mindless ramblings

Group E
This was one of the more difficult groups to qualify from, but Italy made it through pretty easily in the end. They comfortably beat the Czechs 2-0 in the final game to top the group. Although the Czechs were only 1-0 down in the first half, their task got markedly more difficult when Jan Polák got himself sent off for a second yellow. The Italians did what they do best, keep possesion and a late goal by Filippo Inzaghi settled things. Definitely a disappointing tournament for the Czechs, they were runners-up in Euro 96 and semi-finalists in Euro 2004 so they are definitely not a slouch when it comes to big games.

The US had to win in order to stand any chance of qualifying but in the end they couldn’t do it. Both Ghanian goalscorers from the 2-0 win over the Czechs were banned, but despite that they took the lead in the 22nd minute when a Claudio Reyna mistake let Haminu Dramani through for the goal. Reyna was injured in the process of losing the ball and he was eventually substitued by Ben Olsen. The Americans got even just before the half with a thumping finish by Clint Dempsey which left the Ghanian goalkeeper no chance. Unfortunately for them, the Ghanians were awarded a controversial penalty in first half injury time. Stephen Appiah made no mistake from the spot and the Ghanians held on to be the first African side to qualify for the Second Round in this World Cup.

Group F
The Brazilians had already booked their place in the next round, but it didn’t stop them from thrashing the Japanese 4-1. The Japanese actually took the lead thanks to Keiji Tamada’s goal and some good goalkeeeping by Yoshikatsu Kawaguchi. The Brazilians then kicked it up a notch and chubby Ronaldo used his head to steer the ball into the net for the equalizer right on the stroke of half time. The Japanese finally succumbed to the Brazilian pressure, and a beautiful long range effort from Juninho saw them take the lead. A well struck shot by defender Gilberto (not Gilberto Silva… confusing!) saw them extend that lead and Ronaldo added to the embarassment with a wonderful shot into the bottom right corner. Ronaldo in particular will be pleased to have 2 goals… sure shuts those critics up quick!

The brave Australians fought back twice from being a goal down to secure their passage into the next round at the expense of Croatia. The Aussies were shocked into action by Darijo Srna’s goal in the 2nd minute. A handball by Stjepan Tomas resulted in a penalty, which Craig Moore duly converted. A horrible mistake by Željko Kalac caused Aussie fans a whole lot of stress before Harry Kewell struck late in the game to secure the draw and the point they needed to progress. Good job by the Aussies… Italy is next!