This obsession in Australia with 'performances' is embarrassing. Results matter at this level, you dont get bonus points for "holding out Argentina until the 91st minute" or dominating in periods.

The facts are - 3 points in 8 games. 0 wins. 7 GF, 14 GA.

You can paint it any way you want, but at the end of the day it's a very poor result. Out of the 4 sides, 3 are technically still in with a shot of progressing but their chances are slim at best.

Having said that, the European and African sides havent been much better. It's really only the COMNEBOL and CONCACAF confederations who can say that they've performed at a reasonable level as a collective.

If my calculations are correct, European sides have only won about 30% of their games against non-European opposition. They're not doing a good job of putting the "European nations dont perform outside of Europe" stereotype to bed.

Japan and South Korea have been very disappointing. They have neat possession in midfield, but they haven't looked genuinely dangerous.

Iran may be boring, but they're playing to their plan pretty well. Not my preferred style, but they have a very good chance to progress now.

Yea, should have parked the bus.

Yeah because Australia was never dominant against Chile or the Netherlands, leading the latter, Iran never held Argentina until Messi's 91st minute strike while themselves creating chances, Korea never held one of Europe's best teams with one of Europe's most celebrated coaches to a draw as did Japan.

The story of this World Cup edition is great performances by minnows and giants falling hard and fast. Have you even been watching?

So Far

Australia: 0 Pts
Japan: 1 Pt
South Korea: 1 pt
Iran: 1 pt

In 8 matches as a collective we have collected 3 pts, i have to admit i thought Japan at least would of turned out a bit better maybe even Korea.


Iran have got a pt but the football they 're playing is embarrassing at best. I have to admit there is a real possibility that Asia wont have a team in the final 16. Which i think is pretty disappointing.

I know Australia played well but beside that i've watch every team from the AFC and have to admit we have really struggled on the park this world cup (esp in-front of goals).

I wouldn't be surprised if we lost our .5 of a world cup spot next time around due to such a poor showing...



Edited by Davstar: 23/6/2014 11:41:18 AM