With apologies to my American friends (and the missus!), that really was a good old fashioned tonking. Rosicksy’s first goal was an absolute screamer… the Czechs showed why they’re being taken so seriously. They won at a canter: nobody will be looking forward to facing them. Bruce Arena had some pretty scathing words to say about his team’s effort, and you have to agree with him. I said from the start that their best chance of getting out of the group was going to be the Italy game… today’s win against Ghana might cause the Italians to relax a little, perhaps? It’s a tall order, but the US team are definitely better than they showed today.
Australia came through in six incredible minutes… went from looking like they were going to lose (1-0 down to a dubious goal) to being 3-1 up in the blink of an eye. Good work there Aussie lads, would have been pretty shitty to finally get there only to lose your opener. (and Kieran, 1974 doesn’t count: if you don’t score, you weren’t there). What a way to get your first WC win under your belt though.
Italy pulled through too, but the real story was Ghana, particularly Richard Kingston, their mental keeper. Absolutely no clue how to defend corners, but an excellent shot-stopper. He made a dozen saves, and a couple of pretty tasty ones too. Very impressive indeed, but that said the final score definitely flattered the Azzurri.
Czechs definitely the best looking team of the tournament so far. The boys from Brazil play tomorrow though, can’t wait.
Kai MacMahon: On Life, The Universe & Everything 
I thought the Argentinians also looked pretty tasty. Without seeing the French and Brazillians, hard to see a second round without all the seeded teams. Maybe Ecuador from Group A and who know’s from England’s group. Other wise it looks like form for round two although a surprise would make it v interesting. That said, no bad thing if all seeded teams, as all have loads to offer. Even England despite rather tepid second half against Paraguay.
Yeah, fair point about argentina, though I did feel the opposition wilted for a bit in the middle. Certainly made it interesting at the end there. I’d like to see a couple of surprises get out of their groups, but it’s tough to see who that’ll be. Would Australia be a surprise? Not really, I guess. Ivory Coast would be…. that’d be excellent!
That was definitely an excellent day of football! It’s been pretty exciting so far, save for France and a _slightly_ disappointing Brazil game. I’m hoping the Aussies manage to pull through!
Yeah, I have a feeling they will. I’m thinking Brazil #1, them coming in second. Certainly got off to a cracking start, eh.