Nicolas Anelka's exit from the World Cup for expressing his dismay with his half-time substition against Mexico has lifted the lid on the festering infighting that has existed in the French camp since Domenech took charge. England also have problems with John Terry hosting an early Festivus so he could air some grievances. Rumours were also circulating that the Australian squad was divided, although that line seems to have been dropped by the media now, who are opting for the more plausible "anti-Australian FIFA conspiracy" angle instead.
New Zealand in contrast, have displayed an "all-for-one, and one-for-all" attitude and have been rewarded with gallant draws against Slovakia and now Italy.
But it hasn't been pretty to watch. The Ricky Herbert gameplan of hoofing 60m balls upfield to your forwards is testament to a nation that boasts just 25 professional players. Their defence would give a pine plantation a good run in a lumbering contest, and as for Rory Fallon - the bloke has more elbows than a packet of pasta.
Yet, while other sides have been panned for failing to deliver atractive play, the Kiwis have provided a sense of romance to the tournament that has otherwise been lacking, and are fast becomimg the darlings of the cup.
But let's be honest, while a champion team will beat a team of champions, a bunch of part-time toilers only have team spirit to work with.
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