Day 4 opened with the Socceroos of Australia scoring three times in eight minutes to beat Japan 3-1 in Kaiserslautern and record both their first goals and their first ever win in the history of the FIFA World Cup. Australia started the match with an early shot at goal which, was parried off by the Japanese keeper, Yoshikatsu Kawaguchi. By the 26th minute, Japan capitalised on their chances and drew a point. Japan, content with their early lead took a defensive stance. Australia looked for an equalizer which was fast fading from their grasp till the 85th minute when Cahill kicked in a loose ball to ensure a point for the Socceroos. The next 5-6 minutes brought to light another goal from Cahill and a goal from substitute Aloisi to ensure the Aussie’s first ever win. This set the tone for the next match which saw Czech Republic break the USA team 3-0, with Arsenal’s new boy Tomas Rosicky doing inexhaustible damage to the US team till his substitution in the dying minutes of the match. The most exhilarating and entertaining match of this tournament so far was between Italy (the best defense team in the world) and Ghana (the best defense team in Africa). Italy began the match in a stylish and confident mood and went ahead to trounce Ghana in Hanover, Germany. This was not without a fight  from the Black stars who, with the help of the keeper Ricard Kingston and Michael Essien among others, fought gallantly to keep the game alive, free flowing and full of hope. Judging from the game, the Azzurris looked by far the more incisive team with Ghana playing the part of real debutants. This match proved that to perform in the world cup, it takes experience not just skill. I hope that Ghana will learn from today’s match and sharpen their attack to prevent a repeat of today’s match in their next match against Czech Republic. Tomorrow’s matches include, France vs Switzerland, with Korea slugging it out with Togo, another african debutant. Lastly, but not the least in any way, Brazil will take on Croatia. We expect to see an entertainig football game.

Via:ESPN

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