Happy Canada (World Cup) Day
Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special Canada Day "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.
While most of Canada will be celebrating the country's birthday - some of us hope to be celebrating Portugal's win over England today in the third quarter-final game at the World Cup. Germany surprised some by beating Argentina 4-2 on penalty kicks; the game ended 1-1 after regulation time. The Argentine coach has been crucified in the press for substituting Juan Riquelme (Argentina's best player) and not bringing Argentine wonderkid Lionel Messi into the game - if that leaves you scratching your head, think about this - the coach's last name is "Pekerman". Somehow, I think most Argentine soccer fans would agree that the name fits.
To the surprise of absolutely no one - Italy beat Ukraine by a score of 3-0.
If you have been checking in regularly, you know that I have tried to break down the World Cup for my man DJames in Massachusetts - his brother married into a Portuguese family and my man DJames needs help talking soccer with the inlaws. Going into today's games, no need for a breakdown.
Brazil 2- 0 France - The French have advanced further than they should - it ends this afternoon. The French can't compete with Brazil - they managed to beat Spain, but lightening won't strike twice. Brazil has been winning without any major contributions from Ronaldinho - that all changes today - the best player in the world will show why he is the best player in the world. Brazil jumps out to an early leads and coasts to victory - no repeat of World Cup France 1998.
Portugal 2 - 1 England - Yes I am biased, yes I am counting on Hazel Karma to get our depleted side through this game - but with two very evenly matched teams, I look at heart and strategy. For the purposes of the comparison I submit the following:
- Captains - Portugal's Luis Figo vs England's David Beckham. No contest, Figo is the better player, the better leader, and has heart. The "old man" is going to leave it out on the field today and carry his team to a win...in the face of adversity. He has been one of the best players in the tournament so far.
- Coaching - Portugal's Luis Felipe Scolari vs England's Sven Goran Eriksson. Again, in a one game showdown, I'll take Scolari - he inspires his players to give their best, and they usually respond. Scolari has won a World Cup, Eriksson hasn't. Scolari-led teams have beaten Eriksson-led teams twice in major competition. Scolari has the courage to make difficult substitutions - but they usually pay off. Think the English remember the name Helder Postiga?
Ok gang...I know there is plenty more to discuss today - but I'm sorry, it is all about Portugal and the quarter-final game today. Have a great one gang...keep the maroon and green in your thoughts.
HAZEL'S CANADA DAY HOROSCOPE
What a great day to kick back with those you love. You'll be the proverbial host should you decide to throw a party. Make it an open event and someone will bring a new friend whom you will find most intriguing. 3 stars
Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world...I hope you sneek a peak at the game today, if you aren't planning to watch the game. I hope you are having a groovy weekend!
Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - if you know anything about Portuguese culture and the people, you know what Fado means to us...how is epitomizes who we look at the world. Because the hopes and prayers of a nation (Lusitanos) are with 18 men in Germany...I submit this song:
Ave Maria Fadista - Amalia Rodrigues
Sweet mother of God we have to beat the damn English today...repeat after me Hazel Karma, Hazel Karma, Hazel Karma
Peesth Out...Buh Bye!
posted by Pogue @ 8:55 AM
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