Costa Rica did kind of
formation figure football. Their system obviously is extremely effective, and they are very functional and disciplined in implementing it. Being destructive for the opponent's play is not only a valid tactic, but is - once again - effective. Klinsmann has warned of Costa Rica since years now. And not for no reason, as we now have seen.
Clockwork Oranje just played - or tried to - as I expected. It makes them a strong team, and that is what it is about. But they depend a lot on Robben. And they can be beaten, I do not see that they are invincible.
Argentinia is a team of minimalists, who are very effective in managing a wanted score. Once they got their goal, they do not give it up again that easily - but also do not add much more to deliver a second punch. As somebody said already, they depend a lot on Messi. But they can be beaten.
Brazil - I think the Germans can compensate Brazil's individual class by their team spirit, on which Gary Linneker had this to say short while ago:
http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/28172835
With two of their three most important players gone, only Luiz remains to be a major threat to the Germans' plans. That does not mean that the rest is harmless, obviously it is not like that, but Brazil has suffered two real weaknesses by these losses, and the goalie of theirs also is problematic.
It may surprise some people, but I think the Germans are favourites now, though only by a very small margin.
The duels next week?
Robben vs Messi
Hummels vs Luiz
Neuer vs the world
