The Italians have crashed out of the World Cup. There will be weeping and the gnashing of teeth in Norton St. There will be fewer dives in the penalty box. Ultimately, a fitting departure and hot revenge for their mendacious behaviour in the last World Cup in Germany.
Australia is also out, but only after a brave and deserved 2-1 win over Serbia. The campaign which started out so disastrously against Germany two weeks ago ended on a high note. Level with Ghana on 4 points, we missed out on the Round of 16 on goal difference alone. A number of key players will now retire from duty and hopefully some new blood will come through and be appropriately nurtured.
New Zealand also had a great WC and punched well above their weight. Three draws against quality teams is an extraordinary result and a credit to coach Ricky Herbert.
BTW, congratulations to Pim on a successful head coaching stint with the Socceroos. I have been a critic of Verbeek's tactical approach for two years now, but in the end, he delivered on his promises. Good luck in Morocco.
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