Switzerland beat much-fancied Spain with a bundled goal that came straight out of the Championship to cause shockwaves around the world. It was the first time the Swiss have ever beaten Spain, only the second defeat in three years and 49 matches for the European champions, and sparked enormous anticipation that the biggest shock of the tournament so far would herald a new phase of excitement in the competition.
But their place in the world’s affections didn’t last long. Just a few hours later it was Swiss referee Massimo Busacca who sent off South African goalkeeper Itumelend Khume to silence the vuvuzelas, seal defeat for the Bafana Bafana and once again dampen the mood of the neutrals.
It’s now looking unlikely the affable hosts will emerge from their group. But you can’t blame the Swiss. Busacca’s decision was the right one and the South Africans struggled to fill the gulf in class with Uruguay.
Former Manchester United striker Diego Forlan scored the penalty, adding it to his first half wonder strike to become the tournament’s top scorer with two goals.
Hardly an unassailable lead in the Golden Boot and there is still plenty to play for in the race for the next round and, more importantly, Fantasy World Cup points.
