Well, I will jump start this beauty again. Whirrr, cough, put put put.
What is this about all the captains of national teams going down with late injuries? There was a big story yesterday blaming all on EPL and the wear and tear of the season's rough play standards being the culprit. It sure opens up the odds board with so many great players watching from the sidelines. IMO hardest hit is Ivory Coast, although rumors of miraculous surgery have Drogba returning with a broken arm able to play.
USA may have a great new emerging striker to surprise. Edson Buddle seems to be peaking on form for the team and my prediction is a breakout tournament for him. Great speed and a very accurate shot. We'll need lots of goals to offset our not so hot defense.
Rick
edit: on a side note on how the mighty have fallen, Ronaldinho was signing balls for a local girl's youth squad here in San Diego last weekend..... Scary when a talent like that doesn't make his national team. How deep is Brasil?