Half The Press

Premier League tactics & data - the half nobody covers.

Play the game, studied the numbers.

[Half The Press @HalfThePress]

I'm excited to announce my next project ahead of the 2026 World Cup. From today til' June 11th I'll post an analysis of a historic World Cup game every other day.

The first one?

8th July 2014.🇧🇷-🇩🇪. A 7-1 beating, the most shocking scoreline in World Cup history.

[Half The Press @HalfThePress]

Individual brilliance deluxe. It’ll be interesting to see how Nagelsmann changes Germany’s approach at half-time.

[Half The Press @HalfThePress]

Too bad Paraguay lack an outlet because their intensity is fantastic. Too reliant on individual brilliance such as Enciso and Almiron.

[Half The Press @HalfThePress]

Vini.. wow!

This game has leveled up. Hope it continues after the hydration break.

[Half The Press @HalfThePress]

@EBL2017 A big part is their ability to absorb the pressure and willingness to suffer. You don’t get that from teams with THIS amount of quality very often..

[Half The Press @HalfThePress]

Japan scoring the first goal is the worst thing possible for Brazil (obviously).

But more so because of Japan’s compactness and willingness to suffer and defend deep. A nightmare to face in these formats.

[Half The Press @HalfThePress]

The bravery on show from Japan has been outstanding. Bringing the game to Brazil on a different level.

Kaishu Sano is one of my favorite players in this tournament, he deserves this. Has a complete understanding of the game.

[Half The Press @HalfThePress]

@EBL2017 He should win it either way. He’s the best in the world no matter where he plays.

[Half The Press @HalfThePress]

Not impressed by Jesse Marsch this World Cup. Let’s see if something changes after the break. South Africa are good.

Willing to play but not naive and able to play over the press with quick outlets such Appollis and Maseko.

[Half The Press @HalfThePress]

Knockout football has always rewarded the team that stays organised under pressure.

The hydration break doesn’t change that. It amplifies it.

For the favourites, it’s an interruption. For the underdogs, it’s a lifeline built into the rules. 🥇

[Half The Press @HalfThePress]

The knockout stage starts today.

One game. One mistake. You’re going home.

But there’s a new variable nobody is talking about.

Does the hydration break decide who goes through? 🔍

[Half The Press @HalfThePress]

I’m excited to watch South Africa-Canada for just this reason.

Watch what happens immediately after the break. Watch which team reorganises and which team takes two minutes to find their rhythm again.