And then there were 16

The round robin of the World Cup of soccer is now over, and the excitement of the round of 16 is just beginning.

The surprises:

• The failure of the Czech Republic to qualify for the knockout portion of the tournament given the upstart performance by Ghana. The Czechs looked old at times, perhaps this World Cup was simply a few years too late for them to make the run they had expected.
• The early exit by the Korea Republic is also a bit of a shocker given their performance at World Cup 2002. I can imagine that it must be driving my friend Woosang nuts, as well as the newly soccer crazed nation in South Asia.
• The qualification of the Australian team to the next round of the World Cup is also a big surprise. Many expected this team to be an "also ran", myself included, but the Aussies proved them wrong. This gives a nation like Canada some hope!
  

The cream of the crop:

• After a slow start, the Brazilian team is rounding in to fine form. They're now scoring and making some crisp plays. A weak draw might allow the Brazilian team to make it all the way to the semi-finals without too much trouble.
• The home nation German team is looking very formidable. They've potted a lot of goals and are looking solid overall.
• Spain and Argentina are also looking solid, tied with Germany for the most goals scored in the tournament thus far.

Most overrated team:

• England. Although they have a tremendous fan following, the English team not only has trouble scoring, but also looks shaky on the defensive end. I have to believe when the English play a solid team they will be on their way out the door.

My pick to win it all, Argentina, has already won their game to advance to the quarterfinals. Who else will be joining them will be learned as the week goes on.

Let the action begin!