Bad News Bears

With the exception of the wreckage Spain imposed in Belgium this afternoon, today was not my favorite day in the sports world.

To begin, Portugal tied 1-1 with Hungary. Goals came from Nicklas Bentdner (42') for Denmark and Liedson (87') for Portugal. This means that Portugal really has to bite the bullet and win probably all of their remaining matches to qualify for the World Cup. Although I have a passionate dislike for Ronaldo, Deco, and Pepe, I would like to see Portugal in the World Cup next summer. I don't want to exert the energy it would take to find someone to mock as easily as I can mock Ronaldo. He's just too easy. So tough it up, Portugal! They play Hungary twice and then Malta to finish. I hope they pull through. As much as it kills me to say this, Ronaldo, please make something happen out there. 42 goals in a single season shouldn't be going to waste like this.

To add to my joyous day, Argentina lost on their home turf to Brazil! As if I didn't hate them enough for stealing Confed. Cup glory from Spain, now they defeat one of the only two teams I actually care about being in the World Cup! Messi and the Argentinians were handed a 3-1 defeat tonight. Luisao opened the scoring in minute 23, followed by two from Luis Fabiano (33', 66'). Jesus Datolo managed to sink one right before Fabiano's second goal but it wasn't enough to rally Maradona's men.

I was able to watch some of the Argentina game thanks to the wonderful world of online streaming, and I have to say I was not really impressed with Brazilian tactics. The first goal was a lucky shot because Argentinian goalie Julio Cesar has BUTTERFINGERS and couldn't hold onto the ball, placing it nicely in front of Luisao to lay into the far corner. The second goal was the fault of the defense. Fabiano made an impressive run into the 6-yd box and headed the ball right past Ol' Butterfingers. I didn't see the third of Argentina's only because the internet cut out.

What I did see, however, were a lot of cheap shots taken at Messi and Tevez by Brazil. In retrospect I guess I should have expected that. When someone possesses the foot skills that Messi has, there's really no way a defender can legally get the ball away. A cheap shot, like a trip from behind or a late poke, is really the only way to get the ball away. And every time I looked at the screen (I had to watch VA Tech lose to 'Bama in the 4th quarter) Messi was on the ground, as was Tevez. Brazil also had 5 yellow cards to Argentina's 2.

This really depresses me because I want to watch Messi in the World Cup. Either some coaching changes need to take place (sorry, Maradona) or these boys need to realize that they literally can not afford any more losses. I hope that message sinks in. Argentina takes on Paraguay, Uruguay, and Peru in their final 3 matches. They'd better fare better than this disappointing match.

Oh yeah. And the US beat El Salvador 2-1. Goals came from Clint Dempsey (41') and Jozy Altidore (45'). They came from behind (sort of) after a goal from Cristian Castillo in the 32nd minute. Joy. I get to watch our country play next summer. Can't wait.