Wednesday, June 14, 2006

where's the cup?

I've been a little lax the past couple of days. I only got up early enough for the 9:00 am game once since the beginning of the World Cup. And I completely missed the first two games today, though I missed very little of Germany versus Poland, and I definitely watched Brazil and Croatia yesterday.

I've probably mentioned not getting to often see international soccer matches, so I really haven't gotten to watch Brazil play very often. Of course we are all aware of Ronaldinho and Ronaldo, but honestly, it doesn't do the Brazilian team justice not to mention them all. I'm not going to, but . . .

I don't know when I've ever seen eleven guys having that much fun on the pitch. They put the ball everywhere it needed to be. They snuck in from nowhere on defense and jogged off with the ball, turning the game constantly back toward the Croatian goal. I absolutely loved Emerson, one of Brazil's midfielders. It's hard to judge his age, but his hair line makes him seem a bit old, especially on the field of such beautiful hair on so many other players. Back to Emerson though, for all his just not quite looking physically like someone you'd expect to see there, he was just as valuable to the team as anyone. I mention him only because he stuck out, and I mention him because he was such a perfect example of the whole team.

Watching Brazil play almost makes me lean toward cheering for them. You can't help but fall in love with these guys after ninety minutes. I'm a good ol' US boy though, and I really expect a hell of a game from them Saturday. We play Italy who are also expected to do well in the World Cup. My second team of choice, behind the US is Mexico. I guess I feel more connected with the Americas than with Europe. Other than England, who I may have mentioned my disdain for, I don't really care either way about the Europeans. Having said that, you can imagine who I'm cheering for tomorrow.

Yes, tomorrow we get to see England again. They are playing Trinidad and Tobago. I enjoyed T&T's first game, so hopefully they'll get their three points tomorrow against the lobster backs. HeeHee, Revolutionary War humor, heehee!

The Boy is on the sofa, having just informed me that he is ready to read. If that's the case, then he's on his way to bed. One nearly down, one in the bath almost ready to go!