June 28, 2006
World Cup 2006: Day 19 - Round of 16
Brazil beat Ghana but not as conclusively as the scoreline suggests, and France come back to beat Spain (and joy of joys: ‘Zizou’ is looking world-class once more!)
Brazil 3 Ghana 0
Ghana were the better team for most of the match - unfortunately, as with a few teams at this World Cup, their finishing seriously let them down.
Brazil were slightly off again for this match, but this was down to a combination of the Ghanaians pressing, and the loss of Robinho to injury (they replaced him with Adriano). Ronaldo looked to have improved once again, and broke the World Cup goalscoring record when he threw the ‘keeper a dummy and slotted the ball into the net after 5 minutes (Adriano had a similar chance a few minutes later, except he took a dive when he lost control of the ball near the goalkeeper).
Ghana’s defenders decided to push up, and it was this, combined with their wasted chances, that led to Brazil getting the better of them - nearly every time the Brazilians launched a counter-attack, they were able to play a ball into the wide-open spaces behind the defensive line.
Ghana should be reasonably pleased with their performance. Their attitude was excellent and they played with complete confidence throughout. If they can get the defence sorted out (i.e. not playing an offside trap with a flat defensive line) and remain calm and clear-headed in front of goal, then other teams will definitely have to watch out!
Brazil? Well, if they get Robinho fit and play him from the start…
Spain 1 France 3
An absolutely enthralling match. France appear to be returning to form, Makelele, Vieira and Ribery all performing excellently, but it’s Zidane who really looks like his old self! He was all over the pitch, prompting, probing, and dribbling the ball - he really looks as though he’s regained his enthusiasm once more. Henry still looks a little unsure, but with performances like those from ‘the maestro’ and Vieira, he should soon be able to start flying!
Spain continued with their lovely passing game, but as time went on, they seemed as though they might be running out of ideas a little (perhaps I’m being a little harsh - I was just so pleased to see Zidane back to something approaching his best!!)
Not too much to say on this - it was just a superb match to watch. This World Cup seems to have had more top quality matches than any other I can remember!
