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.....