It's launched!

Yesterday, you could really tell the World Cup had begun. A disappointing game from France, with the only breath-taking moment being the near miss by Vikash Dhorasoo, a French player born of Mauritian parents. About 400,000 people must have jumped off their seats in Mauritius alone. I favour three teams in this Cup: England, Holland, and Dhorasoo ;)

The Croatian fight against Brazil was remarkable. Instead of simply retreating behind a defensive game, they were there giving it their everything, risking it to the end. A beautiful game, with many missed occasions, and a beautiful goal by the unfortunately named Kaka. Croatia deserves to go far in the Cup if they keep this up. France had better get its act together, and England too, after that poor showing against Paraguay. The surprise so far? Australia. Let's watch the Roos.

Despite my strong prejudice against Brazil, I have to admit the gorgeousness of their game. There's work to be done this time, but the smooth passes, the reckless dribbling, the playfulness of it all is a lesson in itself.