A chess game of a match. Italy goes up 1-0 to drop a goal less than three minutes later where it would stay 1-1. Below is the collection of thoughts and observation known as "The Rundown." Agree, disagree and contribute your thoughts in the comment section. Full post match analysis and stats can be found here.
- How did Cassano not get booked for an absolute late challenge on Iker Casillas in the first half? If this were hockey Mr. Cassano would eating an angry defenders glove.
- Giuseppe Rossi is a terrible commentator, a terrible speaker and a terrible American. Formulate a coherent sentence, stop saying random words with "ahhh" and "umm" between them. Shame on ESPN, he has zero qualifications to be in that studio.
- Fernando Torres looks scared and plays scared. The man has the aptitude and soccer IQ to create space, opportunities and dangerous chances...he just can't finish any of them. It appears to be all psychological.
It's not just what Spanish midfielder Andres Iniesta does on the ball, it's what he does with his body while on the ball. His deceptive hip movement usually gives him the inch of space he needs to tear apart a defense. He makes up for his lack of size by positioning himself between the ball and defender in unique ways; much like Revs midfielder Benny Feilhaber. The major difference is that Iniesta is a threat to spring loose with incredible pace.
Mario Balotelli is a victim of his own reputation. Perception becomes reality. He created the perception, he can't complain because it's now reality. He obviously has the attention of officials and rightly so. Perhaps he should be aware of this realize he can't punch the turf in a fit of rage.
Spain is hypnotic to watch at times. Hard to believe it was only 60/40 them with possession
Seven yellow cards? Seems about right for a Spain v Italy match.
The United States of America has beaten each of these teams. Italy in a friendly and Spain in a major cup competition!
David Silva played terribly. Out of sync with everyone around him. Poor chances on net, poor passes in the attacking third. I see him on the bench next match for Spain.
Check back in after Ireland vs Croatia at 2:45ET for reaction and commentary.
Contributor to The Bent Musket on SBNation covering all things New England Revolution. Featured guest on The Midnight Ride Podcast.
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