World Cup Day 2

I can truly say the World Cup has finally arrived. After a mediocre opening two games, this tournament has come alive. There is little to say that hasn't been said already regarding the opening game.

The European and World Champions Spain had a tricky opening game.After Alonso put the Spanish 1-0 up through a penalty  most fans (and I was one of them) thought Spain would play their usual possession style and see out the game. Up stepped Robin Van Persie with a goal of great skill and vision. It’s not often that I say that about a header. In the second half the game turned into a disaster on so many levels for Spain. 

Casillas had a nightmare, Diego Costa contributed an attempted headbutt and Pique and Ramos had a game that they will both want to forget.

The Dutch were a revelation. In the first half, Holland ruffled the Spanish. Some tough challenges and the odd elbow knocked Spain out of their usual composed style of play. What followed in the second half was a major shock. Robben teased and tormented the champions defense. It is no exaggeration that Holland could have added to their five goals.

What was so remarkable was that Van Persie's header was the pick of the games six goals. It was a header of such vision. It will be tough for the Spanish to qualify now but I do believe they will go through.

Tips.

England v Italy

This is a  game that's a tough one to call.Will Hodgson play the youngsters? I do believe Sterling and Barkley should start.

England for the first time have arrived for a World Cup without the hype from the English media. They could surprise a few people.

To win the game, England and Italy are both 2.80 to win the game, with the draw at 2.95.  I can't quite make up mind on going for an England win by 2-1 at 11.00 or a draw with a scoreline of 2-2 at 20.00.

Uruguay v Costa Rica

The big talking point of this game is will Suarez start? If he doesn't, then  Uruguay should still have too much for the Costa Ricans. Backing a Uruguayan  win at1.45 with perhaps a scoreline of 3-1 at 15.00

Colombia v Greece

I can't see anything other than a Colombian victory. Colombia are quoted at 1.88 and I will go with a 3-0 correct scoreline. This is quoted at an excellent price of 40.00

Michael Flannagan