World Cup Final recap:

A great game. Both teams were evenly matched and Zidane was a deciding factor for France. His ejection after a classless headbutt hurt the team not only in ability by in spirit.

Even the French coach said:

"Yes, well, he was missed in the last 20 minutes tonight. It weighed heavily in the outcome."


Trezeguet's heartbreaking shot to the crossbar (and it was a missile) broke the French team.

Italy played well but were on the defensive more often than not. Either by design or a reaction to the faster game the French team was pushing as evidenced by their early goal. Whatever the reason, they kissing the trophy when all was said and done.


Third Place Game Portugal v. Germany

Portugal was absolutely manhandled by Germany. Klose wasn't as strong as in previous games but Schwiensteiger was in top form. Two goals and endless stamina had Portugal reeling from first touch.



Team USA: Where do we go from here?

Retire Bruce Arena. He was an excellent player but a medocre coach. His endless meddling with the roster and positioning made it impossible for the team to find a rythm.

Reyna announced his retirement from international play shortly after they packed for home and perhaps that's for the best. The US needs to increase soccer's profile domestically if we ever have a hope of producing a Cup winning team. Soccer has been increasing in popularity over baseball for a decade. Something which George Will bemoans from time to time. However, it's viewed as a sport one plays, not watches. Like an inverse of baseball which everyone watches but nobody plays.

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