Brazil has been the host of an unforgettable few weeks of football. The World Cup indeed lived up to its billing of the greatest spectacle on the planet. Germany triumphed as the true Kings of World football after 64 unforgettable games.
After the dust had settled in Brazil, some 64 games across 12 stadiums later, a whopping total of 171 goals later - Brazil 2014 was the joint-highest scoring World Cup in history. A tournament I'll never forget. Truly amazing.
Some concerns were raised even before a ball was kicked. Violent clashes in São Paulo eventually fizzled down and Brazil enjoyed the amazing football. Many were disappointed that the government had spent so much on the tournament despite the poverty in the country. It didn't overshadow the tournament.
In this jumbo article, the longest ever wrote on TheSportMatrix, you'll find all the information from every match, news capsules, hyperlinks to more articles like match reports and commentary, collages, images, videos and much more. It's your perfect guide to relive the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Brazil put on a festival of the greatest football on Earth.
Opening ceremony
Thankfully, the actual football of the tournament did not correspond with the opening ceremony in São Paulo, which, in hindsight, was weird to say the least, leaving many eyebrows raising and heads scratching. Ticketing Scandal? »
Group stage
Marcelo's own goal just minutes into the opening game pushed his nation on the brink of disaster. One young man however, proved that he could hoist all of Brazil's high expectations upon his shoulders. The Barcelona forward's brace salvaged all hopes to see off Croatia. Report » Comment: Neymar's Rising Potential » Shocking Own Goal »
Based further up the Americas, it was Mexico who posed the most significant threat to Brazil's group triumph, as Oribe Peralta was able to fire past Cameroon. It would be a tough course to run for the Africans who, only scoring one goal, faced controversial claims of match-fixing following their subdued departure from Brazil. Report »
Netherlands sent shockwaves through the World following their dismantling of the World Champions in Salvador. Arjen Robben would blast past a double along with Robin van Persie's input that involved a delightful headed goal. The final result - Netherlands 5-1 Spain. Van Gaal's men sent out a colossal statement in a rematch from the 2010 final. Report » Analysis: Spain Won't Recover »
Alexis Sánchez emerged as another frontrunning South American later in that day as his effort was enough to see through an entertaining Australian side. More »
Colombia were off to a roll as they started their breakout campaign with a thrashing overe Greece. Bringing a new energetic presence and uplifting vibe, the South Americans were ready to shift the course of Colombian football and registered 3 points on the board. "Another South American Masterclass" »
Costa Rica then stunned Uruguay in a surprising 3-1 win for the Carribeans. Initially a goal down in Fortaleza after Edison Cavani's penalty, a wild second-half turnaround saw them post 3 points against the group favourites. Their dream would only just begin. Report »
Referred to as the "Rumble in the Jungle", there was plenty at stake as England battled Italy in Manaus. A positive start from Hodgson's men saw them come nail-bitingly close, only for Chilleini's goal to put the Italians up. Sturridge's equaliser was eventually outbid by Balotteli's winning header. Recap » Worst Corner Ever? »
In the latest kickoff of the tournament, Didier Drogba galvanised Ivory Coast to an opening win over Japan. His introduction saw the Africans overturn a one-goal deficit, winning the game and leaving their fans as spirited as ever. "The Drogba Effect" » Golazo! Honda »
Switzerland then provided us with the first late-drama capsules of the Brazilian rollercoaster. Enner Valencia's goal was outdone by Mehmedi's second-half equaliser and a dramatic Seferović stoppage time winner to set Switzerland on the right course. More »
France proved they were strides ahead of their dismal 2010 performance by easily despatching Honduras. Benzema's double and a Valladares own goal put a new-look French side in the driver's seat of Group. Report » Adil Weighs In On "Next-Gen" France Side »
Lionel Messi lit up the Maracanã to put away World Cup debutants Bosnia-Herzegovina after France's victory. An own goal added to Messi's second-half sublimity putting Bosnia out of reach, although a late strike by Ibesivic gave a glimmer of hope to the Europeans. Report »
Germany demolished Portugal in a sunny Monday afternoon in Salvador. A superb hat-trick by Thomas Muller and header from Hummels delivered a massive dent to Ronaldo and his Portugal's side's World Cup chances. More » Hussain: "German Assault" »
Iran and Nigeria disappointingly delivered the first draw of the tournament with neither side really putting in a considerable work load. Sparing you of more details for your own sanity. "Flaw and Draw" »
USA got vengeance on Ghana for the 2010 elimination and fuelled the coasting American football dream in the process. Clint Dempsey burst through Ghana for an early 1st minute goal, but Ayew cancelled it out in the 82nd minute. This would set up for John Brooks Jr. to score an unbelievable goal, of which he couldn't comprehend himself, and give the USA a fighting chance. Report »
Belgium provoked more questions than they answered when they scraped a victory from Algeria. Fegouhli's penalty put the North-Africans in control for the interval, but goals from substitutes Mertens and Fellaini turned the game around and salvaged Belgium. More »
Guillermo Ochoa's unstoppable goal-keeping performance allowed Mexico to wrestle a point off the hosts Brazil. It was a frustrating outing for Scolari's men who couldn't find a way through and halted them of securing an early qualification. Report: Superb Ochoa »
Australia fell short up against the Netherlands in an epic clash in Day 6 of the World Cup. Arjen Robben's breakthrough after 20 minutes was responded to instantly by Tim Cahill's outstanding volley. Mile Jedinak's penalty put Australia up after half-time, but goals from Robin van Persie and Memphis Depay within ten minutes put Van Gaal's side on course for the last sixteen. Match report »
Chile sent the World Champions packing with a graceful 2-0 win over Spain in the Maracanã. While many tipped the Spaniards to return to the Maracanã for the final when the tournament first began, Chile shattered dreams of a World Cup retain, as Vargas and Aránguiz inflicted the damage. Report »
Croatia then destroyed Cameroon with a masterclass 4-0 win. A double from Mandzukic, added to by Perisic and Olic, ensured the Croatians a chance at making it out of their group. More »
Colombia's roll continued in Day 7 as they saw off Ivory Coast in the heavyweight battle of the group. James Rodriguez was on the scoresheet again, and Quintero doubled the lead, to keep Ivory Coast at bay, despite Gervinho's goal just minutes after. More »
Luis Suarez pushed England to the brink of elimination as his double was enough to put Uruguay past the 3 Lions. Wayne Rooney's first World Cup goal ignited hopes as he equalised late in the second, but it was a false-dawn as Suarez smashed it past Hart for the winning goal. Report » Analysis: Suarez Thrives, Ballan d'Or? » Comment: England's Elimination A Forgone Conclusion? » Gerrard Reaction »
Greece locked out Japan for a goalless draw in the late kick-off. The Euro 2004 Champs initially set out for a win, but the dismissal of their captain and an injury to key striker Mitroglou forced them to park the proverbial bus and take a point for their efforts in Natal. Recap »
Costa Rica's dream run would continue in Day 9 as Bryan Ruiz captained his side into the lead on the stroke of half-time, and they kept it that way, to secure an unforeseen qualification to the Round of 16. Report » Khan Weighs In: Ruiz Staggers Italy, and World »
Salvador was once again host to a pulsating World Cup instalment. France ran riot over Switzerland to power ahead with five different goalscorers. Switzerland would score a late two goals to make the final margin, 5-2. More »
A double from Enner Valencia sparked Ecuadorian hopes as they overturned a deficit against Honduras in a battle of Americans. Match report »
It took over 90 minutes for Argentina to break Iran. A gutsy hold-out from the Iranians was undone in stoppage time, as Lionel Messi emerged once again to carry his team over the line. Magical, just magical. Messi proved once again that he could lead Argentina through. Although a slender La Albiceleste continued their journey in the chase for an unprecented triumph on Brazilian soil. Iran's efforts were not enough. Report » Elevator Luck »
Miroslav Klose tied the record for most World Cup goals in history to equalise against Ghana in an incredible game in Fortaleza. In a mind-boggling second half, Andre Ayew equalised to cancel out Götze's goal. Then, Asamoah Gyan fired Ghana into the lead. Klose salvaged a point with an equaliser minutes after. Truly phenomenal. Report & Breakdown » Perfect Way to Stop a Blunder »
Peter Odemwingie was all the difference and a pivotal factor for Nigeria as they sent Bosnia crashing out of the World Cup. Looking replenished and repackaged, the Africans playing style was much more attacking-orientated allowing them to set a platform for eventual last-sixteen qualification. Recap »
Yet again, the Belgians stumbled across some formidable resistance and just sidestepped over the line for three points. This time round, they took to Rio de Janeiro, and relied on substitute Divock Origi whose 88th minute goal allowed the Europeans to break away from Russia. Report »
Algeria put on an amazing show to lift the spirits of their whole continent, as they blasted past Korea in a lively Porto Alegre meeting. Korea's two goals was outmatched by a four-goal emphatic spell by the Algerians. Report »
Group D then provided us with another unforgettable 90 minutes of football. Portugal literally fought to the end against the USA, and it was with the last strike of the game, in the 95th minute, in where they clinched a point. After Nani opened the scoring five minutes in, Jermaine Jones' stunner and Clint Dempsey's goal allowed USA to take the lead. However, Portugal were far from done. In the dying moments of the game, Cristiano Ronaldo intricately picked out Varela for the equaliser. Portugal had a fighting chance of survival. Report »
Spain made sure that they left Brazil on winning terms with a clinical 3-0 win over Australia. There was little to play for with both teams already out, however, goals from Torres, Mata and the retiring David Villa gave Spaniards something to smile about. Report » Villa Bows Out »
At the same time, Netherlands were battling Chile for a chance to top the group in São Paulo. Leroy Fer scored late, before Memphis Depay scored even later, in stoppage time, to seal the win for Netherlands. Report »
Watching on the edge of their seats in the Brazilian capital where the hosts as they took to the National Stadium to clinch qualification in their final group. With the unlikely-although-daunting possibility of failure to qualify, Neymar got the hosts on the right foot with a 17th minute goal. However, Joel Matip stunned Brazil with an equaliser. Neymar again stepped up, Fred dismissed critics and Fernandinho scored his first World Cup goal to ensure Brazil topped their group. Report »
Croatia and Mexico were not aware of Brazil's winning status since they were playing at the same time, but they knew that a win would send them through. Mexico did so, as three goals within 10 minutes in the second half were too much for the Croatians. Ivan Perišić scored minutes later, but it was a mere consolation. Report »
England ended their World Cup campaign with a drowsy goalless draw with Costa Rica. With the Carribeans already qualified, there was little to play for, and a shifted England side with 9 changes registered one point for their World Cup efforts. Report » Khan: England Ahead of Themselves »
Meanwhile, Uruguay topped Italy in an ugly Natal battle, also featuring the single most controversial moment of the tournament. Diego Godin guided his side to victory with an 81st minute strike but in the late stages Luis Suarez got into trouble, as he appeared to bite Chilleini. Report » FIFA Bite Back » Suarez Banned »
Greece then stunned Ivory Coast to secure a shock qualification. Andreas Samaris put the Greeks in front before Wilfried Bony's goal put Ivory Coast within touching distance of qualification. However, a dramatic turn of events in stoppage time would leave the Africans in tears, as Georgios Samaras, with nerves of steel, calmly converted a crucial stoppage time penalty. Report »
Colombia delivered another remarkable performance to ease to #1 spot in Group C. A sublime double from James Rodriguez and additions from Cuadrado and Martinez were more than enough to stop Okazaki's equaliser on the stroke of halftime. Report »
Lionel Messi once again took the strings for Argentina as they topped Nigeria in an extraordinary meeting in Porto Alegre. It took just three minutes for Messi to strike, but Ahmed Musa equalised a minute after. A stoppage time goal was then cancelled out before Marcos Rojo's goal made the difference. Lionel Messi scored an incredible free-kick in his brace. Report »
Bosnia were already out of the World Cup - but before they departed from South America they picked up a historic win over Iran. Edin Džeko, Miralem Pjanić and Avdija Vršajević ensured a collection of three points entailing a piece of history to beat Iran. Report »
Xherdan Shaqiri destroyed Honduras with a magnificent hat-trick in Manaus to see his nation through to the Round of 16. His impressive outing would be the 50th hat-trick in World Cup finals history, including a delightful curling goal from the edge of the box. The "Alpine Messi" would lead his side to face Argentina, and the real Lionel Messi in the next stage. Report »
Down South in Brazil, France wrapped up their group campaign. Deschamps side though were unable to break through the Ecuadorian keeper, AlexanderDominguez. It was far from the prolific French side that we had seen and were amazed by in the previous games, while the South Americans held out to register a point and bow out of Brazil. A mundane meeting in the Maracana also saw the sending off to Antonio Valencia. Report »
Group G, featuring Germany, USA, Portugal and Ghana, was arguably the most entertaining and well-poised group of the tournament. All their last games were played on Thursday 26 June with the exciting prospect of qualification for any team.
In Recife, Thomas Muller guided the Germans past USA in a cagey 1-0 victory. Both teams would qualify for the next round. Report »
Ongoing in the Brazilian capital was another thrilling game, as Portugal closed out their World Cup campaign on a winning note. Ghana were spiralling out from some controversy around the time, with Sulley Muntari and Kevin Prince Boateng being fired from the Ghananian side on matchday for training-ground altercations. In addition, a demanded $3 million dollars in cash was flown out to the squad by the government. To add to the weird mix of things, John Boye sliced a cross into his own net to put Portugal ahead. However the Africans would be back in it late on with Gyan's goal, only for Cristiano Ronaldo to score the winner. It would mean little though, with both sides in tears following the game after elimination from the World Cup. Report »
Closing out a tremendous group phase would be Group H. Algeria made history as they qualified for the Round of 16 with a draw against Russia, coming from behind to steal a point. Islam Slimani's goal on the hour mark sparked celebrations across North Africa. Report »
Belgium finished with a 100% win record yet failed to convince again as Jan Vertonghen's 78th minute would pack away the Koreans. Report »
A staggering 136 goals were scored in the 48 games of the group stage, averaging 2.83 goals per game. Truly amazing football with the considerable dosage of shockers, late drama, golazos and the rest of the fundamental components that make up incredible football.
Luis Suarez's infamous moment of madness stole the headlines for the captivating controversy, though the goals and the magnificent football put on an amazing show.
Many pundits and analysts drew upon the developed and reinvigorated style of football. Much more attacking, much more open and much more entertaining - hence the 2014 group stage had 3 goals less than the entire 2010 World Cup.
We had the shockers with Netherlands making the biggest impact as they smashed Spain in Salvador. There were the shockers too. As far as goals go, it has to be Tim Cahill's emphatic volley that topped the first phase of the World Cup.
Round of 16
After a rest day in the World Cup on Friday 27 June which seemed like an eternity, the World Cup picked up from where it left off - on a flyer - as the knockout phase began.
A thrilling South American battle in Belo Horizonte saw Brazil emerge the victors in their most sweetest triumph of the tournament. Alexis Sánchez cancelled out David Luiz's header to poise the game on a knife edge that would eventually lead to penalties. Neymar was once again able to hoist his nation on his shoulders and keep nerves intact as he converted a crucial penalty. Chilean Gonzalo Jara hit the post with his kick and Brazil were through. Tears of triumph and dismay were pouring in an evident wasteland of contrasting emotions. Both South American sides had did themselves proud. Report »
There was another all-South-American clash later in that day, over in Rio as Uruguay and Colombia took to the Maracanã. James Rodriguez guided the high-flying Colombians past a Suarez-less Uruguay with an emphatic double. He posted a goal of the tournament contender with a mind-boggling long-range volley (watch the goal here). Colombia sent Uruguay packing with an emphatic light-up in Rio. Report » Amazing Footage of Rodriguez Goal »
Netherlands left it extremely late to get the job done in Fortaleza against Mexico. A ferocious match in the Estádio Castelão made for the first official cooling breaks in the World Cup. Mexico were on course for a victory that would end their curse of consecutive last-sixteen eliminations when Giovani dos Santos struck from outside the box after halftime. However, Welsey Sneijder smashed Netherlands back into the game as he chased onto the end of a half-volley and left Ochoa a spectator. Then, in the 94th minute, Arjen Robben's blitzing run saw him escape into the box, until he was taken down. A penalty was awarded and Huntelaar converted to send Netherlands through. There was an out-pour of controversial backlash as Robben admitted to diving earlier in the game. Report »
The Costa Rican dream continued as they embraced an emphatic penalty-shootout victory against Euro 2004 Champions, Greece. Captain Bryan Ruiz broke the deadlock after halftime but Socratis Papastathopoulos stunned Costa Rica in stoppage time. A holdout in extra-time would lead to penalties. A superb display of conversions from the spot saw all-but-one penalty scored, and Greece would be denied by the keeper Navas to put Costa Rica through. Report »
Paul Pogba stepped up for France to finally push past a resilient effort from Nigeria. He opened the scoring in the 79th minute before Joseph Yobo scored a stoppage-time own goal. The Africans went crashing out while France continued to make huge new steps as they had just a little more than Nigeria on the day. Report »
Germany escaped Algerian heroics in extra-time to book a Quarter-Final date with France. Neither side was able to score in the 90 minutes of regulation, courtesy of an excellent performance in front of goal by Algeria''s Rais M'Bohli. On the other side of the pitch, Manuel Neuer played the role of rush goal-keeper as he sprawled out to deny Algerian breakthroughs. Two minutes into extra-time, André Schürrle finally got past Algeria before Mesut Özil crushed the North Africans as he smashed through following two courageous blocks. Algeria wouldn't give up though, as Abdelmoumene Djabou scored in stoppages of extra-time to spark belief for Algeria, although they fell short. Report »
Lionel Messi once again assisted to bring up the goods for Argentina as they side-stepped Switzerland. The course of regulation and almost all of extra-time would consist of sloppy near-misses and tiresome play. That was until Angel Di Maria slotted past Benaglio in the 118th minute after Messi orchestrated the move for a crucial winner. Report »
In the final instalment to the Round of 16, Belgium brought the American dream to a halt as they finished off the USA in extra-time. Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku were finally able to get past a record-breaking performance by USA goalkeeper Tim Howard. An amazing volley from Julian Green in the second half of extra time reignited the potential belief before USA threatened with a late free-kick. Belgium held on, just, and the USA were grinded to a halt. Report »
All group winners were the victors from their respective Round of 16 ties. Penalties. Drama. Goals, more goals... It added to the amazing story of the World Cup.
There were now some tantalizing quarter-final battles set. After a two-day break to recollect breaths from a breathtaking tournament.
Quarter finals
Germany prevailed over France in the Maracanã in a gritting European clash. Mats Hummels headed early and Joachim Löw's side held on to the slender lead to continue their run and send a mediocre performing French side home. Report »
A mouthwatering South American collision between Brazil and Colombia served as the platform for the hosts' quarter-final victory. Captain Thiago Silva guided in from an early corner before an astonishing free-kick from David Luiz to propel the country into a frenzy. James Rodriguez bowed out for Colombia's campaign with a late penalty but they couldn't find anything else to rescue a breakout World Cup run. It would be bittersweet though as the Brazilians were dealt a huge blow when Neymar was stretchered off. A knee to the back by Zuniga fractured a vertebra in his back ruling him out for the rest of the tournament - Brazil's posterboy was no more. Report »
Gonzalo Higuain's 8th minute strike was all the difference between Argentina and Belgium. A simmering game featured some intriguing action but Belgium's quality seemed to have ran out. Higuain almost doubled the lead in the late stages with a dazzling run, only for his shot to connect with the bar. Argentina reached the semi-finals for the first time since 1990. Report »
Van Gaal's bold move paid off for the Netherlands as they paved their way into a semi with Argentina after edging Costa Rica in a nail-biting penalty shootout. Wesley Sneijder struck the woodwork twice prior to the spot kicks while Keylor Navas' kept the Oranje out elsewhere. In extra-time, Netherlands' manager Louis Van Gaal subbed off Cilessen for keeper Tim Krul, in what was initially seen as a bizarre, unseen move. Tim Krul would save two crucial penalties, ultimately leading Netherlands through. Report »
Four games were left. The quarter-finals had contributed to the mesmerising spectacle of the World Cup. Only slender victories would cut it as the competition was cranked up. Germany booked a date with Brazil while Argentina sealed their fate with a Netherlands clash. Four more instalments were on the way...
Semi finals
One of the most shocking games in World Cup history took place in Belo Horizonte for the World Cup semi-final. Germany demolished Brazil in a devastating 7-1 win to barge their way into the final. A dejected Brazil were down 5-0 after half-an-hour, with the absences of Neymar and Thiago Silva leaving their mark. Thomas Muller volleyed in early, before Miroslav Klose broke the record with an easy tap-in to become the all-time leading World Cup goalscorer. Toni Kroos added a quick double then Khedira made it five. In the second half, André Schürrle scored a double. Oscar's late consolation gave Brazil little to clap about before the whole nation was reduced to dreadful tears. The most catastrophic 90 minutes in the history of Brazilian football. Report » Khan: Where Do Brazil Go From Here? » Comment: German Perfection » Brazil's Defining Moments »
Argentina shut out Netherlands in a dramatic penalty shootout to book their ticket to Rio. Goalless for regulation and extra-time, both sides were exhausted and blown out. Ron Vlaar missed the first penalty for Netherlands, and Maxi Rodriguez scored the winning penalty to send Argentina through. Report »
Two contrasting victories but the same destination - Argentina and Germany were headed to Rio de Janeiro for the World Cup final.
Third place playoff
Brazil suffered more humiliation, this time at the hands of the Netherlands in the capital of Brasilia as they finished fourth in the World Cup. The disaster started early, with Arjen Robben being awarded a penalty following a foul by returning captain Thiago Silva. Despite the controversy of the foul possibly ensuing outside of the box, Robin van Persie coolly converted the penalty. Daley Blind then smashed past the second around 15 minutes later. David Luiz weakly headed in his direction, allowing him to exploit plenty of space and time to sweetly strike into the top corner. An exhausted Brazil side hobbled towards stoppage time without showing any urgency or desire. Georginio Wijnaldum capped off the victory with a late third goal, turning in from a cross. Brasilia erupted in boos at the sounding of the final whistle, with a dark journey ahead for Brazil. Report »
The final
Germany were crowned World Champions for the fourth time in their illustrious history, after Mario Götze's stoppage-time strike thwarted Argentina in Rio de Janeiro. Momentum, magnified in the Maracana as they shut down Messi to triumph. Argentina missed huge chances including a Palacio chip and Higuain squandering. It would come down to the final minutes that defined a wonderful tournament. Report »
Simply astonishing - what a journey.
What a tournament it's been. We've had it all. Brazil has put on an unforgettable show to the World and celebrated an extraordinary festival of football.
It will never be forgotten. I am proud to be a part of TheSportMatrix's World Cup coverage, and as this extraordinary one ends, we look to the next.
Four years couldn't come by quicker.
Some concerns were raised even before a ball was kicked. Violent clashes in São Paulo eventually fizzled down and Brazil enjoyed the amazing football. Many were disappointed that the government had spent so much on the tournament despite the poverty in the country. It didn't overshadow the tournament.
In this jumbo article, the longest ever wrote on TheSportMatrix, you'll find all the information from every match, news capsules, hyperlinks to more articles like match reports and commentary, collages, images, videos and much more. It's your perfect guide to relive the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Brazil put on a festival of the greatest football on Earth.
Opening ceremony
Thankfully, the actual football of the tournament did not correspond with the opening ceremony in São Paulo, which, in hindsight, was weird to say the least, leaving many eyebrows raising and heads scratching. Ticketing Scandal? »
Group stage
Marcelo's own goal just minutes into the opening game pushed his nation on the brink of disaster. One young man however, proved that he could hoist all of Brazil's high expectations upon his shoulders. The Barcelona forward's brace salvaged all hopes to see off Croatia. Report » Comment: Neymar's Rising Potential » Shocking Own Goal »
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| A dramatic start to an unforgettable tournament. ROMANIA-INSIDER.COM |
Netherlands sent shockwaves through the World following their dismantling of the World Champions in Salvador. Arjen Robben would blast past a double along with Robin van Persie's input that involved a delightful headed goal. The final result - Netherlands 5-1 Spain. Van Gaal's men sent out a colossal statement in a rematch from the 2010 final. Report » Analysis: Spain Won't Recover »
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| Four years makes the difference. GETTY IMAGES |
Colombia were off to a roll as they started their breakout campaign with a thrashing overe Greece. Bringing a new energetic presence and uplifting vibe, the South Americans were ready to shift the course of Colombian football and registered 3 points on the board. "Another South American Masterclass" »
Costa Rica then stunned Uruguay in a surprising 3-1 win for the Carribeans. Initially a goal down in Fortaleza after Edison Cavani's penalty, a wild second-half turnaround saw them post 3 points against the group favourites. Their dream would only just begin. Report »
Referred to as the "Rumble in the Jungle", there was plenty at stake as England battled Italy in Manaus. A positive start from Hodgson's men saw them come nail-bitingly close, only for Chilleini's goal to put the Italians up. Sturridge's equaliser was eventually outbid by Balotteli's winning header. Recap » Worst Corner Ever? »
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| Mario Balotelli made it an uphill battle for England to qualify out of their group GETTY IMAGES |
Switzerland then provided us with the first late-drama capsules of the Brazilian rollercoaster. Enner Valencia's goal was outdone by Mehmedi's second-half equaliser and a dramatic Seferović stoppage time winner to set Switzerland on the right course. More »
France proved they were strides ahead of their dismal 2010 performance by easily despatching Honduras. Benzema's double and a Valladares own goal put a new-look French side in the driver's seat of Group. Report » Adil Weighs In On "Next-Gen" France Side »
Lionel Messi lit up the Maracanã to put away World Cup debutants Bosnia-Herzegovina after France's victory. An own goal added to Messi's second-half sublimity putting Bosnia out of reach, although a late strike by Ibesivic gave a glimmer of hope to the Europeans. Report »
Germany demolished Portugal in a sunny Monday afternoon in Salvador. A superb hat-trick by Thomas Muller and header from Hummels delivered a massive dent to Ronaldo and his Portugal's side's World Cup chances. More » Hussain: "German Assault" »
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| Thomas Muller's hat-trick put the Germans off to a flyer GETTY IMAGES |
USA got vengeance on Ghana for the 2010 elimination and fuelled the coasting American football dream in the process. Clint Dempsey burst through Ghana for an early 1st minute goal, but Ayew cancelled it out in the 82nd minute. This would set up for John Brooks Jr. to score an unbelievable goal, of which he couldn't comprehend himself, and give the USA a fighting chance. Report »
Belgium provoked more questions than they answered when they scraped a victory from Algeria. Fegouhli's penalty put the North-Africans in control for the interval, but goals from substitutes Mertens and Fellaini turned the game around and salvaged Belgium. More »
Guillermo Ochoa's unstoppable goal-keeping performance allowed Mexico to wrestle a point off the hosts Brazil. It was a frustrating outing for Scolari's men who couldn't find a way through and halted them of securing an early qualification. Report: Superb Ochoa »
PHOTO: Neymar in tears while signing the Brazil national anthem. True, and pure passion for the game. #BRAvsMEX pic.twitter.com/5A8lYXrTcz
— TheSportMatrix (@_TheSportMatrix) June 17, 2014
A hot, humid evening in Cuiabá overlooked a 1-1 draw between South Korea and Russia. Alexander Kerzhakov cancelled out Keunho's earlier goal to obtain a point for the 2018 World Cup hosts. Recap » |
| Robben manages to thwart the Socceroos KRQE |
Australia fell short up against the Netherlands in an epic clash in Day 6 of the World Cup. Arjen Robben's breakthrough after 20 minutes was responded to instantly by Tim Cahill's outstanding volley. Mile Jedinak's penalty put Australia up after half-time, but goals from Robin van Persie and Memphis Depay within ten minutes put Van Gaal's side on course for the last sixteen. Match report »
Chile sent the World Champions packing with a graceful 2-0 win over Spain in the Maracanã. While many tipped the Spaniards to return to the Maracanã for the final when the tournament first began, Chile shattered dreams of a World Cup retain, as Vargas and Aránguiz inflicted the damage. Report »
Croatia then destroyed Cameroon with a masterclass 4-0 win. A double from Mandzukic, added to by Perisic and Olic, ensured the Croatians a chance at making it out of their group. More »
Colombia's roll continued in Day 7 as they saw off Ivory Coast in the heavyweight battle of the group. James Rodriguez was on the scoresheet again, and Quintero doubled the lead, to keep Ivory Coast at bay, despite Gervinho's goal just minutes after. More »
Luis Suarez pushed England to the brink of elimination as his double was enough to put Uruguay past the 3 Lions. Wayne Rooney's first World Cup goal ignited hopes as he equalised late in the second, but it was a false-dawn as Suarez smashed it past Hart for the winning goal. Report » Analysis: Suarez Thrives, Ballan d'Or? » Comment: England's Elimination A Forgone Conclusion? » Gerrard Reaction »
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| Luis Suarez dismisses critics and puts England pretty much out NY DAILY NEWS |
Costa Rica's dream run would continue in Day 9 as Bryan Ruiz captained his side into the lead on the stroke of half-time, and they kept it that way, to secure an unforeseen qualification to the Round of 16. Report » Khan Weighs In: Ruiz Staggers Italy, and World »
Salvador was once again host to a pulsating World Cup instalment. France ran riot over Switzerland to power ahead with five different goalscorers. Switzerland would score a late two goals to make the final margin, 5-2. More »
A double from Enner Valencia sparked Ecuadorian hopes as they overturned a deficit against Honduras in a battle of Americans. Match report »
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| Magical Messi. THE GUARDIAN |
Miroslav Klose tied the record for most World Cup goals in history to equalise against Ghana in an incredible game in Fortaleza. In a mind-boggling second half, Andre Ayew equalised to cancel out Götze's goal. Then, Asamoah Gyan fired Ghana into the lead. Klose salvaged a point with an equaliser minutes after. Truly phenomenal. Report & Breakdown » Perfect Way to Stop a Blunder »
Peter Odemwingie was all the difference and a pivotal factor for Nigeria as they sent Bosnia crashing out of the World Cup. Looking replenished and repackaged, the Africans playing style was much more attacking-orientated allowing them to set a platform for eventual last-sixteen qualification. Recap »
Yet again, the Belgians stumbled across some formidable resistance and just sidestepped over the line for three points. This time round, they took to Rio de Janeiro, and relied on substitute Divock Origi whose 88th minute goal allowed the Europeans to break away from Russia. Report »
Algeria put on an amazing show to lift the spirits of their whole continent, as they blasted past Korea in a lively Porto Alegre meeting. Korea's two goals was outmatched by a four-goal emphatic spell by the Algerians. Report »
Group D then provided us with another unforgettable 90 minutes of football. Portugal literally fought to the end against the USA, and it was with the last strike of the game, in the 95th minute, in where they clinched a point. After Nani opened the scoring five minutes in, Jermaine Jones' stunner and Clint Dempsey's goal allowed USA to take the lead. However, Portugal were far from done. In the dying moments of the game, Cristiano Ronaldo intricately picked out Varela for the equaliser. Portugal had a fighting chance of survival. Report »
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| US keeper Tim Howard in disarray after a 95th minute equaliser. LA TIMES |
At the same time, Netherlands were battling Chile for a chance to top the group in São Paulo. Leroy Fer scored late, before Memphis Depay scored even later, in stoppage time, to seal the win for Netherlands. Report »
Watching on the edge of their seats in the Brazilian capital where the hosts as they took to the National Stadium to clinch qualification in their final group. With the unlikely-although-daunting possibility of failure to qualify, Neymar got the hosts on the right foot with a 17th minute goal. However, Joel Matip stunned Brazil with an equaliser. Neymar again stepped up, Fred dismissed critics and Fernandinho scored his first World Cup goal to ensure Brazil topped their group. Report »
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| Brazil's dream remained fully intact. RANTSPORTS.COM |
England ended their World Cup campaign with a drowsy goalless draw with Costa Rica. With the Carribeans already qualified, there was little to play for, and a shifted England side with 9 changes registered one point for their World Cup efforts. Report » Khan: England Ahead of Themselves »
Meanwhile, Uruguay topped Italy in an ugly Natal battle, also featuring the single most controversial moment of the tournament. Diego Godin guided his side to victory with an 81st minute strike but in the late stages Luis Suarez got into trouble, as he appeared to bite Chilleini. Report » FIFA Bite Back » Suarez Banned »
Greece then stunned Ivory Coast to secure a shock qualification. Andreas Samaris put the Greeks in front before Wilfried Bony's goal put Ivory Coast within touching distance of qualification. However, a dramatic turn of events in stoppage time would leave the Africans in tears, as Georgios Samaras, with nerves of steel, calmly converted a crucial stoppage time penalty. Report »
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| Heartbreak: Ivory Coast so close, yet so far. GETTY IMAGES |
Lionel Messi once again took the strings for Argentina as they topped Nigeria in an extraordinary meeting in Porto Alegre. It took just three minutes for Messi to strike, but Ahmed Musa equalised a minute after. A stoppage time goal was then cancelled out before Marcos Rojo's goal made the difference. Lionel Messi scored an incredible free-kick in his brace. Report »
Bosnia were already out of the World Cup - but before they departed from South America they picked up a historic win over Iran. Edin Džeko, Miralem Pjanić and Avdija Vršajević ensured a collection of three points entailing a piece of history to beat Iran. Report »
Xherdan Shaqiri destroyed Honduras with a magnificent hat-trick in Manaus to see his nation through to the Round of 16. His impressive outing would be the 50th hat-trick in World Cup finals history, including a delightful curling goal from the edge of the box. The "Alpine Messi" would lead his side to face Argentina, and the real Lionel Messi in the next stage. Report »
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| Simply super, Shaqiri. LOCKERDOME |
Group G, featuring Germany, USA, Portugal and Ghana, was arguably the most entertaining and well-poised group of the tournament. All their last games were played on Thursday 26 June with the exciting prospect of qualification for any team.
In Recife, Thomas Muller guided the Germans past USA in a cagey 1-0 victory. Both teams would qualify for the next round. Report »
Ongoing in the Brazilian capital was another thrilling game, as Portugal closed out their World Cup campaign on a winning note. Ghana were spiralling out from some controversy around the time, with Sulley Muntari and Kevin Prince Boateng being fired from the Ghananian side on matchday for training-ground altercations. In addition, a demanded $3 million dollars in cash was flown out to the squad by the government. To add to the weird mix of things, John Boye sliced a cross into his own net to put Portugal ahead. However the Africans would be back in it late on with Gyan's goal, only for Cristiano Ronaldo to score the winner. It would mean little though, with both sides in tears following the game after elimination from the World Cup. Report »
Closing out a tremendous group phase would be Group H. Algeria made history as they qualified for the Round of 16 with a draw against Russia, coming from behind to steal a point. Islam Slimani's goal on the hour mark sparked celebrations across North Africa. Report »
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| Algeria made history to reach the round of 16. THE INDEPENDENT |
A staggering 136 goals were scored in the 48 games of the group stage, averaging 2.83 goals per game. Truly amazing football with the considerable dosage of shockers, late drama, golazos and the rest of the fundamental components that make up incredible football.
Luis Suarez's infamous moment of madness stole the headlines for the captivating controversy, though the goals and the magnificent football put on an amazing show.
Many pundits and analysts drew upon the developed and reinvigorated style of football. Much more attacking, much more open and much more entertaining - hence the 2014 group stage had 3 goals less than the entire 2010 World Cup.
We had the shockers with Netherlands making the biggest impact as they smashed Spain in Salvador. There were the shockers too. As far as goals go, it has to be Tim Cahill's emphatic volley that topped the first phase of the World Cup.
Round of 16
After a rest day in the World Cup on Friday 27 June which seemed like an eternity, the World Cup picked up from where it left off - on a flyer - as the knockout phase began.
A thrilling South American battle in Belo Horizonte saw Brazil emerge the victors in their most sweetest triumph of the tournament. Alexis Sánchez cancelled out David Luiz's header to poise the game on a knife edge that would eventually lead to penalties. Neymar was once again able to hoist his nation on his shoulders and keep nerves intact as he converted a crucial penalty. Chilean Gonzalo Jara hit the post with his kick and Brazil were through. Tears of triumph and dismay were pouring in an evident wasteland of contrasting emotions. Both South American sides had did themselves proud. Report »
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| An elated, emotional David Luiz celebrates Brazil's emotional win over Chile. GETTY IMAGES |
Netherlands left it extremely late to get the job done in Fortaleza against Mexico. A ferocious match in the Estádio Castelão made for the first official cooling breaks in the World Cup. Mexico were on course for a victory that would end their curse of consecutive last-sixteen eliminations when Giovani dos Santos struck from outside the box after halftime. However, Welsey Sneijder smashed Netherlands back into the game as he chased onto the end of a half-volley and left Ochoa a spectator. Then, in the 94th minute, Arjen Robben's blitzing run saw him escape into the box, until he was taken down. A penalty was awarded and Huntelaar converted to send Netherlands through. There was an out-pour of controversial backlash as Robben admitted to diving earlier in the game. Report »
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| Netherlands would roll on. USA TODAY |
Paul Pogba stepped up for France to finally push past a resilient effort from Nigeria. He opened the scoring in the 79th minute before Joseph Yobo scored a stoppage-time own goal. The Africans went crashing out while France continued to make huge new steps as they had just a little more than Nigeria on the day. Report »
Germany escaped Algerian heroics in extra-time to book a Quarter-Final date with France. Neither side was able to score in the 90 minutes of regulation, courtesy of an excellent performance in front of goal by Algeria''s Rais M'Bohli. On the other side of the pitch, Manuel Neuer played the role of rush goal-keeper as he sprawled out to deny Algerian breakthroughs. Two minutes into extra-time, André Schürrle finally got past Algeria before Mesut Özil crushed the North Africans as he smashed through following two courageous blocks. Algeria wouldn't give up though, as Abdelmoumene Djabou scored in stoppages of extra-time to spark belief for Algeria, although they fell short. Report »
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| Germany went to extra-time to finally outdo the Algerians. BLOG CDN |
In the final instalment to the Round of 16, Belgium brought the American dream to a halt as they finished off the USA in extra-time. Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku were finally able to get past a record-breaking performance by USA goalkeeper Tim Howard. An amazing volley from Julian Green in the second half of extra time reignited the potential belief before USA threatened with a late free-kick. Belgium held on, just, and the USA were grinded to a halt. Report »
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| Belgium crush the American dream. THE INDEPENDENT |
There were now some tantalizing quarter-final battles set. After a two-day break to recollect breaths from a breathtaking tournament.
Quarter finals
Germany prevailed over France in the Maracanã in a gritting European clash. Mats Hummels headed early and Joachim Löw's side held on to the slender lead to continue their run and send a mediocre performing French side home. Report »
A mouthwatering South American collision between Brazil and Colombia served as the platform for the hosts' quarter-final victory. Captain Thiago Silva guided in from an early corner before an astonishing free-kick from David Luiz to propel the country into a frenzy. James Rodriguez bowed out for Colombia's campaign with a late penalty but they couldn't find anything else to rescue a breakout World Cup run. It would be bittersweet though as the Brazilians were dealt a huge blow when Neymar was stretchered off. A knee to the back by Zuniga fractured a vertebra in his back ruling him out for the rest of the tournament - Brazil's posterboy was no more. Report »
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| The Brazilians console Colombian hero James Rodriguez after the game. GETTY IMAGES |
Van Gaal's bold move paid off for the Netherlands as they paved their way into a semi with Argentina after edging Costa Rica in a nail-biting penalty shootout. Wesley Sneijder struck the woodwork twice prior to the spot kicks while Keylor Navas' kept the Oranje out elsewhere. In extra-time, Netherlands' manager Louis Van Gaal subbed off Cilessen for keeper Tim Krul, in what was initially seen as a bizarre, unseen move. Tim Krul would save two crucial penalties, ultimately leading Netherlands through. Report »
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| Tim Krul embraces the post-penalty glory. SKY SPORTS |
Semi finals
One of the most shocking games in World Cup history took place in Belo Horizonte for the World Cup semi-final. Germany demolished Brazil in a devastating 7-1 win to barge their way into the final. A dejected Brazil were down 5-0 after half-an-hour, with the absences of Neymar and Thiago Silva leaving their mark. Thomas Muller volleyed in early, before Miroslav Klose broke the record with an easy tap-in to become the all-time leading World Cup goalscorer. Toni Kroos added a quick double then Khedira made it five. In the second half, André Schürrle scored a double. Oscar's late consolation gave Brazil little to clap about before the whole nation was reduced to dreadful tears. The most catastrophic 90 minutes in the history of Brazilian football. Report » Khan: Where Do Brazil Go From Here? » Comment: German Perfection » Brazil's Defining Moments »
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| Brazil crashed out in devastating fashion. SYDNEY HERALD |
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| Argentina were ecstatic after reaching the final. SKY SPORTS |
Two contrasting victories but the same destination - Argentina and Germany were headed to Rio de Janeiro for the World Cup final.
Third place playoff
Brazil suffered more humiliation, this time at the hands of the Netherlands in the capital of Brasilia as they finished fourth in the World Cup. The disaster started early, with Arjen Robben being awarded a penalty following a foul by returning captain Thiago Silva. Despite the controversy of the foul possibly ensuing outside of the box, Robin van Persie coolly converted the penalty. Daley Blind then smashed past the second around 15 minutes later. David Luiz weakly headed in his direction, allowing him to exploit plenty of space and time to sweetly strike into the top corner. An exhausted Brazil side hobbled towards stoppage time without showing any urgency or desire. Georginio Wijnaldum capped off the victory with a late third goal, turning in from a cross. Brasilia erupted in boos at the sounding of the final whistle, with a dark journey ahead for Brazil. Report »
The final
Germany were crowned World Champions for the fourth time in their illustrious history, after Mario Götze's stoppage-time strike thwarted Argentina in Rio de Janeiro. Momentum, magnified in the Maracana as they shut down Messi to triumph. Argentina missed huge chances including a Palacio chip and Higuain squandering. It would come down to the final minutes that defined a wonderful tournament. Report »
******
Simply astonishing - what a journey.
What a tournament it's been. We've had it all. Brazil has put on an unforgettable show to the World and celebrated an extraordinary festival of football.
It will never be forgotten. I am proud to be a part of TheSportMatrix's World Cup coverage, and as this extraordinary one ends, we look to the next.
Four years couldn't come by quicker.
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| Iconic. GETTY IMAGES |
