It’s taken a couple of days of processing the shocking end to Brasil’s quest for #5. They started off strong with a beautiful goal from Robinho and definite signs of the attacking style (albeit with the Dunga discipline). At the half it looked like they were on their way. And then the own goal. I’ve never seen an experienced team fall apart & lose confidence so quickly. The Seleçáo completely lost their composure and got sloppy. There was no more offense and barely any defense. And then the Dutch scored again. Suddenly panic from Brasil.

They never recovered their composure and the rest is, in a word, history. Today FCB announced that Dunga had resigned as coach of the national team. While he is certainly partially to blame, can all blame be placed at his feet? Can each player say they gave it their all; that they held nothing back and shed blood, sweat and tears for country? I think the shorts answer is no. The red card and ejection was just one of a number of glaring examples of this. In the final analysis thought the Dutch played well, Brasil beat themselves. I sincerely hope they find their footing, style, strategy and confidence in time for 2014 where nothing less that victory will be tolerated.

So it’s no surprise to me but many of my English friends were hopeful. Me, not so much. The Germans were too fast, too strong, too young. Basically, England didn’t stand a chance on the pitch today. While I didn’t expect them to win, I also didn’t expect them to get slapped 4-1. In their defense the referees blew yet another call which would have made it 2-2 at one point and would have given England the momentum they might have needed. Too bad there aren’t any instant replays in soccer. Well onto the next match of the day. My money, just in case you’re wondering, is on Argentina

Shared language. Explosive teams. It had the appearances of being the most exciting match of the group play round. Too bad neither team needed to win to advance. So the match ended up being a snoozefest. Elano injured, Kaká out on red card from previous match, Robinho resting – the outcome was not surprising. Hopefully these two giants win their matches, advance and meet again on the other side in what will prove to be a much more exciting contest (all the more if the Seleçáo Brasileiro is victorious). Chances are low for Portugal with Messi & Argentina standing in their way but it’s been a strange tourney.

Despite a valiant effort the South African team has been eliminated from the FIFA World Cup. Along with them bow out the French team who hasn’t had the best tournament (to say the least). Hats off the RSA for hosting a great tournament.

The play was efficient and at times beautiful. The stars came out in full force and Brasil’s dominance was evident. For the Ivory Coast … not so much. They did manage to score a goal – a beautiful header from Drogba – but other than that it was an ugly showing on their part. Kaká is out for the Portugal match due to a couple of yellow cards from the referee but the Seleçáo Brasileiro is guaranteed a pass through. The march to 6 continues …