Here it is. The final game of World Cup 2010. Spain-Holland. Whoo, boy. A new country will put their name on the trophy. Will it be the country of my soccer roots, Netherlands? Will it be the offspring of Dutch Total Football, Spain?

As everyone is saying, on paper, it's Spain. But as everyone also says, the game isn't played on paper. Spain has lost twice since November 2006. Holland has lost once since Bert van Marwijk took over after Euro 2008 and unlike Spain has won every game of this tournament. Spain has taken out Germany and Portugal, but the Dutch have eliminated Brazil. Spain has scored only 3 goals in the knockout round and 7 total, the Netherlands, on the other hand, have 7 in the knockout round and 12 overall, having scored in every game and being held to 1 only once. But, Spain has the defensive advantage with 4 clean sheets conceding only 2 goals, while Holland only has 2 clean sheets and conceding 5. So the numbers actually run counter to the relative impressions of the teams, Holland is a goal scoring machine with a leaky defense while Spain shuts teams down and has a hard time finding the back of the net.

This game is going to be a midfield battle. Will the Dutch be able to disrupt the possession play of Spain and establish their wing play? Or will Spain be able to wear down and frustrate the Dutch as they did to the Germans (hee hee hee, suck it, Germany)?

I will say this: this is exactly, EXACTLY, the final I wanted to see (after a miracle USA-anyone final). And I will be happy whichever team wins... as long as it's the Netherlands. HUP HOLLAND HUP!!!

Spain!


Great game.

Germany needed to score early. They are amazing on the counterattack, but they couldn't seem to create that momentum against a better midfield and defense.

Sets up a pretty great final (and a pretty curious 3rd place game).

And now Puyol the lucky.

Bad substitution. Should have been for Pedro.

And then he screws that up. Villa wouldn't have messed that up.

Fuerza Barca!

Puyol!!!!!!

That's a really bad tackle by Ramos. Yikes. Definitely a yellow, if not more. Nasty.

WOW!

That was a wonderful movement by Spain off that corner kick...

Spain are looking quite bright so far...

Ok. This will be a good one. Potential for best of the tournament, but....there is a lot at stake here. Still, Germany have been (deep breath) the in form team of the tournament, playing upbeat, attacking (and successful!) soccer. (deep breath) good to them. But missing Muller will hurt them.

Spain can be great. What will Xavi, Iniesta, and Fabregas (oh, nope, Pedro--not sure that is a good idea). We'll see!

La Furia!

Okay. Spain through. Yes! Holland through. Very cool! Germany still appear to be the in form side though. Could we be headed for a replay of the '74 final?

The Germans have a dynamic attack, led by Klose who, regardless of how you feel, has to be considered the international striker of the decade when it mattered. As was pointed out on television, however, they have a soft center, and will miss Muller. On the bright side, their encounter with Spain could, and hopefully will be an incendiary display of positive football.

The Netherlands came from behind to beat Brazil, which, combined with their string of consecutive wins, makes them clear favorites against Uruguay. I've got a funny feeling about this one though, despite my hope that the Dutch push through. Probably won't be able to watch the game live on Tuesday (depends when my boy goes down for his nap), but he's at daycare on Wednesday, so I'll be there with bells on. Viva Espana!

Recording both games today to watch tonight.

Go Messi, if not the rest of Argentina!

Go Spain!!!!!

Cruel game.

Ghana deserved to win.

Too bad.

Craziness!!

Penalties...

Ghana!

Goal!!

Muntari is great. Wow. What a shot.

Ghana were much brighter as this half wore on. Fully deserved lead.

Go Ghana!

Well, having predicted the first game, I thought I'd try with this one, but it is a real toss up. I think Uruguay are the clear favorites and should probably win, but you never know with Ghana. They are fast, strong, and quite good tactically, if a bit defensive. I see pressure from Uruguay and an early goal for them. Ghana will be drawn out and I think they will score. Hmmm...2-2 Uruguay through on penalties?

Not sure what pleases me more, the fact that Holland are through, or that Brazil are going home.

ORANJE!

Hup!

Kuyt!

The dutch can taste it now. They are really taking a grip of this game.

And, a completely a deserved red.

Wow!

Red Card. I have never liked Melo. At all. And he is through and through a Dunga player.

Wow! Straight red!

WOW. This is getting crazy.

Final score:
2-1 Netherlands
or
3-2 Brazil

I'd say it's about 50-50.

YES!!!

Great, great goal. Perfect touch on the near post.

Unbelievable!

How big does that first half save look now?

Off Melo's head.

Lucky. scrappy. But, now with a little more confidence... This is getting good.

Told you not to worry.

GOAL NETHERLANDS!

Brazil are really pushing for a second.

Never seen that trick play on the corner. Too bad it didn't amount to something.

That save could give the Dutch some confidence though. There's still more than an hour to play.

WOW!

Robinho, unreal.

Yikes!
Almost two.

Oh boy. I think my pre-game analysis is good, just switch the teams.

Other than those two magnificent strikes by Japan, we really haven't seen much in the way of set piece goals.

Oh boy.

Well, it looks like I might be wrong....

oh dear!

what? no yellow card for that offside goal after the whistle?

Yikes! Brazil are looking pretty good...

Oh, yeah: De Jong. Forgot about him. He's why the Netherlands are going to win. He's been very good this tournament. If he can cut out some of the service to Fabiano, Robinho, end of Brazil attack. Yeah, De Jong vs Robinho.

Will today be a day of upsets?

I think so.

I know Brazil have been pretty dominant in every game, but I just don't like them. I can't stand Kaka, drives me nuts or more accurately he dives me nuts. And Lucio, I'm not a fan. In general, I don't love the philosophy of the team, no matter how effective it might be. I know they've scored some goals, but I think their midfield is going to have some problems with the dutch. Sneidjer, Van Bommel, Kuyt, they are quick in transition, but also hard-nosed enough to slow Brazil. Brazil's midfield is pretty banged up with lots of injuries, so they won't have their first or even second choices in there. In past games, teams have ceded the midfield and Brazil was waltzed through in attack. But if you do go through Brazil's midfield, they foul you. That is the Brazil game: attack beautifully, and when it breaks down Gilberto or Lucio fouls, slows play, the defense gets back, and then attack again. I think they are going to get into card trouble early in the midfield, then the dutch will impose on the midfield, and they'll get a couple goals. Of course Brazil will score too. I say 2-1 Netherlands. Hup Oranje!

In the second game: go Ghana! As far as pressure goes, Ghana has none. They have done wonderfully and are happy to be here. The support of the continent doesn't come with many expectations, so they are going to be much looser. Uruguay think they have a real chance and I think it will get to them a little. If Ghana can frustrate them, or even get an early goal, as they did against the US, game on. But, Uruguay have some serious talent, so they should overcome Ghana. Ghana has a few worrying injuries and yellow card suspensions that could dampen their chances, most notably Gyan, the goal scorer. We'll see if he is fit. I'm guessing he won't miss this. But, oh, if Ghana had Essien healthy, this would be a completely different story (and the brackets would have been different, as they would have beaten Germany).

Either way, great day of games. Go Oranje! Go Ghana!

Following up on my tirade of last week, I'm looking into where national team players play their club ball and if there is any correlation between that and how successful the national team has been in the World Cup. So, first things first, what are the elite club leagues? My initial thought is that the list is very short: English Premier League, Spanish La Liga, German Bundesliga and Italian Serie A. That's it. But then what is the criteria for determining that? Champions League? Club World Cup? Various other tournaments? Player salaries? The number of national team players in the league? So, what is your list of the top leagues? Does it include any leagues outside of Europe, such as Brazil's or Argentina's? What about the French, Dutch, Portuguese leagues? Give me your list of the elite club leagues.

Wow, that was quite a marathon of games. Got a little exhausted towards the end, sort of disappeared from the blog. I was recording games to give myself time to work on the stacks and stacks of things I need to do, so I couldn't post on the site, in case I saw something, then the games were starting up again.

Anyway, some great stuff in the quarterfinals. Spain was awesome against Portugal (Ronald-who?). Xavi+Ineasta+Villa=lots and lots of silverware for Barca. The dutch looked very efficient, though, uh oh, Van Persie has caused a ruckus with some comments about being withdrawn in that game. Team fight! There goes Holland. Brazil, efficient too against a bright Chile side. But, ugh, I can't stand Kaka. And then Messi: could he completely dominate this world cup, as he is doing, and not score a goal? That would be pretty great.

Ok, more during this lull: recaps, forecasts, thoughts about the game, etc.

What do you think?

Chile would be dominating just about any other team, but Brazil is looking unstoppable.

FIFA's response to the travesty of the first Argentine goal? Ban big screen replays in the stadium. Talk about missing the point.

Ouch, that was ruthless.

getting kind of chippy out there.

WOW. What a ball to Robben, and what a finish. But who passed that?

Go Oranje!

Ok Holland, let's go.

Looking good, but Slovakia are pretty damn good against the dutch.

Soccer is a cruel game.

Congratulations Germany. May you be taken apart by Argentina (or Mexico).

Well, I'd guess the result would have been the same, as Germany looks much better than England, but it is a travesty that this half didn't start 2-2, as it should have. It would have been a completely different half and England probably wouldn't have been caught on those counter attacks (well maybe).

But, England sure does miss Ferdinand.

Ugh.

Well, England don't really deserve to be level at half, but they should be. It is absurd that FIFA hasn't found a way to not let that happen. It is embarrassing for soccer, really.

Still, England are totally in it. Attack. Come on Rooney.

Really, really nice header.

Come on England!

What the F#%@&! That was a goal!! God damn it. FIFA FIX THAT!

Game on!

A sign of life from the England attack! They absolutely have to get a goal by half to have a chance.

Too easy....England might be able to find some better defenders in a nearby schoolyard.

what the hell was that??

Well, another four years....

Come on England! Be a team worth watching at least.

Since extra time has started, we've tried nothing but the long ball. WHY!?

All Dempsey...

The way this is going Ghana are going to blow us away. Putting Clark in for Edu was a mistake. Edu is much better (and I like Clark).

Go US! Go Ghana! (sorry, I can't really root against them)

Good game earlier. Thought South Korea might pull it out, but Uruguay won. Ok, they are fine.

But, here we go. This will be a game. US have a chance. We'll see. I'll write more when this is over.

But, everyone, watch these games. This is the real world cup now.

Group H - Final Games Preview

Teams Mathematically Eliminated:
None

Final Games:
Chile 6 points - Spain 3 points
Switzerland 3 points - Honduras 0 points

Final group-play games of 2010.

Spain-Chile is going to be a doozy. Both teams could easily end the day at the top of the group or heading home. Chile could still go through with a loss and some help from the Hondurans. Spain could also go through with a loss but they would need even more help from the Hondurans. Neither team is going to want to place their fate solely at the feet of Honduras. Plus there is the added incentive of avoiding Brazil by winning the group. Of course, winning the group means facing Portugal, not much better. Imagine a Spain-Portugal round of 16 game. Insanity. I really think Chile is going to be playing for the tie, that's all they need to top the group. Spain is not invulnerable, just ask the Swiss. In the end, Spain needs to win and I think they will, but will it be enough? I think so. Final Prediction: 2-0 Spain

Despite being virtually eliminated Honduras kind of controls this group. They need Chile to win and then need to make up a -4 goal differential, I don't see much likelihood of that happening. But any goals they can score will be devastating for Switzerland and really ratchet up the pressure on Spain. I think they will come out swinging and if they can get an early goal might just be able to pull this off. Unfortunately, I don't think they'll be able to do it. But, it should be an exciting game. I've been going high with my scores lately, but I really think this one has potential. Final Prediction: 3-2 Switzerland, I know, crazy, right? Unless Switzerland scores first in which case we're looking at 1-0. But, no, I'm sticking with 3-2.

Group G - Final Games Preview

Teams Mathematically Eliminated:
North Korea

Final Games:
Brazil 6 points - Portugal 4 points
Ivory Coast 1 point - North Korea 0 points

Late again.

Brazil-Portugal is going to be long stretches of pettiness, diving and histrionics broken by moments of sublime grace and speed. I predict this is the game with at least 1 red card. In the end they'll settle for a tie. Final Prediction: 1-1

North Korea has nothing to play for except not being sent to a hard labor camp on their return home. Ivory Coast could squeak by Portugal...if they scored 8 or 9 goals and Brazil beats Portugal. I think they'll try for it, but realistically, it's not really possible. Final Prediction: 4-1 Ivory Coast

Before I get to the Groups G and H final games preview, let me go all Bruce Lee smackdown on this piece of crap article from MarketWatch. Read it first and then come back for my dismantlement.

The author is obviously a casual soccer fan at best. The very first paragraph contains a mistake so glaring as to make the rest of the article meaningless. "...the brave hope of seeing the world's most expensive athletes perform what their huge contracts are meant to deliver: great soccer." What the author seems to fail to realize or is deliberately overlooking is that those huge contracts that some of the players have are with their club teams not their national federations. Yes, the federations do pay bonuses and I assume that all of them do that but there are no actual contracts. The players are still owned by their clubs.

The second paragraph doubles down on the stupidity. His assertion is that fans are not getting their money's worth because the games are low-scoring, specifically 8 goals in 7 games. But his sample size is from the first 3 days of a month long tournament, the first seven games of a 64 game tournament. That's a pretty small sample. And anyone who knows anything about tournament soccer knows that teams are generally very conservative at the beginning. No one can afford to lose their first game. For example, had the USA lost their first game to England and all the rest of the results in the group had stayed the same, the US would have been out of the tournament. A couple more points, in those 7 games, there were 4 winners. So, more than a goal a game and more wins than ties. Finally, had he waited until the end of the first round the numbers would look like this: 25 goals in 16 games, 10 winners and 6 ties.

The third paragraph takes the stupidity to another level. The cannon fodder argument, this is a favorite of Eurosnobs. The idea is that teams are in the final 32 just to round out the numbers and the 32nd team has no chance against the 1st ranked team. And yes, it's true, I'd rather play Honduras than Germany, but once you're down to 32 teams out of an initial 204 there aren't any easy games... at least not with the globalization of soccer, which we'll get to soon. There is always an underdog and the reason you play the games is because sometimes the underdog wins or plays better than you would expect. Most people who use this argument would say New Zealand was cannon fodder, yet they tied Slovakia, Italy and Paraguay. Yeah, North Korea got destroyed by Portugal 7-0 but it was 1-0 at halftime and they only lost to mighty Brazil 2-1. On any given Sunday, my friend, on any given Sunday.

This just cracked me up: "The cup's diminishing quality is already 26 years old. The five tourneys since 1986" Uh, dude, 1986 was 24 years ago.

Then he goes on to point out high scoring finals of the past and compares that to the lower scoring finals of recent years. If you want to blame someone for that blame Italy, that's what they f*ing do. Oh, look, "...in the entire 2006 tournament, champion Italy scored a measly 12 goals...". Again, blame Italy, but also, how about this, in today's game England would have won the 1966 final 3-2 not 4-2 (they didn't use the golden goal rule then) and would have scored 10 for the whole tournament instead of 11. Or look at the 1962 tournament, Brazil scored 15 for the whole tournament but only 4 in group play, hey that's how many the USA has scored in group play in this tournament. If anything, those earlier scores prove that the cannon fodder argument is a thing of the past. Who wants to watch a 9-0 blowout like the Hungary-South Korea group play game of 1954 compared to the 1-0 USA-Algeria "breathtakingly exciting" game of this tournament, other than Hungarians? So teams have learned how to play defense and even the lower ranked teams in the tournament can get a result. Dude, your arguments are contradicting each other.

"Ultimately, if the game's fertility crisis is not treated, team owners will find that TV-broadcast rights, which currently earn even mediocre European clubs an annual $50 million, will dwindle. So will sponsorship and ad revenue and stadium attendances that currently yield ticket sales of $5 million and more per game.

What, then, is the cause of soccer's emerging decline..." Decline, what decline? The premise is that low-scoring games are causing "even mediocre European clubs [to earn] an annual $50 million"? I don't understand the math. There is no evidence presented to indicate that low-scoring games are cutting into club profits or that it is going to anytime in the future. Not to mention that, once again, club teams are not national teams.

What follows next is a lame, vomit-inducing, nearly xenophobic 500 words or so about how great everything was when most national team players played in their local leagues.

"The goals scored in soccer's golden age were not only numerous but also beautiful because teammates knew each other as closely as spouses and read each other as naturally as musicians in philharmonic orchestras.

Such players were well-acquainted because they played together regularly, and even when they were on opposing teams they still were parts of the same sporting ecosystem."

Ugh, puke. Seriously dude, that's just embarrassing. You really think Gattuso (AC Milan) and Criscito (Genoa) don't have to do some serious mental gymnastics not to kill each other because they are "parts of the same sporting ecosystem."? The author obviously has no idea of the rivalry between AC Milan and Genoa (not to say I know a whole lot either, I know it's a big rivalry but I don't really know well Gattuso or Criscito do or do not get along). I would say that not knowing your national team teammates may be more of an advantage in building team unity than overcoming local team rivalries and that time your new midfield partner broke your club teammate's ankle.

And finally we get to the solutions to a problem that not only does not exist but even if it did hasn't been proven or even adequately defined by the preceding drivel.

"FIFA, soccer's ultraconservative ruling body, may not be able to ban foreign ownership, but it can limit the number of foreign players allowed to play on a football club, and it can cap salaries and limit trades"

No, no it can't. FIFA has no control, whatsoever, over the business dealings of local leagues. And that's what those things are, business issues. The sentence doesn't even make sense on its own. If FIFA could limit the number of foreign players in each league and institute salary caps and limit trades why wouldn't it be able to ban foreign ownership? There may be a reason in the author's head but without telling us what it is the sentence just doesn't make sense.

"Proposals include enlarging the goal..." Has the author stood in a goal and tried to stop a shot? That thing is huge.

"...reducing the number of players on the pitch..." I want to watch a soccer game not a marathon.

"...limiting the number of defenders allowed in the area in front of their own goal..." I don't even know what to say about this idea. Seriously, what, why? I don't get it. How would that be enforced? Would it be a penalty kick or a free kick outside the box? Just idiotic.

And then, finally, we get to the usual argument of the uninitiated soccer viewer, get rid of the offside rule. Here's what that would do. Create an even more defensive low-scoring game. Teams would play with 6 or 7 defenders to counter the 1 or 2 offensive players standing next to the goal. Midfield play would be virtually non-existent, own goals would increase dramatically since there would be so many players in the box to bounce shots off of and most legitimate goals would be headers. It would have the opposite effect on opening up the game.

"If soccer's rules are not changed soon, private enterprise will eventually set up new-rules leagues, and those will begin to steal players, fans, advertisers and broadcasts from the once bewitching game..." Those new-rules leagues should definitely ask the USFL and XFL how they were so successful.

End tirade.

Damn, Japan took Denmark apart.

Group E - Final Games Preview

Teams Mathematically Eliminated:
Cameroon

Final Games:
Netherlands 6 points - Cameroon 0 points
Denmark 3 points - Japan 3 points

So, the Netherlands-Cameroon game. Cameroon has no way through and Netherlands is really only worried about getting enough goals to stay in first. Final Prediction: 2-0 Netherlands

The other game, Japan-Denmark is going to be crazy. A win sends someone through. A tie sends Japan through. Final Prediction: 1-1

Italy out. No tears shed by me.

Group F - Final Games Preview

Teams Mathematically Eliminated:
None

Final Games:
Paraguay 4 points - New Zealand 2 points
Italy 2 points - Slovakia 1 point

Oops, kinda missed this one. Ok, quick predictions (I know the games are currently on but I haven't looked yet):

Paraguay 1 - New Zealand 1
Italy 1 - Slovakia 0

Go Ghana... oh wait....


Germany--england. Should be interesting. .

I'm recording the 2:30 game, be back after. Great win for the US, well deserved. Overall, they have been one of the more entertaining teams in this WC.

Go Ghana! Go Serbia!

Amazing finish...unreal. Top of the group.

Unreal. U.S. tops the group!

finally!

GOAL!!

Here comes Joe Cole. Hopefully he can get it going for them up front.

What a save by the Algerian keeper!

If the US don't get a goal (they have no problem scoring, just getting the refs to allow them), well, I don't know what. How are these not going in...

What chances for Slovenia!

Post for the U.S.!

Post for Rooney!

Second half. If scores hold England and Slovenia advance. Can't believe the U.S. have had two consecutive goals disallowed on erroneous offside calls.

This is a lot more like it from England!

Lampard?!

England!

First save for James!

Quite enjoyed Martin Sheen's little jingoistic introduction.

Posting live for the first time today. With two televisions stacked on top of each other I'm good to go. Let's get it on!

Group D - Final Games Preview

Teams Mathematically Eliminated:
None

Final Games:
Ghana 4 points - Germany 3 points
Serbia 3 points - Australia 1 point

Essentially, this entire group comes down to Germany. Will the dreaded Mannschaft show up or will they be another victim of the European curse of this World Cup? Yeah, they destroyed Australia, but it's Australia, a team playing in only their 3 World Cup. Then there was the Serbian debacle. They are vulnerable. And what of Ghana, the last African team with a legitimate shot at going through, the hopes of a continent on their shoulders (yeah, Ivory Coast needs a Brazil win over Portugal and to overcome a -9 goal differential, not likely). Can they beat Germany? I think they can, but I don't think they will. The key will be the first 20 minutes. If Ghana can score in the first 15 things could get interesting. As much as I hate to admit it in the end the Germans will prevail. Final Prediction: 2-1 Germany

Serbia: lost to Ghana, beat Germany. They're still going to be a bit pumped up from that second result. But Australia has a bit of confidence too, after their tie with Ghana. Plus, Australia has that English-speaking nation spirit, fight til the end and win any way possible. Neither team has so far appeared to be a scoring threat but both can play shutdown team defense. This game has 0 to 1 goal slugfest written all over it. Final Prediction: 1-0 Serbia

And with those results Germany escapes to top the group. I hope I am wrong. A Ghana win would be awesome.

What a pair of halves. South Africa couldn't ask for anything better: up by two, up a man, and Uruguay up in the other game. They have played great, and if they do go out (still likely), they can certainly hold their heads high.

France, not so much. In the second half, they will be much tighter, but still will be a team of loons, coached by a loon, and I don't think they will have much cohesion. They just want this to b over so they can disappear.

South Africa need goals!

In the other game, Mexico will put up a fight and work for a goal, but Suarez and Forlan on the break will lead to more goals for Uruguay.

Two more goals, either way, and they are through. This would be pretty stunning and a great boost for this world cup.

South Africa up by two!

Red card to France...wow.

Can South Africa do it?!?

They need another goal or two and a high, lopsided score in the other game. Don't really care between Uruguay and Mexico.

Group C - Final Games Preview

Teams Mathematically Eliminated:
None

Final Games:
Slovenia 4 points - England 2 points
USA 2 points - Algeria 1 point

Ok, let's get this out of the way. WE WUZ ROBBED! AGAIN! In 2002 the ball was in the goal when it hit the hand of the German player and came out. No goal, no red card, no penalty kick. Now, in 2010, while 3 or 4 of our players are being tackled American football style we decisively put the ball in the back of the net only to have it called back for... something. No one knows what the call was. Why are Sepp Blatter (I only just now realized how silly that name sounds) and FIFA so scared of the US doing well in the World Cup? Hmmm...

Slovenia is through with a win or tie. Or even a loss coupled with an Algerian win by less than 2. England, on the other hand, needs a win. Technically, England could get through with a tie coupled with a USA-Algeria tie as long as they score 3 more goals than the US. Doesn't seem all that likely given their lack of scoring so far. I really have no idea how this game will turn out. Will England finally show up? Behind France they are definitely the most dysfunction team in the tournament. Can they handle the pressure? They haven't so far and I haven't really heard anything that makes me think they can now. Slovenia comes into this game with a chip on their shoulder. As has been pointed out numerous times they are the smallest country, population-wise, in the tournament, they've got something to prove. At the same time, they have got to have a little bit of a nagging doubt. They lost their last game after going 2 up. They know it, the final score may not agree, but they know they lost that game. That's gotta mess with your head a little. I predict a foul-ridden game of attrition that ends on a penalty kick. Final Prediction: 2-1 England

Algeria has the 2nd best chance of the 6 African teams to go through and it's a pretty dismal chance. They have to win and hope for a Slovenia win or an England/Slovenia tie or to put it another way, if England wins they're out regardless of how they do. Actually, maybe it's not that far-fetched. Algeria's not terrible and they've been in high pressure games before, or at least one high pressure game, their playoff with Egypt to make it to the tournament. But absent that kind of emotion (think USA vs. Mexico with rioting fans) can they get the job done? They haven't scored a goal yet, but they've also only conceded one. But, I don't think it's going to be enough to overcome the US. Look, we've been in this position before, in 2006, we needed a win against Ghana to advance, one awful giveaway and injury to captain Claudio Reyna and one crap penalty call later (hmmm, an incorrect call going against the US, where have I heard that before?) and we're out. But more recently, in the 2009 Confederations Cup, we needed a huge win against Egypt to advance and got it. I think this team has possibly the best team unity of any in the tournament. They know they can't allow the official to be in the position of taking the game from them and despite all the naysayers I think they better coached than any US team in the modern era. I think we will score early and often. Final Prediction: 3-1 USA.

Once again the game with the least promise proved to be the most compelling. That New Zealand were able to hold the reigning world champions is beyond astonishing, particularly coming on the heels of a game that was, until today, the most impressive in their history. Paston's 70th minute one-handed save was simply remarkable, and the fact that they successfully defended 15 corners underlined just how disciplined, and wisely managed they are as a team.

Slovakia failed to register a shot on goal. What more do you need to say. Hard to believe they edged Slovenia as the top team in their qualifying group. Still, giving up the last minute tying goal to New Zealand in their previous match wasn't likely to go to their legs. I would tip them to give Italy fits, and maybe even win, as their pride is on the line.

With all of the commotion in the French camp involving what the players appear to be believe is myopic and counter-intuitive coaching, you'd think Eriksson would have allowed his team to play to its strengths. In fairness, they started reasonably well, but as soon as they conceded their shape and attitude toward the ball changed for the worse, and they were never able to recover, leaving themselves in a position where they will likely need help as well as a favorable result against N. Korea to push through.

Spain should hammer Honduras tomorrow, but I wonder if the early game might not be the one that sizzles. Thoughts?

No posts from the host? Must still be reeling from that U.S./Slovenia result. Comedy defending aside, the Cameroon/Denmark match could well help "grow the game" in this part of the world. Eto'o the egotist vs Nicklas Bendtder, the man whose favorite footballer is Nicklas Bendtner, made for one hell of a spectacle. The Danes bore absolutely no resemblence to the team that lost so hopelessly to Holland. Tomasson was preposterously unlucky not to score, and Cameroon had no answer for Rommedahl down the right side. Denmark/Japan is clearly the match to watch next week. Shame about Cameroon though. Webo had some quality chances.

Last night's England/Algeria match left me feeling despondent about the state of the game in my mother's home country. I find myself in the previously impossible position of cheering for Slovenia to beat them. U.S.A. showed real resolve, passion, and belief in forcing a tie in their last match (the fact they were robbed of a win is obviously well documented here and elsewhere). Based on what I've seen so far, England will be lucky to draw the Slovenians, but something deep inside me says they will prevail and, ultimately, advance. Rooney stinks though, and is a shadow (to this point) of the player who burst onto the scene in Euro 2004. Where is the new young team? Is England's go to alternative seriously Peter Crouch? I'd be interested to know who was left off this squad at forward. Anyway, the group remains wide open at this point, particularly if you consider the fact that an Algeria win against the U.S. could put the African side through.

Tomorrow's late game between Brazil and Ivory Coast, on paper, is worthy of a World Cup final match. I can only hope it lives up to the hype. Go Elephants! Go Kiwis!

Group B - Final Games Preview

Teams Mathematically Eliminated:
None

Final Games:
Argentina 6 points - Greece 3 points
South Korea 3 points - Nigeria 0 points

Argentina is looking great (ugh, I had to say it again), although Messi has yet to score and that could be troubling. They are essentially through, it would take a miracle for them to be eliminated, specifically, a loss to Greece by at least 6 and a South Korea win over Nigeria by at least 6. I'll give a million to one odds against that. No, Argentina is through even with a loss. So, the question for crazy person masquerading as a coach, Maradonna, is does he rest anyone. If it's me I'd rest a minimum of 3...but not Messi, he wants that Golden Boot and there are already enough questions about the relationship between coach and star striker. Greece has an impossible task. A tie could see them through with a Nigeria win or a South Korea/Nigeria tie as long as they score 2 more than South Korea. Yes, a win would get them even with Argentina on points but then they would again need help from Nigeria. But let's be honest, they aren't beating Argentina, they aren't even going to tie Argentina. I don't care how good their bunker and counter-attack is. Final Prediction: 2-0 Argentina

With the assumption that Greece is on their way to a loss, South Korea and Nigeria have everything to play for. South Korea goes through with a win or tie. Nigeria goes through with a win (in this game every positive goal difference for Nigeria is essentially worth +2 in goal differential since they would be also taking a GD point away from South Korea, for example a 1-0 Nigeria win would put their GD at -1 and South Korea's GD at -2). I don't see South Korea having the confidence in their defense to bunker, besides it's really not their style, they're more of a clog the midfield and run you to death kinda team. Both will have to attack. This could be a barn-burner. I like South Korea but I also want the African teams to do well, kind of a toss-up on which one I would rather see go through, as long it's one of them and not Greece. Final Prediction: 2-2

Group A - Final Games Preview

Teams Mathematically Eliminated:
None

Final Games:
Uruguay 4 points - Mexico 4 points
South Africa 1 point - France 1 point

The big stories with Group A are the complete meltdown of France and the most likely elimination of the host country, South Africa, for the first time in World Cup history.

Uruguay and Mexico really don't have much to play for in terms of getting to the next round, a tie sends them both through regardless of the other game. A loss by either team is also probably not enough to knock them out since they have +3 and +2 goal differentials respectively. However, I think they will want to win since the group runner-up most likely plays Argentina, who look pretty unbeatable (yes, a little part of me died just typing that). The group winner plays...who knows, could be South Korea, Greece or Nigeria. So, I expect a low scoring game 1-0, 1-1, maybe 2-1. If there was a way for both teams to actually lose I would be happy with that. Uruguay's game against South Africa turned me against them. I felt they dove too much, got away with too many fouls and scoring that 3rd goal in injury time and celebrating like they had just gone ahead after being 2 down at halftime (yes, everything I write about this World Cup from now on will have some reference to the robbery of USA's historic win against Slovenia) just seemed classless to me. I know, every goal is important and necessary but, come one, it's the host nation, let them keep a little dignity. Then there's Mexico, what can I say, they are hated CONCACAF rivals... and Blanco is on the team, hate that guy. At the same time they are CONCACAF brothers, the better they do the more respect we (meaning CONCACAF in general) should get. It doesn't really happen that way, Eurosnobs will be Eurosnobs, but it does give me more ammo. Final prediction: 1-1

France and South Africa, on the other hand, have everything and nothing to play for. In order for either team to get through they need a winner in the other game and high scoring in both games. France would need a +5 GD if Uruguay won and +6 if Mexico won. South Africa has an even harder road, they would need +6 with a Uruguay win and +7 with a Mexico win. I don't see any of those scenarios working out. France is in absolute shambles. There are reports of infighting on the team. Nicholas Anelka has been sent home for fighting with the crazy coach. They've looked pretty horrible offensively in both games having yet to score a goal. South Africa, on the other hand has played aggressive, attacking soccer which cost them against Uruguay. I think they've looked fairly decent. Final prediction: 3-0 South Africa

Glad to see both teams take points in this one, even though the U.S. were inexplicably robbed of the late winner. As a neutral, I was delighted to see the European minnows go up by two in the first half, especially as I had essentially predicted they could be a dark horse group winner - I actually banged my head on the low ceiling in the basement here when Ljubijankic scored.

Loved Jovanovich's goal celebration in the early game. Makes producing a Spiderman mask from inside of your underpants seem pedestrian in comparison. The refereeing was atrocious though, and as much as I'm genetically programmed to despise the Germans, I can't help but feel that with 11 men for 90 minutes, even with Klose out, they will beat Ghana and likely win the group. Watching the England game this evening, so likely won't post again until tomorrow. Holland vs Japan holds the most promise as a spectacle on Saturday. Happy viewing.

In my continuing run of blaspheme: I'm not that excited about the US team. Although they got the draw, they were one of the tighter, least adventurous teams in the opening games. I heard some statistic that the US ranked last in attacking chances. Donavon popped up in strange, not very useful places and Dempsey took one shot (that was pretty much right at the keeper; luckily the keeper flinched). Onyewu was pretty solid and Howard was amazing. We got very lucky.

Still, I expect very different things from the US this game. We don't do well against Europe, especially mid level Europe. The big teams we can (somehow) get a draw against, but the Polands of Europe tend to beat us. There will be more room and more urgency. I think the US can establish control of the game, score a couple goals, and get a win. Torres, let's see what you can do.
2-1 US.

And, wow, France?

So, I will be disappearing for the rest of the day. I am recording the US game and then the England game for nighttime viewing with others. I am going off-line, turning off TV and radio, hopefully I won't find out the score. Don't tell me! Don't call, text, send telegram, anything. I'll return tonight.

Go USA...

Germany is in trouble now. Their final game is against Ghana and something tells me Ghana will have their number. They do have the goal differential, which might just come in handy as a tie breaker, but I can see Ghana winning tomorrow, then getting a draw or better against Germany and Serbia beating Australia: done Ghana and Serbia go through. Will my crazy pre-tournament prediction that Germany wouldn't get out of the group come true?

Go Ghana!

As much as I love to see Klose get red, poor refereeing. So far, the referees have been wonderful, until now.

Germany are in trouble now.

Germany will find this a much more difficult game and we'll see how good they are against some actual competition. Certainly, the midfield will be tighter and more contested. And, Serbia need a win, so they'll attack. It'll be more open, with both sides getting chances.

Go Serbia!

Go Serbia!

Nigeria's red card ultimately worked to make the match that I felt would be least intriguing today into a real barn burner. Still, rather than the "rush of blood to the head" Robbie Mustoe believed was responsible for Kaita's indiscretion, I can't help but wonder if it was intentional. The Nigerians have been accused of corrupt behavior in the past, and that sort of brain-lock at this level just seems so unlikely. I'm far from a conspiracy-minded person (at least in this context), but it did give me pause to think.

Really looking forward to the Mexico/Uruguay match, as Mexico will be playing to win in order to avoid facing Argentina and La Mano de Dios. Also interested to see how little Slovenia make out tomorrow.

If I'm Maradonna I would first realize that I'm batshit insane but then I would rest as many players as I could. The only way Argentina doesn't go through as 1st in the group is if either Greece or South Korea win their last game by 5 or more. But he is batshit insane so he'll probably go for the win, everyone will be exhausted and Argentina goes out in the round of 16. At least that's what I hope happens.

Recording France-Mexico, watching it later. But, this is a huge game for both teams. A win will put either team a lot closer to qualification. A draw is fine, but it doesn't really do that much-in fact it widens up South Africa's chance. I think Mexico will struggle against Uruguay, their third game opponent, and France-on paper-has a better chance, but South Africa will very much show up out of pride (and still that tiny formula of probability that puts them through). Either way, the last games are going to be pretty interesting.

Not really sure who I'm for. I do like France's players, but as a team they are a mess. I think the players need to figure this out and ignore Domenech. Mexico had some promise in the first game, but taking the way Uruguay took South Africa apart into the equation, you wonder how good Mexico really is. Could be immensely dull, but something makes me think one or both of these teams might have things figured out.

Allez Bleu!

Nigeria can still go through with an Argentina win over Greece and a Nigeria win over South Korea by 2 goals.

And Nigeria have had a tragic game: the red card, Taiwo going out, that goal.

Come on, Nigeria!!

This is a goalkeeper fan's game. Amazing saves at both ends.

Greece has to win this and they are trying valiantly.

Nigeria can live with a draw, though watch them getting a chance or two on the counterattack. It would be just desserts for Greece and what they did in Euro 2004.

Wow! Greece score and lead. Should play have been called with two players down in front of the keeper with head injuries? Perhaps, perhaps.

Nigeria have twenty minutes to get the win. Greece will bunker, but with the extra player they are even more dangerous on counter attack.

Should be an interesting end. There will be chances.

Greece Goal! They deserve it.

Good change by Greece. Though I don't really like Samaras, they pulled a defender, sending a clear message to Nigeria: we will attack now. If Greece get a goal in this half, they'll win.

Oh boy! Kaita-red card, Nigeria is down to 10 men. 34 minute.

Crazy!

Greece have to score now. Great goal for this game.

This is going to get good.

I'm not the biggest Argentina fan, but at some point I can't root against quality. And, to be honest, isn't Messi really more of a Spanish player? Now that, would be unstoppable.

Goal! Nice!

Boo Argentina.

Moving on to Nigeria-Greece. This could be an exciting game. If either team loses, they are out. So, I expect Nigeria to be going full tilt. The question is Greece, normally I would expect them to play for a tie, that's what they do. But this game I think they have to play for the win since otherwise they would need to beat Argentina in their final game and that's not looking very likely. Go Nigeria!

Goals!

Higuan got a hat trick, but really, it's all Messi. He had an important touch in all of them (well, maybe not the second one). The other goals were all Messi. Yeah, they looked pretty good going forward. At the back? Suspect. But, still, it seems like playing on the ground and dribbling isn't hindered by the ball.

Up next Nigeria-Greece. This should be a win for Nigeria, and they need it. Against Argentina, Nigeria didn't quite show up, but this is a must win and I can't see Greece keeping up with them. Come on Nigeria!! Super Eagles!

Yesterday was tough. Spain losing; South Africa imploding. It's not good for tournaments for the hosts to go out, but it looks like South Africa will fall at the first hurdle. I think (and hope) the local fans will broaden their allegiances to the other african teams. Forlan was pretty great, but I can't see Uruguay going too far in the tournament. But, they are looking good for going through.

Argentina had better watch out if they want to win this game!

Tough on South Korea, but great ball in by Messi. Really Demichelis should have buried that.

Who scores next?

Oh dear. After Senderos went off it felt like a sign that Spain's seemingly endless ascendancy would inevitably result in a brace of goals. But as the broadcast team pointed out, the Swiss kept clean sheets in all four of their matches last time around (aside from being eliminated on penalty kicks). They may well have the best team defense in the tournament. If they can beat Spain, no reason to believe they can't earn scoreless draws or better against Chile and Los Catrachos.

Forlan was a force in the late game. Looks like Uruguay are through. Shame about RSAs almost certain claim to the ignominious legacy of being the only host not to make it out of the round robin. The best thing about Honduras was the English translation of their national anthem: "Your flag is a splendor of sky".

Memorable British footballisms today included Gelson Fernandes' "scruffy strike", and “not that he knew too much about it” in reference to Beausejour's game winning tally. I also quite enjoy British people's fearless and continued use of the word "normal".

France/Mexico looks to be tomorrow's standout match, though I'm interested to see how the South Korean's make out.

Forgot!

Go Bafana Bafana!

Recording the South Africa-Uruguay game, going to watch it later.

But, at this shift in the tournament, the start of the second game of the group phase, what to make of the opening round. Not a lot. The play has been, overall, poor, with very few goals. No one can shoot on target (or away from the keeper) or make the final cross (the ball, the ball), with those few exceptions. I was flush with disappointment after Spain's loss, but I think my assessment was fair: it's been a poor tournament so far. But, the opening games are always bad. Everyone is trying not to make a mistake, while getting used to their teammates, the atmosphere, the grounds, etc. Lots of good teams do so-so in these first games, and there are always a few outside teams that click, do really well-South Korea, Japan, Chile. So it is to be expected, in some ways.

So: what's next. Game twos can be the best of the tournament. There are teams that have to win this game (US, Spain, England, Ghana, Serbia, Cameroon, Portugal, Ivory Coast). Losing puts you out or close. There is more at stake, more passion, more goals (please!). I think many big names will be through to the next round (or close)--Brazil, Netherlands, Argentina, Germany. Some big names will right the ship--Spain, England, US, Ivory Coast. Elsewhere, things will get more complicated. I hope for goals and not because I need the high scoring games, but I want the pressure to go up, and the level of success. So many great movements or promising passes have gone astray (the ball? Ok, maybe not. But after the Spain game, I switched over to FSC and they had a Middlesborough vs Norwich game from 2005: final score 4-4, Norwich coming back from 4-1 in the last twenty minutes. Each goal sublime (and maybe a bit scrappy), but the completion of a successful movement. Something's different now). It sometimes seems like the players are playing chess on some other field, we can't see. We need more immediacy, more presence on the field, we need movements to connect.

And some goals.

It might be blaspheme to suggest, but:

Xavi dissappered in Iniesta's midfield, and for Spain, it is Iniesta's. I think it should be Iniesta, Fabregas. Sorry Xavi, the bench for you. Xavi just couldn't find space. Fabregas is somewhat of a small presence, and will fit better, where Xavi and Iniesta bumped heads. Plus, Xavi off the bench, instant ideas.

Netherlands: Van der Vaart, to the bench. Elia Left side. Done. Similar problem with Spain (and I think this used to be/is still a problem for England: Lampard/Gerard. Though I guess the captaincy seals that one). But, yeah, Sneijder was wonderful, but Van Der Vaart keep getting in the way (and I'm not just saying that because he unfortunately plays for Real). Stick with Van Persie. Get Robben in there. Done.

Wow. That is a real shame for this world cup. At this point, at the end of the opening round of games: not looking good at all. Very few goals and few teams looking any good. Though, I have to say, Spain looked great until the last fifteen minutes. But: where was Fabregas?

Can't really believe this. Come on Spain.

Come on Spain!!

Switzerland should have just scored five goals..Spain got very lucky.

Navas! So close...

Amazing shot off crossbar by xabi alonso! So close...

Torres! So close...

Iniesta! So close...

Good changes for Spain. Torres and Navas on. Come on Spain!

Doubtful the Swiss will make another foray. 10-11 behind the ball now for them.

Ok Spain. You need two.

Spain right back at the swiss goal.

Oh my: Swiss score!

wow.....

No goals, huh. Should be at least 2-0 Spain.

Iniesta is amazing. I think he is more important than Xavi for Spain. Other way around for Barca.

Get a goal Spain...

Pique! How'd you miss!

Spain will get a penalty kick at some point in this game.

Possession: 80% Spain

This is actually a pretty good test for Spain.

Great break for Spain. Just a little heavy for Villa in the box. Spain look pretty awesome.

But, yes, the swiss aren't a bad team. A little old, but experienced and solid defensively. Can Spain break them down?

Has Switzerland had possession of the ball yet?

Ok Spain. So far, Germany, Brazil, maybe Argentina, have shown the skills and the knowledge to win this world cup. Chile, South Korea, Netherlands, Japan, Ivory Coast, Ghana, have shown promise, everyone else have been pretty bad. Spain, which group do you want to join?

It's been said by the excellent Phil Crymble, it's Spain's to lose. Attack, score, play, and they should be fine.

The more chances Chile misses, the more likely Honduras will nick one, a la New Zealand...

great save by the Honduran keeper. Wow. But with these waves and waves of Chilean attack, the second goal's coming.

Chile is all over Honduras, and I imagine this is what will happen for most of the game. 2-0? I'm not sure Honduras can keep up. Chile is a really speedy, goal scoring team, if lacking a touch of control. I like them.

But, yesterday...Ivory Coast looked pretty good. I like Gervinho a lot (not sure about the hair, but his feet are great) and I am a fan of Yaya Toure. Barcelona are crazy to ship him out this summer. But Drogba was a non-entity for the twenty minutes he was on. It's a bit worrying for Côte, that he didn't seem to want the ball. Normally, Drogba is always showing, running, but he never seemed to turn up. Is a Drogba who doesn't get involved better than another player? Not completely sure. Portugal, snooze. Except Ronaldo's blistering shot, they didn't have much and Ronaldo wasn't much more than a few step overs. Go Elephants!

Brazil, were first round Brazil: idling, threatening to actually put their attacking machine into gear, getting goals anyway. Robinho's through ball to Elano was wonderful and he might actually be showing up to play. Otherwise, they are holding back, keeping things in reserve. The next game is huge. Go Elephants. And, hey, go North Korea. They will frustrate Portugal, and they can score, as they have proven. Go Korea and your paid fans....

Not nearly as shocking as N. Korea's clean sheet at the half, or the late goal they scored to make it 2-1, was Martin Tyler's revelation that their supporters in the stadium were actually paid Chinese actors. McCoist's reference to a particularly dangerous cross in as a "hospital ball" is one I hadn't heard in a while, so kudos for that.

Portugal were pushed off the ball from the outset by the much more physically dominant Ivorians. The "Golden Generation" are clearly a little long in the tooth now, and seemed puny, submissive, and at a loss as to how to mount any kind of meaningful attack, other than Ronaldo's single, magnificent strike from distance that blasted off the frame of the goal. Germany 2006 was their best opportunity, but after losing to France 1-0 in the semi they looked like they couldn't wait to get on the next plane out in losing to the Germans 3-1.

The kiwi header to tie the game at the death is likely to live on in New Zealand footballing lore for generations. Don't fancy them to do much more as they go forward, but you never know. Interested to see how Honduras makes out tomorrow, and the Bafana, Bafana late game against Uruguay should answer some questions. Viva Espana!

Well, that makes group f pretty interesting...though this is the best result for Italy, no one to catch now.

But, still waiting for that 3-2 game. Will we see it today? Ivory Coast-Portugal is, for me, the game of the first round. Realistically, they are fighting for the other berth from this group, as Brazil will take the other one. So, a win is what they need. As I've said, Ivory Coast are still my pick for the tournament. We'll see how Drogba can play with the cast (and, you know, the broken arm). He is a very physical forward, and the question is if he will have the strength (and the pain tolerance, I'd imagine) to fight off defenders. Looks like he is not in the starting line-up, but I'm guessing we'll see him at some point. Not much of a fan of Ronaldo, but maybe he'll figure out how to put a free kick on goal, at least. Overall, though, I'm not sure Portugal have the complete team. They rely heavily on Ronaldo and without the additional threat of Nani, they are a little more one dimensional. Or someone will step up. Deco just seems past his prime, though Danny isn't bad. But, I really like Ivory Coast. Great players all throughout the team: Yaya Toure is a wonderful holding midfielder and for such a big man he is pretty fleet footed. Gervinho could be a breakout in this tournament and Kalou is great. I'm saying 2-1 Ivory Coast.

Go Elephants!

But, I will be recording it and watching it tonight with others along with the Brazil game. Other people have to see this game...

Go Elephants!!

Wasn't Italy a portrait in dullness yesterday. I fell asleep watching them! That takes some extra boring football. But that's Italy. I was really pulling for Paraguay, and maybe Slovakia can give Italy some trouble. Still a chance it could be Slovakia, Paraguay.

Holy cow! New Zealand equalized in stoppage time!!! Wow! That changes things. Good job New Zealand. Great cross in.

Apologies for taking my time in joining the conversation. I'm tivoing games, plus juggling child minding responsibilities. Bit of a slow start this time around, though, reluctantly, I have to agree that the Germans were a delight to behold. According to what they've been saying, teams winning their opening matches have a better than 80% chance of advancing, so watch out for the Slovenians. They might just win the group.

So glad that ESPN is more or less exclusively using UK broadcasters and colo(u)r men. But maybe that's just my bias. I've particularly enjoyed Ian Darke and Ally McCoist. The new footballing vernacular term of the tournament appears to be "posse". I also liked Adrian Healey's mention of a "cultured left foot", and laughed out loud when Darke cleverly remarked, after the camera fell on a couple of guys who looked like they were extras from Nacho Libre, that it wasn't entirely necessary that you attend World Cup games in disguise, and in fact, that it was perfectly fine to come as yourself.

Looking forward to tomorrow's Group G matches, especially Portugal/Ivory Coast. I think the fix was in for North Korea. Guess that's what happens when you don't play nice with other countries. My good guess is that it's Spain's to lose, which they normally would, but I'm not so sure after Euro 2008. Happy viewing. Viva Espana!

Recording this for night time viewing so I can get something done today.

Go Paraguay!! Let's put Italy out in the first round!

Good job Japan. They played really well. But, Cameroon isn't necessarily out and Japan isn't necessarily in.

Penalty? Not sure about that. But, come on Cameroon. One more minute!

Wow! That's a shot! Off the crossbar. Come on Cameroon!

Or maybe just passing in general.

....it's the fourth or fifth pass that are tripping Cameroon up.

Come on Cameroon. Figure it out!

Honda!

Not sure we'll get to half 1-0.

This won't be a 0-0 at halftime.

scrappy, but it will settle.

I hope.

Ok. I think this is going to be a great game. After the dutch win, the pressure is on. Honda is really great for Japan. Saw him in the champions league with his club and he was fast and smart. Cameroon, though, should be confident. They are very good and if they can keep up with the japanese, they should win. For Japan, go for it. To get to the quarterfinals, as their coach claims they will, they might want to win this game.

I'd watch this if I were you.

Nice start for the dutch. Again, as with many other teams, they seem like they are still getting comfortable, holding back a little. These first games of the group stage are often the the tightest. I really like Elia. If they can get Van Persie up to fitness and Robben...


Next up Japan-Cameroon. This could be a fun one.

Nice goal. Great run by Ellia (who looks great...start him!), nice through ball by sneijder. Just wish Elia had scored and not hit the post. He deserved it. Good mopping up by Kuyt, following the play.

Hate own goals, but I'll take it. Go Oranje! Get a real goal...

It brings me no joy to write the following: Germany was pretty awesome last night. Their movement and passing was superb. By miles, the best performance of the tournament. They were, as we expect from Germany, a well oiled soccer machine, and not as soulless as they have been in the past. As impressive as they were, let's not forget that Australia was awful. Really, really awful. Their defense was so completely amateur and when it was clear their plan wasn't going to work, they had no plan b. Serbia is going to be a different story-their defense is excellent-and it will be interesting to see how Germany handles inches, not acres of space and a brighter than dimwitted defensive line. Also, Ghana has a real midfield and offense. Basically, Germany wasn't tested at all. My impossible dream of a Germany-less second round isn't completely extinguished (Well, sort of, but if Ghana and Serbia beat Germany...). Go Ghana, go Serbia!

But, thank you Germany for playing good football, scoring some goals, connecting with your passes, and generally showing every other country how to play in the world cup.

Ok. Re-group.

Go Oranje!

Sigh.

So, I'm recording the Germany-Australia game and watching it later. I'll write more anon. Go Australia!

I think both Ghana and Serbia looked good. This was a good game. Serbia was a bit unlucky to go down to 10 men but the hand ball was pretty clear cut, I wish we had had that ref for the 2002 US-Germany game.

On to Germany-Australia at 2:30

Aussie! Aussie! Aussie! Oy! Oy! Oy!

Ghana!!!
Great penalty kick.

Penalty!

Ghana...come on...

Ok. Ghana, here's your chance. Game shift.


Come on Ghana!!

Serbia is starting to solidify the midfield. Watch out for them sneaking a late goal. Come on Ghana!

Come on Ghana. Win this game.

Good first 15. Go Ghana!

Moving on from that dull game to, hopefully, not another dull game. Serbia are defensive masters and I can see them stifling the Essien-less Ghanaians. Ghana is a really young team, and they might get frustrated too quickly. But, hopefully there will be some goals and not just crosses and shots floating up into the stratosphere. It's the ball. Will it ruin the world cup? So far, yes.

GO GHANA!!

Yeah, not too worried about either. The only thing: Slovenia's keeper is supposed to be quite good and he did make a decent save or two. I could see him holding Slovenia in games. Good thing Slovenia has no offensive threat to test Howard (or Hahnemann, it looks like Howard broke some ribs. And then played pretty great.) Algeria's Keeper? Has he played before?

Well, Slovenia moves to the top of Group C, setting up a must win game for the US when they play Slovenia on the 18th. Honestly, I think Algeria looked the better side, but it was a close thing as neither team really looked comfortable or particularly dangerous.

On to Serbia-Ghana. Go Ghana!

Damn. That's game.

I think the temperature is having an effect on this game. Both teams seems to be moving kinda slow and I noticed a bunch of Algerian players drinking water during an injury break.

Also, we get it. Slovenia is small.

Second yellow for Ghezzal of Algeria and now they're down to 10. Both yellows were really stupid. That's too bad. Algeria seemed to be having the run of play.

Maybe the red card will make this game interesting?

Halftime - Algeria-Slovenia

With huge implications for the USA (and England, but who cares about them) this game is looking to go the way we would want. 0-0. Neither team is looking vaguely threatening...or terribly difficult to breakdown. I have a feeling there is a fair amount of "not screwing something up" going on, the second half should yield more chances for both teams.

To be honest, I'm a bit disappointed. England was ripe for the plucking and we should have taken them. But, a tie's better than a loss and it puts us in a fairly good position in the group. I'm going to watch the game again and come back with more analysis.

A point.

More later.

Getting tight here...

Not entirely sure how the US is in this game. England has wilted. Where's Rooney?

Those cards are piling up...

Will we see red?

Thank you, Green. (Sorry about the rest of your life, having to live with that).

defense?

ok. I'm back!

Ok game. Nigeria was awful, Messi was amazing, just needs to finish one and then he'll be fine. Go Eng-S-A!

Post game Argentina - Nigeria

So, Argentina didn't win this game so much as Nigeria lost it. Yeah, I'm sure if Nigeria had played better Argie would have kicked in the 2 or 3 additional gears they have and still won but sheesh, Nigeria was god awful. The majority of their passes out of midfield were either too slow or off target or bad decisions. And I'm not talking 51% of the time, it was more like 65-70%. Same thing in the final third but add on inexplicably dribbling into no win situations. And then there was the horrible shooting. Just offensively horrible. Still, their speed should be able to get them past Greece which sets up a killer showdown with South Korea in their final game. Should be fun.

Then there's Argentina. Yeah, yeah, they're awesome. Messi is a god. I get it. But they're Argentina, we's hates them. They're the diving, whining, ankle-biting, cheating (Hand of God), destroyers of total football. To be forever scorned.

Too much? Too bad.

Anyway, they looked good, Messi and Tevez are absolute wrecking machines, once they start clicking watch out. Their defense forced Nigeria into taking shots outside the 18 for most of the second half. We'll see (after the group stage I fear) how much of that was opponent ineptitude and how much was actually the defense.

Finally, Maradonna. You'd think that someone with his money (I assume he still has money) and power would have a suit that actually fits him. He looked like a troll doll wearing Malibu Ken's suit (is there a Malibu Ken or just Malibu Barbie?). He is the only thing that is going to stop Argie from getting to the quarter-finals I'm afraid. (Did you see his reaction to one of Messi's misses? His body language screamed, "This little punk is terrible, I would have buried that chance!").

On to the main event: USA-England! 2:30.

I don't know you anymore

First, you say good things about Mexico and now Argentina? Who are you? Did I teach you nothing? Next thing ya know, you'll be backing Germany. And then I'll have to disown you.

Ok. 2-nil. I'm still saying nigeria and argentina for this group. Greece, nope. The South Koreans looked good, but their defense wasn't exactly airtight and something tells me Messi might be able to find some room.

But, now to the real games of the day: Argentina-vs-Nigeria: should be a great game. I am really looking forward to that. I know my brother doesn't like it, but I do really like Argentina. Messi is unreal, best player in the world, and I'm hoping he clicks. Nigeria hasn't been as strong in the past few years, but I've heard people rave about them, so ok. Go Nigeria. With South Korea winning, these teams need to go for the win (unlike France-Uruguay...). I'm thinking a few goals, some lead changes back and forth.

Is there another game today? Oh yeah, England-vs-US. It's going to be a tight game. I think 0-0 or 1-0 is likely, unfortunately. This just has the feel of game that is so over hyped, nothing happens. I hope I'm wrong.

I will return for the US-England game, recording the Argentina-Nigeria game and watching it before the US game. We are meeting the minister who is going to marry Katie and I for a little interview/counseling. I thought about bringing a little tv to the meeting, or bringing every thing I say back to soccer, or just sitting there pouting about missing a world cup game while we're supposed to be talking about marriage. But, maybe not.

Back at 2:30!

Post game thoughts

- Greece is 3 and out, might not even score a goal.
- South Korea looks good, their final game against Nigeria will decide if they go through. If they could get a point off of Argentina, they'll almost certainly be moving on.

woof, first real save in the game.

hey, the Greeks seem to have realized they're playing in the f*ing World Cup.

yeah, it's just a matter of time.

Do I hear 3-nil?

Oh shnap, I missed the restart and Korea is up 2-0. Lights out.

Great goal. Park Ji-Sung!

Greece is done. I'm thinking three and out.

Did you see those rankings? Greece is 13th?!?

Some halftime thoughts

- Greece looks out of sorts.
- All of their attack is coming from the left wing but when a cross actually gets put in it is more than likely off.
- They can't build anything through the middle, do they have any midfielders?

- Korea, on the other hand, seems pretty cool and collected
- Although, like Greece they are also mostly bypassing the midfield except by dribbling through the acres of space Greece is giving them.
- Greece has been lucky not to be down 3-0

- Also, STFU, Alexei Lalas.

Wow, the first half is almost over. This game has flown by.

If South Korea could turn all this into another goal....

Wow, what a pass.

OHHH!! Park Ji-Sung robbed!

Lot of empty seats.

Ah, the world cup, this is why I love you and watch every game. No one talked about this game, or these teams, but here they are playing good soccer, scoring goals. France, you might want to watch this, for the whole passion thing.

Greece has to attack now.

GOAL!!! South Korea! This game just got very interesting. Greece is going to have to change their usual strategy.

Oh yeah! Defense?

Look at Greece attack!

Good morning.

Day 2 - Game 1

The first game starts in a little less than 15 minutes. South Korea - Greece. Will Greece successfully strangle this game into submission? Can the South Koreans conjure up any of that 2002 magic? Hopefully, more of the latter.

Not so fast. France will get stronger (and they will, eventually, score a goal. What's important is when it happens and who scores it) and Uruguay were going for a draw and got it off the traditional favorite. With the other draw, it is all about the next game.

South Africa-vs-Uruguay
France-vs-Mexico

Both must wins.

If these teams continue with this form, neither is getting out of the group.

You know, as a neutral, I sort of hope it ends in a draw. It will make the second (and third) games in this group, really good!

Oh Forlan...

Thierry Henry warming up. Can he provide the spark to this game that it so desperately needs?

a goal please.

Wow, that's a save on Gourcuff.

Ok, this could be a really interesting game.

Interesting: he was offsides. Didn't even think about the keeper. Tip to my brother for setting me straight.

So, good refs!

Today!

Well, I was supposed to post this before the game, but didn't. So, snip. Mexico looked good. I think they can go far. Dos Santos is unreal. I'm rooting for them (though it is really hard to root for Blanco). South Africa looked solid, well coached. They should do just fine against France.

But, FIFA, please have some limited replay. It took the announcer, and everyone else in the world, two seconds to know that was a good goal. It is absurd not to have it.

Otherwise, good game. It was fun to watch.

Now, at 2:30: France-vs-Uruguay "play." France has been thoroughly unimpressive for quite a while. Plus, I really do think they know they shouldn't be here. If it wasn't for a blind referee missing Henry's handball(s), Ireland would be in their spot. I think this will weigh on them some. Who knows what Uruguay will do. They have a lot of potential, but they always seem a little out of control. This is really a game for France fans (though they might not want to watch...), Uruguay fans, and soccer junkies. I'm watching it live.

Finally, I hope I have shamed France enough to make them play well. I do really like their players. Allez les Bleu!

Great game. Good start...

Times ticking...

That was a counter-attacking thing of beauty.

FIRST GOAL!!!!!!

If Mexico stops making the final pass to the feet of South African defenders they might score.

They should look into adding lead to the balls.

Robbed.

Ok, I think I might be for Mexico and against FIFA.

Mexico, I like.

Interesting....

Drogba trains, could play vs.

Portugal

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Associated Press

JOHANNESBURG -- Didier Drogba has returned to training just days after surgery on a broken arm and could be considered for Ivory Coast's opening World Cup match against Portugal.

The Ivory Coast captain had surgery Saturday on a broken arm sustained in a friendly against Japan the previous day, casting doubt over his availability for the World Cup.

The 32-year-old Drogba wore a light protective cast on his arm during practice on Thursday, raising coach Sven-Goran Eriksson's hopes the Chelsea striker will be fit for Tuesday's Group G match at Port Elizabeth.

"If the match had been today or tomorrow, he wouldn't be able to play," Eriksson says. "But it's in a few days. He might play."

Ok.

Group E:

All of my soccer roots began in the Netherlands, when I was four and lived there for a year (ages 3-4 actually). From that sprang my love for soccer, my allegiances: artful soccer, underdogs, and my dislikes: Germany national team (see world cup 1974, year I was born), Argentina (though this isn't as strong in me as in my brother. Messi is amazing ->Barca), my idol: Johan Cruyff (and so total football->Barca), my love of orange (sorry Ireland), my love of frites and, well, my consciousness-> my first memories are there. So, I always root for the Netherlands and they always crumble. In 2000, when I was visiting the Netherlands with my brother, and the Netherlands were in the semifinals of the European championship (about to loss on penalties to the ever dour Italians), it was explained to me by Dutch friends, that the Dutch wouldn't win the finals because, the dutch have this embarrassment of succeeding, imposing their winning on others (there was a dutch word for it), and so they would lose. Still, I will root for them, and (once again) they have a really, really good, young squad; they could really go far. Go Orange! Otherwise: this group could be interesting. Go Cameroon! I hope they go through second. Japan isn't as good as they have been in the past, not sure they will compete. Denmark have a real chance. A bit tight and defensive, but they could make a run for the second spot.

Group F:

Any group with Italy is, by default, dull, and this Italy is going to be especially so. Watch me be totally wrong, but I can't abide them. Paraguay is good, I hope they go through in first place. Slovakia could be a bunch of upstarts (I hope!) and unseat Italy. Dump the reigning (ugh) champs. New Zealand-> three and out.

Group G:

THE GROUP OF DEATH! Well, it is a tough group. North Korea, sorry, three and out. They might spring one surprise, but they need two or three surprises. It won't happen, though they are better than you think. Bad luck in being drawn in this group. Elsewhere, they might have done better. Brazil will get through. Don't expect samba football, yet. Dunga has this team militantly focused and a bit stifled, which might be good for this group. Pragmatic. As I've said, Ivory Coast were, once, my pick to win it all, but without Drogba (or with a Drogba in a cast), they will be a bit more terrestrial. Still, I hope they go through ahead of Portugal. Sorry Ronaldo, you were named after Ronald Reagan (good fit for Franco's Real Madrid). Again, I can't abide. And your ego. Ugh. Also, they are without Nani, their other winger. I think teams will be able to contain Ronaldo much, much more effectively, without having to be terrified of the other wing. I don't think Portugal as a strong replacement.

Group H:

I do love Spain. Half the team is Barca (If you haven't figured it out, I am a FC Barcelona fan: attack football, liberal, defiant, humanitarian, and the best football around. Add Torres, who is my pick for the golden boot, and Villa! Solid front to back. Go Spain! Otherwise: no country overly sways me. Honduras just doesn't have the talent. Switzerland are ok, but I do like Chile. They have some exciting players.

So there you have it.

Fourteen hours, thirty minutes, thirty seconds...

Nineteen hours, 22 minutes.

Match-ups:

Group A:

The first day is pretty fascinating and could go a long way in setting the tone for the tournament. The first match sees the hosts, South Africa, play Mexico. Hosts do surprisingly well, even mediocre teams, like South Africa. A few extra lucky bounces, the crowd, a slick counterattack, and they might be in the next round. Mexico is actually quite good, I hate to say, and are likely, I think to get out of the group. I hope I'm wrong, as I don't know of any team that are more petulant losers (and drawers), and more haughty winners. Any dent to their egos, I'll enjoy. But will this be a tournament of expected outcomes, or is the continent going to do well, are upsets likely. There has been some talk about parity, and while I think that is a stretch--North Korea vs Brazil?-- a lot of teams are becoming better, more "professional." The second game of the first day, France--Uruguay, is equally interesting, if looking a bit dour. Will France fall apart (knowing they shouldn't be here), despite immense talent? Will the second tier South American teams (Paraguay is really good, plus Chile and Uruguay) show up? Certainly things can change as the tournament goes on, but these games are intriguing starts.

These will get shorter, I hope.

Group B:

Seems pretty clearly to be Argentina and Nigeria. Greece is too dull, please go out, and I don't think South Korea is quite as strong as it has been in the past. Of course, Argentina will struggle a bit, as they work things out. I am rooting for all the African teams, heartily, so Go Nigeria! Overall, a bit of a snooze group.

Group C:

England 7 pts, US 6 pts, Slovenia 2 pts, Algeria 1 pts.

Group D:

Well, for weeks I have been saying that Germany won't get out of this group. I'm not as sure about it now, but I think it could easily happen. Australia isn't terribly good, but I am hoping they can take some points from Germany. Serbia is very good defensively and can score a goal or two on the counterattack; upset? If Ghana had Essien available, I'd say they are favorites to win the group. He's one of my favorite midfielders. Without him, Go Ghana!

A break for Groups E-H.....

I have been following all things soccer for years. I know many, many players, their club and country form, I've studied the world cup groups, the schedule, the roster shifts in and out with injury, the final warm up games, the ball everyone--not just the keepers--are complaining about, the altitude of South Africa, the weather, the pitch, the stadiums, the vuvuzelas, the hopes of a continent for just a little of the world's attention (and maybe some care too please?), the crowds, the fans, the player's nerves under pressure, the possible breakout stars, the veterans that will have one more great tournament, and I am ready.

The world cup starts (right now) in three days, twenty six minutes. Even such a small amount of time, after waiting for four years, feels insurmountable; I can barely believe it is about to start.

Predictions: these are difficult and this world cup seems especially hard to read. All world cups are unpredictable (besides the unfortunate exceptions: Germany and Italy, always dull, sometimes evil, and always going far. Welcome to my biases), but there are so many possibilities, intangibles, oddities, that it is especially hard.

Until Drogba went out with a broken arm (though he hasn't withdrawn from the tournament and is in camp. Will he play with a broken arm?), I was picking Ivory Coast. But without Drogba, without a 100% Drogba, I'm not so sure.

Spain is a pretty great bet. With half the team being Barcelona, plus Torres who is an amazingly deadly striker, not to mention Villa, what's not to like. They need to play like Barca, attack with confidence, but it is Spain and even with great promise they find ways to lose. I think this time around might be the exception.

Brazil is a Ronaldinho away from a perfect team. Maybe not, but I would have brought him. There will be a point during the tournament where Brazil will be stuck (what if the barely fit Kaka, doesn't work out? Ask Real Madrid about that.) and they will need some genius even if it is cloudy, somewhat lazy, and possibly disruptive. But, Brazil is very solid, in un-Brazil like ways: keeper, defense, with more tough defensive midfielders than playmakers. Still, it's Brazil. They'll win games.

Other than that, much luck will be needed for the second tier: England, Argentina (if Messi can figure out how to get around his Maradona complex, watch out), Netherlands, Germany (ugh), Italy (ugh).

Or, something very surprising will happen, which wouldn't surprise me. A few more days and we'll start finding out.

Mostly, this blog will be short reflections (comments open, what are your predictions?) and my local (Dover, NH) viewing schedule. All are welcome to come over (but let me know).

And now, we wait.