World Cup Open Thread: July 2, 2010

Netherlands v Brazil--7:00 AM PDT/10:00 AM EDT/15:00 GMT

Uruguay v Ghana--11:30 AM PDT/2:30 PM EDT/19:30 GMT

I'll be wearing my Hup Holland Hup scarf over my pajamas tomorrow morning, staring down at my bright orange toenails. The Dutch may not be looking Brilliantly Orange but with Arjen Robben on the pitch, the sparkle seems to be back. Now if Robin van Persie would stop letting his ego control the game, the Netherlands just might be able to take down Brazil. The Brazilians are playing dirty defensive football, totally turning me off to their squad. The Dutch strength in their forward pressure will meet the Brazilian strength in their back line and oh god please don't make this go into penalties because after yesterday's Sounders match my heart won't be able to take it.

I only wish that my "I Heart Uruguay" shirt could've arrived in time for this match, so I'll be crossing all my fingers and toes that they progress into the semi-finals. Uruguay have been spot on and shouldn't have a problem getting through Ghana's defense while Ghana will probably not be able to penetrate Uruguay's back line. At least, that's my hope, unless La Celeste have a bit of a mind fart like they did against South Korea.