Ellis Park Stadium, Johannesburg

Italy looked tired to me. They do have an ageing team and it was only two days since their last game. They did have a few chances to score but couldn’t convert.

Egypt were right on it, though. Their goalkeeper, Al Hadary, had a couple of good saves. Egypt took the one clear chance they had – more what Italian teams are supposed to do.

The commentators, though!

How much more patronising can you get?

Is it really a surprise that Egypt won this? They gave Brazil a fright, after all.

Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Tshwane, Pretoria

Last night I watched the Confederations Cup game between the USA and Italy.

I know it’s a nothing tournament dreamed up by FIFA to justify the organisation’s existence but my excuse is it’s the close season and I also have to practice for the World Cup next year.

I thought the USA didn’t keep the ball well enough even before they had the man sent off. Nevertheless they were worth their half-time lead. Italy looked disjointed but they’re Italy. Somehow it was always going to be them winning.

But quite apart from the new lighter shade of blue of their jerseys Italy sported an outfit that completely gives the lie to tales of Italian snappy dressing.

Their shorts and socks were brown.

What on Earth was that all about?

(Spanking first goal from Giuseppe Rossi, though. His other finish was a peach too.)