1930 – Uruguay vs Argentina

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The first ever World Cup saw a repeat of the 1928 Olympics Final. The most memorable thing about this match is the argument over what ball to use, leading to the King Solomon type of decision – each half will be played with a different ball. Argentina provided one in the first half, and led 2-1 after 45 minutes (Carlos Peucelle, Guillermo Stabile). Uruguay provided the ball for the second half, and scored three goals through Pedro Cea, Santos Iriarte and Hector Castro. Both teams played in the (then) traditional 2-3-5 formation. 100 Years old Francisco Varallo of Argentina is the only player from the final who is still alive.

1934 – Italy vs Czechoslovakia

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Vittorio Pozzo led Italy, hosting the World Cup, to the first of their back to back trophies, beating Czechoslovakia, despite the Czech’s taking the lead through Antonin Puc late in the match (76th minute). Raimundo Orsi equalized five minutes later and Angelo Schiavio of Bolonga scored the winning goal in extra time.

1938 – Italy vs Hungary

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France hosted the last tournament before World War II, and Italy became the first nation to win multiple World Cups and consecutively as well. Gino Colaussi and Silvio Piola each scored two goals as Italy beat Hungary 4-2.

1950 – Brazil vs Uruguay

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First of all, this wasn’t actually a final. The first World Cup after 12 years had a Finals group, with the Uruguay Brazil match, played at the Maracana stadium in Rio de Janeiro, packed with 175,000-200,000 fans, who really knows, turning out to be the decider. Brazil only needed a draw to clinch their first World Cup trophy, but shattered the heart of a nation, losing 2-1, despite scoring first through Friaca in the 47th minute. Juan Alberto Schiaffino put Uruguay level, and Alcides Ghiggia ruined the home nation’s celebration plans with his 79th minute goal, making Uruguay two time World Champions. Brazil had to wait for a kid named Pele so they can taste World Cup glory.

1954 – West Germany vs Hungary

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The “Miracle of Bern”. Switzerland hosted the first World Cup on European soil since World War II, with Hungary’s Mighty Magyars favored to win the trophy. They destroyed West Germany in the group stage, beating them 8-3.
Hungary were 2-0 up after eight minutes in the final, with Ferenc Puskas and Zoltan Czibor scoring. Two minutes later, the West Germans were back in the game after a Max Morlock goal. Eight minutes later – Helmut Rahn, legend in the making, made it 2-2. Hungary dominated the match but Germany’s Toni Turek stopped everything thrown his way. In the 84th minute, Helmut Rahn scored the winner for West Germany, that had a huge impact on the nation, sending it into euphoria for the first time since World War II.

1958 – Sweden vs Brazil

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Pele arrived, and Brazil had its first World Cup trophy. Sweden hosted the tournament and made the final match that took place at the Rasunda Stadium in Solna. Sweden scored first, as runner ups tend to do, with AC Milan’s Nils Liedholm, the Swedish captain, making it 1-0 after 4 minutes. The next time Sweden scored was late in the second half, with Brazil already leading 4-1. Two goals by Vava, one by Pele and one by future Brazil coach Mario Zagallo preceded Ange Simonsson’s goal. Pele added his second goal in the 90th minute, and a legend was born. This is still the highest scoring final in World Cup history and Brazil are the only team to score five goals in a World Cup final.

1962 – Brazil vs Czechoslovakia

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Pele was injured when Brazil and Czechoslovakia met during the group stage, drawing 0-0. His replacement, Amarildo, was more than enough. Garrincha himself was pretty much enough. Brazil, like four years earlier, conceded first, with Josef Masopust, maybe the greatest Czech player of all time, scoring after 15 minutes. Two minutes later, Amarildo made it 1-1. Zito and Vava (same one from before) made it 3-1, the final score, Brazil’s second World Cup.

1966 – England vs West Germany

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Famous for three things – Geoff Hurst scoring a hat-trick, Geoff Hurst scoring the most controversial approved goal in World Cup history and England actually winning something.

England hosted the tournament, and made their way to the finals after conceding only once in their first five matches. The West Germany side, with a young Franz Beckenbauer boasted an explosive offense, crushing Uruguay 4-0 in the quarter finals and beating the Soviet Union 2-1 in the Semi Final.

The Final was also a high scoring affair, with both teams level after 90 minutes, 2-2. Helmut Haller put West Germany in front after 12 minutes, but Geoff Hurst equalized six minutes later. Martin Peters scored what appeared to be the winning goal 12 minutes from time, but Wolfgang Weber sent the match into extra time with an 89th minute goal.
101 – Geoff Hurst’s shot hit the crossbar, dropped down to the line and bounced out. The linesman told the referee it crossed the line. To this date, it’s unclear if it was a goal or not. Hurst added another one in the 120th minute, as England came out 4-2 winners.

1970 – Brazil vs Italy

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Two legendary squads, and maybe the greatest Brazil side ever. Maybe the best national side ever. Pele won his third World Cup, the only player to win three. Mario Zagallo, the coach, became the first to win the World Cup as a player and a coach. Pele scored first, Roberto Boninsegna equalized, but Italy didn’t show up for the second half, and Gerson, Jairzinho and Carlos Alberto made it 4-1 in what is also regarded as the best final ever.

Brazil became the first three time champions, earning the right to retain the Jules Rimet trophy permanently.

1974 – West Germany vs Netherlands

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Cruyff vs Beckenbauer, “Total-Football” against German efficiency. Johan Neeskens put the Netherlands up after only 2 minutes, but by the end of the first half, the home team was winning, a lead the kept till the end of the match. Paul Breitner equalized in the 25th minute, and Gerd Muller scored the winning goal two minutes before the half time whistle.

1978 – Argentina vs Netherlands

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The Dutch made their second consecutive World Cup Final, this time without Johan Cruyff, and again had to face the hosts, Argentina. The Dutch were managed by an Austrian, Ernst Happel, known for his short motivational pitch “Gentlemen, two points”. Mario Kempes scored first for Argentina but substitute Dick Nanninga made it 1-1 after 82 minutes, sending the game into extra time. Mario Kempes and Daniel Bertoni were there go give Argentina the 3-1 win and their first World Cup, in a tournament tainted by allegations of fixes (Argentina’s win over Peru) and a Final in which Argentina employed some-not-so-sportsman like tactics.

1982 – Italy vs West Germany

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Paul Breitner scored again for West Germany in the final, but this time his goal came after Italy were already 3-0 ahead. Spain hosted the tournament but didn’t make it out of the second round group stage. Italy scored through Golden Boot winner Paolo Rossi, Marco Tardelli and Alessandro Altobelli, becoming the second nation to win three World Cups.

1986 – Argentina vs West Germany

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Diego Maradona’s moment of bliss – he carried a mediocre Argentina squad on his back, carving his way into the history books. He didn’t score in the final, held at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, but was inspirational in their 3-2 win over West Germany. Argentina scored first through Jose Luis Brown and Jorge Valdano made it 2-0 in the second half. West Germany made an impressive comeback, scoring twice in six minutes through Karl Heinz Rummenigge and Rudi Voller. Jorge Burruchaga scored the winner in the 83rd minute, giving Argentina its second World Cup in eight years.

1990 – West Germany vs Argentina

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Italy, Stadio Olimpico, Rome – The worst World Cup tournament ended in one of the worst finals’ matches. West Germany made a final appearance separated from East Germany, and won the World Cup for the third time through Andreas Brheme’s penalty kick. There quite a few firsts in this final – This was the first time a European side beat a South American side in the World Cup Final match. It was the first time a team didn’t score in the final, and it was the first time a player (actually two Argentinians) got sent off in the final.

1994 – Brazil vs Italy

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We said 1990 had the worst Final? Brazil and Italy beat that final, becoming the first teams to reach a penalty shoot out in a World Cup final after 120 scoreless minutes. Both teams missed their first penalties (Franco Baresi, Marcio Santos) and converted the next two (Demetrio Albertini, Romario, Alberigo Evani, Branco). AC Milan’s Daniele Massaro missed Italy’s fourth penalty and Dunga, yes, Dunga, gave Brazil a 3-2 edge. Roberto Baggio, who carried Italy through the knockout stages and was arguably the best in the world back then, missed, sending the ball flying high, and giving Brazil their fourth World Cup trophy and the neutral fans a chance to smile, thanking Baggio for ending the hellish match.

1998 – France vs Brazil

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France hosted the World Cup for the second time, and looked convincing from the first moment, while Brazil, built with a mixture of 1994 heroes and a younger generation were still favored to win their fifth World Cup. Ronaldo played in the final, but it wasn’t really him. Whatever happened in the dressing room before the match, France came out confident and strong, with Zinadine Zidane scoring two almost identical goals, heading in in-swinging corners. France lost Marcel Desailly to a red card but that didn’t stop them from making it 3-0 in the closing minutes, scored by Emmanuel Petit.

2002 – Brazil vs Germany

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Ronaldo’s redemption – Germany surprised many by making the final, for the first time as unified nation, while Brazil, well, they are always expected to make the finals, but weren’t very impressive on the way through. They got Ronaldinho back from suspension for the final, while Germany didn’t have Ballack, suspended for yellow cards, who scored the winner for them in the Semi Final against South Korea. Ronaldo scored two goals in the second half after Germany were the team to get the better chances, and Brazil won their fifth World Cup, still a World Cup best.

2006 – Italy vs France

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Like the 1994 Final, won’t be remembered for the high quality of soccer demonstrated (there wasn’t any) but Zidane headbutting Marco Materazzi in his final match after the Italian called Zidane’s sister a whore (Exact quote : I prefer the whore that is your sister). I also remember the brawl the followed between Italians and French fans in the Panama bar I was watching the game in. Ironically, both players were the scorers in regulation. Zidane scored the opener after 7 minutes, successfully converting a penalty kick. Materazzi scored 12 minutes later. Italy scored all five penalties, while France’s David Trezeguet missed his shot, and after Fabio Grosso scored Italy’s fifth penalty, there was no need for a fifth French one. Italy were World champions for a fourth time, mostly due to an unbeatable defense and goalkeeper.

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After both teams have been criticized during the tournament for playing dull and un-imaginative football, far from the traditions both nations’ sides have shown in the past, Dunga’s “European” style didn’t work against a Netherlands team that have won every match during this tournament but have been far from impressive during those four wins.

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Brazil scored early after Melo found Robinho with a fantastic pass, cutting through the puzzled Dutch defense. A friend of mine said two seconds later : Robinho is one of the top 3 players in the world, together with Ronaldo and Messi. Yeah right.

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Brazil did show us some nice dazzle with a few combinations between Kaka and the friends, but made a huge mistake by slowing down the pace of the game. The Dutch didn’t really show up in the first half, but Brazil, or should I say Dunga, didn’t strike the iron while it was still hot, instead letting Sneijder and Van Bommel become more and more comfortable, going down 1-0 behind at half time with the belief that something can be done.

The best diver not excited with Robinho

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Brazil came out flat during the second half, and despite nothing special coming from the Dutch, Brazil’s lack of killer instinct  and one horrible mistake by Julio Cesar lost them the match. Felipe Melo shaved Sneijder’s cross, levelling things at 1-1, and from then on Brazil lost its grasp on the match. Melo, Silva, Alves and Kaka couldn’t regain dominance in the middle, while the Netherlands grew in confidence, with Sneijder feeding Van Persie and the diving Robben again and again. Eventually, Sneijder was the man to put the final nail in the Selecao 2010 World Cup coffin, heading in Kuyt’s flick.

Felipe Melo, never a symbol of tranquility, lost it when he stepped on Arjen Robben, and got sent off. Brazil were lost, and were lucky not to end this game with a much heavier defeat, as Robben and Van Persie continued their confused antics when getting near to Cesar’s defenseless goal.

Didn't Deliever

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Now What? Dunga won’t stay as head coach probably – failures, meaning not winning the World Cup don’t mean more years for the reigning head coach. Brazil’s failure comes down to two players – Robinho and Kaka, the two most important players on this side and the only creative force on a mostly tactically disciplined side. They both had bad seasons, with Robinho even going back to Brazil, and both had short moments of brilliance in South Africa, not enough to get them through the quarter final hurdle for a second straight time.

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The Netherlands have a relatively comfortable draw, with either Uruguay or Ghana facing them next. It’s the World Cup Semi Final, so nothing is easy, but still, the Dutch are favored to reach the final. Van Bommel and Robben’s antics were borderline disgusting, and it’s time that the people in charge start retroactively punishing players for diving and feigning injuries. It’s becoming a disease in this beautiful game, which has its flaws and needs fixing. Back to the Oranje – Nothing too brilliant, but like we’ve said all along, maybe the new formula, which means good defense, strong midfield and momentary brilliance from Sneijder and Robben, is the right one to finally win a World Cup.

The Goals

Robinho

Melo Own Goal

Wesley Sneijder

Melo Sent Off

Another Titan clash set up after today, as the Netherlands didn’t do brilliantly against Slovakia but had just enough good moments from Robben and Sneijder to come up with a 2-1 win, while Brazil did well versus the sympathetic Chileans, beating them 3-0.

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Well the formula of not playing too well but keeping on with the wins is working for the Dutch – One moment of brilliance from Arjen Robben, starting for the first time in the World Cup, and a late goal by Wesley Sneijder after the Slovakian players preferred to argue with the ref than actually carry on playing gave the Netherlands a 2-0 lead which was cut down to 2-1 just before the full time whistle, as Robert Vittek converted a penalty, his fourth goal of the tournament.

Stekelenburg should have been sent off for his foul, but the referee decided he doesn’t want to make him miss the quarter final with a foul that eventually didn’t mean a whole lot.

Against Brazil, they’re going to need everyone. Not sure even that will be enough.

The Dutch didn’t look too good, having to grind out another victory, with Slovakia looking closer during parts of the second half to make it even than Netherlands going up 2-0, but I’m sure the Oranje are just fine with these lacking in style wins.

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This still wasn’t exactly the Brazil people would like to see, but they did have their stylish moments, but more importantly, the looked like Dunga tuned and built the team to play like – efficient, with a wall of a defense and executing brilliance up front, with Kaka orchestrating the whole thing.

Chile played like they only know how – attack, but like against Spain, they don’t have enough quality to beat a top class defense and enough strength to dominate midfield like they did against Switzerland and Honduras. Gilberto Silva played the stopper and anchor role perfectly, allowing Robinho, Maicon and Kaka to keep the pressure on Bielsa’s team who weren’t able to produce more than one shot on target.

Juan scored his fourth career goal against Chile and Luis Fabiano pretty much finished the match four minutes later, this time scoring a goal without the use of his hands.  Robinho made it 3-0 in the 59th minute, making it three from three for Brazil against Chile in the World Cups.

Top Scorers

1. Gonzalo Higuain (Argentina), Robert Vittek (Slovakia) – 4 Goals

2. David Villa (Spain), Luis Suarez (Uruguay), Asamoah Gyan (Ghana), Landon Donovan (United States), Thomas Muller (Germany), Luis Fabiano (Brazil) – 3 Goals.

3. Diego Forlan (Uruguay), Elano (Brazil), Tiago (Portugal), David Villa (Spain), Lee Jung-Soo (South Korea), Kalu Uche (Nigeria), Brett Holman (Australia), Samuel Eto’o (Cameroon), Keisuke Honda (Japan), Lee Chung-Yong (South Korea), Javier Hernandez (Mexico), Carlos Tevez (Argentina), Miroslav Klose (Germany), Lukas Podolski (Germany), Wesley Sneijder (Netherlands) – 2 Goals.

Picture of the Day – Robinho Back in Form

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Fan of the Day – Dutch Cuties

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Tomorrow

Paraguay – Japan – Pretty much the same match up as Uruguay vs South Korea. Japan are fast and defend better than the Koreans, Paraguay don’t mind hanging back and leaving their talented front to deal with long balls, which they usually do pretty well. Advantage South America.

Spain vs Portugal – Sadly, one of these teams will have to leave us. Don’t be surprised if it’s Spain. They have more talent, but their defense and overall play has been shaky, and Portugal, a very strong side with a difficult defense to crack (haven’t conceded in the group stage), have the weapons to hurt Spain on the counter. If Simao starts for once, Portugal and Ronaldo will benefit.

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Seven yellow cards between these two rivals, all in the first half, were the most exciting thing in a match that both teams preferred ending in a draw, not knowing where Spain will finish at the time. Ronaldo tried to shoot from every range possible without hitting the target once, while Brazil just got the fans at the stadium and Dunga pissed off. People, don’t get mad – without Kaka Brazil are just a good defensive team without anyone to feed their very one-dimensional strikers. It’ll be better vs Chile, I think.

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Sven got his farewell match before he goes and tries to milk as much money for little production somewhere else, saying – “There’s a very bright future ahead for this side.” Whatever.

The Elephants pounced on the helpless Koreans from the get go, getting two quick goals from Yaya Toure and Romaric, with Toure’s goal being one of the best of the tournament so far.

North Korea just defended, hoping to get out of this without the 7-0 tag from the Portugal match, and despite shooting 28 times, including 15 on goal shots, the Ivorians only won 3-0, which didn’t help them anyway because of Portugal’s draw, with the group ending just as expected when originally drawn together.

Group H – Again, the favorites and the two teams that deserved to go through, did. Spain didn’t start out too well, but a horrible mistake by Bravo, the Chilean keeper, along with a no-good-reason sending off of Marco Estrada by another “genius” of a referee, Mexican Julian Rodriguez Santiago, meant the Spain would have a pretty easy time till the end.

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Andres Iniesta made it 2-0 with a clever shot from outside the box, with Estrada getting sent off seconds later. Millar enjoyed his shot getting deflected, making it 2-1 just as the second half began, but Chile, despite playing nicely with 10 men, didn’t look too worried about losing with the news of Switzerland’s inability to penetrate the not so impressive Honduran defense reaching the stadium.

The last 20 minutes, with Cesc Fabregas entering, were probably the worst for during this world cup, as the Spanish players just passed the ball from one to another, while Chile hardly made any attempt to get possession and somehow make it 2-2. Maybe they prefer Brazil to Portugal, or just the fear of conceding? It was hard staying awake, and the referee decided to agonize us with two minutes added.

Group Tables

Group G

1. Brazil, 7 points (5-2)
2. Portugal, 5 point (7-0)
3. Ivory Coast, 4 points (4-3)
4. North Korea, 0 points (1-12)

Group H

1. Spain, 6 points (4-2)
2. Chile, 6 points (3-2)
3. Switzerland, 4 points (1-1)
4. Honduras, 1 point (0-3)

Top Scorers

1. Gonzalo Higuain (Argentina), Robert Vittek (Slovakia), David Villa (Spain) – 3 Goals
2. Diego Forlan (Uruguay), Asamoah Gyan (Ghana), Elano & Luis Fabiano (Brazil), Tiago (Portugal), David Villa (Spain), Lee Jung-Soo (South Korea), Kalu Uche (Nigeria), Landon Donovan (United States), Brett Holman (Australia), Samuel Eto’o (Cameroon), Keisuke Honda (Japan) – 2 Goals

Picture of the Day – Juan and his Balls of Steel

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Fan of the day – Super Hot Sara Carbonero, Again

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Tomorrow

Uruguay vs South Korea – The opening match of the knockout round, and despite the South Koreans being a dangerous team, Uruguay just look like a more complete side, yet to concede a goal in the tournament. They don’t open up their play, which will make it very hard for the Park gang, and I think Forlan, Suarez and Cavani will find the one or two chances to put Uruguay in their first quarter final since 1970.

United States vs Ghana – The last African hope against a team that’s getting more and more attention from usually an indifferent nation to soccer. Both have been fun to watch during the group stage, but I just don’t think Ghana have enough character and composure when they get chances to upset the Americans, who are just looking more and more impressive as the tournament progresses.

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Very similar to the Uruguayans, Paraguay have a strong side, with some very talented front men and a solid defensive midfield and back, but play very conservatively, making it very hard to surprise them. Slovakia’s slow and boring style was not match for the South American efficiency, with Enrique Vera scoring in the first half and Cristian Riveros finishing the job in the 86th minute. Paraguay won’t mess up against New Zealand (just a gut feeling) while Slovakia face Italy needing a win to qualify.

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Lippi, like Capello, is in deep trouble. Italy played worst than they did against Paraguay, going behind early to Shane Smeltz’ goal, despite him being offside and a foul on Gilardino (maybe the worst player in this World Cup so far). Again, Lippi decided to go with the wrong starters, but despite his substitutions at half time, Italy never broke down the Kiwi’s defense except for that penalty kick, converted by Iaquinta, as Mark Paston was fantastic in New Zealand’s goal.

Italy can still qualify with a draw against Slovakia if Paraguay beat New Zealand, but they have bigger troubles, concerning their horrible play and maybe the lack of a future Italian generation.

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A boring first half was upstaged by a fantastic second one. Luis Fabiano scored through a powerful shot in the first half, but both teams were far from impressive, as Brazil just couldn’t get possession and the Ivorians just couldn’t get any decent shots at Cesar’s goal.

Second half? Different story – Melo and Silva took over the middle, allowing Kaka much more freedom to operate and work everybody else.

Fabiano scored the second, which looked like a wonder goal at first sight, but pure cheating after the replay. The referee seemed to be in on it as later replays showed. Very troubling indeed.

Elano added the third as Brazil seemed to en route to a very convincing win before the Ivorians started chopping legs, sending Elano out and not going easy on Kaka, Bastos and Dani Alves.

The ref didn’t send anyone off, so Kaka did a little payback of his own, finding himself sent off. Drogba made it interesting, making it 3-1.

Picture of the Day – Kaka Sent Off

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Fan of the Day – Italy

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Group Tables

Group F

1. Paraguay, 4 points (3-1)
2. Italy, 2 points (2-2)
3. New Zealand, 2 points (2-2)
4. Slovakia, 1 point (1-3)

Group G

1. Brazil, 6 points (5-2)
2. Portugal, 1 point (0-0)
3. Ivory Coast, 1 point (1-3)
4. North Korea, 0 points (1-2)

* North Korea and Portugal have played only one match

Top Scorers

1. Gonzalo Higuain (Argentina) – 3 Goals
2. Diego Forlan (Uruguay), Asamoah Gyan (Ghana), Elano (Brazil), Luis Fabiano (Brazil) – 2 Goals
3. 46 Player with one goal, 2 own goals

What We’ve Learned

Paraguay – Not surprised at all by the Paraguayans, who Peter picked to top the group. A little less selfishness by their forwards could have resulted in a much more impressive win but still, looked solid and tough, like expected. Only need a draw against New Zealand to qualify, but despite the All-White’s surprising results, I can’t see them dropping points there.
Slovakia – Didn’t show up. They have talent, which they showed against New Zealand, but maybe the shocking draw there knocked the wind out of Weiss’s men, without anyone playing anything close to a decent offensive game. Have a battle with Italy, and Slovakia have to win. Italy are weaker than ever, but still, Slovakia just seem to slow and lacking purpose to pose any real threat.
Italy – Where to begin? The goal they conceded should have been disallowed, but Lippi is making the same mistakes over and over again. Camoranesi should start, Gilardino shouldn’t, and maybe it’s time for Pirlo to make an appearance. Italy just lack any kind of sophistication and creativity most of the time, without off the ball movement and clever double-pass plays, they’re at risk of not going through the group.
New Zealand – Two matches and still no loss – Ricky Herbert’s squad is defying the odds and have a small chance, if they stun Paraguay, to qualify from the group. Doesn’t matter what happens next, they’ve made history with today’s draw.
Brazil – Something clicked for Brazil in the second half, and when they turn it on, there’s nobody better. Melo and Gilberto Silva took over in the second half, and that’s the key in order to let Kaka start running the show. Maybe Dani Alves should get a chance to start instead of Robinho who really looked off today.
Ivory Coast – Talented group, but with an injured Drogba and a nobody at the sidelines “un-coaching” the team, they didn’t stand a chance. Even when they controlled the game in parts of the first half, just didn’t look dangerous. Need a North Korean miracle to keep their hopes alive.

Tomorrow

Portugal – North Korea – After England and Italy, anything is possible. Despite the clear advantage the Portuguese have, no one will be surprised if the tough Koreans get a point. After all, Ronaldo didn’t seem to be handling the pressure to well in game 1.
Chile – Switzerland – The battle for the top of the group – the technical Chileans against the organized and tough Swiss. Very tough one to call – Switzerland have yet to beat a South American rival at the World Cup, and I do prefer technical sides. Chile also learned from Spain’s loss I believe, and Switzerland will probably be a bit more open against the South Americans.
Spain – Honduras – Another upset? Can’t see it. Spain are just too good to not go through, and a big win over the Hondurans, the weakest team in South Africa, could be a great start on their way back to the top of the group. Just don’t forget to start with Torres.

Last – Goal count: 57 Goals, 29 Matches. Good day, 1.97 is looking much better.

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New Zealand – Slovakia : 1 – 1 (Robert Vittek, 50th minute – Winston Reid, 90+)

Vittek

Reid

On to Group G, the group of death, and the first match, showcasing Drogba and Cristiano Ronaldo, but not a whole lot of attacking football.

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And Group G’s closer – Brazil dominating North Korea in not so fashionable style, even having to withstand a small scare in the end, winning with a not too impressive 2-1.

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Brazil – North Korea : 2-1 (Maicon 55th, Elano 72nd – Ji Yun-Nam 89th)

Maicon

Elano

Yun-Nam

Group Tables

Group F

1. Italy, 1 point (1-1)
2. New Zealand, 1 point (1-1)
3. Paraguay, 1 point (1-1)
4. Slovakia, 1 point (1-1)

Group G

1. Brazil, 3 points (2-1)
2. Ivory Coast, 1 point (0-0)
3. Portugal, 1 point (0-0)
4. North Korea, 0 points (1-2)

Top Scorers

22 Player with one goal, 1 own goal.

Picture of the Day – The North Korean Ballet

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Fans of the Day – Two Brazilian Blonds, Easiest Pick Ever

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Tomorrow

Honduras – Chile
Spain – Switzerland
South Africa – Uruguay

*Goal Count – 23 Goals in 14 matches, 1.64. Five in three matches didn’t really helps us. We’re not asking for ten anymore – Six would be a huge improvement.

Another day that causes huge ambivalence – enjoying life with a World Cup in it, with three matches a day, but still not satisfied with the level of play and the amount of goals. All the goals from today’s matches, plus the usual – Best Fans and best picture, tables and top scorers.

Previous Posts – Group A, Group B, Group C, Group D, Group E, Group F

Brazil

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Yes, this is Kaka’s team. The offense works well when Kaka plays well, and his less than 100% fitness going into the tournament is causing a tad of Insomnia for Dunga I’m sure. But as good as Kaka is, and he does have days (not for Real this season) when he’s the best midfielder in the world, he needs a top class finisher to feed. Luis Fabiano, 25 goals in 38 caps for the national side, is that man. He delivers, and despite still not joining any elite European club, he is one of the best finishers in the game.

Brazil, despite not having Ronladinho, Adriano and Pato are a fantastic team, maybe the best side going into the tournament, with a solid game plan that has proven very successful ever since Dunga has taken over the team – 2007 Copa America and 2009 Confederations Cup. Brazil are always favorites in the World Cup, but they’re lack of “beautiful play”, according to critics, shifted the favorite tag to Spain. The two will probably meet at a certain point in the tournament, if things go according to plan. Hard to believe Brazil won’t finish first in this group.

Portugal

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With all the talent Portugal has, including the man who on some days is the best in the world (Cristiano Ronaldo), they have a very unpopular and defensive minded coach in Carlos Quieroz, who nearly didn’t make the tournament, needing a playoff win against Bosnia after finishing second in their qualifying group. Unlike Dunga, Quieroz doesn’t have any trophies, at least as a head coach and not an assistant.

Portugal are basing their bid on a strong defense, with Bruno Alves and Carvalho in the middle but missing the wonderful Bosingwa (injury). Pepe, usually a central defender, plays as a DM for the national side, and Deco-Simao and of course Ronaldo will  be the ones in charge of the firepower, with probably Liedson playing as striker. Portugal are in a tough group, but Drogba’s injury means the Ivorians won’t make it out of the “group of death”, leading Portugal to a probable meeting with Spain in the next round. If Ronaldo is his club-self  and not his qualifiers self (no goals), the Portuguese might make a surprising push deep in the tournament.

Ivory Coast

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With the money grabbing and fame lovin’ Sven Goran Eriksson on the sidelines (after almost ruining Mexico’s chances of making the tournament), there’s a belief in the Ivory Coast that they have the right figure on the sidelines to install the right tactics and game-plan with their talented players. Problem is, Drogba broke his arm against Japan, and if Drogba is less than 100%, it’s bye bye World Cup.

Still, the team which plays very physical and very quick football showcases some fantastic talent – Gervinho of Lille, Kalou from Chelsea and Yaya Toure from Barcelona who had a great season, stepping up as one of the best defensive midfielders in the world. Not enough depth and a shaky defense, healthy Drogba or not, will probably cost the Ivory Coast, again, a spot in the last 16.

North Korea

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Only question – How many players will defect once the World Cup is over for them, and will they break a record for goals conceded in the group stage.

Group Schedule

June 15th – Ivory Coast – Portugal (Nelson Mandela Bay), Brazil – North Korea (Ellis Park)
June 20th – Brazil – Ivory Coast (Soccer City)
June 21st – Portugal – North Korea (Cape Town)
June 25th – North Korea – Ivory Coast (Mbombela), Portugal – Brazil (Durban)

Predictions

1. Brazil
2. Portugal
3. Ivory Coast
4. North Korea

Brazil – Will Dunga’s “European Style” Deliever the Goods?

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Everyone expects Brazil to be a fantasy team, but that concept didn’t work in 2006 as the super-ego squad didn’t make it past France in the quarter finals, Brazil’s worst finish since 1990. Dunga came, and despite not winning a lot of fans in the Brazilian media for his style, he’s won titles. The 2007 Copa America and the 2009 Confederations Cup. He put a lot of emphasis on defense and defensive midfielders. Why shouldn’t he? Brazil finally have an abundance of quality and talent in the back four and between the posts, and he relys on his super-quick counter attacking players, orchestrated by Kaka, and Fabiano’s finishing. It may not be what people expect from a classic Brazil team, but it might be enough for a sixth World Cup trophy.

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England – Is Capello the Man to Relive 1966?

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England, at least in the last decade, always have talent. Maybe not perfectly technique-gifted type talent, but there’s enough to mount a serious challenge at the World Cup. Somehow, things always crumble. More often than not, it comes to penalties. Capello is arguably the best coach in the world. The bottom line is, he wins titles. He has Wayne Rooney upfront, maybe the best forward in the world. England were one of if not the most impressive side during the qualifying group and also got to avenge and handily thrash Croatia twice. But it’s been a long time since then, and it again remains to be seen if the huge pressure from the fans and British Media won’t crush England’s players. The more we get closer, the less optimistic I am about England’s chances. But if Rooney continues his fantastic club form, they have a shot. He’s that good.

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Argentina -Will Maradona Run Naked?? Just Kiddin’ – Is the Barcelona Messi Going to Show Up?

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Now that we know Maradona is going to run naked if Argentina wins, maybe even some Argentinians don’t want the Albiceleste to win for the third time in World Cup history. Maradona knows he needs the best player in the world to forget about the grueling club season he just finished (53 matches, 47 goals) and start showing his magic for Argentina as well, something that hasn’t happened during the almost tragic-ending qualifying stage. He’s got what is maybe the best attack (including bench) in the world. He has an OK midfield and a probably less than that defense. Enough? If hefinally plays the right tactics, something that will allow Messi to roam free like Guardiola does, and Lionel doesn’t cave under the huge national pressure, we might get to see Maradona naked.

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Spain -2008 Repeat?

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The most talented side in the world, that also plays the most beautiful soccer in the world. Enough for Spain’s first World Cup trophy? Spain finished fourth in 1950, but since haven’t made it further than the quarter final. They are loaded in about every position, and if Torres and Fabregas return to full health, I find it hard to believe anyone can match up with them, trying to play them straight up and not go Inter on them. Still, Marcos Senna, who was extremely effective during the Euro 2008 win, won’t be around this time, and it will be interesting to see who will Del Bosque play in the middle, and will he play both Villa and Torres or leave (probably the Liverpool man) one of them on the bench.

Africa – Will an African team shine on it’s own continent?

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Probably not. South Africa are one of the weakest sides in this tournament and my money is on them not making it through the group stage (France, Mexico, Uruguay). Still, just a reminder, no other host has ever failed to qualify from the group stage. Nigeria might make it out of Group B, but they weren’t very impressive in the Africa Cup of Nations and look like a group of very talented individuals who share a nationality and not much else. Algeria might surprise a few, but they have a shot of joining England from Group C into the last 16, but don’t be surprised if the opposite happens and they fail to win a match. Ghana are in a very tough group and without Essien don’t stand much of a chance. They also looked horrible again the Dutch tonight (lost 4-1). Cameroon? Eto’o is probably the only thing they have to sell, and he seems past his prime and not too happy after Milla’s comments about him. Ivory Coast? The second best team in Africa (Egypt are the best) but a side no one really wanted to face – fast, physical and more experienced than in 2006, their debut in the Mundial. If Didier Drogba emulates his 2009-2010 form for Chelsea, they might be a very dangerous team for Brazil and Portugal to face.

North Korea – How did they get here?

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Defense, Defense, Defense and luck. None of these will help them in a group with Brazil, Portugal and the Ivorians. Kim Jong Il’s side might set a record for conceded goals in a tournament when it’s all said and done.

Brazil

Doesn’t matter what year it is and who’s playing for the Selecao, they usually are the big favorites to win the World Cup. Nothing is different this time around, 7 months away from South Africa 2010. Since their very disappointing performance in Germany, back in 2006, things have changed under Dunga who took the helm in July 2006.

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His side hasn’t been playing brilliant and “magic” soccer maybe people expect from the Brazilians each time they take the field – but he’s brought in the titles – Winning the 2007 Copa America, beating the favored Argentinians in the final 3-0 and the 2009 Confederations Cup in South Africa, beating the United States 3-2 in the final.

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The main change about Brazil compared to the 2006 side is there’s a much more united feel to the squad, and despite having Kaka and Robinho in the squad, there’s no “All-Star” feeling about the team. They attack and defend as a team, and they win games, the important ones (last big one coming over Argentina in September, 3-1 in Rosario). This isn’t the fantasy side most people would want Brazil to be, playing a much more “European” style, but titles don’t lie, and in about 7 months time, Brazil will be looking to get their sixth World Cup trophy.

Spain

In 2008, Spain finally fulfilled it’s potential, winning the Euro held in Austria & Switzerland, beating Germany 1-0 in the final. Despite missing out on a Confederations Final against Brazil, as an early warm up heavyweights meeting (lost 2-0 to the United States in the Semi’s), Spain did manage to compile a 35 game undefeated streak until that loss to the Americans, including a 15 game winning streak, a world record for consecutive wins, at the end of their undefeated run.

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More impressive probably was their perfect record at the end of the World Cup Qualifying group, win all 10 matches, finishing strong with a 5-2 win in Bosnia who finished second. So how do they do it? When you want “beautiful” soccer, Spain’s the new Brazil. A super-talented midfield, with Xavi, Iniesta and David Silva as the creative force and a lethal strike force, Fernando Torres and David Villa up front, two of the world’s 3 best strikers (Zlatan being the third). The best goalkeeper in the World (Casillas) and a very strong defense make Spain many people’s big favorite to go all the way once again in 2010, matching France’s achievement from 2000 in holding the World Cup and the European Champions mantle at the same time.

Not what the Argentinians hoped for, and probably more than what the Brazilians were hoping for. Brazil came to Rosario, looking dominant, relaxed and simply better than Argentina, beating them 3-1 after leading 2-0 in the first half, scoring twice from free kicks. Maradona’s side looked outclassed, and despite having most of the possession, didn’t look dangerous at all in the first half. The second half looked slightly better as Aguero came in for Tevez, but Julio Cesar stopped most of Argentina chances.

Jesus Datolo scored an amazing shot from 30 meters, but Kaka and Luis Fabiano teamed up for a quick crowd silencer and hope drainer just a minute later. Brazil are now through, 10 points clear of fifth place with only three games to go, while Argentina with only 22 points and six wins in fifteen games, are still not safe, with a very difficult trip to Paraguay coming up.

Luisao, 23rd minute, 1-0 Brazil

Luis Fabiano, 30th minute, 2-0 Brazil

Jesus Datolo, 65th minute, 2-1 Brazil

Luis Fabiano, 66th minute, 3-1 Brazil