MD 10: Extraordinary sequence of Group games

The moment that leads to Japan's second goal

Germany, perhaps undeservedly, was left stunned and out of the World Cup. 

This World Cup has been the most extraordinary one I can ever remember, and this morning's Group E Round 3 games were, without a doubt, the pick of the lot. Spain and Germany were a no-brainer to progress when something remarkable happened during the halftime break. Minutes into the second half, the world of football, our game, was turned on its head. Japan and Costa Rica somehow, out of somewhere, found themselves not only in the lead (both 2-1) but miraculously sitting in first and second position. In the end, Germany, out of self-pride and hope that their fellow football superpower would turn the result around (4:2), saved Spain's backside from a humiliating exit. The Spanish hoping to return the favour once learning that Germany had regained control of the game, aimed to do the same, pressuring the Japanese goal to no avail, going down 2:1. Spain fell short but progressed nevertheless. But for the second consecutive World Cup, Germany, perhaps undeservedly, is out in the Group Stage. For Spain, it's a Round 16 clash with the team which finished first in Group F; Morocco! Japan now has to deal with Croatia, who finished second (Group F), another shock to the tournament as Belgium also packed their bags. 

On our ladder, we had more shaking and moving. Michael, Jonathan and Alexander have suffered significant slides, but the gap between the bottom and top is not disastrous...yet. Si Webb holds a three-point lead from Aramis, who is now equal second with another of the veterans, Nestor (prominent nosebleed position). Nestor and Stylianos are, to date, the top tippers for Round 3, scoring 23 points. Can Mr Three Lions hold on and take out Round 3? 

I will send an official excel sheet after tomorrow's games. In the meantime, you can ponder the games that have been determined for Round 16. Now, pay attention! Round 16 means knockout, extra time, and the possibility of a penalty shootout. In the past, F4Mates did not count the dreaded penalty. That changes for Qatar World Cup 2022. I will also send an email regarding how this works; very easy.