Essien Gets Man of the Match


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By 40 Years A Blue
June 18 2006

Group E was turned on its head yesterday as firstly Ghana beat the fancied Czech Republic 2-0 and nine-man USA held the Azzuri, Italy to a 1-1 draw.

 Where the Czech Republic looked favourites to progress to the last sixteen after their comprehensive demolition of the USA in the first round of games, they could now be looking at elimination after the final round of games.

Chelsea & Ghana's Michael Essien was voted man of the match but Chelsea's and Czech Republic's Petr Cech must have run him close after pulling off a series of fines saves to the keep score respectable. Cech had no chance with both of the goals, and Ghana even missed a penalty after Ujfalusi had fouled Amoah. Ujfalusi was given a straight red card.

In the other Group E game of the day, Italy and USA drew 1-1 in a match that saw numerous bookings, three sending offs and a bloodied face for US's Brian McClair after a De Rossi elbow.

Italy's De Rossi was the first to go, followed by US's Mastroeni and Pope either side of half-time.

Portugal cruised to a 2-0 win over Iran in Group D, with goals from Deco and a Ronaldo penalty. Ferreira remained on the bench for the second successive game and Carvalho had a relatively trouble free afternoon at the back. Iran become the latest team to catch the bus home.

In today's action Brazil take on Australia in Group F. Also in Group F its Japan v Croatia. In Group G France take on Korea with Makelele and Willie G looking to keep another clean sheet for the French.

COME ON ENGLAND!

40 YEARS A BLUE!

 

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