What a couple of days

So, we've got Scolari again...3rd time lucky?

Obviously that referee was insane, and despite the fact that it's obviously good for England that they are without Deco, but still, I can't help but feel sorry for him.

Germany were once again not really challenged - the Sweden that played in the second half against England never turned up. Once again they looked good going forward, but we won't know how good they are at the back until later in the week, when we'll really find out. Because they'll be playing Argentina - I knew it was going to be their day against a very impressive Mexico when Heinze avoided a DEFINITE red just before half time...*Maybe* Walcott could have made up that gap but Roberto Ayala certainly wouldn't have. Argentina looked a little shaky at the back mind you, and that will give everyone hope...

That game between Portugal and Holland was crazy and I can't help feeling sorry for Ruud - not even getting on as a sub, probably losing his club, and out of the world cup...Portugal, even without Deco, will be a huge threat to England, but I'd rather take them on than a full contingent of the Dutch...

So onto England. I'm sure the "media" will be slating England for "only" winning 1-0 against "lowly" Ecuador. But that's not a fair reflection I don't think. Rooney was absolutely magnificent, for almost the full 93 minutes. Joe Cole had an off day, as did Lampard (well, Lampard's having an off-world-cup). If Frankie had had his shooting boots on it could easily have been 2 or 3. Alright, Becks *was* a bit rubbish but obviously he was the match winner. Rio looked good, Carrick looked good, Ashley Cole looked great, Terry was poor but has plenty more in the tank. Bringing Lennon on worked a treat and he held the ball up brilliantly. I thought the formation worked pretty well, and I think we can beat Portugal. And if we do, it will mean we've raised our game and then, I say again, it could be a sight to see...