WC Round Up...Round 1

Nope, I didn't manage to watch the England-Paraguay match. In a way, thank God, because it was a poor game. By England's standards. Hopefully it's a sign that the only other way to go is ...up.

Phew...the 1st round of matches are over! Tiring to say the least. Both physically and mentally.
Didn't really watch the matches...mainly caught the highlights. Some teams are good, others downright poor; some surprise us.

Best match so far: guess has to be Spain vs. Ukraine; if not for the number of goals then for the flair and way Spain played. Trinidad & Tobago vs. Sweden was good too, only if for the Trinidan's fighting spirit.

Most impressive team so far: my vote goes to Spain. For now. Inventive attacking play. And with flair too. Not many 'big' names in the team either. Italy, Argentina and Germany seems solid too. They should progress to the second round. Unless there are upsets.

Least impressive team so far: gee...this is a toss up. Between France, England and Brazil. Think I'll go with France. Yup, for now. Brazil, for all the hoop-la, hasn't been performing well as a team. But I'm sure we'll get to see them in the Quarter-finals at least. England? Hope they make it too. France? Err...maybe a repeat of 2002?

Best newcomer: has to be Australia. Their first finals in a long time, they impressed with the come back win against Japan. Their best player? Has to be Tim Cahill. He is impressive with Everton, and he is impressive with the Australian team. I guess the rest of the new teams are just so-so.

Best player: Hmm, didn't get to watch much of the games, so can't say. But I guess Ronaldinho hasn't impressed just yet. The Spanish strikers: Villa and Torres seems to be clicking together very well, and linking up with the Spanish midfield.

Worst player: Ronaldo? Need I say more? Maybe he shouldn't be in the team, with all his problems.

Most expected player yet to play: undoubtedly Rooney. Maybe his metatarsal has healed, but I don't think Eriksson will risk him, even with Owen out of form and Crouch, not the best striker around. England midfield quartet has to step up and take the lead. They're one of the best in the world.

Second round starting today: Germany vs. Poland. It's make or break day for Poland. If they lose, they're out. Will they make it? I don't think so. Next England vs. Trinidad. That'll be the match I'll be waiting for.

Till then...