2014fwc_tsg_report_15082014_neutral

76What made the difference?WHAT MADE THE DIFFERENCE?Matches were often decided by little details.Reasons for success or failure included:- Preparation, as teams have to prepare wellfor a competition, considering all importantdetails from a technical/tactical/physicalpoint of view.- The coach, who needed a gameplan, goodtactical shape, knowledge of the opponents,meticulous preparations for each and everymatch, and good decision-making in termsof making substitutions.- The squad, who also needed top-classsubstitutes who accepted their situation andwere able to slot seamlessly into the teamshape after coming on to make a differencein the game.- Physical fitness, which was essential at thisWorld Cup as most matches were decided inthe last 30 minutes.- An efficient style of play, which wasimportant and decisive in dealing with theclimatic situation and conditions in Brazil.- A winning mentality, with the team and thewhole squad believing in success regardlessof the circumstances of the match.- Few mistakes: without mistakes there canbe no goals, and while they can never beavoided teams tried to keep them to aminimum.- Influential players such as Messi, Robben,Müller, Rodríguez, Neymar, Sanchez inattack, Mascherano, Hummels or Sneijderin midfield and defence, and Neuer, Bravo,Romero and Navas in goal stood out andwere essential and influential to the successof their teams.- The quality and rehearsal of set pieces,which are becoming more and moreimportant in top competitions.- Solo efforts, because although team play isprominent in elite football, they are oftendecisive for success. Good examples of thiswere Messi, Neymar, Robben and Rodríguezto name but a few.As always in sport and in football particular,there are always small details that decidewhether you win or lose a game.