FIFA World Cup 2018: 5 early narratives from the tournament

#4 South American flare missing

Messi had a forgettable opening game against Iceland.

The South American flare that the fans have been so expectant of this World Cup, has so far been missing. South American teams and players alike have not looked up for it so far in the early exchanges.

Argentina and Brazil looked a bit lacklustre in their display against tough oppositions. But opponents against whom they were expected to win. Especially given their individual brilliance and talent, which very clearly outweighed the opposition on paper.

Messi had a disappointing start to his World Cup campaign against a compact Iceland side. Missing the crucial penalty, Messi could only watch as his side struggled and could manage only a draw in what is pretty much the group of death. Brazil, in their match, looked to have had the measure of Switzerland early on.

However, as the game went on, the fans did not see the Brazil they had come to know of during the qualifiers. Brazil didn’t look like the same side as they struggled to break a good Swiss side, showing that there are things still to work on for head coach Tite and for Neymar and co.

Peru in their group lost to Denmark in a game from which they should've at least got a point while Colombia were beaten by an impressive Japan side in their Group H opener. The opening exchanges of the World Cup have been tough for the South American sides, something their fans hope would not be extended further into the tournament.