World Cup 2010: Brazil v. Ivory Coast

Brazil’s first dangerous shot less than one minute in. That is likely to be the first of many. NOnetheless, it’s IC who has the run of play in the opening 15. Nothing super dangerous, but it’s surprising not to see Brazil dominating the time of...

World Cup 2010: Italy v. New Zealand

Good luck, Kiwis. Italy wasn’t sharp in their opening game—meaning, I suppose, that they didn’t flop with the same style as is typical—but that doesn’t mean they’re not a powerhouse and unless New Zealand comes out with a Swiss-style...

World Cup 2010: Slovakia v. Paraguay

All teams in Group have 1 point, so it’s exactly “loser go home” today, but it’s pretty close. Italy and Paraguay were expected to go through, but after the opening ties, it’s anybody’s group. Slovakia, hugely unlucky not to take...