June 11th Summary

The Concert and Opening Ceremony

"Africa" not "South Africa" this is the African World Cup.... the variety of performers marked that, but whatever happens over the next month the South African hospitality is exemplary to the world.... of getting this event, then sharing it with their continent.

Somalian K'Naan's song might be cheesy for some, but for me its one of the best anthems ever, so I share the performance from last night with you of Wavin' Flag:



One of the best openning concerts, would have been the best if not for Alicia Keys sticking out like an insurance salesman in the middle of a group of Bedouins.



Rich, sometimes rythmic, sometimes trancy the variety of performers was exceptional.

A draw for things to come

South Africa drew Mexico 1-1 with an exceptional performance. Tshabalala scored already what might be one of the best goals of the tournament in the openning game, and the South Africans really looked like taking the game for a while. The underdogs are getting better and better... this could be an omen for the changing face of football.



A tale of two defenses

Two good teams, two good defenses.... if France dominated the game a bit, the loss of Lodeiro to a red card in 14 minutes after he came on the pitch will mean he might only get to play in the last game of the group if Uruguay don't advance.