[_____V_____]

Well, Group A now stands wide open.

Both Mexico and South Africa should fancy their chances against France now, because they looked totally lacklustre in their opener against Uruguay.

None of the players left an impact on the game. Anelka was dubious, Ribery looked promising for the first quarter but then fizzled out, Govou was a big disappointment, Gallas was non-existent, and Henry looked out of sorts (possibly maybe because he didn't make the starting 11). The only two players who maybe gave it their best were Sagna and Gourcuff, who kept the Uruguayan goalie interested by 3-4 long rangers flying towards his goal.

Uruguay themselves were at sea. Forlan had at least two opportunities to make it 2-0 for them, but missed out. Their defenses need to tighten up considerably and more than once they left the goalkeeper stranded. The last 10 minutes of playing with 10 men and holding France back was slightly commendable, although it must be said that, with all due respect to Uruguay's defence, France lost on a great chance.

If this is how France plans to play the WC, I don't expect them to get past the Group stages. Even if they make it into the Round of 16 somehow, a QF berth will come as a surprise.

And boy, are the vuvuzelas loud or what!