Two games of nominal interest. Neither France nor Germany should have to go to penalties to win. I think Algeria is the more likely upset, but it would be a huge shock to see either of the two European powers lose here.
Nigeria had a goal disallowed, but the midfielder was definitely a step off. Pogba has a brilliant side-volley, but hit it right at the keeper.
The two games going to penalties yesterday shows one of the core structural flaws of the rules. Just take off one man when it goes to extra time, and another man every five minutes. That will guarantee a winner and reduce the overall time it takes.
UPDATE: France wins and deservedly so. They’ve hit the post or the crossbar six times in four games!
UPDATE 2: Giorgio Chiellini accepts Luis Suarez’s apology in an admirably gracious manner:
Giorgio Chiellini @chiellini
@luis16suarez It’s all forgotten. I hope FIFA will reduce your suspension.
GERMANY 2 ALGERIA 1: Really impressed with the Algerians, particularly the keeper. He probably earned himself $20 million+ tonight and a move to Seria A or La Liga. The German quality is too much in the end, but Algeria played harder than any team in the tournament to date.