The much awaited match on the first day of the FIFA 2010 world cup between Uruguay and France ended goal-less. "It is almost a beautiful 0-0," France coach Raymond Domenech said. "But the result is what it is." Not sure if it was fear of losing the first game or something else. It looked like noone wanted to take any chances and play safe for the first game. This has left Group A wide open as the earlier match between South Africa and Mexico also ended in a draw. So, all 4 teams in Group A have 1 point each.
The low point came when Uruguay's Nicolas Lodeiro was ejected after a wild challenge on Bacary Sagna in the 81st minute for his second yellow card. Down to 10 men for the last 9 minutes plus 3 minutes of injury time, Uruguay concentrated on kicking the ball away from its penalty area and net. But even with a man up, France failed to find a goal. After the final whistle, the Uruguayans embraced, happy to have escaped with a point, while most French players looked sullen, saddled with the disappointment of a lost opportunity. French coach Domenech swiped his hand in frustration and then dug them deep in his pockets before going to shake Uruguay coach Oscar Tabarez's hand. Both teams were bothered by a slippery pitch that made deep passes next to impossible and left even Japanese referee Yuichi Nishimmura unsure of his footing at one stage. France dominated the first half, but its lack of a finishing touch showed the lack of confidence.
South Africa plays Uruguay next on Wednesday, one day before France meets Mexico. Lodeiro will be suspended for the game with the host team.
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