Posted on 07/01/2014 2:40:34 AM PDT by Berlin_Freeper
SALVADOR, Brazil – The eyes of two nations will be glued to it no matter what happens, but statistical history from this World Cup suggests that the United States' round-of-16 showdown with Belgium on Tuesday could turn into a high-scoring classic.
Because if you want to see goals galore, you'll see them in Salvador.
The previous line was more than a terrible attempt at rhyming. A genuine trend has seen 21 goals rattled in over the course of just four games at Arena Fonte Nova. Forwards such as U.S. captain Clint Dempsey, who has already struck twice in the tournament, and Belgium's Eden Hazard, who has yet to score, will be licking their lips.
Not since 1958 has a World Cup venue averaged so many goals per game, leaving soccer experts baffled. Scoring has been up in general at this tournament, but Salvador has been the epicenter of the goal glut.
"It is quite unprecedented in modern times," said John Ley, a soccer statistics expert for the Daily Telegraph in London. "Football was very different going back half a century or more and there was a higher number of goals in general. For there to be so many in Salvador is remarkable."
(Excerpt) Read more at sports.yahoo.com ...
Belgium; sidelined.
Injured, Vermaelen, Kompany, Vanden Borre
Disciplinary, DeFour
http://us.soccerway.com/teams/belgium/belgium/281/
At least 2 of these are very important to the team though I’m not sure Vermaelen has played this world cup, a lot of players.
They still should have some talent on the bench.
I really thought we were the early game. Now I see we are the late game.
Thanks BeadCounter!
The Juventus defender, who had previously expressed surprise at the length of the ban imposed on the striker, tweeted back to his opponent: “It’s forgotten. I hope Fifa will reduce your suspension.”
http://www.tmz.com/2014/06/28/team-usa-soccer-belgium-boycott-belgian-waffles-waffle-house/
Thank you Textide!
On Tuesday, the 27-year-old has the chance to move a step closer to what could prove a career-defining tournament success.
Argentina v Switzerland
Belgium v USA [USA! USA! USA! USA!]
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