9 Days In

9 days into the World Cup and what a tournament it has been this year in South Africa!

I apologize for the long nature of this post, but I'm sure if you do read it there will certianly be something of interest and perhaps surprise. For a quick update in standings, click here.

In Group A, much of what has been expected has happened. Mexico and Uruguay are leading the group with 4 points apiece and they are still to play each other. So far, it looks like I'm 1/1 in my predictions.



In Group B, Argentina has obviously dominated the group with South Korea and Greece looking to battle for that final spot in their remaining games against Nigeria and Argentina. As of now, 2/2.

In Group C, we have seen the wildest of results. The US managed to pull off a huge tie against Soccer powerhouse England. They were also very fortunate to get the 2-2 tie against Slovenia (although, many will argue their 3rd goal was pulled back, which is true, however going down 2-0 in the first was typical). As you may see, I am very critical about the US soccer. I'm going to be brutally honest and say that the US defense is one of the worst in the tournament right now and we are very lucky to be in second with two points. In terms of England, they have been playing some of their worst soccer; ties against the US and Algeria with their final game against group leader, Slovenia. Look for Slovenia to be a huge underdog with great potential in the next round. 2/3.
In Group D, Ghana leads the way with 4 points and yet to play second place, Germany. Also tied for second with 3 points in hand is Serbia. Other than Australia, any 3 of these teams can advance. Wins are crucial for all, but only Ghana can survive with a tie. For now, 3/4.

In Group E, only the Netherlands and Japan have played two games and they lead the group with 6 and 3 points respectively. As I am writing this, Cameroon and Denmark are playing with Denmark leading 2-1. I predict a tie as the final result in this game and thus allowing my predictions to be true. This group hasn't really had any surprises in game results. 4/5.

In Group F, there has been no excitement whatsoever. Each team has only played one game and all were 1-1 ties. I'm looking forward to the Slovakia/ Paraguay game; it can be a huge group advancing decider. Look for Italy to NOT get the win against New Zealand. Perhaps and extreme statement for some, but don't be surprised. Given that the group is leveled, I am giving myself the benefit of the doubt: 5/6.
In Group G, aka "the group of death", all results thus far have been expected. Brazil opens with a win over North Korea and the Ivory Coast ties with Portugal. Next key game in group: Ivory Coast vs Brazil. Another advancing decider. Given that Brazil is first and Portugal is tied with the Ivory Coast for second, 6/7.

Lastly, in Group H, Spain has surprised all. With an awful opening loss to the Swiss, they are hanging out in last place. Tied with 0 points as well is Honduras while the Swiss and Chile are atop with 3 points apiece. If Spain gets anything less than a tie in their next game against Honduras, we may not see my predicted winner even advance out of the group stage. And I end with a 6/8 prediction score for now. Not too shabby.




Jersey of the post: PUMA Uruguay Home Jersey 10/12