Group D final set of games

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 D permutations

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 D's second round of games

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 D opening games

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.

Group D preview

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].

The romance of the underdog

One of the most exciting aspects of a World Cup is the story of an underdog deservedly progressing to the latter stages of a tournament.

I have assiduously followed 5 world cups in my life thus far (the first being 1990 when I was six), 2010 will be my sixth. I would like to outline the romantic story of one team from each of these tournaments who stunned the world and etched a special place in my heart. A bit of nostalgia perhaps but this will really get me into the mood. I promise I will begin my group by group analysis in my next post ;)

1990 Cameroon, and in particular Roger Milla.

Cameroon were in Group B with Argentina, Romania and the Soviet Union. The then little known African team played in the opening game of the tournament against defending champions Argentina and shocked the world with a 1-0 win through an Omam Biyick header. It was made all the more surprising as they had had a player sent off. They finished the game with 9 men but held on for a memorable victory. They had played with strength and verve and everyone sat up and took notice.

In their second game they faced Romania and pulled off an excellent 2-1 victory. Roger Milla scored both goals and after each he celebrated with a dance around the corner post. It was coined the 'Milla wiggle' and it was a goal celebration I cherished. To this day it is probably still my favourite celebration of all time. As a six year old and for the next few years I would run around the house pretending to score goals and then running to an imaginary corner flag and wiggling my bum in celebration. I was enamoured by his celebration and the fact he was scoring important world cup goals at the age of 38, which is old for an international footballer.

Assured of a place in the second round they let their guard slip and the Soviet Union beat them in their final group game 4-0.

Next it was the second round against Colombia, a team that included another one of my favourites, the talented Carlos Valderrama and the man with the craziest hair in football. 0-0 after 90 minutes heralded extra-time and an opportunity for my man Milla to step up again with 2 goals sending Cameroon through to the quarters. This was where his goal scoring exploits at the 1990 World Cup ended: 4 goals, all of them good goals and 2 of them top-notch. He also scored one goal at the 1994 World Cup to be the oldest man (42) to score a World Cup goal. Legend.

Cameroon had hit the quarter-finals against England. This was where their fairytale ended but not without a flourish. England led 1-0 at half time but 2 goals midway through the second half (in which Roger Milla had an important hand in both) put Cameroon in front. Their ill-discipline cost them as they conceded a penalty which Lineker converted to send the game to extra-time. Again they conceded a penalty and Lineker obliged to send Cameroon home. As a 6 year old boy I was clearly delighted that England had made the semis but I was left with a warm glowing impression of Cameroon and the mercurial Roger Milla.

1994 Bulgaria, and in particular Hristo Stoichkov

Bulgaria were drawn in Group D with Nigeria, Argentina and Greece. Their first game gave no suggestions as to what was to come as they were comprehensively beaten 3-0 by Nigeria. Their 2nd game proved they did actually have a group of quality players as they put Greece to the sword 4-0. The final match really got the heart nice and pumping however as they managed to fashion a famous 2-0 win over argentina!!

Even after these 3 games it was apparent what Stoichkov was all about. He had a massive on field temper, he was someone capable of scoring a lot of goals and had explosive acceleration, tenacity, and a penchant for taking unpredictable shots on goal. In short, he was quite a character.

The 2nd round game saw Bulgaria take the lead against Mexico thanks to a quality finish from Stoichkov. Mexico equalised from the penalty spot and there were no more goals. Bulgaria held their nerve in the penalty shoot-out.

A 2nd round win gave Bulgaria a tasty quarter-final tie with Germany. I have a vivid memory of my watching this game. I can see myself in my minds eye, absorbed, and I remember the pure delight at what happened.

Matthaeus gave Germany the lead early in the second half with a well taken penalty. On 75 minutes Bulgaria were given a free kick from around 30 yards out. Stoichkov took one of the best free kicks you will ever see for a perfect and crucial goal. 3 minutes later Letchkov scored a delightful glancing header which brought delirium to their fans. Bulgaria held on for a magical 2-1 win and a date in the semi-finals.

The semi-finals saw the end of the dream. Baggio scored twice for Italy in the first half and whilst Stoichkov pulled one back from the spot it wasn't enough. They then went on to lose 4-0 in the 3rd place playoff with Sweden but it was a memorable tournament. Even now as I flick my eyes down the Bulgarian starting eleven I well remember about half of them and how good they were. Stoichkov had the honour of sharing the golden boot with Baggio - both players scoring six in the tournament.

[Hristo Stoichkov and Roger Milla were named by Pele in his top 125 footballers of all time in 2004].

1998 Croatia, and Suker in particular

Croatia were drawn in Group H alongside Argentina, Japan and Jamaica. It was only their second appearance at a major tournament (and first at a world cup) since they had got independence from Yugoslavia. Results at the Group Stage were nothing wildly unexpected. Jamaica and Japan were both weak, Croatia managing 3-1 and 1-0 wins respectively. They were also defeated 1-0 by Argentina.

The second round saw Croatia achieve a narrow 1-0 win over Romania.

The quarter-final was where the fairytale really took flight. A comprehensive 3-0 win over Germany in a quarter-final was almost unheard of, especially from a decent but unfancied team like Croatia. Absolutely magic.

In the semi-final they lost narrowly to France. Suker had put Croatia in the lead but 2 goals from French defender Thuram was enough.

Croatia weren't finished yet though. In the third place playoff they overcame Holland 2-1 to finish 3rd. What an achievement for Croatia. Suker also got the golden boot with six goals - I was so happy every time he scored. He was such a clinical and natural goalscorer. Loved it.


2006 Senegal

You may be surprised that I haven't picked South Korea or Turkey who both made the semi-finals. The reasons for this are: I believe South Korea didn't deserve to be there - they had multiple refereeing decisions unfairly and blatantly go their way against Italy and Spain at the very least. (Being held in South Korea, at minimum the ref was influenced subconsciously). Turkey were exciting and a revelation. Hasan Sas was one of my favourite players at the tournament but a number of other of their players excited me also. They faced a few of the weaker teams on their way however, plus I'm not a fan of Turkey since Galatasaray fans killed two Leeds fans prior to a UEFA Cup game in 2000, but I'm not going to re-litigate that.

Senegal played World Cup holders France in the opening game of the tournament and shocked the world to win 1-0 evoking memories of Cameroon's opening game win against Argentina in 1990. France included players born in Senegal such as Patrick Vieira. They not only held the World Cup but also the European Championships and had players in their squad who were the top scorers in the preceding season in Serie A (Trezeguet), Premiership (Henry) and Ligue 1 (Cisse). Senegal had a team of almost unknown players - they played an excellent game and I was thrilled when Papa Bouba Diop put his name into world cup folklore by scoring the goal that won the game. They rounded their group off with a 1-1 draw against Denmark and a thrilling 3-3 draw with Uruguay.

Second round saw an entertaining match against Sweden. Operating under a golden goal system (whereby the first team to score a goal in extra-time won) Henri Camara scored a beautiful long range effort in the bottom left hand corner, after normal time had finished 1-1.

Their World Cup dream was over however in the quarter-final against Turkey. Another exciting game (it just so happened that every game Senegal played was an absolute delight of a match to my eyes) and this time the Golden Goal favoured the opposition - Ilhan Mansiz scoring the goal just minutes into extra-time.

Senegal had charmed the world and still remain only the second African team to make a World Cup quarter-final.

2010 Australia

2010 doesn't have an obvious romance choice. The only somewhat unexpected quarter-finalist was Ukraine. But they only had to finish ahead of Tunisia and Saudi Arabia in Group H. They then beat Switzerland on penalties in the following round after a dour 0-0 over 120 minutes.

My choice is Australia. Australia had their work cut out to qualify from a group containing Brazil, Croatia and Japan. Brazil are Brazil, Croatia were a strong team exuding quality all over the park and Japan had been talked up as a difficult team who could well be able to beat the Australians. They (the Aussies) had also charmed me with their qualification in a highly charged home and away playoff against Uruguay through a penalty shoot-out.

Australia, playing in their first World Cup in 32 years, opened up with an excellent 3-1 win over Japan. Japan took the lead in the first half. Cahill prodded the ball home to equalise on 84 mins. 2 or 3 mins later he scored a stunning long range effort only for Aloisi to wrap it up in the dying seconds with a fine solo effort. First goals ever for Australia at a World Cup and first win. Even as a pommie born Kiwi, damn it felt good.

This was followed by a creditable 2-0 loss to Brazil. In the last game against Croatia Aussie only needed a draw thanks to Japan's draw with Croatia. It was a full-blooded highly entertaining match with both sides throwing everything they had into the game. Srna scored a brilliant free kick in the opening minutes and Moore equalised with a penalty later in the half. In the second half Kovac regained the lead for Croatia after a mistake by goalkeeper Kalac who had strangely been picked ahead of Schwarzer due to his extra height. With just over 10 minutes to go Kewell calmly slotted home to the delight of the Aussies. This game was also famous for referee Poll failing to send Simunic off after giving him a 2nd yellow, waiting till his 3rd to give him his marching orders!

Aussie were through to the second round and a date with Italy! Australia competed well. Italy's Materazzi was given a controversial red card and then in the dying seconds of the game, locked up at 0-0, Grosso won a controversial penalty for Italy which Totti slotted home.

It was heartache for the Australians but they had proved to the world that they were a team of substance and not to be taken lightly.

Aussies pummel South Africa; Ireland back in business in Euro 2008 qualification!

I can't believe that on Saturday night I made the decision to not watch this game and instead just get up for the Wales - Republic of Ireland Euro 2008 qualifier at 3am. However thankfully I did end watching from the start! A text message woke me up at about 1:15am - being too busy chewing the fat to go back to sleep I decided to get up and watch the start of the match, only to see a brutal opening stand by Hayden and Gilchrist set up a huge total of 377-6. Hayden, although riding his luck on occasion, was simply sublime scoring the fastest ever hundred in a world cup (beating John Davison by 1 ball thanks to an emphatic six down the ground). To think that 18 months previously he appeared on the outer of the Australian side!

At 3am I did switch over to watch the football (flicking back to cricket now and again naturally) !With Ireland being my favourite international football side (behind the All Whites of course!) I'm always very keen to watch them. Of course it also helped my frame of mind that Johnny Douglas was selected in the team. Douglas is of course a Leeds Utd midfielder who recently became captain after the messy Nicholls saga. He's not much of a player but he's tenacious and useful. And its nice to watch a fairly good international side employ a player from the start who plays for the Championship's bottom club (by god it pains me to say that!). Unfortunately his playing on Saturday against Wales and then on Wednesday against Slovakia is not good for Leeds as our game against Preston is on Friday. So it would be nice if he didn't start on Wednesday! Anyway - the Ireland Wales game wasn't the most rip roaring affair but it was satisfying to see Stephen Ireland score the winning goal. It keeps us in with a shot at qualification. With Germany beating the Czechs, we now see Germany top with 13 points with the Czechs and us on 10 (although we have played the extra game). And then we have Slovakia only one point behind us, and with the game in hand! This makes our match up with Slovakia huge! As the match wound up it was great to hear the commentator inform us of a late Scotland goal to take a 2-1 win over Georgia. Hopefully the Scots can avoid defeat against the Italians, keeping them in good shape to secure a surprise qualification.

Who finds it strange that I'm referring to Ireland as us? Well although I'm English I do have a smidgeon of Irish in me. My Mum's Dad's Father was Irish so I guess that makes me 1/16 Irish. And as I feel great affinity with my grandfather on that side, and my mum's maiden name, I feel a strong pull towards Ireland. I feel more patriotic towards them than I do England. I feel a pull towards England but I guess that's more directed towards Yorkshire where I was brought up. Anyway - when I found out that England Israel had been a draw, I wasn't overly concerned and certainly managed to see a bit of the funny side. Steve McClaren is useless by the way. The sooner the FA see that the better for England. I support all the so called home nations! I love Ireland and want to see Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland do well! I do support England too although its hard to support a football team that containst the likes of Rio Ferdinand and Gary Neville!

I didn't watch the South Africa innings. Bed came a calling. If the unbelievable game at the Wanderers a year before was anything to go by then the match certainly wasn't over. And the opening stand of 160 odd proved that. However a collapse eventuated and although South Africa made a very good 294, this was still an 83 run loss.

And thankfully I could have a weekend without the stress of Leeds Utd playing!