World Cup Day 1 Thoughts

Two matches were played on the opening day of the World Cup, both of them featuring the teams in Group A. The hosts South Africa faced Mexico while France and Uruguay met in the nightcap. Let’s get straight to the analysis:

-South Africa sat back in the early moments against Mexico, inviting pressure and getting a feel of just where El Tri would focus its attack. Mexico had plenty of chances in the early going and should have finished at least once. Dos Santos proved to be particularly dangerous, cutting in on his left foot and creating opportunities.

Bafana Bafana gained the advantage on a terrific weighted pass to the feet of Siphiwe Tshabalala (the best name in world football). Tshabalala’s finish was legendary with an inch perfect shot that no keeper in the world could have saved.

The introduction of Andres Guardado for Mexico helped open up the match. His pinpoint passing from a deep-lying midfield role proved to be beneficial. His cross set up the goal for Rafael Marquez.

We also learned that Cuauhtemoc Blanco can no longer cut it on the international level. He looked slow and out of sync after he came on in 69^th minute. Perhaps he should have extended his stay with the Chicago Fire to better prepare for the World Cup.

-Uruguay took notice of the draw in the first match and decided to pack it in and play for the point against France. France’s inability to break down Uruguay’s defense boils down to tactical mistakes on the part of Raymond Domenech.

Bringing on Henry to have a go at the tired Uruguayan defense was the correct decision, but pulling off Ankela was puzzling. Having two forwards could have helped create space, as Ankela would have dragged a man with him. Instead, Henry was forced to create chances against numerous defenders which severely limited his space.

When Malouda came on, Ribbery shifted to a more central role, where he failed miserably. He held on to the ball for far too long instead of getting his head up and trying to find teammates. If there is anything to take away from this game, it is that you can’t breakdown defenses by dribbling when they have parked the bus.

We mentioned the other day the importance of having a defensive midfielder against a team sitting back, and Jeremy Toulalan reinforced that thought. He worked to collect the ball and redistribute, as well tracking back and critically breaking up a chance in the 62^nd minute.

Uruguay left its front three isolated, which forced Diego Forlan into a deeper role. He often worked back into the midfield and much was made over his free kick taking. Uruguay needs Forlan parked in front of the goal, where he does his best work.

-Finally, the referring for both matches today was absolutely fantastic. Hopefully, we see that trend continue throughout the tournament.