What a fantastic opening match for the World Cup. The only thing that could have made it better would have been if South Africa had managed to win.

But they can hold their heads high after drawing 1-1 with Mexico which on reflection was a fair result. But they will have a lot of confidence going into their second match next week. They could have made it 2-1 near the end but the ball hit the post.

But what a great opening goal by Siphiwe Tshabala! What a rocket. And I can't say enough about the crowd. They really got behind South Africa. Long may it continue.

Today's match between England and the US has been one of the most talked about Group games leading up to this World Cup. I suppose it is the old against the upstart kids. Personally I feel that if England play to the best of their ability they should win – and if they score first they could win by two or three goals.

But they had better not take the US for granted. The US will be one of the hardest working teams at this World Cup. They will run all day and these guys really play for each other. The US are a very workmanlike team but they do have some stars like Donovan, Dempsey and, of course, Howard in goal and some others. They did well at last year's Confederations Cup making it to the final before being beaten by Brazil.

If I was Capello I would put on Crouch against the Americans. I think the US can be a bit iffy at the back when crosses come in and with Crouch so tall he could do some damage there.

One thing England players are going to have to watch is their behaviour on the field. They can't be swearing at the refs like they do at home. They have to keep their mouths shut and just play. Refereeing in the Premier League is different than refereeing during the World Cup. We have all seen it. England players – especially Rooney – are going to have to watch their tempers. Rooney's reputation goes before him and we do not want to see him get a red card as he did last time out against Portugal in Germany.

In fact, the players have to watch out for those yellow cards as well since they add up. Imagine not being able to play in the final because you have had too many yellow cards!

Also today will be Argentina taking on Nigeria and although I certainly do like Argentina, do not look past Nigeria. I think they could surprise some people. Those Nigerians and built like tanks! They are big and strong and if they are going to do anything against Argentina they must not let people like Messi have a lot of room. That is asking for it.

Tomorrow, Germany take on Australia and the other good game will be Serbia against Ghana. I think Ghana are really going to miss Essien. I think he means so much to Ghana and this game could be quite physical.

Monday will see Holland take on Denmark – historic rivals. That should be a gripping game and while the Dutch are favoured don't count out Denmark. They can be a tough team to break down.

Tuesday's match between the Ivory Coast and Portugal is going to be so important in that Group. I don't think Drogba will be back from his arm injury and we all know that Portugal can play – we just have to see it! They had a hard time in qualifying and Nani is now out after a good season with Manchester United. It is time for Ronaldo to step up. Yes he does play well for his club team whether it be United or Real Madrid – but now he has start doing it for Portugal. He didn't score in qualifying and that is not good enough for a player of his calibre.

South Africa have their second game on Wednesday against Uruguay while Spain take on the Swiss. I expect the Swiss to defend against Spain and see what kind of chances come up. Everyone knows how well Spain play and Switzerland are going to have to try and not give them any room – easier said than done.

The time is here – a month of the great game at the greatest sporting event in the world. Enjoy!