43 JPNBRA Poulat

Japan’s “Mission Impropable” did not seem impossible at times. In fact, the Asian side took the lead against the run of play and was briefly on course to reach the Round of 16. But Brazil struck back with four goals of their own and never looked back.

The contrast between this match refereed by Éric Poulat and the parallel match of this group that Graham Poll had to deal with could not have been more extreme. Poulat faced a game that despite the high stakes had only 16 fouls and almost nothing for him to do. His fitness was good, the few times he had to get involved his decisions were correct. One could maybe consider a booking for Inamoto for persistent infringement, but that is bean counting.

The same can not be said for AR1 Lionel Dagorne, whose decisions had a decisive impact on the outcome. He raised his flag for an offside against Japan in 39’, denying them what looked like an excellent oppurtunity to score a second goal. He was mistaken again in 45’, this time keeping his flag down and allowing a Japanese chance when he shouldn’t have. His colleague, AR2 Vincent Texier, was much less challenged and when called upon was reliable.

Éric Poulat - 8,4 Lionel Dagorne - 8,1 Vincent Texier - 8,4 Jerome Damon Enock Molefe FRA - RSA	Japan 1-4 Brazil Group Stage
Kaji (40') - Reckless sliding tackle	Gilberto (44') - SPA (Blocking)