End of day one

End of day one of the World Cup. Some great soccer played. Jitters took over the field in the beginning.  South Africa vs Mexico was a good game to watch, good quality. For the first 40 minutes Mexico was in control of the ball, making good transition with Carlos Vela being a threat constantly. Blanco had an amazing opportunity at the 32^nd minute great pass from Carlos Vela to Blanco, but South Africa’s goalie Khune made a remarkable save. Mexico scores a goal that’s ruled offsides, a poor decision by the linesman. The second half South Africa was able to play the style that their head coach Carlos Pareira desired, great ball movement and smooth transition to offense. S. Africa scored early in the beginning of the second half, great play and break away that was well executed with a great shot by Siphiwe Tshabalala. Mexico tied the game 10 minutes before it was over, due to a lack of attention on a cross that left 3 players of the Mexican squad alone with only the goalie in their way. Overall, it was a good game to watch as both teams was able to show off some good futebol. Everything is still open but I truly believe this was a great result for South Africa.

Uruguay vs France was a very interesting match to watch. Once again my theory was proven right by the inability to execute plays and no chemistry in regards to teamwork on the French squad. Thierry Henry was far from what he can do in front of the goal, and how he can read the plays. Frank Ribery had a good game, but was unable to carry a team that was lacking confidence in the offensive line. Sidney Govou had a flagrant opportunity to score but missed a shot that was too easy. Gourcuff was impressive this game and showed a small glimpse of the potential available in the squad.

Uruguay is a modest team, like I had mentioned previously, and showed that they can surprise many of us. Diego Forlan had some great opportunities on goal but Frenchman Lloris (goalie) was confident and had a good performance defending the French net.

I think a tie is a fair result for both sides. France needs to step it up the next 2 games if they want to qualify for the next stage. Uruguay will still need to go against the hosts and Mexico. We can be assured that great futebol will be played.