Nice run for Slovakia in their first World Cup as an independent nation

Just by taking out Italy alone in the 2010 World Cup, Slovakia will always have the respect of Shimer and I and all the other people around the world that can't stand Italy.

More importantly, for a small country that was playing its first World Cup as an independent nation, this was a very positive showing. They lost to one of the true powers-Netherlands-and played to the final whistle as every youth soccer coach will tell you, losing 2-1 after scoring a PK in the last seconds.

Being the runner-up in Group F, ahead of Italy and New Zealand, was a huge accomplishment for Slovakia and something they can definitely build on in the future.

Slovakia

Best moment: Going up 3-1 on Italy in their crazy back and forth match, one of the most exciting matches so far in the 2010 World Cup.

Worst moment: The second goal by the Dutch was a terrible breakdown by Slovakia as they weren't ready for the quick restart while Dirk Kuyt and Wesley Sneijder ended the Slovakian dream ride.

Best result: No question, it's the 3-2 win over Italy. Probably the greatest result in Slovakian history, no big deal.

Worst result: Losing 2-0 to Paraguay in their second group match. It didn't end up costing them too much but it forced them to have to beat Italy.

Final tally: 1 win, 1 tie, 2 losses. 5 goals scored, 7 goals conceded.

Best player: Another no-brainer since forward Robert Vittek is tied for the Golden Boot with four goals. His pair against Italy was vital and he had the lone goal in loss to Netherlands.

Worst player: Martin Skrtel is a top notch defender (see: his work at Liverpool) but his performance especially today left a bad taste in my mouth. His team gave up seven goals in four games and since Mucha wasn't the problem, I'll lay the blame on the heavily tattooed defensive leader.