World Cup – Finally Something Interesting

Thankfully, June 16, 2010 will be considered “The Day the World Cup Became Interesting.”  First, Chile, though only winning 1-0, is the most exciting non-Brazil/Germany/Spain team in the tournament. They play three strikers, which means they are always pushing to score. They are like the Phoenix Suns of soccer, if that is possible.  Second, Spain lost. More on that later.  Third, Uruguay scored three goals in one game.  That was fun to watch.

We start:

Group H

Honduras, Chile, Spain, Switzerland

Chile 1 – 0 Honduras

Chile finished second in the CONMEBOL qualification, above Argentina and tied with Uruguay.   This team was not a fluke.  Honduras was third in CONCACAF.  This was a mismatch from the opening whistle.  Honduras could do nothing to stop the Chile attack and were lucky to only lose by one.  If Honduras gets lucky and beats Switzerland then they are not out of it.

Spain 0 – 1 Switzerland

Spain had many more chances, but they could not score. Switzerland had two chances and scored once.  Switzerland packed it in at the middle of the 18 and did not give Spain good chances from close range. Usually Spain’s skill allows them to overcome such challenges, but not this time. Spain can still qualify since they can still beat Chile and Honduras, but they will need help. I wouldn’t be surprised if they get second in the group because Switzerland cannot win another game.

Switzerland should enjoy their win, but they are not a power and beating Chile or Honduras will be difficult. They do not have a consistent offense. Chile will pressure Switzerland as much as the Spanish did, but you cannot assume Switzerland will continue to get lucky and keep the opposing team off the scoreboard. Spain will beat Honduras. Chile will be their test. If Spain can come back and beat Chile convincingly, then they can win it all.

Group A

South Africa, Uruguay, France, Mexico

South Africa 0 – 3 Uruguay

This game was not even close. Uruguay dominated the match. Diego Forlan controlled the entire game from his midfield position, scoring twice. Not much to say about this one. Mexico will have to play their best to win against Uruguay.  The match between Mexico and France should be a good one.