Vuvuzela of Disappointment

Damnit.

Heartbreak today as Japan crashed out in the Round of 16. They fought so hard against Paraguay and held them 0-0 all the way to the penalty kicks. They looked the stronger side and seemingly dominated on the ball, providing ounces more creativity than the weak South Americans. None of that mattered in the end as it was decided by the roulette wheel of PKs. Japan sent a defender on, one that had never scored in internationals, and he proceeded to miss the critical penalty. The Japanese keeper didn't help by managing to not block a single goal. The look of horror on the faces of the Japanese as the kick clanged off the cross bar was clear. Japan went down to Paraguay despite dominating the match. I felt the strength run out of my body when Fuckface Komano missed. Why that fuck head and not Okazaki?! Why have a defender take the kick when energetic, amazing Okazaki was right over there? Or Nakamura? Or Abe? Or Matsui? Was the coach focusing on his future turnip fields?

There were no interesting upsets to be had in the round of 16. While the group stage had upsets left and right, it was the traditional powers that made their mark in the knockout round. Not that I'm complaining, as I actually like a lot of the teams that progressed. Other than Ghana there aren't really any non-traditional powers in the last eight. It's all about the big boys now.

Spain managed to bully the Portuguese out of the tournament with a 1-0 win off a David Villa shot. That guy is amazing and the fact that he is only now moving to a big team is surprising. Barcelona bound he showed his worth by putting the decisive goal into the net easily to see a desperate and despairing Portugal side out of the tournament. Crybaby Ronaldo barely played a part in this game that turned out to be all about the Spanish. There is no doubt that this side is one of the best in the world and a clear favorite to get to the final. It took the Spanish a while to get into their stride but now that they are on fire it'll take a damn strong performance to beat the team. Next round they come up against the weak Paraguay side that we saw squeeze by Japan. Should be cut and dry for Spain.

The Quarter finals are up next which provide a number of very juicy matchups. Brazil vs Netherlands is my most anticipated match. Both of these teams look unstoppable with perhaps the Netherlands having that slight edge. Spain vs Paraguay should be a no brainer especially with Paraguay looking so feeble against Japan. Uruguay vs Ghana is hard to call. Both teams have done well though I'd give the edge to Ghana for performing up to the pressure. Argentina vs Germany should be amazing. I'm thinking it will be Argentina, but who knows.

See you tomorrow.