FIFA Date Analysis: Lights and Shadows in the World of Football
Welcome to Alofoke Deportes! In this edition, we review the highlights of the recent FIFA date, from the joy in West Africa and the heights of El Alto in South America to the rebirth of the US national team in Columbus, Ohio. Here, the perspective of Alofoke Deportes on the World Cup qualifiers.
United States: A Ray of Hope
After the disappointing 2-0 defeat against South Korea, the United States men’s national team gave its fans reasons to believe, defeating Japan 2-0 in Columbus, Ohio. The coach implemented tactical and lineup changes, seeking to counter the Japanese game. The strategy, inspired by his days at Southampton and Tottenham, worked perfectly. The American team pressed, attacked, and exploited Japan’s weaknesses, showing a cohesion and creativity not seen since the Argentinian took over.
Zendejas’ return
Gattuso and the Italian attack
Who can stop Spain at the 2026 World Cup?
Christian Pulisic, absent in the summer, shone with a masterful performance, assisting Balogun and generating multiple opportunities. Alex Zendejas also stood out, crowning his performance with a goal. Chris Richards’ solidity in defense is fundamental for the team. Although the result against Japan is secondary, the team’s performance and the coach’s vision are encouraging for the future.However, it is crucial that the team faces more demanding challenges away from home. Playing all friendlies on American soil is not ideal. It would be more beneficial to measure themselves against high-caliber rivals in hostile environments. The upcoming matches against Ecuador, Australia, Paraguay, and Uruguay are good tests, but they will all be played at home. The matches against Belgium and Portugal could be a good test, but playing in this “bubble” does not benefit the American team. Despite this, the triumph against Japan is a step in the right direction, fueling hope for the World Cup.
Surprises and Emotions in South America and Africa
In South America, Argentina, Ecuador, Colombia, Uruguay, Brazil, and Paraguay have already secured their place in the World Cup. Attention focused on Venezuela and Bolivia, who were vying for the seventh spot. Bolivia, taking advantage of the altitude of El Alto, achieved a crucial victory over Brazil. This result allowed them to secure the playoff spot and get closer to the World Cup for the first time since 1994.
In Africa, Cape Verde, with a population similar to that of Atlanta, achieved a historic victory over Cameroon. With this triumph, the “Blue Sharks” lead their qualifying group by five points. One more victory in their remaining two matches would secure their first participation in a World Cup. This achievement highlights the progress of football in Cape Verde, which had already shown its worth with its participation in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Farewell of Legends: Messi and Ronaldo
Lionel Messi played his last World Cup qualifying match with Argentina, scoring two goals and establishing himself as the all-time leading scorer in the competition in South America. Although Argentina lost against Ecuador, they had already secured their qualification. Messi, now focused on the MLS playoffs, has not confirmed his participation in the next World Cup.
Cristiano Ronaldo also had an outstanding FIFA date, surpassing Messi in World Cup qualifying goals and tying Carlos Ruiz’s record. Ronaldo, at 40 years old, is seeking his sixth World Cup appearance. Will the 2026 World Cup be the last dance for Messi and Ronaldo? The possibility of these legends ending their careers on the international stage is imminent. The future of football without them is hard to imagine, but their legacy will endure in the memory of all fans.
