Seriously :D? When was this? First I've heard but if true that is actually stupid.

It is stupid if true. I'd like to see dives punishable by red cards when blatant, and punishable by 3 game bans when missed by the ref but later reviewed. It's cheating.

Naa, if you go down in the penalty area, you've not necessarily been fouled nor are you diving. Most referees to avoid further controversy with not giving the kick, will just play on claiming a fair challenge from the defender as opposed to being brave enough to book the attacking player for simulation.

Realistically though, that is the case. Very rarely see a clean tackle that wins the ball and takes the player out at the same time.

Most of these players are 12 stone+ elite athletes but they collapse at the slightest touch to overemphasise the fact there was contact.

Aye, it's easy for us to say on paper, but think also the referee is under immense pressure and scrutiny with every single decision they make in that area.
Sometimes it's easier just to wave play-on.

Also, France looking good. Giroud shouldn't be anywhere near the squad of 23 in my opinion though.

Really impressed by Odemwinge too.

Yup. France are looking like a proper team with shades of '98.

Giroud is so bad.

@Manky, yeah good point, fair enough.

I have a feeling this is going to be one of those games where the heavyweight (Germany) wins by one or two after being battered for most of the match and the underdog (Algeria) is referred to as 'brave' despite missing a plethora of chances early on.

They really need to get a goal while they're on top. Ozil is having a stinker also but he was basically at left back there.

Özil getting accused of not tracking back despite actually tracking back :D

Played a lot better in the last 15 minutes.

C'mon Algeria.