A few thoughts on the Germany- Costa Rica opener
As Zach points out- that Adidas ball can fly. It is going to be a goalkeeper's nightmare but it also requires much more control from the strikers. The number of goals scored will only be good for this game, as then many in the US will discover that you can score in bunches in soccer. It will be easier to deconstruct soccer and make it more palatable.
Also notice the absence of fouls and dives in the first game. I think the referees are on it. I hope this continues and they play Jogo Bonito as it is supposed to be played. And mitigate soccer's image as a 'floppers' game in the USA.
This World Cup might be the best advertising for the future of soccer in this country.
Poland and Ecuador next at 3:00 PM (EST) at Gelsenkirchen in a Group A encounter.
For Soccerblog's analysis of the Poland-Ecuador matchup go here
Good luck to both teams!!