Portugal v Iran

I had a hard time getting excited about this one, since it seemed likely to be a lopsided game between two teams I really wasn't too excited about seeing. Plus the picture on my cable was pretty terrible this morning apparently, so there's lines all over everything, so I just fast-forwarded through the first hour of this. I'm surprised Portugal didn't get off to a better start.

Deco's goal from Figo in the 63rd minute was the kind of thing that shows the lopsided nature of this game, as an unmarked Deco fired a strong shot through several defenders, doing nothing but blocking the keeper's view. The Iranian keeper doesn't even react until it's too late. I didn't think Mexico looked too good but they put three in the back of Iran's net.

A really stupid penalty in the 78th minute, a really late tackle chopping down Luis Figo just inside the corner of the penalty area. It was a clear penalty, but what a stupid defensive play, when Figo's not in a dangerous position and has nobody making a run. The worst part is it allowed that little brat Cristiano Ronaldo to score. He sent Mirzapour right and hooked it left, to put Portugal up 2-0. The thing is Ronaldo spent the whole game trying to beat the whole team by himself (who does he think he is, Arjen Robben?) and that shit just gets really annoying to watch, especially at this level.

Things are looking up for Holland if there's nobody really stepping up in this group, if the Oranje get their heads out of their asses for their second round game. The loss eliminates Iran, and secures a spot in the second round for Portugal, who haven't made it that far since Eusebio led them there in 1966. The Portuguese need a draw against Mexico to secure first place, which probably means avoiding Argentina, although it would be really funny if they won the grup and the draw gave them Argentina, Ecuador, and Brazil in the next three rounds.

Portugal 2-0 Iran
'63 Deco
'78 C. Ronaldo (pen)

Group D
Portugal 6pts 3-0
Mexico 4pts 3-1
Angola 1pt 0-1
Iran 0pts 1-5