Day 3 round-up

Algeria 0-1 Slovenia

In the first game of the day, Slovenia beat Algeria 1-0 and now top group C. It was a truly dreadful game, both teams' negativity contributed to an utter borefest. With England and USA drawing last night, it was a great opportunity for either side to lead the the group. It took until the 59th minute for some action, when Algeria's Abdelkader Ghezzal decided to deliberately control the ball with his hand and subsequently receiving a second yellow card.

Slovenia still looked reluctant to attack and the game was heading for a bore draw. However, the deadlock was broken when Slovenia captain, Robert Koren's placed shot somehow squirmed into the Algeria net. Goalkeeper Faouzi Chaouchi failed to deal with what should have been an easy save. Chaouchi tried to catch the ball, instead of pushing it away.


Serbia 0-1 Ghana


Ghana beat Serbia 0-1 in the second game of the day. Ghana started stronger and didn't allow the Serbs any time on the ball. Neither team had any clear cut chances in the first half and deservedly went in even. On the 74th minute, Serbia's Aleksandar Lukovic was shown a second yellow card and thus, handing the impetus to Ghana. Serbia's Krasic had a good chance to score, but his effort was straight at the keeper. In the 85th minute Ghana were awarded a penalty when Zdravko Kuzmanovic stupidly handballed in the area. Gyan stepped up and confidently converted the spot kick. So, Ghana claim the first African win on African soil.

Germany 4-0 Australia


Germany mauled the Socceroos earlier this evening in Durban. The Germans came flying out of the traps and scored after just 8 minutes from a goal by Lucas Podolski. Thomas Mueller's superb cut back found Podolski, who then drilled the ball in. Germany didn't stop there, fast and slick football opened up the Australian defence time after time. Right back Philipp Lahm was fantastic all night and he supplied the second goal, by crossing for Miroslav Klose, who headed home. Everton's Tim Cahill was shown a straight red card, after the referee deemed his tackle on Bastian Schweinsteiger to be dangerous, a little harsh.

Germany continued to pile on the misery for the Aussies, striker, Mueller showed us, forwards can assist and score goals(unlike a certain England striker). Mueller showed great composure by alluding the defender and then firing past Mark Schwarzer. Substistute Cacau came on for his 1st cap and after 2 minutes, he had his 1st goal and Germany's 4th. Youngster Messut Oezil was introduced to the world and he thoroughly impressed. Everything went through him and he carved the Australians open far too often for their liking. Germany, so far, look the strongest team, however it's very early days in this competition.


Ant Myers