The World Cup campaign began with Switzerland and Ecuador locking horns and the South Americans opened scoring from some bloke called Valencia (not the one-dimensional winger at Manchester United). The Swiss side featuring Johan Djourou grabbed the equaliser and just when we taught that we were going to see the first draw in the competition, the Swiss army clinched victory right at the death, breaking some Ecuadorian hearts in the process.
Late at night, Argentina and Bosnia played in a pretty interesting game and it would be fondly remembered for Messi’s moment of brilliance in the 68 minute that settled the contest. Vedad Ibisevic salvaged a late goal for the Europeans and the game had a nervy end from an Argentine perspective, but one must wonder if Nigeria has what it takes to secure maximum points against both nations.
There’s so much to love about the French national team. First of all, the manager of the club I support is from that country and he has brought a couple of Frenchies to the club. While the likes of Thierry Henry, Patrick Vieira and Robert Pires wowed the fans with some scintillating football, there were also folks like Mikael Silvestre, Pascal Cygan and Sebastien Squillaci that put up woeful performances on a consistent basis.
The French team geared themselves to take on Honduras but it was disheartening to see that Arsenal’s contingent on the bench. Someone must have selected the Honduras Rugby team for the game and it was not surprising when a Stoke midfielder blatantly barged Paul Pogba in the box, and Karim Benzema finished aplomb. Benzema was involved in the second goal as he latched on to a magnificent pass before side-footing a shot that hit the upright then crept in. The goal sparked some controversy and the goal line technology simulation had to be used.
Benzema sealed a great night with his second goal of the night and that gave the French a comfortable lead over their opponents. This also means that France is currently topping Group E on goal difference.
As we all know, Benzema has been heavily linked with the Gunners and it’s all worth noting that he would cost a fortune if the Gunners want to lure him away from the Spanish capital. Arsene Wenger has already been a huge admirer of the Frenchman and with the Gunners searching for that center forward that would score a million and one goals, Benzema would definitely fit the bill.
There has been nothing official in this regard but we have to wait till the end of the tournament for anything concrete to suffice.
Sayonara.
