It looked like we were headed for the first draw of this World Cup. We didn’t get it, because this is the best World Cup ever. Switzerland stunned Ecuador with a 93rd minute winner to grab a 2-1 victory.
Switzerland helped by the World Cup’s best ref
Stu ForsterSo Ecuador gambled. Xherdan Shaqiri turned over the ball and then Antonio Valencia went surging down the right flank dashing through the shambolic mass of bodies that posed for the Swiss midfield and defence before seeing up Michael Arroyo for what was surely set to be the game winner. Except it wasn’t -- the substitute dallied on the ball, Valon Behrami flew in with what turned out to be a vital block and then launched a counterattack of his own.
The Napoli midfielder was taken down by Carlos Gruezo as he tried to move through the centre, but he sprang back to his feet and kept on charging forward, leaving the Ecuadorian lines in disarray. Eventually, possession was worked out to Ricardo Rodriguez on the left flank, and his cross was met at point-blank range by Haris Seferovic, who slammed in to give Switzerland a precious, precious opening game victory.
Read Article >Switzerland equalize through a super sub
The other change was who was taking the free kicks. Xherdan Shaqiri took all of the set pieces in the first half and his delivery was poor. Ricardo Rodriguez took this one, and the result of his first effort was a goal. Ottmar Hitzfeld is making excellent adjustments.
(Vine via @gifdsports)
Read Article >Two handballs, no penalties
It’s pretty bad when a ref misses a clear handball.
But this ref missed two clear handballs in about two seconds.
Read Article >Enner Valencia puts Ecuador up
Ohhhh, FIFA rankings
We’re with you, Alejandro Moreno.
Read Article >
