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Join us for a semi-finals preview as we wrap up what’s happened and guess at what might.
There is sadness that it’s almost over but happiness that it’s happened. The Summer of football is well underway, with both the Euros and the Copa America moving into the penultimate stages. We said a tearful farewell to the legend that is Cristiano Ronaldo, as Portgual went out on penalties. De Bruyne went head to head with a journalist questioning their golden generation’s achievements. Lukaku scored 3 goals that were disallowed. In the first knockout round, Georgia put up a spirited display against Spain, taking the lead early, but ‘twas not to be. Then in the quarters, the toughest match of the tournament, hosts Germany against Spain, and a tough, drawn out affair.
Now, only four remain.
Entering the tournament as the favourites in the betting world, it has been a grind for Southgate and his band of talent. Under constant battering from the press and fans, they seem to have weathered the worst. While we’d love to say we’ve seen beautiful football from a team of international stars playing at their full potential, sadly we can’t. There have been flashes of brilliance, of desperation, of penalty taking confidence that scoffs at demons past. We’ve seen a parade of talent on display as matches have moved on to the last few minutes.
Although he hasn’t had long on the pitch, every time Cole Palmer touches the ball, something magical happens. His effortless skill and no nerves policy hint at a different, unstoppable England. Bellingham, barely there, but there went it counts. His last kick of the game heroic overhead kick will be played on highlight reels for decades to come. If one player can sum up all that the new England can be, it’s Ivan Toney, staring ruthlessly into the eyes of the goalkeeper while blazing in his penalty strike.
A solid, if not a classic Dutch team. The Netherlands escaped from an absolutely loaded group featuring a strong Poland, France and the impressive, group winning Austrians. An unkind observer might say they have been at their best as you watch the players marching out of the tunnel. Cody Gakpo has been the standout performer, while the rest of the team will hope to assert physical dominance over the English.
The dynamic duo of Yamine Lamal and Nico Williams adds undeniable pressure to any team. Their boundless energy and flair bring excitement and so much more, making Spain’s attack one of the most potent in the tournament. Rodri’s defensive prowess and leadership in midfield adds a measure of serenity to the defensive setup. Anything can happen against France, but it’s hard to believe Spain won’t slowly steamroll them and claim their place in the final.
France has struggled to find their flow, making it to the semis without scoring a goal in open play. But don’t look away for a moment, because they will be 100% focused on their next match. Mbappé has been awful. He had a single knock through and run play, where his incredible speed almost exploded from the screen. We want more of that. And less of the ball hitting painfully into his mask. Antoine Griezmann has seemingly decided to fall on the floor every time the ball comes near him. Whether it’s an injury or mental block, he needs to reclaim control of himself if France are to make it past the Spanish giants.
Semi-fresh off their World Cup triumph, Argentina looks like they are nursing the mother of all hangovers. For a team like this, another Copa America title should be in the bag. Instead, they’ve struggled along, finding themselves here almost entirely thanks to their funny face-making keeper Emiliano Martínez. Messi may be looking at the sunset, but he continues to inspire his team, the world, possibly beyond? The Messi & Martinez show needs to step it up, and against Canada, there’s every chance to see a deadly barrage from them both.
“Yay, we made it about all the way here, let’s have fun now & just do what we can.” Is the sentiment you hope Canada might have right now. Rather than staring into the abyss of facing a loaded squad of Argentinians including Messi, and despairing - we rather hope Canada plays free from nerves. They’ve been the surprise package of the tournament. Alphonso Davies’ speed and creativity on the wing has surprised teams. Jonathan David stand up! We have flowers for you. The Canadians haven’t been goal shy, banging in 8 goals on their way to a well deserved Semi final placing. Nothing to lose, everything to play for. It’s incredibly difficult to see them find a route into the finals, but this is football, and if it happens, we will be here for it.
Powered by Valverde and Nunez. Relentless energy and no nonsense goal-scoring. Uruguay has plodded along fairly remorselessly. With the absence of extra time in this tournament, they went toe to toe with a beleaguered Brazil squad and came out punching. With that momentum, they are the clear favourites to clean up in the semis and book a place in the final.
Lerma and Diaz forever! After squeaking past Ecuador, the Columbians are through to the semis. They have talent, they hit a mean counter-attack, they are not to be underestimated. But that said, it is a big ask to see them take on a Uruguay squad bursting with confidence after taking down Brazil.
Join the conversation on our Discord to share your thoughts and predictions! Are we wrong, or do we have it spot on? Add your voice, come on, we’re friendly, honest!
