Football World Cup 2010

Quarter-final 4: Spain 1-0 Paraguay

2010-07-27T23:54:00.000+12:00

In readiness for a game in which both sides were bidding to go further than they had ever gone before Paraguay made a massive six changes, probably a record number of changes between a second-round match and a quarter-final. Most changes were made in the attacking third with Cruz, Benitez and Barrios being consigned to the bench.

Spain were not themselves in this game though this could be at least partially attributed to Paraguay forcing them to play poorly. Spain's fluid passing game appeared to have been replaced by disjointed passing and a team that couldn't get a proper stranglehold on the game. Not that Paraguay could either in what was a tense, difficult battle for both sides in which, if anything Paraguay were slightly better on the overall balance of play.

Paraguay were indeed unlucky not to be ahead at half-time after Valdez scored on the 40 minute mark, only for it to be ruled offside. The decision was touch and go. Valdez appeared to be just onside but Cardozo (who the ball drifted over on it's way to Valdez) appeared to be offside. The question of course is whether Cardozo was interfering with play, and with the lack of clarity of the law as it stands both interpretations are legitimate. Paraguay could so easily have been ahead.

The match had a bizarre turn of events during the second half. Pique wrestled Cardozo to the ground in the box, conceding a penalty. Cardozo's penalty was a reasonable effort but Casillas pulled off an excellent save, and he did very well to hold onto the ball in the process. Second's later it was Spain's turn to be awarded a penalty, Alcarez adjudged to have bundled Villa over in the box in what was an incredibly harsh decision. Alonso duly converted only for Batres to order a retake for encroachment. It was technically correct with one or two players feet a couple of inches into the box. It was almost as if Batres realised he had made the wrong call initially to award the penalty and was trying to prevent them from scoring it. Villar saved the penalty and scrambled the ball away to safety. In the process he made a clear trip on a Spaniard with his arms but no penalty was given.

The game was finally decided with around 7 minutes to go. It was a lovely move by Spain. Iniesta skilfully set up Pedro after a classic delightful Xavi flick. Pedro's excellent shot was thwarted by the post but Villa scored the rebound, albeit this also coming off the post. They deserved a goal for the move but they barely deserved the win. Paraguay had done a great job of preventing Spain from playing in the manner they are accustomed and for that deserve a lot of credit. It really could have gone either way. The Guatemalan ref left a fair bit to be desired also, it has to be said.

Quarter-final 3: Germany 4-0 Argentina

2010-07-27T22:36:00.000+12:00

Argentina came into this game having scored 10 goals in four matches against Germany's 9 but it was Germany who were quick out of the blocks with a goal after only three minutes, Mueller applying the headed flick past an unconvincing Romero courtesy of a Schweinsteiger cross. It was the quickest goal of World Cup 2010 and Germany's 200th world cup goal. German fans need not have worried that Argentina had a whole 87 minutes to respond as instead it proved a catalyst for a rampant German side to destroy Argentina in a fantastic display of football. Argentina with high expectations of avenging their quarter-final loss four years previously against the same opposition, were instead blown away.

The likes of Messi and Tevez found it difficult to get into the game, showing just the odd flash of what they are capable of. Germany on the other hand were composed and creative. The slick passing and movement of their whole front six was something to behold and Schweinsteiger, despite not getting on the scoresheet had his best performance thus far in what was probably a man of the match display.

Germany should have had their second goal mid-way through the first half as Mueller sprinted away down the right, beautifully squared to Klose, but he was wasteful, blasting over. Argentina threatened sporadically but any decent looking opportunity was thwarted by Neuer and when they did get the ball over the line they threw their arms up in frustration that it was ruled out for offside. Replays showed four Argentines were very much offside.

It took until half-way through the second half for Germany to get their second goal. Klose opened his account with a tap in after a sweeping move that cast the Argentine defence adrift. The third came only six minutes after when Schweinsteiger embarked on a brilliant solo run, setting up Friedrich for an easy goal - only his first in 77 internationals. Germany completed the rout with a fourth seconds before the end, Oezil's measured cross nicely finished by Klose.

Argentina had been reduced to purely long range shooting in the second half, their defence throughout had been completely shown up in their first real test of the World Cup. Germany won their second consecutive game with four goals and were ultimately completely superior in this game. The only negative for them was a yellow card for Mueller ruling him out of the semi-final. Maradona cut a forlorn figure on the sidelines.

WORLD CUP FINAL Preview. Netherlands v Spain

2010-07-12T01:02:00.000+12:00

This is it. The biggest game in World Football bar none. 32 teams started the tournament and now there are only two left to fight it out to the death. And it is being competed by two countries who have never won the World Cup. Whoever wins will be only the eighth winner of the trophy.

The Dutch have the most historical baggage to contend with. They are (in my opinion and the court of public opinion) the best side never to have won a world cup. They lost consecutive finals in '74 and '78 to Germany and Argentina. Their team might not be as good as the Neeskens inspired Dutch side of the seventies but they have the chance to go one better. Holland have regularly had brilliant players - the likes of van Basten, Gullit, Bergkamp, Kluivert etc. But they have always failed somewhere along the line at the World Cup. Whether it be through in-fighting, penalty shoot-out failure or something else, the Dutch have become synonymous with World Cup stuff ups.

Spain are the perennial underachievers of world football. Considering the talent they have had at their disposal in many world cups, it is shocking that this is the first World Cup for which they have made the semis. Thus whatever happens this Spanish side has gone further than any other. Spain are bidding to become only the third country to hold both the World Cup and European Championships simultaneously (West Germany were the first and France the second).

Strangely enough Spain and the Netherlands have never faced each other at a World Cup or European Championships. They were in the same qualifying group for Euro '84 and that is the sum total of their World Cup and European Championship history.

Two players go into this game in first equal place for the Golden Boot. Sneijder and Villa have five goals each (alongside Mueller and Forlan). Sneijder has already won the Coppa Italia, the Seria A and the Champions League this season. He has the opportunity to add the World Cup and/or the Golden Boot to these achievements. And if he did, he would surely be a shoe-in for the Ballon d'Or and the Golden Ball.

Both sides have well organised defensive shapes to complement some very exciting attack minded players. If Spain manage to dominate the possession like they did against Germany they will be very difficult to beat. This game has the potential to be quite open but with such a big prize at stake it also has the potential to be very cagey, tentative and tense.

No-one is suspended for this game. No-one it seems is injured either after Dutch keeper Stekelenburg appears to be fit. The Dutch have a fairly obvious starting eleven but there are still question marks over Spain: will Torres start or stay on the bench as he was for the semi? The midfield is one area in which Spain are burgeoning with talent. The four regular starters Xavi, Iniesta, Alonso and Busquets also have Pedro, Fabregas and Navas breathing down their necks.

There will be much talent on show from both sides in the final. Who will be the hero? Will it be the likes of a Robben or a van Persie, or will it be an Iniesta or Puyol, or will it be a super sub that no-one even expects to get on the pitch?

It's not long to go until we find out.

3rd/4th playoff: Uruguay Germany preview

2010-07-10T17:44:00.000+12:00

This is the match that nobody wants to play. It is essentially a meaningless game. Both sides have been knocked out of the tournament and cannot win the World Cup. Their big games were the semis so it could be difficult to get motivated for a match to determine which country finishes 3rd. In a sense it is reward for the fact they both got to the last four that they have the opportunity to play another game - to enhance their reputations, to be able to seek out the goals that individuals need to compete for the golden boot, and to solidify pride in their countries.

Uruguay and Germany have faced each other three times previously at World Cups. In 1986 they drew 1-1 in the Group stage, in 1966 Germany thrashed Uruguay 4-0 in the quarter-finals and in 1970 they played this very game - Germany won 1-0 to clinch third place. Thus Uruguay have never beaten Germany at a World Cup before. If they do tonight it will be their highest finish since they won the tournament in 1950.

There are four players in the game still with a chance of winning the Golden Boot. Suarez has three goals, Mueller, Klose and Forlan all have four - one behind both Villa and Sneijder in the race for the Golden Boot. Klose is struggling with a back injury but the chance to win the Golden Boot as well as the knowledge that he is only one goal behind Ronaldo in the list of all time world cup goalscorers will surely mean that he will start. Mueller and Suarez have both missed one game through suspension but are both back for this game. In fact no-one is suspended for this game and it is only injury that could count people out. Lugano still hasn't recovered from his knee injury and he may be the only absentee.

I am expecting an open game and potentially plenty of goals. Uruguay will take the attack to Germany and Germany will look to play with speed and incisiveness to allow their front five plenty of chances to get on the scoresheet. Perhaps with the knowledge that who wins this game is of lesser importance than any other game they've played in World Cup 2010 there will be more relaxed players showing off their skills.

Should Germany win they will have finished third at consecutive World Cups, which would be a World Cup first for any country.

Both sides have impressed at this World Cup and both sides have quality players. It certainly has the potential to be a very good game.

My take on the Suarez Incident

2010-07-10T16:55:00.001+12:00

1) What Suarez did was understandable. Many footballers would have done the same thing. Right at the death he prevented what would have been certain progression to the semis for Ghana. He kept his side in it. Every football player knows that a deliberate handball on the line is a red card and a penalty. But he knew that even if he were given these punishments Uruguay would still have a chance because Ghana would have to convert the penalty. A guaranteed goal would become a 70 or 80% chance of a goal. It was the most important match he had ever played and it was understandable that he would act in this way. This doesn't make it right - it was cheating no doubt about it, but you can see how it transpired.

2) The referee made the 100% correct decision of a red card and a penalty. The red card was no advantage for Ghana because it was right at the end of the match, but the penalty was. Ultimately Gyan only has himself to blame for missing the penalty that would have got them through and avoided a penaly shoot-out.

3) Because Ghana missed the penalty it is true to say that the underlying message is that cheats prosper. Suarez cheated by preventing a certain goal, he and Uruguay were punished, and yet they progressed to the semi. Some have called for football to introduce a penalty goal (for situations when a guaranteed goal is prevented by handling on the line) in a similar way that rugby has a penalty try. The problem with thisis that it puts too much pressure on the referees to get it right. It is also quite a radical change in football's rules that may not be necessary. I am open to the debate however.

4) The one match ban for Suarez is not enough punishment. He should be sent home in disgrace and banned for the remainder of the tournament (effectively two games). Due to the fact that denying a goal scoring opportunity is only deemed worthy of a one match ban FIFA decided not to extend the ban. I think this is a clear case in which discretion should be applied to ban him for the rest of the tournament. Compare it to Kewell's dismissal for handling on the line against Ghana. Not a decision I disagree with but my point is compare that one match ban with the one match ban for Suarez when Suarez's was so blatant and so deliberate. Why should Suarez get the opportunity to play in one more game (potentially a World Cup final) and try to win the Golden Boot? He has denied, by cheating, another team the chance to play any more games at the World Cup. Why should he get that chance? FIFA's Fair Play ethos states that there is no pleasure in cheating - well anyone who witnessed this incident would surely see that Suarez has derived much pleasure from it and will continue to do so.

5) For me - worse than the handball itself was Suarez's behaviour after the game. He made comments like "this was the save of the tournament", "mine is the real Hand of God" etc. He considers himself a hero. Uruguayan supporters no doubt consider him a hero. This is distasteful. So is him being paraded around the stadium as a hero. I don't disagree that it is fine for him to be pleased, to pump the fists in celebration as this is a natural instant reaction to a victory. But he took it to a complete another level. He showed zero humility when this was a situation crying out for some. If I had been him I would have wanted to say bad luck to the Ghanaians. I would have celebrated but I would have showed more respect, and appeared a litle sheepish rather than parading myself around in complete exaltation.

6) Those who say Suarez is not a cheat because he was punished by the ref, and that Maradona and Henry are, because the ref did not pick it up, miss the point. Whether the actions are caught or not by the ref is an irrelevance. Cheating is trying to gain an advantage by doing something illegal, regardless of whether or not it is caught or punished. For scale of offending I put Maradona as the worst followed by Suarez then Henry. The reason I have Maradona as number 1 is because his handball was to score a goal, something that was not a necessity at this point.

7) Those who say - if that is cheating does that make every time a player tries to con the officials into giving a throw-in to the wrong team a cheat? Does it make throwing the ball an extra couple of yards forward from where a free-kick is supposed to be taken cheating? The answer is yes, those players are cheating, but to a MUCH lesser extent.

8) I have read three other repeated opinions about how the incident is controversial. A] It should never have been a free-kick in the first place. I agree with that, it did not appear to be the correct decision to award the free-kick that led to the handball incident. B] Ghana were offside during the free-kick. I disagree. I have been through a replay of the incident frame by frame and I don't see any evidence of this so-called offside. C] The ball was over the line when Suarez handled. Again I believe this is wrong after studying the incident frame by frame.

9) Gyan showed great courage to step up and score the first penalty of the penalty shoot-out. After the miss that hit the crossbar he was visibly shaking and finding it hard to compose himself. After losing the penalty shoot-out Gyan was inconsolable. He had scored two great penalties in the group stage to help Ghana to the second round and he had scored one in the penalty shoot-out. But for the most important penalty in his life he was the one that effectively ended Ghana's dream.

10] Uruguay making the semi is an injustice. Suarez denied Ghana this opportunity by handling on the line. Also, Ghana were the better team overall. But it is only a small injustice because the referee picked it up and made the 100% correct decisions of red card and penalty. Real injustices are ones which the referee has not spotted. Mexico's first goal against Argentina and Lampard's goal that wasn't were injustices. The Maradona Hand of God and the Hand of Henry are massive injustices. This is different although there is still some injustice to it.

Quarter-final 2: Ghana 1-1 Uruguay, Uruguay win on penalties.

2010-07-10T16:40:00.001+12:00

This was a quality match between two well balanced teams. Uruguay produced the better openings during much of the first half, Ghana having their impressive goalkeeper Kingson to thank on a number of occasions, including one that simply smacked straight off his forehead. But as the half wore on Ghana were the ones forcing the pace - the best of which saw Boateng go off on a mazy run, ending with a nice inside pass to Gyan, who should have done better with the shot. Well, either that or Vorsah's header from a corner, which was powered just wide.

As the match drifted to half-time the game suddenly sparked into life. Muntari received the ball in space, a long way from goal. Uruguay, seemingly unaware of the danger and probably thinking about the half-time break themselves, switched off for a moment and Muntari unleashed a venomous swerving drive that put them a goal to the good, with what proved to be the last kick of the half. Muntari had almost been sent home for being a disruptive influence but had been drafted into the side due to the absence of the suspended Ayew. And how he had rewarded Rajevac.

The lead wasn't to last long however. Not long after the start of the second half Uruguay were awarded a free-kick after Pantsil had scythed down a rampaging Fucile. Forlan converted a quality free-kick that (as the Jabulani ball is wont to do) deceived Kingson in the air. Questions should be asked of Kingson's positioning but ultimately the scores were level.

The second half involved much to-ing and fro-ing. Chances were created and spurned on both sides and it was an engaging game that could easily have gone either way. Appiah's experience was introduced in place of Inkoom and Muntari gave way for the exciting young striker Adiyiah. For Uruguay Abreu (whose goal had qualified them for the World Cup) was given a run in place of Cavani. Both sides pressed for the advantage that would negate the need for extra-time but it wasn't to be.

Extra-time involved a number of mistakes as both sets of players were clearly fatigued, indeed for Ghana it was their second game in a row that went to extra-time. But try as both sets of players might any reasonable chances were fluffed and a penalty shoot-out seemed likely.

Then in injury-time in extra-time Ghana were awarded a free kick. The ball was floated in and two shots were sent goalwards, Appiah's first was legitimately blocked on the line, then the follow up header was going in only for Suarez to save it with his hands. The referee had no option but to give him a red card and award a penalty. With the last kick of the game Gyan had the opportunity to send Ghana into the semi-finals and make the whole of Africa happy. He had scored two from the spot in the group stages but this time, with all the pressure on him, he crashed the ball into the crossbar and Uruguay had a life-line.

Uruguay were to be the first team to take penalty kicks - Forlan putting the first one in with ease. Next up was Gyan, whose heart must have been racing after his penalty miss at the end of extra-time. He showed great courage and determination and smashed it into the top right hand corner, as he hoped against hope that his side could win the shoot-out and avenge his miss. Both countries slotted their second penalty. Then Uruguay converted their 3rd and Mensah with a terrible penalty missed for Ghana. Uruguay gave them an opportunity to get back in it as Pereira blasted over but Adiyiah also had his penalty saved. Abreu could send Uruguay into the semis if he scored his penalty - and he did. It was a cheeky dink straight down the middle to send Uruguay into their first semi-final since 1970, and a semi-final spot still eluded the African nations. The only sour note for Uruguay was that Suarez and Fucile would be suspended for the semi, and Lugano would likely not be fit.

Gyan was inconsolable. He was sobbing and sobbing and sobbing in what were heartbreaking pictures.

Quarter-final 1: Netherlands 2-1 Brazil

2010-07-10T03:24:00.000+12:00

The quarter-finals kicked off with a clash to relish, a repeat of the '98 semi-final (which was decided on penalties). And if ever there was one in this World Cup, it was (as an old cliche goes) a 'game of two halves'.

The first half saw Brazil take a deserved 1-0 lead into half-time. After thinking they had taken an 8th minute lead courtesy of a Robinho finish only to have it correctly ruled out for offside they had it in the net legitimately only two minutes later. On this occasion the 35 year old Ooijer, currently without a club and playing as a replacement for Mathijsen who had injured his knee in the build-up, failed to implement the offside trap alongside his team-mates and so allowed Robinho to collect a quality through ball from Melo for a well finished opening goal.

Brazil continued to create chances. Juan shot just over the bar after a good cross from Alves. Then Robinho had a brilliant run down the left flank gliding past challenges as if they weren't there before losing his balance, but still managing to square the ball to Fabiano, who back flicked it on to Kaka, who attempted a very good curling shot from just outside the area - forcing Stekelenburg into an excellent save. Just before the half finished Maicon hit a powerful shot after a strong run, only for it to crash into the side netting. It wasn't as if the Netherlands had had zero chances in the first half, but they really were nothing to write home about.

Early in the second half Brazil would rue their profligacy as the Netherlands drew level. Sneijder picked up the ball deep on the right flank and crossed in a quality ball with his left foot - only for it to glance off Melo's head and into the back of the net. It was possibly more Cesar's fault than Melo's though as he came out to claim the ball and missed it. However you interpret it, it was ugly stuff at the back by Brazil. Sneijder has been credited with the goal, no doubt as the ball was on target before it brushed Melo's head anyway.

This was the tonic the Dutch needed and suddenly it was them in the ascendancy. It was an ascendancy they would not relinquish for the rest of the game. Although having said that the next good chance did fall to Brazil after Ooijer's deflected clearance found Kaka on the edge of the box. He attempted to place the ball majestically into the top right hand corner but instead it drifted harmlessly wide.

Then the Dutch took the lead in a way I would describe as beautiful simplicity. Robben sent in a good corner kick, Kuyt flicked it on with his head and Sneijder scored with a simple but effective header. The flick on was crucial but there must be questions asked of the Brazilian defence.

It soon went from bad to worse for Brazil as they lost the plot. A few reckless challenges were flying in and it suddenly seemed like a distinct possibility that they would end up with a man sent off. And sure enough they did only minutes after Holland's second goal.

Robben was having an excellent game twisting and turning on the wing. Bastos had been having a torrid time with him and after picking up a yellow card early on was lucky to remain on the pitch as he tripped Robben repeatedly and on occasion it was quite blatant. Robben forced Dunga's hand to replace him with Gilberto. And it was Robben who was the victim when Melo was sent off. After he made an innocuous foul on Robben he stupidly stamped on his calf to earn a deserved red card. For a long time I have considered Robben as a bit of a diver and a faker but in my opinion, in this game, he didn't behave in this way. Every time he went down it was a foul, sure he might have exaggerated a couple just slightly but it wasn't anything like some of the antics I've seen him display.

Brazil proved they are distinctly average under pressure. In the remaining twenty minutes or so they did not create much. They did almost score when Kuyt had to expertly clear off the line but that moment was definitely the exception rather than the norm. And then on the break Sneijder should have completed his hat-trick after being set up by Robin van Persie, but his shot wasn't good enough and it was thus saved by Cesar.

Not that it mattered to the result. The Dutch had a famous win over Brazil, and what's more, on the balance of play, I believe they deserved it. The only sour note for them was the yellow cards for van der Wiel and De Jong which ruled them out of the semi-final.

Round of 16. Match 8: Spain 1-0 Portugal

2010-07-10T01:56:00.000+12:00

This match was a mouth watering prospect that didn't quite live up to the hype. That's not to say it wasn't a good game - it was. It just wasn't a brilliant game, which with the players on offer it really could have been.

Torres and Villa both tested Eduardo in the early stages and Eduardo started as he meant to go on. In other words throughout the game his quality shone through. He made some excellent saves and underlined his reputation as one of the goalkeepers of the tournament. Casillas on the other hand appeared shaky, punching weakly and behind him from Tiago's shot, although doing very well to recover under pressure from Almeida. Casillas also spilled a free kick from Ronaldo but he spilled it with enough force that it still managed to escape from danger.

Portugal had a few other chances throughout the game. Simao sent in a couple of good balls that no-one managed to get properly on the end of and Puyol almost diverted an Almeida pass into his own goal. But in truth they lacked incisiveness and only threatened sporadically. Ronaldo for one had a very disappointing game.

Spain dominated proceedings through their typical domination of possession as they played pretty passing football around the edge of the box as they patiently sought the breakthrough. Llorente came on for Torres and almost opened the scoring - his header was very well saved by Eduardo at point blank range.

Villa was a constant menace, and it was he who scored the winning goal around the hour mark. Xavi, who had made a good run, lightly flicked on a ball from the mesmerising Iniesta into the path of Villa who scored at the second attempt. It was a well worked goal and fitting that it was Villa who scored it.

I do have to point out that the goal was offside. I did a frame by frame analysis and although Villa was clearly onside when Iniesta played the ball, at the moment when Xavi flicked the ball on he was offside. Not by much granted, but a few inches is still offside. It would have been hard for the assistant referee to pick up that Xavi had flicked the ball on, let alone that it was definitely offside even if he had. So I will forgive the decision. And Spain did deserve to win. Indeed instead of Portugal almost coming back into it both Ramos and Villa had opportunities to extend the lead.

Right at the death Costa was sent off for elbowing Capdevilla. This was a poor decision and showed Capdevilla off in a bad light. Yes there was a hint of an elbow, but that went into his side and nowhere near his face which he went down clutching.

Round of 16. Match 7: Paraguay 0-0 Japan - Paraguay win on penalties

2010-07-09T23:09:00.000+12:00

This was a tightly fought match memorable for its intensity if not its action, which in truth produced very few chances or particularly noteworthy action. Paraguay looked more likely to score but found it difficult to breach a watertight Japanese defence. The centre-back pairing of Tulio and Nakazawa thwarted anything that Paraguay threw at them, which was nowhere near enough considering the talent they have at their disposal. Paraguay appeared comfortable on defence as Japan looked devoid of any real ideas to penetrate the Paraguay goal.

There were periods of nice play from both sides but true creativity was hard to come by. Many parts of the game were highly tactical that few neutrals would be excited by. Naturally there were some opportunities: Matsui, Japan's most impressive attacking player on the day, hit the crossbar from distance, Barrios (who along with Riveros were the best Paraguayans going forward) made a sublime turn only to see his shot saved.

Extra-time continued in the same vein as the match drifted to its inexorable conclusion: World Cup 2010's first penalty shoot-out. Komano was the only player to miss (hitting the crossbar) to see Paraguay reach the quarter-final for the first time in their history.

Round of 16. Match 6: Brazil 3-0 Chile

2010-07-09T20:33:00.001+12:00

Brazil faced an exciting Chile side but in the end won quite comfortably. Chile did threaten at times through - mainly through Beausejour and Suazo's valiant efforts to create opportunities/force a goal. But some of their more exciting players were nullified by Brazil's dominance - so much so that Sanchez was reduced to relative anonymity. Chile's brightest play came in the first quarter of an hour and when Brazil took a 2-0 lead late in the first half there was never going to be a way back.

After the break Chile to their credit made a couple of changes to try and change the face of the game. Tello came on for Contreras and Valdivia replaced Gonzales. It made little difference as Brazil were still the side forcing the issue. Valdivia did have a couple of good moments and Suazo came closest to a goal with two shots from distance - one forcing a top save from Cesar, the second crashing into the crossbar. Ultimately though Brazil secured a 3-0 win in a fairly straightforward fashion. Most impressive were Juan who was exceptional at centre-back and Ramires who made many quality surging runs.

Brazil's goals: 1) On 34 minutes Juan powered in a bullet header from a Maicon corner. 2) On 37 minutes Fabiano rounded the keeper to score after some nice work by Robinho and Kaka. 3) Brazil took the advantage of the gaps that appeared as a consequence of Chile trying to get back into the game. Ramires made a good run before setting Robinho up for a brilliant curling finish.

Preview of semi-final 2: Spain v Germany

2010-07-07T19:20:00.000+12:00

This is a repeat of the Euro 2008 final which Spain won 1-0. The Germans will no doubt be wanting revenge for this on an arguably bigger stage! From my calculations these two countries have only faced each other seven times in either World Cup or European Championship history. The 3 world cup clashes have resulted in two German wins and a draw, the four European Championships have seen two wins each. Germany have won the World Cup 3 times which is the third best record of all countries - they hope to win this one and join Italy on four titles. Spain have never even made the semi-finals. They did finish fourth once (in 1950) but that was the World Cup that was decided by a final group stage.

In this edition of the FIFA World Cup both Germany and Spain had two wins and one loss in the Group stage. However both teams opening games couldn't have been more different. Germany opened with a scintillating 4-0 win over Australia, Spain suffered a shock 1-0 defeat at the hands of Switzerland. Germany's defeat came at the hands of Serbia in their second game. Interestingly both sides who beat Germany and Spain did not manage to take the second qualifying spot in their group.

In the second round and the quarter-final Germany prospered with two big wins: 4-1 over England and 4-0 over Argentina. They produced some breathtaking football. Spain on the other hand had a narrow 1-0 victory over Spain in a tight affair, and spluttered 1-0 past a Paraguay side who were not only hard to break down but were unlucky not to be ahead at half-time. Spain shouldn't be worried by the differences in their wins though. Past results count for nothing and no-one will be taking anything for granted for tomorrow morning's game.

Both countries have exceptional sides. Spain, the pre-tournament favourite boast an excellent goalkeeper in Casillas, a very good defence (particularly Ramos and Pique) and a mesmerising midfield with the likes of Xavi, Iniesta, Alonso and Busquets. The brilliant Fabregas may get a chance to start ahead of Torres who has been looking rusty on his injury comeback trail. Villa has five World Cup goals this tournament and will be looking to add to his tally as the race for the Golden Boot hots up. Spain have scored 6 this tournament and Villa has 5 of them - which shows how important he is for the side. They have conceded two.

Germany's strength comes particularly from their young guns in midfield/attack. Bastian Schweinsteiger has had a superb tournament in the defensive midfield role, Özil has been a revelation, Khedira has looked quality and Müller has complemented an all-round game with a few goals. Klose has profited from the midfield service to score some good goals. In contrast to Spain they have scored 13 (seven more) and conceded two. The thirteen goals have been spread nicely around: Klose and Müller have four, Podolski has two, Cacau 1, Özil 1 and Friedrich 1. Klose has 14 World Cup goals in total, he is tied on second equal with German great Gerd Müller. He needs just one more to draw level with Ronaldo (ex Brazilian superstar) and two more to have the record for himself. With two games to achieve this milestone it is a distinct possibility.

Müller is the only player in the match who is suspended after picking up two yellow cards. There is no doubt he will be missed but Germany certainly have enough quality to cope without him.

I expect this to be a close game. I can't see Germany over-running Spain as they did England and Argentina. England and Argentina were weak both in personnel and tactically, Spain shouldn't make the same mistake. Spain will need to impose their passing game as they have done so well on many occasions. They didn't manage to do so against Paraguay which is a cause of concern for them. Germany will have studied this game and with an excellent tactician like Löw in charge will surely have a good game plan sussed.

There is a real possibility of an epic on the cards!

Preview of semi-final 1: Netherlands v Uruguay

2010-07-06T16:55:00.000+12:00

Uruguay holds the hopes of South America on their shoulders. That is if their South American neighbours are not like Scotland for example, who mostly support anyone but England. But still, after South America to some degree dominated the Group Stage (I don't fully buy the argument as most of these South American sides did not have overly difficult opposition to qualifying for the knock-out stages) and for the first time ever had 4 quarter-finalists (with the possibility of achieving all South American semi-finals) after four wins in the second round (although admittedly none against European sides) - they would have to be disappointed to only have one representative in the semis.

And that one side almost did not make it either. Conceding what could have been a tournament ending penalty against Ghana they were lucky to somehow come out the other end. And in the process lost a lot of respect from a number of neutrals after Suarez decided he would momentarily become goalkeeper - saving a certain goal with his hands and leading to the aforementioned penalty. Although some neutrals loved their whatever it takes approach it was fair to say that it left a bad taste in most people's mouths.

Uruguay are a good side but they have been assisted in this tournament firstly by a terrible French team finishing last in their group and allowing Uruguay the opportunity to top it. This meant an easier draw for them coming up against South Korea in the second round and an epic quarter-final clash with Ghana in what was generally considered the weakest quadrant.

Uruguay will be missing Fucile and Suarez through suspension and potentially Lugano through injury. Lodeiro is also out through injury but he is more an option off the subs bench than a starter. These absences will affect their defence considerably as well as weaken their attack. Yet they still have the dangerous Diego Forlan in their midst and have shown throughout the tournament how hard they can be to breakdown.

The Dutch started the tournament slowly and are still to hit their straps. They have won five games out of five and are yet to face extra-time. Each win has been effective without being thrilling. It is almost like they have become the Germans of world football while the Germans have taken on their mantle. Some would say the world has gone upside down! They quietly went about their business in the groups with a 2-0 win over Denmark, 1-0 over Japan and 2-1 over Cameroon before a 2-1 win over Slovakia in the second round and a come from behind 2-1 win over Brazil in the quarters. The quarter-final was impressive for how they responded to being 1-0 down at half-time and still managed to grind out victory.

The Dutch are on a 24 game unbeaten streak and they have a solid defence ably assisted by the two defensive midfielders in front of them (De Jong and van Bommel). This gives their flair players - Robben, Sneijder and van Persie the chance to express themselves up front. Robben is a constant thorn down the wing and Sneijder has been one of the players of the tournament so far. They do have van der Wiel and De Jong suspended for the game however so changes will need to be made.

This match could be a war of attrition between two desperate sides. The Netherlands have never won the World Cup and Uruguay haven't taken the title for 60 years. I am not expecting a wonderful spectacle but the game may be won through a moment of brilliance. I thing it will be a tight game, if any side blows out to a comfortable victory it will be the Netherlands but I can't see anything more than a two goal margin, and probably one. The Dutch hate penalties and have a very poor success rate, so they will want to win it before it gets to that point.

Round of 16. Match 5: Netherlands 2-1 Slovakia

2010-07-06T15:54:00.000+12:00

As most people including myself had commented - this match would depend on whether the Slovakia who played Italy would turn up or whether it would be the average one who played against Paraguay. The answer was that it was something in the middle. Or perhaps it was the one that would have played like they did against Italy, if it wasn't for the fact that the Netherlands had their tactics sussed and were able to impose their own game far more than Italy did.

The Netherlands created the best opportunities. Sneijder was in great form and Robben was everywhere with his jinking runs and crosses. Robben also scored a fantastic opening goal as he received a pass from Sneijder, advanced to the corner of the box and powered in a beautiful, low left foot shot. The Dutch defence for the most part stood firm, ably assisted by defensive midfielders De Jong and van Bommel.

It was no way a vintage performance from the Dutch and they never appeared to hit top gear. There was always the impression that the Dutch still hadn't hit great form yet. But they were effective in their win. The second goal after a goalkeeping blooper sealed the victory but there was still time in the dying seconds for Stekelenburg to upend Jakubko, and Vittek to slot home the resulting penalty. It was a moment of poor judgement for the keeper who had earlier made two quality stops from Stoch and Vittek.

Round of 16. Match 4: Argentina 3-1 Mexico

2010-07-05T23:12:00.000+12:00

For me, this match was spoiled by one key wrong decision. On 26 minutes Argentina took the lead through Tevez who was clearly in an offside position. It wasn't the most obvious decision for the assistant referee due to the speed with which it all happened, but it was definitely one he should have got right. Up until that point Mexico had looked the most threatening of the two sides: Salcido had attempted his luck with a very good powerful shot from distance which forced Romero into a save, Guardado fired just wide after good build up play from Dos Santos and Hernandez also spurned a decent opportunity. However from the first goal on Argentina always appeared on course to win.

The Mexicans complained bitterly to the referee about the goal, surrounding him as he talked to the assistant referee. The Argentinians also came in to have their say and it appeared the match was at boiling point. I later found out that what was at issue was the goal had been given but then the replay of the goal was shown on the big screen. The Mexicans obviously saw it and were up in arms. The ref and his officials would have seen it too but couldn't change the decision otherwise they would be in hot water with FIFA for making a decision based on a video replay. A video replay wasn't even supposed to have been played but there had somehow been an oversight.

Due to the whole incident Mexico lost the plot and six minutes later they went 2-0 behind. This was due to some dreadful defending from Osorio who dallied/took his eye off the ball which Higuain took off him with devastating consequences. I believe this was a hangover from the earlier decision. Mexico had started to look a distinctly average side compared with the one that had started so brightly. It was clearly due to the nature of the first goal that the wind had been taken out of their sails and they couldn't cope.

The third goal in the second half was even more of a killer blow than the second. At least this one was a moment of beauty. Tevez seemed to be in a fairly innocuous position 25 yards from goal, but he unleashed one of the goals of the tournament, powering it into the top corner. It was harsh on Mexico who no way deserved to be 3 goals down.

Mexico did manage a consolation as Hernandez worked his magic, scoring a delightful goal. But the goal was academic to the result, and Argentina marched on to a quarter-final with Germany.

Preview of Quarter-final 4: Spain v Paraguay

2010-07-04T05:58:00.002+12:00

Neither Spain nor Paraguay have ever won the World Cup or ever really come close. For Spain this is very surprising considering the quality they have often had at their disposal. But for this generation there is the suggestion that these players have what it takes, particularly after finally breaking their major tournament duck by winning Euro 2008. If they do manage to get past Paraguay they will face a repeat of the Euro 2008 final against Germany. Paraguay have a worse world cup record than Spain having just reached the quarter-finals for the first time ever. They will be hoping that in this game they can write another wonderful chapter in their history. This Paraguay side are considered the best they have ever produced and progressing to the semi-finals would not be as far-fetched as it sounds.

The Spanish game is based on possession and lots of it. They pass the ball around beautifully, mesmerically and with sublime ease. There is not a team in the world better at keeping possession. They have a midfield to die for in Alonso, Xavi, Iniesta and Busquets - a midfield that doesn't even have enough room for the brilliant Cesc Fabregas. They are very used to working together and they all have their own specific qualities that complement each other well. Villa up front is in top form having scored four out of Spain's five World Cup 2010 goals. Pique and Puyol are an experienced centre-back pairing and Ramos provides a good attacking option from right-back as well as being solid in defence. Capdevila is probably the weakest player in the team at left-back. Casillas is one of the world's best keepers. The man likely to partner Villa in attack is Torres but he has looked rusty all tournament. Llorente impressed in his cameo against Portugal but I don't expect him to start in this game.

Paraguay are a defensive unit. They have only conceded one goal all tournament (in the first game against Italy). Centre-back Alcarez looks particularly strong and he even scored a goal against Italy. They also play with deep central midfielders who break up the play effectively. Vera, Riveros and Caceras are more than just extra defenders however - Vera and Riveros both scored excellently finished goals against Slovakia. Paraguay have had some problems keeping possession so (especially given my comments re Spain) I would expect Spain to dominate this area of the game. But with Santa Cruz and Barrios up front Spain must still be wary. They may not be Cabanas but they are very capable. I expect Paraguay to adopt a defensive approach to this game though not as badly as Switzerland did against Spain. They would be more than happy with penalties I imagine.

It's hard to see Spain not progressing but a Paraguay win wouldn't be as big a shock as some would contend. They finished second in South American qualifying and I expect La Albirroja may not be as easy for La Roja to get past as it might appear on paper.

Preview of Quarter-final 3: Germany v Argentina

2010-07-03T17:45:00.002+12:00

This is always one of the biggest games in world football given the past footballing history between the two countries. This is a repeat of the 1986 and 1990 World Cup final as well as the quarter-final in 2006. in 1986 Argentina won a classic 3-2, in 1990 Germany won 1-0 as a bad tempered Argentina had two men sent off. And in 2006 Germany won on penalties, with a fight or on-field brawl occurring straight afterwards.

There is a lot of bad blood between Germany and Argentina and there has been a lot of things said by both camps in the lead up to this match. Bastian Schweinsteiger (with some validity) has accused Argentina of a lack of respect in the way they harrass referees for decisions. To which Maradona responded: "Bastian, are you nervous?" Phillip Lahm has said that Argentina are bad losers. Tevez said that Argentina were more afraid of Mexico than Germany. Whatever happens tonight there will be no love lost between the two sides and don't be surprised (especially if Argentina lose) if there is another brawl. And also don't be surprised if there are a few aggressive fouls and maybe a few cards!

Both sides have been in great form this World Cup. Argentina have scored the most goals (10 in four games) and Germany are just one behind. Argentina have the irresistable attacking forces of the likes of Messi, Higuain and Tevez and Germany have the equally exciting Oezil and Mueller at the ready. Many questioned Maradona's managerial ability but the mercurial Argentinian seems to have decided on what he considers to be his best line-up and his close bonding with his players appears to be working. His tactics are also generally good. The German squad are the second youngest at the World Cup and are hungry, playing without fear.

Expectations: A fiesty match with a fair few goals is a good bet. Both teams have greater strengths in attack and the odd weakness in defence. There are 8 players going into the game on a yellow card but no-one is suspended for this game.

Quotes: "This is why I'm in coaching in the first place, for games like this, against teams like England and Argentina,'' Low said. ``I don't have to be overly emotional in my pep talk to my team because they are extremely motivated and absolutely hot to play this match. We can't wait to get out there.''

Maradona, asked what he would tell his team, replied: "I will tell them they've got to leave their life on the pitch. There is an entire country behind them, so excited, and they are depending on this team to get up in the morning with a smile on their faces.''

With 5 titles between them La Albiceleste and Die Nationalmannschaft could serve up a classic - we'll have to wait and see.

Preview of Quarter-final 2: Ghana v Uruguay

2010-07-03T05:31:00.002+12:00

This is Africa versus South America in the first ever World Cup clash between these two nations. In fact I understand that they have never played each other before. The Black Stars against La Celeste. It's a quarter-final which, to be honest, practically nobody would have picked pre World Cup 2010. Uruguay of course are past world cup winners in 1930 and 1950. Since a semi-final appearance in 1970 this is the first time they have progressed beyond the second round. Ghana have already gone further than they ever have before, having reached the second round in their first appearance in 2006. They have joined the African nations Cameroon (1990) and Senegal (2002) in having reached a world cup quarter-final and are hoping to become the first African team to reach the semis by beating Uruguay.

Coming into this game Uruguay have scored 6 goals in World Cup 2010 and conceded 1. Ghana have scored 4 and conceded 3. Uruguay have had 3 wins and a draw, Ghana have had 2 wins (one of them courtesy of extra-time), 1 draw and a loss. Having said all this Ghana did have a tough Group D to navigate. Uruguay's form is all the more impressive since they only finished 5th in South American qualifying and had to rely on beating Costa Rica in a playoff to get to South Africa.Both sides are strong defensively so this could be a tight game. Having said that it could well be the attacking players who decide the game. Uruguay have the potent Suarez and Forlan up front as well as the unheralded Cavani who has been playing well. Ghana operate with a lone striker in Gyan - and if Ghana are to win, they will very likely need at least one goal from him.

Team news: Uruguay's defender Godin has been ruled out meaning a start for Victorino. Fernandez will replace Pereira which appears to be a tactical switch. Ghana have had a couple of injury concerns in Gyan and Boateng but both appear to have won the race to be fit. Vorsah has recovered from injury and so he looks set to replace Jonathan Mensah. Ayew is suspended after picking up his second booking of the tournament against the USA (and his appeal to FIFA failed). This is a massive blow as Ayew has been one of the stars of World Cup 2010. Muntari who was almost sent home after a row with manager Milovan Rajevac has been picked in his place.

This will be an interesting clash of styles and a massive stage for the two teams to get acquainted. Ghana will have the whole of Africa behind them but the captivating prize of a spot in the last four will not be decided on popularity.

Preview of Quarter-final 1: Netherlands v Brazil

2010-07-02T19:47:00.001+12:00

It's The Oranje versus Selecao. It's Europe versus South America. It's arguably the best team never to have won a World Cup against the country with the most under their belt. It's two footballing mad nations who both have fantastic teams and a lot of history.

Traditionally both teams are associated with flamboyant, flair football. For Holland this is embodied by the term 'total football' which describes the panache and excitement of teams of the past. It got them to two finals in the seventies but it never got them the World Cup crown. Brazil are synonymous with a samba style. A graceful attacking beautiful football. Unlike the Dutch this is an approach that has worked for them in the past.

Yet both Holland and Brazil have adopted a far more pragmatic style at this World Cup. They still have players who can show devastating skills and produce the spectacular but they are prevented total freedom of expression by the formations employed and the general approach of their managers. The Dutch like to play with a 4-2-3-1 that stifles opposition possession. With two very good defensive midfielders in De Jong and van Bommel it allows the front four (four of Robben, van Persie, Sneijder, Kuyt and van der Waart) to look for goals. The attack-minded players are also good at tracking back and doing defensive work, particularly Kuyt. Holland haven't really come to life or put their foot on the gas as yet. They have got the results without demonstrating the real ability of their front players. Robben who is just back from injury should add more impetus. The centre of defence is where their biggest worry lies. The Dutch haven't properly been tested yet, Brazil will be a stern test.

Brazil have an excellent defence. It is an unusual thing to focus on about Brazil but their manager Dunga, a defensive midfielder by trade, has really focused on getting the defence right as he sees it as the key to their success. They are hard to breakdown at the back and Juan has been very strong in the centre of their defence. He and Lucio have a formidable partenrship and we cannot forget their quality fullbacks Maicon and Bastos. Further up the field Brazil have a lot of pace and creativity. Kaka and Robinho are simply superb and Fabiano is a deadly goalscorer. They do have a couple of injury/suspension problems. Elano is out with injury and Ramires is suspended. Melo is coming back from injury and may not be ready. In which case both Alves and Josue may start. It will certainly be a blow to their midfield so their replacements will have to step up.

The last time these two sides faced each other in a major finals was the semi-finals of World Cup '98. The match finished 1-1 thanks to a late Kluivert equaliser. Brazil ended up winning on penalties. What odds another penalty shoot-out in what is an epic quarter-final clash.

Round of 16. Match 3: Germany 4-1 England

2010-07-02T18:27:00.002+12:00

This was an eagerly anticipated clash between two bitter enemies, or should I say football rivals. It has been pointed out to me that the rivalry is one-sided and that Germany don't consider it much of a rivalry. Whilst the Netherlands are their biggest rivals the Germans do also have a thing for the English - you only have to see how often Franz Beckenbauer is making disparaging comments about the England team to see that. It is a rivalry that, like any good rivalry, has developed through big, dramatic, controversial games throughout history. Some would suggest it's a match-up designed for later in the tournament - but thanks to England failing to win their group it was to be a second round match in 2010.

England never really got going in the early stages of the match despite the fact they had the odd chance to open the scoring. Germany were causing a few more problems but they weren't at their vintage best either - Oezil had a good chance in the opening minutes that James did well to turn away. The opening goal came after about 20 minutes and it was a very poor one for England to concede. Goalkeeper Neuer punted the ball long down the field. Both Terry and Upson failed to deal with it and as it eluded them it fell nicely for Klose to slide the ball home.

Germany very nearly got a second goal straight after. Fantastic interplay in the middle of the field led to Klose being denied by James. But the second goal wasn't long in coming. Germany again tore England apart and Mueller fed Podolski on the left who finished from a narrow angle. The defence was again very poor (especially the marking) and James should arguably have done better from such a tight angle.

England, against the run of play, pulled a goal back - a cross from Gerrard was headed in by Upson. Neuer came out and flailed towards the ball but Upson scored with a simple header. Then moments before half-time England looked like they had equalised. The ball sat up nicely for Lampard just outside the box and he chipped the keeper with an exquisite shot. The ball hit the underside of the crossbar, hit the ground over the line, and bounced out. Lampard was celebrating, as was Capello, as indeed was I. Remarkably the goal wasn't given. Replays show conclusively that the ball was significantly over the line and it was unbelievable that the referee's assistant missed it.

It was a crucial decision, it was a blatantly wrong decision, and it will again ignite calls for technology in football. Personally I think it would be a good idea to microchip the ball. It's an area of the game that can be proved definitively and it is something that can be introduced without interrupting the flow of the game. It should definitely be looked into. Instead of England going into half-time level and with their tails up, they were behind.

Early in the second half Lampard was again unlucky as he hit the crossbar from a free-kick. England were awarded another free-kick in a similar position not long after but this time Lampard hit the wall. Lampard put his arms in the air to appeal for handball, Barry lost possession on the edge of the German box and Germany broke at pace. A sweeping move ended in Mueller smashing in a goal. Barry was partially at fault for giving away possession but England had barely any players back in defence. Too busy searching for an equaliser they had committed too many men forward. Terry was conspicuous by his absence and James could possibly have done better - the ball was hit very hard but it was in an area in which James could have been expected to do better.

Moments later Germany killed the game off with a sucker punch. Germany cleared their lines and Oezil and Barry chased after it on the German left wing. Barry was left for dead, Oezil dribbled into the England penalty area and set up Mueller in acres of space for a simple finish. Again there were very few defenders back for England, and those that were might as well not have been.

Fact 1) Germany were by far the better side and deserved to win. Fact 2) England played poorly, particularly their defence. Fact 3) Lampard's goal that wasn't changed the complexion of the game. I'm not arguing that had he scored England would have won but I am arguing that they would have had a lot better chance. An equaliser at that point would have changed the course of the game. England would not have needed to attack attack attack if they were back on level terms. And it was the attacking, and thus leaving themselves exposed at the back, that led to the concession of the third and fourth goals.

It must be said that a team should also be judged on how it reacts to adversity. Did England use the disallowed goal as extra motivation or did they lose the plot? It was the latter. With over half an hour to go they were stupid enough to throw too many players forward in search of the equaliser. They must surely have known how devastating Germany can be on the counter-attack but instead of employing tactics to reflect this they pushed forward like headless chickens. Was an extra couple of defenders in attack going to make the difference in scoring? Probably not. Were they likely to get punished on the break? Probably yes. So what the hell were the defence thinking? They should have stuck to their job, they should have tracked back better and they should in essence have got the fundamentals right. They still had time to get an equaliser - they just had to be smarter about trying to achieve it. But they weren't. When leaders were needed on the pitch to be intelligent in what they were trying to achieve they were found wanting.

Now I wish to make some minor criticisms of Capello. Let me make it clear that again this is not an excuse for the England players. Neither Capello or the goal that wasn't are excuses. England were dire. Only Lampard and Gerrard can come out with any credit from that game. No matter what other factors were at play there is no escaping that the English team were shocking.

The England team that was picked was 4-4-2. Why did Capello continue with this when it seemed obvious to most that 4-5-1 was in order. Against such a potent German attack packing the midfield with 5 players was a necessity. In this scenario Cole should have come in on the left wing with Defoe dropping to the bench. Upson was picked ahead of Carragher who was available again after suspension. There are questions to be asked if that was the right decision too. And when chasing the game is it not ridiculous that Heskey was brought on for Defoe? Heskey who is simply not a goalscorer. Peter Crouch anyone? Also Hart should have been starting in goal at the World Cup. I have been saying this for months.

A bad argument that I've heard as well is that Terry was apparently playing on the side of central defence he was not used to. I'm not sure how this would make him lose all the fundamentals of his game in an instant however.

The long and the short of is it that Germany marched on and that England had to catch an early flight home.

Round of 16. Match 2: Ghana 2-1 USA (a.e.t)

2010-07-02T16:42:00.001+12:00

This match really got to life early on in the piece with Boateng scoring a goal on the five minute mark after powering forward and finishing with aplomb. Ghana then dominated proceedings with Ayew and Inkoom (playing his first game of the tournament) making inroads down the flanks. The USA did manage to have the best chances while they were looking for a way back into the game but Kingson was on song to save his team on numerous occasions. It was a quality performance from the Ghanaian goalkeeper.

Jonathan Mensah gave the USA a lifeline when he tripped Dempsey in the box and Donavon made no mistake from the spot. The complexion of the game thus changed with it becoming imperative for both teams to make the running. Both sides had chances - the USA again creating the better ones but Ghana looking more dangerous overall.

Extra-time started with a bang as Gyan put Ghana into the lead again, after only a couple of minutes, thrashing in a half-volley. Ghana hadn't scored from open play in the Group stage and hadn't scored more than one goal in a game for a long time...but in a game when it really mattered they had pulled out two goals of the highest quality. It was then a case of Ghana hanging on for the rest of the match - a task in which they succeeded.

Kingston, Boateng, Ayew and Gyan were the stand-outs for Ghana. Dempsey and Donavon were for the USA.

On a final note I just want to mention Altidore and how much I do not rate him. Every chance he has had at this World Cup I have expected him to miss - and he has. He is not a goalscorer, he can barely even score for Hull City. He also barges round the field like a right donkey...yes he is the Heskey of the USA, and I'm not sure why he is persisted with.

Round of 16. Match 1: Uruguay 2-1 South Korea

2010-07-02T12:25:00.001+12:00

Two of the three goals in this game were a result of goalkeeping errors in my opinion. Uruguay opened the scoring on the eight minute mark when Forlan fired in a cross behind the static South Korean defence. Sung-Ryong Jung in goal moved out towards the ball but got nowhere near it leaving Suarez with an empty net to aim at (and from a tight angle he made it look easy). The second goalkeeping mistake came in the second half when Victorino partially cleared a free-kick, heading the ball high into the air, Muslera came out but was never going to get hold of the ball - instead presenting a routine header for Lee Chung-Yong to equalise.

There was nothing to be critical of with the winning goal however. Suarez created space for himself and sent in a stunning, curling shot that nestled in the top right hand corner. It was a goal worthy to win a World Cup knock-out match.

Another observation I would like to make is that when Uruguay were winning 1-0 they sat back on their lead and were content to defend it. In the first half South Korea did not create many opportunities but they came into it more in the second half. Uruguay looked comfortable but not particularly threatening. The equaliser was a statement to everybody as to why it is not the right strategy to sit back on your laurels when you have a one goal advantage. Ultimately it didn't harm Uruguay's progression but hopefully they have learnt their lesson on this one.

Suarez was the key man for the game and Uruguay were worthy winners. South Korea did however play some good stuff particularly in the second half - making. Park Chu-Young was South Korea's best player. That is no surprise as he has been their most impressive performer throughout the World Cup - only narrowly missing out on my "team of the group stages".

Team of the Group Stages

2010-07-02T11:39:00.004+12:00

OK so who read my initial suggestion? I only picked ten players! Now after reading two other people's team of the Group stages and thinking about things I've made a couple of alterations. Maicon comes in for Ramos at right-back. I pick two centre-backs now - adding Pique into the mix. My missing defensive midfielder was the eleventh player I missed out - and it's hard to argue with having Marquez there. I've removed Mueller for my extra centre-back. He was brilliant against Aussie but he didn't live up to these standards against Serbia and Ghana.

There is now a proper defensive side to this team so we can scratch the caveat and potential criticisms on that score.

Tulio is perhaps my most controversial selection. What about Grichting? Lugano? Nelsen? Subotic? Onyewu? I have been very impressed by Tulio, am I wrong to select him?

                                        Benaglio (SWI)
Maicon (BRA)           Tulio (JAP)         Pique (SPA)          Salcido (MEX)
                                        Marquez (MEX)
               Honda (JAP)                                   Oezil (GER)
                                        Messi (ARG)
                      Villa (ESP)                      Forlan (URU)

Preview of Round of 16. Match 8: Spain v Portugal

2010-06-30T05:42:00.000+12:00

This is La Furia Roja versus Selecção das Quinas. It's the clash of the Iberian neighbours - one of the biggest rivalries in world football. This is two teams who can play sumptuous football, love to attack and have a number of household names in their teams.

The most recent chapter of their rivalry was Euro 2004 in which they were drawn together in the Group stage. Going into the final game against Portugal Spain were level with Greece on top of the group, on four points and needed just a draw against Portugal to progress. Instead they lost 1-0 and Portugal ultimately made the final.

Spain came into World Cup 2010 as favourites but are yet to really live up to their billing. They were stunned 1-0 by Switzerland in the opening group game in which despite looking good lacked the penetration to break them down. They have since bounced back from this to defeat Honduras 2-0 and Chile 2-1 to take top spot in Group H.

Portugal have also yet to really light up the tournament but they are a side who are very hard to break down. They are yet to concede a goal at World Cup 2010 having recorded two 0-0 draws with Ivory Coast and Brazil, either side of a 7-0 drubbing of North Korea. They have a very good recent defensive record but they rely too much on their midfield to score goals as they don't really have any notable strikers.

Neither side have players suspended and the only injury of note is that Alonso is struggling to be fit for Spain. If he doesn't make it then Martinez should start. Deco is back from injury for Portugal but with the form Tiago is in it will be surprising if he starts.

Key players

Spain

Villa has scored three of Spain's four goals thus far and is looking in the mood.

Iniesta is one of the best midfielders in the world.

Casillas is captain and one of the best goalkeepers around.

Portugal

Ronaldo has finally broken his international goalscoring duck of around 18 months. Perhaps this will be the impetus he needs to break the shackles. He always looks dangerous and is incredibly skilful. Maybe this is the day he lights up World Cup 2010

Tiago has been in fantastic form in midfield.

Coentrao is a brilliant left-back who performs at a consistently high level.

Expectations: This is a mouth-watering clash that people will hope lives up to expectations. Spain should have more of the possession and more of the early attacks on goal. Portugal will look to keep it tight and counter-attack with pace, poise and penetration. If there is an early goal this match could end up being a classic but the longer it stays 0-0 the more likely people are to be disappointed. Both sides will be hungry to reach the quarter-final - especially as they will both back themselves to beat Paraguay when they get there.

Preview of Round of 16. Match 7: Paraguay v Japan

2010-06-29T19:19:00.001+12:00

This is La Albirroja versus the Blue Samarai. This is South America versus Asia's final representative, made all the more interesting by virtue of the fact that an Asian side has never beaten a South American side at a World Cup. These are two teams that have never got past the Round of 16. Paraguay have been in this position four times, Japan only once (and that in their own continent). But for one of them - this is about to change! I should also add that neither of them has even scored a goal in the second round!

Both come into the knock-out range with confidence. Paraguay believe this is their best ever team, they finished only one point behind Brazil in qualifying and they finished unbeated top of Group F. Japan's manager Takeshi Okada stated before the World Cup that they would make the semi-finals and they've certainly looked the best Asian team at the tournament. For both teams however it is hard to know whether they looked good because they really were that good or because their opposition didn't perform to potential at the tournament.

Paraguay looked very assured and skilful against Italy, completely dominated Slovakia and did enough against New Zealand to score the requisite point. Japan narrowly defeated Cameroon in a poor game, suffered a narrow loss against Netherlands before playing an excellent game against Denmark, defeating them 3-1.

Head-to-head: They have played each other on six occasions - Paraguay winning twice, Japan and there have been three draws. Paraguay's wins have been in the 2004 Olympic Games and the 1999 Copa America.

Suspensions: Caceres is unfortunately suspended for Paraguay. Vera and Santa Cruz (Paraguay) are one booking short of a suspension as are Abe, Endo, Nagatomo (Japan).

Key players

Paraguay: Alcarez has impressed in defence, Vera has been one of the most enterprising players in South Africa and scored a delightful goal against Slovakia. Santa Cruz will need to start showing why he is considered the star of the team.

Japan: Honda is their inspirational captain and in fine form. Endo is another one with a big talent. Often employed as a defensive midfielder he has a brilliant creative pass. Tulio is an imposing and effective 6 foot tall centre-back.

Expectations: Paraguay have a stellar defence who have conceded only once in South Africa and had the second best defensive record in South American qualifying. But it is also true to say that Japan are quite miserly having conceded twice in South Africa and with a good defensive record in qualifying. Perhaps then it will be a low scoring match? I certainly expect them to spend a while feeling each other out. Paraguay do love to attack but the likes of Santa Cruz, Barrios and Cardozo have not really demonstrated much of this in South Africa. Perhaps tonight is the night that they really let their South American flair go wild. Japan will be neat and quick in possession and potentially lethal from free-kicks. It should be a fascinating contest. Paraguay are favourites, and rightfully so, but this could easily go either way...

Group H final set of games

2010-06-29T12:06:00.001+12:00

Spain 2-1 Chile

Spain went into the match knowing only a win would guarantee qualification. Chile knew they only needed to draw.

The opening exchanges were lively. Torres had a couple of early chances and a lovely move by Chile resulted in Beausejour setting up Gonzalez which he sent wide. Chile started to dominate proceedings and Sanchez attempted an exquisite cheeky lob that Casillas managed to flap away. Then, disaster struck for Chile. Goalkeeper Bravo rushed out of his area to clear Alonso's through ball and take it away from Torres. He won the ball (as he needed to) and cleared it away - but instead of to the sideline it went further up the pitch...and straight to Villa who sensationally kept the ball on target from 30 yards out with a first-time shot. 1-0 Spain.

A second goal for Spain wasn't long in coming. As Chile pressed for an equaliser gaps were appearing - Iniesta won the ball in Chile's half and a few crisp and incisive passes later he was clinically despatching a quality strike. In the process Estrada was given a second yellow card for a trip on Torres and was therefore sent off. Estrada deserved his first yellow but the second yellow was harsh. He barely caught Torres and it appeared accidental. However moments earlier he had not been booked for a cynical foul when he perhaps should have, so overall maybe the decision was inadvertently correct.

In the second half Chile showed what a courageous side they are. With ten men they scored a goal right at the start of the half and didn't concede again. Medel and Ponce were both tigers in defence but both picked up yellow cards and are suspended for the Brazil game - both would surely be missed. Chile's goal was a touch fortuitous: second half substitute Millar had his shot deflected off Pique's knee and it was diverted into the net.

Both teams played an almost farcical last ten minutes of possession football - not interested in tackling or setting up goals. Both knew they had done enough to qualify should the game being played simultaneously (Switzerland v Honduras) remain at 0-0.

Switzerland 0-0 Honduras

Honduras knew only a win could give them even a small chance of qualifying. Switzerland knew a draw or a win may or may not be enough - depending on the result in the Spain v Chile game.

Despite the scoreline this was actually a fairly entertaining game. Honduras showed far more attacking intent than they could muster in their first two games and came very close to scoring on a number of occasions. Unfortunately for them, they didn't, and they would be eliminated without a goal to their name.

Both sides created a number of chances but neither team could trouble the goalscorers. Frei was disappointing for the Swiss as he barely mustered a shot and Nkufo had a couple of glaring misses. The Swiss showed their desire for goals by bringing Hakin Yakin on at half-time but he was unable to conjure up the victory they so desperately sought. Honduras were also guilty of glaring misses but were also denied by some quality keeping from Benaglio.

On the balance of play Honduras would have warranted 3 points, but it was not to be. And both sides were sent packing.

Preview of Round of 16. Match 6: Brazil v Chile

2010-06-29T05:29:00.000+12:00

It's the Selecao versus la Roja. It's the 5 time world champion up against 3rd place finishers in 1962. It's a South American derby between two countries who were only separated by one point at the end of the qualifying campaign - during which Brazil only lost twice and conceded only 11 times in 18 games. Chile may have won one more game but this is a very impressive record for the Brazilians.

Brazil come into this game off the back of a group in which they showed good form but never really came alive. They defeated North Korea by a single goal - with the breakthrough taking a long time in coming. They eased to an impressive 3-1 victory over the Ivory Coast. And they did enough to manage a goal-less draw against Portugal. Manager Dunga has emphasised defence since he took over the managerial reigns in 2006 - hence the current Brazilian team have the potential to excite with the zest with which we associate Brazil, but this does not come to the fore as often as it might due to the sensible and pragmatic approach of Dunga.

Chile have brought much flair and excitement to the tournament - partly because of the attack minded tactics of their manager Bielsa. Some of their play has really lit up the tournament but they have struggled to reflect this in goals scored. In the group stage they beat both Honduras and Switzerland with convincing 1-0 wins before succumbing to spain 2-1. They will come into this game, no doubt playing 3-1-3-3 again, and will certainly be looking to attack.

Key players

Brazil

Robinho is the key to providing Brazil's attacking impetus. If and when Brazil score goals it would be a fair assumption to make that Robinho has had a big hand in it

Lucio is a central defender who will keep it tight at the back. Maicon will be dangerous with his marauding runs from right-back.

Fabiano is a clinical goalscorer so Brazil will be looking to him to finish the moves off with aplomb, the way they are accustomed to him doing

Chile

Sanchez is an exciting winger and a real creative outlet for the Chileans.

Vidal is a quality full-back and will look to attack when he has the opportunity

Suazo is still on the comeback trail from injury but he might just start today. He scored plenty of goals in qualifying and will look to add to his tally against Brazil

Suspensions will be very costly for Chile. Defence is their biggest weakness and they are to go in against Brazil with a couple of second stringers after Ponce and Medel picked up second bookings of the tournament against Spain. Thus Chile's task has just got harder. Estrada is also suspended but his absence will be less keenly felt as he only starts games on occasions. They will be pleased to welcome back key players Carmona and M Fernandez to the fold after they were suspended for the Spanish match.

Expectations: To begin with Chile will likely attack and Brazil will likely contain. There is a distinct possibility that Brazil will catch them on the counter-attack, and if Chile do fall behind it will be a massive mountain for them to climb to get back in the game. Chile will need to convert any chances they do get - instead of being wasteful as they have been shown to be in their earlier games.

South America versus South America is usually something special at the World Cup and Chile will be hoping not to suffer a repeat of their second round game against Brazil back in 1998 when they lost 4-1. Chile have only beaten Brazil seven times in their last 66 games and are very much second favourites coming into this one. But they have a very talented team and a never say die attitude. They can also be ill-disciplined, something else that may be their down fall.

This could be a very entertaining game.

Preview of Round of 16. Match 5: Netherlands v Slovakia

2010-06-28T18:08:00.000+12:00

This is Oranje versus Repre. It's two different forms of history on the line. For the Dutch they have been in two consecutive finals in the 70's and a fourth place finish in 98 and are widely considered to have a rich football tradition that often highlights beautiful football over the art of winning. For Slovakia they are in their first world cup as an independent country so have already kicked off history by making the round of 16. They are descended from a great lineage however of Czechoslovakian football.

The Dutch have been in the round of 16 seven times and failed to progress on 3 of those occasions. They are very much the favourites in this match. Partly due to some of the irresistable players they have and partly because they cruised through the group stages at second gear but still won all three games. Slovakia were terrible against Paraguay and brilliant against Italy. It depends which one turns up as to how much of a chance they will have.

Key players

For the Dutch it's their exciting quartet of players who can win any game when they are on song: Arjen Robben, Robin van Persie, Wesley Sneijder and van der Waart. They also have good solid midfield players in Nigel de Jong and Giovanni Mark van Bommel. If anything their defence is the weakest area but looking at it man for man it is still pretty darn good.

For Slovakia it will be Robert Vittek that needs to be in the goals, Marek Hamsik will cause problems and Skrtel is a big bruising defender. The manager dropped two of their bigger names in Vladimir Weiss and Stanislav Sestak in their last game and it paid dividends - it's hard to know what he will do tonight. One things for sure they have some quality throughout their squad as they demonstrated against the defending champions.

Expectations: It's hard to predict. Logic would suggest Slovakia will sit back and look to counter-attack with the Dutch making the play, but it's really hard to know for sure. It will be a shock if the Netherlands lose but they've shown time and time again you can't write off a Dutch implosion. At least this time there doesn't seem to be fights within the squad. We shall see when the game kicks off at 2am NZ time!

Group G final group games

2010-06-28T17:38:00.001+12:00

Brazil 0-0 Portugal

When you see a Brazil v Portugal game on the fixture list it's enough to make one salivate in anticipation. However with Brazil only needing a draw to qualify top and Portugal only needing a draw to make absolutely certain of qualification it quickly became apparent that this would be a damp squib of a game. And so it turned out to be...for ninety minutes. I had thought that with both sides having pretty much progressed this would be an open fun game to match the festive atmosphere that accompanied it. I was wrong. I was also wrong that I didn't think the tackles would be flying in quite so hard. They were and as a result there were a few bookings.

As expected both sides had also made a few changes to their starting line-up and it was in these fringe players best interests to put on a show to force themselves into the managers plans for the round of 16. But even they couldn't really liven up proceedings. Juan could have been given a red card for a deliberate hand ball but the referee took a lenient approach.

The best chances were when a close-range Nilmar shot was parried onto the post by Eduardo and when the ball broke loose for Meireles in the box but was unable to convert.

Ivory Coast 3-0 North Korea

The Ivory Coast new that they needed a massive victory coupled with a Brazil win to have any chance of qualifying for the next stage.

The Ivory Coast could not match the 7-0 Portugal mustered against North Korea but they did create chances and were well worth their 3-0 victory. At least Ivory Coast could go out and enjoy themselves in a game, knowing these were their last minutes at World Cup 2010 they might as well!

The Ivory Coast were particularly dominant in the first half as Yaya Toure and Romaric both scored good goals. Despite their dominance and chances they were unable to produce more. They were unable to create as much during the second half and only a Kalou effort added to the two goals for a simple 3-0 victory that signalled the end of both sides involvement in the tournament.

It was a disheartening tournament for The Elephants and they will rue their conservatism in the first game against Portugal.

Group F final group games

2010-06-28T17:14:00.000+12:00

New Zealand 0-0 Paraguay

Paraguay knew a draw was enough to qualify. New Zealand knew they needed a win. This was a dour match as Paraguay seemed content to play out a 0-0 draw and the New Zealanders, whilst wanting to win, just lacked the quality and creativity to make it possible. For a neutral this would have been a boring game, but for us in New Zealand every moment was tense as we dreaded conceding and hoped like hell for a winner.

For New Zealand Paston did well with a couple of good saves. Nelsen was the Kiwis best player as always and Reid and Smith did everything they needed to at the back. Bertos showed a little more moving forwards than he has done previously and Elliott continued to do well. Having bagged Elliott before the tournament I was pleased to see he has done well. Up front Killen and Fallon again showed nothing of note and Smeltz always looked dangerous.

My criticism of the New Zealand approach is focused on Herbert and his tactics in the last half hour of the game. New Zealand were in a situation where they knew one goal would probably be enough to take them through to the second round for the first time ever. They knew they may never be in such a position again. This was the time to take the bull by the horns and just go for it - leave no regrets. This was the situation where Herbert needed to throw on Chris Wood much earlier. He needed to get Tim Brown on for Vicelich for a while. Brown is a natural centre-mid who can make good darting runs into the box as well as breaking up the play nicely. What was the point of him returning to fitness from his shoulder injury if he wasn't going to get considered for a run. We could also have looked at changing the tactics. Perhaps switching formation to a 4-4-2 or a 3-5-2 to try something different. If we'd lost going down fighting it would have felt much better than the tepid way the match drifted to its inexorable conclusion.

Having said that I am very proud of the All Whites for the immense achievement of 3 World Cup draws. They became the fourth team in history (after Belgium, Scotland and Cameroon) to be eliminated after being undefeated. We finished a point ahead of Italy on the rankings and we showed ourselves as a proud nation able to compete on the world stage.

Slovakia 3-2 Italy

Italy needed a win to guarantee qualification and Slovakia knew that even that might not be good enough.

This was an enthralling contest. Slovakia led 1-0 at half-time after De Rossi's pass lost possession near the edge of the box and the ball was fed to Vittek who finished clinically. For the remainder of the half Slovakia were mostly in control of the contest and Marchetti did well to save on a couple of occasions.

Both sides had chances in the second half with Slovakia counter-attacking at every opportunity when Italian pressure broke down. With 17 minutes remaining it looked all over for Italy when Vittek stole in to score at the near post - this not long after Quagliarella had a volley blocked on the goal-line by Skrtel. Di Nitale pulled one back with nine minutes remaining however as he steered into an open goal after Mucha had blocked a shot.

Italy looked for an all important equaliser and thought they had found one. Di Nitale had the ball in the back of the net again but he was correctly adjudged to be offside, even though it was a tight one. A super smart throw in from Slovakia ensured it was actually they who skored again. Substitute Kopenek deftly lifted it over Marchetti's head. The goal of the match came moments later when Quagliarella lobbed in a delightful long-range shot. It was perhaps even the goal of the tournament but it was to no avail as Italy ultimately lost.

Group E final group games

2010-06-28T16:29:00.000+12:00

Japan 3-1 Denmark

Japan went into the game knowing a draw would be enough for them to qualify. Denmark knew they needed a win. The equation was fairly simple.

Denmark and Japan both traded early opportunities which both were unlucky to convert but fairly early in the first half it was Japan who took the lead. Given a free kick on the right hand side from 35 yards out Honda hit it with blistering pace and swerve and the ball nestled in the top left hand corner of the net. Sorensen moved the wrong way initially before diving full stretch, missing his outstretched fingers by a whisker. You have to feel a little sympathy for Sorensen - the flight of the ball was deceiving and one wonders how much influence the Jabulani ball had on the swerve. Nevertheless it was a wonderful free-kick in a tournament devoid of quality free-kick goals.

The Netherlands didn't learn their lesson and conceded another free-kick - this time more central and closer to the box. Endo stepped up and curled it beautifully round the wall, Sorensen had no chance. From 2-0 down it was a long way back given that Denmark now needed 3 goals. Endo had another free-kick from a massive distance in the second half and he almost did a 2002 World Cup quarter-final Brazil v England Ronaldinho special. Sorensen was Seaman on this occasion and he would have been delighted to get just enough hand to the floating ball to guide it onto the crossbar. Very close and very nervy though.

Tomasson had opportunities to pull the score back, one in particular saw him in a great position only to scuff his shot. But overall Denmark did not show enough in attack. Their supposedly creative team with a strong defence that had aided them so well through qualification was lacking. Larsen managed a fantastic volley against the bar and with ten minutes remaining Denmark had a life-line as they were awarded a penalty. Tomasson did his best to miss as Kawashima saved, only for Tomasson to bundle home the rebound and equal a Danish goalscoring record.

Honda completed the job however, setting up Okazaki after taking it past one and slipping the ball across to him. It was sumptuous from Honda, only emphasising a masterful display from him. Japan eased into the second round, taking 2nd spot.

Netherlands 2-1 Cameroon

The Netherlands knew they only needed a draw to guarantee top spot and Cameroon knew they were only playing for pride having already been eliminated. Cameroon therefore took the opportunity to blood some youngsters, and a number of them impressed. The Netherlands played well, demonstrating neat and clever interplay that created a good number of chances. This finally paid off in the 36th minute after a sublime one-two between van Persie and van der Waart ended in a crisp finish for van Persie.

Cameroon played some quality football which resulted in a number of opportunities that the Netherlands did well to thwart. When the equaliser finally came it was from the spot. Eto'o converted clinically after a hand ball.

When the Netherlands winner came it was quite special. Sneijder set up the attack with a quality through ball, Robben's poor touch looked to have taken the ball away but he created space for himself, hit a fantastic shot against the post and Huntelaar slotted into an open goal - from a tight angle.

The Netherlands have nine points from nine and don't appear to have hit their straps. Cameroon were very weak in their opening game but probably deserved to register at least one point at the World Cup.

Preview of Round of 16. Match 4: Argentina v Mexico

2010-06-28T05:47:00.000+12:00

It's the Albiceleste versus El Tri. It's the two time World Cup winners Argentina versus the two time quarter-finalists Mexico. It's South America versus North/Central America. It's also a repeat of the Round of 16 match in 2006.

Yes in 2006 Argentina (after winning Group C ahead of the Netherlands) faced Mexico (who finished 2nd in Group D behind Portugal) and the score was 1-1 after 90 minutes. Argentina won by virtue of a spectacular Maxi Rodriguez goal in extra-time but it had been a tightly fought quality game.

They also lost the 1993 Copa America final to Argentina 2-1 and a 2007 Copa America semi-final 3-0.

Argentina will be hoping to successfully navigate the second round so that they can exact revenge on Germany in the quarter-finals. Germany of course eliminated Argentina on penalties at the quarter-final of the last World Cup. Mexico will be hoping to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 1986.

Key players

Argentina

Messi: Messi is probably the best footballer in the world. He has perfect vision, innate football intelligence, super control, skill and awareness, creates opportunities for others and scores plenty of goals himself. He is a complete footballer and when on top of his game - nothing can stop him.

Mascherano: Mascherano is an important player because if there is one weakness in the Argentine team it is the defence. Not that the defence is bad but they do have the occasional blooper or nervy moment. Mascherano, as defensive midfielder, has the job of protecting the back four and does so admirably. He is also responsible for the link up play with the attacking midfielders at Argentina's disposal. He is very good at this also.

Tevez: A supremely talented striker, could Tevez be ready to fire?

Mexico

Marquez: Has the all important job of protecting the back four and in particular nullifying the threat of Messi. He thus has perhaps the most difficult job in world football. They are no strangers - they are team-mates and great friends for Barcelona. This friendship will of course be put on hold! Marquez is a highly experienced and quality player.

Dos Santos: Always threatening, Dos Santos creates opportunities for others and likes to have a shot himself.

Barrera: An under-rated midfielder Barrera has the potential to unlock defences.

Expectations: With both sides having the odd question mark over their defence this could be a very open game with plenty of goals. Argentina are far more clinical in attack. Mexico will create opportunities but they don't convert enough of them. This will have to change tonight. One hopes Hernandez might get a start this time but expect him instead off the bench. Maradona loves to play the fab four of Messi, Di Maria, Tevez and Higuain and expect this to continue. It's an irresistable combination and has worked for him so far.

Preview of Round of 16. Match 3: England v Germany

2010-06-27T20:21:00.001+12:00

It's the big one! It's one time World Cup winner England versus three time champs Germany. It's one of world football's biggest rivalries and even though they are a very long time ago, for some people the rivalry takes on even bigger significance because of the world wars. This is reflected in the song that some people like to sing: "two world wars and one world cup".

England versus Germany is always one of the most anticipated clashes any time, let alone in the knock-out stage at a World Cup. They have a celebrated history of contests that stem in particular from the 1966 World Cup final.

Historic World Cup matches between the sides:

1966 World Cup final. England 4-2 Germany after extra-time. England were leading 2-1 and conceded an equaliser in the last minute of regulation time - Weber poked it over the line despite English protestations of a handball. In extra-time England scored one of the most controversial goals of all time and arguments rage to this day about it. Hurst hit the crossbar and the ball bounced down either onto or just over the goal-line. But the goal was given. Hurst went on to score another goal for England's fourth and his hat-trick and even that is contested. Fans had already started running onto the pitch so perhaps technically it should not have been given. England won their one and only world cup and this really kick-started a massive football rivalry.

1970 World Cup quarter-final. England were leading 2-0, then Germany pulled one back through Beckenbauer and manager Alf Ramsey did the unthinkable. He substituted the tiring Bobby Charlton and it was probably one of the worst decisions he ever made. England lost any potency going forward and Seeler equalised for the Germans. Gerd Muller scored the winner in extra-time (it was one of his 14 world cup finals goals for which he held the record until Ronaldo overtook him with 15 in 2006) to send the German fans into delirium. Many commentators think England would have won if their brilliant goalkeeper Gordon Banks hadn't been missing through illness.

1990 World Cup semi-final. This is one of my worst memories as an England fan. Lineker equalised in the 80th minute to make the match 1-1 and send it to extra-time. No-one broke through in extra-time and England had their first taste of spot-kick misery. Something they would experience a lot more of through the years. Pearce and Waddle missed their penalties. The game was also iconic for Gazza's tears - he had received a yellow card which would cause him to be suspended for the final should England make it through.

A couple more iconic matches (non World Cup) have also been the 1996 European Championships semi-final which England also lost on penalties - Southgate the villain this time - and a World Cup qualifying match in 2001 when England famously won a surprising 5-1!

Both teams are coming into this match off a mixed bag in the group stage. England were average against the USA, abysmal against Algeria, and finally got themselves together against Slovenia. Germany were mesmerising against Australia before succumbing to Serbia and then beating Ghana.

Key players

England

Rooney - yet to set the World Cup alight he is considered part of the trio of world's best footballers: Messi, Ronaldo and Rooney. When he fires he is almost unstoppable.

Gerrard and Lampard (and particularly Gerrard) - two supremely talented players who step up for their clubs when it matter but don't do it often enough for England.

John Terry - Prone to the odd mistake Terry will have to put a few things behind him, (affair, captaincy stripping, harsh words on Capello) stay focused and be a true leader on the pitch.

Germany

Oezil and Mueller - Two young players that can wrip apart any defence when they are at the top of their game. Oezil is coming off a game in which he scored an absolute belter and Mueller has the potential to become the best player in the world, and is not far behind right now. Both could create a lot of opportunities for the devastating front men Podolski and Klose.

Lahm - Captain and a fantastic full-back he must be alert to the dangers coming from England's midfield and attack.

Schweinsteiger - A key man in central midfield, Schweinsteiger is battling an injury and hoping to be fit.

Expectations - could be a cagey tight affair with neither side wanting to give an inch. But it will have the potential to explode at any time with the attacking talent on show tonight. Both sides have shown the odd weakness in defence so there could be some goals in the game. Germany have more talent throughout their squad and they are younger which could make them more exciting and play with less fear. Although it could also lead to more mistakes or naive play without all the wise old heads around.

And if it comes to penalties, you have to back the Germans.
An absolute classic encounter is in the offing, and it's a shame one of these teams won't be strutting their stuff in the quarter-finals.

Group D final set of games

2010-06-27T17:00:00.000+12:00

Germany 1-0 Ghana

Ghana went into this game knowing a draw would guarantee them qualification for the second round. Germany knew they needed a win to make sure of their place.

The game soon settled into a pattern of Germany attacking with Ghana defending and hitting them back on the counter-attack. Ghana's defence was very well organised and the German side found it difficult to break them down. And for all Germany's pressure Ghana probably had the better chances overall, including two shots that were cleared off the line by German defenders. Both Oezil and Asamoah should have done a lot better with their one-on-one opportunities.

I was getting the distinct feel of a 0-0 about the game until the moment of magic arrived, a little out of the blue. The Germans were passing the ball around roughly ten metres outside the Ghanaian penalty area when the ball arrived at Oezil's feet (courtesy of Mueller), he flicked it up with his left boot before crashing a stupendous long-range shot into the top left hand corner of the goal. It was a goal worthy of winning a football match and that is the way it proved to be as Germany finished top of the group and Ghana sneaked into second place.

Australia 2-1 Serbia

Serbia went into this game knowing a victory would put them into the second round and a draw would leave their hopes hanging by a thread. Australia knew only a win would do, and that even that might not be enough. Cahill was back from suspension but Kewell was suspended.

Serbia dominated the first half and failed to score from a number of promising attacks. Krasic had a couple of excellent chances and Schwarzer foiled Ivanovic with a stunning save from a powerful shot. On the balance of play Serbia perhaps deserved a half-time lead.

The second half proved to be far more even in terms of creating good chances. Australia warned Serbia with a Cahill header that went wide and a couple of strong Bresciano shots when on 69 minutes Cahill opened the scoring with a typically powerful and accurate header from the centre of the box - the likes of which we've seen him score for Everton on numerous occasions. Then only minutes later Brett Holman scored an absolute screamer. He picked up the ball just inside Serbia's half, surged forward and thundered into the bottom right hand corner from 25 yards. There had been no pressure on him from Serbia's defence and the keeper had no chance.

With Germany winning 1-0 against Ghana Australia knew they needed one more goal to send them through to the second round. However next to score were Serbia. With six minutes remaining Tosic curled in a dipping and swerving ball which Schwarzer spilled into the path of Pantelic who tapped in the rebound. This now meant that Australia needed two goals to advance but Serbia just needed an equaliser. There was still time for a good shot from Cullina, a shout for a penalty and a disallowed goal. Cahill handled in the area but it was clearly accidental and despite Serbian protestations both during and after the match it was a fair call. Pantelic also thought he had brought things level but his goal was disallowed for offside in a tight call from the assistant referee.

Ultimately both sides were disappointed as they failed to progress to the knock-out stages.

Group C final group games

2010-06-27T15:32:00.001+12:00

England 1-0 Slovenia

The game began with England knowing they pretty much had to win, and Slovenia knowing that a point would be enough. England came into the game with two draws after a poor showing against the USA and an abysmal showing against Algeria. Slovenia came in off an average game against Algeria they had managed to win, and a good performance in a pulsating 2 all draw against the USA. The biggest question was: which England would turn up?

It had been widely expected that Capello would finally change the tactics and play Gerrard off Rooney but it didn't quite happen like that. Instead he played Defoe ahead of Heskey and brought Milner into the right wing slot. Carragher of course was suspended so Upson got a start at centre-back. It was a 4-4-2 formation although I was sure Gerrard would drift infield quite a bit (and this would also allow Ashley Cole the freedom to attack down the left flank).

England ultimately put in an excellent performance in what was a commanding 1-0 victory. England constantly hassled and harried the Slovenian players throughout and created a number of opportunities. Milner was my man of the match - he had a fantastic game at right-wing and provided many Beckham-esque crosses. One of which produced the winning goal as Defoe stabbed home from close range.

Slovenia were disappointing. They had thrilled against the USA but they offered only a few off-key whimpers against England. Admittedly, even 1-0 down they were going to qualify while the other game was locked up at 0-0 but the USA's very late winner prevented that.

Rooney still hasn't stamped his mark on a game, England will be hoping for more from him in the second round.

USA 1-0 Algeria

Going into the match the USA knew only a win could guarantee progression. Algeria needed a win even more as this was the only way they could progress and even then they were dependent on the other result.

This game was an engaging affair as both teams looked to attack and to play attractive football. For Algeria Djebbour, Matmour, Ziani and Belhadj were creative, passed intelligently, had plenty of decent shots and played with a spark. Had I never watched this game and relied only on their first two performances at the World Cup I would have described them as a poor or limited side. But having seen this I would now say they are a very capable team who didn't show this until their final game.

The USA were also enterprising and creative which allowed for a free-flowing good game of football. Both sides hit the woodwork with Dempsey hitting the post and Djebbour hitting the bar but it was fitting that Donovan hit the winner as he had been the best player for the USA and possibly for the match. In injury time the ball broke loose in Algeria's penalty area and Donovan was there to slam it into the net, producing a massive moment of high drama and pure ecstasy for the Americans who all threw themselves onto the ground in a mass of bodies. The win had put them through to the second round, and in first place in their group no less.

Preview of Round of 16. Match 2: USA v Ghana

2010-06-27T05:37:00.000+12:00

This is American World Power versus the Hope of Africa. The Stars and Stripes against the Black Stars.

The USA, apart from a 3rd place finish in the first World Cup in 1930, reached their pinnacle of World Cup achievement in 2002 when they lost to Germany in the quarter-finals. And they were unlucky as well - Frings arguably handled in the penalty area preventing a goal but no penalty was awarded and the USA ultimately lost 1-0. They will be hoping to defeat Ghana to emulate the Class of 2002 and an opportunity to surpass them against Uruguay in the quarter-final. Ghana have only recently joined the ranks of the African countries to have appeared at a World Cup. First appearance was in 2006 when they made the second round only to lose 3-0 to Brazil. They will be hoping to achieve their best ever success and to emulate their African counterparts: Cameroon of 1990 and Senegal in 2002. And then to go one better against Uruguay in the quarter-finals.

The USA and Ghana have faced each other once at World Cup level. In 2002 they were drawn in the same group. Ghana beat the USA 2-1 in their final games of the group which enabled Ghana to progress to the second round and sent the USA packing.

Some key statistics: Ghana are the only team at World Cup 2010 to make the second round without scoring a goal from open play. Both goals came courtesy of Gyan penalty kicks. The USA have demonstrated fantastic battling qualities having come back from behind to draw in two games. After conceding early against England they equalised five minutes before half-time, albeit thanks to assistance from a Robert Green shocker. Against Slovenia they conceded two goals in the first half only to come back with two goals of their own in the second. Against Algeria they didn't need to fight back from being behind, but with the scores 0-0 in injury time at the end of the game they fashioned a winner. Clearly the USA have a lot of heart and clearly it is time for Ghana to score a goal from open play!

Key players: For Ghana Gyan is the likeliest goal scorer and Ayew should cause problems down the left flank. First choice centre-back Vorsah may not recover from injury in time. For USA Donovan and Dempsey are the keys with both players having the quality to create goals and a lot of heart to boot.

This should be a very physical match. Ghana have some very physically strong players and the USA won't back down. The USA are marginal favourites, particularly if they score first. It will be a fascinating contest.

Preview of Round of 16. Match 1: Uruguay v South Korea

2010-06-26T19:20:00.000+12:00

This is South America v Asia. This is 1930 and 1950 World Cup winners against 2002 Semi-finalist. This is 2.5 million people v 52 million. La Celeste v Taeguk Warriors.

Uruguay and South Korea have only ever played each other once at a World Cup. This was at the group stage in 1990. Uruguay won 1-0 in the last minute and qualified for the round of 16, South Korea went home without registering a point. They have played each other five times in total - Uruguay have won 4 times and they have drawn once. South Korea have never beaten a South American side at a World Cup.

Uruguay will be desperate to make their first quarter-finals since 1970 and are in the knock-out stages for the first time since 1990. South Korea will want to write a new chapter in their history having only been past the group stage once before (2002). Both will be buoyed, knowing that should they win, their quarter-final clash will be against USA or Ghana, neither one of the so-called bigger nations.

Form Guide over their last 5 games: Uruguay are unbeaten with 4 wins and a draw. South Korea have recorded a win, a draw and three losses. At this World Cup Uruguay are yet to concede a goal, scoring 4 times. South Korea have scored 5 and conceded 6.

Who is the favourite? Uruguay probably go in as favourites but this is finals football: form can go right out of the window. Forlan and Park Ji-Sung could be the keys to victories for their respective sides.

Who will reign supreme? It will be an interesting clash of styles, and naturally I'm really looking forward to the game.

Group B final set of games

2010-06-26T18:20:00.000+12:00

South Korea 2-2 Nigeria

Nigeria came into the game knowing that they could qualify with a win, providing that Argentina beat Greece. South Korea knew they probably only needed a draw (assuming Greece didn't beat Argentina).

As a result Nigeria came out with positive intent, and it was they who opened the scoring after only 12 minutes. Odiah took it past two South Koreans down the flank before sending a low cross in, Uche ghosted in front of the defender and finished with aplomb. It was a combination of South Korea showing weakness in defence and Uche showing a cutting edge to score.

The impressive Uche could have made it 2-0 soon after. A venomous long-range shot smacked into the post as Nigeria came tantalisingly close to putting one foot in the second round. Instead South Korea were to get the equaliser not long before half-time. Awarded a free kick on the left flank Ki Sung-Yong swung in the free kick and Lee Jung-soo bundled home, unmarked thanks to an error from Afolabi. It was an odd goal as it came off Lee Jung-soo's head and then knee on the way into the net.

South Korea took the lead early in the second half. Shittu committed the foul and Park Chu-Young converted the long distance free-kick. Enyeama was wrong footed by the shot and perhaps should have been positioned better. It wasn't the best free-kick but it crept in at the far post.

Errors were costing Nigeria dearly. Now behind they had to throw caution to the wind. As the game wore on we witnessed one of the misses of all time. Ayila squared the ball to an unmarked Yakubu who had an open goal in front of him. He inexplicably put the ball wide. A couple of minutes later he was able to atone for the error, converting a penalty after Kim Nam-Il had brought Obasi down in the box. It was a frantic ending to the match as Martins and Obinna had a couple of good chances each but were unable to profit. Inches away from the second round...

Nigeria would rue their defensive errors. South Korea had played some nice football and had more chances than my review has indicated. Park Chu-Young was the most impressive South Korean in my opinion. For Nigeria both Uche and Obasi had looked quality. Nigeria were eliminated and overall they would rue defensive lapses, wasted opportunities and ill-discipline in the Greece match. South Korea qualified for a second-round date with Uruguay.

Argentina 2-0 Greece

Greece went into this game knowing a win might not be enough to qualify, but a draw might. In other words the Group had a number of permutations and they knew they had to win to give themselves the best chance possible. Argentina had already qualified and only needed a draw to ensure top spot. As a result they rested a few players.

Despite this Greece did not go into the game attempting to attack Argentina from the offset. Instead they were happy to defend, soak up the pressure and hit Argentina with a fast counter-attack. Argentina looked very exciting moving forward and it was thanks to some impressive saves from Tsorvas (as well as some good defending in general) that it took Argentina until the 79th minute to open the scoring. Demichelis stabbed home from a corner kick after his intial shot was blocked by fellow team-mate Milito. The second goal came when Messi beat a couple of players and thundered a spectacular shot which hit the post - veteran striker Palermo was alert to slot home the rebound. Messi had shown a number of flashes of brilliance throughout the game as he continued his run of playing very well but not scoring.

Greece had had a few chances throughout the match, these mainly falling to Samaras. He was unable to convert any of them however. One of them in particular he really should have scored.

But it was Maradona's Argentina to finish first in the group (they will take on Mexico in the second round) and Greece to take an early flight home.

Group A final set of games

2010-06-26T17:08:00.001+12:00

Uruguay 1-0 Mexico

Some people had predicted a damp squib of a game as both sides only required a draw to guarantee progression to the second round of the World Cup. However with the 2nd placed team likely to play Argentina both would surely have decided that they wanted to avoid that. To do so Mexico (in 2nd on goal difference) would need to win but Uruguay would only need to draw.

At any rate it was an entertaining game with both sides having a number of chances, and no-one could possibly accuse them of doing a 1982 Germany Algeria (when a Germany 1-0 win would be enough to take them both through Germany scored in the first 10 minutes and the last 80 were a farce).

Suarez scored the only goal of the game with a simple header at the back post but there were a number of missed opportunities from both sides. Guardado smashed a thunderous long-range shot against the underside of the bar, Suarez uncharacteristically shot wide of the target when in a good position, Rodriguez somehow put a header wide when it seemed easier to score and Perez pulled off a magnificent save from a Lugano header - to describe the best few.

Both sides looked good going forward, Mexico a bit shaky at the back, and ultimately Uruguay perhaps deserved the one goal victory that was enough to take both sides into the second round.

South Africa 2-1 France

Both sides went into the game knowing they needed a big win (or a small win and relying on a big win in the game being played simultaneously). South Africa broke the deadlock after only 20 minues (against the run of play) - Khumalo heading home a Tshabalala corner that Lloris got nowhere near to. Their cause was aided further when Gourcuff was red carded for use of the elbow - it was a harsh decision as replays showed that whilst there was more than a hint of elbow there was no malicious intent. South Africa even managed a second before half-time. A comedy of errors in the French defence resulted in Mphela bundling the ball home.

The second half started with South Africa, tails up and in the ascendancy. Tshabalala released Mphela and in a one-on-one he lifted it above the goalkeeper but against the crossbar. A third goal would have left them requiring only a fourth, should the other game remain at 1-0. Lloris also made a couple of fantastic saves to keep France in it. Then it was France's turn to score against the run of play - Malouda finishing off a nice, simple and effective move by stroking the ball into the empty net. South Africa had a couple more big chances but they didn't manage to score again. Despite being the first hosts to be knocked out in the group stage, South Africa played with a huge amount of heart.

The match finished 2-1: the South Africans were happy to finally have a win at this World Cup and to miss out on the second round only on goal difference. The French went home with only 1 point and plenty of questions about the squad and manager. A couple of days before the game Anelka had been sent home for something he'd said and players had refused to train as a result, some had considered boycotting the match. In France they will feel the aftermath of the World Cup for a while as they try to pick up the pieces. The South African supporters will enjoy the rest of the tournament, despite the absence of the hosts.

Team of the second round of group games

2010-06-26T15:11:00.001+12:00

This is the eleven I would pick after watching all the second round of group games. [Please note in a couple of instances I have played a player on the opposite flank to his favoured position - that is because there were two stand-outs in the one position and none on the opposite flank!]

I am employing a 3-5-2 formation

Goalkeeper: Paston (New Zealand) - no goalkeeper stood out in the second round with an outstanding array of saves (like Enyeama did in the first) but it would be hard to go past Mark Paston. He faced up to World Champions Italy and pulled off around half a dozen top quality saves that ensured minnows New Zealand would earn a point. He conceded one goal in the game - unable to save a sweetly struck Iaquinta penalty.

Honourable mentions: Stojkovic marshalled his defence well in a shock victory for Serbia against Germany, and is one of few goalkeepers who can boast a German penalty save. Benaglio also had a very good game for Switzerland against Chile

Defence

Fullbacks: Salcido (Mexico) and Coentrao (Portugal) both had stunning games. Salcido had attacked France superbly, leaving them at sixes and sevens, and defended very well too. Coentrao had an equally good attacking and defending game although that was against North Korea.

Honourable mention: Ramos was quality for Spain against Honduras.

Centre-back: Nelsen (New Zealand) was captain fantastic for New Zealand against Italy. He stopped everything that Italy threw in his way including an amazing block in the dying minutes of the match. He also marshalled his fellow defence brilliantly to ensure they found no way through.

Honourable mention: Subotic defended magnificently for Serbia in their clean sheet against Germany.

Midfield

Wingers: Krasic (Serbia) tormented the German defence setting up the goal with a perfect cross and providing many more opportunities for his side. Rommedahl (Denmark) was surely his side's man of the match against Cameroon. He set up Bendtner's goal with a fantastic square ball and also scored a goal with an absolutely delightful and inch perfect finish.

Defensive midfielder: Marquez (Mexico) was extremely solid in defence against the French and set up the Mexican's first goal with a delicious long ball to Javier Hernandez.

Honourable mention: Felipe Melo had a sterling game for Brazil against the Ivory Coast.

Central/Attacking midfielders: Birsa (Slovenia) was always threatening in his match against the USA and scored a long-range stunner as well. Tiago (Portugal) was the creative hub against North Korea and topped it off with two nice goals of his own.

Honourable mentions: Jovanovic (Serbia) who finished nicely and was always creative against Germany. Montolivio was the man who looked most likely for Italy to break New Zealand down. Pulled out some good long-range efforts too.

Strikers

The 'second striker' role: Messi (Argentina) was the key man for all four goals against South Korea. He played an irresistable match. In this line up he plays behind the front man and will provide beautiful link-up play and shots.

The 'front man': Forlan (Uruguay) scored two goals against South Africa but not only that he created opportunities for his team-mates too. He was heavily involved in any good play that they produced.

Honourable mentions: Villa scored two goals for Spain against Honduras - one of which was a wonderful finish. Although he did miss a penalty. Fabiano scored two goals for Brazil against the Ivory Coast. Both were very good finishes although he appeared to handle twice before unleashing for his second goal.

Group H permutations

2010-06-25T20:15:00.000+12:00

Group H is fascinating. All can still qualify (although very unlikely for Honduras) and it could come down to goal difference. It's Spain v Chile and Switzerland v Honduras...

Chile will qualify top with a win or draw against Spain. If they lose Spain will finish ahead of them on goal difference and Chile will only be able to finish second. Second place will come down to goal difference with Switzerland (should they beat Honduras and not by enough to overtake Spain). In that situation, should either game be won by more than a single goal Switzerland will qualify and Chile will be eliminated. If Chile lose and Switzerland win by the same one goal margin scoreline they will finish with the same goals for and against and Chile will qualify by virtue of having beaten Switzerland. If Chile lose and Switzerland win, both by one goal, then Chile's opposition must score the same number of goals, or more, than Switzerand in order for Chile to qualify 2nd. If Chile lose and Switzerland fail to win Chile will qualify.

Spain will win the group if they beat Chile and Switzerland fail to overtake them on goal difference. If Spain win against Chile by the same margin (or more) than Switzerland beat Honduras they will be top. If Spain beat Chile by 1 less than Switzerland beat Honduras it will come down to goals scored (and if that's the same Switzerland will finish first due to beating Spain). For example, if Switzerland win 3-1 and Spain win 1-0 it's the same goal difference but Switzerland have scored more and will finish 1st. If Switzerland win 2-0 and Spain win 1-0 goal difference and goals scored will be equal and so Switzerland will finish 1st because they beat Spain. If Switzerland win 2-0 and Spain win 2-1, Spain will finish 1st. If Spain beat Chile by 2 less than Switzerland beat Honduras Switzerland will finish 1st and Spain 2nd. If Spain draw they will finish 2nd if Switzerland draw or lose against Honduras. If Spain lose and Honduras win Spain, Switzerland and Honduras will all be on 3 points and 2nd place will come down to goal difference (and if two are equal second on that then head-to-head between the two sides.

Switzerland will qualify if they beat Honduras and Spain fail to beat Chile. In such a situation they will compete with Chile for 1st and 2nd based on goal difference. If that is equal then it will come down to goals scored. And if that is equal Chile will be 1st having beaten Switzerland. If Switzerland and Spain win Switzerland will have to overtake Chile's goal difference, if that is the same they will have to have scored more goals, and if that is the same they will miss out. If Switzerland and Spain win they could finish first if they overtake Spain's goal difference, or equal Spain's goal difference and have scored more (or equal) goals. If Switzerland draw they require Chile to beat Spain to finish 2nd - otherwise they will be eliminated. If Switzerland lose they cannot finish 1st but they may finish 2nd. They would require Chile to beat Spain so that they are level on 3 points with Spain and Honduras. Then it will come down to goal difference and if that is equal with one team (and above anothers) it will come down to goals scored, and if that's the same - head-to-head. If Switzerland lose and Chile fail to beat Spain they are eliminated.

Honduras cannot finish 1st. In order to finish 2nd they first must win and hope Chile beat Spain. If that happens they will be tied on 3 points with Spain and Switzerland. Overall goal difference then goals scored will be taken into account, and if teams are still tied then the goal difference and goals scored between the tied teams will be taken into account. If still tied, lots will be drawn. To give an example of Honduras finishing 2nd - if they beat Switzerland 3-1 and Chile beat Spain 2-0, they will achieve that feat!

Group G permutations

2010-06-25T19:07:00.000+12:00

Brazil are qualified, Portugal are almost guaranteed qualification, Ivory Coast are practically eliminated and North Korea are out...but that does not mean all issues are sorted. It's Brazil v Portugal and Ivory Coast v North Korea...let's look at the permutations.

Brazil have qualified. They only need a draw to finish top. If they lose they will finish second.

Portugal will qualify top with a win and second with a draw. They are also incredibly likely to finish 2nd with a loss as well. To miss out there would have to be a 9 or 10 goal swing - something like Ivory Coast to win 7-0 and Brazil to win 2-0.

Ivory Coast can only qualify if they couple a big win with a big Portugal loss - a 9 or 10 goal swing in total (see above). Otherwise they are eliminated. They are basically playing for pride.

The best North Korea can do is to finish 3rd - to do so they would need to beat the Ivory Coast.

Group F permutations

2010-06-24T18:44:00.001+12:00

With all 4 teams very much alive...what is required for each to qualify? (Paraguay v New Zealand and Italy v Slovakia). (P.S. A coin toss = drawing of lots = same thing)

Paraguay: A win or a draw is required to guarantee qualification. A win and they will finish first, a draw and they will finish first (unless Italy can overtake them on goal difference - this will require either a 2 or 3 goal win), a loss and they will finish 2nd if Italy v Slovakia is a draw or if Slovakia win and fail to achieve a better goal difference than them (will require a 4 or 5 goal swing). Obviously If Paraguay lose and Italy win they are eliminated.

Italy: A win will guarantee qualification. A win and a Paraguay win and they will finish 2nd. A win and a Paraguay draw and 1st and 2nd will come down to goal difference (indeed if Paraguay draw 1-1 and Italy win 2-0, 1st and 2nd will come down to a coin toss). A win and a New Zealand win will mean 1st and 2nd come down to who got the best win. A draw will achieve qualification if New Zealand lose. A draw and a New Zealand win will mean they are eliminated. A draw and a New Zealand draw - they will qualify in 2nd place if their draw is a higher score draw than New Zealand and they will be eliminated if it is a lower score draw. If the scoreline in both draws are the same then they will have a coin toss with New Zealand to see who qualifies in 2nd and who misses out.

New Zealand. A win will guarantee qualification. A win and an Italian win will mean they qualify in 1st if they get a better win and 2nd if they get a worse win. If the win is the same scoreline then 1st and 2nd will be decided on a coin toss. A win and an Italian draw or loss and New Zealand will finish first. If New Zealand draw they will be eliminated if Italy or Slovakia win. A draw and an Italian draw - they will qualify in 2nd place if their draw is a higher score draw than Italy and they will be eliminated if it is a lower score draw. If the scoreline in both draws are the same then they will have a coin toss with Italy to see who qualifies in 2nd and who misses out.

Slovakia. A loss or a draw and they are eliminated, a win and a Paraguay win or draw and they will qualify in 2nd. A win and a New Zealand win and they will compete with Paraguay for 2nd place based on goal difference. They will need a 4 or 5 goal swing to qualify ahead of Paraguay. If they have the same goals scored and goals against then Paraguay will qualify.

Group E permutations

2010-06-24T15:57:00.000+12:00

What is required to progress from Group E?

Netherlands: Qualification is already confirmed and they only need a draw with Cameroon to confirm top spot. How can they miss out on top spot and get second instead? This requires Cameroon to win and either Japan to overcome a 3 goal deficit or Denmark to overcome a 4 goal deficit. In either scenario if goal difference and goals scored are tied Netherlands will still finish top.

Denmark require a win over Japan to qualify. In this case they will finish second unless they can achieve a 4 or 5 goal swing. Unfortunately for Denmark their star centre-back Simon Kjaer is suspended for the game. They must hope Poulsen doesn't repeat errors from the earlier games.

Japan only require a draw over Denmark to qualify. Win or draw they will finish second unless they can achieve a 3 or 4 goal swing.

Cameroon are eliminated.

Group D permutations

2010-06-23T18:27:00.002+12:00

I had initially predicted Germany and Serbia, suggesting Ghana may miss out at a whisker. I also suggested this was a tough group to get out of (twas a toughie to call) and so it would seem before the final round of matches. It could go to any two teams. What do they all need when Germany play Ghana and Serbia play Australia?

Ghana: If Ghana win they will finish top of the group. If they draw they will qualify first if Australia win or Australia and Serbia draw, or second if Serbia win. If Ghana lose by one goal they still have a chance to go through if the other game is a draw - they will have the same goal difference as Serbia but Serbia will need to have scored more goals to go through, thus a Ghana 1-0 loss and a Serbia 1-1 draw will see Ghana through but a Ghana 1-0 loss and a Serbia 2-2 draw will see Serbia through.

Germany: If Germany win they will likely top the group (unless Serbia thrash Australia and overtake the goal difference). If Germany draw they will be knocked out if Serbia win. They will be through in second if the other game is a draw or Australia win (unless there is an 8 goal swing).

Serbia: If Serbia win they will qualify. This will be in first if Germany and Ghana draw, in second if Ghana win and probably in second if Germany win (unless there is a 3 or 4 goal swing). A Serbia draw will also see them qualify if Ghana beat Germany.

Australia: If Australia win they will qualify (in second) if Ghana win. If they win and the Germany Ghana game is a draw they will need to win by 7 goals to qualify. If they win and Germany win they will need a 5 goal swing to qualify ahead of Ghana. Anything other than a win and they are knocked out.

Group C permutations

2010-06-23T18:09:00.000+12:00

My initial prediction for Group C was England and Slovenia to progress (in 1st and 2nd) although I acknowledged that I was picking an upset having Slovenia over the USA. The last round of games will be intriguing as all are in with a shot at qualifying. Slovenia top the group but all can change in the blink of an eye. What do they all need to do when Slovenia play England and the USA play Algeria? [In simplistic terms without all the minor nuances].

England: A win and they are through - in first providing they win by a better margin than the USA. A draw could see them through but only if the USA score 3 less goals than them, 2 less and it would go down to a coin toss.

Slovenia: A win and they will finish first, a draw and they will qualify in first or second (depending on the USA result, a USA win might prevent them from taking 1st spot. A 1-1 draw between Slovenia and England and a 1-0 win to the USA would result in a coin toss between Slovenia and the USA to decide first place)

USA: A win and they are through in either first or second - depending on the other result. A draw and they will likely go through if England also draw (particularly if it is a score draw) or if England lose.

Algeria: Must beat USA. If they do and England draw they will be through in 2nd. If they do and England win they will be fighting with Slovenia for second place on goal difference. They basically need to win by 2 and England by 1 or vice versa. If they win and Slovenia win they will be through in 2nd. Algeria cannot finish first.

Group H's second set of games

2010-06-23T17:49:00.000+12:00

Chile 1-0 Switzerland

The first thing I noted was the return of Behrami and Frei to the team. Frei is the key goalscorer for Switzerland so I saw this as a big boon for them. As was to be expected Chile started off doing more of the attacking while Switzerland were content to defend and hope to catch Chile out on the break. The red card after around 30 mins only allowed this pattern to intensify. Behrami's red was harsh - his high hand connected with Vidal's neck, and Vidal milked it for all it was worth. In fairness the dismissal was soft.

Chile attacked throughout the game but were wasteful with their chances. In fact in two World Cup games they have had over 40 shots and only managed two goals. It is this profligacy which could haunt them in the final reckoning as progression may come down to goal difference.

About five minutes after Switzerland had recorded the record for consecutive minutes played at the World Cup, with around 20 minutes to go, Chile finally broke the deadlock with a close range header from Gonzalez. In injury time Chile's profligacy almost came back to haunt with Derdiyok spawning a brilliant chance to bring things level.

Swiss keeper Benaglio had a quality game as did a number of the outfield Chileans. Unfortunately for Chile Carmona and M Fernandez are now suspended for the Spain game. Two big players to be without. And thanks to a whistle happy ref who wouldn't let the game flow.

Spain 2-0 Honduras

Interestingly Navas came in for Iniesta in midfield and Torres was starting upfront. This match was pretty much all Spanish attack and Honduran defence. Villa smashed the crossbar from 30 yards and managed to open the scoring on 17 minutes with a fantastic goal - lovely turn and precision finish after great build-up play.

The second goal didn't come until the second half - again a nice interchange from the Spanish, this time leading to a well hit, but deflected goal. Villa had the chance for a hat-trick but he missed a penalty (the giving of which was justified), sending the keeper the wrong way but blasting it wide.

Fabregas came on with half an hour to go and impressed in his short time on the field, almost scoring a goal in the process. Navas and Ramos did well down the right all evening and Spain were in general a cut above Honduras.

Honduras did however give Spain the odd nervy moment and worked ultra-hard in defence to keep the damage to a minimum.

Group G's second set of games

2010-06-23T16:44:00.000+12:00

Portugal 7-0 North Korea

North Korea approached this match with far more positive attacking intent than they did against Brazil. The first half featured some good attacks from Portugal but it also featured some sustained pressure from North Korea, and arguably were creative enough to be worthy of a goal. Portugal probably had the better of the first half chances but no-one would have argued if Jong Tae-Se had managed to get onto the end of a delightful through ball instead of just missing out as it skidded through.

It was Portugal who broke the deadlock though, scoring the only goal of the first half as Tiago put through a measured clever pass, splitting the North Korean defence for Meireles to complete a tidy finish.

In the second half Portugal ran riot. Better sides than North Korea may not have been able to thwart what was a half of real attacking intent and some stunning play. They were partly able to do so however because North Korea did not look the solid defensive unit they did against Brazil. And that in itself was partly due to their own attacking intent. Instead of focusing on defending they were looking for goals, and it became their undoing as they were exposed at the back.

It's amusing to think that this was the first game North Korea had televised live since a qualifier against Iran maybe a year ago - and here they were getting thrashed. I wonder what a certain dictator thought of the game and if transmission suddenly failed part way through the second half lol.

Portugal scored their six second half goals through Simao, Almeida, Tiago (2), Liedson and Ronaldo - Ri Myong-Guk in goal could have probably done better with a couple of them.

Brazil 3-1 Ivory Coast

The first thing that struck me was that Drogba had come into the team at the expense of Gervinho. I exclaimed frustratedly that it should have been Dindane to be consigned to the subs bench, I really couldn't believe it.

The Ivory Coast had some good early pressure but failed to capitalise. Just before the half hour mark however Brazil struck. Robinho and Kaka combined well with Fabiano to allow him an opportunity to score - which he took emphatically. From that moment on Brazil took control of the game. Melo seemed to foil every attack, Brazil dominated possession and Ivory Coast were limited to long range efforts.

The sucker punch came in the form of a controversial second goal. Fabiano finished delightfully, but twice in the build up to scoring he used part of his arm for control of the ball. The goal should quite simply have been disallowed. The odd thing was there seemed to be pictures of the referee asking Fabiano afterwards if he had handled, and the two of them engaged in laughter. I wasn't quite sure what to make of it and the media hasn't really put this into the spotlight. A couple of minutes after Drogba had an excellent headed opportunity that he would normally bury, but he put it disappointingly wide.

Early in the second half Gervinho had finally replaced Dindane and it was easy to see why I had been so disturbed initially. Dindane had been ineffective, but Gervinho made a huge difference. He was involved in some quality moves, but still Ivory Coast failed to score.

After about 60 mins or so Brazil effectively ended the game as a contest when Elano coolly slotted home after timing his run to perfection. Almost immediately after this though he was stretchered off, barely able to stand on his right leg after a horrible studs up tackle from Tiote which arguably should have produced a red card.

Drogba headed a consolation, Ivory Coast started putting in some harsh, overly physical unfair tackles and then Keita engaged in some extra-ordinary play acting. Nudged in the chest by Kaka he dropped to the ground clutching his face. It was despicable behaviour reminiscent of Rivaldo's appalling dive (in 2002 against Turkey), clutching his face, after being hit in the knee by a ball kicked in his direction. FIFA have not done anything to prevent this kind of behaviour happening again - indeed they never even suspended him for it, just fining him 5,000 pounds. Kaka, unfairly got a red card. It was also ridiculous from Keita as the result of this is a suspension for Kaka against Portugal, when Ivory Coast would no doubt have been wanting Brazil to win to help them in their quest to qualify for the second round.

So, three bad decisions from the officials - 2 against Brazil and 1 against Ivory Coast. Plenty of talking points, including some quality football.

Group B permutations

2010-06-22T19:52:00.001+12:00

Before the tournament I predicted Argentina. I'm not a quitter so I'll stick with that although I now have an inkling that Argentina and South Korea might make it. Let's look at the numbers.

Argentina only need a point against Greece to qualify. They will qualify with a loss if Nigeria win or draw against South Korea. The only way they could miss out on qualification is if they lose to Greece and South Korea win - with a heavy swing. In this situation 3 teams would be on 6 points and it would come down to goal difference. Currently Argentina are +4, South Korea are -1 and Greece are -1. So it would take something amazing for Argentina to be going home.

Greece can qualify with a win if Nigeria draw or beat South Korea. If South Korea also win they will need to beat Argentina by more than South Korea beat Nigeria. They can qualify with a draw if Nigeria beat South Korea or if South Korea also draw and score 2 more goals in their game than Greece do in theirs. Greece will be knocked out if they lose.

South Korea will qualify with a win (providing if Greece also win they can equal the margin of victory). They will qualify with a draw if Argentina win or if Greece draw and do not score 2 more goals than South Korea in their draw. South Korea will be eliminated if they lose.

Nigeria will qualify if they win and Greece lose. That is the only way they can qualify. But this scenario is quite possible!

Argentina will probably rest a few players for this game but should still have enough to win. I wouldn't be at all surprised if South Korea v Nigeria was a draw and South Korea got through. But as I initially picked Nigeria I'm gonna say Nigeria can get the victory they need (coupled with an Argentine loss)

Group A permutations

2010-06-22T19:37:00.000+12:00

Group A's final games are tonight...who can qualify? What are the permutations? Before the tournament started I predicted France and Mexico to qualify. I also acknowledged this was the toughest group to pick as France, Mexico and Uruguay could be hard to separate and South Africa had the home advantage.

Uruguay and Mexico are playing each other and both only need a point to survive. If this happens Uruguay will finish first and Mexico second - setting up a likely date with Argentina in the second round.

If Uruguay win they will finish first. Mexico will finish 2nd unless France or South Africa can catch them up on goal difference. A 4-1 win to France coupled with a 1-0 loss for Mexico would do it. Or a 2-0 loss coupled with a 3-0 win for France. South Africa would require a bigger swing as their current goal difference is -3 compared to France's -2. If Mexico win, for Uruguay to be displaced in second would also require a bigger swing as they have a +3 goal difference compared to +2 for Mexico. The biggest swing would be for South Africa to overtake France, a 6 or 7 goal swing would be required. With France's current infighting and dramas their chances are really not great.

The chances are 98%ish stacked in Mexico and Uruguay's favour and they will probably end up playing out some kind of draw.

Group F's second set of games

2010-06-22T19:19:00.001+12:00

Paraguay 2-0 Slovakia

Paraguay were by far and away the best team in this game. Slovakia didn't have a shot on target until the 92nd minute. By contrast Paraguay dominated, attacked fearlessly and with purpose and kept the ball very skilfully. Both goals they scored were very good but the first one in particular. Barrios played him in with a deft pass and Vera's finish was sublime. Slightly off balance, under plenty of pressure from the defender, Vera curled it into the top right hand corner, expertly using the outside of his boot to get the curve and the direction just right. It was one of those moments when you say, wow, how good would it be to be able to do that.

The first half afforded the most opportunities for Paraguay. The second half offered much less but they were comfortable nevertheless. Riveros scored the second goal with a quality (but probably straight-forward) strike from the edge of the box. Vera and Barrios in particular had a good game.

New Zealand 1-1 Italy

The All Whites were massive underdogs going into this game but emerged with a very creditable draw that could have easily been a win. Smeltz grabbed the lead on around 7 minutes. Elliott floated in a free kick which skimmed off the head of Reid, deflected slightly off Cannavaro and was poked in by Smeltz. There was a very real whiff of offside about it, but nevertheless a goal was given.

From this moment onwards Italy dominated. Not to say New Zealand didn't have chances, nor did we stick ten men behind the ball at all times. But it was certainly a domination which can be demonstrated by stats. Italy had 57% to 43% possession, they had 15 corners to zero and they had 23 shots to 3 (7 on target versus 1).

After the initial goal by New Zealand Italy set to work and warmed to their task. They were unlucky not to score just after the 20 minute mark when Montolivio hit the post from distance but their equaliser was to come not long after that. The referee blew for a penalty after Tommy Smith had had a hold of De Rossi's shirt. It is true that he briefly held it but De Rossi dived, did a Hollywood, "went down quicker than Paris Hilton" (Martin Devlin). In other words the penalty was harsh. Were a penalty given for every mild tug there would be a penalty every free kick or corner. Smith was naive in his actions however. Anyhow, Iaquinta converted with a quality penalty.

After highlighting De Rossi's propensity to dive, now is the opportune time to lament Italy's constant diving. Almost every tackle an Italian would drop to the floor and start writhing around and they were encouraged to do so by the fact the ref was conned and gave free kick after free kick. Fallon was booked early for an alleged elbow and so every time he gave himself some elbow leverage the Italians would drop to the floor in a dive. He was substituted with half an hour to go to avoid being sent off.

In the second half Mark Paston in goal for New Zealand, pulled off some excellent saves from full stretch dives. The former Bradford City and Walsall stopper was in top form and was ably assisted by the fantastic performance of skipper Ryan Nelsen and his fellow centre-backs Reid and Smith. Elliott also had the best game I've ever seen him play and Smeltz looked dangerous upfront.

The only two chances we had (other than the goal) was a sweetly timed but misdirected volley from Vicelich and a wonderful chance from Chris Wood who expertly turned one of the world's best defenders, Cannavaro, in the box, and flashed his shot wide of the post. It was desperately unlucky as the replay showed it arrowing in before curling away in the wrong direction at the last second.

New Zealand, a country of only 25 professionals had kept World Champions Italy to a 1-1 draw. It was (as an All Whites fan) the moment of the World Cup. And both sides still have it all to play for in their final group games (NZ v Paraguay, Italy v Slovakia).

Group E's second set of games

2010-06-22T17:38:00.001+12:00

Netherlands 1-0 Japan

The Netherlands ultimately had a straight forward win but they were made to work hard for it. We still haven't seen the vintage Dutch they are capable of but perhaps they are saving that for later in the competition. The first half was largely forgettable, the odd chance for either side went begging. Early in the second half, a few minutes after van Persie missed a beautifully crafted chance, Sneijder pounced on a loose ball and smashed a ferocious shot from 20+ yards - Narazaki got a fair bit on his attempted save but it wasn't enough, instead diverting its path slightly and hitting the empty net. Perhaps he should have done better but few could surely blame him for a shot that was just too hot to handle. Second half sub for Holland, Afellay, impressed - although he had two wonderful opportunities to increase the lead at the death, but was denied. Japan had played their part in the game but had not really created enough to possess a sustained challenge.

Denmark 2-1 Cameroon

This was perhaps the most open game of the tournament. It was end-to-end stuff with plenty of chances to both sides, helped by the often appalling defending. Cameroon had thankfully got their personnel and tactics right this time. Alex Song was back in the starting eleven and Eto'o was given a more central role. This paid dividends when Cameroon opened the scoring early. Poulsen (who had been guilty of the own goal against Japan) played a slack pass that enabled Webo to nip in and feed Eto'o for a nice finish. For Cameroon Eto'o and Emana had top games and Webo was good value except for his woeful shooting.

Denmark's first goal was a gorgeous move. Kjaer played an inch perfect downfield diagonal pass to Rommedahl on the right wing who squared it perfectly into the path of Bendtner to finish. The second goal Bendtner set up Rommedahl for a superb finish. Tomasson was disappointing as he was unable to find the back of the net, criminally wasting some excellent opportunities - and thereby failing to equal Poul Nielsen's 85 year record of 52 goals for Denmark.

Both sides were creative, had chances, missed sitters, had good interplay, scored nice goals in an intriguing match that could have gone either way.

Unluckily for Cameroon it resulted in elimination from the tournament.

Group D's second round of games

2010-06-22T16:48:00.001+12:00

Serbia 1-0 Germany

Serbia managed a famous victory to throw Group D wide open. The main talking point was the red card to Klose - it was a very harsh red card, both for yellows that could so easily have been free kicks and nothing more. The sending off must have had an immediate psychological affect as within a couple of minutes Serbia were in the lead. It was a nice move, rounded off expertly by Jovanovic but the marking on him was non existent and enabled what was ultimately an easy route to goal.

However just because Serbia had a one man advantage didn't mean that Germany didn't have chances or weren't able to exert pressure. Khedira, who got through a mountain of solid graft and passing in the middle of the park struck the bar with a good shot from inside the penalty box. Germany were also justifiably awarded a penalty in the second half - Podolski's shot was saved. Very unlike the Germans to lose a football match by virtue of missing a penalty.

Serbia looked good. Krasic showed why he is rated highly as a winger and Subotic thwarted many German attacks, upstaging his more venerated team-mates Vidic and Ivanovic.

Ghana 1-1 Austalia

The match started in a positive manner but there was little in the way of chances for either side. Kewell felt he had been tripped by keeper Kingson - it would have been a soft penalty to concede but it could have been given. Australia took an early lead after Kingson spilled a Bresciano free-kick and Hollman tucked the ball away.

Later in the half Jonathan Mensah fired a strong shot on goal only for the referee to adjudge that Harry Kewell had handled on the line - awarded a penalty and sent Kewell off. The Australians were livid but I felt it was justified. Kewell may not have been standing there with the intention to handle but the fact remains his arms were not stuck to his sides, they were extended. He had done nothing to prevent the ball hitting his arm - he had stood on the line and hoped for the best. The penalty was definitely correct, some may argue about the red card but you will hear no complaints from me.

The second half saw lots of effort from the Ghanaians to produce the elusive winner. But by the same token Australia not only defended valiantly but created opportunities of their own. Scott Chipperfield headed over from close range, Wilkshire had a shot saved. Ghana lacked incision and penetration and their shooting was off target but they were, for the most part, the most dangerous of the two sides. However in the closing stages it was Australia who looked most likely to score. 1-1 was a fair result.

Ghana will be pleased that having rested centre-backs John Mensah and Isaac Vorsah (due to injury) that Lee Addy and Jonathan Mensah came through unscathed. Expect the first choice pairing to return for the Germany match.

Group C's second round of games

2010-06-22T12:32:00.000+12:00

Slovenia 2-2 USA

One of the games of the round! Slovenia were clearly the best team in the first half. They passed the ball around confidently, slickly and attacked with purpose. They also looked comfortable in defence. Birsa opening the scoring with a spectacular 25 yard effort past the static Tim Howard. The USA were playing decently and perhaps creating more opportunities at times, but Slovenia were unruffled. Just before half-time they doubled the lead through a Ljubijankic header after a swift counter-attack.

In the second half with the USA chasing the game they were bound to create more opportunities - their first goal came sooner rather than later. Donovan stunned the worldwide audience with a cracking finish from a very tight angle, albeit from close-range. This spurred the USA and they may have had an equaliser sooner if they had a better striker than Altidore whom I consider an average journeyman lacking in firepower. The equaliser eventually came when Bradley powered home a half volley. It was rough on the Slovenians who had defended (and played) so well but by the same token it was also just reward for concerted pressure. The USA thought they had won it when Edu finished off a Donavan free kick, however the referee spotted what appeared to be a non-existent foul.

In general the ref had had a good game but he had made two mistakes: the aforementioned disallowed goal and booking Findley for a handball when it clearly came off his head (this is significant because it means he is suspended for their final group game against Algeria).

England 0-0 Algeria

England were incredibly incredibly poor. The whole team lacked any spark and just appeared to be going through the motions. None of the players came out with any credit - if I had to choose a player who had the best game, who maybe scraped a 6/10 it would be Ashley Cole. Algeria on the other hand were engaging, played some decent football but ultimately lacked quality and thrust in the final third. Particularly poor performers for England were Glen Johnson (who lost possession so many times towards the end of the game), Rooney (who appeared off-pace all game and who was frustrated enough to try and do everything by himself...badly) and Heskey (who's inept attempt to cross the ball towards the end of the game - slipping and sliding like the donkey he is - epitomised the whole of England's performance). Capello will surely have to look at different tactics for the last game. And James, whilst keeping a clean sheet, did not look comfortable...why Hart has not played beats me, it really does. Carragher is suspended for the final game meaning a likely start for Upson, I would choose Dawson myself.

Interesting asides:

1) The fan who accidentally stumbled upon the England dressing room and gave them a piece of his mind.
2) There is real turmoil in the England camp right now (but not as bad as France!). (See also this).

Group B's second round of games

2010-06-21T16:28:00.000+12:00

Argentina 4-1 South Korea

Argentina were thoroughly dominant against South Korea. The South Americans were lively and creative in the opening stages but hardly had a shot on target before they were ahead. A well delivered cross from Messi was botched by the defence, Park Chu-young turning it into his own net. Soon it was 2-0 with a goal from Higuain, but with half-time fast approaching Argentina failed to take a deserved two goal lead into the break - Demichelis criminally lingered on the ball too long allowing Lee Chung-yong to latch onto it before firing home. The South Koreans had one spell of sustained pressure which came midway through the second half - Yeom Ki-hun had a wonderful opportunity to equalise but his shot hit the side netting. Normal service was resumed and Higuain completed a hat-trick. His finishes were all simple and all the goals came as a result of sumptuous build up play from the Argentinians, Messi being the common denominator of them all. South Korea had had very little answer to an Argentinian master-class.

Greece 2-1 Nigeria

Greece picked up their first ever victory in a World Cup finals match. Nigeria scored an early goal thanks to the Greek keeper Tsorvas moving to a spot where he predicted Odemwingie would aim his header - instead Odemwingie ducked under the ball and let it bounce invitingly into an empty net. It was in truth, poor goal-keeping. Greece came right back into the game when Kaita of Nigeria had a brain explosion and was rightfully sent off. The ball had gone out for a throw and Kaita was so enraged that he kicked out, studs up at Torosidis. Torosidis may have gone down like a sack of spuds and wrongly started clutching his face but it was a clear red, and one that had severely dented the Nigerians chances of hanging on. Salpingidis equalised not too long after thanks to a massive deflection off Haruna.

The second half saw Greece dominant. It was as if the sending off had left Nigeria bereft of any ideas and had completely turned the tide the opposite way. Enyeama was again on inspired form again so it was a pity that it was he who made the mistake that caused an equaliser for the Greeks. He failed to hold onto a shot that should have been saved from Tziolis, helping the ball into the path of Torosidis to stab home. It was perhaps the first goalkeeping mistake I could put partly down to the swerve of the Jabulani ball (or was it the altitude) and it was a great shame after such brilliant performances in both games, that Enyeama would provide the basis for the goal. All 3 goals of the game were down to errors and the sending off had completely changed the complexion of the match, but the long and the short of it was - Greece had a first World Cup win and Nigeria were left ruing what might have been.

Group A's second round of matches

2010-06-21T15:10:00.000+12:00

Uruguay 3-0 South Africa

Uruguay outclassed South Africa, achieving a comfortable victory. They dominated proceedings and despite the fervent home support Forlan was able to score a long range effort (with the help of a Mokoena deflection) and powered home a penalty after Khune was adjudged to have brought Suarez down with a trailing left foot (and was sent off for his troubles). The third, headed in by Pereira, put the icing on the cake but it was little more than Uruguay deserved. Forlan was the most impressive throughout, and alongside a very dangerous Suarez they have a strikeforce to be feared. South Africa made too many mistakes both on defence and attack.

Mexico 2-0 France

For the most part the game was a closely fought affair although France never looked like breaking the deadlock. The opening third saw an entertaining end-to-end encounter in which France found it difficult to create many clearcut chances, while Mexico's attacking trio, as well as the marauding Salcido came close on a number of occasions. As the match continued a pattern emerged of plenty of unrealised industry from the French and swift dangerous counter attacking from the Mexicans.

The breakthrough finally came when Marquez played a delightful long ball for Hernandez to collect, round Lloris and slide home. Hernandez was on in place of the injured Vela which to my mind was no bad thing. Whilst Vela showed talent and skill I still maintain he misses too many goals! With Mexico in the lead French attacks became even more inert and non-threatening. The win was sealed when 37 year old Blanco scored from the spot after Barrera was felled leaving France needing a minor miracle to qualify.

Team of the Opening Round of Games

2010-06-21T01:34:00.001+12:00

So...who was most impressive, who deserves to be in the best eleven of the tournament after all teams have played one game?

Goalkeeper -

An obvious choice. Enyeama of Nigeria was sensational in thwarting Argentina and Messi in particular

Defence -

Right-back is surely Maicon (Brazil) who defended well, attacked with thrust down the wing and scored a sensational goal

Left-back is Vidal (Chile) who was very impressive in all facets of his game.

Honorary full-back mention goes to Lahm who defended and attacked well for Germany and handled the captaincy very well in their 4-0 win over Australia

Centre-backs: Grichting is in by virtue of his superb marshalling of the Swiss defence in their shock victory over Spain. He thwarted the Spanish time and again. Onyewu was very strong against the English defence and caused problems all over the pitch (and yet was never caught out of position)

Honorary mentions go to Winston Reid (New Zealand) and Alcaraz (Paraguay). Both defended very well and scored superb, crucial headed goals for their team.

Midfield: With a lack of strikers scoring goals in the opening games I have opted for 5 midfielders (although one of them generates debate as to whether you would define his postion as an attacking midfielder, winger or forward as he can be deployed in any of those. -

Defensive midfield spot goes to Mascherano who protected his defence and provided the perfect link between defence and attack for Argentina in their game against Nigeria.

Right wing goes to Alexis Sanchez who terrorised the Honduras defence with a masterclass of talent and technique. Left wing goes to Thomas Mueller of Germany who was an integral part in the brilliance of the Germans demolition of Australia, including scoring with a clinical finish.

Honorary mentions go to Tshabalala (South Africa), Podolski (Germany), Dos Santos (Mexico)

Central/attacking midfield goes to Ji Sung Park who was instrumental in South Korea's defeat of Greece including capitalising on a mistake to score a good goal. He is partnered by Ozil who was my man of the match for Germany - such beautiful speed, movement and incisive passing.

Honorary mention: Honda (Japan) who was their best player against Cameroon.

Striker -

Gyan (Ghana) put in a lot of effort and quality in their win over Serbia. All attacks seemed to centre around him and he very coolly slotted his penalty home for the victory.

Honorary mention: Messi could easily take the striker spot or the 'in-the-hole' position. He had 3 excellent shots on goal but he was not quite the crucial cog of the team that Gyan, Park Ji Sung and Ozil were.

Group H opening games

2010-06-20T23:07:00.000+12:00

Chile 1-0 Honduras

Chile were worthy winners. They attacked with verve and imposed themselves on the game right from the outset. Honduras were forced to spend most of their time defending although they did have a couple of reasonable opportunities. It was a bit of a surprise that Chile were only able to score one goal, and a slightly fortuitous one at that - a sumptuous move ended with Mendoza inadvertently playing the ball against Beausejour's backside resulting in a goal. Sanchez was particularly impressive throughout the game as were the likes of Vidal and Valdivia. The referee was one of the tournament's worst however including a yellow card for mistaken identity to Palacios, yellow cards for clean tackles, and missing a probable penalty.

Switzerland 1-0 Spain

As the game got underway my first thought, as it probably was always going to be, was...wow - Spain can afford to have Fabregas and Torres on the bench. What a squad they have! Spain employed a five man midfield consisting of Xabi Alonso, Busquets, Xavi, Silva and Iniesta with Villa leading the line, Pique, Puyol, Ramos and Capdevilla in defence, and Casillas in goal. In other words, a five star line-up with the quality of Navas, Fabregas, Torres and Pedro on the bench.

As the game got into its swing I marvelled at the beautiful passing of the Spanish team. They kept possession so effortlessly, their short and long range passing so precise and their build up play patient and composed, they were an absolute delight to watch. Spain dominated proceedings and created some decent opportunities but not as many as they should have given their dominance. Switzerland defended very well and Grichting in particular was impressive at the back.

The winning goal came as a result of a break away, ricochets galore, confusion in the box and ultimately a ball stabbed home from close range by Fernandes. The Swiss goal was put under intense pressure for the rest of the match but they held firm for their first ever victory against Spain, putting the favourites into trouble in the early stages of Group H. Surprisingly Fabregas wasn't even given the opportunity off the substitutes bench, Torres was but was unable to provide the goal that Spain were so desperately crying out for.

Group G opening games

2010-06-20T19:39:00.000+12:00

Ivory Coast 0-0 Portugal

This was a match I had been really looking forward to. Two teams stocked full of talent, in what some describe as the Group of Death, playing an opening game that is potentially crucial for determining who will go through. The match did not live up to its billing. Both teams played a structured, disciplined game that at times lacked the spark and creativity that I had been expecting. The moment of the game came in the first half when Ronaldo thundered a 30 yard drive against the post. Apart from that both sides lacked penetration, partly as a result of strong defences. Gervinho was the most impressive Ivory Coast player but even he failed to produce many clearcut opportunities. The injured Drogba came on as a substitute midway through the second half - but even he was unable to galvanise the game, or indeed score with his last minute opportunity. Don't get me wrong - it wasn't a terrible game, there was still quality shown on both sides, but it was surely disappointing.

Brazil 2-1 North Korea

The first observation I would like to make is regarding a passionate, emotional and stirring performance from Jong Tae-Se during the national anthem. He was visibly in a constant stream of tears, quite a moving performance from the man who is a citizen of South Korea, resident of Japan but educated at North Korean schools and universities in Japan! This was a very engaging game. North Korea battled valiantly in defence. They defended in numbers and it appeared any time a Brazilian had the ball there were around 8 North Koreans in close proximity preventing any real penetration. Brazil were restricted to a number of long range shots and really found the going tough.

The breakthrough finally came on around 55 minutes when Maicon, the marauding right-back smashed the ball in between the goalkeeper (who was anticipating a cross) and the near post. It has been speculated that this was an attempted cross but I believe it was purposeful, and wasn't it smashed home beautifully. The Brazilians were visibly relieved and later scored a beautifully crafted second goal. Robinho played an inch perfect angled through ball to Elano who hit a precise low shot into the bottom right hand corner.

North Korea, whilst defending for much of the match, had managed some moments in attack. Incredibly they scored a late consolation goal. Ji Yung-Nam powered into the box and smashed home from close range. It was an encouraging performance from the North Koreans, who if they continue in this vein, will be difficult for Portugal and the Ivory Coast to break down.

Group F opening games

2010-06-18T18:24:00.004+12:00

Paraguay 1-1 Italy

This was an engaging game with quality passing football on show. Paraguay looked like a side who had finished only one point behind Brazil in qualification and were well worth their 1-0 lead at half-time. They were happy to soak up Italian pressure and catch them on the break with slick fluid passing. Alcarez's header to put them into the lead was quality. Italy, for all their ball, were rather stale at times. And when the equaliser finally game it was fortuitous. Goalkeeper Villmar completely missed the cross and de Rossi was on hand to stab home. For Italy I felt the best players were Pepe who looked dangerous all game, and Camaronesi who came on in the second half. They clearly missed the quality of Pirlo in midfield. Buffon also suffered an injury...what damage will that do to the hopes of Italians everywhere? Paraguay have had it tough with star man Cabanas ruled out of the tournament before it began (thanks to the shooting in the head I have previously blogged about) and Santa Cruz only just coming back from injury. But they are a real prospect in Group F in my view.

New Zealand 1-1 Slovakia

The moment all we Kiwis had been waiting for. New Zealand back on the biggest stage of them all, 28 years between drinks. This was widely viewed as New Zealand's greatest chance to get a result at the World Cup but the international media had written us off. New Zealand played its usual 3-4-3 with the only talking point of the starting lineup being that Vicelich was to partner Elliott in midfield.

The first half finished all square. This wasn't without nervy moments as Paston almost embarrassed himself with a clearance that instead skimmed gently off his foot. He did well enough to recover though. New Zealand had done well to limit Slovakia to a couple of good chances. The best being when their two most impressive players combined - Weiss feeding Sestak for a good chance - but he fired wide. The best chance of the half was arguably Killen's tame header that didn't threaten a goal. New Zealand certainly weren't overawed.

Disaster struck early in the second half when Vittek headed in a Weiss cross. Reid arguably hadn't marked tightly enough but the Kiwis had a right to be aggrieved, replays showed he was clearly offside, by about a foot. New Zealand didn't create many second half chances but the striker who threatened the most was always Smeltz. Fallon and Killen by contrast never looked like scoring, although they helped well with the defending. Central midfield gave the ball away too often and Elliott who had played well in the first half started to tire and made too many mistakes in the second. The central defensive trio of Nelsen, Smith and Reid were beautifully composed however and are the real strength to the Kiwis. Bertos was often anonymous as he was sucked into defensive duties too often and Lochhead was an inconsistent mixture of good and bad.

I thought the final chance had come and gone when Smeltz headed a cross wide with less than two minutes remaining. But with the last play of the game Smeltz sent in an excellent cross and Reid powered a header home to write his name in NZ folklore. It was a beautiful goal and the Kiwis celebrated their first ever World Cup point. Reid was booked for removing his shirt so he needs to be careful in the second match to avoid a suspension.

In truth it was a poor game but for a Kiwi supporter like me it was intense, it was fascinating and it was ultimately rewarding. The Slovakian manager Vladimir Weiss called it a minor sporting tragedy but in truth, whilst they had looked better than New Zealand with ball at feet they had not created enough goalscoring opportunities to win.

Group E opening games

2010-06-18T14:42:00.000+12:00

Netherlands 2-0 Denmark

The Netherlands have some of the best attackers in the world eg van Persie, van der Waart, Sneijder etc. They are usually fluid and exciting as well. In this game however they were not so fluent or fluid and instead it was a workmanlike Dutch performance. The Danes were even less threatening on attack. Having said that there were still opportunities for both sides and the Dutch showed occasional flashes of why we rate them so highly. The first goal came from an own goal. Poulsen headed it into his own goal from a van Persie cross (brushing the back of Agger). The second goal was a lovely move with a simple finish for Kuyt. Even the 18 year old Erikksen for Denmark couldn't quite light up proceedings for them. A bit of talent and quality experience from them from time to time but a largely forgettable performance by them.

Japan 1-0 Cameroon

The big talking points for me were 1) Samuel Eto'o being deployed on the right wing and 2) Alex Song not in the starting eleven (or even coming on as a sub). Eto'o couldn't get into the game often enough from right wing and lacked goalscoring opportunities from there. He still played well in that position, and I remember one instant when he eluded two defenders to make a good cross, but I hardly believe it is the best way to utilise the skills of their star man. I'm sure Le Guen has his reasons for not picking Alex Song but for me it was a shame as whenever I have seen him play he usually impresses me. It is telling that the closest Cameroon came to a goal was when right-back Mbia hit the crossbar.

Japan were nothing flash although they played a decent game. Their goal came out of nowhere and was a nice simple finish for Honda (after some shocking marking from Cameroon). Honda played well in midfield for Japan.

In truth it was a fairly pedestrian and weak game.

Group D opening games

2010-06-18T14:02:00.000+12:00

Ghana 1-0 Serbia

This was an engaging and thoroughly enjoyable game between two quality sides. Both sides fashioned a number of chances but Ghana had distinctly more opportunities than Serbia. Both sides were guilty of being wasteful in front of goal. Had either taken one of their opportunities the whole complexion of the game would have changed. I was impressed by Jovanovic of Serbia and I was also impressed with a Ghanaian midfield which didn't noticeably appear to be missing Michael Essien. Jovanovic looked the most dangerous for Serbia.

The Serbian red card for two bookable offences was a fair call and Serbia looked to close the game out 0-0 after that, but still managed to have a few good chances. The breakthrough in this game finally came with about 5 minutes to go. Ghana were justifiably awarded a penalty - Kuzmanovic raised his arm high to the right and the ball clearly struck his hand. It was an inexplicable moment and Ghana sent the African continent into delirium with a very well taken penalty for a hard earned victory and 3 valuable points.

Germany 4-0 Australia

Germany completely and utterly outclassed Australia with what can only be described as a masterclass. Had the scoreline been 6 or 7 it would not have flattered the gulf between the two sides. Ozil and Mueller were brilliant in the attacking midfield and Podolski and Klose (to some extent) answered their critics. Klose and Podolski have not been in form in domestic football but Podolski continued his brilliant international scoring record for Germany. And Klose, whilst spurning a couple of fantastic chances, bravely scored with a header under the advance of Schwarzer. Practically the whole German team impressed: Khedira might not be spoken of in the same breath as Ozil and Mueller but he sure played like a man filling Ballack's shoes. Cacau and Gomes came on in the second half and both showed why the Germans have strength in depth. Schweinsteiger was strangely quiet but his services were almost rendered unnecessary by the slick verve and passing of the rest of the midfield/attack.

This is a very young German team - and they demonstrated a lack of fear and a large dose of excellence. They made many beautiful runs off the ball which the Aussies failed to pick up which never failed to cause panic in the Aussie box.

Australia on the other hand were woeful - one has to take into account that their poor game contributed to the Germans being able to show them up so much. I couldn't understand why Cahill had been picked as a lone striker when he is far better in the attacking midfield role - it reeked of desperation. The Aussies were run ragged and while 2-0 down even had Cahill sent off. I can understand why the ref gave the decision - he clattered into the German player from behind and took him out. However it was a wholehearted rather than a dirty challenge - there wasn't much strength in the trip and he appeared to be pulling out of the tackle at the moment of impact. It was, to my mind, a little harsh.

On another note I was very pleased to see the ref book two Germans for diving during the game. It's good to get that aspect clamped down on - especially with dives as blatant as those were.

Embrace the vuvuzela

2010-06-18T01:58:00.002+12:00

The case against the vuvuzela: Vuvuzela are loud and for many people, obnoxious and annoying. They spoil the TV viewing pleasure in which it comes across as a constant swarm of buzzing bees - and the wonderful inventive chants of the football fan are not heard. At the game it must be annoying for some spectators to have the vuvuzela constantly blown in their ears - and there's little point of them trying to start chants as they will just get drowned out. Vuvuzela also make it difficult for communication on the pitch. Vuvuzela may cause hearing damage.

The case for the vuvuzela. This is African culture, it is the way South Africans support football - they should be embraced and not considered with disdain. It is something unique about this World Cup. Vuvuzela are blown in the street day and night, why should they be banned from the game? Some people say it creates good atmosphere.

Conclusion: I am not a fan of the vuvuzela. Although watching on TV I have learnt to block it out/not be annoyed by it I would much rather hear football singing. And I sympathise with all the anti vuvuzela sentiment. However I think banning them would be wrong - it would be denying a football culture from expressing itself in its own unique way. People need to suck it up, stop whinging and move on. Try embracing the vuvuzela - if you can't beat it join it! The most I could agree to is a noise level restriction on the individual vuvuzela.

Now all that remains is for you to practise blowing the vuvuzela here.

Group H preview

2010-06-16T17:16:00.000+12:00

Chile

Strengths: Chile love to attack and do so very well. They attack in numbers and are not a team who sit back. They also put lots of pressure on the opposing players making their attack sometimes seem a form of defence. They have an excellent striker in Huazo who was top scorer in the South American qualifiers. Sanchez is a winger with a lot of promise and M Fernandez is the key in the midfield - he was Best South American Player in 2006.

Weaknesses: With so much attacking prowess it is almost inevitable that their weakest area is their defence - they can put themselves under pressure too readily and find it difficult dealing with the aerial demands, particularly as they are a team prominently short in stature. Suazo suffered an injury on May 30th in a game against Israel, he is struggling to be fit. Chile will need their talisman at World Cup 2010.

Formation: 3-1-3-3. An exciting and clever system.

Manager: Marcelo Bielsa - his second stint at international management, he also managed Argentina from 1998 - 2004. He has been with Chile since 2007. He is a real football personality, a real tactical innovator and has some crazy coaching methods!

Qualification: Chile finished second in the South American qualifying section - only one point behind Brazil and ahead of Paraguay on goal difference. It was a comfortable qualification.

World Cup pedigree: This is Chile's eighth world cup. They have only twice made it past the Group stages finishing 3rd place in 1962 (when it was held in Chile) and to the second round in 1998 - the year of yet another of my World Cup favourite players Marcelo Salas. 2010 will be their first World Cup since then.

Chance of progression from Group H: 65%, probably in second place.

Honduras

Strengths: Honduras play well, within their limitations. They have a strong defence, a powerful midfield and are good on the counter-attack. They conceded the least number of goals in qualifying. 37 year old Pavon is the highest scorer in Honduran history and he and David Suazo will be expected to be the ones to provide the goals. Wilson Palacios, who plays for Tottenham Hotspurs in the Premier League, is the most well known.

Weaknesses: Honduras lack experience of competitive international football which is a disadvantage. Wilson Palacios also recently suffered a problem with his shin that threatened his tournament but it now appears he should be fit for the first game. Honduras playmaker Julio De Leon has been ruled out of the tournament with an injury with just hours to go until the first match. During the whole qualification phase, goalkeeper Noel Valladares was criticised because of his constant mistakes. It would be interesting to know if the Honduran political situation affects the team psychologically.

Formation: Will either employ the defensive 4-5-1 or a 4-4-2

Manager: Reinaldo Rueda has been manager of Honduras since 2006 and was previously manager of Colombia from 2004-2006

Qualification: Honduras finished in the third and final automatic qualification spot in North/Central America, ahead of Costa Rica on goal difference!

World Cup pedigree: This will be Honduras' second World Cup, their first appearance was in 1982 when they famously drew against Spain in Spain. They also drew with Northern Ireland but lost to Yugoslavia. They didn't make it to the 2nd stage.

Chance of progression from Group H: 25%, should surely miss out.

Spain

Strengths: Spain are the favourites for World Cup 2010 and it is not hard to see why. They have lethal finishers like Torres and Villa up front and probably the best midfield in the tournament with the likes of Xavi, Busquets and Iniesta. It is so good that the brilliant Fabregas is not first choice (and it is also likely Torres will be on the bench). Casillas is a top quality goalkeeper and they even have a quality defence with Puyol, Pique etc. They also have a massive strength in depth.

Weaknesses: A number of their players have injury concerns, including Iniesta - but all are still likely to play. They may also be suffering from fatigue from a gruelling Spanish/English domestic season (20 of their squad play in Spain, 3 in England). Out of all four areas on the pitch defence is their weakest, but that of course is relative.

Formation: Probably a 4-2-3-1.

Manager: Vincent del Bosque is in his first stint in international management which start post Euro 2008 (which Spain won) - he has experience in domestic football with the likes of Real Madrid and Besiktas.

Qualification: Spain finished top of their qualifying group recording a perfect 10/10 wins.

World Cup pedigree: This is Spain's 13th World Cup and their 9th in a row. Shockingly their best ever result was fourth in 1950 and have been knocked out in the quarters four times (1934, 1986, 1994 and 2002)

Chance of progression from Group H: 90%, probably in first place.

Switzerland

Strengths: Switzerland are an excellent defensive side. They have an organised and disciplined game. Senderos will be influential at centre-back and Frei is the main man for goals - at international level he scores more often than one every two games. Barnetta is only 25 but he is the third most capped in the squad and is definitely a talented midfielder.

Weaknesses: They are a limited team - they have a few key players, an effective and cohesive will, but lack the spark, firepower and imagination to be sure of winning games. Frei is carrying an injury and should at least miss the first game. He is crucial to Swiss chances so this could play a large influence on their fortunes.

Formation: Almost certainly will be 4-4-2

Manager: Ottmar Hitzfeld. He has managed Bayern Munich for a number of years previously but this is his first stint at international management. He is considered a great tactician.

Qualification: Switzerland finished top of their qualifying group, 1 point ahead of Greece.

World Cup pedigree: This is Switzerland's 9th World Cup - their best showing is the quarter-finals of 1934, 1938 and 1954. Since 1966 this is only the 3rd World Cup for which they have qualified.

Chance of progression from Group H: 55%, probably miss out.

Group G preview

2010-06-15T18:57:00.000+12:00

Group G features 3 very strong teams one would expect to see in a second round. Only two of them will make it. And then you have North Korea.

Brazil

Strengths: Brazil, as usual, bring a quality squad to the World Cup. Kaka is one of the best midfielders in the world and is complemented by the likes of Elano. Fabiano is a prolific goalscorer with a goal roughly every 1.5 games for his national side. They also have the talented goalscorer Nilmar in the squad and can afford not to pick Neymar who is 18 and scoring for fun for his club side Santos in Brazil. They also have a player I consider the best goalkeeper in the world in Cesar. This time Brazil also have an excellent defensive as well. They specialise in set pieces and lightning fast counter-attacks.

Weaknesses: It is hard to see many weaknesses in a Brazil starting eleven. Perhaps they will miss Ronaldinho who was not selected. Leaving out Pato verged on the criminal. But despite these high profile omissions they still have a top squad. Brazil do not have however a player up front who is practically guaranteed to deliver the goods in a World Cup as Ronaldo always was. Despite the overall quality - if I was to pick a best eleven from players at the World Cup few Brazilian players would feature - indicating that in most positions there are possibly better players for other countries. Brazil may find it hard to break down teams that sit back and defend due to their style of play.

Formation: Brazil actually have quite a fluid formation and can change a lot within the game depending on factors such as who is in possession etc. They will likely have 4 at the back and a lone striker in Fabiano up front. The midfield 5 change around quite a lot (and thus so does the formation).

Manager: Dunga is an excellent manager. He used to play for Brazil as a defensive midfielder and won the World Cup in 1994. This is his first international assignment.

Qualification: Brazil won the South American section including their first every victory over Argentina in Argentina. It was a comfortable qualification although they only finished 1 point ahead of both Chile and Paraguay.

World Cup pedigree: Brazil have, without doubt, the best World Cup pedigree of any nation. They are the only country to play in every single World Cup. They have won it 5 times (more than any other country) - 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994 and 2002. They were second twice (1950 and 1998), third twice (1938 and 1978) and fourth once (1974).

Chance of progression from Group G: 85% - would have been higher if Portugal and Ivory Coast weren't also in the group.

Ivory Coast (C'ote D'ivoire)

Strengths: Ivory Coast have a team full of talent. Drogba is possibly the best striker in the world. Yaya Toure and Zakoro are two superb central midfielders. They also have the likes of Kalou, Dindane, Kone, Keita, Kolo Toure and Eboue in their squad. It is a very exciting team with a lot of firepower, flair and brilliance.

Weaknesses: Didier Drogba fractured his shoulder in a very recent friendly (about ten days ago) and there were worries that he wouldn't be fit for the tournament. Whilst it now seems likely he will feature it is not certain whether he will be ready for the crucial first game against Portugal. Even if he is there will be question marks as to whether his body can handle it. If anything their weakness comes at the back. There have also been reported bustups in the squad at this year's African Nations Cup. They will need to avoid any arguments to keep the required unity for this team to do well.

Formation: Should be a 4-3-3. Three physically imposing midfielders, a lone striker and two pacy wingers (and full-backs) meant the formation almost picks itself. Providing Sven avoids the temptation to go 4-4-2.

Manager: Sven Goran Erikkson has had many domestic and international managerial appointments throughout his career and has been very successful. For example he has league and cup doubles in Sweden, Portugal and Italy. He is most famous domestically for his stint at Lazio. He also managed England at Euro 2004 and World Cups 2002 and 2006. Sven's England were knocked out of World Cup 2002 by Brazil and Euro 2004 and World Cup 2006 by Portugal so it is a quirk of fate that he should be drawn with these two countries again. He should add some structure to the flair of the Ivory Coast's game.

Qualification: Ivory Coast comfortably qualified from their group.

World Cup pedigree: Ivory Coast have only had one previous World Cup appearance in 2006. They didn't make it through the group stage after being drawn in the Group of Death with Holland, Argentina and Serbia and Montenegro. They will be hoping to go at least one better this time.

Chance of progression from Group G: 60%. Would really love them to qualify, will be a real dogfight with Portugal.

North Korea (Korea DPR)

Strengths: North Korea defend doggedly, harry in numbers and can be very hard to break down. They play to this strength and are very happy to stay back. They only conceded 7 in 16 games in qualifying. They also have a player called Jong Tae-Se who is nicknamed the Rooney of North Korea/Asia for his brilliant shooting ability. He has scored some stunning goals in his time.

Weaknesses: North Korea do not play width very well, they find goals hard to come by and have a lack of international experience in general. They find it difficult to cope with the aerial threat that teams can possess.

Formation: I have read that this will be a very defensive form of a 3-3-2-2

Manager: Kim Jong-Hun.

Qualification: North Korea finished second in their final Asia qualifying group thereby gaining automatic qualification. They finished ahead of Saudi Arabia on goal difference (and 4 points behind South Korea) so it was a very tense qualifying battle.

World Cup pedigree: North Korea have only qualified for one previous World Cup - 1966. They had a famous upset 1-0 win over Italy in the group stages. They also led Portugal 3-0 in the Quarter-finals but ended up losing 5-3.

Chance of progression from Group G: 0.5% - they should finish last.

Portugal

Strengths: Portugal have some incredibly exciting talent in their squad. Christiano Ronaldo is rated by some as the best player of his generation. He mesmerises defences with his dribbling skills and is a clinical finisher. But Portugal also have the superb Deco in midfield and the reliable and experienced trio of Ferreira, Carvalho and Costa available to play in defence. Nani and Simao are also very skilful wingers. They have a settled defence that doesn't concede many.

Weaknesses: In terms of out-and-out strikers Portugal are lacking. They instead rely on the wingers/midfield/supporting strikersto fire the goals. Liedson will quite possibly start in the lone striker role but he has never particularly impressed in terms of being able to trouble the goal. They also lack tempo in central midfield. Nani is also injured. Initial reports said he was out of the tournament but reports have just emerged saying he might be back miraculously quickly.

Formation: Should be a 4-3-2-1.

Manager: Carlos Queiroz - ex Manchester Utd assistant manager who has managed the Portugal team since 2008.

Qualification: Portugal only managed to finish 2nd in their qualifying group (behind Denmark) and only secured that in the very last game (enabling them to finish ahead of Sweden). They then needed to navigate a tricky playoff with Bosnia, which they achieved.

World Cup pedigree: This is Portugal's fifth World Cup only. They finished third in 1966 and fourth in 2006 but didn't get past the first round on their two other appearances in 1986 and 2002.

Chance of progression from Group G: 60%, in a dogfight with Ivory Coast, might just miss out.

Group F preview

2010-06-15T05:18:00.002+12:00

Italy

Strengths: Italy are, as always, strong at the back with quality going forward. With famous highly skilled players like Cannavaro, Zambrotta, Gattusso, Pirlo, De Rossi and Gilardino Italy are always capable of winning football matches, regardless of who they play. Pirlo in particular has always been a wonderfully creative player with an ability to make precise searching long field passes. He is their key playmaker. Italy are historically an excellent defending team - history provides us with Nesta and Maldini to prove this point. On paper it is still defence which is where their best capabilities lie. This probably stems from Seria A being a traditionally strong defensive league. Cannavaro is their leader from the back but their top defender is probably Chiellini, who at 25 should serve Italy well for many years to come. Buffon of course is one of the best goalkeepers in the world.

Weaknesses: There are fairly valid criticisms that Italy are an aging squad with a number on decline rather than at the peak of their powers. They lack a world class striker up front. While Gilardino, Iaquinta and Di Natale are good players they do not quite have the qualities of the best strikers in the world. Gilardino has the best strike rate of their strikers. Pirlo, who is potentially key, is struggling with an injury which may rule him out of some of the early games of the tournament.

Formation: It appears Lippi is still pondering whether to employ a 4-3-3 or a 4-2-3-1. He certainly tried both in their last friendly against the Guateng All Stars.

Manager: Marcelo Lippi has won many titles in his 25 year managerial career and has a fantastic reputation. To his name, domestically, he has five Serie A titles, four Italian Supercup, one Champions League, one UEFA Supercup and one Intercontinental Cup. He also won the World Cup in 2006 and was reappointed in 2008 after Donadoni led Italy to a poor Euro 2008 campaign.

Qualification: Italy won their European qualifying group with the minimum of fuss.

World Cup pedigree: Italy are the second most successful national side with 4 World Cup titles (1934, 1938, 1982 and 2006). They have competed in every tournament except two, finished second twice (1970 and 1994), third once (1990) and fourth once (1978)

Chance of progression from Group F: 80%, could manage first place.

New Zealand

Strengths: New Zealand's strengths lie in central defence and attack. Ryan Nelsen is the key player and plays at the highest level of them domestically, playing for Blackburn Rovers week in and week out. He is the inspirational captain. Fellow centre-backs Tommy Smith and Winston Reid are young and have barely played internationally but they are also very talented. Smith is at Ipswich Town and Reid plays in the Danish premier league. They are composed on the ball and look a real talent. Up front Fallon is strong in the air and physically dominant, Smeltz has scored a number of goals for clubs in the Australian A League and Killen is useful. The Kiwis are also a committed bunch with a close team spirit who can play better than the sum of their parts.

Weaknesses: New Zealand are weakest in midfield. Elliott and Brown are a reasonable centre-mid pairing but in general the midfield gives the ball away too easily and lacks creativity. Brown is also under an injury cloud after surgery on a fractured upper arm. Bertos can be an exciting winger but in the position he plays in the All Whites chosen formation he spends too much time defending to show off much attacking prowess. Defending down the flanks is a definite weakness for the All Whites. Also, the players I have outlined as their strengths are a relative strength - when comparing like with like with the vast majority of the teams at the World Cup they would be seen unfavourably.

Formation: Should be a 3-4-3/5-4-1. In other words NZ play 3 centre-backs, 2 wing-backs, 2 central midfielders and 3 strikers. As is the nature of a wing-back the wing-backs are fullbacks on defence and wingers on attack. In defence 2 of the strikers will usually drop back to midfield to help out.

Manager: Ricki Herbert - former NZ international who played at the 1982 World Cup. He combines his international management with domestic management for Wellington Phoenix who play in the Australian A League.

Qualification: NZ won Oceania comfortably before facing Bahrain in a playoff for SouthAfrica. The Kiwis held Bahrain to a 0-0 draw in Bahrain and then fashioned out a magnificent 1-0 home victory at Wellington's Westpac Trust Stadium. I went to that game and it was one of the nights of my life.

World Cup pedigree: NZ have only had one previous World Cup appearance, in 1982 in which they lost all 3 games, scoring twice and conceding 12.

Chance of progression from Group F: 20%, could easily finish last but I'm going to be positive and predict third place!

Paraguay

Strengths: Paraguay play an exciting brand of football - they can be lethal on the counter-attack. They are well equipped defensively having only conceded 16 goals from 18 qualifying games. Their key players will be the brave predatory Valdez up front and the creative hard working Riveros in midfield. And of course Roque Santa Cruz who with 69 caps, 21 goals and experience in the Premier League could be crucial to the cause.

Weaknesses: Paraguay will really miss Cabanas who was their top scorer in qualifying. An excellent goalscorer, he was shot in the head in January and whilst recovering nicely is not fit to take part in the World Cup. Paraguay tend not to enjoy possession play and so will be vulnerable to teams who pass well.

Formation: Probably a 4-4-2 although they may switch to a 4-3-3 if it suits.

Manager: Argentinian Gerardo Martino. He had about 8 years experience of coaching Paraguayan clubs domestically before being appointed international manager.

Qualification: Paraguay finished 3rd in South America - one point behind Brazil and on equal points (with an inferior goal difference) with Chile.

World Cup pedigree: This is Paraguay's eighth world cup. They have reached the second round on three occasions (1986, 1998 and 2002) but have never progressed further.

Chance of progression from Group F: 65%, probably in 2nd place but should give Italy a run for their money for top spot.

Slovakia

Strengths: Slovakia have a strong defence led by the imposing and very good player (particularly in the air), Martin Skrtel. Hamsik is a technically gifted midfielder who has earnt rave reviews at Napoli. Sestak is an exciting player in the forward line. Their biggest strength is defence although they scored a lot of goals in qualifying. All of their players play outside Slovakia for reasonable European sides.

Weaknesses: They only have a limited number of star quality players who, if they were injured, would leave a big hole in the side. Skrtel has just managed to battle back from injury to be fit. They also lack creative guile at times in the midfield although the likes of Stoch, Hamsik and Weiss will play with good skill and pace. Slovakia also lack a prolific goalscorer and will hope for goals throughout the team.

Formation: Probably 4-4-2.

Manager: Vladimir Weiss - on his first international assignment.

Qualification: Finished top of a group also containing Slovenia, Czech Republic and Poland.

World Cup pedigree: Slovakia was a part of Czechoslovakia from 1918 until 1992. The Czech national team qualified for eight World Cups finishing second on two occasions (1934 and 1962). The last World Cup that Czechoslovakia participated in was Italia '90. The team progressed to the quarter-finals and lost to eventual champions Germany 1-0. From the 17 national team players, eight were Slovakian. Slovakia turned into an independent Republic in 1993. This is their first World Cup participation as an independent nation.

Chance of progression from Group F: 50%, may miss out.

Group C opening games

2010-06-14T04:26:00.000+12:00

England 1-1 USA

Capello decided on the following lne-up:

Green
Johnson King Terry Cole
Lennon Gerrard Lampard Milner
Heskey Rooney

England had a brilliant start with a goal for Gerrard after less than ten minutes. Kudos goes to Heskey for a perfectly weighted pass and to Gerrard for a clinical finish.

Milner played poorly down the left hand side, fouling Cherundolo on a number of occasions which eventually resulted in a booking. He didn't get a chance to show his attacking wares and Capello replaced him with Wright Phillips after only half an hour. Milner had apparently been suffering with a stomach bug/virus all week so it is no wonder he was far from his best. Wright Phillips was very poor himself for the rest of the match, I think Joe Cole would have been far the better replacement, particularly as Wright Phillips is actually a right winger by trade.

The equalising goal came 5 minutes before half-time and what a terrible, shocking blunder from Green it was. Dempsey hit a tame shot straight at the keeper and Green somehow contrived to spill the ball into his own net After so much debate over who the goalkeeper should be and Capello's final choice managed to do this. 'Calamity James' hadn't been picked but 'Calamity Green' (could that catch on?) had turned up. It is odd that Capello considers Hart as too inexperienced when Green has only had ten caps himself. Hart is an excellent and confident goalkeeper, he should be in the team. Should Capello replace Green for the next game (and subsequently), and I think he might, he will probably opt for veteran James.

The England tabloids as expected have had a field day. The News of the World: "Rob still too Green for England". The Sunday Times: "One disastrous spill the Yanks won't complain about". Sunday Mirror: "God save the Green". One thing I can't believe is that some people have blamed it mostly on the Jabulani ball. This is preposterous, one only has to watch the incident to realise this...surely?

The second half produced no goals although there was plenty of industry from both sides. Green partly redeemed himself after a good save from Donovan (who had used his pace to easily get past Carragher - a player who had equipped himself OK as replacement centre-back but who in my opinion was the wrong choice as replacement). Lampard tried a number of hopeful long-range shots and Rooney was strangely quiet. Lennon had a decent game except for the fact he failed to beat the first man with the vast majority of his crosses. Heskey played well but he not surprisingly fluffed both a one-on-one and a header. Heskey hasn't scored since February and is hardly a goalscorer despite being a striker. He is there because he forms a good partnership with Rooney. Gerrard was probably England's man of the match.

The USA worked hard throughout. Onyewu was superb in the centre of defence. He composedly dealt with everything England threw at them. The rest of the team were also decent but fashioned very few real chances for their weak forward line to have a go at. Dempsey and Donavon are the best attacking players for the USA but they operate from midfield. How Altidore who scored 1 goal for Hull City all season can be expected to provide the goals is beyond me. The USA did in general prevent too many chances for England.

Slovenia 1-0 Algeria

This was a match whose main features were a red card and a soft goal as it generally lived up to its billing as one of the least exciting contests of the World Cup. Having said that both sides played some engaging football at times.

Overall Algeria probably had the better chances. They had a great headed chance when Halliche headed just wide. Both teams had dipping long distance strikes expertly tipped over by the respective goalkeepers. Yet both teams gave away possession too easily and were generally sloppy. Passes went astray fairly often and touches were often too heavy. Handanovic almost handed Algeria a goal on a plate before managing to recover, thanks to one of those heavy touches to which I refer.

Algeria imploded with just under 20 minutes to go when substitute Ghezzal was sent off for a second yellow card. The first was deserved as was the second - a blatant handball. Not long after, Koren received the ball 20 yards from goal and had a reasonable effort to the left of Chaouchi's goal...the ball sneaked into the back of the net as Chaouchi flapped ungainly at it. He seemed to approach the save in an odd way - instead of diving horizontally to tap it round the corner he approached it head (and arm on) which perhaps contributed to the mistake.

Slovenia held on for their first ever victory at a World Cup as they moved to the top of Group C.

[I'd just like to also point out that Algeria's manager Rabah Sadaane has stated he will quit after the World Cup because of the attitude of some of the players. He left their captain Mansouri on the bench for the game, which on the surface seems an odd decision, but could be something to do with this. This nonsense is likely to have a negative effect on Algeria's World Cup].

Group B opening games

2010-06-13T22:11:00.000+12:00

South Korea 2-0 Greece

South Korea were dominant throughout the match and very worthy of their victory. Greece's reputation for being built on a solid defence was in tatters after the game as it was two very poor errors that handed South Korea both goals. Lee Jung-Soo was not picked up when the ball was crossed in for the first goal. For the second Vyntra inexplicably gave the ball away when receiving a routine pass from Seitaridis, Park Ji-Sung profited going off a nice run before finishing adroitly.

It could have all been so different had Torosidis not failed to convert a fantastic opportunity from six yards in the early minutes. But apart from that Greece had little in the way of goalscoring opportunities, save for 3 or 4 during a sustained 5 minutes of pressure midway through the second half. Top goalscorer in European qualifying Gekas was off his game but in fairness he just didn't get the service from a midfield lacking in imagination. In truth Greece were fairly abject throughout the field and will need massive improvement if they are to have any chance of doing anything other than make up the numbers in Group B.

But let this not take away from a quality performance from South Korea who kept possession well, defended well and played with an air of class. They played a very good game and easily deserved their 2 goal victory.

Argentina 1-0 Nigeria

In terms of quality football being played this has been the best of the first five games. Messi was top quality and was only foiled by some spectacular goalkeeping from Vincent Enyeama. Veron was off-colour with some of his passing and the Argentinian defence looked a bit suspect, a better strikeforce than Nigeria's would likely have made them pay. Their defence lacks pace with the likes of Samuel and Demichelis so it was an area that could have been exploited.

It was funny that with all Argentina's attacking quality the goal came from the head of defender Heinze. Argentina started with four highly attack minded players and ended up with five (when Maxi Rodriguez came on). This left Mascherano doing a helluva lot of work in defensive midfield. And with Gutierrez, normally a right winger, playing at right-back attack was concentrated down the right, leaving Di Maria fairly anonymous at times.

Nigeria played a 4-4-2 formation when a 4-3-3 would have been better. Particularly as Obasi likes to get forward. They performed better when the classic winger Odemwingie came on as he was able to exploit Gutierrez down that flank. The introduction of Martins also meant there was more pace available. Nigeria had a few reasonable chances but were unable to profit from them, continuing their general weakness of being goal shy. It was also exceptionally poor marking that enabled Heinze to ghost in completely unmarked for his goal.

There was this comment I enjoyed from another website which I happen to agree with: "Diego’s idea of throwing square pegs into circular holes simply because they’re carved of a higher quality wood will not work against good sides".

The England Eleven

2010-06-13T04:53:00.000+12:00

OK so it's less than 2 hours until kickoff in England's first game which is against the USA. What team would I like to see England pick and what team do I think they will pick?

Let's start with the goalkeeper.

Reports a few days ago suggested that James had a minor knee problem and may miss the first game. Then there have been reports in recent hours that England players want James to play because of his experience and because he is so vocal. The goalkeeper debate is one that almost everyone seems to want to have their say - because the choice is not clear-cut.

James is 39, has had a nickname of 'Calamity James' due to some shockers he has had throughout his career. However he is very athletic and experienced and has the inside running. Green and Hart are both quality stoppers but lack the experience that James offers. I would pick Hart. From the games I have watched Hart is simply the best keeper of the three, he has the confidence and pulls off amazing saves quite regularly. I am not worried by his inexperience, he would play with no fear and he would I am sure play very well throughout the tournament. I believe James will get the nod though.

In defence I would pick Johnson, King, Terry and Cole. Cole is obvious as first choice left-back as is Terry for centre-back. Debate centres over Terry's partner. Most (and I am in this camp) think it has to be King. Johnson is a true right-back who attacks down the flank, his weakness is in his defending. I think almost everyone would pick him but Carragher remains an option. Perhaps against the best opposition choosing Carragher is not the silliest idea as he should provide greater stability at the back. I think Capello would agree with my choice of Johnson, King, Terry, Cole.

In midfield I would pick Lennon on the right as he offers so much quality. I would have Lampard and Barry in the middle as Barry is very good in the holding position. (Lampard picks himself). Barry may not quite be ready for the first game however. If Barry is not fit I would have Milner in the middle and Joe Cole on the left. If Barry is fit I would have Milner on the left. Up front I would have Rooney and Gerrard (in the slightly deeper attacking position). I think Milner has to be in the team because he offers so much but I think Capello will leave him on the bench. I think Gerrard should play the attacking role or the central midfield role but I do not think he should play on the left as he is wasted there and Milner/Cole are better options than him in that position I would not mind Gerrard and Lampard in the middle with Rooney playing in a front two alongside any of Crouch, Defoe or Heskey, especially if Barry is not fit.

My ideal team, with all fit, is

Hart

Johnson, King, Terry, Cole

Lennon, Lampard, Barry, Milner

Gerrard Rooney

I think Capello's is either the same (although swapping Milner for Cole) or having Gerrard on the left with Heskey to partner Rooney.

Whatever happens it's gonna be interesting.

Group A opening games

2010-06-12T18:47:00.000+12:00

My plan is not to provide a match report of each game but instead to provide a few comments/observations/talking points etc.

South Africa 1-1 Mexico

I found this quite an exciting open game as I expected. In the first 40 minutes Mexico were dominant but just couldn't score despite their many opportunities to do so. They had elected to start with Franco and Vela and not Hernandez which was a decision I disagreed with. They will probably continue with this starting lineup but I am just worried if they do that the pattern of Mexico being profligate in front of goal will continue. They seem to need a lot of chances in order to convert. The last 5 minutes of the first half saw a couple of excellent chances for South Africa with which they should have done better.

The opening goal of the tournament, in the second half, was a great way to get World Cup 2010 underway. It was a superb piledriver of a shot from Tshabalala of South Africa after the Mexican defence had been split open. South Africa had the better chances in the second half but Mexico got a deserved equaliser. Both defences looked vulnerable and Mexico gave South Africa far too many open spaces to work with. I wonder whether they should revert Marquez back into central defence rather than the holding midfield role.

The last ten minutes of the match was end-to-end stuff as neither team could fashion out a winner, which made for a good spectacle.

France 0-0 Uruguay.

This was a fascinating game. The big news before kick off was that the quality Uruguayan midfielder Gargano was not in the team and also that France were starting with Diaby ahead of Malouda. Henry, as expected, was on the bench.

The French did the most attacking and Uruguay were often sat in defence. Having said that, France fashioned limited clearcut opportunities and didn't really test out Muslera in the Uruguay goal. The best chance of the match fell to Uruguay, Forlan was unmarked about six yards out and stabbed the ball wide. Can't criticise Forlan too heavily though, he was Uruguay's best performer and the only one who looked dangerous. Suarez was very disappointing.

For France Diaby was my man of the match. He frequently glided past a number of challenges as if they weren't there, passed neatly and always looked threatening. (Ultimately then Domenech was vindicated for choosing Diaby ahead of Malouda although the word on the street is that Domenech and Malouda had a falling out).

I would like to know what happened in regard to the red card. I have no argument with Lodeiro's second yellow card - it was a clear yellow. But I don't know what he did to get his first yellow. It was the only yellow card of the game I had no idea what had happened for the player to receive one. Play was developing and it just flashed on the screen that Lodeiro had been given a yellow and I wondered at the time...why. I'm not saying he didn't deserve it, I just don't know. And I want to know.

Excellent backs to the wall stuff from Uruguay when they went down to ten men. I hope captain Lugano does not live to regret his silly yellow card for arguing with the ref (over what seemed like a soft free kick awarded to France in the dying seconds). He needs to be careful in the next game - he doesn't want to be suspended for their 3rd game against Mexico.

Group E preview

2010-06-12T00:44:00.003+12:00

Cameroon

Strengths: Samuel Eto'o is one of the best strikers in the world. He has a strike rate of a little worse than one every two games and has consistently scored a lot of goals for big European sides such as Barcelona (where he was particularly prolific) and Inter Milan. His likely strike partner Webo is also talented, and has scored important goals for his country. Alex Song is a quality midfielder for Arsenal and takes on a more creative role for Cameroon than he does for his club side. Providing Cameroon are organised and keep good shape they do have good defenders including Spurs duo Assou-Ekotto and Bassong.

Weaknesses: One criticism often (with a degree of validity) levelled at Cameroon is that they are a one man team. It is certainly true that Eto'o's performances are crucial to the side - when he is in great form they are much more likely to win. There is also an element of petulance about Eto'o that may not be good for morale. Cameroon legend Roger Milla criticised Eto'o for not playing as well for Cameroon as he does in domestic football - Eto'o responded with a tantrum, threatening to walk out on the team. If he does play worse for Cameroon it is probably because he doesn't get the quality of service that he did say at Barcelona. Cameroon have often appeared disorganised in defence and the quality of some of their personnel is questionable. Their form in the friendlies has also been patchy.

Formation: It is very hard to pin down what their formation is likely to be at the World Cup. It may even change depending on the opposition. My pick is a 4-4-2 with the midfield 4 in a diamond but I could be completely wrong. In the recent friendly against Serbia they played 3-4-3 which resulted in goals and shaky defence (hence a 4-3 loss).

Manager: Former French international Paul Le Guen. As a manager he has been hit and miss. He led Lyon to 3 consecutive Ligue 1 titles and the Champions League quarterfinals in 2004. He has struggled for consistency with Rangers and PSV however. He took over in July 2009 when Cameroon were in grave danger of missing out on World Cup 2010 and turned things around to achieve qualification.

Qualification: In their final qualifying group Cameroon qualified comfortably in the end - 4 points ahead of Gabon. It was a lot tighter than the final points table suggested - a shocking start necessitated a change of manager in order to bring about a change of fortunes.

World Cup pedigree: Cameroon first qualified for the World Cup in 1982. They battled well to 3 draws (against Italy, Peru and Poland) which was not enough to qualify for the next round. The only other tournaments they have played in are the four consecutive world cup finals of 1990, 1994, 1998 and 2002. The only time they have progressed beyond the first round was in 1990 when they shocked and charmed the world reaching the quarter-finals defeating Argentina, Romania and Columbia on the way. (Check out an earlier blog post for more on their efforts in 1990 and the wonders of the legend Roger Mila).

Chance of progression from Group E: 50%, might just miss out.

Denmark

Strengths: There has been precious little about Denmark's chances at the 2010 World Cup. I feel they have been somewhat glossed over when this is possibly Denmark's best squad ever to come to a World Cup and is the very same Denmark who finished top of their qualifying group that included both Portugal and Sweden. I'm not even saying I'm very confident of them making the next round but I do think commentators haven't done them justice. Denmark has a strong defence which builds from the back. Agger and Kjaer are a strong centre-back pairing and both are composed on the ball. Christian Eriksen is 18 and the youngest player at the 2010 World Cup. He is rated as the next Laudrup (after the Danish legends Brian and Michael Laudrup) and this link explains why. He has only played 3 times for Denmark, I hope he gets an opportunity to show why Martin Jol rates him so highly. Tomasson is a quality and prolific goalscorer although it appears that Bendtner if fit may lead the line ahead of rather than alongside him. Tomasson and Rommedahl are both in the twilight of their careers but still exude quality.

Weaknesses: Denmark are struggling with a few injuries. Players have missed recently friendlies and are all battling to be fit for their opener with the Netherlands. These players include Kahlenberg, Kjaer, Tomasson, Sorenson and Bendtner. Denmark lacks strength in depth in a number of positions. They also have a number of solid personnel who will work hard and are technically good players but few of these players can be considered top class individuals who can change a game in an instant. In other words most of their players are what I would classify as second tier players. Also their form in the friendlies hasn't been particularly inspiring.

Formation: I believe Denmark have been contemplating whether to go with a 4-4-2 or a 4-3-2-1. Ultimately I think they may go with the former.

Manager: Morten Olsen has been manager of the Danish side for ten years. He also played approximately 19 years for the national team. He has a lot of experience and should have a steady and calming influence on his players as he will no doubt have seen it all!

Qualification: Denmark finished first in their qualifying group - ahead of both Portugal and Sweden. They beat Sweden home and away and ended up winning their group comfortably.

World Cup pedigree: Denmark have only competed in 3 World Cups: 1986, 1998 and 2002. On each occasion they got past through the group stage and in 1998 even made the quarterfinals.

Chance of progression from Group E: 60%, will probably finish second.

Japan

Strengths: Japan's greatest quality is in their ability to keep possession. They move it around, playing neat and tidy possession football almost as well as the top teams. They also boast a strong central defensive partnership of Marcus Tulio and Yuji Nakazawa. Honda is Japan's most exciting player. A creative midfielder playing at CSKA Moscow Japan will look to him to create plenty of goalscoring opportunities. Nakamura is another threat from midfield - with 24 goals in 95 games he is clearly dangerous in the attacking third. Both Honda and Nakamura are renowned for their free kick prowess. Japan have a lot of experience in their national squad - seven of them have over 70 international caps, 2 over 100.

Weaknesses: Japan's greatest weakness is in attack as they clearly lack players likely to penetrate the best defences. Their biggest hope in this area is Shinji Okazaki who scored 15 in his first 20 appearances although he only managed 1 in his next 8. Okazaki is supposed to have excellent composure and creativity. All the rest of Japan's strikers have a poor strike-rate and will have to take their game to another level if they are to profit in South Africa. They have lost their last three friendlies and have only scored 1 goal in their last 5 games. Clearly they find it difficult to translate possession into goals. Also 19 out of their 23 man squad play domestically in Japan which is a league not well known for it's strength. Time will tell how good the J League is.

Formation: Likely to be 4-1-4-1. If so expect Okazaki to get too isolated upfront. Nakamura may also have to settle for a place on the bench.

Manager: Takeshi Okada is in his second spell as Japan's manager and also played in the national side for 5 years in the 80's.

Qualification: Japan finished in the second automatic qualifying spot in their qualification (behind Australia) and only lost one game in their group (winning 4 and drawing 3).

World Cup pedigree: Japan made their first World Cup in 1998 and have qualified ever since. In 1998 and 2006 they didn't make it through the group stage - in 1998 they lost all 3 games by one goal and in 2006 they picked up a solitary point thanks to a 0-0 draw with Croatia. In 2002 (when they co-hosted the World Cup with South Korea) they made it through to the second round where they lost to eventual 3rd place finishers Turkey.

Chance of progression from Group E: 40%, won't disgrace themselves but probably won't progress.

Netherlands

Strengths: The Netherlands have a team packed with attacking flair and talent. Names like Robben, van Persie, van der Waart and Sneijder are all capable of putting any international side to the sword. The Dutch play beautiful, thrilling, fluid, exciting and majestic attacking football of the highest order. At least, that is what they are capable of. The Netherlands are certainly capable of winning the World Cup but we do seem to say that every time.

Weaknesses: The Netherlands have a slightly suspect defence. The individuals that make up their back 4 are probably the weakest individuals in the team. The key for them is making sure they are cohesive. This at least can paper over the cracks. Robben is under an injury cloud after suffering an injury in a recent friendly, he is expected to be fit at least by the second game. Others like van Persie have had an injury plagued season they will be hoping to put behind them.

Formation: The Netherlands are likely to play a 4-2-3-1/4-2-1-3 formation. There is speculation that they will attempt to play their fab 4 (Robben, van Persie, Sneijder and van der Waart) together which is a sight rarely seen. However Kuyt may have something to say about that. A more limited footballer he provides more defensive qualities and can still pop up with goals. The Dutch are likely to play 2 holding midfielders in van Bommel and de Jong which will allow the fullbacks a bit more freedom to link up with the attack.

Manager: Bert van Marjwik has been involved in management in some capacity for around 18 years. He won the UEFA Cup with Feyenoord in 2002 and this is his first foray into international management (which started in 2008). It's a reasonable CV but to be honest it's not great. Let's hope for the Dutch sake he comes up trumps!

Qualification: The Netherlands finished first in their fairly straight forward qualifying group, winning every game.

World Cup pedigree: The Netherlands are playing in their ninth world cup. In 1934 and 1938 they didn't make it past the group stage. They were then in the footballing wilderness for 36 years, not qualifying for another tournament until 1974. Then in both 1974 and 1978 the Netherlands reached the final only to lose to Germany and Argentina respectively. It remains a travesty that they did not win either as they played their brand of spectacular 'total football'. I would quite happily have them right these wrongs in 2010 and win the whole thing. In their other four world cups the Netherlands reached the second round twice, the quarters once and 4th place in 1998.

Chance of progression from Group E: 90%, probably in first place.

Group D preview

2010-06-11T16:17:00.000+12:00

Group D is a fascinating group. Possibly fights with Group G for the title of 'Group of Death', all games should be tightly fought contests.

Australia

Strengths: Australia have a decent side with many having plenty of European experience. Cahill is the key man as he provides bite and skill in the attacking midfield, as well as the crucial knack of being in the right place at the right time to score goals. He was instrumental in their opening 3-1 win against Japan in 2006 (when they were 1-0 down with 7 mins to go) and will hope to be the same again. Schwarzer is an excellent goalkeeper despite his advancing years. So much so, Arsenal have tried a temporary solution to their goalkeeping problems by signing him. Kewell is constantly injured and not the player he was 8 or 9 years ago but he does have an element of class that, providing he is and stays fit, could come in handy. Australia work very hard together as a team and put a lot of effort into their defence. As Sports illustrated noted: "The Socceroos probably deserve better than to be hailed for their never-say-die attitude, but it remains their standout attribute". They also have some good talent on the fringes - players like Hollman and Valeri.

Weaknesses: Australia have the second oldest squad in the tournament. This is not necessarily a bad thing as the experience factor could be vital. However considering the fact their golden team of four years ago has only changed a little bit means that they are certainly no surprise factor and it might also mean they aren't as spritely as they once were. Cahill is suffering from a neck problem he picked up in a friendly and is doing his damndest to be fit for their opening game against Germany. Australia is lightweight on attack - Kennedy will not scare anyone, they may have to rely on the midfield popping up with a few. Whilst Australia are strong on defence if you look at the defenders individually none of them are particularly highly rated, Lucas Neill probably being the pick of them.

Formation: Likely to be a 4-2-3-1 with two holding midfielders allowing wingers to support the striker. Cahill will be the cog in behind the striker

Manager: Pim Verbeek was assistant to Guus Hiddink for South Korea at the 2002 World Cup and to Dick Advocaat for the 2006 World Cup. Apart from a brief spell as manager of South Korea after this he has little experience as an international manager. He is quite conservative in his approach, probably a major reason for sticking with the old guard and not taking a punt on the likes of Tommy Oar.

Qualification: Unlike a number of previous tournaments Australia did not play in the Oceania confederation - they played in the Asian zone. In many previous cups they have been undone after winning Oceania and then losing to the fifth placed South American team. The top two teams in both of the final two qualifying groups would gain automatic qualification - Australia did it at a breeze, finishing first with 6 wins and 2 draws.

World Cup pedigree: This will be Australia's third world cup. In 1974 they went home after 1 draw and 2 wins, in 2006 they famously qualified for the second round ahead of European powerhouse Croatia, only to be beaten with the last kick of the game against Italy - a controversial penalty won by Grosso and converted by Totti.

Chance of progression from Group D: 45%, expect them to put up a good fight and not miss out by much.

Germany

Strengths: Germany are one of the major players in every tournament. They are taking their youngest squad to a World Cup in 76 years with an average age of just under 25. Whilst this is partially forced upon them due to injury take nothing away from these young guns. There is considerable talent within the squad and they will expect to shine at the tournament. I think they might just make people sit up and take notice. Despite this they will still have the experienced Bastian Schweinsteiger, striker Miroslav Klose and defenders Arne Friedrich and Per Mertesacker to call upon. Schweinsteiger is a fantastic attacking midfield player and will need to really step up to the mark in the absence of Ballack. Their midfield stocks have the potential to be frightfully exciting with a lot of positive things said about Khedira, Ozil, Kroos and Marin. They also boast in Klose and Podolski, two players with great scoring records for their national team (around 1 goal every 2 games). Their defensive line-up also appears strong. Interestingly only one player in their squad plays outside of Germany - Boateng at Man City.

Weaknesses: Germany have been dealt a few blows with injury. Their talismanic captain and goalscoring midfielder Ballack was ruled out of the tournament and they have suffered the blows of an injury to first choice goalkeeper Adler and the suicide of Robert Enke who was another contender. It feels strange writing it (with their history of goalkeeping excellence) but Germany have worries in goal. Whilst Klose and Podolski have an excellent record up front, neither have been in very good form in the Bundesliga this season. Kuranyi who was, wasn't selected, although that may be because of his stormy relationship with manager Joachim Low.

Formation: Germany may opt for a 4-2-3-1 with 2 holding midfielders, 2 wingers and 1 in the hole behind Klose.

Qualification: Germany finished top of their qualifying group, 4 points ahead of Russia. The other 4 teams (Finland, Wales, Azerbaijan and Liechenstein) were not much cop.

World Cup pedigree: There have only been two tournaments in which they did not compete: 1930 (withdrew) and 1950 (banned). They have been champions three times (1954, 1974 and 1990), runners-up four times (1966, 1982, 1986 and 2002) and third on three occasions (1934, 1970 and 2006).

Chance of progression from Group D: 75%, probably in first place.

Ghana

Strengths: Ghana have a relatively strong squad, their most powerful part being their midfield which, despite the absence of Essien, still boasts the very useful Muntari and Appiah. They will rely on Gyan for goals - he has a good strike rate and is their most experienced at international level. They also have experience in defence with both Paintsil and Mensah boasting over 50 caps. They are physically strong and aren't likely to concede many goals given their defensive personnel.

Weaknesses: The absence of Essien is massive. He is excellent defensively in protecting the back four and also packs a ferocious shot. He makes football look simple. As the cog that energises the whole team he will be sorely missed. Ghana are also relatively lacking in goalscorers up front. Gyan has the excellent strike rate of 1 in every 2 games and Amoah manages 1 every 3 but it is not a squad whose attackers strike fear into their opposition. They lack creativity in midfield which might mean a lack of goalscoring opportunities. They are an aggressive side which could lead to bookings and suspensions.

Formation: - Likely to be 4-5-1 with Gyan playing lone striker. Probably only one of the 5 in midfield will be on the wing with the other four defensively minded. Appiah will be pushed further forward than he does for his club side. It is possible that they will play Asamoah ahead of Boateng so that Ghana have two wingers on the pitch - but this is not expected to happen.

Manager: Milovan Rajevac. Never managed an international side before he is relatively inexperienced. However he is highly rated. He is Serbian which could provide extra motivation for when Ghana play Serbia. (Incidentally Kevin-Prince Boateng is in the Ghanaian squad and could face his brother Jerome who is in the German squad. If this happens it will be the first time brothers play against each other in the World Cup's history.

Qualification: Ghana qualified fairly comfortably in the final group stage of qualification - finishing 3 points ahead of Benin. They only just made it into that final stage however: 2 teams from each group of 4 were to go through to the last stage and they, Gabon and Libya all finished on 12 points - Ghana and Gabon getting through on goal difference.

World Cup pedigree: This is Ghana's second World Cup Finals - in 2006 they did well to reach the second round, finishing second in their group - behind Italy and ahead of Czech Republic and the USA.

Chance of progression from Group D: 50%, may miss out at a whisker.

Serbia

Strengths: Serbia are rightfully considered one of the dark horses of the tournament. They have some of the best players in the world. In Vidic and Ivanovic (two players who start week in week out at Manchester United and Chelsea respectively) in defence they have two exceptional defenders. Throw in the fantastic defensive midfielder Stankovic and Serbia will be very hard to beat.

Weaknesses: Zigic (who at 6 foot 7 dwarfs Peter Crouch!) and Pantelic are highly rated up front but in comparison to the rest of their team would probably be considered weak links. Pantelic has been on fire for Ajax but at international level only scores at a rate of around 1 in 5, Zigic is much better with 1 in 3. Some of their lesser known names are not renowned individually but they do work well as a unit.

Formation: Likely to be 4-4-2 but with exciting wingers in Krasic and Jovanovic joining the attack whenever they can no doubt they will look like a 4-2-4 at times.

Manager: Radomir Antic has been manager for around two years. It's his first foray into international management but he has about 20 years experience as manager of a variety of top, mainly spanish clubs such as Real Madrid, Athletico Madrid and Barcelona.

Qualification: Serbia topped their qualifying group which included France

World Cup pedigree: Up until 2003 Serbia have always competed as part of Yugoslavia. Yugoslavia competed in 9 out of 17 tournaments - their highest position was fourth in 1930 and 1962, and they were knocked out in the quarters on three occasions (1954, 1958 and 1990). In 2006 they competed as Serbia and Montenegro and in 2010 they are simply Serbia. In the last World Cup they were also highly rated but had the misfortune to be paired with Holland, Argentina and Ivory Coast and lost all 3 games.

Chance of progression from Group D: 60%, probably in second place but don't be surprised if they top the group. [Their 1-0 friendly loss to the All Whites, whilst magnificent for New Zealand, was probably just an aberration].

Group C Preview

2010-06-09T00:36:00.000+12:00

Algeria

Strengths: Algeria, so some degree, are an unknown quantity at World Cup 2010. Many commentators suggest that they know less about them than most other teams. Most of their players do however ply their trade in Europe - generally lower ranked teams in the top tier or higher ranked teams in the second tier. Their undoubted star is Ziani. At age 27 he has amassed 55 caps for Algeria and has played for many French clubs, although he is now at Wolfsburg in Germany. A creative midfielder, his role is essential if Algeria are to create enough goalscoring opportunities.

Weaknesses: Since 2003 Algeria have only won two away games. Whilst the World Cup is a neutral venue this may affect them psychologically. Algeria have a weak strikeforce. None of them will strike fear into the hearts of their opposition. The best is Saifi, but at 35 is certainly past his prime. Their squad is not blessed with talent - they will work hard and defend doggedly but are not expected to shine.

Formation: likely to be 4-4-2

Manager: Rabah Saadane, an Algerian stalwart, is in his 5th spell in charge of the national side over almost 30 years.

Qualification: Algeria finished level on everything with Egypt in their final qualifying group. They both had 4 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss, scored 9 goals, conceded 4. This resulted in an unprecedented playoff between Algeria and Egypt to be played in a neutral venue: Sudan. Yahia scored the only goal of the game as Algeria conjured up a 1-0 victory that plunged their country into ecstasy.

World Cup pedigree: Algeria have only reached the World Cup finals on two occasions: 1982 and 1986. Both times they failed to progress from the first round. In 1982 they had a famous 2-1 victory over West Germany and almost qualified for the second round. They reason they didn't was farcical. In the last game between Germany and Austria, a 1-0 or 2-0 win to Germany would be enough for both teams to progress, any other scoreline would see Algeria through. Germany took the lead on 10 minutes and for the remaining 80 minutes both teams simply went through the motions. Algeria would love to progress from Group C and face Germany in the 2nd round - to try exact some revenge!

Chance of progression from Group C: 30%, will probably finish last.

England

Strengths: England's biggest strength is Wayne Rooney. If you didn't know that you've probably been hiding under a rock these past few years. A truism it may be but there is absolutely no denying that he is England's key player at World Cup 2010. England have quality all over the park. The likes of Gerrard and Lampard are excellent creative goalscoring midfielders, they have high quality wingers with the likes of Lennon and Wright-Phillips and versatility from players like Milner (who can play anywhere in midfield) and Carragher who has come out of retirement to help the cause. Cole is a top drawer left back and there is genuine strength in depth in a number of areas of the park.

Weaknesses: England do not have a settled first eleven. There is debate over the goalkeeper (James, Green or Hart?), over whether Heskey should continue partnering Rooney up front as he did in the qualifiers or if Gerrard should play behind Rooney. There is debate over the wingers and there is debate over the central defence, particularly now Rio Ferdinand has been ruled out of the World Cup. There are injuries as well: Barry has been battling back from his injury and probably won't be ready for the first game and Ledley King has hardly played a game all season. Right-back is the weakest spot because although Johnson is good at marauding down his flank his defence can be quite suspect. They are also in average form - scrambling to a 2-1 victory over Japan (courtesy of two own goals) being a striking example.

Formation: 4-4-2 if Heskey plays, closer to a 4-4-1-1 if Gerrard supports Rooney.

Manager: Fabio Capello. After a quality playing career in Italy that spanned around 18 years Fabio got into high-level management 11 years later. He has been with top clubs over his 19 years or so as a manager and England is his first international assignment.

Qualification: England comfortably topped their European qualifying group ahead of the likes of Ukraine and Croatia.with 9 wins and 1 draw from 10 games.

World Cup pedigree: This is England's 13th World Cup. They were Champions in 1966 and finished 4th in 1990. They have also been knocked out at the quarters on six occasions.

Chance of progression from Group C: 80%, probably in 1st. There is a reason David Beckham had a massive grin on his face when this group was drawn!

Slovenia

Strengths: Slovenia play a game of collective football which is effective. They have one of the best defences in Europe having only conceded four goals in their ten group matches in qualification. Their best attacking threat is Novakovic who scores goals and is a lethal dead ball specialist. Their captain and lynchpin Robert Koren is their creative playmaker who should provide opportunities for goals. Handanovic is also a talented goalkeeper.

Weaknesses: If we disregard Slovenia's result against the weakest European nation, San Marino, Slovenia barely managed a goal per game. They do not have any real household names - they have a number of solid if unspectacular performers throughout the european leagues.

Formation: Likely to be 4-4-2.

Manager: Matjaz Kez managed his local side Maribor for around six years (2000-2006), followed by the Slovenian U15 and U16 side for about a year. He has been manager of the Slovenian international side since 2007

Qualification: For a country of only 2 million people (and a national football stadium with only 12,435 seats!) Slovenia did exceedingly well to qualify ahead of the much fancied Czech Republic and Poland. They finished 2nd in their qualifying group (behind Slovakia) and had to overcome the mighty Russian side (managed by the brilliant Guus Hiddink) in a playoff. Two goals behind in the first leg this looked unlikely until they pulled a crucial away goal back towards the end of the match. This meant a 1-0 win would suffice in the 2nd leg, and a 1-0 win they achieved. With Dedic scoring at the end of the first half they defended famously to ensure progression.

World Cup pedigree: Slovenia gained independence from Yugoslavia in 1991. It is Yugoslavia from whom they derive their footballing tradition. Slovenia first entered qualification for the 1998 tournament but have only made the 2002 World Cup finals. They lost all 3 games scoring 2 goals and conceding 7. They will hope to do much better this time around!

Chance of progression from Group C: 50%, I'm picking an upset though and reckon Slovenia will make the 2nd round (in 2nd place).

USA

Strengths: In Clint Dempsey and Landon Donovan the USA have two attacking midfielders who are highly experienced, highly skilled, very creative and at just about the perfect age to be in their prime. Whilst I have been heard to say that Donovan is over-rated (he has been) that has been due to a lack of consistency on his part. At the World Cup we're talking of just a few games and it would be just like Donovan to be really up for those occasions. They have an athletic and very useful goalkeeper in Tim Howard and a tall, imposing and dominant centre-back in Oguchi Onyewu. They have shown recently that they have what it takes to progress to the depths of a tournament having lost 3-2 to Brazil in the final of the Confederations Cup (after being 2-0 up at half-time). Admittedly the Confederations Cup is a tournament barely worth being interested in but they did defeat Spain in the semi-finals, ending their 35 match unbeaten run.

Weaknesses: The USA lack true goalscorers up front. Altidore is the most highly rated but is fairly average from what I've seen of him. Watch him prove me wrong, he did top score with six in qualifying. Edson Buddle appears to have potential but at 29 still has less than a handful of international caps to show for it. Dempsey and Onyewu have been out with injury for long periods of time this season and some of their other European based players have found it hard to get game-time. Beyond their star names the USA have a fairly middling team who I don't think will quite handle the slick, pacy passing of the Slovenians.

Formation: Likely to be a traditional 4-4-2.

Manager: Bob Bradley. He has previously managed MLS sides and has been national manager since after the 2006 World Cup.

Qualification: The USA topped their final qualification group by 1 point ahead of Mexico. It was a relatively easy progression in what is a weak CONCACAF section.

World Cup pedigree: This is the USA's 9th World Cup and their 6th in succession. Their best finish was 3rd in 1930 and their second best effort was being knocked out in the quarters of the 2002 World Cup. In this game they lost to Germany 1-0 in a game which the USA dominated. Kahn made a number of great saves and Ballack scored the crucial goal. Frings also handled the ball on his own line which should have resulted in a penalty, but the Germans held on.

Chance of progression from Group C: 60%, but I reckon they'll miss out to Slovenia.

World Cup podcast

2010-06-08T10:35:00.000+12:00

Just a reminder about our World Cup podcast. We recorded our 2nd one a few days ago - discussing the All Whites and the rest of the tournament. Listen to the 1st one too if you haven't already. The link to the podcasts is on the right and you can also subscribe through iTunes.

Group B preview

2010-06-08T00:59:00.003+12:00

Argentina

Strengths: Argentina have a star studded line-up of exciting quality players. Messi is arguably the best footballer in the world, capable of regularly turning on sublime displays. Very creative, he provides good opportunities for others and scores plenty himself. With the likes of Higuain and Di Maria in their first eleven, and having the superb duo of Tevez and Diego Milito on the best bench in international football, they certainly have a lot of flair and potential for goals. They also boast the excellent Mascherano who can be the linchpin for their side and the experienced tough-tackling Samuel in defence. Goalkeeper Romero is a great talent and one to watch out for. Argentina have a clear idea of their World Cup starting line-up which will be of great help to them.

Weaknesses: Argentina's defence is probably their weakest aspect. They have a couple of strong names at the back in Samuel and Demichelis but it is an area that has been quite suspect in recent times, conceding a few too many goals. Maradona also made the strange decision not to pick the brilliant Zanetti who has been an amazing full-back for Inter Milan this season as well as leaving behind the outstanding defensive midfielder Cambiasso. The argument in favour of Maradona is that neither have done particularly well in the few games they played for their national side in qualifying. However Argentina may yet rue these decisions. Also, although Messi is possibly the biggest football genius since, well, Maradona, he has played a lot better for Barcelona than he has for his country.

Formation: Argentina should line up in a 4-4-2 type of arrangement. Maradona has expressed his wish that the fullbacks do not pass the halfway line which is unusual in an era where rampaging full-backs are all the rage. So it will be a fairly static backline allowing him to play just the one holding midfielder, Mascherano, who will need to cover the full width of the pitch. Veron will also be fairly deep lying looking to spray long precise passes to team-mates in more attacking positions. Gutierrez and Di Maria will be the wingers and Messi will play just off Higuain. Having resisted the temptation of producing a formation that could include all their attacking stars one would suggest the bench might be used a fair amount but with the formation tweaked rather than radically altered during games.

Manager: Diego Maradona is a former national football hero for Argentina. He has also been a controversial figure. The 1986 quarter-final against England typifies his combination of the sublime and the cheat. He equalised with the infamous 'Hand of God' goal before scoring possibly the best goal ever only 3 minutes later. In 1994 he was sent home from the World Cup in disgrace after failing a drugs test. He is both loved and loathed throughout the football world. His position as the very colourful manager of Argentina means no match they play can possibly be considered dull. He lacks managerial experience and has been accused of being both a drug and alcohol addict but he is a national icon. He has promised to run naked through Buenos Aires if Argentina win the World Cup. An unpredictable figure it is hard to gauge how well he will do as manager of Argentina at this World Cup - he could certainly surprise a few people.

Qualification: Argentina finished 4th in the South America qualifying group - the last automatic qualifying position - although they were in serious trouble at various stages throughout qualification. After a patchy 10 rounds in which Argentina had managed 4 wins, 4 draws and 2 losses manager Basile resigned, a few days later Maradona was named manager. In his second qualifying match as manager he oversaw an abysmal 6-1 loss to Bolivia. In general their patchy form continued scoring some wins but also some poor losses including Brazil's first win against Argentina in Argentina. But with 2 wins in their final 2 games Argentina qualified, leaving Uruguay requiring a play-off against Costa Rica.

World Cup pedigree: Argentina have an excellent World Cup pedigree. This is their 15th tournament. They have won twice (1978 and 1986) and finished second twice (1930 and 1990). They have never lost a semi-final but have been knocked out in the quarters on three occasions (1966, 1998 and 2006).

Chance of progression from Group B: 90%, probably in first place.

Greece

Strengths: Greece are a hardworking, organised unit who pay great attention to their defence. It was this outstanding defence that fired them to victory in the Euro 2004 Championships although they lost all 3 games at Euro 2008. They have one player of great goalscoring prowess: Gekas who scored ten goals in ten games during qualifying (top goalscorer in the Europe section) and who in general averages better than a goal every 2.5 games for Greece. They have an experienced squad with some of their most valuable players in their victorious 2004 side still around - such as Seitaridis, Karagounis, Katsouranis and Charisteas. They also work well together as a team.

Weaknesses: Greece lack creativity and flair and their type of game is well documented. Teams well understand that they need to break Greece down and will have practised ways to do so. Their experienced squad members are also aging and will be less effective than they were. Other veterans have retired and been replaced with youth and inexperience. Greece rely on moments of inspiration from their strikers or set pieces. They may be strong at holding onto a lead but they struggle to chase a game effectively. Aside from Gekas only four other players scored in their qualifying campaign. And 9/10 of Gekas' goals were scored against Moldova, Latvia and Luxembourg.

Formation: Greece will likely line-up 4-3-3 although this may change to 3-4-3 depending on the formation of the opposition. Rehaggel is a very tactically aware manager and will prefer 3 at the back when up against two strikers and 4 at the back when up against 3. He will employ 3 up front himself in order to keep the opposition full-backs busy.

Manager: Otto Rehhagel - one of Greece's strengths. He was at the helm when Greece won Euro 2004 and is very tactically astute.

Qualification: Greece finished 2nd behind Switzerland in a fairly easy qualifying group (Israel was the only other tough match). They then faced an aging Ukraine side in the playoffs winning 1-0 on aggregate.

World Cup pedigree: Greece have only made the World Cup finals once before - in 1994. In their Group they faced two teams they will be facing in 2010 - Argentina and Nigeria.

Chance of progression from Group B: 50%, will likely miss out.

Nigeria

Strengths: Nigeria have a solid defensive line-up. The likes of Yobo, Shittu and Etuhu will ensure they are a tough nut to crack. They also have talented attackers in the likes of Kanu, Yakubu and Martins with Odemwingie contributing from midfield. Fullback Taye Taiwo is a quick counter-attacking defender with a ferocious shot.

Weaknesses: Nigeria will really miss their best player Mikel who has been ruled out of the tournament. Mikel is an excellent player, particularly protecting the back four but also going forward. Nigeria do not have the strength of squad that they had in the mid to late nineties when they proved to be a force in world football - thus expectations will not be so high in 2010. Nigeria have received valid criticism for the slow cumbersome way they link defence and attack meaning that they are too predictable moving forward and so are easier to defend against. In other words at times they lack creativity and put the onus for providing such flair on too few shoulders. They have also been criticised for not selecting Anichebe or Ike Uche up front meaning that they instead rely on some old heads which some people fear may not cut it anymore.

Formation: No real indications have been given but 4-4-2 and 4-5-1 are the most likely formations.

Manager: Swede Lars Lagerback was handed the reigns only months ago (26 Feb 2010). He had resigned as Sweden's manager after their failure to qualify for World Cup 2010 - he had been at their helm for around a decade. Albeit hampered by only a short time in the job Lagerback brings experience and the potential for greater organisation. He also has the experience of beating Argentina as a manger - at the group stages of the 2002 World Cup (they won 2-1 and progressed to the 2nd round, Argentina were eliminated).

Qualification: This was far from easy for Nigeria. Going into the last round of games Tunisia were 2 points ahead of Nigeria. However they suffered a 1-0 loss to Mozambique and Nigeria came from behind to defeat Kenya 3-2 and pipped Tunisia in their group by 1 point. Hardly inspiring.

World Cup pedigree: Nigeria have competed in 3 previous world cups (94, 98 and 2002). In both 94 and 98 they qualified for the 2nd round and in their inaugural appearance in 94 almost made the quarters. Leading 1-0 against Italy Baggio equalised with only a couple of minutes remaining and Italy went on to win in extra-time.

Chance of progression from Group B: 60% probably in 2nd.

South Korea

Strengths: South Korea play with good pace and technique and have some good, experienced and influential players who can make a difference in South Africa. The 37 year old veteran keeper Lee Woon-Jae should get the nod and is still an excellent goalkeeper despite his advancing years. Park Ji-Sung is clearly the biggest star, plying his trade at Manchester Utd and a very good attacking threat from midfield. His work rate is undeniable and his service is spot on. Park Chu-Young of Monaco is expected to score the goals. In defence Lee Young-Pyo (33) has amassed 113 caps but it is 25 year old Oh Beom-Seok who is most important having played more qualifying games than any other defender. They defend well as a whole team, proved by conceding a meagre 4 goals from 8 games in their final qualifying group.

Weaknesses: South Korea are not a strong team in the physical sense. There is a danger of them underperforming against more physically dominant opposition and they may be vulnerable at set-pieces. They do not appear to have the individual brilliance that some teams possess. Reports suggest they will have difficulty playing at altitude, if so their game against Argentina will be interesting! It is thought that the more difficult opposititon they will face in South Africa will expose their defence to be weaker than their qualification campaign suggests.

Formation: South Korea traditionally enjoy playing a 4-4-2. Some reports suggest they will play 3-5-2 at the World Cup, I think it would be a mistake if they did.

Manager: Huh Jung-Moo. He has been manager since December 2007. He has revitalised some careers and made his team hard to beat.

Qualification: South Korea comfortably qualified for the World Cup and finished top of their final qualifying group ahead of North Korea, Saudi Arabia and Iran.

World Cup pedigree: South Korea have qualified for their 7th consecutive World Cup finals, an Asian record. They had never qualified before this. On each occasion they have been knocked out at the Group Stage, except when as hosts they finished fourth in 2002. This achievement was marred by controversy as very suspect refereeing decisions, particularly against Italy and Spain, helped them to the semi-finals.

Chance of progression from Group B: 50%, will probably miss out.

Group A preview

2010-06-05T14:23:00.000+12:00

Group A is one of the most intriguing World Cup groups. It contains France, Mexico, South Africa and Uruguay. It is one of the few groups I can see any 2 of the 4 progressing from.

France

Strengths: France may no longer boast the so-called golden generation of Zidane, Trezeguet, Vieira, Lizarazu, Thuram and Desailly but make no bones about it - they have a quality squad of players. Evra and Gallas are very good defenders. Up front with Cisse, Govou, Gignac, Henry and Anelka there is talent all round. Midfield is their biggest strength featuring the exceptional Ribery. Toulalan is maturing into his defensive midfield role, Malouda is a classy player (quick, comfortable in possession and capable of providing a killer final ball) and Valbuena the newcomer is an exciting prospect. He is not expected to be in the starting line-up but he proved his worth scoring the winner in a recent friendly against Costa Rica. Not to mention Gourcoff, French Player of the Year.

Weaknesses: They are inexperienced and undecided in their goalkeeping department. Lloris and Mandanda played 6 games each in qualifying and they have both featured in friendlies. Both are only just into their double figures in terms of appearances for the national side. Expect Lloris of Lyon to start. Whilst France have talent up front none of them except Henry have been prolific in an international jersey. France will probably play with one main man up front. - this used to be Henry but he has been relegated to the bench with Anelka to step up. Anelka has never quite reproduced the form and brilliance for France that he has shown a number of times for his club teams. Gallas, the mainstay of the French defence, will go into the World Cup lacking in match practise and potentially not fully recovered from the injury which has blighted his season. France may miss the excellent Lassana Diarra who is missing the World Cup through illness. Whether or not one can read much into friendlies is debateable but they have drawn with Tunisia and lost to China, the kind of form a team doesn't want heading into a world cup.

Formation: France generally employed a 4-2-3-1 in qualifying which proved to be rather stale. They look to have abandoned this in favour of a 4-3-3 formation which could be conducive to flair. Anelka will lead the line with Ribery and Govou supporting him on the flanks. Toulalan should protect the defence, Malouda will provide a good link between the midfield and attack and Gourcoff will be the dead ball specialist.

Manager: Raymond Domenech - he has been regularly and justifiably criticised for how he has performed in his managerial role - also a potential weakness for the French side.

Qualification: France finished one point behind Serbia in their qualifying group and in truth it was a patchy campaign overall. They needed to overcome Ireland in the playoffs. France won the first leg 1-0 and 90 minutes of the second leg finished 1-0 to Ireland sending them to extra-time. In truth Ireland had battered France but had been unable to convert a crucial second goal. With the game heading towards penalties Henry conjured up an assist for one of the most controversial goals in history. Henry blatantly handled the ball twice with his left hand before tapping the ball with his right foot across the goal to Gallas who was on hand to stab it home. The referee did not spot the infringement, the goal stood, and the whole of Ireland have had to suck it up since then.

World Cup pedigree: This is France's 13th (out of 19) appearance at a world cup finals. They have won the World Cup on one occasion (1998), lost in the final once (2006) and finished 3rd twice (1958 and 1986). The two excellent world cups they had in 1998 and 2006 came either side of their biggest disappointment. In 2002 they exited at the group stage - finishing last in a group with Senegal, Denmark and Uruguay, without even scoring a goal.

Chance of progression from Group A: 75%, probably in 1st place.

Mexico

Strengths: Rafael Marquez is an exceptional and experienced central defender who has played many games for his club, one of the best in the world, Barcelona. He has excellent leadership skills and will be wanting to make an impression at what could be his last world cup. He is versatile as he can also play in the holding midfield role. Javier Hernandez is a very highly rated striker. He is only 22 years old but he has recently agreed to sign for Manchester United for an undisclosed fee (possibly in the region of 7-10 million pounds). He has scored 7 goals in 12 appearances for Mexico and averages just less than one in two for his club side in Mexico. Vela is agile and an attacking threat although his shooting is rather hit and miss. Giovani dos Santos is an exciting player. The squad has a nice mix of young talent and experience.

Weaknesses: Mexico will miss their biggest star Jared Borghetti, their all-time leading goalscorer. They are lacking in strikers who can convert their many chances, sometimes Vela gets in great positions with great service only to miss a great chance. Franco who plays furthest up the field is poor in comparison to players playing in similar positions for other teams. The highly capped Gerrardo Torrado in midfield is aging and not quite the player he was. The squad is a little too heavy with players based in the Mexican league which is not one of the strongest leagues in the world. Whilst they have a decent squad they only have 3 or 4 top quality players. Giovani dos Santos' angry outburst at the dropping of his brother Jonathan from the preliminary squad has the potential to destabilise.

Formation: Mexico are likely to play 3-4-3. In possession their 3 central defenders will spread wide at the back. As the attack moves up the pitch Marquez has freedom to push up leaving his other two centre-backs covering deep. They have players wide in all areas of the pitch as they look to stretch the play. In defence they have 5 men at the back as the 2 wing-backs drop into defence. Marquez can, if necessary, push further up in this situation to defend against any player 'playing in the hole'. It is a fluid formation which has the potential to create many goalscoring opportunities and it seems more dangerous than the 4-4-2 system he had inherited.

Manager: Javier Aguirre took over from Sven Goran Erikkson after the team under his tutelage had a poor start to their qualifying campaign. Without knowing much about him he appears to be doing a reasonable job.

Qualification: After a poor start Mexico ultimately qualified in second place behind the USA. For a fairly decent team like Mexico they are lucky to have an easier route to the finals than many due to their Geograpghy.

World Cup pedigree: After being disqualified from competing in qualification for the 1990 World Cup tournament for fielding over-age players in an under 20 tournament they have not only been in every tournament since, they have qualified for the 2nd round. They are bidding to be the first team to do so on five consecutive occasions. On each occasion they also fell at the 2nd round hurdle. Their best showing is reaching the quarter-finals in 1970 and 1986 (when it was held in Mexico).

Chance of progression from Group A: 60%, probably in 2nd place.

South Africa

Strengths: Being home nation is a huge strength. No home nation has failed to make the knock-out stages of the World Cup and the massive support and buzz from the home fans will inspire them to play at their highest level. They may also get a (subconscious) helping hand from the referees. In 2002 South Korea made the semi-finals in part due to some shocking decisions that went their way. Not necessarily saying it's a FIFA conspiracy but home advantage is important in many ways. Their best player is Steven Pienaar of Everton who is a quality midfield general. Other talented players include the attacking fullback Masilela of Maccabi Haifa and the skilful winger Modise of the Orlando Pirates. Striker Mphela has a good record of scoring goals for South Africa. They are also currently on a run of eleven matches unbeaten.

Weaknesses: Firstly, South Africa have very few players considered top quality by world standards. Indeed their players are a mixed bag whose names won't strike fear into the opposition. Many of their players play in the South African league and therefore lack in experience at playing top competition domestically. Benni McCarthy, South Africa's all-time leading goalscorer and the man who was expected to lead the line at the World Cup, has not been selected. It is easy to see why as he was deemed too large and unfit, backed up by him having had very little playing time for West Ham United. South Africa have not had as much international competition as the other nations by virtue of not having to qualify for the world cup. Thus some of the squad lack match practise.

Formation: I think South Africa will play with a traditional 4-4-2 formation.

Manager: Carlos Alberto Parreira is Brazilian born and has previously led 4 teams to 5 World Cups. He took Brazil to victory in 1994 and the quarter-final in 2006 and managed Kuwait, UAE and Saudi Arabia at the 1982, 1990 and 1998 tournaments respectively. He is an experienced manager being in the business for 43 years including 11 spells as an international manager. Will his experience help South Africa? That is the burning question.

Qualification: As hosts they are the only team who didn't need to qualify.

World Cup pedigree: South Africa did not attempt to enter the first 7 tournaments. They were banned for the next 7 due to apartheid. In the last 4 they did not manage to qualify in 1994 or 2006 but made it in 1998 and 2002. On both those occasions they didn't make it through the group stages. In 2002 they were very unlucky - missing out by the narrowest of margins. They finished on equal points (4) with Paraguay and both had a goal difference of zero. The difference was Paraguay had scored and conceded 5 whilst South Africa had scored and conceded 4 times. The most beautiful moment for me of course was when Lucas Radebe, possibly my favourite ever player - true gent and Leeds legend, powered in a header in their 3-2 loss to Spain.

Chance of progression from Group A: 45%, probably miss out.

Uruguay

Strengths: Uruguay have a talented forward line. Forlan has been on great form for Athletico Madrid (for whom he averages more than a goal every two games), Suarez scores for fun for Ajax and Abreu is also prolific, currently 1 goal behind Scarone's all-time record for Uruguay. A superb front line, they will be hoping for good service! They have two good holding midfielders which gives them solidity, Gargano is particularly highly rated in this regard.

Weaknesses: A lack of creativity in midfield. They have picked 3 inexperienced keepers to take to the World Cup and who will start in the first game does not appear to have been resolved. They are an inconsistent team who are capable of victories against quality opposition and stumbling against weaker teams. In terms of general quality in their squad they do not match up to a number of teams at the World Cup.

Formation: Uruguay have experimented in qualification with 4-4-2, 4-3-3 and latterly 3-5-2. They are likely to line up 3-5-2 at the World Cup which would not be common. If they do it will be interesting to see how effective it is against 4-4-2.

Manager: Oscar Tabarez. An experienced manager who was also at the helm for the 1990 World Cup.

Qualification: Uruguay finished 5th in South America and were forced to playoff against 4th in Central America - Costa Rica. They won 1-0 in the first leg and drew 1-1 in the second.

World Cup pedigree: Uruguay have a very mixed World Cup pedigree. They won the tournament in 1930 and 1950 but did not enter in the two in between (1934 to protest against the European teams who boycotted in 1930 and 1938 to protest against the World Cup being held in France when it was supposed to alternate between South America and Europe). 1950's victory in the final against Brazil was one of the World Cup's biggest shocks. Since 1950 they have finished 4th twice (1954 and 1970), knocked out in the quarters once (1966), knocked out in the second round twice (1986 and 1990), knocked out in the first round three times (1962, 1974 and 2002) and failed to qualify six times (1958, 1978, 1982, 1994, 1998 and 2006).

Chance of progression from Group A: 55%, could miss out at a whisker.