Portugal sat back for the 1st half, evidently content with their one win and massive goal differential. Though Brazil was sitting pretty at the top of the Group G table, they looked the more likely to score. The 2nd half started better, with Portugal creating several chances and Cesar with a brace of excellent saves in the first quarter of an hour, but the improvement was marginal.
Highlight of the match, for me, was a tremendous run up the right from Christiano Ronaldo that required decisive action from the left-back. The defender’s tackle only served to drive the ball across the pitch to an unmarked Miereles making his run up the left. Cesar stopped Miereles’ shot with an instinct-save that glanced off his forearm, then striker and keeper collided. When Cesar stayed down, play stopped, help arrived, and behind-the-touchline cameras gave us a crystal clear view of his seriously bandaged back.
I’d heard Brazil’s keeper had a back problem coming into the tournament, but there was something about that view, his undeniable discomfort, the swarming physios and the ice packs that brought it home for me. He isn’t my favorite, but I’ll freely admit that Cesar is one of the best, maybe the best goalkeeper in the world. I’m constantly marvelling at the big man’s incredible agility and strength. After checking out that taping job holding his torso together, I kinda have to marvel that he’s able to play with such ease, grace and power, when he’s got to be playing in pain.
As for the remaining minutes of the game… hey. If Portugal and Brazil can’t be bothered to show up, I can’t be bothered to comment.