World cup babble

All the criticsm of Ronaldo sort of irks me. Yes, he's not as good as he used to be. And yes, he's heavier than pretty much every other player on the field (thus earning him the nickname "Fatty"). And perhaps it's true that Brazil should be starting Robinho instead.

But hold on.

Isn't Brazil winning?

And wait... wasn't the opening goal in the Brazil-Australia game the result of Ronaldo drawing three defenders to him, allowing him to pass it to Adriano for what turned out to be the game-winning goal?

Yes, yes. Brazil isn't living up to their reputation right now. And neither is Ronaldo. But if I were coaching a team, and could put someone on the field that drew that much attention from the defense, leaving other players open to do their thing, I'd certainly put him on the field too.

Brazil might fall out of this tournament, but so far, it hasn't mattered if they aren't executing up to their potential, they are still winning.

As for the U.S. - they've still got a chance to make it to the next round...