Views From The Armchair - World Cup 2006

"Views From The `Footiemad` Armchair
Diary Of A Tournament
World Cup 2006

Thursday 8th June 2006
"Avoid suspicion, manipulate your friends, and eliminate your enemies." (Film)

During the 2002 Finals, which three nations failed to score any goals?
France, China and Saudi Arabia: Correctly answered by Jim Blair

Prediction Time!

The greatest show on earth kicks off tomorrow, although it would be foolish to believe that every man and his dog are looking forward to it. Take the customer who came into our shop yesterday and took great delight in ramming down my throat what a disgrace the current state of football is and how the England players are a bad influence on today's youth. My reply was building up when he mentioned about cricket being a noble game and how footballers could learn a lot from their willow batted counterparts. I have nothing against cricket at all, however I can't quite understand how Freddie Flintoff's appearance the day after the Ashes win last September could be a plus point for today's kids! Still, that apart, it's prediction time as I make a prat of myself group by group.

Group A: Whilst Germany are not the strong contenders of old, they are the host nation and it would be a major shock if they didn't get past the group stage. My feeling is that they'll sail through on a wave of optimism from the home fans and probably win all three group games. Poland have proved to England often enough in the past that they are no pushovers and I reckon they'll grab second place with outsiders Ecuador and Costa Rica battling each other to pick up any points.

Group B: Another straightforward group on paper and, due to the way the fixtures are out, could well be all over this time next week once England and Sweden have both beaten Paraguay and Trinidad and Tobago. Paraguay will probably cause the European pair a scare or two but that will be it and judging by the warm up games, T&T are the whipping boys of the tournament and will do well to come out of the competition with dignity intact. Two wins from two games for England and Sweden, leaving an effective play off to see who faces Germany in the knock outs.

Group C: There is always a nation in every world cup that captures the imagination of the public and does the unexpected and, if they were in a slightly easier group, I reckon that Serbia and Montenegro could just have been the one. However, their luck was out when they were paired with both Argentina and Holland and whilst they should beat the Ivory Coast, I can see little but two wins for the Dutch and Argentine's, again giving us a final group game play off for places. I have a sneaky feeling for the Dutch in this group with the South American's in second.

Group D: With the two qualifiers from this group likely to face Holland and Argentina in the second round, it's a mouthwatering prospect ahead in the ko's, especially with Portugal looking certain to be one of the pair to go through. Of the other three, I have to go for Mexico as whilst they may be far from home on a different continent which is never easy, I'd be surprised if either Iran or Angola will do anything sensational to upset the apple cart.

Group E: As close to a group of death as we'll get with Italy, the USA and the Czech Republic all fighting for two places. Ghana are my adopted team for the tournament thanks to Tony Yeboah and his Leeds connection, however I'd be pleasantly surprised if they do anything major against any of the other trio. Italy will always be there or thereabouts. Their combination of flair, strong tackling, tactics and tendancy to dive and over-reacted is a potent mix and whilst they are one of two nations that I don't want to win WC2006, I think they'll go very close. Italy to top the group and the USA to pip the Czech's to second place.

Group F: What can you say about holders and favourites Brazil? Not much that hasn't already been cliched a million times apart from three wins from three and top place. Croatia and Croatia B, sorry Australia, will both beat Japan and it could well go down to have many their beat the Asians by and lose to Brazil by. Japan were excellent four years ago but they were the home nation and if they go home with any points, I think they'll have done well. Brazil to sail away at the top and Croatia to pip Australia on goal difference.

Group G: Another group that looks straightforward enough. France were crap four years ago when they sunk without trace and I simply cannot see them flopping in such a dramatic way again. Their biggest, and only, rivals will be Switzerland, however I don't believe they'll cause the 98 winners any huge headaches although they should have enough firepower to beat the likes of South Korea and Togo. The Koreans, much like Japan, were wonderful four years ago, aided by some dodgy refereing and terrible finishing (remember the Italy game!). however miles from home I think they'll struggle and whilst their game against Togo hardly looks like being game of the tournament, it will probably be the only chance for either nation to win points.

Group H: Spain always flatter to deceive at major competitions and although success is long overdue for them - even longer than England's actually - it surely won't be this year either. That said, they should have few problems getting past the group stages with only European counterparts Ukraine looking as though they could pose a threat. Tunisia and Saudi Arabia have both been to the finals before, but are both likely to be on their way home after the group stages are over.

So with all that in mind, my 2nd round line up is as follows:

Germany v Sweden
Holland v Mexico
England v Poland
Portugal v Argentina
Italy v Croatia
France v Ukraine
Brazil v USA
Spain v Switzerland

Let battle commence!

Friday 9th June 2006
"My heart going boom boom boom. "Son," he said "Grab your things, I've come to take you home."" (Song)
Solsbury Hill - Peter Gabriel: Correctly answered by Jim Blair

In 1994, Germany narrowly beat which nation 1-0 in the opening game of the Finals?
Bolivia: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Klose, But No Cigar For Costa! Well, as opening games to World Cup Finals go, this was pretty good wasn't it? Those days of the 70s and 80s that produced drab, goalless draws to kick off tournaments seemed a long way away as Germany and Costa Rica provided some great entertainment, aided by two nations who simply don't know how to defend. Some great goals, especially the first and last strikes, mixed with the odd dive and waving of the imaginary card (both of which should have had yellow cards but didn't) made for an excellent spectacle and whilst there will be more exciting games during WC2006, especially during the knock outs, you wonder if any will be more high scoring. Costa Rica did much as expected and were fairly easy pickings at the back, however up front Paulo Wanchope took advantage of a lax Germany defence that will surely be torn apart by a better team. Germany will argue that a win is a win and quite rightly but hosts or not, they hardly look like a team capable of winning the competition, although this will certainly boost their confidence.

Pole-Axed! Second game and a turn up already as Ecuador scored in each half to see off Poland, who I thought would sail through this group with Germany. In fairness, they dominated the first twenty minutes, but once the South Americans scored, the didn't look like losing the game and when Agustin Delgado tapped in the second with ten minutes to go, then it was over. Or it should have been only for Poland to finally get the kick up the jacksee needed and start to play as they hit the woodwork twice late on. So maybe this `South Americans in Europe` thing isn't so clear cut after all. Delgado was of course the chap who played a handful of games for Southampton in around three years only to disappear without trace. Not good enough for Southampton, but still scores in the biggest tournament in the World.

Saturday 10th June 2006
"Just think about a few names for a second: Bigfoot. Loch Ness. The Abominable Snowman. They all have one thing in common, pal. Banishment! We could be next!" (Film)
Monsters Inc: Correctly answered by kirsty

In Paraguay's opening game in WC2002, which player which Premiership connections scored a stoppage time penalty to deny them a victory?
Quinton Fortune: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Unconvincing, Yet Victorious England: I missed 20 minutes of the first half thanks to an ill-timed keyboard lesson for my daughter. Okay, it's the same time every Saturday but that's besides the point. I did catch the goal which, despite the best efforts of the BBC commentary team, WAS an own goal and all the `Beckham's cross was on target` will surely count for nothing as we've seen counterless such og's over the years and very rarely are they given to the crosser. As I gather, the only surprise was that England weren't further ahead, although I did get back to see the final few minutes of the half and a shot from Valdes that flew just wide. Second half I did manage to see and as it started, it seemed that the heat was affecting England. I mean, it was hot enough walking back from town without being on the pitch in the sunshine. England appeared to relax and allowed Paraguay to have some possession and, more to the point, gain some confidence. With hindsight, it wasn't the best plan in the world and I felt similar when Michael Owen was replaced by Stuart Downing with over half an hour to go. Injured maybe? Not match fit more likely. As the half wore on and Motty edged more and more into nervousness (Owen injured? Too much possession for Paraguay! Some very dodgy decisions from the Vampire-like ref. The lack of (match fit) strikers in the England squad. The state on the pound against the dollar), I could sense another goal, although I wouldn't have liked to have put my money on which team! Ultimately I was wrong and in truth for the final ten minutes, the feeling subsided as the defences seemed to strengthen. I've few doubts that every fan and his dog will pick the bones out of this performance, especially second half, and find all the bad signs and there are a few - mediocre display, failing to build on a sensational opening, sitting too deep for long periods - however lessons will be learnt from these minus points if and when they face better nations than Paraguay which won't be for another week and a half and if you win after not playing well, then it isn't all bad. It's worth mentioning the England bookings finally. Steven Gerrard was yellowed for intent I assume as his challenge made no contact and was largely the sort of tackle that you'd hope for your players to put in. Conversely, Peter Crouch showed total inexperience for `giving a gesture` (which we didnt get to see during the game) after a foul went against him. Hopefully that won't work against him later in the competition.

Sweden Are Turnips: Well this one began like a hare in a Ferrari and among all the fast pace was a clattering tackle from Avery John that will challenge the worst tackles of the tournament and chances at both ends with Sweden having the better. After half an hour or so, the players seemed to realise that going at 100mph all game will soon get you knackered and slowed up, although it remained a decent game despite being the first goalless first half so far. T&T held their own and looked okay during the first half and their half time refreshments were obviously of such a high quality that Avery John wanted more and took just 27 seconds to produce a second crunching tackle of the game and a second yellow card, followed by the obligatory red. Despite the rank outsiders being down to ten men, it remained highly entertaining and I'll bet I wasn't the only thinking `what if?` when sub Cornell Glen smacked a shot against the bar. Thereafter it was exciting stuff as Shaka Hislop stopped everything that Sweden could throw at him whilst the ten men still tried to win the game themselves! All told, easily one of the best goalless draws you'll witness! Finally, spare a thought for T&T keeper Kelvin Jack who was minutes away from starting the game, only to bang his head on the way back to the dressing room after the warm up and was replaced by Shaka Hislop!

Argentina Off The Mark: It had to happen at sometime. Five games into the tournament and we had the first major controversial decision as Roberto Ayala's header for Argentina seemed to go over the line via the post and a fumble from the Ivory Coast keeper before being dragged back. It was a tricky one as it was in midair rather than on the turf but it did look over. It's been said before, but why not use a camera on the line for video evidence? It would take seconds and would not slow the game down. Ultimately it mattered little as the South Americans netted two very different goals before half time with Crespo's scrambled effort and Saviola's lovely little flick. In fairness though, Ivory Coast lived up to their star billing and fully played their part in an entertaining clash which, after the break continued in the same vein, culminating with a late Drogba goal which set up a `will they, won't they?` snatch an equaliser.

Sunday 11th June 2006
"There's an old piano and they play it hot behind the...(Title)" (Song Lyric)
Green Door - Shakin Stevens: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

During the 1978 World Cup, which was the only nation to beat Holland prior to them losing to Argentina in the final?
Scotland: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

The Future's Orange - Just: Eighteen minutes into this game and we witnessed one of the biggest shocks of the competition so far as Arjen Robben burst through, had his shirt pulled, yet DIDN'T fall! Credit to him though as he went onto score well and save Gavrancic from what would have been a clear red card. S&M (no giggling please!) struggled to make an impact before the break but after half time it was a somewhat different story as they took the game to the Dutch and they really deserved a goal and a point. One more plus point from a good game was the booking for Koroman, who was excellent for S&M after coming on before half time, for waving an imaginary card at the referee as he tried to get an opponent booked. About bloody time too! This action is heavily installed into the mentality of too many players and its great to see the officials clamping down.

Bravo Mexico: Hardly a game that stood out in the fixture list as unmissable, however it wasn't half bad as both Mexico and Iran looked to attack. I managed to miss both first half goals for various reasons and for a while after the break, I felt that it was heading for a draw. It took two mistakes in a matter of seconds from the Iran keeper and defender to let Omar Bravo in for his second although it was well created and taken. The third, a fine header, three minutes later was the icing on the cake and capped a decent Mexican performance, although Iran fully played their part.

Portugal Edge It: My Portuguese history isn't great but apparently these two are great rivals with Angola gaining independance from Portugal in 1975. Angola hadfour players sent off when they met on the pitch in 2001 forcing the game to be abandoned, however none of the alleged animosity was evident here. What was evident was that, after five minutes it looked to be a matter of how many Portugal would score after almost netting inside 13 seconds and then actually scoring inside four minutes. That was a false dawn though and the outsiders but it behind them and really made a match of it and it ended much like England's game when an early goal was enough. Finally, great line of commentary from Peter Drury early in the second after the Angolan keeper (who, as David Pleat took great delight in telling us, had the same name as his Portuguese counterpart) missed a punch, Drury said that he'd "made a Horlicks of it!" Not one that I've heard before.

Monday 12th June 2006
"I want him manning a radar tower in Alaska by the end of the day. Just mail him his clothes." (Film Quote)

Australia's previous appearance at the World Cup came in 1974 when they lost to both East and West Germany before earning a goalless draw with which South American nation?

The Late, Late, Aussie Show: Due to circumstances, I only caught around 20 minutes of this one, however I did get to see the open Japan goal which many felt should have been ruled out for a barge on the keeper. But, how about Craig Moore pushing his opponent toward the keeper, resulting in the clash as the ball drifted over his head and in? That aside, three Australian goals in the final six minutes meant that ultimately it was irrelevant.

States In A State: I ad high hopes for the USA prior to this tournament, however at half time against the Czech's, it became blatantly obvious that this was not a patch on the team that wowed us in the opening game four years ago against Portugal. Take nothing away from the European's though as two terrific goals from Jan Koller and Arsenal bound Tomas Rosicky gave them a deserved victory, even though the Americans were slightly improved in the second half, although Rosicky's second - another beauty - put paid to that. I firmly feel that this game would decide who would qualify in second behind Italy. I thought the Americans would do it. I guess I was wrong.

Italy Ease Out Ghana: Eleven games into the tournament and yet another terrific game. We've only really had two duffs ones (England and Portugal) and this was no exception as WC virgins - and my adopted team - Ghana gave a great display against the fancied Italians. My main worry during the first half was that the Ghana keeper seemed intent on tearing off his line to try and collect every corner, making it somewhat ironic when Pirlo scored a stunning strike from a short corner. It was probably deserved as Toni earlier hit the underside of the bar which, much like 1966, didnt go in. Among the usual and expected play acting from the Italians, Ghana had a couple of decent chances in the first half but seemed to get a little too excited when in a good position. The Italians couldn't kill them off though and needed a helping hand from an underhit back pass from Sammy Kuffour to allow Iaquinta a tap in for the second. No surprise as regards the final score but credit to Ghana for at least making a game of it and having arguably the best named player in the competition - Razak Pimpong.

Eleven games in and we've had just one red card and NO penalties! You could have got good odds on that I'll bet.

Tuesday 13th June 2006
"Finding new and preferably disgusting ways to degrade a friend's mother was always held in high regard." (Film Quote)

Prior to today, who was the last person to score for France in a World Cup Finals game?
Emmanuel Petit (98 Final): Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Korean Comeback: This started badly with the heat getting to the organisers who played the Korea national anthem twice before deciding that, in the interests of fair play, they'd better play the Togo version as well. Not only did the repeat playing of the Korean anthem confuse the players, it also threw the cameramen who focused on the Togo players who looked completely flumoxed. Then half the mascots made a break for it as we had a colour version of the Keystone Cops. After that, I missed a good chunk (the school run has a lot to answer for!), Togo defied all their off-pitch problems by starting well and taking a deserved lead but if any game swung on one incident it was this one as Togo's Abalo was shown a second yellow by Graham Poll and from the resulting free kick, the salt was rubbed into Togo's gaping wounds when the equaliser flew in. There was only one winner after that and so it proved as blast from the past, well 2002 anyway, Ahn Jung-Hwan, struck a superb winner. No surprise about the result but Togo would have made a few friends on this display.

France Flop: With so many apparent World Class players on the pitch, France v Switzerland was a bit of a let down for an hour and let me wishing that I could have done the school run during this game. As it was, I started to hoover (yes really!) with 57 minutes on the clock and I just finished in time to catch the Swiss almost scoring with a far post header. Prior to that and indeed after that, emptying the Dyson was as exciting as it had got. If the English media slated their national team after Saturday, then the French counterparts should slaughter their's.

Brazil-iantly Comfortable Well this was a bit of an antidote for the previous turgid affair as Brazil are off the mark in their bid to retain the World Cup. Whilst Kaka's goal was sensational, much of the half time talk was of Ronaldo and how he looked unfit and having little impact. He did have a stinging shot early in the second half that went over but you wonder if he simply doesn't like playing World Cup's in Europe? Croatia looked pretty good and should still ease out Australia for second place and had enough chances in the second half to grab a point against the current holders.

Wednesday 14th June 2006
"I want to be where the sun warms the sky. When it's time for siesta you can watch them go by. Beautiful faces, no cares in this world." (Song)

Who is the only player to feature in three different World Cup Finals (the final itself)?

Spain Slaughter: Whilst most of the newbies have made a decent, but usually losing, debut in this World Cup, Ukraine were probably the most fancied of all the new arrivals, so sods law dictates that they should slump to the heaviest defeat so far in the competition. Having been the first nation to qualify from Europe, they were expected to put up a decent fight against perennial under achievers Spain, however by the 17th minute, two deflected goals had put them two down and a comeback rarely looked likely apparently. I say `apparently` because I only saw the first half an hour thanks to the school run, a hair cut and McDonalds, although I was getting regular updates from the radio in the hairdressers! Now thats a point that's only just occured to me. Whilst in McD's, there was very little on the World Cup apart from a piddle-easy quiz on the side of the drinks and a chance to buy one of 11 mini-kits (or players maybe?) for �1.99 and then `make the whole team` (for almost �22!). There was just music playing. No score updates, no England squad update. Nothing. Strange for one of the main sponsors of the tournament.

Never Judge A Book...: One of my earliest WC memories from my youth was watching Tunisia beat Mexico 3-1, a result which I believe was the first ever win in a Finals for an African nation. I've always had a soft spot for Tunisia since then and it's with that in mind that I was off the sofa when Rahdi Jaidi nodded the stoppage time equaliser against Saudi Arabia. I have nothing against the Saudi's but the Tunisia thing is one of those childhood matters that stays with you. That aside, it was one of those games that, on paper, had little attraction to neutrals but what a cracker it was once the Saudi's decided to make a game of it in the second half. I thought they'd won it when their legend Sami Al Jaber scored a late effort only for Bolton's Jaidi to snatch a point. I loved the spiel from the commentator as soon as the goal went it about how he was the first Bolton player to score in a Finals game since Nat Lofthouse in 1958. I bet he'd been practising that line in his head all game! Great finale to the game though.

Germany Almost Through: If there is a competition for miss of the tournament, then Germany's Miroslav Klose will take some beating with his first half header that he somehow put wide. I seem to recall that he scored a hat trick of headers against the Saudi's in 2002. Germany could have had an unasailable lead by half time against Poland who showed little of the urgency needed to keep them in the competition. It was certainly fast paced as the trend for missing chances continued after the break as frustration threatened to hinder the Germans hopes with even Michael Ballack getting himself booked. The red card to Sobolewski seemed to give the Germans the little boost that they needed although many of them weren't exactly busting a gut to get forward and those that were had a tendancy to drift offside with ease. Then of course came that astonishing sequence when Germany hit the crossbar twice in seconds and then find the net only for that flag to rule it out. Neuville - the offside king - slid the ball into the net a minute later to surely send the Germans through and Poland out, both of which will happen unless Costa Rica win tomorrow. But I did feel sorry for the Poles.

Thursday 15th June 2006
"Oh, you give an asprin a headache, pal!" (Film)

In 1990, Costa Rica famously beat Scotland in the Finals, but which other European nation did they also beat in the group stages?

Ecuador Qualify With Ease: Who would have thought it? Two wins from two games and no goals conceded has put Ecuador through from Group A along with hosts Germany. To be fair, from the minute that Carlos Tenorio netted the first today against Costa Rica then the outcome never looked in doubt. The South Americans were playing with a swagger to their game which belittled their status as group also-rans and I'll be the first to admit that I dismissed them without a thought pre-tournament. They could yet face England in the second round depending on where both nations finish in their groups although the irony here is that Ecuador only need a draw against Germany to top their group. Should be an interesting game.

England Qualify The Hard Way: Okay, before all the inquests begin and how every man and his dog start on how England have serious problems that need to be addressed before their play a stronger nation, the reality check is that they've qualified for the second phase without conceding a goal and with two wins from two games. Fair enough, it took 83 minutes to break down a Trinidad and Tobago team that many, including myself, felt would be walked over during the tournament, however it wasn't as poor a display as Saturday's game and the chances were there throughout. The introduction of Wayne Rooney early in the second half did little to improve the performance apart from the fact that the other players seemed lifted by his appearance, indeed Aaron Lennon had a far better impact on preceedings than Rooney who, not surprisingly, looked rusty. Things may have been different had John Terry not hacked a scrambled effort off the line on half time but I doubt it as England always looked likely to get the goal eventually and ultimately it was left to Liverpool pair Peter Crouch and Steven Gerrard to score trademark winners. A lot could now depend on whether they face Germany or Ecuador in the knock outs, but make no mistake, neither will be easy.

Paraguay Mashed By Swede's: With goals at a premium throughout Group B, I felt at the time that David Pleat's prediction that this game would be a cracker was a tad optimistic and so it proved. The fact that both nations were playing 4-4-2 excited Mr Pleat and whilst it wasn't a poor game, it took a while to really take off. Nerves seemed to be playing a part with, England aside, the group on a knife edge with Paraguay knowing that defeat would send them out. Sweden looked most likely to open the scoring though and came so close when Allback burst through only to be denied by a sensational last second goalline clearance from Caniza. Ultimately it was destined to be interesting but unsatifying until Freddie Ljungberg nodded in late on giving Sweden a glorious chance of going through but you have to feel for Paraguay.

Friday 16th June 2006
"There's that word again; "heavy". Why are things so heavy in the future? Is there a problem with the earth's gravitational pull?" (Film)

Which Argentina player was sent off during WC2002 despite being a non-playing substitute?
Claudio Cannigia: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Argentina In Total Control: On this showing, Argentina are going to take some stopping during this tournament as they effectively had Serbia and Montenegro beaten by half time. The first two goals were a testement to their short passing game with the second - 24 passes we were told - was a reminder of Maradona's pinball passing goal against Greece in 1994. The third owed a lot to a defender who tried to let the ball run over the line when most of us watching on the telly could tell that it simply didn't have enough pace. Another lesson learned as the killer goal went in off the post. I must admit that the second half looked to be dying a death, even after Prem reject Mateja Kezman was sent off, however with me screaming for the South Americans to put on a show against ten men, they duly obliged especially with the arrival from the subs bench of young starlets Carlos Tevez and Lionel Messi both of whom netted excellent goals in the final six minutes. Messi, whose goal made it 6-0 to end the rout, looks remarkably like a young James Herbert and could yet be the young star of the competition.

Anything You Can Do, We Can Do, Just Not As Well: For half an hour of this game it looked to be a matter of `how many` rather than would Holland win. A stunning free kick from Robin Van Persie and a typically clinical finish by Ruud Van Nistelrooy had them cruising until the Ivory Coast hit the bar and then netted through Bakari Kone whose strike was similar to Owen v Argentina in 1998. It left the game on a knife edge at the start of the second half and continued that way throughout with the Africans doing just about everything but score. So, Holland go through with Argentina although before that the pair meet to decide group places. Sadly, the Ivory Coast will go home after their dead leg against Serbia and Montenegro. They'll be missed. I know the referees have been told to clamp down on foul play with bookings and that's largely worked, however I felt that the yellows shown to Didier Drogba and Arjen Robben were a little harsh, although the latters tendancy to go down if someone breathes near him probably was a reputation that went before him.

Angola Delight: I missed a fair batch of this one however I did catch the latter stages as a ten man Angola remarkably held out for a goalless draw against Mexico to actually keep themselves in with a chance of qualifying! Mexico had their chances against an African keeper who would have needed superglue to stay on his line, but didn't convert, giving Angola arguably the best result in their history. And who said that football was predictable.

Saturday 17th June 2006
"Make your move if you want, doesn't mean I will or won't. I'm free to make my mind up you either got it or you don't." (Song)
Single - Natasha Bedingfield: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

In the 1966 Finals, Portugal were 3-0 down to which nation before coming back to win 5-3?
North Korea: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

There's Only One Ronaldo! I missed the first half of this one, although I did come in and put the telly on just as Gary Lineker quipped that it, "Wasn't exactly thrill a minute!" Fair enough, so I'd missed little. That said, for all of Portugal's neat flicks, stepovers and showboating, it took a good old fashioned welly of a shot to finally break down a resolute Iran side. Deco was the scorer of the scorching first time shot and although Iran had chances afterwards, Cristiano Ronaldo doubled the lead with a penalty and celebrated with relief as much as delight. Even with the score goalless, Ronaldo was doing his tricks as though it was 7-0 and you wonder if he's capable of playing any other way. We were also treated to one of the funniest reactions of the tournament as Deco's shoulder high challenge had his own manager wincing in pain! Portugal through, Iran out but boy they made hard work of it.

Ghana Shock Czech's: Was it me or did ITV miss the singing of the national anthems? No concern of mine, although I'm awaiting some do-gooder to claim that the TV are racist against the Czechs and Ghanaians! In fact I was still wondering about it when my adopted team for the competition went ahead with the quickest goal so far, just 67 seconds when Asamoah Gyan fired in. After that the only surprises was that it took Ghana 80 minutes to score again and that this was a pale shadow of the Czech's who steamrollered the Yanks in the first game. Petr Cech was superb in the Czech goal as the Africans seemed to adopt a shoot on sight policy that, sadly for Gyan, worked against him when he took a penalty too quickly and was booked to miss the next game and then hammered it against the post when he did eventually take it. All credit to Ghana for not allowing the Czech's to play and as they face Italy in the final game, could well be on their way home!

"It's Chaos Frankly, Chaos": That was the quote from the commentator just before a remarkble first half came to an end! Two goals, two red cards and enough to keep the studio experts talking for ages. The USA had the better of the first half and I felt were unlucky to go behind to a player who, just minutes earlier had got away with the waving on an imaginary card! Zaccardo's own goal five minutes later was the stuff of high comedy and when De Rossi tried to break Brian McBride's nose with a flayling elbow seconds later, I was positively foaming at the mouth. On first viewing, I thought that Pablo Mastoeni's tackle was worthy of a yellow rather than straight red and that the ref was evening matters up, however from the replays, it was an ankle breaker and the ref was justified. And that was just the first half! As the second started, David Pleat pleaded for cool heads and within two minutes the Americans were down to nine as Eddie Pope went for a second yellow! Add to that Bocenegra almost joining the own goal club by heading against his own bar and the sanity level showed no sign of lowering. My daughter and I then had a bet on how many more reds there would be and whilst neither of us won the bet, plenty more happened apart from dismissals as the Americans had a goal unluckily ruled out. Perotta of Italy was injured but stayed on as a passenger as all three subs were used and Del Piero and Kasey Keller had their own personal duel, ultimately won by the keeper. Amazing game, leaving all four nations in group E still in with a chance to go through.

Sunday 18th June 2006
"I've had three lovers in the past four years, and they all ran a distant second to a good book and a warm bath.." (Film)

In qualification for the 2002 Finals, Australia beat which nation 31-0?
American Samoa: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Croats and Japanese Out In The Afternoon Sun: Well this was an open game between the two Group F nations that lost their opening games and, considering that another defeat would effectively see them out, it was refreshing to see two sides going for it. Croatia are the better side on paper and looked it on the pitch and had the Japanese keeper not made a brilliant save from a penalty, they'd have been ahead at half time. The goalie - Kawaguchi - then showed the other side of his game as he did an Enckleman and allowed a back pass to bobble over his foot and how many of us were willing the ball as it dribbled wide of the post! The heat, once again, probably didn't help matters and it's the only excuse I can make for Yanagisawa who somehow shot wide of an empty net from six yards early in the second half. It was as close as they were to come as the game finished at it began, goalless. Not a result that will do either much good

They Are Human After All: One, or two actually, of the highlights of the first half was Ronaldinho showing us that he can emulate Sunday league players but firstly tripping over his own feet and then next falling over the ball. It was a rare couple of moments in a first half where Australia simply didn't allow Brazil to play and it was to their credit that, just before the break, they looked as likely to find the net as their illustrious opponents. When the goal arrived, it was typically un-Brazil like in that, whilst the finish was tidy, the free-flowing build up wasn't evident, neither was it throughout and in the 40 minutes between the two goals, Australia were deperately unlucky not to equalise. Harry came on and made a difference, not to mention missed a sitter whilst both he and Vidooks were close on seperate occasions. So, Brazil through, albeit unconvincingly, however I wouldn't bet against the Auusies joining them.

Scorpio's Of The World Unite: Prior to this match, Gary Lineker mentioned that the France boss doesn't trust anyone with a Scorpio star sign. If that's true, then you've lost one neutral here sunshine (Guess what sign I am?!). It didn't take France long to deaden any stings from South Korea and when Thierry Henry netted within nine minutes it was their first WC Finals goal on foreign soil since 1986! More should have followed, notably when Vieira's effort was miles over the line before the keeper saved, however the linesman failed to spot it. To say that France were comfortable was an understatement and then up came Park Ji Sung to loop in an equaliser to send the fans, who never stopped singing all game, into raptures. Quite astonishing result, although much will be made of that Vieira goal. Sympathy for the French? Not really, they didn't raise their game in the second half to put it out of sight and paid heavily for it.

Monday 19th June 2006
"Sooner Or Later They Will Find You." (Film Tagline)

Who was the only player to score a hat trick in the 2002 Finals?

Togo Swiss Rolled: I didn't see much of this one, although I did catch both goals which were enough to send Togo out and put the Swiss a draw away from qualifaction to the ko's. Togo should have had at least one penalty, possible two, but all told the Swiss gave France a perfect lesson of how to make it count against supposedly inferior opposition. It might not have been the prettiest game this summer but that will matter little to the Swiss.

Ukraine Fight Back: When Sergei Rebrov unleashed the Ukraine's second goal against the Saudi's today - a shot that sailed in from all of 35 yards, there must have been a few Spurs fans wondering why he didnt do that a bit more often during his time at WHL. Okay, the keeper was hardly the most agile chap in the world but it was some shot nonetheless. To be fair, many felt before the WC began that the Ukraine were likely to be a force to be reckoned with, however after the Spain drubbing, doubts were naturally installed, however two more goals in the second half not only wiped out the goal difference deficit inflicted by Spain, but also gave them a golden chance of getting through.

Spain v Tunisia: After five minutes, it looked as though Spain were on their way to another easy win. Then myself and commentator Jonathon Pearce (and a few others I guess) realised that David Villa's shot had hit the side netting rather than the back of the net and a further three minutes on, Tunisia took a shock lead at half time. Mnari's goal owed as much to poor Spanish defending as it did to good finishing but suddenly the table was on its head! Raul's equaliser was notable not only for the wild celebrations of relief from the Spanish but also for it's similarities to the Tunisia goal in that it was a rebound from an original save. Sods law then dictates that as soon as I go for a pee, another goal should go in and so it came to pass as the keeper went walkies, allowing Torres to round him and clip in the winner, seen by yours truly on the replay!

Tuesday 20th June 2006
"Oh yeah your skin and bones. Turn into something beautiful and you know for you I'd bleed myself dry." (Song)
Yellow - Coldplay: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

During West Germany's WC winning campaign in 1990 which was the only nation that they failed to beat in the Finals (whether it was on penalties or in normal time)?

Germany Top Group A: All over bar the positions in Group A and Germany made no mistake in clinching top place with a resounding win against fellow qualifiers Ecuador. Miloslav Klose hit his second brace of the tournament to go top of the scoring charts and the Germans as a whole looked compact and sharp, although they will face stronger opponents on Saturday whoever they face (Unless Trindad and Tobago do the unlikely) and we'll have a better idea of just how far they could go then. Equally, Ecuador's World Cup looks set for an early end on Sunday when they'll face England or Sweden and whilst they've been further than ever in this WC, it will surely not last any longer than the weekend. At the same time, Poland and Costa Rica did battle to see who would avoid the wooden spoon and price of place, well third place, went to the Poles with a 2-1 in a game that saw nine yellow cards. So much for nothing to play for!

Group B: England and Sweden or Trinidad and Tobago: Anyone who tuned in late to the England match would have missed one of the quickest, if not the quickest, ever substitition in a WC match. Michael Owen twisted his knee within 70 seconds and was stretchered off within four minutes to be replaced by Peter Crouch or `The Robot` as my daughter called him. Not an ideal start by any means, however I thought that England played quite well in the first half, culminating with a superb goal from Joe Cole which, had the likes of Ronaldinho or Rooney scored it, then the media would have been fawning over it for ages. If the end of the opening half was good, the start of the second was on a par to that of the first with Sweden equalising and almost going ahead, hitting the bar twice! Then Rio limping off and amid all was what looked a handball from Jamie Carragher in his area. Still, best to have that sort of luck in a game that means little! Still, saviour of the month Steven Gerrard did what he's good at and eased the nerves late on with a decent header only for Henrik Larsson to write himself in the record books with a last ditch equaliser - or did it come off of Mellberg? England will still face Ecuador in the ko's, however once again they looked unconvincing against semi-decent opposition. As for Owen, it looks like a WC to forget will be a WC that he'll play no further part in.

Wednesday 21st June 2006
"You're a song written by the hands of God. Don't get me wrong cos this might sound to you a bit odd." (Song)
Underneath Your Clothes - Shakira: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

What `problem` delayed the start of the 1978 Final between Argentina and Holland?

Mexico Inch Through: Well, that was an eventful game as Portugal B beat Mexico to top Group D, although the Centra American nation still edge through as Angola could only draw with Iran. I missed most of the first half by which time Portugal had torn into a two goal lead and then done their best to lose it! Even at the start of the second half when `eventful` hardly begins to describe it, Mexico looked the most likely and really should have levelled thanks to a penalty which was harsh in the extreme as the defender slid in to tackle, was beaten by great skill and then landed on the ball with his arm whilst looking in the opposite direction. Justice was done though when Omar Bravo skied his effort, sparking co-commentator Gareth Southgate to quip that he (Southgate) wasn't the best person to advise on penalties! Whilst Southgate isn't the best co-com I've heard, his rapport with Clive Tyldsley is getting better, notably when they mentioned the over-excitable Mexicans outside and at their hotel all night with Tyldsley eventually adding, "So, come on Portugal,". I'll bet `Pedantic From Surrey` has already rung the ITV to moan of bias! That said, they both felt that the red card was harsh, whilst I didn't. Perez went down in the area before even being tackle and his second yellow for diving, sorry, simulation, was no surprise to me. I'm glad to see the Mexicans through as, even with ten men, they always looked capable of scoring, however with Holland or Argentina awaiting them, this may have been their swansong.

Game Of The Tournament? no, not Holland v Argentina, Ivory Coast v Serbia and Montenegro! Sods law dictates that if you expect a quality game, you are usually left disappointed and that's what happened as both Holland and Argentina rested players for a game that neither needed to win as both were through. Subsquently we had a tactical battle of few chances. At the same time on ITV4 the other two nations, both of whom were already out, put on a cracker of a match that had five goals, two penalties and two red cards as the Africans came from two goals down to beat their European counterparts. With hindsight it's easy, but I wonder how many other stuck with the Holland game in expectation? Ultimately, my wife and daughter played a game on `Spot The Ringtone` which I joined in with for an hour or so!

Thursday 22nd June 2006
"You're beautiful and that's for sure. You'll never ever fade. Your lovely, but it's not for sure and i won't ever change." (Song)

In the 1998 Finals, which African nation actually topped their group at the end of the first phase?
Nigeria: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Who've Had Thought It??: No surprise to see Italy top Group E after beating the Czech's 2-0, however how about my adopted nation this WC - Ghana - who took full advantage with a controversial win against the Americans which puts them through in second place. Admittedly I watched the first half of the Italy game with hopes that the Czech's could see them off, however when the opening goal went in it looked unlikely and when Polak was sent off on half time, it looked impossible. Subsequently I spent most of the second half watching Ghana not exactly cling on against the States, with occasional switches back to BBC1 for a quick score check. Ghana have done Africa proud and I'm delighted to see them through. The Americans have not done anything like I'd expected them to, although for some strange reason I've taken a dislike to boss Bruce Arena and can't figure our why. So, whilst the Czech's and the Yanks go home, the Ghana fans can hang around at least until Monday when it looks as though they'll face...Brazil! As my daughter just said to me, "No offence, but Ghana don't stand a chance." I tend to agree. Whilst Pele's prediction that an African nation will win the WC soon could yet materialise, I don't think it will be in Germany 2006.

Aussie Rules: Has there ever been a World Cup game quite like it? Black mark to the BBC for showing the Brazil game, even though they were already through, and avoiding the Australia v Croatia match which was effectively winner take all. It was shoved away on BBC3 and I'm delighted that I chose to watch it instead of the Brazil-Japan game. Twice the Aussies were behind, however they only needed a draw and twice they came back amid missed chances, awful goalkeeping, notably from Mark Schwarzer's deputy for Australia, and then utter chaos at the end as English ref Graham Poll sent a player off from each side and then booked Croatia's Simunic for a second time but failed to show a red! He stayed on only to be booked for a THIRD time in the final seconds and eventually get the red. What would have happened though had Croatia scored inbetween though and gone through? Methinks that Mr Poll may well have reffed his final game in this tourno. Great `edge of the seat` entertainment though and if the knock outs are anything like this, bring em on.

Friday 23rd June 2006
"Sometimes you land a small fish. You unhook him very carefully. You place him back in the water. You set him free so that somebody else can have the pleasure of catching him." (Film)

During the 1982 WC, Scotland managed to score five in a game against which nation?

No problem for Spain or Ukraine: Not much to say about these games as the two favourites went through. I missed almost all of the game due to hospital and food shopping, however no surprises as both won 1-0. Ukraine in particular will be delighted to qualify after being destroyed by Spain in their opening game.

France and Swiss Roll Through: After last night, the last thing the referees union wanted today was more controversy, however it duly arrived as Switzerland beat South Korea 2-0 to send themselves and France, who beat Togo 2-0, through. The `pass` would have been correctly flagged offside by the linesman had it have been made by a Swiss player, however the pass in question was from a defender into the path of Alex Frei who duly ignored the flag and put the ball into the net. The ref did nothing wrong here though! He knew that it was a legal pass and didn't blow his whistle and there lies the crux of the problem in that Frei played to the whistle that, rightly, never arrived. You can understand the annoyance of the Koreans but in truth, the Swiss were the better side after Phillipe Senderos gave blood for the cause with the opening goal. France have stuttered again but at least scored and got through this time although their ko game against Spain should be a belter!

Saturday 24th June 2006
Part of the promotion for which recent horror film included T-shirts with the slogan, " On May 6th, Watch Paris Die."
House Of Wax: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Sweden reached the semi finals in 1994 but against which nation did they race into a 4-0 half time lead?

Germans Through In Swedish Nightmare: This one was all over by half time, or even by the 12th minutes when Lukas Podolski netted his second goal of the match to put the host nation well out of reach. Podolski, whose name always reminds me of the actor from Supernatural who has a similar moniker, was lethal in his finishing as Sweden capitulated before they even had chance to get started. Ex-Leeds loanie Teddy Lucic didn't help with two yellow cards for incidents that would probably have earned him little more than a warning in the Prem and when Henrik Larsson skied a second half penalty, who knew that the Gods of fate were on the Germans side. That's not to say that they needed much luck as they dominated throughout and should have scored far more than the two early strikes. So no shock to see the hosts in the last eight. It remains to be seen how they fare against real quality opposition.

Where Is Graham Poll When You Need Him?: Much like the first game, this was off to an explosive start with two goals in the opening ten minutes, however unlike the first game it continued for the duration as it swung from end to end with chances for both nations with Mexico giving as good as they get. Argentina also had a massive stroke of luck when a clearly carboard Gabby Heinze should have been sent off for a professional foul only to be shown a yellow. Ayala was on the other side of the area and would have needed to be a thoroughbred racehorse to get across after Heinze's mis-control and foul. After a slow start to the second half, it then turned into edge of the seat stuff as either nation could have won it until the final seconds when the officials got another major call wrong when an Argentina goal was ruled out for offside when replays proved he was level. With the golden and silver goal rule gone, we were guaranteed another 30 minutes of tension filled football (and the same time less in bed for yours truly, despite a 3:30am start for work on Sunday!), however it was worth it to see the goal from Rodriguez live! His stunning volley was one of the best goals of any tournament and worthy of winning any game at whatever level. Germany v Argentina in the QF's! Should be a belter! Get your money on 0-0 then.

Sunday 25th June 2006
"But the Devil just grinned and said "I may have sinned, but there's no need to push me around." (Song Lyric)

During the 1998 Finals, which nation had the best goal difference and best goals scored in their group, yet still failed to go through to the knock out phase?
Spain: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

England Make Heavy Weather: In the 37th minute of this one, John Motson mentioned that `neither goalkeeper had been overworked.` How right that was, indeed Paul Robinson probably had more to do than his South American counterpart and, in general, didn't do it that well. Ecuador hit the bar after mistakes from John Terry and indecision from Robinson whilst set pieces from David Beckham were at best, weak and at worst bloody awful. Yes it was hot and they obviously didn't want to use all their energy in the opening half, but, for the neutrals, this was pretty dire after yesterday's fare. After all that, it was no great surprise that the breakthrough came from...a set piece! It has to be said that Beckham's free kick was absolutely inch perfect that could hardly have been placed better. Text book stuff although I musr admit that I thought it had gone wide and behind the goal. Moment of the game came when Wayne Rooney showed incredible close control to keep the ball in, beat his man and set up Lampard whose finish almost endangered the pigeons on top of the stands. I think the primary problem with the build up was that everyone felt Ecuador were there to make up the numbers and I myself predicted 3-0, however the WC is rarely like that and England seemed to make hard work of beating a decent side.

Holland And Portugal Farce: It had to happen didn't it. After 16 days, we had our first real ugly on-field clashes as Portugal and Holland did their best to reduce their collective Christmas card lists. Red and yellow cards were the order of the day though including some yellows that could have been red, including Deco's awful lunge that sparked Sneijder pushing an opponent to the ground and Luis Figo with a headbutt that whilst the Dutchman made a meal of it, it was still a red card offence. Deco's eventual red card, apparently for time wasting, ended a farcial spell when cards were flying around like confetti and disciplinary record books were being scoured. As a spectacle, it was oddly entertaining, especially for England who were watching their QF opponents lose man after man to suspension. Too much play-acting and too little self control but this is not a game that will be easily forgotten. Oh the final score was Portugal 2 reds, 9 yellows, Holland 2 red, 7 yellows.

Monday 26th June 2006
Which recent family blockbuster had a fake working title of The Hundred Year Winter?

Who were the last nation to knock Italy out of a WC Finals in normal time (i.e. not in extra time or on penalties)?

Last Gasp Italy: What a rollercoaster ride that was! For 51 minutes, Italy looked in control against an Australia side that held their own but rarely looked threatening and then in went Marco Materazzi with a lunging tackle and off he went with a straight red card. The commentators seemed to think it was due to it's cynicalness, however in the replay, he had both feet off the ground as he went in, therefore two-footed. In fact the real irony was that, not only did he catch an opponent in full flight, but also a team-mate who did remarkable well to stay on his feet. Had it have been an opponent caught him, he would doubtless be writhing around like a slug in salt for ten minutes. After that, the Aussies stepped things up and had chances, albeit not clear cut, leaving Italy to play on the break when they could. The late penalty, whilst obviously looked for by the Italian, was the kind that had it NOT been given, the experts would have said that they'd seen them given for less. Ultimately Totti smashed home the last kick of the game to send the Aussie's home. As much as I'd liked to have seen Italy crash out, you can but admire how they played with ten men and eventually caught a less experienced international side out with a classic counter-punch. Not a classic, but not another England-Ecuador borefest either.

Ukraine Through On Penalties: Ukraine v Switzerland was not a game that shone on the 2nd Round list of fixtures and it showed. Aside from a three minute spell when both nations hit the bar, this was a game best described as mundane. After a goalless 90 minutes I decided that bed was the best option, a decision justified the following morning when it turned out that it went to penalties where the Swiss still failed to score and went out 3-0. Not a game for the video collection. In fact, the highlight came at half time when the Beeb showed a mini-montage including two female Swedish fans giving each other a peck on the lips and studio guest Leonardo piped up, "All they need is a Brazilian!" The look on Lineker's face was a picture.

Tuesday 27th June 2006
"I have spoke with the tongue of angels. I have held the hand of a devil, it was warm in the night." (Song)

Against which nation did Ronaldo score his first WC Finals goal?
Morocco: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Ronaldo's Record: Brazil v Ghana was a conflict of interest for me as I'd adopted the Africans for the tournament, yet Brazil were one of the two nations that I want to win the cup, Holland being the other! In the end, the result was no great surprise, although the demolition that many expected never materialised despite an early goal for Brazil that gave Ronaldo the WC Finals goalscoring record, beating Gerd Muller's tally on 14 over two tournaments. After that, it was anything but a stroll for them as Ghana had chances and thanks to a combination of steady goalkeeping, poor finishing and blind back luck, they sadly failed to find the net. You could argue that Brazil's second was just offside but in contrast, you could state that they never hit top gear and have rarely done so in the tournament so far. Heaven help Spain or France if they do on Saturday!

France Comeback To Win: Terrific game although one of the defining moments came in the incident that led to Patrik Vieira bundling in his goal as Thierry Henry was caught in the chest by Carlos Puyol and went down clutching his face! Shades of Rivaldo four years ago and in an flash, the image of him as a model pro was shattered. That aside, great entertainment from the chess-like tactical battle to the end to end play at the end of each half. Ultimately, France probably just about deserved their win, earned as they came from behind to a Spanish penalty, although I must admit that I thought Ribery's equaliser was going to be cleared as it didnt seem to have enough power to find the net. Equally, on first viewing, I didnt think it was a penalty only to change my mind on seeing the replay. ZZ's late strike gave the scoreline a flattering look but a breakaway was always on the cards and so it proved. France v Brazil is the highlight of a mouthwatering QF line up.

Friday 30th June 2006
"It's more comfortable for you to label me as insane." (Film)

Which Argentine created history in 1990 by becoming the first player to be sent off in a WC Final?
Pedro Monzon: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

A Game Of Two (Four?) Halves: If ever a game epitomised that clich�, it was this one. After a first half that saw chances in a folder labelled `non-existent`, the second was sparked into life when Roberto Ayala sent home as good a header that you'll see from a corner to sow significant seeds of doubt throughout fans and players of the hosts. That's not to say that both keepers were called into action each minute thereafter, but the play was more stretched, the pace faster and the urgency ultimately of a higher level and it made for a more exciting spectacle. When the Argentinean goalkeeper was replaced, half the run was watching Chelsea-bound Michael Ballack get more and more irritated by the time taken to get him off the pitch, however the change of custodians did little to make any difference apart from send the anger level among the players through the roof as every decision and every roll on the turf from an `injured` player was met with some wonderfully OTT reactions from opponents. Klose's equally good header came moments after Argentina made their final substitution, leaving the South Americans to play the remainder of the game without being able to make personnel changes, something echoed by Germany within minutes, leaving extra time a fitness test for many players, notably Ballack who seemed to spend more time getting treatment than he did playing. Largely though the extra half an hour was a non-event as it often is and it was no surprise to see it go to the lottery of penalties. In truth, you wouldn't bet against Germany in a shoot out and it has to be said, they were absolutely clinical from the spot. Something clearly upset Argentina and Gabby Heinze in the aftermath, however my main disappointment was that having had to endure pics of a manic Diego Maradona after seemingly every Argentina goal in the tournament, why did we not see him in defeat. Or did I miss it?

Italian Cakewalk: This was a bit of a mis-match for 57 minutes. Italy's domination of the first half was restricted to a one goal lead only by their lack of ambition. The goal itself was a cracker but you felt that if they stepped up a gear, they could have had the game wrapped up by half time, especially after Ukraine had made two of their subs by the break. Ironically it took an attack from Ukraine, when they had a shot save and one cleared off the line in a matter of seconds, to jolt Italy back into it and within two minutes, Luca `21 goals in Serie A` Toni had deservedly doubled the lead. Football is a game of What Ifs and had Ukraine scored rather than hit the bar minutes later, then who knows. Ultimately, it was Toni's day as he tapped in his second in ten minutes to finally substantiate a high reputation brought into the competition and send the Ukraine on their way home after what has been a rollercoaster of a tournament for them which started and ended with a hammering.

Saturday 1st July 2006
"Don't need no book of wisdom, I get no money talk at all. She has a train going downtown, she's got a club on the moon." (Song)

In the group matches of the 1986 Finals, both England and Portugal failed to beat which African nation?

No Beckham, No Rooney, No World Cup: The omens weren't good prior to the game when David Beckham was handed a duff mic in which to give his anti-racism speech and the first half rarely raised the level to anything above average. Sure it was nailbiting but that was down to the sheer importance of the game and whilst Portugal's slow, precise build up was a contrast to England `get it forward asap` tact, neither goalkeeper was seriously troubled with both making a couple of routine saves. The booking to John Terry which rules him out of the next game looked harsh, whereas Petit's two-footed lunge on Joe Cole looked lucky to only get a yellow! In fact, most of the first half was spent listening to John "Now Then" Motson whose insistance of raising his voice an octave each time Wayne Rooney got the ball, was amusing. The second half began in the same vein with Cristiano Ronaldo getting nothing for tripping over thin air followed closely by Goldenballs collecting an injury and being replaced by Aaron Lennon and my first thought was that it could be a blessing in disguise for England and it almost proved to be the case as Rooney and Joe Cole both cocked up a great chance set up by the ex-Leeds man, England's best chance of the game to that point. Sadly it all blew up and whilst I'm not a Rooney or England fan, I felt that his red card was amazingly harsh! Yes he stood on the Portugal player, but intentional? I can't see it? Very tough, very unlucky and with the involvement of Ronaldo who was straight to the ref, there will be some interesting discussions in the Man United dressing room when they meet up for the new season! It was there for the taking for Portugal then however England continued to give as good as they got although Robinson did have a couple of saves to make. The substitution of Figo seemed to inspire England and the fairytale finale almost arrived with Lennon and John Terry putting hearts in mouths as they came close to snatching the win before extra time. For all his critics, I thought Peter Crouch did brilliantly to hold the ball up front and help at the back when needed and his pressence did seem to unsettle Portugal especially when he came desperatly close to nodding in at the far post from Gerrard's cross. As a game it was stunningly tense if not of the highest quality and when Motty went into overdrive over a `foul` on Lennon, he saw the replay and recognised it as a superb tackle and when Postiga's header found the net seconds later, we had the opposite! Maniche's last ditch shot over the bar summed up the game as it went to penalties and as anyone knows, this is not their strong point although I would have bet good money against both Lampard and Gerrard missing. But that was that and another penalty shoot out defeat is confined to the history books and the What Ifs will doubtless begin again.

ZZ Tops For France: Despite some lovely moments of skill, notably from Zidane, this one struggled to live up to it's mouthwatering billing. Yes there were chances but none clear cut as both France and Brazil did their best to put on a show with the former probably edging the first half. Then came the goal, clinically dispatched by Thierry Henry, shattering the myth (or is it?) that Zidane has never provided an assist for the Arsenal striker. The game seemed to burst up a gear or two with an own goal almost putting the French two up whilst Brazil, as you'd expect, equally ploughing forward in search of an extension to their reign as WC holders. The three R's all had chances but it wasn't to be as we are set up for an all European SF line up. What odds on that a month ago?

Tuesday 4th July 2006
"You know, that was the hardest part about having to portray you, grinning like an idiot every fifteen minutes." (Film)

Who missed a penalty in the 1982 Final betweeen Italy and (West) Germany?

Late, Late Italian Show: Cup Semi Finals are rarely classics and whilst I didn't enjoy this one as much as the commentators, it was an interesting goalless draw prior to extra time as Italy and Germany battled it out for a place in the final. To be fair to both nations, there was no intention of playing for a draw, however defences were largely on top. I couldn't stay awake for extra time, however did catch it `as live` the following morning and was getting ready for penalties when Italy stunned their hosts. Germany rarely lose on penalties whilst the Italians rarely win (much like England) so really it was no real surprise to see Italy go for it late on and gain the ultimate reward thanks to two excellent goals. David Pleat discribed it as a game for the pureists and I guess that was right but it's not one that I'll be watching repeatedly.

Wednesday 5th July 2006
"I believe that junk food tastes so good because it's bad for you. I believe your parents did the best job they knew how to do." (Song)
Affirmation - Savage Garden: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

When France won on home soil in 1998, against which nation did they win thanks to a `golden goal`?
Paraguay: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Portugal Pay The Penalty Against France: This one started rather well with a shot in the opening minute by the French and ultra-reliable commentator John Moton commiting the cardinal sin of stating that he hoped Cristiano Ronaldo would be the victim of some crunching tackles from his French marker. Indeed the unflappable Motty seemed to take great delight with the constant barracking of Ronaldo by the fans. The first half was largely a tale of two penalties, both correct and both in the favour of France. The first one, given for a trip on Thierry Henry, was expertly dispatched by ZZ and the next, minutes later, was not given as Ronaldo did his flying swan act in the area. It astonishes me why a player so talented feels the need to be such a bloody cheat. France seemed content to sit back a little in the second half but were almost caught out when one of the strangest saves from Barthez was followed by one of the more glaring misses as Luis Figo nodded over from the rebound. For all the tension filled last few minutes, it was summed up for Portugal when Meira blazed over in stoppage time and with it went their chances.

Saturday 8th July 2006
"One Nike gym bag, sixty bucks. One Nokia cell phone, hundred bucks. 1lb semtex, five hundred bucks. One Dirty cop...priceless." (Film)

Portugal came third in 1966, beating which now defunct European nation?

Germany End As They Begun: Usually the 3rd place play off match is one of the best ways to waste the energy of players. The game is of little point or value and few, if any, recall much from the game. However after 2002 gave us some WC history in the 3rd placed game and considering both Portugal and Germany are capable of decent football, I watched it hoping for some `no pressure` entertainment. After 50 minutes I gave up! It was ok but an extra hour in bed seemed a better option. Of course, Sods Law then interveins and when I got up the following day, I discovered that I'd missed four goals! It's a credit to Germany that they've ended with a win though alhough I'm sure they'd rather it had been 24 hours later. It's been an average tournament, especially in the knock outs, although all I've heard about the off-pitch organisation has been top notch so 10 out of 10 for them. Portugal end with galant defeat, although their WC will be remembered as the one where the cheats came home and of course for that Ronaldo incident v England and that game v Holland. Not quite notorious Portugal but not far off!

Sunday 8th July 2006
"You best start believing in ghost stories Miss Turner. You're in one." (Film)
Pirates of the Caribbean: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Excluding shoot outs, who was the last player to score a penalty in a WC Final?
Andreas Brehme: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

ZZ Shame In Italian Job: To say that the Final started unusually was an understatement. Four years ago it took over an hour to get started. Today took five minutes when Malouda when over an anticipated tackle from Materazzi, only the tackle never materalised and he went over thin air. A penalty, but that was only half the story as Zidane tried the coolest of efforts in the biggest game of his career as his chipped effort hit the bar and just, and it was just, went over the line! Never a penalty but just the start it needed! Irony of all ironies twelve minutes later when Materazzi earned revenge with a cracking far post header to put the Italians deservedly level at half time. If France stuttered through the first half, they began the second with all guns blazing and should have had a penalty with Malouda again involved. This time it wasn't given and whilst two wrongs don't make a right, it did balance poor decisions up! The injury to Vieira seemed to spark Italy for a few minutes and when Luca Toni nodded in only to be ruled out for offside, more decisions weew scutinised and although the `scorer` was just on, the player in front of him was marginally off and moving toward the ball, so correct decision this time. It was hugely entertaining for football's biggest ever game as went into extra time with both nations having dominated a half each. France looked brighter in extra time with Ribery shooting inches wide and ZZ's header brilliantly saved, however it was ZZ who made the front pages of tomorrow's papers everywhere with an astonishing headbutt into the chest of Materazzi that, eventually, saw him red carded. What was said or done to spark that remains to be seen (maybe a twisted nipple according to ITV) however ZZ, in his final game, is experienced enough to walk away rather than end his career on such a moment of idiocy. And so to penalties, guaranteed to keep millions of viewers on the edge of their seat and it was no exception with me, although having started wanting France to win, I was glad for the Italians if only to deny ZZ collecting a trophy that he didn't deserve for his crazy moment. Domestically, Italian football is in a mess! Nationally they are World Champions.