World Cup 2010: The Reign of Spain

Netherlands 0 - 1 Spain

Iniesta!!! Iniesta!!! Iniesta!!! Described by teammate Xavi as "Spain's most complete player," the unassuming 5'7" midfielder pulled the sword from the stone today with a clean strike into the net, in the 116th minute, winning the World Cup for Spain for the first time in the country's history, and, no doubt, putting the iniesta in fiesta for the next four years.





It was a laborious, protracted battle with yellow cards scattered on both sides, though it is the Dutch who will be remembered for its overall surliness and ugly transgressions on the field. The most sour moment for the not-so-bright orange was a flying chest kick committed by Nigel De Jong against Xabi Alonso that was beyond a red-card. Though De Jong should be expelled from professional soccer for a move like that, he skipped off with a shasta-daisy of a yellow card. Alonso, meanwhile, pressed on, despite the injury, a la Tim Howard.

Spain's patron saint of soccer, the mighty Iker Casillas, was in full-form, keeping the ugly orcs from storming the castle at all costs. He defended the goal with total focus and inhibition: blocking, punching, and oftentimes throwing his entire body onto the ball as if it were a grenade.

No one but Casillas better personifies the greatness of this Spanish team. It was not an easy start for the La Roja captain, having been crucified by the Spanish press for the team's loss against Switzerland in the early rounds of this tournament, but, Casillas stood up to the pressure and led his team to what would eventually play out like a destiny written in the stars.

Viva Espagna! WORLD CUP CHAMPIONS of 2010!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!



And the World Cup trophy wasn't the only recipient of a kiss from Spain's dashing squad captain. Given all they've suffered in this tournament, I'd say things ended pretty nicely for these two stunning, starry-eyed lovers.

World Cup 2010, Semifinals, Day 2: The Rise of Spain

Germany 0 - 1 Spain

Thank goodness I'm not a betting person, because for this match, I would have easily placed my money on Germany, even without midfielder Thomas Mueller, who was suspended from play due to a second yellow card in the Argentina match. I doubt if anyone has had much success trying to predict anything in this mercurial Cup, unless of course you're a Dutch fan, or, a psychic octopus.

There's no disputing Mueller's contribution to the success of the German team in this tournament. As detailed on Fifa's website, Mueller had scored 4 goals out of 10 shots taken, made 196 passes and 24 crosses--those incredible goal-inducing crosses that have been such a sight to see. Whatever the reason, Germany's performance in its last two games went from dangerous to declawed.

But let's talk about Spain--the energy, the speed, the precision. It wasn't a prolific performance of goals, but in terms of possession, Spain put on a beautiful show, working the pitch the way Iron Chefs work their kitchen stations. Looking like a third wheel on the pitch, Germany had hardly any quality time with the ball. And with every blocked shot that blasted into Neuer's arms and chest, the Spaniard's chipped away at Germany's confidence. Finally, came the heavenly moment for Spain, a golden header by Carles Puyol in the 72nd minute. ¡¡¡ ARRIBA ESPAÑA !!!

Spain has already changed history with this win, reaching the World Cup finals for the first time ever. Though the Netherlands made it to the finals in '74 and '78, it, too, has never won a World Cup championship. Which means, either way, we're bound for an earth-shaking match and the crowning of a first-time champion.

Who do I want to win? I think this commercial says it best.

World Cup 2010, Semifinals, Day 1: The Clockwork Orange Wind Up for Final Match

Uruguay 2 - 3 Netherlands

No want of drama here. No matter what your opinions were at the start of this first semifinals match, by halftime you were in awe of two tremendous teams and had to concede that it was either side's match to win. Netherlands came out with all the force and alacrity we've come to expect from the brilliant orange and La Celeste fought back with coolness, calmness and a goal-making maestro known as Forlan.

Netherlands attacked early on in the third minute, but the shot went wide. A little later, came a more concerted Dutch effort leading up to a meteoric kick by Van Bronckhorst who sent the ball soaring into the goal from far out left field. If you were wondering what World Cup soccer looks like, this was it.

The Dutch were flying high off that goal for a good twenty minutes. And just as halftime began to rear its ugly head, came a total thing of beauty from the great and powerful Forlan. At that point, any neutral feeling I had over the outcome was overtaken by awe. If Forlan was Uruguay then Uruguay was the team I wanted to win.

Forlan's equalizer held down the Dutch for a while, and in the 67th minute, a missed opportunity by forward Robben gave the impression of a rattled Netherlands. But that was not the case, and as if our cup of golden goals had not already runneth over onto the floor and down the hallway in this match, we were treated to yet another prize-winning shot, this one an impossible goal by Sneijder that somehow found its way to safety, like a baby through a construction site, (3:12).

Before Spanish announcers had time to complete their goal shout for Sneijder, Robben headed in a third, which at this point in the game seemed an exponential lead for the Dutch. Moments later, Uruguay substituted Forlan, as if to say the real show's over, time to place the team's Stradivarius back in its case.

The countdown from 3 minutes of stoppage time ticked away as Dutch fans went wild, celebrating a 3-1 score that headlines could easily hail as an orange crush. Not so, said Pereira, who injected fear back into the game with this last-minute act of defiance that left Dutch goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg looking baffled by the sheer, barefaced audacity of it all.

In the end, brilliant orange triumphed over celestial blue, but it was an incredible fight.

What else can be said about this magnificent team from the Netherlands. They have not lost a single match in this tournament. Their game is consistently strong, they adapt to their opponent, they're quick on the draw. With every bright-orange fiber of its fabric, the Netherlands is undeniably THE team to beat for the World Cup Championship 2010.

World Cup 2010: Quarterfinals, Day 2: Germany Leaps Over Argentina; Spain's Last-Minute Olé

Argentina 0 - 4 Germany
Paraguay 0 - 1 Spain

Argentina v Germany

Instead of taking off his pants, World Cup showman, Maradona, may have pooped them. In this much anticipated match between Argentina v Germany, what began with a whip-lashing goal by Muller in the third minute ended in the decimation of a struggling and defenseless Argentine team.

Not one goal was won by La Albiceleste, who seemed to gain some control in the second half but failed to capitalize on innumerable opportunities at the German goal post. Once Germany scored its second goal in the the 67th minute, its confidence level shot up, as did German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, who stood beaming from the stands. Convinced of their superiority, Die Mannschaft doubled their fun, at Argentina's expense, striking two more hits in the next 20 minutes.

Icing on the cake for Germany: Both Klose and Muller are tied at 14 World Cup goals, one goal away from Brazil's Ronaldo. Because of a yellow card suspension, Muller will be sitting the next game out, leaving Klose all alone to break or tie Ronaldo's record. However, Klose claims he isn't thinking about that right now. Hmph, yeah right.

That leaves Uruguay the last remaining South American team in the semifinals, a complete turnaround from all the Sazón that was spicing up the second round. Europe has emerged the leader, with the Germans leading the pack. Cue the Darth Vadar music, here they come!






Btw, psychic octopus, Paul, predicted this one too.



Paraguay v Spain




It was another one of those tedious, scoreless matches. Some spikes of drama included a disallowed goal by Valdez for Paraguay, a nosebleed for Santana, and a perfect save by Spain goalie Iker Casillas. But for the longest time, not a single goal was scored by either team. Was I going to have to order another beverage? Then, in the 83rd minute, Spain's David Villa triumphed over a resilient ball that seemed determined to bounce out of play. It was a win that ignited Spain fans all over the world and caused Spanish announcers to lose their breath.

But can mild-mannered Spain beat the goal-pounding Germans? It doesn't look like it, but who knows, maybe we'll get to see a little of La Furia Roja come out in Wednesday's match. Being one of the few top-ranked teams that has never taken home the FIFA World Cup, Spain certainly has strong incentive to win. As for the psychic octopus, I don't know what Paul's prediction is for this match, but here's a not-so-shocking prediction by a German scientist. That alone should make you want to root for Spain.

World Cup 2010: Quarterfinals, Day 1: Damn You Netherlands, Damn You To Hell; Ghana Dies a Noble Death

Netherlands 2 - 0 Brazil

Not much to say here. It was a good match, real world-cup level excitement. Netherlands played a better game. As for Brazil's underwhelming performance, I blame Dunga. I realize there were some messy plays in the first half, but I don't understand Dunga's exaggerated display of anger and frustration. I think visions of fortune and glory went to his head. Even after Robinho scored the first goal of the match, Dunga didn't seem happy. The Brazilian players were feisty and unruly, which is very uncharacteristic of them. Lots of shouting from Robinho and Maicon, which would have earned them yellow cards from some of the more volatile refs we've seen in the tournament. Japanese ref Yuichi Nishimura played it calm and cool--and sharp. He didn't fall for theatrics or miss any fouls.

Halftime came and I wondered what words of wisdom Dunga would have for his team. Something told me it wouldn't be an uplifting halftime speech but a demanding, overly confident one. I think my suspicions may have been correct. Why else would Brazil come out from a half-time lead acting so rough and tough? Melo's red card was the end of it, even though the team didn't play much worse without him. But it summed up the whole performance, they were more focussed on getting into trouble than moving up to the semifinals.

In the end, it was Wesley Sneijder's match. The 5'7" player knows how to score. Also maybe I'm being too hard on Brazil, here's what Kaka had to say about it.



Uruguay v Ghana



When Uruguayan hands illegally blocked a goal from Ghana--a last-minute goal that would have catapulted the team into the semifinals against the Netherlands--the weight of the entire continent of Africa fell upon Asamoah Gyan's shoulders, as he braced himself to face the blessing and curse of a penalty kick.

Gyan nobly stepped up to the ball and gave it his best shot. The ball scudded past goalkeeper Fernando Muslera, who dropped into fetal position out in front of the goal area, then deflected hard off the top bar of the goal. With that, the Uruguayan team erupted with joy as a stunned Muslera shouted praises to the white bar that did his job for him. But the image that would sear itself into the memories of viewers is that heartbreaking moment when Gyan, seeing the ball ricochet off the bar, shielded his eyes, like a blinded Icarus, in inconsolable grief.

For Uruguay, the missed shot was a second chance at life. For Ghana, which would lose the ensuing shoot out, it was the first terrible pang of a drawn-out death. Nonetheless it was a spectacular run for Ghana. As the only African team to have risen to the quarterfinals in this roguish and unpredictable, champion-expelling World Cup, there is far more victory to behold in Ghana's performance than defeat. And if ever there was a hero to look up to, Asamoah Gyan, Ghana's fallen Icarus, is already working on building a better pair of wings for 2014.

So, did the best team win this match? Or, did a lesser one slide by, by forcing a technical foul that nullified a match-winning goal? As for the so-called penalty kick, it really only served to penalize Ghana, which was forced to reenact, on the spot, what essentially had already been achieved.

Uruguay will have a chance to redeem itself of any doubts about its worthiness as contenders, on Tuesday, when it stands up against the Netherlands, a team that has proven itself to be an indomitable juggernaut in this competition. I'm extremely anxious to see how Uruguay will do. Though Forlan has been one of the most exciting players to watch in this World Cup, one man does not make a team, especially in soccer, a game that has the words E pluribus unum etched across its soul. Guess we'll see on Tuesday, if those words ring true for Uruguay as well.

World Cup 2010: 2nd Round, Day 4: Paraguay Lucks Out, Spain Scrapes By

Paraguay 0 - 0 Japan
Spain 1 - 0 Portugal




Paraguay v Japan

Penalty kicks, what can you say. They're a necessary evil. Unfortunately, this endless tug-of-war match was destined for penalty kicks. But when it all came crashing down on Japan defender Yuichi Komano, who was third in the line-up and the first to miss, there was no way of ignoring the scale and intensity of emotion underlying these 90+ minute games. In the end, both sides were awash with tears. Tears of joy from the Paraguay coaches overcome with emotion, and tears from Japanese fans, gutted by their team's loss.




Spain v Portugal



Well, for me, the best part of this match was the coin toss. Casillas and C. Ronaldo standing together and smiling with the refs? Priceless. The two mega-stars are friends, having played for Real Madrid together. For admirers of the two stunning players, this match was a visual win-win. Ronaldo was always on the attack and so we got to see a lot of Casillas in action. That may not be so great for Spain, but who cares--Casillas is HOT. Oh right, he's also a pretty good goalkeeper. So Spain pulls through and Casillas and his girlfriend no longer have to hide from the Spanish press.

World Cup 2010: 2nd Round, Day 3: Chile Scorched As Brazil Scores

Netherlands 2 - 1 Slovakia
Brazil 3 - 0 Chile

A hard loss for Chile, a team that has shown some serious game this World Cup, marked by passionate determination and effective maneuvers. However, standing face to face with soccer's most formidable opponent this Chilean David, could not connect a blow with the Brazilian Goliath.

It was an intense battle from the start, both sides appeared intent on being the first to score. That victory would go to Brazil in the 34th minute via a spectacular header by defender Juan. Four minutes later, came another stunning goal for Brazil, a beautiful play that started with Robinho racing the ball up left field and ended in a gorgeous finale by Fabiano who actually leapt over fallen Chilean goalie Bravo to make the shot. Ramires and Rabinho capped things off in the 59th minute with a head-on strike down midfield.

World Cup 2010: 2nd Round, Day 2: The Good Germans

Germany 4 - 1 England
Argentina 3 - 1 Mexico



If you're not rooting for Germany, then you should be worrying about them. I missed the match against Serbia so I don't know what happened there, but I do know that these players are dangerous. German soccer is looking pretty smooth this year, pretty masterful. It's as if they found the secret recipe to making soccer that's as delightful as their chocolate.

In today's game against England, Germany posed an early threat. It took only 20 minutes to break England's defense which the Germans did, over and over, starting with a long ball by goalie Manuel Neuer wedged in tactfully by Miroslav Klose.


Eyes on the prize, Klose is looking to beat Ronaldo's record of having scored 15 goals in the World Cup. Klose has played in three world cups, including this one, and has achieved a total of 12 goals so far. Guess we'll see how close, Klose can get.

Goal two for Germany came from Podolski, a tight shot that cuts right through the goalie's legs. This team seems to have everything going for it (it did in this game at least), perfect passing, good formation, quick thinking, smart assessments, intuitive communication.

England fought back. It started with a hard header by Upson bringing the score to 2-1. Then, a minute after, another FIFA fraud. England was denied a perfectly valid equalizer by Lampard. The best word that I've read so far to describe the bogus call is, "shambolic". It makes you wonder, if a tree falls in a forest and a FIFA ref is there to see it, does it fall?

In the 2nd half, England looked strong and played w urgency. In spite of the final score, I found this match to be a nailbiter, England was working hard at getting a foothold in this match. But then came the 67th minute and a too easy third goal by Germany who took advantage of goal area left totally ajar.

Another plum moment would come again, and, like the first time, Germany would seize upon it beautifully. It started with a throw-in for England that brought all players to the German goal area scrambling for possession. Then, Oezil sprung into action, running hard up left field in anticipation of a ball that suddenly arrives at his feet like a magical Fed Ex delivery. Oezil continues to run like lightening up a wide-open field, British midfielder Gareth Barry futilely chasing after him and Ashley Cole preparing to cut him off. Oezil foils all blocking attempts with a gentle cross to Muller who blasts it in, no questions asked. Germany has sealed the deal with a 4-1 lead to victory.


Heskey comes in to replace Defoe in the 71st minute, he must have thought, what am I supposed to do?






Incidentally, the outcome of this game was predicted by a psychic octopus.

World Cup 2010: 2R, Day 1: We'll Always Have Algeria

Uruguay 2 - 1 South Korea
United States 1 - 2 Ghana



Yesterday, USA played its heart out against Ghana and lost. And so it's over. No more bars to get to 4 hours before game time; no more waitresses balancing trays of fresh pints and pitchers, fighting through dense crowds shouting out more orders; no more patriotism-inducing close-ups of Landon Donovan looking every bit the fresh-faced pioneer, tenaciously believing in his country's potential in this sport where no one feels it belongs. So what's this 2010 World Cup team's legacy? We may be out of the running for World Cup Champions, but, at least we now know what winning feels like. This spectacular USA team gave us that, and as time goes by, that's what they'll be remembered for.

World Cup 2010, Day 15: Playing It Safe

North Korea 0 - 3 Ivory Coast
Portugal 0 - 0 Brazil
Switzerland 0 - 0 Honduras
Chile 1 - 2 Spain




Portugal v Brazil

In the past, people have dreamed about a World Cup face-off between these two countries. Nike even tried bringing the fantasy to life in a 2006 commercial. Today, it happened for real. But if you were looking for a battle between T-Rex and Triceratops you weren't going to get it, not in this round. Portugal and Brazil, ranked 2nd and 1st respectively in Group G, danced a soft-shoe duet that won't win them any awards for excitement, but will carry both teams smoothly into the 2nd Round. I assume they weren't really trying since neither side needed to win. Let's hope that's the case, or else we may soon be facing Youtube videos of a naked Maradona who, let's face it, barely looks presentable in a suit.

World Cup 2010, Day 14: Ciao Italia

Slovakia 3 - 2 Italy
Paraguay 0 - 0 New Zealand
Denmark 1 - 3 Japan
Cameroon 1 - 2 Netherlands


It seems implausible, impossible, completely unimaginable, but the Azzuri have left the pitch for the last time in this South African World Cup, after being eliminated by Slovakia. The final score denotes a struggle, but the only fight to be seen really was a bizarre kerfuffle inside the Slovakian goalbox.

To call Italy's performance toothless isn't enough, it was headless. And it was painful to watch them struggle without a Francesco Totti or Alessandro Del Piero in the mix to see things through. Someone needed to be there to spearhead plays but there were no playmakers present on Lippi's roster. Although, I don't think anything negative can be said of Di Natale's awesome performance. He and Fabio Quagliarella made a lethal pair, perhaps Lippi should have made more use of them together from the start.

As for Slovakia, they have made an impressive statement at this World Cup, which is its first as an independent nation since separation from Czechoslovakia in 1993. They fought tooth and nail against the defending champions without any sign of deference or apology to slow them down. Their most exciting goal was the third, the deathblow, delivered by 26 year-old Kamil Kopunek, who had just been put into play seconds earlier as a last-minute substitute in the 88th minute. I had an apprehensive feeling when Kopunek stepped onto the pitch, he looked so fit and ready for action, it was as if he arrived at the wrong game. This game was definitely geared more toward the old at rest than the young and restless.

I don't know what I'll do without the swagger, grit, beauty, style and yes, even the theatrics of Italy to look forward to in the tournament, but that said, this is a tournament. If only someone could explain why Lippi's team didn't treat it that way until the final 20 minutes of a live or die game.

World Cup 2010, Day 13: Cinderella Finish for USA

United States 1 - 0 Algeria

You never see Landon Donovan smile, but today he did, and it was great. The USA team blew the figurative roof off of Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Port Elizabeth, and if you were so fortunate as to suffer through this match, you're probably still sweaty.

The boat was rocked early on when a hard shot into the net by Dempsey via Gomez was flagged by the ref. Once again, the US was denied a perfectly valid goal. But the team played on, keeping possession of the ball most of the time and looking calm and methodical in the process. The Algerians played a more frenzied game, but that didn't make them less dangerous. Now and then, a stray shot out of nowhere would hit the USA goal post, underscoring the precariousness of a so far winnable situation.

As the game progressed a little further, things continued to look promising for USA, they were making clean, connecting passes and getting into a confident groove. Still no score by the 28th minute, but clearly this fledgeling group has done their homework, as the sports cliche goes. But it's true, they continue to play with far more understanding and control than they have in previous World Cup games. Michael Bradley, a stellar midfielder, was an invaluable asset to this game. He was in constant control over center field, driving plays with the speed of a superhero, his bald head instilling confidence each time you caught sight of him. Donovan seemed to be taking more of a supportive role, and you wondered if and when he might break out and strike.

But the game was still scoreless when halftime came around. Meanwhile, England v Slovenia was taking place simultaneously, and being viewed in an adjacent room at the pub where I watched. During the 28th minute, a loud roar signaled a goal for England, which meant USA had to win in order to move on into the 2nd round.

By the 49th minute, after more near misses and kicks gone either too high or too wide, you got the picture that while this game presented a lot of good storylines, none of them seemed to go anywhere. Which made me think of the whole LOST saga and how poorly that ended...

The game continued with plenty more attempts, but not score. Meanwhile, tension/torture building. By the 60th minute I just wanted to know, 'Is this going to happen or WHAT?" Algerian goalkeeper Rais M'Bolhi had blocked everything. It was like he REALLY just didn't want us to win.

75th minute: corner kicks shot and blown, time was running out...

80 minutes: Bornstein out, Beasley in. Couldn't remember if I liked Beasley or not... Then came a free kick for Dempsey, "This is it!" I texted my sister. But no, it wasn't. And with the clock ticking away, the end was coming fast...

83 minutes: Dempsey with a split lip, missed a freekick. Now everyone was feeling the threat of ejection, everyone except for this annoying human vuvuzela guy at the bar who seemed to enjoy shouting "GO USA" sarcastically whenever the situation turned bleak. Had to refocus. Serenity now, focus on game. Blocked out annoying human vuvuzela...

85th minute: It was at this point that I couldn't help but think of that scene in the Godfather II when Fredo tells his nephew how he managed to catch a fish every time he dropped his line in the water...

90 minutes: 4+ stoppage time, Beasley yellow-carded. Okaaaay....

90'33 Close-call by Rafik Saifi, saved by Howard! Whew, thank you Howard!!

And then it happened. Landon Donovan soaring on winged feet towards the Algerian goal, the ball giddily bouncing ahead of him. Pass to Altidore, pass to Dempsey, the ball bounces out--Donovan SCORES!!!!

Time to CELEBRATE!!! Cue music from The Killers.

World Cup 2010, Day 12

World Cup 2010, Day 11: Portugal Sings in the Rain

Portugal 7 - 0 North Korea
Chile 1 - 0 Switzerland
Spain 2 - 0 Honduras



Portugal v North Korea

Cue the MGM music, this was Portugal's day to bring it on Gene Kelly style. It started around the 28th minute with a goal by Raul Meireles. Meirles's shot was the first of many cracks leading to a total collapse in North Korea's defense, which was overly stretched also because of a strangely inept goalie, Ri Myong-Guk. If this were a Snicker's commercial, North Korea would have fared better with Betty White as goalkeeper than wispy, willowy Myong-Guk who practically laid out a welcome mat for Portugal.

Sorry North Korea, sometimes when it rains, it pours...

World Cup 2010, Day 10: The Kaka Hits the Fan

Slovakia 0 - 2 Paraguay
Italy 1 - 1 New Zealand
Brazil 3 - 1 Ivory Coast



Brazil 3 - 1 Ivory Coast

It was a much better performance by Brazil, though it is a shame that they let Ivory Coast slip-in one goal. Not sure what was going on on the pitch, but the last half of the game was rife with tension, players seemed one shirt-tug away from total mayhem. The big shock was seeing the boyish and extremely religious Kaka get red-carded. No one's safe in this year's World Cup.


Italy v New Zealand

Not sure what to think of this year's Italian team. They've certainly got charisma: Vincenzo Iaquinta (pictured left) winked at the camera during his country's national anthem; De Rossi, looking very much the castaway in his beard is literally throwing himself into the role of team thespian--but in a way that's entertaining and not infuriating. And then there's the deadly Di Natale, whom Lippi sends out when the team means business; he is "The Problem Solver".

So that at least, in a hazelnut shell, is some of the allure of the Italian team, but we'll have to wait and see if behind all the charisma, the Azzuri still have what it takes to make the Brazilian team tremble. Though in today's game, they couldn't budge a kiwi.

Game highlights:

-Italians wore black arm bands in remembrance of Italian defender Roberto Rosato, renown for his 1970 World Cup performance, who died last week at the early age of 67.
-New Zealand taps in a goal in the 6th minute. That was easy.
-Highly questionable foul on De Rossi, who falls on the ground at the slightest tug of his jersey. Italy gets a free kick. New Zealand goalie Mark Paston appeared to shrink in from of Italian striker Iaquinta whose kick was right on target. Italy scores, De Rossi pretends to blast Iaguinta with a vuvuzela in the face.

New Zealand holds draw, game ends 1-1.

World Cup 2010, Day 9

Netherlands 1 - 0 Japan
Ghana 1 - 1 Australia
Cameroon 1 - 2 Denmark



A tense, heated match between two resolute teams. The Dutch started off with a fine arts approach to the game that gradually digressed into a street brawl for the ball as Japan proved to be a more formidable opponent than Holland's initial aloofness could handle. Players on both sides took plenty of hits, the worst of which--a boot in the face of Yuichi Komano by a falling Robin Van Persie--required a stretcher.

Ten minutes after halftime, the game was still nil-to-nil, then, Dutch striker Wesley Sneijder breaks the silence with a thunderbolt in the 53rd minute. It was a much-needed relief for Holland who were expected to be the easy victors in this challenge, though it did not diminish Japan's determination. No changes to the score after that point, but the breakneck intensity of the match persisted until the very end.

World Cup 2010, Day 8

Germany 0 - 1 Serbia
Slovenia 2 - 2 United States
England 0 - 0 Algeria



An incredible match. USA, guided by the mighty Landon Donovan, brought fans to their feet, as they turned a runaway train headed off a cliff, back on track. That said, let the rants against poor officiating begin. Referee Coulibaly Koman from Mali interfered at pivotal moments to make bogus calls. He undeniably deprived the US its rightful victory.

The first half of the game entailed a disastrous mix of failings and misfortune for the US. Specifically, squandered opportunities, baffling officiating, a wide-open defense and some weak moments from Tim Howard.

A yellow card allowed Francisco Torres a corner kick which he delivered superbly, followed soon after by an amazing headbutt by DeMerit. Unfortunately, both were blocked by Slovenian goalie Samir Handanovic.

Robbie Findley had a perfect opportunity to strike in the 38th minute but threw it away, passing it to Jozy Altidore instead, who had no chance of following through. I think Findley needs more confidence, he's got speed and maneuverability, but he appears to shy away from taking direct shots.

Bradley came very close to scoring until the ref interrupted play for a completely unfounded yellow card to Findley for a handball that didn't take place. Replays clearly showed Findley getting hit in the face by the ball, his hands nowhere to be seen. At a the NYC bar where I watched, the anger and disbelief amongst US fans was unanimous. To quote a fan who verbalized it to the TV screen, "You REALLY need to suck it!!" Adding injury to insult, was a second goal by Ljubijankic in the 41st minute.

Onto the second half. Sometimes praying for the best but preparing for the worst really pays off. It certainly did in today's game, fraudulent referee notwithstanding. From Donovan's shot in the 47th minute to Bradley in the 81st AND Edu in the 4th minute of stoppage time, the way the team dug themselves out of a hole was inspiring. And that is soccer at its best.

World Cup 2010, Day 7

Argentina 4 - 1 South Korea
Greece 2 - 1 Nigeria
France 0 - 2 Mexico

Argentina v South Korea

Make way for the team of Maradona.

The action started early. Argentina capitalized on two free kicks in the first 30-minutes of the game, but was blindsided by midfielder Lee Chung-Yung, who snuck in a goal right at the brink of halftime.

In the second half, Argentina bombarded the Korean goal with vigor. Tevez cannonballed a shot but it was blocked by goalie Jung Sung-Ryong, who had his work cut out for him in the second half. The Argentinians showed a real deadliness at the net that should put an end to any doubts about Maradona's ability as a coach. But there are times when Maradona looks ready to put on a uniform himself and run onto the field.

In the 76min, Argentina converged and attacked, this time Jung Sung-Ryong didn't stand a chance, Argentina proved its might as one of the world’s greatest teams. Two minutes later, a fourth goal. Argentina found a formula that worked and they were sticking to it. It was a fairytale ending for La Albiceleste with Maradona delivering individual hugs to his players.


Greece v Nigeria

A regrettable split-second temper flare-up by Nigerian midfielder Sani Kaita, who lashed out at Greece's Vassilis Torosidis with a kick in the thigh while the two were standing on the sidelines, spoiled what was an early 1-0 lead for Nigeria. Kaita's plaintive reaction to the red card emphasized his youth: the 24-year old raised his shirt over his face, probably to hide the tears. You immediately felt for this kid, who probably won't get to play another game in this World Cup. Galvanized by the sudden plus one advantage over Nigeria, and a visibly dispirited goalie, the Greeks went on to score their first goal ever in a World Cup and eventually won the match.


France v Mexico

Alguma disse "major upset"? Mexico was on fire today and in the end the French got burned. It was a great match for Mexico, who have broken their reputation as serial World Cup underachievers. As for France, the future looks dim, but the way the points system works, there still remains the smallest chance for Le Bleus to squeeze through to the second round if they win their next match

World Cup 2010, Day 6

Honduras 0 - 1 Chile
Spain 0 - 1 Switzerland
South Africa 0 - 3 Uruguay



Honduras v Chile

A great performance by Chile, who dazzled spectators and viewers with athleticism and artistry. Juggling the ball with their feet, zig-zagging through tight spots and making quick-fire passes that zipped straight past opponents, Chile seemed poised for scoring from the get-go, it was only question of when and how many times. The answer came in the 35th minute, an exemplary group effort punctuated by forward Jean Beausejeau. Also some great plays by Sanchez who even though he never scored a goal, remained a constant threat to Honduras throughout the match.


Spain v Switzerland


One the Cup's super shockers. The regal Spanish team is defeated by the Swiss, an overlooked underdog with unimpressive stats. Another instance showing how in soccer, unlike economics, no team is too big to fail.

Taking the brunt of Spain's loss is star goal keeper Iker Cassillas, who had the added injury of being interviewed by his reporter girlfriend, Sara Carbonero immediately after the game. If having to question her boyfriend in a in a cold, detached manner about his "muck up" wasn't bad enough, Carbonero herself has also been the target of blame by the Spanish press for sitting too near the goal and being a distraction. On the bright side, a turnaround for Spain and Casillas could bring all his and her PR nightmares to an end. Who knows, she may be one winning save away from being revered as the Kate Hudson of the National Team.









South Africa v Uruguay



After an impressive standoff with France, Uruguay dominates South Africa in its second match of the Group Stage. It was for the most part, Forlan's game, starting with an impressive first goal taken without warning from a risky distance. This is a player who shows no sign of self-doubt and appears to enjoy every minute of play time. Forlan's free kick, 80 minutes into the game, gave Uruguay their second point, and, instigated a steady exodus of South African fans from Loftus Versfeld Stadium. Final nail on the coffin: third goal by Pereira in the 95th minute.

World Cup 2010, Day 5

New Zealand 1 - 1 Slovakia
Ivory Coast 0 - 0 Portugal
Brazil 2 - 1 North Korea



A pall hung over today's game, a pall in the shape of a stocky little Asian man in a jump suit who thinks he's Tyrell from Blade Runner.

The drama that set the stage for Brazil v N.Korea was steep. On one hand, you have the five-time champions of a sunny paradise best-known for its micro-bikinis and a preternatural ability to party and play soccer. On the other, rarely seen envoys from a barbed-wired dictatorship in a bitter-cold country. The very appearance of North Korea at the World Cup is a mystery, no one is quite sure how or why the team has been put together, nor if North Koreans will even be permitted to watch the game in their own country. They certainly weren't allowed to attend the game, hence the whole absurdity of the Chinese actors posing as North Korean fans. And by the way, they did a terrible job.

Brazil achieved an inevitable win, but it was a slow and meandering performance that didn't come to life until the second half. After 54 minutes of loose passing and long shots that didn't connect, Brazilian defender Maicon produced a miracle shot from the right of the goal that wedged itself in beautifully. Whether the curved trajectory of Maicon's kick, at such a tight angle, could have actually been done on purpose, is a phenomenon that will be debated for years to come--although Youtube provides plenty of proof of what the gifted Maicon can do. Following Maicon was a goal by Elano, a clean diagonal into the net after much churning on the field.

But Brazil or no Brazil, North Korea would not be dismissed, asserting itself in the 89th minute with a head-on strike by defender Ji Yun-Nam that would be the final goal of the match. North Korea, an outsider in every way, has proven that no team in this tournament can be underestimated.

World Cup 2010, Day 4

Netherlands 2 - 0 Denmark
Japan 1 - 0 Cameroon
Italy 1 - 1 Paraguay




Japan v Camaroon

A well fought match by both Japan and Camaroon. Incredible goal by Keisuke Honda who somehow in the melee at the goal post, managed to be meticulous in his handling of the ball before striking victoriously into the net. Camaroon made several valiant attacks but none got past Eiji Kawashima, Japan’s laser-sharp goalie.

Italy v Paraguay

The Paraguay coaches were sharply dressed in their dark coats. As the rain came down over Cape Town, defending champions Italy did most of the attacking while Paraguay appeared to resign itself to a steady defense. Then, in the 38th minute, Paraguay defender Antolin Alcaraz hoisted himself up from a cluster of blue shirts guarding the Italian goal and head-popped a flying ball from Aureliano Torres into the net. Paraguayan fans erupted as they celebrated the first point of a match that most assumed would be the sole property of Italy. No doubt, the fact that the goalkeeper for Italy was Buffon, added extra sweetness to Paraguay's excellent achievement.

Italy turned up their game, never ceasing to attack. But Paraguay stayed confident, and preserved their lead into halftime.

After halftime, the Italian team returns to the pitch with a big shocker. No Buffon. Instead, Federico Marchetti. Marchetti is 27-years old and managed a slightly better saves-to-shots ratio than Buffon in Serie A, Italy's major league competition.

Into the second half, Italy played a lot stronger, but as the minutes passed, Paraguay gained confidence. Then this from bearded-midfielder, De Rossi.

With that, momentum shifted to Italy. Expectations were further boosted when Coach Lippi brought in Antonio di Natale, small but deadly, in place of Alberto Gilardnino.

Paraguay, however, continued to hold down the fort. The match ended 1-1.

World Cup 2010, Day 3

Algeria 0 - 1 Slovenia
Serbia 0 - 1 Ghana
Germany 4 - 0 Australia




Germany Blew Our Minds

First team to take ownership of the game in the first 30min. By the end they built a home in the Australian goal. It began with a sharp kick by Podolski in the 8th minute of the game, clocked at 82mph according to online sources. The set up and execution was flawless. Clean, powerful and precise. No hesitation when they kick, and there’s nothing random about their formation on the field. Less than 20 minutes later, came a long-distance cross from Lahm that Klose head-butted in with the triumphant joy of a breaching whale. At this point, Australian goalie Schwartzer looked a bit terrified. With reason. These were no mere goals, but matrix-like algorithms that seemed to transform space and time right before our very eyes. Half-time gave fleeting refuge to the Australians, who, let's face it, were the guinea pigs to this newly unleashed force.

World Cup 2010, Day 2

South Korea 2 - 0 Greece
Argentina 1 - 0 Nigeria
England 1 - 1 United States

South Korea v Greece
A scrappy match that turned out to be far more interesting than one would be inclined to anticipate given the swaths of empty seats visible in the stadium. After an energetic start from Greece, a set goal by Lee Jung Soo turned the tide towards South Korea, who quickly emerged as the more resolute and able team. Representing Korea's better half, the South Koreans went on to show impressive skill, speed, accuracy and even some fancy footwork. Greece on the other hand expended all its energy on ball chasing, without a hint of strategy, increasing the odds against their ability to produce a goal. It was a shoddy performance by the Greeks that brings into question both their motivation and preparedness to compete for the World Cup.

Argentina v Nigeria
A lot of people participating in soccer pools have money riding on Argentina, a popular team whose powerhouse image rides as much on the coattails of soccer god Maradona, who now serves as team coach, as it does on any real playing ability. Today's performance against Nigeria reached an early climax in the 6th minute when Gabriel Heinze head-butted a side kick deep into the net. After that, neither side offered a spark of excitement. For Argentina, the game played out like 80 minutes of a burning-fuse without an explosion. The saddest part was that fans were denied the added enjoyment of charged reactions from camera-loving Diego Maradona, who watched intently from the sidelines like an anxious father.


England v United States



Guess what world, we DO know how to play soccer. For once, US fans had a real opportunity to scream and shout for the team, thanks to Clint Dempsey and a rascally ball that seemed to squirm like a greased pig out of the hands of British goalie Robert Green. It was a game-tying goal that is well-deserved. This year's US team is cohesive, focused and organized. A far more capable team than we've seen at previous World Cup performances, with a far more advanced understanding of the game. England's frustration was evident throughout the scrimmage in the second half, as was USA's determination.



Man, can this guy take a kick to the chest! Tim Howard, the US team's stalwart goalie, shook off what appeared to be an excruciating injury incurred as British forward Emile Heskey's cleated foot rammed into his chest during a goal attempt. It didn't seem possible but Howard played through the second half with the same ferocity as the first. Online reports say that he's been closely monitored, appears OK, and will be able to play in Friday's match against Slovenia.

World Cup 2010, Day 1

South Africa 1 - 1 Mexico
Uruguay 0 - 0 France



The very first two World Cup 2010 games were played today, in host country South Africa. Nothing too exciting, both games ended in ties, and no team asserted itself as a force to be reckoned with. Not even France, for whom Uruguay's tenacious defense proved to be impenetrable.

The most jaw-dropping moment of the game however, in terms of sheer audacity, came when French striker, Thierry Henry, who himself committed the infamous handball pass that led to France's stolen victory over the Republic of Ireland, qualifying them for the World Cup, called out what he saw as a handball violation in the second half of the game. A replay showed nothing but a chest trap that if anything came a little close to the player's arm. Irish fans watching at home must have enjoyed that one.

I would say that Uruguay played well, it's not easy to keep the French at bay. But of course, that's not how the people of Uruguay see it, they want a win. Uruguay has two WC championships under its belt--way, way, under, from 1930 and 1950.


So who were the REAL winners today? South Africa's beautiful new stadiums.

Soccer City Stadium, located in Johannesburg, and pictured above, has a soft, circular shape that is meant to mimic an African pot, a reference to the cultural melting pot of the World Cup games. It's a massive stadium that seats up to 90,000 face-painted, screaming fans. Equally stunning, is the luminous Cape Town Stadium, also new, which has a seating capacity of 68,000. Here it is as seen at night in full glow:



Incidentally, tomorrow's big game between the US and England will take place at Bafokeng Stadium which is more old school.



Look closely at this ordinary little stadium, who knows, after tomorrow's game it could go down in history as the place where the entire world learned to take the US team seriously.