h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Look out Italy!!

Hi Matt

I don't know if anyone wanted this to be a serious conversation (probably not) but I wouldn't bet against the Aussies in the next round. Bera in mind (smug mode) I said they'd qualify in the first place- Australia have some pretty decent players, an experienced coach and I wouldn't put it past them to rattle the Italians, probably literally. This will be a close match.

I'll get my coat.

I'll keep my fingers crossed for Australia, hoping that Italy will play as badly as they have done so far

Remember this is the team who failed to win against the nine men of the USA. That's USA. And there aren't many strikers in the Italian league who play like Viduka. If Cannavaro is still injured, he should give the Italian's a tough game. Oh, and their right-back looks a bit dodgy too, Kewell might fancy his chances.

I don't know if I fancy the Australians to go the whole hog and beat Italy, but, having been put to sleep twice by the Italians and having been chanting 'U-S-A' all through the other one, I don't have much difficulty picking a side in this case

Good for you

The USA won something in soccer?


Oh, sorry, you mean there's been a world cup going on for the past week?

The USA managed to draw with Italy when they'd had two men sent off. It was impressive - and unless you were Italian, everyone in the world was supporting the US.

(Actually, some of the more discerning Italians may have been supporting the US as well )

Wow, must have missed that one. I didn't think the USA were particularly good at football though. It's not exactly one of their major sports. (referring to proper football here. I refuse to call it soccer)

They have some good players, and the longest serving coach at the finals. They also benefited from Italy being:
a) Not very good that day abd;
b) pouty and petulant as usual

They picked the wrong goalkeeper, though.

Oh well. Now I'll support them coz I don't want the froggies winning the cup