Belgium versus England
Normally this fixture would be a guarantee for a cracker of a game. But the circumstances decided otherwise. Let me explain.
The winner of group H was certain to play Japan in the next round and the 2nd one would play against Colombia in the next round. Ok, so far so good, I think you would choose Japan as the least difficult opponent. But both England and Belgium were looking further ahead, to the quarter finals and so on.
And there is where there is a big difference in possible opponents.
The number one of group H can be teamed with Brazil, Mexico, Uruguay, Portugal, France and Argentina later on.
The number two of group H can be teamed with Spain, Russia, Denmark, Sweden, Switzerland and Croatia later on.
A huge difference in strength of opponents, one would say. And so did the England team. They were very lame and played football walking yesterday night. Belgium started with reserve players, but they all went for it, and so they won, well deserved.
Belgium won, but has the hardest possible opponents... Strange, but it is like that. But I, as a Belgian, really am glad we won and we defended our honour. Because, I am sure that karma will be a bitch to England later on. Maybe even Colombia will be to strong for them, and their non-performance of yesterday will be proven unnecessary and a killer for their tournament.
Adnan Januzaj scored a killer goal, yesterday night!
So, by this, I say thank you, Team Belgium and Roberto Martinez, for playing it fair, I am sure that in the long run, you will be rewarded for that!
Sincerely,
Pele23