Group G - Already underway
This one is pretty simple. Brazil play Portugal, which would a be a delicious match-up under normal circumstances, except: (a) they both have a tendency to contract temporary muscle spasms any time an opponent comes within farting distance; and (b) there's not really much for them to play for. Either can lose and still go through. Admittedly, Cote d'Ivoire can tie Portugal for points, but the 7-goal schellacking meted out by the Portuguese to those plucky North Koreans means that CIV has a monstrous goal disadvantage to reverse. Even being group winner doesn't help much, becuase no one knows where you need to be to avoid Spain.
The other match is the Ivory Coast vs. North Korea. This one's basically a complete waste of time. Unless the Africans can score early and often, the jig is up for them. The jig was up for the Koreans about half way through their match with Portugal.
Game to watch: Brazil vs. Portugal
Group H - 1:30pm CDT
Chile have all but booked their place in the next round, but not quite. They play Spain it what should be the group decider, but Spain's dropped bollock against Switzerland means that events can gang up on them. This group is paired with Group G, so first or second doesn't really matter - you're getting Brazil or Portugal one way or another, so it's all about bragging rights at this point. If Chile wins, they top the group. If Span wins, they probably top the group, but it could create a three-way tie on 6 points with Chile, Spain and Switzerland. A tie is good enough for Chile, but that would likely see Spain exit - and they aren't likely to let that happen. Spain was one of the heavily favoured teams, blessed as they are with quality all over the park and lead by perhaps the best goal scorer in the world today, Torres. But they are in danger of going out here, so this game should be a classic.
Cloggers Switzerland have bored fans stupid for more World Cups than I care to think about. They have no ambition, but are well organised defensively and can keep any good team at bay. They even managed to stick one on Spain, which threw everyone's bracket - including mine - down the shitter. They play Honduras who, despite losing twice, can still qualify for the knockout rounds. Of course, to do that, they will have to put a few goals past the Swiss defense - no easy task - and then trust Chile to beat Spain. The Swiss, on the other hand, can profit from one of Chile or Spain fucking up. They are likely to win this game, pushing them to 6 points and forcing Spain to win to hold them off. Goal difference is almost certain to be a factor one way or another, and currently is Chile +2, Spain +1 and Switzerland even. If Chile loses and the Swiss win, they will be at least tied on GD so another goal in the wrong direction for Chile shuttles them to the airport for a flight home. Keep an eye on this group, because even Honduras can tip the balance with an ill-timed consolation goal.
Game to watch: Chile vs. Spain
