The game between Brazil and Ivory coast was simply a tough game to predict. Even though i had my money on Brazil, i knew that the 'Elephants' were not a cakewalk. In the end though, it was Brazil simply outperforming their rivals although i would love to see more flair and more style that only the Brazilians can offer. Remember the class of 82? They were the best team to have never won the World cup and yet they were so awesome!Socrates, Falcao and Eder are still some of the best players in Brazilian footballing history and i would want this generation to adapt more of their style and their hunger to win. Once they do that, it would be hard stopping this team which has everything their way. I am putting my money on them after the Germans.
I am still surprised at the way people are discounting the Germans as the favorites to win the holy grail. yes, they have goofed up at a very wrong time but according to me it still can be a good omen. One should remember that Germans had not lost any of their opening games but they have somehow choked up in the end. this can be a reminder that anything can happen in this game and the Germans can be more cautious at a later stage. Only their next battle can decide whether they are ready for a bloodbath or not.
Here is a fact: the team that has won the euro championships since 2000 have not scored in the following world cup and have exited in the opening round itself. We start with France who won it in 2000 and lost to Senegal in the opening round, they couldn't score in a single game. The same happened with Greece when they became the euro winners and headed for a first round exit in Germany 2006... so will it happen to Spain? Although it would be foolish to make any kind of statement, history has a funny way of repeating itself. Spain can blame the goalkeeper's girlfriend which can show what kind of a maturity they have while accepting their mistakes. Maybe the coach and the players should simply grow up and see what went wrong against a team like Switzerland.
New Zealand were like a surprise package and they were very good against Italy. The Italians may still make it to the round of 16 with their experience, but i seriously don't know how is this kind of experience going to help them in the later stages.
France and England don't even want to play like headless chickens anymore. The Golden generation of England would have never expected such a performance. For a team that has been over hyped by the media as if they already have won a trophy, this team is below par with it's coach who thinks it is easier for him to bow out rather than infuse a rush of blood among its players. France have been at an all time low. the only solution is find a better coach and come back in Euro 2012. They should actually refund the money to the fans who have paid to watch them play. Hopefully we will see more of Nasri's and Benzema the next tournament is played.
Argentina were fantastic and should stick to the same style. I cannot imagine what would the press say when Messi scores. Maradona was a great player and is a great coach. But the post match kissing is well, disturbing to say the least.
And oh yeah, before i run out of words, a special mention to the Nigeria versus Greece match. It was an exciting game. If you have missed it, watch the highlights.
Until then, enjoy the beautiful game! The upsets have just begun.......
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