World Cup round-up - day 15

Slovakia v Italy was the best game so far. Everyone was secretly watching it in the office, and when I say everyone I mean at least three people. Some were watching the world's longest tennis match which became a national obsession for a while, and which ended at the same time as Slovakia Italy, so there a general outbreak of workplace sporting fever. There were goals, disallowed goals, a comedy scuffle in the goal, and weeping Italians on the next plane home after their French 2006 finalist friends/enemies. France were a 'National Disgrace', Italy were merely 'shameful'.

Anyone can win this World Cup. Although it will be almost certainly be Brazil or Argentina. I suppose Spain could still come good, and the Netherlands have yet to be seriously tested. Also, Chile (dark horses).

Japan were good last night - I liked the way they played.

Bob Hope in a million: Brazil to thrash Portugal and Ivory Coast to destroy North Korea later, thus sending Ronaldo and co OUT on goal difference! That would make my World Cup day.

You've got a Welsh lady as your prime minister. Well done.

England v Slovenia was, after we all calmed down, a fairly dull affair not helped by the appalling pitch and our boys looking a bit heavy legged. (Apparently, the French are always going to the doctors with 'heavy legs' - no one knows what this is.)

Other things to note: John Terry's electric worm attempted headblock.

Capello going NUTS on the touchline some say technical area.

Poor Theo Walcott sitting at home. I do think of him sometimes. I still think he'd be so useful to throw on in a last chance saloon style crisis.

David Beckham in the dugout. No one knows what he's doing there.

Play Joe Cole, everyone was saying, play Joe Cole! So the boss put him on and he was a bit ordinary. But playing top opposition always brings out the best in England I think, so... bring on the Germans!