I think this World Cup has already been more entertaining than almost the entirety of the last one and it's taken me by surprise a bit. Teams are playing to win rather than being afraid to lose and it's been wonderful to see. I think since the opening game, the dirty tricks and play-acting have been at a minimum, however no doubt that ugly side of the sport will have its part to play sooner or later.
I'm supporting England and I think their group is wide open. I think playing Italy first could work out well as Italy tend to be slow starters in World Cups. England need to play without fear and for me, they have got to play the "poster boy" for this attitude, Raheem Sterling. An incredible talent who makes things happen, will always play without fear and hopefully be a positive influence on how the rest of the team play as well.
Some are saying this is a "transitional" World Cup for England and that they don't have match-winning players unlike sides such as Brazil, Spain, Germany etc. I don't think it has to be a "transitional" World Cup and I certainly don't agree that England don't have match winners. Sturridge, Rooney, Sterling and Gerrard, they're all capable of making something happen out of nothing. Sturridge is one of the best and most in-form Forwards at this World Cup.
The opening match was entertaining with a lot of talking points but it was horrible officiating and I really do think they were keen on giving Brazil the best chance of getting the win. Brazil seem to have become a more typical South American side with the attitude that everything is fair game as long as you get away with it. I think if they continue to play the way they are, they won't be winning over many neutrals. I do think they'll win the World Cup though as long as they keep Neymar fit. It's mostly the same squad that bossed the most recent Confederations Cup, including thrashing Spain in the Final. I think the fact that they played quite poorly against Croatia and still won 3-1 says a lot.
The Group B matches were fantastic. I can't help but be so happy that Spain, the most boring World Cup winning side ever, were ripping to shreds by the Dutch. As well as RVP and Robben, I was mightily impressed with Daley Blind. Interesting to see the son of Danny Blind (who was a Centre Back) playing as such a creative Midfield player.
Chile vs Australia was great too. It's amazing how Australia looked totally inept in the first 30 minutes or so, but then sprung to life, got a great goal back and in the end gave Chile a big scare. Cahill was phenomenal and the defenders could not handle him. In the end the 3-1 scoreline flattered Chile. Spain should be looking to exploit their shoddy defence in their next game.
