North, South and Central American countries dominated their European counterparts on Friday night, recording a whitewash in the first round of friendly games. In addition, those that have qualified demonstrated that they are playing well and are ready for the World Cup as New World took on Old World.
South American football is flying high. Uruguay, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia and Peru put on a show against the teams they will soon be taking on in Russia. Furthermore, with the exception of Colombia, they all won their games in a dominant fashion, without even conceding.
Uruguay beat the Czech Republic 2-0 with a goal each from Suarez and Cavani. The 'Charruas' looked like a team coming into form at just the right time, and should have no problem in the China Cup.
Brazil, for their part, showed that there is more to them than Neymar. They beat host country Russia and sent a message to their rivals. Tite's team continued to show that there are few teams who can keep up with their offensive firepower, and that they are stronger than ever in defence.
It was a bit more difficult for Argentina, but they defeated Italy 2-0 in Manchester. Banega and Lanzini scored the goals in the last 15 minutes and increased the Italian's woes.
Colombia gave one of the performances of the round. They staged an historic comeback, overcoming a two goal deficit and still losing going into the final minutes against France in Paris, James, Falcao and co. scored the three goals they needed to win and maybe this could be their year.
Peru showed that they are not in this World Cup, for the first time in 33 years, through sheer luck. They put two past a strong Croatia team and not even Modric and Rakitic could get their side back into the game.
Central Americans Costa Rica piled the misery on Scotland with a narrow 1-0 win, whilst Mexico cruised past Iceland 3-0 thanks to a brace from Miguel Layun after Marco Fabian's opener.
On Sunday, Chile claimed a late victory over Sweden, with Marcos Boldos' debut goal earning 'La Roja' the bragging rights to make the scoreboard read: America 8-0 Europe.