Recapping Day 9:
Well, once again we learn the lesson: Vegas sharps know what they’re talking about. As Bry noted, they were all over Costa Rica advancing out of this group, despite being up against three former world champions. And before we even reach the third series of games, the Costa Ricans are through to the knockout stage, thanks to wins over Uruguay and Italy. Now they just need a point vs. a demoralized England team to be assured of winning this group outright. Amazing.
Meanwhile, the French have announced themselves as a true force to be reckoned with in this tournament, as they’ve now outscored their two opponents 8-2 and are all but assured of moving on.
Today’s Games:
Noon: Argentina vs. Iran
3PM: Germany vs. Ghana
6PM: Nigeria vs. Bosnia-Herzegovina
Today’s Drink
Helles Schlenkerla Lagerbier. Like the Weihenstephaner I had earlier in the tournament, this is another Bavarian brew, but a lager this time. According to the website, it’s “lagered in century old caves underneath the historic Schlenkerla brewery and maltings.” I have no idea what that means, but it sounds pretty awesome. Also, its subtle smokiness makes it a unique representative of the classic German lager. Sounds great.
Highlighted Game:
With Spain out, there’s three favorites left: the tournament host, and two teams that take to the field today. Argentina might be up against the single worst team in the tournament, so we won’t say much about that game unless something crazy happens. The Germans, on the other hand, should get a decent test with Ghana.
Germany should control the tempo and possession in this one, but Ghana has the speed and skill in attack to make the Germans pay if they overexpose themselves and push up too far in search of a goal. Asamoah Gyan looked very dangerous vs. the US, and Kevin-Prince Boateng was really good when he came on as a sub. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Boateng starting in this one. I’m sure he wants to, with his brother playing on the other side as a German defender.
