We are through the first round of World Cup play, and now sixteen teams are left. Here are the matchups for second-round play. Bold indicates the teams I am cheering for, not necessarily the ones I think will win.
June 24, 2006
Germany vs Sweden
Argentina vs Mexico
June 25, 2006
England vs Ecuador
Portugal vs Netherlands
June 26, 2006
Italy vs Australia
Switzerland vs Ukraine
June 27, 2006
Brazil vs Ghana
Spain vs France
That France made the sweet 16 when they played so poorly is truly a travesty. It's almost as bad as calling Group D (Portugal, Mexico, Angola, and Iran) the "group of death" which I heard from two different commentators.
At least France will be out in the round of 16. ABBAF!!!! (Anyone But Brazil And France)
Posted by: Dave | Jun 23, 2006 at 11:36 PM
I wish Ghana or Australia would make it to the finals. I don't think any nation outside of Europe or South America has ever played in the World Cup final. The World Cup needs a little more globalization. I could easily support ABBAF.
Posted by: Michael Kruse | Jun 24, 2006 at 02:22 AM
Well Mexico is out, now I can rejoice. Living in Texas I am so sick of hearing about how much better mexico has been then the US. The simple fact is Mexico would not have gotten out of our group, and I think we could have made it out of theirs ...
Posted by: Nate Custer | Jun 24, 2006 at 05:35 PM
I wasn't heavily in favor of either team. I just get tired of seeing the usual suspects in the final like Argentina.
How about the go ahead goal by Maxi Rodriguez? Was that wicked or what?
Posted by: Michael Kruse | Jun 24, 2006 at 09:55 PM
I thought the goal from Messi to Tevez was wicked as well ... but that one did not count ;)
I understand your sentiment and will join you both in rooting for anyone but france.
Posted by: Nate Custer | Jun 27, 2006 at 08:39 AM
Yes. May the soccer gods smile on Spain today.
Posted by: Michael Kruse | Jun 27, 2006 at 09:17 AM