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I personally still feel like I was playing the Italians the other night–alone, but I’m slowly getting the bearings back.

Germany still has theirs, obviously, thrashing the overmatched Ecuadoreans 3-0. The match was never in doubt, since they made up the schedules.

For now, the Germans seem to have patched up their leaky defense. We’ll have to see if it continues to hold against stronger competition.

In the battle of also rans, Poland managed to rescue just a smidgen of pride by beating Costa Rica 2-1. Anyone bother to watch it?

If I was a neutral, I suppose I’d be hoping England finish second in their group later today. That would set them up against Germany in the next round in what would be sure to be a great match. But, I’m not. I’d rather England advance easily, than entertainingly for now, thanks very much. I’ll rely on the US for the epic battles.

Unfortunately, I won’t be able to catch the England/Sweden match live today. Life’s not fair sometimes. At least there’s Tivo.

Everyone is fretting about Ronaldo, but the Brazilians have everything under control. Their 2-0 victory over Australia has assured their place in the second round. Ronaldo didn’t score and he missed badly on an easy chance, but he had a great assist on one of the Brazilian goals.

Meanwhile, France might face another early exit after only managing a 1-1 tie with Korea.

Portugal are through after beating a very average Iran team 2-0. Iran actually hasn’t looked that bad in their two losses, but the promise of millions and their own villas from their dodgy president wasn’t enough incentive to get them out of the group stage.

Portugal, in their best imitation of England–loads of talent and still no offense, will advance. Or maybe they’re just imitating themselves. At any rate, they’ve only earned the privilege to be fodder for Group C anyway.

Pretty boy, Christiano Ronaldo, actually looked useful at times rather than just showing off. It’s Figo’s presence on the pitch that’s making the difference so far, though. Deco was the star today, but this team will only go as far as the old man takes them. They should be better, but they’re not. Loaded with guns. A great coach.

Two more matches to play, and they can head for the beach–that seems to be what they’re thinking.

Mexico might have looked the more dangerous side, but things ended 0-0, as Angola attempt to salvage some African pride. I’m still hoping they manage to get through over the overrated Mexicans.

I just can’t warm to that team. I see nothing.

Surely, one African team must advance. Isn’t it in the rules?