Italians through, Ozzies out. What a game!

Even though the final score was just a 1-0 win to the Italians, i thoroughly enjoyed the game. I especially enjoyed it more after Italy got a man sent off, Marco Materazzi. I still can't quite understand how this giant defender can play so well for Inter Milan, and get into the Italian national team, but play like a total shite when he was at other clubs. I'm sure you Everton fans know what i mean.

Italy makes defending such a joy to watch. Even more so when they were down to 10 men, and all one can do is marvel at the skill and athelthecism of their players. Ever muscle and tendon in their bodies seem to be built for defending. Their minds know instinctively what needs defending. But overall, the most amazing thing about them, is that they never ever panic. Even when it seems like they are panicking and launching the balls into no where, its almost with a calm assurance that they know they can handle whatever the opposition throws at them.

Oh, i guess it doesnt hurt to be good looking as well.

Overall though, it was a rotten way for Australia to get knocked out. A penalty awarded in the dying seconds. Tough luck. Thats football. However, having said that, i believe Italy were the better team thorought. Their attacks were incisive and effective. Their passing was thoughtful. Need i go on about their defending?

Australia on the other had, looked depleted without creative and forceful players like Kewell and Emerton. They struggled badly to break down the Italians. There was a lot of effort, but there was no one to provide that killer pass, that precise throughball that can split defences and win games.

Italy, looked like they had 10 players who could do that.

What a game, what a World Cup. Once again, i have to lament how i hate that i have to work in the mornings, and can't watch all these games. *sigh*