World Cup: Day 10

Hello Soccer Folk –

A lot of interest in Group C with so many USA and England fans in the pool. The USA clawed back from a two goal deficit against Slovenia to take the lead before the ref took away the final goal without explanation. USA is in the second round if they beat Algeria. England’s 0-0 draw against Algeria puts them in a similar spot as the USA – beat Slovenia to advance.

Interestingly, if England and Slovenia tie 2-2 and USA and Algeria tie 0-0, lots will be drawn to determine who advances. Apparently, a certain ref from Mali will be presiding over the event. In case you hadn’t heard, the birthday of that ref is July 4th if you would like to send him a card.

Group D’s shocker was Serbia’s 1-0 defeat of Germany – only nine of us made this selection in our pool. Ghana and Australia tied 1-1 making the group still very much up for grabs.

In Group E, Holland became the first team to advance with their 1-0 defeat of Japan and Denmark’s 2-1 victory over Cameroon. Cameroon became the first team eliminated. Denmark must beat Japan to advance, Japan advances on a draw in their matchup.

Group F saw the defending champs forced to use their drama skills to get the draw against New Zealand and both teams share the same record after two games. If the Kiwis can somehow pull it out versus Paraguay, they will shockingly advance. Paraguay continued the run of South American countries with a 2-0 victory over Slovakia.

Group G’s second round kicked off with a Brazil victory over Ivory Coast, joining Holland in the 2nd round. After tomorrow, all teams will have played their second games. Look for Spain to not let up against Honduras, as Chile and Switzerland battle to lead Group H.

Quick note on Group B -- as my brother-in-law astutely pointed out, my correction of Nigeria’s chances for qualification was also incorrect. Nigeria only has to win and for Argentina to win to advance. Guess I was still reeling from the US game.

And, in the pool, with three days of soccer since last update, Ben and Isabella are still on top now joined by Isabella’s cousin Jade. These grade schoolers are making it look easy!