UEFA Champions League

Tends to usually lead to very bland finals due to the amount of games these players play.

Which this now has piqued my thinking for the WC.

Historically, playing in June/July, just weeks after most major leagues conclude, has players pretty fatigued mentally and physically. Leading to very tentative, low scoring matches.


This year, playing in November, which is usually 2 months into league play, fresh minds, fresh legs, may very well lead to some of the best soccer we will see.
Depending on heat as well, of course

Another thing I thought of after match - wonder what effect the 30 minute delay had - Liverpool came out like a house afire in the first 20’ and then flattened noticeably. Would they have had 5-10 more minutes of juice if they started on time?
They still might not have gotten anything passed Courtois, but I have to wonder