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
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