TrueAzzurri

The Cleansing of History

While the calls for Zizou's legacy to be forever tarnished flow freely from the cheapseats of Sports Journalists everywhere, I found a great example of how time will heal Zizou's legacy to the world.
The sports rag of all rags L'Equipe, ask Lance Armstrong about'em, wrote:

''eternal regrets', condemned Zidane's act of violence.'Zinedine,' they queried, 'the most difficult thing this morning is not to try to explain why Les Bleus, your Bleus, lost the final of the World Cup which they could have won, but to explain to millions of children around the world how you could let yourself go to the point of charging at and head-butting Marco Materazzi.'During the match in Berlin's Olympiastadion where so many pages of sports history were written, you were Ali, the genius of the ring, the greatest.'But not Ali, nor (Jesse) Owens nor Pele, men that you were about to join among the most brilliant sports legends, ever broke the rules the way you did.'Why also, weren't you on the pitch to console your friends Lilian Thuram and Fabien Barthez after the loss?'You left them alone, just like the millions of kids who were inconsolable in front of their television set.'Zinedine, you must be a very unhappy man this morning. You are also going to have to explain your gesture to your four sons.'It was the last image you left as a football player, Zinedine. How could this happen to the man you are?'

I highlight the Ali part for the fact that now we see him as the perfect embodiment of integrity and sporting spirit the scribes show us in measured reflection.  I love Ali, but the things the man said about Joe Frazier leading up to Ali/Frazier III, a 'gorilla, too ugly to be in the ring with him' were absolutely hideous.  Frazier gave him his chance to regain his foothold in the sport in 1974 and that is how Ali eventually repaid him.  Same with Foreman in Africa, he essentially decried George's actual Africanness by his lack of rapport with Zaire locals.  Doomed by his introverted shyness, Foremen never could or wanted to, mesh with his fans like Ali.  But in the end history has filtered his image into the highlights we all are meant to remember.  Zizou will not be able to erase his actions, but they will not be allowed to tarnish his overall legacy.  Tell your kids about the only man who has won the World player of the year award, Champions League Trophy, European Championship and the World Cup....then show them the headbutt and remind them no one is ever above the game, no matter what name their jersey bears.

my Zizou:

Goldenballs and Headbutts

Now that the smoke has cleared and the champagne has temporarily stopped flowing in Rome we can look back at the last 2 unanswered questions.  Who won the GoldenBall as the top player (voted on by international journalists) and what in name of Geniuses made Zizou headbutt Matta?

Well the Golden Ball was won by the headbutter....weird how everything revolves around him.  He narrowly edged Cannavaro (the deserved winner) and Pirlo was third.  You can check out the actual vote tallies here.  The other award winners are listed here. 

Now onto the exciting shenanigans...according to the SOS, an Anti-Racism organization based out of France (great PR dept.),.....drum-roll please.....Matta called Zizou a 'Dirty Terrorist'.  Now here are my points - keep in mind I have NO IDEA what was said.

1. The smack talking was very non emotional...when saying something vile, you usually have some pretty good animation in your face to go along with the venom....Matta was pretty non-chalant.
2. Do you really say something that racist/evil to Jordan, Ali, or Tiger Woods in their prime?  How does that even cross your mind? 
3. This whole scenario then is inherently saying Matta is smarter than Zizou...can that be?

On a funny side note my buddy AC dropped me this note regarding this whole crazy affair.  About the difference in international sporting diplomacy...

The reason that soccer players/European jocks are wussies 
- your teammate gets in an argument with some dude, and 
then next thing you know he gets a giant headbutt is lying
on the ground in pain. If that happens on any playing field
in the US, from HS through pros, then Z is in danger of 
having a teammate of the dude on the ground rip his head 
from his body. But in soccer, all the players start running 
around with their hands in the air, clucking like chickens
and pecking at the ref. Not one dude from Italy so much as 
even threatened Z or challenged him in any way for crushing
their teammate. I just don't understand that. World cup or 
no - I don't care. If Josh Howard headbutts freakin James
Posey with 3 seconds left in game 7 of the NBA finals, 
there would be a fight. No questions asked. Or do you 
think Shaq and Haslem would have just run over to 
Joey Crawford and start clucking away instead?

Not a feathery touch with the sporting comparison, but an interesting point nonetheless.

One other item from a friend, actually before the final.  As I was blindly rooting for Italy, he picked France.  As we were finalizing our stakes, here were his last words about France's chances:

'I will let zidane's actions speak. Drinks on the loser?'   

Unfortunately we can't make Zizou pay for the drinks G, but his actions certainly spoke volumes, fateful words indeed. 

Some thoughts on the Cup and International diplomacy

I put out a call to some friends and family for their thoughts on the Cup, soccer, life or all of the above.  Here are a couple of my favorite responses, both are from some super ladies in my life.  First from Rosie, actually Innes' mom, but same diff to me...also note Rosie has a perfect balance in her Cup life as she is part Italian and a also a true Les Bleus Francophile - her thoughts (you are on your own to decipher, I know what I read):
Non so niente del sport di futbol ma mi piace bene guardare Azzurri e la tua
blog.
On the other hand - or foot, as it were -
J'aime bien les mouvements de grace de Zidane et Henry sur le terrain de
foot.
C'est bien difficile de choisir entre les deux equipes !

Buona fortuna alle due - Rosalie

Thanks Rosie....now onto my mom, Carol always puts the perfect weight to my maniacal sporting emotions..translating love of sport into useful purpose:

whenever I think of international soccer (versus the Colorado Rapids), what comes immediately to mind is:

 

Italy (due to some family influence and being the most attactive male species in the world)

Brasil (one of my favorite Annie Liebowitz photos is of Pele's feet)

Germany (brute force-no finesse, my impression of the populace)

England (hooligans)

Mexico (from watching hundreds of cute Mexican kids and adults play in the local parks)

Ghana (I watched their women's team in a World Cup qualifying match and they and their fans are THE most colorful)

 

I've also learned through traveling that an instant bond with the locals is to ask who their favorite team and/or player is, then buy a hat or scarf and wear it promiently while in the country.   I have gotten high-fives and thumbs-up and huge smiles in Italy, Turkey, Ecuador, Croatia, Brasil.   It almost compensates for having to apologize to them that Bush is still our president.

 

But back to international soccer teams......for some reason France just doesn't enter my mind, they always seem too taken with other things like wine and fashion. (and have never given me a thumbs-up, high-five  or huge smile)

 

GO ITALY....

There you have it, 2 great ladies breaking down International soccer and the Cup. Couldn't and wouldn't have said it better.

Our 4th Star and certified madness

Can we not say we saw it all today in Berlin?  I got my beloved and immortal 4th star, while a legend of the game, on par with Pele and Maradonna goes mad at the maniac of Italy as Zizou headbutts Matterazzi?!?!?!  What on gods green earth in Berlin was he doing.....whatever it was it did not do anything other than disturb the Soccer gods as Italy won the shootout and the 2006 World Cup.  We'll talk finals by halves and extra time.

FIRST HALF:  The game started out like a firecracker, France getting the ball up to Henry rather easily as Malouda and Ribery ran rampant of the wings.  After an auspicious penalty which never should have been called in the first 10 minutes of any match, France was up 1-0 from the Zizou cheeky, yet almost too much, penalty.  Italy then took the game by the scruff and took complete control.  Pirlo running the show as Italy got up and down the wings that they converted into several set-piece chances.  The set-pieces proved to be the key to the Italian attack.  France simply had NO answers for any set-pieces, whether corner or free kicks.  Matterazzi who was guilty of the penalty, squared the match with a magical header over Viera off a corner kick.  The early goal seemed to make the French take their foot off the gas and they really didn't recover in the first half.  And so the game went to the locker room 1-1, and I kept dreaming of any deadball opportunities.

SECOND HALF:  In what I thought would be the last major push of the aging French, Les Bleus came out gangbusters in the second half.  But as the 70th minute approached, the only signs of the aging maestros slowing down came from Viera pulling up lame with a bum hammy.  A shame for sure for the Senegalese warrior.  But France didn't miss a beat as Diarra came in, other than he became the sucker that all French fouls would be called on!  France kept pressing without too many troubling chances, but they controlled possession and tempo.  Lippi tried to take back control by subbing out Perrotta and Totti (never got on track the entire Cup...), with De Rossi and Iaquinta.  Let's talk Iaquinta....the man simply does not fulfill a specific role on the field, even though he was playing on the wide right, why not let Gilardino run wild?  After Gila's unselfish semi-final showing I think he could have been a much bigger threat, even coming off the right side.  Alas Iaquinta was in and young De Rossi got his reprieve, as he was called on in his first duty since the Mcbride elbow red card.  Unfortunately he didn't seem to mesh into any real role, and never really had a chance to stretch his young legs.  France kept pushing but again had few, if any quality chances.  Domenech decided to leave the fate of his team in Wiltord and Trezeguet's shoes, taking off Henry and Ribery.....let me say that again - taking off Henry....is there any circumstance with extra time looming you could think to remove Thierry Henry from the game?!?!?  In the words of Gnarls Barkley, "I think you're crazy....".  So regular time ended, still knotted at 1-1.

EXTRA TIME:  Had hope against hope that Italy would come out like madmen as they did against Germany in OT, but alas France kept the pedal to the metal....coming and coming though not really testing Buffon.  Then a last chance for the completion of the Zizou fairytale...Zizou sent a pass out wide to Sagnol and darted for the 6 yard box, Sagnol lifted a perfect cross to the inexplicably unmarked Zizou who unleashed a cracker off his head toward the top of the goal.  As replays showed Gigi Buffon went up with his right hand and masterfully guided the shot over the bar and shouted in exultation at the moment of denial towards Zizou.  Is this the moment where the legend blew his fuse?  he rarely shows any emotion towards missed chances, but was beside himself over the missed opportunity, heading the ball pretty much right at Gigi.  So the game went to it's last 15 minutes.  Again France controlled the tempo as none of Italy's subs could provide any extended possession for the Azzurri.  Then the moment of madness...after another deep French excursion the ball was played out for Italy, big Matterazzi was marking Zizou, as the play went upfield they seemed to have a bit of a chat.  Matta didn't seem to be speaking to vociferously, yet Zizou turned into El Bull, as he took 3 steps and headbutted the heck out of Matta's chest.  IT GETS WORSE EVERY TIME IT IS SHOWN!  So it was the energy and life seeped out of 10 man France and Domenech's crazy subs left him with only 2 offensive veterans come penalty time.

SHOOT-OUT:  Bottom line, everyone struck a beauty.  Trezeguet missed by an inch, and where Zizou's penalty hit the bar and went in early, Trezegoal's was not to be.  Italy won the shootout on Grosso's 5th shot, Italy 5 for 5 in the shootout and World Champions - Gigi had a funny post game quote about the shoot-out:  "I still can’t believe it. It’s as if we’ve won some other trophy. It’ll be different tomorrow when I’ve had some time to think about what’s happened. I definitely would’ve saved the fifth penalty, but my team-mates were good enough to make sure it didn’t come to that."  Amen to that brother...and so the fourth star will forever be embroidered on our National Jersey's....only 1 behind the samba boys yet again...sleep well Cup lover's, I will.

the 2 lasting images of this Final:

madness

<br>

<br>

but more importantly and lastingly....our 4th Star!!!

Dream Date in Berlin

Well it's all set France vs. Italy in Berlin on Sunday.  The French put in a rather blue collar performance by their standards against Portugal Wednesday, settling the match with a Zizou penalty won by Henry.  Second half looked very 80's Italian with Les Bleus absorbing enormous pressure from Portugal.  So shall we break down the final?  I think we shall...we'll break down formation roles rather than specific positions, ie left back.

The wings:  Italy's 2 wingbacks, Gianluca Zambrotta and Fabio Grosso (did you know Italy starts 2 Fabio's? Believe it brothers and sisters) have had the most impact of any pair of wings, defensive or midfield, in the Cup.  They not only get the job done defensively, but also perform the lions share of what a typical outside midfielder would be expected to do as well.  Their ability to get good crosses in the box could prove pivotal in Berlin.  This allows much more freedom for our traditional midfield wings of Perotta & Camo (maybe Del Piero or even talk of De Rossi), however neither have had much impact on the offensive side, whether coming inside or staying wide.  Perotta (great story about him here) has made several great runs only to conclude them with dreadful finishing, but his workrate has been spectacular.  On the French side they rely mainly on their midfield for outside service.  Their wingbacks stay close to home, though Sagnol will sometimes make a run up the left.  Ribery, a true revelation this Cup (NO International Caps before the Cup!) has been a madman on the wings.  Even going so far as to get Skip Richter's seal of approval for never ending energy.  He has allowed Zizou and Henry to find space behind the chaos he creates, and thus great chances.  On the other side, Lyon's Malouda performs admirably.  The interesting item of note so far in the Cup for French wingers is the substitution patterns.  In the Semi-final BOTH were subbed out around the 70th minute.  Not to say they stay over the Wise old men, but the young legs sure looked better at the 70th minute than the old ones......

Advantage:  Italy - they bring more potency off the bench and have more versatility on the field to start.  One of Italy's greatest strengths

The Defense:  Factoid of the D's - When the teams take the field Sunday night 4 of Juventus' starting 5 defenders (GK Included) will be on the field.  Captain Can, Thuram, Zambrotta and Buffon.  Both defenses have been stellar to date, France held Brazil and Portugal to goose eggs.  Italy has not given up a goal from the opposing team.  Only an own goal spoils their record.  While this looks to be a toss-up, I am not sold on Abidal and Sagnol on the wings.  They have faced attacks that come head on, Brazil comes with the ball at their feet and shoots a cutter through as did Portugal.  How Gallas and Thuram handle darting crosses into Big Toni and Co. will be the whole debate.  As good as the Italian defense is...Thierry Henry can make anything happen at any time - he is far and away the most dangerous man in the Final.  Italy was man marking Germany and may do the same if France starts Henry alone up front (would be a mistake) - if he has a partner and room to roam trouble could be abrew. Wildcard of the defense....Barthez.  He looked VERY shakey in the 2nd half against Portugal - what happened on that free kick that Figo headed over?!?!

Advantage:  EVEN - Both defenses have done everything asked.  This could come down to Keepers and thank you very much for Gigi and not Fabian...we'll see.

The Attack:  There is no equal to Henry up front in the World, period.  However while he would go first in the draft, Italy's crew would probably take slots 2 and 3.  France sees Saha suspended for the Final, but they don't need more than Trezegoal for the Final.  The Italians boast versatility on top of the overall depth.   They can bring in wide attack, poachers or more point men.  Everyone seemed surprised by Lippi bringing in both Del Piero and Iaquinta against Germany but even without the goal they created they are ready for the shootout.  France cannot say the same.

Advantage:  IF France starts Henry alone, then ITALY.  If France pairs him up then FRANCE.

The midfield:   I hope we all realize how special this midfield will be for the Final.  Look at the names and if you have watched the Tourney each should prompt a moment of brilliance in your mind. Gattusso, Makelele, Viera, Totti, Pirlo and of course Zizou.  I honestly think this may be the most talented midfield group assembled for a Cup Final.  The battle to watch for me is Zizou and Gattusso, though Italy denies a special strategy for Zidane, I can't help but envision MANY hard challenges from the Milan enforcer.  As too will Viera look to put some wood on Pilro, a slightly built maestro who isn't a big fan of clashing.  Viera, for me, has been France's man of the Cup so far.  His performance against Togo was otherworldly, and without Zizou. The other plot is Totti, an absolute non-factor in his ability to stamp his personality and skill in each game to date, yet a true difference maker at ANY GIVEN moment.  Lippi continues to hold out hope he picks the Final for his coming out party this Cup.  In the end though let us simply enjoy Zizou and Pirlo pulling the strings for their respective teams.  While Zizou will make his mazing runs and cheeky touches, maybe even give us a sublime goal (ala Champions League final left foot volley) enjoy how Pirlo will simply start the attack like a point guard bringing up the ball.  He is always available for the outlet and always knows where to find a passing lane to a player in space.....never forget the pass to Grosso in extra time...

Advantage: US, the fans!! These are the players that truly define the beautiful game on this penultimate gameday.

Coaches:   Lippi has brought a single minded mentality not witnessed in an Azzurri squad in ages.  There are no Club team factions, and strangely enough the Scandal has brought out a great bunker mentality of 'us against the world'.  This combined with his willingness to let the players attack and put them in offensive positions to succeed has made for a formidable team.  Domemech was the Under 21 coach when Les Bleus won the Cup in '98.  He knows everyone and they get on fine.  But they coach themselves.  I marvel at watching Zizou, Viera, Thuram and Makelele getting together to discuss the game (during the game!) and coaching the youngsters on the fly as well.

Advantage: Italy, but this game will not be decided by the coaching...

Final analysis..the Azzurri have come too far for me to see anything other than a 4th Star on our badge...The determination produced by all the crap surrounding the team has created a will that I don't think France can break.  As for France I really believe that only 3 days to recover from their Semi-Final game will prove decisive.  They must jump out early on Italy, because 75 minutes in, the options will be limited for Les Bleus.  Lippi will remind the boys of the clarity of their purpose, they have a footballing crisis to return to produced by greedy boardrooms, and they have heavy hearts and an acute awareness of life and it's fleeting moments of greatness with their friend Pessotto recovering from a suicide attempt.  They will never again share a locker room with a group of men as united by uncertainty, finding solace and complete belief in their National duties.  This is their Cup, where redeeming National pride in the game can be achieved, while playing out the dream they have all come to share..Italy wins 2-0, World Cup Champions 2006. Goals by Toni and Totti. 

forza italia....

Daily Dose of Azzurri

Italy News:

• Important decision - Italy will wear Azzurri, France to wear Blanc.  Italy will have worn the Azzurri in EVERY Cup game...sweet.
• No Nesta in Berlin....center back will miss out with continuing groin problem...am not sure who I am more upset for, myself or him?
• The Wee Man, Del Piero hails 'a dream final'...guess he has put aside his memories of him missing 2 chances to kill off Euro 2000 Final against Barthez and Co.....that's a good thing I suppose.  He also thinks France are the favorites because of lack of stress...I think a Cup final evens out the stress department.
• Gigi Buffon can grab a record on his way to grabbing the Cup.
• The boys have shared the wealth, Italy's 11 goals have been scored by 10 different players, and every striker has found the back of the net...fantastic stat.
• The flock has arrived, Italian fans are out in droves watching their boys in blue practice.  An item of note in the middle and end of this story:
  • Marcello Lippi's men also tried out the new ball that will be used in the FIFA World Cup™ Final.
• Finally Captain Can - Fabio Cannavaro - will get his 100th cap in the Final.  He is third all time on Italy's list, behind Paolo Maldini (125 caps) and the great man in goal Dino Zoff (115 caps and '82 Cup winner).

France vs. Portugal preview

simple and quick because you should be reading the next post....the actual game is a toss-up.  But we root for France because we love the Zidane fairytale of this Cup and want to see him go out in a Final.  Second reason, if France can win, their legs could easily give out in the Final for them.  They are the oldest team in the Cup and will have only 3 full days to recover before the final....Azzurri will have 4.  May not seem like much, but it is a lot of football to play in a short amount of time.  Portugal is a maddening group.  Individuals yet teammates, yet....I don't know just a weird crew.  Wildly talented they could easily crush the French, but not sold on their mentality - see Euro Championship Final loss to Greece...yuck.

Anyway prediction  -  France 2 - Portugal 1.
Henry finally breaks out, only to be overshadowed by Zizou (but that's ok).

I've watched it twice

Where do I begin.....119 stalemated minutes, broken by a sublime left foot...I think we'll break down this Germany vs. Italy semi-final by characters involved.  Here we go:

First the venue - Dortmund:  Home to Borrussia Dortmund, and the largest Venue in the cup....oh ya Germany had 13 wins and 1 tie in National Team matches played here.

Lippi and Klinsmann - not only my 2 favorite coaches in the Cup, but I think the 2 best as well.  Lippi has instilled a team spirit I have never seen in the National team, truly all for one.  The talent has always been at a coaches disposal, the effort and unity has not.  Juergen has been the breath of fresh air the Cup needed.  While old blow hards, like his boss Beckenbauer, were yapping about non-issues, Jurgen installed the most potent attacking force in the Cup.  A team willing to win with 4 while giving up 2, PLUS he did not let them shrink under the immense pressure of being the hosts, or hide behind their youth.  They simply are playing hard, attacking football and winning.

Gigi Buffon:  Earlier I stated that Peter Cech of the Czechs was the best goal keeper in the world, I am horribly wrong.  Gigi Buffon dislocated his shoulder early in the domestic season this year and only took part in the last few months.  His form was solid but indifferent by his standards.  There is no one else I would trust more in between the pipes, but while peerless several years ago, he was seemingly more mortal as of late.  Italy has now played 6 games, 1 goal has been scored against this man, and his OWN player scored it.  Truly a wall in the back for the boys and his calm and composure helps even keep Matterazzi in line...most of the time.  For the record Gianluigi Buffon IS THE BEST GOALKEEPER IN THE WORLD.  I owed him a shouting correction.

Which brings us to the unheralded man of this entire Cup....Fabio Cannavarro - the captain.  Simply put he is having the best tournament of any player at his position.  Think of the challenges for him in this Cup.  First he is Captain and is point person to the media about the Italian Serie A scandal.  Second The best central defender in the world, Allessandro Nesta, has been hurt half the games.  His first sub crazy Matterazzi has scored him a goal and been sent off.  he has played with 3 DIFFERENT center back partners in 6 games.  And been perfect in all of them.  He held Klose AND Podolski to limited action today, and when they had space their angles were limited to things Gigi could handle. Bravo Captain.

Gattuso - probably his best game in the Cup - played his usual hard nosed defense, but often took pressure off Pirlo as first outlet option to the defense - the best 2 way performance I have seen him put in for a while.  Harassed Ballack into a backseat day.

Pirlo, the maestro: was actually the Bud man of the match - deserved.  Sometimes as much as we want him to control tempo all day long he can tire, for whatever reason he looked like the freshest player on the pitch in extra time.  His delivery to Grosso for the game winner was simply perfect - perfect placement, perfect speed, perfect time.  Yet another reason to root for France tomorrow - to see Zizou and Pirlo on the field together.

Del Piero:  He has matured so much as a teammate with the struggles through the last few years at Juve.  My early random prediction on the scandal is if Italy can win the Cup - he will stay with Juve through the lower ranks and help them back to the top flight.  His pace and ingenuity in extra time were the difference.  Forcing mistakes and making things happen.  Even Lippi was happy for him personally on scoring the second goal.  He has earned a start in the Final over Camo after that display.

Gilardino:  He did not get on the score sheet, and I wouldn't start him over Toni but he played a magnificent game in his substitution role.  He set up Pirlo for a left footed cracker that forced the corner leading to the first goal...I know that seems like a stretch, but his unselfish play upfront was responsible for both goals.  After all he was the man who cut inside and laid the ball off for Del Piero to cooly finish...I see ya working for the team Gila.

The Azzurri - a 2-0 win over Germany, in Germany, in a stadium where they had never lost..simply outstanding.  See ya Sunday.

Man of the day:  Everyone deserves some shine

by the way...I just finsished watching extra time for the 3rd time...Forza Italia...

Silent no more....

I have to say I have literally been speechless since the Australia win....so much good mojo going our way when the world is imploding all around Italian Football.  Pessotto trying to take his life, the prosecutor in Moggiopoli asking for all 4 teams to be relegated and Juve sent to Serie C....just a crazy time to be an Azzurri man or woman.  Then the Grosso move in the box for the penalty and Totti smashing it home, sucking his thumb for his new baby and all is right...even my buddy Innes and his daughter Wilder were there with me (of course Cerys was with me through the whole ride as well).  It was too much prosperity for any Italian fan to take.  The path had cleared for our triumphant return to the Finals...every 12 years is the Italian prophecy.  We moved on to tackling the Ukraine, untested but featuring the best pure striker in the World, Shevchenko.  This game I must admit, was more straightforward for me.  We handled the first knockout game and we felt sturdy.  Ukraine has a very straightforward attacking style, get it in or around the box and give it a go, we can handle that all day long - an we did.  3-0 with Big Toni getting off the bagel to bag a brace.  The following day a sign of unusual prosperity...the Samba boys locked horns with the aging les Bleus, the last team to beat them in a World Cup, and they did it again.  Zizou held a masterclass against the thin band of gypsies in Brazil Canary yellow, playing along with Viera using a shared heart beat...breathtaking really.  Feel a bit for Patrick Viera in this Zizou swan song.  He is the only man in the Cup with 2 games with a goal AND an assist and he did it in back to back games when a win was the only option.  My man of the Cup to date, sorry not Zizou.  And so the Final Four came into focus, Germany vs. Azzurri and France vs. Portugal.....forza!

Day 15 & 16 - knockout weekend 1

Well 4 knockout games in the book and 4 stories of how the Cup can treat a team.  We'll start with the Germany & Sweden game.  I had more expectations from Sweden than they had ability.  Some VERY shaky early defending gave way to 2 early Podolski goals, and the Germans rolled from there finishing with a convincing 2-0 win over Sweden and a date with the winner of Mexico and Argentina....The Mexicans came out aggressive and were rewarded with an early goal off a set-piece from Captain Marquez.  Argentina knotted it up shortly after with a Crespo/Own goal combo off a corner.  The second half staled and we saw our first bit of extra time.  Luckily we didn't see our first shootout as Maxi Rodriguez took the mantle of Goal of the Tournament away from Joe Cole, by hitting and even better volley that proved to be the game winner in the second extra session for a 2-1 win.  Argentina goes on to face the hosts in the Quarterfinals.

Sunday's action saw Engeerland face off against Ecuador.  Ecuador had 2 imppressive group wins over Poland and Costa Rica, then rested the majority of their first team against Germany, resting up for this game.  The plan seemed to be paying off in a 92 degree day in Stuttgart.  Neither side made much of an impression, and the ABC announcing crew drove me crazy.  Marcelo Balboa is shiftier than a coastal wind when talking strategy....Beckham put his stamp on the game and the history books with his free kick gem that proved to be the winner.  He is the only England man to score in 3 different World Cups..kudos to the captain.  England advance with the 1-0 win, it wasn't pretty, but they are in the Quarterfinals!  Engalnd will face Portugal after the match-up of the weekend turned into a Russian reffing fiasco.  In a mouth watering match-up that was a rematch of the Euro 2004 Semi-Final in Lisbon (Dad and I partied with the Dutch all night despite the loss) the game was testy from the get go.  The very FIRST foul was given a yellow to Van Bommel and so it went for much of the afternoon.  The question became, what is a foul if everything gets a card?  In between whistles Maniche scored with smash in the box that proved to be enough.  The game ended 1-0 Poprtugal, with 9 men on each side...crappy.  The Netherlands are going to be a handful over the next 4-6 years, they have a heck of a generation who got their first taste of the big time with L'Orange...  Portugal now has another Euro flashback as they face England, the game where Rooney broke his foot and English dreams 2 summers ago.

Man of the Weekend:  I have to go with the local boy, the 21 year old WunderBoy put in 2 for the hosts as they look better each game.  Danka for the goals Lukas!

think Jurgen is happy with the team?

Knock Him Out Sucka!

Day 15 brings us the first 2 knockout games, hosts Germany facing Sweden in the first match-up, followed by the Western Hemisphere cracker of Argentina vs. Mexico.  Sweden is not a team you want to face in the middle rounds, they just play solid soccer and then sting you.  Ibrahimovic is back today for Sweden and Germany gives up goals, not way they keep Larrson and Ibra off the scoreboard.  Early upset special of the Cup Sweden 2-1 over Germany.  In game 2 Argentina is simply on a roll, they aren't going to put up 6 on Mexico, but hard to imagine them not getting 3 or 4, Argentina moves on with a 4-1 win.

Day 14 - last day of the Groups

The Group stages have come and gone.  Yesterday's games held little mystery as the Ukraine needed only a point to make it out of Group H against Tunisia, and Spain, who already secured top spot were taking on the Saudis.  Final score Ukraine 1 - Tunisia 0, Shevchenko gets the goal after drawing a questionable penalty.  Spain finished unbeaten with their 1-0 win that featured alot of bench players getting their first action of the Cup.

Group G held a little more mystery as all teams technically had a chance to advance.  It really came down to France and the Swiss controlling their destiny.  A French win and they were in, a Swiss point and they were through.  The Swiss held up their end and then some dispatching the South Koreans from the Tournament with a 2-0 win.  They secured top spot, but at a price, they lost one center back stud Phillipe Senderos for the Tourney with a dislocated shoulder. 

The Tivo match of the Day was France, less Zizou, playing Togo for their Cup lives and reputation restoration.  All I can say is what a match Patrick Viera had...the lanky French/Senegalesian played a game for the ages, absolutely controlling the midfield whether on attack or defense.  After a wasteful first half in front of goal from Henry and Trezegoal, Viera even took over that responsibility with only his FIFTH goal in 90 French National games.  A nice feed from crazy legs Franck, Viera took the ball with his back to the goal and elegantly spun with the ball to his right foot, in one motion, hitting a soft curler into the right side of the net for the first goal, Togo's heart, and France's future in the Cup....big goal to say the least.  Henry added a second late in the game to kill off all African hope on the day, oh ya with a nice assist by none other than Viera. 2-0 France, who will play another day, and with Zizou!  But hell if Viera continues this form, he will hold the French hope in 06.  This also gives us our official Tasty Kake match-up of the next Round - Spain vs. France -  ooohhh lala...senore!

Ukraine will play the Swiss in the other math-up.

Man of the Day....is there any doubt after reading the above?  Allez Patrick!

a good picture for the game....he carried the team all day!

Day 13 - Azzuri and Africa....Group E sensationally!

The day of reckoning came and went with TrueAzzurri prognosticating the 2 teams to make it out of Group E.  Ladies and Gentlemen your King and Queen......Italy and Ghana!!!!!

Let's start with the USA vs. Ghana game.  Knowing they ABSOLUTELY needed the win and all 3 points...Big Bruce pulls out the ever lame 4-5-1 lineup formation.  Way to go Bruce, I'm sure Ghana felt like they had a 1-0 lead at Kickoff.  This formation allowed for a crowded midfield that couldn't get a rhythm together, or a provide a good ball to McBride.  The first goal was gifted by Reyna as he let the ball sit as his feet for an eternity only to have the ball stripped and coolly finished by Haminu in the 22nd minute.  Reyna was sub'd a short time later with a twist of the knee or ankle from the challenge.  And Bruce waisted no time in bringing in...midfielder Ben Olsen...no speedy Johnson needed down 1-0 Bruce?  Dempsey tied up the game quickly after the change with a great feed from Beasely.  The USA needed much more of that kind of play in this Cup.  German ref Markus Merk made his mark on 2 occasions - first when he gave Essien a bizarre yellow that suspends him for the Brazil match (more on that later), and late in the first half when he awarded a penalty for a shove in the box on Onyewu.  Appiah made no mistake and that sealed the fate for the Americans - Ghana goes through with a 2-1 win, and the USA only scores 1 goal in the Cup from their own feet.

Onto the Azzurri....Italy switched up formation and went back to old school Azzurri with a 4-5-1 of their own.  A conservative approach facing a team boasting only 1 healthy forward - good to see Baros blazing around for the Czechs again, they sure could have use him against Ghana.  20 minutes in Nesta called for a sub holding his groin....and in came my worst fear on a soccer field, the red card, penalty spot giver, waiting to happen Marco Materazzi.  Don't get me wrong, the job he does at Inter Milan is first rate, but he gets straight wacky when he pulls on the blues and goes out for Italy.  So what does he do 7 minutes into his appearance...SCORES A BEAUTIFUL HEADER FROM A CORNER!!!  The look on all the Azzurri's faces was priceless.  It helped settle everyone down - and they way I saw it, even if he gave back a penalty he had earned his own credit!  The game was well fought until the 45th minute when the Czech's Polak picked up his SECOND yellow card of the game, and unlike the USA/Italy game this was a no brainer.  The second half was controlled by Italy, but Buffon was called upon to make some good saves.  The minute we scored I realized the second half was all about Pippo, and sure enough come the 60 minute mark, the poacher himself appeared.  And as if on queue he wasted 2 great opportunities...and also in Super Pippo fashion, he then took a pass at midfield, beating the trap, and scoring his first World Cup goal!!!  Game over, Italy tops Group E with a 2-0 win over the 10 man Czechs.

In Group F - Brazil beat Japan 4-1,Ronaldo scoring a pair, and the Aussies survive the groups stages with a 2-2 tie against Croatia, coming from behind twice to secure passage!

So now we have our match-up for next Monday:
Italy vs. the Socceroos from Australia
Brazil vs. Ghana

Obviously I feel good looking ahead to Italy's game.  The Aussies have some speed and experience, but will be put to the ultimate test against the seasoned Azzurri.  As for Brazil vs. Ghana - this absolutely could have been the best knockout game...had Essien not been suspended.  Hard to see the Black Stars holding Brazil in check with only Appiah marshalling the midfield.

Man of the Day:  After all the stick he has taken in past National Team appearances, Marco Materazzi deserves it for his stellar display, scoring the first goal, and ALWAYS looking for and passing to Pirlo when he had possession in the back (that all said get well soon Nesta!!!).

For the Kids

FIFA (soccers global governing body) has always been a huge supporter of UNICEF throughout the years.  So while Angelina may make the headlines in People magazine, I have watched Paolo Maldini wear a UNICEF captains armband for years at AC Milan.  Anyways they have a great commercial for the Cup.  I have no idea if Disney/ABC/ESPN is showing it but PLEASE take a look, a great commercial.  Setanta rocks the commercial regularly.

Please take a look at the PSA here.

Here is the cast:
Player                   Nationality              Character
Dwight Yorke - Trinidad & Tobago
Didier Drogba - Ivory Coast              Lucy
Theiry Henry - France
Emmanuel Adebayor - Togo
Edwin Tenorio - Ecuador                    Liho
Paulo Wanchope -Costa Rica              Eric
Hideoshi Nakata - Japan                    Rodrigo
TIm Howard - USA                             Jonis
Edwin Van Der Sar - Holland
Park Ji Sung -South Korea 
David Beckham - England                   Peter
Lionel Messi - Argentina                    Timo
Rafael Marquez - Mexico                    Hanna
Francesco Totti - Italy                        Boris

Answer day for Group E - Forza Azzurri!!!

So here we go - Crazy Group E will be decided tomorrow starting at 9:55 am ET.  To recap:

• Azzurri - any point will secure second round - a win guarantees first (as do many other scenarios)
• USA - Need to Win vs. Ghana and have Italy win - the only way to go through
• Ghana - A win they are in, a tie and Czech win they are in
• Czechs - Win and in, a tie and they need US to win

Headlines leading up to the games:

• A good article highlighting the scenario and match-ups in the USA vs. Ghana game.
• Good interview with Azzurri member of the 1994 Final team, Daniele Massaro, talking 06 Cup.
• Cool post from Lyon (and former Liverpool) manager Gerard Houllier, he targets Pirlo as a man in form.
• Czechs waiting til game time on Baros fitness question.
• Ghana's coach is exuding confidence leading up to his big game.  He is still targeting the semi-finals as his goal.  SIDENOTE - I would LOVE to see Ghana play Brazil in the next round, and absolute cracker of a game.  Shall all the power of TrueAzzurri see to it that this happens!
• Bruce Arena is blowing bubbles up Landon's shorts again....I agree if tomorrow's game is played with 9 men he will again be literally all over the field!

Day 12 - Group C & D please come forward

A dozen days in and half the groups are decided.  In Group D, first place Portugal faced Mexico while Angola dealt with the Iranians.  Went out on a limb for this group thinking Angola may be the first African team to qualify for more soccer.  They needed a multi-goal win, and a Mexican loss for the prediction to hold.  In group C the only thing left to play for was first and second as Argentina and the Dutch dueled in Frankfurt.

• Portugal got off to a quick start against the Mexicans as Maniche bundled one home in the 6th minute.  A penalty 20 minutes later by Mexico (what was Marquez thinking with that handball?) left the question up to Angola for the fate of the second spot.  Mexico pulled on goal back later the first half, but the damage was done Portugal 2 - Mexico 1.  Portugal keeps hold of top spot while Mexico had to scoreboard watch and hope to live another day.....
• The dream started to play out for Angola as they struck first, via a Flavio (great name) goal in the 60th minute.  But the dream died as Iran put one in the 75th minute and held on for their first and only point of the Cup.  Angola 1 - Iran 1, goodnight Group D.

• Group C action secured the coveted Tivo slot in the Richter entertainment center.  Argentina vs. Holland was due to be the masterclass of the dozen day.  As things would have it, all the kings horses and all the kings men (resting all pertinent players) couldn't break the goal drought as the game ended 0-0.  It had it's moments and showed some weakness in the Argentinian arsenal, but things stayed tame as both teams already appeared focused on the knockout round.  Tevez looked the part most of the day while Messi had some crazy leg moments of his own.  Argentina is going to have trouble against a very physical team.  With so many 'star' players they do not have an overwhelming warrior mentality, or temperament to deal with physical pressure (outside of Carlitos).  This could prove costly come Quarter or Semi time.

Knockout Round Match-ups:
Argentina vs. Mexico
Portugal vs. Holland - my Four Star game of the next round

Man of the Day:  I'll go with Carlitos...he is a beast on the ball, and looks the part too!

Azzurri & Group E news and notes

Some stories about Group E rolling in today:

• De Rossi sends an apology to FIFA about the elbow.
• Iaquinta a question mark for the Azzurri - that's ok wouldn't mind seeing Pippo if we need some extra goal potency.
• Lippi talks lineup changes against the Czechs.
• Italy's team manager, and Azzurri legend, Gigi Riva - took time out to comment on De Rossi and the state of the Azzurri strikers.  If you saw the ABC Studio coverage Saturday with Giorgio Chinaglia in the studio and they commented on him being to 'blame for 1974', here is an intersting interview with Riva who was on that team and sheds some light on that turmoil.
• Baros may be ready to go for the Czechs - he was hurt June 3rd, would think he would be a sub, hard to imagine him ready to go 90 minutes.
• Essien has the eye of the US as they prepare to face Africa's most expensive player.
• Ghana is being treated like family in their home away from home, Wurzburg.

Day 11 - Group A & B set

2 meaningful games and 2 games for pride today.  In Group A, Ecuador and Germany got it on in Berlin to settle first and second.  And over in Koln, England and Sweden battled for Group B supremacy.

The expansive Berlin Stadium - looks like the LA Coliseum East - hosted 2 surprising undefeateds.  Germany got on the board quickly with a sublime finish by the Polish Klose (did you know Klose was born in Oppeln Poland?).  He then added a second just before the whistle killing of the match for the most part.  Podolski then opened his scoring tally with a second half goal, as Germany rolled to the 3-0 victory, more happiness for my man Klinsmann!  Germany clinches top spot and Ecuador enjoys another game.  Back to Klose, he really has a knack for scoring in the Cup - that brings his lifetime Cup goal tally to 10 goals - wow. 

In the Group B game for top spot - England finally played their first choice striking pair of Rooney and Owen against the Swedes.  The problem was Owen only played for ONE MINUTE before twisting his knee.  Neither teammates nor coaches sound too optimistic, and having watched the replay on Tivo many times it doesn't look good on tv either.  Just bad luck for my Newcastle man - hopefully he's back for the Intertoto Cup for the Geordies.  Crouch replaced Owen....ummmm why Did Sven bring young Theo if he wasn't ever going to use him?  Crouch is carrying a yellow and risked suspension with another.  You can't tell me A.Johnson or Defoe wouldn't have been given a run-out for Owen in this situation if they had been on the bench.  Anyway the defensive affair was broken with the GOAL OF THE TOURNAMENT so far by little Joe Cole - watch the video here - it comes at the 1:07 point of the highlights.  Just a superb strike.  Sweden pulled one back early in the second half, only to go down again to a fine header from Gerard (Cole with the nice assist).  Sweden knotted it up at 2 with a weird Larsson goal late, and that's how it finished 2-2.

Knockout Round Match-ups:
Germany vs. Sweden
England vs. Ecuador

Man of the Day:  Joe Cole, a great goal and a nice assist, England will need more of that without Owen.

Final Group Game Action aka Catch up quick post

Here's what is at stake and what to look for as the final group games start tomorrow.  First blurb will lay out scenario, then my predictions in order of finish for the top 2 in each Group.

Group A - Ecuador and Germany have wrapped up the second round slots, but play each other for top spot tomorrow - should be a good test for both teams and coaches.
Ecuador (goal differential)
Germany

Group B - The lame duck of the Cup so far.  England is through, but needs to hold Sweden to a draw if they want top spot in the last game.  There is talk of Rooney starting up front with Owen...I think that would be a good idea to see what you've got with those 2 Sven...
England
Sweden

Group C - Original Group of Death actually played out according cliche'd predictions...Argentina and Holland.  Luckily as these 2 face each other in the finale Wednesday they too are playing for pecking order in the final group standings.  We'll see our first test of the Argentinian defense...Dutch too for that matter.
Argentina
Holland

Group D - Portugal and Mexico are clear at the top.  A Portugal win over Mexico and an Angolan multi-goal victory over Iran could see the Africans squeeze into the second spot.
Portugal
Angola (why not)

Group E - Has turned into the most wide open Group with all the teams still alive going into Thursday.  Italy controls their fate most, any point ensures passage - a victory over the Czechs, top spot.  An Italy win and a US win sees the RW&B go through.  But a Ghana win (possible) would see them through with Italy.  Czechs need a some healthy forwards and also a win...
Italy
Ghana

Group F - Brazil is in with top spot with any point.  Aussies vs. Croats will be a good game - Aussies through with any points, the Croats need all 3 - a distinct possibility.
Brazil
Croats

Group G - Interesting Group - the current top spots - Swiss and S. Korea - are duking it out and both need a point to ensure passage.  France need the win and all three points, plus several goals against the Togo yahoos.
Swiss(goal differential)
France - Zizou lives on...

Group H - Spain and the Ukraine are the class of the group and both should slide through easily with their final games against their respective Africans.
Spain
Ukraine

Day 10 - Ukraine train

We have a Sheva sighting of dominance as the second round of group games come to a completion with Group H finishing off the day on style.  Not sure if there was panic in the Ukraine camp after their loss to Spain.  Really it was a toss-out game as both Euro powers only need to take care of their African subordinates - but a 4-0 whoopin hurts the ego nonetheless.  With Tunisia and the Saudis seemingly happy for the ride, this Group probably had the cleanest top and bottom split of any of the 8 groupings.

Finishing up Group G, Switzerland plowed through Togo 2-0 in Dortmund.  Frei got his first of the cup for the knives....

Spain played in the first bits of rain as they continue to reign over Group H.  3 goals in the second half saw them erase Tunisia's one goal lead at the break.  Cesc saw his first action for the Iberians, I think he'll prove more vital to their ongoing success in the midfield than Xavi...we'll see what Aragones will do come knockout time. 

In the game of the day, Ukraine crushed the hapless Saudis 4-0, my first game on Univision...oh how I love the goal calls!  Sheva scored his first and Ukraine appeared to regain some of the swagger they showed in qualifying.  All to play for when they meet Tunisia in the group finale.

Man of the Day:  Sheva - not only scored but placed national pride restoration on his to do list...not a bad days work.

 

Who's got the look?

After 2 games through most teams have worn both sets of colors of their uni's in the Cup.  We have some lady fans, so figure I'd break down the fashion of the 2006 World Cup.

Coolest Jersey so far - France's Whites.  I would love to know the story of how the rooster made it on their crest - Rosie any ideas? You can pick one up here.

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Ugliest Uni so far - have to go with the Croats, visual chaos..

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Color palates...these teams have gone with the shocking colors for effect:
Ivory Coast - hard to see, but they have a sweet ghosted image of an elephant on there:

   

Ukraine's pee yellow    

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For sheer class, well leave it to the Boot...(although the actual Azzurri kits are kinda butt):

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UPDATE from my in house Fashionista - Espana loving Winney:
"As a fashionista myself, I really like the Ivory Coast uniforms.  Orange has been hot, hot, hot for the last couple of summers and I give kudos to any team that is reflective of that.  I also think it's refreshing to see a color that is not a primary color on the field. 

That being said, I'm seeing quite the sort of 1970's influence (see, for example, Spanish uniform with their totally seventies numbers.  like they should be in raised puffy letters or something).  I mentally associate soccer with the 70's (I have no idea why) so I like this.

That being said - don't the Italians get hot in the long sleeves?  Are they playing soccer or going to tea?"

TrueAzzurri:

Good call on the Spain numbers AW, Adidas took it retro with the 3 stripes down the shoulders and for numbering with their teams.  As for L/S - sleeve length is up to each player to choose, but it's fair to say all Itallian soccer players are cooool......is this what you always see for soccer?

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Day 9 recap - Les Blaaahhhss

Day 9 saw more mediocrity out of the French side, not even Zizou sweating at his utmost could propel Les Bleus into more that 3rd spot in their group with a 1-1 tie with the ever feisty South Koreans.  A first half classic from Henry put the Frenchmen in control, only to see their tired legs relinquish possession and control of the game in the second half.  The non stop charge of the SK's proved enough as Park Ji-Sung barreled one over and through the French defense.  The worst news of the match for impartial fans came late in the second half when Zizou was given a shaky yellow card, meaning he will miss the final group game and possibly end his career being subbed in the 90th minute of a tie vs. S. Korea.  I don't know who is in charge of French Fairytales, but I'm pretty sure that scenario sucks....A win against the hapless, underpaid, and underwhelming Togolese would see Les Bleus through.  If only for Zizou......allez les Bleus.

The Croats and the Japans played to a mildly entertaining 0-0 draw.  This makes for a fun final day match-up with the Croats and Aussies...the Euros needing a win, while the Kangaroos need only a draw to play on and meet Italy (prophetically speaking).

Yesterdays 3rd game featured the Samba boys taking on the Aussies.  After a spirited last 10 minutes in their opener against Japan in which they scored 3 goals, Australia looked dangerous throughout but could not beat Dida and the Brazilian defense falling 2-0.  Adriano got on the board first with some help from Fat Ron, and Fred came on in the second half to bundle in a post ricochet from Robinho.  Still uninspiring, but undefeated Brazil marches on.

Man of the Day:  nothing too inspiring, so I will shout out the man who has inspired for so long....Zizou.

Azzurri vs. USA - the day after

A day after Red Saturday, alot of news and notes.  One interesting item is the lack of interest from the rest of the world about the officiating in the game.  As is the case with most American sports we are so used to our self interest and conspiracy theories (see the NBA, NFL, etc.) that we forget in the a big Tourney like this 'Stuff' happens.  Part of the overall atmosphere, how do you deal with a crazy Uruguayan ref?  Buck up, move on.

What was heard about the US:

• Arena is all love and roses now for his boys and speaks of the conspiracy.  Still think he's killing the team and is out the minute the Cup is over.
• Keller gives his props to his teamates for their display.
• Allen Hopkins waxes poetic about the 'moral victory', that and a win will get the US through to second round...anyway he continues to describe the upcoming Match against Ghana as a game 7.

Azzurri News:

• De Rossi is sorry.  Well he can think about what he's done until Euro 2008.
• Lippi is a bit more candid about house affairs than ol' Bruce.  He's pissed, but he'll let De Rossi know on his own time.
• Lippi thinks the team is built for pressure, and that we will see the best out of the boys on Thursday. That's what he's paid for...hope he's right. Even brings DNA into the equation, that's awesome, he can coach and educate on genetic make-up.  Lippi rocks.
• What a surprise the Italian press brings the pain.  Hey guys can we wait to judge the boys until we see the sum effort of the Cup?   Jokers....
• Perrotta is questionable for the Czech game.  Hurt his butt....The interesting note from this is we may see what was thought to be the starting midfield for the first time.  Gattusso will start in the middle where De Rossi was, and Camo would come in on the right for the injured Perrotta.  Not bad when your replacements were your starters in qualifying.

A little time to reflect on the Red

After the evening and dinner to think about the game, I am left unsatisfied with the fact the Azzurri couldn't secure the 3 points with the man advantage.  The ref was what he was and we didn't take over as we needed too.  Kudos to the USA for standing tall in the face of buffoonery. 

Looking ahead for the Azzurri.  Our old friend Pavel and the Czechs will come with all they have left.  Unfortunately for them I don't think it will include a first choice forward on the field.  As with Ghana, the Italian midfield with Gattusso should provide enough cover for the Italians to convert a few chances against Cech.  I am certainly not over confident of the result, and the boys won't be taking anything for granted either, they will come out focused and ready to go and hopefully secure all 3 points and the top of Group E.

Looking ahead for the USA.  This will be an outstanding game.  I am sick that Eddie Pope will not be able to play, the distinguished center back deserved better, and at the least deserves to play in the Group deciding game.  For all the US's attitude against Italy they are facing a different beast in Ghana, I don't think they can afford to be as physical with the Black Stars in the midfield.  I think the game comes down to finishing, I don't see alot of solid chances for either team.  One item to note - the USA has NOT scored a goal from their foot in the first 2 games...that's a problem.

Final thought - Italy win, Ghana tie, Italy goes through top of Group.

USA vs Azzurri - let's get it on

That's it, a terrible ref, but a much better effort from the US.  it would have been fun to see this game actually played 11 on 11.  So be it - everyone shares the spoils and the Azzurri are still leading the group.  A single point secures the second round, but we need a win to secure first.  A US win and Italy win would see the US make it through.

90 - nobody deserves to come out of this game with no points....just a crazy game I want over...

86 -Ping Pong in the American box - nothing

77 - extra space, alot of extra running - subs can make the difference with the fresh legs.

72 - Beware of the wee man - Del Piero great pressure with help from Pirlo....Keller is there.

70 - Yellow card Zamrotta - they are running at full speed!!!!!!!! crazy ref.

67 - Zambrotta cuts inside and unleashes a nice shot - just wide right.

64 - What happend?!?!? Keeper interference..actually the right call.. wholly molley...Beasley showing what he would've been doing for 64 other minutes.

62 - Great build up from Landon - McBride shoots wide...good effort - US has some wheels now.

62 - Beasley in FINALLY - Arena is an ass....

61 - Iaquinta in for  Big Toni -  straight switch up front. For the record  it's Ya-Keenta.

53 - Forza Alex, Del Piero in - but wow for Zaccardo a forward for a defender...Perrotta will drop eeper, I hope!  Kudos to Lippi for going for the throat with the man advantage, with Pirlo, Perrotta and Gattusso the D should still be stiff enough.

51 - If anyone knows anything about Conrad feel free to let me know....

46 - This is just crazy - killin the game - Eddie Pope is off with his second yellow....a damn shame.  FIFA has to figure out these terrible refs...

No Italy changes in the second half....USA nothing either.

Alexi just stole my thunder....calling for Beasley.

Wow - what a crazy half...Great goal from Italy off the free kick, Zaccardo whiffs and own goals the US corner...THEN De Rossi acts like a child and cracks McBride in the melon with a wicked elbow..even a bleeder..straight red.  Then out of nowhere the completely sketchy ref from Uruguay sends off Pablo for a late challenge that was nothing more than a legit yellow.  10 on 10 in the second half.  The team that opts for speed in the second half should have their way in the open space of 2 less men.  For Italy look for Del Piero to replace Gila or Toni, maybe Camo for Perrotta.  As for the US they need the 3 points, if you're Arena you HAVE to bring on Johnson AND Beasley...wheels man, it's all about the wheels in the second half.

44 - ADIOS PABLO - Straight Red - crappy call, that's a yellow...but a red?  Anyway 10 on 10 in second half.  Look for Beasley to come on in the second - more wheels.  But Arena will replace with defense most likely.  Second half is gonna be good!

41 - Good shot from Pablo - with this crazy ball if you have an open look good to take a crack or two.

39 - look for Del Piero to join in the second half.  We need more possession out of the forwards.  Gila and Toni are simply point men. 

35 - Thriller joins the blogcast...welcome...sorta

34 - Substitution Italy - Totti out, Gattusso in.  Totti with yellow can't take the chance. The Pitbull is here.

28 - RED CARD - ITALY- De Rossi, for no reason elbows the crap out of McBride.  Straight  red and deserved.  Killin me...

27 - GOALLLLL USA - 1-1 Zaccardo own goal...unbelievable.

22- GOALLLL AZZURRI - 1-0 Italy.  The Maestro...free kick...where is the US D?  Gooch was mugging Big Toni and no one marked the Gila man, glancing header beats a helpless Keller.  1-0 Italy.

20 - Eddie P gets the yellow - pass interference....

18 - Italy is not willing to put in the hard work in the midfield right now.  De Rossi and Perrotta are invisible...

14- Big free kick for the US...Convey off the wall...corner.

13 - Totti free kick from Zambrotta run - offsides, the emotion of the US still carrying play.  Italy slowly regaining control.

9 - Not sure if the ref is ready for this one...quick on the Totti card and lettin Gooch mug Big Toni.

GAME TIME - only line-up note is in Italy - Zaccardo replaces Grosso - thought big Fabio would stay, but oK. No Johnson, O'Brien or Beasley for the US - crazy.....btw I like Dempsey in.

Georgio in the ABC studio is hilarious today - killing the US team and Arena.  I would be more boisterous about him, except he thought that the Czechs were gonna crush Ghana....ooops.

Lineups are starting to trickle in:  Sounds like Dempsey and Bocanegra are new faces in with Mastroeni staying put.  Not sure who is on the outside looking in.  Here they are:

USA:                                Azzurri:

Keller                                Buffon

Bocanegra                        Zaccardo

Mastroeni                        De Rossi

Cherundolo                    Cannavaro

Dempsey                       Big Toni

Reyna                              Totti

Convey                            Gilardino

McBride                          Nesta

Donovan                        Zambrotta

Onyewu                          Perrotta

Pope                                Pirlo

Ghana vs. Czechs - game on

2-0 Ghana - what a game.  Both keepers were amazing today.  Just as TrueAzzurri expected the Black Star midfield controlled the game, and without Koller and Baros, the Czechs really didn't have any answers.  What a Day 3 Group E will have!

Man of the Match:  I have to go with both keepers, they made for an outstanding game.  Bravo Cech and  Kingson.

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GOALLLLLL - Ghana puts in the second to seal the deal...btw Petr Cech is the best goalkeeper in the world - and he's only 24....

PENALTY SAVE - unbelievable - straight red for the Czech player - last man back rule.  Then the bizarre first shot in, which was before the whistle and a subsequent yellow for Gyan.  Who then proceeds to BLAST the penalty against the post.....wow..what a game.  10 man Czechs need a goal.

HALFTIME UPDATE:  1-0 Ghana - well so far as predicted, the Black Star midfield is holding down the fort and the Gyan  scored the first Ghana Cup goal ever.  Good chances are coming to both sides.  Biggest difference in performance so far is the Ghana keeper.  He was downright shaky against the Azzurri, but looks like an all world performer today.  45 more minutes Black Stars!!!!!

Really a great pair of games.  I think Essien and Appiah can hold Rosicky and Nedved at bay.  AS I AM WRITING THE BLACK STARS PUT IN A GOAL IN THE SECOND MINUTE!!!  Appiah and Essien were in the middle of the goal, Gyan finishes with the left.  Kuffour has been left out of the starting line-up..not sure that is good for the team or Kuffour.

Back to the analysis.  The Czechs don't have EITHER of their first choice forwards available - Koller or Baros.  It will be up to the midfield to create, and convert, their chances.

If the Black Stars can put another goal up, and control the midfield they should get the 3 points.  A win here and I think Ghana goes through with Italy.

Tune in to ABC for the game right now.

Azzurri Gameday 2 - in the News

Well here we go, Game 2 for Group E, the Azzurri vs. US game will be second going off at 3pm - we'll be blogcasting during the game so stay tuned.  Onto headlines for the US and Azzurri:

USA Headline:

• FIFA survey after the first round....USA is most disappointing team.  Honestly I think this is a compliment, if we are that disappointing then people are noticing our potential.
• US players are saying the right things, time to walk the walk.
• US will have good support today. Kaiserslauten has the second largest US community outside the US...thanks to a military base.
• Big Bruce is putting the pressure on Keller to have a great game.  Hey Bruce, Kasey is the LEAST of your worries, how about figuring out how to keep possession and score some goals!

Azzurri Headlines:

• Don't look now but Lippi is in rare company for leading the Azzurri.
• Bruce Arena finally is making some sense, read it here.
• Am confident the Z man will be on the right side of defense for Azzurri today. His thoughts,  "Lippi knows what I can do. I'll play as I always have."  Amen to that brother!
• Tardelli is happy with the growth of Pirlo and expects more good things out of the Maestro.  Good interview with the '82 Cup winner.
• Good story breaking down the different and important roles of a midfielder.  Pirlo is the example used as the Maestro.  Great language, "The magisterial showing of Andrea Pirlo in the Azzurri engine room against Ghana was further enhanced by the superb opening goal that set Italy en route to victory."  Not to harp, but this has always been the hole in the US skill set, we have never created a dominant central midfielder.....bummer.

Cup in your drawers...

If you don't think the $$$ spent of sponsorship of the Cup means something, here is a funny story about an attempt at guerrilla marketing.  A group of Dutch fans tried to watch the game in their Orange liederhosen, promoting the Bavaria Brewery.  Stadium stewards made them take it off, literally, and the group watched the game in their underwear!  Don't mess with the King of Beers I guess.  (Sorry can't find a picture!)

Day 8 recap - The day a half dozen hits the board

Group of Death went off yesterday, and I mean off!  Cerys had a day off yesterday and was home, I was given the option at 8:00am of which ONE game I could Tivo...I chose the Dutch vs. Ivory Coast game, a good solid choice.  Well that was before I read Argentina put SIX up against S&M.  Luckily all was worked out when I got the Argentina replay later in the evening.  NOTE - I still haven't watched the Argentina replay so feel free to comment anyone who has seen it.  Day 8 went as follows:

• Argentina 6 - S&M 0 - wow, S&M is a quality side and they were torn apart with 3 goals on each side of the whistle.  Good set of quotes from the game on both sides, the young guns, Messi and Tevez got their first run outs and goals in the Cup. Passage secured for the baby blues into Round 2.
• Netherlands 2 - Ivory Coast 1 - Attack of the Van's, Van Nistelrooij and Van Persie get the goals to secure second round action for the Orangemen.  The Elephants pulled on back as, "The pint-sized Bakary Kone picked up possession midway inside the Dutch half, accelerated past two defenders and unleashed an unstoppable shot into the top corner."

The only bummers about these outcomes are, the Group of Death is now dead, Argentina and the Dutch are through.  Was hoping for some more fireworks out of the Elephants and S&M.  One nice thing to note is that Argentina vs. Holland won't, can't, be a game where either team coasts.  First and Second place in the group is on the line.  The Dutch will be the aggressors as the six goals Argentina put up gives them an insurmountable goal differential.  So the Dutch need an outright win.

• Mexico 0 - Angola 0 - uhhhh not much happenin' here folks.  One item of note, this is the first point an African team has earned.  Angolan keeper had a nice game, congrats to Ricardo. Funny sidebar - Portugal's keep is also Ricardo....I guess if you live in Portugal or a former colony and you want to play keep change your name to Ricardo!

Man of the Day:  The entire Argentina squad....6 goals dangggg!

Day 7 recap

Missed a couple of days, we'll get back up to speed here today...

• Ecuador 3 - Costa Rica 0 - the South Americans secure their place in the second round along with Germany out of Group A. 
• Engeerrrrland 2 - Trinidad 0 - A snoozer for 80 minutes, until Becks found the Biggest man of them all Crouch for their first goal.  A few minutes later vintage Gerrard appeared, he faked right, put the ball back to his left, one touch, and then unleashed a left footed hound to the corner of the goal past SHAKA.  A real beauty.  England too secures passage into the second round.
• Sweden 1 - Paraguay 0 - Ljundberg scored an 88th minute goal for the 3 points not much else to say.

Keep in mind a Trinidad win and a loss by Sweden would see the Trini's go through.  Also keep in mind Trinidad has not scored yet in the Cup...with Yorke and Stern John that's crazy....

Man of the Day:  Agustin Delgado fo Ecuador...from FIFA report, "The highlight of his performance came in the 54th minute, when he burst into the box, controlled the ball on his chest and blasted a shot past goalkeeper Jose Porras at the near post to give Ecuador a 2-0 lead"

Delgado is the SmoochER, not the SmoochEE

Random Azzurri notes

• Camo doesn't know the Italian anthem (neither do I..), and neither did many Italian players at last Cup apparently. Camo pleads 'Argentina's my Anthem', says he's just Italian in uniform....well just score some damn Italian goals then senore!
• Pirlo back in the highlife after his game 1 performance.  Like the man says, in a 50 game season you're going to have some dips in form.  Couldn't be happier about any one player getting on track early for the Azzurri!
• Zambrotta is ready to go for the US game - Hallelujah!!!!!!   Gattuso to sit again.

• Buffon states, "The scandal helped us.." - whatever works man, whatever works.

Day 6 - Dawn of the first well oiled machine?

Ole'!!!!! Spain took the Orange revolution behind the woodshed and gave them a 4-0 spanking.  With a very mixed media lineup, offense, defense, role players, stars, etc. Spain looked potent from the whistle.  A quick Xabi goal from a Xavi corner set the tone.  Poor Sheva and the rest of the 'Kraine Trane couldn't catch, or make, a break.  Spain has Raul, Cesc, and Reyes as subs...pretty nice options.  All is not lost for Ukraine as the rest of Group H involves Tunisia and the Saudis....uh...ok.  Spain's biggest challenge will be to stay sharp and in an attack mindest throughout the group phase and ready for the knockout round.  Shout-out to the Winney who loves the Spains....

Tunisia vs. the Saudis....2-2 tie

Dig the Goalscorers:

20. AL KAHTANI Yasser (57')

5. JAZIRI Zied (23')

9. AL JABER Sami (84')

15. JAIDI Radhi (92+')

....packed house in Munich - Kudos to the Krauts for getting the tickets out to the people.

The finale featured the first Game 2 of any Group - Germany vs. Poland.  Nice job by the Gestapo...errr Police who detained 300 German and Polish hooliFans...what do you suppose they actually argue over before they fight?  Anyway the game went they way of the hosts with a late goal from Little Oliver - Germany secures passage to knockout with the 1-0 win (unofficially officially).  Also note the return of Captain Ballack.  One last note on Germany, Klinsmann is becoming a great figure in this Cup.  He was trashed in Germany for his Cali home and subsequent commute, but of all the participants, players and coaches alike, he seems to be truly enjoying every moment - always with a smile and jubilant as ever on a goal.  Rock on Juergen!

Man of the Day:  Arragones, Spain's Coach - he has the Spanish side ready to go amidst the rabid environment of expectations after the Primera Division's European Cup Double (Champions League, UEFA Cup)...will it last?

who me?

Day 5 - Azzurri joy hangover...

No news yesterday - was simply basking in a great start by the boys in Blue. 

Game 3 - Watched the first half of the Brazil game.  Wow - what a weird mix of talent they have.  Ronaldo and Adriano took a beating from the press back home in Brazil, but what forward would thrive in that negative relationship with the midfield?  Kaka and 'Dinho need, make that want, the ball at their feet and make runs, only when all the tricks are out of the bag or no more space to run remains do they look to pass....what are 2 target men like Fat Ron and Adriano to do?  I think they should simply start Robinho and pick only 1 forward to watch the game from the field...stay tuned.  Kaka hit a cracker for the uninspired 1-0 win over Croatia.  If Niko Kovac can make it back, look for Croatia to have a chance to go through with Brazil - they have a very sturdy midfield and defense that should be able to lock down both Japan and Australia. If Prso can put a couple in the ol' onion bag they should be straight...to face Italy!

Game 1 - Japan vs. Australia, had my eye on this game via gamecast.  Even with the 3-1 final hard to get too excited about either of these sides.  Cahil had a nice brace....but..?  Japan faces Croatia next while Australia will be put to the test against the Samba boys.  BTW - for those tracking Australia technically is leading Group F.

Game 2 - France took on the underrated Swiss.  Our second goaless draw of the finals...ouch!  The Swiss defense is better than advertised, and I have no idea how France is so empty of goal scoring ideas.  Anyway - the French press was actually luke warm to Les Bleus simply securing a point.  Crazy fact of the day...France has not scored in a World Cup NOT on French soil since 1986....double ouch!

Man of Day 5 - we'll go with Kaka:

Day 4 - Day of the midfield Maestros

Wow - Group E showed some class today.  We'll start with the Yanks and the Czechs.  The game started true to form Koller getting a header in at the 5 minute mark.  Then the second biggest thigh muscle in the Cup (Crouch has an inch on Koller) got yanked on his hard run down the middle.  Man  does that look painful.  The US were simply outclassed from the start.  The sight of the mouth breathing Arena on the sidelines was a bit embarrassing at least the assistant with the crazy nose is talking tactics to players!  Final score 3-0 with Rosicky getting the prettiest brace of the Cup so far.  He is going to look great in the Arsenal midfield next season.  As for the fate of the Yanks, I don't know, but if I'm running a Euro team I am on the horn right now about getting Johnson up front on my team and Onyewu in the back - solid players for sure.

On to the main event.  Ghana's midfield certainly lived up to my billing as one of the best central mid pairs in the Cup.  Essien and Appiah really set the pace, thank goodness for the Maestro, Pirlo was the calm needed while De Rossi wilted a bit, Perrotta was his usual wasteful but hardworking self, and Totti, well we hope Totti comes to form by the knock-out round.  The Maestro controlled tempo and got us on the board with a sublime 25 meter curler off a corner kick.  Ghana, as is the problem so far with the African teams, was far too wasteful in front of goal.  Poor Kuffour finally did in the debutantes with his errant back pass and Iaquinta cashed in our second as Italy secured the 3 points with a 2-0 win.

Looking ahead in Group E.  US vs. Italy:  it is really hard to see the US getting it together against such a well balanced team as the Azzurri.  As for Ghana and the Czechs, I think we could be in for a surprise with Ghana taking the 3 points, their physicality and pace will cause the Czechs problems,  and Rosicky will NOT be running wild against Essien and Appiah.  Without Koller they may struggle a bit to score.  We'll see this weekend.

Man of Day 4:  As much as I want to give it to the Maestro, Rosicky deserves it for his magnificent double.  Cheers new Gunner:

 

and for the ladies - Cerys thinks Appiah is beautiful, so here ya go, a shot of the Ghana Captain:

Preview of Day 4 - Drive for the 4th Star

Well here it is, the night before we launch into Group E mania.  We'll start with the noon ET game, Yanks vs. Czechs.  I saw the Czechs play in the Quarter and Semi's at Euro 2004, bottom line they were the best team in the tournament right up until Nedved limped out of the semi's around the 28th minute.  They went on to lose in extra time, but are here with a ranking so inflated by FIFA the only team that can compete is, well, the US.  Unfortunately that really was the end of the Czech window when Nedved limped out.  His form at Juve this season has been basically non descript.  He may well not be in Turin next season.  Rosicky should be the midfield engine, but his horses are old, hurt, or worse yet, both!  Poborsky is playing Second Division Czech ball, Koller has been out ALL year getting a new ACL, we already touched on Nedved, and now Baros has a bum foot.  They have good wingbacks and a great keeper, if they can get some goals they should be ok.  Now the Yanks - so there is no mistake I can't stand Arena, pompous American soccer coaches baffle me...is the arrogance from the success at UVA in the 90's, or the 2 MLS Cups? That's just super Bruce.  His close to the vest line-up crap has only given to an uneasy feel within the camp.  Can you find 2 starting lineups the same going back to the Confederation Cup last summer?  His never ending testing has created ZERO cohesion within this team, and I'm afraid it's gonna show.  I want to give the US the nod in this one on sheer exuberance, more precisely due to speed.  I hope Johnson starts with McBride, but look for him to come off the bench, and even get one tomorrow.  Game 1 is just too big for one of these teams to lose.  Kissin your sister it will be.
US 2 - Czech 2  - that's how I see it.

On to the main event - Azzurri vs. Ghana.  Again Ghana is the most cohesive African team b/c they simply have one of the best central midfield duos in the entire Cup.  Essien and Appiah are a potent combo that can direct the game through passing or their own adventures forward.  Plus they will be absolute beasts marking back.  I wish we were playing them last in the group, one or both will be suspended with 2 yellow cards accrued through the first 2 games.  The question will be their forwards and their ability to convert chances.  Ivory Coast was abysmal in cashing in, Ghana cannot afford to be as wasteful.  As for the glory boys, we are ready, even with the Serie A scandal, I cannot remember a training camp that has been as harmonious and untied as this one.  Lippi is the master choice to lead this rare generation of Italian goal scoring prowess.  A Tridente upfront will be as successful as Pirlo, De Rossi and Totti can make them.  The necessity of a quick start actually seems to be understood with this unit.....second in the group = Brazil.  First and they couldn't meet until the Finals.  The boys are ready, and so am I......

Italy 3 (Toni, Gilardino, Grosso) Ghana 1 (who knows)

Totti ready to roll?

According to Soccernet Lippi says Totti is in...doesn't say starting or coming off the bench - but I have to believe if he's gonna go, he's gonna go from the start.  Interesting too how the article says the spot up for grabs is who partners Big Toni?  I am not convinced Gilardino doesn't start over Toni and with Del Piero.  I would like to see Totti, Del Piero and Toni....probably will but not all at the same time.

African issues arise....

African teams are a little short on ideas right now, curently 0-2 looking very stagnate without the ball, waiting for service THEN making a move. Ivory coast had many chances but were very wasteful in front of goal - they have the horses, errr elephants, to score goals so they may yet recover.  Angola doesn't appear to have the talent for the Cup at this point.  Ghana has the best African midfield, hopefully a little more inspiring (but not too much against the Azzurri...) play from them.  Not sure what to expect from Togo, but when your coach resigns 3 days INTO the Cup over players being paid that can't be a good sign.  We'll know more the end of the week.

"...Rally round the Red, Gold, Black and Green..."

Day 3 look ahead and recap rolled into one

Am officially behind now - woke up to the end of the Dutch vs. Serbia & Montenegro (needless to say we will be referring to them as S&M from here on out...), Tivo'd the classic Mexico vs. Iran clash -
final game, and the first 'who's your Daddy' match-up - Portugal vs. their old colony (creepy word even to type) Angola. 

Early Picks:
Dutch/S&M - tie
Mexican Win
Portugal Win

The Results:

• Big Dutch win - young Robben (guranteed to get hurt at some point during the Cup) scores the only goal for a 1-0 win.
• Mexicans crush the Iranians 3-1.....Expect to see the Guadalajaran Airport on heightened alert.  A nice brace from Omar Bravo, noticed Borghetti was sub'd at the 52 minute mark.  Put a fork in him folks, his move to Bolton screwed his game for good.  Tough break always kinda liked Jared.
• And finally Portugal put the Daddy Smack down on Angola 1-0.  Pauleta queen of the poachers (Super Pippo is King!) scored the only goal with the nice helper provided by Captain Figo.

Man of Day 3:  Bravo to Omar Bravo of Mexico

 

Alex as Achilles

The wee man takes some reflective personal time, according to him ala Achilles.  That's pretty sweet to have a life that leads to pondering in the mindset of the great warriors.  Surely this is why the Azzurri will trounce Group E.  Can you really see Reyna talking about his time alone thinking of Patton?!?!?  Look for Del Piero to have a fine tourney.  He has flourished in his role as super sub at Juve and I think it will have a doubly positive impact on his Cup performance.  Not only is he used to coming off the bench, but his minutes were down considerably this season, allowing for a fresher, happier, and ready to rumble Alessandro.......Forza Alex.

Whole New World.....Cup too.

Things as we know it in the Richter house have changed for the better forever.  I brought Jeff Gordon home today...as good a friend as I will ever know.  Can there be a better advertisement for Americana melding with global sensibilities than me watching the Cup in Jeff!!!!!!.........

Behold Jeff:

Day 2 - on course

Day 2 saw some fine games - Argentina vs. the Ivorian Elelphants, with the South Americans holding on for a 2-1 win against the wasteful Africans, England holds on for 1-0 snoozer and the Shaka (one of my favorite names) Hislop puts on a keeper display to give 10 man T&T to a draw with Sweden.

Man of the Day:  Shaka!!!!!

First issue of the Cup

And it is all about the Americans....no not the team, the ANNOUNCERS!  Balboa is an absolute nightmare on the microphone, if he was from Brooklyn and was an MC that would be a compliment.  As the man charged with 'analysis' for the Disney TV empire this is trouble.  He is stuck in the rut of 'the audience has no idea what is going on...if I tell them ONE side of an issue it can be passed off as gospel."  Case in point - his continued criticism of the German back line for playing the offsides trap which was beaten with some regularity.  He wanted Germany to man mark - with 2 center back over 6'4" there is NO way they could man mark Wanchope (or any other center forwards throughout the Cup).  Balboa never stated this is why Klinsman had his Aryan soldiers trying to trap.  We can go bball here - if you don't have the wheels to stay with your man, you can go zone to compensate....well the trap is a similar item.  Best case scenario (see Italy!) is a Big man and a Burner in the center of defense.  Germany doesn't have the combo and Balboa (a former SLOW center man himself!) did not give all the rationale.  POOR. 

So what can be done?  If you are a fiend like me and can get Setanta sports you can see the whole cup via the German feed (picture is actually better too) and they have a single man in the booth.  Even in Deutsche it is much more friendly than the American teams.

Azzurri news of the day - June 10

• Totti says he is unfit, but ready?  Can you have that?  If you are Lippi doesn't that scream start me on the bench?
• Nesta decalred fit and ready to face African Debutantes

Saturday's Games

England game is already on - they look fine.  Beckham free kick led to an own goal.  Santa Cruz doesn't look to have too much service....I think we will see 3 wins today.

Predictions for today:

England win
Sweden win
Argentina win

Day 1 Recap

Germany looks ok in their opening match - the midfield and forwards seem to be clicking, Frings is great and Lahm is a revelation to my eyes....however their 2 giant statues in the center of defense will be their undoing.

• Germany 4 Costa Rica 2

Game 2 didn't provide much excitement.  Ecuador is much more polished and shapely than some might have know.  Eastern block Poland looked drab and had little invention to the game along.  Have to say the scoreline was not indicative of the second half surge by the Pols - they hit the post 3 times.  Easily could have had a draw or even the win.  Second spot in this group is really up for grabs.

• Ecuador 2 Poland 0

Buy Stuff

thanks to my buddy Gordo at 3 Stripes for some commerce action - buy away people:

SHOP WORLD CUP STUFF

Game On...

It's go time people, involve the Cup in every part of your day...if need suggestions on how here is tip #1:

todays picks:

Germany win

Poland and Ecuador tie

Azzurri News

Getting accurate information out of the world press is like getting Iran to talk straight on Nukes...so I have let the injury news simmer for a few days and think we have a general consensus on accuracy...until I hear otherwise!

THE GOOD:

• Nesta and Zambrotta scans are positive.  Nesta should be good to go in game 1 against Ghana, Zambrotta is scheduled to be back to track young Demarcus and Landon patrolling the wings against the US.

THE BAD:

• Gattuso somehow injured his warrior shell...another 'thigh injury', almost made the man cry!  BTW, when did quads and hammy's become so sally?!?!  Anyway the Pit Bull is hopeful to comeback against the Czechs, sounds good to me let him hack on Nedved and Rosicky for a bit.  Not to sound off but I feel ok with De Rossi filling in, his speed is something we lack outside of Camo, and against Ghana and the US we could use some wheels to counter attack and feed the Tridente.

THE LANDING:  all aboard the Azzurri express baby...we're in Germania.  Someone please find out where I can get a blazer!!!!!!

Daily Dose - June 7

Lots of goings on - the clock is tickin, legs are crackin and some are healin.  TrueAzzurri is in full mode from here on out.  Today's highlights:

• Cisse de ja vous for Les Bleus - double fracture adios for the blond bomber.  He was set to pair with Titi up front, should open back up the spot for Trezegoal.  Anelka call up for fun?
• Conversely, young Wayne was all smiles leaving the hospital and boarding a plane BACK to Germany.  Come on England indeed...should see the boy wonder in the knockout stages as long as England doesn't drop a load in their pants during the groups stages.
• Italy's all-time Captain...Paolo Man...had some encouraging words for the Azzurri and their new captain.  I would still take the legend right now as back up for Nesta and Captain Can!
• Sammy K thinks all the pressure is on Italy...he is probably right, but I would feel pressure if I was on any of the African Cup teams...fans can be a little crazy to you and your fam after a bad game, ask Kanoute!

Daily Dose - June 4

• Zambrotta D-Day is coming - results of a new scan will determine availability.   What is with the updates, some say he isn't missing a game, some say 2, and now this that he may not be available at all?!?!?!  World Press clips suck-
• Delayed reaction - A dull affair with the Ukraine's - could have taken solace out of the defense, but with no Sheva in attack does it matter they didn't score?
• Ghana looks ready - 3-1 thrashing of S. Korea