End of Group F: Fvckest

Forget about the previous two posts,
Because I've found the craziest of all.

End of Group F

MEX vs SWE | GER vs KOR

Because F stands for "Fvckest". Pics from here and here.

Let me refresh you on what has been going on in this group for the last two matchdays. Mexico beat the crap out of the champ on their first game, while Sweden won against Korea. On the second matchday, Mexico reigned again, now over Korea, and Germany saved their ass through a dramatic last minute amazing goal by Toni Kroos, against Sweden. Current situation for the group was, Mexico first with 6pts, both Sweden and Germany have 3pts, and Korea, despite the 0pts, they still had a chance, a liiittle chance.

So these last games would be colossal, I knew, and so I tuned in again with two screens, hoping the best for I didn't know who, because I didn't even know how to predict!

Mexico was on the safest place, though it didn't necessarily mean that they went easy on Sweden. First half saw them attacking like beasts to ruin the Swedish walls -not balls HA HA funny? and Ochoa kept saving from the opponents' offense. On the other game, Korea, surprisingly, played no mercy on Germany. The champ too, dying to proceed, played crazy well. It was really entertaining and nerve-wrecking on both sides, both games, but no goals were made on the first half until finally,

Second half came.

And again, all the drama started from there on out.

It was from Mexico vs Sweden. But it wasn't Mexico. On minute 50, some guy named Augustinsson made Sweden screamed in joy as he scored the first goal of the group. At first I felt that it was okay, because Mexico would proceed anyway if they lost, until I heard the commentator saying that this could be dangerous for the green guys. Wait, why...?

Now here's what I miscalculated from Mexico. Several posts ago I said that Mexico was through to the round of 16, just because they won twice on their previous two games. Well apparently it was wrong, because Sweden and Germany both had 3pts. If both won respective games, with a number of goals made more than Mexico, then adios Maxicanos!

The moment Mexico began losing their grip. Pic's from here.

This was the point I began to start mumbling "fvck" a lot. I didn't realize such crucial analytics. And both games suddenly became totally unbearable for my panicky eyes to behold. Every chance made on German side would mean Mexico on the verge of going home. And Germany DID, attempt a lot on the second half. They kept attacking, and attacking, but goalkeeper Jo Hyeonwoo was too brilliant for them -and he instantly became one of the most adored GKs in this World Cup! 

Super entertained by how the Korean GK performed. Pic's from here.

But nightmare happened for the Mexicans.

Minute 60, a penalty was given to Sweden, of a handball. And IT WAS CONVERTED by Granqvist. Things got worse in minute 74, because Mexico suffered from an own goal. And these, were the times I constantly "fvck" the screens even more. Not because I'm stressed, nor because I'm upset, since none of them were my teams. BUT SIMPLY BECAUSE I COULDN'T JUST BELIEVE THIS WAS HAPPENING! Ten minutes before I thought Mexico would continue whatever the results would be but SEE NOW THE GOALKEEPER SO MUCH ADORED 4 YEARS AGO KEPT PICKING THE BALLS FROM HIS GOAL AND HIS TEAM WAS JUST SO CLOSE TO BE KICKED OUT!?

I felt really freaking sorry for Ochoa... pic's from here.

Towards the end of the match, I could see all the supporters of Mexico lost their focus on the game because they tried to get updates on the other one. Because if Germany win, as I said, Mexico would fly back home. But if Korea could make it a tie -which is what those Mexicans WOULD REALLY DIE to happen, then auf Wiedersehen, Germany!

But Germany were so freaking on fire I SWEAR EVERY SHOOTS THEY RELEASED TO KOREAN GOAL MADE ME SHIT MYSELF! They were unstoppable all the way until the freaking LAST MINUTES,

And it finally happened. A goal.

ON FREAKING MINUTE 90+3

From Korea.

FUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCCCCCCCCCCCKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK I SWEAR THIS WAS THE POINT WHERE MY FUCKS AND FUCKERS, BECAME FUCKEST! LIKE, SERIOUSLY? AFTER ALL THOSE ATTACKS, IT WAS KOREA WHO WERE FINALLY ABLE TO SCORE A GOAL? AGAINST THAT MANUEL NEUER?? ON A FREAKING STOPPAGE TIME!?!?!? I snapped. I flipped. My emotions were mixed, I wasn't even sure what to feel!?

But wait.

It was an offside.

BUT WAIT, again. Because of course Korea wanted the referee to review it first with the VAR. So there went the referee to the screen, contemplated, and after a minute or two returned to the pitch and showed the gesture that

It wasn't an offside.

FUUUUUUUUUCCCCKKKKKKKK HOW COULD THIS DRAMA FEEL LIKE IT'S NEVER-ENDING!?!? I felt like I was running out of air. And those Koreans were head over heels. It looked like they just secured a spot in the semi-final round. Yes, they were THAT HAPPY, and if I were a Korean, though it didn't make any difference and after today I'd go back home anyway, I WOULD FOR THE WORLD FEEL THE SAME!

It was so difficult for Germany to get that second spot, because now they had to score two goals to replace either Mexico or Sweden. But nothing is impossible, I told myself -and I'm sure that's how the Germans told themselves. If Korea could snatch the odds, by scoring one goal against Manuel Neuer, why couldn't Germany, the champion of the world, made a comeback by scoring two before the final whistle blow?

By the time I created the scenario,

I swear I didn't make this up,

Miracle happened.

But for Korea.

BECAUSE THEY SCORED ANOTHER GOAL THROUGH HEUNGMIN SON! This time it was partly Neuer's blunder. He freaking went far to Korea's goal, and when the ball was snatched by and passed far to German's side, well, there you go. Korea's second goal, that effectively sent Germany even more fixed, back to their home.

Look at all these mixtures of emotions... I couldn't even describe mine...
Anyways, all pics belong to Zimbio okay, I'm tired to put it one by one.

This was probably the most entertaining double-games I ever watched. Sweden and Korea, both were underdogs, could win over Mexico and Germany, who are both giants? And the effect of the matches were fantastically weird too, as Mexico proceeded anyway despite the big loss, while Koreans went home super satisfied and proud despite kicked out of the tournament.

And oh! Talking about effects, and these two teams, Mexicans all over the world were in so much grateful of Koreans because as you knew, thanks to them, Mexico could proceed to the next round. The best thing happened just outside the Korean Embassy in Mexico. The fans were praising the Korean staff like a royalty! HAHA SO FREAKING FUNNY, AND IT HAPPENED ALL OVER THE WORLD! You might not want to miss this video.

And oh, wait! I found another one I'd really like to share. This is a minute-by-minute video of Mexican fans reaction over their games, and Korea vs Germany games.

LOL I'VE NEVER SEEN A BUNCH OF FANS LOOKING SO HAPPY OVER SOME OTHER TEAM'S GOALS! Those reactions are gems! And this is what World Cup should be all about, eh? Love for your nation, and love between nations!

PHEW, WHAT A NIGHT!

I don't think I have anything else to talk about. I've spilled everything up there, and now I'm emotionally drained. Because dude, I've transformed from a simple "fvck", to "fvcker", and ultimately, after all those crazy dramas over both matches, I became the "fvckest".

I'm done for now.

Anything happen after this,

I'm sure it won't be as crazy.

Because should I say it again?

This one is the fvckest!

End of Group D: Fvcker

No, I didn't mean a person who does a certain verb.
It's a word I used a lot on the previous set of games,
In a comparative form, because God, it was such a crazy

End of Group D

NGA vs ARG | ISL vs CRO

Pic's from here and here.

Unlike Group B, which both spots for first and runner-up were still questionable and the top three teams were still on the run to make it to the knockout stage, this group, already saw one winner: Croatia. Meanwhile Nigeria whose points were 3, and Argentina as well as Iceland whose points were both 1, still had to fight their asses off for the remaining seat. And that's what made this one tempting. Again, and obviously, I watched both matches on two screens.

Looking at the situation, Nigeria would go through and I was confident about it. Their points were higher. They only needed a draw, and it was against Argentina whom got tied on their first match -against Iceland, for God's sake- and lost on their second. It shouldn't be a difficult task, but just when I tried to sit back and relax, Messi scored his FIRST goal in this World Cup. Oh, finally. What took him so long, I wondered? Waiting for the team to be on the edge first then he could finally showed up? The Latin Americans got really fired up from then onwards, because all of a sudden, their future seemed much brighter. Croatia, on the other hand, didn't seem to go easy on Iceland although any result wouldn't matter to them. But Iceland, crazily, played like a hungry yeti. The first half was all about them, and how fierce they were against Croatia. Sadly, no goals were made.

Then entered second half.

On minute 49, Nigeria was awarded a penalty and Moses CONVERTED IT TO A GOAL! YEAH!! They were once more back as the runner up! And once again, everything looked so much clear for Group D because on minute 52 Croatia scored against Iceland, making them the group's absolute leader. Iceland keeps attacking, and attacking though -their headers were killer! and that's what made me restless throughout the rest of the games! Until I could finally rest.

That hopeful moment for Nigeria. Pic's from here.

Iceland got rewarded a penalty on minute 75 of a handball, and just like Nigeria, the underdog CONVERTED IT TOO THROUGH GYLFI! OMG ANYTHING REALLY COULD HAPPEN! It was a really nice comeback for the match, and also for Gylfi remembering that he missed the penalty given when against Nigeria! Both games now saw a draw, and if Iceland could make just one more goal, my newest favorite team would proceed alongside Croatia!

While this, is the hopeful moment for Iceland. Pic's from here.

But dream was just a dream. Entering the last 4 minutes of the match, LAST 4 MINUTES FOR GOD'S SAKE, WHY ALL THE MAJOR TURNING POINT HAPPENED IN THE LAST MINUTES!? the desperate Argentina climbed their ass back up there thanks to a dramatic goal from Marcos Rojo. And everyone flipped. The commentators, the spectators, the substitutes poured into the field like a leak in your shower to the floor. I'm not a big fan of Argentina, and heck I hate Messi remember? But seeing this fantastic goal, bringing back the hopes for the team, and those emotions too, well, I'm a human, and it hit me right in my tiny soft heart.

But all are ruined by the hopeful goal from Rojo. Pic's from here.

As I said, Iceland too, still had the chance to proceed if they could make one more goal against Croatia and earned the crucial 3 points. But then it wasn't them. It was Croatia instead, through a freaking MINUTE 90 GOAL -see!? What the hell is happening between the players and last minute deals!?- made by Perisic.

Wow.

I know, the drama isn't as crazy as Group B. But still, I think it was more mindblowing because, remember how it started? Nigeria was statistically higher, and it should be easy to handle a team who had so far been so unstable. And Argentina, who had been humiliated by taken a draw pill against underdog Iceland, and stripped-naked in a big loss against Croatia, could make it to the next round.

No one can guess what would happen.

No one. And that's why, all these were a

Fvcker

End of Group B: Fvck

Sorry.

I just don't know what other word to say.
Because that's what I kept saying during the games.

End of Group B

POR vs IRN | ESP vs MOR

Pic's from here and here.

You know when it's the last match day of a group stage, both games between four contenders are aired at the same time. It's meant to keep all teams from losing their will to fight, but to me, it means the drama gets doubled. And of course to feel that, I have to watch both. So enter the week where I turn on two screens at a time. Yes, I'm that freaky.

So, Group B. It's been a hell of a journey for all of them, eh? Two giants, one Asian star, and one underdog whom apparently powerful despite having no luck in winning the first two matches. The last match day of this group saw an opportunity still opened for both the European giants, and Iran. And that's why this ending would become really dramatic.

And it was a real SPOT-ON decision.
Despite the twice-more screening-hassle.

Honestly, I wanted Iran to proceed. Be it with Portugal or Spain, I don't care. I hate both so it's no use to pick who I'd like to fail anyway. And my fellow Asians did play good, too! They got robbed first by the end of first half -I’m so mad but it was a good goal by Quaresma so... yea- but that’s all! Overall they did good defense that Portugal made no other goal, good attack too that Portugal found it difficult to finish as the winner.

Then the craziest thing happened at the second half. Ronaldo, as usual, pulled his “OMG I’m fouled” trick -this is what I really hate from him. He is a good player, really, but I just can’t stand his drama. Between him and Messi, whom I hate too by the way, I prefer the latter because he’s damn clean! The referee decided to review it on VAR, and congrats Portugal, it was a penalty. Of course Ronaldo took the chance. He hit the ball, and... NO GOAL OMG FUCK I SCREAMED SO LOUD REALIZING THAT THE BITCH’S DIRTY GAME FAILED ALLAH KNEW BETTER WHO TO HELP! An Iranian GK, named Ali Beiranvand, whom apparently a runaway kid from Tehran, blocked a freaking PENALTY KICK FROM THAT RENOWNED CRISTIANO RONALDO! Swallow your pride, star, you’re a Messi—you remember the opening match of Argentina against Iceland right??? It felt the same, ONLY MILLION TIMES BETTER BECAUSE THE STAKES WERE HIGHER! Phew, okay let’s move on... to the other match.

The phenomenal block! I swear I never screamed so loud before. Pic's from here.

Morocco, surprisingly, played freaking awesome too. Well, not surprisingly, because it was quiet obvious from the beginning. They were only unfortunate by conceding an OG when against Iran, and lost against Portugal -which score was only 1-0 anyway, so it was still really good! Facing Spain, they were like beasts, and they scored the first goal! And guess what made this feel even better? Because it happened thanks to Ramos’ error. It was the first, it was nicely executed, and it was taken from Ramos feet and scored in front of his face! SUCK IT YOU FOOL!

The moment I believed Ramos began to get the karma he deserved. Pic's from here.

It wasn’t long until Spain made a comeback. Moroccan meddled defense was taken advantage by Isco, and there’s the goal for Spain. HOWEVER, Morocco made another comeback! Oh God, why did they just show their power when they were already unqualified??? After a series of attacks, they scored one more goal through En-Nesyri’s header and BOOM, gone are Spain’s hopes.

But you know I wouldn’t highlight these matches if it just ended like that right?

With this situation, Portugal and Spain would go through because they originally just needed a draw. But entering stoppage time, Iran were rewarded a penalty due to Portugal’s handball. Fuck. I didn’t see this coming man, IT WAS STOPPAGE TIME FOR GOD’S SAKE! Some guy named Karim Ansarivard took the chance, looking so nervous, AND I WAS TOO OH GOD THEY’RE MY FELLOW ASIANS AND MUSLIMS! It was really a knee-shaking experience, because the odds were obviously against Iran but PRAISE ALLAH ALMIGHTY THE PENALTY WAS CONVERTED! Iran was now the group’s runner up, sharing the same points with Spain but less conceded goals!

An unexpected comeback from Iran. I swear I never once felt so enjoyed
watching a match full of penalties before. Pic's from here.

HOWEVER.

As Iran were preparing for the penalty, Spain -I don’t know what kind of a lucky charm had Ramos been using for the team- made another goal through Iago Aspas... HOWEVER, as the Spaniards were celebrating, the linesman was apparently raising his flag—yes, baby, IT WAS A FREAKING OFFIDE! Oh my God I swear my heart just popped out of my ass and now it’s back. Iran just scored their penalty I couldn’t imagine unimagining them on the next—HOWEVER!!! YES ITS STILL ON NOW YOU UNDERSTAND WHY I FIND THESE GAMES CRAZY RIGHT?! Spain couldn’t just accept it they convinced the referee to review the VAR and so he did, and... oh God I swear it was only two seconds but it felt forever.

The goal was given.

And that’s how I lost my faith in rooting too much for a team. Within seconds, Iran’s chance was gone... Oh, Allah. Seriously, why? They would proceed if Spain's goal remained declined. Their successful penalty and the decision of Spain's goal happening on the very same time, just because both relying on VAR, IT WAS CRAZY TREMBLING! But frankly, it really was entertaining. Not a fan of the result, especially looking at those Iranian players in tears oh God sometimes I hate watching football because of this... but again, it's the match that matters. The whole games were unbelievably unexpected!

And this was just the second group.
There are other big teams on other groups,
Waiting to show some fvcking good dramas.

FVCK, I CANT WAIT!

Tickets to Fight For

So, Matchday Two just ended.

We saw some teams actually made it through the next round: Russia, Uruguay from Group A, France from Group C, Croatia from Group D, Mexico from F and England along with Belgium from G.

And that’s all.

I know. Shocking, right?

So where are the other big teams?

Well that’s the beauty of World Cup. Especially THIS World Cup, because so far, YOU SIMPLY CANNOT GUESS WHAT WOULD BE HAPPENING?! We expected Germany, Argentina, Portugal, Spain, and some other names shining on 2014 to at least secure 6pts at this point of competition. What really happens is, the big fights are still resuming on at least 5 groups, in which mostly have those big names in it.

Let’s start with Group B, where Spain and Portugal, both with 4pts, need to beat Morocco and Iran respectively on the next matchday. Morocco is definitely out of the cup, along with Group A’s Saudi Arabia and -fuck you, Ramos- Egypt. Iran, surprisingly, are still in the running for the Round of 16 with 3pts. A win against Portugal, or at least a draw with a note that Spain lose the game, will send Iran to the next round. Odd chance, but one cannot predict.

Argentina on Group D, shockingly, are on bottom two with only 1pt. They will have to fight with Nigeria, who possess 3pts, as both has the same big chance to go through. However, newcomer Iceland, also 1pt, are still in the running too—because if Nigeria lose, and Iceland score big against Croatia, the tiny nation will end up in the group’s second place.

In Group E, Brazil may be on top, but they haven’t secured their spot in the next round with only 4pts. They will battle Serbia, whose 3pts still can make them proceed. Other contender is Switzerland, who are also having 4pts. They need to win over Costa Rica and whatever the result is on the other match, they’ll go anyway.

Now Group F. This is my favorite odd. Both Germany and Sweden have 3pts. They only need to at least have a draw (with the note that the other lose the match), to go on. BUT. South Korea, eventhough they have NO POINTS, still have a chance too, IF, they win super big against Germany, AND, Sweden lose against Mexico with lots of goals conceded. Tough one for Korea, but it is an actual opportunity that many don’t realize.

Last but DEFINITELY not the least, Group H. Oh my favorite group. No so-big-team here, but they’re all equally strong, open, and entertaining! Either Japan (4pts), Senegal (4pts), and Colombia (3pts) still really can make it through, so both matches will be like a battlefield for all four teams. Yea, four, because Poland, despite already kicked out, will of course do whatever they can to save their faces from going home humiliated.

For God’s sake, this is only the Group Stage. It’s not even finished but IT IS SO FREAKING MINDBLOWING!!!

OH MY GOD WHY IS WORLD CUP ONLY HAPPENING ONCE IN FOUR YEARS???

OH I KNOW—BECAUSE IF IT HAPPENS EVERY YEAR, MY BLOG WILL BE ALL SHITTED BY MY POOR FOOTBALL TRASH TALKING!

Alright, chill.

Let’s enjoy the cup!

Here come the last matches

Of the Group Stage!

Match Thirty One: Who's Bigger Now?

You know when you're not the best team,

You tend to play more relaxed, loose, and easy.

Serious, of course, but not much under-pressure.

That's what I felt for

Japan vs Senegal

Group H, again

Pic's from here.

Probably one of the most entertaining matches yet.

I told you, this group is apparently more appealing than others. The bigger ones were to Colombia and Poland, though they're not as big as Brazil nor France. The smaller ones of the group, Japan and Senegal, whom at first may not be the preferred spotlights, turned out to be crazy fantastic. On each of their first games, they were remarkable enough to each kick the "bigger" teams' asses 2-1. Now with such confident, they're scheduled to meet each other,

And it was a kickass match!

Senegal scored first, through Mane. It wasn't of a quality goal, but it was Mane -YNWA!- so I kinda enjoyed it. Japan then made a counterattack through Takashi Inui, and this time it was a quiet beautiful goal. It was a 1-1 tie now, and gotta say, I felt satisfied already if the match were to end that way. But I might not want to post about them if it actually ended there.

The game got crazier from there onward. Japan, especially, through stars Inui and Osako, attacked like they were not Asians -I'm so proud of their performances!!! But that doesn't mean that Senegal just stood still. 19-year old Wague made it 2-1 and brought the team up in the air for a while. Yes, for a while, because only 8 mins later, the newly-in Keisuke Honda made it back to a tie, scoring his 4th World Cup goal, which completed his record of always scoring in each World Cup he entered -twice in 2010, once in both 2014 and 2018, making himself the World Cup Asian top scorer.

It really was an enjoyable match. Both were strong and aggressive, neither played dirty, and the supporters! There was this viral video showing two Japanese and Senegalese supporters were singing together in joy after the match, so friendly and merry, and guess what they were singing! Once Piece theme!!! Lol wait let me check... ah, here it is!

FREAKING HEARTWARMING!

The two of them once again left the pitch unbeaten, and they deserve it. Next on the last matchday of the group, they'll each once again meet the so-called bigger teams.

And maybe it's THE time to show,

Who the bigger ones are

Match Twenty Four: The Last Man Standing

Have you ever watched a movie, a survival/apocalypse-type one,

Where there's this protagonist so possible to make it to the end,

Because he's the strongest, and most dependable of the group,

Yet has to die of sacrificing himself?

Yes that's what I exactly saw,

When I watched this match

Brazil vs Keylor Navas

Group E

Seen inside the picture, one of the best player in the world, and oh
that's Neymar the crybaby on the right. Pic's from here.

I'm not exaggerating. It's literally the whole squad of one-of-world's-best football team, against Costa Rican goalkeeper Keylor Navas. If you ask me how many saves and punches and tackles and other forms of goalkeeping that he did, I can't answer because it was literally that many. Brazil was on their ultimate attack mode and they really did countless of shots and sieges. But those attempts turned up to be mere shit because Keylor Navas, one of the best goalkeeper I saw with my very own eyes rising in Brazil 2014, flushed those Brazilian poos away.

It's not until minute 90+1 -yes, it was entering stoppage time already- when Navas finally started losing his grip, and Brazil broke the crazy goalkeeper's walls through Philippe Coutinho. Then Neymar -ewh- showed his capability by adding to Brazil's victory on minute 90+7 -really unfair to me, honestly, because it was past the stoppage time. But then again, it's only nature for Brazil to score both goals because Neymar is a human. He has his limit.

Anyway, it's a fortunate comeback from Neymar to save his own ass from embarrassment, given the fact that he hadn't made any goal while Coutinho had scored twice. Plus, as ever, Neymar had been a complete asshole throughout the game with all his stupid acts, exaggerating non-sense injury, imbecile complains, and on top of all, an ultimate super-obvious diving that almost rewarded Brazil an unfair penalty. The stupid referee had actually decided it was a penalty, but thanks to VAR -in which Costa Rican players need to convince him so hard to check on the screen, it was cancelled and ALL THE SHAME WAS ON YOU, YOU FUCKING DRAMA QUEEN BRAZILIAN TRASH BIN!

But okay, I'm not here to talk about that brat Neymar.

Let that bitch be, he got all the embarrassment he deserved.

This post is dedicated to Keylor Navas.

Obviously the man of the match, to everybody who really watched the game. FIFA decided it was Coutinho who got the title but screw that shit. It's close to rare that goalkeepers got the title although they defend their goal much better than the whole squad try to score goals.

If only, IF ONLY, Costa Rica did more offense, try to rely on attacking, buying time for their goalkeeper to take his time and breathe, and actually score goals rather than defending and counting on Navas, or, IF ONLY, Navas' stamina is unlimited, well, I don't see why Costa Rica can win or at least make it a draw. I didn't think Brazil is on their best shape because, hello, it took them almost the whole match to finally score goals, remember?

Ahh well, Navas...

You may be the last man to be considered hero,

But you were definitely the first one in my mind

For the title "Best Player"

Match Twenty Three: Bloodbath

After one failed to impress on the first match,
And the other one was the only winner of the group,
Plus, both teams are actually considered big ones,
Everyone was looking forward to their meeting.

Argentina vs Croatia

Group D

Pic's from here.

You know how Argentina was embarrassingly got tied by newcomer Iceland on their opening match. It was really a shock. Jorge Sampaoli would of course play mercilessly against their next opponent Croatia on the group's second matchday, especially knowing that the latter won their first match against Nigeria--giving them a one-step-further chance to get into the next round.

So indeed, it was a tight-ass match. At first. The earlier half was too stiff it was almost boring -you know, some 'stiff' match sometimes could be a fun one too, when both teams are attacking like hungry beasts, but not this one. So let's skip to the second half, where all the crazy shit happened.

And by 'crazy', I really meant it.

Because when you thought that the team you thought would dominate the game, you thought it wrong.

Yes, it was Croatia who owned the game. Not just owned, they scored goals, didn't concede any, and eventually won what I considered the best game yet so far. And Argentina, were once again strip-naked. Only this time, it was much worse.

The Argentinian nightmare began when Caballero made a very, VERY deadly blunder by passing the ball casually despite Croatia's presence around. He did it once on the first half, but it was still manageable. He did it again on the second half, and you know luck seldom comes twice: Ante Rebić took benefit of the goalkeeper's weak pass, really beautifully, and there you go. The first goal, that led Argentina to the verge of the abyss.

They didn't just stand by and gave in though, and they kept attacking. But it was a mess. There were no great assisting, no pattern, there even seemed to be no strategy. So came their second hit of the night. This time it was by the team's star Luka Modrić. A stunning, skillful kick done outside the penalty area, flying smoothly far the reach of the disappointed Caballero's left hand, to land on the goal. Undoubtedly one of the best goal I've seen so far in the tournament, and one of the heartbreaking moment in football history. Especially for Argentina.

And I swear that was the point where I saw Argentina started losing hope. They didn't seem to bother when Mateo Kovacic and Ivan Rakitić came by to meddle with their defense No fight, no battle, many Argentinian players were there -even Messi too!- but it looked like they were just watching the Croatian guys to dribble the ball, easily strike through and BAM, third goal happened. Sending Sampaoli inside the locker room right away in anger after the final whistle blew, without even shaking hands with Croatia's coach.

CRAZY MATCH! Crazy entertaining second half to be exact -it finished at 3AM my time, but I could finally sleep at 4-ish because I was so excited to read all the tweets and highlights of what I just  technically saw! and maybe the most nerve-wrecking half so far because, HOW COULD IT BE SO DRASTICALLY CHANGING!? Hats off to Croatia, and I must say I'm sad for Argentina too... the heartbroken spectators, the pissed off coach, the speechless Aguero... this is what I actually can't have from a competition...

If one expected Argentina to lose, I bet he wouldn't dare thinking a mind-blowing 3-0. And Messi was there, Aguero was there, Higuain was there too to substitute Aguero, but it was useless. I think they were so burdened by the shame they felt against Iceland that they put too much pressure on themselves.

Especially Messi, of course. I can tell how he's so depressed. It can be clearly seen by how he lost all his focus, frowned all match long, and seen giving a massage to his head during their national anthem! As much as I hate him, it's such a waste to see him go without even see him once doing something we all know Messi would do.

Not the way I wanted him to fail... pic's from here though.

Crazy match, for f's sake.

Who would've thought that
It's Croatia who'd be bathing in
Argentina's bleeding?

Mohamed Salah

I know.

I may not be the biggest fan.

I may not be the most loyal one either.

I may not always be in front of the screen to watch each and every single of his games, but, I've seen him since his very first day. I've followed his amazing growth with the team. I've been in the ups and downs of the club with him in it until finally, I realized I've grown love towards him.

Mohamed Salah

Pic's from here.

It's been a joy to have him in Liverpool. The team made some progress with the arrival of Klopp, but he completed everything. And God he was not only shining within the club, but throughout the league, the nation, the continent, the world, he stole everybody's attention! Scoring 32 goals alone in Premier League, effectively made himself to be the cup's top scorer, then winning awards after awards all in just one year after joining Liverpool, and not to mention his sun-bright achievements at international level for Egypt, well this paragraph summarizes why we love you, Mo!

And let's not forget that he is a Muslim. That alone makes me feel like we have additional bond, beyond just our Liverpool roles -he's the player, I'm the watcher, haha. I've always had respect to famous Muslim footballers, which usually got disappointed because not a few of them began to lose their Muslim identity thanks to the fame they got. But I don't think he'd do that, because unlike them who are mostly from the land of Europe, he's from the Arab world, and I'm sure he'll fight for his belief as he fights for his team. A true champion indeed.

And oh, speaking of champion, it makes me remembered something—wait, "something"? It's not just "something". It's actually the core reason why I'm writing this post for him, so why did I miss this!? Ah well okay let's get into it:

The Champions League.

Something Liverpool has been so in an extreme ups and downs for the recent years. But his arrival made it seem possible, and brought fresh air to the whole club. What he did in England, he did it in Europe. Second best goalscorer only one spot below Cristiano Ronaldo, that's NOT BAD at all! And I saw every—well, no, MOST of his games! Up til' the one against Porto, against City, against Roma...

For the last 8 years of being an on and off fan of Liverpool, I don't remember myself feeling so much hopeful and confident as I was on last year's Champions League. We made it to final, with him on squad, and battling title holder Real Madrid didn't seem really frightening at all.

I was so sure that it'd be the time I had been waiting for since I picked Liverpool as the club I'd love to cheer on. Those 10 goals he made in the league will be paid off, topped with sweet victory over the Spaniard giant, completed his brightness in England. Then with the World Cup just around the corner, his performance will be really anticipated, and extremely adored.

Such a scenario only to be seen in a dream ya?
Well it could've really been a dream come true,

If Sergio Ramos weren't ever born.

Or if he wasn't played during that devastating Champions League final between Liverpool and Real Madrid. That low key bastard. I swear I never had a grudge so big towards somebody I don't personally know before. But this man deserves all the hatred from everybody. It's not a secret that the guy plays dirty all the time, but to do it to Salah, while he's on his prime career, the asshole picked just not the right time to be an asshole he usually is. Pathetic loser. I'm running out of ideas I don't know any other cunt-like names to refer him to, because I think I've used everything.

The moment it was all starting to crumble. Pic's from here.

The foul Ramos made on that match, that caused Salah's dislocated shoulder, it ruined it all. The dream Salah's been building for the last one year for Liverpool. The hope Liverpudlians have been slowly growing for this whole season. The ultimate wish to finally reach the highest podium on Europe by regaining the title we hadn't won for 13 years, yea it was all ruined by that one filthy move. But let's not be selfish. Some millions other people suffer greater loss from Salah's injury.

Yes, the Egyptians.

With Salah, they progressed beyond belief internationally. Earning a spot at World Cup 2018 marked their 3rd entrance to the tournament, while breaking their 28 years curse after their last appearance. I can't imagine how ecstatic the whole nation were, because even I was so excited when I found out that Egypt, a team I never seen in my life fighting in a World Cup, would grace the tournament with their superstar Mo Salah, a player we all adore.

But with Sergio Ramos, the dream was swept away in just a matter of minutes. Salah's injury remained serious, despite all the positive air published in media. He missed Egypt's opening game against Uruguay, a match where Salah was supposed to be starring with pride on his first ever World Cup campaign. They eventually lost, though it wasn't a big loss, but still, I couldn't imagine how it was like being an Egyptian...

Salah was finally included in the lineup against hosts Russia for their Group A Matchday Two. I swear the whole world was so psyched seeing him about to play again, as he was the sole headline and main topic of any media and any commentator. However, it's pretty clear that he was still suffering. The injury was real, and it was obvious to see it from how he played.

It was a nightmare to see the match. To see Egypt raided by Russia, whose supporters make them three times stronger, was not a nice thing to watch. To see Salah, who usually played like a hungry beast, was so spineless and fragile, was like seeing a helpless little kitten in the middle of a raging thunderstorm. And to see the Egyptian supporters, whom two months ago was still hopeful to go far in this World Cup, seeing their national dream crumbling before their own eyes, I swear Ramos,

I never had a grudge so big towards somebody I don't personally know before, never but YOU.

It was really heartbreaking.
For me, for us Liverpudlian,
For those hopeful Egyptians...

I REALLY WANNA HUG HIM AND LET HIM KNOW THAT HE STILL
GOT US SUPPORTING HIM!!! Pic's from here.

Oh, Egypt :(

Liverpool can still repeat their glory immediately next season, after this World Cup nightmare ends. But you guys, only God know when you can get to feel this blessing again. Well Salah's still 25, and he's got a promising future before him, and let's not be pessimistic about other potentials we may discover in upcoming years, given the fact that Salah must have really inspired so many talented Egyptian youngsters. But it's just so unfortunate that this big once-in-a-lifetime opportunity has to be gone so quickly, because a fucking ignorant bitch sabotaged your national hero.

His tears that night in Kiev wasn't only his. It was all ours too. Really heartbreaking, really dream-shattering. He really didn't deserve all these, but I think it's obvious as it happens everywhere... good people has lots of haters waiting to destroy them.

But as we all know from what our religion taught us,
Allah never gives obstacle beyond His creature's capabilities.

So dream on, Egypt.
And dream on, our hero,
Mohamed Salah

End of Matchday One: Rise of the Underdogs

So all 32 teams had played.

So far quiet entertaining, as some of the big teams struggled to prove that they really ARE the big teams -some struggled because they didn't want to lose face, and some smaller ones start to show that they worth the spot in the tournament.

Some smaller ones.

These are what I've been waiting for.

And reaching the end of matchday one,

They appeared in three, consecutive matches.

Colombia vs Japan

Group H

Pic's from here.

Everybody remembers how Colombia blasted to be one of the sweet surprises in Brazil, and James Rodriguez earned the spotlight that earned him the fame he has now. The only one that stopped their moves were the host, which defeated them at Quarter Final round. It's only nature to predict them winning this game against Japan, a World Cup regulars, actually, but somewhat taken for granted.

Apparently, the strategy to start the opening game by keeping Rodriguez benched instead of including him on the starting IX brought karma to Colombia. Only 3 minutes after the kick-off, defender Carlos Sanchez was red-carded for touching the ball, and Japan was rewarded a successful penalty. Colombia could score one before half time, but Japan showed their real self by dominating the second half, kept pushing Arsenal's David Ospina until he gave in to Yuya Osako's header that led to Japan's winning goal. The offensive approach then suddenly switched to fabulous defensive mechanism, where Japan several times successfully blocked Colombia's attack frenzy -one of the remarkable saves was surprisingly committed by Osako!

This quickly became one big, important victory not only for Japan, but for us Asians, because it was the very first Asian victory over a South American team, that happened in 70 years!

Poland vs Senegal

Group H 

Pic's from here.

Yep, who would've thought that this group is apparently a death one too?

Now. Poland may not be the biggest team. But they had Lewandoski, and Pizczek, and many other quiet notable players while Senegal, aside of Mane, I don't think many know much of them. HOWEVER, one shouldn't underestimate the energy of Senegal. They depicted warriors from epic movies. Physically amazing, and their speed... I'm not sure which word to use here. Their goals weren't the best though, one was an OG from Thiago Cionek, and their second goal by Mbaye Niang was of Polish defenders' errors -moreover, Poland's counter header-goal by Grzegorz Krichowiak showed more quality to me than all Senegale's goals- but all and all, those are the rewards for Senegal from being such strong and effective team.

While their fellow continental nations struggled really hard in Russia, they won over Poland, recording the first African win at 2018 World Cup. I can't tell how happy I am for Mane. Yet on the same time I had to feel broken too, because the same joyous moment didn't come to his Liverpool teammate.

Russia vs Egypt

Group A

Pic's from here.

I marked this as the worst of World Cup Russia 2018 so far. For Egyptians, for Liverpudlians, for Mohamed Salah. I'm planning to talk about him on a separate post, because he deserves it, so let's just go with the outer layer and how the host broke free to be one of this World Cup's rising stars.

It's been a smooth journey for them so far. They took benefit of their home supports really well, that they converted it to such incredible power. A 5-0 win over Saudi Arabia clearly proved it all. Then they won 3-1 against Egypt. It wasn't all their power though -since their first goal was of Egypt's own mistake, that eventually ruined their pace and led them to defeat, and both of their opponents were actually not ones considered big teams but, it was enough for them to lift their own confidence in facing Uruguay on Group A's Matchday Three.

The game between Russia and Egypt marked the start of Matchday Two. Lots of other big matches are waiting to be played, and I'm so eager to see each one of them!

And by "them", of course,

I meant the underdogs

Match Ten: King Down

Another big match I kinda waited.
Because it's between the reigning champ,
And one of the rising stars from Brazil 2014.

Germany vs Mexico

Group F

Pic's from here.

I have no particular interest in either team. Well, I tend to be more on Mexico's side though, because, again, back in 2014, they showed that they were a team worth considered about. While Germany, duh, they're the champion from the last World Cup. It's obvious that they're technically above Mexico, so why bother having one more support from an insignificant Indonesian guy? Haha.

But the goalkeepers from both teams are the main reasons why I was looking forward to this game.  Remember how the quality of goalkeepers were surprisingly amazing and entertaining four years ago? Yes, Manuel Neuer and Guillermo Ochoa were among them and they were actually the first that came to my mind when I discovered that Germany will be facing Mexico on the opening match of Group F.

And I was right. Of course, I was right. Strikers from both teams attacked like wild dogs, that both Neuer and Ochoa were pushed like crazy to their edges. But unfortunate to my big brother -Neuer, because we ridiculously share the same birthday, he got robbed while Mexico was counter-attacking and Hirving Lozano assisted by Chicharito claimed the only goal that sent Mexico winning. Germany tried to get back, but Ochoa being Ochoa, showing that he still got what he had from Brazil, the attempt led to nothing.

Two reasons why I was looking forward to this match. Pic's from here.

Though it was only an opening match, and only one goal ahead -well, not only, one goal is a big struggle why did you say 'only' you nonsense rascal?? it felt like winning the cup for Mexico when the final whistle blew. They flooded the pitch in joy, applauding like there were no other matches to do left. Well, it's worth celebrating of course, giving the fact that it is THE champion that they took down.

It's like, when playing the chess.

And you finally take the queen away.

You're not the winner yet, but at least soon

The king will be bowing down

Match Six: The Whiz and The Apprentice

Believe it or not,

I was eager to see this game more than the last one.

It's not the biggest match, but I somehow knew that

It'd be really, really entertaining.

Argentina vs Iceland

Group D

This is phenomenal on so many levels. Pic's from here.

No, it's not because of Argentina. Together with Portugal and Brazil, those three are my least favorite teams I kinda wish they don't do well -thanks to Ronaldo, Messi, and Neymar who have been on my hatred list since 2014 and even 2010. So leave them be, because I'm here to talk about the other team.

I think it's not only me.

The whole world was blown away by Iceland and their performance for Euro 2016. During the cup, the underdog's underdog played solid unexpected games that no one would ever imagine they'd finish in the quarter final stage. The uproar may be gone after Euro ended, but the talk over the team remained hot, and exciting -it became a big deal when they came to Indonesia to have a friendly match with our national team, that when they secured their spot in Russia, despite it being their first World Cup ever, no one dared to underestimate them.

This match was like, their moment of truth. I saw it as a proof of their quality. And it's not something to take for granted. I couldn't imagine how hard they trained for this, because, it's their very first match, it's their first time to show what they got in France 2016 wasn't just mere luck, and, it's against Argentina, for God's sake. I somehow knew, that it'd be really really interesting, I told you, and it turned out to be.

Let's start by how solid their defense was. Throughout the game, it was solid as a rock -there was a meme saying that even wi-fi can't make it through their defense. The defender, the goalkeeper oh don't get me started with the goalkeeper, he omitted quiet a number of crucial saves! It's expected though, because dude, Iceland is facing Argentina. Of course the latter will be attacking, with Messi, with Aguero, di Maria, it's their nature. So Iceland need to think wise, and play safe instead. Surprisingly, it wasn't boring. It was outstanding instead, to see them so firm, so neat that attacks of Argentina's level couldn't break their walls.

Aguero eventually made a goal, though. And it was a beautiful one, I must admit. BUT. It was only a matter of minutes before Iceland made a comeback! Not that typical world-class fabulous type of goal, but smart enough because they took benefit of Argentina's uncertain defense. And again, it's a goal through Argentina, so no matter how ugly it could be, IT IS A BIG DEAL.

But the best highlight is not of those. It was when Argentina was awarded a penalty kick. From  a fallen Messi, who else... And it was him who'd execute the shootout, who else... Everybody else was pretty sure that it'd be it. Argentina's second goal, that would eventually lead to Iceland's defeat on their pilot performance in World Cup. Even I believed that's what would be happening. But I don't know, I'm not trying to make this superstitious nor am I trying to make it up but... something inside of me told me that it's not going to happen, and my fingers were crossed without me realizing it and

IT WAS FUCKING TRUE! THE PENALTY WAS A FAILURE! A shootout from Lionel Messi, the five Ballon d'Or winner, the best player in the world, and of all time, was blocked by a debut goalkeeper from a nation so far away, whose main job is not even a football player, whose name just emerged after he successfully gloved away Messi's famous death penalty kick!

OH MY GOD FUCK IT I SWEAR I'M STILL CRINGING REMEMBERING THOSE MOMENTS! I was watching it outside at a somewhat sports cafe, so crowded, with everyone else supporting Argentina while I was there sitting on the back, screaming every time the squad of Sons made a move to mess around with Messi's team, and I swear I was the one who screamed the loudest when Alfreð Finnbogason scored, AND I SWEAR I SCREAMED EVEN LOUDER WHEN HANNES HALLDÓRSSON BLOCKED MESSI'S PENALTY KICK FUCK FUCK FUCK!

Best match so far. And you know what, I can't hold it. I'm gonna post the official highlight video from FIFA itself.

It's just so nice to support an underdog.
Because you won't be expecting much at first.

Yet when they did good,
Especially these certain noobs,
Could kick the proud asses of pros
It's like stealing the jackpot