The World Cup entered new waters yesterday, by providing us with a cracker of a game. Originally seen as a walkover for the Brazilians, North Korea battled hard against them in a tight 2-1 contest. Oh yes, only the second time more than two goals have been scored in a game so far this tournament.

It hasn't been pretty. Not pretty at all. We've seen some truley horrible defensive performances so far. But fear not. Spain play today! Hooray, Spain are the Mark Webber of the football world. Not really that good before hand, but then they get their first win and now everything is coming up roses for them. Euro 2008 champions and the favourites for the World Cup, they should be a delight to the tournament.

But before we talk about today, good news! The goals per game ratio is up to 1.64. But, still a bit to catch up to the current worst of 2.24, set by Italia 90 (Thats the one where England got to the semi finals, the late Sir Bobby Robson did his little dance and we realised that we were no good at penalites).

With the amazing improvement of the stats, lets have a look at some more:

  • Already 44 yellow cards have been shown, which counts at 3.66 per game. But this is nothing compared to the 2006 World Cup, where on average 5.39 yellow cards were shown per game.
  • Only one team has yet to get a yellow card, South Korea.
  • Miroslav Klose is now just four goals away from equalling the all time record World Cup goalscorer. Sharing 15 goals with Ronaldo.
  • If the goalscoring rate continues, only 105 goals will be scored. Making it the lowest of any World Cup featuring 32 teams. The lowest ever you ask, 147 in Germany 2006.

The games

Honduras v Chile, Nelspruit, Kickoff: 12:30 GMT+1, ITV1

Lets be honest. This won't be a brilliant match. I can't lie to you, Honduras are one of the weakest teams here. But they do have a player called Welcome, and if that doesn't make the dream team, then nothing will. Chile on the other hand are a handy South American team, finishing second in the qualifying to only a certain team called Brazil. Their fate lies down to Humberto Suazo, if he is fit he should be the key difference between the two teams. The last time Chile won a game in the World Cup however, was in 1962, when they hosted it. The referee, I find interestingly enough, comes from Seychelles.

Key Players: Wilson Palacios (Honduras), Humberto Suazo (Chile)

Spain v Switzerland, Durban Stadium, Kickoff: 15:00 GMT+1, BBC1

Now this is what I call good. Once upon a time Spain used to be a team who choked when it came to the big international events, they even managed to lose to England on penalties. Now though, with Euro 2008 won, they look good, very good. Big name players through the spine of the team, Iker Casillas, Carlos Puyol, Cesc Fabregas, Fernando Torres, Xavi, the list is endless pretty much. Its the strongest squad in the tournament in my book. Switzerland, are a tougher team to call. Despite hosting Euro 2008 they finished dead last, but still beat Portugal. Impressively, in the 2006 World Cup they didn't concede a single goal (Drawing with France 0-0, beating Togo and South Korea 0-0 but lost to Ukraine on penalites after a 0-0 draw). They have less big names in the team however. Should be a comfortable Spanish victory.

Key Players: Cesc Fabregas (Spain), Alexander Frei (Switzerland)

South Africa v Uruguay, Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Kickoff: 19:30 GMT+1, BBC1

And we start all over again back at Group A as the second round of games kick off in Pretoria. Both teams were forced to draws in the last game, and the effect on Uruguay is that red carded Nicolas Lodeiro is suspended for this match. I was disapointed in Uruguay in the last match and surprised by South Africa, this could be a close encounter yet again. I think it will be another draw, sitting on the fence here with 1-1.

Key Players: Siphiwe Tshabalala (South Africa), Diego Forlan (Uruguay)

So, another three games to keep us entertained (or help us if we've had a lack of sleep the night before). I have no idea how these games will pan out, I did predict for a heroic Korean victory last night. I did get the score right at least... So, here's my predictions:

  • Honduras v Chile: 0-1 (zzz)
  • Spain v Switzerland: 3-1 (Goals, hooray)
  • South Africa v Uruguay: 1-1 (Could South Africa do the unthinkable and qualify?)

With that, I should see you in the comments.

320 responses

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 11:04

    Comparing the beautiful Spain to Mark Webber? Noooooo....

    But other than that, a fantastic post! I am hoping for a S. African win though. And more choreographed celebrations. ;)

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 11:05

    I am looking forward to Roger v Rafa.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 11:09

    I am looking forward to Roger v Rafa.

    I wouldn't if I were you. Roger would have an even lesser chance of beating Rafa here. ;)

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 11:10

    I wouldn't if I were you. Roger would have an even lesser chance of beating Rafa here. ;)

    in my head they are somewhere watching it together like BFFs :D

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 11:13

    I wonder if Fernando Alonso will be going to any of Spain's matches? He was there for the Euro final 2 years ago and I can't wait to see more of his reactions.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 11:32

    Ops. Missed the kick off.

  • Pat W16/06/2010 at 11:45

    Nice informative post, RG, I learned lots

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 12:06

    GOAL! Chile strikes!

  • paul16/06/2010 at 12:06

    Goal chile

  • paul16/06/2010 at 12:11

    That was mostly an own goal from Honduras

  • paul16/06/2010 at 12:19

    Hold on, I see RG already has the scores in the post. No need to watch the second half then

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 12:22

    Hold on, I see RG already has the scores in the post. No need to watch the second half then

    :D

    But I think (especially since Honduras isn't nearly as good). this match may actually be a high scoring one. Maybe. ;)

  • paul16/06/2010 at 12:23

    But I think (especially since Honduras isn't nearly as good). this match may actually be a high scoring one. Maybe. ;)

    It has been looking that way

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 12:35

    kick off by chile.

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 12:35

    How has this game been so far?

    Looking forward to Torres and co. later on

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 12:37

    How has this game been so far?

    So-so. Chile looks better though.

    Looking forward to Torres and co. later on

    Everyone is. ;)

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 12:45

    That was a fantastic free kick and a horrid header. Chile wastes another chance to seal this match. :(

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 12:51

    That was unlucky, should've scored.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 12:52

    That was unlucky, should've scored.

    They should have scored many many times before. Hope they don't mess up like Slovakia did.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 12:53

    WHAT? Okay. Honduras are really really lucky.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 13:04

    Offside. :(

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 13:23

    Full time: Honduras 0 Chile 1

    It was... long.

  • Journeyer16/06/2010 at 13:24

    Full time: Honduras 0 Chile 1It was... long.

    Hooray for #psychicRG!

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 13:24

    Hooray for #psychicRG!

    :D

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 13:31

    La Furia Roja!! I see the famous Spain drummer. :D

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 13:34

    Boo for no Fernando Torres in the starting line-up. He looks so lonely walking to the team lockers by himself. :(

  • Nick16/06/2010 at 13:39

    Boo for no Fernando Torres in the starting line-up. He looks so lonely walking to the team lockers by himself. :(

    Aww... poor lonely multi millionaire celebrity footballer! :P

  • Christine16/06/2010 at 13:43

    There are Switzerland substitutes called Wolif and Eggiman. That would be a great crime-fighting duo.

  • Christine16/06/2010 at 13:43

    *Wolfi

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 13:44

    There are Switzerland substitutes called Wolif and Eggiman. That would be a great crime-fighting duo.

    :D

  • me16/06/2010 at 13:44

    what gadgets would they have?

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 13:45

    There are Switzerland substitutes called Wolif and Eggiman. That would be a great crime-fighting duo.

    goo goo g'joob

  • Christine16/06/2010 at 13:48

    what gadgets would they have?

    Erm. A wolf? And an egg.

  • Jon Waldock16/06/2010 at 13:49

    Erm. A wolf? And an egg.

    I fear Eggiman would have got the raw end of that deal ;)

  • Nick16/06/2010 at 13:50

    Erm. A wolf? And an egg.

    they dont seem to be a balanced duo!

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 13:50

    Erm. A wolf? And an egg.

    Sounds good. A bait and a method of travel.

  • Nick16/06/2010 at 13:50

    I fear Eggiman would have got the raw end of that deal ;)

    i hope he wouldnt crack up though jealousy ;)

  • me16/06/2010 at 13:51

    Erm. A wolf? And an egg.

    they dont seem to be a balanced duo!

    :)

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 13:52

    I like that every single ad break during the football I get to see Roger <3

  • Christine16/06/2010 at 13:53

    I fear Eggiman would have got the raw end of that deal ;)

    i hope he wouldnt crack up though jealousy ;)

    Hehe. Hmm. I will rethink my crimefighting plans.

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 13:54

    I'm gonna say 2-0 to Spain

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 13:55

    I do hope Durban will supply more goals. Germany did very well here.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 13:55

    I'm gonna say 2-0 to Spain

    Only? More please!

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 13:55

    ahh, another anthem I know from F1.

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 13:56

    Swiss Davis Cup jackets are better than those ones.

  • Christine16/06/2010 at 13:57

    Lots of them aren't singing. I wouldn't sing either.

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 13:58

    ooh, Pique is out there. I hope he doesn't crash on purpose.

  • Christine16/06/2010 at 13:58

    ooh, Pique is out there. I hope he doesn't crash on purpose.

    Alonso is there too. It could happen.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 13:58

    ahh, another anthem I know from F1.

    :D But the chances of the French meeting the Spaniards aren't high. And Spain probably wouldn't want that to happen either since they have lost to France in big tournaments far too many times.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 13:59

    ooh, Pique is out there. I hope he doesn't crash on purpose.

    Alonso is there too. It could happen.

    :D

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 13:59

    Lots of them aren't singing. I wouldn't sing either.

    I would sing the welsh anthem because it is awesome.

    Also, the Italian one. Even if I was playing against them.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 13:59

    Lots of them aren't singing. I wouldn't sing either.

    I don't think the Spanish national anthem is sung. It has no lyrics that I know of.

  • Christine16/06/2010 at 14:00

    OOOH. There's someone called Huggel? That's a great name.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:00

    KICK OFF!

  • Christine16/06/2010 at 14:00

    Also, the Italian one. Even if I was playing against them.

    :)

  • Christine16/06/2010 at 14:02

    Good lord, that is quite some passing.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:03

    Good lord, that is quite some passing.

    There'll be much more to come.

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 14:03

    Hey all

    Looks like Switzerland plan to press as soon as Spain get to the half way line

  • Nick16/06/2010 at 14:04

    Good lord, that is quite some passing.

    I wonder where Vettel plays in the F1 football team, given that he cant pass... :P

  • me16/06/2010 at 14:04

    Good lord, that is quite some passing.

    I wonder where Vettel plays in the F1 football team, given that he cant pass... :P

    :)

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 14:04

    I wonder where Vettel plays in the F1 football team, given that he cant pass... :P

    I imagine he starts up front and tries to stay there

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 14:04

    I want Spain to score lots just to see Tim's reaction

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:04

    I wonder where Vettel plays in the F1 football team, given that he cant pass... :P

    :(

    But he plays midfield right I think. Along-side Alonso.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:05

    I want Spain to score lots just to see Tim's reaction

    Capitals. Lots Of CAPITALS.

  • Christine16/06/2010 at 14:06

    Beeb commentary: I'll let you know when Switzerland touch the ball, shall I?

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:07

    Commentary: "Goodness me, a misplaced pass by the Spanish team." :D

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 14:08

    Beeb commentary: I'll let you know when Switzerland touch the ball, shall I?

    my tv guy just said "if it carries on like this the Swiss will have to be introduced to the football at half time"

  • me16/06/2010 at 14:08

    Beeb commentary: I'll let you know when Switzerland touch the ball, shall I?

    my tv guy just said "if it carries on like this the Swiss will have to be introduced to the football at half time"

    hahahah!

  • Christine16/06/2010 at 14:09

    My video stopped working, but that's okay. I was only peeking at their passing skills anyways.

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 14:13

    I am way too irritated by the fact that the commentators call some of the players by their full names, but not all of them.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:14

    Bah. Referee is getting in the way for too much.

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 14:14

    Bah. Referee is getting in the way for too much.

    Damn that howard webb.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:17

    ... He should have passed. SERGIO. :(

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 14:18

    uh oh mexican wave

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:20

    uh oh mexican wave

    +1. Not enough crosses into the box. I suspect it is because of the lack of a tall Spanish target AKA Fernando Torres.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:21

    Long shots. :( They need to send on Torres fast. Or at least Llorente. David Villa not holding the front-line well on his own.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:24

    What? No good.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:25

    Referee is not liked.

  • James16/06/2010 at 14:26

    Referee is not liked.

    he's English of course not ;)

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 14:28

    I think I have to be a Torres fan because I am the only person on Livejournal with the interest "Spaniards called Fernando"

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:28

    Sergio! They are not concentrating. :(

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:28

    I think I have to be a Torres fan because I am the only person on Livejournal with the interest "Spaniards called Fernando"

    :D I would be one too.

  • Christine16/06/2010 at 14:29

    Sergio! They are not concentrating. :(

    Spain?

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:29

    Oh yes. A goal now please.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:30

    Spain?

    Yup. But now they are.

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 14:30

    I love the way they all line up. It's like bull rush.

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 14:37

    That was a really clever pass.No-one expected it at that angle

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 14:37

    would someone hurry up and score, do they not know i'm staying up for this?

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 14:38

    That was a really clever pass.No-one expected it at that angle

    "Yes, but they won't expect it if we try that angle an 18th time, will they?"

    Have I missed much?

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 14:38

    would someone hurry up and score, do they not know i'm staying up for this?

    I hope Switzerland don't score. They will just shut up shop

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 14:39

    Have I missed much?

    Lots of Spanish passing

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:39

    would someone hurry up and score, do they not know i'm staying up for this?

    The Spanish are far too short. After plenty of passing no one can get a cross into the box.

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 14:40

    Have I missed much?

    Lots of Spanish passing

    Has it been any good?

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:40

    Has it been any good?

    Top notch.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:40

    Top notch.

    Passing I mean. Game not so much.

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 14:40

    Top notch.

    Passing I mean. Game not so much.

    Oh well...

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 14:41

    The Spanish are far too short. After plenty of passing no one can get a cross into the box.

    thats all jargon to me :D

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 14:41

    We need Spain to score so Switzerland have to come out

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:41

    thats all jargon to me :D

    Basically I mean: Send on Torres for the 2nd half.

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 14:42

    Basically I mean: Send on Torres for the 2nd half.

    so being tall helps in this game too? #justliketennis

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 14:42

    The Spanish are far too short. After plenty of passing no one can get a cross into the box.

    thats all jargon to me :D

    If Peter Crouch was Spanish they would be winning

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:43

    so being tall helps in this game too? #justliketennis

    It helps in that you can reach crosses and head balls much more easily. When they need to do now.

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 14:43

    so being tall helps in this game too? #justliketennis

    For central defenders and strikers being tall is a big help

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 14:43

    It helps in that you can reach crosses and head balls much more easily. When they need to do now.

    and what is a cross? :D

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 14:43

    For central defenders and strikers being tall is a big help

    And goalkeepers

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:43

    If Peter Crouch was Spanish they would be winning

    They have a Torres who much MUCH BETTER. :P

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:44

    and what is a cross? :D

    A kick that goes high from the sides into the box.

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 14:44

    and what is a cross? :D

    When someone lauches the ball to their opponents goal up in the air so some tall guy can head it

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:44

    Why isn't David going for goal there? He must have imagined his strike partner is on the pitch. :(

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 14:44

    When someone lauches the ball to their opponents goal up in the air so some tall guy can head it

    ahh, so like what NZ did :D

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 14:45

    They have a Torres who much MUCH BETTER. :P

    Torres is definitely better than Crouch

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 14:45

    ahh, so like what NZ did :D

    Exactly

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 14:46

    0-0 half time

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 14:47

    How disappointing. Story of the tournament so far ;)

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 14:49

    How disappointing. Story of the tournament so far ;)

    Except for Germany. Punters may be in for a shock here.

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 14:53

    Why are the BBC films about South Africa always so serious?

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:01

    Gotta love tim :D http://twitter.com/JAIMEALGUERSUAR/statuses/16312321502

  • James16/06/2010 at 15:01

    Gotta love tim :D http://twitter…/statuses/16312321502

    thats awesome.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:01
  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:02

    I can't believe they aren't sending on Fernando. Either one. :(

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 15:02

    Gotta love tim :D http://twitter…/statuses/16312321502

    Fail Whale :(

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:03

    From Soccernet Gamecast:

    Stat Attack: Spain have averaged 3.3 goals per game in their last seven group stage matches.

    Where are they now?

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 15:05

    Anyone using the Soccernet iPod App?

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:07

    Deary me!

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:08

    SWITZERLAND!

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:08

    WHAT!!!!! Okay this is going very badly.

  • Pat W16/06/2010 at 15:09

    SWITZERLAND!

    Hm? They can't have scored?

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 15:09

    huh?

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:09

    Hm? They can't have scored?

    They did.

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:09

    Hm? They can't have scored?

    they're 1-0 up :D

  • Christine16/06/2010 at 15:10

    they're 1-0 up :D

    Wow!

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:10

    They need Fernando. NOW.

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:10

    This should get Spain going now surely, especially after their attack before that Swiss goal was really quite dreary stuff

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:11

    I guess that makes it Tim 0-1 Buemi

  • Christine16/06/2010 at 15:11

    I guess that makes it Tim 0-1 Buemi

    Hehe!

  • Pat W16/06/2010 at 15:12

    they're 1-0 up :D

    Craziness! The Soccernet net stats have Spain's possession at nearly 3 quarters

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 15:13

    Missed it. This is going to get interesting

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:13

    That was dangerous from the swiss especially with Pique sliding in and Casillas off his line...

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:16

    Torres is ready to come on for Spain

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:17

    Torres is ready to come on for Spain

    He'd better.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:18

    Fernando's on. LET'S GO!!!

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:18

    Hahaha at that sign

    Torres Please Come to United

    :D

  • RG16/06/2010 at 15:19

    So... great to see Cesc Fabreagas and Alexander Frei playing brilliantly...

    Hey folks

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:19

    Torres Please Come to United

    Not in your lifetime, dear. :P

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:19

    So... great to see Cesc Fabreagas and Alexander Frei playing brilliantly...

    Where? On the sidelines? :P

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 15:20

    So... great to see Cesc Fabreagas and Alexander Frei playing brilliantly...

    Commentator's curse

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:20

    Ooooooh unlucky for Spain

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 15:20

    Where? On the sidelines? :P

    In RG's post as the players to watch

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:20

    Torres is already diving...

  • RG16/06/2010 at 15:20

    Where? On the sidelines? :P

    I mentioned them as my two players to watch.

    Yeah.

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 15:20

    Gelsen Fernandes doesn't sound like a very Swiss name...

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:21

    Torres is already diving...

    Not really. He was looking for a free kick, not a penalty.

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:22

    Not really. He was looking for a free kick, not a penalty.

    I agree.

    By diving.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:22

    By diving.

    :P

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:24

    Oh way miss. :(

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 15:24

    Ball got stuck under Torres's foot

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:26

    Puyol ran over my foot with his car when I went to barcelona (5 years ago), clearly this event is on his mind. I forgive you Mr Puyol.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:26

    Puyol ran over my foot with his car when I went to barcelona (5 years ago), clearly this event is on his mind. I forgive you Mr Puyol.

    :D

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:27

    XABI ALONSO!!!

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:27

    OMG Fernando Alonso!!

    I mean Xabi Torres!

    I mean, I mean... what a shot.

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 15:27

    This is the Spain of old...

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 15:28

    Puyol ran over my foot with his car when I went to barcelona (5 years ago), clearly this event is on his mind. I forgive you Mr Puyol.

    That's an odd way of getting an autograph!

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:28

    OMG Fernando Alonso!!

    I mean Xabi Torres!

    I mean, I mean... what a shot.

    :D F1 messing with your head?

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:28

    This is the Spain of old...

    Old as in 2008? Or older as in 2006?

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:28

    That's an odd way of getting an autograph!

    He was driving out of the stadium's car park and everyone crowded his car, I just kinda got mixed into the crowd.

    He does have quite a head of hair in real life.

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:29

    :D F1 messing with your head?

    Names are silly old things :)

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 15:29

    This is the Spain of old...

    Old as in 2008? Or older as in 2006?

    Older than 2008!

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:30

    Older than 2008!

    But they have already gotten rid of Raul! :(

  • RG16/06/2010 at 15:31

    Switzerland!?!! When did they get replaced by Germany?

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:31

    Switzerland hit the post!!!

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:31

    5 defenders vs. 5 forwards. WHAT?

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:31

    Switzerland!?!! When did they get replaced by Germany?

    Not really. Switzerland isn't playing well, but the Spanish defense is worse.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:32

    Oh no. Andres!

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:33

    Heikki rooting on team Buemi http://twitter.com/H_Kovalainen/statuses/16314873671

  • RG16/06/2010 at 15:33

    Not really. Switzerland isn't playing well, but the Spanish defense is worse.

    Switzerland are playing well, defending just about perfectly, not to bad going forward either.

    This is a good game, whats going on with the World Cup..

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:34

    Switzerland are playing well, defending just about perfectly, not to bad going forward either.

    Not really. Compared to N. Korea, their defense is a lot more packed and less fluid. Going forward is mostly lobs, but the Spanish defense is really really weak.

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:35

    Good shot from Navas

  • RG16/06/2010 at 15:36

    Not really. Compared to N. Korea, their defense is a lot more packed and less fluid. Going forward is mostly lobs, but the Spanish defense is really really weak.

    I think its agreeing to disagree here, I'm finding the Swiss defence playing brilliantly as usual.

    5 WC games in a row without conceding a goal right?

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:37

    I think its agreeing to disagree here, I'm finding the Swiss defence playing brilliantly as usual.

    10-0-0 is not what defense is about, but to each his own.

    5 WC games in a row without conceding a goal right?

    True.

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:37

    Who does Gelson fernandes play for? I recognise his name.

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 15:38

    Who does Gelson fernandes play for? I recognise his name.

    5Live commentator just said Man City

  • RG16/06/2010 at 15:38

    Who does Gelson fernandes play for? I recognise his name.

    Used to play for Man City I just read somewhere.

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:38

    5Live commentator just said Man City

    Ahh that'll be it

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:38

    Spain not bothering with defense. At all.

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:39

    Spain not bothering with defense. At all.

    Really, Carles, it was just a bruise

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 15:40

    Girly man with a good run there...

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:40

    Girly man with a good run there...

    He has cut his girly tresses. :P

  • RG16/06/2010 at 15:41

    Watching Spain is like watching Spurs. 20 odd shots on goal, can't score, keeper plays a blinder, they go up the other end and grab a win.

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 15:41

    FAIL

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:42

    OMG. Like really.

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 15:42

    Come on Suisse!

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:42

    Passing football =/= win. Bosque needs to know that.

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:42

    Get up silly spanish player

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 15:43

    Spain were supposed to walk this group!

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:43

    Come on Suisse!

    Wrong team there. :P

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:43

    Spain were supposed to walk this group!

    Instead they're trying to walk into the goal

    So far failing at both ;)

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:43

    Spain were supposed to walk this group!

    Yup.

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 15:43

    Wrong team there. :P

    I have been calling this Team Roger all night, so it's right in my mind :D

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 15:44

    Instead they're trying to walk into the goal

    thing about Spain, they always try to walk it in.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:45

    Goodness. That should have been a goal. Fernando really needs matches.

  • Christine16/06/2010 at 15:45

    thing about Spain, they always try to walk it in.

    :D

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:45

    thing about Spain, they always try to walk it in.

    hehehehe!

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 15:46

    hehehehe!

    I think this is the perfect opportunity for me to go into work tomorrow and say "did you see that ludicrous display last night?"

  • RG16/06/2010 at 15:47

    5 minutes?!

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 15:47

    5 minutes of added time?

    What did Lord Triesman accuse the Spanish FA of? ;)

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:47

    I think this is the perfect opportunity for me to go into work tomorrow and say "did you see that ludicrous display last night?"

    This is a viable option if the accent is included ;)

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:48

    Eggiman is on.

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:48

    Hahahahah.

    Eggiman. Wasn't he in Sonic?

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 15:48

    This is a viable option if the accent is included ;)

    I'm practising as we speak

  • RG16/06/2010 at 15:48

    What did Lord Triesman accuse the Spanish FA of? ;)

    Love this:

    #WorldCup Five minutes of added time. They really should stop using a dice to decide that.

    http://twitter.com/back_of_the_net/status/16316004168

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 15:48

    Hahahahah.

    Eggiman. Wasn't he in Sonic?

    Dream Team?

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:50

    That was eggy from Eggiman

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 15:50

    I would like this to end because I still haven't decided who I want to win so it's stressful.

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:51

    That guy things he is a puppet

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 15:51

    They don't even look like scoring!

  • Christine16/06/2010 at 15:51

    Eggiman is on.

    Any sign of Wolfi?

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 15:52

    wooooo! I have decided in football I quite like when underdogs win :D

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:52

    Full time: Spain 0 Switzerland 1

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:52

    What a result!!

  • RG16/06/2010 at 15:52

    Wow, if anyone predicted that result they deserve a handshake.

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 15:53

    That's the first big shock of the tournament

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 15:53

    Oh dear! Good job I'm not a betting man.

    Not a great game though...

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 15:53

    how come the ones who aren't on field have to wear silly little Fifa bibs?

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:53

    Not a great game though...

    Seconded.

    Oh dear! Good job I'm not a betting man.

    Heehee.

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 15:53

    oh christ it's 2am. Stupid sport! This was meant to be my sleeping week before Wimbledon!

  • RG16/06/2010 at 15:53

    Not a great game though...

    Second half was good.

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 15:54

    how come the ones who aren't on field have to wear silly little Fifa bibs?

    So they're not confused with those on the field I think...

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:54

    I am starting it here: Bosque to be sacked for not bringing Torres on earlier. At least there were chances after he got on (even if he screwed them).

  • RG16/06/2010 at 15:54

    how come the ones who aren't on field have to wear silly little Fifa bibs?

    So they clearly the subs and not the starting team.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:54

    So they're not confused with those on the field I think...

    Yes.

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 15:54

    I am starting it here: Bosque to be sacked for not bringing Torres on earlier. At least there were chances after he got on (even if he screwed them).

    Torres was crap... way too rusty!

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 15:54

    how come the ones who aren't on field have to wear silly little Fifa bibs?

    Two reasons. First it means they are not in the same colours as the guys on the fiels so don't confuse them or the officials. Secondly they are like a paddock pass so they are allowd to warm up at the side of the pitch

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:55

    Torres was crap... way too rusty!

    Agreed. Navas was a far, far better substitute

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 15:55

    Yes.

    ah, are football fans easily confused?

  • Journeyer16/06/2010 at 15:55

    Wow. Just... wow.

    And they continue their streak of not conceding goals at the WC, them Swiss.

    Spain is in trouble now...

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 15:55

    how come the ones who aren't on field have to wear silly little Fifa bibs?

    Coz bow ties are cool

    Ur, I mean bibs.

  • RG16/06/2010 at 15:55

    And they continue their streak of not conceding goals at the WC, them Swiss.

    6 hours 4 minutes. Not bad at all.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:56

    Torres was crap... way too rusty!

    But he distracted some of the defenders giving Villa more space. Plus you could see Villa was relieved to be able to pass to him after he got subbed on.

    They need a tall target man because plain passing low won't get through the taller defenses.

  • RG16/06/2010 at 15:56

    6 hours 4 minutes. Not bad at all.

    8 hours 4 minutes even.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:58

    Agreed. Navas was a far, far better substitute

    Navas helped stretch the game but his crossing skills needs more practice. Although that may be attributed to the ball too.

    The Jabulani was supposed to help the Spanish passing game, but also caused their crosses to go more wayward then usual. They need taller strikers to compensate.

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 15:58

    They need a tall target man because plain passing low won't get through the taller defenses.

    Spanish people are not tall, my friend! ;)

  • Journeyer16/06/2010 at 15:59

    Spanish people are not tall, my friend! ;)

    Tell that to the Gasols. ;) Oops, wrong sport. :D

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 15:59

    Spanish people are not tall, my friend! ;)

    That is why I kept asking for a Fernando (Torres or Llorente) to be sent on. Would have given them more chances in the 1st half.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 16:01

    The 1st team that failed me is my choice to win the whole thing. SIGH. ;)

  • Amy16/06/2010 at 16:02

    I see a #blamefederer hashtag in my twitter feed :D

  • RG16/06/2010 at 16:03

    Spain had 22 shots overall, the most of any team in one match so far. And still got beat.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 16:05

    I see a #blamefederer hashtag in my twitter feed :D

    Should be #blamebosque by WTH. :P

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 16:05

    I am finding it very amusing that the goal scorer speaks in French while their manager speaks in German. :D

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 16:05

    Yay - a happy South Africa Montage!

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 16:06

    Yay - a happy South Africa Montage!

    Spoke too soon :(

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 16:07

    Yay - a happy South Africa Montage!

    May they bring me joy today. :D

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 16:07

    Yay - a happy South Africa Montage!

    May they bring me joy today. :D

    Yeah I'd love them to win!

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 16:08

    Yeah I'd love them to win!

    Underdog day please! ;)

  • RG16/06/2010 at 16:09

    Underdog day please! ;)

    Surely Honduras would have to have won earlier?

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 16:10

    Surely Honduras would have to have won earlier?

    I think anyone winning in that match = a underdog win. Most were expecting both teams to just not turn up and end with a draw. :P

  • RG16/06/2010 at 16:11

    I think anyone winning in that match = a underdog win. Most were expecting both teams to just not turn up and end with a draw. :P

    Chile finished second in South America Qualifying, one point behind Brazil. They are a very good team and not many people are aware of that.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 16:11

    Okay I may have just switched from my fave to the whole thing to my 2nd fave Germany. #fickleminded

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 16:12

    Chile finished second in South America Qualifying, one point behind Brazil. They are a very good team and not many people are aware of that.

    Key. I expected them to win, but the punters and newspapers here in Singapore didn't.

  • Journeyer16/06/2010 at 16:13

    Chile finished second in South America Qualifying, one point behind Brazil. They are a very good team and not many people are aware of that.

    Key. I expected them to win, but the punters and newspapers here in Singapore didn't.

    Spain can get back into the thick of things if they beat Chile, and they hope Chile will trip up Switzerland...

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 16:14

    Come on Bafana Bafana Bafana Bafana Bafana Bafana Bafana ....

  • RG16/06/2010 at 16:14

    Spain can get back into the thick of things if they beat Chile, and they hope Chile will trip up Switzerland...

    Chile v Switzerland has just got a lot more interesting. I think there is a good chance all three teams could end up with 6 points, which could end in tears for Spain...

  • Journeyer16/06/2010 at 16:15

    Chile v Switzerland has just got a lot more interesting. I think there is a good chance all three teams could end up with 6 points, which could end in tears for Spain...

    Not necessarily. In a 3-way tie, I think the odds are good that Spain will have the best goal difference. Or at least NOT the worst goal difference.

  • RG16/06/2010 at 16:17

    Not necessarily. In a 3-way tie, I think the odds are good that Spain will have the best goal difference. Or at least NOT the worst goal difference.

    Possibly... all depends on how the rest of the games go. I think, poor Honduras, with the way Spain played may be on the wrong side of a heavy defeat.

  • Marilene Riddle16/06/2010 at 16:17

    Not necessarily. In a 3-way tie, I think the odds are good that Spain will have the best goal difference. Or at least NOT the worst goal difference.

    Seconded. But they need to get Fernando in match form badly, or the very profitable Villa-Torres strike pairing will collapse

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 18:20

    Who's watching then?

  • RG16/06/2010 at 18:21

    Who's watching then?

    I shall be here.

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 18:23

    Who's watching then?

    meeeeeee

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 18:25

    I wonder if the significance of the day will boost or hinder South Africa?

  • RG16/06/2010 at 18:30

    I've changed my mind, this game is going to have goals and tons of them

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 18:31

    I've changed my mind, this game is going to have goals and tons of them

    Foorrrlllaaannn

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 18:31

    It would get very interesting if SA win this

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 18:34

    Their change strip from sky blue is white?? That's a bit stupid

  • RG16/06/2010 at 18:38

    He was only 5 yards out from the ball I'd say...

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 18:39

    He was only 5 yards out from the ball I'd say...

    Silly pienaar. wayyyy too early

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 18:49

    Interesting tactical oddity

    If you look at tactical information for this match and choose average position for each team both have all their players on the left side of the field so how do the two teams ever meet

    http://soccernet.espn.go.com/gamecast?id=264033&cc=5739&ver=global

  • Pat W16/06/2010 at 18:52

    I have the game on but will be focussing on the Viva quiz in 40 mins :)

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 18:55

    Good game so far, far better paced than most games we've had

  • RG16/06/2010 at 18:55

    Good game so far, far better paced than most games we've had

    They look like they want to win, which makes a change.

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 18:56

    They look like they want to win, which makes a change.

    I know!

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 18:56

    Forlan

  • RG16/06/2010 at 18:57

    Oh my word what a goal!

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 18:57

    WHAT A GOAL!

  • RG16/06/2010 at 18:57

    Oh, deflected, slightly less oh my word what a goal then

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 19:01

    apparently Forlan loves twitter too

    awesome.

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 19:02

    Oh, deflected, slightly less oh my word what a goal then

    Wicked dip on that thing though...

  • Pat W16/06/2010 at 19:02

    apparently Forlan loves twitter too

    I keep thinking of Fortran when I see the name.

  • RG16/06/2010 at 19:02

    apparently Forlan loves twitter too

    I followed him a few hours ago. I think he was thrilled that I was following him that helped him to score...

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 19:02

    I keep thinking of Fortran when I see the name.

    Does that still exist. I remember hearing about that a very long time ago

  • jpancoast16/06/2010 at 19:04

    Does that still exist. I remember hearing about that a very long time ago

    yes. I think it's Still popular amongst math and engineering folks for high performance computing stuff.

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 19:06

    The difference between Forlan at Man Utd and Forlan now is staggering

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 19:07

    The difference between Forlan at Man Utd and Forlan now is staggering

    It's like Schumacher in reverse

  • RG16/06/2010 at 19:19

    Half time, 1-0 Uruguay. Football is getting better.

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 19:19

    Half time, 1-0 Uruguay. Football is getting better.

    Forlan vs South Africa has been good

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 19:19

    Half time, 1-0 Uruguay. Football is getting better.

    I'm a bit bored by this one. Good goal though...

  • Pat W16/06/2010 at 19:27

    @KarunChandhok

    I'm not really a football fan but thought I would show my F1 team-mates some support & watch today's game -sent them rude messages instead !

  • Pat W16/06/2010 at 19:27

    @KarunChandhok

    I'm not really a football fan but thought I would show my F1 team-mates some support & watch today's game -sent them rude messages instead !

    and

    The spaniards really don't like losing at football !! They are really not happy at HRT F1 today !!

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 19:28

    @KarunChandhok

    I'm not really a football fan but thought I would show my F1 team-mates some support & watch today's game -sent them rude messages instead !

    and

    The spaniards really don't like losing at football !! They are really not happy at HRT F1 today !!

    That's a great way to get the mechanics to give Senna better treatment!

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 19:42

    how did lugano mess that up?

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 19:43

    I wouldn't say either of these teams are playing too well right now...

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 19:45

    There may only be one goal in this, but it feels like we won't see another...

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 19:52

    Ouch. Took his standing leg

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 19:55

    oooooooh best chance of the game for SA...

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 19:55

    oooooooh best chance of the game for SA...

    How is that a corner if it comes off the attackers head? Muppet!

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 20:04

    penalty!

  • RG16/06/2010 at 20:04

    Penalty!! Red its got to be a red.

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 20:05

    It has all gone wrong for the home team now

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 20:07

    Reserve keeper taking his time to put the penalty taker off

  • RG16/06/2010 at 20:08

    Reserve keeper taking his time to put the penalty taker off

    Anything that helps.

  • RG16/06/2010 at 20:09

    He's missed

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 20:09

    Great penalty.

  • RG16/06/2010 at 20:09

    He's missed

    I should stop predicting then...

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 20:09

    I thought that was going over the bar

  • RG16/06/2010 at 20:10

    Forlan becomes the first player to score 2 goals at this World Cup

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 20:10

    Still might be 2-1, just not to the bafana bafana bafana bafana bafana bafana

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 20:11

    Surprised to see fans leaving

  • RubberGoat16/06/2010 at 20:11

    And... They're off...

  • Steven Roy16/06/2010 at 20:17

    That was a bit optimistic

  • RG16/06/2010 at 20:21

    SA need to hope tomorrows match ends in a draw or they are done for.

  • Lukeh16/06/2010 at 20:23

    One more for uruguay

  • RG16/06/2010 at 20:24

    Sweet goal, brilliant for Forlan. Am glad at least one of my players to watch had a good game..