Defences on top in the first round

The most defensive World Cup ever? ItâÂÂs certainly the lowest-scoring one, after the first round of matches. A lack of goals doesnâÂÂt always equate to defensive football, but in this tournament itâÂÂs hard to deny that the football has been slightly more reserved than normal.

What is to blame? The determination to avoid defeat is certainly key, but then thereâÂÂs no reason why this should be a factor at this World Cup rather than any other. Altitude could have been a factor, but then thereâÂÂs no obvious difference in the style of play weâÂÂve seen in the games at altitude from the games at sea level.

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