End of Group Stages: The Stage is Set

The group stages are over and man has it been a good one. The group of death was not, by any means, Group G but arguably 3 or 4 different groups. The last day of the group stages, in most of the groups, was VERY exciting with nervous moments for everyone and some gigantic emotional swings. In the end, the field got cut in half and the bracket is set for the last portion of this amazing tournament. Lets first take a look back at the last games in the group stages, most of which lived up to, and beyond, expectations.

Group A:
Mexico 0 - Uruguay 1

The power of South America in this tournament continues. Uruguay, the bottom team from their qualifiers, was the best team in group A by a long shot, in my opinion. They defend well, attack well, and know how to build and take advantage of mistakes. I love their flow, and have developed a true appreciation for the aging Forlan. Mexico is through, via ugly play to not lose by a lot. That pissed me off, but hey, now they face Argentina so suck on it.

Mexico rating: C
Uruguay rating: B+
Game rating: B


France 1 - South Africa 2

Sad history was made as South Africa failed to advance. They were doing everything they could to make up that goal differential (damn you Uruguay!) but it was too little too late. They should walk out with their heads held high, though. They were fun to watch and won over hearts across the world. France, on the other hand, can burn. The players proved their ego's are far too big and that they don't deserve to be on the big stage.


Group B
Argentina 2 - Greece 0

Another South American team, same story. Pure class. Argentina is one 2 teams left with a 100% record. They have demonstrated their offensive ability to everyone and I think we all are convinced, Maradona is doing something right. I have to tip my hat to this team for showing heart. Just hours before this game we saw France just go through the motions. I was pissed, to say the least. When Palermo put his goal in, however, I remembered that there are good guys in this game too. The man came to tears as he scored, that I can only respect. Well done Argentina.

Argentina rating: A-
Greece rating: B-
Game rating: B


South Korea 2 - Nigeria 2

This was an extremely entertaining match. Nigeria came out fighting for their lives and hoping for the best of luck. South Korea, on the other hand, refused to just sit back and defend so the game opened up. I have a love for the South Korean side as they have the work rate that players should have. They work hard and celebrate as a team, something we don't see enough. The African continent seems to really be struggling in this cup, which is sad. However, if you want to prove you are for real, you better be able to do it under pressure. Africa simply cant.

South Korea rating: B
Nigeria rating: B
Game rating: B

Group C:
England 1 - Slovenia 0

I love this flag as it is so true, hopefully. England just seems to not be able to put it all together in this tournament. Lucky for them, the rest of the group was fairly even and battled it out to not punish their lacking play. Sadly, though, they will have to face the talented Germans in the next round. As I predicted before the tournament started, this game will go to penalties and England will lose. Do yourself a favor if you are an English fan, don't count on winning this game.

England rating: B
Slovenia rating: C
Game rating: C-


USA 1 - Algeria 0

If you are like me, you likely suffered a thousand hear attacks during this game. You have to love the emotions of this sport, and this game made you live all of them. In the 89th minute I had tears in my eyes. I thought it was over. We didnt even lose a game and we were going home, I was so down. Then the moment of brilliance. Tim Howard, beautiful distribution. Landon Donovan, great run and good leading pass. Jozy Altidore, great cross right to the feet of Dempsey. Clint Dempsey, Great run in the box, crashing the goal as he should. Landon Donovan, again, picking up the pieces and sending the country into jubilation. We advance, win the group, and find ourselves in a great group in terms of quality/ability to beat.

USA rating: B+
Algeria rating: C+
Game rating: A


Group D
Germany 1 - Ghana 0

I have never seen a team so happy to lose. However, with the luck of the other game, Ghana lost and still got in. They played a decent game against Germany, but it was obvious they simply didnt want to lose by a lot. Germany, on the other hand, got things clicking again even with Klose. That is one of the biggest things they have going for them against England, rest in their finisher.

Germany rating: B
Ghana rating: C+
Game rating: B


Serbia 1 - Australia 2

Sadly Serbia couldnt pull through and get a win to send them into the round of 16. Australia, however, got the win they deserved. Good for the Socceroos, but they are going home much sooner than they wanted.

Serbia rating: B
Australia rating: B+
Game rating: B+


Group F
New Zealand 0 - Paraguay 0

yawn. Way to go New Zealand, you never lost. Paraguay, winners of the group.

Paraguay rating: C
New Zealand rating: C
Game rating: F


Italy 2 - Slovakia 3

This game was just crazy. I found myself cheering for Slovakia, a team I had no clue about before the tournament began. The defending champs are out, and deservedly so. Slovakia proved to be the better side, with a much younger team. Italy, time to retire the old men.

Italy rating: B-
Slovakia rating: B+
Game rating: A


Group E:
Holland 2 - Cameroon 1

Holland = good. 100% record like Argentina... smells like the final doesnt it?

Holland rating: B
Cameroon rating: C
Game rating: B


Japan 3 - Denmark 1

Honda, as I said before, is a damn good player. This guy should be at a BIG club come the next season. Hopefully that big club is AC Milan. Denmark, for the first time in their history of being at the world cup, didnt make it to the second round. Bendtnar just couldnt get it done.

Japan rating: B+
Denmark rating: C
Game rating: B+


Group G
Brazil 0 - Portugal 0

I have to say, I am not overly impressed with Brazil. This game was a snoozer and they are mostly to blame. Portugal had a good approach and really was the more dangerous team with their chances. Brazil wont be winning this world cup if they continue to play like that.

Brazil rating: C+
Portugal rating: B-
Game rating: D

Ivory Coast 3 - North Korea 0

Not enough goals were scored to even make it interesting, but well done Ivory Coast on getting a win.

Ivory Coast rating: B
North Korea rating: C-


Group H:
Spain 2 - Chile 1

The first loss for a South America team came at the very end of the group stages. Chile was fine with it, as well, as they got through. However, they do have to face Brazil, a classic South America rematch? yes please. Oh, and Spain v Portugal should be interesting as well.

Spain rating: B
Chile rating: B-
Game rating: B-

Honduras 0 - Switzerland 0

In a game where both sides should have attacked like crazy, neither did. Lame

Honduras rating: D
Switzerland rating: D-
Game rating: F


Of the 16 teams through, I got 12 of them right. South Africa, Serbia, Cameroon, and Italy all let me down. However, I have to say I did alright getting 75% in this crazy tournament.

Best game of the round: USA v Algeria
- Honorable mention to the crazy game of Slovakia v Italy

Worst game of the round: Portugal v Brazil
- Honorable mention to Honduras v Switzerland

The stage is set, 16 teams are fighting for the cup, and the beloved USA is one of them. USA has, arguably, the easiest group to reach the semi's (exactly as I had it) and I think they will. Tomorrow is going to be insane, dont miss it!

Cheers,
15 to 32

Pre RSL v San Jose Earthquakes

We're back already?!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nxboSFwN3sM (copy and paste this for the recap of the last time RSL played San Jose, the '10 season opener)
When I first saw the break in the MLS season I thought for sure I would have some RSL withdrawals. This proved to be EXTREMELY false as this little thing called the World Cup came to the rescue. With that said, I am very excited to go to the RioT for an MLS match (the Costa Rica friendly was sub par).
RSL faces the team it opened its season against, San Jose, at the RioT at 7pm tonight in what should be a good game. RSL, as we all know, has been on a good streak lately and seems invincible at home. After their 3-0 loss to RSL, San Jose came to life and is on quite a roll (with the obvious bumps you face in the MLS). RSL struggled with San Jose last year, and I think they will again tonight. I do expect a win from the boys, but its going to be a hard fought one. The starting XI for RSL should look something like this:

GK: Nick Rimando

LB: Robbie Russell
CB: Nat Borchers
CB: Jamison Olave
RB: Chris Wingert*

RM: Andy Williams
CDM: Ned Grabavoy**
CAM: Javier Morales
LM: Will Johnson

FW: Fabian Espindola
FW: Alvaro Saborio

* - Wingert did have a little bit of a hammy issue against the Costa Rican side come up again. If he cant go, Beltran can and we really wont see any drop off.
** - There has been word from training camp that Jean Alexandre is playing well and JK could see him starting, again. I hope not, as I think Ned is the better player overall, but it makes sense if so

In the end, I expect RSL to play composed soccer and control the match. A win, at home, is always expected.
RSL 2 - San Jose 0
Saborio and Campos, off the bench, with the goals.

Cant wait to be back in the RioT with a, hopefully, great atmosphere tonight.

Cheers,
15 to 32

Group Stage: Round Two

After a somewhat slow start, the second round of group stage was a great one. Lots of dramatic games. Things were much more open. And best of all, goals were much more common. It took some time, but the tournament finally got its first victim in Cameroon, sadly. It also saw some teams get their bid to the second round secured. Looking forward to this next round is going to be awesome. There will be a lot of drama, each group has its own flavor.

Group A:
Uruguay 3 - South Africa 0

I had feared this would be the toughest game for the hosts, and it will likely become true. This could very well be the first year the host nation doesn't advance, and South Africa hasn't done really much to make an argument for their case. I am hoping for a miracle...
Oh, and Uruguay (along with the rest of South America) looked top notch.

South Africa rating: C
Uruguay rating: B+
Game rating: B


France 0 - Mexico 2

The one thing South Africa does have going for it is that their last game is against the French... or whatever that blue team is over there. Seriously, has anyone seen the real France? If so, will you tell them to show up. Even after their horrible performances they can advance (with a lot of luck)

France rating: D+
Mexico rating: B
Game rating: B

Standings:
Uruguay 4pts, +3 GD, 3 GF, 0 GA
Mexico 4pts, +2 GD, 3 GF, 1 GA
France 1pt, -2 GD, 0 GF, 2 GA
South Africa 1pt, -3 GD, 1 GF, 4 GA
- Everyone in the group still, mathematically, has a chance of advancing

Group B:
Argentina 4 - South Korea 1

Argentina = Class... offensively at least. They were amazing on one end of the pitch, but quite the nightmare on the other. It is precisely because of that, that I hope we see them advance. Entertainment in this cup is what we need, Argentina has plenty.

Argentina rating: B+
South Korea rating: C
Game rating: B


Nigeria 1 - Greece 2

Nigeria has their backs up against the wall after this result. Going into the game against South Korea they must win, and hope things really go their way. I doubt it happens, but crazier things have happened in this tournament. Greece looked a revitalized side after Nigeria went down a man, but they have Argentina last on their plate... It could be ugly for them.

Standings:
Argentina 6pts, +4 GD, 5 GF, 1 GA
South Korea 3pts, -1 GD, 3 GF, 4 GA
Greece 3pts, -1 GD, 2 GF, 3 GA
Nigeria 0pts, -2 GD, 1 GF, 3 GA
- Everyone in the group still, mathematically, has a chance of advancing


Group C:
USA 2 - Slovenia 2

What to say, what to say... Outside of the obvious complaining, a lot of praise and criticism must be made about this game. The first half for the Yanks was horrendous. Torres proved to be a bust on the grand stage, and the D was shaky as can be. However, with some corrections, things changed. Donovan proved, to me at least, he is the first true USA legend (his name will be on the back of my jersey shortly) and roofed the first goal. From there, the confidence just kept building. Via some good play Bradley locked it up at 2 a piece with the entire stadium, it seemed, on the US side just begging for the winner to cap off a ridiculous comeback... it came, but it didn't count (for some reason). The controversy, however, is great. So many people are talking about it. Everyone is watching the US now... the stage is set.

USA rating: B-
Slovenia rating: C+
Game rating: A


England 0 - Algeria 0

The dejected look on this fan's face explains it all. England has not yet arrived at this world cup, and if they don't, they will be home much sooner than anticipated. With their last match against Slovenia, things are looking crazy for the end of this group.

England rating: C
Algeria rating: C
Game rating: D

Standins:
Slovenia 4pts, +1 GD, 3 GF, 2 GA
USA 2pts, 0 GD, 3 GF, 3 GA
England 2pts, 0 GD, 1 GF, 1 GA
Algeria 1pt, -1 GD, 0 GF, 1 GA
- Everyone in the group still, mathematically, has a chance of advancing


Group D:
Germany 0 - Serbia 1

One of the biggest surprises of this round came through Serbia, a very talented team that showed its potential. Through a bogus red card, the Serbs took a numerical advantage and almost instantly made Germany pay. From there, it was shaky and lucky as Serbia stopped a penalty from Podolski to get all 3 points off the German team.

Serbia rating: B
Germany rating: B-
Game rating: B+


Australia 1 - Ghana 1

Ghana scored another penalty, who would have thought... Australia really did themselves no favors as Kewell wont be available for the next match just as their other star, Cahill, returns from a suspension. Ghana should have won and taken control of the group, but failed to do so and were a bit lucky at times to not drop all the points to a pressing but desperate Australia side.

Ghana rating: C+
Australia rating: B-
Game rating: B+

Standings:
Ghana 4pts, +1 GD, 2 GF, 1 GA
Germany 3pts, +3 GD, 4 GF, 1 GA
Serbia 3pts, 0 GD, 1 GF, 1 GA
Australia 1pt, -4 GD, 1 GF, 5 GA
- Everyone in the group still, mathematically, has a chance of advancing


Group E:
Netherlands 1 - Japan 0

Holland showed they are a great team, but they cant score many goals. This flaw, I fear, will be the thing that dooms them. If you cant score goals, you wont win, simple as that. Their sole goal was a great strike, but honestly a good keeper keeps it out. They are lucky, and already have their ticket punched to the next round, but they have a lot of room to improve if they want to go deep and win.

Holland rating: B-
Japan rating: C+
Game rating: B-


Cameroon 1 - Denmark 2

Cameroon was the first team to get their ticket punched... to go home, sadly. They played quite well and were a joy to watch in this last game, but it just wasnt their day. Denmark, on the other hand, looked lethal with thier opportunities and have a right winger that will burn anyone who doesnt respect him. If Bendtner can get fully healthy, this team could make some surprises in the next round... if they get there first.

Cameroon rating: B-
Denmark rating: B
Game rating: A-

Standings:
Holland 6pts, +3 GD, 3 GF, 0 GA
Japan 3pts, 0 GD, 1 GF, 1 GA
Denmark 3pts, -1 GD, 2 GF, 3 GA
Cameroon 0pts, -2 GD, 1 GF, 3 GA
- Cameroon is eliminated, Holland is already through as Japan and Denmark play each other for the other spot


Group F:
Paraguay 2 - Slovkia 0

Paraguay, along with all of the other 5 South American nations, are in prime position to advance (if they havent already secured it). Paraguay looks strong in their group, and likely will take first place as they face New Zealand last.

Paraguay rating: B
Slovakia rating: D
Game rating: C-


Italy 1 - New Zealand 1

Like any other good Italian, de Rossi aced his acting class. This proved very worthy as he earned his side a controversial penalty against New Zealand to draw it level. However, none of these Italian seem to have passed the advanced class of acting as they couldnt get the win over New Zealand... yeah, New Zealand

Italy rating: C
New Zealand rating: B
Game rating: C+

Standings:
Paraguay 4pts, +2 GD, 3 GF, 1 GA
Italy 2pts, 0 GD, 2 GF, 2 GA
New Zealand 2 pts, 0 GD, 2 GF, 2 GA
Slovakia 1pt, -2 GD, 1 GF, 3 GA
- Everyone in the group still, mathematically, has a chance of advancing


Group G:
Brazil 3 - Ivory Coast 1

Brazil showed they have top notch skill (especially with their arms) but they also showed they have top notch ego's to go along with it. While they were, without a doubt, the better side on the pitch, they were acting like they were in a whole different world and should be respected as such. The Brazilians really need to take a "chill pill" and let the game flow. You are going to get into some hard tackles when you play as they do, they have to understand that. If not, they will be undone not by a better team, but by a more composed team.

Brazil rating: A-
Ivory Coast rating: B-
Game rating: B

Portugal 7 - North Korea 0

This game proved a couple of theories out there right. First, and obviously foremost, North Korea is a bad team. They played their amazing in that first game, with a little luck, against Brazil. For a half, it looked as though they might have the same luck against Portugal... but it wasnt to be. Secondly, Portugal is a good team capable of winning it. While they have a very long shot, dont underestimate the power of this team. Lastly, Brazil is a bit overrated. Portugal put in 7 on these guys, Brazil put in 2... enough said

Porgual rating: A-
North Korea rating: D
Game rating: C

Standings:
Brazil 6pts, +3 GD, 5 GF, 2 GA
Portugal 4pts, +7 GD, 7 GF, 0 GA
Ivory Coast 1pt, -2 GD, 1 GF, 3 GA
North Korea 0pts, -8 GD, 1 GF, 9 GA
- North Korea is eliminated, Brazil is through, Portugal and Ivory Coast are playing for the second spot.

Group H:
Chile 1 - Switzerland 0

For all the offensive firepower this team posses, Chile is simply not putting the ball in the back of the net enough. With the very real possibility of 3 teams arriving at 6 points, goal differential is HUGE. Chile, sadly, could be the lone South American team not to advance despite finishing with more points than a couple of the others.

Chile rating: B+
Switzerland rating: B
Game rating: B+


Spain 2 - Honduras 0

Spain had to win this game or they were eliminated. They didnt come up short. In a convincing win, but with far too few goal scored, Spain pretty well sealed the fate of Honduras. While they still have a chance, Honduras is all but done in this world cup. Now they can play the role of spoiler and ruin the amazing opening win Switzerlan had against Spain.

Spain rating: B-
Honduras rating: D
Game rating: C+

Standings:
Chile 6pts, +2 GD, 2 GF, 0 GA
Spain 3pts, +1 GD, 2 GF, 1 GA
Switzerland 3 pts, 0 GD, 1 GF, 1 GA
Honduras 0pts, -3 GD, 0 GF, 3 GA
- Everyone in the group still, mathematically, has a chance of advancing


Best game of the round: USA v Slovenia
- I am a bit biased as a US fan, but that game was ridiculous and the reason many of us love this sport so much. You cant have the highs without the lows, and that game provided plenty of both.

Worst game of the round: England v Algeria
- England is simply awful, yet its fun to watch. It is a very real possibilty that England could not advance out of the group, and this game would be the one circled, in my opinion, as the one they really came short in.

Best upset of the round: Italy v New Zealand
- The Kiwis get their second point in their history against the defending champs, what a feat.

Surprise (good) team in this round: Portugal
- While it was against a dismal defense, putting up 7 goals deserves some credit.

Surprise (bad) team in this round: Italy
- Dropped points to New Zealand... just wow

Group Stages: Round 1

It's been quite the interesting beginning to this edition of the FIFA World Cup. Lots of teams are taking the cautious road, very aware of the history books (only 3 teams have advanced out of group play after losing their first game). It has put a bit of a damper on the overall play, but it is setting up the next two rounds to be very exciting. The best part of these draws is that, especially in groups where everyone drew, it makes it impossible (or near impossible) for a team to be eliminated after 2 games. Thus, we will see some very good games that have loads of meaning on the last round of group play... hopefully.
The ball, as was the talk before, has been a bit shaky. A lot of players are having a tough time figuring out the pace, spin, direction, etc to put on the ball. However, it is making the games have a bit more to them in the "unknown" category. Keepers are making gaffs (Group C) and thus creating moments that will be forever remembered in some areas.
Lets now take a look at each of the games, and given them a rating along with the teams that played in them.

Group A
South Africa 1 - Mexico 1
South Africa Rating: C+
Mexico Rating: C
Game Rating: B-

- It was an intriguing game to start the tournament off. Mexico looked the much better side in the first half, but couldn't score. South Africa came out flying in the second half and scored first. The first goal of the tournament, as is required I believe, was an absolute cracker, as they say. Picking out the top corner and sending the place into a mad party. Sadly, it was short lived as Mexico, via some bad defending, got the equalizer of a miss-hit from Marquez. The game was sloppy, neither side looked great, but it had a great atmosphere to it and was a joy to watch.

Uruguay 0 - France 0
Uruguay Rating: C
France Rating: C-
Game Rating: D+

After a fun and exciting, though not high quality, first match, I was expecting this one to be good. I was, to say the least, let down. France didn't impress me one bit, Uruguay's defense was the only intriguing part of the game as their offense seemed unable to hit the broad side of a barn. A forgetful game, but it sets up the group very well and saved Mexico's butt.

Standings:
South Africa 1 pt, 0 GD, 1 GF, 1 GA
Mexico 1 pt, 0 GD, 1 GF, 1 GA
Uruguay 1 pt, 0 GD, 0 GF, 0 GA
France 1 pt, 0 GD, 0 GF, 0 GA


Group B
South Korea 2 - Greece 0
South Korea Rating: B
Greece Rating: D
Game Rating: B-

South Korea looked very good in this game, Greece looked very bad. For parts Greece would string passes together, but South Korea was composed and deadly on the other end. Watch out for this team

Argentina 1 - Nigeria 0
Argentina Rating: B
Nigeria Rating: C+
Game Rating: B-

This game was intriguing, but the finishing touches were atrocious. If only Nigeria could have found the net later on... this match could have really been interesting.

Standings:
South Korea 3pts, +2 GD, 2 GF, 0 GA
Argentina 3pts, +1 GD, 1 GF, 0 GA
Nigeria 0 pts, -1 GD, 0 GF, 1 GA
Greece 0 pts, -2 GD, 0 GF, 2 GA


Group C
USA 1 - England 1
USA Rating: B-
England Rating: B-
Game Rating: B-

A very tight match that wasn't wonderful but it also wasn't awful. Sure, the US got a gifted goal, but Green more than made up for it with his amazing save against Altidore in the second half. This game really went well, with the result, for the Yanks.

Algeria 0 - Slovenia 1
Algeria Rating: C-
Slovenia Rating: C-
Game Rating: C

Boring game that ended in the worst possible way for the US. A 0-0 draw would have been wonderful, and really was the just result, but a lucky bounce with some bad keeping led to Slovenia taking all 3 points and the lead in the group. The US has to win against them.

Standings:
Slovenia 3pts, +1 GD, 1 GF, 0 GA
USA 1pt, 0 GD, 1 GF, 1 GA
England 1pt, 0 GD, 1 GF, 1 GA
Algeria 0pts, -1 GD, 0 GF, 1 GA


Group D
Ghana 1 - Serbia 0
Ghana Rating: C+
Serbia Rating: C
Game Rating: B-

Ghana got a late penalty to win it, and really were the better side (barely) in the match. A fun one to watch that was just begging for some more goals.

Germany 4 - Australia 0
Germany Rating: B+
Australia Rating: D+
Game Rating: B


Standings:
Germany 3pts, +4 GD, 4 GF, 0 GA
Ghana 3pts, +1 GD, 1 GF, 0 GA
Serbia 0pts, -1 GD, 0 GF, 1 GA
Australia 0pts, -4 GD, 0 GF, 4 GA


Group E
Holland 2 - Denmark 0
Holland Rating: B-
Denmark Rating: C
Game Rating: C+

Holland was always the better side but couldn't find the net until Denmark did for them. After that, it was smooth sailing and the goals should have been poured on. A win is a win though

Japan 1 - Cameroon 0
Japan Rating: C+
Cameroon Rating: C
Game Rating: C


Standings:
Holland 3pts, +2 GD, 2 GF, 0 GA
Japan 3pts, +1 GD, 1 GF, 0 GA
Cameroon 0pts, -1 GD, 0 GF, 1 GA
Denmark 0pts, -2 GD, 0 GF, 2 GA


Group F
Italy 1 - Paraguay 1
Italy Rating: C+
Paraguay Rating: C
Game Rating: C-

Paraguay got a HUGE point in this, but really should have pushed more to try and get all 3. Italy looked shaky, and losing Buffon is a real scare to the side. They should still advance, but now they lose a lot.

New Zealand 1 - Slovakia 1
New Zealand Rating: C
Slovakia Rating: C
Game Rating: D

The first point for New Zealand at the world cup came in a very dramatic fashion. The late equalizer really ruined Slovakia's chance to mess up the group and take the lead.

Standings:
Paraguay 1pt, 0 GD, 1 GF, 1 GA
Italy 1pt, 0 GD, 1 GF, 1 GA
New Zealand 1pt, 0 GD, 1 GF, 1 GA
Slovakia 1pt, 0 GD, 1 GF, 1 GA


Group G
Portugal 0 - Ivory Coast 0
Portugal Rating: C
Ivory Coast Rating: C+
Game Rating: B-

Brazil had some shaky moments, but got the full 3 points. The big talk of the game, however, was the very impressive North Korean D. They wont, in my opinion, be getting out of the group. However, they could easily steal a point in the next two games and decide who advances between Portugal and the Ivory Coast

Brazil 2 - North Korea 1
Brazil Rating: B-
North Korea Rating: C
Game Rating: B-


Standings:
Brazil 3pts, +1 GD, 2 GF, 1 GA
Portugal 1pt, 0 GD, 0 GF, 0 GA
Ivory Coast 1pt, 0 GD, 0 GF, 0 GA
North Korea 0pts, -1 GD, 1 GF, 2 GA


Group H
Honduras 0 - Chile 1
Honduras Rating: C
Chile Rating: B-
Game Rating: B

This was one of the most, if not the most, exciting games of the first round. Chile was, as advertised, an attacking side that liked to push the opposing defense. They were down the Honduran's throat almost the entire game. The lone goal was practically an own goal, but well deserved.

Spain 0 - Switzerland 1
Spain Rating: C+
Switzerland Rating: C+
Game Rating: B-

What could possibly be the upset of the tournament was a real fun game to watch. It was much like USA v Spain just a year ago. Spain the better side, but awful at the offensive end. Switzerland, on the other hand, was very deadly and unlucky not to have another goal.

Standings:
Chile 3pts, +1 GD, 1 GF, 0 GA
Switzerland 3pts, +1 GD, 1 GF, 0 GA
Spain 0pts, -1 GD, 0 GF, 1 GA
Honduras 0pts, -1 GD, 0 GF, 1 GA


Best game of the first round: Switzerland over Spain
- While it wasnt the highest quality, it did give us that david v golaith feeling... david winning of course.
- Honorable mention to Chile v Honduras for opening up for much of the game.

Surprise (good) team of the first round: Again, has to go to Switzerland. Beating Spain was massive.
- Honorable mention to both the Korean sides

Best goal of first round: Siphiwe Tshabalala (South Africa) against Mexico.
- An absolute cracker and a wonderful way to open up the cup.

Worst game of the first round: Slovenia v Algeria
- An awful game won by a stupid keeper mistake. Really quite a boring game
- Honorable mention to France v Uruguay

Surprise (bad) team of the first round: Greece
- Their "great d" looked like swiss cheese against South Korea.
- Honorable mention to Australia. Getting hammered by a talented Germany wasnt as bad as South Korea though.


I think the second round of the group stage (which is already underway) will be much better with more goals and more open play. Teams were understandably cautious coming out of the gates. This sets up the next two rounds to be much more entertaining... I hope.

Cheers,
15 to 32

Knockout Phases & Best/Worst Kit

Worst Kit in the Entire World Cup: Algeria Road


The best kit is at the end, now time to finish up the tournament. Here goes nothing:
On the left side of the bracket, this is how it lines up:
1A vs 2B
1C vs 2D

1E vs 2F
1G vs 2H

On the right side, the opposite
1B vs 2A
1D vs 2C

1F vs 2E
1H vs 2G

Now, putting my teams into those (I already predicted these scores, but I'll do it again) and the scores I think will result:
Left Side:
Uruguay 2 - South Korea 3
USA 2 - Serbia 0

Holland 3 - Paraguay 1
Brazil 4 - Chile 3

On the other side:
Argentina 4 - South Africa 1
Germany 2 - England 2 (5-4 on Pk's to Germany)

Italy 2 - Cameroon 1
Spain 2 - Portugal 2 (6-5 on Pk's for Portugal)

The quarters would look like this, with my predictions again:
South Korea 2 - USA 3
Holland 4 - Brazil 3

Argentina 3 - Germany 2
Italy 1 - Portugal 2

From there, the semi's would be epic:
USA 1 - Holland 1 (5-4 on Pk's to Holland)

Argentina 1 - Portugal 1 (4-3 on Pk's to Argentina)

The 3rd place game would be delightful as an US fan:
USA 3 - Portugal 1 (sound familiar?)

The final would be one of the best games we have ever seen:
Holland 3 - Argentina 2 (Decided in OT)

The Dutch crowned Champions, finally, of the world.

Best kit in this world cup: Holland Road