Brazil, you say? They know how to play football over there, don't they? But it's a long way for one so middle aged as I to travel.

So instead, I shall slouch into my leather armchair and view the tournament from this side of the Atlantic. I shall try and watch every game and will definitely make wildly inaccurate predictions too.

I do solemnly vow to give you a real sense of what it's like to not be at the World Cup. This is the blog where all the colour and atmosphere and passion of watching the world's greatest sporting tournament on a wall mounted widescreen really comes to life.

Thursday, 19 June 2014

Belgium 2-1 Algeria

As gary Lineker has correctly pointed out, you can't be everyone's dark horse and still retain your dark horseyness. If everyone reckons you're going to do well, you're one of the favourites. A sprightly grey filly if you please.

But the Belgians so very nearly blew it at the first hurdle.

Algeria hysteria ruled for most of the game, until Fellaini was released from the traps and cantered on to equalise.

The winner, a screamer from the edge of the (horse) box made sure the Belgians took their place in the winner's enclosure.