This Weekend's Soccer

After a long list of soccer action, I am left feeling smarter than usual. I told many people I thought Russia would have a good chance against the Netherlands side, and they proved me right. I'll admit I didn't see that kind of domination coming, but I didn't think the Dutch would run away with it. While I know the scoreline doesn't reflect that it was an overtime game that obviously remained close until the end, what impressed my most was the quality of chances Russia generated. Nearly all the opportunies from the run of play belonged to Russia, with the Dutch typically only presenting danger on set pieces. I wish these teams hadn't played until semis as they both play a fun style to watch, and I think either could have knocked off some other teams (see Italy). In any event, after today's Italy vs Spain we'll know what the semis will look like. Spain does not have history on their side, but I like them to win today. They just have too good of a team to be knocked out today I feel. Cassano is said to be pairing with Luca Toni again (that sound you hear is a groan from Italian fans), but that said even with the typically boring Cassano, Luca Toni will face a rather small back four against Spain and may take advantage in the air.

On Saturday night, the New York Red Bulls scored early and held on for a 1-0 win over FC Dallas. Kevin Goldthwaite got a backpost header, then had to leave almost right away with BOTH hamstrings strained. New York defended well, Jon Conway had 1 nice save, and the one goal proved to be enough. Impressive for New York was their ability to possess the ball and make Dallas chase in the late stages of the game. Without JPA we knew goals would be scarce, but the Red Bulls controlled most of the game and limited the FC Dallas opportunities.

In other MLS action Toronto tied Kansas City 0-0, Colorado tied Houston 0-0, Real Salt Lake knocked off New England 2-1 and LA Galaxy and Colombus tied at 3. The on fire Landon Donovan added 2 more goals to his season tally. DC United hosts San Jose at 3 PM EST today.

For those of you thinking perhaps Belize would pull the shocker and eliminate Mexico following Mexico's rather meak 2-0 win in the first leg, Mexico finally flexed their muscles in a 7-0 drubbing to advance with the 9-0 aggregate advantage. The United States are in Barbados for their second leg today at 2:55 PM EST on ESPN Classic. They will sport a greatly adjusted roster so they can get a look at other players. They must stay within 7 goals of Barbados to hang on...