FIFA World Cup 2018: 5 early narratives from the tournament

#3 A decent European Contingent

Iceland held their own against Argentina in their opening game.

The European teams in this FIFA World Cup have all been up to their respective tasks presenting a strong contingent as a whole. Spain vs Portugal lived up to all the hype.

Brilliant goals, intense action, the game had everything, everything that one would expect of a heavyweight European clash. Iceland were at their compact best against a Lionel Messi led side. Holding their own and getting a point very expected them to get.

The hosts Russia presented a strong statement themselves as they not just beat but thrashed a poor Saudi Arabia side, smashing five pat them. Denmark and France emerged victorious from their opening group games, games that were complex and tested the two sides’ strengths.

Croatia presented their case for a top spot in Group D with a good win over Nigeria. A side blessed with some fine midfielders, Croatia made it happen without being hassled by the African side. Looking comfortable and emerging as strong contenders from the group.

Germany, to everyone’s surprise, were the weakest European side with their approach and performance in their game against Mexico. England and Belgium won their opening games playing decent football and will present a good challenge going forward.

Every time a World Cup is held in Europe, the European sides are expected to do well and go further into the tournament. The expectations are once again high this time around and given the early performances, the European sides have not disappointed and look most of the sides look good going ahead in the tournament.