One game in.

(Insert witty intro here)

Group A: France- Nigeria 1-0, Germany-Canada 2-1
I think it's safe to say that Nigeria is pretty much out, lesbians or no lesbians -- they seem well out of sort. A disorganized team that changes their style and tries to play organized at the start of a tournament never goes far. Germany look the clear cut favorites, even with a semi-shaky game vs Canada, especially with their next game vs Nigeria. Canada v France could very well decide the 2nd place spot in the group. Keep an eye Lousia Necib (Zidane) for France and Christine Sinclair(Lead Striker) for Canada.

Prediction: 1. Germany 2. France

Group B: Japan- New Zealand 2-1, England-Mexico 1-1
Well the "group of life" is living up to its really dumb name. Japan and their impressive possession performance are in the driver's seat but the second spot is wide open. Mexico (tricky play) and New Zealand (route 1 offense) both have faith that they can win,  but I think that the strength of England will win out for the second spot. That is as long England can get a result against Japan, which will probably be the game of the group. Keep your eyes on Mana Iwabuchi (Touch of Messi) of Japan and Kelly Smith (Heart & Soul) of England.

Prediction: 1. Japan 2. England

Group C: USA-North Korea 2-0, Sweden-Colombia 1-0
While both Colombia and North Korea both have some really good talent and have surprised both Sweden and USA, you probably only have two more opportunities to watch them at this World Cup. The depth and physicality of the USA is quite impressive, just as impressive as Sweden's ability to create chances (Now only if they could finish...). It will be these two teams making it out of the group but predicting the order is much more difficult. Keep an eye on Alex Morgan (Super Sub) of the USA and for Sweden... well I have to admit that I half watched their game at work so couldn't tell you keep an eye on for their team.

Prediction: 1. Sweden 2. USA

Group D: Brazil-Australia 1-0, Norway- Equatorial Guinea 1-0
Equatorial Guinea falls into the same group as Colombia and North Korea -- nice surprise but aren't going anywhere. While Australia is number one in the heart of one of my co-bloggers, Isaac, I think they will find themselves outside looking in. And just as it is in Group C, it will be in Group D, a battle between the top two teams to decided first place, teams never really in danger of missing the cut. The game Brazil v Norway will decide this group, and the only key player I know to watch is Marta from Brazil with the same excuse that I used with Sweden.

Predication: 1. Brazil 2. Norway

 Thoughts?

~Max