The Rugby World Cup was turned on its head by Argentina when they beat host France 17 12 in the opening match at Saint-Denis in Paris last Saturday night.
Though forced to play a limited game because of the calibre of their players, the Pumas stumbled into the lead early then clung to it grimly, closing the French out with aggressive defence.
This is possibly the greatest upset in cup history. Even the introduction of "the Caveman", the long-haired, bearded bruiser, Sebastien Chabal, failed to lift the French.
Now, the glamour side faces being knocked out of its own tournament when they meet Ireland at Saint-Denis on September 22. Only two teams from each pool go through to the quarter finals.
As expected, Australia beat Japan in its first game at Lyon. However, the Wallaby performance was better than expected – in fact, it was almost perfect, with 13 tries scored in the 91 3 record-breaking victory.
The first real test for the Australians will come against a poorly performing Wales at a packed Millennium Stadium in Cardiff this Saturday.
Rampaging blindside flanker Rocky Elsom scored three tries against Japan, showing he can run like a centre when given half a chance. Two young reserves, flyhalf Berrick Barnes and winger Drew Mitchell, both scored two tries after being subbed on in the second half.
While the Australians were outstanding across the park, controversial prop Matt Dunning was masterful in the open play, slipping passes at will to halfback George Gregan and running like a three-quarter to set up one try.
This open style of play made him a crowd favourite early in his career – but it also earned the criticism that it came at the expense of tight play. Consequently, he toned down his flamboyance, putting his energy into his primary job.
Now the open-play brilliance is back. If he can get the balance right, he could be a star of the tournament. If he doesn't, he could end up being blamed for Wallaby forward woes.
Openside flanker George Smith again proved he is one of the elite players in the world. He scored an excellent solo try, after turning the ball over in a tackle then scooting 25 metres untouched.
All the backs were excellent, particularly those who matter most. They being Gregan, flyhalf Stephen Larkham, centres Matt Giteau and Stirling Mortlock, and fullback Chris Latham, who also scored a brilliant solo try against the run of play during a rare Japanese attack.
Of Australia's opponents, the All Blacks looked the best, demolishing Italy 76 14.
However, the Kiwis have a reputation for choking at World Cups. And furthermore, the midfield looked unsettled, with young utility back Luke McCalister again showing a predilection for extravagance that looks flaky.
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