Leavin' on a jet plane (This song's for you Togo)

Well, whaddya know? Togo actually decided to play their game against Switzerland this morning. It wasn't looking good for awhile there, as they continually threatened to boycott the games and turn the whole tournament on its ear if they actually withdrew from the competition. Fortunately, FIFA steps up to the plate and takes care of things, for the most part. Then they go out and get eliminated w/ a 2-0 loss. Sorry, I know the underdogs tend to be the fan favorites early on in the tournament, but not these clowns. This is their first appearance, it's over just like that, and hopefully we won't have to hear from Togo anytime in the next several World Cups. Good riddance!

So, w/ a win, that Switzerland/Korea matchup becomes VERY interesting. France SHOULD beat Togo, and 5 points SHOULD get them through, leaving the former 2 teams fighting for that last spot. A draw would send the Swiss through as the result of a better goal differential. Friday afternoon should be interesting.

And yes, thank you, Ukraine, for showing up today and putting a whuppin' on Saudi Arabia 4-0. got a ton of fantasy points from Mr. Shevchenko, which keeps me near the top of the Washington Post fantasy challenge. Seriously, I think this team played as badly in their first game as the U.S. against the Czechs. And, like the U.S., played a MUCH better 2nd game (although I wish the U.S. could have played the Saudis rather than Italy). Still, 4 goals puts the Ukrainians back at a "0" goal diff, which again could decide the final group standings. Probably not, though, unless they lose to Tunisia on Friday.

Which is not entirely out of the realm of possibilities after watching this team give Spain all they could handle. The Spanish gave up the early goal, and were frustrated through large portions of the match by the disciplined and organized Tunisian defense, but once they finally broke through and got level at 1-1, the flood gates opened. This was big for Spain because they showed they could come back, as well as keep their composure. I still think this team is going to go far.

I'll give Shevchenko and Rebrov the advantage on matchday 3 in the group, but wouldn't be stunned if Tunisia pulled off the upset.

That's all for today. See you tomorrow.