Stokeless in South Africa
Who could have predicted that? In the build up questions were asked about the age of the Italian squad. Lippi responded by pointing out that in a World cup you only need to win seven games. The world champions tepid exit will come as a huge shock. Expectations were low but failing to get out of the group is a disaster. Surely the inclusion of Cassano and Balotelli would have brought some much needed energy. The outcome of the group was particularly suprising because Slovakia had been uninspiring and dull in the first two games. Without wishing to demean Slovakia’s victory it was more about Italian lethargy than any silky Slovakian skills. They got through but Holland don’t have too much to worry about. And remember, my predictions are usually 100% wrong!! New Zealand didn’t quite have the craft to open the Paraguay defence but they can be proud of the achievements. To go out unbeaten is impressive. In years to come the Kiwis will look back on this as a special time in their lives.
For Japan’s first goal Tommy took a slight move to the left as it was being struck and that wrong footed him. That was the beginning of the end of Stoke City’s representation in the tournament. The TV companies will be hoping that doesn’t have a detrimental effect on the viewing figures. Across the globe millions will now turn away from the World Cup. Would Adidas and Macdonalds been so keen to invest so many millions in sponsorship if they had known it’d be Stokeless from the second round onwards? Surely not. Blatter will have some explaining to do. To make it worthwhile the TV cameras will be scanning crowds for Stoke fans in Stoke shirts just to satisfy the hunger of sponsors and get some Stokeness in. Desperate times call for desperate measures.
Another big question that’s been thrown up is about Maradona. Is he becoming normal? Admittedly, he did say Pele should go back to the museum, but in other areas he’s been saying things other, more sane, less unhinged managers say. He’s even said that Brazil were favourites. In itself, this wasn’t a particularly controversial observation but it was a rare moment of chivalry towards the deadly rivals. Hopefully the pressure of the knockout stage will bring around a bit more madness from him.
So we now have one eye on the game against Germany. One difference between this and the other three games is that we won’t be favourites. Given the fragile metal state of our players will that work in our favour? A bit less pressure maybe? Looking back to the 1990 semi David Platt observed that deep down inside, in their heart of hearts, the England players didn’t believe they could win that game. Will we dogged by those doubts on Sunday? It’s in the head.