Set-piece analysis

The biggest indication to come out of the initial batch of quarterfinal games at the 2014 World Cup was just how important defensive solidarity is when trying to winning football matches in Brazil. There's no denying that this tournament has been a showcase for counterattacking football, and although that has partly left defenses exposed it has been remarkable to see how a resolute defensive performance can be the difference between progressing or not.

In both of Friday evening's quarterfinals, all but one of the four goals came from defenders. Even more astounding was the fact that every single goal came from a set-piece. Mats Hummels' winner for Germany came from a free kick, while Thiago Silva benefited from a good corner to give his Brazil team the lead in the second quarterfinal. David Luiz belted in a fine free kick, which would prove to be the winner, before Colombia's James Rodriguez notched his sixth goal of the tournament from the penalty spot. Not a single goal from open play in sight.

In the heat of Brazil the ability to defend and attack from set-pieces has proved a certified match winner, even from as early as the group stages. Italy's sharp corner routine against England saw them take the lead, while Costa Rica have exploited their aerial threat and consistent delivery.

Ironically, the delivery from set-pieces, corners in particular, has largely been disappointing. Imagine then, what more consistent delivery - regularly beating the defender at the near post would make a big difference - would do at the 2014 World Cup tournament. The soaring heat, the suffocating humidity and the blazing sun have all been reasons why sides have struggled to implement their natural game. Taking chances when they come has never been more important than at this tournament in Brazil - just ask the USA, Italy and Iran to name a few.

Scoring goals from set-pieces seems to be the answer. Not many sides can rely on individual brilliance - Argentina have been more than fortunate with Lionel Messi this year - and even those that have looked collectively strong have eventually come undone. Mexico, Chile and after tonight, Colombia, all posed strong units but have all exited the competition with question marks surrounding both sides of their set-piece play.

Strong defensive work set-pieces is another reason why goalkeepers have excelled at this World Cup - Manuel Neuer made a number of saves when France did shoot from open play, but his composure and confidence from set-pieces shouldn't go unnoticed. Colombia's goalkeeper David Ospina looked solid from the majority of set-pieces this evening, but the minute his defensive marking went astray Thiago Silva's knee was there to open the scoring.

At set-pieces, sharp defensive positioning and clever attacking movement are basic football lessons. In the energy-sapping humidity of Brazil, they are proving to the most rewarding for those that paid attention.