Tuesday was an eventful day in Russia. That saw defending champion Germany knocked out of the World Cup, Brazil advanced to the last 16 of the tournament as they defeated Serbia (2-0) in their last league game in Spartak Stadium, Moscow.
Following the recent tradition, Germany became the third defending champs in a row to be knocked out in the league stage of the World Cup. Germany started their campaign with a shock defeat against the fast-paced Mexico side. Even though they won their next game against Sweden, they never looked convincing at any point in time in this tournament. But the German fans were hoping that their team could still qualify in the next round, to their disappointment Germany suffered yet another humiliating loss in the hands of Korea on Tuesday. That put the last nail on their coffin. This is the first time Germany failed to progress to the knockout stage since 1938 when they lost to Switzerland. It was also their first defeat against an Asian nation in the World Cup.
In all three league games that Germany played they had superior ball possession, but failed to convert that into a goal. They lacked the finishing prowess in front of the goal. Likes of Thomas Mueller, Reus, Gomez weren't in best of forms in this tournament and that caused them dearly. Loew definitely missed the service of all time highest Cup’s scorer Miroslav Klose and the midfield general, Philipp Lahm. Since their retirement, Germany hasn’t found a suitable replacement for them.
It was a memorable day for S.Korea as they stunned the mighty Germans for the very first time. YG Kim and HM Son were the goal scorer for Korea as they defeated Germany (2-0).
In the other game of Group F Sweden defeated Mexico (3-0). As a result, Sweden and Mexico both have advanced to the round of 16. In this game Mexico full-back, Edson Alvarez scored the seventh own goal of this competition-more than in any World Cup.
In Group E Brazil faced Serbia and Switzerland was up against Costa Rica. All the eyes were on Brazil and they didn't disappoint. Brazil was in complete control against the Serbs. They enjoyed lion’s share of ball possession throughout the game. The five-time world champions Brazil, who only needed a draw to qualify for the next round, took the lead in the 36th minute of the match. Paulinho timed his run perfectly to receive Coutinho's lofted pass and flick the ball over goalkeeper Vladimir Stojkovic. Brazil extended their lead in 68th minute, courtesy Thiago Silva’s beautifully timed header from Neymar’s corner. The Serbian forward Mitrovic had two fantastic opportunities to equalize but he failed on both the occasions. Brazil finished top of Group E with seven points and they will face Mexico in the second round.
On the other hand, Switzerland drew (2-2) with Costa Rica in Novgorod. They finished second in the group with five points and will play against Sweden in the Round of 16.
