Exited in the SF
Belgium
Belgium’s World Cup campaign was as bright as the jerseys they wore. Their campaign ran the smoothest in the group stages. A Japanese scare was averted and they ended Brazil’s campaign with great resolve and a dash of brilliance from De Bruyne. Hazard lived up to his top billing and even Fellaini headed a goal. Everything seemed in order till the semis where Tintin’s brilliance was blunted by Asterix’s brains and brawn.
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It’s a pity they had to play the most meaningless game of the World Cup, that for the 3rd place playoff, but they played even that with intent and free flow, which endeared Belgium’s golden generation to scores of fans world over.
England
England have always been a popular choice at the World Cup. Even if English fans decide to desert the side, the scores of fans in Asia due to the wide-spread popularity of the Premiership here would ensure they would be one of the most popular sides at the World Cup. England’s young side in Russia’18 lacked the star-power which previous abysmal campaigns had and that made them potent. Harry Kane’s finish as the Golden Boot winner and excellent goals from dead ball situations, especially Kieron Trippier’s free kick in the semi-final are strong memories to savour.
#itscominghome did not quite make it as the Cup stopped short across the English Channel, but England’s semi-final finish was undoubtedly an unexpectedly pleasant surprise.
