Yesterday saw 5 teams in pre-tournament action. Below is a recap of the results and a run-down of today's games:
Australia tied South Africa 1-1 in Sydney, Australia
Australia doubled the amount of shots taken but could only manage 1 goal off a mistake by the South African defence. Some tinkering with the lineup done as Australia will undoubtedly have to do to create more offensive opportunities in Brazil. Have tempered back my criticisms for Australia given the huge challenge they have to face in Group B, with both the finalists from 2010 as well as an offensive powerhouse in Chile.
Russia defeated Slovakia 1-0 in St. Petersburg, Russia
Hardly the most exciting game you'll see, Alexander Kerzhakov's late header was the difference in this one. Russia was content to play a vanilla game, given the circumstances, not willing to overextend themselves and risk injury. This is not uncommon in these games and why I tend to undervalue what occurs. Biggest question for Russia is whether or not they'll remain this kind of vanilla team in Brazil or not. Fortunate in their group draw but potential Round of 16 opponents won't allow them to sit back and pick their spots to attack.
Iran tied Montenegro 0-0 in Hartberg, Austria
Two games down against non-WC teams and still no goals for the Iranians. Montenegro isn't a bad team and certainly gave their qualifying group in Europe problems so hard to tell if Iran should be disappointed or not, but if they want any confidence before the tournament, they have to find a way to get a victory or 2. Will have 2 more chances to do so prior to starting Cup play.
Cameroon defeated Macedonia 2-0 in Kufstein, Austria
A decisive victory for Cameroon but concerning nonetheless. With star forward Samuel Eto'o being rested to nurse injury, Pierre Webo left after injuring his arm scoring the first goal. No word yet on his condition going in to the tournament. Cameroon looked solid throughout this match but they can not afford to take injuries at the forward position, having struggled to manufacture goals all through qualifying.
Belgium defeated Luxembourg 5-1 in Brussels, Belgium
Games such as this are why Belgium are seen as one of the teams no one wants to face. They should their full strength from goalkeeper on out in this game, capped off by a Romelu Lukaku hat trick. Belgium have loads of young talent and an experienced back line to guide them. Performances like this will take them a long way in Brazil.
Today's Games
Japan vs. Cyprus in Saitama, Japan at 6:30 a.m. EDT
France vs. Norway in Paris, France at 3:00 p.m. EDT
USA vs. Azerbaijan in San Francisco, CA, USA at 10:00 p.m. EDT
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