Archive: Game updates
CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL: Italy 1, France 1 (Italy wins on PKs, 5-3)
Well, we have a dramatic -- if not completely satisfying -- end to an entertaining 32 days of soccer. In extra time, France continued to play a better brand of football than Italy ... but then Zidane went out on that red card (holy cow). You have to think that, plus Henry getting subbed off, gave Italy a little better chance in PKs....
By Jon DeNunzio | July 9, 2006; 04:49 PM ET | Comments (50)
Extra Time
Still 1-1. But France has definitely played better over large portions of the second half. Seems likely the winning goal will come from France's left side, which seems to get a guy free on attack after attack ... Italy, unless something changes, will have to hope for a counter-attack opportunity. How hurt is Zidane? They had a shot of him grimacing ... impressive that he's still out there....
By Jon DeNunzio | July 9, 2006; 03:53 PM ET | Comments (4)
Halftime at the Final
It's halftime, and France and Italy are tied at 1. First goal came quickly (8th minute?) on a Zidane PK. Materazzi was called for fouling Malouda, and the call looks bad on replay. But in this observer's opinion, in real time, it was not a surprising call. Ref was behind the play and to the players' right (where he should be), and from that angle I think it probably looked worse than it did from various replay angles. Italy equalized about 10 minutes later on a Materazzi header off a corner. Italy had two more good headers off corners -- France has to work that out. Advantage in the play so far? Probably Italy, but just by a little. France has looked dangerous at times, esp. when they get the ball to Henry in the box....
By Jon DeNunzio | July 9, 2006; 02:52 PM ET | Comments (9)
FINAL: France 1, Portugal 0
That's it. France gets through on a controversial PK call. Exciting last few minutes, at least. SATURDAY: Portugal vs. Germany for third place SUNDAY: France vs. Italy for the World Cup...
By Jon DeNunzio | July 5, 2006; 04:53 PM ET | Comments (31)
Injury Time
Good action as Portugal tried to tie ... even the keeper is up trying to score. Two corners, a couple nice crosses in ... still no luck for Portugal....
By Jon DeNunzio | July 5, 2006; 04:51 PM ET | Comments (1)
78th Minute
Barthez with a wild moment ... Ronaldo's free kick hits him in the chest, which should not throw a goalkeeper off, but he struggles to pop it in the air and then taps it over the top. We've all been saying Barthez is due for a bad mistake. Was that it? If so, he got away with it....
By Jon DeNunzio | July 5, 2006; 04:20 PM ET | Comments (5)
48th Minute
Henry takes the ball and drives into the box, gets by a defender and earns a corner. Zidane's corner headed away. Every time I see a corner now, I expect Jens Lehmann to run out and grab it. While I was typing, Ribery took a cannon shot from distance, forcing a nice save from Ricardo....
By Jon DeNunzio | July 5, 2006; 04:06 PM ET | Comments (2)
Halftime: France 1, Portugal 0
The PK goal stands up so far. Seems to me Portugal has a been a little better, and both teams are not afraid to ham it up to get a call. That looked like what Henry was doing to earn the PK, in fact. I think he was fouled, and it was in the penalty area, but it was not necessarily a serious foul. Not sure anyone would have been upset had the ref refrained from whistling ......
By Jon DeNunzio | July 5, 2006; 03:46 PM ET | Comments (3)
33rd Minute: GOAL
France 1, Portugal 0 This will be controversial -- Thierry Henry earns a penalty kick when Carvalho gets him in the shin .. . and Henry sells it for all it's worth. Zidane has no problem with the PK. 1-0....
By Jon DeNunzio | July 5, 2006; 03:32 PM ET | Comments (1)
France-Portugal, 10th minute
So far, no score, but both teams are working to attack. I have been pulled away from the tv a couple times, but will try to avoid that for the next 80 minutes ... stay tuned....
By Jon DeNunzio | July 5, 2006; 03:09 PM ET | Email a Comment
1/2 Final: France vs. Portugal
Who will play Italy on Sunday? Interesting that these teams have rarely played a meaningful match. I guess it speaks to Portugal's struggles qualifying for World Cups. There's an easy reason to root for France today -- Zidane and all his "oldies." What's the motivation for neutrals to root for Portugal (other than France-bashing)?...
By Jon DeNunzio | July 5, 2006; 08:30 AM ET | Comments (22)
FINAL: Italy 2, Germany 0
We'll have achart in The Post tomorrow about Italy's corner kicks. If it seemed liked Lehmann grabbed every one of those, well, not quite -- he caught five of Italy's 12 corners. Other German defenders were the first player to touch the corners on six of the other seven corners. In the 93rd minute, when Cannavaro headed the ball wide off Pirlo's corner, that was the only time an Italian player was first to one of their corners. Of course, Germany's inability to clear the final corner by Del Piero sort of led to the first goal. Other comments? Did the best team win? How did this match rate among the all-time World Cup classics?...
By Jon DeNunzio | July 4, 2006; 10:17 PM ET | Comments (28)
1/2 Final: Italy vs. Germany
On the theory that not many people are sitting in front of their computer waiting for updates on this one (if you care, it's the Fourth of July, so I'll assume you're watching TV), I will not do live match reports here. But we'll dissect it after it's over ... I'm avoiding a prediction on this one....
By Jon DeNunzio | July 4, 2006; 02:13 PM ET | Comments (1)
1/4 Final: France-Brazil
My best World Cup memories are from France 1998, and while I was not at the final, I was in Paris for the game. I think France's win that day was more surprising than a France win today would be, but it's close. Really, France has played one good game -- the last one, vs. Spain. Brazil has not been pushed by anyone, though, so if France applies early pressure (or scores a quick goal), this could get interesting. And maybe Ronaldinho will score today? (I love it when the English press refers to it as "opening his account", btw.) Well, we'll see ... FINAL: France 1, Brazil 0. Great stuff from Zidane....
By Jon DeNunzio | July 1, 2006; 02:00 PM ET | Comments (25)
1/4 Final: England-Portugal
I have a colleague who is a big England fan, and he seemed pretty confident last night. With two or three Portuguese stars missing, I understand why ... but still, England needs to play better than it has so far, right? Why do I think Scolari (left) still finds a way to get it done? FINAL: Portugal wins on penalty kicks after a scorless match. Check out this photo and this photo for all you need to know about Wayne Rooney's impact on the match....
By Jon DeNunzio | July 1, 2006; 10:00 AM ET | Comments (19)
FINAL: Italy 3, Ukraine 0
Toni scored again (off a great pass from Zambrotta) and Italy cruises, 3-0. Tuesday: Italy vs. Germany My line of thinking -- if you root for Italy, Argentina, Brazil, etc -- any of the big powers -- your goal every tournament has to be the semis. Once you get there, anything can happen. Agree?...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 30, 2006; 04:59 PM ET | Comments (10)
60th Minute: Italy 2, Ukraine 0
Guess who finally scored? Luca Toni. Italy played a short corner and Totti winds up serving a ball in from the left, close to the penalty area. Toni leans down and heads it into the lower left corner. The goal came moments after Ukraine seemed to have a sure goal -- Gusev was in all alone, and Buffon parried his point-blank shot. Kalinichenko gets the ball and fires again; Zambrotta clears it off the line. While I was typing, Ukraine hit the crossbar. Italy's vaunted defense showing some cracks ... But the Azzurri still lead, 2-0....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 30, 2006; 04:16 PM ET | Comments (3)
Haltime: Italy 1, Ukraine 0
Italian players wearing No. 17 on their shorts in honor of Gianluca Pessotto. Ukraine seems to be game, fighting for 50-50 balls, etc., but does not have the overall team skill to get the whole job done. Of course, if Italy lays back for 45 minutes trying to preserve a 1-0 lead, I would not count Ukraine out....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 30, 2006; 04:00 PM ET | Email a Comment
1/4 Final: Italy-Ukraine
Hey gang ... we had some technical blog-type problem late in the ARG-GER game, and I had to get in a car and drive downtown before they fixed it, so ... I'm back. I'm sure everyone knows now that Germany beat Argentina in PKs. Lehmannn was sensational in the tie-breaker; very little else was sensational in that match. Steve Goff's early story is up already. In the Italy game, the Azzurri lead 1-0 on an early goal by Gianluca Zambrotta....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 30, 2006; 03:29 PM ET | Comments (1)
Commerical interruption
Two Post-related notes: 1. Steve Goff has a good story online now -- in an interview, USSF head Sunil Gulati sticks up for Bruce Arena. 2. Jason will be chatting, starting in a couple minutes ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 30, 2006; 12:58 PM ET | Comments (7)
End regulation: Argentina 1, Germany 1
Ok, 30 more minutes ... Argentina has shown some life of late, could be interesting in extra time....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 30, 2006; 12:51 PM ET | Comments (13)
89th Minute
Yikes ... looked like a late PK for Argentina, but the ref calls Maxi Rodriguez for a dive instead. Then another close call -- Argentina header forces a good save from Lehmann ... turns out there was an offside there, too. 4 mins of added time coming....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 30, 2006; 12:45 PM ET | Email a Comment
80th Minute: GOAL Germany
It's tied 1-1. Ballack plays it in from the left, and Borowski at the top of the area flicks it on ... finding Klose just outside the six-yard box, who heads it home. Really nice goal -- two headers in a row, a nice quick strike. Not good for Argentina. Riquelme out, no subs left, and a backup keeper in....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 30, 2006; 12:37 PM ET | Email a Comment
70th Minute
Argentina GK Abbondanzieri has to be subbed out -- hurt his side in a collision on that corner kick he misplayed, Now entering in goal ... Leonardo Franco. I guess a PK shootout would be a bad thing for Argentina now. Also subbing for Argentina -- Cambiasso in, Riquelme out. Riquelme out?? BTW, the subs are taking their time ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 30, 2006; 12:27 PM ET | Email a Comment
65th Minute
Best chance in a long time for Germany (which is keeping possession now). Abbondanzieri misplays it (well, never gets to it and falls down), rebounc comes to Ballack, whose shot is blocked by one of many non-goalkeeping Argentines standing in the six-yard box. Still 1-0, Argentina....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 30, 2006; 12:22 PM ET | Email a Comment
60th Minute
Germany wins a free kick on the left edge of the penalty area ... dangerous spot. But Podolski bangs it over everyone, Donovan-style ... A minute later, Odonkor comes in for Schneider....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 30, 2006; 12:14 PM ET | Comments (1)
49th Minute: GOOOOALLLLL!
Veteran defender Roberto Ayala with a powerful header off Riquelme's corner. ARG 1, GERM 0. Big trouble for listless Germany?...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 30, 2006; 12:06 PM ET | Email a Comment
46th Minute
Argentina's Sorin commits a foul ... his second yellow of the second round, so he'll miss the semis if Argentina wins today....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 30, 2006; 12:02 PM ET | Email a Comment
Halftime: Argentina 0, Germany 0
It's scoreless. Argentina with a significant possession advantage, but no great chances that I recall. UPDATE: ESPN says Argentina does not have a shot. Is Bruce Arena advising Pekerman? (Kidding Bruce/Bruce fans, just kidding)...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 30, 2006; 11:45 AM ET | Email a Comment
42nd Minute
Last 10 minutes or so have been all Argentina -- lots of possession (although no great scoring chances). Germany having a problem simply getting the ball past midfield at times....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 30, 2006; 11:42 AM ET | Email a Comment
29th Minute: Argentina 0, Germany 0
I'm up and running and will try to keep you abreast of the action as I watch. I have the pleasure of watching on my colleague Cindy Boren's HD TV. Amazing picture. No score so far ... best chance was probbaly Ballack's header from about 15 yards....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 30, 2006; 11:28 AM ET | Email a Comment
Argentina-Germany pregame
About 80 minutes to kickoff in what is expected to be the best game of the weekend. Predictions? I think Germany wins. Its momentum and home support will make up for any difference in talent .......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 30, 2006; 09:36 AM ET | Comments (11)
1/8 Final: France 3, Spain 1
Well, I was dead wrong on this. I thought Spain was good enough to get to the final, and France was lucky to get out of the group. France was impressive today, and -- unless you're a Spain backer -- you have to admit it was cool to see Zidane score the insurance goal. QUARTERFINALS Friday Germany vs. Argentina, 11 a.m. EDT Italy vs. Ukraine, 3 p.m. Saturday England vs. Portugal, 11 a.m. Brazil vs. France, 3 p.m....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 27, 2006; 04:49 PM ET | Comments (26)
1/8 Final: Brazil-Ghana
Should be a fast-paced affair ... can Ghana hang with the superstars?...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 27, 2006; 09:13 AM ET | Comments (24)
1/8 Final: Switzerland vs. Ukraine
Camille Powell just pointed me to this description of today's late game in the BBC.com's prematch buildup: If divvying up matches to televise is like choosing teams in the school playground, this was the spotty, little nerd left as the last pick. At least if the ref messes this one up, fewer people will be outraged ... FINAL: Ukraine wins on PKs after 120 scoreless minutes. Poor exhibition of penalty taking by the Swiss. They were 0 for 3....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 26, 2006; 02:46 PM ET | Comments (26)
1/8 Final: Italy-Australia
I'm back after a rare day off ... Halftime: Italy 0, Australia 0 Italy playing a very patient game, with Pirlo having another good game dictating matters from deep in the midfield. Del Piero started for Totti but has not been a factor. Australians have had a few chances -- if they convert, Italy might have trouble playing from behind ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 26, 2006; 11:49 AM ET | Comments (16)
1/8 Final: Argentina vs. Mexico
It's about to kick off. Predictions? I have Argentina: 2 Mexico: 0 Gratuitous shots of Maradona in the stands: 12 FINAL: Argentina 2 Mexico 1 Extra time: 30 minutes All-time classic goals: 1...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 24, 2006; 02:56 PM ET | Comments (7)
1/8 Final: Sweden-Germany
About 15 minutes from kickoff. In case you missed it in the comments, Jason posted the lineups: Germany: Lehmann Lahm - Mertesacker - Freidrich - Metzelder Schweinsteiger - Ballack - Frings - Schneider Klose - Podolski Sweden: Isaksson Edman - Mellberg - Lucic Kallstrom - Linderoth - Alezandersson - Ljungberg Irbahimovic - Larsson - Jonson...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 24, 2006; 10:44 AM ET | Comments (6)
Let the Second Round Begin
Finals from the afternoon: France 2, Togo 0 Switzerland 2, South Korea 0 Switzerland wins the group, France is second. Second-round games: Saturday Germany vs. Sweden, 11 a.m. Argentina vs. Mexico, 3 p.m. Sunday England vs. Ecuador, 11 a.m. Portugal vs. Netherlands, 3 p.m. Monday Italy vs. Australia, 11 a.m. Switzerland vs. Ukraine, 3 p.m. Tuesday Brazil vs. Ghana, 11 a.m. Spain vs. France, 3 p.m. I need to make my picks for these games and the games beyond for a pool ... open to suggestions from you astute readers....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 23, 2006; 05:30 PM ET | Comments (10)
Groug G Games
Interesting situation here ... at this moment (29th minute), the scores are: Switzerland 1, South Korea 0 France 0, Togo 0 If those results hold, the Swiss win the group and South Korea is second. If the French score, they move ahead of South Korea. But then if South Korea gets a goal back and ties it, they move back ahead of France. And the French would need to win by two goals to pass South Korea if the Reds tie. Follow that?...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 23, 2006; 03:27 PM ET | Comments (6)
Group H Games
Well, onward ... I think this should be pretty straightforward this morning. Spain vs. Saudi Arabia -- Spain only needs a tie to win the group. Not a huge problem. Tunisia vs. Ukraine -- Ukraine only needs a tie to advance. Probably can do that, but for viewing pleasure, here's hoping they have to stuggle to do it ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 23, 2006; 08:50 AM ET | Email a Comment
Group F Games/Media Update
Just FYI, if you have retreated from soccer today: Approx. 70th Minute: Brazil 3, Japan 1 (Japan scored first!) Croatia 2, Australia 1 UPDATE: Games over now: Brazil 4, Japan 1 Australia 2, Croatia 2 Brazil wins the group, Aussies are second. Also, I will be on XM Radio channel 148 tonight at 9. And Steve Goff will chat tomorrow at noon....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 04:30 PM ET | Comments (11)
U.S.-Ghana Wrap-Up
UPDATE: I wrote the stuff below as I was ready to pack up and leave the CCSP, just trying to get some conversation started. Right after I powered down, I heard part of Claudio Reyna's postgame comments and something really struck me. He mentioned what comes next -- qualifying for South Africa in 2010. Holy cow. 2010. That may be the cruelest thing about the World Cup for a team at the United States' level and its fans. Three and a half years of prep work, crazy qualifying games, overanalysis of who should/shouldn't be in the team ... and then it all can end in 11 days. Rock rolls to the bottom of the hill and you start pushing it up again. xxxxxxxxxx Well, I'm about to check out of the Crystal City Sports Pub -- where the staff was very helpful, and the atmosphere was as good as it...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 12:06 PM ET | Comments (97)
FINAL: Ghana 2, U.S. 1
That's it. The Americans go home, Ghana advances to likely play Brazil ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 11:59 AM ET | Comments (91)
90+ Minute
Long ball to Donovan ... defender Mensah beats him to it, feels contact and crumples. Wastes some time ... that's almost it ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 11:54 AM ET | Email a Comment
90th Minute
Donovan cuts into the box and seems to have a lane to shoot ... he keeps dribbling and passes, instead. Huh? Five mins. of stoppage time coming....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 11:52 AM ET | Comments (3)
FINAL: Italy 2, Czechs 0
The Italians win the group....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 11:49 AM ET | Comments (1)
85th Mi nute
Corner for the U.S. (after a lenghy fake-looking injury): cleared out, and the follow shot is high....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 11:45 AM ET | Comments (1)
81st Minute
U.S. gets a free kick after a rough foul on Convey ... Donovan's free kick on the edge of the box -- horrible. Too high for anyone to touch it. Meantime, Izaghi scores for Italia. Azzurri lead, 2-0....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 11:43 AM ET | Email a Comment
79th Minute
Seems the bit of momentum the U.S. had earlier in the half has dried up. They need to make something happen, soon. (Stating the obvious, I know) If results hold: 1. Italy - 7 pts 2. Ghana - 6 pts 3. Czechs - 3 pts 4. US - 1 pt...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 11:37 AM ET | Comments (1)
74th Minute
SUB: Convey in, Lewis out. SuperPippo called for offsides in the Italy game, btw ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 11:33 AM ET | Email a Comment
70th Minute
Another U.S. player whistled for offsides. Frustrating, but that's what they have to do -- play the long ball and hope to beat the trap....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 11:30 AM ET | Comments (1)
68th Minute
Corner from Donovan ... Onyewu heads high over the bar. Chances are coming, but the Americans need to convert ... twice....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 11:29 AM ET | Email a Comment
66th Minute
Lewis stings a low, short cross to the near post, McBride heads it ... into the post! Close ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 11:24 AM ET | Comments (1)
61st Minute
SUB: Eddie Johnson in, Steve Cherundolo out. In the Italy game, Baros was subbed out a few minutes ago, and Italy has had a bunch of chances lately....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 11:19 AM ET | Email a Comment
Italy-Czech Update
Few care besides me, but I have to note that Gilardino was subbed out in the 60th for Filippo "SuperPippo" Inzaghi ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 11:18 AM ET | Comments (1)
54th Minute
Dangerous chance off an indirect kick for the U.S. .. Ghana has to clear it over the endline. Corner: played short, looks promising, goes nowhere. Ghana counters quickly, and a long shot by Amoah requires Keller to make a good save....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 11:15 AM ET | Comments (1)
51st Minute
Giving out props for effort doesn't mean as much now, but it was sweet to see Cherundolo steal the ball from Appiah and send a long pass upfield to Dononvan A little too much pace on the ball, but nice nonetheless....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 11:05 AM ET | Email a Comment
Halftime: Italy, Ghana Lead
The U.S. fans in Nuremberg were not hard to hear as the ref blew the halftime whistle ... boos, loud boos. Looking forward to the replays on that PK foul. Unbelievable. So the U.S. needs two goals in the second half, without Claudio Reyna on the field. And Italy needs to hold on to its lead. Italy at least will work hard to keep or build on the lead; if Ghana wins, Italy has to win to finish first in the Group. Oh yes -- the Czechs are down a man. Polak was sent off....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 10:50 AM ET | Comments (7)
45+ Minute: GOAL Ghana
Brutal for the U.S. -- Oguchi Onyewu called for a questionable foul in the box ... PK. Appiah converts. Ghana 2, U.S. 1 Looked like Oguchi was simply going for the ball, although his arm was on the attackers' shoulder. Hard to believe that was a foul....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 10:46 AM ET | Comments (10)
43rd Minute: GOAL US
Beasley gets a loose ball and busts head of the defense, crosses the ball to Dempsey (how does he see him?) and the Dempster puts it away, one-time style. Good stuff. Very much needed before the half. US 1, Ghana 1 Italy 1, Czechs 0...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 10:43 AM ET | Email a Comment
40th Minute
Well, Reyna tried, but he's done. D.C. United fans, get excited -- Ben Olsen is going to see some World Cup action. It's been a pretty fast-paced game recently. U.S. gets a chance, Ghana counters quickly ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 10:40 AM ET | Comments (1)
37th Minute
Lewis FK from the right forces a good save from Kingson. The a corner for the U.S. ... ball cleared and then Ghana is on the attack. Did I say they are fast?...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 10:37 AM ET | Comments (1)
35th Minute
McBride heads down a long pass to Donovan who shoots ... nope. Wide and high. Good stuff from McBride, though....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 10:34 AM ET | Email a Comment
31st Minnute
Well, Beasley has the pace to stay up with Ghana, it seems. But iI'm not sure he has the rest of the package these days. Meantime, Shilla delivers an elbow to Conrad. Card?...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 10:30 AM ET | Comments (1)
29th Minute
Reyna's bad pass turns into a 1-on-3 breakway for Ghana. Shot is wide, but man, scary....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 10:28 AM ET | Comments (1)
Italy-Czech Update
Italy scores off a Totti corner -- it's Materazzi on a header. The Azzurri are psyched ... Buffon ran all the way to the other end to pile on the celebration. Ok, so the U.S. is not completely dead. A sliver of hope ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 10:25 AM ET | Email a Comment
22nd Minute: GOAL Ghana
Drahman takes the ball away from Reyna, is pretty much free to get into the box and curls a shot past Keller. Reyna hurt on the play, too....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 10:22 AM ET | Email a Comment
20th Minute
Ghana plays a dangreous cross in, Conrad leans and heads it out for a corner. Corner: no damage. Ghana commits a foul....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 10:18 AM ET | Email a Comment
Italy-Czech Update
Buffon had to make another save ... Czechs are definitely getting the scoring chances right now. And, in the 17th Minute, Nesta must have gotten hurt. He's subbed out for Materazzi....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 10:14 AM ET | Email a Comment
Italy-Czech Update
I've sneaked a few peeks ... and seen Buffon make two saves. Have not seen Italy turn what could be a slight possession advantage into good scoring opps....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 10:10 AM ET | Email a Comment
9th Minute
Conrad fouls just outside the area. Appiah plays to the top of the box, but the shot was well wide....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 10:08 AM ET | Comments (1)
7th Minute
Eddie Lewis gets a yellow, too. So it's gonna be that kind of match, eh?...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 10:06 AM ET | Email a Comment
5th Minute
Reyna draws a foul on Essien -- anda yellow card ... Essien will miss the next match...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 10:04 AM ET | Email a Comment
3rd Minute
Cherundolo gets a good cross in, and Eddie Lewis (wow) gets his head on it, back into the mix. McBride fouls, but still, a good sigh....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 09:59 AM ET | Email a Comment
Pregame Festivities
Observations during anthems: Ghana: I like the sound of this, with the pouncding beat in the background. Could you look cooler than Stephen Appiah? U.S.: If Landon is trying to look hard, it doesn't work. Glad to se Kasey and McBride singing along....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 09:54 AM ET | Email a Comment
T-Minus 11 Minutes
Well, as Jason noted, Baros is starting for the Czechs. And the Italians have benched Cristian "Own Goal" Zaccardo. Good crowd now at CCSP ... not full, but hey, it's 9:50 am ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 09:49 AM ET | Email a Comment
Lineups
FIFAWorldCup.com has posted lineups already ... looks lilke a 4-5-1 (or maybe a 4-4-2 if Donovan is up top) to me: USA (positions are my best guesses) GK: Keller D: Cherundolo, Onyewu, Conrad, Bocanegra MF: Dempsey, Beasley, Reyna, Lewis MF/F: Donovan F: McBride GHANA GK: Kingson D: Pantsil, Mensah, Mohamed, Shilla MF: Draman, Essien, Appiah, Boateng F: Pimpong, Amoah...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 09:05 AM ET | Comments (4)
T-Minus 66 Minutes
All right, I'm set up at the Crystal City Sports Pub ... they are preparing for a big crowd, and I'm hoping for one, too -- should be a fun atmosphere. I have views of two TVs which I'm told will have both the US game and Italy-Czechs. As soon as Steve and Camille get lineups, we'll get those posted....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 22, 2006; 08:54 AM ET | Email a Comment
Netherlands-Argentina/Ivory Coast-S&M
So, predictions? In-progress comments? Let's hear 'em ... FINALS: Argentina 0, Netherland 0 (YAWN) Ivory Coast 3, Serbia-Montenegro 2 (wow ... wish I had been watching that) Round of 16 SATURDAY In Munich Germany vs. Sweden, 11 a.m. In Leipzig Argentina vs. Mexico, 3 p.m. SUNDAY In Stuttgart England vs. Ecuador, 11 a.m. In Nuremberg Portugal vs. the Netherlands, 3 p.m....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 21, 2006; 03:07 PM ET | Comments (3)
Mexico-Portugal/Iran-Angola
The Group D finales lead off today's action. Portugal is through, and Mexico simply needs a tie to get there. Angola would need to win, have Mexico lose and make up some goal differential ... FINALS: Portugal 2, Mexico 1 Angola 1, Iran 1 So Portugal wins the group, Mexico is second. Unless Holland beats Argentina, Mexico will play Argentina on Saturday and Portugal will play Holland on Sunday in the second round. Both games would kick off at 3 pm ET....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 21, 2006; 09:15 AM ET | Comments (15)
England vs. Sweden
Wayne Rooney and Michael Owen are expected to start up top for England; should be interesting to watch. Of course, I'll miss Crouchie ... England wins the group (and avoids Germany) with a win or tie. Sweden wins the group with a win; finishes second with a tie, and still finishes second with a loss unless T&T wins and Sweden blows its tie-breaker edge (see below). FINAL: Sweden 2, England 2 As I write this, Paraguay leads T&T 2-0, but even a miraculous comeback would not change this -- England wins the group, and Sweden takes second. So Sweden will play Germany on Saturday and England plays Ecuador on Sunday....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 20, 2006; 02:02 PM ET | Comments (8)
Trinidad & Tobago vs. Paraguay
One of the two Group B games set to kick off at 3 pm ET. T&T has a slim hope of making the second round -- they have to win here and hope Sweden loses to England, and make up goal differential in the process. Current goal diffs: Sweden (1 GF, 0 GA, +1); T&T (0 GF, 2 GA, -2)...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 20, 2006; 02:00 PM ET | Email a Comment
Germany-Ecuador
This is the game that matters in Group A -- Germany needs to win to win the group; for Ecuador, a tie wil do. If Germany does not win the group, it very well could play England in the round of 16. FINAL: Germany 3, Ecuador 0 Round of 16: Germany wins the group and plays the Group B runner-up Saturday at 11 am ET Ecuador will play the Group B champion Sunday at 11 am ET. One of these teams will play England in that game....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 20, 2006; 09:08 AM ET | Comments (12)
Poland-Costa Rica
Is anyone going to watch this game?...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 20, 2006; 09:05 AM ET | Comments (3)
Spain vs. Tunisia
Spain can claim a second-round spot with a win here. I think we'd be hard-pressed to find many people who don't think that will happen. After this game, the three-games-per-day stretch is over. Yes, there are four games each day Tuesday thru Friday this week, but they are played as pairs of games simultaneously (10 am and 3 pm ET) ... so the most soccer anyone can watch in a day is capped at four hours. And, while it's good for us to take a breather, the six-hour days are kind of fun, no?...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 19, 2006; 02:30 PM ET | Comments (19)
Ukraine vs. Saudi Arabia
Things change between Game 1 and Game 2, as the U.S. showed Saturday ... but man, they have to change quite a bit for the Ukraine. And Saudi Arabia apparently is much better than it was four years ago ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 19, 2006; 11:20 AM ET | Comments (6)
FINAL: Switzerland 2, Togo 0
Switzerland eliminates Togo a day after the Togo players almost eliminated themselves, and plops down into the driver's seat in Group G. A tie vs. South Korea gets the Swiss through, and could give them the group championship. Did anyone think France GK Fabien Barthez was at fault for the South Korea goal yesterday, BTW? I have been debating this ... I know the French papers are killing the team in general, but not sure about Barthez specifically....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 19, 2006; 10:55 AM ET | Comments (3)
France-South Korea
Word is France Coach Raymond Domenech is trying to pick up another player, like the kids in that, um, adidas ad -- and he wants Platini. Seriously, France needs to find some inspiration ... one would think they'd find it vs. a South Korea team that, ahem, cough cough, allowed Togo to take the lead in the opener. But South Korea has surprised us before....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 18, 2006; 02:15 PM ET | Comments (5)
Brazil-Australia
I like the vibe around this Australia team -- am I nuts to think they could get points out of this game? Also, what's the over-under on the numbe of minutes Ronaldo plays?...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 18, 2006; 11:20 AM ET | Comments (9)
Japan-Croatia
I'm still worn out from U.S.-Italy ... but it will be nice to see these two teams play; both played attractive soccer in losses last week ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 18, 2006; 08:28 AM ET | Comments (3)
FINAL: Italy 1, U.S. 1
I imagine that was a draining night for all involved in the stadium in K-town. What a game. Good result for the U.S. under the circumstances, and they have a real shot at advancing (if Italy beats the Czechs). Group E standings: Italy -- 4 pts., +2 Czechs -- 3 pts., +1 Ghana -- 3 pts., even U.S. -- 1 pt., -3 Oh yeah .. the reffing will be a huge issue here. Stay tuned ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 17, 2006; 04:50 PM ET | Comments (61)
90th Minute
Gilardino header off a cross from Pirlo (?) ... wide. Good chance. Three mins of injury time coming ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 17, 2006; 04:46 PM ET | Comments (1)
87th Minute
Del Piero gets the ball and is free on the left, inside the area ... but passes back into the middle. US gets it out for a croner, and that goes nowhere for Italy. Tough angle to shoot, but it seems that might have been the better option for ADP....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 17, 2006; 04:38 PM ET | Email a Comment
79th Minute
The U.S. defense gives Del Piero about the same amount of space -- in the same part of the field -- as they gave Rosicky on Monday. Del Piero's shot not quite as devastating as Rosicky's, and Keller makes a good save....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 17, 2006; 04:35 PM ET | Email a Comment
73rd Minute
Cheeky little chip from the middle into the area by Gattuso, and Del Piero volleys ... save, Keller. If the U.S. is gonna get a point or more out of this game, Keller will have to make at least more big save, I predict ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 17, 2006; 04:30 PM ET | Email a Comment
71st Minute
Dangerous free kick given to the U.S. on Zambrotta's foual (and yellow card). Donovan from right side of the penalty area ... headed into the air, back toward goal ... and out of danger. Still, good chances for the Americans ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 17, 2006; 04:25 PM ET | Email a Comment
65th Minute
Beasley scores! No, wait, offsides. That is a good call. Even Balboa knows it -- McBride was clearly off and he was involved in a significant way. Still, the U.S. should be confident ... they have made it clear that they can win this game....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 17, 2006; 04:22 PM ET | Comments (2)
64th Minute
Like I said ... just two guys attacking, McBride and Donovan, and the U.S. generates a real threat. Italian fans may be wondering why Lippi's last sub is Iaquinta and not SupperPippo Inzaghi ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 17, 2006; 04:20 PM ET | Email a Comment
58th Minute
The ABC announcers are right that the U.S. needs to play an counter-attacking game the rest of the way. The U.S. **can** score, it seems. Nothing will surprise me at this stage....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 17, 2006; 04:15 PM ET | Email a Comment
47th Minute: Another Red?
I'm double-checking the spelling of stracciatella and the whistle blows again ... Pope gets his second yellow (for a foul that is worse than Marcelo Balboa wants to admit; maybe not a red, but Marcelo is nuts) and he's gone. Then Cannavaro goes down. Looks like he's coming back in. Heck of a night in K-town ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 17, 2006; 04:05 PM ET | Email a Comment
Embassy Report
Ok, a few details from my brief stay at the Italian Embassy: 1) Beautiful place. The game is on a big screen in the middle of an atrium-like center of the building. Italian art on the wall opposite the screen. 2) Pasta buffet (Rigatoni, ziti and farfalle (the bowties)) -- Simona Howe from the press office told me there were three different sauces (all tomoato-based), but I did not have a chance to get the names of those sauces. All good, though. 3) Good crowd, about 60 percent rooting for the U.S. But lots more Azzurri jerseys than U.S. jerseys (were there any?). 4) Tech man Raffaele Carla worked really hard to try to get me online, but to no avail. Sad. Must be my laptop, cuz we were getting a strong signal. 5) Oh yes ... GELATO! I had a mix of hazelnut chocolate and stracciatella. Quite good....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 17, 2006; 04:00 PM ET | Email a Comment
Halftime: Italy 1, U.S. 1
Well, you saw more than me most likely -- although I just saw the replays. Gilardino puts Italy up 1-0 in the 22nd, own goal off a Convey free kick evens things up in the 27th (ugly play by Zaccardo) . Then De Rossi gets red on an obvious, heinous foul. And Mastroeni gets aa red, too (more debatable call, but I'll call it justified). So, second-half subs to take advantage of the open space? Beasley for the U.S.? Del Piero for Italy? (I bet Lippi would like to have Totti back.)...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 17, 2006; 03:55 PM ET | Comments (3)
44th Minute: Ouch
Mastroeni gets a red card for a studs-up slide into Pirlo's ankle. So now we're 10 vs. 10. But it could end 8 vs. 8 at this pace ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 17, 2006; 03:45 PM ET | Comments (6)
42nd Minute: Back at the Office
Sadly, the wireless connection did not happen at the Italian Embassy. More details later, but the short version is this -- I'm back at my desk. Did I miss anything? Ok, kidding -- I heard a lot of the first half on XM on the drive back. Holy cow. Golden opportunity for the U.S. (tied 1-1, Italians down a man thanks to the red card on De Rossi) ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 17, 2006; 03:41 PM ET | Email a Comment
66th Minute: Still 1-0
Ghana earns a PK, and while settling matters, the ref red-cards Czech defender Tomas Ujfalusi. But the PK his the post, and the Czechs clear it. Wild stuff. At least Ghana still has a man advantage ... but that PK would have settled matters....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 17, 2006; 01:25 PM ET | Comments (5)
63rd Minute: Ghana 1, Czechs 0
I've watched a little of this nad listened to some on XM .... wow. So far, this is very good news for ther United States (althought my colleague Rich Campbell smartly says it might just mean the U.S. is gonna finish fourth in the group). If Ghana holds on and the U.S. beats Italy, everyone will be at 3 points and the U.S. will "control its destiny" (love that cliche) vs. Ghana. If Ghana holds on and the U.S. and Italy tie, standings would be: Italy 4 pts, +2 Czechs 3, +2 Ghana 3, -1 US 1, -3 In that case, a win over Ghana and an Italian win over the Czechs would get the U.S. through ... Ok, I'm getting ahead of myself. Leaving for the embassy soon....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 17, 2006; 01:20 PM ET | Comments (1)
Ghana-Czech Republic
The set-up for the big U.S-Italy clash. Another dominant performance by the Czechs would put pressure on both the U.S. and Italy. But Ghana looked good vs. Italy ... could we finally see an African upset (a win, that is)?...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 17, 2006; 11:15 AM ET | Comments (6)
FINAL: Portugal 2, Iran 0
Sorry for the late post on this one. Amazing how things can turn ... Down 1-0, Iran had a header that nearly beat the Portugal keeper at the lower right corner. He makes the save, gets the ball downfield, and Figo draws a foul just inside the area. Cristiano Ronaldo makes the PK, and instead of a tie game, we have a 2-0 Portugal lead. Game over. Portugal is through, Iran is out. Angola will need to beat Iran, hope Mexico loses to Portugal and make up a three-goal differential deficit in the process to get thru ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 17, 2006; 10:50 AM ET | Email a Comment
Mexico-Angola
With the possible exception of Ecuador, this World Cup has gone to form so far, no? (I would argue that Ecuador finishing ahead of Poland is not that surprising -- the Ecuadorans did beat Argentina and Brazil in qualifying. I made this argument before Ecuador clinched, by the way, here). Anyway, the predictable prediction is that Mexico wins here. And in this predictable World Cup, you have to go with that....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 16, 2006; 02:10 PM ET | Comments (9)
Follow U.S.-Italy With Me
I'm planning on starting live updates at 2:15 pm, 45 mins before the game. I'll be coming to you live from the Italian Embassy in D.C., thanks to a gracious invitation from the good folks at the embassy. So expect updates on the game and the food. Oh man, the food should be great ... Also -- looks like I'll be on XM Radio at some point next week. Will keep you posted. UPDATE: As of now, I'll be a guest on XM's English-language World Cup channel, 148, at 9 pm on Thursday, June 22 (day of the U.S.-Ghana game)....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 16, 2006; 01:20 PM ET | Comments (12)
Netherlands-Ivory Coast
If the Netherlands wins this, we can stop calling this the "Group of Death," right? Well, Serbia-Montenegro died, I guess ... FINAL: Netherlands 2, Ivory Coast 1 That means the Netherlands and Argentina are through to the second round. Five teams in all have already booked their tickets: these two, Ecuador, Germany and England....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 16, 2006; 11:10 AM ET | Comments (5)
84th Minute: Argentina 5, S-M 0
In Thursday's paper, we ranked the top five teams so far in the tournament (scroll down on this page). Argentina was No. 4 -- perhaps too low? Meantime, today we did the bottom 5. Serbia-Montenegro seems to be pushing to get in to this group, eh? BTW, when I started this post, it was only 3-0 ... UPDATE/FINAL: Argentina 6, Serbia-Montenegro 0...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 16, 2006; 10:40 AM ET | Comments (10)
Argentina-Serbia and Montenegro
Injuries have hurt S&M, and Argentina looked pretty sharp in its opener. Is this a sure three points for Argentina?...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 16, 2006; 08:15 AM ET | Comments (10)
Sweden-Paraguay
Both teams are coming off disappointing first games -- a good chance to set things right. Do you have faith that Sweden's much-praised attack can get in sync? It's been a long time since Ibrahimovich was in top form....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 15, 2006; 02:15 PM ET | Email a Comment
England-Trinidad and Tobago
You have to think England will play a little better than it did Saturday, and T&T will be a little worse ... meaning England wins and significantly improves its goal differential. But then again, it would be a lot more fun if I'm wrong ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 15, 2006; 11:15 AM ET | Comments (15)
Costa Rica-Ecuador
Ecuador can clinch a second-round berth with a win ... seems early to be saying things like that, no? But Ecuador will have to slow down Paolo Wanchope, or at least do a better job on him than the Germans did. FINAL: Ecuador 3, Costa Rica 0 Ecuador and Germany are in the second round. And Germany needs to beat Ecuador to win the group -- a tie means Ecuador wins on superior goal differential....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 15, 2006; 08:15 AM ET | Comments (11)
Poland-Germany
Going into the game, Poland is in a tough spot: Germany - 3 pts., +2 GD Ecuador - 3 pts., +2 Poland - 0 pts., -2 Costa Rica - 0 pts., -2 Maybe not as tough as the U.S. -- since Germany might be easier to beat than Italy, and Costa Rica has a better shot vs. Ecuador than Ghana does vs. the Czechs -- but still, getting a win is pretty important for the Poles today. Can Germany produce another golazzo like Lahm and Frings's blasts on Friday? FINAL: Germany 1, Poland 0...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 14, 2006; 02:15 PM ET | Comments (24)
Tunisia-Saudi Arabia
The lesser Group H teams face off here. Can the Saudis improve on their dismal World Cup effort in 2002 (0-3, 0 goals scored, 12 allowed)? Final: Saudi Arabia 2, Tunisia 2...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 14, 2006; 11:15 AM ET | Comments (43)
Spain-Ukraine
Group H finally gets to play today ... looks like Andriy Shevchenko (knee injury) is ready to go for the Ukraine, but Raul (eclipsed by youth) will not start for Spain. If this game is not a tie, you have to figure the winner will win the group (other teams: Tunisia and Saudia Arabia). FINAL: Spain 4, Ukraine 0...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 14, 2006; 08:15 AM ET | Comments (19)
Brazil-Croatia
Open to comments now ... will Brazil make the 13 games up to this point seem like undercard bouts to their heavyweight presence? Or, like several top teams so far, will Brazil do just well enough to win today? Or hey, will Croatia get a point (or three)? Let's hope it's fun viewing ... FINAL: Brazil 1, Croatia 0...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 13, 2006; 02:40 PM ET | Comments (18)
France-Switzerland
Open for discussion. As some of you may remember, I picked Switzerland to win this group and (this was sort of silly, I know), make the final four. FINAL: France 0, Switzerland 0...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 13, 2006; 11:30 AM ET | Comments (16)
Togo vs. South Korea
This ought to take your mind off yesterday. Who do you like in this one? I'll take South Korea and give the points .... UPDATE: Otto Pfister is on the sideline for Togo. Nice of him to show up. FINAL: South Korea 2, Togo 1. Competition wasn't as stiff, but Togo had a better showing than the U.S. ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 13, 2006; 08:25 AM ET | Comments (10)
FINAL: Italy 2, Ghana 0
Sub Vincenzo Iaquinta scores in the seocnd half to salt it away for the Azzurri. A game a lot of people tagged as a possible upset instead goes to form, and that's bad news for the U.S....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 04:50 PM ET | Comments (15)
Halftime: Italy 1, Ghana 0
Great goal by Pirlo -- took a short corner at the upper left corner of the penalty area, dribbled and drove a low shot just inside the far post. Ghana creating some problems for Italy's defense, though. None of this is a good sign for the U.S....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 03:54 PM ET | Comments (1)
Italy-Ghana
What's better for the U.S. here: a Ghana win or a tie? If Ghana wins, Group E will look like: - Czechs -- 3 pts. - Ghana -- 3 - Italy -- 0 - U.S. -- 0 Then you hope the U.S. ties Italy and the Czechs beat Ghana, meaning the U.S. could get through with a win over Ghana and a Czech win or tie vs. Italy. If Ghana and Italy tie: - Czechs -- 3 pts. - Ghana -- 1 - Italy -- 1 - U.S. -- 0 Then you hope the U.S. ties Italy and the Czechs win, and on the final day the Czechs beat Italy and the U.S. beats Ghana. I suppose the first scenario is more likely. I did not factor in a potential U.S. win over Italy; although unlikely, that would change things in a big way....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 02:20 PM ET | Email a Comment
FINAL: Czech Republic 3, U.S. 0
I have litte more to add. Joason may be right -- how can the U.S. hope to advance now? Seems to be a verrrrrry long shot....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 01:50 PM ET | Comments (32)
76th Minute
Rosicky gets free and sprints toward the goal. Puts it past Keller. Czechs 3, U.S. 0. Good night. Wolff subbed in for McBride on the kickoff....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 01:33 PM ET | Comments (5)
75th Minute
Bobby Convey hits a nice cross from the left edge of the box, and EJ is there ... but Cech smothers it. Good chance....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 01:29 PM ET | Email a Comment
70th Minute
Eddie Johnson takes a nice, low, bending shot from distance. Wide left. These are the bright spots American fans may have to live with today....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 01:27 PM ET | Email a Comment
68th Minute
Rosicky left alone again (really smart) ... blasts a shot that hits the crossbar and bounces away. Um, might want to mark him ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 01:20 PM ET | Comments (3)
61st Minute
Lokvenc receives the ball at the top of the box and is REALLY open. Shoots wide, lucky for Keller....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 01:18 PM ET | Email a Comment
60th Minute
Reyna gets a yellow card on a rough tackle ... or was it for dissent? Anyway, remember that two yellows mean you sit the next game....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 01:10 PM ET | Email a Comment
50th Minute
I never put this up -- Koller was repaced by Lokvenc -- a 6-foot-5 forward. Koller just shown on TV limping in casual clothes, waving to fans....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 01:05 PM ET | Email a Comment
Serious Substitutions
Bruce Arena is going for broke -- he takes out two defensive-minded players in Steve Cherundolo and Pablo Mastroeni, and brings in a forward (Eddie Johnson) and a creative midfielder (John O'Brien). Very bold....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 01:01 PM ET | Comments (1)
Halftime - Czech Republic 2, U.S. 0
When the U.S. was down 1-0, I was preparing to write that things weren't that bad for the Americans. They possessed the ball some, created a few chances, had a legit shot at tying the game if they kept it up. Shows what I know. It is clear, even without Koller, that the U.S. will pay for every small mistake against a team this good. The team has paid bigtime for two gaffes already (leaving the right flank open, bad clearance). How much faith can you have that the U.S. can score two goals in 45 minutes?...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 12:45 PM ET | Comments (12)
43rd Minute
Ben Bradlee just walked by ... really. His pal asked what the score was, and when I told them, Ben's reaction "Bad. They're gonna get their heads handed to them." Meantime, Koller seems pretty badly hurt. Dave O'Brien of ESPN thinks this is a huge break for the U.S. Sure it is. Now the U.S. won't lose 4-0....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 12:42 PM ET | Email a Comment
39th Minute
Halftime on ESPN2 will feature "Rece, Alexi and Julie." In England, halftime hosts are named things like Gary, Clive and Nigel. No wonder the Americans are losing 2-0....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 12:38 PM ET | Email a Comment
36th Minute - GOAL Rosicky
Onyewu's headed clearance doesn't go far enough or wide enough, and Tomas Rosicky jumps on it about 30 yards away. No one is on him. Rockets a shot that bends to the left, Keller really had no chance. Czech Republic 2, U.S. 0 Serious trouble....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 12:33 PM ET | Comments (1)
32nd Minute
Long ball played to Nedved, who races onto it in the box. Pope is with him, and is able to get it out for a corner. Scary moment, though....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 12:29 PM ET | Email a Comment
28th Minute
Reyna shoots from the top of the "D" ... hits the left post and bounces away! Close, soooooo close....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 12:25 PM ET | Email a Comment
23rd Minute
Every U.S. attacking player looks smaller than the guy who is marking him. Did you see Convey bounce off a Czech player on a high ball near midfield?...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 12:17 PM ET | Comments (1)
16th Minute
Donovan looks great running free through the middle, draw a foul and a card from Rozehnal ... free kick from 40-plus brings nothing, though....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 12:13 PM ET | Comments (7)
11th Minute
Some signs of life: Convey whips in a cross, but Cech gets to it first. Then Lewis crossed to McBride, Ujfalusi has to head it over the end line for a corner. Beasley gets a high shot off after a short corner....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 12:07 PM ET | Email a Comment
5th Minute - GOAL Koller
Grygera gets up the left flank, crosses the ball to Koller, who leaps (or leans) over Pope and heads it home. That was quick. Czech Republic 1, US 0...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 12:05 PM ET | Comments (1)
5th Minute
Onyewu gets a yellow for tripping Nedved. Not good....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 12:04 PM ET | Email a Comment
1st Minute
Pope fouls Koller ... I must have missed it. But, could part of the U.S. strategy be to lay a body on Koller at every chance, size disadvantage de damned?...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 12:00 PM ET | Email a Comment
Anthem(s)
ESPN2 showed the U.S., but passed on the Czech anthem. And you wonder how our country gets its sterling reputation worldwide ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 11:57 AM ET | Email a Comment
U.S./Czech Lineups
Well, congrats to our guy Steve Goff, who got 21 of 22 starters correct in today's lineup/formation graphic. The only change in that graphic is MF Jaroslav Plasil comes in for F Jiri Stajner -- Czechs are playing a 4-5-1. Text version: US: Keller, Lewis, Pope, Onyewu, Cherundolo, Convey, Mastroeni, Reyna, Beasley, Donovan, McBride. CR: Cech, Janulovski, Rozehnal, Ufjalusi, Grygera, Nedved, Galusker, Plasil, Rosicky, Poborsky, Koller. Also -- Camille Powell did a pregame chat....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 11:50 AM ET | Email a Comment
Australia vs. Japan
This game is the appetizer today, the U.S. is the main course, and here's hoping Italy-Ghana is a sweet dessert (gelato, perhaps?) ... Comments on this Group F match are welcome ... now....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 12, 2006; 08:00 AM ET | Comments (29)
U.S.-Czech Republic Pregame
T-minus 12 hours and counting. How will the U.S. line up? How will the team do? Are you ready?...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 11, 2006; 11:58 PM ET | Comments (29)
Angola vs. Portugal
As mentioned in the short, dead-tree Post preview today, these teams last played in 2001 -- and the match was abandoned with 20 minutes left. Portugal led 5-1 and four Angola players had been sent off. Let's hope this one is more competitive and more sportsmanlike. FINAL: Portugal 1, Angola 0...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 11, 2006; 02:30 PM ET | Comments (15)
Mexico vs. Iran
Group D play starts on Sunday. Will Mexico GK Oswaldo Sanchez be sharp after his trip home and back for his father's funeral? Will it matter much against Iran? UPDATE: Mexico 3, Iran 1...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 11, 2006; 11:30 AM ET | Comments (20)
Serbia-Montenegro vs. Netherlands
Don't ever say I don't read the comments. By popular demand, I'm starting a thread on each game now before it starts, allowing plenty of in-progress discussion. Enjoy ... BTW, I am thinking this will be the best game of the day. Although an Iran upset of Mexico is not completely impossible, and would be fun to watch. UPDATE: Holland won, 1-0....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 11, 2006; 08:32 AM ET | Comments (12)
Argentina 2, Ivory Coast 1
The Group of Death is off and running. Here's the match report on our site and Steve Goff's game story....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 10, 2006; 05:27 PM ET | Comments (9)
England Wins, T&T Ties
Here's a quick entry to allow you guys to comment on the first two games: - England 1, Paraguay 0 - Sweden 0, Trinidad and Tobago 0 My thoughts: - England looked really good for what, 15 minutes? Snooze-fest after that. - I was expecting more from Peter Crouch. His height didn't even seem to make a difference when the crosses came through (although England struggled to put in good crosses). - I was in the car for most of the T&T-Sweden game. I listened on XM, and really, it was pretty good. Like my friend Karl reported yesterday, not bad at all. Not great -- I hear the British radio broadcasts of Prem games are amazing -- but really good to have, since I had several errands to run this afternoon....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 10, 2006; 03:05 PM ET | Comments (25)
FINAL: Ecuador 2, Poland 0
Delgado scored in the 81st, Ecuador put itself in nice shape with the win. Poland, meanwhile, goes into a Wednesday match in Dortmund having to get a result against Germany to have a chance of advancing ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 9, 2006; 04:52 PM ET | Comments (11)
Halftime: Ecuador 1, Poland 0
Can't do multiple updates on this one, sorry, but it's here's the halftime news: Tenorio scores, Ecuador leads -- and deserves the lead....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 9, 2006; 03:46 PM ET | Comments (5)
FINAL: Germany 4, Costa Rica 2
Yeah, that's it. Fun way to start. What did we learn? - Germany's attacking unit is good, much better than Costa Rica's defense. - Costa Rica's Paolo Wanchope is pretty good, too -- better than a lot of the defenders he was facing, it seems. Germany has some defensive work to do if they are to contend for a spot beyond the round of 16. - I did not see a trend in the reffing that portends them calling fouls a certain way, etc ... but I may have missed it. As usual, some of the offsides calls were debatable. - ESPN2 announcing team was not too bad, I thought. I can handle it. Although it's fun to hear the Univision guy say "Schweinsteiger."...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 9, 2006; 01:50 PM ET | Comments (26)
87th Minute
Another great goal by Germany. Torsten Frings leaps on a loose ball about 35 yards out, does not handle, and rockets a shot inside the right post. It bent away from the keeper ... really tough to stop for the keeper. Germany 4, CR 2. Game over, right? (This time I mean it)...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 9, 2006; 01:45 PM ET | Email a Comment
85th minute
Fans whistle for a PK for Germany after Schneider falls in the box. Replays show ... that was a dive. Good noncall. CR running out of time to try to tie this ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 9, 2006; 01:43 PM ET | Comments (1)
73rd Minute - Wanchope again!
It's now 3-2, Germany. Costa Rica finds Wanchope behind the defense (behind them before the ball was played, perhaps?), and although I thought the defender tackled the ball and put it in his own net, it wasa nice flick by Wanchope that beat Lehmann. Yes, he might have been offside. But this guy is the only CR player to threaten. Can't Germany lock him down?...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 9, 2006; 01:32 PM ET | Comments (2)
Game is on XM, Too
My pal Karl is driving to Columbus today, but listening on XM. He reports that it's frustrating in that he'd rather be watching on TV, but it's very good for what it is. The guys know their stuff, Karl says -- "This is not George Michael broadcasting a soccer match." I have no idea what that means ... XM has 56 of the 64 games in English, 50 of 64 in Spanish. English announcers: Dave Johnson (DC United play-by-play guy), Phil Schoen (Gol TV guy) and Jeff Agoos. Anyway, thought you should know ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 9, 2006; 01:25 PM ET | Comments (2)
60th Minute - Kloooooooossssse scores!
Miroslav Klose (my guy in two fantasy leagues) scored again. He had three in the opener in 2002, and two today. This one came when Lamm went on an overlapping run down the left with no CR defender in sight. He crosses, ball skims off the top of the head of a defender, to the back post where Klose stoops to head it toward goal. Porras makes the save, but pushes it right back toward Klose. Easy finish. 3-1, Germany. Balboa (I'm back on ESPN2) makes a good point -- Porras neded to shovel that first ball out to his left, or over the end line. Not back into the six-yard box. Game over, right?...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 9, 2006; 01:11 PM ET | Comments (2)
48th Minute
Costa Rica has a corner ... Fonseca, at about the spot, dives and gets his head on the ball, wide left. But man, he was OPEN. Germany needs to tighten up....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 9, 2006; 01:06 PM ET | Comments (1)
Halftime - Germany Leads, 2-1
First 45 minutes in the book. Some observations: - Great way to start a tournament, with three goals in 30 minutes. You could argue that the defensive lapses cheapen the goals, but I say they're goals, and that's all that matters. - Costa Rica has one threat: Paolo Wanchope. A good coach will find a way to shut one guy down with some halftime adjustments. We'll see if Klinsi can do that. My boss suggests they stop playing the offside trap. Not a bad idea. - Lamm's goal will be in the final montage of great moments from the tournament, and would be even it it wasn't the first goal of the tournament. That was an incredible shot -- from the upper left corner of the 18-yard box to the upper right corner of the goal....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 9, 2006; 12:41 PM ET | Email a Comment
28th Minute
Switching between Univision and ESPN2 ... just like 2002, the picture is crisper on Univision. I'm not sure they if they use the same video feed as ESPN -- seems there are more ground-level shots when I go to Univision, though. If they can choose, I trust Univision to give me the right angle more often ... Anyway, I should have learned Spanish over the past four years. I would never turn back to ESPN/ESPN2 if I had ... Re: the game ... I continue to have no confidence in the CR defenders. Germany's aren't great, either, though -- Costa Rica will create a few more scary chances in this game, I'm sure....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 9, 2006; 12:23 PM ET | Comments (9)
17th Minute - goal.
(They're becoming so common, they no longer deserve all-caps) Miroslav Klose scores from close range on a pass ... Germany carving up the Costa Rican "defense." Germany 2, Costa Rica 1...
By Jon DeNunzio | June 9, 2006; 12:15 PM ET | Email a Comment
12th Minute -- another GOAALLLLL!
Wow -- Costa Rica scores! Paolo Wanchope evens it up with a breakaway. Was he offsides? He looked even to me in the replay. I still say Germany will win this game. They are much better than Costa Rica....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 9, 2006; 12:09 PM ET | Email a Comment
6th Minute - GOOOOOOALLLL!
Lamm gets free on the left side, a Costa Rican defender falls on his backside, and Lamm laces a great shot -- heck a monumentally great shot -- into the upper 90 at the far post. 1-0, Germany. That was quick....
By Jon DeNunzio | June 9, 2006; 12:06 PM ET | Comments (1)
3rd minute
Bad give-away by the Costa Rican defense, and then Frings takes a long shot that lands on the top of the net. First sort-of-scoring chance ... That giveaway does not inspire faith ......
By Jon DeNunzio | June 9, 2006; 12:04 PM ET | Email a Comment
