In one of the most historic days in modern World Cup history, defending Champions Germany were eliminated at the group stage for the first time since 1938. After a poor start to the tournament against Mexico, the Germans thought they had turned a corner with a late comeback to defeat Sweden. But a 2-0 defeat in their final group game to South Korea, saw them slump out of the competition bottom of group F. Sweden took the group with a stunning 3-0 win over Mexico, as they continued to look well organized.
Here’s the Lazy Fan Review of Group F.
Sweden Show The Meaning Of Team
Sweden took the group with a stunning 3-0 over Mexico on the final day. It was no more than they deserved, and in truth, it could have been many more. The Swede’s have looked excellent positionally, and are very well organized. Defensively they are very solid and will be difficult to beat. Their only defeat so far coming from a Germany free-kick 5 minutes into stoppage time.
They look a little short of fire-power up front, but they showed against Mexico that their delivery on crosses is excellent. They are also adept from the penalty spot, which could become crucial as we move into the knockout phase.
Mexico Are Tiring
After 2 wonderful performances full of pace, pressing and infinite energy the Mexicans looked utterly destroyed. They were second to balls for most of the game, and as the game wore on it only got wors
e. They have started basically the same 11 players in every game. That lack of quality in the squad could well be their undoing.
Like Sweden, Mexico are very organized, but they draw most of the counter-attacking ability from their pressing of the ball. If they can’t get rested up for their next game, this pressing may once again be lacking.
South Korea Just Did Something Unbelievable
Under the hammer for most of the game, Korea were well organized and looked dangerous on the break. But when Kim Young-Gwon gave them the lead, the lid came off the stadium and the whole World Cup. By beating the defending champions Germany, South Korea have laid down a marker for their future performances.
It was a gritty and gutsy performance, born from a desire and team spirit not often seen in the modern game. For a nation that has largely been uninspiring since reaching the semi-finals while hosting the tournament in 2002, this could be a huge turning point. They have the pace and teamwork to threaten any team, but maybe now they will have some belief as well.
Germany In Despair
It has been a German team reeling for a while now, after a poor buildup that saw them only manage a win against Saudi Arabia. But there are no excuses for the defending champions as they have been woeful despite having probably the deepest squad in the tournament. They have scored just one goal from open play in a group that should have been there’s at a canter.
There will be huge repercussions back in Germany after the ignominy of this World Cup. Expect heads to roll, starting with coach Joachim Loew.
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