Thursday, 8 July 2010
Podcast No. 5
we'll get this on't iTunes sonn. we'll let Thom have a rest and get re-adjusted to the British climate, then we'll bombard him with 3 podcasts at once.
Thursday, 1 July 2010
podcast 4
here's the forth podcast, not yet avaliable for download, as out tech genius is on holiday. it'll be on iTunes soon.
Thursday, 24 June 2010
Thursday, 17 June 2010
World Cup Day 7 Review
Today we hailed in a new age for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Today we saw three, yes three, very, very exciting games. Unbelieveable stuff. Not only were they exciting, but they were choc full of goals an all. Goodness me.
We started the day with a potential classic. The team with everything to prove; Argentina, against a reletivley good side; South Korea. Argentina started brightly, with that unknown character who seems to pop up everywhere Lionel Messi making the majority of the runs, chances and plays for the Argies. Korea managed to hold firm until the 16th minute, before an administrative error lead to Park Chu-Young scoring an own goal. And then Argentina decided to score goals. Real Madrid "star" Gonzalo Higuain knocked one in after 33 minutes, and then it looked over. It really did. South Korea made little chances, and little attempt to score. But they did. A shocking defensive error led to Lee Chung-Yong latched onto a diabolical pass back to the 'keeper, and forced it past said 'keeper instantly.
Yet Maradona remained upbeat going in at half time, and Argentina came out fighting, yet failed to make their dominance show, and remained at 2-1. And then it got interesting. South Korea fought back. Yeom Ki-Hun wasted the chance of the match, hoofing the ball wide with his weaker left foot. And thats when you realised that Argentina were going to win. Higuain dropped in again after 76 minutes, and finished the match as contest to make it 3-1. It was then put right to bed after that man Higuain slotted home 4 minutes later. Game over.
For long periods of the game, it was bloody exciting. But, for the first time in this tournament, we saw a real contender for the trophy. Apart from Germany, obviously.
The second match was the other Group B match, between the two losers of yesterweek; greece and Nigeria. It was really, really shit for about 16 minutes, before Nigeria broke through with a free kick that was just so poorly defended it was unbelieveable. Uche swung the ball in, and the Greek keeper dived completly the wrong way as it drifted into the net. And Nigeria really started to show dominance until Kaita got sent off, and began to leak some form of urine from his eyes on the way down the tunnel. Celtic "megastar" Samaras came on, and Greece began to attack for the first time since the 2004 European Championships. And they scored, by God. They did. Salpingidis had a shot, but it took a bigger deflection than the Forlan goal of yesterday. And like the momentum of the match, the ball swung in Greece's favour.
The second half brought end to end football, with Nigeria having several chances, as did Greece (hence end to end football). Greece had a shot that was so poorly defended it led to a counter attack chance for Nigeria. But they gave it to some moron who tried to direct it into an open goal with his studs. It didn't go in. After 72 minutes, Greece found a second goal out of nowhere. The Nigerian keeper did a Rob Green, and dropped the ball. Except this time it went to Torosidis, who scored a huge goal for the Greeks. After more chances for both sides, the match ended, and Greece notched up their very first world cup win ever. Happy days. Unfortunatly, it looks like Nigeria are on their way out, despite playing some good football over the last two games. But thats what you get when you can't score.
The final game of today was the last of Group A; France against Mexico. The match was a scrappy show in the first half, with very little chances to either team. But Mexico played some really nice attacking football, and at the end of the day, thats all that matters.
The second half was much better. Again, Mexico had the best chances, and were rewarded for their dominance, when new Manchester United forward Javier Hernandez ran from an onside position, took the ball round Hugo Lloris and slotted the ball into an empty net. France were visibly stunned, because they had all the excitment shocked out of them. Mexico had another attck, and they earned a penalty, which 58 year old forward Blanco smashed home, and ended the match, pretty much. And it did end, and Mexico were overjoyed.
The thing about this result was that when Uruguay face Mexico, a point will see both sides through. Which is a bit shit, bacause they'll both play for the draw. Which is a bit shit.
Anyway, BEST DAY IN AGES in terms of football. It was exciting stuff, and we all want to see is this stuff continue. Thursday Friday happy days? Lets hope so!
We started the day with a potential classic. The team with everything to prove; Argentina, against a reletivley good side; South Korea. Argentina started brightly, with that unknown character who seems to pop up everywhere Lionel Messi making the majority of the runs, chances and plays for the Argies. Korea managed to hold firm until the 16th minute, before an administrative error lead to Park Chu-Young scoring an own goal. And then Argentina decided to score goals. Real Madrid "star" Gonzalo Higuain knocked one in after 33 minutes, and then it looked over. It really did. South Korea made little chances, and little attempt to score. But they did. A shocking defensive error led to Lee Chung-Yong latched onto a diabolical pass back to the 'keeper, and forced it past said 'keeper instantly.
Yet Maradona remained upbeat going in at half time, and Argentina came out fighting, yet failed to make their dominance show, and remained at 2-1. And then it got interesting. South Korea fought back. Yeom Ki-Hun wasted the chance of the match, hoofing the ball wide with his weaker left foot. And thats when you realised that Argentina were going to win. Higuain dropped in again after 76 minutes, and finished the match as contest to make it 3-1. It was then put right to bed after that man Higuain slotted home 4 minutes later. Game over.
For long periods of the game, it was bloody exciting. But, for the first time in this tournament, we saw a real contender for the trophy. Apart from Germany, obviously.
The second match was the other Group B match, between the two losers of yesterweek; greece and Nigeria. It was really, really shit for about 16 minutes, before Nigeria broke through with a free kick that was just so poorly defended it was unbelieveable. Uche swung the ball in, and the Greek keeper dived completly the wrong way as it drifted into the net. And Nigeria really started to show dominance until Kaita got sent off, and began to leak some form of urine from his eyes on the way down the tunnel. Celtic "megastar" Samaras came on, and Greece began to attack for the first time since the 2004 European Championships. And they scored, by God. They did. Salpingidis had a shot, but it took a bigger deflection than the Forlan goal of yesterday. And like the momentum of the match, the ball swung in Greece's favour.
The second half brought end to end football, with Nigeria having several chances, as did Greece (hence end to end football). Greece had a shot that was so poorly defended it led to a counter attack chance for Nigeria. But they gave it to some moron who tried to direct it into an open goal with his studs. It didn't go in. After 72 minutes, Greece found a second goal out of nowhere. The Nigerian keeper did a Rob Green, and dropped the ball. Except this time it went to Torosidis, who scored a huge goal for the Greeks. After more chances for both sides, the match ended, and Greece notched up their very first world cup win ever. Happy days. Unfortunatly, it looks like Nigeria are on their way out, despite playing some good football over the last two games. But thats what you get when you can't score.
The final game of today was the last of Group A; France against Mexico. The match was a scrappy show in the first half, with very little chances to either team. But Mexico played some really nice attacking football, and at the end of the day, thats all that matters.
The second half was much better. Again, Mexico had the best chances, and were rewarded for their dominance, when new Manchester United forward Javier Hernandez ran from an onside position, took the ball round Hugo Lloris and slotted the ball into an empty net. France were visibly stunned, because they had all the excitment shocked out of them. Mexico had another attck, and they earned a penalty, which 58 year old forward Blanco smashed home, and ended the match, pretty much. And it did end, and Mexico were overjoyed.
The thing about this result was that when Uruguay face Mexico, a point will see both sides through. Which is a bit shit, bacause they'll both play for the draw. Which is a bit shit.
Anyway, BEST DAY IN AGES in terms of football. It was exciting stuff, and we all want to see is this stuff continue. Thursday Friday happy days? Lets hope so!
Wednesday, 16 June 2010
World Cup Day 6 Review
Well, todays the day! Todays the day we finally wave goodbye to the shite we've been force fed over the last 6 days. And all the better for it. But first, ther is one more group to go, and that group has one team we all must fear. But before we were introduced to Spain, we had another game to get through.
The first match of group H was a tie between Honduras and Adams pick for a surprise; Chile. The Chilans began the tie on the front foot, with open attack play. Real Madrid target Sanchez scuffed a couple of chances, before the unknown Beausejour slotted home after 34 minutes. Honduras did little to change the score line, and the gulf in class (many of the Hondurans were part timers), and were lucky to go in at half time with the score at 1-0.
The second half started as bright as the first, with Chile showing off some wonderful attacking football. Often there would be four or five players in space for the playmaker to slot the ball into. Chile were blessed with an open goal opportunity, yet headed the ball straight into the floor.
The match ended with the score at 1-0, but it could've been two or three. Chile has given us much food for thought, and could be a surprise contender for winning this group.
The second was European champions Spain against the country the won it in; Switzerland. Spain played the same pass and move football we saw from Chile, and to an extent, Barcelona. Yet Switzerland managed to defend the stronghold, and came out of each attack unscathed, and made Spain wallow in comparison. And somehow they were on level terms at half time.
Switzerland started the second half better than they ended the first, making at least some attempt to score a goal. And, against the run of play, odds and likelyhood, they did. Fernandes latched onto and wonderful through ball, took it past the unessesserally outspoken Casillas (WHOS LAUGHING NOW YOU SPANISH TOSS?), and tried to pass the sponge ball into the net. It stopped halfway there. He the proceeded to kick Barcelona centre back Pique in the face, and slotted from 2 yards. The Swiss 1, Pedros 0.
Xabi Alonso struck the bar from 25 yards, and Fernando Torres did little to change the scoreline. But it was Switzerland who came the closest to scoring the second of the game. Derdiyok battled through three defenders before slicing his right boot through the ball, leading it onto the post. The ball twizzled out, and Switzerland had a flurry of chances, but the time had gone. The match ended, though, and Switzerland topped group H at the end of the day.
The final match saw the return of hosts and that team thay Sky Sports always seems to be interviewing residents of, South Africa, who faced Uruguay. Both teams hadn't played since the first day, and Uruguay were yet to play a memorable game this tournament. The game started with the same pace as the last South African game, with Uruguay more likely to score. And the duely lived up to their billing, after 24 minutes, when Diego Forlan struck from 25 yards, and the ball took a deflection midflight. South Africa gave real football ago, but Tshabalaba wanted to hit the ball without taking a touch. Pretoria was subdued, and the whistle put an end to what was quite a boring first half.
the second half brought more boring football, and, honestly, nothing happened til about the 80th minute, where Khune fell over,and Suarez took the ball round him, and fell over. The ref bought it, and the keeper was sent off. Forlan blasted the penalty in the top left, and any chance of an uprsing was quashed. This was drilled home when Uruguay finished after 95 minutes thanks to Pereira, and then the whistle blew. Game over.
Day six brought the best football of the tournament so far. But now there's plenty to play for, we might get some exciting football. Because thats what we all want.
Keep following the blog, as I would imagine I can get Adam writing again, follow the twitter @WorldCupWillie1, follow me @Willo290592, and download our podcast, which is on iTunes.
Keep on trucking.
The first match of group H was a tie between Honduras and Adams pick for a surprise; Chile. The Chilans began the tie on the front foot, with open attack play. Real Madrid target Sanchez scuffed a couple of chances, before the unknown Beausejour slotted home after 34 minutes. Honduras did little to change the score line, and the gulf in class (many of the Hondurans were part timers), and were lucky to go in at half time with the score at 1-0.
The second half started as bright as the first, with Chile showing off some wonderful attacking football. Often there would be four or five players in space for the playmaker to slot the ball into. Chile were blessed with an open goal opportunity, yet headed the ball straight into the floor.
The match ended with the score at 1-0, but it could've been two or three. Chile has given us much food for thought, and could be a surprise contender for winning this group.
The second was European champions Spain against the country the won it in; Switzerland. Spain played the same pass and move football we saw from Chile, and to an extent, Barcelona. Yet Switzerland managed to defend the stronghold, and came out of each attack unscathed, and made Spain wallow in comparison. And somehow they were on level terms at half time.
Switzerland started the second half better than they ended the first, making at least some attempt to score a goal. And, against the run of play, odds and likelyhood, they did. Fernandes latched onto and wonderful through ball, took it past the unessesserally outspoken Casillas (WHOS LAUGHING NOW YOU SPANISH TOSS?), and tried to pass the sponge ball into the net. It stopped halfway there. He the proceeded to kick Barcelona centre back Pique in the face, and slotted from 2 yards. The Swiss 1, Pedros 0.
Xabi Alonso struck the bar from 25 yards, and Fernando Torres did little to change the scoreline. But it was Switzerland who came the closest to scoring the second of the game. Derdiyok battled through three defenders before slicing his right boot through the ball, leading it onto the post. The ball twizzled out, and Switzerland had a flurry of chances, but the time had gone. The match ended, though, and Switzerland topped group H at the end of the day.
The final match saw the return of hosts and that team thay Sky Sports always seems to be interviewing residents of, South Africa, who faced Uruguay. Both teams hadn't played since the first day, and Uruguay were yet to play a memorable game this tournament. The game started with the same pace as the last South African game, with Uruguay more likely to score. And the duely lived up to their billing, after 24 minutes, when Diego Forlan struck from 25 yards, and the ball took a deflection midflight. South Africa gave real football ago, but Tshabalaba wanted to hit the ball without taking a touch. Pretoria was subdued, and the whistle put an end to what was quite a boring first half.
the second half brought more boring football, and, honestly, nothing happened til about the 80th minute, where Khune fell over,and Suarez took the ball round him, and fell over. The ref bought it, and the keeper was sent off. Forlan blasted the penalty in the top left, and any chance of an uprsing was quashed. This was drilled home when Uruguay finished after 95 minutes thanks to Pereira, and then the whistle blew. Game over.
Day six brought the best football of the tournament so far. But now there's plenty to play for, we might get some exciting football. Because thats what we all want.
Keep following the blog, as I would imagine I can get Adam writing again, follow the twitter @WorldCupWillie1, follow me @Willo290592, and download our podcast, which is on iTunes.
Keep on trucking.
World Cup: Half time report... Well, nearly.
One game over for each of the 32 sides in World Cup 2010. We've had (a few) goals, ball complaints, surprises, shocks, outrage but mostly disappointment. So, how are each of the big names doing after just 90 minutes?
France
On the opening day of the tournament, 2006 runner's up France were held to a goalless draw by ten-man Uruguay. Once more, the group should get harder from here on in; the well-organised Mexico are next on the French fixture list, followed by the hosts, South Africa. France should on paper qualify, where they'd most likely face Argentina or South Korea. Excluding star player, Bayern Munich's Frank Ribery, France lack players who can provide ammunition to target man Anelka, and many of the players stepping up to the mark aren't as accomplished as their predecessors. Only a brave man would back France all the way: 2010 doesn't look like their year.
South Africa
After netting a fantastic opener to the World Cup on Day 1, South Africa conceded a late goal against Mexico. After drawing their first game, many South Africans seem disappointed, but optimistic for the remaining two fixtures in the group. Whether they have the quality to overcome the French remains to be seen, but they do have the backing of their whole nation. On the pitch, they appear to be fired up, but still culperable to the odd error; South Africa were never likely to go all the way, but could cause an upset against the French, or even a badly-coached Argentina in the last 16.
Argentina
Argentina kicked off their World Cup with a 1-0 win against Nigeria, though showed signs of vulnerability, namely in right-back Jonas Gutierrez. They took the lead through full-back Gabriel Heinze and despite the attacking prowess of Higuain, Messi and Tevez, failed to capitalise on numerous chances later in the game. Although a forlorn figure of 2006's outstanding side, Argentina can never be written off, especially with the aforementioned Lionel Messi and Carlos Tevez. Perhaps Argentina are slow starters this year, but should easily make the last 16 and must fancy their chances against any of Group A. The Argentinians have the confidence to win the World Cup this year, and may enjoy being tournament underdogs, but will need to prove that this generation is a side of class, across the field.
England
Injury-riddled England take on Algeria and Slovenia in their remaining group fixtures and are expected to make the knockout round, though must be praying not to face penalties once they qualify. Should they top their group, they'll most likely face a tie with Ghana, and a quarter final clash with France could be on the cards after that. It's difficult to say whether this is their best shot since 1966, such is the casualty list of the side. The draw's been kind to the English though, who need to keep their nerve, and build on confidence.
Germany
One game down, Germany have been easily the most impressive of any team in the tournament. Like many others, the Germans are in transition: Michael Ballack for one's not at this tournament, replaced by the younger generation coming through. After an impressive 4-0 win over Australia, the Germans must be looking to the next round, where they'll play either USA or England, and will be favourites against either. Futher than that, Argentina potentially await them in the last 8. Germany must be dark horses now, as they look to be the only team in form in the competition, but once they face stronger opposition than Australia, then the world will see just how good this crop of players are.
The Netherlands
Holland are another team slow out of the starting blocks this summer. After a scrappy win over a defensive Denmark side, the Dutch are still in a strong position to finish top of Group E, where a pairing with Paraguay is probable. Opponents after that could be Portugal or Spain, so it's important that Holland build on their opening win and start playing with the famous Dutch flair of the past. They certainly have the players to do it, but Wesley Sneijder needs to work on his partnership with Rafael van der Vaart, Robin van Persie needs to find his scoring boots, and the Dutch currently lack width, with Arjen Robben sidelined. It's a big ask for The Oranje to ditch their tag of "the greatest side never to win the World Cup", but with rising stars Ibrahim Affelay and Eljero Elia, plus the fact that the likes of van Persie and Sneijder could be at their peak in four years time, it looks like this Dutch side could be too young this time around.
Italy
A nervy 1-1 draw saw the holders kick off their campaign in a fashion unfamiliar to the Italians; defensive errors, trailing at half time, and lacking the passing ability that unlocked the world's defences in Germany '06. Italy are still strong favourites to advance the group stage, where their route to the final could be via Japan, Portugal or Spain and Argentina or Germany: opposition signicantly more difficult than Australia, Ukraine and Germany in 2006. With Alberto Gilardino up front, the Italians aren't at their sharpest, and Claudio Marchisio's service up to him isn't as potent as Andrea Pirlo's. Like so many other nations at this World Cup, The Azzurri look shadows of their former selves, though with Rino Gattuso, Antonio Di Natale, Mauro Camoranesi and Pirlo himself at the disposal of highly experienced Marcelo Lippi, it could be foolish to rule Italy out from retaining their crown.
Brazil
A workman-like, efficient Brazilian side managed a 2-1 win over North Korea just yesterday, albeit without the Samba magic the world has come to know and love from them. Without the Peles, Ronaldos and Rivaldos of the past, the Brazilian side's focal point is the lesser-known Sevilla hitman Luis Fabiano. Whether he can emulate the legendary Brazilian strikers of the past is unclear at this point in the competition, but with service from Robinho, Kaka and Elano, he stands as good a chance as any frontman in South Africa. A potential clash with Spain in the next round may excite neutrals, though Brazil are the favourites overall to clinch a sixth triumph on yet another continent: they just need one player from the squad and become a superstar.
Portugal
A Portugal side, captained by Cristiano Ronaldo, returned to the World Cup with a 0-0 draw against Ivory Coast in the "group of death", Group G. Favourites to finish behind Brazil, the obvious Portuguese strength is the enigmatic Ronaldo, who will be looking not only to supply Liédson, but to chip in with his fair share of goals. But the team needs to prove that they're as strong across the pitch; familiar Premier League names Pedro Mendes, Deco and Ricardo Carvalho should feature for Portugal. With Spain, Italy and Argentina on the horizon, it won't be easy for the Portuguese, but a strong performance against Brazil would work wonders for confidence and send out a clear message that they're a force to be reckoned with.
Spain
The only big-name nation to lose their opening game, Euro 2008 winners Spain are facing the prospect of qualifying second in their group and meeting Brazil in the knockout stages. Should they win their group, they still have the unenviable task of Portugal, but do the Spanish still have what it takes to break a habit of a lifetime and advance to last four even? If they are to reach the expectations of many, Fernando Torres has to find his match fitness quickly, David Villa needs to start scoring and the service from trio Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Xabi Alonso needs to improve on what was a lacklustre display from the midfield in Durban. One could argue that Spain need another dimension; along with the aforementioned midfield, the Spanish impact players are winger Jesus Navas and Barca-bound Cesc Fabregas, more passers. One thing is certain: Spain need to lift their game dramatically if they're going to live up to their 4-1 odds and change history.
France
On the opening day of the tournament, 2006 runner's up France were held to a goalless draw by ten-man Uruguay. Once more, the group should get harder from here on in; the well-organised Mexico are next on the French fixture list, followed by the hosts, South Africa. France should on paper qualify, where they'd most likely face Argentina or South Korea. Excluding star player, Bayern Munich's Frank Ribery, France lack players who can provide ammunition to target man Anelka, and many of the players stepping up to the mark aren't as accomplished as their predecessors. Only a brave man would back France all the way: 2010 doesn't look like their year.
South Africa
After netting a fantastic opener to the World Cup on Day 1, South Africa conceded a late goal against Mexico. After drawing their first game, many South Africans seem disappointed, but optimistic for the remaining two fixtures in the group. Whether they have the quality to overcome the French remains to be seen, but they do have the backing of their whole nation. On the pitch, they appear to be fired up, but still culperable to the odd error; South Africa were never likely to go all the way, but could cause an upset against the French, or even a badly-coached Argentina in the last 16.
Argentina
Argentina kicked off their World Cup with a 1-0 win against Nigeria, though showed signs of vulnerability, namely in right-back Jonas Gutierrez. They took the lead through full-back Gabriel Heinze and despite the attacking prowess of Higuain, Messi and Tevez, failed to capitalise on numerous chances later in the game. Although a forlorn figure of 2006's outstanding side, Argentina can never be written off, especially with the aforementioned Lionel Messi and Carlos Tevez. Perhaps Argentina are slow starters this year, but should easily make the last 16 and must fancy their chances against any of Group A. The Argentinians have the confidence to win the World Cup this year, and may enjoy being tournament underdogs, but will need to prove that this generation is a side of class, across the field.
England
Injury-riddled England take on Algeria and Slovenia in their remaining group fixtures and are expected to make the knockout round, though must be praying not to face penalties once they qualify. Should they top their group, they'll most likely face a tie with Ghana, and a quarter final clash with France could be on the cards after that. It's difficult to say whether this is their best shot since 1966, such is the casualty list of the side. The draw's been kind to the English though, who need to keep their nerve, and build on confidence.
Germany
One game down, Germany have been easily the most impressive of any team in the tournament. Like many others, the Germans are in transition: Michael Ballack for one's not at this tournament, replaced by the younger generation coming through. After an impressive 4-0 win over Australia, the Germans must be looking to the next round, where they'll play either USA or England, and will be favourites against either. Futher than that, Argentina potentially await them in the last 8. Germany must be dark horses now, as they look to be the only team in form in the competition, but once they face stronger opposition than Australia, then the world will see just how good this crop of players are.
The Netherlands
Holland are another team slow out of the starting blocks this summer. After a scrappy win over a defensive Denmark side, the Dutch are still in a strong position to finish top of Group E, where a pairing with Paraguay is probable. Opponents after that could be Portugal or Spain, so it's important that Holland build on their opening win and start playing with the famous Dutch flair of the past. They certainly have the players to do it, but Wesley Sneijder needs to work on his partnership with Rafael van der Vaart, Robin van Persie needs to find his scoring boots, and the Dutch currently lack width, with Arjen Robben sidelined. It's a big ask for The Oranje to ditch their tag of "the greatest side never to win the World Cup", but with rising stars Ibrahim Affelay and Eljero Elia, plus the fact that the likes of van Persie and Sneijder could be at their peak in four years time, it looks like this Dutch side could be too young this time around.
Italy
A nervy 1-1 draw saw the holders kick off their campaign in a fashion unfamiliar to the Italians; defensive errors, trailing at half time, and lacking the passing ability that unlocked the world's defences in Germany '06. Italy are still strong favourites to advance the group stage, where their route to the final could be via Japan, Portugal or Spain and Argentina or Germany: opposition signicantly more difficult than Australia, Ukraine and Germany in 2006. With Alberto Gilardino up front, the Italians aren't at their sharpest, and Claudio Marchisio's service up to him isn't as potent as Andrea Pirlo's. Like so many other nations at this World Cup, The Azzurri look shadows of their former selves, though with Rino Gattuso, Antonio Di Natale, Mauro Camoranesi and Pirlo himself at the disposal of highly experienced Marcelo Lippi, it could be foolish to rule Italy out from retaining their crown.
Brazil
A workman-like, efficient Brazilian side managed a 2-1 win over North Korea just yesterday, albeit without the Samba magic the world has come to know and love from them. Without the Peles, Ronaldos and Rivaldos of the past, the Brazilian side's focal point is the lesser-known Sevilla hitman Luis Fabiano. Whether he can emulate the legendary Brazilian strikers of the past is unclear at this point in the competition, but with service from Robinho, Kaka and Elano, he stands as good a chance as any frontman in South Africa. A potential clash with Spain in the next round may excite neutrals, though Brazil are the favourites overall to clinch a sixth triumph on yet another continent: they just need one player from the squad and become a superstar.
Portugal
A Portugal side, captained by Cristiano Ronaldo, returned to the World Cup with a 0-0 draw against Ivory Coast in the "group of death", Group G. Favourites to finish behind Brazil, the obvious Portuguese strength is the enigmatic Ronaldo, who will be looking not only to supply Liédson, but to chip in with his fair share of goals. But the team needs to prove that they're as strong across the pitch; familiar Premier League names Pedro Mendes, Deco and Ricardo Carvalho should feature for Portugal. With Spain, Italy and Argentina on the horizon, it won't be easy for the Portuguese, but a strong performance against Brazil would work wonders for confidence and send out a clear message that they're a force to be reckoned with.
Spain
The only big-name nation to lose their opening game, Euro 2008 winners Spain are facing the prospect of qualifying second in their group and meeting Brazil in the knockout stages. Should they win their group, they still have the unenviable task of Portugal, but do the Spanish still have what it takes to break a habit of a lifetime and advance to last four even? If they are to reach the expectations of many, Fernando Torres has to find his match fitness quickly, David Villa needs to start scoring and the service from trio Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Xabi Alonso needs to improve on what was a lacklustre display from the midfield in Durban. One could argue that Spain need another dimension; along with the aforementioned midfield, the Spanish impact players are winger Jesus Navas and Barca-bound Cesc Fabregas, more passers. One thing is certain: Spain need to lift their game dramatically if they're going to live up to their 4-1 odds and change history.
World Cup Day 5 Review
Another day, another slew of shit coming straight from the world stage. The day started with New Zealand vs Slovakia. Neither team are expected to win the tournament, and they used that expectation to produce the tournaments fifth draw in as many days. Slovakia started the more likely to produce a goal, and did after 50 minutes of BORING BORING FOOTBALL. Vittek the goalscorer. After half an hour of more shit stain football, New Zealand found an equalizer with virtually the last kick of the game, thanks to Reid. Suffice to say, I was npt impressed by this matchup.
What followed was perhaps the best example of how not to play football kicked off at 3.00 pm GMT. The Ivory Coast took on Portugal in a clash of the titans, west Europe meets west Africa duel to the death. Former world player of the year Cristiano Ronaldo struck the post within 10 minutes, and then came the rain. Nobody shot, nobody tried. It was rather terrible, to be honest. Didier Drogba came of in the second half, to the sound of "a true African hero" courtesy of ITV's everyman cunt Peter Drury. Drogba didn't do anything, and the ref called for the end of the game 30 seconds early. What a doll.
The last match of the day was surprisingly refreshing. Unknown superpowers Brazil took on North Korea, a side that has been flown from a country that requires you to cry when the national anthem is played. The Koreans did very, very well for about 50 minutes, before some "Brazilian magic" led to the first goal of the match, thanks for Maicon. The Brazilians managed to carve their way through the Korea, and former Manchester City player Elano finished after 72 minutes. Game over? Well, no.
Korea knew anything less than a win would equal death apon their families, so they played some great, great football, and they were rewarded when Ji Yun-Nam carved the Brazilian defence apart. They were unfortunate not to score again.
Day five brought nothing new to the current trend of bad football, but at least we had some form of excitment. And we have North Korea to thank for that. Lets hope somthing new happens on day 6.
What followed was perhaps the best example of how not to play football kicked off at 3.00 pm GMT. The Ivory Coast took on Portugal in a clash of the titans, west Europe meets west Africa duel to the death. Former world player of the year Cristiano Ronaldo struck the post within 10 minutes, and then came the rain. Nobody shot, nobody tried. It was rather terrible, to be honest. Didier Drogba came of in the second half, to the sound of "a true African hero" courtesy of ITV's everyman cunt Peter Drury. Drogba didn't do anything, and the ref called for the end of the game 30 seconds early. What a doll.
The last match of the day was surprisingly refreshing. Unknown superpowers Brazil took on North Korea, a side that has been flown from a country that requires you to cry when the national anthem is played. The Koreans did very, very well for about 50 minutes, before some "Brazilian magic" led to the first goal of the match, thanks for Maicon. The Brazilians managed to carve their way through the Korea, and former Manchester City player Elano finished after 72 minutes. Game over? Well, no.
Korea knew anything less than a win would equal death apon their families, so they played some great, great football, and they were rewarded when Ji Yun-Nam carved the Brazilian defence apart. They were unfortunate not to score again.
Day five brought nothing new to the current trend of bad football, but at least we had some form of excitment. And we have North Korea to thank for that. Lets hope somthing new happens on day 6.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)