The first couple of games were Mexico vs. Uruguay, and France vs. South Africa. They were played simultaneously, so I shall blog them simultaneously! It was first blood to SA, when Bongani Khumalo put the ball in the French net, and the dream was on. It was made even better when Yoann Gourcuff was sent off for France, which was quickly followed up by another goal from Katlego Mphela to give them a 2-0 lead at the break. Just before the break, however, Uruguay had gone 1 up through a beautiful Luis Suarez header, and that was how the games stayed until the 70th minute, when Florent Malouda spoilt the fun and pulled one back for France. The games stayed that way,which means Uruguay and Mexico progress, with South Africa 3rd and France rock bottom. Rightfully so if you're Irish and you are still feeling aggrieved after THAT incident. Highlights are available here for both Mexico vs. Uruguay and France vs. South Africa.
The next games finished off Group B, with matches between Nigeria and the Korea Republic, and Greece vs. Argentina. With Argentina already 3 points ahead of the other teams, they looked certain to progress, but the rest was all to play for. A Kalu Uche goal put Nigeria ahead, but after 38 minutes, Lee Jung-Soo scored a brilliant goal to pull it level. The South Koreans then went in front after a tremendous free-kick from Park Chu-Young, which brought half time. In the other game, Argentina were battering Greece, with Lionel Messi, the captain of the evening, proving why he is the best football player potentially ever. After 70 minutes, Yakubu converted a Nigerian penalty to bring it to 2-2, after a brilliant bit of chopping from the Korean defence. Argentina then began to put their attacking force into line, with a smash-in from Martin Demichelis with 10 minutes to go, and then a Messi-created tap-in for Martin Palermo. Juan Sebastian Veron played the best game I've ever seen him play, and Messi was just a maestro in the team. Both games finished 2-2 and 2-0 respectively, which means Argentina progress as group winners, and the Korea Republic go through as runners-up. Nigeria vs. Korea Republic highlights can be found here with Greece vs. Argentina highlights found here.
Knockout Round
Uruguay vs. Korea Republic
Argentina vs. Mexico
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