Today’s game sees Argentina, managed by Jonathan Bogart, take on Nigeria, managed by Matt DC. Argentina crashed out of the 2006 competition in the first round, and they’ve hired a manager with an impressive knowledge of pop tactics. Nigeria are tipped by some to become the first African winners of the Pop World Cup. This could be Group B’s most crucial match.
As ever, play the tracks and vote. This one ends at midnight on the 18th.
ARGENTINA: Entre Rios – “Hoy No” The manager says: “This 2002 song catapulted Entre Ríos (tr. “between rivers”) to Argentine fame when it was used in an advertisement for a popular local beer. Anticipating American crossover-indie acts like the Postal Service by a good two years, its use of electronic manipulation on the vocals also predict our current pop moment with a fragile, suspended grace.” (7MB)
NIGERIA: D’Banj – “Olorun Maje” The manager says: “People of the world. Greetings from Naija. The country has carved out its own reputation as the hotseat of African pop – many of the available pool of players have learnt their game in the American and European leagues before adapting it for homegrown audiences.
The result is a truly globalised pop music – you’re as likely to hear the influence of T-Pain, Missy Elliott, Soulja Boi or UK funky as afrobeat, gospel or highlife. I’ll be picking into both sides. First up is 29 year-old D’Banj, real name Dapo Daniel OYEBANJO, who straddles both sides of the divide. His game features all the qualities the lads will showcase throughout – namely speed, flair, positivity and awesome drums.” (8MB)
Group B Match 2: Which track did you prefer? [ballot]
- Nigeria: D'Banj 53%
- Argentina: Entre Rios 47%
Total Voters: 75
Poll closes: 18 Feb 2010 @ 23:59
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Commentary Box Analysis: “This Argentina side have a real delicacy about their play – keeping the ball on the ground and trying to pass it into the goal. Nigeria on the other hand have muscle to go with their flair and it might be their committed approach gives them an edge here. Should be a thrilling game – one bit of skill might win it.”
Coming Up! We’re back on Monday with the much-anticipated England v USA match to start group C. But Algeria and Slovenia aren’t just in that group to make up the numbers – they play each other in Tuesday’s game.