The weekend was made extra "busy" because of the games that had to be watched. None was more important this last weekend, then England - Italy.
Both are football power-houses. Both teams have had the worst luck at world cups. Both teams can be extremely lethargic at the biggest stage for football, and both can be surprisingly slow.
Like most people, I expected a draw and thought we were all justified when the scoreline was at 1-1. But we were wrong. Final score 2-1, Italy. This makes Group D even more interesting, especially after Costa Rica's win over a rather dull Uruguay.
Unlike other encounters between Italy & England, the game we had over the weekend was exciting. For the larger part of it, England dominated play, were unlike their usual sloppy selves (at the world cup stage) and it was quite surprising that they lost. It was exciting to see the younger, energetic team, make use of the experience of players like Gerrard and Lampard. Some of Gerrard's long passes from left back, to the right front were not only precise but prompted the best chances to score. Sterling was inspiring: I think he gave the team the inspiration and precision that has been lacking over the past years. Rooney didn't disappoint, and was as disappointing in the world cup as he has been over the last few years, playing for England. That might sound critical, but Rooney magic for this team needs to happen more often and more consistently. Is he a great player? Sure, but he just doesn't make it happen at these games. It is nice to see this team in action, and if they maintain their zing, it will be nice to watch their next few games.
Italy was the less impressive team, apart from some extraordinary play that came in intervals. While they certainly maintained the high energy of the game and had a slight edge over England with possession (So the statistics said, even though in the second half it was harder to actually see), I feel they could have been better. At 35, Pirlo was still the most exciting player to watch. His pass, that led to Italy's first goal was breath- taking, and had the magic taste of football that was played by the legends. (Honestly, it was like wow!!!) And, his free kick deserved to be a goal (damn the goal post!). Balotelli playing as the lone striker did what he had to in the second half, and delivered a great goal. For the rest of the game (before and after) he was blah! Chiellini & Di Rossi were, as always, solid and dependable for Italy. Antonio Candreva, in his no. 6 jersey was really a pleasure to watch in the game. Together with Pirlo, they have the power to give Italy a formidable midfield. One will hope that the team gets better with each game they play. If they do, they will be a force to reckon with.
So, there we have it, the game of the weekend.... and now, I can't wait for Germany - Portugal!
Go team Germany!
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