World Cup Day Seven: Open Thread

While World Cup day six didn't bring the deluge of goals we expected, thanks to some second half magic from Belgium and some stellar goalkeeping from Mexico, it was exciting nonetheless. After falling behind due to a first half penalty, Belgium rose to the occasion in the second half thanks to goals from substitutes Marouane Fellaini and Dries Mertens, keeping their dark horse status alive and well. Mexico, thanks to heroics from Guillermo Ochoa--which might be an understatement, and coincidentally, como se dice World Cup bump? You just know someone is going to overpay for him Stekelenburg style--held host nation Brazil to a scoreless draw, levelling both sides at four points in group A

We've seen pretty much everything this game has to offer through six days--wonderful exhibits of skill, questionable calls, defensive stalemates, straight red cards, first minute goals and last minute goals--so now that we've completed the first turn, how will the 32 nations react in their second fixtures? Will caution rule the day or will teams still play it fast and loose?

Group B brings us the most interesting fixtures of the day, as Chile and the Netherlands will look to increase the gap over Australia and the suddenly swooning Spain, while Cameroon and Croatia will look to take a foothold in group A.

The Matches

Last time out

Tim Cahill's five shots on goal weren't enough to penetrate the Chilean defense, while Alexis Sanchez and Mauricio Isla carved up the Australian defense seemingly at will. The Netherlands, you might remember, absolutely humiliated Spain in a 5-1 route, possibly portending the end of Spain's reign over the global game. Croatia played the role of sacrificial lamb in Brazil home opener, while Cameroon were felled by second half goal, falling to Mexico 1-0.

Since we already covered the Roma aspect for each of these nations last week, the only name that might pique your interest is Mario Mandzukic, as the Croatian striker has been mentioned as a possible reinforcement for Roma ahead of next season. The other Super Mario did not feature in Croatia's opening match.

Where to watch

Once again, ESPN will carry all three matches in the continental United States, CBC has got the Canucks covered, while Canal + Centre beams the matches into all your Burkina Faso properties. Should you live elsewhere, LiveSoccerTV has all your international listings.