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.
Showing posts with label Uruguay. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Uruguay. Show all posts
Saturday, July 10, 2010
My take on the Suarez Incident
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.
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.
Tuesday, July 06, 2010
Preview of semi-final 1: Netherlands v Uruguay
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.
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.
Saturday, July 03, 2010
Preview of Quarter-final 2: Ghana v Uruguay
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.
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.
Friday, July 02, 2010
Round of 16. Match 1: Uruguay 2-1 South Korea
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".
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Preview of Round of 16. Match 1: Uruguay v South Korea
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.
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 A final set of games
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.
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).
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
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.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Group A's second round of matches
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.
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.Saturday, June 12, 2010
Group A opening games
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.
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.Saturday, June 05, 2010
Group A preview
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.
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.
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.
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.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.
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