For those counting down the minutes until the next World Cup game (currently under 32 hours by my watch), you might like to kill some time by browsing The Falcon's Definitive 2010 Tour de France Guide (yes this is the shameless self promotion normally seen from Channel 7 on their Australian open coverage but I don't care).
The race kicks off on Saturday and everything you need to know about it over the next few weeks can be found here:
http://2010tourdefrance.blogspot.com/
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Matchday 19 - Villa, King of the Iberians
Paraguay 0 - Japan 0 (Paraguay won 5-3 on penalties)
Spain 1 (Villa 63) - Portugal 0
The round of 16 matches were complete on Matchday 19 with the Iberian derby going to Spain, a 1-0 win over Portugal sending them through to the quarter finals. In the early match Paraguay won through to the quarter finals for the first time in its history after it defeated Japan 5-3 on penalties, after the teams were deadlocked at 0-0 after extra time.
But in the glamour match of the day it was the Spanish who prevailed, their 1-0 win over Portugal their first competitive win over their neighbour since 1934. In reality, the scoreline flattered the Portuguese, with the Spaniards garnering most of the possession with their magnificent passing game, and consequently doing most of the attacking. The breakthrough finally came just after the hour mark, when star striker David Villa was played in behind the watertight Portugal defence by Iniesta. Villa's initial shot was stopped by the goalkeeper, but Eduardo could do nothing about the rebound which Villa clinically dispatched into the net of the underside of the cross bar. Rather than spur the Portuguese on, the goal only led to further dominance from the Spaniards, who pushed forward looking for a second that would have killed the game off. Despite a number of close range efforts from Villa and substitute Fernando Llorente the second goal never came, and while that may have allowed Portugal to snatch a late equaliser at the death, they never really threatened to do so. A lunging dive from Capdevilla to block a Portuguese shot in the last 10 minutes was the only time their goal was really threatened. Portgual's misery was compounded when Ricardo Costa was sent off in the final minutes after his stray elbow connected with Capdevilla.
Spain now look to have an easy run to the semi-finals. Their opponent in the quarters will be Paraguay, who have reached this stage of the tournament for the first time following an anemic 0-0 draw with Japan that was finally decided on penalties, the South Americans prevailing 5-3. This was an atrocious game for this stage of the tournament but it was perhaps to be expected in a matchup between two sides that had never before advanced past the round of 16. The villain in the end was Japan's Yuichi Komano, who tragically saw his penalty cannon of the crossbar. Every other player (from both sides) made the penalty, and the match was finally brought to a close when Oscar Cardozo slotted home from Paraguay to send them into raptures. The result means that 4 of the 5 South American teams have made it to the quarter-finals, a phenomenal effort by that continent. Paraguay's run is likely to end here however as on that performance they should be smashed by the Spanish in the next round.
Quarter Final Matches - Paraguay ($5.80) v Spain ($1.20)
What We Learned - That Portugal could defend but that was about it. The Portuguese only conceded 1 goal in the whole tournament, which is fantastic. But it doesn't really help when you fail to score in three of your other 4 matches. Their attack was barren, and all a 6 goal second half against North Korea did was paper over the cracks of what was otherwise a major problem and the reason they have advanced no further in the tournament.
The Falcon's Spud of the Day - Christiano Ronaldo (Portugal) - The first two time winner of the award, Ronaldo was totally invisible in his nation's most important match for four years. While Villa and Iniesta were dragging Spain into the quarterfinals Ronaldo barely saw the ball and when he did he wasted it with ridiculous long range shots. To the casual fan you would have thought Fabio Coentrao was the Portuguese star and the former World player of the year. Ronaldo (rightfully) leaves the tournament in disgrace.
Tonight's matches - No games! And finally a chance to catch up on some sleep! Enjoy it - the action restarts Friday night with a cracker of a quarter final between the Netherlands and Brazil.
Prices courtesy of Betfair.
Spain 1 (Villa 63) - Portugal 0
The round of 16 matches were complete on Matchday 19 with the Iberian derby going to Spain, a 1-0 win over Portugal sending them through to the quarter finals. In the early match Paraguay won through to the quarter finals for the first time in its history after it defeated Japan 5-3 on penalties, after the teams were deadlocked at 0-0 after extra time.
But in the glamour match of the day it was the Spanish who prevailed, their 1-0 win over Portugal their first competitive win over their neighbour since 1934. In reality, the scoreline flattered the Portuguese, with the Spaniards garnering most of the possession with their magnificent passing game, and consequently doing most of the attacking. The breakthrough finally came just after the hour mark, when star striker David Villa was played in behind the watertight Portugal defence by Iniesta. Villa's initial shot was stopped by the goalkeeper, but Eduardo could do nothing about the rebound which Villa clinically dispatched into the net of the underside of the cross bar. Rather than spur the Portuguese on, the goal only led to further dominance from the Spaniards, who pushed forward looking for a second that would have killed the game off. Despite a number of close range efforts from Villa and substitute Fernando Llorente the second goal never came, and while that may have allowed Portugal to snatch a late equaliser at the death, they never really threatened to do so. A lunging dive from Capdevilla to block a Portuguese shot in the last 10 minutes was the only time their goal was really threatened. Portgual's misery was compounded when Ricardo Costa was sent off in the final minutes after his stray elbow connected with Capdevilla.
Spain now look to have an easy run to the semi-finals. Their opponent in the quarters will be Paraguay, who have reached this stage of the tournament for the first time following an anemic 0-0 draw with Japan that was finally decided on penalties, the South Americans prevailing 5-3. This was an atrocious game for this stage of the tournament but it was perhaps to be expected in a matchup between two sides that had never before advanced past the round of 16. The villain in the end was Japan's Yuichi Komano, who tragically saw his penalty cannon of the crossbar. Every other player (from both sides) made the penalty, and the match was finally brought to a close when Oscar Cardozo slotted home from Paraguay to send them into raptures. The result means that 4 of the 5 South American teams have made it to the quarter-finals, a phenomenal effort by that continent. Paraguay's run is likely to end here however as on that performance they should be smashed by the Spanish in the next round.
Quarter Final Matches - Paraguay ($5.80) v Spain ($1.20)
What We Learned - That Portugal could defend but that was about it. The Portuguese only conceded 1 goal in the whole tournament, which is fantastic. But it doesn't really help when you fail to score in three of your other 4 matches. Their attack was barren, and all a 6 goal second half against North Korea did was paper over the cracks of what was otherwise a major problem and the reason they have advanced no further in the tournament.
The Falcon's Spud of the Day - Christiano Ronaldo (Portugal) - The first two time winner of the award, Ronaldo was totally invisible in his nation's most important match for four years. While Villa and Iniesta were dragging Spain into the quarterfinals Ronaldo barely saw the ball and when he did he wasted it with ridiculous long range shots. To the casual fan you would have thought Fabio Coentrao was the Portuguese star and the former World player of the year. Ronaldo (rightfully) leaves the tournament in disgrace.
Tonight's matches - No games! And finally a chance to catch up on some sleep! Enjoy it - the action restarts Friday night with a cracker of a quarter final between the Netherlands and Brazil.
Prices courtesy of Betfair.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Matchday 18 - Brilliant Brazil
Netherlands 2 (Robben 18, Sneijder 84) - Slovakia 1 (90+4p)
Brazil 3 (Juan 35, Fabiano 38, Robinho 59) - Chile 0
Brazil stamped themselves as the team to beat at the 2010 World Cup after they advanced to the quarter-finals with a dominant 3-0 win over Chile. There they will meet the Netherlands, who comfortably accounted for Slovakia 2-1, despite conceding a late penalty.
The samba superstars from Brazil again showed why they are 5 time champions in clinically dispatching their South American rivals Chile 3-0 in their round of 16 match overnight. The Brazilians, whose approach has been described as pragmatic by some, showed the perfect combination of defence and attack in dismantling the Chileans. After a fairly neutral first half an hour, Brazil took the game by the scruff of the neck with a magical four minute burst. First Juan powerfully headed home a Maicon corner to give Brazil the lead, before a beautiful attacking combination started by Robinho, set up by Kaka, and finished by Luis Fabiano, doubled Brazil's advantage going into the break. A cracking strike from Robinho just before the hour mark made it 3-0, and put Chile on the next plane home to South America. The performance of the Brazilian's was almost perfect, and while they created some good attacking thrusts, the Chileans failed to produce the final ball with the same quality as Brazil, and as a result they never really troubled Julio Cesar in the Brazilian goal. Dunga will be rapt with the performance of his team who bounced back from a tepid display against Portugal in their last group game to show the kind of cutting attack they displayed in their group stage victory over Cote d'Ivoire.
Their opponents in the quarter final will be the Netherlands in a rematch of the 1998 semi-final. The Dutch were never really troubled in grinding out a 2-1 win over Slovakia, despite playing out most of the match with only a single goal lead thanks to Arjen Robben, who made his first start at the tournament after coming back from injury. The result was all but confirmed when Wesley Sneijder slotted a second with 5 minutes to go, and despite conceding a late penalty, which was slotted by Robert Vittek, the Dutch cruised through to the next round.
Quarter Final Matches - Netherlands ($2.88) v Brazil ($1.52)
What We Learned - That Brazil are the deserving outright favourites to take home the 6th trophy. They have looked devastating on the attack when they are given any space, and have only conceded two goals so far - both due to drops in concentration when they already had matches in their keeping. You would think now that a superb performance from the Dutch would be the only thing stopping Brazil storming into another final.
The Falcon's Spud of the Day - Sydney weather (cold, chance of freezing) - The Sydney winter has hit a cold snap unrivalled in living memory (which for me living here is just over 2 years). It is hard enough to crawl out of bed at 4:30 in the morning without the living room conditions replicating that of an Antarctic base. Even a strong pot of coffee and multiple blankets is barely enough to keep yourself awake at these temperatures.
Tonight's Games - The second round concludes and fans all around the world will celebrate at finally getting a couple of nights uninterrupted sleep after 19 nights of consecutive matches. Paraguay and Japan (traditional rivals?) have a golden chance to get themselves to the quarters here, and I think Paraguay will continue the South American dominance at this tournament by advancing. The other game seems a mammoth Iberian derby between Spain and Portgual. Despite not having beaten Portugal in a competitive fixture since 1934, I expect the Spaniards will get the job done here....just!
Suggested Investment - The second round has been good to us so let's keep going with backing teams to advance. Tonight a multi with Paraguay and Spain looks the best way to go. It will be short but sweet.
Prices courtesy of Betfair.
Brazil 3 (Juan 35, Fabiano 38, Robinho 59) - Chile 0
Brazil stamped themselves as the team to beat at the 2010 World Cup after they advanced to the quarter-finals with a dominant 3-0 win over Chile. There they will meet the Netherlands, who comfortably accounted for Slovakia 2-1, despite conceding a late penalty.
The samba superstars from Brazil again showed why they are 5 time champions in clinically dispatching their South American rivals Chile 3-0 in their round of 16 match overnight. The Brazilians, whose approach has been described as pragmatic by some, showed the perfect combination of defence and attack in dismantling the Chileans. After a fairly neutral first half an hour, Brazil took the game by the scruff of the neck with a magical four minute burst. First Juan powerfully headed home a Maicon corner to give Brazil the lead, before a beautiful attacking combination started by Robinho, set up by Kaka, and finished by Luis Fabiano, doubled Brazil's advantage going into the break. A cracking strike from Robinho just before the hour mark made it 3-0, and put Chile on the next plane home to South America. The performance of the Brazilian's was almost perfect, and while they created some good attacking thrusts, the Chileans failed to produce the final ball with the same quality as Brazil, and as a result they never really troubled Julio Cesar in the Brazilian goal. Dunga will be rapt with the performance of his team who bounced back from a tepid display against Portugal in their last group game to show the kind of cutting attack they displayed in their group stage victory over Cote d'Ivoire.
Their opponents in the quarter final will be the Netherlands in a rematch of the 1998 semi-final. The Dutch were never really troubled in grinding out a 2-1 win over Slovakia, despite playing out most of the match with only a single goal lead thanks to Arjen Robben, who made his first start at the tournament after coming back from injury. The result was all but confirmed when Wesley Sneijder slotted a second with 5 minutes to go, and despite conceding a late penalty, which was slotted by Robert Vittek, the Dutch cruised through to the next round.
Quarter Final Matches - Netherlands ($2.88) v Brazil ($1.52)
What We Learned - That Brazil are the deserving outright favourites to take home the 6th trophy. They have looked devastating on the attack when they are given any space, and have only conceded two goals so far - both due to drops in concentration when they already had matches in their keeping. You would think now that a superb performance from the Dutch would be the only thing stopping Brazil storming into another final.
The Falcon's Spud of the Day - Sydney weather (cold, chance of freezing) - The Sydney winter has hit a cold snap unrivalled in living memory (which for me living here is just over 2 years). It is hard enough to crawl out of bed at 4:30 in the morning without the living room conditions replicating that of an Antarctic base. Even a strong pot of coffee and multiple blankets is barely enough to keep yourself awake at these temperatures.
Tonight's Games - The second round concludes and fans all around the world will celebrate at finally getting a couple of nights uninterrupted sleep after 19 nights of consecutive matches. Paraguay and Japan (traditional rivals?) have a golden chance to get themselves to the quarters here, and I think Paraguay will continue the South American dominance at this tournament by advancing. The other game seems a mammoth Iberian derby between Spain and Portgual. Despite not having beaten Portugal in a competitive fixture since 1934, I expect the Spaniards will get the job done here....just!
Suggested Investment - The second round has been good to us so let's keep going with backing teams to advance. Tonight a multi with Paraguay and Spain looks the best way to go. It will be short but sweet.
Prices courtesy of Betfair.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Matchday 16 - Ghosts of '66
Germany 4 (Klose 20, Podolski 32, Mueller 67,70) - England 1 (Upson 37)
Argentina 3 (Tevez 26, 52, Higuain 33) - Mexico 1 (Hernandez 71)
The ghosts of Wembley in 1966 haunted the 2010 World Cup on Matchday 16, as England controversially had a goal dissallowed for not clearing the line as they were again eliminated by Germany, this time on the receiving end of a 4-1 thumping. History repeated in the late match as for the second tournament in a row Argentina eliminated Mexico in the round of 16 following a controversial 3-1 win.
But 44 years after 'the goal heard around the world', Germany will be feeling redemption this morning. In 1966, Geoff Hurst's goal was controversially judged to be over the line, giving England a 3-2 lead in the final. In 2010, Frank Lampad's wasn't – despite being a clear 2 yards over the line. Had it been allowed, that goal would have drawn England back level at 2-2, in a game they clearly deserved to trail in. Instead, they went into the break 2-1 down, were forced to chase the game in the second half, and were cut to shreds by a clinical German counter attack led by Mesut Oezil and Thomas Mueller, the final score 4-1. Germany deservedly took an early two goal lead through World Cup specialists Miroslav Klose and Lukas Podolski who scored a goal a piece. England reduced the deficit to one against the run of play through a powerful Matthew Upson header, before Lampard sent a cracking short crashing off the underside of the bar, and over the line. However, without help from his linesman the referee waved play on – and with it went England’s last hope. While the German’s looked trouble in defence at times, once England had to take the game to them in the second half their counter-attacking play was beautiful. A Thomas Mueller brace in just 3 second half minutes was enough to seal the game and send Germany on the quarter finals.
Germany will now face Argentina in the quarter-finals, a repeat of their match-up at this stage four years ago in Germany. As was the case for years ago, Argentina advanced by defeating Mexico, this time 3-1 in a game not without its own controversies. After a bright start Mexico dropped their bundle after Carlos Tevez gave Argentina the lead when he clearly looked to be in an offside position. Higuain added a second less than 10 minutes later, and when Tevez smashed in a superb long range effort early in the second half the game was as good as done at 3-0. Javier Hernandez produced a quality individual effort to drag Mexico bag to 3-1 with 20 minutes left but it was never going to be enough as Argentina closed out the game to cruise through.
Quarter Final Matches – Argentina ($1.73) v Germany ($2.34)
What We Learned – That England were simply not good enough at this tournament. An inexperienced pairing in the centre of defence once Ferdinand was ruled out and a hopelessly out of form Wayne Rooney were just the start of the problems. Rumours of team disunity and a number of poor displays on the pitch saw the English sent packing with their tails well and truly between their legs.
The Falcon’s Spud of the Day – Sepp Blatter (FIFA) – If ever there was overwhelming evidence for video replays for goal mouth incidents the England – Germany game was it. Blatter wants the game to be the same wherever it is played but lets face it, entire nations do not hold the breath over every kick of an Under 6’s game in Guatemala. Lampard’s shot could have been ruled a goal in seconds and may have changed the picture of the entire tournament. Hang your head in shame Mr Blatter.
Tonight’s Games – The bottom half of the top half of the draw is on display as the Netherlands take on Slovakia in a European derby. The Netherlands should be way to good here. The late game will see the first South American nation eliminated from the tournament as Brazil takes on Chile. The samba boys should also be far too good.
Suggested Investment – We are on a bit of roll at the moment with backing teams to advance but Brazil and the Netherlands are too short for that tonight. So instead we will take them both to win in normal time, which they should.
Prices courtesy of Betfair.
Argentina 3 (Tevez 26, 52, Higuain 33) - Mexico 1 (Hernandez 71)
The ghosts of Wembley in 1966 haunted the 2010 World Cup on Matchday 16, as England controversially had a goal dissallowed for not clearing the line as they were again eliminated by Germany, this time on the receiving end of a 4-1 thumping. History repeated in the late match as for the second tournament in a row Argentina eliminated Mexico in the round of 16 following a controversial 3-1 win.
But 44 years after 'the goal heard around the world', Germany will be feeling redemption this morning. In 1966, Geoff Hurst's goal was controversially judged to be over the line, giving England a 3-2 lead in the final. In 2010, Frank Lampad's wasn't – despite being a clear 2 yards over the line. Had it been allowed, that goal would have drawn England back level at 2-2, in a game they clearly deserved to trail in. Instead, they went into the break 2-1 down, were forced to chase the game in the second half, and were cut to shreds by a clinical German counter attack led by Mesut Oezil and Thomas Mueller, the final score 4-1. Germany deservedly took an early two goal lead through World Cup specialists Miroslav Klose and Lukas Podolski who scored a goal a piece. England reduced the deficit to one against the run of play through a powerful Matthew Upson header, before Lampard sent a cracking short crashing off the underside of the bar, and over the line. However, without help from his linesman the referee waved play on – and with it went England’s last hope. While the German’s looked trouble in defence at times, once England had to take the game to them in the second half their counter-attacking play was beautiful. A Thomas Mueller brace in just 3 second half minutes was enough to seal the game and send Germany on the quarter finals.
Germany will now face Argentina in the quarter-finals, a repeat of their match-up at this stage four years ago in Germany. As was the case for years ago, Argentina advanced by defeating Mexico, this time 3-1 in a game not without its own controversies. After a bright start Mexico dropped their bundle after Carlos Tevez gave Argentina the lead when he clearly looked to be in an offside position. Higuain added a second less than 10 minutes later, and when Tevez smashed in a superb long range effort early in the second half the game was as good as done at 3-0. Javier Hernandez produced a quality individual effort to drag Mexico bag to 3-1 with 20 minutes left but it was never going to be enough as Argentina closed out the game to cruise through.
Quarter Final Matches – Argentina ($1.73) v Germany ($2.34)
What We Learned – That England were simply not good enough at this tournament. An inexperienced pairing in the centre of defence once Ferdinand was ruled out and a hopelessly out of form Wayne Rooney were just the start of the problems. Rumours of team disunity and a number of poor displays on the pitch saw the English sent packing with their tails well and truly between their legs.
The Falcon’s Spud of the Day – Sepp Blatter (FIFA) – If ever there was overwhelming evidence for video replays for goal mouth incidents the England – Germany game was it. Blatter wants the game to be the same wherever it is played but lets face it, entire nations do not hold the breath over every kick of an Under 6’s game in Guatemala. Lampard’s shot could have been ruled a goal in seconds and may have changed the picture of the entire tournament. Hang your head in shame Mr Blatter.
Tonight’s Games – The bottom half of the top half of the draw is on display as the Netherlands take on Slovakia in a European derby. The Netherlands should be way to good here. The late game will see the first South American nation eliminated from the tournament as Brazil takes on Chile. The samba boys should also be far too good.
Suggested Investment – We are on a bit of roll at the moment with backing teams to advance but Brazil and the Netherlands are too short for that tonight. So instead we will take them both to win in normal time, which they should.
Prices courtesy of Betfair.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Matchday 16 - Uruguay Uncompromising
Uruguay 2 - South Korea 1
USA 1 - Ghana 2 (after extra time)
Matchday 16 saw the start of the knockout stage of the tournament. Uruguay continued their charge to the semi-finals with a 2-1 win over South Korea, while Africa's last hope Ghana stayed alive after defeating the USA 2-1 after extra time.
But it is the ominous form of two time champions Uruguay that garnered the most notice on the day, a brace of goals from Luis Suarez seeing the South Americans overcome a dogged South Korea 2-1. Uruguay controlled the game early on and took a 1-0 lead after only 8 minutes after a Diego Forlan cross avoided the entire South Korean back four, allowing Suarez to slot home for a tight angle. As has been the case for most of the tournament, once Uruguay took the lead they set back and allowed the Koreans to come on to them. This seemed a strange strategy, especially given it allowed the Koreans to get a foothold in the game and dominate possesion. They finally took advantage halfway through the second half, a scramble in the box following a free kick allowing Lee to head home to tie the game at 1-1. Learning the lesson, the Uruguayan's again pressed forward, and they again took the lead with under 10 minutes to go following a stunning strike from Suarez, who curled the ball into the side of the goal from just outside the penalty box. Uruguay again sat back and defended to the last but this time they managed to keep the Koreans out to book a place in the quarter finals for the first time since 1970. The Koreans exit the tournament, but they will be happy with their performance to get out of their group.
Uruguay will now meet the last African hope in Ghana, after they overcame the USA 2-1 after extra time. The teams were locked at 1-1 after the 90 minutes with Landon Donovan's penalty offsetting an early Boateng strike. But it was an Asamoah Gyan strike early in extra time that proved the difference and sent the Americans packing. They will be dissapointed to exit after giving themselves a glorious chance of going deep in the tournament with a favourbale draw after winning their group.
Quarter Final Matches - Uruguay v Ghana
What We Learned - That Luis Suarez is one of the most underrated stirkers in the world. All the talk pre-tournament for Uruguay was about start striker Diego Forlan, but Suarez has outshone him in the goals department 3 to 2. He only got a handful of chances last night but he burried two of them and that proved the difference in the game. Uruguay will continue to be a threat at this tournament with him in the line up.
The Falcon's Spud Of The Day - Oscar Tabarez (Uruguay) - Possibly a bit harsh as the Uruguay coach has guided his team to the last 8, but the decision to shut up shop and defend a 1-0 lead after taking it so early let Korea right back in the game, and they eventually equalised. Uruguay proved to be the better side when both teams were trying to attack and defending only let Korea in with a chance. The team may be made to pay if Tabarez makes similar tactical blunders against superior opposition.
Tonight's Games - A couple of cracking Round of 16 matches that could pass as semi-finals. Old rivals England and Germany resume their historical struggle - I expect the Germans just to edge this one, especially if it comes down to penalties. The late game sees a replay of the second round match of four years ago when Argentina takes on Mexico. Argentina have been brilliant at this tournament so far and should march on to the quarters.
Suggested Investment - Backing teams to advance worked for us last night so lets keep on with the good thing. The double of Germany and Argentina should do tonight - the Germans looking especially good value to advance at $2+ to get past the English.
USA 1 - Ghana 2 (after extra time)
Matchday 16 saw the start of the knockout stage of the tournament. Uruguay continued their charge to the semi-finals with a 2-1 win over South Korea, while Africa's last hope Ghana stayed alive after defeating the USA 2-1 after extra time.
But it is the ominous form of two time champions Uruguay that garnered the most notice on the day, a brace of goals from Luis Suarez seeing the South Americans overcome a dogged South Korea 2-1. Uruguay controlled the game early on and took a 1-0 lead after only 8 minutes after a Diego Forlan cross avoided the entire South Korean back four, allowing Suarez to slot home for a tight angle. As has been the case for most of the tournament, once Uruguay took the lead they set back and allowed the Koreans to come on to them. This seemed a strange strategy, especially given it allowed the Koreans to get a foothold in the game and dominate possesion. They finally took advantage halfway through the second half, a scramble in the box following a free kick allowing Lee to head home to tie the game at 1-1. Learning the lesson, the Uruguayan's again pressed forward, and they again took the lead with under 10 minutes to go following a stunning strike from Suarez, who curled the ball into the side of the goal from just outside the penalty box. Uruguay again sat back and defended to the last but this time they managed to keep the Koreans out to book a place in the quarter finals for the first time since 1970. The Koreans exit the tournament, but they will be happy with their performance to get out of their group.
Uruguay will now meet the last African hope in Ghana, after they overcame the USA 2-1 after extra time. The teams were locked at 1-1 after the 90 minutes with Landon Donovan's penalty offsetting an early Boateng strike. But it was an Asamoah Gyan strike early in extra time that proved the difference and sent the Americans packing. They will be dissapointed to exit after giving themselves a glorious chance of going deep in the tournament with a favourbale draw after winning their group.
Quarter Final Matches - Uruguay v Ghana
What We Learned - That Luis Suarez is one of the most underrated stirkers in the world. All the talk pre-tournament for Uruguay was about start striker Diego Forlan, but Suarez has outshone him in the goals department 3 to 2. He only got a handful of chances last night but he burried two of them and that proved the difference in the game. Uruguay will continue to be a threat at this tournament with him in the line up.
The Falcon's Spud Of The Day - Oscar Tabarez (Uruguay) - Possibly a bit harsh as the Uruguay coach has guided his team to the last 8, but the decision to shut up shop and defend a 1-0 lead after taking it so early let Korea right back in the game, and they eventually equalised. Uruguay proved to be the better side when both teams were trying to attack and defending only let Korea in with a chance. The team may be made to pay if Tabarez makes similar tactical blunders against superior opposition.
Tonight's Games - A couple of cracking Round of 16 matches that could pass as semi-finals. Old rivals England and Germany resume their historical struggle - I expect the Germans just to edge this one, especially if it comes down to penalties. The late game sees a replay of the second round match of four years ago when Argentina takes on Mexico. Argentina have been brilliant at this tournament so far and should march on to the quarters.
Suggested Investment - Backing teams to advance worked for us last night so lets keep on with the good thing. The double of Germany and Argentina should do tonight - the Germans looking especially good value to advance at $2+ to get past the English.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Matchday 15 - Beware The Inquisition
Portugal 0 - Brazil 0
North Korea 0 - Cote d'Ivoire 3
Chile 1 - Spain 2
Switzerland 0 - Honduras 0
Matchday 15 saw the conclusion of the group stage. Portugal and Brazil played out a 0-0 draw to ensure both advanced from Group G at the expense of Cote d'Ivoire, their 3-0 win over North Korea not enough to see them advance. In Group H, Spain got the 3 points it needed to win the group with a 2-1 win over Chile, who also advanced after Switzerland could only manage a 0-0 draw with Honduras.
The highlight of the day was the continued return to form of Spain, their 2-1 win over Chile ensuring they topped Group H at put themselves on the opposite side of the draw to the tournament favourites, Brazil. With Iniesta returning to the side after injury, the European champions looked much more fluid and creative in midfield and created a number of chances through some superb passing moves. However, they were troubled by Chile early on with the South Americans having the best of the play until a horrendous goalkeeping error from Claudio Bravo allowed David Villa to score a stunning strike from over 35 yards out after Bravo ran miles outside his area in a failed clearing attempt. The goal ignited the Spaniard's who dominated the rest of the first half and the second goal, scored by Iniesta was the culmination of a fine series of inter-connected passes, Villa providing the final pass before Iniesta slotted low to the goalkeepers right. Chile were able to reduce the deficit back to one just after half time with Rodrigo Millar's deflected shot completely wrong-footing Iker Cassilas. With Switzerland and Honduras still locked at 0-0 in the other group game, that meant both Spain and Chile would advance at the current scoreline, and the second half petered out as a result, although Spain did continue to look lively. Chile also advanced to the second phase despite the loss, setting up a South American derby with Brazil in the next round.
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The match was perfectly summed up by SBS analyst Craig Foster post game - "Well there is 96 minutes of our lives we will never get back". This game was absolute garbage with Portugal not even trying to press forward. I just feel sorry for anyone that forked out $$$ to go see this game.
Second Round Matches - Brazil ($1.23) v Chile ($5), Spain ($1.50) v Portugal ($3)
What We Learned - That Spain look to be back on track. Apart from the concerning form of Fernando Torres, who was an early second half substitute, most of the Spanish players displayed good form, both collectively and as a team, against Chile. The win means they avoid Brazil in the second round and can set themselves for a big run to the semi-finals.
The Falcon's Spud of the Day - Claudio Bravo (Chile) - After his side had had the best of the early proceedings, Bravo charged out of his penalty box to clear a Spanish through ball on the left flank. His clearance bounced back to David Villa who, despite being 35 yards out, had an open goal at his mercy. The star striker made no mistake, give Spain the lead and the momentum, and the Chileans never recovered. Epic Fail!
Tonight's Games - The knockout round kicks off with the spectre of extra time and penalties hovering over every game. It all kicks off with Uruguay and South Korea, and Uruguay would be extremely disappointed not to go through here. The late game sees the USA take on Ghana - two teams that will never get a better chance to make the quarter-finals. I expect the spirit of Africa to get the Ghanaians over the line.
Suggested Investment - Hard to know how to play the knockout stages but we will start by trying a multi with Uruguay and Ghana to both advance to the quarter finals from their matches tonight.
Prices courtesy of Betfair.
North Korea 0 - Cote d'Ivoire 3
Chile 1 - Spain 2
Switzerland 0 - Honduras 0
Matchday 15 saw the conclusion of the group stage. Portugal and Brazil played out a 0-0 draw to ensure both advanced from Group G at the expense of Cote d'Ivoire, their 3-0 win over North Korea not enough to see them advance. In Group H, Spain got the 3 points it needed to win the group with a 2-1 win over Chile, who also advanced after Switzerland could only manage a 0-0 draw with Honduras.
The highlight of the day was the continued return to form of Spain, their 2-1 win over Chile ensuring they topped Group H at put themselves on the opposite side of the draw to the tournament favourites, Brazil. With Iniesta returning to the side after injury, the European champions looked much more fluid and creative in midfield and created a number of chances through some superb passing moves. However, they were troubled by Chile early on with the South Americans having the best of the play until a horrendous goalkeeping error from Claudio Bravo allowed David Villa to score a stunning strike from over 35 yards out after Bravo ran miles outside his area in a failed clearing attempt. The goal ignited the Spaniard's who dominated the rest of the first half and the second goal, scored by Iniesta was the culmination of a fine series of inter-connected passes, Villa providing the final pass before Iniesta slotted low to the goalkeepers right. Chile were able to reduce the deficit back to one just after half time with Rodrigo Millar's deflected shot completely wrong-footing Iker Cassilas. With Switzerland and Honduras still locked at 0-0 in the other group game, that meant both Spain and Chile would advance at the current scoreline, and the second half petered out as a result, although Spain did continue to look lively. Chile also advanced to the second phase despite the loss, setting up a South American derby with Brazil in the next round.
Brazil took on Portugal in a battle for the top spot in Group G with both sides already having qualified for the second phase....and the result? zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
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The match was perfectly summed up by SBS analyst Craig Foster post game - "Well there is 96 minutes of our lives we will never get back". This game was absolute garbage with Portugal not even trying to press forward. I just feel sorry for anyone that forked out $$$ to go see this game.
Second Round Matches - Brazil ($1.23) v Chile ($5), Spain ($1.50) v Portugal ($3)
What We Learned - That Spain look to be back on track. Apart from the concerning form of Fernando Torres, who was an early second half substitute, most of the Spanish players displayed good form, both collectively and as a team, against Chile. The win means they avoid Brazil in the second round and can set themselves for a big run to the semi-finals.
The Falcon's Spud of the Day - Claudio Bravo (Chile) - After his side had had the best of the early proceedings, Bravo charged out of his penalty box to clear a Spanish through ball on the left flank. His clearance bounced back to David Villa who, despite being 35 yards out, had an open goal at his mercy. The star striker made no mistake, give Spain the lead and the momentum, and the Chileans never recovered. Epic Fail!
Tonight's Games - The knockout round kicks off with the spectre of extra time and penalties hovering over every game. It all kicks off with Uruguay and South Korea, and Uruguay would be extremely disappointed not to go through here. The late game sees the USA take on Ghana - two teams that will never get a better chance to make the quarter-finals. I expect the spirit of Africa to get the Ghanaians over the line.
Suggested Investment - Hard to know how to play the knockout stages but we will start by trying a multi with Uruguay and Ghana to both advance to the quarter finals from their matches tonight.
Prices courtesy of Betfair.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Matchday 14 - Champs Crash Out
Slovakia 3 (Vittek 25, 73, Kopunek 89) - Italy 2 (Di Natale 81, Quagliarella 90+2)
Paraguay 0 - New Zealand 0
Denmark 1 (Tonasson 81) - Japan 3 (Honda 17, Endo 30, Okazaki 87)
Cameroon 1 (Eto'o 65p) - Netherlands 2 (Van Persie 36, Huntelaar 83)
Matchday 14 saw a sensation in South Africa as defending champion Italy crashed out of the tournament following a 3-2 loss to Slovakia. A 0-0 draw between Paraguay and New Zealand means the South Americans will top the group. In a virtual knockout clash in Group F, Japan defeated Denmark 2-1 to book a place in the last 16 alongside the Netherlands who defeated Cameroon 2-1.
In arguably the biggest shock at the tournament so far Italy succumbed to European minnows Slovakia despite 2 late goals. The defending champions trailed 2-0 with just 20 minutes to play following a pair of goals from Robert Vittek, but were able to pull one back through Anotnio Di Natale with 10 minutes left. However, a Kamil Kopunek strike in the last minute of normal time crushed Italian dreams, and despite a goal in injury time the Azzuri could not find the goal they needed to draw the game and advance. As a result, the Italians will finish bottom of the group with just 2 points, 1 less than the plucky New Zealanders who were eliminated from the tournament after a 0-0 draw with Paraguay. The Kiwi's can look back at the tournament with success after not having lost a game. Paraguay cruised through the group in the end and along with their South American neighbours Uruguay, look to be one of the dark horses in this years tournament. For the Italians, perennial slow starters at tournaments, for once they left their run of form too late, and the result is a shattering group stage exit.
In Group F, underdog's Japan produced a superb display of football to defeat Denmark 3-1 and advance to the second phase for the first time on foreign soil. The Japanese dominated the game and showed they were one of the few nations to master the Jabulani ball as they took a first half 2-0 lead on the back of two goals from direct free kicks (admittedly they might have got a touch of help from Danish goalkeeper Thomas Sorenson). The Danes were clearly shocked by the goals and took a while to recover. They bounced back in the second half and controlled most of the player but were struggling to create chances, and when they did they were brutally finished by Jon Dahl Tomasson who was finding it close to impossible to break his 2 year international goal drought. In the end, both Denmark and Tomasson received redemption via the penalty spot, the Danes reducing the deficit to win after Tomasson scored on the rebound after his initial effort was saved by the Japanese goalkeeper. The Danes had 10 minutes left to score 2 more goals to advance, but in their haste to push up the pitch they left the back door open (isn't it always the case) allowing Shinji Okazaki to finish the match and send Japan through to the knockout rounds. They will join group winners the Netherlands who had little trouble in dispatching a lacklustre Cameroon 2-1.
Second round matches - Netherlands ($1.17) v Slovakia ($5.50), Paraguay ($1.62) v Japan ($2.62)
What We Learned - That Italy were in fact too old, too slow, and too unprepared. Back-to-back draws against Paraguay and New Zealand were put down to the Italian tradition of starting tournaments slowly, but their true issues were finally unmasked when they failed to overcome their final hurdle in Slovakia. The Italians follow France in 2002 as defending champions to be eliminated at the group stage.
The Falcon's Spud of the Day - Thomas Sorenson (Denmark) - Yet another goalie to get the award but it was an easy choice given he let in two goals directly from free kicks in the opening half. That almost matches the entire amount of goals from free kicks conceded by every other team at the entire tournament! He nearly joined Robert Green with the ultimate howler, when he fumbled another blooper of a free kick only to see the ball bounce of the join of cross bar and post.
Tonight's Games - The Group stage of the tournament concludes with Brazil and Portugal competing for top spot in Group G. I expect a slightly weakened Brazil side to be able to do enough to hold Portugal to a draw. In the other game Ivory Coast will need to slot about 10 past North Korea to have any chance of qualifying. I'm sure they'll win easily but that score will be beyond them. All four teams can still qualify in Group F with Spain looking to win the group with a win over Chile - they should do that easily. That leaves Switzerland having to beat Honduras to qualify and they should have just enough in the tank to defeat the Latin Americans by the odd goal.
Suggested Investment - Sticking to the theme of betting in matches were results actually mean something (although that didn't really help last night!) I think the way to go is to take a multi with Spain and Switzerland to both win their Group F matches tomorrow morning.
Prices courtesy of Betfair.
Paraguay 0 - New Zealand 0
Denmark 1 (Tonasson 81) - Japan 3 (Honda 17, Endo 30, Okazaki 87)
Cameroon 1 (Eto'o 65p) - Netherlands 2 (Van Persie 36, Huntelaar 83)
Matchday 14 saw a sensation in South Africa as defending champion Italy crashed out of the tournament following a 3-2 loss to Slovakia. A 0-0 draw between Paraguay and New Zealand means the South Americans will top the group. In a virtual knockout clash in Group F, Japan defeated Denmark 2-1 to book a place in the last 16 alongside the Netherlands who defeated Cameroon 2-1.
In arguably the biggest shock at the tournament so far Italy succumbed to European minnows Slovakia despite 2 late goals. The defending champions trailed 2-0 with just 20 minutes to play following a pair of goals from Robert Vittek, but were able to pull one back through Anotnio Di Natale with 10 minutes left. However, a Kamil Kopunek strike in the last minute of normal time crushed Italian dreams, and despite a goal in injury time the Azzuri could not find the goal they needed to draw the game and advance. As a result, the Italians will finish bottom of the group with just 2 points, 1 less than the plucky New Zealanders who were eliminated from the tournament after a 0-0 draw with Paraguay. The Kiwi's can look back at the tournament with success after not having lost a game. Paraguay cruised through the group in the end and along with their South American neighbours Uruguay, look to be one of the dark horses in this years tournament. For the Italians, perennial slow starters at tournaments, for once they left their run of form too late, and the result is a shattering group stage exit.
In Group F, underdog's Japan produced a superb display of football to defeat Denmark 3-1 and advance to the second phase for the first time on foreign soil. The Japanese dominated the game and showed they were one of the few nations to master the Jabulani ball as they took a first half 2-0 lead on the back of two goals from direct free kicks (admittedly they might have got a touch of help from Danish goalkeeper Thomas Sorenson). The Danes were clearly shocked by the goals and took a while to recover. They bounced back in the second half and controlled most of the player but were struggling to create chances, and when they did they were brutally finished by Jon Dahl Tomasson who was finding it close to impossible to break his 2 year international goal drought. In the end, both Denmark and Tomasson received redemption via the penalty spot, the Danes reducing the deficit to win after Tomasson scored on the rebound after his initial effort was saved by the Japanese goalkeeper. The Danes had 10 minutes left to score 2 more goals to advance, but in their haste to push up the pitch they left the back door open (isn't it always the case) allowing Shinji Okazaki to finish the match and send Japan through to the knockout rounds. They will join group winners the Netherlands who had little trouble in dispatching a lacklustre Cameroon 2-1.
Second round matches - Netherlands ($1.17) v Slovakia ($5.50), Paraguay ($1.62) v Japan ($2.62)
What We Learned - That Italy were in fact too old, too slow, and too unprepared. Back-to-back draws against Paraguay and New Zealand were put down to the Italian tradition of starting tournaments slowly, but their true issues were finally unmasked when they failed to overcome their final hurdle in Slovakia. The Italians follow France in 2002 as defending champions to be eliminated at the group stage.
The Falcon's Spud of the Day - Thomas Sorenson (Denmark) - Yet another goalie to get the award but it was an easy choice given he let in two goals directly from free kicks in the opening half. That almost matches the entire amount of goals from free kicks conceded by every other team at the entire tournament! He nearly joined Robert Green with the ultimate howler, when he fumbled another blooper of a free kick only to see the ball bounce of the join of cross bar and post.
Tonight's Games - The Group stage of the tournament concludes with Brazil and Portugal competing for top spot in Group G. I expect a slightly weakened Brazil side to be able to do enough to hold Portugal to a draw. In the other game Ivory Coast will need to slot about 10 past North Korea to have any chance of qualifying. I'm sure they'll win easily but that score will be beyond them. All four teams can still qualify in Group F with Spain looking to win the group with a win over Chile - they should do that easily. That leaves Switzerland having to beat Honduras to qualify and they should have just enough in the tank to defeat the Latin Americans by the odd goal.
Suggested Investment - Sticking to the theme of betting in matches were results actually mean something (although that didn't really help last night!) I think the way to go is to take a multi with Spain and Switzerland to both win their Group F matches tomorrow morning.
Prices courtesy of Betfair.
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