Onwards to the Quarter-Finals

So the second round matches are finally over. Unfortunately no real surprises here...all the previous World Cup winners are in, and it's gonna be an exciting quarter finals.

1. Germany vs. Sweden: 2-0
The first match to kick-off, and easily the best match of the lot. Germany started off strongly and were 2-0 within the first twenty minutes. Sweden might have made a match of it had they scored the penalty, but truthfully they never looked like they were gonna trouble the Germans.

2. Argentina vs. Mexico: 2-1
The 'New World' contest. The Mexicans matched their illustrious opponents player for player up to the extra time wonder goal by Rodriguez. The result was very much hanging in the balance, although it was very likely as time wore on, that the Argentinians were going to snatch it.

3. England vs. Ecuador: 1-0
Oh dear! Guess by far the worst match of the lot, especially with so much expectation of an England walkthrough. Beckham as usual, was unimpressive, and apart from his goal that won the match, was largely pedestrian. And he blames it on an illness. Think Eriksson's tactics leave much to be desired, and he will have to buck up. Beckham out, Lennon in? I hope so...

4. Portugal vs. Holland: 1-0
The dirtiest match of the eight? Don't think so. Probably as much of the referee's fault as the players'. Maniche's goal was brilliant, and though the Dutch tried their very best, they just couldn't do it. van Nistelrooy's career may be coming to an end with his non-selection in times of trouble for the Dutch. Deco and Costinha suspended, question mark over Ronaldo. Portugal will be depleted to face England. Maybe a respite for Eriksson? We'll see...

5. Italy vs. Australia: 1-0
Daylight roberry!! An awful way to lose a match. The Italians really pulled of an 'Italian Job' on the referee. But the Australians have themselves to blame. They should have done better with their numerical advantage, and waiting for extra-time cost them a place in the quarter finals. Fair to the Italians, Cannavaro marshalled the defence extermely well, but with Materazzi suspended and Nesta still out, who'll be there in the centre of defence? Only time will tell.

6. Switzerland vs. Ukraine: 0-0 FT/ET (0-3 on penalties)
Contender for the worst match, but England-Ecuador match nicked it. Absolutely minimal attacking play and/or chances on goal. But it never looked like it was going to be an exciting game. Schevchenko and co. practiced their penalty taking well, and may go far.

7. Brazil vs. Ghana: 3-0
Guess this result was never in doubt. Especially after ten minutes, and Brazil never looked back. If Ghana had taken their first half chances, it may have been difficult for Brazil, but they would have prevailed in the end. Again Ronaldinho did not sparkle. Maybe he will come to life in the coming rounds. Ronaldo is now the record holder for most number of goals scored in the World Cup finals. More to come? We wait excitedly.

8. Spain vs. France: 1-3
Absolute heartbreak for the Spanish as they fair to pass the second round once again. Henry's theatrics? Maybe it was a foul, but I think the authorities should take action against the attempt to get Puyol sent off. But maybe like Aragones said, the Spanish side exciting as it was, lacked the big match experience. They'll be a team to watch in the future. And Zidane gets another match to show off his skill and flair...his goal was sweet.

All in all, a lot of excitement, yellow/red cards, goals, theatrics, and individual brilliance. And there's more to come. Quarter finals are up next!