete players in the squad, Pogba is poised for a breakout tournament amongst casual fans and will cement an impressive French midfield that was so poor in 2010.
Patrice Evra. Stripped of his captaincy since the protest incident in the 2010 World Cup, Evra has worked his way back in to a French squad at age 33, despite calls by former players for Evra to be banned from the team. Doesn't wear the armband anymore, but still provides crucial leadership for the rest of a very inexperienced defence. Can be a game-changer in the offensive zone when he pinches forward, but has struggled defensively this past season with Manchester United. If he can be defensively responsible and lead the back end, France has the potential to go a long way in this group.
Other Name to Know
Olivier Giroud. Not expected to start over Benzema, Giroud is one of those players who has shown a penchant for being in the right place at the right time when a goal is needed, either for France or for Arsenal. Most notably scored on a header at the whistle to tie Spain in qualifying in Madrid in 2012. Giroud should see some time off the bench, and is a player to keep an eye to see if he can work more magic if France need a late goal.
Overall Impression
Night and day it seems from 2010 when you could see France were headed for a fall. A solid infusion of youth with players like Pogba and the central defenders to go with the talented veterans this team possesses. A very friendly draw will also help France who were the closest any team going to Brazil came to not being here, having trailed Ukraine 2-0 entering the last leg of their qualifying playoff.
Losing Ribery hurts but France possess a very organized attack and have players capable of filling his role effectively so on the whole, shouldn't impact their chances of advancing overly much.
Goalkeepers: Donis Escober (#22, Olimpia), Luis Lopez (#1, Real Espana), Noel Valladares (#18, Olimpia)
Defenders: Brayan Beckeles (#23, Olimpia), Victor Bernardez (#5, San Jose Earthquakes, USA), Osman Chavez (#2, Qingdao Jonoon, CHN), Maynor Figueroa (#3, Hull City, ENG), Juan Carlos Garcia (#6, Wigan Athletic, ENG), Emilio Izaguirre (#7, Celtic, SCO), Juan Pablo Montes (#4, Motagua)
Midfielders: Marvin Chavez (#17, Chivas USA, USA), Jorge Claros (#20, Motagua), Edder Delgado (#12, Real Espana), Roger Espinoza (#15, Wigan Athletic, ENG), Oscar Boniek Garcia (#14, Houston Dynamo, USA), Luis Garrido (#19, Olimpia), Mario Martinez (#10, Real Espana), Andy Najar (#21, Anderlecht, BEL), Wilson Palacios (#8, Stoke City, ENG)
Forwards: Jerry Bengtson (#11, New England Revolution, USA), Carlo Costly (#13, Real Espana), Rony Martinez (#16, Real Sociedad), Jerry Palacios (#9, Alajuelense, CRC)
Possible Starting XI
Offence
A 4-4-2 formation with a pair of holding midfielders, Honduras will rely heavily on their wingers and 2-striker set up front for all of their offence. Up front, Carlo Costly and Jerry Bengtson form a very dangerous attacking duo. 6'3" and 6'2" respectively, both have speed and strength in possession of the ball, and combined for a whopping 16 goals in qualifying. Bengtson is the target man with Costly in a centre forward role behind him. Both players are capable of making plays for the other though and can find the net with feet or head in the penalty area.
The other aspect of the Honduran offence is their speed on the wings and ability to make plays and get the ball up to Costly and Bengtson. Look for left back Emilio Izaguirre to provide support in this area as well. The former Player of the Year in the Scottish Premier League loves to fly up and down the left wing and his speed and passing ability provide some of the best play-making for this Honduras squad. Left winger Roger Espinoza typically plays left back, so it's not unusual for he and Izaguirre to interchange positions as necessary.
Defence
Similar to fellow Central American nation Costa Rica, Honduras will elect to leave 6 players back most of the time to make up for the individual talent and speed they are lacking compared to the rest of the world. The keys to this defence lie with the 3 most experienced players in the squad. Noel Valladares starts in goal. Captain of the team, the 37 year old goalkeeper has over 120 caps to his name. Valladares is one of the smallest goalkeepers heading to Brazil at 5'10", but makes up for his lack of size with great positional awareness and reflexes.
The centre of the field is anchored by 2 of the few European-based club players on this Honduras squad. Having been left on the bench for much of his career, Wilson Palacios saw extended game action for Stoke City this year for the first time. Palacios is a reliable defensive midfielder who will sit back and harass the opponents attacking midfielders with the ball. The heart of the back line is Maynor Figueroa, another Premier League player who saw extensive time for Hull City this past season. The experience of these players will be relied on for Honduras to maintain order in the back and spring counter-attacks the few times Honduras will get chances to.
3 Key Players
Emilio Izaguirre. The best player on this Honduras team, he'll start at left back but could end up at left wing or up with the strikers if he so chose. One of the few defenders with speed for Honduras, Izaguirre loves to take the ball up the wings himself to act as a play-making midfielder. As mentioned above, Izaguirre will have cover if he chooses to go exploring, so look for him to play as much of a midfield role as he will at left back, as Honduras try to get the ball to Costly or Bengtson in scoring positions.
Wilson Palacios.The Honduran central midfield and defence have plenty of experience, but not nearly the speed of some of the attackers they'll face in this group so positional play and team defence will be critical to their success. Palacios is the most experienced of the midfielders and will sit between the opponents and his defensive line to organize everything. Not the most physically talented himself, Palacios' leadership and field awareness are critical if Honduras look to have success in Brazil.
Carlo Costly. Bengtson is the pure goalscorer but it's Costly that drives the offensive attack up front. Goes at full speed for the whole match and is gifted as both a deliverer of the ball (mainly to Bengtso) or as a forward that can create his own opportunities. Gets a bit more space then Bengtson does by playing behind him and if opponents don't close him down quickly, Costly can fire off a rocket at the goal which will trouble any opposing goalkeeper.
Other Name to Know
Andy Najar. Young, with excellent speed and agility, Najar may find a role as a substitute forward off the bench. Costly and Bengtson form an excellent duo but are similar players with their size and abilities. Najar's agility on and off the ball allow him to find open spaces all over the field and add a different element to the Honduran attack that may be valuable for Honduras later in games.
Overall Impression
Hasn't won a World Cup finals game in 6 attempts and failed to even register a goal in 2010. It'd be a shock if they didn't score in Brazil as Bengtson and Costly are a world-class strike pairing but any thoughts of advancement should be put on hold. Not nearly enough playmaking ability in the midfield to be considered a serious threat to advance and while they'll put a bunch of guys behind the ball defensively, they don't move particularly well individually and will struggle with the speed of France and Ecuador in particular. Best chance at a result may be against Switzerland, who don't have the dynamic offensive players that will create havoc amongst the Honduran back line.
Goalkeepers: Diego Benaglio (#1, Wolfsburg, GER), Roman Burki (#21, Grasshopper), Yann Sommer (#12, FC Basel)
Defenders: Steve von Bergen (#40, BSC Young Boys), Johan Djourou (#20, Hamburger SV, GER), Michael Lang (#6, Grasshopper), Stephan Lichtsteiner (#2, Juventus, ITA), Ricardo Rodriguez (#13, Wolfsburg, GER), Fabian Schar (#22, FC Basel), Philippe Senderos (#4, Valencia, ESP), Reto Ziegler (#3, Sassuolo, ITA)
Midfielders: Tranquillo Barnetta (#7, Eintracht Frankfurt, GER), Valon Behrami (#11, Napoli, ITA), Blerim Dzemaili (#15, Napoli, ITA), Gelson Fernandes (#16, SC Freiburg, GER), Gokhan Inler (#8, Napoli, ITA), Xherdan Shaqiri (#23, Bayern Munich, GER), Valentin Stocker (#14, FC Basel), Granit Xhaka (#10, Borussia Monchengladbach, GER)
Forwards: Josip Drmic (#19, FC Nurnberg, GER), Mario Gavranovic (#17, FC Zurich), Admir Mehmedi (#18, SC Freiburg, GER), Haris Seferovic (#9, Real Sociedad, ESP)
Possible Starting XI
Offence
Switzerland has been on a tear the past few years, rising to 6th in the FIFA World Rankings but it isn't their offensive output that has carried them to this point. Switzerland has been struggling to find consistent quality scoring outputs from players ever since former captain Alex Frei retired in 2011. Scored just 17 goals in 10 games in a weak qualifying group and were led in goals by a central defender. Josip Drmic has 3 goals in 3 games for Switzerland this calendar year, and is expected to have the first kick at the can (goal?) for Switzerland in the striker role.
The Swiss deploy a 4-2-3-1 style and rely on their wingers to attack the sides of the pitch and free up space in the middle of the field for Switzerland to operate offensively. 21 year old Granit Xhaka will patrol the centre of the field in attack and is a phenomenal playmaker for the Swiss side. Without a main target man in the squad, Switzerland rely heavily on Xhaka's ball control and vision to find open players around him and create scoring opportunities. Not a goalscoring threat himself, but Xhaka will find himself in the centre of most of Switzerland's offensive chances as they work the ball through the centre of the field.
Defence
Nothing fancy on this end of the field either, Switzerland rely on strong team defensive play for their success at the other end of the field. Diego Benaglio leads the defence in goal and is one of the more vocal goalkeepers in the world, who you'll see constantly barking orders to his defence to ensure they are positioned correctly. The starting defensive line matches a pair of veterans with 2 highly regarded young players. Lichtsteiner on the right side and von Bergen in the centre are both over 30 and have been fixtures in this defence for years, with over 100 caps between them. 29-year old Philippe Senderos may also see time and adds another 50+ caps to the equation.
They are joined by centre-back Fabian Schar who burst in to the squad in September 2013, and was the most unexpected source of goals for the Swiss side, scoring 3 times in 2 games to help them clinch qualification in their group. Joining this group on the left side will be breakout star in Europe Ricardo Rodriguez, who ESPN called one of the top 5 players in Europe this past season. A large left back at almost six feet tall, Rodriguez flies all up and down the field but is still defensively responsible, even if it requires sprinting back down the pitch to get back in position. Supported by Inler and Behrami in the central midfield, this is a unit largely full of stars but that work so well together as a team that it creates plenty of problems for opposing attackers to find ways at goal.
3 Key Players
Ricardo Rodriguez. Been a fixture in the squad since he was 18 years old, and has over 20 caps despite still only being 21 years old. Despite his age, has plenty of experience, having played almost 80 games the past 2 seasons at Wolfsburg. In a team that lacks offensive spark, Rodriguez will come frorward frequently to try and find a way to make plays happen, either through creating space or by taking an attempt on goal himself if he has to. Quickly becoming one of the few full backs capable of being a game-changer on both ends of the field, Switzerland will rely heavily on him to do a bit of everything this tournament.
Josip Drmic. Not cemented in the starting lineup but it sounds as if Drmic will be the guy up front. Switzerland are desperate for just one player they can rely on as a go-to guy offensively. The 21 year old doesn't have the experience that the others do but he has shown this year that he has a nose for goal. Switzerland will need him to continue that nose for goal if they want to make a run in this tournament.
Xherdan Shaqiri. Haven't mentioned his name but if there is a goal-scoring threat that will come from the midfield, it is likely to be Shaqiri. One of the fastest players on the squad, Shaqiri will have to use his speed to stretch defences along the wings. Switzerland don't have a ton of speed in the lineup so Shaqiri will have to do this to give players like Xhaka more room to operate. Is capable of cutting to open spaces in the penalty area off the wing and can find goals off of those runs, with 15 for Bayern Munich in the past 2 seasons.
Other Name to Know
ANY FORWARD ON THE BENCH. Specifically they are Admir Mehmedi, Haris Seferovic and Mario Gavranovic. All young (no forward on Switzerland is 25 or older), Mehmedi brings experience, Seferovic an aerial threat and Gavranovic speed to the table but no one has stood out as an answer for goals. Would not be surprised if Ottmar Hitzfeld tries all of them at some point in the group stage in order to find something that fits.
Overall Impression
Not nearly as flashy as France but a very tough out nonetheless. Don't have the individual talent and star power that can carry teams through the World Cup but they also don't have some of the glaring mistakes that other squads can be hampered with. Switzerland got to this point with team play and everyone working as a unit, no reason to think that would hurt them now.
Absolutely have to find a way to put the ball in the net though. They've struggled with in qualifying and in pre-tournament matches. Not inept offensively, they will get chances but don't have any proven finishers which is a concern. Also not as solid defensively as a Greece for example, and can't count on needing just 1 goal for a result in a game.
FINAL THOUGHTS & PREDICTIONS
In terms of overall talent and quarterfinal potential, this is an even worse group than C was. A flawed ranking system resulted in Switzerland being seeded, and with the worst of South and North America joining the group, it isn't exactly high-profile. I have found it far more interesting then I ever expected to though.
Honduras isn't expected to contend so let's start there. They don't have the skill up front to really threaten France or Switzerland, but their match with Ecuador may be just chaotic enough for them to pick up a goal or 2. Ecuador also will struggle for goals themselves so if there is an upset in the making, that's where it may come from.
France is the most well-rounded offensively but I worry about their defence. Too many times Evra in particular will go wandering and Varane/Sakho have very limited time together. Switzerland the most well-rounded defensively, but anemic when it comes to goal-scoring. All kinds of things to consider. On the whole, I think there's plenty of potential for a surprise, but France and Switzerland's organization will be the key.
France - 7 pts
Switzerland - 6 pts
Ecuador - 2 pts
Honduras - 1 pt
All times Eastern Daylight Time (UTC -4)
June 15th, 12:00 p.m., Estadio Nacional, Brasilia
Switzerland vs. Ecuador
June 15th, 3:00 p.m., Estadio Beira-Rio, Porto Alegre
France vs. Honduras
June 20th, 3:00 p.m., Arena Fonte Nova, Salvador
Switzerland vs. France
June 20th, 6:00 p.m., Arena da Baixada, Curitiba
Honduras vs. Ecuador
June 25th, 4:00 p.m., Arena Amazonia, Manaus
Honduras vs. Switzerland
June 25th, 4:00 p.m., Maracana - Estadio Jornalista Mario Filho
Ecuador vs. France
Teams
Ecuador
Bullets
- World Ranking: 26th
- World Cup Appearances: 3 (Last in 2006)
- Best World Cup Finish: Round of 16 (2006)
- Finished 4th, 7 points behind Argentina in South America to qualify.
- 7-5-4, 20 Goals For and 16 Goals Against in qualifying
- Leading goalscorer in Qualifying: Felipe Caicedo (7)
- 2-5-6, 14 Goals For and 19 Goals Against in last 12 months
- Manager: Reinaldo Rueda (COL). Rueda managed native Colombia in 2006 World Cup qualifying, falling just short of qualifying. Rueda led Honduras to the 2010 World Cup, and took over management of Ecuador following the tournament.
- Captain: Antonio Valencia. Midfielder, Manchester United (ENG)
- Odds to Win World Cup (via Bodog): 150/1
Goalkeepers: Maximo Banguera (#1, Barcelona), Adrian Bone (#12, El Nacional), Alexander Dominguez (#22, LDU Quito)
Defenders: Gabriel Achilier (#21, Emelec), Walter Ayovi (#10, Pachuca, MEX), Oscar Bagui (#18, Emelec), Frickson Erazo (#3, Flamengo, BRA), Jorge Guagua (#2, Emelec), Juan Carlos Paredes (#4, Barcelona)
Midfielders: Michael Arroyo (#15, Atlante, MEX), Segundo Castillo (#14, Al-Hilal, KSA), Carlos Gruezo (#23, Stuttgart, GER), Renato Ibarra (#5, Vitesse, NED), Fidel Martinez (#20, Tijuana, MEX), Edison Mendez (#8, Santa Fe), Jefferson Montero (#7, Morelia, MEX), Christian Noboa (Dynamo Moscow, RUS), Joao Rojas (#9, Cruz Azul, MEX), Luis Saritama (#19, Barcelona), Antonio Valencia (#16, Manchester United, ENG)
Forwards: Jaime Ayovi (#17, Tijuana, MEX), Felipe Caicedo (#11, Al-Jazira, UAE), Enner Valencia (#13, Pachuca, MEX)
Possible Starting XI
Offence
The least impressive offence of all the South American teams in the tournament. The other squads have organization and balance to their attacks, whereas Ecuador tend to resemble chickens with their heads cut off at times.
Ecuador's best shot at offence comes off runs on the sides of the field, primarily from the right with Antonio Valencia. The central midfielders are suffering due to injuries and are mainly defensively oriented in their style of play so Ecuador needs it's wingers to open up the field and give them space to attack. Felipe Caicedo and Enner Valencia lead the way up front. Caicedo has size and was Ecuador's top scorer this past season, but is primarily a one-touch finisher only and has been playing in the lowly UAE league this past season. Valencia on the other hand has had a phenomenal season and will likely be Ecuador's top goal-scoring threat.
Defence
Just as disorganized as their offensive front, Ecuador's defence alternates between flashes of brilliance and times when you can't tell what they're doing. This was blatantly evident in their pre-torunament game against Mexico. One play in particular, there were 3 defenders and a midfielder all swarming to a ball in the defensive third. They didn't get there and Mexico was left with a 4 on 2 around the Ecuador penalty area. Poor decision-making and field awareness will lead to problems for this Ecuador squad.
Perhaps the biggest concern for this Ecuador squad is that they're the only team without a consensus number one goalkeeper. Alexander Dominiguez is expected to be the number one by media, but Maximo Banguera has been the one in the net for all 3 tuneup games so far. It's the same adage as in American football, if you have 2 quarterbacks, you have no quarterback, and that's a problem Ecuador are quickly running out of time to solve.
3 Key Players
Antonio Valencia. The captain and leader of this team, the Manchester United winger is one of the only Ecuadoran players that sees significant time for a European club. Valencia is coming off of one of his best seasons with United, and is counted on to provide width and play-making ability to an otherwise limited Ecuador offensive front. Valencia has exceptional speed and dribbling ability and should often find himself with a free look at crosses to the penalty area in the group games.
Enner Valencia. No relation to Antonio, Enner blew up with Pachuca in the Mexican League this season, scoring an astonishing 18 goals in 22 games. Primarily a winger but on a team filled with those, Valencia will be filling an offset forward role for Ecuador. Valencia is the most complete offensive player in the Ecuador lineup. His record with Pachuca is testament to his finishing ability, but he also has a neat passing game that gets the ball to players around in open spaces and frees himself up for runs to the area to finish plays off.
Carlos Gruezo. Slotted currently in a starting role after Segundo Castillo injured his leg in the same challenge that ended Luis Montes' World Cup for Mexico. Castillo is in the squad but doesn't look ready for action so the 19 year old Gruezo looks to be set for significant playing time in Brazil. It will be a trial by fire for Gruezo. He played just 7 games for Stuttgart this past season and only got his first cap for Ecuador in pre-tournament action. Look for Gruezo to be targeted by opponents attacks if he does find himself on the field.
Other Name to Know
Christian Benitez. One of their most reliable players in qualifying and a prolific goalscorer both for country and club, Benitez died tragically last July, after complications from cardiac arrest. Benitez was 27 years old, and a big presence in the Ecuador front line. World Cup teams have to number their players from 1-23, so Felipe Caicedo will wear Benitez's #11 jersey. The number has been retired outside of the World Cup finals.
Overall Impression
I didn't expect to be this negative about the team when I started writing, it just worked out that way. They have some individual skill at places, but they lack cohesion in all parts of the field and don't provide the offensive threats that other Latin American teams do to counter that.
Playing in the heat on their own continent will certainly be an advantage. Ecuador can also outrun most opponents, with much of their squad playing their club soccer domestically at altitude. And it's a relatively weak group compared to others. All of that plays in to Ecuador's favour and despite my negative review, they will be a threat to advance from this group.
France
Bullets
- World Ranking: 17th
- World Cup Appearances: 14 (Last in 2010)
- Best World Cup Finish: Champions (1998)
- Finished 2nd, 3 points behind Spain in Europe Round 1:Group I. Advanced to Round 2 as one of the top runners-up. Defeated Ukraine 3-2 in Round 2:Pairing 2 to qualify.
- 5-2-3, 18 Goals For and 8 Goals Against in qualifying
- Leading goalscorer in Qualifying: Franck Ribery (5)
- 7-3-3, 26 Goals For and 9 Goals Against in last 12 months
- Manager: Didier Deschamps. Deschamps took over in July 2012, following the Euro championship. This is Deschamps' first national managing job. He spent the 3 prior seasons at Marseille, and managed Monaco to a UEFA Champions League final in 2004.
- Captain: Hugo Lloris. Goalkeeper, Tottenham Hotspur (ENG)
- Odds to Win World Cup (via Bodog): 22/1
Edited to reflect Ribery and Grenier being replaced by injury. No word if numbers will be shuffled yet.
Goalkeepers: Mickael Landreau (#23, Bastia), Hugo Lloris (#1, Tottenham Hotspur, ENG), Stephane Ruffier (#16, Saint-Etienne)
Defenders: Mathieu Debuchy (#2, Newcastle United, ENG), Lucas Digne (#17, Paris Saint-Germain), Patrice Evra (#3, Manchester United, ENG), Laurent Koscielny (#21, Arsenal, ENG), Eliaquim Mangala (#13, FC Porto, POR), Bacary Sagna (#15, Arsenal, ENG), Mamadou Sakho (#5, Liverpool, ENG), Raphael Varane (#4, Real Madrid, ESP)
Midfielders: Yohan Cabaye (#6, Paris Saint-Germain), Remy Cabella (Montpellier), Antoine Griezmann (#11, Real Sociedad, ESP), Blaise Matuidi (#14, Paris Saint-Germain), Rio Mavuba (#12, Lille), Paul Pogba (#19, Juventus, ITA), Morgan Schneiderlin (Southampton, ENG), Moussa Sissoko (#18, Newcastle United, ENG), Mathieu Valbuena (#8, Marseille)
Forwards: Karim Benzema (#10, Real Madrid, ESP), Olivier Giroud (#9, Arsenal, ENG), Loic Remy (#20, Newcastle United, ENG)
Possible Starting XI
Offence
This is a revamped French squad from the one that imploded in the 2010 World Cup, and is led up front by Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema, and inexplicable exclusion from that 2010 squad. Comfortable playing up front as a lone striker, Benzema can be used as back-to-goal provider, aerial target man or as a finisher when in the penalty area. One of the things that makes Benzema successful with his club is the high-class players around him, which France has in spades.
The French offence relies heavily on its wingers to use their speed to stretch the ball upfield and then create ways to get the ball to the centre of the field for Benzema or the central midfielders. The central midfielders are always strong in possession of the ball and can find the wingers or Benzema up front in dangerous scoring positions. Also look for Evra and Debuchy to push up frequently from the wing back possessions to support the front group and create opportunities for crosses. Franck Ribery was officially ruled out of the world cup today, replaced by Montpellier's Remy Cabella. Antoine Griezmann has been impressive in pre-tournament play and is the likely replacement in the starting lineup at left wing.
Defence
France boasts possibly the youngest and most inexperienced central defence pairing in the tournament. Expected to be anchored by Raphael Varane and Mamadou Sakho, the two combine for less then 25 international caps, and are just 21 and 24 respectively. They are joined on the wings by Mathieu Debuchy and former captain Patrice Evra. Debuchy and Evra bring more experience to the table but are both offensive-minded fullbacks and are susceptible to mental lapses on the defensive end.
France have found their central defensive pairing it seems for at least the next 6-8 years if all goes well. There's a question of whether or not this stage may be too much, too soon for them though. They'll be relying on defensive midfielder Blaise Matuidi for support in countering their opponent's attacks. France love to push their wings forward so more then anything, this defence will depend on Varane and Sakho's abilities in the centre of the field to defend their goal by themselves at times.
3 Key Players
Mathieu Valbuena. Brings many of the same qualities to the right wing that Ribery would have brought to the left wing. Ribery's absence will shift attention of the French attack from the left side of the field to the right and make Valbuena one of the key playmakers in this squad. Speed to spare and phenomenal in ball control, Valbuena has to step up and fill the role Ribery would have as the playmaker in this French attack.
Paul Pogba. Has blown on to the world stage in the past 2 years with his performances for Juventus and having led France to a U-20 World Cup title last year. Pogba has cemented himself as both the future of the French team as well as securing a starting position for Brazil. France's 3 midfield set is similar to England in responsibilities. With Cabaye in offensive support and Matuidi hanging back, Pogba's role is to provide support from both and fly up and down the field for both roles. One of the most complete players in the squad, Pogba is poised for a breakout tournament amongst casual fans and will cement an impressive French midfield that was so poor in 2010.
Patrice Evra. Stripped of his captaincy since the protest incident in the 2010 World Cup, Evra has worked his way back in to a French squad at age 33, despite calls by former players for Evra to be banned from the team. Doesn't wear the armband anymore, but still provides crucial leadership for the rest of a very inexperienced defence. Can be a game-changer in the offensive zone when he pinches forward, but has struggled defensively this past season with Manchester United. If he can be defensively responsible and lead the back end, France has the potential to go a long way in this group.
Other Name to Know
Olivier Giroud. Not expected to start over Benzema, Giroud is one of those players who has shown a penchant for being in the right place at the right time when a goal is needed, either for France or for Arsenal. Most notably scored on a header at the whistle to tie Spain in qualifying in Madrid in 2012. Giroud should see some time off the bench, and is a player to keep an eye to see if he can work more magic if France need a late goal.
Overall Impression
Night and day it seems from 2010 when you could see France were headed for a fall. A solid infusion of youth with players like Pogba and the central defenders to go with the talented veterans this team possesses. A very friendly draw will also help France who were the closest any team going to Brazil came to not being here, having trailed Ukraine 2-0 entering the last leg of their qualifying playoff.
Losing Ribery hurts but France possess a very organized attack and have players capable of filling his role effectively so on the whole, shouldn't impact their chances of advancing overly much.
Honduras
Bullets
- World Ranking: 33rd
- World Cup Appearances: 3 (Last in 2010)
- Best World Cup Finish: Group Stage (1982, 2010)
- Received byes for North America Rounds 1 and 2. Finished 1st in Round 3:Group C, ahead of Panama in goal differential to advance to Round 4. Finished 3rd in Round 4, 7 points behind USA to qualify.
- 7-4-5, 25 Goals For and 15 Goals Against in qualifying
- Leading goalscorer in Qualifying: Jerry Bengtson (9)
- 7-8-3, 20 Goals For and 28 Goals Against in last 12 months
- Manager: Luis Fernando Suarez (COL). Suarez took over as Honduras manager in 2011. He previously managed Ecuador to a Round of 16 berth in the 2006 World Cup.
- Captain: Noel Valladares. Goalkeeper, Olimpia
- Odds to Win World Cup (via Bodog): 1500/1
Goalkeepers: Donis Escober (#22, Olimpia), Luis Lopez (#1, Real Espana), Noel Valladares (#18, Olimpia)
Defenders: Brayan Beckeles (#23, Olimpia), Victor Bernardez (#5, San Jose Earthquakes, USA), Osman Chavez (#2, Qingdao Jonoon, CHN), Maynor Figueroa (#3, Hull City, ENG), Juan Carlos Garcia (#6, Wigan Athletic, ENG), Emilio Izaguirre (#7, Celtic, SCO), Juan Pablo Montes (#4, Motagua)
Midfielders: Marvin Chavez (#17, Chivas USA, USA), Jorge Claros (#20, Motagua), Edder Delgado (#12, Real Espana), Roger Espinoza (#15, Wigan Athletic, ENG), Oscar Boniek Garcia (#14, Houston Dynamo, USA), Luis Garrido (#19, Olimpia), Mario Martinez (#10, Real Espana), Andy Najar (#21, Anderlecht, BEL), Wilson Palacios (#8, Stoke City, ENG)
Forwards: Jerry Bengtson (#11, New England Revolution, USA), Carlo Costly (#13, Real Espana), Rony Martinez (#16, Real Sociedad), Jerry Palacios (#9, Alajuelense, CRC)
Possible Starting XI
Offence
A 4-4-2 formation with a pair of holding midfielders, Honduras will rely heavily on their wingers and 2-striker set up front for all of their offence. Up front, Carlo Costly and Jerry Bengtson form a very dangerous attacking duo. 6'3" and 6'2" respectively, both have speed and strength in possession of the ball, and combined for a whopping 16 goals in qualifying. Bengtson is the target man with Costly in a centre forward role behind him. Both players are capable of making plays for the other though and can find the net with feet or head in the penalty area.
The other aspect of the Honduran offence is their speed on the wings and ability to make plays and get the ball up to Costly and Bengtson. Look for left back Emilio Izaguirre to provide support in this area as well. The former Player of the Year in the Scottish Premier League loves to fly up and down the left wing and his speed and passing ability provide some of the best play-making for this Honduras squad. Left winger Roger Espinoza typically plays left back, so it's not unusual for he and Izaguirre to interchange positions as necessary.
Defence
Similar to fellow Central American nation Costa Rica, Honduras will elect to leave 6 players back most of the time to make up for the individual talent and speed they are lacking compared to the rest of the world. The keys to this defence lie with the 3 most experienced players in the squad. Noel Valladares starts in goal. Captain of the team, the 37 year old goalkeeper has over 120 caps to his name. Valladares is one of the smallest goalkeepers heading to Brazil at 5'10", but makes up for his lack of size with great positional awareness and reflexes.
The centre of the field is anchored by 2 of the few European-based club players on this Honduras squad. Having been left on the bench for much of his career, Wilson Palacios saw extended game action for Stoke City this year for the first time. Palacios is a reliable defensive midfielder who will sit back and harass the opponents attacking midfielders with the ball. The heart of the back line is Maynor Figueroa, another Premier League player who saw extensive time for Hull City this past season. The experience of these players will be relied on for Honduras to maintain order in the back and spring counter-attacks the few times Honduras will get chances to.
3 Key Players
Emilio Izaguirre. The best player on this Honduras team, he'll start at left back but could end up at left wing or up with the strikers if he so chose. One of the few defenders with speed for Honduras, Izaguirre loves to take the ball up the wings himself to act as a play-making midfielder. As mentioned above, Izaguirre will have cover if he chooses to go exploring, so look for him to play as much of a midfield role as he will at left back, as Honduras try to get the ball to Costly or Bengtson in scoring positions.
Wilson Palacios.The Honduran central midfield and defence have plenty of experience, but not nearly the speed of some of the attackers they'll face in this group so positional play and team defence will be critical to their success. Palacios is the most experienced of the midfielders and will sit between the opponents and his defensive line to organize everything. Not the most physically talented himself, Palacios' leadership and field awareness are critical if Honduras look to have success in Brazil.
Carlo Costly. Bengtson is the pure goalscorer but it's Costly that drives the offensive attack up front. Goes at full speed for the whole match and is gifted as both a deliverer of the ball (mainly to Bengtso) or as a forward that can create his own opportunities. Gets a bit more space then Bengtson does by playing behind him and if opponents don't close him down quickly, Costly can fire off a rocket at the goal which will trouble any opposing goalkeeper.
Other Name to Know
Andy Najar. Young, with excellent speed and agility, Najar may find a role as a substitute forward off the bench. Costly and Bengtson form an excellent duo but are similar players with their size and abilities. Najar's agility on and off the ball allow him to find open spaces all over the field and add a different element to the Honduran attack that may be valuable for Honduras later in games.
Overall Impression
Hasn't won a World Cup finals game in 6 attempts and failed to even register a goal in 2010. It'd be a shock if they didn't score in Brazil as Bengtson and Costly are a world-class strike pairing but any thoughts of advancement should be put on hold. Not nearly enough playmaking ability in the midfield to be considered a serious threat to advance and while they'll put a bunch of guys behind the ball defensively, they don't move particularly well individually and will struggle with the speed of France and Ecuador in particular. Best chance at a result may be against Switzerland, who don't have the dynamic offensive players that will create havoc amongst the Honduran back line.
Switzerland
Bullets
- World Ranking: 6th
- World Cup Appearances: 10 (Last in 2010)
- Best World Cup Finish: Quarterfinals (1934, 1938, 1950)
- Finished 1st in Europe Round 1:Group E, 7 points ahead of Iceland to qualify.
- 7-0-3, 17 Goals For and 6 Goals Against in qualifying
- Leading goalscorer in Qualifying: Fabian Schar (3)
- 8-1-2, 18 Goals For and 9 Goals Against in last 12 months
- Manager: Ottmar Hitzfeld (GER). Hitzfeld took over Switzerland in the middle of 2008. Hitzfeld previously managed Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich, leading both teams to Champions League titles in '97 and '01 respectively.
- Captain: Gokhan Inler. Midfielder, Napoli (ITA)
- Odds to Win World Cup (via Bodog): 125/1
Goalkeepers: Diego Benaglio (#1, Wolfsburg, GER), Roman Burki (#21, Grasshopper), Yann Sommer (#12, FC Basel)
Defenders: Steve von Bergen (#40, BSC Young Boys), Johan Djourou (#20, Hamburger SV, GER), Michael Lang (#6, Grasshopper), Stephan Lichtsteiner (#2, Juventus, ITA), Ricardo Rodriguez (#13, Wolfsburg, GER), Fabian Schar (#22, FC Basel), Philippe Senderos (#4, Valencia, ESP), Reto Ziegler (#3, Sassuolo, ITA)
Midfielders: Tranquillo Barnetta (#7, Eintracht Frankfurt, GER), Valon Behrami (#11, Napoli, ITA), Blerim Dzemaili (#15, Napoli, ITA), Gelson Fernandes (#16, SC Freiburg, GER), Gokhan Inler (#8, Napoli, ITA), Xherdan Shaqiri (#23, Bayern Munich, GER), Valentin Stocker (#14, FC Basel), Granit Xhaka (#10, Borussia Monchengladbach, GER)
Forwards: Josip Drmic (#19, FC Nurnberg, GER), Mario Gavranovic (#17, FC Zurich), Admir Mehmedi (#18, SC Freiburg, GER), Haris Seferovic (#9, Real Sociedad, ESP)
Possible Starting XI
Offence
Switzerland has been on a tear the past few years, rising to 6th in the FIFA World Rankings but it isn't their offensive output that has carried them to this point. Switzerland has been struggling to find consistent quality scoring outputs from players ever since former captain Alex Frei retired in 2011. Scored just 17 goals in 10 games in a weak qualifying group and were led in goals by a central defender. Josip Drmic has 3 goals in 3 games for Switzerland this calendar year, and is expected to have the first kick at the can (goal?) for Switzerland in the striker role.
The Swiss deploy a 4-2-3-1 style and rely on their wingers to attack the sides of the pitch and free up space in the middle of the field for Switzerland to operate offensively. 21 year old Granit Xhaka will patrol the centre of the field in attack and is a phenomenal playmaker for the Swiss side. Without a main target man in the squad, Switzerland rely heavily on Xhaka's ball control and vision to find open players around him and create scoring opportunities. Not a goalscoring threat himself, but Xhaka will find himself in the centre of most of Switzerland's offensive chances as they work the ball through the centre of the field.
Defence
Nothing fancy on this end of the field either, Switzerland rely on strong team defensive play for their success at the other end of the field. Diego Benaglio leads the defence in goal and is one of the more vocal goalkeepers in the world, who you'll see constantly barking orders to his defence to ensure they are positioned correctly. The starting defensive line matches a pair of veterans with 2 highly regarded young players. Lichtsteiner on the right side and von Bergen in the centre are both over 30 and have been fixtures in this defence for years, with over 100 caps between them. 29-year old Philippe Senderos may also see time and adds another 50+ caps to the equation.
They are joined by centre-back Fabian Schar who burst in to the squad in September 2013, and was the most unexpected source of goals for the Swiss side, scoring 3 times in 2 games to help them clinch qualification in their group. Joining this group on the left side will be breakout star in Europe Ricardo Rodriguez, who ESPN called one of the top 5 players in Europe this past season. A large left back at almost six feet tall, Rodriguez flies all up and down the field but is still defensively responsible, even if it requires sprinting back down the pitch to get back in position. Supported by Inler and Behrami in the central midfield, this is a unit largely full of stars but that work so well together as a team that it creates plenty of problems for opposing attackers to find ways at goal.
3 Key Players
Ricardo Rodriguez. Been a fixture in the squad since he was 18 years old, and has over 20 caps despite still only being 21 years old. Despite his age, has plenty of experience, having played almost 80 games the past 2 seasons at Wolfsburg. In a team that lacks offensive spark, Rodriguez will come frorward frequently to try and find a way to make plays happen, either through creating space or by taking an attempt on goal himself if he has to. Quickly becoming one of the few full backs capable of being a game-changer on both ends of the field, Switzerland will rely heavily on him to do a bit of everything this tournament.
Josip Drmic. Not cemented in the starting lineup but it sounds as if Drmic will be the guy up front. Switzerland are desperate for just one player they can rely on as a go-to guy offensively. The 21 year old doesn't have the experience that the others do but he has shown this year that he has a nose for goal. Switzerland will need him to continue that nose for goal if they want to make a run in this tournament.
Xherdan Shaqiri. Haven't mentioned his name but if there is a goal-scoring threat that will come from the midfield, it is likely to be Shaqiri. One of the fastest players on the squad, Shaqiri will have to use his speed to stretch defences along the wings. Switzerland don't have a ton of speed in the lineup so Shaqiri will have to do this to give players like Xhaka more room to operate. Is capable of cutting to open spaces in the penalty area off the wing and can find goals off of those runs, with 15 for Bayern Munich in the past 2 seasons.
Other Name to Know
ANY FORWARD ON THE BENCH. Specifically they are Admir Mehmedi, Haris Seferovic and Mario Gavranovic. All young (no forward on Switzerland is 25 or older), Mehmedi brings experience, Seferovic an aerial threat and Gavranovic speed to the table but no one has stood out as an answer for goals. Would not be surprised if Ottmar Hitzfeld tries all of them at some point in the group stage in order to find something that fits.
Overall Impression
Not nearly as flashy as France but a very tough out nonetheless. Don't have the individual talent and star power that can carry teams through the World Cup but they also don't have some of the glaring mistakes that other squads can be hampered with. Switzerland got to this point with team play and everyone working as a unit, no reason to think that would hurt them now.
Absolutely have to find a way to put the ball in the net though. They've struggled with in qualifying and in pre-tournament matches. Not inept offensively, they will get chances but don't have any proven finishers which is a concern. Also not as solid defensively as a Greece for example, and can't count on needing just 1 goal for a result in a game.
FINAL THOUGHTS & PREDICTIONS
In terms of overall talent and quarterfinal potential, this is an even worse group than C was. A flawed ranking system resulted in Switzerland being seeded, and with the worst of South and North America joining the group, it isn't exactly high-profile. I have found it far more interesting then I ever expected to though.
Honduras isn't expected to contend so let's start there. They don't have the skill up front to really threaten France or Switzerland, but their match with Ecuador may be just chaotic enough for them to pick up a goal or 2. Ecuador also will struggle for goals themselves so if there is an upset in the making, that's where it may come from.
France is the most well-rounded offensively but I worry about their defence. Too many times Evra in particular will go wandering and Varane/Sakho have very limited time together. Switzerland the most well-rounded defensively, but anemic when it comes to goal-scoring. All kinds of things to consider. On the whole, I think there's plenty of potential for a surprise, but France and Switzerland's organization will be the key.
France - 7 pts
Switzerland - 6 pts
Ecuador - 2 pts
Honduras - 1 pt
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