Wing Wizards

Does any other country have the quality width that the Dutch do? Even Brazil or Argentina don’t have the wide wingers but build through the middle of the park. People, commentators and pundits are all seeing the ability of the Dutch attack to stretch opposition defences and create openings. I defy anyone to look at van Persie and say that his comment about Robben was that of a whining teammate. He got more of the ball and look what happened.

I disagree with Robben being named Man of the Match. I thought van Persie should have received the accolades for his followed up to his perceived insidious remark. That goal saving chest? Timely. That run resulting in the free kick? Terrifying. Those two first touches near the corner flag to save possession and set up excellent crosses? Terrific. Bar none.

Praise from Johan Cruyff is high praise indeed.

I’m writing this at half-time of the Portugal/Iran game. It’s been a decent contest but I’ve come to a conclusion. First, name the four most exciting young players in world football. Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, Arjen Robben and Lionel Messi. Watching Ronaldo today….Robben is much, much better than he is. That’s no discredit to Ronaldo who is superb in his own way but Robben creates so much more per touch or per second on the ball. Robben brings the play forward and creates chances. Ronaldo is on the end of created chances and I think that is a detriment and misuse of his skills and talents (I’m a United fan keep in mind).

That’s all for now, I’ll have more at FT