For the first time in World Cup history, the host nation will not advance past group play. South Africa came into Tuesday needing a win against struggling France. They also needed help from Uruguay to beat Mexico. Uruguay beat Mexico 1-0, so Uruguay ended up first in Group A.
South Africa held on to beat short-handed France 2-1, but because of goal difference, South Africa has to sit out and Mexico advances. Things were going well for South Africa all game long. France was down a man after one of its players received a red card early on in the game. After a finals appearance in 2006, France is going home with only one point in this tournament.
South Africa did all it could in this last group play match, but they fell short of the round of sixteen. South Africa beat the sloppy French team because they had more spirit, more desire to win, and they played together as a strong, cohesive team. African teams have not faired well in this tournament, but after South Africa's performance, Africa has a lot to look forward to in future World Cups.
The South Africans have a lot to be proud of. It is just too bad to see their country out so soon. France was the heavy favorite to win Group A, and they ended up last in the standings. France has to make many decisions about the soccer team in order to get back on track.
So, Mexico and Uruguay will move on and will play the top two teams from Group B. Group play is like a round robin tournament. After group play, the World Cup becomes single elimination. If a team loses, they pack their bags and head home. The stakes are higher. No matter how good a team is, nothing is guaranteed in the Fifa World Cup.
No comments:
Post a Comment