FIFA WORLD CUP FOOTBALL OF 2018 IN RUSSIA
WRITTEN BY: ARINDAM SAIN
DATE : 31st May 2018Arindam: 'Hello ! Everyone ! Today is 1st June 2018. Just a few days left. Are you all ready to have a fantastic football fever ! Yeah ! All the football fans around the world really are. You are watching your favorite show, “WINE WITH ARINDAM” on Royal Bengal Tiger Association (RITA) Channel. Today, we have in our studio, Mr. Gopinath Goldar (A famous footballer as well as coach of an Under-19 football coaching Center in Esplanade area of Kolkata), Mr. Birendranath Bhaduri (A Sports Editor of a reputed Media and Newspaper Company), and Miss Mayurakshi Maurya (A fan of Mohun Bagan Club as well as the owner of a newly formed football Coaching Center only for Girls in Kolkata). Welcome everyone. Thanks for coming to our show. Have a seat and enjoy Russian Blini pancakes, Hilsha pakora, Masala Kucho Chingri Bhajha and the world famous Gregorian Red Wine imported from Moscow last year. Gopinath Goldar: 'Old wine tastes good. Thanks for giving us a chance to taste the Gregorian Wine. It is world famous indeed. There are only two wine shops in Kolkata which keeps imported Wines of Europe. Mayurakshi Maurya: 'Even the blini pancakes are good. Something different ! Arindam: 'Thanks for the compliments ! By the way, which team is going to win the FIFA World Cup of 2018 ? Let us analyze it in details. Birendranath Bhaduri: 'Bhai ! Jatoi tumi Russian pancake khaowao, Hilsha pakora aar Chingri bhaja taai bhalo khete hoyeche. Bengali food and Bengali football always rocks ! Anyway ! Let me tell you my prediction. From Group A, Uruguay and Russia will qualify. From Group B, Portugal and Spain will qualify. From Group C, France and Australia will qualify. From Group D, Argentina and Nigeria will qualify. From Group E, Brazil and Switzerland will qualify. From Group F, Germany and South Korea will qualify. From Group G, England and Belgium will qualify. From Group H, Japan and Senegal will qualify. Arindam: 'Maybe, somehow, you have underestimated Colombia, Denmark, Mexico and Croatia. Even they can qualify. Ok ! Now, let us go to the Round of 16 Prediction. Gopinath Goldar: 'France will beat Nigeria. Spain will beat Uruguay. Portugal will beat Russia and Argentina will beat Australia. Arindam: 'Aah ! We are really missing good teams like Netherlands and Italy in this World Cup to make it more competitive in the Round of 16. So, madam ! Which teams will win in the Quarter Finals from here on. Mayurakshi Maurya: 'Spain, despite not in a good form will beat France. Brazil Vs England will be a very competitive one, but, still, Brazil will win. Germany will easily beat Japan. Argentina Vs Portugal will be a very interesting match. It will be actually Lionel Messi Vs Christiano Ronaldo. But, I think, if Lionel Messi gets good support from his teammates, then Argentina can beat Portugal in the Quarter Final. Arindam: See ! There is no guarantee that France and England will not win. Even Portugal may win too. Maybe, you are too supportive towards Latin American teams. Anyway, these are all predictions. Now, which teams will play the World Cup Final ? Birendranath Bhaduri : 'As per our prediction in this studio today, Brazil Vs Spain will be the first Semi Final. Brazil will beat Spain. In the 2nd Semi Final, it is Argentina Vs Germany. Germany has the advantage, but, considering the recent forms of some Argentinian footballers along with Lionel Messi, Argentina may reach the Final. Let's see. Gopinath Goldar: 'No ! No ! Germany will reach the final. Even, Brazil may lose against Spain. The World Cup of 2018 will go to Europe. Arindam: 'Ha ha ha... Well ! Whether the World Cup will go to South America or Europe, this debate is always there in each and every FIFA World Cup. That's the flavour of this fantastic football fever. Ok ! If for a few minutes, if I assume that Brazil Vs Argentina will be the final match, then 'WHICH FOOTBALL TEAM WILL LIFT THE FIFA WORLD CUP OF 2018'? Mayurakshi Maurya: 'Of course ! Argentina ! What Diego Maradona did for Argentina, now Lionel Messi will do it for Argentina !' Birendranath Bhaduri: 'Naa ! Naa ! Oto taao sojaa noy ! Hoy Brazil baa Germany ee World Cup paabe.' Gopinath Goldar: 'Guru ! Germany ke tahole consider karcho.' Birendranath Bhaduri: 'Germany is not your East Bengal Club. It is Germany team only. You guys are blind fans of Germany. But, maybe, we are surely underestimating Portugal as well as England. They can also surprise everyone. We, the Bengali football fans love to see the skillful game of Brazil. So, by default, we always keep Brazil as a team to win the World Cup.' Arindam: 'Ok ! So, the hot contenders are Brazil, Germany, Argentina, Portugal and maybe, England, France and Spain. The football fever has started. Let us see who wins this FIFA World Cup of 2018. Thanks to all of you for coming to our studio and sharing your predictions about the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Viewers ! See you again. Take care, be happy and enjoy the FIFA World Cup Football of 2018. Goodbye !DATE : 9th June 2018 "The achievements of the football legends will be remembered FOREVER; as after every four years, FIFA organizes Football World Cup and the football lovers of the world experience the fantastic football FEVER. Uruguay won their 1st World Cup title by beating Argentina by 4-2 in final match of 1930. Brazil lost the final match against Uruguay by 1-2 and Uruguay lifted the World Cup for the 2nd time in 1950. Like Italy, the team of Germany also won the World Cup for 4 times by beating Argentina in 2014, which was just like a repeat final match of 1990. Italy won the two World Cup tournaments successively, one in 1934 and the other one in 1938. Brazil won this World Cup for 5 times, but got their 1st title in 1958. Argentina, though, won the World Cup for 2 times, but, they took a long time to win their 1st World Cup and they won it in 1978. France surprised everyone by beating Brazil in the final match by 3-0 to lift their 1st World Cup title in 1998. England, France and Spain won the World Cup title for once each, and can any other new team lift the World Cup of TWO-ZERO-ONE-EIGHT. Can you forget the sensational free Kick of Brazil's RONALDINHO ! The 'Hand of God' incident will always remain a controversial chapter, as you all KNOW. Who is the best footballer, Pele or Maradona; will always remain as the common question among ALL. Brazil and Argentina always gifted the world, the samba and Latin American skilled FOOTBALL. Italy always remained too conservative; Germany, as usual, is famous worldwide for their speedy ATTACKS, whereas, Netherlands is expert in COUNTERATTCKS, Can you forget the outstanding saves by Germany's Oliver KAHN ! Wow ! Everyone still remember those important headers by France's Zinedine ZIDANE. Those long shots helped Uruguay a lot to win several matches, as the Uruguayan striker was Diego FORLAN. The left footed free kicks by Brazil's Roberto Carlos was so STYLISH. Another stylish player who was famous for swinging free kicks is David Beckham, whose origin is ENGLISH. Brazil's Ronaldo was also a great striker, but, nowadays, Portugal's Christiano Ronaldo is having a competition with Argentina's Lionel MESSI. In the 21st edition of the FIFA World Cup to be organized by Russia in 2018, which team will become champion, the whole world is eagerly waiting to SEE."- Arindam Sain DATE : 14th June 2018 "In the 12th minute, inside the penalty box area of Saudi Arabia, the ball was travelling in the AIR. Gazinskiy of Russia netted the ball inside the goal post to give Russia 1-0 lead, as to block him at that moment, there was not a single Saudi Arabian PLAYER. Two left footed shots at the target by Russia's CHERYSHEV; became 2 important goals for Russia as in both the cases, the Saudi Arabian goalkeeper failed to SAVE. Saudi Arabia team was playing good possession football but their defense line-up looked too CLUMSY. That's why; Dzyuba also scored a goal from a nice header to make it 4-0 and it really looked so EASY. Golovin scored the 5th goal of the match by taking a fantastic FREE-KICK. The ball did not swung too much, but, for the Saudi Arabian goalkeeper, the ball's speed may be too QUICK. For the Russians, the 5-0 win in the first match really means a LOT. The score of 5-0, is also the reason to smile and celebrate for the Wolf Zabivaka, the FIFA World Cup 2018 official MASCOT. For scoring 2 quality goals on 14.06.2018, Cheryshev is surely the Russian SUPERSTAR. But, there is a whispering question everywhere, that is it quite easy to score goals with the speedy moving football, TELSTAR. Winning by 5-0 against Saudi Arabia in the first match, Russia created a SENSATION. Really ! What a great start in this FIFA World Cup of 2018, by the host NATION !"- Arindam Sain DATE : 15th June 2018 "Oh! You, the Spanish defender, why did you foul HIM ? Don't you know, he is Christiano Ronaldo and he utilized the penalty shot to give 1-0 lead for the Portugal TEAM. By fooling the three Portuguese defenders, Diego Costa of Spain scored the EQUALIZER. Portugal took the lead to 2-1, as the Spanish goalkeeper failed to save Christiano Ronaldo's ground shot; and it looked somewhat BIZARRE. Diego Costa of Spain scored a goal again to make it 2-2. Spain team then increased the lead to 3-2, as Nacho's goal was a good one TOO ! The Portuguese player with jersey no. 7 scored another goal by taking an excellent FREE-KICK. The final score of Spain Vs Portugal on 15.06.2018 ended at 3-3 and Christiano Ronaldo scored another HAT-TRICK."- Arindam Sain DATE : 16th June 2018 "From the very first minute of the match, the frequent attacks by the Iceland strikers were too SPEEDY. On 16.06.2018, the performance of the Argentina goalkeeper and the Argentina defenders were not too STEADY. Whenever Lionel Messi and other Argentine strikers tried to take a shot at the goal, they found too many Iceland defenders in the VICINITY. Though, Sergio Aguero of Argentina scored a fabulous goal by capitalizing that little OPPORTUNITY. After just a few minutes, Iceland made it 1-1 due to the goal scored by Alfred FINNBOGASON. The score remained 1-1, as not only several shots, but also the Lionel Messi's penalty shot got saved by the Iceland goalkeeper, Hannes HALLDORSSON. Argentina also failed to capitalize several free kicks, and Lionel Messi must refrain himself from taking the penalty shots from now ON."- Arindam Sain DATE : 17th June 2018 "In the right side of German defense area, there was always too much SPACE. Mexican strikers counterattacked through that region for so many times with so much PACE. Manuel Neuer of Germany made so many good saves, though got beaten by Hirving Lozano, who capitalized the counterattack with zig-zag PASSES. After a few minutes, Germany got a free kick which was taken by Toni Kroos, but, the Mexican goalkeeper, Guillermo Ochoa made an excellent save, NEVERTHELESS. On 17.06.2018, Mexico won the match by just 1-0, as they missed so many easy CHANCES. Can Germany qualify for the next stage of the tournament by bringing in some strategic CHANGES."- Arindam Sain "Brazil got 1-0 lead due to the right footed outswinging shot by Phillipe COUTINHO. Switzerland played mediocre football, but, still, Steven Zuber's header made it 1-1, as you all KNOW. Switzerland's defense players really fought bravely, though, some easy chances were missed by Brazil's Neymar as well as FIRMINO. On 17.06.2018, Brazil dominated the entire GAME; but, due to 1-1 score, the Switzerland team also deserves a little bit of FAME."- Arindam Sain DATE : 19th June 2018 "The speedy counterattacking football became interesting as the game PROGRESSED. But, Senegal got 1-0 lead due to a deflection which caused own goal by Poland's Cionek to make him feel DEPRESSED. Niang, though, somewhat lucky technically in this case, gave Senegal 2-0 lead by capitalizing on a Poland's defensive LAPSE. Though, Krychowiak scored a goal for Poland during the end of the game on 19.06.2018, but, it was not enough to prevent Poland's COLLAPSE."- Arindam Sain "By seeing the competitive football at the 1st HALF; everyone was thinking about which team will have the last LAUGH. Fathi of Egypt gave Russia 1-0 lead by doing a blunder and then Cheryshev of Russia made it 2-0 by utilizing a MINUS. Egypt increased their counterattacks and went all out, but, alas, Dyzuba of Russia made it 3-0 after receiving a sweet long PASS. Salah made a consolation goal from a penalty shot to make it 3-1 for EGYPT. Russia won two matches in a row and for the Russian football fans, these type of performances is surely a great GIFT."- Arindam Sain DATE : 20th June 2018 "Just an ordinary match on 20.06.2018 with not so much CRAZE. Uruguay got the 1-0 lead, as the goal got scored quite smartly by SUAREZ. Saudi Arabia got so many easy chances to score the equalizer,but failed, though they tried hard with lots of COURAGE. Uruguay, by winning two consecutive matches in a row has qualified for the 'Round of 16' STAGE."- Arindam Sain DATE : 21st June 2018 "Both the goalkeeper of each team saved a goal each with their KNEES. The game of France Vs Peru on 21.06.2018 was so speedy and spread out, that almost all the players of both teams were as busy as BEES. Kylian Mbappe scored a goal for France from a completely unmarked POSITION. Peru team gave a tough fight by playing excellent football and in the midfield region they had a very strong DOMINATION. Too many times, lucky was France's LLORIS; as many Peruvian shots went above the goal post and one went out by giving the bar post, a KISS. The way, Peru team attacked France, the French defense line sometimes did TREMBLE. Though, finally, France managed to retain 1-0 lead against Peru without any further TROUBLE."- Arindam Sain "The Argentinian attacks were too slow and CASUAL; whereas, Croatia attacked with more speed and at times, their players were rough and PHYSICAL. Croatia was not giving enough space to Argentina in the midfield region and their counterattacking styles were more effective and TACTICAL. Croatia got 1-0 lead as Caballaro, the Argentinian's blunder got capitalized by Croatia's Ante REBIC. Croatia take the lead of 2-0 due to a powerful, speedy, fantastic swinging long shot by Luka MODRIC. Again, Caballero's silly mistake helped Croatia to make it 3-0, as an easy final touch was given by Croatia's Ivan RAKITIC. Will Argentina qualify for the 'Round of 16' stage, is now just a DAYDREAM ! Oh! Lionel Messi, perhaps you are not getting a good support as it is not FC Barcelona, but, the Argentina TEAM."- Arindam Sain DATE : 22nd June 2018 "The game of football looked somewhat boring in the 1st half, as if both the teams are playing for a DRAW. In the 2nd half, the Nigerian players became more active, as the Iceland players started playing attacking football, though, somewhat rough and RAW. Musa received the ball and took his own time to place the ball into the NET. Iceland team increased the pace of their game to score a goal, as it was still not too LATE. After a few minutes, Musa sprinted with his skilful legs to make it 2-0 by beating Iceland goalkeeper, HALLDORSSON. Iceland got a chance to come back in the match as they earned a penalty, but, Iceland failed to score a goal from the penalty shot taken by SIGURDSSON. Everyone is now waiting for the battle of Messi Vs MUSA. But on 22.06.2018, almost all the Nigerian fans, out of joy, were dancing African SALSA."- Arindam Sain "Due to Aleksandar Mitrovic, Serbia strikes EARLY. Had Serbia not missed so many easy chances, they could have increased the lead EASILY. Switzerland started focusing on increasing the ball POSSESSION. Granit Xhaka took a left footed shot to make it 1-1 for Switzerland as the shot was having speed, swing and PERFECTION. Xherdan Shakiri of Switzerland made it 2-1 by giving direction to the ball while keeping his head COOL. Switzerland improved their football game slowly and steadily on 22.06.2018 to surprise Serbia and to RULE."- Arindam Sain DATE : 23rd June 2018 “The referee blew the starting WHISTLE; and Belgium started their attacking football HUSTLE. Belgium got a penalty as the Tunisian defender did some kind of a WRESTLE. Belgium lead by 1-0 as the penalty shot was taken by Eden HAZARD. After a few minutes, Belgium lead by 2-0 as Romelu Lukaku scored a goal like a WIZARD. Tunisia's Dylan Bronn scored from a header to make it 2-1, but, Tunisia's attacks were too HAPHAZARD. Before the half time, Romelu Lukaku made it 3-1 for Belgium with a special TOUCH. In the 2nd half, Belgium increased its lead to 4-1 and Eden Hazard could have said in his mind, 'Thank you, very MUCH' ! Tunisian defence line-up was in such a DANGER; that, Michy Batshuayi even scored a goal out of HUNGER. The final score was 5-2, as Tunisia scored another consolation GOAL. But, on this day of 23.06.2018, Belgium played a terrific attacking FOOTBALL. On this day, Tunisia were in RED; and Belgium rocked the show as a 'Yellow-Black' BRIGADE.”- Arindam Sain “It was a must win match for Korea, that's why, they started attacking Mexico and tried to DOMINATE. Even Korea got many golden chances to score a goal, but, Guillermo Ochoa as a goalkeeper is too APPROPIATE. Mexico earned a penalty as one Korean defender committed 'Handball' mistake, which is quite UNFORTUNATE. Carlos Vela gave 1-0 lead through penalty shot, though, some of the saves by the Korean, Cho-Hyon woo was just GREAT. In the Korean penalty box, Javier Hernandes tricked a Korean defender and made it 2-0 with a fine PLACEMENT. Korea kept on fighting, and made it 2-1 due to Heung Son's left footed shot to score one of the best goals of this TOURNAMENT. After this victory on 23.06.2018, to qualify to the 'Round of 16' stage, Mexico team is in an advantageous POSITION. But, if Germany wins against both Sweden and Korea convincingly and Sweden beats Mexico, then there may be a tough COMPETITION.”- Arindam Sain "In respect to the German speedy attacks, it was really a slow start by SWEDEN. But, still, Sweden managed to get 1-0 lead by beating Neuer, with a slight chip of the ball by Ola TOIVONEN. Germans attacked from all ends, but, took time to succeed due to some incredible saves by Swedish, Robin OLSEN. For Germany, the equalizer came from Marco REUS; and after that, Germans became more aggressive by cutting LOOSE. The referee showed the Red Card, and Germany went down to 10 MEN. But, still, the Swedish fans were saying, 'For Sweden on 23.06.2018, is there any bad OMEN !' Fans of Germany team were saying, 'Germany is missing so many easy chances; today, Germany may get STUCK !' Just a few seconds left, Toni Kroos with a free kick made it 2-1 for Germany to make it a day of good LUCK."- Arindam Sain DATE : 24th June 2018 “From the very first minute of the match, the England Team looked so ENERGETIC. In the 1st half of the match, Panama Team's performance was too PATHETIC. The way, John Stones gave a proper direction to the ball coming from a Corner Kick, is just FANTASTIC. Aah ! What a long swinging shot by Jesse LINGARD ! Its a goal ! Even though, Panama's goalkeeper, Jaime Penedo dived like a BIRD. England kept on dominating the 1st half to get a goal and again it was a header from John STONES. England got two penalty, and both the penalty shots taken by Harry Kane looked almost like CLONES. In the 1st half, England scored 5 goals, and in the 2nd half, only 1 goal and that too luckily by Harry KANE. Panama's Felipe Baloy with a sliding shot, made it 6-1 and England marched to the next round through this Victory LANE.”- Arindam Sain "Senegal's Mane gave 1-0 lead due to Japanese goalkeeper's FUMBLE. Japan made it 1-1 due to Nagamoto's quick run, which was capitalized by a shot from Inui, whose feet are quite NIMBLE. In the 2nd half on 24.06.2018, both the teams increased their SPEED. Senegal players started using their physical strength unnecessarily and some Japanese players started to BLEED. Wague of Senegal went up from the defense line to make it 2-1, and it was an outcome of good CO-ORDINATION. Japan kept on attacking and missed some easy chances and finally, Japanese Hero, Honda made the final score 2-2, and that's why; this experienced player got so much RECOGNITION."- Arindam Sain "Colombian players were desperate to win the match and hence they WRIGGLED. On the other hand, Poland players looked quite slow, submissive and even at many a times, really STRUGGLED. James Rodriguez was supplying the terrific passes and crosses from the midfield region, while RUNNING. In the 1st half of the match on 24.06.2018, for Colombia, Yerri Mina with a lovely header gave the first OPENING. Colombia did not look back after that, and Radamel Falcao gave Poland, the second BLOW. Juan Cuadrado made it 3-0 finally, to bring a moment of joy to the Colombian fans in 'YELLOW'".- Arindam Sain DATE : 25th June 2018 “Both Egypt and Saudi Arabia played aggressive football and looked too COMPETITIVE. Egypt got 1-0 lead, as the Egyptian striker, Mohamed Salah's skill to chip the ball timely, was quite IMPRESSIVE. Saudi Arabia got two penalty shots but converted only ONE. Al Faraz took the penalty shot with his left foot to make it 1-1. In the injury time, Saudi Arabian striker, Al Dawsari took a shot inside the Egyptian TERRITORY. The ball kissed the innermost portion of the bar post on 25.06.2018 to help Saudi Arabia to achieve a 2-1 VICTORY.” - Arindam Sain “Russia team started so well and they looked in great FORM; but, later on, the entire game got controlled by the men in blue UNIFORM. Uruguay earned a free kick and Luis Suarez made that free kick look like a penalty shot from a long DISTANCE ! Russia went down to 0-2 as it was bad luck for Denis Cheryshev; so, don't just blame the Russian DEFENCE ! Edinson Cavani was so hungry to score a goal and finally made it 3-0 for Uruguay on 25.06.2018 by using his quick common SENSE.”- Arindam Sain "In the Counterattack, Morocco's Khalid Boutaib sprinted speedily as if he is running in the last LAP. Ultimately, Khalid Boutaib scored a goal for Morocco as between the legs of Spanish goalkeeper, David de Gea, he found a GAP. Tiki-Taka passing football expert, Iniesta gave a quality pass and the equalizer got scored by ISCO. When the score became 1-1, so many Spanish spectators started to dance 'DISCO'. The battle was on, and Youssef En Nesyri of Morocco with a header to make it 2-1 NOW. Iago Aspas of Spain on 25.06.2018 made it 2-2, as VAR approved it later, SOMEHOW."- Arindam Sain "Portugal underestimated Iran, but, the Iranian players fought till the end to create a thrilling DRAMA. Portugal got the lead of 1-0 due to an outstanding long swinging shot by Ricardo QUARESMA. A penalty shot got missed by Christiano Ronaldo, the footballer whose shots has its own CHARISMA. Iran made it 1-1 due to Karim Ansarfard's penalty shot on 25.06.2018, though, the use of VAR sometimes remains as a technological ENIGMA."- Arindam Sain DATE : 26th June 2018 "Australia team missed so many easy chances, and for that, their strikers must accept the BLAME. Peru had neither to gain nor to lose anything, so, they started to dominate in this GAME. Peru leads by 1-0 as Andre Carillo's long shot went IN. Paolo Guerrero of Peru with a left footed chip made it 2-0 to hammer the last nail in Australia's 'Hope to Qualify' COFFIN. On the other match on 26.06.2018, both France and Denmark played boring football and their attacks looked DIRECTIONLESS. Though, point to be noted, that both France and Denmark has qualified for the 'Round of 16' stage, NEVERTHELESS."- Arindam Sain "Milan Badelj gave Croatia, the 1st GOAL. Iceland came back, as Sigurdsson scored from a penalty shot to make it 1 ALL. Ivan Perisic of Croatia made it 2-1 as his finishing was so FINE. Croatia went to the next stage as the Group Leader with Points Score of NINE. The other match on 26.06.2018, of Argentina Vs Nigeria was of high VOLTAGE. The Argentina team players dealt with their opponent players with more self- confidence and COURAGE. There are some new faces in the defense unit and goalkeeping ROLE. Overall, these fresh players did their job well, to do the necessary damage CONTROL. Lionel Messi received a ball and took a right footed shot which was so curly and CLINICAL. The 100th goal of this FIFA World Cup of 2018 will surely remain HISTORICAL. Argentina kept on trying to increase the lead, as Lionel Messi was getting involved in short zigzag PASSES. Nigeria came back in the 2nd half to make it 1-1, as from a penalty shot, the goal got scored by MOSES. After a long wait, finally, Marcos Rojo with a speedy, sudden, swinging shot made it 2-1, to become the real Argentine HERO. Argentina qualify for the 'Round of 16' stage along with Croatia, the team that won 3 matches in a ROW."- Arindam Sain DATE : 27th June 2018 "Mexico trailed by 1-0, as in response to Swedish, Augustinsson's shot, Goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa delayed in his reflex ACTION. Andreas of Sweden scored from a penalty shot and the 3rd goal was the outcome of a slight DEFLECTION. In the other match on 27.06.2018, Korea got some easy chances EARLY. In so many instances, there were so many golden opportunities, but, still, Germans failed to score despite playing so FREELY. Korean players played well in the midfield region, and, the Korean, Kim Young Kwon took an easy shot to get a goal by SURPRISE. Germany, in the stoppage time, had no other option than to go for an all out attack, and Son Hiueng Min made it 2-0 for Korea, though, that goal looked like a gift or a PRIZE. Sweden and Mexico went to the 'Round of 16' stage, as Germany wrote their own sad STORY. Mexicans must have thanked the Koreans heartily, as Korea stunned Germany with a 2-0 win to create a new HISTORY."- Arindam Sain "The Swiss player, Blerim Dzemaili's gave the leading goal and the battle was ON. The 1-0 score got equalized by a quality header from the Costarican player, Kendall WASTON. Josep of Switzerland made it 2-1 on this day of SUMMER. But, alas, Costarica got a penalty, though, luckily, the ball went inside the net after hitting at the back of Swiss goalkeeper, SOMMER. For the 1st goal for Brazil, Paulinho made a high level CHIP; Thiago Silva's header made it 2-0 for Brazil as the Serbian goalkeeper failed to GRIP. After the matches on 27.06.2018, both Brazil and Switzerland qualify for the 'Round of 16' ROUND. Brazilians on this day, played skilful and soothing football to dominate Serbia on the GROUND."- Arindam Sain DATE : 28th June 2018 "Colombia had no other option than to WIN. Senegal was initially looking for a draw, but, later on, they realized, what a drama it has BEEN ! Colombia took the lead by 1-0 as a corner kick got utilized with a header by Yerri MINA. Senegal players attacked well, took so many shots at the target, but, failed to beat the Colombian goalkeeper, OSPINA. Whereas, in the other game, Poland was leading by 1-0 due to a quick shot by Polish, Jan BEDNAREK. Japanese spectators were so tensed, as if in Russia itself, there has been a mild tremor or EARTQUAKE. Japanese footballers, despite trailing by 1-0 wasted their time, which was bit of a GAMBLE. By seeing such wasteful and negative minded football played by the Japan team in the last 10 minutes or so, the Japanese spectators started to GRUMBLE. Colombia beat Senegal by 1-0 to qualify in the next round, and despite losing by 1-0 against Poland on 28.06.2018, Japan got a REWARD. As per the Fair Play Award System, the Senegalese players failed to qualify in the 'Round of 16' stage, as in respect to the Japanese players; they were booked more numbers of YELLOW CARD."- Arindam Sain "Panama on 28.06.2018, got 1-0 lead due to a Tunisian's own goal; what a PITY ! Tunisia came back to win the match by 2-1, as Ben Youssef scored the equalizer and Wahbi Khazri scored the winning goal, as the goal post was EMPTY. In the other match, nothing is so special, except that left footed, perfect heighted, curly shot to score a goal by Adnan Januzaj; which is itself a perfect PREMIUM. England qualified in the 'Round of 16' stage, though, losing the match by 1-0 against its Group leader Team, BELGIUM. On this day, if we analyze the England Team's Performance DASHBOARD; then, surely, the most impressive player of the match is the Englishman, Marcus RASHFORD."- Arindam Sain. DATE : 30th June 2018 "France got a penalty as the player who got fouled is Kylian Mbappe, the French young MAN. France got 1-0 lead as the penalty shot was taken by Antoine GRIEZMANN. Argentina made it to 1-1 as the Angel di Maria's long, super speedy shot was just OUTSTANDING. Lionel Messi's pass was so good that to make it 2-1, Gabriel Mercado just touched the ball and started CELEBRATING. After taking 2-1 lead, the Argentina defense line-up showed slight COMPLACENCY. Benjamin Pavard scored the equalizer for France, by taking an acrobatic style long shot, your EXCELLENCY. The weaknesses of Argentina defense line-up were capitalized by the French footballer who was wearing Jersey No. 10. Kylian Mbappe scored back to back 2 goals to make it 4-2 for France and increase Argentina's PAIN. Argentina pulled one back in the stoppage time to make it 4-3, and missed another golden chance as France had a better LUCK. Argentina team failed to win against France, and they got knocked out from the World Cup of 2018 on 30.06.2018, as in the 'Round of 16' stage, they got STUCK."- Arindam Sain "By now, almost everyone appreciated the fact that in this FIFA World Cup of 2018, Uruguay is a good, balanced SIDE. On the other hand, Portugal is a good team, but, more popular to the world, because of Christiano Ronaldo, who is popular WORLDWIDE. After some rapid passes, Edinson Cavani got a ball to head inside the Portuguese NET. Portuguese Pepe scored the equalizer with a header, and by that time, for Portugal, it was not too LATE. But, alas, Uruguay got 2-1 lead due to a curling shot by Edinson Cavani, whose foot-touch on the ball was so DELICATE. Portugal tried hard but failed to come back in the match, and got knocked out from the 'Round of 16' stage with a bad FATE."- Arindam Sain DATE : 1st July 2018 "On 01.07.2018, if the Spanish strikers were too dominating minded and POSSESSIONAL, then the Russian defenders were too cool-headed and CLINICAL. Ignashevich had no clue momentarily, about how he scored an own GOAL. Though, in the 1st half itself, Russia got a penalty and Dyzuba scored the equalizer with that penalty shot to play the heroic ROLE. Time started PASSING; and Spain kept on MISSING. The Spanish footballers kept on trying with their 'Tiki-Taka' passing BUSINESS. But, the Russian defenders were so organized, that one may feel there is an invisible wall to guard the Russian FORTRESS. No results even in the Extra Time, so, the match went to the stage of Penalty SHOOT-OUT. Russia team had the last laugh with a result of 4-2 and the Spain team got knocked OUT. Russians all around the world may be enjoying their Royal Russian Vodka PEG; by saying, 'Today, we are victorious against Spain, due to Igor Akinfeev's left LEG.'"- Arindam Sain "Within 2 minutes of the match, Mathias Jorgensen of Denmark scored a goal to take 1-0 lead against the Men in BLACK. Just within a few minutes, Mario Mandzukic of Croatia scored the equalizer and in this competitive match, it is surely a very quick COMEBACK. Both the goals looked so simple, as if the quality of the goalkeeping was not upto the MARK. Denmark was not getting too much space as a strong and organized control in the midfield region is, as usual, Croatia's TRADEMARK. The match on 01.07.2018 went to extra time, as in 90 minutes, the defensive zone of both the teams looked so solid and TIGHT. Despite so many attacking moves from both flanks, Croatia failed to score against Denmark, the team which counterattacked and continued the FIGHT. Due to a foul tackle at the penalty box, an opportunity to score a goal missed by the Croatian, KRAMARIC. Croatia got a penalty, but, alas, what a waste of that penalty shot by MODRIC ! The match of Croatia Vs Denmark in the 'Round of 16' stage, finally went to the TIE-BREAKER. What a match ! What a drama ! Finally, Croatia won it by 3-2 in the penalty shoot-out, which was so thrilling and almost a BREATHTAKER. As the match progressed, it became the battle of Danish, Schmeichel and Croatian, SUBASIC. Ultimately, Denmark got knocked out, as the victorious goal got scored by the Croatian, RAKITIC."- Arindam Sain DATE : 2nd July 2018 "The day of 02.07.2018 could have been the day of Brazil Vs Germany battle; had Germany QUALIFIED. But, alas, Brazil had to play against Mexico, a team which qualified in the 'Round of 16' stage' to look quite happy and SATISFIED. As per the past statistics and trends, the Mexico team, with a slight low confidence started WELL. But, the over-confident Brazil team had its own Stylish Samba Story to TELL. In the 2nd half, suddenly, Brazil's Willian took the role of an effective ball SUPPLIER. Brazil took the lead of 1-0, as Neymar proved himself as an amazing APPLIER. Mexico kept on attacking and waited for the Brazil defenders to do something WRONG. But, the Brazilian defense line-up looked so organized and STRONG. With the help of a Neymar's superb pass, Roberto Firmino scored a goal to earn some FAME. Brazil knocked out Mexico by 2-0 and may play against either Belgium or Japan in the upcoming Quarter Final GAME."- Arindam Sain "Belgium on 02.07.2018 may have underestimated the team of JAPAN. But, the Japanese footballers played awesome aggressive football to prove that they are from the land of the rising SUN. Oh! How many easy chances got missed by Lukaku of Belgium TODAY. Even the Belgian goalkeeper in many instances had a sloppy DAY. Be it in defense line or in offense line, Japan managed to create a 3-2-1 formation PRISM; and that formation was so rapid and so effective with a quality football PROFESSIONALISM. Haraguchi gave 1-0 lead as his speedy shot went into the NET. After a few minutes, Japan increased the lead to 2-0 as Inui scored a goal with a fine PLACEMENT. Japanese goalkeeper, instead of gripping the ball, just punched it, which was a BLUNDER; as Vertongen of Belgium scored a goal from his angular, long heighted header, which was just a WONDER. Felliani's header was an excellent one TOO; for Belgium to comeback in the match to make it 2-2. Japan's motivating sentence was, 'Try, try and TRY'; and they were really playing like a 'Team of SAMURAI'. Belgian goalkeeper, Curtois saved a superb shot, which the Japanese striker, Honda FREE-KICKED. Soon after a moment, Chadli scored the winning goal to make it 3-2 as the final counterattack of Belgium CLICKED. Well fought, Japan ! Japan's performance was really REMARKABLE. In the FIFA World Cup tournaments in future years, Japan will perform much better and they are really CAPABLE. Belgium qualified into the Quarter final, though, Japan's performances gave some proud moments to cherish for the people of ASIA. Belgium will play against Brazil in the Quarter Final and any team can beat any team on any day, as it is the World Cup of 'Uncertainty and Surprise' in RUSSIA."- Arindam Sain DATE : 3rd July 2018 "In the 'Round of 16' stage, on 03.07.2018, it was a clash between Sweden and Switzerland in the FIFA World CUP. Both the teams kept on attacking and counterattacking, but, their football skills were not of high quality and lacked effective BUILD-UP. In the 2nd half, both the teams got so many corners, but failed to capitalize any of IT. The way, Sweden created a defensive barricade, it surely deserves some CREDIT. The shot came from the Swedish, Emil Forsberg's BOOT. Though, the Swiss goalkeeper, Yann Sommer got beaten due to a deflection from another Swiss, Manuel Akanji's FOOT. After that goal, the Switzerland team kept on attacking and to get an equalizer, they were so DESPERATE. But, Sweden knocked out Switzerland by 1-0, as they succeeded in breaking the Swiss GATE."- Arindam Sain "In both the matches of the 'Round of 16' stage on 03.07.2018, it was Red Vs YELLOW. In the England Vs Colombia match, both the teams were too keen to give the first BLOW. England team kept on attacking so aggressively, as if, the people of the coastal areas of Colombia were experiencing the English HURRICANE. Finally, England team earned a penalty and took 1-0 lead over Colombia, as the penalty shot was taken by Harry KANE. Wow ! Colombia came back into the match in the stoppage time due to a header from Yerry Mina; just wait, just WAIT, as the match went to the Extra Time to give you a more thrilling experience as the match was not over YET. Yerri Mina's equalizer motivated the Colombia team, which at times, somewhat looked PASSIVE. But, in the Extra Time, the approach and attitude of their game totally looked so AGGRESSIVE. In the tie breaker also, the competition maintained its competitive BRAND. Colombia went to the back foot due to the English goalkeeper, Pickford's left HAND. Ospina's hand touched the ball of the last penalty shot, but, alas, with a 4-3 result, it was a victory day for ENGLAND."- Arindam Sain DATE : 6th July 2018 "Uruguay defense line up was quite organized to tame the French strikers to some EXTENT. Uruguay on 06.07.2018 kept on attacking, but, failed to score a goal which became one of the reasons for their DISAPPOINTMENT. The fantastic header by the French, Raphael Varane gave 1-0 lead to FRANCE. Uruguay kept on fighting, as they knew that they still have a CHANCE. But, alas, the Uruguayan goalkeeper, Fernando Muslera did a silly MISTAKE; and the goal scored by the French, Antoine Griezmann was the last cherry popped on the 'Victory CAKE'. France Team qualified as the 1st SEMI-FINALIST. After a defeat by 2-0 against France in this FIFA World Cup of 2018, in this competition; Uruguay no longer EXIST."- Arindam Sain "Belgium team knew the importance of the match and how strong their opponent team IS. So, the Belgium team kept on creating pressure on their opponent team without underestimating them or playing the game at EASE. The hard-working Belgium team adopted the Netherlands style of football to let the opponent team ATTACK; but, within a flash, the Belgium strikers were giving tough time to the Brazilian defenders with COUNTERATTACK. Lukaku and Hazard along with Felliani of Belgium started creating pressure on Brazilian defense area with some speedy MOVEMENTS. Belgium got 1-0 lead, due to an own goal by Fernandinho, which was one of the Brazil's unfortunate MOMENTS. Kevin De Bruyne gave Belgium, the 2-0 lead, with a right footed shot, that was well angled and equally a CLASSIC. Renato Augusto headed the ball in to score a goal for Brazil, but, one has to appreciate that some of the saves by the Belgian, Thibaut Courtois were just FANTASTIC. Brazil team tried hard with so much dominating nature in the 2nd half like a wounded tiger, but, failed to score the equalizer GOAL. The final score on 06.07.2018 remained 2-1 for Belgium to meet France in the Semi-Final, as the Brazilian strikers did not succeed to penetrate effectively through any Belgium defense line LOOPHOLE. "- Arindam Sain DATE : 7th July 2018 "Sweden team was not getting too much space even by playing the game with such an aggressive ROLE; as the midfield region of the battlefield were under the English soldiers' CONTROL. Swedish warriors felt, as if a powerful and strong royal guard was guarding the golden gate of the English fortress with a SWORD. So many attacks came in, but, all those shots were brilliantly saved by the England goalkeeper, Jordan PICKFORD. Harry Maguire took a perfect jump with a proper timing to give a header to beat the Swedish, Robin OLSEN. England took the 1-0 lead in the 1st half itself to give the Sweden team, some tension, some PAIN. Delle Alli scored the 2nd goal for England to beat Sweden by 2-0 and on 07.07.2018, for England, it was a great day to CELEBRATE. After 28 years, England team entered the Semi-final of the FIFA World Cup; that's why, many people said earlier that, don't underestimate Gareth SOUTHGATE."- Arindam Sain "Russia team on their home soil, played the game of football on 07.07.2018 with lots of PASSION. Croatia team on the other hand tried to slow down the speedy movements of the Russians by playing lots of passes and increase the percentage of ball POSSESSION. The left footed shot of the Russian, Denis Cheryshev was just OUTSTANDING; and the Croatian goalkeeper, Subasic was just watching the ball like a spectator while STANDING. In between three Russian defenders, it was a good cross by the Croatian, MANDZUKIC. Croatia made it 1-1 as it was a good header by KRAMARIC. Ivan Perisic's shot went out after hitting the goal post, which was quite UNFORTUNATE. But, in the Extra Time, Croatia took the lead to 2-1, as Vida's header was too PERFECT. Russia scored the equalizer due to a fantastic header by Fernandes to make it 2-2 and the match was not ever YET. In the penalty shoot-out, Croatia luckily had the last laugh, by 4-3 on 07.07.2018 to reach the SEMI-FINAL. Though, this day will be remembered in the Russian football history as the fighting spirit and the performances of these Russian footballers were SENSATIONAL."- Arindam Sain DATE : 10th July 2018 "Initially, the Semi-Final match of Belgium Vs France on 10.07.2018 looked quite SLOWISH. Slowly, the speed of the game improved with several attacks and counterattacks, though, for France, some excellent saves were made by Hugo LLORIS. Eden Hazard of Belgium played really well and even a good shot got saved by Thibaut Courtois, but, two easy chances, how Lukaku could MISS ! The match didn't remain goalless in the 2nd half, as a corner kick got utilized by the French, Samuel UMTITI. After trailing by 1 goal, the Belgium team started increasing their counterattacking INTENSITY. For the French defense line, the Belgian footballer, Eden Hazard looked so DANGEROUS ! But, the Belgium team failed to come back in the match, and ultimately, the France team with 1-0 result, emerged VICTORIOUS."- Arindam Sain DATE : 11th July 2018 "England on 11.07.2018, started the game by playing the dominating football and earned a free KICK. England got 1-0 lead as England's Kieran Trippier succeeded in beating the Croatia goalkeeper, Danijel SUBASIC. In the 1st half, Croatia kept on attacking, but, it looked as if they have no proper strategy or PLAN. While watching the performance of the England team, the spectators were saying, 'The Englishmen are running as fast as they CAN !' Leading by just 1 goal in any football match is not at all safe, as wise men once TOLD. Ivan Perisic of Croatia scored the equalizer with his left leg by beating the England goalkeeper, Jordan PICKFORD. When the score line became 1-1, the Croatia team started to show their attacking skills with CREATIVITY. England, on the other hand, were somewhat lucky enough to somehow maintain its defensive GRAVITY. In the Extra Time, inside the England's penalty box area, it was a smart header by Ivan PERISIC. There was a defensive lapse by the Englishmen and Croatia went ahead by 2-1 due to the left footed shot by Mario MANDZUKIC. Croatia created history as they entered into the final match in the FIFA World Cup tournament for the first time ever by defeating the Englishmen, wearing the jersey, coloured WHITE. Croatia team really deserved to win against the England team, as these Croatian footballers are more skilful, creative, hardworking, experienced and possess the courage to FIGHT."- Arindam Sain DATE : 14th July 2018 "Believe it or not, there is always a magic when you play football with a jersey, coloured YELLOW. Belgium always play better football when they play in Yellow coloured jersey, and on 14.07.2018, against England, the Belgian, Thomas Meunier gave the first BLOW. After that early goal, the England footballers looked somewhat DEJECTED; and increased their attacks near the Belgian penalty box area, as EXPECTED. But, the Belgium team was playing the football in such an organized manner, as if those Yellow Tigers have tasted the first BLOOD. The battle went on with some intense fights, and England's good attacks went in vain, though those Englishmen tried so HARD. England supporters were hoping that it will be 1-1, but alas, Belgium took the lead of 2-1 as the 2nd goal got scored by Eden HAZARD. England finished fourth in FIFA World Cup of 2018 after two successive defeats and Belgium, the team that had the potential to become the Champion, finished THIRD."- Arindam Sain DATE : 15th July 2018 "Oh ! What an entertainer, Will Smith is, so, just 'Live it UP'; as on 15.07.2018, it was the closing ceremony of the 20th FIFA World CUP. One nation has it VERTICALLY; and the other nation has it HORIZONTALLY. The national flag of both France and Croatia has Blue, White and Red COLOURS. Even the football teams of both France and Croatia is having some good, talented FOOTBALLERS. France went ahead by 1-0 due to an own goal by Mario MANDZUKIC. Croatia equalized it to 1-1 due to an excellent left footed shot by Ivan PERISIC. France got a penalty and Antoine Griezman made it 2-1 by beating the Croatian goalkeeper, Danijel SUBASIC. In the 2nd half, Paul Pogba utilized the Croatian defensive lapse, and after a few minutes, Kylian Mbappe did the final icing on the CAKE. Croatia managed to make it 4-2, as Mario Mandzukic got a sloppy goal due to the French goalkeeper, Hugo Lloris's silly MISTAKE. In 1998, Croatia was defeated by France in the SEMI-FINAL. In 2018, France defeated Croatia by 4-2 in the FINAL. Croatia played some quality and innovative football with a tremendous fighting spirit, though they finished as RUNNERS-UP. Defeats are the invisible motivators of victories, so, Croatia may try to lift the 2020 Euro CUP. Kylian Mbappe is the best young player and Luka Modrich got the golden BALL. Thibaut Courtois of Belgium got the golden glove, and Harry Kane of England got the golden boot, who also played good FOOTBALL. The best fair play award was awarded to SPAIN. Before the French players could bath with CHAMPAGNE; the Russian clouds of Moscow bathed them with the drops of heavy RAIN. France, the team that defeated big teams like Argentina, Uruguay and BELGIUM; after 20 years, lifted the FIFA World Cup of 2018 at Luzhniki STADIUM. Throughout the tournament, due to Luka Modrich's open, spread out football skills and passing capabilities, the midfield line up of Croatia always remained STRONG. Hugo Lloris of France was somewhat fortunate to have a well organized central deep defence line up and that's why, in French defense, hardly anything went so WRONG. The FIFA World Cup of 2018 has been a tournament of new records, surprises and uncertainties; bye bye Russia, the next battle is in QATAR. In 2022, as the venue is in the middle east Asia, where it is extreme hot during summer, the FIFA World Cup fixture may be rescheduled to have it in any month of WINTER. We hope that by keeping Croatia team as an example, in the next FIFA World Cup, other weak teams must start playing football much better and BETTER."- Arindam Sain THE END
