In one of the more startling results of an already startling World Cup, Brazil was defeated by the Netherlands 2-1. Father Orthoduck was not a fan of Brazil, so he is not too unhappy with this result, but he is startled. Sadly, Ghana lost. Father Orthoduck knows absolutely nothing about the Ghanian team, but he was hoping that at least one of the African countries would make it to the finals, since it is being hosted in South Africa. Nevertheless, Ghana did a good job and their countrymen are rightfully proud of them. Here is one report on the Netherlands / Brazil match.
PORT ELIZABETH, South Africa — Don’t call the Dutch underachievers anymore, not after the way the Netherlands rallied to upset five-time champion Brazil 2-1 in the World Cup quarterfinals Friday.
After waking themselves up at halftime, the title that has eluded the Dutch for all these years is now just two wins away.
“For 45 minutes we went full throttle,” said Wesley Sneijder. “We were rewarded.”
One of the shortest players on the field, Sneijder put the Netherlands ahead in the 68th minute on a header — a thrill so huge he ran to a TV camera, tapped the lens and stuck his face in for a close-up.
Sadly, not all was sweetness and light. Sadly, a player lost his composure and behaved in an unsportsmanlike manner. He was red carded.
The top-ranked team in the world and one of the most impressive squads in the tournament until Friday, Brazil lost its composure after falling behind and defender Felipe Melo was ejected in the 73rd minute for stomping on the leg of Arjen Robben.
So, GGGGGOOOO Netherlands! Good job against Brazil. But, Father Orthoduck must admit that of the remaining teams he is somewhat partial to Uruguay now.
Deacon Stephen says
I will support any team that is playing against Uruguay. They cheated their way to where theiy are, and regard the cheaters (like Suarez), as heroes. Yes, its only a game, but it would be very sad for football if they cheated their way to the top, and the cheating paid off.