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Saturday, June 24, 2006
Scouting the Sweet 16
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Enough pouting about FC Yanks, with this final exception that sums up how a lot of us feel. Right on the money, something Donovan was not in the World Cup.
And kudos to Claudio Reyna, who has called it an international career but said he will continue his club career in England. Landon, are you paying attention?
The group games were terrific, for the most part, so how much better can the knockout stages be? Even better, if some of the matchups live up to their billing. Here’s a schedule of events.
The Germans start off with the Swedes feeling pretty elated by all that Klinsi has done for them, but it could be end of the line rather harshly if the result doesn’t follow an easy slate of group victories for the hosts.
Later Saturday, Mexico plays Argentina, which might well be the end of the line for CONCACAF. The Argies have better than anybody, and although Borgetti is slated to return for Mexico, there’s a lot of firepower to counter.
On Sunday, Off the Ball wants to see England fans suffer in the Ecuador game, regardless of result. Especially with Sven supposedly offering up yet another formation — a 4-5-1. Has he been talking to Bruce?
The Dutch and Portuguese also square off Sunday, with both games consisting of a mini group of death, given the matchups.
Italy seems like and overwhelming favorite against Australia, but Guus Hiddink’s men didn’t give Brazil a half-bad effort in group play. Switz vs. Ukraine? Toss up.
Brazil ought to bring Ghana back down to earth, and France vs. Spain on Monday could be the end for Zinedine Zidane, who was given a reprieve after watching Les Bleus beat Togo Friday to advance. Don’t see his side being able to counter a hot-looking Spanish side, Friday’s blah-blah effort against the Saudis aside.
The quarters look even more mouth-watering: Off the Ball thinks it will be Germany vs. Argentina; Italy vs. Ukraine; England vs. Holland; and Brazil vs. Spain.
And here’s the Final Four: Argentina vs. Italy; Holland vs. Brazil.
Yes, the prospect of a South American final looms, but I’ll hold off making a predix until we get closer.
