The exit of Argentina and Brazil has left the World Cup poorer in all aspects because the South American teams had been the biggest draws here. The colourful and vibrant fans of the giants will be missed. Here are five reasons for the ouster of Argentina and Brazil.
Argentina
Germany brutally exposed the imbalance in Diego Maradona’s squad on Saturday. Argentina, blessed with enviable riches in the forward line, lacked a midfielder in the class of Bastain Schweinsteiger.
Argentina’s defence was diabolical. The back row didn’t have a leader. Worse, it had bumbling players masquerading as defenders. w Argentina lacked tactical discipline. Players interchanged positions without clear ideas. It wasn’t total football; it was collective confusion.
The Albiceleste didn’t have a Plan B when the Germans blocked their preferred route through the middle. Argentina’s fragile mental strength came to the fore when they fell behind for the first time in the tournament. Mueller’s early goal made them nervous.
Diego Maradona’s mere presence wasn’t enough to inspire his team. The coach was clueless when the ship was sinking.
Brazil
Dunga’s pet policy of fielding two holding midfielders came back to haunt him. He needed one with a complete set of passing range in the middle.
Brazil underestimated the Dutch. A stroll against Chile in the round of 16 had made them complacent. They took their foot off the pedal after a whirlwind start and an early goal.
Holland had done their homework well and hurt Brazil through aerial balls. Brazilian teams have always been susceptible in the air. They are also allergic to defending corners.
Felipe Melo. Dunga’s faith in the Juventus midfielder with a violent streak backfired. Melo let his team down with a mindless stamp on Arjen Robben. Brazil were very much in the match when Melo saw red.
Brazil failed to use the width of the pitch effectively. Dunga’s fullbacks had to concentrate more on defending against a quality Dutch team.