ITALY v. GHANA [2-0]

HIGHLIGHTS

Vincenzo Iaquinta = Proof positive that Italian Tactics Training for Euro 2004 is still in effect. A most undeserved goal (for him in particular -- Luca Toni's half-volley off the crossbar was speziale; Andrea Pirlo's goal was also topshelf.)

But y'all want to know what's going on in the streets, right? What's really hood, Hamburg? It's the Ghanaians nickname: The Black Stars. Every German is asking: Why are they so named? Are they as excited about the rumored new Black Star album as we are? Where are they hiding the album, and, as a corollary, is the demo disc the very object constantly lodged in Talib Kweli's throat while he raps to beats? If so, let's get it out. Are the Ghanaians the actual members of Mos Def's famed Black Jack Johnson band? We know they can tackle, but who will spit the hottest 16s? I'm betting on Michael Essien.