World Cup – Day 7

Well, the goals are coming faster …

Argentina 4 – South Korea 1

Not a whole lot to say, other than kudos to South Korea for getting one!  Gonzalo Higuain banged a hat trick, and showed why Maradona played him ahead of Diego Milito, the leading scorer in Serie A.

Maradona is looking less crazy and more wily.  I think he is pulling a Mourinho .. keeping the focus on him and not on the players. That said, expectations are high … .

Greece 2 – Nigeria 1

This was a pretty good game early; Nigeria took the lead with an early goal. But Nigerian Sani Kaita lost his composure in the 33rd minute, kicked out at Greek Vassilis Torosidis, and received the obligatory red card.  I find it ridiculous that in Soccer such a trivial offense results in exclusion (contrast to my sport .. water polo), but it does and everyone knows it.  The referee could have shown yellow, but was perfectly justified in showing red.

The Nigerian goalie, who had a wonderful opening game, allowing an unnecessary rebound that was put in by Torosidis.

France 0 – Mexico 2

WOW! I was expecting a tight draw, like Portugal/Ivory Coast. But Mexico simply outplayed France.  IMHO the first Mexican goal should have been disallowed for offside, but it was VERY close and Mexico was deserving of the goal.  The second El Tri goal was from a justly earned spot kick, nicely taken by Mexican hero Cuactemoc Blanco, a second half sub.

France is done, unless Mexico/Uruguay is a close win either way, and France beats South Africa by enough to go on goal difference ahead of the loser.