Soccer Madness in Germany
*This post comes from Austinist Special World Cup Correspondent Ben Gardner, Co-Host of KOOP’s SoccerMad, who is in Germany for this year’s Cup.*
The world cup is incredible! Here in Deutschland, everyone is sick with cup fever. The VeltMeisterShaft is on every television, in every bar, and the German flag hangs in every window. Now is the time when the tournament really gets going. As we begin the final round of group matches, every match takes on much greater importance, as teams will be eliminated every day.
So far, so good for most of the usual suspects. Argentina look like they're primed to lift their third world cup, after dismantling a solid Serbian team 6-0. Along with their outrageous talent, the Argentinian team is deep. This could help them as they progress through the late rounds. Brazil seem like they are on cruise control after a couple of lackluster performances. They're doing enough to win so far, but their luck may run out in the next round, as they will face a tough opponent, perhaps Italy or Ghana. The U.S. may have something to say about that. Their gritty performance against Italy was inspiring. Next, they get a rejuvenated Ghana side that clobbered the Czech Republic. Schedule that 9am doctor's appointment Thursday and root on the boys.
The hosts, Germany, are improving with every match. They get Sweden on Saturday morning in the first Round of 16 match. Set your alarm and have your butler prepare the pancakes and bratwurst. If you prefer meat pies and ugly teeth, Sunday will be the day, as England take the field against a surprising Ecuador team. Perennial underacheivers, Holland and Spain, are looking good, while the star-studded French team has scored only one goal and might be headed for another early exit. Hope you got a good look at Zidanne last weekend, as it may have been his last international appearance.
Who do you think looks good enough to win it all?
*Programming Note: Soccer Mad moves to Mondays on KOOP.*
If you love soccer, or would like to learn more about it, check out Ben Gardner and Chris Gaffney on Soccer Mad, every Monday at 2:30 pm on 91.7 fm KOOP or online.
