Argentina has undoubtedly been the most impressive of the three South American nations still remaining in the World Cup.
The Argentines edged the Ivory Coast in a tight game, then sent shockwaves around the world with a 6-0 humiliation of Serbia and Montenegro.
At the moment they are hot, and eager to continue their winning streak against the Netherlands in their final group game on Wednesday.
A victory would give them reason to start believing this may just be their year.
“I don’t like to talk about candidates. It’s great that we have shown signs of our potential. The team has the characteristics to keep going,” said Argentina manager Jose Pekerman.
The Argentines have played entertaining soccer, and have lived up to expectations so far. They booked a spot in the second round with two outstanding victories, but they still have a long way to go.
They knew their match against the Ivory Coast would be tough and it was. Their two-goal lead going into the break was fundamental for the victory, since even though they couldn’t match the Africans’ strength they were able to use their speed and collective play to unsettle the opponent.
Still, there are things to be corrected. I didn’t like the way Pekerman played defensively in the second half; it meant the Ivory Coast settled in Argentina’s end and came very close to forcing a draw. The positive side is that the Argentines have already faced a difficult side and this should help them for the crucial knockout matches.
No one imagined the clash with Serbia and Montenegro would be so one-sided. Argentina was amazing, totally dominating the Serbs. Some may think they faced a weak side, but I think they would have trampled anybody that day. The Argentines were brilliant; it appeared they had rehearsed almost every move in advance.
A prime example was the second goal, my favorite of the tournament. After Argentina kept possession with more than 20 fine passes, Hernán Crespo expertly back-heeled the ball to substitute Esteban Cambiasso, who culminated the move with an outstanding finish. From then on the match was Argentina’s, and unlike the previous game Pekerman didn’t push-back his side. The introduction of Carlos Tevez and Lionel Messi paid dividends; both found the back of the net, playing some outstanding soccer. If Argentina continues this form it will most definitely win the title.
The clash with the Dutch promises to be the most exciting match of the tournament, with the victor winning the group. Pekerman is likely to make a dozen changes to his side, and while Tevez should start, it seems there is no room for an impatient Messi.
What’s the matter with Brazil?
One can say that Argentina has been the best team in the Cup, but this can not be said about defending World Cup champion Brazil.
Many people, including the great Pele, expected Brazil to ease past its supposedly weak group opponents. But it has been far from easy. The Brazilians have looked ordinary and could have easily lost both matches. I especially couldn’t believe their play against Croatia; Brazil was dominated for huge periods and were fortunate keeper Dida made several fine saves.
The only attacking player who has his ground was goal-scorer Kakà, the rest of the players played well below their potential. Ronaldo and Adriano did little to threaten the Croatian goal, while Ronaldinho was non-existent. But even the best team in the world can have a bad day, right?
In fact let’s make it two bad days, as Brazil’s match against Australia was more of the same. The Brazilians lacked creativity and speed, and their customary individual genius was absent. I did see a slight improvement, but once again Ronaldinho was a non-factor, while Ronaldo and Adriano were a touch livelier than in the opener. Still, the Australians could have easily earned a draw if it wasn’t for some poor finishing.
Brazil must improve if it wants to be a force. Many wonder if the Brazilians have lost their edge; the team looks unorganized and lack that spark we have all come to love. After the victory over Australia, Roberto Carlos said, “We don’t have to thrash teams to win the Cup. With one or two per match we will reach the final.” He may be right, but we all expect much more from the overwhelming favorites.
Having already locked up a spot in the second round, the Brazilians should be more relaxed for Thursday’s clash with Japan. I’m imagining a clear victory with Ronaldo finally scoring — if he isn’t replaced by Robinho, of course.
How far can Ecuador go?
Ecuador demonstrated its depth in its first two matches, scoring five goals and booking its first spot in the second round. Perhaps the biggest surprise of the World Cup so far, Ecuador’s main strength is team unity, thanks in part to the fact that many on the team also play for local club Liga de Quito.
What I particularly liked about their game was their collective play, consistency and effectiveness on the wings. A good showing had definitely given them a huge confidence boost and even led some local journalists to think the title was in their reach.
But on Tuesday Ecuador surely got a reality check in a 3-0 loss to Germany. Ecuador manager Luis Suarez was clearly looking ahead to the round of 16 by making five changes to the side, but he still must have expected a better showing. At least he’s now aware he must reshuffle his side in order to play a more defensive game against the traditional heavyweights.
Having finished second in its group, Ecuador will most likely face England in the next round. It will definitely be a challenge, and you can be certain that the Ecuadorians will look for team unity as their main inspiration, even though the odds are against them.
One can only wait to see how long Ecuador will last, but with the critical part of the competition coming closer you can be assured that this time both Argentina and Brazil will be in with a good shot.
Gregory Sica
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