Another Predictable Day

This World Cup has been terribly short of drama. Last time, the big teams such as Argentina and France went out in the group stages. This year, it looks alot more smooth sailing. Only that the French and Italians can still screw up, but it's a bit difficult.

I just the drama will set in the knock-out rounds. When golden goals and penalties take effect. Also, the bigger teams get to face each other. Imagine a Germany versus England in the second round! That will really whett the appetite! Even England vs Ecuador would be a good match given the recent run of the South Americans. Scoring 5 and conceding none.

But today's match were predictable as ever. Switzerland beat Togo comfortably 2-0. The Saudis got thrashed (again) 4-0 this time by Ukraine. And Spain overcame Tunisia 3-1 - in the end more comfortable than the scoreline suggested. The Tunisians - credit to them - scored first with their only effort and meaningful attack. The Spanish hit back with a cherry-picking goal from Raul and great finishing from Torres, before a penalty by the latter gave the scoreline a more justified look.

The Tunisians did defend well their 1-0 lead. But it was nothing more than a scare for the Spaniards. Their side, oozing with class, wouldn't fail to turn the game around. Cesc Fabregas was the man of the match for me, though he came on only the second half. Fernando Torres played very well too, he was full of running till the end - a great athelete. His price would have just soared though after this World Cup. IT could just be his! The Spaniards showed great attacking play - especially from the excellent Fabregas. I heard Wenger was watching the match - he must have been pleased. The Spanish side are now the second highest scoring team in the competition so far - behind only Argentina who we all remember had that thumping win.

I would tip the Spaniards to go furthur this year than they did last time out. But when it gets to the knock out stage, it becomes hardly predictable. Then we shall let the drama begin.

But for now, there are more group matches coming up tomorrow. And as usual, I leave you with my tips:
Ecuador vs Germany... probably end as a draw, though the Germans have the quality to pull off a narrow win.
Costa Rica vs Poland.. both teams have nothing but pride to play for. I think Poland can pick up their first 3 points. Something along the lines of 1-0.
Paraguay vs Trinidad&Tobago... I think it would be a bore 0-0 draw. But T&T might just provide the much-needed shock of the tournament - though its hard for them to qualify. They need to win and by 2 goals if England only beat Sweden by 1. Otherwise, if England win by any other score, T&T just need a win. And that is hoping England can even beat Sweden in the first place! An England-Sweden draw would not do the T&Ts any good.

Enjoy your predictable World Cup!