So far there have been few surprises and only two upsets – although it was massive if you were on the Iberian bandwagon. (Note that The Soccerist made the case against Spain – go back for the read and it explains why the loss against Switzerland is not such a shock). The only anomalies so far have been the draw United States achieved against favored England, the surprising bold play by North Korea, Germany’ loss to Serbia and of course Switzerland upsetting Spain. Maybe the intangibles have been the real story of this world cup. Vuvuzelas, freezing temperatures and a controversial ball has been getting equal headlines. France blamed their loss on those horribly annoying vuvuzela horns that are an African favorite and the English GK blamed Jubalani, the official ball, as the reason for the fluke American goal. But in the coming weeks, the cold will be the real story and we might even see a game played on a snow covered field. It would be a first for world cups but not for soccer. Look out for a bright orange Jubalani ball!! Oh I can just imagine the complaints.
• Rankings are of the top 16 teams since only 16 advance to the second round.
1. Brazil
Brazil is the most prolific world cup team with five titles. They
exude confidence and normally offer a great display of skill. But this is not the usual Brazil. Coach Dunga has them playing Italian style defensive soccer and they lack superstars. Maicon, a defender, is their best player. Where has joga bonito gone? There still dangerous and very few teams have enough to beat them.
2. Argentina
Argentina has an inexperienced diva coach whose more infamous
than famous and he is not quite sure which are the best ten players to accompany Messi. That said, Argentina is loaded with talent. Their second and third squad has an equal chance to win this cup. If they can assemble themselves, few teams can overcome them.
3. Holland
Holland is often overlooked as a serious contender but the Dutch
squad is solid team with a strong defense, a midfield led by super star Sneijder and efficient forwards. These are one of my WC favorites and will get better when Robben returns.
4. Spain
Spain was everyone’s favorite but were upset by the Swiss in their
first showing. The loss may be a good thing for Spain and I think they still have enough talent to go far in the tourney but not win it all. They might meet Brazil in the second round if they finish second in the group. Early upset in the making but who?
5. Germany
Germany started strong on sheer goal production but their main
stars are waning and Australia was not a good measure for the team. Their loss to Serbia was a shock and their not out of the woods yet. Germany is disciplined, methodical team that plays well together but look for them to slide eventually.
6. Chile
Chile achieved their first win in 48 years and coach Bielsa is a very
skilled coach looking to make Chile the world cup dark horse. They now have a chance to win the group but may face Brazil in the second round and their record against Brazil is abysmal.
7. Uruguay
This two time world champion has not reached the late stages of
world cup in almost twenty years but may be en route to change that. Stingy back line and a constant scoring threat in Forlan.
8. Mexico
Their effort and heart is unmatched. Mexico hustles for every ball and
make the most of their opportunities. They are currently second in their group due to goal difference and could climb up the rankings with a win over Uruguay on Tuesday.
9. Paraguay
Off to a fantastic start and lead their group. I think they have good
chance to go to the quarterfinals and even beyond.
10. Portugal
They need more from Ronaldo. Last group game against Brazil
should reveal where they really stand.
11. Italy
Italy is an aging squad that has suffered many injuries of star
players like Pirlo. Tied games and close matches are an Italian trait but not against teams like New Zealand. May exit in the second round.
12. South Korea
Great start for South Korea and may well go on to the second
round. Their speed is amazing and deadly on free kicks. Loss to Argentina could happen to any team in this cup.
13. USA
Americans deserve a higher ranking but Mali referee robbed them
of a win and should be leading their group. I think US advances and has a chance to make it to the quarterfinals.
14. England
England was one my cup favorites to win but have been a
disappointment so far. They will have a chance to redeem themselves against Slovenia.
15. Japan
Balanced team whose only loss was at the hands of Netherlands
That lead the group and ranked third on my list.
16. Ghana
Ghana is the only African nation with a victory and opportunity to
advance to the second round.
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