The opening game of World Cup 2010 saw Mexico nearly punished for not finishing their chances in the first half. El Tri definitely started faster, while South Africa took a while to get into the match. Their goalkeeper made a decent save in the opening 45 minutes to keep the hosts in the match, and after the interval, the Bafana Bafana opened up the Mexicans and Tshabalala hit a stunning shot to open the scoring for the game and the tournament.
Giovanni nearly replied but the keeper was again up to the challenge. Mexico continued to press and were rewarded when Marquez was left open at the back post. Draw was probably a fair result.
Pienaar and Mphela played well for South Africa. I thought Giovanni had a very good game for Mexico, with Torrado, the captain, doing a decent job of pulling the strings.
I predicted this result (even the score) and both teams will struggle to get through.
The following match featured the train wreck that is Les Bleus vs possible dark horses Uruguay. Very drab first half with lots of chippy fouls. Gourcuff had a sneaky free kick saved, and Gouvou really should have opening the scoring. Forlan created one decent chance but easily save by Lloris.
The second half was more of the same. Even the red card to Lodeiro didn’t really change things. Overall Uruguay held on, and France was very disappointing. As Raphael Honigstein (@honigstein) tweeted: it takes an absolute genius to make so many talented players play this badly together.
I predicted this result, but I really don’t see how France is going to win the group.
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