So then, that is how things stand in the middle of round 6, the half way point, of this, the 16th edition of the Konami Cup.
Switzerland lead, but look anything but solid at this stage. Were beaten by France. and needed late goals to overcome Tunisia 2-1. Bigger tests await the powerhouse of the Konami Cup who have actually only managed to win 1 of the last 6 tournaments.
Jamaica have been entertainment plus so far. 14 goals to date and showing no signs of slowing down. Defence has been the biggest concern. No cleansheets have been kept so far. The 5-3 victory of Tunisia was the first time in Konami Cup history that 8 goals had been scored in a round robin match.
France were floored 5-0 on the opening day by Greece but have since recovered nicely, including a nice 1-0 win over Switzerland. They have seen off Finland and Tunisia and must like their chances of a top 4 finish, perhaps even challenging for the minor premiership.
The Netherlands have been solid without looking awesome. They've rode the hot form of superstar Pierre
'the bread knife' van Hooijdonk. His ability to slice through oppositions defenses should see the Netherlands stay up nice and high on the ladder.
Greece opened with a 5-0 demolishion job of France. But since then, they've taken only 5 points from a possible 15. Beaten by Finland, then the 2-1 defeat against woeful China see the side once again languishing midtable. Fabio Fatasskiss must improve IMHO.
Austria have so far made the most of the Konami Cup debut. Whilst going down to Egpyt, they've held with Jamaica and the Netherlands whilst seeing off Brazil and China. A good chance of seeing playoff football, just IMHO.
Finland appear to have the goods. They saw defeat Greece, and now must find some consistency. The form of Paatlanen will be very important.
For Egpyt, wins over Brazil and Austria have meant that their 5-0 defeat to Switzerland is now a distant memory. Further draws with England and France will no doubt have enhanced their confidence.
Tunisia actually the 4th best attacking record, only they've conjured up the worst defense record. Their win over China was dramatic, but they'll need to improve substantially if they're to much further in this competition.
England fans will no doubt be feeling the rage towards Fabio Capello. Despite some stunning long raking passes from David Beckham, recently recalled to the squad, they've managed just one victory. They've got the 9-8 pace of Michael Owen helping their plight, but I suspect with the Nevilles and Rio Ferdinand in the squad they don't stand a chance.
Brazil haven't been that bad. They drew with the Swiss, destroyed England, and have only been beaten by the scorelines of 1-0. If they can start winning, the Konami Cup II winners should be able to press on from here, and get back into the mix of things.
China stunned Greece. Lee Boon's last gasp winner sent China into an orgy of national pride. The Chinese played like contenders of this memorable night, seemingly cutting the Greek defense apart at will. But other than the heroics of that famous night in the nations capital, they've been flat. Then again, they did lead Tunisia 1-0 at half time only to lose it 2-1. To be fair, they haven't been smashed as yet. If Lee Boon can find an ally in attack, the defence form something of a great wall, then perhaps there is hope. 14 points is typically the threshold needed to ensure a top 8 spot in the 12 team format. China are going to need something special from here to go much further.
