[chuckinca]

You're correct - the only thing that matters (in the tournament) is the standings.

0-0 is 1 point and zero goal differential and 0 goals for

2-2 is 1 point and zero goal differential and 2 goals for

2-2 is better than 0-0 which is why the US is ahead of England in the group standings even though they both have 2 points from tieing both their games so far. In next week's last game of the group round England has to score 3 more goals or more than the US to get a higher position IF they both have the same result (win, lose or tie). They are both favored to win so the 2 goal advantage the US has is a very good position, it could mean the difference between continuing in the tournament to the knock out games (where the group stage results are not involved) and heading home; or playing the 1st place team in Group D (probably Germany) or the 2nd place team in Group D (probably Serbia). . . NOBODY wants to play Germany when they can play Serbia or whoever finishes second to Germany.

Like other sports, soccer has some complicated nuances that take time to understand. (want to discuss offside or handball?)


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