There have been a series of great games over the Easter International break across the globe. From exhibitions games preparing for the Euro 2016, to the FIFA World Cup Russia 2018 qualifiers, we have had dozens of games for a rich weekend of soccer. Here are some conclusions and a few quotes we learned:
Brazil 2-2 Uruguay: Brazil is no longer feared: it only took 45 seconds for broil to be up in this South American clash against Uruguay for the 2018 Russia FIFA World Cup. Even better the Seleçâo was up 2-0 after 25 minutes. however defensive mistakes symbolized by the poor performance of PSG defender – David Luiz let Cavani and then Suarez tied this game up. Uruguay could even have come back with the victory but Brazil’ GK made the save but keep the draw alive. Still Brazil is far from being impressive..
Luis Suarez reacts: “It’s a dream return, because you always try to do your best for the team. If, like tonight, it helps the team get a draw, I go home happy. “The important thing is, despite going a goal down after a minute, the team showed character and were able to fight back. We didn’t lose and we’re still up there [in the standings].”
Chile 1-2 Argentina: Argentina can respond strong
Chile won the last Copa America in 2015 and wanted to deliver a stellar performance against its neighbor Argentina in the World Cup South0-America qualifier. It started very well with the 1-0 lead. However we say the Argentineans’s response with two consecutive goals. They did bend in the second half but came away with a huge away win.
Lionel Messi reacts: “We got off to a bad start against Ecuador, but we have been able to bounce back with the three points in Colombia and here. We’re right back on track.”
USA looked flat
Not much to say there after USMNT lost 2-0 in Guatemala. The first loss in the Central American soil since 1988.. no comments and a sad team to watch…
Friendly Netherland 2-3 France: France is prepared for its Euro
in the wake of Johan Cruyff’a death, Netherlands and France squared off in Amsterdam. The Oranje did not start the game well being down 2-0 after 13 minutes. Then the stadium stopped to honor a soccer legend who died during the week. It was very emotional and seemed to give additional strength to the Dutch. They responded in the second half by tying the game to 2-2 with only 5 minutes left. However PSG midfielder Blaise Matuidi found the net to bring a prestigious win for Les Bleus just over 90 days before the UEFA Euro 2016.
France coach Didier Deschamps: “It was a special moment. A great man like Johan Cruyff deserved such a tribute and the stadium responded to him.”
Spain and Italy still looking for the right combination
Italy and Spain battled for a 1-1 draw.
Ronaldo is not enough for Portugal.
Portugal lost at home against Bulgaria to start the year 0-1.
England with a marquee win in Germany 2-3
Germany midfielder Sami Khedira: “It was an unnecessary, stupid defeat. Every one of us needs to reflect on it and work hard. Before we took a 2-0 lead we did lots of things right, afterwards less so – and England punished us for it.”
Roy Hodgson (England):
“Best one so far? I think I’ll give you that one – but it’s a friendly match and one must always be careful trying to attach too much importance.
“What worries me now, quite frankly, is that, whilst enjoying this night and admitting reluctantly that it is my best night with England so far, all of the criticisms we’ve had in the past will suddenly get forgotten for a moment and we get lifted up.
“This is a team that is definitely work in progress. Let’s not get carried away. Let’s make certain that we keep these players with their feet on the ground and keep them humble. Most importantly, I want them hungry and to keep learning.”
