953 thoughts on “World Cup: Final Position”

1. Will your changes get confirmed in time if you leave them tomorrow morning?… As in how long can you leave it before you can’t make the changes? (Sorry newbie here)

   1. I’d assume it’s up until kick off. I’m off out early on so I’ll probably do them when I wake up. As far as I know you can make changes on the day as long as no ones played.

2. I thought it was midnight???

   1. “An eligible transfer will take immediate effect and will occur if you transfer a Player out for another Player where neither the outgoing Player’s Country nor the incoming Player’s Country have played during that Match Day.”

      Doesn’t mean an awful lot to me. But I’ve taken it as meaning you can take a player out and swap him just before kick off as long as neither player have played.

3. very detailed and a forward thinking team plan i am very impressed…i questioned some of your logics last season but boy this approach so far is spot on…..ive gone for 2 german defenders and the 3m forward werner…coutinho and marcelo for brazil tempted to use your logic and bring neymar in for messi and like u have to plot and plan ronaldo for the next 2 games he could do major damage i think….love the posts…keep it up and good luck for tommorows games

   1. Glad you find it useful. I’m still not completely sure it’s the best approach as I’m not absolutely smashing it already which is frustrating but it seemed like the most logical approach at the time. It’s always difficult to predict football accurately but hoping to have a good tournament. Ideally have a good day tomorrow.

4. hi, what adjustments to the plan are you considering to get Ronaldo in?

   1. Me personally think you are waisting a transfer bringing in muller for one game !!! Why not just bring in hazard !! Surely panama is a far easier game than mexico!!thus saving what cud be a crucial transfer!

      1. I agree to a certain extent. I was doubting this transfer as well. It’s going to the same for Lukaku and effectively it uses two transfers. I want Hazard for the Panama game but my worry was that Muller could do something against Mexico. I might have another look at my transfers to see what saving this one might do for the rest of the tournament. Anyone else got any thoughts on this?

   2. Bringing him in instead of Griezmann for two Portugal games while Griezmann only has one for France. I’d then consider bringing Griezmann back in but it’s a difficult one as Ronaldo isn’t going to keep scoring hat tricks.

5. Good start by DTT. Everything going to plan.

   My team on 55 points. Notable successes have been Golovin and Gimenez getting goals and star man awards. The good news is that my team is top of DTT league for the time being.

   Being critical of my team, I regret putting in Lucas Hernandez in my team. I will always make mistakes, just to got learn from them and improve in the future. My lack of Brazil and Germany players needs to be looked at. My concern is that Neymar may not be 100% fit but very risky to go without.

   1. It’s a great start. Any thoughts on going from Pogba -> Muller -> Hazard -> Muller potentially a waste of a transfer by putting Muller in just for today’s game?

      1. Well, in my team I looked at this and thought I will start with both Muller and Hazard in my team. I didn’t fancy the Muller to Hazard back to Muller move myself. I aim to keep Muller for three games at least and Hazard for his first two. Although I don’t Coutinho but then I can’t have all the players I want in my team.

         1. No exactly – it was a difficult one. I’ve got a fairly decent plan for transfers so think I’ll just stick with that for now.

6. No Germany cover is a worry and it could go ether way today. I think Ronaldos form means he’s a must for the next 2 games.

   1. Yeah I initially didn’t have Muller in but then changed it to ensure he’s in for all three group games but it is a bit of a waste to put him in and then take him out and then put him back in again.

      Ronaldo should be an easier problem to solve. I was going to put him in instead of Griezmann. During this time Ronaldo gets two games and Griezmann plays once. There will always be the option to put Griezmann back in after Ronaldo’s two games.

      1. can you transfer players out after they have been eliminated ?

         1. I’m fairly certain you’ll be able to transfer them out under the same rules.

7. Watch my transfers and learn.If I put a player in he will have his worst game in years.Always happens.Thinking Griezman-Naymar-Lukaku-Ronaldo for next 3 transfers.Will see what happens

   1. I know the feeling at times. My worst example was last season when I took out Morata (who then scored a hat trick) for Aguero (who then got injured in a car crash).

8. Neymar’s lack of competitive fitness to me is a concern. Not a straightforward pick for myself, also thinking will he be rested for the final group game. As Brazil’s talisman, he will be under pressure to perform. Will he be tightly marked like Messi yesterday? Messi not happy at Iceland tactics.

   His high ownership makes it dangerous to go without though. Plenty to ponder.

   1. I tend to agree but it’s mainly avoiding the risk for me. I also prefer an out and out striker like Kane, Lukaku and Costa compared to players who come a bit wider or deeper than Neymar, Messi and Griezmann but for me it’s about avoiding the risk as you say with such high ownership.

      1. Yeah, in 443 formation I do prefer the player in the centre position. My mistake last season was going for Sanchez who plays wide and deeper rather than Lukaku who sticks in the middle and gets all the goals and points.

         1. Great form by DTT’s team. Rising high. The preparation has paid off nicely. Big points from Neymar and Coutinho.

            1. Cheers, it’s been a half decent start. Not 100% happy though – obviously the Brazil game was a good result but disappointed with Messi, Suarez and Muller the most but I guess it’s a bit much to ask for them all to pick up decent points in their first game.

9. You thinking of leaving any French players out of the team 4 as they seemed to look so poor ?

   1. Might go Ronaldo rather than Griezmann for the second games. Will probably stick with Lloris though and Pogba has been taken out today.

      1. I think France will be better in the next game attacking wise. Could see a change in formation with Giroud and Griezmann upfront as 4-3-3 didn’t work at all so they might play 4-3-1-2. their defence I am not sure about. Lloris is a keeper that never convinces me (makes a lot of mistakes) and the French miss Koscienly at the back. Their full backs don’t convince me either.

         1. Yeah it’s good to have the option of having Ronaldo for two games while Griezmann has one as well. Very difficult to predict but it’s useful to have a rough plan.

10. What transfer did you do DTT?

    1. I’ve taken out Messi and Griezmann for Neymar and Muller.

       1. Not tempted by Werner now you’ve seen the lineups?

          1. I’m planning to have him for their last two games – can’t fit him in at the moment without multiple transfers.

             1. Cool, can’t hve them all I guess…

                Is Muller on penalty duty for Germany?

                1. I’ve got no idea to be honest. I just thought he seemed like a good goalscoring midfielder – historically anyway but I’m sure that will change today.

             2. What are your thoughts on Werner? I don’t much about him.

                1. I know nothing about him at all. I wanted him on the basis of Germany going far in the competition and him being their main goalscorer if he plays up front for the duration.

11. greizmann for muller confirmed or have had a rethink ?
    i think having adequate transfers in the bank come later part of the tournament is key here…..and ronny was not part of ur orginal plan may be wise to uturn that one….only my opinion

    1. Yeah I think should have enough transfers. Still plan to have half left and got to remember the easier games are in the group stage. It will be easy enough to get Ronaldo in – just go for him instead of Griezmann when making that transfer.

12. …..now watch muller score today
    ha ha ha

    1. I’ve decided to stick him in and go with it. So probably 0 points today now.

13. i opted for werner for 3m thought for the price worth a punt dont know too much about this dude but playing in that german side figured out he’ll get chances

    1. Yeah I’m going to bring him in at some point. Could be a great option.

14. If we are planning on bringing ronaldo into the team instead of greizman will we even be able to afford him?

    1. I think Ronaldo is 7.5m. Griezmann is 6.5m and the team value is 49m so this should be fine.

15. But we’ve got Suarez in the team with neymar and Lukaku up top. Not sure who ur thinking of dropping out for ronaldo there

    1. Wanted Werner/Neymar/Griezmann (or Ronaldo) as the front three before long. Only wanted Suarez for first two games and don’t want Lukaku for long either.

       1. I’m guessing ur aiming to get ronaldo into your team for week 3 so then u would have to drop out with Lukaku, neymar or Suarez going by ur table plan

          1. If I was going to get him in, it would be for the Morocco game in place for Lukaku. Suarez would come out for Werner (not sure about this one based on today’s performance but it could mean Germany play a strong side for their last two games of the group).

             1. Na I’m gonna leave Lukaku in for 2 of the Belgium games and Suarez/cavani for the Saudi Arabia game

16. Hi mate I’ve seen you speak about it above, but just wondering if yourself or anybody else knows for defo if you can do the transfers in the morning or not?

    1. You can – I did it this morning.

17. What transfers we thinking tonight mate ?

    1. None tonight – I’ll probably do Hazard and Lukaku in for Pogba and Muller tomorrow.

       1. How can u do Lukaku and hazard in for Müller and pogba if neither of them are strikers mate ?

          1. Change back to 4-3-3. Currently on 4-4-2

             1. Hi DTT, are you planning on getting Ronaldo in for tomorrow? If so, who would you sacrifice?
                Thanks

                1. I’m undecided at the moment – I’ve posted an update about it at the top of this post. If I were to do it then it would be for Neymar but I’m leaning slightly towards not going for Ronaldo at the moment.

                   1. Thanks I’ll have a read and keep an eye tomorrow. Cheers for the help.

18. Unsure what to think of today! What your thoughts pal

    1. I avoided the Mexico game for German representation but couldn’t resist putting Muller in. Wish I hadn’t now and was tempted to leave him out this morning. That was a disappointing result – even more so if they end up playing Brazil in the next round now. Brazil was a better result in terms of points but they didn’t play that well. Spain have been the best team I’ve seen play despite the draw.

       In terms of the overall plan/approach to the tournament (from a Dream Team perspective), I can’t see any reason to move away from the initial plan. With the exception of looking at if it’s worth bringing in Ronaldo rather than Griezmann.

       In terms of the mini leagues I’m in. I’m currently seeing people above me having success with “blocks” of defenders. For me if you’re only entering one team this is a huge risk – for instance any Germany, Spain, Brazil, Argentina or France blocks would have been taken out.

19. How many transfers we doing tomorrow then mate?

    1. I’m swapping Pogba and Muller for Hazard and Lukaku.

20. Not sure if to do Müller-hazard-Müller or Müller-de bruyne-Müller . What’s ur opinion mate

    1. Tough one, you could probably toss a coin between it and whoever you pick the other will probably go on to score and get star man. For me I wanted Hazard because he plays more advanced and seems to score more consistently at club level.

21. We sticking with just Hazard tomorrow? You had any different thoughts

    1. Just published latest thoughts at the top of this post but sticking with Hazard for tomorrow.

22. Would u go for sticking another uruguay defender due to playing the Saudis ?

    1. Might not be a bad move if you’ve got plenty of transfers. I personally won’t be just for one game.

23. If Ronaldo is worth consideration for Iran & Morocco, then surely so is Costa against the same opposition, especially with a midfield supply line that Spain have, Werner may improve but for the extra outlay Costa is the better option, Mario gomez may also effect werner’s gametime.

    1. Costa might be a better option – Spain looked good to me. Undecided about the next round of games at the moment.

24. Thinking of doing Di Maria to Hazard and Griezmann to Lukaku today – I see Belgium getting a sack-load against Panama. Any thoughts?

    1. I’m putting Hazard and Lukaku in today so think that’s a good move.

25. Also trying to work out how to get either Ronaldo or Costa in on Wed. Ideally would let Suarez play Saudi then ship him out, but I think he plays the same day as Spain & Portugal so this wont be possible. Not keen on dropping Messi as his underlying stats were good against Iceland?

    1. I’ve already taken Messi out as they’ve got Croatia next. I’m planning on swapping Lukaku for Costa potentially considering they have Iran next. Depends who your third striker is if you don’t want to lose Suarez or Messi?

       1. Thanks DDT. Yes, 3rd striker will be Lukaku, so him to Costa or Ronaldo could work. Do you think there is danger that Ronaldo will be man-marked out of the game? At least with Spain, there is quality all over the team?

          1. Difficult but I’m hoping he can’t score three every time he plays. I’ll probably go for Costa.

26. Considering any England representation? Or not worth the risk?

    1. I’d considered it but decided it was too many transfers – went for Hazard and Lukaku as today’s transfers.

27. i was just going to say the same ben DTT anybody tempted to throw harry in just to cheeer us on that little bit more ?
    or have we been here before !
    love peoples thoughts before 19:00hrs

    1. I can see him scoring but it’s one transfer too many for me. The only person I could take out for him is Neymar.

28. Whats your next lot of transfers DTT?….. Loving the blog by the way, really useful and helping out a lot, keep up the good work.

    1. Glad you’re finding it useful. I’ve been left with a bit of a problem after today. I was looking at taking Lukaku out and putting Costa in for the Iran game, however I can’t keep swapping strikers around for one game at a time otherwise transfers will quickly run out. Also I planned to put Werner and Muller in but Germany didn’t have the best of starts. At the moment I don’t need to make any transfers tomorrow so I’ll have a day to think about it. I can’t see my plan changing much from what I’d planned before the tournament.

29. Thinking Costa too however whom does he replace. Let’s hope Ronaldo is quite

    1. It can only be Lukaku unless I drop Neymar. I can’t drop Suarez as they play on the same day and I want him for their next game but it’s a tough choice after the way Lukaku performed today.

30. I wish I was as organised as DTT. I am making my team up as I go along. Nice to have a plan. Otherwise, those transfers will go quickly.

    1. Even with a plan it’s incredibly frustrating. Make a little bit of progress and then that instantly gets taken out. If I don’t have an exceptional World Cup with all this planning I may give up to be honest. I think to do well every single transfer needs to be a hit which is almost impossible and I only really enjoy taking part if I’m winning. Have you used many transfers yet?

       1. Used 3 transfers for my team – Danilo, Jesus didn’t pay off. Lukaku transfer did good but watching him in the first half I thought I wasted another one.

          What is your idea of an expectional World Cup? Problem I have in fantasy football is that I tend to get bored easily playing a safe game. I get enjoyment when one of my risky picks pays off. Like Golovin, didn’t know much about him but read a lot about him and put him in my team. Maybe not the best way to play the game but I like the Maverick part. I currently thinking of going without Brazil players for my next set of transfers. Suicide!!!

          1. I like to just play to give myself the best chance of winning which is probably a less risky approach. A minimum for me for the World Cup would be:

             Top 3 in the league we are in.
             Top 10,000 overall
             Top 10 in a mini league I’m entered into (this league has a lot exceptional players in – including previous winners of the entire game) but only around 150 teams entered.

             Based on the amount of research and time I put into it this shouldn’t be much to ask but at the moment I can’t see it happening. Anything outside of this I’ll probably see as failure.

31. Any thoughts on Lewendowski 2day.

    1. Should do well but another one that I’m giving a miss as it would be too many transfers.

32. What are we thinking for the transfers for today or ready for tomorrow’s games dtt?

    1. It might be Costa for Lukaku but I’ll probably do it tomorrow. I like to do it on the day because it can be reversed up until kick off. Not making any transfers for today’s games.

33. This plan is going well for me, please update asap if you decide on any changes

    1. I will do an update this evening but no transfer plans for today’s games.

34. I know as you have said above u will update us later but I just want to know what u are thinking. I’m thinking about bringing in the Spanish

    1. Pretty much certain that I’ll go with Costa – I’ll be happy with Alba, Isco and Costa as Spanish representation.

35. Neymar injured.

    1. Not sure how serious the injury is. Read it was just a precaution that he left training and that he will train as normal tomorrow.

36. Swap Neymar for ronaldo easy decision if he is injured it could just be a scare

    1. Not sure how serious the injury is. Read it was just a precaution that he left training and that he will train as normal tomorrow. But Ronaldo is tempting. The problem is transfers are going to quickly run out. There was a case for Lukaku, Kane, Lewandowski and now Costa and Ronaldo – the problem is we can’t have them all. It’s knowing which ones to go with and which ones not to go with.

37. Swap Neymar and Lukaku for Ronaldo and Costa??
    With Neymar being injured (not sure how serious), seems logical and Costa smashed his last game and Lukaku doesn’t play until the 23rd… thoughts?

    1. This is my plan too

    2. Costa definitely – not sure about Ronaldo myself. I imagined Brazil going far in the tournament and it looked like Neymar wants to be involved in everything when they played the other night. If he’s fit to play I think it might be a transfer too many as we can’t have every decent striker in every game they play.

       1. Ended up leaving Ronaldo out, with Neymar said to be back in training it seemed like the right choice and I’m happy with the decision, 8 points at the cost of 2 transfers, it wouldn’t have been worth it

          1. Yeah I did the same. Thought after 5 minutes that it was going to be a big mistake. Thankfully it turned out OK and the Spain game went very well.

38. Right about Lewa! Is there an update coming tonight mate? Followed since the start

    1. Yeah I’ve tried to look a bit further ahead and reviewed the long term plan. Will post up my thoughts shortly.

39. Ive been questioning how important transfers will be for the later stages of the competition. So far I’ve used 4 so far and like you i originally planned for 8 during the group stages but with costa, lakaku, ronaldo and kane all now scoring a few and with relatively easy games coming up for these players, wouldn’t it be more beneficial using transfers switching these big hitters about for these games rather than tougher ones in the knockout stage?

    Would the plan be for the knockout stages be as simple as transferring players out of your team as they are eliminated? Considering your team will most likely already contain a few players from the group stages that will go all the way to the final, isn’t 12 remaining transfers excessive?

    1. Agreed – I’ve just published a reviewed plan. I’ve added a couple more transfers in without going too overboard. I think it’s important to get the balance but think 12 remaining transfer is too many considering as you’ve said points could be easier to come by in the group stages. I still think it’s important to save some though as many will run out and I’m sure by the end of the group stage everything will have changed. For example we may lose Brazil or Germany if they end up playing each other straight away.

       1. A lot of teams got a herd of Brazil and Germany players. Real game changer if they meet in the last 16. Looks very likely to me.

          1. Massive game changer if they do. Which is why I’m trying not to blow my transfers too quickly but it’s proving tricky to hold back. Any thoughts on my new rough plan that I’ve published? Obviously it’s only rough at the moment but 9 transfers with only two games played for everyone feels a bit high to me.

             1. Your plan is very impressive. Full marks. I’m tempted to copy it myself but will play it my way which is making it up as I go along. This planning takes a lot of effort and time. Well done.

       2. Just read your updated plan. Pleased you agree with using a few more transfers. Also agree with how you’ve not planned to use too many on defenders or midfielders. I think that part of the team is pretty well set up and should be fairly easy to manage going into the knockout stage.

          Just on costa, i may put him in but I’m not that convinced. Or more accurately, I’m a bit ignorant about his recent form and potential in spain shirt. Don’t think his international record is that great?
          I tend to see him as someone who “does a job for the team” rather than a prolific goal scorer. Though he is very short odds for anytime goalscorer against iran. Thoughts?

          1. Didn’t particularly rate him either but thought as a team Spain looked good and he should get plenty of opportunities. When I have seen him play he always seems to score but this is mainly at a club level. My main concern with him is his attitude – always a risk of getting sent off especially with VAR.

40. Brazil doctor says Neymar back in training tomorrow. Got time to recover for next game. With Brazil drawing their first game, under pressure to win. Need Neymar. Plus highest owned player in the game so if he starts, could be another transfer used to bring him in.

    1. I’m with you on this one. As tempted as I am by Ronaldo – I like to think Brazil will go further in the competition so could be valuable transfers saved. I also read that he will train tomorrow. The way he played the other night – he wants everything to go through him so could score well across the tournament. It’s a tough choice because every day there are players who are tempting to bring in. It’s knowing the ones to resist.

41. For me I can see Costa getting a few more goals tomorrow, I will be using my transfer to bring him in.

    1. Yeah I’m going to do the Costa transfer. What about Neymar for Ronaldo though? Personally slightly favouring holding onto Neymar to avoid keep tinkering.

42. Still strongly fancy Muller over hazard?

    1. Not overly to be honest. But if Germany are to progress one of them needs to step up for their last two games. I worry this may be Muller based on his previous record at World Cups. On the other hand Hazard could do well against Tunisia. Could go either way. What are your thoughts?

43. hi DTT…failed to do any transfers the last couple of days due to work commitments at crucial stages so the white ball firmly behind the black for me now ! in regards to transfers they all look detailed costa for lukaku no brainer….ronny for neymar a 50/50 call hazard for muller …i think muller is a shot fox looked his age last game..but i dont see belguim progressing too far tho….kane in for panama also sits well…..spain should keep a clean sheet tmrw….few people have 2 and 3 urg defenders which given there fixtures is this a concern or do you feel wasting transfers because of there ability to progress too far….i have loved ur approach and detailed progress
    keep it up

    1. Ronaldo/Neymar is a difficult one could go either way. Brazil surely favourite to go further in the tournament though if Neymar remains fit. I could save a transfer and stick with Hazard for the time being. I agree Muller didn’t look great, never looked like scoring to be honest but he’s only 28 so shouldn’t be his age. I wish I’d have gone for the Uruguay keeper from the start but won’t be bringing in any of their players, as you say hopefully the won’t progress too far.

44. 2 other things
    1, is there anyway of tracking ur opponents current used transfers ?
    2, if Muller or hazard a little riskly..is a fully fit dele worth a punt given our next opponents or do u feel gareth may rest him ?

    1. I don’t know of anyway of tracking transfers. I’m not sure about Alli – they’ve got the easier game coming up but I’m hoping for a long term pick. As you say he may not also be fully fit.

45. Personally I’ve used that extra transfer with Ronaldo and I’m gonna resist the Muller swap. I understand your reasoning behind it but I just don’t see muller recreating what he’s done in past world cups. Good luck though man, will still be following for updates.

    1. It’s a tough choice. I’m assuming you’ll transfer out Neymar but will you put him back in? I may miss the Muller transfer as well but I worry about having no German attacking representation. They will surely bounce back.

       1. Yes I will put neymar back in, he was really going for it in the last game so expect him to pick up points. I understand what you mean with that german attack, hoped for promising signs from werner after that first game with his price being so good. Draxler seemed to show better potential for points after the first game than Muller, could be one to watch but really will be a tough choice. Going to stick with my gut instinct for now and hope it pays off, just got to watch that transfer limit haha.

          1. Haha that’s the problem – I’ve never played an international competition before and it’s very tempting to keep dipping into those transfers.

          2. I thought Draxler was poor. Wouldn’t be surprised if him or Ozil are dropped for Reus next game. Kimmich looked brilliant and more dangerous going forward than Muller and Draxler.

46. ‘long term pick’ you saying were not gonna win this thing ? lol
    ronaldo is tempting very…
    apart from isco countiho theres no one that stands out score machine wise in midfield james of columbia was a choice but he is not fit and columbia are rubbish@
    be interesting what you do tommorow just go with your gut feeiling u have started like a train

    1. Haha I wouldn’t fancy many England players as a long term pick. I’ll have to decide in the morning, Costa for certain and Ronaldo might have to be a toss of a coin. My gut says save the transfer at the moment though.

47. I think Ronaldo looked unstoppable and a man on a mission. If he can score 3 against Spain he can bang a few in in each game against Morocco and Iran.

    1. Yeah he certainly did. But they are pretty much a one man team. I wouldn’t put it past him to score as many as you say though.

48. Portugal’s remaining group fixtures (Morocco and Iran) make a very good case for Ronaldo’s inclusion. Considering the same team won the euros I doubt it’ll be a wasted transfer in the long run.

    Neymar definitely doesn’t look fully fit (with the amount of fouls he suffered and limping out of training) so I think Brazil will be the Coutinho show, with a mix of other goal scorers all picking up Neymar’s points.

    It’s a gamble, but sticking with Neymar involves more risk given what we know.

    1. I do completely agree but I think they could both do well in their last two games of the group. So I think it’s literally a 50/50 decision as a result thought it made sense to save the transfer. On Portugal though, they did win the euros but we can’t forget they got through their group in third place having drawn all three games against weaker opposition.

49. Just read it Neymar pulled up with the same foot he fractured recently. He was only kicking a ball during in some light drills.
    He did come back and try to carry on training though. I reckon he’ll play against Costa Rica it’s just if he’s 100% isn’t it. He may give up corners to Willian/Coutinho.

    1. Yeah they’ve not given much information but they said he will train today. Hopefully it doesn’t come to anything.

    2. Neymar’s free kicks and penalty duties would worry me about not getting him in.

50. It is my first time reading your articles and my first time doing Dream Team, so a quick learning curve! I decided to follow your team as it seemed a sensible and logical approach and so far it is paying dividends – I am first in 2 ML’s 🙂

    On your transfer plan, I looked from the finals backwards to determine how many transfers would be required to maximise players in the later stages of the competition – I calculated that max 7 transfers would do it for the semi’s and the final (I can explain this further if required). With 4 transfers done so far, that leaves 9 between now and the end of the quarter’s.

    On that basis, I am tempted with the following remaining transfers:

    20/06 – Lukaku -> Costa
    20/06 – Neymar -> Ronaldo (Neymar possible injury plus Ronaldo prolific start)
    23/06 – Suarez -> Lukaku
    (I believe that Belgium will go far so planning to hold Hazard; not convinced by Germany yet)
    24/06 – Lukaku -> Kane
    26/06 – Kane -> Messi

    This would then leave 4 transfers for the last 16 and quarter final’s, which would be determined at the time.

    What are your thoughts?

    1. Looks like a good plan. I’ve been looking at my plan again today which I put together before Neymar’s injury concerns. Should Neymar be fit and should Brazil look likely to reach the final – what would be your thoughts on when and how to bring him back in?

       1. I haven’t thought it through that far yet but with 7 transfers to use for the semi’s and the final, Neymar (or others) can come into the Team and players get knocked out. There is a risk of course that a team like Brazil get knocked out unexpectedly and we have 3 Brazilian players in the team – a degree of hedging would be required in the later stages of the completion based on form and opponent.

          1. If they end up facing Germany in the next round as well that could be a problem. I think the team is fairly well spread at the moment though. I think a lot will change before we even reach the knockout stage.

             1. A lot of the transfers for the final group games will depend on who is fighting for what and the likely Last 16 draw. I appreciate that it is a risk going for so many transfers in the group stage.

                Here are some interesting stats – in the last world cup, on average there were 2.8 goals scored in the group stages (26 clean sheets out of 48 games) compared with 2.1 in the knockouts (10 clean sheets out of 15 games), but that included a Germany 7-1 Brazil result; taking that one out and the average was only 1.7 goals (nearly half of the group stage). So the goal scorers did better in the group stages and the goalkeepers and defenders seem to do better in the knockouts – which is something I recall you or someone else mentioning on an earlier thread.

                So far in the first round of games in this WC: 2.4 goals scored per match (9 clean sheets out of 16 games). The stats are backing a similar trend to WC2014.

                1. Appreciate the stats – thanks for digging those out and completely agree with what you’re saying. I’ll have used more than half of my transfers by the end of the group stages so I’m following the same principle that players should score higher during these fixtures. I’m just trying to be a little reserved with some transfers – not having Ronaldo backfired slightly today as he scored and points on the board are what matter. However it could have been a lot worse. I think there’s a case to be made for all of the big strikers – Suarez, Ronaldo, Costa today. Then Neymar, Kane, Lukaku, Messi and Griezmann coming up. The problem is you can’t have all of them for every game so it’s going to be about getting the right balance and knowing when to make transfers. I think I’ve probably got this wrong twice – not getting Kane in and maybe not getting Ronaldo in today. However if Neymar plays and does well for Brazil against Costa Rica I won’t be as bothered about missing Ronaldo out today.

51. Hi DT,

    Not been about for a while. Didn’t even realise you were doing a team for the WC, but thanks for the effort you’ve put into it.

    I have done a team. Not doing great at the moment. Only on 83 points and about 20 off the two leaders in my ML of 26 players, but what I find astounding is the leaders attitude towards their subs!!

    For example, the guy winning made 6 changes ahead of today’s games (Portugal, Uruguay & Spain). I’m not sure how many subs he has made since he only shot to the top after scooping 70 points in a single hit from the Belgium England games recently played where he had 7 Belgium players (including their entire back line).

    The guy in 2nd has already made 12 subs and we aren’t even a week in!!

    I’m trying to be disciplined with my subs (have used 5), play my own game and not get pulled into their strategy, but at the same time I don’t want to lose too much ground.

    ———————–

    Finally, from finally catching up with your previous posts, it seems that my late entry into your season ML disgruntled RR somewhat.

    I would like to add that I didn’t enter my ‘best team’ in a bid to nab the victory in the closing stages!! For a start, I only ever do ONE team and in all honesty, I completely forgot to enter it into the league I was invited into.

    I join many leagues, including a lot of the celebrity ones, so a scroll bar for the leagues I’m in, is activated. It wasn’t until I scrolled to the very bottom one day and noticed that I hadn’t joined your league.

    There was no cynical intention on my part to irritate or cheat other players and in any case, you’re only awarded points from the date that the ML was created (which wasn’t until Oct / Nov anyway), so I wasn’t gaining any points advantage…. In fact, I wasn’t even aware of other entrants or their points tally until I joined, so for all I knew, I was joining a league where I could have been half way down the table!

    Much to RR’s joy no doubt, My entire back 5 were rested for the final game of the season (I assume my Utd players were rested for the FA Cup final) and typically all of their respective teams kept clean sheets, so I didn’t win anyway… If RR wants to call that justice for his cynical view of my entry, so be it.

    It was just for fun. Unlike my other leagues, there was no money involved, so I’m not quite sure why anyone would get so upset??

    1. Yeah I’m trying to go down the disciplined route with transfers and even skipped Ronaldo today which backfired a little but could have been a lot worse. I think a lot of people above me have been going through transfers very quickly as well but it’s a bit annoying that you can’t tell how many people have used. Hopefully in the long run it will catch them out. I’ll leave you and RR to debate the mini league from last season. The only point I’d add is that the mini league wasn’t even set up from the start of the season anyway so everyone who entered simply put in their best team anyway – it was never a level playing field and as you say just a bit of fun.

       1. I’ve just been keeping a count (as much as I can) of the main threats within my mini league and taking screen shots of their teams. It gives you an indication of where you are and how much advantage you have.

          Yes, you can live with losing just points from Ronaldo. It’s when it gets 13, 18+ it becomes more difficult.

          What points are you on now?

          Regarding RR. There is no debate as far as I’m concerned. I just wanted to voice my view that my entry wasn’t as cynical or calculated as he seems to think. As you say, it was just a bit of fun.

          1. I think I’m on 82 which isn’t ideal but I do have Costa, Isco, Alba and Suarez to play today so hoping the Spanish will play well. Unfortunately missed out on Kane’s 18 points after bagging Lukaku’s 18 which was frustrating but it’s proving an interesting tournament.

             1. Similar to me. Ronaldo just put me onto 91, but I have Cavani, Isco, Costa and a Spanish defender (undecided who to bring in yet) for today.

                I’m also kicking myself for not bringing Kane in. All day, I had every intention of bringing him in, but changed my mind at the last minute as I had a feeling we would struggle against Tunisia!

                2 goals from Cavani today would negate that poor decision as it would have been him who I would have subbed out…. :0

52. Hi DTT,

    Didn’t realise you were doing a World Cup DT. Nice one.

    I’m doing one myself, but haven’t started that well. Only on about 90 points.

    I’ve only just caught up with your previous posts and it seems we have a disgruntled RR about my late entry into your Season ML.

    RR – I can assure you I didn’t enter my ‘top team’ in a bid to snatch victory in the closing stages. For a start, I only ever enter ONE team, and I enter loads of mini leagues, including many celebrity ones (with the same team), so completely forgot about the DTT league until one day, I scrolled to the bottom of my leagues list and realised I hadn’t joined.

    In any case, you can take ‘justice’ from your cynical view that my entire back line was rested on the final day of the season and typically all of their teams kept clean sheets… oh well, it was only for fun anyway. Lighten up dude!!..

    The important thing for me is that I won all 3 of my paid Sun leagues and both of my Telegraph leagues. They are the ones of importance for me… £££ 🙂

53. Apologies for the repetition… my first post didn’t load at first….

54. Any transfers for tomorrow’s games mate?

    1. I wasn’t going to bother. Can’t keep making changes every day.

55. Will you be putting any one in for the French game tommorow ?

    1. I wasn’t going to bother. Can’t keep making changes every day.

       1. As you said though best time to score is early on as it’s easier games I just don’t think France will play well as they was dog poo last time out

          1. No I agree that’s why I took him out. Hopefully they do very little again tomorrow as well.

56. Good call with costa today mate I think leave him in his in quality form atm

    1. Spain generally look good so I think it’s a fairly solid choice. They’ve dominated both games really but faced Iran basically parking the bus tonight. They may create more chances for Costa when a game is more open.

57. How comes Gimenez got 7 rating and the clean sheet and only got 5 points? Where’s the extra 3 he should have got

    1. The rating changed after the game unfortunately.

       1. Still says 7 rating for me mate

58. This is my response to the posts regarding me above:

    It seems that Len H is sad at not winning DTT mini league. Sounds like sour grapes to me. To others, maybe the mini league was for fun but from the moment I entered I took it seriously and I enjoyed that it was a competitive mini league at the top end and was decided in the last game in the season.

    It brings me satisfaction to have won DTT mini league, I’m not going to lie and say it didn’t mean anything or I didn’t care. I enjoy all my success whether mini leagues for cash or honour. I am passionate about fantasy football – it gives alot of emotion in my daily life – that’s why I have contributed a lot of good positive information on this blog. I had a few negative moments on this blog but nothing personal towards anyone and because generally I didn’t agree with some of DTT’s player selections last season.

    Winning is a good feeling but I don’t necessarily see losing as a bad thing. I keep a note of all my transfers last season, the ones I got right and the wrongs I got wrong. One or two I deem unlucky but those are very few usually me selecting a player and them getting injured straight away. Also, as a decent fantasy football I realise that I am going to win every mini league I enter. There are people out there with more experience and a better understanding of fantasy football. All I can do is do my research, observe and make conclusions. If someone beats me, I accept it (I might not like it) and say well done. It’s nice to respect your opponents. I lost out on a grand on TFF (I was leading till the last week of the season crawling my way to the summit) and the first thing I did was to say congrats to the winner.

    I like to take this opportunity to say well done to Jase and Baller (SOTV) for their performance in the mini league and either would have been worthy winners of DTT mini league. They gave my team a tough battle and I can tell they are very good fantasy football players. Best luck to these and others for the future.

    As for DTT’s comment that the mini league was not a level playing field. Well I didn’t set up the league or made the rules. It wasn’t my fault. A challenge was issued, I accepted. I’m sorry. I wanted to win and I thoroughly enjoyed the mini league. I worked hard and I feel I earned 1st position fairly. If others didn’t feel I deserve to win the mini league please let me know?

    I am kind of disappointed that DTT didn’t acknowledge my win on his blog. Maybe I wasn’t a worthy winner. I don’t why I am so unpopular on this blog. Maybe it is a sign to quit.

    People are always impressed by money earned in fantasy football. Not me, I don’t play the game for money, passion drive me. The money in fantasy football is not going to change my life. I have more respect for people who share their experiences good or bad on fantasy football. I really learn from them.

    1. Correction to above post : Also, as a decent fantasy football player I realise that I am not going to win every mini league I enter.

    2. I didn’t say anything negative and I didn’t even think about the recognition side of things. I set up a mini league at the start of last season with over 150 teams entered – I think you found the blog after this was set up so missed out on joining. The second league which you won was set up quite a few weeks into the season and only had 20-30 teams entered so I didn’t really think you’d be bothered about winning that one. I couldn’t even tell you who won the other league without looking it up. I’d assumed whoever won probably had enough satisfaction from just winning and didn’t need any public announcement. While on the subject of recognition – there’s been 30,000 hits on this website in June but not one person has hit the donate button. I invest my time and money to keep it going but I get no real recognition for that. But that doesn’t bother me. In fact I’ve only had one donation in 2018.

       And no ones unpopular on here – I appreciate all comments and I’m not bothered if I get criticism but I’ll always give my opinion back. We haven’t had a cross word since the end of the Premier League season so not sure why you think you’re unpopular.

    3. Ha ha, no sour grapes here and sorry to disappoint, but I’m not ‘sad’ at not winning DTT’s league. As I mentioned before, it was free and was just a bit of fun….to most people at least.

       I also realise that you only won because my entire back line was rested on the final day of the season. These things happen in Dream Team. It’s out of everyone’s control, so we just have to deal with it.

       I won all four of my leagues which carried monetary value, so those were more important to me.

       This comment says it all though:

       “I am kind of disappointed that DTT didn’t acknowledge my win on his blog. Maybe I wasn’t a worthy winner. I don’t why I am so unpopular on this blog. Maybe it is a sign to quit.”

       It seems you really have some attention issues. DTT… any chance you can send RR a little cup with a winners banner?… 😉

       1. I decided not to waste my time and energy replying. I want to move forward. My feud is over. In my spare time, I like to read and write my thoughts on fantasy football. Not insults about me. I think I play fairly, no excuses from me, I accept good luck and bad luck equally. I am no expert, I don’t find this game easy.

          Anyways, I hope DTT the best with his blog and wish success to others in the game.

          All the attention should go to DTT as it’s his blog and he does a brilliant job. I will hit the donate button to appreciate his efforts.

          1. Lastly, DTT no need to feel bad about overall league position. I suspect most teams above have used about 12-15 transfers already. So stick to the plan.

             1. I suspected the same thing but still got to play catch up at some point, which could be difficult. I just feel like I’m one player/bad result away from tumbling out of contention of winning anything. I’ve just got a feeling a lot of people might take a punt on a player that I don’t go for and I’ll end up paying for it. Like Ronaldo – most people went for him and luckily he didn’t score massively. If he had I’d have dropped massively.

          2. I think moving forward is the best approach – there’s no reason for any feuds on here. We are all working towards the same goal so should aim to help each other out. A bit of friendly rivalry is fine though, who doesn’t like a bit of competition. But I’d say everyone should try and keep it that way (friendly). I agree that you play fairly – there’s no way not to play fairly in this game. When I said it wasn’t a level playing field I simply mean’t the league wasn’t created from the start of the season, which is my own fault. With regards to the donation – you really don’t need to. I don’t expect anyone to do that, and I’m not sure if I’ll keep it going for the Premier League season yet.

             1. Totally agree with you both.

                A feud was never my reason for commenting. I was merely stating my position as it was assumed that I joined late with cynical intentions.

                Water under the bridge as far as I’m concerned. I love this thread. It’s very insightful for all of us, experienced and newcomers alike.

                Great work DTT

                1. Totally agree. Maybe I went overboard myself. Fantasy football brings joy and frustration but mainly not in equal amounts but we all love the game no matter what happens. How this blog carries on forever.

59. DTT, If looking to ship Jimenez out for Hummels, is it worth paying the extra half million for Kimmich, or even doubling up on Brazil as they have Costa rica & Serbia to come, but as you rightly suggest Germany cld play Brazil in last 16.

60. I think leaving Ronaldo was very brave and the right thing to do, looking at the points yesterday and the tournament as a whole. If you look at the players and teams as one, like you did, Costa/Spain look really good and will take some beating. Portugal look ropey and are completely carried by Ronaldo, which surely cant get them past the quarters…..(i said that in the euros too but not again!?? haha)
    I am not making any transfers today as i think France looked disjointed and unorganised. I’m not even confident of multiple goals or a clean sheet for them.

    1. Had the same thoughts about Ronaldo but he does seem to keep scoring. Hopefully they won’t last long.

61. Argentina are playing later on today, can someone confirm that I can transfer Messi into my team, or is it too late?

    1. yep you can bring messi in anytime before kick off…

62. Don’t know if anyone else is having an issue but the latest post 19th June isn’t showing right for me

    1. Just checked – it seems to be displaying OK for me. What issue are you facing and I’ll try and get it sorted?

63. Unsure how to play it tonight. Do we leave Ronaldo in for Iran

    1. Depends who your front three are currently I think. Be dangerous not to have at least one striker for France, Argentina, Brazil or Germany.

64. My front three at moment as it stands Ronaldo, Suarez, Costa

    How would you play it, currently done 7 transfers at moment but kinda sticking to ur plan throughout and on 140 points

    1. Considering looking at Neymar?

65. Yea I fancy Neymar, bit worried with the dodgey foot though! Lukaku in for Suarez. Neymar in for Ronaldo. And you seem pretty happy with Humells

    1. Yeah although I wouldn’t put it past Uruguay to keep another clean sheet. Germany could end up playing Brazil in the next round so everything is a little up in the air with them at the moment. They didn’t look great at the back against Mexico.

66. I can hold fire on changing a defender. More concerned with forwards. I’m more for Neymar to be dropped in as I think Brazil go further than Argentina and Messi

    1. I’d agree with that, Neymar sounds like he’s fit for tomorrow as well.

67. Would you be tempted to put Griezzman Mbappe in today?

    1. I was tempted by Griezmann but glad I didn’t.

68. Just to let you know mate I haven’t been able to view any of your recent comments due to the website. When I click the link it send me here and I can only view what you’ve put for day 5 etc. Shame really.

    1. Ah that’s annoying. Try refreshing the page and that might clear it in the future and I’ll see what I can do my end to stop it happening.

69. Glad of your blog dtt, in Ibiza for the week, so having a 5 minute check on the hotel lobby computers each day, gone for Messi today , keep up the good work, im leading my work m-league so far , cheers 🍻

    1. Good stuff – glad you’re finding the blog useful.

70. Messi in against Croatia defence?

    1. Can’t keep going through transfers. So I’ve decided to give this one a miss. I’m sure he will end up doing well but I planned to get him in for the Nigeria game.

71. Hi mate,

    Can’t see some of this thread for some reason so apologies if you are repeating. What’s the transfer plan for tomorrow?

    1. Which bits are you missing? I’ve not published an update today about transfers for tomorrow yet but don’t think I planned on making any with Neymar, Coutinho and Miranda already in the team.

72. Hi
    I wonder if you could help?

    If say I had 3 German players in the knockout stages and Germany got knocked out could I then transfer out those 3 players and replace them with 3 players from teams that have got through to the next round.

    Also, is there a limit to the amount of players that you can have in your team from any one country.

    Thanks.

    1. There’s no limit on the amount of players from one country and you can transfer players out once eliminated as long as it’s not for a match later on the same day – as far as I know.

73. Confused with all the updates on the same thread and hundreds of comment lol, what’s your line up at the moment fella?

    1. Haha it takes forever to set them all up as individual posts but I’m on my team in the table plan still. It’s

       Lloris
       Giminez
       Alba
       Miranda
       Meunier
       Coutinho
       Isco
       Hazard
       Costa
       Neymar
       Suarez

       Suarez will go next.

74. Great thanks mate!
    Are you keeping giminez for the Russia game then?

    1. Unsure yet – the original plan was to take him out for Hummels but Uruguay have defended well so tempted to keep in.

75. Are we going Jimenez to Hummels 2moro, I expect to see a vast improvement in the Germans, need Reus to start, otherwise possibly transfer out.

    1. That was the plan but I’m not 100% sure yet. They don’t play until Saturday evening so I’ll probably decide closer to the time.

76. Also having problems with recent blog, once I put a new one in, it seems to update.

    1. I think if you refresh the page it should update.

       1. I am also having problems seeing the latest posts???

          1. I’ve had a look into this. From what I’ve read it sounds like it could be your browser “saving” the older copy of the blog in your phone or laptop settings. If you refresh the page does it bring up the most recent post? If not, can you email me over a screen shot of what is happening to info@dreamteamtips.co.uk

77. Morning,

    How many transfers you got left mate? And are you sticking Lukaku in today?

    1. Got 15 transfers left. I’ll be going for Lukaku probably, but not today. I’ll wait until Saturday to put him in.

78. Current forwards, Costa, Mbappe, Ronaldo… I have adjusted tiny bit to your plan! 12 Transfers left on 158 points.

    Trying to see who would get who in last 16 hard to judge. What would you do

    1. Difficult one but you’ve got a decent points total so I’d just carry on what you’re doing.

79. DTT, unsure what to do with Jimenez, want to try & get another 2 group games out of a defender, looking at Hummels or Miranda, have Neymar, Coutinho, & Marcelo, big possibility Germany to play Brazil, only have Reus as German representation, have to make decision 2day b4 1o’clock.

    1. On balance Hummels might be a good shout. If you have four Brazilian players and they do meet Germany and then go out it would be 4 transfers to take them all out. Although purely from a point scoring point of view Brazil may score better in terms of clean sheets until the knockout round.

80. Where’s DTT when you need him lol

    1. Haha at work unfortunately. Sticking to the plan today though. No transfers required.

       1. We still thinking of making 3 changes tomorrow or tonight . Muller, lukaku and hummels or are we changing ?

          1. I’ll update later but almost certainly sticking with Hazard for another game. Questioning Hummels but will confirm this evening.

81. Surely your not going to be putting Messi back in, also is it worth keeping hazard in for one more game, do you think muller will perform(I dont think he will)

    1. I’ll post an update tonight. But no – unlikely to go for Messi now unless it looks like Argentina might turn it around. Depends on the result of today’s game. Also agree about Hazard and likely to stick with him for now.

82. You know Hummels has a neck injury and isnt playing against Sweden? Whats the plan without him?

    1. I didn’t know. Was planning to post an update shortly so I’ll think about what I want to do.

       1. Awesome, i was looking at kimmich but i couldnt swap lukaku to kane for the england game so unsure.

          1. That’s exactly the conclusion that I came too. I think getting Kane for that game is more important than getting Kimmich. I’ve just posted a more detailed update so any thoughts would be appreciated.

             1. I agree with the plan but i started with 4 midfielders insfead of alba so its even more difficult to decide what to do with Gimenez, think i may keep him until the next game as Uraguay have been defensively sound so far and maybe Hummels after that if hes fit and Germany are back to theyre winning ways.

                1. Another thought i had was Gimenez to Kimmich and Suarez to Lukaku, then Transfer hazard out after the Belgian game to make funds for kane as Belguims next game is England.
                   Just not sure about who to replace him with.

                   1. Difficult one because that’s going to cost two transfers to get Kane in rather than one. Could be a good idea though but trying to be as savvy as possible with the transfers available. I’ll have a think over night.

                2. They’ve looked very strong at the back. I was going for Hummels rather than Gimenez purely because Germany now have two group games whereas Uruguay obviously only have one. It’s another tricky decision.

83. Hummels injured! Hmmm, Rudiger or Kimmich instead?

    1. I’ll have a look and post an update.

84. Hi DTT. Reckon we need to do a recap as it looks likely Germany will play Brazil. Now we kinda have an idea of who’s gonna progress will you be changing much

    1. Everything is going to plan (to a certain extent) but need to rethink a little bit. Not too much though. If they play each other I think that’s fine. It’s not a given that Brazil will win. Germany have only played one game after all.

85. Any update tonight mate?

    1. Just posted it. Only made two decisions so far – stick with Suarez to Lukaku transfer and keep Hazard rather than bringing in Muller. Other than that I can’t decide about the other transfer at the moment.

86. What about Vertonghen or Alderweirald, to double up with Meunier, should reach the last 16 at the very least, not entirely ideal as they have England in the last group game.

    1. Yeah that might be a good option. Although I think they’ve had their easiest group game but should get a decent last 16 tie. I think I’ll ponder over night.

87. If a change to 3-4-3, Rackotic comes in for consideration, minimum quarter final, but has played a game more, already have Reus, hope he plays 2moro, shame Uruguay & Spain play on same day, cld of looked at Caravjal alongside Alba.

    1. Yeah it’s not an easy one. None of the options seem ideal other than Hummels. I could go for Reus as well but it’s a risk considering how strong Uruguay have been at the back. If Gimenez gets a clean sheet against Russia and Reus doesn’t score against Sweden or South Korea it will be a complete waste.

88. DTT don’t get disheartened by league position, people have been hammering he transfers and it’s a marathon, not a sprint! Haha
    I agree about saving the Hazard to Muller transfer. Sweden will be tough, can see a 1-0.
    Have you considered Trippier for the transfer? England have surely got to keep a clean sheet against Panama and with Germany possibly not finishing top we could have a half decent run to the semi’s? He’s on corners and the best crosser of the ball with good assist potential?
    Not sure I’d go for another midfielder instead, a lot of points coming from defenders rather than midfielders.

    1. Yeah defenders seem to be doing well and I guess we might know more about where Germany many finish after today’s games. Trippier could be a good shout. Are they sticking with 3 at the back do you know? I know he played well in the first game but if they change formation I can see Walker playing right back. Stones might be a decent option as well?

       1. Yes England are definitely sticking to the 3 centre backs and two wing backs for the tournament. Trippier will keep his place too.
          I like your new plan for Kimmich now you’ve sorted the extra funds. He’s the best wing back around I reckon 👍🏻

          1. Yeah I can’t imagine him being dropped if that’s the case but favour a German defender at the moment. Might not be for too long if they do end up playing Brazil though.

             1. Yeah Germany’s last 2 fixtures are better too. I’m winning my mini league so I’ll hit the donate button after this! Ha

                1. Haha there’s no need to donate but glad you’re doing well. Not sure if I’m going to do the blog for the Premier League season yet.

89. Footballs coming home so let’s stick trippier in their. Created 6 chances last game from rwb and on most set pieces in the form of his life

    1. He did play well so I think this is worth considering. I’ll have a think. If we did go down this route the transfer doesn’t need to be done until tomorrow so happy to see how today pans out.

90. DTT & Gents.
    Been folllwing this slightly and on 190 points, 10 transfers. Current forwards jesus neymar costa! Anybody recommend any suggestions what to do . Do I drag Ronaldo in. Or do I save transfers

    1. Blimey that’s an impressive score. Were there any transfers or certain players that managed to get you so many points? I’d be tempted to lose Jesus but have you got the funds to bring in someone like Lukaku?

91. I say we make sure we have another defender playing today to rake up the points along with meunier hopefully

    1. Who did you have in mind? Got to be someone from Belgium really? Can only afford Hummels from Germany if we want to put Kane in tomorrow.

92. Hi DTT. Only changes I done from your plan was I had lukaku and Kane when they scored a brace and had jesus. My options are lose giminez add muller midfield and lukaku for Costa or just swap jesus to lukaku and I have money left over then! Really tough decision as I would like costa back if I put lukaku in for him today an muller

93. Just need to know really before Belgium play.

    Lukaku in for Jesus and have money left over.

    Lukaku in for Costa – giminez our for Muller with them no money left and will have to put Costa back in for lukaku

    1. I think it could go either way. You’re probably in the best position to make the decision. I’d personally probably play it safe and just do Jesus for Lukaku. But on the other hand it would be nice to have Muller – it worries me that I’ve not got him today. You’ve done well up until this point with your changes so I’d probably go with whatever you think is best.

94. Yeah on 10 transfers at moment, most of them below me have done more than be apart from one guys on 170 who’s only on 7 transfers.

    I may just go for Luaku and muller with Costa and giminez going. Muller may play upfront. Probs our costa back in which will lead me to 13 transfers made.

    1. Sounds like a plan. I’ve not been sure throughout the tournament if it’s been worth saving transfers or not so it will be interesting by the end how it all pans out.

95. What are we doing then dtt? Just the lukaku transfer today or more ?

    1. Can you see the update at the top of the blog? Some people can’t so just checking if you can. I planned to go for Lukaku and Kimmich. As I don’t think it will effect the plan long term. Obviously if Hummels starts I’ll go for him.

       1. Oh yeh cheers mate and is 7 enough transfers left for when we get to the quarter finals ? Just checking because that is what I’ll be left with

          1. I hope so. With the team we’ve shaped I think we should have most players still in. A lot of people appear to have used a lot more transfers. Also might give the Messi transfer a miss so that will save one.

96. DTT, after a night of pondering, have u come up with a solution.

    1. I think so. Published an update this morning. Is it showing for you at the top?

97. This Belgium games gone to plan then ain’t it😂😂

    1. Couldn’t have gone better. Just a shame they both went off. A hat trick for either would have topped it off nicely.

       1. Day 10 not showing

          1. I think you’ll need to refresh your page or clear the cache on your browser. I’ll put a note at the top of the blog about this I think because quite a few people are facing this problem.

98. So if hummels doesn’t start we are putting Kimmich in yeh?

    1. Yeah I will be.

99. Refresh the page with F5, doesnt always auto update

    1. I’ve been looking into this in more detail. I believe it’s to do with individual’s devices caching or saving a copy of the post in their browser. Basically it’s the browser trying to speed up the loading of the page by saving a copy – which isn’t helping at all with people who come back on a regular basis.

100. Muller move makes total sense if you think they will win tonight and not get knocked out of the competition!

     1. Haha that’s the big risk. I notice not many others have him though so it’s less risky playing it safe. I don’t think it’s a given that they win tonight though.

101. Kimmich in ?

     1. Yeah just done it.

102. Well done DTT, cracking day for you, half a million short for German defender, have to go a different route.

     1. Very good result earlier. Pondering a last minute move for Muller.

103. What’s the call mate ? Muller and Kimmich both in or just Kimmich

     1. Still can’t decide. I’ve done Kimmich. Will decide on Muller within next 10 min. Any thoughts?

        1. I’d say yes because Martinez said hazard lukaku are both doubts for England game anyway . Bring muller in and don’t teally matter if he fucks up because hazard will be swapped tomororw anyway

           1. That’s a good point. I hadn’t realised he was an injury concern. Tempted to go for it.

              1. Let’s go for it

                 1. Agreed. I’ll post a quick update.

        2. Hey DTT, Muller would be a good differential as not many in my mini leagues have him.

           But I m not convinced by the Germans to be honest. I am bringing a defender in for cover.

           How many transfers do you have left?

           1. Think I’ve got 13 left so going fairly well

              1. 13 left if we swap muller in and I’d say we should. Low risk but high reward if it comes off

                 1. 12 left I think if we swap Muller but I planned to bring him in anyway. I’m leaning towards going for it. Not really taken any risks yet so think it might be worth a punt. Not convinced I’ll bring in Mbappe or Messi yet either so may be able to save transfers there.

              2. Good stuff, how many are you planning to have left for knockouts?

                 Great updates on the blog by the way, very useful 👍

                 1. I was hoping to have used 13 by the end of the last 16. Which isn’t ideal but no point saving them and being out of contention too early on.

104. All waiting on tender hooks… Whats the decision DTT?

     1. Just done it. Small risk but could make it a very good day. Still get the South Korea game as well and as Luke pointed out Hazard may be rested against England so this could be a no brainer.

105. If Germany don’t win tonight their as good as out so let’s take the fucking risk !!

106. yes i like the plan everything you have done so far as worked go for it …..also kane tmrw looks good i am very very impressed with ur detailed approach thinking this world cup very…onwards and upwards

     1. Hopefully it pans out well. As you say everything has pretty much gone to plan so far. Hoping this isn’t the first big mistake but based on the position we are in think we’ve got to try and keep up the momentum and go for it.

        1. Won’t let me select Muller. Amy idea why?

           1. Need to change the formation to 4-4-2. It’s just worked for me.

107. As I’ve said if muller does not do anything we haven’t really lost anything as hazard won’t be playing the next game anyway and Kane is coming in for him tomorrow

     1. Exactly – appreciate the speedy comments. I hadn’t clocked that Hazard had gone off with a niggle and may not have made the transfer as I was assuming he would play against England.

     2. Thanks got Muller in now.

108. DTT what changes did you do?

     1. Neymar out, Muller in
        Gimenez out, Kimmich in

        The tomorrow:

        Hazard out, Kane in

109. if germany crash out change of plan tmrw
     muller out
     kane in

     1. Yes absolutely. This is looking like backfiring dramatically but think it was worth a punt.

110. Mullers looked shite this tournament hasn’t he

     1. Yeah poor again today. The way Sweden played didn’t help – thought they deserved to be beat. I’ve tried to watch as many games as I can and I’ve seen a lot of teams parking the bus. I guess you can see why when Belgium beat teams like Tunisia in the fashion that they did today when Tunisia came out to play rather than defend. It’s still pretty frustrating to watch when one team wants to play and the other offers very little other than 11 men behind the ball. Most of the time Sweden didn’t even have a way out, they offered pretty much nothing.

     2. Hasn’t looked the best mind but I’m gonna have to stick with him to save on transfers. Hopefully will start pulling his digit out against Korea. Great updates DTT

        1. Yeah it wasn’t a great transfer but I’ll be sticking with him as well. It was pretty much a free extra game tonight.

111. I was gutted they didn’t win tho fuckinh hate germany

112. Just the 1 transfer tomororw we thinking mate ? Just Kane up top instead of hazard or muller

     1. Yeah just the one change. I’ll be taking Hazard out. Germany and Muller have a lot to prove and play for against South Korea.

113. What do you think about Pepe at 1.5m put him in Monday , Portugal have at least 2 more games, really frees up some £ to potentially have Neymar ,ronaldo and Costa

     1. I’m not sure about Portugal and have raced through the transfers today. I’m fairly happy with how the team looks so can’t see me changing too much that I haven’t already planned out before the knockout stage.

114. with pts at a premium any advise on swapping meunier of belgium for trippier for todays game ?
     should in all honestly be a nailed on 5 pts and both could progress quite far not much in the team in my opinion
     feedback welcome

     1. It’s a good shout but I’ll probably pass purely because I’ve raced through the transfers recently. Could always do this after the group stage.

115. It might be worth saving the messi and mbappe transfers. There will be 3 germans/brazilians to get rid of after the last 16…

     1. Exactly my thoughts. Mbappe is less crucial but you wouldn’t put it past Messi to pop up with a few goals and Argentina seeking through against Nigeria.

        1. Got my eyes on messi for that game too. I’ve wasted a transfer on him for croatia but think I’m going to roll the dice with him again despite argentina being so poor. Looking at the final group games, id say messi would be the favourite to rack up most points. Maybe ronaldo against iran and costa v morocco, though iran have really impressed me defensively. Muller/reus against south korea too.

           1. Absolutely agree, also if Messi were to have a good game and Argentina do get through. They would play their last 16 game before Germany, Brazil, Belgium or England so there’s the potential to get 2 games out of Messi while these other players only get one.

116. also lukaku and eden likely to be rested thurs against england might be worth a punt trippier from meunier or waste of transfer DTT ?

     1. Yeah I read they both ‘injured’ and due to be rested. I’ve got both think I’ll try take at least one of them out ASAP probably

     2. I don’t think it would be a waste but maybe a little unnecessary. I think I’ll keep my back line as it is until any of them get knocked out now.

117. Hi mate after some advice, I’m top of my league by 30 it’s right now and used 9 transfers, I’m sure the people in 2nd 3rd have used a little bit more than me but they both have Kane and Sterling, I can’t afford Kane with one transfer. Do you think I should do 2 to get Kane in?

     1. I’d probably want Kane in but not sure if I’d want him at the cost of two transfers. Do you not have a striker valued over 6m to swap for him?

        1. Only Ronaldo and Neymar over 6m but I really want them Both in for their next game and then it would be an out-in-out situation which will use 2 transfers anyway

           1. Yeah it looks like two transfers might be your only option then. It’s your call when you’re doing so well already. I’m definitely going for Kane.

118. DTT, is their a case 2day, to put in a England defender, probably Tripper, has assist potential, foolish not to play him against Panama & Belgium, taking out Meunier, they didn’t look solid against Tunisia.

     1. I think there is a case for it but for me personally I’ll be saving the transfer. Can always go for him at a later date. Meunier looked good despite them being a bit weak defensively. I’m happy with the back line until someone gets injured or knocked out.

119. Ouch!

     I’ve followed your every moved and sitting nicely at the top of my league but…..
     Just check my team and the Hazzard to Kane swap disnt go through!

     I could cry! All top 5 in my league have put him in.

     Any advance after the England game would be appreciated.

     Thanks

     1. How annoying. I guess you could still follow the plan if you wanted to because I’ll probably take Kane out before long anyway.

        1. Thanks for the update DTT

           I haven’t done a world cup team before and I’m surprised how much time and effort you’ve put into it. Your smashing it, well done buddy.

           What do you think I should do with my extra transfer? Is there a player I can pick for a game and then transfer out to fall back inline with yours?

           Whatever I win in my dream team league there will definitely be a few beers donated to you for all your hard work.

           Effort equals rewards
           Thanks

           1. Had to put the time and effort in to put right a poor Premier league season. I can’t stand to not win at something so this short competition suits me well.

              In terms of the extra transfer. Might be worth saving it as I can’t see an obvious move at the moment.

              1. Thanks for the advice.

                 I’m still going to follow your every move even tonight’s.

                 Just a thought,
                 Now that I have an extra transfer and depending on who you bring in tomorrow, do you think I should bring in Messi after Ronaldo just for the one game? he would be replaced by Neymar following your transfer guide? if you bring in Mappe it frees up the extra I would need.

                 Basically its my free roll of the dice to catch up in the league? if not ill hold on to it for longer.

                 1. Could go with Messi if you wanted that free roll of the dice – it makes sense as he simply has to perform.

120. looking at ur provisonal transfers
     mbappe for lukaku
     messi for kane
     neymar for messi
     they look sensible…however any plans for ronaldo who could hurt people he plays tmrw night vs iran
     and if they top there group they have a quick turnaround most probably with game sat night potentially v russia or are you going to resist ?
     love your thought on this

     1. Difficult one – for me it’s a choice between Ronaldo or Messi for this transfer. Any thoughts either way?

121. difficult i see in your long terms plans and quite rightly u want to have max left for the kos but could u for the sake of 1 more go
     kane out for ronny messi in for ronny leave then neymar as they play probably play mon 2nd v germany me feels …mbappe for lukaku still going ahead?i know uts 2 free hits but v denmark then most pro ably the argies isnt a goal glut its hard and difficult to plot a real way forward at this stage very hard !!!!!!!

     1. Not sure about Mbappe now but I do think the transfers are being used up a bit too quickly. At the rate we are going we will have very few left if things change quickly. Let’s not forget we will probably want Hazard, Lukaku and/or Kane back at some point.

122. Messi is the goat through and and through however in this tournament ronaldo has outplayed him big time plus the rest of Argentinian players have been wank also, it’s ronaldo for me and if you don’t or him on I think you’ll pay dearly what do you think ?

     1. Difficult to say. I thought that when everyone said put him in before the Morocco game. Managed to resist and it didn’t really cost me. Take your point though – he could very well get more goals against Iran.

123. out the two i agree just worried messi could score a ciuple and grab star man v a very average nigeria however if everything goes to form sat 30 june should read
     france v argies
     russia v portugual so on that basis ronny…

     1. Yeah I just don’t rate Portugal but equally I’m not really favouring Argentina either. It’s a very close call. Just think it could go either way and don’t want this to be the decision that ends up costing me the lead I’ve built.

124. DTT any forward thinking for tommorows games ?
     also no neymar ? is that a worry u could afford jesus but to be honest he aint pulled any trees up this tournament so far

     1. I wouldn’t go for Jesus, it would be another transfer I’d rather not use. Same with Werner. Neither have really looked like scoring – although both being in good teams they easily could within the next few games.

125. or even werner for lukaku for the korea game…but another dude thats gone awol this world cup

126. Ronaldo over Messi all day for me. I can see him doing better against Iran than Messi against Nigeria. They’ve got an “easy” last 16 game if they win the group or finish second while Argentina will likely have France. I can even see Argentina going out, they have supposedly ceased power from the manager and will pick their own team? That is ridiculous! haha

     1. Haha completely agree based on the current form. To be honest if the fixtures didn’t favour Portugal and Argentina in terms of the order they will be play I’m not sure I’d favour either of them. They are both 20/1 to outright win the tournament. I’d favour players from Brazil, Belgium and Spain if we were looking at long term picks.

     2. on the other hand, is there no way of getting both in? instead of the Mbappe transfer?

        1. I wish there was but unfortunately not. I’ve tried to work around it but it’s just not possible.

127. so at present
     kane out for ronny
     mbappe for roman
     roman a major doubt for england game …that would mean 2 extra games for him before lukaku plays again ?
     keeper defence midfield looks sorted

     1. That’s looking like a good plan. There is Neymar as well and ultimately we are going to want Kane at some point again. Don’t think these transfers will last.

128. whatever you have done so far its gone to plan i have faith that n the morning afyer a full nights sleep you will come up with a cunning an baldrik !!@

     1. Haha if only – it’s been more luck than judgement.

129. DTT your wall chart reads
     mbappe for lukaku
     then:
     kane for messi
     then
     messi for neymar
     ….is this still ur plan but ronny instead of messi ?

     1. I’ll confirm any transfers before I make them – the chart is my “rough plan”. At the moment I’m leaning towards Ronaldo over Messi and I’m not sure about Mbappe. It’s going to use up two transfers and he might draw a blank in both games.

130. wise choice my freind

131. Hi DTT,

     Great approach so far. Can I ask what’s your hopefully team will be for last 16 and how many subs you hope to have left?

     Oh and I would say Ronaldo has to come in for tomorrow’s game

     1. I may go into the last 16 with around 10 transfers remaining. I’d plan to go into the last 16 with:

        Lloris
        Alba
        Kimmich
        Meuiner
        Miranda
        Isco
        Muller
        Coutinho
        Costa
        Ronaldo/Messi
        Lukaku

        I might then put Neymar in for Ronaldo once Portugal have played and it’s hard to ignore Kane. I’m yet to decide to be honest.

        1. With this plan, I’d swap Lukaku for Ronaldo/Messi, due to his injury he is likely to miss his next game, whereas Kane will be playing.

           1. I’d like to do that however not possible within the budget. It would make sense to get rid of Lukaku first but it can’t be done without making transfers.

132. good solid basis squad

133. Going to swap Kane for Ronaldo, as I can see Ronaldo bagging some goals.

     From what I’ve read, Lukaku has a ligament injury and won’t be playing on the 28th, but I’m not to sure if I should go for Mbappe or Pogba. Edging towards Pogba.

     I still have Hazard, so if there’s no sign of him playing his next match by the 26th, I can swap him for Messi.

     Currently the same lineup as team 6, except I have Hazard instead of Muller.

     1. I think I’ll go for Ronaldo as well. Did you miss the Muller transfer or did you just not fancy him to do well?

        1. Not rated Muller so far, so thought I’d give him a miss, Kroos would have been a better choice in my opinion, but decided to save a transfer

           1. I wish I had but at the time it looked like a chance to build some momentum after Belgium scored me plenty of points. Hopefully he does something against South Korea. I only preferred him to Kroos because he plays in a more advanced position.

              1. Reports say Lukaku is likely to play against England, “no further damage with Romelu Lukaku’s ankle injury”. So I’ve left him in my team and swaped Kane for Ronaldo

                 1. I’ve done the same. Where did you read that though? Someone else has just commented that he’s out.

                    1. https://metro.co.uk/2018/06/25/england-vs-belgium-romelu-lukaku-suffers-no-damage-ankle-injury-7658885/amp/
                       How trustworthy the metro is.. well

                       1. Apparently Martinez has said he’s out but I’ve not seen it myself.

                    2. Was originally on twitter with the quote… But I can see him playing as he’s their main goal scorer and neither England nor Belgium have really been tested yet

                    3. Daily mail, “Martinez says initial scans have cleared Lukaku of any tournament-ending injury, but admits there will be no decision over whether he plays against the Three Lions until Wednesday.”

                       1. Ah I see, I’m not sure he will be risked.

134. Well, it’s time already – the first round of group-stage fixtures is nearly over, so get ready to make your World Cup fantasy football transfers.

135. Messi is probably the best differential in the game right now.

     1. He is but it’s so close to call. Form, goals scored and opponents being faced all point to Ronaldo. But you can never rule out Messi which is the problem I’ve got. Can’t have them both but logic says Ronaldo.

136. Whats the plan for Lukaku? Your schedule says Mbappe, still the plan today?

     1. Not sure about Mbappe. Could get two games from him compared to none for Lukaku (if he doesn’t play against England). Tough call as it will use some more transfers. Will decide tomorrow though.

137. i think as we start to enter the kos important that transfers not wasted those who are already down to single figures could be forced into a cul de sac come last 8 and last 4

     1. Exactly, each transfer has been vital and a few have gone astray for me. Kimmich, Muller and Messi the first time have all been disappointing but can’t expect them all to pay off. I think having a rough plan has worked well and hopefully the advantage of that will start to kick in when people lose their remaining transfers.

138. I will have to go by a fantasy football mantra that has done me well over the years when considering Ronaldo vs Messi – “form over fixtures”. Ronaldo is the man in form. Messi is however world class. Nigeria looked poor against Croatia (as did Argentina) and they just need a point to secure second place.

     My team atm looks fairly similar to yours:
     Lloris*
     Gimenez*, Miranda**, Meunier*, Alba**
     Hazard*, Coutinho**, Isco**
     Ronaldo**, Costa**, Kane*

     I have 12/20 transfers remaining. Those with a * have all ready qualified. Those with ** have pretty much qualified baring shock results in the last round of games. I don’t have any GER cover, but that will change. Tempted to hold the transfers now until the quarter final’s baring injuries. Any further thoughts??

     1. I’d probably hold them to be honest. Although I might be tempted to look at Hazard – who may not play against England. Could get two games over this period of time. I’m assuming you had Lukaku over the weekend? Be interested to know how many points you’re on because your team is very similar but it looks like you haven’t made some of the transfer which didn’t pan out well for me.

        1. I’m on 217 points and yes I had Lukaku on Sat and changed him for Kane on Sun

           1. I’d rather be on 217 with the extra transfers as I’m only on 219

139. You decided on anything yet ?

     1. I’m going for Ronaldo. Haven’t decide about Mbappe but I’ll put up a post in a moment.

140. Kane for ronaldo
     Müller for Pogba or just the one transfer what do you think

     1. I won’t be taking Muller out as they play South Korea in a must win game.

141. Not Kane I mean lukaku

142. DTT,

     How many transfers do you have left?

     I only have 9 and am fighting the urge to put Ronaldo in later… I say ‘fighting’ because I think they could give Portugal a bit of tough time.

     Thoughts?

     1. I’ve got 11 left – wasted a couple at the weekend with Muller and Kimmich but hoping they pick up points against South Korea now. I fought the urge for Ronaldo in the last set of fixtures but I’m going to have to give in this time. I can’t risk not having him for two games when he’s such a popular choice, even though I don’t rate Portugal. Leaves me feeling uncomfortable about not having Messi against Nigeria but we can’t have them all. I guess my thoughts around fighting the urge for your team would be based around how many points you’re already on and what the rest of your team looks like?

        1. Thinking the same, can’t not stick Ronaldo in he will have one eye on the golden boot, are you going for a Lukaku swap for Ronaldo with it looking like he is missing out on the England game?

           1. I would if I could but I’m 0.5m short of being able to do that as a straight swap. As a result I’ve had to take Kane out.

        2. So let’s bring Ronaldo in. What are the plans for Lukaku as he is doubtful for the England game?

           1. Tough call – could get two games out of someone else if Lukaku misses that game so could be forced into a transfer. I’ll look this evening but might have to be Mbappe or someone like that.

143. sounds like gimeniz is out of the game today with injury. I have him too, any thoughts on if we should use a transfer to remove him?

     1. I took him out for Kimmich over the weekend and have no plans to get him back in.

        1. What player would you recommend putting in instead of giminez? For the same price?

           1. Who did you go for? I’ve only just picked up this comment

              1. I replaced Giminez with Pepe to release funds elsewhere. Star Man, nice but gutted that Portugal conceded a late penalty.

                 1. He looked a bargain at the start of the tournament but I’ve never really fancied Portugal to do well.

144. The way I see is that this week ideally I would want two of these three upfront for my team:
     Ronaldo
     Messi
     Neymar

     Doubtful that teams will already have all three of the most expensive players in the game (but it is possible).

     We could use transfers to get points all three players. One possibility could be to do Ronaldo->Messi->Neymar but not ideally unless you have a lot of transfers remaining. I did this move in game week 1 with one of my teams.

     Now, Portugal, Argentina and Brazil have not qualified for the next round so no chance that these strikers will be rested and most likely to play 90 minutes. All three take penalties and free kicks for their country, think Messi and Neymar take corners so that may lead to assist points (but not a major deal).

     Another consideration is ownership. Ronaldo and Neymar currently at 40%. Messi at 20%. Playing a safe game, I know which players to get. Messi at 20% might put people off but he has got to be the best differential player in the game right now. He is a player that if he hits big (very capable of doing this) then you could make big strides in overall rank.

     1. Great analysis – I’m with you on ideally having two of them. I’m happy with Ronaldo going into this evenings game but I ultimately want to end up with Neymar. I think the difference between the three of them is the distance they could go in the tournament. Both Portugal and Argentina are 20/1 outsiders to win the tournament and Brazil are still favourites. If Portugal end up playing Uruguay in the next round I may take Ronaldo out and bring in Neymar for the Serbia game and then stick with Neymar until Brazil go out or win it. Having Messi in between would be a transfer too many for me though.

        1. Lukaku and hazard confirmed out of the England game, will that change who you sub now?

           For example I have now subbed hazard and lukaku for Ramos and Ronaldo meaning I can keep Kane

           1. If I could swap Lukaku for Ronaldo I would but I can’t do that within budget. So it doesn’t change anything for me – where did you see Lukaku was out? Someone else has just said he’s fit to play.

              1. Martinez press conference. Him hazard and mertins won’t play against englamd

        2. Not the way I would do it as Ronaldo plays last 16 game first. Yes Uruguay tough but Ronaldo is still a dangerous player not to own as he takes a large number of shots at goal. High ownership a big factor. I would like two of the three players for the last 16 games but Brazil and Argentina both are not guaranteed to qualify yet. Brazil have a tough game as Serbia is a pretty good team unlucky to lose to Switzerland.

           1. If it was a choice between Neymar (Serbia and potentially Germany) and Ronaldo (Uruguay) for the games in brackets surely you’d favour Neymar?

              1. Neymar on a yellow card so on suspension tightrope. Germany very resilient side so I don’t personally see Brazil being the favourites especially if it goes to a penalty shootout.

                 1. That’s useful to know, didn’t know he was on a yellow. When do these get scrapped?

                    1. Think after the group stages. Coutinho also on yellow card and Muller as well. Don’t really want players missing games in the knockout rounds.

                       1. It would be disappointing to lose players through suspension but with a tight transfer budget I think I’ll have to cross that bridge when I get to it.

145. Didn’t really go to plan tonight but we go again

     1. Really didn’t go to plan – makes me want to throw in the towel. On paper I’d have expected a clean sheet and at least a 1-0 win for Spain. Ronaldo misses a penalty as well.

146. seems ronny v messi backfired
     if messi lovers see him turn it on tmrw could b bad news….spain also looked woeful….could u go messi in for ronny and bring in an argie defender for alba or are we still discplined with original plan and not panic ?

     1. If Messi fails then Neymar lovers are going to be happy. I wouldn’t touch no Argentina defender. Argentina could go out and then more transfers used up.

        1. true…..DTT team thus far has had the rub of the green gonna b interesting what menoveres he makes tmrw….. very interesting

        2. I’d agree with that – the only Argentina player I’d go anywhere near is Messi.

     2. I won’t panic – certainly won’t go for an Argentina defender but fuming after how things have gone tonight.

147. daily review coming up tonight ?

     1. Question marks straight away on Ronaldo but Diego Costa could be the bigger problem. Very poor tonight and not a good sign when his replacement scores.

        Not heard anything concrete on Lukaku but he might also be missing this week.

        1. Yeah I thought Costa was poor. I only caught the first half but very disappointing. They have been the best team I’d seen so far but thought they were awful from what I saw.

     2. Yeah I’ll post in a second – will be a brief one as I’ve been at football.

        1. ha i wish diego would have been at football tonight !

148. difficult with the ko
     germany v brazil
     argentina v france
     most probable
     so lots of potential players to come out already overloading more a logistical bloody nightmare !

     1. Yeah I’ll have to have a longer think in the morning. Struggling to see how to turn it around now.

149. Really tough to hold back and not to use the transfers isn’t it , maybe that’s the key , hope e eryone ejse uses them. At start of quarter finals how many ideally do you want left ?

     1. Hopefully between 7-8 left by the quarter finals.

150. i have hazard. Not sure to take him out for coutinho or not?

151. ddt if ur going a french attacker i would wait till the line up confirmed sources are saying france are going to make wholesale changes including lloris also mpbappe may be rested wth france already qualified and denmark needing a point could be a dour game thoughts welcome

     1. Could be even a Denmark win as they will be at full strength. So France vs Croatia can’t be ruled out. I don’t think managers are bothered about third game or finishing first or second in the group if they have already qualified. Unless Greizmann is playing I might avoid the French attack today.

     2. I’ll probably avoid that transfer to be honest if France are resting players. Might just go Messi then Neymar.

152. Well, in the end (and much to my annoyance), I too gave in to temptation and brought Ronaldo in last night.

     Missed Pen, booked and two subs down as I had to bring in a cheaper midfielder in Kante to accommodate Ronaldo.

     Very small positives are:
     Ronaldo got a 7 rating. -4 would have been even more frustrating
     Portugal managed to scrape through.
     Spain’s last minute goal means Portugal have the tougher fixture of Uruguay which suits me having 3 Spanish players to just 1 Portugal

     Still disappointed though. I’m having a pretty crap tournament, but am somehow 3rd in my league of 26 (£25 a man). The guy above me in 2nd dodged two bullets from Ronaldo and Costa last night, even luckier because he only has 1 sub remaining and has held his position! Amazing game!!!…

     1. Really frustrating night – hoping to make up for it today but could end badly again. Thinking of taking Ronaldo out for Messi in an attempt to claw back some points. Any thoughts?

        1. I think that Argentina could struggle against Nigeria tonight.

           That said, if you have the subs (as you do… I only have 7), it might not be a bad move because looking at their 5 previous meetings, a lot of goals have been shipped by both sides!

           Argentina are just ahead with 3 wins to 2, but what’s of interest is that Nigeria are winning in terms of goals by 11 to 10…. 21 goals in 5 games!!

           Of course we have to consider what is at stake here and realise it’s a World Cup game and not a qualifier or friendly, but if it follows suit, there could be goals.

           1. I just fancied taking a punt on Messi given last nights bad results. Based on the transfers I’ve got planned I felt like I had enough to give it a go. Hopefully it pays off – unlike the Ronaldo transfer last night.

153. When you do the update , can you post your current team? It all got a bit confusing !

     1. Just going to do an update so will do

154. Any news on transfers yet.

     1. Just going to do a post.

        1. I can’t see your update?

           1. For today? I’ve literally just pressed publish so you’ll need to refresh the page.

              1. dtt with ur plan of attack spain and brazil players and with hugo not playing today would it now be worth bringing in the brazil keeper for the extra game for tmrw ? as u were planning to do the swap after the first kos with neymar from messi tmrw 0.5m profit and already having 0.5 in the bank this transfer could b done…just food for thought

                 1. Don’t want to continue to race through the transfers and didn’t have time to check the French line up so had to stick as I was.

155. very detailed DTT, a spain v brazil final hopefully now and should finish the tournament on a high
     spain gotta step up tho looked poor last night

156. Hi DTT, good article. I see you are heading for a full set of players for the final – does the 3rd place play-off game count in Dreamteam? Would you consider having any players in this game if it counts?

     1. It did last time, I remember it well because Holland got me loads of points!!!

     2. I hadn’t even considered this but now you mention it, that’s a good point. I’m assuming it will count but I don’t really know. I won’t be saving transfers for it though.

157. i dont think last world cup its counted if my memory serves me could be wrong !
     DTT thursdays transfers
     kane for lukaku
     hazard for muller
     could may well be shelved as both may not play if led to beleive
     i would take a rain check on that and wait till the line upsannouced thurs tea time….i am liking ur ploy tho i knew baldrick would come up with a cunning plan

     1. I’ve already got Lukaku and Muller so no real transfers planned for Thursday. Depending on what happens tonight the only transfer I’ll consider is Messi out and Neymar in.

158. Mandanda starting!!!

     1. Any plan to replace Loris on the basis of this or do you think its a waste of a transfer??

        1. I didn’t manage to check the line ups so had to stay as I was. Disappointing that Lloris was rested and they keep a clean sheet.

159. Lloris, Mbappe & Pogba rested.. result for me!

160. In what was a dire game, no Danish defender got a rating, but Varane got star man, with two more 7 ratings for French players.
     Gave & took a rating of Schmeichel within the last few minutes of the game. Danish defenders deseved a rating, especially with Varane getting one. e.t.c. Who scored is an absolute joke !

161. What about Messi, worth a shot against Nigeria, Argentina looked awful, he’ll have to do it on his own, but he’s well capable.

     1. Yeah I’ve put him in for this game hoping he does well.

162. What’s your final thoughts on Messi? Must have in the team or can you see him flopping again?

     1. I’ve put him in – not convinced he will do well but we know he’s capable. I can see them going out tonight.

163. Is there any confirmation the third place playoff will count? Can’t seem to find a definite answer anywhere.

     1. I couldn’t see an answer within their rules but assumed it would count.

164. i will fire an email off to them for conformation,however i think u will find 3rd and 4th place play off u tend to find teams put there 2nd teams out so not benefit really

165. daily summary later…with revised transfers for tmrws games ?

     1. Yeah I’ll post shortly – revised transfers though? Thought the plan looked fairly solid haha. There’s only one decision to make – stick with Messi or go with Neymar for Serbia?

166. naymar i think looking at the argies tonight there race is run now france will be fresh on saturday i can see them winning that one….we keep hugo in for that one or go with brazil keeper tmrw ?

     1. Happy with Lloris until France go out. I think he was only rested today. Can’t risk going too heavy with Brazil in case Germany knock them out (should they meet in the last 16).

167. in that case yes neymar for messi
     i think the argies back 4 as more holes in it than a tramps vest…i can see the french taking them out

     1. Good stuff – everyone seems to think this is the right move so I’ve just done it.

168. I personally think that Neymar should come in. Argentina do not look good and we are only seeing glimpses of Messi to be honest.

     1. It looks like most people think this is a sensible move so I’ve just confirmed it.

169. Neymar all the way for me!!

     1. Just done it – hope he has a good game this afternoon.

170. Difficult one. Going for neymar means having 3 brazil players in the team who could very well be eliminated by germany in the next round or worse still, by serbia tomorrow night. I think the general consensus among the press is that kane will start against belgium so that should be a transfer getting him back in. Maybe save the neymar one for hazard/lakaku next round or perhaps one of them starts against england.
     As much as i think france will knock argentina out, messi seems to get a rating for just walking out onto the pitch. Been looking at whoscored.com during his games and if he gets a goal or an assist, he’s pretty nailed on for a starman.

     1. With Neymar being owned by so many other people I didn’t fancy risking it so I’ve put him in. In an ideal world Kane and Lukaku are rest tomorrow night but I’ve got a feeling Kane won’t be which is going to cause problems.

171. i think brazil will win tmrw and edge germany just….i would be suprised gareth played harry in a dead rubber game golden boot or not he needs to protect his main asset for the knock outs and also give others a feel for the tournament just in case there required later on down the line

     1. Yeah that’s the problem with not having Kane for the Belgium game. I think he will play too but I was hoping he wouldn’t.

172. If indeed Brazil play Germany in the next round, I am not sure Brazil will make it past Germany. The Germans are known to get better as the tournament goes on, I believe the pressure may be to great for Brazil to avenge the thrashing in the last world cup.

     1. I think it’s one that could go either way – as a result I’m not going too heavy on either team until that fixture is decided.

173. I think Messi for Neymar is a sensible move. I think France will KO Argentina and Neymar has an extra game which they need a result in. Likely star man and on pens against a big rough Serbian team.

     1. That’s what I thought – I’ve just confirmed it so hopefully he plays well.

174. Logic points towards getting Neymar in the team. One of the most dangerous players not to own. High ownership so if he scores well, big fall in ranking.

     1. Seems to be the general consensus that it’s a decent idea. I’ve just made the transfer. Think this afternoon is make or break for my plan – need Muller to do well. I’m not overly hopeful about that one.

175. Messi transfer payed off nice 12pts, maybe sit tight 2day, & then look at lineup for England vs Belgium.

     1. I’ve gone for Neymar – Brazil have got more to play for against Serbia.

176. I’d say we take messi straight back out because even though they got through they looked shite to me. Put neymar in

     1. Most people seem to think that’s the best way to go. I’ve just confirmed this as my only transfer of the day.

177. Any further thought on Neymar? I have been looking at it more this morning and think that Neymar would be a good move. What do others think?

     1. Most think it’s a good move so I’ve just confirmed it as a transfer.

178. Muller not starting 😞.

179. Are we leaving him in or making a change ?

     1. I left him in simply because I had no choice. Disaster of an afternoon really.

180. Muller isn’t starting for Germany against Korea

181. I think leave Muller in, he’ll come on with a decent amount of time left and play the next game. They know Korea are shit haha

182. I think we should leave him in for now.

     1. I left him in as had no choice – was at work with no way of checking.

183. no muller !@@@@

184. Muller is on the bench so may still be used.

185. No Muller????????

     1. I don’t have the opportunity to check line ups in the afternoon so missed this. No idea why he was left out – he was on a yellow card but very foolish if that’s why he was benched.

186. Germany get 6 minutes injury time & then try & get away with a clear goal…..and just as i’m typing South Korea score again. Well deserved ! I hate the Germans. Always been big heads !

187. Fuck the Germans 😂time to put some english boys in cos it’s fucking coming home

     1. Haha I’d have rather seen a Muller hat trick

188. Apart from not getting german returns this afternoon, Germany going out now could be good long term (Assuming brazil get through later). Opens up the brazil section.

     1. Before South Korea scored I was on for jumping up to 7th in the mini league I’d like to win. Gutted that clean sheet went.

189. Have to laugh at the people that even considered Muller. Muller Rice has long been on the “sell off shelf”, for the last few tournaments. Germany played with no energy, from the first game.
     Hoping Belgium put a strong team out against England. ( I’m so patriotic ! )

     1. I agree that Germany have been poor but I do hope picking up on Muller isn’t a dig at my selection?

        1. DTT, you’ve got a bit of an insecurity complex…..i didn’t even know you had / have Muller. I don’t read every 400 + post on here. I haven’t got the time. It’s just a general comment that Muller & Germany, have been poor from the off, regardless of who has got him in their teams.

           1. Haha no insecurity complex I was just basing it on your track record of inflammatory comments but that’s fair enough if it was a coincidence.

              1. I think i’ve made about less than half a dozen comments on your World Cup blog, DTT none of them inflammatory.
                 You continue to try & paint the wrong picture of me. It’s an opinion. You have to start accepting opinions, rather than constantly jumping to the wrong conclusions. I couldn’t even tell you, three players in your team, at present & probably won’t have any idea of who is in your team on July 15th ! ?
                 I’m more interested in my own teams.

                 1. I meant last season

190. Looking a possibility kane cld start against Belgium.

     1. Might have to have a reshuffle after today’s result.

191. DTT sticking with the same for tonight mate? Just Messi to Neymar?

     1. Yeah staying as I am with Neymar. Shame we can’t take out eliminated players even if they’ve played on the same day.

        1. Of course, I forgot about that rule.
           Brazil will happy at that result!

        2. How many transfers do you have left, DTT ?

           1. 8 left – thought I was in a great position. I said it was make or break based on the Germany game and I think they’ve ruined any hopes of having an excellent overall rank by the end of the tournament. Although I’ve only got two of their players. How you getting on for transfers?

              1. The most i’ve used is 9. Which is presently my best scoring team on 181 pts. I think i’ve got 4 teams, still with 20 transfers. Shock !

                 1. I’ve got a few like that but they’ve got about the same amount of points – 20. I’ve only progressed the teams which started well because 10 is too many to manage.

                    1. 10 is nothing to manage, DTT lol ( You’ve got more than 20pts, surely ! ? )

                       1. Haha yeah more than 20 – 88 points is my lowest but I’ve not touched the team since the start.

                          1. 97 pts is my lowest, with 20 transfers left.

                             1. I’ve given up on all of mine other than the top three teams. If they aren’t within the top 10,000 by now I’ve pretty much knocked them on the head.

192. Looking at replacements for Kimmich, Thiago & hernandez for France only 2 million, as for Muller Pogba possible semi final, others Rackotic, Modric, Perisic.

     1. Thiago sounds good to me or a Spanish defender. I’m hoping they both go the distance. With Muller I was thinking Hazard at this point. I know he probably won’t play tomorrow but got to be a goal threat in their remaining games.

193. Them German players paid off 🙂

     1. Haha it was absolutely gutting. If they had performed as they should I’m convinced I’d be within the top 1,000 teams at this point. I literally can’t stand losing either so it’s not been a good day.

194. Aw I’ve had a nightmare, my transfer of Messi to Neymar didn’t go through because of my shite internet signal while out.
     I’m better off leaving Messi to play France then swapping him aren’t I?
     Just hope he scores what Neymar does tonight 😖

     1. Ah that’s annoying – I’d do exactly what you’ve suggested and stick with Messi until they’ve played France.

195. Yeah only option now isn’t it. I was fuming. Thanks for the reassurance, I nearly knocked my Mrs out for making me do a bbq and not having time to check it when the line ups came out 😂

196. Lukaku confirmed not playing tomorrow, Muller gone. Kimmich gone. How do you see it going now DDT any plans in place yet for how you are going to navigate through???

     1. It’s getting very close to the point now where you don’t want to be transferring anyone unless they’ve been eliminated or injured isn’t it. Looks like it might worth moving to Lukaku to Kane transfer forward to tomorrow. Also hoping he scores 3 and Belgium score 4 with their reserves out so we’re in the easy half…haha

        1. That’s exactly the thoughts I’d had. Bring Kane in earlier than planned and basically pick and team and stick with it now until teams are eliminated.

           1. Yeah that’s the only way to have a chance at a decent amount of players for the final and to be able to ride out a surprise KO. I’d definitely advise against knee jerking the Germans out for someone else just because they got a group game left to play.
              Kane will be a great shout tomorrow if Martinez follows through on resting 10 players like he said! He really doesn’t want to win the group does he.

              1. It’s a good point – I don’t think we can afford to pick players now who aren’t long term picks. I’ll try and stick to the plan already in place but just bring some of the transfers forward.

                 1. Yeah I still think it’s likely Brazil Spain final at the minute. With missing the Messi – Neymar transfer I’m more short of funds, I might have to go straight to muller – Silva and miss Hazard out to allow money for Kane. Ideally Kane, Hazard and Lukaku don’t start!

                    1. If they are all rest, I’d make no transfers. It would be a shame to go straight to D. Silva for you because if Belgium finish second in the group they are going to have an easier run and I’m likely to want Hazard for this run. I’d be tempted to try and get a cheaper defender in.

     2. I’ll put a post up shortly. The transfer plan probably won’t go up until lunch time tomorrow as I’ll need a think but it won’t change much from what’s already planned.

     3. Does anyone know if Lukaku is likely to only miss one match ?

        1. I think they said the England game is coming a day too soon. I think he will be fine for the next game.

        2. He had a scan and it showed “no further damage” to the ankle injury he had at the end of season. He must have been struggling in the first few games with the existing damage too (barring the 4 goals) I doubt he will miss the KO game, but he won’t be 100%. A 100% Kane going for the golden boot against a weakened Belgium with a completely different defence that hasn’t played yet and De Bruyne and Hazard on the bench, looks a lot better to me than a semi injured Lukaku. If England win and get knocked out by Brazil, the original transfer plan for Kane out can be brought forward, not costing anything…

197. Tricky with tonight’s result, no one expected Eyal to be knocked out of the tournament , I’m putting adam in now he’s single again, he’s expensive but think has potential to score big.

     1. Haha I’d like to pretend I have no idea what you’re referring too but I’d only be fooling myself if I did.

     2. Cracked me up this did when I saw this post last night.

198. Might be worth bringing in at least 1 more Brazilian defender.

     1. Yeah I was thinking T. Silva just because he’s the cheapest option and it would free up funds for Kane.

        1. Fagner is available for 2.5m if your struggling for funds. Unless Danilo is making a come back.

199. Will have to check lineups 2nite, & see what the next plan of actin is.

200. Hi DTT love the blog as it is helping me a lot! I went a bit off piste after I missed one or two of your posts but still fairly similar team. However for strikers I have Costa, Messi and Griezmann. Keeping Costa and Messi but can’t decide if I should swap Griezmann for Kane for today – however with France and Argentina playing Saturday I find it a really difficult decision

     1. Should have added – also used 12 transfers to date

        1. Gerry I am in the same boat at you with my forwards and transfers, if Kane start s today I will swap him for Greizmann

           1. Thanks Singh, is very helpful to just get a further opinion. I think it makes sense with Kane looking better in front of goal and going for Golden Boot. Will hold off until they announce the starting lineups but if he is playing will swap them around and looks like Belgium will not be playing their best team

     2. Yeah that’s one that could go either way. Whatever I suggest you can be sure that the opposite will happen. The best outcome would be Kane not starting tonight. However if he is I’m not sure what I’d do in that situation. If France get past Argentina they may make the semi finals so it would be a big call to drop a player who might get that far.

        1. Thanks DTT – I’ve had a further rethink and I’ve decided against the transfer – even if Kane starts I think it is best keeping this transfer back and get points of hopefully Messi and Griezman. Transferring Kane in really is damage control as the other people in my mini league has him in their line ups but they are running out of transfers and I’d rather use this later on

           1. I’d keep the transfer with Kane being on the bench.

201. I think bringing in Kane for Lukaku is a good move. I can’t wait to see the Belgium lineup. If reports so far are correct, it looks like it will be a watered down team. That could also help with having Kane in. Silva looks a good move for Kimmich too. I don’t have much spare time today to keep close to this but will post if I can.

     1. I’m just about to do an update. I think Kane has to come in if he’s starting. I’d rather both managers just rest all the players because the key to this is knowing who is going to play when in the next round.

        P.S. thanks for the donation – really appreciated.

        1. No problems mate. Did you read the note I put on too?

           1. I did, and absolutely no problem to start following if I do the Premier League season. I’m fairly sure I’ll do one this season but can’t guarantee a good result – had a terrible season last time around.

202. Have you considered going 3-4-3 and swapping Kimmich for a Midfielder?

     4m and below options:

     Modric
     Cuadrado (Will have at least two games as Columbia still have their last group game).
     Pogba
     Paulinho
     Kante
     Sterling
     Jlings

203. VArdy is starting in front of Kane apparnetly mate

     1. Do you mean playing instead of him or literally in front of him on the pitch mate?

        1. Vardy is gonna start instead of Kane up front for England apparnetly

           1. Thanks that is great news 😀

204. DTT, I’m 0.5m short for swapping Kimmich for T Silva, I’m looking at other defenders 3 and don’t like the look of them. Can’t afford Spain, can only afford Fagner from Brazil who might get dropped when Danilo’s fit again so was thinking 3-4-3 Paulinho? Still sticking to the plan with having a Brazilian..? What would you suggest?

     1. That might work but can you save the transfer now if we aren’t going for Kane then re-adjust after Messi has played.

205. So looks like a very much changed Belgium side being put out this evening. What are we thinking about the transfers? Still worth doing the Lukaku to Kane transfer just in case?

     1. Not for me, just hope he doesn’t come on and score.

206. Surprise surprise, England have a much changed side too.

207. The general feeling is Kane on the bench.

     1. That’s a good thing for me.

208. I was thinking that we should bring him in anyway as knowing our luck they will bring him on and he will score a brace. What do people think?

     1. I’m not bringing him in – it’s a risk but Lukaku could end up playing again before Kane.

     2. its a tough one leave him out and he will come on 2nd half and gra a couple..put him in and he does not come on england lose then we miss out on lukaku playing before england next…this is where i feel calculated judgment is key last 16 and a bit of the rub of the green…DTT has a weekend coming up hoping messi and ronny do minnimal damage…get past the weekend with damage limitation and then cheer on spain and brazil….thats the plan but this is cup football theres a load more twists and turns to come…this is where shit becomes real

209. Okay. So are we saying no substitutions at all today then?

     1. As Darren has pointed out. Might as well put Hazard in now as I’ll put him in anyway so I’ll do that

210. both lukaku and eden on the bench….temptation to bring in eden for muller now ?

     1. Yeah good shout. I was going to make this transfer anyway

     2. You think theres a chance he could come of the bench?

211. No changes required.

     1. Worth putting Hazard in if he’s coming in anyway?

        1. If he coming in anyway then surely best to put him in now in case he comes on…no brainier if you ask me👍

           1. Yeah I’ve just done it

212. Okay well I am about to ravel so I have brought Hazard in now.

213. yep..finishing 2nd now means playing columbia who no fools…top the group and its japan i get the feeling tonight will start nicey nicey then the last 20 all the big guns will appear for a free for all….and lukaku dont forget he wants that golden boot too…
     muller out hazard in for me

     1. Yeah I’ve just done it – hopefully Kane doesn’t come on and score.

214. you never know lukaku may come on and scores
     he who dares wins rodney !

215. I think for future transfers, somebody mentioned earlier 3-4-3, with Paulinho being a better option than Silva.

     1. Personally prefer Silva at this stage. I think he’s a little more likely to get a clean sheet than Paulinho is to get a goal but there’s not a lot in it.

216. good luck everyone tonight
     and cmon england !!!!

217. not for me silva over pauilinho all day long clean sheet chance and also aerial threat for a goal from a set piece…no brainer for me

     1. The only concern is that clean sheets could be slightly harder to come by in the knockout stages. If a team goes 1-0 up the other team will be more likely to throw bodies forward to try and get a goal back. Also if it goes to extra time and a goal is scored during this period, it then takes out the clean sheet. However on balance I still agree that Silva is the better option.

218. ddt 7 transfers left
     kimmich out for silva

     one transfer that may have to be made if france lose to argentina you can bring the brazil keeper in earlier than billed ?
     hopefully france beat argentina
     spain beat russia
     brazil beat mexico
     belguim beat japan
     and of course we beat columbia
     …..but football dont work like that……lady luck as been with you so far still hopeing for 11 players in the final

     1. Yeah I think that change would make sense if France were to go out. The result tonight was ideal as it leaves us with some good transfer options. I can’t see a change being required other than Kimmich until England play. Very happy with how the team is set up for the first knockout games so it mainly comes down to luck now for those games.

219. 10 transfers left, need to start using them, maybe been a bit to methodical, I’ll get my crystal ball out, might double up on spain defence with Caravjal, for Russia game, & then Reus out for maybe French or croatian midfielder. France to go a round further, but croatian mid better than say Pogba.

     1. Wish I had 10 left – I’ve done to essential transfers only now.

220. Does anyone know if last nights scores have been updated correctly ?? For instance Hazard got 3pts according to dreamteamalerts.com but it says on website DNP.
     Looking at “view match”, they haven’t even got Belgium players listed !

     1. Eden Hazard didn’t play, his brother did.

        1. Oh, what a plonker !!! LOL

     2. Eden Hazard didnt come. Thorgan Hazard got 3 points.

221. Looking at Argentina vs France, who has the best potential for pts Mbappe, Pogba, was looking at a croatian midfielder but feel France might go deeper into tournament.

     1. I’ve mainly avoided France because I couldn’t pick a consistent point scorer. I’d always tend to favour a striker though and was going to go for Mbappe at one point myself.

222. DTT, as ur next transfer is Kimmich to T. Silva, still undecided on Pogba, Modric, Rackotic, Perisic, my rival has a 25pt lead on me & has Modric, worried about the Messi factor, they cld knock the French out.

223. DTT i have a mate at work who bet me £50 he could do a dream team to beat urs hands down i accepted currently on the same pts tally but he has 2 extra transfers than u his tea comes to dead on 50m
     and is
     urg keeper
     ramos-spain
     trippier-england
     pavern-france
     mauvier-belgium
     same midfield
     messi-argies
     ronaldo-portugual
     kane-england

     whose in the box seat with ronny and messi spare tmrw for him ?
     and what are our pitfalls and our greatest strength to oust him…by the way he’s a cocky guy as well
     i would love your insight into this…as parting with £50 to him would hurt my pride rather than my wallet !
     thankyou

     1. Haha you took that bet after my performance over the Premier League season? That was a brave move. You sure he’s only got one team and isn’t just picking his best team out of 10? Hate to say it but if he’s got two extra transfers and he’s got Ronaldo and Messi then he’s definitely got the upper hand. My team is easy to beat if you follow it closely because I publish my thoughts in advance so I basically give away my plan.

224. argies lose tmrw
     portugual lose tmrw
     still a chance with both ronny and messi gone we have a gentlemans agreement he wont block ur team as he knows it first hand any real intent and bet void……..thanks for the vote of confidence i have faith in you still

225. Hi mate I’ve got 9 transfers left and got Neymar Messi and Lukaku up front right now, do you think I should put Ronaldo in for Neymar or can you see Ronaldo being quiet or even going out?

     1. I think that game is very close to call and Ronaldo is even harder to predict. If he’s capable of getting a hat trick against Spain then he could do the same again. I think it’s a risk not to include him but at this stage it’s a risk to use a transfer on him. I wouldn’t be surprised to see them go out but I equally wouldn’t be surprised to see Ronaldo score and take them through. Virtually impossible to predict.

226. Hi guys I finished 364 position overall in the premier league last season but I’m doing nowhere near as good in the World Cup format I’m enjoying reading all the posts and comments where did you all finish in the premier league season and what’s the plans for today’s transfers if any??

     1. No transfers today for me. Had an awful Premier League season finished just under 50,000 I think. How are you getting on with the World Cup?

227. I’m sat a few positions below you 8th in the dream team tips league

     1. That’s not too bad. Only 20 points or so behind. That could change within one day. I find it difficult to benchmark a good finish. What would you class as a good result for an overall finish on the leader board?

228. dtt hopeing messi and ronny are queit today and both get knocked out…may the rub of the green continue.

229. Top 1000 I think and yes same hope messi and Ronaldo quiet and get knokcked out

230. I am fighting with the choice of swapping Kimmich dor Silva or going 3-4-3 and replacing him with Modric. I have been very impressed with the Croatian team and can’t see them coming unstuck against Denmark. Did you ever consider this as an option?

     1. I did consider it but I think Modric is 4m? Which means I wouldn’t be able to afford my Kane transfer.

231. DTT, have 3 Brazil player’s, & 3 Spain, with one defender in each, have to change Kimmich, unsure whether to go T. Silva, or Caravjal, looking a tough decision, see Spain beating Russia but perhaps conceding, if progress possibly Croatia, then France, but there again Brazil have Mexico, & maybe Belgium & hopefully England.

     1. You could probably toss a coin between them. I’ve got both of them on my list depending on when other players get knocked out. Personally be going for T. Silva first.

232. messi and ronny out
     happy days !!!!

     1. Glad to see the back of them but today’s not been a great day.

233. Hi DTT
     I have been following your blog closely and been really happy with the advice you have given so far. It has certainly gone a long way to my position in a friend’s mini league.

     My team is pretty much like for like with yours other than I haven Kane in instead of lukaku.
     I’m conscious that lukaku is chasing the golden boot, on form and has Japan up next.

     I have 6 transfers left. Would you transfer lukaku in for this game and then Kane back in to align the team with yours again, or would you keep the transfer in the locker?

     Any advice will be great,

     Cheers

     1. Difficult one – depends where you are in the mini league. If you’re clear at the top and people below you don’t have Lukaku then I’d probably hold the transfer. If you need to take a few risks to catch up with the leader then I’d probably bring him in. Belgium are probably one of the only teams with an “easier” opposition in the last 16 and as you say he’s chasing the golden boot.

234. Thanks DTT
     I’m top by about 30 points, but second and third place have a lukaku in their teams and I’m pretty certain they have more transfers in their lockers than I do.
     It’s a really hard decision because I guess it will be using two transfers for the one player and game. I can just see him Bagging at least one or two goals.

     1. I’d probably prefer to have him and have one less player for the final. Having a team full of players from both teams in the final might not that much of an advantage. If both teams score there’s no clean sheets and only one player can get star man but at the same time you won’t want to run out of transfers in case of any shocks.

        1. Thanks DTT
           I think I’m going to stick him in and hope we do not encounter too many twists and turns on route to the final. I think you have a solid plan in place and so far you have come up trumps. Fingers crossed it continues.
           Cheers for the advice

235. DTT really unlucky with Mbappe being dropped in the last game and not in our teams today. Never expected that off him today though. He was fantastic.
     Might be worth that spare transfer to get him in against Uruguay?

     1. Possibly – although not sure Uruguay will offer them as many chances. Will see how the next few days pan out.

        1. True. Their defence is a lot more solid. It’s just his pace and they way they countered today. I can see them giving Brazil real problems if they finish their chances. Looking forward to a Costa hat trick and clean sheet for us tomorrow 👍🏻

236. The only way I can refresh, is by texting a message, so just checking to see if 2days results, make a difference to the plan.

     1. No change to the plan for me.

237. Hi DTT,
     Thank you for spending the time to research and post your thoughts and battle plan it has helped me a lot with my team. I’ve made some different decisions in places some good some bad but generally I’ve done Ok.
     I’m currently sitting at 11 transfers remaining and 245 points total.
     Muslera / Danilo / Miranda / Alba / Pepe
     Coutinho / Hazard / Isco
     Neymar / Messi / Mbappe
     Obviously I can get rid of Pepe & Messi but I don’t want to rush the transfers and bring someone in who only has a single game left in them!
     I would like to bring Costa in but is it too much risk at this stage he can be hit and miss. I would love Lukaku for the Belgium game and Kane for the England game but I can’t risk having them all. Also I need to get rid of Danilo and Pepe really they are dead wood. Any advice would be welcome. Not sure, so worried about Costa! The two people below me in my league both have him but are over 60 points below me. At the moment I’m thinking I will hold off on the transfer and see what today brings I the event Spain lose!

     1. Looks like you’re doing well if you’ve got 11 transfers left. I wouldn’t be too worried about letting go of them now though – most of the easier games are gone and it could be getting harder and harder to pick up big points as teams face tougher opposition. If you’re 60 points clear at the top and have more transfers than people below you, then I’d probably just block their teams and you can’t really lose. So if they’ve got Costa, I’d be tempted to have him as well. If they’ve got Lukaku, then I’d definitely have him. You’ve got a fairly solid base team with players who should go far so can’t see you running out of transfers. Ultimately I can’t really see the value of having a final team split in half with players in the final – if both teams were to score then there would be no clean sheet bonus and there’s only ever going to be one star man award. I am working towards this myself but if I run out of transfer – I won’t overly worry about it.

        1. Would also rather use transfers now for games like lakaku v japan than save them so i can have an entire team playing in the final. Lakaku v japan or busquets in the final, who’s likely to rack up more points?? I think the objective is surely getting the bulk of your team to the semis as opposed to everyone in the final. Then your players are available for 2 games inc the 3rd place play off.

           1. Yeah completely agree. If I’m left with transfers for the final then I’ll use them but it’s not a priority.

238. Spain are awful. They don’t have a player capable of running past anyone. Costa transfer was a waste, but why take him off ! ??

     1. I’ve got no idea why they took him off – appeared almost arrogant to me. Like they assumed they would score – I’d have left him on and played two strikers. They didn’t need two holding midfielders. It was like they thought the goal was going to come but it never did. I don’t know what it is with these big teams leaving it so late and then going out. If they played with a bit of urgency from the start of the game they would have easily beat them.

239. I think we will have to take costa out sooner rather than later. I can see fucking aspas starting over him next games

240. Now what !!! Jesus f**cking Christ Spain kicked out by russia

     1. Absolute joke, Kimmich for Modric?

        1. You mean Isco ??

           1. Nope, we can’t take Isco out before tonight’s game. Would have to be Kimmich

241. well…………..

     1. No time to dwell on the Spain game. Kimmich to Modric make sense? Or would this be a rash reaction decision?

242. What now, Mbappe for Costa, Uruguay tough, or all eggs in one basket, Jesus in extra game, hold other 2.

     1. No time to dwell on the Spain game. Kimmich to Modric make sense? Or would this be a rash reaction decision?

243. Are we doing Kimmich to Modric, Rackotic, or Perisic, for 7pm kick-off, when changing formation is it player out first, change formation player in, or formation change first, player out, player in, thanx.

     1. Can’t remember how to do it to be honest. Do you think the transfer makes sense?

244. Croatian midfielder, should make semi final, 3 games.

245. What about Rebic? Everyone seems focused have Modric.

     1. To have Modric*

     2. Modric takes the penalties doesn’t he?

246. I already have t.silva so I can swap alba for Modric but that still leaves me with Isco and costa what would you advise 6 transfers in total left

     1. I’ll think about it long term but you can’t swap Alba for Modric today.

247. Have you made the Kimmich to Modric transfer DTT?

     1. Not yet, think it makes sense?

        1. I personally think Croatia will have at least 3 more games.. so to me it does.. would never of bet Russia knocking Spain out though 😳

           1. Yeah I wouldn’t worry about whoever gets them in the quarter final though. They offered nothing other than parking the bus. Spain just had no player who could make something happen. If Pique hadn’t given away a stupid penalty that game was over.

248. Sorry you can’t take Alba out straight away can you fsake

249. I think leave it until tommorow you’ve got three players to take out it would be wasting another transfer putting Modric in

     1. Waste? If they get past Denmark it’s an easy route to the final.

250. If they don’t then that’s 4 transfers you’ll need to use it’s risky

     1. It is but I’ve pretty much got nothing to play for now. I’m going to risk it I think.

251. Kimmich to Modric is a great idea now. They have an easy route to the semi’s hes their main man, peno taker and good for star man.

     1. Agreed…

     2. That’s what I thought. Should be good as long as they can get past Denmark. I’m going to go for it

252. What’s the response, is it a goer.

     1. Yeah just going to confirm it.

253. I’m going Kimmich to Modric.

     1. Same – makes perfect sense at the moment but so did Spain beating Russia.

254. Okay I am too but I’ve already made the Kimmich to t.silva transfer you taking out the Belgium defender you think that’s wise ?

     1. They should beat Japan and maybe get a clean sheet. Can’t see them getting past Brazil though.

        1. So you think maybe not swap the Belgium defender for Modric and skip this transfer ? I’m so undecided got like 5 mins to decide lol

           1. I don’t think I’d make the transfer for a player still in the tournament.

              1. Your right I’ve left it alone I’m winning my league at minute don’t want to make any rash decisions

        2. I can see Belgium beating Brazil. ( That’s if they get past Mexico, first ? )

           1. Wouldn’t surprise me either, it’s becoming too hard to predict.

255. I’m taking out the Belgium defender that was supposed to say

256. I have put Modric in, he is capable of getting points and he does take their penalties I believe.

     1. I’ve just done the same.

257. Damn! I already made the t Silva transfer yesterday for kimmich!

258. DTT brazil v england route now
     or brazil v croatia ?

     1. Croatia for me.

259. Decided to chance it and take Belgium defender out and put modric in. Fingers crossed!

     1. I was in the exact same predicament I did the transfer then undid it then read this comment and did it again god sake it best pay off now lol

260. One nil down already

     1. 1 1!!!!!

261. I’m currently top of my league with 278 points with second place having 201. I’ve got 5 transfers left….and Denmark have scored 😮

     Today isn’t my day.
     By the way DTT thanks for all your hard work and tips. I really appreciate it

     1. Hopefully Croatia can progress – neither team look great at the moment.

262. I hate Costa, I knew bringing him in was a mistake but he is just such a wildcard!

     1. I’ve swapped Costa for Kane and put that Belgium defender back in for alba with 3 transfers left and still Isco to take out

     2. He did very little for me and I’ve had him since their second game. I don’t blame him though – in fairness no one could even get the ball through to him. He should have still been on the pitch at the end.

263. Brazil England for me, Croatia look shite

264. Croatia going out here proper messed up 🙁

     1. It was still the right move for me. Logically whoever wins this game then plays Russia. Croatia were favourites and Modric was probably most likely to score or get star man. If they go out it’s just bad luck.

        1. penalty let’s hope Modric takes it

           1. For fuck sake!!

              1. What was I saying about bad luck. That was the reason for putting him in – he would have got star man and they would have gone through for that. Wouldn’t surprise me if they lose on penalties now.

                 1. For some reason I 100 percent knew he wernt Gunna score it

                    1. I said the same before he took it. Its been downhill since I put those German players in. Not one thing has gone the right way.

265. Thank god for that look forward to your plan 🙂

266. Modric thru just, hopefully at least 2 more games out of him, big pts needed 2moro from Brazilians, & Belgians.

     1. Should have scored – 13 points if that spot kick goes in.

267. Gutted modric missed in ET but at least he’s in the last 8.

     1. He should have scored. Would have been certain for star man – absolutely fuming after today.

268. are we swapping Alba for T Silva tomorrow, per the plan? (instead of Kimmich)

     1. Not sure yet. I’ll need to take a closer look in the morning. No one has kept a clean sheet in the knockout stage yet.

269. Not sure what to do with my self. I missed out on the modric transfer but have exactly the same team as you otherwise. Need some help dtt

     1. Not sure what I’ll do yet. Will post an update tomorrow – still fuming that Spain went out.

270. Do u reckon I should stick modric in now or wait till ur update tomorrow ? I would lean towards putting English in

     1. I wouldn’t put Modric in now. It’s better to wait until the day players are playing to make transfers. The only England player I’ll go for is Kane.

271. England “should” mke it to atleast the semis and if they do Croatia are favs to meet them their who looked awful tonight

     1. I agree mate, dtt go for the English and Brazilians big risk but what we got to lose now

        1. Happy to go with Kane in place of Costa but I’d rather see how they get on in that game first.

     2. They’ve got to get past Colombia first. I just can’t see England making it that far.

272. great days football all round !
     DTT 6 transfers left 3 spanish in the team cant wait for ur new plan of action

     1. Terrible days football for me. Probably one of the worst days I’ve had when it comes to fantasy football. Really didn’t want to see the Spanish go.

273. Can you transfer in a Brazil player, tomorrow & then replace him with a Belgian player ? Would the Belgium player score count ? ( Or would it be “pending” ? )

     1. It wouldn’t count. It will be pending.

274. Thanks DTT. I’m just going to go big on Belgium tomorrow with 10 of them & Coutinho & still 12 transfers left, ( after the Belgium game. )

275. So unlucky yesterday. I was annoyed yesterday as I only read about your modric transfer after kick off and thought at the time what a smart move it was. When he stepped up for the pen I was gutted I didn’t get him. You deserve more luck after all the work that’s gone in to it and I’m sure you’ll get it mate. Hopefully another Gimenez goal or big deflected pogba goal is around the corner.

     1. It was all very disappointing. Still annoyed that Spain have gone. I’d much rather watch games with big Nations involved in the latter stages of the World Cup. A quarter final clash between the likes of Spain and Germany would be much more interesting than say Russia and Croatia.

276. DTT, let’s hope for a better day 2day, who wld u say has the better pts potential, between Paulinho, & Casemiro, leaning towards Paulinho for bigger goal threat.

     1. Paulinho definitely has more point scoring potential. Defensive midfielders like Casemiro dont score well in this format

        1. Thanx Dean, was leaning towards him.

     2. I’d go Paulinho for the goal threat.

277. I know yesterday was a bit demoralising, but don’t give up! There will be plenty of people that have used almost all of the transfers and gone for big blocks of Spain players (especially given the draw). You will need a crystal ball to get to the final and still have 11 players in your team, especially the way this tournament is panning out!

     Potentially a time to gamble now and look at players you think could make the final with the transfers that are left. I dont think that there is much between England and Colombia, but think that both are considerably better than their quarter-final opponents, and based off last nights game would prob go into the semi finals as favourites.

     Again, France/Uruguay is a tough one to call and you get one less game. I’d be tempted to take a gamble on England. Kane, Lingard and Stones for the 3 Spaniards… I think at this point you need to nail your flag to a mast and hope they progress. By spreading your players across multiple teams, inevitably you will lose players everyday!

     The biggest issue that I see with your team at the moment, is Brazil/Belgium in the next round. You will lose 3 players going into the semis and not have he transfers left to replace them

     1. After some short reflection on my post (5 mins!), perhaps the Colombia players are the differential that will push you up the league tables. Mina, Cuadrado and Falcao all have less than 1.5% selection and have big potential in this tournament

     2. I’ll certainly keep going but I’ve had enough of it to be honest. I know it shouldn’t bother me so much but I can’t stand losing or being wrong about anything. Spain shouldn’t have lost that game. They were by far the better team but didn’t offer enough to break Russia down. I still don’t think they deserved to go out though. Russia offered nothing going forward at all but anyway what’s done is done. I’m not sure about gambling on England or Colombia to be honest – surely we would be better off aiming for players who we think will reach the semi or at least quarter finals. If we gamble on England or Colombia players – they could be going home after one game. I think we have to stick with the favourites. I know it’s not really worked well over the last few games but I like to go on probability. I’d hope that France, Brazil and Croatia will all reach the semi finals. If they do, they will all get an extra game with the final and third place play off. To me it makes sense to only go for players who may go the distance now. Colombia against England is too close to call for me with either team vulnerable to going out. I’d only really want to risk having Kane for this match.

278. Just checking in, can’t predict any match, 4 transfers left.

279. What to do with Isco and alba 5 transfers left Silva Miranda already in

     1. I think my only short term moves will be T. Silva in, Alba out. Kane in, Costa out. That’s the only changes I’ll make until before the quarter final, when I’ll re evaluate.

280. any transfer dealings prior to the brazil game dtt ?

     1. I think my only transfer today will be T. Silva in, Alba out. This will free up enough funds for Costa out and Kane in tomorrow. Then I’ll wait and see about the remaining transfers.

281. Any thoughts on what to do DTT? Gamble on one team or spread it? And if so what team/players you leaning towards?

     I’m top of my league with 5 transfers left and 2nd and 3rd have 7/8 left. Everything I touch right now seems to go to shit, just looking for some direction!

     Do we gamble on England for the whole way?!

     1. I think my only short term moves will be T. Silva in, Alba out. Kane in, Costa out. That’s the only changes I’ll make until before the quarter final, when I’ll re evaluate. So leaning slightly towards Brazil players. They are still the favourites after all. If they go out to Mexico though, I may as well give up.

282. I already made the silva transfer for Kimmich so I do I swap alba back for the Belgium defender do you reckon ?

     1. I’d personally save my transfer for the next round with Belgium potentially having Brazil, rather than bringing Meunier in for Alba for this game.

        1. It’s just I need to transfer alba out along with Costa to get Kane plus Belgium more likely to get a clean sheet against Japan than they are Brazil so either way alba needs to come out

           1. Ah hadn’t thought that you can’t afford Kane, in that case I’d probably do the transfer.

        2. Yeah I’d probably agree – might be worth saving it with no clean sheets in the knockout stage so far. Although if there is going to be one I’d say Belgium probably have the best chance of getting one against Japan.

283. For me mate I forgot to do the modric transfer last night so do u reckon I shoulda change to the same formation as u or leave 4 at back and take out Kimmich or alba

     1. I’d probably leave it until closer to the Croatia game before putting Modric in.

284. I am looking to back England, I believe they will beat Columbia tomorrow and then have an excellent chance of a least getting to the semi’s. Kane, Lingard and Trippier/Stones transfers

     1. That’s what i said yesterday. I think they can go all the way to final now

     2. Definitely going with Kane but not sure about any others. I’d rather see how they get on against Colombia.

        1. Agree with you about the England players. I don’t think that Colombia will be an easy prospect for them!

           I currently have 7 transfers left, but have lost 5 players from my team, so can’t really afford to bring in players who aren’t likely to make the final 4.

           I’m planning to bring in Hazard and Lukaku later, but that will give me 3 Belgium and 3 Brazilian players, so whatever way you look at it, I will be losing 3 players from one of those teams in the quarters!

           I could of course risk leaving Hazard and Lukaku to see who progresses, but by then I would have lost two games from them.

           1. Very risky to leave them out – that looks like one of the only “easier” games remaining. I’ve got both of them and hoping it pays off later. Difficult decision with Brazil or Belgium going out in the next round.

285. Excellent by the Brazil boys, lets hope they go all the way

     1. Yeah good points return. Back into the top 3,000 teams on the overall leader board – hate to think where this team could be had Germany and Spain performed as they were expected to.

286. Better result in Brazil game, but Marcelo didn’t play, precious pts lost.

287. I have 4 transfers left, hopefully Brazil make final, have enough representation, the other 2 teams in semis either go all out 4 on 1 team, or play safe, 2 in each, either way all my transfers left have to play in semis therefore getting 2 games, interested to see how DTT plays it.

     1. That’s my aim as well – get a team full of players who will hopefully be in the semi final. I’ll only have 4 transfers left after I put Kane in tomorrow so I’m going to have to be very careful with how I use them going forward.

288. Could you post an updated spreadsheet please? Been working away so missed a couple days, struggling to work out who you have currently in your team..
     If you going the same as me you’re rapidly losing transfers?.. Everything has just about gone Pete Tong for me 8 transfers left and 4 have been eliminated, did get a good 30 points today though with Belgium pulling their finger out in the second half

     1. You can’t be doing too badly in the overall leader board? I’m 1,996 which is a decent result. I’ve got 5 transfers left and my team is:

        Lloris
        T. Silva
        Miranda
        Meuiner
        Isco
        Modric
        Coutinho
        Hazard
        Costa (transfer out for Kane tomorrow)
        Lukaku
        Neymar

        Not sure I’ll be using the spreadsheet for the rest of the tournament with so few transfers and games remaining.

        1. Currently on 295 points so not doing too bad, I never had chance to swap any of the Germans or Spaniards out so dropped a few points, I still have Isco, Alba and Kimmich in my team and I’ll definitely be swapping Costa for Kane.

           Disappointed Spain are now out, wasn’t really planning on having to swap any of them out this early on, was hoping for the semi-finals.

           I’m thinking about swapping Kimmich for Stones and possibly Isco for someone, depending on the line up. It’s a risk but if England do well today, they also get a play in the Swedish/Swiss game, where I can see them picking up points.

           1. I’m really disappointed they are out and transfers are now running out quickly. It is a risk but it might pay off massively, as you say if they do well then they could get to the semi finals. We aren’t seeing many clean sheets in the knockout stage yet though.

289. How do I find out where I am in the overall leader position?

     1. Go to Team Hub, then select your team, then select leader board, then click the “my teams” button. I’m doing it through a browser rather than the app and if you want to see where you’re team is, you need to view the desktop version of the website.

290. 3 goals for Belgium, & none for Lukaku, he really is a hit or miss player, at least they got thru eventually.

291. DTT do you think Lingard is a good differential?
     Its for my second team that is on 270 points and i’m chasing the 3rd place money spot in a mini league. I’ve got 6 transfers left and got Eriksen and Isco to come out this team, so was think get Lingard today for an extra game and gameble England beat Colombia. He seems a nailed on 7+ and has probably got the best chance of goals behind Kane. Or am i getting desperate desperate and forcing it? haha

     1. Yeah I think he probably is but I’m holding back on England players (other than Kane) until after tonight’s game. I guess if you’re chasing down 3rd place then you’ve got to take a risk at some point though.

        1. Yeah, my other team is top by the way thanks to your advice 🙂

292. I’m on 299 mate and got exactly same team as u accept not modric. I’m thinking about using my extra transfer to take out Kimmich and put in a English defender. What’s ur thoughts ?

     1. I’m looking at doing this, was thinking Stones or Trippier as they’ve both been performing, I’m not too sure at the moment, gonna wait until the line-up comes out before I make a final decision.

     2. Could be a good idea but we’ve only seen one clean sheet in the knockout stages so far and England are yet to keep a clean sheet. I’m personally not going for their defenders but it will cost me if they do keep a clean sheet as I’d imagine a lot of people will.

293. DDT just kane for costa today ?
     than weigh up situation friday morning ?
     what are your thoughts on isco replacement willian or rakatic an option ?

     1. Just Kane for Costa today for me. Rakitic could be a good option with Russia coming up. I think Croatia will be the team with the easiest quarter final.

294. If I were to recommend an England defender it would be Trippier, he has played very well in the two games he has been involved in, he also takes set-pieces and his crossing ability is of a high standard, I can see Trippier getting a few assists.

     1. I’d agree with that. If I were to go for one it would be him.

295. If I’ve got that spare transfer as i missed out on modric do u not think it would be good idea for me to stick trippier in?

     1. I wouldn’t have recommended it had I seen this comment before the game. He went on to get star man though.

296. are U planning on putting any English defenders in soon? If u are waiting for after this game I’ll tempted to get this extra game cos I think we will do columbia tonight

     1. I didn’t fancy them keeping a clean sheet (which they nearly did) so I avoided any England defenders despite the extra game.

297. I think it depends on how many transfers a person has left. If you have say 6+ then bringing in an england defender makes sense but most will have less then 5 so better off keeping for the latter stages. I fancy England to get through later but wouldn’t be confident of a clean sheet, Already mentioned but trippier is the best bet with his assist potential.

     1. I’ve got 6 transfers left mate

298. Wondering what I should do I’ve got lukaku, neymar, griezman up front and only 5 transfers left I don’t want to take any of them out as they are all still in but not sure if I should risk not having Kane, what would you do guys ?

     1. Im in a similar situation with suarez instead of griezman.

        On the one hand i think it makes sense to save the transfer, England could get knocked out and if they do get through then you can wait to see which one of griezman neymar lakaku get knocked out and then replace with kane as england will play after them.

        On the other hand i want to be able to enjoy the game tonight! Think I’m gonna chance it. come on England!!!

299. I’m thinking of doing the same with Trippier.

     Only have 5 subs left and to be honest, I’ve had a complete shocker in this World Cup Dream Team!!.. I’m only on about 260 points!

     Somehow sitting in 5th in my league with those above me having used all their subs, however they have a lot of players left in the tournament. I currently have 8 playing.

     Having a WC DT similar to DTT’s season last year. Everyone I sub in draws a blank (Messi missed pen, Ronaldo missed pen, etc etc), but those I leave out because I’m conscious of my dwindling subs end up scoring braces!! ha ha!!…. roll on next season!!

     1. Did you go with Trippier?

        1. Yes. Took the plunge and got a much needed 16 points from him and Kane.

           Relieved that England are still in, but also because I will get at least one more game from Trippier.

           I must admit, I don’t like the idea of using valuable subs before the semi-final stage in case the team gets knocked out and you just end up with one game from the player…. and invariably zero points if they are knocked out!

           Once they reach the semis they have 2 games guaranteed, assuming that the 3rd/ 4th place match counts?.. can’t see why it wouldn’t.

300. Tempting is Lingard, but so is Rackotic next round, all my players currently playing, so will hold on till semi final, unless of course God forbid we lose Kane 2nite.

     1. I might go for Rakitic, looks like Croatia have the easiest quarter final.

301. I am tempted to bring Stones or Trippier in to replace either Pepe or Alba as both eliminated but with only 8 transfers remaining I’m not sure. I can’t see England keeping a clean sheet!
     With 3 players eliminated I think I will hold fire and then clear the deck once I know who’s left for the quarter finals. Fingers crossed I don’t regret it and that Kane keeps on form and gets me all the points I need being my only England player!

     1. What did you end up doing? I stuck with Kane only, Trippier got star man at the last minute.

302. I’ve gone for it and stuck Kane in for costa obviously and also took Kimmich out and put tripps in

     1. Looks a good move – Trippier ended up star man just because he took a penalty.

        1. To be fair, Trippier was good for the whole match.

           I’m not saying that the Star Man award should have shifted on the basis of a penalty (can’t understand that either), but once again his set piece play was dangerous and he created a lot of chances.

           I think overall he contributed more to the game than Kane who apart from scoring his penalty to put us 1 up, didn’t do a great deal.

303. That’s the first time I’ve seen England win a penalty shot out since 96.

304. DTT keep up the good work buddy. I’ve followed you from the start and without your help I wouldn’t be second in my league and only 8 points from top. If only I hadn’t missed Kane’s move the weekend he had a hat trick I’d be 20 points clear.

     Have a beer on me 🍺🍺

     1. Cheers – gratefully received. Glad you’ve found the blog useful. It’s been good fun doing the World Cup game. I prefer the shorter format compared to the whole of the Premier League season.

305. Unlucky son I told ya u shoulda put a English defender in 😂😂😂

306. Well in Mark 😂😂I put trips and Kane in aswel

307. with 3rd and 4th place play off counting the way i see it now DTt the best scenerio would be france beat urguary brazil bt belguim on fridays games…then the three belgiums we have to shift maybe overload with croatia 1 defender 1 midfielder 1 striker to get the extra game…you could overload with 3 english but i guess most of the field will do this might be differential but work out better
     thoughts dtt ?

     1. I’d personally probably favour Croatian players anyway with the exception of Kane and maybe Trippier. None of the midfielders have scored well in terms of points and they’ve not kept a clean sheet yet so I’m not drawn to them. Although I think they probably will keep a clean sheet against Sweden.

308. …then saturday croatia beat russia
     selfishly if england lost to sweden u would charge then up the table but i speak for the whole nation…put dreamteam aside i would love england to conquer the world….the dream is firmly on after last night !!

309. I have strategically put 3 Brazilians and 3 Belgium players in my team so that my sub strategy will remain the same regardless of who wins.

     I do however hope that Belgium win, solely on the basis of other people in my league (with no subs left) having 5 Brazilians in their team!!

     This will push top spot wide open for the taking and at £25 a man, I’m gunning for it!!

     1. How many points are top of your league on out of interest?

310. DTT I’m not 100% sure but on WhoScored it seems like defenders get more points for scoring. The star man was swapping from Kane, Trippier and Mina as all of them was on 8.3 in extra time. It went to Kane by the end of extra time for Juan fouls drawn and the online only explanation for Trippier stealing it during pens is defenders get more for a goal..?

     1. Yeah it’s bizarre, I’d be pretty annoyed if I was competing for a top position on the leader board though. Fortunately it doesn’t overly matter to me but didn’t think he should have overtaken Kane based on them both taking a penalty. I’d agree Trippier was probably better than Kane on the night but it was just a bit annoying after I avoided this transfer on the assumption that England wouldn’t keep a clean sheet.

        1. Yeah it could/might make a difference. It doesn’t say how they score players anywhere on WhoScored.
           As good as Trippier was I personally thought Kane was man of the match, his hold up play, drawing fouls and leadership was the best I’ve seen him. As well as how good and calm he was for his pens. 👌🏼

311. I think other than considering Rackotic, sit tight, presuming Brazil beat Belgium, & depending on England’s line-up, if Rashford starts he’s up for discussion.

     1. Yeah that’s exactly what I’ll be doing.

312. any plans DTT for fridays games
     or are we looking at eliminated players from belgium v brazil game before taking an of action for saturdays games ?

     1. No changes until Saturday games – waiting on that result as you say.

313. Keep going DTT you are I assume in the top 10k with a solid looking team I am a bit below you in the league and finding it hard to catch you, although it looked like you had given up when Spain got ko’d it’s picked up, what are your thoughts for the near future

     1. I’m around the 2,000 mark which I thought was a good result. However I’m 10th in the mini league I’d paid to enter – I can’t see me being in with a shout of winning anything in that one by the time the final is here. I find that really annoying, I’d obviously never expect to win the entire game but I’d hoped to be competing come the end of the tournament in this mini league. As I’m not it almost feels like all the planning and research has been pointless, I like to win anything I participate in or at least compete so I’ve found it a bit frustrating. Had Germany and Spain not gone out when they did, I think this team could have been pushing for a top 500 finish, which I’d have been delighted with but it wasn’t to be.

        My thoughts for the near future – obviously I’ll see the tournament out and the plan for the remaining transfer is to get players in who are likely to reach the semi final stage. As they will ultimately get two games at this stage with the third place play off. I’d ideally like a team full of players who have reached the semi final and I will just then see how it goes. Beyond the World Cup, the thought of doing another Premier League season is a bit draining. Last season didn’t go well and it was a long season when I got off to a bad start. After the first month or two it was clear that I wasn’t going to win anything and maintaining the blog seemed pointless at this point so felt like a bit of a waste of time. So I’m a little cautious about committing to running the blog for a long season. Having said that – I’ll definitely be putting a team in and the blog has had a lot of visitors over the World Cup period so I’ll probably find it hard to resist doing the blog.

        1. DTT it’s not a waste of time you doing the blog for the premier league at all, regardless of overall position your expert advice will be winning a lot of us our mini leagues and I will be donating to show my appreciation and to encourage you to carry on! Haha

           1. Haha it’s only expert advice if it’s good advice. Last season was all bad advice – World Cup game has been better but I don’t fancy a repeat of the Premier League season again.

        2. I can totally understand your frustration when you put in the amount of time and effort you have with little or no reward.

           Unfortunately however, Dream Team is nothing if not unpredictable which is proven every season. Sure you can apply logic to players, their form and their upcoming fixtures, but there are way too many variants, such as team selection, rotation, injuries, freak results, etc etc, which will always be present and are unavoidable.

           National winners are doing nothing different to yourself. They are doing their research and going with their gut. The only difference is that they are getting the huge slice of fortune necessary to win or even finish in the top 100!!

           I did quite well last season. If I’m being honest I don’t know my overall position because I didn’t check it much after April. I had my mini-leagues sown up quite early, but even with what I considered a good season, I was way off the top! Probably finished somewhere between 200-400th??…

           I don’t care how good you claim to be at this game, much like Poker it does have a very heavy element of luck.

           1. I completely agree – my own personal view is that a huge slice of it comes down to luck. Especially to secure a really high finish. There’s not many people who would have predicted Russia beating Spain for instance. However when I’ve spoke about luck in the past not many people agreed with me that it’s a big factor. Although I would add that I don’t expect to finish within the top 500 or so teams based on the research and effort – but finishing around 47,000 last season meant that 47,000 other teams did a better job than I did. This was incredibly frustrating. I’d have expected to come much higher when I’d spent more time than ever creating a team and managing transfers. I’d have at least expected to win the mini league I’d paid to enter, there were only about 25 teams in it and I came 8th.

              1. I actually predicted Russia to beat Spain (and Uruguay to beat Portugal too), although I was a bit disappointed with the odds I got at just 3/1. I only bet £10, but it was a welcome £40 return.

                 Of course you need a heavy element of luck!! I have been playing DT now for probably 20-25 years and whilst I will say there is a case to be argued that you can improve (and you certainly do), you still need to have that good fortune.

                 For example, not many people went with Ronaldo for Portugal’s opening match against Spain because their logic dictated that their opponents were too strong and he wouldn’t earn points. I totally understand that logic and apply it myself sometimes, but fortunately chose to ignore it this time and bagged the 28 points.

                 1. Yeah I think it’s certainly possible to improve – I just think all the research and planning can only take you so far. I skipped Ronaldo for the first game – didn’t fancy Portugal at all for the entire tournament but buckled by sticking him in for the Iran game, when he missed the penalty.

        3. I for one thoroughly enjoy and appreciate your blog, yes it’s time consuming for you but I’m sure there’s hundreds/thousands like me out there who gain hugely from your hard work. Keep up the good work and Thank you 👍👍👍

           1. Thanks – appreciated. Glad you find it useful.

314. We are all a bit of a team on here and although I’m only 11th in your league I’m 1st in another I want to win. As I mentioned before I got a top 300 finish last time in the premier league I think if you continued this amount of effort into the premier league a few of us on here could really be challenging.

     1. I’d be all up for sharing ideas and thoughts to try and get a decent result for next season.

315. Hi all, great reading everyone’s opinions as someone that is playing this for the first time. Was wondering if you had some thoughts on the following: Current team as follows: Lloris, Trippier, Miranda, Meunier, Hazard, Coutinho, Modric, Isco, Lukaku, Kane and Griezmann. I am going to loose either 2 or 3 players on Friday with Belgium / Brazil. I really hope for an upset from Belgium but doubt that will happen. I will then lose a further 2 players with France / Brazil potentially. I’m very badly represented on the other side of the draw though (good or bad). With just 5 transfers left I am leaning towards replacing Isco for Rakitic to get better representation on that side of the draw. Or else just leave it until semis and can then ensure I have as much as possible representation in the semis? Thoughts on that – I was also thinking Isco for Mbappe but as that side of the draw is more difficult to predict the Rakitic or (potentially Willian) is my decision for the quarters? Your thoughts on that. I’m second in the league that I really want to win 14 points behind the leader and although (I think) he has used most of his transfers he is heavily weighted towards Brazil.

     1. I wouldn’t worry about the loss of France/Brazil players in the semi’s as they still get an extra game for 3rd/4th play off.
        I’ve got a second team I’m chasing the person above with so I’m interested in DTT’s reply on Rakitic, as he’s not someone I’ve ever thought to put in.
        I’ve considered Willian, he looked really good in the last game.
        I put Vrsaljko in for Isco as I expected two clean sheets against Denmark and Russia and nobody above me had a Croatian defender.
        Im just waiting for Brazil vs Belgium to see who goes out.
        I’m scared of Mbappe vs Uruguay…

        1. Mbappe should be far less productive I would think. He wasn’t so prolific in the group stages and did well against Argentina as the pushed up aggressively allowing him space to run into, I don’t see Uruguay making the same mistake as they have looked good at the back.

           1. Yeah Godin and Jimenez have been really good. Hopefully they can keep him quiet as a lot of people will transfer him in after that last game.

        2. I’m definitely considering Rakitic and favouring him over most other midfielders at the moment. If we wait until after the winner of Brazil and Belgium is decided and assumed that Croatia will progress we can take out an eliminated player and put Rakitic in. This should get him three games.

     2. My personal plan is to leave my team as it is until players are out. I’ve got Isco left who is already out. Then I’ll be in a similar position with 3 Belgian players or 4 Brazilians. With only 4 transfers left I’m assuming my team is going to be something like this (if Belgium go out):

        Lloris
        Mirander
        T. Silva
        Meuiner out for Trippier
        Isco out for Rakitic
        Modric
        Coutinho
        Hazard out for Pogba or any other midfielder confirmed as making the semi final
        Lukaku out for Mbappe/Griezmann
        Kane
        Neymar

        This should give good coverage of key players who are already in the semi final or look likely to make the semi final. I’ll probably take a risk and get the Croatia and England players in before their quarter finals and hope they progress to the semi.

        1. i have really really enjoyed this summers world cup blog, a lot of good interaction and sound advice, i would dearly love you to carry on this blog for the new premiership season and i for one would make a donation if you did…. keep on going your a good un

           1. I’ve enjoyed the World Cup tournament and keeping the blog up to date. I think the shorter format works better for me and with 20 transfers it was quite tactical. It’s good to see so many comments on this post as well.

316. What are people’s thoughts on perisic?

     1. I think it’s a good idea to have some Croatian representation. Perisic is a good option but it comes down to good fortune to some degree – any one of them could do well for the last few games.

        1. Agree. Tough choice

317. Just checking in to see what the latest plans are if any.

     1. No plans to change anything from the latest post I’ve made.

318. DTT, r u pulling the trigger 2day, think I’ll sit tight till after the Brazil game, got Marcelo back as well, 4 transfers

     1. I’m not making any changes today.

319. DTT if you could only put one of them Croatian mids in would you still pick Modric over Rakitic? Was it mainly due to pens?

     1. Yeah it was definitely down to the penalties and it nearly paid off.

320. Nice little 8 points booster from lloris there to put me up to 1876 in overal leaderboard. Let’s go brazil

321. Love your blogs and check daily for updates! Keep it up mate, I know you get frustrated at times but the work you do is great. Often it is just down to luck.

     1. Thanks – appreciate the comment and glad you find it helpful.

322. Time to ponder, what now.

     1. Stick with the plan but just remove Brazilians rather than the Belgians.

323. Well onwards and upwards after Brazil losing… 😬
     looking at recent scores I don’t think we’ll be too worse off by losing a defenders place for the next round.

     1. Yeah either way we were going to lose players. It’s a shame to lose 4 rather than 3 players but I don’t think it changes the plan much.

        1. I agree, can still go as planned but maybe De Bruyne and Greizmann for Neymar and Coutinho.
           It makes Trippier and Rakitic in more risky now before the semi’s with already being a player down and bloody meunier missing the next game.

           1. I’m just going to do my transfers for the day, but I’d imagine I will stick to the plan roughly. I’ll probably bring in Trippier, Greizmann and Rakitic in an attempt to gain points from today’s games. Happy to take the risk of some players not making the semi final. Although I am in a position where taking a risk won’t effect me – I’m not in the running to win anything at the moment so taking a risk makes sense. If I were top of a mini league, I’d simply be looking to block out people below me.

              1. Sounds good, i am top of 3 different mini leagues so I cant really block anyone out, apart from Trippier in to cover England defenders.
                 Are you just making the Trippier and Rakitic transfers today and leaving Griezmann until the day of the France game incase of injuries or something?

                 1. Yeah I’ll be leaving Griezmann until the day they play but I’m also putting Lovren in today.

324. Hey DTT what are your next planned transfers? Any tonight now the 4 Brazilians are out

     1. I’ll be making some shortly – just going to do a post.

325. Any thoughts on swapping a Brazilian defender out for a Croatian defender before the game tomorrow? I think that is the biggest chance for a clean sheet and will now get one further game if doing it before tomorrow. I know it has been unpredictable but I think Croatia should get through tomorrow. Is Strinic the best to put in? If I do that transfer I would have 4 transfers left with 2 England players (Kane and Trippier) and 3 Croatian players that might drop out (Modric, Rakitic and potentially Strinic). So think that would still leave me in a good overall position. Shame that Meunier won’t play the next game but as I will still get at least one game from him, not planning on replacing him. Your thoughts as always would be much appreciated.

     1. I’m just going to do my transfers for the day, but I’d imagine I will stick to the plan roughly. I’ll probably bring in Trippier, Griezmann and Rakitic in an attempt to gain points from today’s games. Happy to take the risk of some players not making the semi final.

326. Griezman & Mbappe

     1. For me, it’s one or the other. Favouring Greizmann slightly at the moment.

327. Four Brazilians plus Isco to take out and only 3 transfers what are your thoughts thanks 🙂

     1. I’m just going to do my transfers for the day, but I’d imagine I will stick to the plan roughly. I’ll probably bring in Trippier, Griezmann and Rakitic in an attempt to gain points from today’s games.

328. I’m 27 points ahead of my mini league with 358 points, stuck closely to what you did (thanks!)with a couple random changes that worked. Tricky to block though as can’t see what transfers they are going to make etc …2nd place has noone different than me left in at the moment , but what’s he going to do now ?? the guy in third has stones, Lingard, sterling and Mbappe different to me but he’s about 40 points back.
     I’ve got 5 transfers left with 4 brazzos and Isco still in my team.
     Not sure whether to leave it today or gamble eith say stones and rakitic. What if the guy in 2nd gambles snd puts in loads of Croatian defenders (probably what I’d do if in his place)

     1. If you’ve got 5 transfers I’d be tempted to use a couple. I think we would be unlucky if Croatia went out and England should progress as well but you never know. I’d either use three transfers today and save two. Or use two and save three. I think it would be good to be proactive and keep trying to add points to the board. Should both teams progress today, obviously you get that extra game and I think once a player is in the semi final that’s a decent position to be in. Even if they lose, they should still get the third place play off – which could pull in more points than the final with less pressure.

329. Hi mate need some help, I’m top of my
     League by 20 pts, I have 2 transfers left and my mate has 5, but I’ve only got 5 players left and 4 are the same.

     What approach do you think I should take from now on?

     Make a risk on some England additions or wait til maybe the final to use my final 2?

     1. He’s probably got the advantage. There’s not an awful lot you can do. If you think Croatia or England could progress today you could go for some of their players or wait until you know who’s in the semi finals. He may have already taken you over by then though.

330. Morning DTT,

     I’m back leading my league by 4 points and 2nd, 3rd and 4th have 7 players each to take out.

     I have the same team as you but I only have three transfers. Shall I take the risk and follow your two transfers for today or shall I play it safe to have three players guaranteed to play two games?

     As always I appriate the guidance

     1. Maybe just Rakitic today as the England game looks tricky and they havent kept a clean sheet yet?

        1. You could do that, I’m only taking the risk because I’m not in a position to win the mini league I’m in. So I’m having to try and gain an advantage now. It comes with a big risk if Croatia were to go out.

331. Any reason why Rackotic wld get the nod over Perisic.

     1. Just personal preference really.

332. Need to handle comments a different way. This makes having a conversation undesirable.

     1. Because there’s so many? When it goes back to the Premier league season there won’t be so many as most posts will be separate.

333. Hi All, What a funny week I never expected Brazil or Spain to go out so early.
     I now have only 4 active players:
     Mbappe / Kane
     Pogba / Hazard
     I’m really don’t know what to do, I have 6 transfers left and I’m currently top of my mini league by about 30 points. The guy below me has 6 players left:
     Stones/Umtiti
     De Bruyne / Sterling
     Mandzukic / Kane
     I have no idea how many transfers he has left though. Really not sure what to do, tempted to bring in some coverage from Croatia and England.
     I really don’t know what to do I’m tempted to bring in:
     Stones / Lovren / Rakitic
     Any thoughts recommendations?

     1. If he’s got Stones I’d definitely go for an England defender to block this. With 6 transfers remaining I’d probably use three today if you’ve only got 4 active players. I’d probably recommend players that I’ve got left.

334. What would you do if you were leading a mini league by 21 points with your current team?? Teams behind have got to get uraguay and Brazil out about 7 players each. One has tripper as a differential, one has pogba, 40 points back is next with umtiti Rakitic, Mbappe. Would appreciate your help!!!!

     1. With such a narrow lead I’d be tempted to bring in Trippier for one of the Brazilian defenders. I wouldn’t worry about Pogba (yet). It’s then up to you if you wanted to go for the Croatian players for today – fairly big risk.

        1. The guy in 3rd who has pogba also has Lingard?!?!

335. DTT i know your getting swamped with messages to reply to, so no problem if you don’t get chance.
     On the post update you’ve said you wouldn’t make these transfers if you was winning your mini league, Could you advise on what you would do if you was?
     You are in the lead of a few different leagues so you cant put anyone in to block, so just who you’d put in to try score maximum points?

     1. I’ve just transferred Silva – Trippier and Coutinho – Rakitic.
        Nobody below me has a Croatian defender so i’m thinking about giving the Lovren one a miss.
        One for Griezmann, then the other one to hopefully save my arse if England or Croatia go out and to block the most dangerous player in the closest team below. haha

        1. Sounds like a good plan – if Croatia don’t keep a clean sheet the Lovren transfer is a waste of time.

     2. I’d be looking at the teams below me and trying to second guess how many transfers they’ve got left and the players they might go for. I’d be looking to basically fend them off until the end of the tournament. In terms of maximising points – I think my plan is fairly robust but it comes with risk. If Croatia go out that could be the chance gone but it’s the only game left where I think the favoured team has easier opposition. The less risky option is to keep the four transfers until we know who is in the semi final but that comes with the risk of losing the lead.

        1. thanks for the help , I’ve reversed the Rakitic transfer for now as nobody below has him.

336. Manzukic is an interesting option/ gamble, he ‘s pretty inconsistment, but could actually see him scoring a few ? What do people think

     1. I’d considered him but like you noticed his inconsistency. He could easily do very well today though.

337. Well for now I’m going to change to 343 and do this:
     Out: Danilo / Pepe / Coutinho
     In: Stones / Moderic / Rakitic
     That will leave me with 3 transfers for the last games!
     Still not 100% sure if I want Moderic or Lovren just can’t be sure about the clean sheet! Either is a risk I guess! The other option is to just bring in Stones & Rakitic and leave 4 transfers to bring in some other players later?

     1. Who did you go for? I’ve only just checked the blog since yesterday.

338. DTT, got a 44pt gap to bridge, the guy I’m chasing has no transfers left, with 4 English players & 4 belgium, I’m going to put Rackotic In, & Griezman, to try & negate his belgium players, I still have Lukaku & Hazard, also have Modric, last transfer was considering a croatian defender, but feel I need a goalscorer/threat rather than a defender to bridge that gap, only leaves me Pogba with a game less than a croatian defender, any advice appreciated.

     1. What transfers did you end up making? I’ve only just had chance to check the blog so missed your comment.

        1. Changed at last minute, & put Mandjukic in got 15pts from the game to cut the gap to 29, 2 transfers left, looks like it will be Rackotic & Pogba, can’t see another French midfielder capable of pts scoring only Katne but not a good option, wld of been better for me England playing 1st in semis, of course I want England to win, but my rival has 4 English & 4 belgium left, as I think Belgium will concede to France, my choice is 2 from 3, Rackotic, Pogba, De bruyne, 3rd place play-off if its Belgium 2nd string team, as seen already.

339. That, was a close call, 2 transfers left, 29pt defecit to make up.

340. Great to see DTT having a great World Cup. Doing well. Preparation paying off nicely.

     Myself, I given up on the World Cup dream team and so already started my premier league research. I think I prefer the seasonal game myself as the pool of players remain the same (and even gets bigger with winter signings). The length between matches suit me as I can spend time on strategy and transfers. I spend hours on writing notes making plans. Another factor that maintains my interest is the variable pricing. I enjoy buying low and selling high. It gives a buzz when I sell a player for profit. Also I spend more time on cheap players and new players as I find them interesting as I know little about them. I seen the likes of Kane, Hazard and other top players so I don’t write much about so spend little time on them. Aiming for a top 100 overall position this coming season.

     One of my World Cup teams (entered two) has 385 points and 5 transfers left with three players left. In 250th position so not too doing too badly there.

     1. Forget to ask, which teams do you see winning the semi final games? Will the losing teams play their squad players in the 3rd/4th play off game? We already seen France, Belgium, England and Croatia rotate heavily in the final group game.

        1. To be honest, I’ve never watched a 3rd place play off so I don’t know if it’s a game where teams are keen to take that third place spot or not. I’d imagine not, so wouldn’t be surprised to see players being rested. My aim was to use transfers early on during the easier games so I’m pleased with getting 10 players into the semi finals. I’ve got no real idea who will get to the final though, I think it’s too close to call between both games. I’d imagine France are slight favourites and England are probably slight favourites in the other game.

     2. I’d be delighted with being in 250th position. What approach did you take to get a team that far with 5 transfers still remaining? I’ve started looking at the Premier League season as well but last season is putting me off slightly. It sounds like you probably put more time and effort in than I do when it comes to your research – would you be willing to share any of your thoughts before the start of the season? All I really look at is fixtures.

341. I am currently top of my league with 348 points. The second placed team has 297 point. He has 5 Belgian players and no French players. I am assuming he has no transfers left and he has two eliminated players.

     My current team is
     LLoris
     T Silva
     Miranda
     Meunier
     Coutinho
     Rakitic
     Hazard
     Modric
     Kane
     Lukaku
     Neymar

     I have 3 transfers left.

     My initial thoughts are to bring in Griezmann or Mbappe. Maube also bring in Trippier. Not sure about the third transfer though.

     I really do not know who will get to the final as the semi’s look pretty tricky.

     Thoughts???

     1. Looks good to me with the two transfers you’ve got in mind. You could then save the final transfer to use for the final.

342. DTT, to make up my 29pt defecit on my rival, we both have Hazard, Lukaku, Kane, & Tripper, he also has,
     Maguire
     Ali
     Courtois
     Alderweirald, 3defensive players, 1 offensive
     My team has
     Modric
     Lloris
     + 2 from 3, Rackotic, Debruyne, Pogba, ultimately make my own decision, but appreciate ur thoughts, this is the same guy that finished bottom of premiership, & now tops world cup dreamteam, funny old game.

     1. Rakitic didn’t look like much of a goal threat to me the other night. I’d probably favour De Bruyne or Pogba. I only went for Rakitic as Croatia had that extra game and it didn’t really pay off.

        1. Thanx 4response, its 2from 3, may go Debruyne & Pogba, 3rd place play off a lottery.

343. Just checking, to c if there r any new posts.

344. DTT decesion time mpbappe or.greizmanither strong case for either or a toss of a coin to decide ?

     1. I’ll probably go with Griezmann because he’s on penalty duties.

345. Any thoughts on whether it’s worth holding any transfers back for the final ? I’ve got three left. And 3 players out the tournament but still in my team. Now all 4 teams have 2 games is it worth doing all 3 now ?
     Bit of a wildcard the 3/4th playoff ?

     1. I guess it depends who you’ve got left and what players your nearest rivals have got. If you aren’t missing key players for the semi finals then it might be worth holding the transfers. I think the 3rd place play off could be a bit of a lottery in terms of who plays.

346. Hi there ddt!! Just after some advice! I’m currently either top or 2nd if 4 different leagues! Everyone around me has lukaku, I currently have kane mbappe and greizman. I have 3 transfers left with 3 Brazilians in my team! Do you think bring in pogba and de bryne, but play safe and change mbappe for lukaku. Or change the 3 Brazilians to French and Belgian midfielders? I am leaving myself with 2 defenders out of the tournament if I play safe. But then run the risk with mbappe and hopefully he sneaks a goal against France, England / Croatia. I’m currently terrified lukaku could grab a couple against either team as he blows hot and cold, any advice would be greatly appreciated

     1. Depends how big your lead is, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Lukaku score but if you’ve got a decent lead this shouldn’t be a problem. It’s a difficult one to offer advice on because I wouldn’t want to suggest taking Mbappe or Greizmann out as they could equally get a goal.

347. DTT, I’m in the same boat as you.

     I have 4 subs remaining and will be playing with 10 players for the semis.

     It’s so tight at the top of my mini league!! We have a new leader who took the risk in subbing in the ENTIRE English defence for the Sweden game. It paid off, but I don’t know how many subs he has left?

     There is only 28 points separating the top 7 (I’m in 5th), and most people have made all their subs, so it’s going to come down to whether my subs produce!!

     I’m looking at Griezman, KDB, Maguire and maybe Pogba? Still undecided until I see the line ups. Not sure I want another Belgium defender as I think France will score for sure.

     1. I saw a few people go with an entire England back line, which I thought was a big risk but it seemed to pay off for them. I couldn’t believe anyone would have had that many transfers left at this stage to be able to do that. It would depend on what the rest of your team looks like but it could be worth saving a transfer or two for the final. Once the third place game has been played you can take these players out and replace them with players in the final.

        1. I did contemplate doing that, but I was conscious of only getting one game from my subs instead of 2.

           You would obviously do that if you had a max team of 11 playing, but when you have less it seems that you’re gambling an extra game just to have one or two more players in the final?… or have I missed something somewhere with the maths?

348. greizmann for neymar confirmed then ?

     1. Yeah I’ve just done it.

349. New premiership dreamteam out on 20th, 3 transfers a month, also a 3-4-3 option, World Cup, will have to put Debruyne & Pogba in, one will get 2 games the other one, maybe a playoff, wld of liked to waited & put in Griezman or Mbappe in if they reach final, out of transfers have to gamble now to try & bridge defecit.

350. Hi DTT, I have been looking into the historical stats of the 3rd place playoff game. It seems they have been generally high scoring, so I see little point in having any defenders for this game. Rotation is likely to happen, but it depends who plays and their attitude towards it. The golden boot has been won in this game, so if Belgium play in it and Lukaku has a chance of golden boot, he could get a hat-full.
     I have 7 players eliminated (inc all defence) with 6 transfers. Was planning to use them all to get 10 players in semi’s, but now not sure if its worth bringing in any defenders, as I can’t see them scoring points in the FRA v BEL game, or any defender in the 3rd place game. Any thoughts?

     1. I’d agree to a certain extent. I can’t see many clean sheets in the semi final but football is incredibly hard to predict so can’t rule anything out. It’s also hard to second guess who will play in that third place play off. I’d certainly make attacking players a priority though.

        1. Yes, its been tough to predict – I lost 5 BRA and 2 URU players on the same day! I think you are right, prob best to focus on attacking players. Think I will play the semis with 7 or 8 players – I like your idea of letting players play the 3rd place game, then swop them out for the final. Thanks

351. Hey DTT (And everyone)
     So I have 4 transfers remaining and 5 players down. I’m playing 343 and Stones is my only active Defensive player. So I have a gap for a Striker, 2 Mid and 3 Def. I’m thinking the defense might as well stay blank as chance of clean sheet isn’t worth the risk. So I am thinking:
     Lukaku IN (He will join Kane & Mbappe)
     De Bruyne IN (He will join Hazard / Pogba & Rakitic)
     Do I stop there or do I look at bringing in more now or save them for later? I did think about bringing in Griezeman, but it seemed a waste to take out an active player at this stage. I’m not sure what other options I have really?

352. Is blaize matuidi a better option than Pogba.

353. I need some advice asap!
     My team is currently:
     Lloris
     Miranda
     Thiago Silva
     Meunier
     Modric
     Hazard
     Coutinho
     Kane
     Lukaku
     Neymar

     I’ve got 3 transfers left and not sure who to change out. I’m winning my league atm but i feel I’ve way more transfers than my rivals. Any help to get me over the line would be appreciated tremendously!

     1. Ive got a similar situation (I have trippier instead of silva and 1 less transfer). Going for KDB in for coutinho and mbappe/griezmann in for neymar. KDB makes sense with him playing further forward since the brazil game. The other decision im struggling with, Mbappe has looked better in open play and is more explosive but griezmann has the penalty/free kick potential.

        1. Yeah i might go trippier griezmann for the pens and de bruyne/pogba but it’s a toss up between them

     2. Forgot isco too!

354. Who should I swap Coutinho for ?? Pogba or de Bruyne ?

355. Coutinho for Pogba currently first 1 transfer left lukaku Kane and Griezmann already on

356. Took out Neymar and put on griezmann
     Took out Coutinho and put in de brute.
     Got one last transfer left! England or croatia? Or do I go for another Frenchman?

357. Trippier or Lingard
     Only got 3.5m to spend

     1. Or anyone else someone can recommend?

        1. What did you end up going for? Only just picked up these comments

358. Well subbing in KDB didn’t exactly go to plan.

     I have one sub remaining and was contemplating an English player tonight knowing that I’ll get two games, but having watched Mbappe last night, I’m wondering if I should risk saving it for the final by subbing out Lukaku after Belgium’s 3rd place play off!

     I already have Griezmann so it would give me more scope of points for the final.

     Really need a points haul and was disappointed with KDB and Lukaku’s blanks last night!

     1. Well, I decided to take the risk and save my final sub (which I was contemplating on Maguire).

        Our beloved England went out, but at least I have a sub left to bring in Mbappe…. every cloud…. 🙁

        1. How are you doing for points now? Wish I had the option to make some transfers for the final.

           1. Crap…. had a really poor tournament! Only on 318 points.

              Sitting 6th (of 26) in my mini league and about 25 points off the top, but even the leader’s score of 340 odd isn’t that great.

              This league was there for the taking, but for some bad fortune with some of my sub decisions. Guess we can’t win them all….

              1. I think I joined the wrong league. I’m 10th on 385 points.

                 1. Yes, you would have smashed my league! What is your leader on?

                    I usually run well in both leagues and internationals.

                    I won 4 leagues this season (including a TFF league) and also won 3 leagues during the Euros which has pocketed me a total of £1400, but like I said earlier, I guess we all have off tournaments/seasons and can’t expect to do well in everything.

                    I didn’t realise you was doing a blog on the WC until a week in!! I guess I should have been sharper and compared notes on team selection!!

                    Are you doing a prem again this year or are you undecided yet?

                    1. Leader is on 450 so I’m no where near. Can’t say I’ve ever won much – definitely in a profit but not massively. I’ll definitely be putting a team in – not sure if I’ll document it in huge detail but I’ll see. The World Cup game has made me feel a bit more positive about it.

                       1. 450 is very good. Surely top 200 in the country?

                          I’m disappointed not to be on at least 400 by now.

                          I know that you prefer the shorter format such as the World Cup and Euros, but at least with the season you don’t have to document it as frequently, so you get a breather.

                          I feel that your blog has gained positive momentum of late and the negative naysayers have been weeded out somewhat. Would you agree?

                          It’s easy for people to sit on the fence without an opinion and only pop up when things don’t work out!

                          There have been occasions where I too have taken a season break from Dream Team because it can become cumbersome, frustrating and intense, so I will totally respect whatever you decide.

                          1. Yeah definitely within the top 100, I believe they were in the top 10 at one point. I think it has gained momentum and has been more positive through the World Cup but it’s been fairly difficult to criticise when the plan has worked fairly well. I think I’m around 1,200 on the leader board now which is a decent result. I’d imagine I’ll drop slightly over the weekend but still fairly happy with how the tournament has gone. I know the blog had over 40,000 hits in June so I’m keen to keep it going – I just need a better way to monetise it to make it more worthwhile.

359. I am first on 373 in mine and 55 points clear of second. Have a spread of players across the 4 teams still playing so looking okay. The rest of the league have a good spread too so hopefully will be okay.

     When are we going to start talking strategy for the Premier League season. It is creeping up on us.

     1. I’ve already starting some planning – can’t do too much until player values are released.

360. Hi DTT
     Would you consider doing the official fantasy league for the premier league season?
     https://fantasy.premierleague.com/
     It’s a much better format.

     1. I’ve played it once before but got bored and left it. Probably purely because I couldn’t be bothered to learn the differences with the rules but doubt I’d fancy giving it another go this year.

361. you gotta carry on with the sun dream team DTT…..your form in the world cup has been very good i smell a good year coming up !

     1. I’m definitely going to be putting a team in – it’s whether I can find the time to keep a blog up to date about it. I’m sure I will do.

362. I think you should give it another go.. I have really enjoyed following this blog for the works cup and would love the help in my fantasy premier league. I guess I’ll have to convince my group to swap over to the Sun dream team

363. Please do a premier league blog!
     I’ve loved following you through the World Cup.

364. Definitely ready for assault on new premiership season just sneaked into 2nd place in mini league, 385pts well done DTT.

     1. Sounds good – do you use Facebook? It would be good to get you involved in the new group I’ve set up.

365. Hi All,
     I just want to say a big thanks to D.T.T. and everyone else who has commented and giving good advice through-out the world cup , like i said at the start im not that up on my football knowledge and came across the blog last season and its helped me avoid buying breakfasts for my shifts mini league,
     i never thought i would have a chance but ive won my works world cup league and just pipped the D.T.T. league today,also came 140 in the overall league,
     i hope you carry on with your blog for the next season as i think ill need all the help i can get after upsetting all the football experts i work with 😉 ,
     Anyway Thanks for all the good advice and tips through-out the world cup, ive joined the facbook page and made a donation( have a couple of well earned pints on me!) much appreciated, cheers Dave.

     1. Thanks Dave – donation gratefully received. Glad you’ve found the blog useful, finishing 140 overall is an incredibly good result. You did significantly better than my team so must have made some great decisions along the way. Glad to see you’ve joined the Facebook group – I’m sure I’ll end up doing the blog for next season just trying to think of ways of making it better.

366. World Cup was great fun, blog helped massively. Team entered in mini league was pooh, gave up up after using transfers too early but did finish 1071 overall with another team. Plz continue with the blog next premier league season, it’s great fun and helps so many plus I think your be bored if you don’t lol. Cheers.

     1. It’s hard to justify not doing it with the amount of people I’ve seen look at the blog over the World Cup – over 40,000 which is quite satisfying. It’s just finding the time sometimes can be a bit of a pain.

367. Thankfully, I managed to hold onto 3rd in my mini-league, which earned me £100, but given how shocking my World Cup tournament was , I was just happy to place a prize position!

     I’m with you on the premier league format!!! It’s rubbish!! I too trialled it a few years back and it’s so convoluted! Points for pass completion percentages or how many minutes a player has been on the pitch, etc etc…Makes it almost impossible to look at a set of premiership results and calculate roughly what points you may have earned!! Don’t even get me started on having to pick 15 players and the whole ‘captain’ nonsense!

     Another that I trialled last year was The Telegraph, which I have to say was extremely good! Very simple, very basic but effective. Also, you cannot view eachothers teams, which changes the strategical dynamics. It almost makes you feel like you’ve earned your win instead of looking over your shoulder and putting in ‘block’ players to stop others catching you.

     That said, I will continue with both The Sun and Telegraph formats as both are equally as enjoyable.

     1. I’d be happy with a 3rd place finish and £100 over my finish as I ended up winning nothing. Looking forward to next season, do you use Facebook? It would be good to get you involved in the group I’m setting up on there. The link is https://www.facebook.com/groups/1737642209645683/

        1. Yes, I’ve already joined.

           Well done for organising. It may be easier for most to converse on that rather than the blog, but I’ll happily be active in both.

368. Big fan of the blog DTT, good performance in WC and hope you keep it going for next season.

     How bout maybe having a league that you have to pay toenter and cash prizes for season and monthly winners??

     Obviously people would need to trust you with their money but think most regulars on this blog wouldnt have a problem with that.

     1. Glad you’ve enjoyed it – it’s been good fun doing the World Cup competition and have had loads of interaction on the blog which has been good to see. I’m not sure about handling people’s money, it was better when this was available through the Dream Team website. However I do use a very reputable group on Facebook where paid for leagues are ran. I’ve just set up my own Facebook group and I was going to publish some details about this on there. Have you had chance to join? It can be found at https://www.facebook.com/groups/1737642209645683/

369. Many thanks for your time you have put into this over the past two months, I’ve loved keeping in touch with it and if it wasn’t for me being away for the first week i would have followed all of your moves exactly – and would have won all 3 of the mini leagues i was entered into.

     Finished up with 362 points;

     League 1 – 4th (Winner 375)
     League 2 – 2nd (Winner 368)
     League 3 – 4th (Winner 400)

     Would have been prize money of around £500!

     Just joined the Facebook page and will donate shortly.

     1. Thanks Bobby, donation gratefully received and really appreciated. Hopefully the Facebook group will help with keeping everyone up to date next season as it’s a bit quicker and more visible than the blog.

370. Won my mini league using DTT Team as a base. Did change it up a bit as I missed a couple of transfers. But still ended with 411 pts.

     Very pleased and looking forward to the Prem Season! 🙂

     1. Same here won my mini league using DTT team as a base. Finished on 416 points. Cant wait for premier league to start. Many thanks DTT for all your help.

        1. No problem at all – glad you’ve found it useful. It’s good to see that some people have won their mini leagues using information picked up on here, makes it much more worthwhile continuing.

           1. You just must be entering the wrong leagues haha

     2. Good stuff – bring on the Premier League season. Famous last words but surely it can’t go as badly as last year.

371. Well done DTT on a good final position & thanks for all your efforts on your blog…..roll on the new SDT season !

     1. Thanks Anthony, appreciate the comment and glad you’ve joined the Facebook group. Looking forward to the new season starting now.

Comments are closed.