Day 7- Hamburg		Match 18	Group A
	RUSSIA	vs.	HUNGARY

If Russia has spotted the "Masked Magyars" sitting in Hungary's cheering section, he hasn't noticed. He's in a pleasant mood as he goes up to the halfline to greet Hungary and Seychelles. In fact, he's singing.

*soft singing* Let's get down to business... to defeat... the Hun...

He kicks it off and the match gets going with a lot of rushing up and down the pitch. Both defenses perform solidly and prevent any early threats from developing, but midfield isn't much of a battleground as both sides get a free pass through.

Russia starts to emerge as the dominant force in the first few minutes, but Hungary's defense holds well enough to prevent any good shots. She also doesn't hold back.

	Hungary moving forward now. Looking to develop something on offense.
	Five minutes in and neither side has really threatened the box yet.
	Passed forward, pass stolen! Russia with a quick longball up the middle! Has a man open! Into the box! Takes the shot! Hungary knocks it away and her defense clears it.
	Okay, I feel better.

Russia's not through.

	Russia along the ends now. Has space for a cross and lets it go! There's a header! Keeper knocks it down but Russia dives in! Finishes! It's a goal!
	Good job there by Russia to stick with that one and finish up if the keeper couldn't hang onto it. Hungary's not giving him many passes into the box, so he's gonna make sure he connects when he gets a chance.

8' - GOAL (RUS) - Russia 1, Hungary 0

Russia continues to look threatening, forcing Hungary back to guard against increasingly dangerous shots. She's able to handle him, but having seen his power, she focuses on defense for the time being.

Unfortunately for Hungary, despite Russia's willingness to spread out more, she is unable to move the ball down. Over the next ten minutes, she is only able to get one meaningful possession, kick it around the box in search of an opening, and finally settling for a shot that sails well over the crossbar.

At least she's able to stymie Russia's attack. He gets a shot in here or there, but it's not a problem.

It takes a while for her to get the ball to Russia's side, but she does near the midway point of the half.

	Hungary on the sideline, not quite at the top of the box, not seeing much yet.
	No, Russia's done a good job keeping her from any opportunities. I don't even think she has a shot on goal yet.
	She's going to cross it towards the top of the box, but Russia gets there first and heads it away. Goes right to Hungary... she passes it up into the box. Open shot! She drills it in! We're even!
	Oh, wow. It didn't look like that was going to amount to anything, but Russia's clearing header ends up back in Hungary's hands, she feeds it into the box and that shot was a beauty to the near post. The keeper couldn't quite get there in time. Her first shot on goal is in fact a goal.

22' - GOAL (HUN) - Russia 1, Hungary 1

Russia doesn't seem to be shaken at all, but Hungary grins at him anyway. He grins back. As soon as he puts the ball back in play and gets a few men upfield, she pounces on it.

	Hungary charging now! Getting some breathing room with this counterattack!
	I like it! Not waiting for Russia to collect himself after the goal. Just going for the jugular again.
	Russia's defender catches up! Good challenge, ball's loose. She gets it back! Fires a long shot! Russia knocks it down easily. Brave effort by the Russian defender.

They go back to playing back and forth for a while, with neither side claiming much of an advantage. Russia starts to look a little more imposing as Hungary's post-goal energy wears out.

	Russia outside the box, but just a wall of Hungarians blocking his path to the goal. He kicks it over! Has a striker on the other side! Shot and an easy goal! Too easy, methinks...
	Yep, offside flag's up on that one. No brainer there for Seychelles.

Russia continues to apply pressure. A minute later a shot rattles off the post. It throws her enough to commit a hard tackle outside of the box, and prompts a booking from Seychelles.

Still, Hungary cleans up the ensuing free kick easily and however she's doing it, she is settling in. While she still doesn't get any shots, her defense is certainly keeping her in the game.

	Russia looking for a cross, but Hungary steps in and kicks it out. He'll get a throw.
	It's deep enough where he can use this throw to set up his cross. Certainly looks to be going that route with two midfielders right along the sides.
	One of them gets the throw and indeed crosses it in. It's a short one to the near post, finds a head, FINDS THE NET! Great set piece tramples the defense and Russia reclaims the lead.
	That's how you do it. It was just a throw but he sent a couple more guys forward and treated it like a corner or a free kick, and got a reward out of it.

36' - GOAL (RUS) - Russia 2, Hungary 1

Now Hungary has to at least try to put an offense together, but Russia's too prepared for it and she's unable to get anything before the end of the half. She does keep the ball away from him more, and despite a late header requiring a diving save, Russia can't score either. The pitch clears and Taiwan finds Hungary.

	Not a bad job so far, but you are down a goal. How do you think you did in the first half?
	I thought I was doing fine. I knew being able to defend the goal would be the top priority and I've done okay so far with that. I just need to figure out how to get the offense going.
	Giving up two goals already makes it hard to push forward a little more, but you don't seem to have a choice.
	Guess not. Being down by one at halftime's fine, but that won't do at the end of the game. I'll figure something out somehow.
	Good luck in the second half.
	Thanks, Taiwan. Thoughts so far?
	I keep forgetting how competitive Hungary was in her match against Germany. She's doing a nice job hanging in there. Still, Russia is quietly running the show, having a much easier time moving forward and putting pressure on Hungary.
	Credit her for not going down as quickly as Greece did.
	She's not going down at all. Her defense has held nicely. Problem is she's not going downfield either. She isn't getting any shots off and it doesn't matter how solid her defense looks if she's still trailing in the end.
	If she can move the ball better against Russia, we could be in for quite the half. Let's rejoin the match.

Once again, the two sides go back and forth to start out the second half. Russia continues to make it look more effortless, creating a breakaway that Hungary just barely saves. Hungary moves down and has to kick it around the box and find opportunities, eventually misplaying the ball for a goal kick before anything develops.

After trading possessions, Hungary finally gets her moment.

	Hungary searching once again, passes it in! Has a striker in the six-yard box! Quick shot! What a save by Russia!
	How did he get to that? Defenders were out of position for just a hair and she got off a shot. It wasn't the best, but it took a hell of a leap from Russia to grab it.
	Uh oh. Now Hungary's down, clutching her leg. Russia kicks the ball out as the trainers take a look at her.
	I didn't see anything and there weren't any fouls called. No blood or violent screaming either. That's no fun.

Her injured player limps off the field. As Russia kicked the ball out as a courtesy to the injured player, Hungary gets the throw-in. Only she's expected to give it back to Russia to return the gesture. He smiles at her.

Are you all right? I promise I won't score when you throw it to me. Even if you are down a player, da.

Hungary glares. The rules aren't as accommodating: either she has to use a substitution to replace the injured player or play shorthanded until he can rejoin the game. She throws him the ball and rushes back on defense, making substitution arrangements immediately.

Here's the catch: the sub is more offense-oriented. Once in, Hungary starts attacking a lot more. Russia doesn't seem fazed by it, handling just about all of her tries with ease.

Just about.

	Hungary down the end of the box, guarded heavily by Russia. Stops and gets a quick cross off. Hungary with the header! Knocked down by the keeper! Oh, she slides in! Catches it! GOAL! Russia can't hang on and Hungary equalizes!
	Poetic justice there, very similar to Russia's first goal. Keeper couldn't catch the ball or fall on it and pays the price. The more this game goes on, the more confident Hungary is getting.

56' - GOAL (HUN) - Russia 2, Hungary 2

On the ensuing kick-off, Russia holds it for a bit and assesses Hungary's new look. Sort of.

	Russia at midfield, a little more tentative now. No, scratch that, he sends it way downfield! He's there and onside! Dribbles just into the box, hard shot! SCORES! Russia wastes no time in reclaiming the lead!
	Not even two minutes after Hungary scored, Russia responds. One of the most dangerous moments of a game is right after a goal. The other side always seems to put just a little more into getting it back. Russia spots an opening and bombs one down. Great pass, great shot and it erases Hungary's goal.

58' - GOAL (RUS) - Russia 3, Hungary 2

Russia smiles back at Hungary. Now she's kinda pissed. They go back and forth for a long time, with neither side conceding anything their boxes.

With twenty minutes left, both sides start to wear down each other's defenses. Both start to get more looks and more shots off. Hungary eventually earns a corner kick.

	Hungary setting a corner up now. Russia had far more corners in the first half, but her attacks have gotten her back to even.
	Yeah, Hungary has really stepped up on offense. Still down on shots, but doing much better with possession and corner kicks.
	Kicks away and towards the near post! Off Hungary's head, dropping in front of her. She has room to kick- it's in! She's done it! Hungary equalizes once more in the 71st minute!
	Russia was all over a header that went straight for the goal, but he let it bounce, an opening developed and Hungary connects, gets it past the keeper and it's 3-3!

71' - GOAL (HUN) - Russia 3, Hungary 3

Again, Russia no like. He smiles.

	Russia puts it back into play. Let's see if he tries a sneak attack again.
	Hungary better be on her toes. Last time she equalized, it didn't last long.
	Russia wasting no time! Sends it deep! Hungary's out of position! Russia towards the net, just the keeper to beat! The shot! Keeper pounces on it! Oh, what a crucial save!
	That keeper is pissed at the defense for letting Russia through again. Fool her twice, shame on her and that almost was disaster. Hungary doesn't have enough time to come back from a fourth deficit.

Russia continues to attack. Hungary gets ready for them.

Russia with a cross! Man open! Heads it over the bar!

Hungary looks for chances when she can, but quickly realizes that her top priority is preserving the draw. With only ten minutes left, she hangs back a little more. She gets a couple shots to keep Russia honest, but her focus is back on defense, resolved to hold Russia even.

One more effort from Russia in stoppage time. Passed into the box, punched out by Hungary's keeper and cleared all the way to the halfline. And there's the whistle! Despite Russia pulling ahead three times, Hungary battles back and answers each of them and it ends a 3-3 draw!

Hungary is wiped. She nods, convincing herself that this was a good result. Her fans seem to agree and they applaud her efforts wildly.

She looks up at the box where the "Masked Magyars" were sitting. The seats are empty.

	Looking for someone?
	Um... just some fans that I talked to before the game.
	I think I know who you're talking about. I heard they had to run some errands.
	What? During the match? Where could they have gone?
	*smiling brightly* Siberia, da.
	He pats her on the shoulder before walking away.
	Great game, Hungary!

Despite playing hard and earning a point, Hungary is speechless.

Day 7- Hamburg		Match 18	Group A
	RUSSIA	3:3 FT	HUNGARY
8' 36' 58'	Karzhakov Sytchev Sytchev	Referee SEY	Gera Torghelle Szabics	22' 56' 71'

Taiwan finds Russia for post-game commentary.

	A good effort, Russia, but it has to be a little disappointing not to get a win here. The group's still up for grabs with Germany next.
	Nonsense! If I lock victory up too quickly, it won't be as fun to see their crushed faces. They have to believe they have a chance first, da.
	But losing to Germany could let Greece pull ahead and knock you out.
	I try to think in positive terms, da.
	Were you surprised at Hungary's tenacity?
	I'm very proud of my Hungary for hanging in there. She earned her point and still has a chance to advance.
	Yes, but it would require... oh God...
	That's right! If Hungary hopes to advance, she'll have to cheer for me to defeat Germany! I'm happy to have her support again!
	Taiwan is simultaneously amazed and horrified.
	Okay, I think we're done here. It's all yours, Australia.
	Actually, Hungary could end up on top of Russia if she somehow gets enough goals on Greece to catch up to his mark. But that's neither here nor there. What did you make of this one?
	Just a great job by Hungary to stay with it and keep up with Russia. She earned a point, and can cling to some hope going into her final match with Greece. Russia, meanwhile, is in more trouble than he realizes because she really exposed his defense in a way that Greece couldn't.
	She did not get many chances, but converted more than a good defense should allow. You know Germany will pounce on that.
	You bet he will. Russia played a good game, but not one that'll beat Germany in top form. And I'd wager Germany will be back in top form after losing to Greece.
	Greece is a factor as well. If Germany wins and Greece beats Hungary, it is do svidaniya for Russia. Any other result and the numbers get a little messy.
	And to make things even more interesting, the two matches happen at the same time. Anyway, moving over to Group B, which is already interesting with Holland and Belgium playing to a 1-1 draw and Canada with a 3-1 upset over Japan.
	Canada now sets his sights on Holland, who is itching to restore order to the group with a victory. Vietnam's in Nuremberg with Canada.

Yes, she is. He isn't as nervous as he probably should be.

	Canada, you gave us an early tournament stunner when you beat Japan. Ready for an encore performance against Holland?
	Oh, I don't plan on being very aggressive against Holland. He's a good friend of mine and very talented. I think a draw would be victory enough.
	Normally, I'd get on your case for not setting your sights higher... but that's probably a good call since you already have three points.
	It's more because I don't want to make Holland mad. He's one of the few countries that notices me. Sends me tulips every year. It's nice.
	Hmm... that's pretty good right there. I'll leave it at that. All yours, Australia.
	Oh no, I can answer more ques-
	Thanks, Vietnam! Canada's right though- a draw is sufficient.
	It is, but let's see how far he gets with that. Keeping Holland's offense in check ain't easy, and it seemed like it was Canada's striking ability that propelled him against Japan.
	Well, time to take you to Nuremberg for kickoff!

Day 7- Nuremberg		Match 19	Group B
	HOLLAND	vs.	CANADA

Holland's actually quite friendly with Canada. They joke around a little before the match. When Thailand calls for order and the start of the match, Holland pats Canada on the shoulder.

	Oh, and don't take this personally, 'k?
	Huh?

Holland puts the ball in play, drives down and almost scores in the first damn minute.

It takes a while for things to settle down given Holland's desire to score quickly and often. Canada tries to sit on the ball when he gets it, but Holland swipes it and drives back down to set up more.

	Holland down again! Here's a cross, punched out by Canada's keeper. Goes back to the other end. Holland crosses back in! Header! Knocked away as Canada gets back in time!
	We're only five minutes in and it feels like Holland should be up by about 4 right now. Canada's doing everything he can to prevent a goal... poor guy's not going to last at this rate.

Canada's only real hope is playing keepaway at midfield. He slows things down for a couple minutes, but under heavy pressure from Holland's defenders, he sees an opening and is able to set up a breakaway. Holland saves it bravely, but Canada is happy he got a shot in.

And happy that he spotted something.

	Canada gets it back again, under pressure at midfield as always, passes forward and hey! He's got a man again with running room! Into Holland's box! Knocked away but right to a second Canadian! Puts it in! CANADA SCORES!
	Yes! Holland's so aggressive early on and playing so far forward that Canada gets a slight opening and blows it open! Nobody back to defend and despite Holland's attacks, Canada scores first!

9' - GOAL (CAN) - Canada 1, Holland 0

Canada is trying not to show his enthusiasm, but secretly he's pumped.

Holland shrugs it off and resumes his attack. Canada again plays some miraculous defense. Now he clears the ball quickly in case there are any counter-attacks to be made.

Holland seems to have closed that hole for the time being, as Canada has a much harder go on offense. With Holland's defense back in the game, Canada doesn't push forward too much.

Holland does.

	How many corner kicks has this been for Holland?
	Too many. Sending it over the goal line is supposed to be the last ditch effort for Canada to clear the ball, but he seems to be using it far too often.
	Kick's away and not a good one. Too close to goal and nobody on Holland near it. Canada clears it to- NO! Off a defender and bounces in! Holland's level!
	Oh, the pressure finally gets to Canada. Been playing great defense all game, but loses it there. Thought he had some clear space to the side, but a defender gets in front of it and the ball ricochets into the net.
	Not what we expected for Holland's first goal.
	Sad, really. Let's see how Canada responds.

16' - GOAL (NED) - Canada 1, Holland 1

Canada's freaking out a little and basically holes up on defense until he can calm down. It doesn't seem to matter as Holland is more composed now and running circles around Canada. Honestly, if Canada didn't go into his shell, Holland would probably score several times over.

After a few minutes of resistance, Canada does slowly dare to cross into Holland territory. At the very least, it takes the battle to midfield for the time being.

	Holland steals it and passes up right away. Good challenge by Canada, he gets it back.
	A little bit better job at midfield now for Canada. If he wants to have a chance, he needs to keep play out of his box.
	Canada loses it again. Holland looking... stolen! Canada shoots it forward! Man open! Has a breakaway! The shot! Great save by Holland!
	Another good shot for Canada. He hasn't had his full offense down there yet, but he's still finding ways to keep Holland honest. This is very important. The less Holland can dedicate to offense, the better Canada's chances are of stealing a point.

Thing is, Holland having so many people on offense seems to have its downside.

	Holland circling the box, looking for that opening. Tries to thread a pass between two defenders and it's stolen away. Canada escapes again.
	Here's Holland's problem: he's trying to score a perfect goal. He wants one of those sick, highlight reel goals that involve four players in precision and ends with one of them walking into an empty net. Canada doesn't seem to be letting this happen.
	Sometimes you gotta just let one fly. Meanwhile, Canada moving forward pretty quickly, good pass! Charges forward and it's another breakaway! Into the box! Takes a shot! Keeper blocks it right back to him! Another shot goes in! Canada with a second breakaway goal!
	Here's Holland's other problem: he doesn't get back on defense!

29' - GOAL (CAN) - Canada 2, Holland 1

Holland looks a little annoyed. Canada smiles back nervously.

	Holland charging forward again! Heading up to the sides for a cross. Canada puts the pressure on, but he runs right by it. There's the cross. Open for a header- GOAL! Holland only needs a minute to equalize.
	See, there you go. He just outran the defense and went for a simple cross and a header to the far post. It doesn't take a lot when you have as much skill as Holland does.

30' - GOAL (NED) - Canada 2, Holland 2

Oh, but Holland isn't through yet.

	Canada holds it for a bit. Doesn't mind waiting for something to start.
	Here's something. Holland's charging again!
	Good challenge and a steal! Holland kicks it to the box. Out again, passing it around. Over to the side... there's another cross... header and ANOTHER GOAL! He takes the lead!
	Boy, maybe I should keep my mouth shut. Crossed from almost the exact same spot. Keeper gets a fingertip on the ball but can't stop it from going in. Something tells me this could get worse for Canada.

31' - GOAL (NED) - Holland 3, Canada 2

Canada's starting to worry now. Holland kicks it around midfield, looking for another place to strike. Canada gets a bit antsy and draws a yellow card with a hard tackle.

Not that that will stop Holland.

	Holland passing all around now, a dizzying display.
	Practically playing the shell game with Canada now. Where will the next goal come from?
	Maybe from the other side now. Down the edge of the box, it's a short cross. Holland heads it! Keeper deflects it off the post! Canada gets it, passes to a defender, quick clearance, BLOCKED by Holland and it goes in! What a strange goal!
	Ooh, clumsy defense there for Canada. Just got to secure the ball, then send it far away. It was a moment of indecisiveness for Canada and Holland blocks the clearance with his chest and it bounces into the net.
	Nothing like a hat trick in four minutes to show you why Holland was an early favorite to win this tournament.
	There's nothing like a hat trick in four minutes period.

33' - GOAL (NED) - Holland 4, Canada 2

Canada is shaking in fear now. He tries to hold onto the ball just so Holland doesn't score again, never mind trying for one himself. Yet, Holland persists, and gets it back eventually.

	He's trying again! Another cross! This time Canada clears it back, but it's to the other side! Holland's there to head it! GOES IN! Keeper was out of position and Holland scores a fifth from a nasty angle!
	You're not supposed to be able to head it in from there! Keeper was out of position from the last cross and somehow Holland's able to find the net from there. Man, he's just scoring at will now. And we've still got fifty minutes left.
	I don't know how Canada will play the rest of the game with Holland's offense this dominant.
	I don't know if Canada will play the rest of the game.

37' - GOAL (NED) - Holland 5, Canada 2

Mercifully, Canada's able to stall and defend until halftime... not that Holland didn't try for more. Holland is stone-faced heading into the locker room. Canada could very well be an honorary Baltic nation at this point.

	Halftime now. We have forty-five more minutes of this.
	Canada, for the love of God, put your entire team in the box and don't come out until full time!
	Somehow I still think Holland will score. Remember what you said about not sitting back and playing for a draw against him?
	That's true. Canada's doing fine when he's able to push forward. But how do you even think about that against such a dangerous offense?
	He must, somehow. This is a tight group where everyone has a shot at advancing. Goal differential could come into play at the end of this. Canada can't afford to lose by five or six goals.
	I hate that tie-breaker, but you're right. Poland's lucky: losing by six to Sweden doesn't hurt him much because he can win his next two games. Canada doesn't have that same luxury with Belgium and Japan ready to jump on this result.
	Well, dare I say let's get this over with?
	I've always wondered if a football scoreboard went up to ten...

Canada looks up at fear at Holland. Holland shrugs sheepishly. With a deep breath, Canada puts the ball in play.

And charges forward. He catches Holland napping and gets a shot on goal.

	Keeper with a great save! Not what we expected there.
	No, but it might be Canada's only hope. Just wish he's hold the ball a little longer. Holland's back in business now.
	Or not! Canada with a steal! Passes forward and charges again! Has another breakaway! Shot's knocked back by the keeper. Canada collects it again! Fires! Scores! Canada strikes again!
	Yes! I love it! It's so unlike him, but the only thing he can do at this point is rush in blindly and hope Holland forgets to play defense again! Which he did! We're back to a two goal game!
	All of Canada's goals have come off breakaways and all of them forced Holland to sit back a little and play defense. This goal does a lot to damper Holland's attack.
	It does, and it should be a confidence booster. Canada can't be fond of an aggressive offense, but he seems to be able to do it without investing a lot of players forward and it's the only way to keep Holland away from the ball.

47' - GOAL (CAN) - Holland 5, Canada 3

Holland resumes his attack, but Canada applies far more pressure in order to generate turnovers. This turns into several counterattack opportunities. Holland is more prepared for them, but things are far more even in the second half.

Eventually, Canada even holds the ball long enough to pushes forward for a sustained attack.

	Canada passing around the box. Holland plenty equipped on defense this time.
	Could it be that he's realized that he should work on holding this lead instead of growing it?
	Canada shoots from the edge of the box! Cleared away by the keeper! Quick pass forward! To midfield and Holland has a breakaway! Look at that speed! He's alone into Canada's box! Takes a shot! Off the keeper- GOAL! Keeper couldn't hold it and goes in just behind the near post!
	Oh, disaster for Canada! Just when he was starting to look good, Holland counterattacks and scores one against the run of play. That's going to be a hard one to recover from.

56' - GOAL (NED) - Holland 6, Canada 3

Canada doesn't. He's completely deflated. Both sides keep playing and attacking, but this game is over. Somehow, no more goals are scored, but a 6-3 final is plenty.

After the whistle, Canada falls to the ground, completely empty. Holland raises a clenched fist to the sea of orange-clad fans in the crowd, then takes off his own orange jersey and gives it to Canada. Then he helps him to his feet and waits.

	Come on.
	Hm?
	Holland gestures at Canada's jersey.
	Like I said, don't take it personally. It was a good game.

Canada understands and gives Holland his jersey. Holland puts it on and puts his arm around Canada's shoulder. They leave the pitch together.

Day 7- Nuremberg		Match 19	Group B
	HOLLAND	6:3 FT	CANADA
16' 30' 31' 33' 37' 56'	Hutchinson (OG) van Nistelrooy van Nistelrooy van Nistelrooy Kayt van Nistelrooy	Referee THA	Radzinski Radzinski Occéan	9' 29' 47'

Holland is wearing Canada's jersey and having a post-game cigarette when Vietnam interviews him.

	Looked like you were in trouble for the first half-hour, but you pretty much poured it on there. What happened?
	Things started to click, I got used to his defense and everything went in. And when you start connecting, you have to start hitting hard.
	Were you at all worried when Canada took the early lead?
	Of course. I saw how he beat Japan. I knew from the beginning that I couldn't take him lightly. But I made the right adjustments and took care of it.
	After the draw with Belgium, it does look like you're in better form with Japan up next.
	I guess. I'm not unhappy with the way I've played so far. My goal is to win this tournament and I feel like I'm on the right track. Just have to finish off Japan and get into the knockouts.
	Well, a great game and good luck.
	Thanks, Vietnam. We spent halftime discussing Canada's fate and while he's certainly not out of the picture, let's talk about Holland. His offense really turned it on today.
	Yeah, it had to. Canada put pressure on him in the first half and Holland responded nicely. This is one of the most dangerous offenses we've seen so far. It's something of a wonder Belgium held him to one goal.
	Belgium, meanwhile, takes center stage in our final match as she takes on Japan, a crucial match for both of them.
	Belgium needs at least a point out of this game to be in full control of her final match. Realistically, Japan needs to win here. If he draws, he'll need to beat Holland to advance... which is looking really difficult now.
	He'll also need a good result and come up lucky on goal differential. Things are much rosier for Japan with a win, so pressure's all on him tonight. Taiwan, you know him well. What's going through his mind?

In Berlin, Taiwan is on the sidelines with Japan.

	Japan, a tough loss to swallow in your first match. How do you rebound tonight against Belgium?
	I have to refocus my efforts offensively. My performance was not acceptable and I have to do a better job finishing my shots.
	With Holland scoring six on Canada tonight, it adds new respect for Belgium's defense.
	I respect Belgium highly. This will not be an easy match, but I hope to emerge victorious.
	Taiwan blushes. Then tries to hide it.
	Taiwan?
	Oh, uh, still here! Any extra pressure knowing that a loss will make you the first country out of the tournament?
	Yes. Anything short of a win will be disastrous.
	Well, good luck tonight!
	Thank you.

Taiwan watches him leave, then motions for the cameras to cut away.

---

Day 7- Berlin		Match 20	Group B
	BELGIUM	vs.	JAPAN

Both sides come out strong, aggressively looking to push the ball down and create opportunities. Japan seems to get the better of it at first, with a couple shots in the early minutes, but Belgium is able to turn it around soon enough.

Belgium crosses the halfline, sends a deep long ball towards the box. She's onside to head it! No, over the crossbar for a goal kick.

Although Japan is able to counterattack well, Belgium is able to control possession early. Japan holds on defense, despite a couple threatening shots.

Ten minutes in, Japan starts to bare his teeth.

	Japan bearing down hard and quickly. Passes up towards the box. Goes in and strikes! Keeper knocks it to a Belgian defender.
	Oh, but what's she doing? Get it out of there?
	Japan still applying pressure. Belgium still looking for an opening to get rid of it. Over to the other side of the box now and she sends it flying! Curling out... off the corner flag. Hey, nice accuracy there!
	Pretty hard to hit that guy from twenty yards away, but all she gets is the chance to defend Japan's corner kick. Ugly defending there by Belgium.
	Here's Japan with the corner. Belgium there to head it away... missed it! Down to Japan who punches it in with a header! Japan takes his first lead of the tournament!
	Nice to see Japan finally punch one in, but that wasn't great defense on Belgium's part. Took too long to clear, gave up a corner when she really didn't need to and could have defended it a lot better. Her offense looked okay, but still a rough start for Belgium.

14' - GOAL (JPN) - Japan 1, Belgium 0

The goal worries Belgium a little, and settles down Japan a lot. He's much more capable of possessing the ball and controlling the tempo of the game, which means slowing things down in his case. Belgium pursues counterattacks aggressively, but doesn't get far against a measured Japan formation.

	Japan forward, looking for something, but Belgium gets the ball back. Here she goes!
	Nope, intercepted by Japan. And he's got an opening forward!
	Good longball! He's past the defense and into the box! Belgium dives on top of it! Wait, no, it squirts away! Hoo, she gets it back before Japan could get to it. Almost a fatal mistake from Belgium.

Her counterattacks start to look more imposing as she gets closer to the box, but she still isn't able to get much. Even a long possession in Japan territory goes nowhere. In fact, he doesn't even let her into the box.

Thankfully, her defense seems to have arrived and Japan isn't able to get any shots off either. Things slow down as they trade possession, and fouls at times. They aren't too hard, so Sealand doesn't reach for his pocket, but they slow things down even further, especially when one of Japan's players picks up an injury and forces an early substitution.

Both teams get a lengthy possession after that. Belgium's appears scarier.

	Belgium trying to find a way into the box. Japan not giving her much.
	No, his defense seems a lot more stout than against Canada.
	She passes around, not finding anything. Pressure from Japan! She kicks back. Lofts one in! She gets off a shot! Wide! All that work and she can't finish!

They go back and forth some more as the half starts to wind down, although Belgium controls the ball more and more. In the final minute, things open up a bit...

	Belgium gets it back at midfield. Shoots one forward. Great pass and she's through! Japan trying to cut her off at the pass! She's in the box and shoots! Great save!
	Great defense! Even though he was beat, Japan stuck with it and prevented her from getting a good angle on that shot. Probably saved a goal right there.
	Japan sends it way downfield and he's moving now! Great pass and he slips by Belgium's defense! On the other end now! The shot. Knocked away by the keeper! He gets it back, but Belgium's there to block it. Someone else slides in for Japan! Connects! Goal!! Third attempt by Japan goes into the empty net and he gets one more just before halftime!
	Oh, man! Belgium not only can't equalize on that opportunity, but Japan goes right down and makes it 2-0! Great job on his part staying hungry, but again, Belgium needs to clear those. No way he should have gotten three chances there.

45' - GOAL (JPN) - Japan 2, Belgium 0

Japan goes into the locker room with a little more confidence. Belgium is scratching her head.

	Halftime stats say possession was pretty even but it feels like Japan's in control here.
	It does. In the first game, Belgium was so scrappy against Holland. She really brought the fight to him. Tonight she just doesn't seem as dangerous. Like Japan's handling everything she tries to throw at him.
	Meanwhile, Japan seems to have really turned things around after his disappointing performance against Canada.
	Yeah, this is closer to what we should be seeing from Japan. Slow the game down, take control, and work to set up some devastating shots. Japan wasn't able to do any of that against Canada, but he's been really impressive tonight.
	Time now to see if Belgium has any more surprises for us in the second half!

She does. It's not necessarily good for her.

	Japan not wasting any time trying to keep the momentum going. Driving forward early on but Belgium slows him down in front of the box. Takes it back, passes to a mate who drives in between the defenders! Fires a shot! BURIES IT! Japan scored right as the first half ended and again as the second half begins! What a blow!
	What a strike too! To think we criticized his finishing ability during the Canada game! Man, he hit a rocket there! Belgium just watched that one go in.

47' - GOAL (JPN) - Japan 3, Belgium 0

Belgium knows she has to fight to make up this deficit and pushes harder. She gets through Japan's defense better for a few shots, but Japan's goalkeeper takes care of it without much incident.

And Japan isn't sitting back either, earning a corner kick on a trip down.

	Another corner kick for Japan. Already has a one goal on the set piece. Here goes... nope! Belgium clears it away nicely. She gets it up to the halfline, up to her forward! She's onside and all alone! Into the box and only the keeper to beat! Shot! Keeper gets a piece for a corner!
	Oh, missed chance there. Belgium had a great position and just needed to punch that one a little harder to net it. Japan's defense has been good, but not clean sheet good. Some of these are on her strikers.

For several minutes, Belgium has excellent opportunities stepping up her counterattacks. Japan has trouble getting back in time and she gets several breakaways as a result. However, every time, she isn't able to finish or Japan's keeper makes the save. Belgium is visibly frustrated, clenching her teeth and shaking her head after every missed opportunity.

How is it that Belgium hasn't scored?! She's had the chances but she just can't capitalize! Way this tournament's been going, one goal in two-and-a-half hours spells a real problem with her offense.

Worse yet, Japan starts to adjust to her methods. Starting around the hour mark, he falls back much quicker and stops letting her through. Her chances stop as she no longer seems able to get past midfield.

Japan doesn't have that same problem.

	Japan passing around the box, crosses it in but Belgium gets a head to it. Plays it out to midfield... stolen! Japan gets it back, passes to the box! Into the box, dekes past a defender! Shot! SCORE! Japan piling it on now after a questionable clearance by Belgium.
	Questionable is right. Time's running out for Belgium, but she still can't be that careless with it on her half of the field. Not when Japan's offense seems to have found its stroke again. She's in danger of getting the Poland treatment now.

68' - GOAL (JPN) - Japan 4, Belgium 0

She doesn't waste time trying to get back into this, however.

	Belgium has an opening down the side now. Should have room for a cross and there it is! Into the box! Finds a striker! Header! Off the crossbar! Japan's defense surrounds it and kicks it clear!
	Another missed chance for Belgium but look at Japan clean up the scraps. Belgium absolutely did not have a second chance at that ball. Nice job there.

Japan's nice job continues.

	Japan at midfield, passes to- Belgium charging in with a steal! Can't get it to it! Japan has an opening! Into the box! Shot knocked away! Belgium gets it back, looks for an outlet. Japan swoops in... steals! Fires it in! Japan with a high five!
	That's what I meant by second chances! Belgium served one up on a platter and Japan got to it for his fifth goal. I'm sure Japan's play has a lot to do with it, but this is just a sorry display from Belgium right now.

71' - GOAL (JPN) - Japan 5, Belgium 0

Belgium gets a couple more sustained possessions and chances as Japan worries more and more about protecting the goal. Despite a few shots, Japan is able to preserve his clean sheet. The shop closes up, the whistle blows and Belgium is just left shaking her head and looking lost.

Day 7- Berlin		Match 20	Group B
	BELGIUM	0:5 FT	JAPAN
		Referee SLD	Takahara Nakata Takahara Nakata Yanagisawa	14' 45' 47' 68' 71'

Belgium's unusually grumpy in her post-game interview with Taiwan.

	Do you want to go into this or should we just say "that sucked" and leave it at that?
	That sucked. I'm okay leaving it at that if you are.
	Wish I could, but I'm getting paid for this. Seemed like you weren't as intense out there as you were against Holland.
	No, I was fired up all right. Really felt like I had a shot, but man, he just had me figured out all the way. I just can't seem to figure him out.
	So it wasn't the difference between playing your brother and playing Japan?
	If anything, it's that I know what my brother's like. I don't know this guy. At least I'm not out of it completely.
	No, you're not. One more game to get a win. Good luck with that.

Time for Australia and Cuba to wrap things up.

	Well, whatever you pin it on, a disappointing night for Belgium.
	Absolutely. Just a game for her to forget and look ahead. She can still move on with a win over Canada if Holland beats Japan, so it's not over for her by a long shot.
	Meanwhile Japan shows up with a fantastic performance. He stays alive, but needs at least a draw with Holland to have a fair shot of advancing.
	Yep. Those first matches still loom larger in Group B. Gives Canada and Belgium great chances to move on in spite of their losses today. How about we take a look at the standings?

 

Group A Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts   Russia 2 1 1 0 7 4 3 4   Germany 2 1 0 1 6 6 0 3   Greece 2 1 0 1 5 7 -2 3   Hungary 2 0 1 1 5 6 -1 1	Group B Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts   Holland 2 1 1 0 7 4 3 4   Japan 2 1 0 1 6 3 3 3   Canada 2 1 0 1 6 7 -1 3   Belgium 2 0 1 1 1 6 -5 1
Group C Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts   Norway 1 1 0 0 4 2 2 3   England 1 0 1 0 2 2 0 1   Austria 1 0 1 0 2 2 0 1   Korea 1 0 0 1 2 4 -2 0	Group D Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts   Spain 1 1 0 0 4 2 2 3   Turkey 1 1 0 0 4 2 2 3   Latvia 1 0 0 1 2 4 -2 0   Lithuania 1 0 0 1 2 4 -2 0
Group E Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts   Denmark 1 1 0 0 7 3 4 3   France 1 1 0 0 4 0 4 3   Hong Kong 1 0 0 1 3 7 -4 0   Finland 1 0 0 1 0 4 -4 0	Group F Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts   Egypt 1 1 0 0 5 2 3 3   Italy 1 0 1 0 4 4 0 1   Switzerland 1 0 1 0 4 4 0 1   Estonia 1 0 0 1 2 5 -3 0
Group G Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts   Sweden 1 1 0 0 6 0 6 3   Iceland 1 1 0 0 2 1 1 3   Liechtenstein 1 0 0 1 1 2 -1 0   Poland 1 0 0 1 0 6 -6 0	Group H Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts   Belarus 1 1 0 0 6 2 4 3   Ukraine 1 1 0 0 3 2 1 3   America 1 0 0 1 2 3 -1 0   China 1 0 0 1 2 6 -4 0

Let's take it home!

	So two groups set up for their final games and nobody is certainly in or out.
	Wouldn't have it any other way. We might not even get anything concrete tomorrow either, although it's hard to picture Spain not advancing with a win over Lithuania in the afternoon game.
	The fun match tomorrow will be England vs. Norway, though. Norway looked mighty impressive and could exploit a few of England's vulnerabilities.
	And in the nightcap, Korea will try to get back into the Group C picture against Austria. That'll do it for us tonight. For Australia, this is Cuba- adios!

Magyar is another name for a Hungarian. In fact, Hungary's glory team in the 1950s was called the Magical Magyars.

Since Canada not only housed some of Holland's royal family during WWII, but also liberated them from Germany, the two are totally BFFs now. And yes, Holland really does send Canada tulips every year.

To Be Continued!

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