#1019 | Ed and Dharnish review the World Cup group stage through a tactical lens and preview the knockout stages. There’s England’s surprisingly slow play, lack of central connection, and concerns around the wingers ahead of DR Congo. Portugal have got plenty of issues as well, both structural and those from an overly static Ronaldo. Then there’s Argentina, who have the best midfield rotations and multiple elite progressive passers. France are praised for abundant attacking talent and smart in-game tweaks, Spain for using fullbacks to pin defences and free up Yamal, and Brazil for smart in-game adjustments. There's also a word for the host-nation energy, tactical impact of hydration breaks, and how refereeing changes have changed the game.

00:00 Intro and World Cup Vibes

01:27 England

10:58 Portugal

15:59 Argentina

20:39 France

25:17 Spain

29:15 Brazil

33:53 Germany and Other Nations

37:40 Refereeing

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