Chapter 482: Unpopular

Chapter 482: Unpopular

The matchups for the quarterfinals have been finalized: Netherlands vs. Brazil, Uruguay vs. Germany, China vs. Argentina, Paraguay vs. Spain.

In a series of showdowns between Europe and South America, the Chinese team stands out as the only exception, leaving the eliminated Japanese and Korean media extremely envious.

The Japanese sports newspaper "Sports Wisdom" believes that currently only the Chinese team in Asia has the potential to compete for the World Cup. "We have to admit that Wang Feng's contribution to the overall strength of the team is crucial, not only at the club level but also at the national team level."

"He is about to turn 27 years old, entering the golden age for athletes, with his physical condition and technique at the top level. Numerous experiments have proven that he is the key figure who can determine the outcome of the game!"

However, "Sports Wisdom" also pointed out that the world-class competitiveness of the Chinese team is likely just a flash in the pan. Overall, Japan's football and youth training development are far superior to China's and are healthier.

As the Chinese superstar ages, his technical and tactical level will inevitably decline gradually. By then, a team without a systematic reserve of talent will inevitably decline, and relying on one or two superstars alone will be unsustainable. "Wang Feng is unique."

"Japan is already eyeing the future! In a few decades, European countries will be filled with Japanese players, and a strong reserve force will help the national team win the World Cup!"

The South Korean media is even more envious of the emergence of a global superstar like Wang Feng in China, as they care deeply about their "face" on the world stage.

The "Seoul Sports Report" believes that South Korea also needs to actively cultivate local superstars. Park Ji-sung is the most successful example, but in the future, the quantity and quality of such players must surpass him.

The first quarterfinal battle will kick off at 4:00 PM local time in South Africa on July 2nd, with the Netherlands facing Brazil.

After transferring to Juventus, Melo received the most yellow cards in the team, and even had face-to-face arguments with coach Zaccheroni. Therefore, the club is planning to sell him at a low price.

Many Brazilian legends expressed dissatisfaction with Melo after the match. Ronaldo even wrote on Twitter, "Honestly, Felipe shouldn't come back to Brazil for vacation at this time." It is unclear whether he was concerned about Melo's safety or felt that he did not deserve to return to the country.

Of course, apart from this culprit, Dunga's national team roster also sparked controversy. Ronaldinho, Adriano, Pato, and Marcelo were all left out.

There are rumors that Dunga will select some unknown players from the Brazilian domestic league to enter the national team. These players will use the national team as a means to increase their value and salary, in return giving the coach tribute.

This is also why there are always some strange figures in Dunga's national team selections, and even if some players perform exceptionally well, they often find themselves on the bench.

Compared to the tumultuous and chaotic Samba Army, the Netherlands showed lofty ambitions. Head coach Van Marwijk stated that the team played a magnificent game, leaving those who mocked them speechless.

"Trailing 0-1 in the first half, I believe everyone would be worried, but I wasn't. I told the players at halftime that they could do better, and they did in the second half. To be honest, if we were more efficient in seizing opportunities, maybe the Netherlands could have won by four or five against Brazil!"

"Next, needless to say, our goal is the World Cup!"

Wesley Sneijder, who was named the best player of the match, said in an interview that all players performed excellently, and together they worked hard to eliminate a strong opponent. They are not afraid of any opponent.

Although the Oranje are full of confidence, and their chances of winning the championship have greatly increased, some media pointed out that historically, teams that eliminate the biggest favorites in the World Cup mostly end up as runners-up.

For example, in 1986, France was widely regarded as the favorite, but they were defeated 0-2 by Germany in the semifinals, and in the final, the German team lost 2-3 to Argentina.

Similarly, in 1990, the host Italy was the biggest favorite, but they lost on penalties to Argentina. Then in the final, they were defeated 0-1 by Germany.