World Cup Weekend

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Nine World Cup games and Game 6 of the Stanley Cup to look at - all of them with survival implications. Three teams have already had their fates sealed at the World Cup - Costa Rica, Poland and Paraguay (my dark horse in Group B) by virtue of starting off with two losses, are making plans to head home after their next game - "Playing for pride", isn't that the saying? No word from DJames on whether or not the inlaws were impressed with his insight into this year's tournament.

On to the games -

Argentina 2 - 0 Serbia & Montenegro - it comes down to having the ability to create and score, the Argentines do and Serbia & Montenegro doesn't. While the Serbs held Holland at bay for most of the game, Argentina features more pure goal scorers; and in Riquelme, a creator who can penetrate that wall and provide Crespo and Messi with opportunities at goal. Mateja Kezman isn't quite ready for the world stage just yet.

Holland 2 - 1 Ivory Coast - Hup Hup Holland, or "If it ain't Dutch - it ain't much" if you prefer. Ruud Van Nistelrooy was quiet in game 1, I expect him to wake up and score at least one today. Robben runs right at the Ivory Coast to create holes and opportunities.

Mexico 2 - 0 Angola - Angola left it all on the field against Portugal - Mexico looks to stay in first, setting up a game 3 showdown against Portugal.

Portugal 3 - 1 Iran - the 1st game jitters are over, time to show the world that we are serious about a run at the finals. Figo scores in this one, and Cristiano Ronaldo and Deco show the world that they will be factors in this tournament.

Ghana 1 - 2 Czech Republic - Ghana came close to scoring against Italy, so I think they get one against the Czechs. The Czechs are banged up at the striker position, but that midfield of theirs will control the game.

Italy 2 - 0 United States - Italy doesn't want to play Brazil in round of 16, they beat the U.S setting up a game 3 matchup with implications against the Czechs. U.S. forward Eddie Johnson said the World Cup was like going to war - I won't get into how wrong that is...but I'll say, prepare to surrender Eddie, the war is over tomorrow.

Japan 0 - 2 Croatia - the Croats need this win if they are going to advance, and they will. Japan got a controversial goal against the Aussies, they won't be so lucky this time.

Brazil 3 - 0 Australia - Ronaldo is sick, but Brazil still has Ronaldinho, Kaka, Adriano and company. Australia finds out what it is like to play against the big boys - they won't like it.

France 2 - 1 South Korea - Both teams disappointed in the first round, France needs the win to avoid Spain in the round of 16. South Korea will find out that France is a little tougher than Togo.

That's it for the weekend's games.

Last but not least, I'm calling on the Oilers to force a game 7 with a win on Saturday night against the Canes. For the first time in the playoffs, the Canes are a little banged up and shaken.
Edmonton wins 4 - 2 with the re-emergence of Ryan Smith and Horcoff.

I'm out for the weekend peeps...bachelor party in the mountains - golf, beer, steak and the World Cup...GO PORTUGAL!

HAZEL'S FRIDAY HOROSCOPE
Don't waste time; make today count. Offer your services or time to someone or something you believe in. The contributions you make will help you out in the future. 4 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world - have a great weekend!

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - for tomorrow's game against Iran...the unofficial national anthem

Uma Casa Portugesa - Amalia Rodrigues

Uma promesso de beijos
Dois brassos a minha espera
A uma casa Portugesa com certeza
A com certeza uma casa Portugesa

Peesth Out...Buh Bye (til Sunday!!!)