Shocks galore

Brazil struggled to a 2-1 win over North Korea (credit to latter).
Netherlands were unconvincing against defensive Denmark.
Spain crashed to an opening defeat to the Swiss.
France crashed to Mexico and no longer have their fate in their hands.
Germany, after a 4-0 win, lost their next match.
England held to a 2nd consecutive draw, against Algeria this time.

To now, only Argentina has truly made a good impression. Which means there might still be a chance we can see a World Cup 2010 final between North Korea and Algeria.

Woah.

France can only blame themselves. Most of the players didn't play with their hearts united. Under an eccentric coach will inexplicable tactics, most notably leaving Thierry Henry on the bench and Govou and Anelka on the field. The only way to salvage some pride is for them to set the foundations for Blanc's incoming reign, by performing convincingly against the hosts, regardless of whether they can proceed to the next round.

Pride can be better salvaged with a great performance but elimination, rather than an unconvincing performance but luck to proceed. Of course I do hope a miracle can happen, but the foundations can only be laid if Domenech starts listening to the whole world, and bring Henry into the team. That's a first step. There are many things to correct Some, like the team spirit, can only be rebuilt under Laurent Blanc, but for now, focus all efforts on the final group game. Don' crash out humiliatingly without scoring a single goal and with a single point like in 2002, when they were defending champions.


Greece surprised me with their win over Nigeria, though Nigeria was a man down for long periods of the game. It would take a lot for Nigeria to proceed, like France. But Argentina is doing well despite a seemingly inadequate coach in Maradona, unlike France. Unlike Domenech, Maradona remains sort of a hero thanks to his achievements as a player himself.

England is astounding. In one of the easiest groups, they are struggling for goals and could not beat arguably the weakest team in the competition. It's unbelievable to see Slovenia top of the group with 4 points, but England of course can still right the wrongs by winning against the group leaders to progress. Unlike France, they still have their fate in their own hands.

Let's wait to see how pre-tournament joint favourites Spain and Brazil, as well as dark horses Netherlands, fare in their upcoming matches.