Zlatan,
Yeah I agree. Delgado has been pleasant surprised, and the fact that he started instead of Saviola in the first game says it all. However, I know very little about him so I'll reserve my judgement on him like Mascherano later.

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Swag,
Part of your claim is very valid - sports should not be used for 'personal' political propaganda reasons - i.e. George Bush. However, it can be more than just a game - it brings people together and some hope. While I dont pretend to be a expert of Iraqui situation, as a matter of fact I do not hold great interest beside some couple of news that comes through, but what I am certain is that victory against Portugal would have relieved some stress from people that are suffering through poverty, lack of order and law, and basic sanitation. Anyway, well I do understand your suffering - not being able to see some Azzurrini games - but hey that is life. And there is always internet to look into.

. But do not take anything away from Iraqi player's achievement given the environment they are in. Earning bread from the money coming in through the charities, and friendly matches, and not being able to prepare the tournmanet in front of they home fans due to satefy. As a matter of fact, from what I have read, players had to carry gun for the security reasons. And yet, finding inspiration to beat Portugal, never mind the matter in which they totally dominated, well that is something of miracle IMO. Granted, Iraqi players arent the most skillful in the world, especially in set-pieces, and that Portugal is way overrated and would struggle to make the last 8, never mind being one of the favorites, but it is still some achievement. Hawar, Quse, Mahmoud, and No 7 (Mohamed I think) are all decent players and won the match with their skill - No refereeing to save the day like Greece.
Italians, on the other hand, didnt impress me. Gila single handedly on the match against us and I am totally gutted. Pirlo doesnt look quite right at the moment, and is out of sorts with the team and form at the moment IMO. Defensively, the team has been on chaos, partly because midfield protector Palombo hasnt been impressive.