World Cup, 6/24

Hey everyone. The knock-out rounds have begun, so that means I'm again watching television. This is not good for my health, obviously, though faithful readers know I'm not exactly mobile these days. Right ankle is in a cast. It throbs periodically, and will sting with every 10th step. I prefer to sit still.

Cheesecake hounds will be happy. The back shot looks salacious, but it was ON THE AP WIRE this morning, meaning it's fair game for this blog. Hey, I'm not arguing.
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Germany def. Sweden, 2-0: Oh, this didn't go well for the Swedes. Gave up two early goals to Podolski, both set up by Klose passes or shots, and now are down to 10 men because Lucic drew two amarillos. Germany has been very aggressive so far as it has paid off with four wins in four matches. Argentina is next. We'll then see what Lehmann, the German keeper, truly can accomplish. He hasn't yet been tested.

UP NEXT
Argentina def. Mexico, 2-1 (in extra time): Each team scored a goal during the first 15 minutes or so, then it came down to Maxi Rodriguez's extra-time goal. Mexico played very well, and looked very improved with striker Jared Borgetti back in the lineup. Rodriguez's goal -- he chested a ball down to his foot and one-timed it high and over the Mexican keeper -- was my favorite solo goal of the tournament. What a finish!

UP NEXT:
Argentina v. Germany, 10 a.m. Friday (ESPN)
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CHEESECAKE AREA

You think she's a major GER supporter now ...
(AP Photo/Frank Augstein)

Her pre-match concerns were justified.
(AP Photo/Frank Augstein)