gobbledigook.

[ a morbid fascination that borders on obsession. ]

Saturday, June 17, 2006

Its certainly a very entertaining and exciting tournament, and its barely halfway through. Certainly living up to its hype and the build-up prior to the biggest event on earth. Let me start off with Italy. Arguably one of the closest fought matches that kept you at the edge of your seats, Italy managed to brush aside Ghana to emerge victorious. Even though many lauded the Azzurris as more experienced and displaying more flair, even me, an ardent Italian supporter played down their first victory. They were extremely lucky to have got away unscathed after withstanding wave after wave of attacks. The Ghanians were more convincing and confident in their passing, although the Italians did just as well. I just felt it was an even match. Later the Italians take on the Americans, nothing less than 3 points.

The other African teams were equally impressive as debutants, some chalking up points and goals, unfortunately no victories, yet. Ivory Coast has been eliminated. Togo and Ghana may still make it if they win their second match. Angola and Tunisia hanging on with the skin of their teeths.

The Asians teams were rather disappointing this time round with 4 different tales. Saudi squandered their 2-1 lead to draw, Iran lost to Mexico, Japan surrendered their 1 goal(albeit controversially) to the Aussies. Korea came from behind to beat Togo. Even though a win, but To(go) what? Precisely. Oh, and are the Socceroos considered Asians? Yeah with their blonde locks, blue eyes and British accents.

The favourites has meet the expectations of most, most notably Spain and Argentina mauling Ukraine and Serbia & Montenegro 4-0 and 6-0 respectively. Germany, England and Holland has made it through to the second round, although England, nevermind. Brasil seems rather quiet after their 1-0 win, on Ronaldo complaining of diziness making the headlines. Portugal and Czech Republic also managed victories, but i doubt they would go far.

The others, Paraguay's unlucky to have been eliminated. T&T, sadly, don't have the mettle to stay on. The rest rather average and even lacklustre. Nevertheless they still put on a good fight on the pitch, just a certain something lacking.

Another interesting statistic: Shamsul Maidin has refereed two matches so far, Sweden-T&T and just this morning Mexico-Angola. Both ended goaless. Both matches had 1 red card each. I'm not implying anything, just want to show something uncanny. I think he did well in both matches.

Tune in 3am later to witness an Italian triumph. Pardon my chauvinism.

Later.