FIFA World Cup: South Africa vs. Mexico

I only caught the last thirty minutes (give me a break, I just finished up my third year of college and wanted to sleep in), but from what I saw, South Africa is no joke. Most host nations aren't (France '98, South Korea '02, Germany '06). I think their play was an indicator for what to expect in other matches involving African teams.

As for Mexico, they had some calls go against them, but I expected a lot more from them after their stellar play in the exhibitions leading up to today's match. One of the first things that caught my eye was the position they had Cuauhtemoc Blanco playing. I didn't like how they had him playing out wide on the right. I know his fitness isn't ideal for a World Cup center midfielder, but Mexico looked like they could have benefited from him getting more touches. His creative passing is too good to be on the flank, where his primary objective seemed to be crossing over the defense, which was difficult against South Africa's gigantic back line. In the middle of the field, Blanco can use his deft touch and precise ground passing skills, both short and long, to hit teammates in open position... Isn't that why he's a Mexican legend?

Overall, not a bad way to start the World Cup.

I'll be back with more after the France-Uruguay match.