I actually think they lack solid experience AND leadership on the field. It was evident in the WC that once they conceded, Their heads dropped, They lacked belief and usually went on to lose and they very nearly did against Columbia. It was a miracle they even stole it against Tunisia so even that wasn't a very convincing performance against weak opposition.
Yeah that's a good point actually. The passing out at the back is a recipe for disaster as well, particularly when Stones is involved who has always seemed like an accident waiting to happen with that to me. I know they say risk and reward but how many goals are scored by playing it in those sorts of positions, to chances given up by losing it there? Don't know the stats but I wouldn't say it was that positive. It's not so much that I'm against it just that it seems to be the new trend that teams must do, rather than do it when it's worth doing. Much like this really high line at free kicks now, that's now the in thing to do.
Bloody hell what a game!
It was such an enjoyable game!
Russia really gave everything and even watching from a neutral perspective I was willing them on by the end. When Germany missed the first penalty I thought, Come on! Ready to take on another team for this round or want to wait until the 2nd round?