World Cup: Germany v. Costa Rica

About what I expected from Germany. Their home field advantage plus their weak group is going to carry them into the second round. But this game should not have been that close. Very suspect defending from Zee Germans, allowing two breakaway goals with their offsides trap.

Speaking of the offsides trap, so far Marcelo Balboa is the only redeeming factor for the ESPN coverage. He criticized the Germans for going for the offsides trap against such a speedy threat in Wanchope. Sure, Wanchope was slightly offsides for the 2nd goal, but he also had another breakaway called back when he was onsides so it all evens out. (Actually it doesn't. Offsides officiating is a serious problem for the game, and some rule change or technological implementation is sorely needed. But anyway...) Balboa always has smart, detailed commentary. Meanwhile, Dave O'Brien talked way too much over the game, and he, along with the studio crew, mis-read the day as a success for Germany. I guarantee you the German media and population are currently blasting the team for the many mistakes that kept Costa Rica in the game.