The 2006 World Cup in Germany
A booksmusicfilmstv.com surreal take on the footie fest in Germany
Back to World Cup 2006 Index

A very eventful game saw Portugal very fortunate to overcome Mexico, and so top Group D. The Portuguese rested several first team regulars, but took an early lead after Maniche finished well after a good move. Mexico, however, threatened Portugal's goal all game, and Omar Bravo came close when diverting a cross narrowly wide. Portugal then went 2-0 up, after Rafael Marquez stupidly handled in the penalty area, giving Sabrosa Simao the chance to score from the penalty spot, which he took with relish. Bravo then saw his close range effort blocked by Portugal 'keeper Ricardo, and saw it loop onto the bar. But Mexico wouldn't be denied, and Jose Fonseca skilfully headed in a corner to reduce the arrears - his 20th international goal.

In the second half, Bravo blasted a penalty over, after Miguel had fouled Luis Perez. Mexico's woes increased, when Perez was given a second yellow card for diving. Bravo then wasted another glorious chance to equalise for the Mexicans, who, with two other penalty claims turned down in the game, and bad luck bordering on farce, must have feared a thumping Angola win in Leipzig to send them home. But as Angola could only draw with Iran, Mexico deservedly made it through to the knockout phase.

- Paul Rance/booksmusicfilmstv.com.