Wednesday, June 21, 2006

World Cup: Group stage finishing up this week (part 1)

Yesterday: In order to make it to the round of 16, Trinidad and Tobago needed to beat Paraguay and hope for England to win over Sweden for the first time in 38 years. Alas, neither scenario occurred as Paraguay won 2-0 and Sweden came back twice to tie 2-2. Entering yesterday’s game, the “Guaranis” were eliminated from further contention yet opened the scoring in the 25th minute when Trinidad’s Brent Sancho accidentally knocked the ball into his own net. The Paraguayan squad was pleased to finish their campaign with a win and is already looking forward to qualifying for the 2010 World Cup, while the “Soca Warriors” exceeded most expectations.

Ecuador succumbed to Germany 3-0 though both countries made it through to the next round. The Germans finished with a perfect record of 3 wins in 3 games for the first time since 1970 and took full advantage of Ecuador coach’s decision to rest several starters. The team still performed below average and will have to improve if they want to beat England this weekend.

Costa Rica finished a disappointing World Cup campaign after losing to Poland 2-1. The “ticos” scored first via a Ronald Gomez free kick, yet the team finished on the losing end without getting points in the tournament. Fans displeased with Costa Rica’s performance have called for their coach to be fired, which may happen soon.

Today (morning): Mexico kicks off its final group match against Portugal at 9:55am knowing that at least a tie can get Mexico through to the next round. Such a task will be difficult, however, since Portugal has yet to lose and “el Tri” will again have to play without striker Jared Borguetti.

Tune in this later when we preview this afternoon’s Argentina-Netherlands game as well as tomorrow’s matches featuring Brazil and the U.S.

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