Wednesday, June 14, 2006

After One Match...

All 32 teams have played one match. There have been some great goals, great saves, and as always some contentious decisions by the referee. There have been no major upsets and the usual suspects have all won their games, except Sweden, whose opening game voodoo continues. They still haven't won their opening game at the World Cup since 1958.

'Saint Guus'

The Expected...

Maradona's last minute flip-flop about attending the opening ceremony. (I do support him in this because he is no less legendary than Pele. It would have been fitting if both these legends had brought the World Cup trophy instead of Pele accompanied by Claudia Schiffer)

Germany once again showing their credentials by a big opening game win over Costa Rica.

Over-hyped England struggling in the heat to prove they are among the favorites and scraping a 1-0 win over Paraguay.

Riquelme showing his class by setting up 2 goals for Argentina.

France still struggling to find the back of the net. Zidane looking aged and weary, and Henry blaming the pitch for not scoring.

Guus Hiddink, the master tactician, proves why he is among the best coaches around as his substitutions win the game for Australia, their first ever victory in a World Cup Finals. Sven can learn a thing or two from 'Saint Guus'. I still can't believe the English FA messed up by not roping in the brilliant Dutchman.

The Unexpected...

Sweden gets embarassed by tiny Trinidad who hold them to a 0-0 draw with just 10 men for nearly 45 minutes.

Portugal coming after a fine qualifying campaign, but struggling to beat Angola. The supporters jeering them as they scrape to a 1-0 victory.

Signs of in-fighting in the Dutch squad as Van Persie accuses Robben of being greedy - this after Robben inspires Holland to victory through an impressive performance and a goal.

The Czechs and the Spaniards' morale boosting 3-0 and 4-0 victory over USA and Ukraine respectively.

Brazil not asserting their superiority over Croatia and just managing to grind out a 1-0 victory.

Ronaldo running faster when he was substituted than he did when he was on the field playing.

The Heroes...

Miroslav Klose, Shaka Hislop, Tim Cahill, Thomas Rosicky, Bravo, David Villa, Juan Roman Riquelme, Kaka, Arjen Robben, Pauletta, Guus Hiddink.

Please cast your vote in the new poll!

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