Fabio Capello's turned back after Robert Green's howler said it all. It was a forgettable start to a race that has now just become tougher. A dream start in the 4th min with captain Steven Gerrard combining with Emiel Heskey was perhaps the only silver lining in a dark cloud that hovered around the Three Lions yesterday. The master tactician Capello raised eyebrows when he decided to start with James Milner on the left wing. The raised eyebrows were soon combined with popping eyes when Capello decided to substitute him with Shaun Wright Philips in the 30th min. I guess Joe Cole must have failed to get Mr Capello's coffee on time. Among the other players, Lampard looked clueless and with the absence of a holding midfielder, Donovan and Dempsey were given an open an arena to showcase their prowess. Oguchi Onyewu was rock solid in defence throughout the match. USA looked much more settled and stable throughout the game and though England got chances, none were taken with conviction. Perhaps the most worrying part is that Rooney was completely isolated and did not have one decent chance in the entire match. He was reduced to creating assists which were anyways floundered in the end. Bottom line: The men in white have some serious work to do.
Argentina was also scrappy in their opening match and did not perform like a team expected to go the distance. However, they were good enough to get three points. They threatened a number of times in attack although Gonzalo Higuain must have got wrong studs on, because his finishing was way below commendable. Apart from the three points, I am sure that Argentineans and football lovers’ across the globe were delighted to see Lionel Messi in a league of his own. Although he didn't score, he went past defenders effortlessly in his own inimitable style. Indeed, the 'Little Wizard' deserved a goal! Credit to the Nigerians, they played well, created chances and their goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama put up a stellar display to keep his side in the hunt till the final whistle. Argentina will have to sort out their defence as they face the fast, crafty and now confident South Korea in the next match. South Korea demolished a hapless Greece in their opening match. Though the margin of victory was 2-0 only, it could easily have been a goal fest for the Koreans. The Koreans will be happy with the result, but also aware that the journey ahead is steep and that their next hurdle is Messidona!
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