England’s Premier League has received conditional backing to begin again in June under special protocols. The President of Spain’s La Liga, Javier Tabas, has identified June 12th as the earliest date to reopen behind closed doors and contingent on approval by Spanish health authorities. Prime Minister Sanchez upstaged him at time of writing, approving an opening date of June 8th. The 20 teams in Italian Serie A have agreed to resume play on June 13th in empty stadiums. Poland has plans to restart on May 29th, Portugal will resume on May 30th, Austria June 2nd.

Some leagues have closed and have no specific plans for re-opening. The Belgian league was the first to cancel. The French government has cancelled Ligue 1 and declared Paris St. Germain the winner on points. Some clubs are considering challenging the decision. The Dutch government has cancelled all sports until Sept. 1. In Scotland training, and match plays have been suspended.

A National Unifier

Sports is not just about entertainment or escapism, although those certainly play a big part. It’s also an outlet for political tensions, and it can inspire people from different backgrounds to see the value of cooperation. It also acts as a platform for national and international issues, playing a considerable political role. And in the case of football, it is a big one!

This is true on the national level, too, where sports have often been a national unifier, with national teams coming to serve as national symbols. Fans rally behind the national team in hopes of a victory over rival nations. When national teams meet Germany at the World Cup or European Championships, one has the impression that the war is being relived, without guns, in a more peaceful version of historic rivalries. Local rivalries are also played out when club teams meet in the Champions or Europa League.  For next year’s 2020-21 season, eligibility will be determined in cases where the season has already been cancelled, by the current league rankings.

In times of international stress, the role of sports is even more important. The 1936 Olympic Games in Germany are still talked about for this reason. The hostage-taking at the 1972 Munich Olympic games focused attention on the Middle East and the raised fists of two American athletes in 1968 at the Olympic games in Mexico solidified the black power movement in the US and gave it further impetus.

From May 1950 until a loss to Turkey on February 19, 1956, the Hungarian national team – the “magnificent Magyars” – amassed a 43 win 6 draw and 0 defeats record, with the sole exception of the 1954 World Cup loss to West Germany. The international prowess of their footballers was a source of pride to Hungarians as they prepared their unsuccessful 1956 revolt against the Soviet Union.  In 1980, many Western countries boycotted the Moscow Olympics after the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.

The more recent French victories in the World Cup (1998, 2018) and the European Championship (1984, 2000), as well as making it to several semi-finals, have provided a platform for the country’s new multi-ethnic identity, as numerous immigrants from former French colonies helped lead the team to victory and were celebrated as national heroes. German and Italian teams that have vied for number one in Europe are said to play with their national character on their shirt sleeves, the well oiled “Mannschaft” being compared to the more individualistic “Azzurri.”

Spanish football was built by Franco at a time when the country didn’t agree on much else. It is still a source of pride and massive revenue. Iceland too achieved something remarkable. The “Strákarnir okkargetting” or “our boys” united the country and gave a boost to tourism by their quarter-final finish in the 2016 European Championship.

Players, Warriors, Princes, And Saints

Star football players are sportsmen- and -women first. They inspire us to run harder, train, and compete. They also play a much deeper psychological role modeling the warriors of old to inspire us in the social struggles we face, and parallels also tie them to ancient princes like the good King Wenceslas of Moravia doling out alms to the poor. Alongside benevolent ruler, the role of a saint, taking up the cause of the poor, although eschewing personal sacrifice, is not far behind. In taking on these various mantels, athletes reassure us of our good intentions, society’s smooth functioning, and the persistence of social cohesion.

Few will have trouble identifying Cristiano Ronaldo’s exploits on the field with those Homeric exploits of Ulysses – if, of course, in a way more fit for modernity. But somewhat less known, Ronaldo was “Most Charitable Sports Figure of 2019”, having achieved this number one ranking several times previously. Along with Maria Sharapova (#8), he is one of two Europeans to make the top ten charitable sports figure list. He is also better known throughout Europe than many presidents.  

Other charitable figures, features of the European sports scene, will be well-known to football fans: Neymar Jr. (#5), Didier Drogba, David Beckham, and Craig Bellamy, along with many others. One can question a system that awards some with fortunes they can give away while others struggle to make ends meet but it would be more difficult to question the generosity of these athletes. Unlike high finance, they have exploited no-one but themselves in amassing their fortune.

A figure like Zinedine Zidane, born in Marseille to Algerian parents, the hero of the French 2000 World Cup victory, and four-time Champions’ League victor as coach of Real Madrid, helps serve as a role model for immigrant kids, extending a feeling of common belonging in the immigrant community. Zidane also showed off the role of the saint – or in this case anti-saint – with his infamous headbutt of the Italian Marco Materazzi in the 2006 World Cup final that France went on to lose. Even the French were genuinely shocked. Materazzi had, it was said, insulted Zidane’s mother, raising the incident to another cultural level.

Other social conflicts are played out on the safer terrain of the turf as compared to the street. Families sometimes have divided club loyalties – one could imagine a Neapolitan family where one parent is a supporter of Inter Milan, the team representing the financial center of Italy. The other parent might root for Naples, identifying them as a team representing the city’s poor, and their offspring might join in the youthful enthusiasm for Juventus’ victories.  No football match will challenge the power structure in Italy, but football acts as an outlet to those tensions of identity and social cohesion.

When Sports Get Ugly

If sports has an outsized cultural influence, this does not always translate into a positive impact. Drugs, underage prostitution, illegal gambling, match-fixing, and right-wing passions are just some of the principal ugly moments in football that we hope not to see in the remainder of this Corona-truncated season. Teams have been forced before to play to empty stadiums, forgoing enormous revenues, not because of the virus but because of unruly, or even violent fans – even going so far as to violate European law against hate crimes or fascist symbols. Sanctions are applied by UEFA, football’s governing body in Europe.

Homophobic and racist chants, along with Nazi Swastikas, are often at the root of these bans, and often had to occur multiple times before punitive action was even considered. The problem is widespread. Groups called “ultras”, social clubs with several thousand members, and right-wing affiliations, are usually the prime movers in the repeated incidents. Some clubs are more infamous than others for their supporters’ continued far right affiliations – Lazio comes to mind – but no one is exempt. The German player Mesut Özil, who was born in Germany from Turkish parents, plays for Arsenal in the UK and retired from the German national team because of racism last year. Feyenoord, a Dutch team, was fined when fans threw a large inflatable banana at an AS Roma player of Ivorian origin. British fans, hooligans, known previously all over Europe for their drunken riots whenever they played on the continent, have now discovered racism towards many of the Commonwealth and other foreign players in the Premier League, as well as towards adversaries they play on the continent. Incidents of racism in Eastern European football are also commonplace.

It’s Go-Time

For better or worse, the season has begun again and will provide a needed distraction from days laden with news of the virus. Players will be no better or worse than we are – but their exploits will provide a window into European society, its strengths, and its weaknesses. It will fall upon us not to waste that moment of reflection, and make sure we try to do well by doing good: have fun, and change Europe for the better.

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Belgian football

Belgium has always been the best of the European middle powers. From time to time they do well, but they have never won a major international tournament. But in recent decades Belgian football has continuously improved, and now they have a team of multiple strong on all positions, and a perhaps the best attacking trio in the game right now.

De Bruyne is the midfield European king of assists, Eden Hazard is possibly the best European number 10, and Romulu Lukaku up front might in time cement himself as the best number 9. On Transfermarkt those 3 are all in the top20 of the highest valued players in the world. Argentina, England and France also have 3 in that top20, but their trios are far from as complementary as the Belgian.

But Belgium is not just those 3, they have maybe not World class players on all positions, but more than good enough, and a bench full of added talent. So much that number 98 of the mentioned Transfermarkt list, Radja Nainggolan, did not make the World Cup squad for tactical reasons.

Often Belgium has been known to have attacking talent, but they also have a core of defensive players, who have all played well over 50 games for the national team, and know each other very well.

Belgium plays 3-4-2-1. This fits the players. They central defenders are good in a 3-back-line, and they are better than their backs, who often suffer from being too attacking. So 3 at the back seems like a perfect solution. One could at times look at the formation and think Belgium has 7 defensive players and 3 attacking, but the way the Belgians play their system, then the 4 join the attack as much as they defend. This means Belgium can push forward very fast with a lot of players, who can pass the ball at a very high technical level. And with the pace of the attacking players, then they have a team, which are by some consider outsiders to winning the World Cup. Belgium har simply never had a better team, and they are not some mixed and match all-star team, these players know each other, and compliment each other extremely well.

Where do the Belgians play?

10 play for the leading Premier League clubs in England (Tottenham 3, Manchester United 2, Manchester City 2, Chelsea 2, and Liverpool 1). And 1 in West Bromwich Albion, who finished last. The top league in the World. De Bruyne, Hazard, and Lukaku are each the star of their team.

Beyond that you have players all over Europe (Germany 3, France 2, Spain 2, Italy 1, and Scotland 1), 2 in China, and 1 playing for Anderlecht, which is the traditionally the best Belgian club. Belgian football used to be a major league in Europe, but with time this has diminished, and today young talent often start in Belgium, but move the the larger European leagues at a very early age.

There are a couple of 32 year olds in the squad, but in general this is a team, which is likely to still be around in 4 years, so this might not even be Belgium at their best yet.

Political influence and national narrative

Belgium is known for its regions, many governments, and complex political system. And also the clear language barrier between Wallonia and Flanders. There has in the past been problems with cliques of French and Dutch speaking players, which has in the past caused trouble building unit cohesion. And as with many other squads you have a significant amount of players with dual citizenship. Actually half of the squad. 5 of these from the former Belgium colony, which today is DR Congo (including Lukaku). As with Switzerland and France, then football is in many ways the great integrator.

A World Cup trophy would do great for building a more unified national narrative across linguistic separation, and might lead to a more unified Belgium. Just as with Spain, Italy, and others, then internal disagreements tend to be dropped, when you can come together over the World Cup. And especially over celebrating a trophy.

Group and expectations

Belgium and England unsurprisingly have demolished Panama and Tunisia. Each of the Europeans have 6 points and are through. The non-Europeans have 0. In a way the last round of group games is more about glory than needed results.

Belgium’s group G is paired with probably the worst group of the tournament, which is H. H’s last games are played before G, so Belgium and England might actually have something to play for, if one of the really want to avoid the group H winners. But as neither should have any trouble against Japan, Senegal, or Colombia if they want to go far, then you might see reserves play a significant part in the Belgium-England game. But on the other hand, then you have teams, which are highly motivated and in good form, who might want to ride of the wave of their momentum. And they are not countries famous for focusing on the tactical aspect above all else, so we might still see an absolute group final, where Lukaku and Kane would want to grab more goals, as they are in contention for the golden boot (topscore’s trophy).

As mentioned, H should not be a problem. But of course any team through form the group at a World Cup should never be underestimated, but I would be shocked if both England and especially Belgium did not make it to the quarterfinals. Interestingly the team to avoid might mostly be Brazil in a quarterfinal, so winning or losing for England and Belgium might be a matter of where Brazil finish in their group. Sweden, Mexico, Switzerland, and Serbia are all seemingly easier quarterfinal opponents.

So if Belgium has the right kind of luck, then they could very easily end up in a semi-final, and there they would either face another surprise, or a under-performing member of the big 8 (Brazil, Argentina, France, Spain – England end up in the other half of the bracket, Germany are out, and Italy and the Netherlands did not qualify). If Belgium and England both keep up their current form, then this last group game could be a rehearsal for the World Cup final. And if one side shows clear weakness, then they are likely not going to have what it take to make it that far.

So expectation are if Belgium can decisively beat England, then they are the team on form, and which has not shown any real weakness at any point. This makes them my favourite to win the World Cup. But only if they can decisively beat the English.

Finishing remarks

This was the final European country at the World Cup, and therefore the final article of this series. Hopefully you have enjoyed them and are enjoying the World Cup.

I must apologies to our Swiss readers for me learning on the job that “Swizz” does not mean something from Switzerland. That is hopefully the only horrible mistake, but otherwise feel free to debate them on My Country? Europe.’s facebook page, where this will be posted. Consider joining our facebook group connected to the page, if you want to get in on the football banter, or like to debate European culture.

Europe do not have (and I my opinion should never have) a singular team at the World Cup. Football is the time to be focused on our member states instead of the European cooperation, it is where we can settle our difference through 11 champions representing us on the pitch (Belgium vs. England might have a bit of a Brussels vs. Brexit narrative for some). Something to guard our national culture, so we with no fear can grow our shared European culture and integrate politically.

If your nation is not playing, then it is a great time to show your Europeanness by supporting your long-term rivals. Denmark was in Euro 1992 carried to victory not just by Danish supporters, but also by the local Swedes, who backed their Scandinavian brothers in their knock-out games. No occasion is better to show brotherly European love, than when historical adversary needs you the most during their World Cup games. No matter if that means Spanish, Portuguese, French, Danish, Croatian, Serbian, Swiss, Swedish, English, or Belgian football finish on top.

Have a great World Cup and Forza Europe!

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Swiss football

Switzerland host the headquarters of FIFA and UEFA, and therefore is the centre of the administrative part of the game.

Swiss football is a form of Germanic football, just as the Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Austria, Iceland, the Netherlands, and Germany. Most closely Swiss football probably resembles German football. Hard work and tackles in defence and in the midfield, which means more room for the technical attacking midfielders to do their thing, and then big striker up front.

The difference between the German and Swiss 4-2-3-1 is that the Germans with more technically gifted players have a bit less focus on physicality in the 2 central midfielders. Khedira is simply a level over Behrami and Kroos over Xhaka in the technical game.

The reason for this is that Switzerland are expecting to not dominate all their matches, and therefore often have to have a wall of 6 physical players at the back, where the midfield aids the defence mostly. For Germany, they expect to dominate games, retain position, and need players, who are more play-makers, than play-breakers (especially Behrami). Also Dzemaili on the attacking midfield is no Özil, but as with the Nordic countries, then there is a well organised unit, which can be really hard to break.

Where do the Swiss play?

Historically the Swiss mostly played in German football, and the team was often dominated by German speakers. This is still the case today. Gladbach has a significant colony with 4 players, while Dortmund has 2, Leipzig 1, Schalke 1, Hoffenheim 1, and Frankfurt 1. All in all 10 players in the Bundesliga.

1 plays in the Swiss league, which can be a bit of a surprise as the Swiss league is normally not so bad. Especially FC Basel, who has that one player.

5 play in Italy (Juventus, Milan, Atalanta, Bologna, and Udinese), but neither seem to be Italian-Swiss. 2 in England (Arsenal and Stoke), 1 for Toulouse in France, 1 for La Coruña in Spain, 1 for Benfica in Portugal, 1 for Antalyaspor in Turkey, and 1 for Dynamo Zagreb in Croatia.

Political influence and national narrative

Now it has become norm for European national teams to have players all over the continent, but Switzerland is a bit different. In the France article we mentioned the role of immigration and football, but there is no country in Europe as open to immigration as Switzerland, and that is evident in their national team. 7 out of 11 starters against Serbia have dual citizenship. 15 out of the 23 in the whole squad do as well.

At Euro 2008 Hakan Yakin brought Switzerland ahead against Turkey and celebrated the goal. Something which was no popular in Turkey, as Yakin was of Turkish origin. It cause controversy in football in general, as it highlighted the potential dual allegiance of players, who could choose which nation to play for. Something which is becoming more and more normal in a globalising world.

And during this World Cup Switzerland faced Serbia in the likely most politically charged game of the tournament. This is because the Swiss starting 11 included 3 Kosovar, 1 Macedonian, and 1 Bosniak, while 2 Croatians also came in from the bench, which is managed by a Bosniak. All of them of course also Swiss.

Serbia got ahead, but ended up losing to two goals from Kosovar players, who in their celebration with hands created the symbolic eagle of Albania. Something that in no way reduced tensions, and Serbia was denied a obvious penalty as well, which perfectly feed the Serbian narrative of being cheated out of their territory and victories. A lot of old bad blood resurfaced, and also from the Swiss perspective as their players where celebrating a foreign nation.

Now, all football fans agree that sports and politics should be separate. But nations and countries are political entities. National team games are competitions with a political undertone. Political symbolism is banned, but national anthems and flags are just as much political symbols as cultural symbols. And in a modern world, where half the national team might not just be of your nationality, then motivations differ.

Petkovic clearly used these motivations to his advantage. Is this okay? Well, football and politics has always been connected. Just look at the Spanish 2 top clubs. Or back to the Serbian narrative and their team. As mentioned in the England article, football is the proper arena to settle our differences, not violence or war. Hopefully one day this will also be the established standard in the Balkans, but until that day, then Switzerland plays surrogate to the small nation of Kosovo in their desire to challenge Serbian dominance. And no matter where you stand in that conflict, then the fact that this happens on the football pitch, instead of on a battlefield, should be something to celebrate.

Bad memories might be rekindled, but this has to happen from time to time, so the option of reconciliation can be tested. For some peace is just a chance to reinforce and resupply your army, therefore true peace only exists, when 2 nations can play a friendly game of football without hatred. But instead with jokes and banter. Such as France and Germany. The eternal rivals of Europe are today friends and partners. One day that might also be the case for Serbia and Kosovo, but we will only know, when we get to a day, where they can play each other in a friendly game of football without hatred, violence, booing of national anthems, and other forms of disrespect.

This is why football is so important in European culture. And the separation from politics might be limited, but we try to maintain it anyway. Politics is the brutal reality of the everyday condition, football is the 2 hours of liberating anarchy, where we can show our true selves. No matter what and who we are.

Group and expectations

Switzerland surprised many by drawing against Brazil in their opening game. As mentioned before they beat Serbia, and can now safely decide their own fate.

In the final game Switzerland play Costa Rica. The lost 1-0 to Serbia and 2-0 to Brazil, but in both games held very well for a long time. It might prove difficult for the Swiss football team to score, but Costa Rica have also not scored yet. And Switzerland are through with a point.

In the other group game Serbia need to beat Brazil to go through, or draw and hope Costa Rica beats Switzerland by 2 (leading to Serbia having the better goal-score). Brazil needs a draw against Serbia to be through, and as Brazil is a very demanding football nation, then a draw might be good enough to go through, but it is not going to be good enough for the Brazilian fans. So likely even if Switzerland lose, then they are likely still through.

Looking to group F, which Switzerland’s group is being paired with, then they will likely face Mexico or Germany, and with Mexico likely to finish top, then ending up as first or second in the group is not of paramount importance. However, it would still be a unwise gamble for Switzerland to take it easy and play too many reserves against Costa Rica. Costa Rica might not have scored yet, but if they do not get that goal, then they go home from the World Cup completely empty-handed. So you might see a more motivated Costa Rica squad, than the Swiss. And you never know with Serbia.

Against Mexico or Germany, then Switzerland are not going to be the favourite. They will throughout the knock-out stage be the underdog. And that can be something to exploit. Teams might ignore the fact that that have a strong unit and players, who have played together for many years. If they can avoid the worst of injuries to key players, then Switzerland can surprise. Just like any other European team at the World Cup.

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French football

As with so many other Europeans nations, French football is often summed up by a stereotype of its people. French football has been characterised by ups and downs, and a lot of arrogant stars, who thought they and their clique was more important that the team. As well as leadership which instead of solving the issues, seemed to care more about the respect of their authority.

This culminated in a training strike during the World Cup in 2010. Now a lot of us might think nothing is more French than going on strike, but you simply cannot perform at top level of international football if everyone from the players, to the support staff, the manager, the coaches, and the suits in the federation do not all work together. The details are everything at this level.

2010 was a real wake-up call for the French. Laurent Blanc took over as manager of the national team. Discipline was introduced, the troublemakers from 2010 were sanctioned. In 2012 Didier Deschamps (another 1998 World Cup winner, just like Blanc) took over, and built what is today the French national team. A team that does not consist of just the best players, but instead avoids the uncontrollable egos, which in the past was more hassle than anything else for the French.

Just as Germany invested heavily in talent infrastructure about 15 years ago, then France did this as early as the late 1980s. France have for a long time been trying to find a formular, which would keep them at the top of global football, and it did get them there in 1998, when they won the World Cup at home (their only win so far). But the internal problems with attitudes took longer, and not until 2016 were France really ready to shine again after the 1998 (and Euro 2000) winning generation.

France plays a modern 4-3-3. This means it is attacking with many players. Sometimes it is formed as a 4-1-4-1 or a 4-2-3-1, but essentially it remains a formation with 4 defenders, 3 central midfielders, 2 wingers, and 1 in the box striker. Although the players often switch around in their tactical roles. The idea of this formation is that every player has a lot of technical freedom, which fits the French style of large egos well.

Where do the French play?

In top tier clubs all over Europe. Those who play in France play for the big 4 (PSG 3, Marseilles 3, Monaco 2, and Lyon 1), while the 14 other are 6 in Spain (Barcelona 2, Atletico Madrid 2, Real Madrid 1, and Sevilla 1), 5 in England (Chelsea 2, Tottenham 1, Manchester United 1, Manchester City 1) 2 in Germany (Bayern Munich and Stuttgart), and 1 in Italy (Juventus).

The starting lineup has players from clubs able to challenge for the Champions League trophy in England, Spain, Italy, and France, and then the odd Stuttgart player (he might well play somewhere else after this World Cup).

This team has everything needed to win a World Cup, and it has many of the same players, as the team that lost in the 109th minute to Portugal in the Euro 2016 final.

Political influence and national narrative

France is a multicultural country with a long colonial history, and possessions around the world. A lot of poor migrants often have football as the best shoot at making at improving their lot in life. Football is a way out of poverty and potentially crime for a lot of players at the World Cup.

In the late 90s the French football national team was of every kind of ethnicity, which has brought the anger of the French far-right, but it is also a symbol of integration and unity. Which it still is today. As with many other nations, then a football win is an opportunity to bridge many social gaps. Overcome racism, take the self-determination debate down a couple of notches, and just come together as people. Restart bad relationships and turn them into something good. Football is a way to build bridges. Some of them take a lot of work, but in the end they seem to slowly pay off. France has a lot of work in redefining its post-colonial identity along with a great influx of migration and a continuing terrorist threat.

A terrorist threat which in 2015 not only targeted the concert at Bataclan, but also the French national football teams home friendly game against Germany. Football is meant to be a substitute for violence, and a peaceful way to settle our differences on the pitch. Neither hooliganism or terrorism has a place in that equation. This notion was clearly on display at France’s next football game. Away in London playing England at Wembley, the French were treated as if they were the home team in a show of what European unity looks like in face of mindless violence. Football might not be able to solve our problems, but games are an event to show our solidarity and humanity.

Group and expectations

France have struggled, but are already through from the group. They won very narrowly 2-1 against Australia and 1-0 over Peru. In their last group game they face Denmark, who with a draw are through (even if Australia beat Peru). If Denmark win, then they win the group. So with a draw or win France likely face the winner of Nigeria or Argentina (with a draw: Nigeria), who play each other in their third group game, as group C and D are paired in the round of 16. With a couple of miracles maybe Iceland could go through, but do not expect it. With a loss to Denmark, then France is 99% certain to play Croatia. Traditional expectations would dictate that Argentina finish second, so there might not be any advantage for France in winning the group.

So while France has not impressed so far, then it would still be the smarter choice to let the reserves play against Denmark. This means France might likely again struggle. However, this in no way should retract from the fact that French football is one of the best in the world. France might well still win the World Cup as they have the talent in their team to just get through, when they need to. Do not count out the French just yet, and if they face Argentina in ro16, then expect a very interesting game of two underachieving giants trying to vindicate a poor showing in their group. And who knows from there. France seemed to struggle just as much in the group at Euro 2016, and they only lost the final of the tournament in extra-time to Portugal…

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Oh England. The home of the game. English football for better and worse has the self-image as inventors of the modern game. This has lead to a perception of superiority (leading them to not enter the World Cup until 1950), which has often come tumbling down on their heads. England and English clubs used to be very conservative in their tactics, and often they would be 10 years behind countries such as Italy, where you would often see a lot more experimentation.

6 years ago the English football national team still played 4-4-2. To some a system outdated 10 years prior (but then again Sweden still plays it today). However, with the massive influx of money in English league football over the last 15 years, foreign players and coaches have left their mark on the game’s homeland.

During qualification everything from 4-2-3-1 to 4-3-3 to 3-4-2-1 was tried, and in preparatory friendlies for the World Cup the system was different variations of 3-5-2. This kind of tactical experimentation is not the traditional English style, and comes from hiring a younger coach in Gareth Southgate. One who played the last years of his career, when the English game was modernising. Therefore tactical flexibility to fit the 11 players on the field has been introduced.

English football is characterise by an insane pace. Players are often younger than in other leagues, and you run more at a greater speed. Everyone is expected to fight hard and work hard throughout the 90 minutes. But also fight fair. Fairplay is essential to the culture of English football. No diving, no cheating, no whining. Something Cristiano Ronaldo learned the hard way at Manchester United. Some players simply cannot hack playing the English game.

This game frustrates the opposition. English teams traditionally pressure their opponents for 90 minutes even if they are ahead. There is a significant amount of tactical thought in the English game, but often it is less evident than you might see in Italy, Spain, or Germany.

However, the idea of a perfectly fair game is not perfect. An English football idiom greatly explains their main national ball games: “Rugby is a hooligan’s game played by gentlemen, football is a gentlemen’s game played by hooligans”. The English will tell you a lot of romantic tales about their game, but in reality they well know the duality as well.

Where do the English play?

Every single England player plays in the English Premier League. It is the league with the most money, and the best players. For a time so much money that foreign talent meant some English players struggled to be starters for their club, even if they were starters for the national team. However, this is not the case anymore.

Goalkeepers are seen as potentially the English weakest link. All 3 of the play in midtier clubs (1 for each of Everton, Burnley, and now relegated Stoke), while the outfield players play in the top tier teams: Tottenham 5, Manchester City 4, Manchester United 4, Liverpool 2 (both playing in the Champions League final), Leicester 2, Chelsea 2, and Arsenal 1.

The benefit of all playing at home means the players know each other from playing against their national teammates. The problem might be that while they have played against a lot of their opposition in the League or in Europe, then the English players will often lack an understanding of how the game might be played in different countries. Especially as there is a certain arrogance to the English, as they tend to see the game as something that should be played, how they play it. (Except for Brazil, but everybody loves Brazil)

Political influence and national narrative

As inventors of the game, then everyone wants to beat England. And as a long history of a global empire and many wars, then they also have a load of rivalries. Especially with Germany and Argentina, but also France and well pretty much everyone else to some degree. Scotland is also a significant rivalry, but mostly these are other countries, see England as their rival more than England sees it as anything extraordinary.

For the English their main rivalry started by beating them in two World Wars, and it is with Germany. Where England was successful in war, then Germany beat them at their own game, leading to Germany being the most successful Europe footballing nation in history. There is a legendary story about the first time (West) Germany beat England, then the German captain commented that Germany had beaten the English at their own game, and to which the English captain is supposed to have replied: “yes, but we beat you at your own game. Twice”. Something very insulting for a post-war German, as their country should be associated with nothing but war.

The British might have beaten the Argentinians in the 1982 Falklands war, but 4 years later at the World Cup, Argentina knocked England out with Maradona’s infamous “hand of god” goal. And the war on the pitch has continued ever since. Each of these two instance being the ultimate insult to the other. England for being beaten at football by a unfair handball, and Argentina for losing a war over small random British South Atlantic islands, which a significant part of their national identity hinge on.

However, and in general, English see all of this as good fun. Some hooligans get overly drunk and rampage like it is the 100 Years War/Crusades all over again, and that has been a major problem in the past (for many hooligans the English scalp is the most coveted, as seen with Russian hooligans in 2016). But in general there is not much political to these rivalries, it is just a matter of identity definition. Which is also why in the English narrative then football is our modern day substitution for war in Europe. We kick a ball around instead of shooting each other. Both on the national and on the local level.

On the other hand, then you also have a resurgence of English nationalism these days. Brexit is around the corner. Something which will mean the British game stops being European in terms of foreigner players, and then Premier League clubs will likely have to use the same rules as Russia. This would drastically reduce the amount of EU nationals in the league, and decimate English football’s ability to compete for continental titles.

So while some hardcore football fans might be looking forward to a hard Brexit, then a softer one might be in their footballing interests.

Group and expectations

England are going to win the World Cup. Their perspective is that they invented the game, and therefore should be best. Anything short of the trophy is not good enough for the English.

England are in what looks like a fairly easy group. They struggled slightly against Tunesia, but they should be comfortable against Panama in the second round, and with Belgium playing Tunesia, then you by all accounts should have 6-6-0-0 point score after 2 games each. This will mean the final game between England and Belgium is merely a final for who wins the group, and both might field a significant amount of reserves, as they are both through.

But when England seem the most confident is often when things go horribly wrong. But then again this a younger and more modern English side in every way. And they must have learned their lesson from being humiliated by Iceland in the Euro 2016 round of 16. A lot has changed, and then maybe not so much. For the English fans this is going to be their World Cup in their own minds. For the rest of us, well, we always have doubts.

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German football

Since politics and history is going to be a large part of this article, then this section will be on post-reunification German football only.

Following a terrible showing in Euro 2004, German hired Jürgen Klinsmann to coach the national team. Klinsmann lived in the US, did not have a traditional German approach to the job, but he did score 40 goals in 82 games playing for Germany, and Germany need to try something new. Klinsmann wanted to play attacking and flowing football, and with a significant generational change in the team, then he could push through his vision.

Germany was also hosting the World Cup in 2006, and were looking to become the World Champions for the 4th time. Germany lost in the semi-final, but the team was the darling of the tournament, and Germany was a great host. What might not have been won on the pitch was won in self-confidence. Following the Second World War, Germans had gotten used to national symbolism and patriotism was not something to show, but after the 2006 World Cup, the Germans could absolutely feel proud. Even if they failed to win the tournament (losing in extra-time to the future champions, Italy, in the semi-final), then the first time in generations you could see the German flag all over the country.

Germany has always played a hard and physical game. Often (during the days of West Germany) defensive and known for bending the rules to their advantage. The apex of West German unsportsmanship was seen in 1982 in the World Cup, where they in the final group game were through with a win, but if only by 1 or 2 goals, then Austria (who they played against) would also be through. Germany scored early in the game, and then neither side played much football for 80 minutes, but instead merely passed the ball around.

However, with Klinsman as coach, the game changed. Massive investments in youth academies in all professional clubs, and a national coordination of this, ensured the continued production of German talent for the national team. And combined German football was forever changed. Klinsmann, however, was only the coach for the preparation to and the World Cup in 2006. After that his assistant Joachim Löw took over, and he is still the national coach today.

Germany play 4-2-3-1 and push a lot of players forward in attack. And today they play a hard, but fair game. They are the most winning European national team (West Germany and unified Germany combined). While they lost to Denmark in the Euro 1992 final, they won in 1996 as the first major post-reunification trophy. The World Cup would elude Germany for some time since West Germany winning in 1990, but finally in 2014 the Klinsmann-Löw style proved successful.

This means Germany are the defending champions. And as one of the favourites, then they might be the first team to win back-to-back World Cups. But the champion’s curse seems to have already struck. More on that in the final section of the article.

Where do the Germans play?

German league football is dominated by Bayern Munich. They have won the last 6 national championships, and have the record for most wins with 28 (no other team has reached even 10). Actually, they do not just have the record for most cup in the league, but for all 4 major German trophies. And in Europe they have won 5 Champions Leagues (including European Cups), the 1996 UEFA Cup, and the 1967 Cup Winners Cup.

This is the powerhouse of German football, and it is normal for half the starting-11 of the German football national team to be playing in Bayern. And that is still the case, as 5 of the 11 starters against Mexico plays in Bayern, out of their 7 German players at the World Cup. Another starter used to play in Bayern, one who came in against Mexico played there was well, and another player in the squad is transferring to Bayern this summer.

Besides Bayern, 8 German clubs each have a single player in the squad. Only 2 of these started against Mexico. This fits a model where if a player is good enough to start for Germany, then they usually play in Bayern or outside of Germany. And after this World Cup, then the two (Werner and Plattenhardt) likely both do this as well.

The remaining 8 play for PSG 2 (France), Chelsea 1 (England), Arsenal 1 (England), Manchester City 1 (England), Real Madrid 1 (Spain), Barcelona 1 (Spain), and Juventus 1 (Italy).

Basically German players play in Germany for non-Bayern teams and sit on the bench, or they play for a team vying for national and European trophies. Both Champions League finalists had a German player in their squad. However, Emre Can was injured at the time, which meant he missed both the final and the World Cup. However, under normal circumstances he would have been in a German World Cup squad.

Political influence and national narrative

Germany is the centre of modern European politics. Not just as the largest member state in the EU, but also for an interwar period marred by communist and fascist attempts at revolution, which finally culminated in Germany becoming national-socialist.

Following the Anschluss of Austria in 1938, the Austrian and German football team where also united into one. Austria got one final match as independent in which they were “supposed” to draw against Germany, but Austria ended up winning it to great dismay of the Nazi hierarchy. Anschluss had happened a few months before the 1938 World Cup, and Austria was one of the favourites, since they had been an early pioneer of professional football. Both Germany and Austria had qualified, but Austria had to withdraw, and the united German-Austrian team was ordered to play with half-half of Germans and Austrians. However, with few month to prepare it was impossible to create a proper team, and many Austrians either refused to play for or reluctantly played for Nazi Germany. Nazi Germany was knocked out in the first round, which was seen as an insult to the “aryan masterrace”.

Following the war Austria gained independence again, but Germany was also divided into West Germany for the three allied occupied sectors and East Germany. No German team was allowed to play in the 1950 World Cup, as the country was still barred from most international sporting events until and including that year. When they rejoined, then West Germany made it to the 1954 World Cup, and won the tournament.

Their next World Cup trophy was won in 1974, this was in the early part of the golden years if West German football. From 1966 to 1990 West Germany was in 8 major tournament finals, and they won 2 World Cup and 2 European Championships. Following Reunification then Germany have been less successful, but something special happened in the World Cup 1974.

June 22. West Germany versus East Germany. The only time in history the divided parts of Germany faced each other. And this was even in a World Cup hosted by Western Germany. 60000 spectators watched as East Germany won 1-0 in Hamburg. But West Germany won the whole tournament, and East Germany only ever qualified for that World Cup, and never for the European Championship.

This section could go on forever if we include the many rivalries. Therefore we will save those for the articles of the rivals.

Group and expectations

Germany shockingly lost 1-0 to Mexico in their first group game. Well, somewhat shockingly. Most recognised before the tournament that Mexico was the second best team in the group, but Germany is a favourite to win, and Mexico is still a team expected to be knocked out in the round of 16.

In the second game Germany face the giant killing Swedes. If the Germans cannot even score against Mexico, then how will they against the Swedish defensive organisation? Something need to change for Germany if they want to go through.

In their final game they face the Republic of (South) Korea. Germany will have to win this game to be certain to go through no matter what, but Korea might already be out, or have a chance of going through with a win. So this could be a very interesting game. But Germany really should win… But Germany really should also win the other two games, so if they cannot beat Sweden, then we might see a complete German meltdown.

Before the tournament it was obvious that Germany would go through to the round of 16. Now? Who knows… If Sweden get a point against Germany, then Germany have to beat ROK, and hope for Mexico beat Sweden with a significant margin. Then Germany might go through based on goal-score, but Mexico would have likely beaten ROK in the second round, and then will already be through.

So simply put. Germany have to beat Sweden and ROK to go through. And unless ROK create an upset against Mexico, then it will Sweden they have to knock out. So for any European wanting to see as many European sides as possible go through, then the most important thing is that ROK gets at least a point against Mexico, and probably that Germany beat Sweden. Then both can be through with a win in the 3 group game. But that is highly unlikely.

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Icelandic football

Iceland is a country of just over 300000 people. Football might be a passion, and physical shape is needed to live in the North Atlantic, but Brazil has 6-700 times the quantity of talent to draw from. And the Icelandic winter is not friendly to football.

But with an investment in training infrastructure and lifting the standards of coaching, then Icelandic football has gone from a small and irrelevant football nation to a team, which can equal any opposition, and that has happened in the matter of a decade.

Danish football is the imported game, Swedish football is the traditional major power, who play the Nordic game, but the Icelandic game is purity of the Nordic game. This means Iceland always play a variant of 4-4-2, and then they make it work with grit, will, determination, and fight. You are not going to see Icelandic plays whining the game away, instead you are going to see a controlling unit of players, who are just willing to work that much harder for their follow man.

In the qualification for the 2014 World Cup, Iceland was seeded last in their group. They shocked the football world by finishing second. In the playoff round they drew 0-0 at home, but lost 0-2 in Zagreb to Croatia. Great things were in store.

Many did however not pick up on 2014 qualification surprise, and in 2016 Icelandic football was ready to convince any doubters. The UEFA 2016 was started against Portugal with a chocking 1-1 draw. Portugal would eventually go onto win the tournament. Iceland would draw Hungary as well, and then beat Austria. Just qualifying for the tournament was massive for Icelandic football, and now in they were in a quarterfinal against England. There was surely no way they could beat the home of football… Iceland won 2-1. To many Iceland started to look like a potential new Greece, who in 2004 through a similar tight structure and fight ended up winning the tournament. Quarterfinal was against France, another of the major European powers. And here the adventure ended for now.

Was Iceland a one-hit-wonder? Well, now they are in the 2018 World Cup after winning their qualification group ahead of Croatia (qualified through play-off), Ukraine, and Turkey.

To characterise Icelandic football is they can get 1-1 against any other team. Not because the individual 11 Icelandic players are better. They simply are not. Many positions are filled with players, who any other European country would never consider bringing to a World Cup. But Iceland works hard, and they earn every single point they get.

Where do the Icelanders play?

Iceland are viking warriors. They used to mostly play in Scandinavian football, all 3 keepers play in Denmark, where one even plays in the second level of Danish football. However, only 2 non-keeper play in Scandinavia, 1 in Sweden, 1 in Norway.

Today most of the Icelandic players play in England and Wales 6 (though only 2 in the Premier League). 3 play in Rostov in Russia, 2 in Germany, and 2 back home in Iceland. The rest are one playing in each of Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, Turkey, and Bulgaria.

Note how the majority are still focused in the physical Germanic football leagues, which fit the Icelandic play-style. And then the 3 players in Rostov is a bit of an odd one out, where the Icelandic players are slowly becoming the stars of the team, after all joining before or during last season.

Political influence and national narrative

Iceland gained independence from Denmark during the Second World War. Following the German invasion of mainland Denmark the British invaded and took control of Iceland (later transferred to the Americans). The Americans build an airbase, which later also became Iceland’s only international airport. This airbase was Iceland’s ticket into NATO, as Iceland did not want to maintain a military. However, they do have a civilian coast guard to patrol their sovereign sea-borders.

Iceland was and is so important to NATO, because they are at the centre of the GIUK gap. Greenland-Iceland-UK form the narrowest point, where Soviet Northern Fleet nuclear ballistic missile submarines would have to pass in order to get into the North Atlantic. From the North Atlantic though would be able to approach the US Eastern Seaboard and rain down death and destruction, while remaining undetected. Therefore, Iceland was and is of critical strategic importance.

Iceland are hard-working people somewhat isolated in the North Atlantic. Only recently has it become a tourist spot for the nature interested. For a long time Danish was the foreign language the youth would learn, and only recently was this changed to English. Icelandic youth would often go to Copenhagen to do university studies.

Iceland does a lot of fishing and have displayed their viking blood in the face of massively superior Royal Navy ship trying to protect British fishers in water claimed by Iceland. Iceland threatened to leave NATO and expel the American presence, which in all cases eventually let to Iceland getting their way. But not without livefire ammunition being fired and significant numbers of rammings, which became the diplomatic way for fighting between two countries seemingly NATO allies.

It is not unreasonable to consider Iceland a newcomer on the international stage. Both in football and in politics. But one should never underestimate them, as the English did both on the football pitch and during the Cod Wars. Iceland never gives up, no matter the odds.

Group and expectations

Iceland started the 2018 World Cup like Euro 2016. 1-1 against a potential favourite. This time Argentina. Just as in 2016 a hard fought draw, against a technically superior team. There is no limit to what this Icelandic football team can do this time around.

The second game is against Nigeria. They lost 2-0 to Croatia and did not impress. This is likely at least another point for Iceland if they can keep their organisation as well as they usually do.

The final game is against Croatia. During the qualification both teams won at home, so this could likely be yet another 1-1 for Iceland. Especially after Argentina where destroyed by Croatia 3-0.

Croatia are already though, and they are certain to finish top of the group unless they lose to Iceland. Argentina play Nigeria in their last game, and need to win, and then rely on other results.

If Iceland beat Nigeria, then Iceland need a point or more against a Croatia (who are likely field reserves from the start) to be through. If it is a draw, then Iceland need to be beat Croatia to be through (2x drawn in round three also has Iceland through, but that is too much of a gamble). However, if Iceland lose, and then beat Croatia, then you have the potential for goal-difference and all such other confusion.

Hopefully with Iceland and Croatia through, then they face (hopefully) Denmark and France of group C.

At this point the only European teams to really struggle are Germany and Poland, however, both have only played a single game. This while neither Argentina or Brazil have beaten a European team yet, something only Senegal and Mexico have done. This tournament is playing out really nicely for our small continent.

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Danish football

Until the 1970s Danish football remained amateur. The national team did not allow any professional players, and if you wanted to go pro, then you had to leave Denmark. This meant Denmark for a time had a fairly strong Olympic team, as that tournament remain amateur into the 1980s. 3 silver medals and 1 bronze from 1908 to 1960. Denmark had one of the best teams in World in 1912-1920, when the international game was limited as the First World War was on.

The 1970s were transition years, but after that the team emerged on the international stage out of nowhere. A foreign coach and most of the players playing all over Europe meant the Danish game in some ways was ahead of other countries. This because at this time very few played outside their national league. Sepp Piontek was the German chosen to lead Denmark throughout the 1980s. He shaped the game going forward, but also developed the Danish style from next to nothing.

The international stage was hit in Euro 1984. Denmark lost only to the two finalist: France in the group stage, and infamously against Spain in the semi-final on penalties. 1986 was Denmark’s first World Cup, where yet again Denmark impressed, and yet again they where knocked out by Spain. This time in the round of 16. 5-1.

The international stage was finally conquered completely in 1992. Yugoslavia had been disqualified in relation to their ongoing Civil War (more about its effect on Serbia and Croatia in the linked articles). Denmark (who finished second in the qualification group) were suddenly in an unexpected European Championship. New coach, disagreement with the Laudrup brothers (the main stars of the team) over tactics and a lot of chaos let to there being little to no expectations, but somehow Denmark went to Sweden and won the whole tournament.

Danish football was on the up, but Denmark remained a small nation. The greatest European achievement for a Danish club is a UEFA Cup semi-final for Brøndby IF in 1991. The greatest single match achievement is Odense BK in 1994 away at Bernabeo defeating Real Madrid 2-0. To knock out the most winning team in European club football from the UEFA Cup.

These aspects all influenced Danish football, but the modern game was mostly shaped by Morten Olsen. Hired in 2000, he was the captain of the 1980s national team, he had played his club football in Belgium and Germany, and coached in the Dutch style, which he took with him from his last coaching job at Ajax Amsterdam. This ment Denmark played 4-3-3 (or a variation of 4-2-3-1). Denmark played attacking football and rarely if ever would Morten Olsen break from his core philosophy (at times to the frustration of Danish football fans). The philosophy was also introduced into the national youth teams. Olsen would remain the national coach for 15 years, and today his football simply is Danish football. Many talented Danish players also went to Ajax to play, and this further ingrained the Ajax style as the Danish style.

Now the Danish attack is lead by one of those players, who went to Ajax, Christian Eriksen. He has scored 16 goals and 6 assists in his last 19 national team matches. After Eriksen started scoring for Denmark regularly, soon Denmark stopped losing, and the national team is unbeaten since October 2016.

In the Sweden article we presented Nordic football. The team’s unity is also the most important aspect of Danish football, but the tactic is different. Danish players are football culturally nearly identical to Swedes, but Denmark just has a very different tactical approach based on the early international exposure.

Where do the Danes play?

Danes still play all over Europe. Just as they did in the 1980s, this trend has continued up until this day. However, 3 play in Denmark. 2 in FC Copenhagen, who have dominate the Danish football league in recent decades. Their Copenhagen rivals Brøndby IF (who dominated the league before FC) also has 1 member of the national team.

The rest play in England 7, Spain 3, Germany 3, Netherlands 3 (2 at Ajax), Italy 2, and France 2. That might be the big6 in European club football, but 2 play in the second level of English club football, and most play in mid-tier clubs. But they play. It used to be a problem that Danish football national team starters would often be on the bench for their club, which hurt their form for their national team.

Political influence and national narrative

Winning Euro 1992 was not just the greatest moment in Danish football history, but also a profound cultural moment for Denmark. The 1992 was against the recently reunited Germany. Denmark used to be European medium power and in 1864 Prussia on its path to uniting Germany ended Denmark’s international relevance. During the Second World War Denmark did almost nothing to resist the German invasion, and therefore could do little to mend the wound of humiliation. So when Germany was out to celebrate their unification, Denmark was there to finally get revenge. Not in any evil way, but it was needed to mend the wound 1864-1945 had caused in the Danish national narrative (read more about this here).

While Denmark was gaining in international confidence, then the Danish people in 1992 rejected the Maastricht treaty in a referendum (which was required by the Danish constitution). This lead the staunch EU support (he is legendary in Denmark for his EU socks) and Danish foreign minister Uffe Ellemann Jensen to uttering “if you can’t join them, beat them” (a reverse of the English proverb “if you can’t beat them, join them”).

As with the other Scandinavian countries, politics has had little influence on the game. Danish isolationism following 1864 might have been a factor in staying amateur, but that would be stretching interpretation further than relevant. The Federation simply lacked cash and had an old fashioned view of the sport.

Group and expectations

Denmark beat Peru 1-0 in the first group game. This was likely to have been the final for who finishes second after France. However, Australia put in a good run against France. Ever if the game did finish 2-1 to France.

Denmark’s second group game is against Australia. If Australia lose, then they are out. Now if it is a draw then Australia has a chance to go through (France have to win all their 3 games, and Australia have to win over Peru – then Australia can be through, if they beat Denmark on goal difference). However, if Denmark win, then they are likely through. The only scenario, where that does not happen is France lose to Peru, and then beat Denmark in the last round, while Peru also win… Then you have 3 teams with 6 points.

Australia play a game similar to the Danish, but are just a worse team technically. This should be a win for Denmark, but likely not a major win. 1-0 or 2-1 seem reasonable after how Australia fared against France. But if Australia get ahead, then they physical strength might well equal Danish finesse. The Danes are favourites, but nothing is certain.

Last game is against France. Hopefully (for the European perspective) both teams have 6 points, and this is just the group final. Otherwise it is very likely one team is already through, and the other just needs a single point. Even if both France and Denmark draw in the second group game, then they just need to draw in their last game for both to be through. So this game might very likely all depend on, who is through, and who is not. A team through to the round of 16 would consider letting their reserves play, and let the usual starters get a break. But under normal circumstance, France would be the favourite.

On from the group. After beating Peru this should reasonable be possible. Denmark in a potential ro16 would face teams from group D, which are far from unbeatable. No games are going to be easy, but with Argentina drawing against Iceland, then nothing is certain. If Denmark can build some momentum, then this is the strongest Danish team in 20 years (when they reached the World Cup quarterfinal losing only to the two later finalists, and in said quarterfinal Brazil struggled to get a 3-2 win) if not more. As with most European teams, then if they get out of the group and get going, then they can go far.

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Portuguese football

The story of Portuguese football must start with Eusebio and the 1966 World Cup. In 6 games Eusebio scored 9 goals, and only the eventual Champions, England, could stop Portugal. Out of nowhere Portugal was the third-best country in the World. And then they disappeared again.

Next major tournament they qualify for is the Euro 84. The only team that could beat Portugal was hosts and later champions France. And that was with an extra-time goal in 119th minute. Following that they qualified for the 1986 World Cup. However, with a single group stage win. Portugal finished last in their group, and were not heard from for 10 years again.

The same happens with their club football on the international stage. Absolutely dominated by Porto, Benfica, and Sporting Portuguese talent is centralised in the three clubs. This means at times those three win major European club competitions at a rate much greater than is normal for a country of Portugal’s size. But they come and go.

However in Euro 96 Portugal were back to stay. Since then they have been a constant quarterfinal fixture in the tournament and even winning it in 2016. World Cup results have been more varied, but they have at least qualified for every major tournament since 2002. Portugal seems to do well at major tournaments in Europe, but not outside of it. So question is if Russia is close enough to home.

The point behind this night and day story is that Portugal is a team that has always been carried by stars and individualists. Except for the team that emerged in the 1990s. You had a whole generation who won everything together at youth level with players such as Luiz Figo, Rui Costa, Couto, and Conceição. Out of nowhere Portugal had a team, still of individualists, but when they play as a team, then they can beat anyone.

Portugal is in many ways like their former colony, Brazil, when they attack. They like technical dribblers, who can create chances on their own. Often a lot of ego goes into the Portuguese game, but they can today play as a unit. And that unit today is 100% focused around one of the greatest players in football history, Cristiano Ronaldo (CR7). But where in the past largely unknown players had filled gaps between the stars in the Portuguese team, then today there are quality on all positions.

Portuguese football is characterised by a mix of the old style of stars, who needed to do things on their own, and the modern game of everyone doing their part. This is Ronaldo’s Portugal, but they are also a very competent team without him. They especially have lot of talent in their current squad. As per the Portuguese game, then the ball goes to number 7 as much as possible, but if the opponents focus to much on the super star, then they are going to leave space for other world class players. And that is how Portuguese football bridges the gap of individual stars and a functioning team. There is always space for someone able to use it.

Where do the Portuguese play?

4 until recently played for Sporting. But after a hooligan attack on players following training, with alleged involvement of their own president, then they and others have moved to have their contracts legally rescinded. 1 play for Benfica and 1 for Porto.

The rest play all over. It used to be that significant parts of the Portuguese national team played in Spain, but today that is only 2 players including CR7. England 4, Turkey 3, Italy 2, France 2, Germany 1, China 1, Russia 1, and Scotland 1.

Of note though is that the players playing in the Portuguese league are not just reserves. 3 of the Sporting players started against Spain.

Group and expectations

Portugal started off with 3-3 against Spain with Ronaldo scoring 3 goals.

Next they face Morocco. Iran closed them down completely, and won the game with a 1-0 goal in the last minute. This leave Morocco in a position, where they have to beat both Portugal and Spain to go through, so they cannot just defend against Portugal, and then the star-filled Portuguese attack is likely to have an easy day at the office.

Finally, the pride of Portuguese football face Iran. Normally Iran’s defensive wall would be enough for them. However, in a likely scenario, then at this point Iran has lost to Spain in the second game. Therefore Spain and Portugal each have 4 points and Iran 3. This means Iran reasonably have to beat Portugal to go through. And then again Portugal face a team, which would really like to defend against them, but do not have such a luxury.

If Iran surprise against Spain and win, then the groups is likely 6I-4P-1S-0M, and Iran are through, while Portugal just needs a point. If a draw, then it is 4P-4I-1S-0M and if Portugal win by 2 against Morocco, then Iran need to win the final game, and Portugal just needs a draw.

So… If Portugal beat Morocco by 2, then they are basically through from the group, as they only need a draw against Iran. And seeing the form CR7 is in, then I doubt this should not be a problem. And if Portugal can stabilise their defence as well, then they are likely to be a potential contender for the title. But… It all depends on Ronaldo and either how well he plays or how well he sets up his team. In the final 2 years ago CR7 left the pitch in the 25th minute with an injury, but he near acted as manager on the sideline, and captained his team from the bench to a extra-time 1-0 win. Simply put: Portugal’s chances still depend absolutely on their star, Cristiano Ronaldo.

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Before 2002 Poland had qualified for 0 European Championships and 5 World Cups (all 4 in a row 1974-1986 and 1938). Out of these 5 World Cups, they finished third in the tournament twice (1974 and 1982). In both cases being knocked out by the eventual winners.

In 2002 Poland qualified for the World Cup, in 2008 for their first European Championship, they co-hosted Euro 2012 with Ukraine, but Poland never got out of their initial group in this millennium. Well, at least not until Euro 2016, where they where they were knocked out in the quarterfinals. They managed meagre combined goalscore of 4-2 over 5 matches.

As you may have noticed in the other articles in this series, then in the past we talked about clear difference in the way countries play football. These cultures have in time become stereotypes as national team players for second line European national teams (such as Serbia, Sweden, and also Poland) usually play all over Europe. However, Polish football is shaped by their national identity. The existence of Poland has come and gone in history. Poland only exists, when the Polish people fight for it.

Therefore fight, pride, teamwork are important aspects of the Polish games. Yesterday Zlatan’s influence on Sweden was mentioned. Poland have their Zlatan in Robert Lewandowski. Maybe the best Polish football player in history, and an absolute goal machine in Germany for Bayern Munich. Lewandowski is the captain, and the team is built around getting the most out of his talent in attack. Maybe too singularly focused around him.

And attack is going to be the focus of Poland. During the qualification they only managed two clean sheets. One less than in the group stage in 2016. Letting in goals against all the different countries in their group, even if they did qualify as the clear group winner. In the first round of the qualification Kazakhstan (who finished last) got one of their 3 points from 3 draws playing 2-2 at home to Poland. And they lost 4-0 in Copenhagen against Denmark, but won all the other 8 group games. Poland let in more goals than each of all the 3 next team in their group.

So 3 goals per game minimum sounds like a good bet in Poland’s games.

Where do the Poles play?

4 players in the Polish World Cup squad play in Polish football. For the size of the country the Polish league is light-years behind Spain, which has a comparable population. Polish football has had problems with corruption and extremely violent hooligans, which holds back the potential of the country to reach the top of Europe. But things might be improving, but the main problem for Polish football might well be themselves.

Poles used to play primarily in German football, with the Bundesliga heavily influencing the Polish national team. However, today, out of the current 23: 7 play in Italy, 5 in England/Wales, 1 in France, 1 in Belgium, 1 in Bulgaria, 1 in Russia, and only 3 in Germany.

The best of the Polish team play in top European clubs, but they do not have a lot of depth on the bench.

Political influence and national narrative

Poland is not yet lost. Poland has been carved up by Russian, Germany, and Austria multiple times in history. Wars of survival characterise the Polish historical narrative. There is little love for Germany, and even less for Russia. Before their Euro 2012 group game against Germany, the Polish coaching staff controversially showed Second World War documentaries to the players to motivated them for their game.

Poland has a long and complex history of suffering and feeling betrayed by Western allies. A history only recently being retold in the West after the fall of the Iron Curtain. Understanding the Polish narrative has also forced many Europeans to rethink their own historical narrative. After the Second World War there was no Polish historians to correct the French, English, and German narratives, which came to dominate European history.

Poland weighed down by, but also vigilant of their history, tend in period to focus overly defensive in their football. Polish narrative is that existence is victory. Survival before triumph. Glorious last stands instead surprising offensive victory. The Polish narrative has to change before they can assume their rightful place at the top of the European game. Poland is in football terms more a Scandinavian country than a nation over nearly 40 million. If Poland can change and grow internally they are the country in Europe with the most promise. But they have to change and want to change.

Group and expectations

Group H also features Senegal and Colombia, which each have the absolute strength in attack. This group could likely be the one with the most goals scored during the 2018 World Cup. And Poland start against those two.

First is Senegal. Sane and especially Koulibaly seem to be their defensive stars, who will have to help backs and a goalkeeper of a significantly lower quality. And there will be no rest for the two central defender, because there are no good alternatives. If they can keep Lewandowski out of the game, the Poland is facing an uphill battle. Why? Because in the other of the pitch they face the pace of Mané and Keita Baldé. If Poland push many players forward to aid and closed down Lewandowski, then they will be destroyed on the counter. This is a completely open game between two teams that have their strength in attack. You might as well roll a die as to predict the game.

Next is Colombia. 21 goals for 19 against in 18 qualification matches. But this is a team with international star such as Bacca, Muriel, Falcao, Cuadrado, and especially James Rodriguez in the attacking positions. If Poland (or Senegal for that matter) want to play attacking football against Colombia, then Colombia has a lot of attacking options, and then the average of 1-1 per game in qualification might be close to 3-3… Colombia also has a couple of good defenders, but there is no depth, and their midfield is their weakest line. Again Poland face a completely open game.

Finally we have Japan. Easily forgotten for having little to no international starts in European football. Just as previously mentioned with Korea and Iran, then expect a national team that is ready to near die for their country, when they defend. But also expect a team that does well against other Asian teams, but still only finished a single point ahead of Saudi Arabia in qualification. Saudi Arabia that got destroy in the opening game by the Russian hosts.

Nobody knows much about Japan, nobody expect anything from them, and likely the three others will fight over who goes through from the group. But this also offers Japan the perfect platform for a surprise. The others might become over confident and forget just how hard the Japanese are will the work and fight for a point. But within all reason, then there is a 60-65% chance for each of Poland, Senegal and Colombia going through, and then 5-20% for Japan.

If Poland does make it through from the group, then the round of 16 should be the end for them. Belgium and England are clear favourites to go through from Group G. However, who finishes first and second is just as hard to tell as in Poland’s group. But both Belgium and England are a level above any of the teams in group H, so it is unlikely that any team from H reaches the quarterfinals.

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