I'm slowly adjusting to the three-hour time difference between New York and California. The change in time zones has enabled me to wake up well-rested around 6 AM every day, just in time to watch the World Cup. So far, the first matches of the day have been the most exciting, in my opinion. The best match so far? Australia's three goal burst against Japan in the last 10 minutes is easily number one, followed by South Korea's comeback against Togo. I was rooting for Togo to pull one off for the African teams, but it's hard not to be won over by South Korea's passion for the game. Their fans owned the stadium and partied like it was 2002. Hey America, this is how it's done!

Then there's the second match of the day. I accomplish more in each day by 9 AM than France or Switzerland did in 90 minutes. The French haven't scored since the 20th century and were fortunate to survive the not so neutral Swiss side. A team with as much talent as Le Bleu shouldn't have so much trouble finding the back of the net. Thierry Henry led the Premiership in goals and '98 hero Zinedine Zidane is aging but still effective. This team should find scoring easy, but against the Swiss their attack lacked creativity and patience. Henry can't do it all by himself. He'll need better service and support if the French want any shot at beating the Koreans.

As for the Yanks, the less said the better. We stunk up the joint for sure. The vast difference in quality between the U.S. and the Czechs was a depressing reminder that we are still a long, long way from being a true world power. Or maybe it was just a bad day? We'll see against the Italians.

As I type now the first round of group play is nearly complete. Time is passing too fast! Will England find their form against T&T? Is Ronaldo too fat to lead Brazil to glory once again? Will the Americans prove everyone wrong and upset the Italians? So much drama. I love the World Cup.