World Cup Qatar 2022 Recap

Group Stages

Group A: Qatar vs Ecuador 0-2 Qatar was too outclassed.	Group B: England vs Iran 6-2 England was too good and their attack was on fire.	Group A: Senegal vs Netherlands 0-2 Netherlands was in top attack form.	Group B: USA vs Wales 1-1 USA defended well against Wales. Wales couldn't properly finish nor make chances.
Group C: Argentina vs Saudi Arabia 1-2 Saudi Arabia did well defensively and capitalized on opportunities. The most surprising result of the tournament. Saudi Arabia declared Nov 22 as a national holiday as a result.	Group D: Denmark vs Tunisia 0-0 A neck and neck performance from both sides.	Group C: Mexico vs Poland 0-0 Both sides were too careful that resulted in a stalemate.	Group D: France vs Australia 4-1 Australia's offence was impactful at first as they headed the score board and France struggled but eventually star power prevailed. Once France scored their first goal, their attack became more lively.
Group F: Morocco vs Croatia 0-0 Neck and neck	Group E: Germany vs Japan 1-2 Germany scored first with a penalty kick but Japan equalized and the second goal was exemplary as there was not much angle and the gap between the goal post and keeper was thin. Japan truly deserved the win as their counter-attack movement was more threatening.	Group E: Spain vs Costa Rica 7-0 Spain dominated in purposeful ball possession and shooting form was top notch.	Group F: Belgium vs Canada 1-0 Canada had good defence as they pressured and intercepted well as well as be tight in spacing and actually controlled ball possession and be the dominant one of the match. However, fatigue caved in and Canada started missing passes, meanwhile one good pass from Belgium eventually rewarded them a goal. If Canada had finished better, the result could have been different. They had potential. There was one controversial decision made by the referee not rewarding a penalty kick for Canada in the first half and if that went in, the outcome might have been another story.
Group G: Switzerland vs Cameroon 1-0 Cameroon had several chances but didn't capitalize while Switzerland did.	Group H: Uruguay vs South Korea 0-0 Korea dominated in ball possession but they were neck and neck. Korea should have been better with the attack but they thought too much on the ball. Son Heung Min plays best as a centre forward but was instead used a play-making midfielder so Korea couldn't benefit from his scoring talents. Besides Son, other Korean players lacked in finishing skills.	Group H: Portugal vs Ghana 3-2 They were neck and neck until about the 70th minute. All the goals came later near the end of the match. Portugal scored first, then Ghana followed. Portugal scored another and they were on fire. Ghana fought their best to come back as they trailed 3-1 and scored their second but there wasn't enough time for a third.	Group G: Brazil vs Serbia 2-0 Brazil dominated the game. For such a dominance, they should've scored more but they were too busy trying to make perfect plays.
Group B: Wales vs Iran 0-2 Wales had difficulty making scoring chances. Then Wales got a red card but they wouldn't have been able to prevent Iran's sensational long-range goal even if they were not a man down. Wales' defence went downhill from then on as they needed to equalize, and thus conceded another goal.	Group A: Qatar vs Senegal 1-3 Senegal outclassed Qatar. Qatar's desperation led to them successfully getting one goal but it was not enough as their individual skills were lacking.	Group A: Netherlands vs Ecuador 1-1 Netherlands seemed to look good in the beginning but after their goal, both teams were neck and neck. In the end, Ecuador seemed more convincing.	Group B: England vs USA 0-0 England dominated in play but couldn't convert into goals. USA held their own with their tight defence and direct style, and posed threatening counter-attacks, but lacked finishing.
Group D: Tunisia vs Australia 0-1 Both teams were even but Australia was able to make a good heading goal and that decided the outcome.	Group C: Poland vs Saudi Arabia 2-0 Saudi Arabia was the favourite as they beat Argentina in the previous match and they performed convincingly as expected. However, their organized movement could not convert to goals. Meanwhile, Poland kept knocking on the door and got one in. The second goal by Poland was awarded from the Saudi Arabian defender not properly clearing the ball and gifting it to Lewandowski.	Group D: France vs Denmark 2-1 They were even in skill at first but France eventually showed their world class and won.	Group C: Argentina vs Mexico 2-0 Mexico seemed to be a little more dominant in ball possession but they were neck and neck. Later in the second half, Messi made a magical long range goal from just outside the box and that brought up the spirits of the Argentinians. The game was more on the side of Argentina and they eventually scored another fantastic goal in the 88th minute.
Group E: Japan vs Costa Rica 0-1 Costa Rica succeeded in building a solid defensive wall against Japan. One mistake by the Japanese defender resulted in their loss.	Group F: Belgium vs Morocco 0-2 Belgium was dominant in possession but Morocco was more lethal in counter-attack. In the later part of second half, Morocco finally scored from a free kick near the box. Since Belgium needed to equalize, their back line was open so Morocco was able to get another goal.	Group F: Croatia vs Canada 4-1 Canada scored early in the first minute and they looked good for about 20 minutes but Croatia was unhindered and penetrated Canada's midfield well that led to scoring two goals before the end of first half. Croatia continued to dominate and added 2 more to their score board.	Group E: Spain vs Germany 1-1 Spain looked dominant at first but Germany looked more threatening in attack halfway through the first half. No goals were scored from both teams in the first half. Spain finally scored by the substitute in the 60th minute and that sparked their energy. However, Germany did not give up and the momentum turned over to them leading to evening the score. It was a nail-biting finale as Germany kept knocking on the door even to the last second with a corner kick but to no avail.
Group G: Cameroon vs Serbia 3-3 Goal fest with exciting pace. Both teams took advantage of their opponent's open back line and used killer passes. Cameroon's second goal was impressive and sensible as the striker lobbed the ball over and the keeper who was way outside his line.	Group H: South Korea vs Ghana 2-3 Korea had shaky defence that led to their demise. The performance of Korea in the first half was not good as they conceded 2 goals but the second half had more fighting spirit and tied the score 2 a piece. However, poor keeping let Ghana to lead again and despite efforts to the last second  Korea could not equalize.	Group G: Brazil vs Switzerland 1-0 Brazil won as expected but should've scored more than one.	H: Portugal vs Uruguay 2-0 Portugal was dominant.
Group A: Ecuador vs Senegal 1-2 Senegal was the stronger team.	Group A: Netherlands vs Qatar 2-0 As expected, Netherlands was dominant so they should've scored more.	Group B: Iran vs USA 0-1 USA defended well.	Group B: Wales vs England 0-3 England was back to top form and outclassed Wales.
Group D: Tunisia vs France 1-0 A shockingly unexpected result. France took Tunisia too lightly and their star players were off.	Group D: Australia vs Denmark 1-0 Another unexpected result. Australia took advantage of Denmark's open back line. A nice long pass was received by the striker and he dribbled well to give himself a chance to score.	Group C: Poland vs Argentina 0-2 First half was scoreless but Argentina was dominant through the whole match and ultimately they got 2 goals thanks to their rookies.	Group C: Saudi Arabia vs Mexico 1-2 Saudi Arabia lost their mental game despite scoring one goal while Mexico was purposeful.
Group F: Croatia vs Belgium 0-0 Croatia seemed to control possession but Belgium was also danger in attack. However, it was a stalemate of a game.	Group F: Canada vs Morocco 1-2 Approaching the 4th minute in the first half, Morocco scored first because of a poor clearance from the Canadian keeper that was picked up and lobbed over the goalie for an easy goal. Morocco's second goal was also due to an open defensive line. However in the second half, Canada's movement was more lively and even scored a goal. They tried their best but couldn't tie up.	Group E: Japan vs Spain 2-1   Spain controlled the game as expected and scored one goal in the first half. However, the determined Japanese pushed forward and made an immaculate long range shot to even the score early on in the second half. Not too long later, luck was on Japan's side as the ball that was supposedly out was crossed and connected for goal. They checked VAR and decided the ball was not out of bounds. I personally thought it was out but the referee saw otherwise so it was a controversial decision. Regardless, it made for an interesting outcome as Japan unexpectedly became first in the group as they defeated two powerhouse teams.	Group E: Costa Rica vs Germany 2-4 Germany was determined to not lose and be shamed. Germany scored one in the first half but Costa Rica tied up in the second half due to bad defence. Another sloppy defence by Germany let Costa Rica get another goal. It seemed that Costa Rica was on the verge of making it to the round but the momentum eventually shifted back to Germany as they were determined. When Germany is on fire, they can be deadly. Regardless of the victory, Germany was not able to advance to the next round along with Costa Rica.
Group H: South Korea vs Portugal 2-1 Portugal led early on with a lethal pass to the front where the striker scored in the box. However, Korea didn't give up and equalized from a corner kick and a connection. In the second half, Korea dominated possession and tightened defence so it was difficult for Portugal to penetrate or make chances. Korea's determination ultimately gave them a chance. When Son Heung-min had the ball all alone and charging forward, about 5 Portuguese players crowded him. Son was not phased and kept composure, giving a nice pass through the legs to Hwang Heechan where he successfully got it in for a dramatic finish in extra time just after 90 minutes.	Group H: Ghana vs Uruguay 0-2 Despite Uruguay's victory, they couldn't make it to the next round due to goal difference.	Group G: Serbia vs Switzerland 2-3 Serbia took advantage of Switzerland's defensive mishaps but Switzerland ultimately took control of play and overpowered Serbia.	Group G: Cameroon vs Brazil 1-0 Brazil kept ball possession well but their finishing move was lackluster. Cameroon could only rely on counter-attacks and was eventually awarded a goal by perseverance.

 

Round of 16

Netherlands vs USA 3-1 Netherlands was in top attacking form so the outcome was inevitable. USA on the other hand could've had a better result as luck was on their side 3 times but didn't convert to goals. Even their one goal was somehow freakish and lucky as the ball bounced off the American player's foot and lobbed over the goalie at close range.	Argentina vs Australia 2-1 Argentina dominated in ball possession throughout the match. It took a while but after 30 minutes, it was Messi magic that led to their first goal. Argentina's second goal came from bad goal keeping. Instead of clearing, the Australian keeper tried to dribble between 2 players but one of them picked up the loose ball for an easy goal in. Australia's goal was aided by luck as it was a result of deflection but their pressuring contributed in providing that opportunity. Australia's hopes were up and it was a gripping match to the last second where they almost got a goal but ultimately to no avail.
France vs Poland 3-1 In the first half, France and Poland both each had one great chance to score but was somehow missed or blocked in a pinball frenzy. In general, France dominated possession but Poland actually looked more menacing in counter-attack on rare occasions. However, France kept on trying and ultimately Giroud got a good pass and he connected it well for their first goal at the last minute of the first half. Mbappe tried to outpace his opponent but failed each time. However, his two shootings in the second half didn't fail him as it accurately rocketed or curved to the back of the net. In the final minute of the match, Poland was rewarded a consolation of a penalty kick and both teams showed good sportsmanship as they greeted each other with a smile and encouraging words when it was all over.	England vs Senegal 3-0 England's attack was too overwhelming and organized for Senegal to handle. All the goals were well made and connected.
Japan vs Croatia 1-1 (PSO XXOX-OOXO) Both teams were neck and neck with Japan slightly more dominant in play. However, their tie remained until extra time and all the way to penalty shootout. Unfortunately, Japan lost in the mental game and their nerves led them to shoot weakly or predictably for the Croatian keeper to block.	Brazil vs S. Korea 4-1 Brazil outclassed Korea for an easy victory. Four goals were scored by Brazil just in the first half and Korea's hopes were depleted. Korea scored one fantastic long range shot just outside the box but that wasn't enough.
Morocco vs Spain 0-0 (PSO OOXO-XXX) Morocco's defensive wall was hard to break for Spain so the match remained scoreless throughout. Spain performed so well until penalty shootout where they missed all their chances, thus an easy win for Morocco. This match was the most unexpected outcome of this round of 16.	Portugal vs Switzerland 6-1 Portugal outclassed Switzerland and was in top scoring form. Switzerland got a consolation goal from a corner kick.

Round of 8 (Quarter-finals)

Croatia vs Brazil 0-0 (ET 1-1 / PSO OOOO-XOOX Croatia and Brazil were neck and neck where the former defensively held off well against Brazil so they spent 90 minutes scoreless. However, both teams had some chances and were on the verge of making goals. In extra time, Brazil opened the score board then Croatia followed to tie and go to PSO. Croatia kicked first and shot straight down the centre with pace for a goal in. Brazil's shot, on the other hand, was read well by the Croatian keeper. Croatia's second shooter went for centre again and succeeded. Brazil's second kicker scored. The third kickers from both teams scored. Croatia's fourth kicker scored. Brazil's fourth kicker hit the post and that sealed the victory for Croatia.

Netherlands vs Argentina 2-2 (PSO XXOOO-OOOXO) Another neck and neck match but this was by far the most dramatic match of the tournament. Argentina was 2 up in goals first but the resilience of Netherlands allowed them to score one goal. In the final second of full-time plus extra time, Netherlands was given a chance from a free kick but the way it was taken was so ingenious; instead of lobbing the ball over the wall, it was passed to a teammate at the front of goal and that player shot it in. It was scoreless in extra time so it went to PSO. Netherlands had the captain kick first as example and bring up their spirits but backfired as his shot was blocked. Argentina also brought forth Messi, the captain, but he scored unlike his opponent. Netherlands' second kicker was blocked as well. Argentina's second kicker scored. The third kickers from both teams scored. For the fourth turn, Netherlands scored and Argentina didn't. In the final turn, Netherlands scored so Argentina needed to score on their turn. Martinez, the final kicker, became the hero as he succeeded his penalty kick.

Morocco vs Portugal 1-0 Portugal tried to take control of play while Morocco's counter attack had pace and was more threatening. Near the end of first half, a Moroccan made a nice lobbing pass to the centre in front of goal that was connected with a header passing behind the keeper who had come out of his line which he shouldn't have. Portugal tried to equalize but to no avail. Morocco's defensive wall stayed strong throughout the whole of second half despite the constant bombardment of Portuguese attacks. Therefore, Morocco became the first African nation to ever make it to the semis.

France vs England 2-1 France was unexpectedly the more dominant side this match. England tried to do a passing play to make chances for goal but to no avail. France on the other hand was more lethal in counter attack and they eventually gained dominance in ball possession. France's first goal was exemplary as it was shot from a far distance. England tied up later on thanks to a penalty kick. After the 77th minute, a nice cross, from the left side before entering the box, was well received with a header by Giroud for France's second goal. England had another chance at a penalty kick but Kane was too nervous and made a home run out of it.

Round of 4 (Semi-finals)

Croatia vs Argentina 0-3 Croatia took more ball possession but it was Argentina that capitalized on chances through counter-attacks. Late in the first half, Argentina was awarded a penalty kick as the Croatian keeper collided with the charging Argentinian, leading to Argentina's first goal. Then shortly after, another goal was made from a one-man-counter-attack-show effort by Alvarez. Croatia had close moments to score but failed. Near the 70th minute, Messi penetrated well and muscled his way into the box, then made a nice through pass to his teammate for an easy goal. Croatians were in total distraught and all hope was lost as the outcome was predictable early on. All in all, Argentina's strong defence and good attacking form contributed to their victory.

Morocco vs France 0-2 Morocco had a little more ball possession but France was up to the challenge and fended off well. In the first half, France opened up Morocco through strategical passes and that led to the first goal early on in the 5th minute. Morocco tried to equalize but things didn't go their way. In the second half, Mbappe made a good penetrating run into the box attracting defenders and he passed to his teammate nearby and closest to the net where it was connected for a goal. Morocco's hopes seemed lost. Thus, Morocco's Cinderella Story was not to be.

3rd Place Match

Croatia vs Morocco 2-1

Croatia pressured well so they were awarded a free kick. The set piece was ingenious: The ball was lobbed, then connected with a header that in turn was crossed with a header, and finally connected with a jumping header for goal. However, Morocco equalized soon after also from a free kick as Croatian defence was open. Both teams looked rushed and there were pass misses and ball handling mistakes. There were some close chances but indecisiveness and inaccuracies led to failure. Morocco's defence looked shaky as Croatia controlled ball possession. Near the end of first half, a Croatian shot a long range that hit the post and bounced into the back of the net for the 2nd goal. Second half was a continuation of where the first half left off with, but there were no changes to the score board. Throughout the match, Morocco tried to be too fancy with the ball and ended up losing it. All in all, both teams didn't perform their best today as they looked scrappy and ridden with mistakes but Croatia had the upper hand in terms of attack.

Final

Argentina vs France 3-3 (PSO oooo-oxxo)

Argentina looked more threatening in attack and had better chances. France's back line was easily opened by Argentina and during the penetration process in the box they were awarded a penalty kick where Messi scored. In the 36th minute, Argentina was on a counter attack and the good forward movement started with Messi's good pass to the flank and eventually connecting to Di Maria who scored on a 1-1 situation.

Arg dominant, good ball handling
 

The end of second half was the start of an interesting drama. France got a penalty pick and Mbappe scored. Immediately after within a minute, France counter attacked and Mbappe made an awesome volley to tie it up in the 82nd minute. France's energy went up and suddenly momentum was on their side as they headed for extra time.

In first half of extra time, France was dominant but Argentina had 2 close chances near the end. Early on in the second half of extra time, Messi scored from a good penetrating move. However, France was awarded a penalty kick later on and equalized. The match was nail-biting to the finish as they had close chances but to no avail. So on to penalty shootout...

In the shootout, France looked nervous while Argentina looked more focused and that decided their fate. Argentina confidently became the winners and they were overwhelmed with emotions. All in all, Argentina was well deserved as they were better in passes, ball handling and play in general.