Italy - Costa Rica

This match would decide which team would go be the first to progress from Group D. England looked on, hoping Italy would win so they still had a slim chance to qualify. Balotelli demanded two kisses from the Queen if he scored and Gary Lineker donned his Italy t shirt on BBC to show his support. Unbiased punditry at its finest.


Costa Rica started better. They played with a composure and disruption that prevented Italy from finding rhythm and discouraged Engand fans hopes of an Italian win. The Italians were flustered and couldn't cope with the Costa Rican set up. 5 strong defenders and 4 energetic midfielders controlled the game for the Central Americans.


But Balotelli broke in behind, on more than one occasion. The first time he was able to nick it over the keeper but the ball bounced to safety. The second time his volley from outside the area was well saved by the Costa Rican goalkeeper.

Balotelli grimaces after his chip

Los Ticos had chances of their own, and worried Italian captain Buffon. It was they who opened the scoring just before half time. Firstly Joel Campbell was barged off the ball in the penalty area. A blatant penalty but the referee never awarded it. Much to the outrage of commentator Robbie Savage. Justice was done though when Diaz fizzed in a tantalising cross from the left and found Fulham's Bryan Ruiz. His header crashed off the bar and into the net before bouncing out. It was over the line, and the referee awarded the goal. He then checked the goal line technology just to be sure. Tears for heroes back in the England hotel as their doom drew closer with no plans for final day.


The Costa Ricans continued to be the better team. Italy just couldn't get started. They were slow and uncreative, repeatedly playing the 'round the corner' ball to try release the uninterested Balotelli. Although they had improved on their first half performance. Balotelli was non-existent. Costa Rica began to look comfortable, Italy rarely threatened. England prayed for something from the Europeans as they stayed in bed, drifting away. It finished 1 - 0 and the underdogs of the group that no one considered qualified for the last 16. They began the World Cup 28th in the word rankings and now have easily walked into the knock out stages at either Italy or Uruguay's expense. England are out, with a game to play.

 Italy 0 - 1 Costa Rica 

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Japan - Greece

Having watched Colombia beat Ivory Coast earlier in the day, both teams knew that a draw would hand the South Americans qualification bar a miracle. This billed for an exciting an exciting end-to-end thriller with both teams desperate for the win following their opening game defeat.

The pattern of the game was set early on. Japan moved the ball around diligently but without any great sense of urgency. Japan dominated possession.  Japanese star Kagawa watched on as Honda and co were unable to find a break through.

Greece were rarely able to attack, then Katsouranis’s was dismissed for a tackle on Makoto Hasebe that warranted a second yellow card just before half time. Despite being reduced to 10 men Greece fashioned a few chances but were unable to nick a goal.

Katsouranis sees red

There were more chances at either ends. Japan were wasteful and could have taken the lead on numerous occasion but were unable to beat the Greece goalkeeper. The biggest cheer of the evening was the introduction of little Shinji Kagawa. These teams could have played all week and there wouldn't have been a goal, so after 90 minutes the referee gratefully blew for full time.

 Japan 0 – 0 Greece 

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England - Uruguay

Liverpool superstar Luis Suarez returned for South American outfit Uruguay. He faced club team mates Gerrard, Henderson, Sterling and Sturridge but who would come out on top was too difficult to call.

England found themselves under the cosh at the beginning. Joe Hart scrambled across his goal to keep out a cheeky corner from the genius Suarez while Uruguayan Rodriguez smashed a left footed effort just over the bar. England began to find their feet and Gerrard found Rooney’s head at the back post. Unbelievably to Manchester United striker was unable to find the back of the net when it was easier to score. The ball cannoned off his head onto the bar from just two yards out. Rooney remained goalless on the World Cup stage.  

And then, as many expected, Luis Suarez marked his return with a well-placed header over the head of England Lionheart - Joe Hart. The Liverpool hero ghosted in past England’s defenders and Cavani’s delicate chip found him in space from where he put Uruguay ahead in this crucial encounter. In a manner all too familiar to his opposition Luis Suarez rushed off to celebrate his opener.

Super Suarez shoots Uruguay ahead

Suarez again attempted to catch Joe Hart out by again attempting to score directly from a corner at the near post in an exact replica of the previous attempt. Joe Hart was equal to it and managed to claw it away. Suarez was at the heart of everything. He set Cavani through one-on-one with Joe Hart but the PSG forward put it wide and should have done a lot better.

Rooney continued to desperately search for his first ever world cup goal and he nearly got it when a Leighton Baines crossed found its way to the England talisman inside the area. His left footed shot was too close to the keeper who managed to palm it to safety as Rooney looked miserably on.

He finally came good with 15 minutes left to go. Rooney scored the equaliser when Glen Johnson’s cross found him free at the back post. Rooney made no mistake with the easy tap in and he levelled the score line. England looked good for another too.

However a long punt from Uruguay goalkeeper Muslera beat the English defence – like it did against Germany in South Africa 2010 -after coming of the head of England Captain Steven Gerrard. Luis Suarez had gambled and found himself behind the England defenders through one-on-one with Joe Hart. It was all too obvious what the outcome would be. The net bulged and the little magician wheeled away for the second time as Joe Hart lay helplessly in the dirt. Steven Gerrard picked up another assist for a Luis Suarez goal, although he won’t want it. Gerrard, who has had a fine season, must be cursing his luck after his slip against Chelsea, and now his accidental assist to arguably the best striker in the world at this time.

England were unable to find another equaliser and Uruguay held on for a vital victory. England know they are all but out, although can still qualify, on goal difference, if Italy win both their games, and England beat Costa Rica in their final game by 2 goals.

 England 1 – 2 Uruguay 

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Colombia - Ivory Coast

Colombia met Africans Ivory Coast in an exciting encounter for the fight for first place as both these teams were expected to progress from Group C. Colombia beat Greece convincingly in their first game, while Ivory Coast came from behind to beat Japan 2-1 in their opening game. Colombia-Ivory Coast was a highly anticipated game, with a lot of goals expected.

Colombia started brightest, and controlled the game. Ivory Coast struggled to get a foothold and could have found themselves a goal down after a quick flowing counter attack from the South Americans but Gutiérrez was unable to convert the cross from close range.

It wasn’t until the second half when the deadlock was broken by Monaco and Colombia superstar James Rodriguez. He got on the end of a corner to head into the Ivorian goal. It was his second goal of the tournament.

Rodriguez celebrates his opener. 

Soon Colombia doubled their lead. Ivorian midfielder Die, who had broken into tears during the national anthems, was caught in possession by Gutierrez with few defenders ahead of him. His perfect ball drew Zokora out of position and found substitute Quintero who finished was sublime.

Ivory Coast pulled one back just three minutes later. Gervinho’s magnificent jinking run saw him dance past three tackles before smashing home for The Elephants to set up a nervy finish. A stunning piece of individual skill; one of the best to have graced Brazil so far. Ivory Coast nearly got the equaliser but Drogba was unable to capitalise on veteran Mario Yepes’ mistake and David Ospina was on fine form to keep the ex-Chelsea forward at bay to give Colombia the victory.

Colombia have all but qualified while Ivory Coast probably need to beat Greece to progress past the group stages for the first time.

 Colombia 2 – 1 Ivory Coast 

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Cameroon - Croatia

A must win game for both sides if they are to progress beyond the group stage. Brazil’s earlier draw with Mexico showed that they weren’t the irresistible force people may have thought before the beginning of the tournament. Cameroon are the real underdogs of the group, the unfavoured, and they were missing star man, ex-Barcelona striker, Samuel Eto’o. Croatia knew that a win against Cameroon and Mexico is a must having been defeated by Brazil in their opening game as Mexico picked up four points in their two games.

Croatia were boosted by the return of Bayern Munich forward Mario Mandzukic who missed the opening game against Brazil through suspension. But it was former Munich striker that grabbed the opening goal. Ivica Olic sneaked in at the back post to latch onto Perisic’s through ball after just 11 minutes. It was all downhill from there for the Africans.

Alexander Song let his country down when he through an elbow into Mandzukic’s back as the Croatia tried to start a counter attack. Unfortunately for the fiery Barcelona midfielder the referee saw his off-the-ball antics and reduced the Indomitable Lions to 10 men just minutes before half time.

Song elbows Mandzukic before receiving a red card

With Song off, Croatia found their voice and their star midfielders, Modric and Rakitic were able to control proceeding in the space left vacant by Song. Within 3 minutes of the restart Croatia had double their lead.

Perisic collected a poor clearance from ex-Liverpool stopper Charles Itandje and broke down the left wing leaving defender, and half time substitute Dany Nounkeo in his wake before smashing past the vulnerable Itandje at his near post.

Mandzukic then got off the mark, and put himself in the shop window with many believing his time in Munich is up. An outswinging corner from Pranjic was met powerfully by the big Croat forward, leaving Itandje picking the ball out of his net for the third time. The three goal lead allowed Croatia to freshen things up and rest a few key players, such as the inspiring Perisic who was a threat all night, as was Olic, who was replaced by Eduardo, once of Arsenal.

Mandzukic finished off proceedings reacting first to Eduardo’s shot that was spilled by Itandje to the feet of Croatia’s number 17. He happily slotted it home. Itandje should really have been doing better with that effort though.

The drama was not over for Cameroon as the pineapple-haired Assou Ekotto threw a head butt at team mate Moukandjo in the closing moments to round things off. Eto’o was seen calming Assou Ekotto in the tunnel at the end of the game to prevent a major World Cup inter squad fall-out.  

 Cameroon 0 – 4 Croatia 

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Spain - Chile

The battle of Los Rojos. World Champions and double European Champions Spain faced the South American Reds, Chile. Spain were looking to bounce back from their embarrassing 5-1 defeat against Holland in their opening game of the campaign, while Chile looked to build on their victory over Australia. Following Holland’s win over Australia earlier in the day, a Chilean victory would condemn Spain to the pits of despair and throw them out of the competition.

Both teams started brightly and the game was a lively affair. Spain wore their red kit, hoping to banish the demons of the white kit they wore against Holland. Chile dressed in all white. The stadium was awash with red, from both sets of fans supporting their own favoured rojo. Barcelona midfielder and Spanish superstar Xavi was dropped to the shock of many. It looked to have paid off as Spain were on the ascendency but were unable to convert from the errors that Chile were forced into. Diego Cost hit a wayward shot, while Claudio Bravo was equal to Xabi Alonso’s close range effort. But this was as good as it got for Spain.

Chile found their feet, and over powered their opposition. They counter attacked quickly and Spain’s lack of pace was exposed. Vidal and Alexis Sanchez neatly worked the ball through to Charles Aránguiz. His cut back found the composed Vargas who took a touch to fool the panicking Casillas and placed it past him before Ramos recovered. It was no less than Chile deserved.

Vargas wheels away to celebrate his opener as Casillas despairs

Spain got worse from then on in. Alonso couldn’t find a pass, Diego Costa struggled up front and Javi Martinez and Sergio Ramos got in one another’s way. That’s not even considering the decline of Casillas in goal.

Chile capitalised on Casillas’ dreadful form. Alexis Sanchez curled a free kick toward Spain’s goalkeeper, but he decided on punching the ball clear when it was easier to catch. The punch fell to the feet of Chilean Charles Aránguiz . He hit a right footed shot that swerved away from the keeper into his net to put the underdog South Americans 2 – 0 up, and the World Champions 2 – 0 down.

Chile were more hungry, and you would be too if you’d been trapped in a mine for 69 days. This match and the tournament in general is a chance for Chile to pay tribute to those miners that were trapped in 2010. The whole country is urging them to do well and the passion in the stands and on the field shows the unity of the nation. Spain on the other hand were slow, lax and uninterested. The majority of the squad have won the World Cup and the Euros (twice). They’ve been playing every summer since 2008, except for 2011. One must wonder whether they have lost the drive and hunger to play for their country. Maybe a more youthful, less capped squad - or starting 11 - would have provided more fight. There was no hunger, no desire; no fight. The Spanish were there for a siesta rather than a fiesta.  

Del Bosque soon brought on Torres for Chelsea-bound Diego Costa, but he was unable to score for the Spaniards either. £80 million worth of Chelsea strikers were kept quiet by a Cardiff City midfielder playing centre back (Gary Medel) and a right back released by Nottingham Forest (Gonzalo Jara). Mr Mourinho will sort that you’d hope.

So defeat saw Spain go crashing out, having conceded 7 goals in 2 games, and only scoring once –a stark contrast to four years ago when they only conceded twice in the entire competition en route to lifting the trophy in South Africa. The Spanish reign has fallen. Chile are the real Los Rojo’s.

 Spain 0 – 2 Chile 

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Australia - Holland

On form Holland lined up against lowly Australia. Many expecting a heavy defeat for the men from down under, especially after the drubbing Spain received from the Dutch.

Holland took an early lead. Robben, who had been magnificent against Spain, opened the scoring. The Bayern Munich attacker picked the ball up on the half way line and sped his way into the Australian box. His low, hard left footed drive nestled nicely into the Aussies net past the helpless Ryan. It would be the opening of the floodgates, though many people. But they were wrong.

Immediately after, Australia pegged the Dutch back. Tim Cahill scored his second of the tournament, and he won’t score a better. Comparisons were made to that famous goal by Dutch legend Marco Van Basten. A long ball over the head of de Vrij, found Cahill, who first time on the volley, with his weaker, left foot smashed it off the bar and in, past the flailing Cillessen. Easily goal of the tournament, so far.

Cahill strikes against Holland to equalise

A short time later, Cahill received a booking that rules the talismanic Aussie out of their final group game against Spain. Van Persie joined him in the book, and he too will miss Holland’s final game, against South Americans, Chile.

The Socceroos fought on. Bresciano and Spiranovic missed good opportunities to take the lead before Leckie had a goal disallowed for a foul on Daley Blind.

Australia continued piling forward and it finally paid off. Substitute Bozanic’s cross came off the hand of Daryl Janmaat who was unlucky to see the incident awarded as a penalty. Mile Jedinak of Crystal Palace put the ball in the net from 12 yards.

Like the Dutch lead, Australia’s lead didn't last long either. Van Persie, not to be outdone on the scoring charts by compatriot Robben, found himself in space in the box and leathered the ball into the roof of Ryan’s net to equalise. The Dutch upped the tempo, but Australia continued to get forward looking for a win.

It was Memphis Depay that found the breakthrough though. His long range strike bounced awkwardly in front of Aussie ‘keeper Ryan and slipped through his hands into the goal. Australia found themselves behind.

There was still plenty of time for another goal, but neither team were able to make the breakthrough. The Dutch couldn't increase their lead, nor could Australia find the equaliser.

A stern, noble effort from Australia who can be pleased with their performance in this game. It would take something of a miracle for Australia to progress mpw.

 Australia 2 – 3 Holland 

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Russia - Korea

Russia faced South Korea in what many expect to be the battle for second in Group H. Although the Russians are probably favourites, no one would rule out the plucky Koreans from sneaking into the last 16 with memories of their 2002 World Cup performances in mind.

Korea looked the more promising in the early stages but were unable to find a break through. The match turned into one could easily be compared to that of two boxers trading blows.

This match had 26 shots altogether which suggests that both teams had enough chances to win the game but that wasn’t the case. The majority of these shots came from 30, 40 yards out although both keepers seemed to have trouble dealing with these efforts. Russia’s Akinfeev dropped them on a few occasions but none to Korea’s advantage.

Not until the 68^th minute at least. A speculative 25 yard effort by Korean substitute Lee (one of three Lee’s in the squad) slipped through Akinfeev’s hands over his head and into the net. Fabio Capello cursed the Goalkeeper God’s again for the second tournament following Rob Green’s error against America during his time in charge of England.

Igor Akinfeev desperately tries to recover from his error

Going behind seemed to give Russia the shake-up they needed. The introduction of Alan Dzagoev and Russian domestic football record goal scorer, Aleksandr Kerzhakov, increased the urgency of the Russians play. Capello’s substitutes had the desired effect.

Dzagoevs low shot was parried by the South Korean keeper. The ball cannoned around the six yard box in a goal mouth scramble before being bundled over the line by Kerzhakov. He could have arguably been ruled offside, but the assistant kept his flag down.

Russia continued to press for a winner, and missed two close headers, but the game fizzled out, and finished as a 1 – 1 draw, which was a fair result based on the performances of the sides. Anything other than a draw would have been a harsh injustice for the losing team.

 Russia 1 – 1 South Korea 

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Brazil - Mexico

The hosts Brazil starred in their second game, knowing victory would all but guarantee their progression into the last 16 of the competition. A progression that is highly expected. They faced fellow South Americans, Mexico in the Fortaleza cauldron. It was an emotional affair, with Neymar breaking into tears during a rousing rendition of the Brazil national anthem.

Brazil’s golden boy, Neymar was involved in the thick of the action, sambaing around Mexican defenders. He was also on the end of a few opportunities. Dani Alves found his Barcelona team mate but Ochoa threw himself across the goal to produce a famous save from Neymar’s goal bound header. It was a sign of things to come.

Mexican Goalkeeper, Guillermo Ochoa

Brazil continued to pepper the Mexicans goal but Ochoa, who is without a club having left French club Ajaccio, was more than a match for efforts from Paulinho, Neymar and David Luiz.

Mexico were not afraid to attack either though. Peralta, Hector Herrea and Vazquez all came close. Julio Cesar tipped one over the bar. Fred (yeah he was play) was soon replaced by ex-Manchester City striker after having an absolutely dreadful game. “The corner flag moved better than he did”. Jo provided a much better performance upon his entrance.

Neymar, and Brazil continued to threaten ‘El Tri’ after the break but they held firm. Ochoa made more fine saves, making good use of a rumoured extra finger on his right hand. This later turned out to be false. The Mexican made a point blank save from a thunderous header from Brazilian captain Thiago Silva. Either side and it would certainly have been a goal, but Ochoa still produced a fine save to thwart the powerful effort in the dying minutes of the second half.

Brazil found themselves with one more chance. Marcelo found himself in behind Aguilar in the penalty area but flung himself to the ground in the hope of winning a penalty, The referee waved play on and it was a wasted opportunity and disgraceful play by the Real Madrid man. It was behaviour that deserved a booking, at least.

The game ended in a stale 0 – 0, a result that won’t have pleased the Brazil nation.

 Brazil 0 - 0 Mexico 

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Belgium - Algeria

Belgium began their campaign against African side Algeria. Belgium were tipped as the dark horses for this tournament. Boasting a squad full of Premier League quality, from Kompany of Man City in defence alongside Spurs’ Jan Vertonghen, Thomas Vermaelan missed out on a starting 11 place. In midfield they have Chelsea’s Eden Hazard, Tottenhams Moussa Dembele and Nacer Chadli while Man United’s only signing last summer, Maroune Fellaini found himself on the bench alongside Vermaelan. Lukaku leads the line while Benteke missed out on the tournament through injury. They also have highly rated goal keeper Thiburt Courtois just finished winning La Liga and runners up in the Champions League. On the other hand, Algeria possess err... Bentaleb of Spurs, Feghouli of Valencia and Madjid Bougherra, once of Rangers.

The Belgium team line up at kick off.

Despite the obvious gulf in quality, Algeria were not easily overrun and were able to hold their own against the Europeans. In fact, Algeria took an early lead when spurs defender clumsily hauled down his opposition in the box and the referee awarded a penalty to the African nation.

Feghouli calmly dispatched the spot kick, and Belgium now faced a real test. Up to this point they had looked lethargic and uncreative but if they were to win this game something was going to need to change. They persisted until half time before Wilmots made a change, replacing Chadli with speedster Dries Mertens.

With no goals for the chocolate eating Europeans, they took off Chelsea forward, Lukaku and brought on virtually unknown youngster Origi. Wilmots also brought on Fellaini of Manchester United to add a different dimension to their attack. It paid off. Fellaini had his best game of the season, and connected with De Bruyne’s cross and scored with a looping header shortly after coming on. Moyes could be seen seething with anger and lambasting the Belgian in broken, drunken Glaswegian slurs.

Algeria was clearly tiring from their stubborn efforts to keep the Belgian’s at bay, but they could hold out no longer. Premier League’s PFA Young Player of the Year, Eden Hazard collected the ball on the half way line and began to run at the defence. His dribbling and Origi’s off the ball movement sucked two defenders out of position giving Mertens space to break into. Hazard was able to find him and Mertens fired home the winner on 80 minutes. Credit has to go to the Belgian coach who made inspired substitutions who all had positive impacts on the result. Fellaini and Mertens both grabbed a goal while Origi’s pace was a constant threat and a thorn in the Algerian side that Lukaku just didn’t offer. It will be interesting if Origi keeps his place for their next game. His contribution certainly warrants it

Belgium gained a valuable three points and the win will have boosted their confidence even if it did come with an early scare. They will have harder games than this, against stronger sides, but this game gives them the knowledge that they have a good enough squad to make changes if things aren’t going to plan, and the ability and patience to turn things around if they go behind.

 Belgium 2 – 1 Algeria 

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Iran - Nigeria

In contrast to the previous game, Iran versus Nigeria was likely the least anticipated game of this World Cup, and maybe even the least anticipated game of the last decade of World Cup games. Regardless, it had to be played anyway. Seriously, Iran, Nigeria though.

Nigeria started well. Out of form winger, Victor Moses skipped away from his marker but his shot was saved by the Iranian goalkeeper. Moses had already contributed more to this game than he did for his full season at Liverpool. Nigeria continued to have a number of attacks in the opening stages of the game but were unable to convert any of their chances.

They actually did have the ball in the goal, but it was ruled out for a foul on the goalkeeper.

The Iranians seem nervous, and disjointed. Their passes were astray and their positioning poor but they soon began to sort themselves out but they were far from threatening. It took all of 34 minutes for them to register a corner. The resulting header from Charlton Athletic’s Ghoochannejhad was well kept out by the Nigerian goalkeeper.

The game was just as dull and uneventful after the break as well. Moses hit a corner that was as awful as ‘that’ corner by Iago Aspas for Liverpool. Moses came off soon after.

Then it happened, the moment we had all been waiting for happened. The Nigerian Prince,  Shola Ameobi came off the bench and made his World Cup debut, at the age of 31. He did score against Barcelona all those years ago, so it was expected he would score here against the dire Iranian outfit.  He did have a few headed chances but none changed the score line.

Very little continued to happen for the rest of the game, the Super Eagles tried their best to take the lead. Nigeria dominated possession; the stats showed a 63%-37% split in the Africans favour. Iran - under the guidance of ex-Portugal and Real Madrid coach Carlos Queiroz - were happy to settle for a draw and contain the luminous green shirts.

Finally the referee put this game out of its misery.  The only shining light in this otherwise dire game was the appearance of legendary striker Shola Ameobi. Shola Ameobi at a World Cup though.

These teams should not expect to progress from this group and both their next two games should end in defeat. Hopefully Ameobi nicks a goal though. That’s the dream.

 Iran 0 – 0 Nigeria 

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Germany - Portugal

Germany, Portugal. Probably one of the most anticipated matches of the group stages. The German Machine against The Cristiano Ronaldo Show.

Portugal started with the exact same team that ended the Euros in 2013 and they made the better start with Ronaldo to the fore, the superstar made one early chance for Hugo Almeida before drawing a save from Neuer himself. It wasn't long before the favourites gathered themselves together. A poor clearance from Portuguese goalkeeper fell at the feet of Sami Khedira who was unable to place the ball into the empty goal from 30 yards.

Minutes later Gotze broke into the box and tried to wriggle free to get his shot away only to be upended by Portugal defender Joao Pereira. The referee awarded a penalty to the Germans and booked Pereira who could've easily seen red on another day. The Golden Boot Winner of South Africa 2010, Thomas Muller, stepped up and opened his account for Brazil 2014. From then on, it was all Germany with rare flashes of poor Portuguese counters.

Mario Gotze nearly doubled his side’s lead but his shot was deflected wide for a corner that Toni Kroos trotted over to hit. His out-swinging corner exploited the poor zonal marking of the Portuguese defence and Hummels was able to rise above anyone else to nod home a German second.

Things went from bad to worse for Portugal as Pepe was dismissed for an attempted head-butt on the goal scorer, Muller, after just 37 minutes. Typical Pepe. Germany wrapped it up with a third in injury time of the first half. Muller claimed his second.

Portugal rarely threatened in the second half. Ronaldo was lost. He attempted a few long range free kick spectaculars but on one occasion was even unable to be the one man wall. Nani was abysmal and substitute Eder was horrendous for the Portuguese.

A frustrated Ronaldo

Muller completed the rout and his hat trick after bundling the ball over the line from close range following Rui Patricio's inability to hold onto Schurrle's shot.

Ronaldo finally done something of mention when in the 91^st minute he hit a fierce 35 yard free kick that stung the hands of Neuer who beat it away for a corner. Unfortunately unlike Messi he doesn't have a team of super stars surrounding him. He has a squad of mediocre team mates that he is expected to carry. Messi can breeze through a game and allow his compatriots to take control to win the game if need be.

 Germany 4 – 0 Portugal 

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Argentina - Bosnia

The Bosnians began their first ever world cup campaign at the legendary Maracana stadium against a squad considered to be on the favourites for the tournament, South American’s Argentina.

La Albiceleste (The White and Sky Blue) squad oozes talent playing for the top clubs in Europe. Zabaleta, Demichellis and Sergio Aguero of Man City, Angel Di Maria of Real Madrid, ex-madrid forward Gonzalo Higuain now of Napoli as well as Barcelona’s Javier Mascherano and world superstar Lionel Messi. The world watched as they anticipated a master class performance from the little Argentine. A good World Cup is the only thing missing from his honours list.

Within three minutes Bosnia were behind. Unfortunate defender Sead Kolasinac saw the ball deflect off him into his own goal whilst defending a dangerous free kick that flicked off Marco Rojo onto the Bosnian defender.

Messi was almost anonymous and many maybe wondered if he would have any impact in this game or in this tournament at all.

Argentina rarely looked like adding to their lead regularly giving the ball away while the Bosnian defence stayed solid and disciplined. Bosnia slowly settled into the game after their early set back. Roma playmaker Miralem Pjanic began to fashion chances for his side but the Baltic side found Sergio Romero in fine form between the Argentine posts.

A tactical shuffle at the break improved La Albiceleste to no ends injecting a sense of urgency and purpose to their play. The change in formation, from 3-5-2 to 4-3-3, also improved the form and fortune of the magician everyone had come to see.

Messi jinked past two Bosnian defenders after a quick one – two with Higuain. The four-time World Player of the Year steadied himself and smashed home a superb solo effort from 18 yards to put the South American’s 2-0 ahead. It was his first World Cup goal since 2006. His excellent display after the goal showed a real pressure had been lifted off the captain’s shoulders. He laid a baton down for rival Cristiano Ronaldo to perform to.

The Bosnians were in no mood to lose their first game without some sort of a struggle. After numerous shots on and off target and multiple corners they finally made their efforts count when Lulic sent Vedad Ibisevic through on goal. He scored Bosnia’s first ever World Cup goal as his left-footed drive slipped through the legs of Romero and bobbled into the goal with 5 minutes remaining, but they were unable to find the equaliser in the remaining time.

Bosnia portrayed a good account of themselves in this first game and Eden Dzeko didn’t even get a mention. If they can get a good performance out of him they could get into the last 16 and with a bit of luck maybe even the Quarter finals. Argentina are expected to go all the way, and if they can perform like they did in the second half, with Lionel Messi firing on all cylinders then they have a real chance of taking the much-acclaimed prize home.

Argentina 2 – 1 Bosnia 

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France - Honduras

In one of the most mismatched games of the 2014 World Cup 1998 world champions France faced lowly Honduras. France are able to boast names such as Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema and Raphael Varane, Manchester United’’s Patrice Evra and glouriously haired Oliver Giroud. They can even afford to leave stars such as Mancehester City’s Samir Nasri at home. Meanwhile Honduras’ best players play for Wigan, Stoke and Hull City. They are Roger Espinoza, Wilson Palacios and Maynor Figueroa respectively.

Just Oliver Giroud being Oliver Giroud. That hair though...

Despite the gulf in class, France struggled to make the breakthrough. The Honduran’s fought for their lives for every ball. Their aggressive approach upsetting and frustrating the French stars. None more so than Juve’s Paul Pogba who got into a tangle with Wilson Palacios. Both players received a booking when it would not have been too harsh if both were dismissed from the game.

Despite chance after chance falling for France they were unable to open the scoring until a stroke before half time. Tenacious midfielder Palacios was judged to have fouled Pogba, this time in the penalty area. The referee awarded the French a penalty and Palacios received his second booking. Benzema was charged with the responsibility of slotting home the spot kick beyond the Honduran keeper’s grasp to put his side ahead at the break.

France added a second 3 minutes into the second half when Benzema’s left-footed volley cannoned off the post before the Honduran keeper fumbled it over the line. Although he clawed it back and claimed he’d kept it out. The officials went to the video technology for the first time in the tournament. After some confusion, caused mainly by BBC commentator Jonathan Pearce who made a mountain out of a molehill, it was declared a goal, an own goal to be precise, albeit a truly excellent finish from Benzema beforehand. It was now a case of how many would France rack up. This goal was a signal to the Hondurans to step up their physical approach to a more dominant thugish approach. Each tackle crunched the bones of the French stars and Didier Deschamps began to withdraw his key players to protect them from the onslaught.  After the game Honduras Manager Luis Fernando Suárez insisted that his players were not guilty of being ‘too aggressive’ despite accumulating 14 fouls.

France had a number of chances to add to their score line but failed to capitalise. They finally notched another to make it 3 – 0. Benzema the scorer again. A free kick from Valbuena cut back to outside the penalty area found Patrice Evra. His first time long range effort pinballed off a number of players before resting at the feet of the on-form French forward who duly smashed it into the goal.

Oliver Giroud was introduced and added glamour to the occasion with his fantastic hair, but neither he, nor any of the rest of the French team could increase their lead. They will be relieved to have been able to evade any injuries however. A red card for Honduras in any of their two remaining games looks a certainty. This was France’s biggest World Cup win since the France 1998 World Cup Final against Brazil.

 France 3 – 0 Honduras 

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Switzerland - Ecuador

Brasillia played host to Switzerland and Ecuador in the opening game of Group E in the Sunday sun.

Ecuador took a surprise lead. Enner Valencia - who had recently scored against England in a World Cup warm up game – scored for the South Americans. His header from close range put his country in front after 22 minutes. The goal kickstarted the Swiss team into action in search of an equaliser. Their red jerseys swarmed forward looking to make the breakthrough, but the Ecuadorians held firm. Shaqiri threatened for the Swiss side with his constant trickery, but overall disappointed with his delivery on many occasions.

It wasn’t until early in the second half that the Ecuadorians would concede. A corner found Admir Mehmedi who headed home to draw the teams level. Switzerland continued to threaten, their strong midfield of Shaqiri, Inler and Xhaxa over ran that of the South Americans but they couldn't take advantage of their possession.

With Switzerland searching for the winner Ecuador found space to counter attack but couldn’t make the most of their opportunities. Manchester United winger and Ecuadorian captain Antonio Valencia was completely anonymous in the game; it would be fair to wonder if he even got a touch at all.

Switzerland thought they’d gone ahead when a neat dummy from Shaqiri found Drmic who slotted it past the Ecuador stopper only to find the officials had ruled it offside, incorrectly. It looked as though we would have our first draw of the competition.

But suddenly, Ecuador were on the attack, Antonio Valencia (oh, he did play) found team-mate Arroyo who progressed into the box with an excellent opportunity to shoot, but ex-West Ham midfielder, Valon Behrami tackled the South American and set Switzerland on the counter. Steaming forward like an express train Switzerland turned a dangerous Ecuadorian attack into an attack of their own. Behrami was taken down just inside his own half but managed to get up, and continue. The referee played advantage and Behrami found a team-mate who sprayed it wide from where a low cross was catapulted into the box. Severovic was at hand to bundle it into the poor Ecuadorian’s goal in injury time of the second half. Severovic only scored 4 goals for his club all season but scored a vital goal for his country in the Brazilian capital. Heartbreak for Ecuador who will curse Arroyo’s delay at the other end just seconds before.  This victory, much like their flag, is a big plus for Switzerland.

Switzerland's Severovic celebrates his injury time winner

Switzerland 2 – 1 Ecuador 

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Ivory Coast - Japan

The Elephants faced The Samurai’s late on Saturday night (GMT). The Elephants boasted a strong team filled with familiar premier league faces including Manchester City’s Yaya Toure who captained the side as Drogba didn't make the starting line-up.

It was Japan who started off the brightest. Japanese superstars Shinji Kagawa and Keisuke Honda pulled the strings in midfield. It was the AC Milan midfielder who made the biggest impact early in the first half thumping home a left footed drive from inside the area past the helpless Ivorian in goal.

The Ivory Coast beast was awakened and the boys in orange continued to stomp forward looking for an equaliser only to see chance after chance fail to bring them level. Stars such as Gervinho, Yaya Toure, Bony and Solomon Kalou all looked on despairingly as each miss threatened their world cup progression.

The introduction of national heartthrob, Didier Drogba, coincided with the breakthrough. Although the experienced forward did not get on the score sheet himself he distracted the Japanese enough for his team-mates to score. Swansea’s Wilfried Bony glanced his header from Arsenal target Aurier’s cross past the flailing Japanese goalkeeper to open the Africans World Cup account.

Ivorian goalscorers, Bony and Gervinho celebrate their second.

Aurier was again the architect just 90 seconds later as the Japanese saw their lead to into a deficit in the blink of an eye. Aurier's cross this time found the fivehead of ex-Arsenal winger Gervinho. His header sneaked in at the front post to put the Elephants ahead. Gervinho wheeled off to celebrate closely followed by Ivorian stalwart Drogba.

Japan were unable to find a way back into the game but gave a good account of themselves. Their coach still believes they have a chance of qualifying for the latter stages of the competition but it’s clear they are going to need a bit of luck if they are to progress ahead of Ivory Coast or group leaders Colombia.

Ivory Coast 2 - 1 Japan 

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England - Italy

Finally the game all the pundits had been waiting for. England versus Italy. All White versus All Blue. The Three Lions versus The Azzurri. Fish and Chips versus Pizza and Pasta.  Gerrard's beard versus Pirlo's beard.

All the pre-match talk had been about where Manchester United's Wayne Rooney would start and his form. Roy Hodgson opted to start the scouser on the left, with young Raheem Sterling in the middle ahead of club team-mates Jordan Henderson and Steven Gerrard and behind Daniel Sturridge. Danny Wellbeck completed the attacking line up. If the talk wasn't about Rooney, the other topic of conversation was how to stop the incredible handsome Andrea Pirlo from controlling the game. 

England started brightly, the fearless Sterling almost repaid his managers faith early in the game when an effort from outside the box narrowly went wide of Salvatore Sirugu's goal. He replaced Buffon who had injured himself prior to the game. It was so close the commentators celebrated and the score board changed.

Jordan Henderson also hit an impressive drive forcing a save from the PSG goalkeeper as the Liverpool boys continued on from their excellent league campaign. Italy had plenty of possession, but their impact was limited in the early exchanges. England had the better of the chances but were unable to capitalise as Sterling, Sturridge and Wellbeck all seen chances go begging. It was costly.

Italy broke the deadlock just after the half hour mark when the bearded master, Pirlo allowed the ball to go through his legs and fool the young Raheem Sterling. The pass found Claudio Marchisio outside the box and his shot evaded a crowd of players and nestled into the bottom corner of Joe Hart's goal to put the Italians ahead.

They weren't ahead for long however. The fast footed Sterling, who was having a stunning game released Rooney down the left. Rooney had not been having a good game at all, but his left footed loft found the prolific Daniel Sturridge in the middle who volleyed it home just two minutes after Italy took the lead. Strangely and somewhat ironically, England's physio, Gary Lewin, injured himself during the celebrations. It is believed he tripped over a water bottle and broke his ankle.

Italy nearly took the lead again, but Phi Jagkielka was on hand to nod a cheeky audacious chip by Mario Balotelli over former team mate Joe Hart. Andrea Pirlo continued to stroll around controlling proceedings on the green grass of Manaus like a man 10 years his junior.

England started brightly again after the restart but it was Italy who took the lead again. Candreva, who provides width and pace to his team, delivered an exceptionally accurate cross that eliminated Chelsea defender Gary Cahill and allowed Mario Balotelli to nod past England's number 1 at the back post. "Why always him?", Joe Hart thought.

England attempted to draw level again. A quick neat exchange between Gerrard and Sterling saw the captain burst into the box and get clattered into by Italian and ex-Liverpool defender, Gabriel Paletta. The referee pointed for a goal kick and deemed the contact as just a coming-together.

Rooney also had a golden chance to equalise, and shut the critics up but he dragged his shot wide when it was easier to hit the target. A sign of a man low on confidence, with diminishing talent.

Andrea Pirlo had a final scene in this game stepping up to hit a free kick that thundered against the bar much to the relief of stricken stopper, Hart. Pirlo returned to his wine garden immediately after.

The game ended, and Italy claimed a vital 2 - 1 victory. England face Uruguay whilst Italy meet surprise package Costa Rica next. Pirlo was also on the victorious side in the Battle of the Beards.  His experience and hold on the game was more influential than his opposition, Gerrard, who had unfortunately shaved. While Italy sported seven beards, Engand only mustered one. Wellbeck who had been selected to stop Pirlo had not had the desired result. England can look to Raheem as he produced a sterling performance despite his tender years. Roy Hodgson must seriously consider dropping Rooney for Lallana or Barkley, particularly if they can produce a performance equal to that of Sterling's.

England 1 - 2 Italy 

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