Who could have possibly predicted the course of the World Cup in Germany this year? Congratulations are in order for the four teams making it to the semi-finals. Who would have thought that the heavyweights like Brazil, Argentina, and the Netherlands would be bounced out of the tournament so early? Who's not surprised at the determination of an aging French squad overcoming loads of criticism and defeating the defending champions from South America.
Now for my ramblings on the final four. Of course, those of you who have been following the Cup as religiously as I have seen the host team, Germany, bow out of the championship in the first semi-final yesterday in a thrilling game that ended in dramatic fashion. The game was back and forth throughout the 90 minutes. It was so nice to see Italy at times stride forward in attacking fashion which has been atypical of Italian strategy over the past 12 years. Germany also showed plenty of excitement. I was extremely impressed with the play of German substitute David Odonkor who was playing in front of his home crowd in Dortmund (Borussia Dortmund is his team). He was instrumental in adding pace and delivering quality balls down the right flank. The game was deadlocked after 90 minutes and despite a couple of posts and crossbars hit by the Italians was still tied 0-0 with just a minute or so left in extra time. The Italians struck on a beautifully taken goal by Fabio Grosso into the left side past the sprawling hands of Lehmann. (Grosso's was also the player whose controversial penalty call against the Australians allowed them to advance in the round of 16) After the goal, it was written out for the Germans as DelPiero finished off a break into the top right corner moments later to seal the deal. The Italians have shown that they are still a quality side and have proven that time and time again. My only problem with the Italians is that of Totti and his constant theatrics....what a soap opera....I haven't seen acting that bad since Beverly Hills 90210.
As for today's semi-final, Portugal vs France, France had better win because if I see Cristiano Ronaldo parading around again...i think I"m going to start punching stuff. It will be a great game I'm sure and I'm hoping for another big performance from Zinedine Zidane. What a player.....he is a magician with the ball and makes everything looks so easy.
What are your predicitons??
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