World Cup 2010

Well, that's that then.

2010-07-14T10:41:00.001-07:00

After a month of non-stop football, it was the favourites Spain who won the Fifa World Cup for the first time in their nation's history.

Andrés Iniesta secured a scrappy 1-0 win over the Netherlands in Soccer City on Sunday and in doing so, Spain became the first side ever to win the World Cup after losing their first group game. That 1-0 loss against Switzerland seems a long time ago. However impressively despite losing that game, Vicente Del Bosque's side never abandoned their footballing philosophy which centres around short, sharp and incisive passing. Having lost their opening match against the Swiss, the Spanish went from strength to strength by winning their remaining group games against Honduras thanks to two David Villa goals, before easing past a plucky Chile side.

In the last sixteen arch rivals Portugal awaited, however even the World's most expensive player Cristiano Ronaldo was powerless to resist as the Spanish ended up 1-0 victors again thanks to David Villa, who was living up to his name as Spain's talisman. In the quater finals a hugely impressive Paraguay outfit, fresh from winning the competition's first penalty shoot out against Japan, were the opponents. It took until 8 minutes from time for Spain to break down the highly organised South American team, and yet again it was David Villa who got the crucial goal, sending Spain into there first ever World Cup semi final.

A feast of football beckoned in the Semi final as Germany, who comfortably disposed of England, though the less said about that the better, and Argentina. A young and ruthless German side had slammed 4 goals past both of their knock-out opponents, whilst Spain had only scored 2 goals in their previous two games. The stats suggested an even game was going to occur; but we got anything but. Spain virtually dominated from start to finish with their star-studded and irresistible midfield commanded the game and left the energetic Germans chasing shadows. Which meant the Spanish goal was clouded in irony as a Xavi corner was whipped in and powerfully headed home by Carles Puyol. It was as direct as Spain got all tournament and it reaped rewards.

That result meant Spain would face the Dutch in the final, which in turn assured that a new name would be on the Fifa World Cup trophy. It was supposed to be a match that would be easy on the eye mixing the Netherlands' "total football" and Spain's slick passing. Unfortunately Bert Van Marwijk set his side out to disrupt the European Champions and their style. This tactic was brilliantly epitomised by Nigel De Jong as he delivered what can only be described as a Kung-Fu kick straight into the chest of Xabi Alonso. Bruce Lee would have been proud of what I loosely call a tackle. However Spain refused to be stifled by their aggressive opponents, and in the end they got what they deserved.

However it was the Dutch who fashioned the best chance in normal time as Wesley Sneijder slipped in Arjen Robben who forced Spain captain Iker Casillas into a brilliant point blank save. With neither side able to find the net in the regulated 90 minutes, we moved into extra time and which is when the Spanish upped their game, as chances started to come more frequently with Fabregas and Iniesta going close. A tiring Dutch side were lucky to have 11 men on the pitch going into extra time, but their luck ran out when Everton's Johnny Heitinga saw red for bringing Iniesta down as he raced through. However the Barcelona man would not be denied as it was he who settled the game after being played in by substitute Fabregas. The finish on the volley was ruthless and it sparked wild celebrations, as Captain Casillas even began crying. All Spain had to do was hold out for 4 minutes and they did so comfortably as Howard Webb brought the 2010 World Cup to an end. The Dutch immediately flooded to England's referee in protest but nothing could detract from the emotional scenes on the Soccer City pitch in Johannesburg.

Aside from the final it was Uruguay's Diego Forlán who won the Golden Ball after being named player of the tournament having scored 5 goals, leading his nation's charge to the semi finals. Germany's Thomas Muller will be heading back to Munich with both the Golden Boot and the Best Young Player award having netted 5 times whilst assisting 3 others.

The first ever World Cup on African soil has undoubtedly been a successful on, albeit the football at times was not as entertaining as we had hoped for. Nevertheless the performances of Ghana liberated everyone and inspired and indeed united all of Africa, which will be the legacy of this World Cup.

With the 2010 Fifa World Cup out of the way, focus will be switched to Brazil where, for the first time, Spain will go as defending Champions.

Paul Seed

2010-07-14T10:41:00.000-07:00

Job done.....just

2010-06-23T14:55:00.000-07:00

Slovenia 0-1 England

After two poor performances in South Africa, England finally arrived at this summer's World Cup with a 1-0 victory over Slovenia which guaranteed Fabio Capello's men a place in the round of 16, where they face a daunting game with Group D winners Germany whose 1-0 win over Ghana meant they topped their group.

The first 15 minutes began in typical nervy fashion with Slovenia looking dangerous on the break, but the breakthrough that the nation was desperate for came 22 minutes in, as Milner who replaced Tottenham's Aaron Lennon whipped in a delicious early ball. It was a cross out of the top drawer, and by far the best England have delivered all tournament as it begged to be put in the net. Jermain Defoe, who replaced Heskey, obliged and England were on their way.

That goal galvanised England and the confident side we all saw in qualifying suddenly returned as the Three Lions found their passing range, with captain Steven Gerrard dictating the pace of the game by instigating a spell of swift and intricate passing which the fans have been desperate to see. This type of football inevitably creates chances and in truth England should have had a more comfortable margin at half time. Gerrard and a hugely improved Wayne Rooney linked up well to create a chance for the skipper, but his low shot was well saved by Handanovic, who was the only man keeping his side in the game.

After the interval England's pressure continued and Defoe could have wrapped it up early in the second half as he latched onto a cross only to put his chance wide from 6 yards. Rooney, who was obviously desperate for his first goal of the finals, came as close as he has so far in the tournament as his right foot shot hit the left hand post.

England's wastefulness meant the final ten minutes were nail biting for England fans as Slovenia pushed for the goal that would guarantee their place in the last 16. A swift counter attack caused problems as John Terry, who was a rock all day, and Glen Johnson combined to block a Milijov Novakovic shot before Birsa wastefully fired wide.

England lack of ruthfulness in front of goal ended up costing them, as America's Landon Donovan scored a 92nd minute winner to send the USA to the top of the group on goals scored. This means England wil be facing the Germans in the next round, who eased passed Ghana thanks to a brilliant strike from Mesut Ozil.

Lets not get carried away, England should have qualified for the knock out rounds in far more comfortable fashion, and after all a 1-0 win against Slovenia wont exactly strike fear into the hearts of Brazil or Spain but at least we saw signs that England are improving. The constantly changing defence still looked frail and were often caught out on the counter but Upson came in for his first ever World Cup game and did well whilst Terry was brilliant throughout the game.

Next up are Germany who will undoubtedly prove a sterner test for Capello and England as they are the first footballing powerhouse that Capello will face in a major tournament however Germany, much like England, struggle to find consistency and have shown that in this tournament already having brilliantly disposed of Australia, in their opening game,before slumping to a disappointing defeat against the Serbians.

That inconsistency will provide Capello with great hope however what is certain is that England still have to raise their game if they are to progress to the latter stages but as we have seen so many times before, starting slowly isn't always a bad thing, the reigning champions Italy are testament to that. The nation waits in anticipation and in hope for Sunday's game.

Paul Seed

Don Fabio

2010-06-22T12:23:00.000-07:00

So let’s get this straight, the English nation is going to take the side of a man who slept with the girlfriend of one of his best mates and teammates, a man who was more concerned with having a beer after the Algeria game then reflecting on his miserable performance and the consequences it may have,a man refered to as 'Mr Untouchable' at Stamford Bridge but hated by his home nation, over a man who has won 9 league titles in Italy and Spain, led England to qualifying with only a single defeat and widely regarded as one of the best managers in the world? Only England could press the self-destruct button quite like this. (At least the French revolution was a proper one!)

When John Terry uttered the words “sod it, if it upsets him, it has to be said or we are going home on Wednesday,” my initial reaction was one of optimism and pride. It didn’t take long for my reaction to change, as the more I pondered Terry’s comments, the more I began to ask myself, why has Terry not showed similar commitment and passion on the pitch? I then tried to guess what Fabio’s reaction to such public criticism was going to be, after all he has prided himself on discipline since taking charge - as Terry knows only too well. Truth is, Fabio works in mysterious ways and not for a moment did even the most experienced England commentators expect the reaction from Capello we got.

John Terry has always seen himself as the shining light and the centre of attention both at Chelsea and England. Clearly the former Huddersfield Town apprentice believes he is in an elite class of central defenders, yet when we revise recent history we note a decidedly shaky end to a turbulent season, the loss of the England captaincy because of a betrayal to a teammate and inability to keep his trousers on, married to two opening World Cup performances for England where his only meaningful contribution has been to give endless free kicks away. What is more, we now learn that, ‘JT’ as he is affectionately known as, was more concerned with asking Mr Capello if him and his ‘mates’ could have a beer after the game. Why wasn’t Terry more interested in watching highlights of his miserable performance? Why wasn’t he more interested in talking with Steven Gerrard about what is going wrong on the field.

Capello summed Terry and his clan up pretty forthright; they are bottle jobs. Don’t mind making a few noises in front of a camera but when you have to pluck up the courage to march into the manager’s office and question him directly, England players come up short. You wonder why there is no pride and passion from these players on the pitch? At least Gazza smashed a lamp when told he wasn’t going to the World Cup in 1998, at least Beckham stood up to Sven if he thought it needed to be said. John Terry and his clan are more content with having a bitch behind people’s backs over an ice-cold pint after a thoroughly miserable day at work. Talk about Big Brother nation!

What is truly miserable is this notion that the England players are bored. What a terrible life they lead. They want to blame everyone but themselves. Now, as I have previously conceded, no one is exempt from criticism, Capello and Pearce included, but the ridiculous press coverage that suggests the two-hour policy is wrong, and the players are bored, and Capello needs to lighten up is laughable. Does anyone else care if Capello is JT’s friend? No? Me neither. The England players are a disgrace, and John Terry deserves to be sent home from the World Cup for dividing a camp. And for what? A beer? A personal feud with Capello? He has single headedly ruined the atmosphere inside the England camp and is deserving of the hate mail that will inevitable find its way to his many addresses.

It would appear that Capello finds the press and the arrogance of certain England players laughable. Just because Emile Heskey failed to find the net in the opening game against the USA and the side were dyer against Algeria, the England players suddenly need to know the line up 24 hours before a game! What a load of old s**te. For too long the England players have been wrapped in cotton wool and the press have hounded manager after manger when instead they should have hounded player after player. I mean, is it really Fabio's fault that Lampard cannot pass a ball 5 yards? Or that Heskey has the turning circle of a cruise ship? Or that Terry cannot jump up for a header without climbing all over the opposition?

Maybe that’s why Terry chose to air his concerns through the media, hoping they would bail the England team out. I mean seriously, what are the press and players expecting here, Fabio to order a Jacuzzi and have it shipped in and installed midway through a tournament? Perhaps a tenth snooker table or dart board fitted? OR the players could train, and work harder. A lot of them don’t look fit enough to most. Maybe practice a set piece of 10? I mean we have hardly looked threatening thus far from our 4 corners have we? Failing to beat the first man with three of them. I understand Capello is in charge of training schedules but would it hurt a few players to take it upon themselves to do a little more or will minimal effort suffice once more from the overpaid and passion lot, otherwise known as England?

The worry is we are forcing Capello away. If we do go out tomorrow night, would it not be better I we treated it as a momentous moment in English football? The same group of players that failed to qualify for the European Championships in 2008, then going out in the group stage of the 2010 World Cup? Surely we can’t sit here and blame it squarely on the manager? Is it not time we made the big decisions and got rid of the egos and arrogance of Terry, Lampard, James and Cole, even if it means blooding youngsters? They can’t do any worse then our current group of galacticos led by the biggest idiot of the lot, JOHN TERRY. I have said it for three months, in Fabio we trust. Let's just hope Fabio trusts England enough to endure a little heartache for a little longer...

Gavin Callaghan

Liability Lampard

2010-06-20T11:03:00.000-07:00

If England do fail to beat Slovenia on Wednesday afternoon in Port Elizabeth then perhaps the only possible positive to take will be the imminent international retirement of Frank Lampard. The Chelsea midfielder has been at the heart of the debate over club form and country form year after year since he took over from Paul Scholes in the England midfield. For many, Lampard is World Class and should always be one of the first names on the team sheet. For others, and I include myself, Lampard is amongst the most overrated players to ever earn so many caps.

Last Friday’s game saw the former West Ham player pick up his 80th cap for his nation. In that time, Lampard has scored 20 goals, 9 coming from the penalty spot. He has only ever scored twice in a major international tournament and has largely been anonymous in the first two games of England’s 2010 World Cup campaign. Now from the start, it should be made clear that I am not blaming England’s hapless performances solely on Lampard, but I do think he carries more blame then most.

I have always been of the opinion that Lampard is a good player but never a World Class player. Didier Drogba and Michael Essien are, and they allow Lampard to do, frankly, whatever he wants when he plays for Chelsea. I mean, rack your brains. When did Lampard last make a tackle? Or hit a stirring 30-yard pass? Or get rough and ready with an opposition midfielder the way Paul Scholes used to? The only images we ever see during a game of Lampard is of him, gormlessly sticking his tongue out and looking, essentially, petrified of what the press boys in the stands are saying about him being found out for the average player he is. When in the last 5 years would you have bet your mortgage on Lampard firing England to success the way Gascoigne and Beckham once did? You see, if your going to make the bold claims that Lampard is World Class then you need to make these comparisons. The fundamental difference between the big, actual world-class midfielders, and Frank, is that they have bottle. I said it in a blog after Chelsea’s elimination from the Champions League when Lampard faced two world class midfielders in Cambiasso (who didn’t even get picked for Argentina) and Sneijder; Lampard got found out. The trouble for the 64million watching right now is, he is getting found out by the likes of Landon Donavon and Portsmouth’s Yebda.

Isn’t the truth simple; Lampard is rubbish at international level? There is not one team in the top 10 teams who would replace any of their central midfielders for him. He hasn’t consistently performed for England in 6 years. He is the reason that Steven Gerrard cannot play in his more favored position. We often hear the argument that world class sides, and I mean truly world class sides, have to leave out key players and play less glamorous players so that they play as a team and not individuals. It is why Molito cannot get a game for Argentina despite being the best striker in European club football this season. It is why Fabregas cannot get a game for Spain yet Xavi Alonso, despite being in his thirties is preferred. It is why Danni Alves sits on the bench for Brazil. So why can’t England drop Lampard to play Joe Cole on the left and Gerrard through the middle off Rooney? Surely that makes more sense?

You see the nation is divided so one can only imagine what the dressing room must be like. There is only a small minority of fans who want Heskey and Lampard, and they base their opinion on a qualifying campaign that saw England take on Kazakhstan and the likes. World Cups bring different pressures. The concensus amongst those that see the pint glass as half full is that Heskey has been England’s shining light in a way that Japan’s Honda has been for them. This is the most ridiculous argument I have ever heard. Heskey has don’t nothing World Class really has he? He bundles his way around the pitch but there is no real class or precision to him? Its more luck then legendary. Take your rose tinted glasses off for a moment and ask yourself whether opposition defenders really are scared of big bad Emile? His step over and cross in the Algeria game summed him up. Lots of heart but zero talent. Pro-Heskians are reducing England to nothing more than a long ball, boring, skill and talent deprieved formation. I hoped for a little more if I am honest.

And the most frustrating part is that England have the players there to unlock these teams and change our fortunes. Joe Cole is without doubt a skillful player who would do well against teams like Algeria and Slovenia. Whatsmore, Cole has energy and passion in abundance. Peter Crouch came into the World Cup the 3rd most internationally in-form striker in the competition. Then again, should we really be surprised that he has only featured for a combined total of 16 minutes when England's second top goalscorer over the last 5 seasons (Darren Bent) is watching from his Gateshead apartment? Crouch and Cole could prove to be the unlikely heroes for England that Geoff Hurst and Peter Beardsley have been for the Three Lions in the past.

England need to change desperately. You can love him or hate him but one of the reasons Glen Hoddle was the best England manager in a long while, was because he was not afraid to drop the big names. David Beckham and Teddy Sheringham will testify to that. Will Fabio be brave enough to do the same? Form would suggest he is. He took on John Terry, the untouchable man himself. Will he now follow suit with a fellow Kings Road menace and do away with lack lustre Frank Lampard. It really is difficult to see what England would lack if Lampard was dropped isn’t it? He has offered barely anything in the last five years and if he is only on the pitch to take a penalty for England, I would ask many of you to question whether or not Frank, under pressure, would deliver?

And yet despite all this much-deserved negativity, you sense Capello will come good. It is why he is in the elite group of managers he is in. The England players will be meeting with the management team in Rustenburg tonight to try and save England’s World Cup hopes for another 4 years. Let’s just hope Fabio listens, learns and loses liability Lampard.

Gavin Callaghan

Three Lions? More like Kittens!

2010-06-18T17:01:00.000-07:00

England's poor start to their World Cup finals campaign continued yesterday in Cape Town as they could only manage a dismal 0-0 draw with the mighty Algeria meaning Wednesday's game against Slovenia is now a monumental, and hopefully more entertaining, spectacle.

The game against Algeria, who suffered a goalkeeping error of their own during their opening game against Slovenia as Robert Koren's shot was thrown into his own net by Faouzi Chaouchi, was deemed as England's real start to the 2010 World Cup after a stuttering performance against the Americans resulted in a stalemate. However if this was the game the 3 Lions were supposed to show their quality, nobody told the players as Fabio Capello's men produced an uninspiring performance leaving the English players leaving the field to a chorus of boos, as the paying public were clearly unimpressed.

Something that has been evident in England's tournament so far is their inability to retain possession of the football as they allow themselves to be out passed by so called inferior nations, and that was no different yesterday as Algeria's Hassan Yebda dictated most of the early play. England's inability to keep the ball is difficult to explain. Perhaps the ITV optimists will try to sugar coat it by blaming the ball, or even the altitude, but in reality England's players who were undoubtedly nervous opted for the easy way out too often as time after time the ball was lazily hoofed in the direction of Emile Heskey. In addition to this ball playing midfielders like Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard just didn't turn up by constantly mis-placing passes that they make so comfortably for their clubs.

The poor use of the ball explains why England failed to create any clear cut chances, with goalkeeper M'Bholi, who was filling in for the injured Chaouchi, was only called into action by speculative long range efforts from Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard. On the rare occasions England found themselves in decent positions, poor decision making cost England as Lennon and more notably Gerrard frequently chose the wrong ball.

In truth England did not pose any real threat, whilst their energetic opponents were causing distress in David James' penalty area with well delivered set pieces. Capello waited too long to try and force things to happen as it wasn't until the 63rd minute when Shaun Wright-Phillips was introduced, however the Manchester City man didn't make too much difference, which is something that will surely anger Joe Cole who is yet to play a single minute at this summer's World Cup. When Capello removed Heskey, and consequently the temptation to go long, Jermain Defoe did look lively and caused problems by running in behind which raises the question why didn't the Tottenham front man start in Cape Town?

Another player who perhaps will have the right to feel aggrieved could be Manchester City's Adam Johnson who was harshly omitted from the 23 man squad in favour of Wright Phillips who has been playing second fiddle to the former Middlesbrough man since he signed in January. England were crying out for natural width on the left hand side as Skipper Steven Gerrard was constantly drifting inside, neutralising the chance of effective counter attacking.

Credit must be handed to the Algerians, who arrived with a game plan and executed it brilliantly as they frequently frustrated England and forced them into basic errors and on another night they may well have nicked all three points.

The frustration they caused was evident at the final whistle when the estimated crowd of 65,000 erupted with a chorus of booing from those supporting England, something that angered Wayne Rooney who rather sarcastically said when leaving the pitch "Nice to see your own fans booing you, that's what loyal support is" Maybe you need reminding of something Wayne. An estimated 28'000 fans have made the extremely expensive trip to South Africa, by doing so they are showing their loyalty and passion, which makes them entitled to react in any manner they want. If only the passion and pride those fans have shown could be reflected by you on the pitch, as arguably Rooney was the worst player on the pitch yesterday as he failed to control pass after pass and in so doing, wasted rare moments possession.

Yesterday's game had been earmarked by most as a sure thing but in truth a draw in many ways flattered England as they were outfought and outplayed by their opponents. The objective for Wednesday is simple: win or go home early. Can England's "lions" turn it around and beat Slovenia? There are very few signs in their opening games to suggest they can. We shall see.

Paul Seed

Au Revoir Les Blues?

2010-06-17T12:48:00.000-07:00

France 0-2 Mexico

Well as quickly as they arrived, it looks as if the French will be packing their bags and jetting out of South Africa after a dismal World Cup finals campaign that will leave the Irish livid as surely Geovanni Trappatoni's men would have, at the very least, shown some heart and pride.

With rumours that there were high profile players arguing with manager Raymond Domenech meant no explanations were needed as the French never looked united throughout their seemingly rather short tournament. Their problems began as early as qualification as they needed a helping hand from Arsenal legend Thierry Henry to overcome a spirited Irish side in the play-offs. What was more confusing was the announcement that Bourdeaux manager Laurent Blanc will take over as National team coach.The appointment itself was not surprising, however the timing was most peculiar. After all how is announcing the appointment of a new manager going to allow the current coach, Domenech, to maintain the respect of the players. Evidently it didn't.

However it was on the eve of their first World Cup finals game, against Diego Forlan's Uruguay, when rumours of dressing room discontent first surfaced. According to reports Chelsea winger Florent Malouda had to be physically restrained after a heated argument with Domenech, which explained why Malouda found himself on the bench in that opening game. It was clear during that game that the French lacked any self belief or confidence, which surely is down to the manager to instil.

Domenech who is France's longest serving manager, having been at the Nation's helm for 6 years, is widely disliked in France which is perhaps due to his baffling team selections which included the omission of Arsenal's Samir Nasri which is apparently due to the fact the Arsenal midfielder is a scorpio, a star sign which the 58 year old manager does not trust, which would suggest that Domenech is even poorer than our very own "Wolly with a Brolly"

During their first game Les Blues didn't show up. They looked void of ideas, and creative players like Frank Ribery who has shone for Bayern Munich, looked utterly clueless and lost with no sense of direction of urgency. If it weren't for the negative tactics of the Uruguayans, the French may well have been beaten in their very first game. Whilst many sides have turned up in South Africa with the intention of not losing, the French turned up with no intentions what-so-ever. They were lazy and lacked any energy which even so called lesser nations like New Zealand have exemplified.

However it was against the Mexicans, a side who were swept aside by England last month and only just managed to salvage a draw against hosts South Africa in the opening game, where the French looked the poorest. The Mexicans looked comfortable all night as even early in the game, goalkeeper Hugo Lloris was forced to come darting off his line after a lack of communication between William Gallas and Eric Abidal. At half time it was expected that the French would come out and attack, but it was the Mexicans who took the initiative by playing attractive attacking football and taking the game to the French.

They kept the ball so easily and left the French chasing well organised shadows. Javier Aguirre used the perfect tactics to defeat the French. They allowed Domenech's side to keep possession in harmless areas and then when gaining the ball, they broke with pace and in numbers. The first Mexican goal was a perfect example of the French's lack of harmony and communication as Abidal played new Manchester United signing Javier Hernandez onside, who cooley rounded Lloris and passed into an empty net. In reality there was a sense of inevitability about the goal and the French players didn't look to surprised as they watched Hernandez and the rest of the Mexican's jubilant celebrations. The second goal was just as poor from a France point of view, as the substitute Barrera swept passed a number of players, including a lackadaisical Patrice Evra, and won a penalty after a cumbersome challenge from Abidal. 37 year old Veteran Blanco, who showed more energy throughout his 15 minute cameo than the entire French side portrayed, swept the penalty into the back of the net, which virtually assured the French's exit.

Even the French substitutes looked uninterested as they moved away from the dug-out leaving Domenech isolated, which in reality is a position that Domenech has grown used to over the last couple of years.

If the French are to miraculously qualify, they will need to overcome a South Africa side who will undoubtedly arrive with great desire as they will want to win their last game for the thousands of fans who have embraced the World Cup. Even if Les Blues overcome Bafana Bafana they will have to hope that Uruguay and Mexico do not play out a draw as that would guarantee the French's exit, and I think many of us can envisage a dull 0-0 draw between Uruguay and Mexico, but realistically the French have no-one else to blame but themselves.

There will be nobody happier tonight, apart from the Mexicans, than the whole of Ireland who thoroughly believe there side would have brought more to the World Cup, and after the French's lazy, arrogant and simply disinterested displays who can argue with them.

Paul Seed

Greece v Nigeria - LIVE

2010-06-17T06:43:00.000-07:00

Argentina top Group B and are practically through to the next round. South Korea put up a good fight and will be right in the mix for the second spot. Greece and Nigeria lost their opening games and desperately need a win. Nigeria definitely have more quality than the Greeks, but may find it hard to break Greece down. Greece were awful against South Korea and showed very little attacking wise. Both teams need to go for it, however I suspect the Greeks will defend in numbers and hope to get a goal on the counter. Not pleasing on eye, but a tactic that has served the Greeks well over the years.

Prediction: Greece 1-0 Nigeria. Greece to frustrate Nigeria and grab a goal from a set piece and then park the bus

Watch the game live in high quality flash at - http://www.flashsportstreams.com/forum/

Ant Myers

So far, so good

2010-06-16T18:12:00.000-07:00

Well, we've now seen every team in action and I have to say I really can't pick a clear favourite yet. Germany were excellent the other night, destroying the Socceroos made compelling viewing. They may have a young side, but with experienced players like Miroslav Klose and Lucas Podolksi they have a perfect blend of youth and experience. Argentina also impressed, their attack is frightening, when you can afford to leave Diego Milito on the bench, that speaks volumes. It remains to be seen whether their defence matches their attack, I think South Korea could test them today.

Portugal didn't surprise me at all, an aging side with a few good individuals. I think they will fail to advance further. Ivory Coast will improve, this team has a real chance of success. Well organised, athletic and serious pace are attributes the Ivorians showed. Brazil were patient against North Korea and deserved their opening win. They will be strong contenders.

Spain suffered a shock defeat against a resurgent Switzerland side and will now have to work hard to advance. Chile are a real threat and will give Spain a run for their money. People will say you can never write off Italy, but I just can't see them going far in this tournament. They obviously have a wealth of experience, however their distinct lack of pace is clear for all to see.

I think France will exit early, not because of their squad, it's the coach that will let them down. Cameroon were very dissappointing, they were bereft of creativity against an average Japan side. I really enjoyed watching South Korea, they displayed a great work ethic and created a lot of chances against the drab Greeks. I predicted Uruguay to surprise some people and they showed tonight that they mean business.

Ant Myers

Well that put the cat among the pigeons!

2010-06-16T14:37:00.000-07:00

Boring, dier, defensive, slow paced, lacking flair and a goal drought, that was until Gelson Fernandes and his Swiss counterparts made their presence known in South Africa with a stunning result. Yesterday I spent most of the preview talking up Spain and I have to be honest I was fairly certain they would beat Switzerland and comfortably. Today I am eating humble pie and a group that was looking like a foregone conclusion has become intriguing. What I had not accounted for was just how disciplined the Swiss players were and what a tactical mastermind Ottmar Hitzfeld really is. He set up Switzerland with a plan and they followed it to a tee.

This plan was born in the Nou Camp on the 28th April when Jose Mourinho's Inter Milan beat Barcelona with one of the best defensive displays in recent memory. Switzerland allowed Spain to have the ball for most of the game, but Spain only had the ball in areas that could not seriously hurt the Swiss. For all of Spain's triangles and neat passing they lacked a cutting edge and were one dimensional until Jesus Navvas was introduced. In the first half Spain continued to go down the left flank seeking out David Silva, this became all too predicable and without the physical presence of Llorente or Torres Silva's crosses were too easy to defend.

Switzerland's goal came with a huge slice of luck but did back up a popular opinion with Spain. Iker Casillas is not the player that he used to be. Why Casillas came rushing out with his feet rather than his hands is beyond me and i'm sure Gerrard Pique is none too pleased either.

Switzerland's discipline was truly admirable and although it may not have been a performance full of flair or attacking intent it was gripping and produced the best game of the tournament so far.

The early kick off was also an improvement on what had gone before. It was so refreshing to see a team go out to win and win in style. I was hugely impressed with what Chile produced in a great display of attacking vision. Bielsa's side used the width of the pitch and got behind the Hondurian defence with ease and it was this approach that led to the only goal of the game. Alexis Sanchez did not disappoint although he needs to pass more often as his flicks came to nothing too often. The real star of the show for me was the playmaker number 14 Fernandez. Fernandez ran the game for Chile driving them forward and playing with vision that another famous old number 14 would have been proud of. Chile were refreshing to watch and will be dangerous and could be dark horses for the latter stages.

Finally I have to give the last word to one Diego Forlan who was unstoppable against the hosts South Africa. Forlan produced the performance of the tournament so far, a great first goal (no problem with the ball there!) a calmly taken penalty and one of the passes of the game to set up a third goal. Uruguay brutally exposed the limitations of South Africa and showed that unfortunately the first game was a one off performance. South Africa will be the first host nation to not get out of the group stage and the tournament will be poorer for it. That is not to take away from a Uruguayan performance that was full of guile, grit and South American flair.

The World Cup is only going to get better from here in, trust me. Thank you Chile and Switzerland for giving us the impetus that this tournament needed. Forlan has had a brilliant day but for me the star of the show today was Ottmar Hitzfeld and his Mourinho like defence. Catenaccio!

Laurie O'Brien

Spain v Switzerland - LIVE

2010-06-16T06:26:00.000-07:00

Much fancied Spain begin their World Cup today against a decent Switzerland side. We've just witnessed Chile beat Honduras convincingly and it's Chile who lead Group H. Switzerland will make it tough for the Spaniards and will be well organised. Spain have a wealth of talent, the whole squad is blessed with immense talent. The depth they have is envied by the world. Switzerland will hope to keep it tight and will try to catch Spain on the break.

Watch the game live in high quality flash at - http://www.flashsportstreams.com/forum/

Are You Not Entertained?

2010-06-15T13:50:00.000-07:00

“Are you not entertained?” The words of Maximus Decimus Meridius as he finishes entertaining the crowd as a gladiator, note the key word ‘entertaining’. Having watched my fair share of games in the opening stages of the 2010 World Cup I’d have to say that, no I am not entertained.

Just like the gladiators, footballers are there essentially for our entertainment – they just happen to get paid a ridiculous amount of money for doing so. On the other hand, if I suffered from insomnia I would love the World Cup and no doubt doctors everywhere are prescribing a good dose of World Cup football for their patients to help them get some sleep.

Unfortunately for me I don’t have such problems; I can understand teams not wanting to lose their opening games, but have they ever thought of trying to win them? I know it is a crazy suggestion, winning a football game instead of an easy draw.

Fair play to Korea Republic who went out with the intention of beating Greece and they did so quite comfortably, they may not end up lifting the cup but at least they’re entertaining the World.

Some sides actually look as though the concept of football is new to them. Poor control, poor passing and general poor play has been a theme to the World Cup so far. Teams try to play it safe too much; look back through any past World Cup footage and you’ll find outrageous goals or at least attempts for the spectacular but that isn’t the case anymore.

The World Cup has shown how predictable football has become, in some cases at least. Pass it all along the back four, and then let the midfield do the same and if there’s nothing on pass it back to the defence. Obviously teams don’t want to throw away their possession but why not be creative and try an audacious ball or even a 30 yard shot which looks like it has no chance but somehow manages to deceive the ‘keeper and end up in the back of the net.

There is still a long way to go in the World Cup and a lot of football to be played. Hopefully most teams pick it up a level for the second games where pressure begins to build and wins become imperative, though if they perform negatively with less pressure then I suppose they wouldn’t play attacking football when it gets important.

I hope that by this time next week I look like an idiot for suggesting the World Cup is less than entertaining, though if things carry on as they are I could be right.

Carl Leighton

Previewing Group H

2010-06-15T13:25:00.000-07:00

Five days into the world cup and boy do we need some entertainment. The world cup has got off to a slow start some games taking place at a pedestrian pace. Many teams have failed to hit the ground running, Holland, England, France and to an extent Argentina have not yet found top gear whilst only Germany have played attractive football, even the mighty Brazil struggled against North Korea. But tomorrow sees the Spanish at last take to the pitch, the last of the teams to start their world cup campaign.

This Spanish side is truly exceptional blessed with world class talent across the pitch in nearly all positions. Torres, Villa, Iniesta, Xavi, Fabregas would all walk into any side in the world, Spain are blessed with a multitude of riches. A team like this comes around once in generation, Brazil in 1970 and 1982, France in 98, Argentina in 1986 and England in 66. We all know the ability that the Spanish possess and now they have achieved what other talented sides have failed to do and win a major tournament. Euro 2008 was a turning point for Spanish football and that is why they are strong favourites this summer.

Before I start getting carried away and just eulogise about Spain and ramble on about how if only England had a player who could pass like Xavi or a striker that could finish like Villa, its important that I look at the other teams in the group. Switzerland are first up for Spain tomorrow and will certainly not be an easy opponent for the European Champions. Switzerland have tournament pedigree with fourteen of their squad having twenty or more caps. Hakan Yakin and Alexander Frei have been to major tournaments and will certainly be a threat to any defence. The only was that I can see Switzerland causing an upset is if Inler and Barnetta can get in amongst the Spanish midfield and stifle their rhythm. If they can do this which is no mean feat then they could perhaps cause Spain problems. Switzerland have Ottmar Hitzfeld at the helm and they will need all of his tactical nous to pull it off.

The earlier game sees an exciting Chile side take on rank outsiders Honduras. Honduras have players which will be familiar to English fans, Palacios, Figueroa and Thomas all play for premier league clubs and Palacios in particular is an excellent player. Hopefully Honduras will be able to select David Suazo who is still technically an Inter Milan player. He has pace is strong and is an accomplished finisher, Honduras will rely on him to provide a spark that could grab them a result. Honduras scrapped into the world cup through the USA scoring a 94th minute equaliser against Costa Rica. Just being in South Africa is a great success for the country.

Chile on the other hand have higher aspirations for this tournament and could cause a few upsets. Their coach Marcelo Bielsa has crafted a side that can cause damage shown by only finishing a point behind Brazil in Qualifying. They scored an impressive 32 goals in qualification with Humberto Suazo coming out as the top scorer beating the likes of Kaka and Messi, definitely one to watch for. Whilst coming out as top scorers they also leaked the most goals and their defensive record will need to improve in South Africa if they are to make an impact. Alexis Sanchez has made it onto a lot of people's one to watch list and is certainly an emerging talent one that I am looking forward to seeing tomorrow.

This is an intriguing group, I fully expect Spain to finish top and put in some good performances along the way. I also can see Chile progressing as runners up, they have the skill and pace to frighten the Swiss defence and this will see them through. Personally I am hoping that this group will provide a much needed injection of flair to a world cup that has so far fired blanks.

Lastly a word on England. I would want to echo the words of Gavin in terms of the media's over reaction to England's performance against America. In this first round of games some of the performances have been nothing sort of turgid. Portugal Ivory Coast being a real low point where neither side showed much desire to take a risk and try to win the game. England tried to win the game having 18 shots on goal, we were a goal threat throughout. There are problems that need to be ironed for sure but this performance is the start of the tournament and not the end. There is still a long way to go.

But for tomorrow lets hope Spain and Chile provide the entertainment we have all been waiting for...

Laurie O'Brien

England Versus The Press

2010-06-15T12:23:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend the inevitable headlines appeared which condemned Robert Green to the history books as a yet another England World Cup calamity. Like many young, aspiring broadcasters, I listen closely to the carefully depicted scripts of TV and Radio presenters as they conjure up an image of doom and gloom around the England camp following a 1-1 draw with a side who less than 12 months ago beat Spain 4-3. It amazes me that we hear Gary Lineker suggest that Italy’s draw with Paraguay is indicative of the Italians in the World Cup because they are, “traditional slow starters, but they will be alright,’ whilst Clive Tydlesy suggests at the end of England’s game that they are ‘rooted at first base.’ The sheer hypocrisy still baffles me an it has led me to change my stanceon many of the England players.

For the next 3 days be prepared for a barrage of press headlines that will speculate as to whether or not Robert Green will line up in goal against Algeria. His one mistake in an England shirt means that he should now be sidelined in favour of David James, a man who has become famous for been erratic and notoriously cost worthy to England. So-called experts and pundits such as Martin Keown, this week on 5LIVE were suggesting that Green should be axed because of his error. Keown lost all credibility for me when in commentary he later went on and said he had never intentionally kicked anyone. Ruud Van Nistelrooy might beg to differ. Truth is Keown has never played for England. He wasn’t good enough. He can pretend to understand the pressures on the England players all he likes but the fact of the matter is he couldn’t.

For many England fans, Joe Hart should be given his chance between the sticks. The trouble is, as we saw on Saturday, playing for England comes with different pressures. Rob Green will forever be remembered as the player who made the most almighty cock-up against America. Everywhere he goes for the rest of his life that is what people will remind him off. Chris Waddle is the same. Waddle’s Italia 90 penalty miss has defined him ever since. Gareth Southgate’s Euro 96 penalty miss, David Beckhams’s red card in 1998 led to a huge amount of death threats, the likes of which lesser men would have caved under. David Seamen and the Ronaldinho goal in World Cup 2002. David James in Euro 2004 with his calamity mistake versus the French. Frank Lampard’s penalty miss and Wayne Rooney’s red card in World Cup 2006. Given the lasting impact such incidents have had on the careers of such players, would you blame them for being pensive when they play for England?

Doesn’t such thought provoke a justification for why England players never transfer club form onto the international stage? You see Frank Lampard was non-existent in England’s opening game, and like many I have argued that Lampard has been non-existent in most games for England over the last 5 years. Because at Chelsea Frank is allowed to bomb forward and score goals for fun with the world best central defensive midfielder sitting behind him. The problem for England is that said player happens to be called Essien and he happens to be Ghanaian.

The truth is Frank Lampard isn’t going to bomb forward when he plays alongside Steven Gerrard in midfield because he knows that if he leaves a gap in behind and the opposition score, the entire press core sitting in the stand with their pens in hand, fingers on the keyboard, microphones at their lips are ready with one fell swoop to destroy their careers. If Lampard and Gerrard don’t work, do you think Fabio will drop his captain? Of course not. Lampard would have to go, so Frank will never play his normal, game for England.

Look even further into the England side and you will see that on Saturday many didn’t perform as we expect. Now Ashley Cole is the best left back in the world. And that pains me to say because I dislike him, a lot. Yet Ashley Cole 4 times gave the ball away needlessly. Wayne Rooney barely touched the ball. Do you really think that this was because Watford’s finest marked him out of the game? Or was it perhaps because the pressure that he was under was too much for him?

Don’t get me wrong, the sight of St George’s crosses plastered to every car window, garage door and bedroom wall is a truly majestic and fills me with a sense of patriotic pride like no other event in the calendar year. The problem is how quickly, and more potently, how cruelly, our footballers efforts go from hero to zero. Rob Green simply does not deserve the press he has received. Yes he made an effort, but given the headlines and attention, do you not think that this will be a plague on his conscience ahead of future England games he is selected? How will he manage to rid the mistake from his mind? Perhaps more worryingly, how will Joe Hart and David James be feeling, stepping into Green’s shoes knowing they cannot make a mistake. It is simply the wrong message and if Fabio does drop Green it is to the detriment of England. Wouldn’t it be nice if England stick with Green and he goes on to make a penalty-shootout winning save versus the Germans in the semi-finals? Destiny or what? Wouldn’t that be a nice U-turn and stuff it to the journalists who instead have to write of a zero to hero story instead?

I feel sorry for Green because he is a class-act. A top-drawer keeper. But for every good save he makes, he will always be THAT goalkeeper. Unless. Unless England do what they have never done before and that is keep faith with him. You see, getting rid of Green is symptomatic of England’s failure in recent years. As my Dad said to me last night, “when you watch England reports, when you watch England play, when you listen to pundits talk of England, does it not all just smack of desperation?”

How true this is. Green makes an error that sees England draw instead of win. So what? He made a world class save n the second half to keep England in the game because there was sure as hell no chance of Wayne Rooney or Emile Heskey scoring was there? Lampard doesn’t do much for England so suddenly the Lampard-Gerrard partnership doesn’t work. Heskey misses two chances so suddenly Fabio got it wrong and should have brought Bent (an argument I agree with incidently!). Lennon’s crossing was frankly rubbish, so perhaps Fabio should have kept faith with Theo. It is a vicious cycle which goes on and on and on but with zero reward. Instead we have to read the papers and listen to the views of ex-players and managers who failed with England in the past tell the world why they got it wrong and Fabio continues to. The bottom line is England should pick a team and bloody well stick to it. A few variations here and there but if Capello seriously doesn’t know what his best formation is by now he doesn’t deserve his wage. I think he does however. And I don’t think he believes in this desparado routine that looms over the England squad like a giant shadow.

England will never win the World Cup based on talent. We are not good enough and we don’t have World Class players. Aaron Lennon, Theo Walcott, Joe Cole, Shaun Wright-Phillips, Matthew Upson, Ledley King and Frank Lampard are nothing more than average. Emile Heskey is worse. So if we are to win the World Cup we need to rid ourselves of this ridiculous notion in the press that we should be winning every game comfortably. Why can we not win every game 1-0 and play rubbish? I will take that. If only the English press lay off our players and allowed them to go about their England business then perhaps, maybe just maybe they would express themselves on the pitch.

It is the underlying theme of English football and it goes well beyond the 11 players selected and the 90minutes on the pitch. It is the ideology to which England, and only England appear to subscribe to and which has reared its ugly head once more, already at the 2010 World Cup. I am of course talking about simple self-destruction. Greens error was just that. An error. Embarrassing and costly. But was it life threatening? Tournament threatening? Was it even incomprehendable? No. It was a mistake. I have said it before; if England are to win the World Cup they will need divine intervention. We are simply not good enough to turn up to a tournament and win it of our own accord. The sooner the press realize this and starve off their insistent negativity toward England and the men in which we have bestowed the hopes and dreams of a nation, the better.

Gavin Callaghan

New Zealand v Slovakia - LIVE

2010-06-15T03:59:00.000-07:00

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Day 4

2010-06-14T14:07:00.000-07:00

Day 4. No, not in the Big Brother house! Thankfully the FIFA World Cup in South Africa is overshadowing the mindless drivel that is Chanel 4’s hit reality show, which is finally dying a painful death. Today it was the turn of two favourites, Italy and the Netherlands who had the difficult job of following Germany’s dismantling of Australia last night.

The Germans arrived with, not only typical German ruthlessness and efficiency but with flair, something not usually associated with a side that has never failed to reach the quarter final mark in their last 7 major tournaments. Their performance made the world sit up and take notice, and the next move belonged to the Dutch.

DOUBLE DUTCH

Holland began their World Cup finals campaign with an underwhelming and stuttering performance but more importantly they got the 3 points they desired, against a Denmark side that lacked ruthlessness and failed to take their chances resulting in a 2-0 win for Holland.

The first 45 minutes began with the Dutch unable to press home their superior quality despite having one or two half chances from Rafael Van Der Vaart. The Dutch’s lack of attacking urgency gave Denmark great belief and they soon started to cause the Dutch one or two problems, with Dennis Rommedahl in particular causing an aging Geovani Van Bronkhurt difficulty with his pace. Arsenal’s Nicklas Bendtner missed the best chance of the half, as he failed to direct a Rommedahl cross whilst unmarked in the Penalty area. In what was a mundane first half, one talking point was the over ambitious free kick taking from both sides. As Wesley Sniedjer struck an effort wide from around 35 yards, whilst Simon Kjaer tried his best to out do him, by striking a 40 yard effort into the wall.

The second half started in blistering fashion with a goal after just 50 seconds. A Robin Van Persie cross was headed towards his own goal by Simon Poulsen, only for the ball to deflect of Daniel Agger and past Tomas Sorenson. I had hoped this would galvanise the Danish into life, but with the withdrawal of Nicklas Bendtner, the Dutch made their superiority count. The introduction of Elerjo Elia added much needed pace to Holland’s front line and after he saw his shot tipped onto the post, Dirk Kuyt was in the right place to tap the ball home. It wasn’t a spectacular game by any means but the Dutch got the win they needed in Soccer City and can look forward to their next game.

JUBILANT JAPAN

Japan managed to overcome Cameroon by a goal to nil in Bloemfontein to secure their first ever World Cup win outside of their own country, but the game cannot be described as a classic, in fact it was the complete opposite as both teams failed to keep possession for long enough to create any meaningful chances.

The first five minutes set the tone for the game with sloppy errors evident all over the pitch, and as Mark Lawrenson took delight in frequently pointing out, it was possibly the poorest game of the tournament so far. It took until almost the end of the half for the first shot on goal, with Eyong Enoh forcing Japan goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima into a save. However just a minute later the undeniably dull game was sparked into life as Honda managed to latch onto a cross that evaded all of Cameroon’s back four. Honda controlled calmly and drove the ball home.

Cameroon, who had chosen to play Captain Samuel Eto’o on the right flank, never looked like getting back into the game and only threatened to steal a point when M’bia struck the much criticised World Cup ball viciously against the cross bar. It was a shot that was not in keeping with the quality of the match and had it gone in, it would have been a contender for Goal of the Tournament. In truth a draw would not have been a fair result as the Japanese were livelier throughout and thoroughly deserved their win.

ITALY STIFLED BY DOGGED PARAGUAY

The reigning Champions Italy kicked off their campaign against a strong Paraguay outfit. As is so often the case in the opening group games in World Cup finals, the match was tentative with both sides sizing each other up. Paraguay were as usual well organised and disciplined and they weren’t afraid to get a foot in, with new Sunderland signing Christian Riveros letting Riccardo Montolivo know he was there with a strong challenge, that should have been met with, at the very least, a yellow card.

Both sides struggled to create chances and it looked like the game was going to be goalless as the half time whistle loomed. However with 5 minutes to go until the interval a delicious dead ball from Aureliano Torres was powerfully headed past Gianluigi Buffon by Antolin Alcaraz and into the Italian net. At half time, with the Paraguayans holding a 1-0 lead, it looked like the first upset of the 2010 World Cup was on the cards.

The Italians could only get better in the second half, and they did as there ball retention improved with Daniele De Rossi having a bigger influence on the game. Meanwhile Simone Pepe was causing problems for both Paraguay full backs by constantly swapping flanks. It was a Pepe-De Rossi combination that led to the Italian’s equaliser, although there was a large helping hand from Goalkeeper Villar who got caught in no man’s land allowing De Rossi to poke into an empty net.

The Italians were unable to create another clear cut chance as Paraguay defended vigilantly, meaning manager Marcelo Lippi was forced to settle for a 1-1 draw and the subsequent point, which in reality was just about right.

So as another day of World Cup football passes, it appears to be the Germans who are leading the way but the Dutch and the Italians have stated their claims.

Paul Seed

Italy V Paraquay - LIVE

2010-06-14T10:07:00.000-07:00

Reigning champions Italy begin their defence against a strong Paraguay side in Cape Town tonight.

Watch the game live in high quality flash at - http://www.flashsportstreams.com/forum/

Holland V Denmark - LIVE

2010-06-14T04:19:00.000-07:00

Watch the game live in high quality flash at - http://www.flashsportstreams.com/forum/

Day 3 round-up

2010-06-13T14:08:00.000-07:00

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

Group E

2010-06-13T05:18:00.000-07:00

Teams:
Netherlands
Denmark
Japan
Cameroon

Group E is a very interesting group which isn’t an easy one to predict. The Netherlands are obviously the favourites to progress from the group and most likely win it, though second spot is wide open.

The Dutch have a wealth of talent available to them which doesn’t consist of only attacking players. Obviously, the likes of Robin Van Persie, Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben are fantastic footballers who will probably share most of the glory. The defensive players will have just as big a part to play in any success the Dutch get, which can sometimes go unnoticed.

Gio Van Bronckhorst and Mark Van Bommel will provide a vast amount of experience for the team; while younger players such as John Heitinga and Nigel De Jong will compliment that experience with tough tackling and vigour.

The Danes also have a good defensive set up, though whether ‘keeper Thomas Sorensen is fit enough to start the campaign is yet to be seen. Per Kroldrup, Lars Jacobsen and Daniel Agger are the rocks at the back for Denmark.

Denmark had a very impressive qualifying period, losing only once in ten games and topping their group which also featured Sweden and Portugal. Daniel Jensen, Christian Poulsen and Nicklas Bendtner are just some of the players to look out for in the Denmark squad.

Japan will prove tough opposition for the other three teams and could cause an upset or two along the way. The Japanese don’t have the same amount of quality available to them as Holland and Denmark, but they do have a good work ethic and some quality through former Celtic man Shunsuke Nakamura and Russian based midfielder Keisuke Honda.

The majority of the Japan squad play in the J League which means there won’t be too many household names on show, though the unknown can be a positive for the Samurai Blue.

In total contrast to the Japanese, the Cameroon squad is filled with players based all over Europe. Cameroon have a vast amount of experience and quality in their squad. Rigobert Song seems to have been playing forever whereas his cousin Alexandre Song is still very young, yet he is one of the best players in the squad.

Cameroon also have Samuel Eto’o, Stephane Mbia and Jean Makoun to show that they have quality throughout the squad and enough of it to be challenging for that top spot.

Prediction

A really tight group which is hard to call and despite their improving team I can’t see Japan having enough to make it out of the group. With the Netherlands looking the strongest it will come down to Cameroon and Denmark for second spot, with Cameroon having just enough to see them through to the next stage.

Carl Leighton

Emile Heskey- The Timeless Debate.

2010-06-12T17:18:00.000-07:00

After Fabio Capello announced his final 23 man squad for England's march against the world there was general bemusement around the land as to why Emile Heskey, a man who has scored a mere 7 goals in 59 England appearances, was picked to go to South Africa.

As has been widely reported, two goalkeepers, Rene Higuita, Columbia's shot stopper who was famed for his Scorpian Kick which shocked England in a friendly game in 1995, and Jose Luis Chilavert of Paraguay who during his playing days struck the back of the net 8 times for his national side, scored more goals at International level than Heskey. These statistics have provided humour and anger in equal measure, mainly amongst Sunderland fans who couldn't believe why their number 11 Darren Bent, who struck 24 times in the Premiership last year, was left out. One black cats fan even took it upon himself to post the stats on Bent's official Twitter page, not that it would have provided much relief for the striker.

However Heskey showed yesterday in Rustenburg, during England's World Cup opener against the United States of America, just why he is in the team. He was arguably England's best performer as he battled relentlessly with the man mountain Oguchi Onyewu, winning almost every header and every 50-50 against the AC Milan man, all the while winning free kicks in valuable positions; free kicks which predictably Frank Lampard wasted. Emile Heskey, a man who netted just 5 times for Aston Villa last season, turned up and battled for his country in a match when all of England's "superstars" stood effectively frozen in Rustenburg as Robert Green threw in an equaliser for the states, which in doing so meant Green achieved an impressive feat: producing an error even worse than former England internationals David Seaman, Paul Robinson and Scott Carson.

Heskey's assets of creating goals and helping the side were evident in just the fourth minute of the match as he held up the ball before playing a clever reverse pass sending Captain Steven Gerrard in on goal. Gerrard who graciously ran into the space Heskey had created for him to fire England into the lead. Whilst Heskey did the job he is in the team to do, and did the job well, those around him let him down. Wayne Rooney, who many have tipped to boss the tournament, failed to anticipate any of Heskey's flick ons whilst failing to utilise the space Heskey created for him which raises eyebrows as the Manchester United man has gone on record saying he loves playing with Heskey, but on his performance yesterday it seems he wants Heskey to spoon feed him.

Before I get lambasted with comments of Heskey's goalscoring record, I remind you that I am a firm believer in the fact that strikers should score goals and Heskey's impotence in front of goal was exemplified in the second half when Lennon played the big Villa front man through on goal. With only Tim Howard to beat, Heskey will have had half the nation out of their seats waiting to explode in a fit of delight. However this dream did not become a reality, as Heskey brilliantly highlighted the reasons why he is constantly criticised, by firing the ball straight at Everton's Tim Howard despite having the whole goal to aim at. It was a chance that, in reality England's fans, manager, players, and perhaps even Heskey himself, knew would never find the net. Even as he ran towards the American goal he never looked confident which perhaps explains why fails to consistently find the net.

Heskey's contribution to the national side is huge and undeniable, his assist for Gerrard yesterday alone highlights that, however his presence on the pitch in an England shirt in many ways has an adverse effect on the team. The sheer volume of long balls pumped towards Big Emile were too numerous to count, as Ledley King, John Terry and Jamie Carragher constantly used Heskey as a get out option time and time again. However by choosing to play more direct, the quality of players like Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard become neutralised as they spend their time watching the ball fly over their heads. Perhaps if England are to finally realise their potential at a major tournament, they need to adapt by sacrificing Heskey and playing a 4-5-1.

Whether Fabio Capello will adapt his usual 4-4-2 system during a major tournament remains to be seen, but what is unquestionable is the effect of Emile Heskey on a team. His qualities are open for everyone to see, he battles and fights and does the dirty stuff, stuff that is apparently beyond the strike partners Heskey has played with. If only he could score goals.

Paul Seed

Off & Running

2010-06-12T15:28:00.000-07:00

So England have announced their candidacy to win the World Cup with a 1-1 draw against a side insistent on referring to the beautiful game as Soccer. The press are packing their bags and going home “they’ve seen it all before, they just know, they’re so sure.” Fabio Capello’s England were due to win their opening encounter and their failure to make good on such expectation has seen their credentials rubbished.

Trouble is, England have drawn their opening games in their most successful tournaments. 1966 England drew with Uruguay, 1990 England drew with the Republic of Ireland and in 1996 European Championships they drew with Switzerland 0-0. So if we are to learn from history then let’s be honest and assume that things are not so bad.

The tendency with the English is to be negative. As a nation we are duly pompous and conservative with a small ‘c.’ Robert Green will come under intense scrutiny from an ever negative press tomorrow morning for a mistake that gifted Clint Dempsey an equalizer for the States. It is the nature of his position that his one and only mistake is punished. Ledley King twice allowed America’s Onyewu a free header from crosses but his mistake went unpunished. John Terry twice allowed Jozy Altidore a free header in the box that went unpunished. And perhaps most fatally of all, Emile Heskey missed two glorious chances to score for England yet his mistakes have been papered over by Green’s blunder.

The enquiry will begin as to what went wrong for England. Was Green’s mistake really to blame for a failure to hit the ground running or does Fabio’s decision to replace Milner with Wright-Phillips instead of Joe Cole, offer more acuter justification? Should Darren Bent have been in the side to score a brace rather than sitting in his Durham flat watching 4,000 miles away? You may think I am labouring the point about Heskey a little too much, but for all his good play against Watford’s Jay Demerit, this was the scenario we all fearer wasn’t it? Heskey one-on-one in the World Cup finals but fluffing the shot. I say it again, given the season Darren Bent just had; do you not think he would have put that ball in the back of the net? And for those of you that argue bringing Heskey is not for him to score, I ask you to justify that? Are you seriously content to sit idly by as Heskey continues to get chance after chance for England but fails to score every time? Or would you prefer to accommodate two strikers both of whom can score to ensure victory? The choice is yours but by now, my feelings on Heskey are plain. Yes he held the ball up well and spread it nicely, but he was also caught offside needlessly 5 times, breaking up our flow and he missed two sitters.

What will come as the biggest disappointment was the performance of Wayne Rooney. I felt extremely sorry for the Manchester United striker tonight who was repeatedly fouled. Demerit and Onyewu could have quite easily been sent off for persistant fouling on the England front man, but given Rooney’s reputation, he failed to receive the proper protection from the card-happy match official.

When the inquests are finished, it is Fabio who must answer for his crimes. The truth is however; I am not overly concerned there is much to be wary of. The USA offered little threat. Of course, in a World Cup game you would expect them to force one or two chances but England were never in danger of losing the game to a lacklustre North American side. I previously wrote of England’s ability to prepare for their habitual injury and rushes of blood. Well now they have also had their habitual goalkeeping howler. The difference this time however, is that the mistakes, injuries and wrong-decisions, have all come in the opening 90minutes of games – a far better scenario then in the Quarterfinals of the semi-finals.

I say it once again, in Fabio we trust, and in South Africa 2010, dare to dream!

Gavin Callaghan

Germany v Australia Preview

2010-06-12T04:52:00.000-07:00

With all the injuries Germany have suffered in the build up to this tournament now is the time for Germany to show how they are going to cope. Will the likes of Mesut Oezil or Bastian Schweinsteiger take on Ballacks role and be the focal point of the team. Or without there inspirational leader will the team be directionless. Australia is a good test for Germany they are a good team but not exceptional and this match will be a good barometer of Germany’s chances of success in the tournament.

Australia’s chances of progressing to the next round will not rest on this match. However they will still want to win. If they can take Germany’s scalp it will be a massive confidence boost. In Tim Cahill they have a quality player who is very dangerous in the air from set pieces, which may be the Socceroos best chance of scoring.

Prediction Germany 2-1 Australia

Watch the game live in high quality flash at -
http://www.flashsportstreams.com/forum/

Chris Guest

“Four, Four, F*****g, Two.”

2010-06-11T14:42:00.000-07:00

So this is it. 4 years in the waiting. Only two a decade, the first on the African continent. The showcase event of the world’s most poetic language. The beautiful games’ most coveted award. It is quite simply the World Cup Finals 2010.

As the buzz of excitement sweeps across England and the rest of the world, Steven Gerrard and his teammates are preparing to enter the most crucial battle of their professional lives.

Take a look around at the St George’s Flags on cars, in windows, strapped to garage doors and hanging proudly from homemade flagpoles in peoples gardens right the way through to the England flag flying high over Downing Street despite this incumbent residents lack of any footballing knowledge. Drive past the local beer gardens in your area and delight at the sight of red and white England tops, men and women of all ages and sizes sporting the world-famous three lions on their shirt.

Forget having to wait years, months, fortnights, weeks or days, we are now just hours away from England’s entrance onto the biggest stage of all. So with the talking about to stop and the action ready to commence, the final decisions of Fabio Capello and his backroom staff will be looked at with even acuter intensity. Mike Bassett, England Manager was a superb piece of cinematography and highlighted one of the age-old traditions in English football; the Three Lions will always play “Four, Four, F*****g, Two.” Yet if we are to break with the other seemingly English tradition of losing in the Quarter-final stages, then perhaps England will have to abandon the tactic, and opt for the more European style of football commonly deployed in the Barclays Premier League this season of 4-3-3.

Now for anyone who frequents themselves with my articles, or as they were referred to this week as “useless drivel,” then you will be aware that not everyone in England agrees with me that England need to change their ways. Of course, for the Heskey lovers amongst us 4-4-2 is the worst possible scenario because the already useless striker would be even more useless as he would be totally surplus to requirements. Why can’t England change it up and play the likes of Spain, Argentina, and Brazil at their own game.

The tournament in South Africa is only 2 games old, but already we have witnessed the 1998 winners and 2006 finalists France, who were dyer, in truth. If England can raise their game, try something different and be brave, maybe 2010 can see Fabio Capello return to the land of hope and glory covered in stardom.

Gavin Callaghan

South Korea v Greece - LIVE

2010-06-11T13:36:00.000-07:00

Stadium: Nelson Mandela Bay

Time: 12.30pm

South Korea take on Greece tomorrow in the first game of the day. Argentina are by far the best team in the group B and should sail through in 1st place. So, South Korea and Greece will be vying for second place, along with Nigeria. The game will probably be tight and cagey, as both teams aren't the most adventurous.

Prediction: South Korea 1-0 Greece

Watch the game live in high quality flash at - http://www.flashsportstreams.com/forum/

Ant Myers

Group F

2010-06-11T09:21:00.001-07:00

Group F contains the holding Champions Italy, and interestingly they have appeared in more World Cup Finals than the other three Group F sides combined.

Those other three teams are Slovakia, New Zealand and Paraguay, and it is the Paraguayans who are deemed as the side to pose most of a threat to Italy, having qualified from the South American qualification group ahead of World Cup front runners Argentina.

The Italians have a World Cup headache to contend with before they kick off their campaign against Paraguay on Monday. With Andrea Pirlo injured with a calf strain, manager Marcelo Lippi will be seeking a replacement for a player who is integral in the Italian system. However the Azzurri are expected to have too much for their group opponents and qualification to the knock out rounds should be assured for the nation who have played more World Cup football than any other.

Their first opponents Paraguay have prepared thoroughly, and recently comfortably disposed of Greece with a 2-1 victory. Lucas Barrios has hit the ground running since his first appearance for the Paraguayans. The Argentina born striker has scored 3 times in as many games since taking Paraguayan citizenship in order to play in South Africa and his form will give manager Gerardo Martino great belief leading into their campaign.

Slovakia are outsiders in the group, and incidentally they are playing in their first World Cup finals since they became Slovakia, as previously they had been Czechoslovakia, who had qualified eight times. They topped their qualifying group, ahead of Slovenia and the Czech Republic. They have some quality players, including Liverpool centre back Martin Skrtel and captain Marek Hamsik. Napoli's creative midfielder has been linked with a big money move to the Premiership in recent weeks. Don't rule the Slovaks out who have a real chance of qualifying for the knock out rounds should other sides slip up.

New Zealand, who interestingly are the opposite to the Country's famous rugby side in the way that they play in all white, are appearing in only their second World Cup finals but Ryan Nelsen and company are not expected to have a substantial effect on the group, with the All Whites expected to finish bottom of Group F.

Fixtures

14th June

Italy VS Paraguay (Cape Town) Prediction: 2-1

15th June

New Zealand VS Slovakia (Rustenburg) Prediction: 0-1

20th June

Slovakia VS Paraguay (Manguang/Bloemfontein) Prediction: 1-2

Italy VS New Zealand (Nelspruit) Prediction: 2-0

24th June

Slovakia VS Italy (Johannesburg) Prediction: 1-1

Paraguay VS New Zealand (Polokwane) Prediction: 2-1

Paul Seed

One to Watch: Yoann Gourcuff

2010-06-11T09:16:00.001-07:00

Many young, French footballers have been prematurely hyped as the next Zidane over the last decade. Among them, Yoann Gourcuff is probably the one with the greatest chance of living up to the title. The supertalent moved from Rennes to Milan at a young age, where he failed to make a big impression. After two years of mostly subsititute appearances, he was loaned back to France and Bordeaux for the 08/09 season. No one expected him to take off the way he did, not in the least Milan who had offered the French club a buy-out clause of €15M. Gourcuff produced 13 goals and 14 assists from an offensive role in the center of midfield in his first season at Bordeaux, which earned him the Ligue 1 Player of the Year award. He quickly established himself for the French national team, and became a favourite of Domenech's.

Gourcuff's main attributes are his incredible touch on the ball and his vision and range of passing. Coupled with an ability to score goals, it's easy to see the similarities with Zidane. Also being a tireless worker, Bordeaux didn't have to think hard when they opted to meet Milan's buy-out clause. Gourcuff was hyped as the next big thing in French football ahead of the 09/10 season, but this time he had a harder time living up to the high expectations. He started off well, as Bordeaux looked dead set for a second consective title, topping the Ligue 1 table comfortably as the first half of the season progressed. Even more impressive were Gourcuff's and Bordeaux's performance in the Champions League, where they won their group ahead of Bayern and Juventus. But as Bordeaux hit a wall and sunk like a stone during the second half, finishing 6th, incredibly 14 points behind Marseille, and were knocked out in the quarter final of the Champions League to French rivals Lyon, Gourcuff went missing with the rest of his team. He also ceased to stand out in a French national team that struggled to qualify for the World Cup.

Whether Gourcuff can find his form again is critical to France's chances of doing well in South Africa, or even just advancing from their competitive group. Domenech put alot of faith in him when he excluded Nasri from the French squad, leaving Gourcuff as their only central playmaker. But even if he fails to perform at this World Cup, under Domenech's dubious guidance, we shouldn't dismiss the young midfielder, as he has all the attributes to become a main player in world football in the future.

G. Lindström

South Africa 1 - 1 Mexico - match facts

2010-06-11T09:05:00.000-07:00

Group A South Africa 1 - 1 Mexico

Tshabalala (55) Marquez (79)

Shots on-target 3 3

Shots off-target 6 8

Corners 4 5

Offsides 4 6

Yellow Cards 2 2

Red Cards 0 0

Possession 35% 65%

All Square in Opening Game

2010-06-11T09:03:00.000-07:00

Bafana Bafana drew their first game 1-1 with Mexico today. The host nation sent their fans into raptures when Siphiwe Tshabalala's ferocious strike arrowed in to the top corner on 55 minutes. It was a goal worthy to win any World Cup match. Mexico were superb in the first half and deserved to be leading at half time. They started the second half slowly and lacked the fluidity they had in the first half.

After conceding they respond well, the introductions of the experienced Cuahtemoc Blanco and the lively Andres Guardado, sparked more creativity. In the 79th minute it was Guardado's cross that found Rafael Marquez who stuck the ball past Khune in goal. The vuvuzelas were distinctly silenced when the Mexicans equalised. It was a great curtain raiser, colour and pride streamed through Soccer City, a great day for Africa and the world.

Star man: Giovani Dos Santos. His direct running and pace caused South Africa problems all game.

Ant Myers

Argentina v Nigeria Preview

2010-06-11T08:35:00.000-07:00

With the players that Argentina have at their disposal you’d be forgiven for expecting this to be a comfortable win for them. However, after a very poor qualifying campaign which saw them leave it until the last game to seal their place in South Africa, the Argentineans aren’t looking as powerful as they once were.

Having used 107 players during the qualifying campaign, yes that’s right 107, Argentina are more like individuals than a team which may work against them in the World Cup. Though in fairness to Argentina, what a fantastic group of individuals they have; Messi, Tevez, Higuain, Aguero – all good attacking players.

Nigeria also have some quality in the attacking positions through Martins, Yakubu and the crafty Kanu. Both sides will be going for the win in the opening game of Group B which will hopefully give us a nice open game with plenty of goals, though don’t be surprised to see a nervy display lacking in excitement.

Although Nigeria have a strong squad I feel Argentina will have too much skill and ability for the Nigerians to handle.

Watch the game live in high quality flash at - http://www.flashsportstreams.com/forum/

Carl Leighton

Group C

2010-06-11T05:47:00.000-07:00

Teams:
England
USA
Algeria
Slovenia

The good thing about Group C is that it is quite an open group. Don’t be fooled by the average man on the street or the English media, England aren’t as strong as they are made out to be. There’s no getting away from the fact that England have a good side, no team can go through qualification suffering only one defeat if they don’t have some class about them.

The squad, as always, has no real surprises to it – though how Joe Cole managed to get a seat on the plane after so little playing time is quite incredible.

After a great deal of progress the Americans now have a side which, if they aren’t taken seriously, could quite easily cause an upset or two through their campaign.

With plenty of household names in their squad such as; Tim Howard of Everton, Fulham’s Clint Dempsey and AC Milan’s Oguchi Onyewu – who has recently announced he will play next season for free - the US boast experience and flare in their squad.

The Algerian squad also features some well known names in European football; Karim Ziani of Wolfsburg, Rangers defender Madjid Bougherra and one of their star players, Nadir Belhadj are all players to be on the lookout for.

Algeria are another side which may look like an easy opponent to some but they certainly won’t be; they are strong at the back and through Ziani and Mourad Mehni, have a spark going forward. Though of course this is the World Cup, there won’t be any games which can be described as being ‘easy’.

Slovenia are the fourth and final team in Group C and are the underdogs of the group. West Brom’s Robert Koren will provide attacking flare in a side which scored 18 times on the road to qualification, conceding only four which is an impressive return and shows they are strong at the back.
Although Slovenia did well in qualifying, the group may just be a little bit too tough for them to get out of.

Final Standings Prediction
It’s as you were for this group I feel, with England leading the group. The US and Algeria will battle fiercely for second spot, though I think the United States will have enough to clinch second place.

Carl Leighton

Group B -Predictions and Preview

2010-06-11T05:26:00.000-07:00

1^st Argentina

2^nd Nigeria

3^rd Greece

4^th South Korea

Although some people might say this group is not very interesting it has the possibility of being one of the most interesting. It has a team which should easily walk the group (but might not) followed by 3 other teams who are closely matched and any of them could achieve second place.

First-Argentina, a lot of people see Messi, Tevez, Aguero, Higuain and think Argentina will have no problems. The problem they have is these are all forwards and Argentina are not so strong at the other end of the pitch. In Maradonna they have one of the greatest players ever but hes not as great manager. He has used over 100 players during a less than stellar qualifying campaign. With the talent he has its very questionable if he has the tactical awareness and man management to maximize his team’s potential. I think they will still top the group but would not be surprised if they have at least 1 match where things do not go there way.

Second - Nigeria are playing in there home continent which should spur them on. However it could also provide a huge amount of pressure to perform which the Super Eagles could flourish or flounder under. They came 3^rd in the African cup of nations whereas Ivory Coast who are much more fancied in this tournament could only reach the quarter finals. They are a very physical, quick and fit team who on there day could be trouble for anyone. They have a real chance of achieving second place; it will depend on how they handle the pressure and if they keep there discipline.

Third - Greece play only one way, they get a massive blue and white double decker bus and park it directly in front of their goal then counter attack.at times it can be very boring to watch but it can also be very effective. They proved this by winning EURO 2004. When they do concede and have to change their style of play to chase the game they can struggle. The Greeks could frustrate an Argentinean side who might find it difficult to score which could then lead to a loss of discipline and a shock result. Greece could lose every game or win every game by 1 goal, though more than likely losing more than they win. They shocked us in 2004 they could shock us all again.

Fourth – South Korea, gone are the glory days of Guss Hiddink and a tournament on home soil. They have Park Ji-Sung, who is so popular that in famous shaving adverts which include Tiger Woods, Roger Federer and Thierry Henry, Henry is replaced by Park Ji-Sung in South Korea. They have a few other capable players but probably not enough to reach second place but enough to cause the other teams problems. I think if they do reach second it will be more a case of other teams under performing.

Chris Guest

Group A

2010-06-11T04:27:00.000-07:00

Group A is really hard to call, all four teams will be realistically hoping to progress. Host nation South Africa have the weakest squad, but with massive home support and the Vuvuzela's, they will be a dangerous team to face. There's no doubt that France have the strongest squad, they have great strength and depth at their disposal. However, with coach Raymond Domenech at the helm, the team looks completely disjointed and bankrupt of ideas. If stars like Lionel Ribery and Nicolas Anelka perform, then they have a chance of a successful tournament.

Mexico have a real chance of making it through, they have a good team spirit and can dominate sides with their precise passing. If they could get a draw today, it would give them something to build on. For me, Uruguay could be this year's dark horse, pace, power and work ethic runs through the team and not forgetting the strike duo of Forlan and Suarez. I have tipped them to beat France tonight and if they do, they will be in the Group A driving seat.

Prediction: Uruguay and South Africa to advance. France to crash out and Mexico just falling short.

Ant Myers

The Group Of Death

2010-06-10T17:07:00.000-07:00

Every four years, the World Cup draws a highly competitive and entertaining group. This group is more commonly referred to as the "Group Of Death", and this year that prestigious mantle goes to Group G.

Whilst South Africa is in a state of eager anticipation following on from the hugely successful opening concert containing the Black Eyed Peas, for the neutrals it is the group of death that is the headline act at world cup finals. This time round Brazil, Portugal, The Ivory Coast and the seemingly hapless North Korea have found themselves in the most difficult group.

The Portuguese only have themselves to blame for finding themselves in this group after a poor qualifying campaign left then needing to win a play-off tie with Boznia and Herzegovina, which they did 2-0 on aggregate. However it is thought qualification from Group G will be just as difficult for the Portuguese, with the Ivory Coast prepared to mount a real challenge, alongside Brazil who are widely expected to top the group.

What is interesting about this years Group of Death is that arguably the race for second place is more intriguing than the race for first as Dunga's ruthless Brazilians are seen as almost sure things to qualify in first place. Who will end up qualifying in second place is anyone's guess as it is almost impossible to separate the Ivory Coast and Portugal, whilst North Korea have a history of upsets, having stunned Italy way back in 1966 although a similar upset seems unlikely.

Fixtures

15th June:

Ivory Coast VS Portugal (Port Elizabeth) Prediction: 1-1

Brazil VS North Korea ( Johannesburg) Prediction: 4-0

20th June:

Brazil VS Ivory Coast ( Johannesburg) Prediction: 2-1

21st June:

Portugal VS North Korea ( Cape Town) Prediction: 3-1

25th June:

Portugal VS Brazil ( Durban) Prediction: 1-1

North Korea VS Ivory Coast ( Nelspruit) Prediction: 0-2

Paul Seed

Uruguay v France - LIVE

2010-06-10T09:41:00.000-07:00

Stadium: Cape Town

Time: 7.30pm

Ireland fans will be watching this game wondering what could have been if Thierry Henry hadn't cheated to help eliminate them from the play-off. That is history now, France are there and will be looking to prove their critics wrong. They face a strong Uruguay side who have aspirations of making the second round at least. Both teams will need to get off to a good start, as Group A is filled with 4 teams who all fancy themselves to advance further. I watched France last week against China and they looked like a team bereft of confidence and direction. Some will say that warm up games results are unimportant, but at this stage a team needs to show team spirit and cohesion.

I'm really looking forward to seeing Uruguay, they have some real entertainers in their ranks. the front two of Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez would give any defender nightmares. The duo are prolific at club level and if they get any half chances they will punish you. The French defence looks immense on paper, however, recently it has been breached far too easily. It's been rumoured that all time leading goalscorer Thierry Henry will have to settle for a place on the bench, it will be a bold decision by coach Raymond Domenech if true.

Prediction: Uruguay 2-1 France.

Watch the game live in high quality flash at - http://www.flashsportstreams.com/forum/

Ant Myers

Best of the Rest: Strikers! Substitutes!

2010-06-10T08:31:00.000-07:00

Franceso Totti (Roma; Italy) - Second striker
Maybe not quite the player he once was, he's far from a faded star, having played another good season for his beloved Roma, that nearly resulted in a scudetto. But Totti has himself to blame for being excluded from this Italian World Cup squad, as he retired from international football after winning it last time around, and didn't make himself available for Italy's qualifying campaign. He did say that he would come out of international retirement and be available for the World Cup finals in South Africa, but Lippi opted for more motivated players.

Lisandro López (Lyon; Argentina) - Striker
Another Argentinian. Better than Martin Palermo, too. Doesn't have quite as fancy a name, though. Having scored 25 goals for Lyon this season, and having won the Ligue 1 Player of the Year award, he's the one to lead the attack for Rejects United.
________

Stéphane Ruffier (Monaco; France) - Substitute
Young french goalkeeper who has looked very impressive for Monaco this season.

Julien Escudé (Sevilla; France) - Substitute
Solid veteran centre back.

Benoît Trémoulinas (Bordeaux; France) - Substitute
The 24 year old attack-minded left back has yet to make an appearance for France, but as his competition for the spot are first team regulars for Barcelona, Manchester United, Arsenal and Lyon, it hardly suggests he lacks quality.

Éver Banega (Valencia; Argentina) - Substitute
Following a disappointing loan session at Atéltico Madrid over the 08/09 season, the 21 year old defensive midfielder had better luck this season, as he's been one of the most impressive young players of the Primera División.

Adam Johnson (Manchester City; England) - Substitute
13 and goals 17 assists for the winger, over a season split in half between the Championship with Middlesbrough, and the Premier League with Manchester City. Johnson is one of the most exciting young English players, and would have likely made the selection if he were 23 years old rather than 22.

Darren Bent (Sunderland; England) - Substitute
With 24 Premier League goals to his name this season, Bent is the highest scoring top division footballer who's been snubbed for the World Cup. We welcome him here to get some imaginary international experience!

Karim Benzema (Real Madrid; France) - Substitute
The high profile striker failed to settle during his first season at Real Madrid and has quite frankly been poor. If you also take into consideration that Benzema has often failed to perform for his national team, Domenech's decision to drop him might not be as lunatic as you would expect from the lunatic. But there are no doubts about the ex-Lyon striker's ability, so we're willing to give him a chance to redeem his season. Besides, he has gained some valuable experience of warming the bench at Madrid, which could very well come in hand during the chilly South African winter nights. But I suppose he's not actually going there. Oh well, very well.

Previously:
Best of the Rest: Defenders
Best of the Rest: Midfielders

G. Lindström

South Africa v Mexico - LIVE

2010-06-10T06:15:00.000-07:00

1433 Days have elapsed since Fabio Grosso’s penalty won Italy their fourth world cup. There is only one more day to wait until the greatest spectacle on earth starts again. 32 Countries are ready to fight for the coveted Jules Rimet trophy, and for the first time on the African Continent. For football fans the months of build up finally come to an end and the action can begin. Friday is a huge global event but for South Africa and the continent as a whole this match is especially significant.

South Africa is still a troubled nation with many experiencing crippling poverty, an AIDS epidemic and worrying crime levels. On Friday however people will not be focusing on these things anymore, for all of South Africa’s 49 Million residents the World Cup is a chance to show how far they have come and show people another side of Africa. We all wish them well and hope that the World Cup lives up to all expectations.

But what of the two teams for Friday’s curtain raiser. South Africa has a difficult group with Mexico, a dangerous Uruguayan team and one of footballs powerhouses France. There is optimism in the country as South Africa enter the tournament unbeaten in ten games and having reached the final of the confederations cup. They are going to be heavily reliant on Steven Pienaar producing good performances and driving the team forward. Their coach Carlos Alberto Parriera has world cup pedigree leading Brazil to triumph in 94’ and he will need to inspire this group of players. Mphela upfront will need to fill the void left by Benni Mcarthy’s omission, Aaaron Mokoena will need to be on his best form as he marshals the defence. Most importantly though if South Africa can foster a team spirit and harness the support of their country I feel they could get just get out of the group.

Mexico will not be an easy opponent for the hosts as England can testify. They are a well-organised side boasting young talent and experienced professionals who have been to many world cups. Rafael Marquez, Torrado, Blanco and Franco have all played at the highest level and playing the hosts will not daunt them. In Carlos Vela, Giovani Dos Santos, and the promising Javier Hernandez Mexico have plenty of firepower to hurt any opposition. Mexico though are frail at the back and always looked like conceding from corners and set pieces against England. Their coach Javier Aguirre also has good experience having previously bee to a world cup as manager of Mexico and coaching Osasuna and Athletico Madrid. Mexico are dangerous opposition and they have successfully qualified from their group in the last four world cups. They will certainly enter this game as the favourites.

It is going to be extremely tough for South Africa to get through group A. It is imperative that they start with a win against Mexico. If they can beat Mexico they stand a very real chance of reaching the last 16 for the first time. Come three o’clock Friday afternoon Africa will host its first World Cup match the world will be introduced to the Vuvuzela and the greatest show on earth begins. Roll on Friday…

Watch the game live in high quality flash at - http://www.flashsportstreams.com/forum/

Laurie O’Brien

World Cup Star out of Chelsea

2010-06-09T09:16:00.000-07:00

You could be forgiven for thinking I've made a mistake with the title with Chelsea player after Chelsea player being hit by injury. First it was Alex, then Ballack, Drogba broke his arm and Mikel soon joined the list.

This morning Chelsea announced that fan favourite Joe Cole would be leaving Stamford Bridge this Summer after a new contract failed to materialise. The 28 year old is widely expected to start on the left flank for the Three Lions against the USA.

With Joe Cole's future at club level uncertain, will the player play like a player in the proverbial shop-window, keen to impress and determined to catch the eye of scouts from the world's top clubs? Cole's glorious swirling first-time strike against Sweden was a highlight of England's last World Cup campaign in Germany and despite an injury-hit season, the former West Ham man still has the ability to put in a repeat performance.

Pete Guest

Best of the Rest: Midfielders

2010-06-09T09:13:00.000-07:00

Esteban Cambiasso (Internazionale; Argentina) - Defensive midfielder
Argentinian media has speculated that the reason for Cambiasso's exclusion is his rumoured, alleged bisexuality. Maradona doesn't have the best of relationships with the domestic media (although he famously expressed a desire for a more intimate one...), so it may well be grudge driven, unfounded speculation. But you wouldn't put it past the great small man, would you?

Torsten Frings (Werder Bremen; Germany) - Defensive midfielder
Joachim Löw wished to make room for a younger generation when he dropped Frings after Euro 2008. The 33 year old defensive midfielder, however, hasn't dropped his standards and looks as good as ever, impressively scoring 6 goals since the Bundesliga winter break. As late injuries to Michael Ballack and Simon Rolfes have left the final German squad with just two central midfielders, Löw's stubborn refusal to call up midfield general Frings could prove to be one of the most costly managerial mistakes of the World Cup.

Lucho González (Marseille; Argentina) - Attacking midfielder
Lucho González' move from Porto to Marseille for up to €24M was one of the biggest transfers of last summer. Money well spent by Marseille, as the playmaker has been instrumental to the French club winning their first titles since 1993, creating more goals than anyone else in Ligue 1. He scored in his only appearance for Argentina in the South American World Cup qualifiers, but Diego Maradona wanted to have a look at another 199 players. Maybe he forgot about Lucho.

Ronaldinho (Milan; Brazil) - Attacking midfielder
Ronaldinho seems to have fallen off the radar a bit since his move to Milan, and while he did lose sharpness and discipline before and during his first season at the Italian club, he has over the past 10 months without a doubt shown he's still a world class footballer. With 15 goals and 19 assists, he's had a significantly better season than former teammate Kaká. Dunga might not believe he's a perfect fit for the desired playstyle of his Brazil, or may be worried about his off-pitch antics. Is that good enough reason to drop a highly motivated Ronaldinho? Looking at their current attacking options, it's hard to say yes. But on the other hand, looking at their defensive options, they may well end up winning the whole thing anyway.

Previously:
Best of the Rest: Defenders

G. Lindström

North Korea

2010-06-09T06:47:00.000-07:00

Confederation: AFC(Aisa)
Head coach: Kim Jong-Hun
Captain: Hong Yong-Jo
Group: H

This will be North Korea's 2nd World Cup in their footballing history, the famous year of 1966 was their first World Cup adventure. In 1966, they managed to reach the quarter-finals and cause a massive upset by knocking out Italy in the second round. Already North Korea have been involved in controversy, they tried to cheat the squad system by registering striker Kim Myong-Won as their 3rd goalkeeper. FIFA have made it clear that Kim Myong-Won must not feature outfield.

Only 3 of the 23 man squad play their football outside of North Korea. Captain and star man Hong Yong-Jo plays for Russian side FC Rostov and has 11 goals in 41 caps for North Korea. Hong Yong-Jo's strike partner Jong Ta-Se A.K.A ‘North Korea's Rooney’ has boldly predicted that his country will make the second round. They are in group F, which is year's 'Group of Death, Brazil, Portugal and Ivory Coast accompany North Korea.

If North Korea are to reach the knockout stage, they will have to pull off some miraculous results and produce one of the most shocking moments in World Cup history.

Squad:

Kim Myong-gil, Kim Myong-won (both Amrokgang), Ri Myong-guk (Pyongyang City); An Chol-hyok (Rimyongsu), An Yong-hak (Omiya Ardija), Cha Jong-hyok (Amrokgang), Choe Kum-chol (April 25), Hong Yong-jo (FK Rostov), Ji Yun-nam (April 25), Jong Tae-se (Kawasaki Frontale), Kim Hum-il (April 25), Kim Kyong-il (Rimyongsu), Kim Yong-jun (Pyongyang City), Mun In-guk, Nam Song-chol (both April 25), Pak Chol-jin (Amrokgang), Pak Nam-chol (April 25), Pak Nam-chol (Amrokgang), Pak Sung-hyok (Sobaeksu), Ri Chol-myong (Pyongyang City), Ri Jun-il (Sobaeksu), Ri Kwang-chon (April 25), Ri Kwang-hyok (Kyonggongop).

Ant Myers

Chile

2010-06-08T15:26:00.000-07:00

Confederation: CONMEBOL(South America)
Head coach: Marcelo Bielsa
Captain: Claudio Bravo
Group: H

Chile are a team you should watch this summer, if you want to see good, attacking football. 'La Roja' have pace, skill and plenty of goals in their arsenal. They finished 2nd in South American qualifying and only just 1 point behind Brazil. 3-4-3 is the formation they play with, that tells you, they are not a team that will park the bus. Striker Humberto Suazo has an amazing club goal scoring record and has 18 goals in 42 caps for Chile.

Suazo is short and stocky, he has power, strength and is a deadly finisher. If you're looking to bet on the Golden Shoe winner, then seriously consider Suazo as an outside bet. Chile will play with a 3 pronged attack, with Mark Gonzalez and Alexis Sanchez either side of Suazo. Gonzalez and Sanchez have plenty of pace and trickery, they will look to exploit the wings on every occasion.

Midfielder Matias Fernandez will be the supply line for strikers, he has great vision and pin point accuracy from set pieces. Jorge Valdivia will make good viewing with his silky skills and showboating. Carlos Carmona is the only midfielder who is defensive minded, so he may be utilised if a game needs seeing out.

Squad:

Goalkeepers: Claudio Bravo (Real Sociedad/Spain), Miguel Pinto (Universidad de Chile), Luis Marin (Union Espanola)

Defenders: Pablo Contreras (PAOK/Greece), Ismael Fuentes (Universidad Catolica), Mauricio Isla (Udinese/Italy), Gary Medel (Boca Juniors/Argentina), Gonzalo Jara (West Bromwich/England), Waldo Ponce (Universidad Catolica), Arturo Vidal (Bayer Leverkusen/Germany)

Midfielders: Carlos Carmona (Reggina/Italy), Marco Estrada (Universidad de Chile), Matias Fernandez (Sporting Lisbon/Portugal), Gonzalo Fierro (Flamengo/Brazil), Rodrigo Millar (Colo Colo), Rodrigo Tello (Besiktas/Turkey), Jorge Valdivia (Al-Ain/United Arab Emirates)

Strikers: Jean Beausejour (America/Mexico), Mark Gonzalez (CSKA Moscow/Russia), Fabian Orellana (Xerez/Spain), Esteban Paredes (Colo Colo), Alexis Sanchez (Udinese/Italy), Humberto Suazo (Real Zaragoza/Spain)

Ant Myers

Algeria

2010-06-08T07:13:00.000-07:00

Coach: Rabbah Aaadane
Group: C
Region: Africa

The country of Algeria is not known for its football despite their most famous son being one of the most talented players to ever step foot on a pitch. Zinedine Zidane - Algeria’s finest! Well you didn’t seriously think it was a French name did you??

The Desert Foxes will be competing in only their second World Cup having been knocked out in the first round in 1982. Will a similar fate await them this time around? They qualified for South Africa topping a group that contained 2002’s surprise package Senegal and will be outsiders to make their way out of a difficult Group C.

They kick off their campaign on Sunday 18th against fellow outsiders Slovenia. Surely a must-win game if they are to have any real chance of progressing through the group-stages.

Amongst the Algerians’ ranks are some familiar names. Offensive full-back Nadir Belhadj and defensive-midfielder Hassan Yebda were both Portsmouth players last season, a season which saw the south-coast club relegated from the Premiership. The imposing figure of centre back Madjid Bougherra was a dominant figure in last season’s Glasgow Ranger’s side which comfortably won their domestic league.

Algeria will be looking to Rafik Saifi for goals. The 35 year old striker has 60 caps for his country and despite his age contributed some vital goals during the qualifying campaign.
I wonder who Zidane will be backing, his country of birth Algeria or France. One thing’s for sure - at a massive 500-1 to win the trophy with Bet365, England’s second opponents will have few backers at the bookies with those kind of odds!

***Random fact… Algeria’s coach Rabah Saadane has been manager of the African country on FIVE separate occasions***

Algeria’s 23-man squad

Goalkeepers
Lounes Gaouaoui, ASO Chlef
Faouzi Chaouchi, ES Setif
Raid Ouheb M’bolhi, Slavia Sofia

Defenders
Abdelakder Laifaoui, ES Setif
Madjid Bougherra, Rangers FC
Carl Medjani, Ajaccio
Rafik Halliche, Madeira
Antar Yahia, Bochum
Habib Belaid, Boulogne
Nadir Belhadj, Portsmouth
Djamel Mesbah, Lecce

Midfielders
Hassan Yebda, Portsmouth
Medhi Lacen, Racing Santander
Yazid Mansouri, Lorient
Adlene Guidoura, Wolverhampton
Riad Boudebouz, Sochaux
Djamel Abdoun, Nantes
Foued Kadir, Valenciennes
Karim Ziani, Wolfsburg
Karim Matmour, Borussia Monchengladbach

Forwards
Abdelkader Ghezzal, Siena
Rafik Djebbour, AEK Athens
Rafik Saifi, Istres

Pete Guest

Spain vs Poland - LIVE Stream

2010-06-08T07:01:00.000-07:00

Tonight, 8.55pm

Spain face Poland tonight in Murcia. This is their final warm up game before they set off for South Africa. Fernando Torres game time and will use this game to get some fitness.

Watch the match in high quality flash here - http://www.flashsportstreams.com/forum

Best of the Rest: Defenders

2010-06-08T06:03:00.000-07:00

As unusually many good and high profile players have been omitted from this year's World Cup, I thought it would be interesting to see just how good a team these players would form if they got together. The players I've included are ones whose national team have qualified for the World Cup, who are not injured or internationally retired, but rather deemed as not good enough or misfits by the manager of their country. To make it more digestible/more like Christmas time, (or, for you cynics out there, to make it more annoying/make myself seem more important), I will reveal my selected team of rejects over three days.

Júlio Sérgio (Roma; Brazil) - Goalkeeper
The 31 year old goalkeeper has amazingly made less than 100 appearances over his entire career, failing to become the first choice goalkeeper at 9 of his last 10 clubs. But he finally got his opportunity this season, as Roma's first choice and second choice, Doni and Artur, struggled with injuries and poor performance. Júlio Sérgio impressed and quickly cemented his place in the first team, playing a key part in Roma's fantastic season as they finished 2nd in Serie A, just two points behind Inter. Curiously, it is Doni whom Dunga has called up as Brazil's third choice keeper in South Africa.

Cesár Azpilicueta (Osasuna; Spain) - Right back
The 20 year old has been one of the best full backs in the Primera División this season, earning a call up to Spain's preliminary World Cup squad. He didn't make the final cut, as Del Bosque opted for experience in the backline.

Alex (Chelsea; Brazil) - Centre back
Alex didn't feature much at Chelsea until the end of the season due to injury and being third choice for his position, behind Terry and Carvalho. But the strong centre back played a big part in Chelsea's Premier League title, as he started in the last 9 games of the season, contributing to the London club winning 26 out of 28 points over those games, while only conceding 5 goals. The competition for the centre back position is brutal in Brazil; if Dunga had selected Alex in place of current choices Thiago Silva, Lúcio, Juan or Luisão, the replacee would have made my list instead.

Naldo (Werder Bremen; Brazil) - Centre back
Naldo has been considered as one of the very best centre backs in the Bundesliga for many years, and had another excellent season 09/10 as Werder Bremen finished 3rd. With just 4 international appearances, the 6 ft 6 in free kick specialist has never really been given the chance for Brazil. Together with Alex, he would have formed one of the very strongest centre back partnerships in South Africa, had our imaginary team qualified for the competition...

Il Capitano (Internazionale; Argentina) - Left back
Maradona no le gusta. Javier Zanetti is one of the best players of his generation. Has legendary status in Italy, and is even appreciated by fans of Inter's rivals. Current Champions League champion. Dropped in 2006. Dropped in 2010.

G. Lindström

Portugal's Nani out of World Cup

2010-06-08T05:52:00.000-07:00

Man United's Portuguese winger Nani has been ruled out of the World Cup with a shoulder injury it was today revealed. Portugal are in the much talked about 'group of death' and face tricky encounters with Brazil and the Ivory Coast.

Pete Guest

The Inevitable.

2010-06-07T17:34:00.000-07:00

Preparation is of course key to a successful World Cup campaign. By now England should have catered into their preparation last minute injuries to key players pre-tournament, a red-card to a key player during the tournament, and with any luck an open-top buss parade post-tournament.

This time has been no different but perhaps there is a tide in the ocean swinging in England’s favour. Rio Ferdinand is the big name casualty, injured by none other than Mr. ‘I shouldn’t be here anyway’ Heskey. Truth is, most England fans would have been hoping that it was the other way round and Emile was en route back to Heathrow. I’m still hopeful of this, but nonetheless I shall deal with the matter at hand.

The England captain has been denied of a once in a lifetime opportunity; to lead out his nation at a World Cup is an honour few given and rarely received. Yet if England fans are honest, it perhaps couldn’t have happened to a better player. Consensus at Old Trafford has been that Rio has had his worse season in professional football. Hampered by injuries, the skipper only started 13 league games for United and was decidedly shaky in many of those. We all remember Craig Bellamy’s taunts of “You’re finished” during the Carling Cup semi-final last season. England already had concerns over the form of John Terry after a much troubled second half of the season.

And this is where the tide has swung for England. Perhaps luck has changed. In tournaments gone by, it would have been an injury to Rooney, Beckham, Gerrard or Cole that would have prevented England from fielding their strongest 11. If the stars are shining on England with the target of the habitual injury, then they are shining even more so on our nation in that we have a brilliant and inform replacement to step in. in fact we are spoilt for riches in Ledley King and Michael Dawson. Off the back of their best ever season together; maybe England will be the inadvertent beneficiaries of Rio’s misfortune.

Next on our list of preparations is of course a red card to a key player. Let’s just hope this either doesn’t happen, or if it does, comes when England are winning comfortably and to a player who is as easily replaceable.

So as fans we can only wait. Wait with our fingers crossed, sweaty palms clasped, pint glasses full, three lions on our chest and, with a silent pause look to the heavens and hope that this time, in the first ever winter world cup, amongst the world’s finest footballers, the stars continue to shine and England win the most coveted prize of all.

Gavin Callaghn

Slovakia

2010-06-07T15:37:00.000-07:00

Confederation: UEFA
Head coach: Vladimir Weiss
Captain Marek Hamsik
Group: F

Some people may regard Slovakia as one of the whipping boys at this year's World Cup, however, they will be going to cause an upset. This is their first World Cup since gaining independance and the Slovakian natives are bursting with excitement to see their country compete on the world stage. Slovakia topped their qualifying group, finishing above supposed better teams, like Czech Republic and Poland. Their squad has a good blend of youth and experience, Chelsea's Miroslav Stoch and Manchester City's Vladimir Weiss are highly rated and will play on the wings for Slovakia. Both are tricky, fast and have plenty of flair to beat their man.

Liverpool's Martin Skrtel has been struggling with injuries all season and was a doubt for the tournament, but, it's thought he will be fit to participate. Newly promoted West Brom will have a Slovakian representaive in left back, Marek Cech. Captain and star man, Marek Hamsik is definitely one to watch this summer, he is very creative and is a real goal threat. Slovakia have an attack that will cause lots of problems for oppsition defences, Stanislav Sestak has bags of pace and has an impressive record of 11 goals in 33 caps for his country.

Robert Vittek will be a physical presence up front and will rough up defences. Young Schalke forward Erik Jendrisek is tipped for success in the game and could prove to be a key player for the Slovakians.

Goalkeepers: Jan Mucha (Legia Warsaw, Poland), Dusan Kuciak (Vaslui, Romania), Dusan Pernis (Dundee United, Scotland)

Defenders: Marek Cech (West Brom, England), Jan Durica (Hannover, Germany), Peter Pekarik (Wolfsburg, Germany), Martin Petras (Cesena, Italy), Kornel Salata (Slovan Bratislava), Martin Skrtel (Liverpool, England), Radoslav Zabavnik (Mainz, Germany)

Midfielders: Marek Hamsik (Napoli, Italy), Kamil Kopunek (Spartak Trnava), Jan Kozak (Politehnica Timisoara, Romania), Juraj Kucka (Sparta Prague, Czech Republic), Marek Sapara (Ankaragucu, Turkey), Zdeno Strba (Xanthi, Greece), Miroslav Stoch (Chelsea, England), Vladimir Weiss (Manchester City)

Forwards: Filip Holosko (Besiktas, Turkey), Martin Jakubko (Saturn Moscow, Russia), Erik Jendrisek (Schalke, Germany), Stanislav Sestak (Bochum, Germany), Robert Vittek (Lille, France).

Ant Myers

Germany

2010-06-07T11:52:00.000-07:00

Confederation: UEFA (Europe)
Head coach: Joachim Loew
Captain: Philipp Lahm
Group: D

Germany’s team has been plagued by injuries for the tournament. The biggest loss is Michael Ballack. Love him or hate him he is a gifted player and was Germany’s leader and playmaker. Without him they will need another midfielder to come to the forefront to fill his role. The likely replacement will be Mesut Oezil or Bastian Schweinsteiger who both have the same vision and unlike the ageing Ballack have speed and good dribbling.

The highly rated Rene Adler who was going to be there first choice keeper is now out with a rib injury which is a loss. In November 2009 prior first choice keeper Robert Enke committed suicide. His death was a massive shock to the squad and it now could provide motivation to spur on the team in his memory. Even without these 2 keepers they are still quite strong in goal with Neuer likely to start.

They have a young squad with an average age of 25. Their main strength is attack. With players like Miroslav Klose and Lukas Podolski they will be a constant threat in front of goal. They both have good international scoring records averaging around a goal every other game. Additionally Klose only needs 6 more goals (to add to his current tally of 10) to take over from Ronaldo as the World Cup’s highest ever goalscorer. Their main weakness is defence. Their centerbacks are slow and will be caught out by quick strikers.

They should easily qualify through their group which includes Australia, Ghana and Serbia. After that it depends on who they have to play and how the team performs without all of their injured players. They have won the World Cup 3 times before and always reach the latter stages of the tournament. They probably won’t win the tournament this time but can you ever count out Germany?

Goalkeepers: Joerg Butt (Bayern Munich), Manuel Neuer (Schalke), Tim Wiese (Werder Bremen).

Defenders: Dennis Aogo (Hamburger SV), Holger Badstuber (Bayern Munich), Arne Friedrich (Hertha Berlin), Jerome Boateng (Hamburger SV), Marcell Jansen (Hamburger SV), Philipp Lahm (Bayern Munich), Per Mertesacker (Werder Bremen), Serdar Tasci (Stuttgart).

Midfielders: Sami Khedira (Stuttgart), Toni Kroos (Bayer Leverkusen), Marko Marin (Werder Bremen), Mesut Oezil (Werder Bremen), Bastian Schweinsteiger (Bayern Munich), Piotr Trochowski (Hamburger SV).

Forwards: Cacau (Stuttgart), Mario Gomez (Bayern Munich), Stefan Kiessling (Bayer Leverkusen), Miroslav Klose (Bayern Munich), Thomas Mueller (Bayern Munich), Lukas Podolski (Cologne).

Chris Guest

Switzerland

2010-06-07T11:48:00.000-07:00

Confederation: UEFA (Europe)
Head coach: Ottmar Hitzfeld
Captain: Alexander Frei
Group: H

Their main strength is attack with the prolific Alaxander Frei leading the line. He has 43 goals in 70 international appearances. He is also coming into the World Cup with good form scoring 15 goals in 19 league matches. With the loss of Marco Streller, Eren Derdiyok will more than likely partner Frei. Their midfield is adequate with Goklan Inler the playmaker and Barnetta providing accurate crosses and very accurate set pieces which should provide a difference. Defence on the other hand is a weakness. Their best defender is Phillipe Senderos which says it all. They have a pacy full back in Stephan Lichtsteiner who in some areas of the Italian media has been nicknamed Forrest Gump. He will be doing his best to get the ball and run as far away from his goal as possible. In goal they have Diego Benaglio who is reliable and should be kept busy.

Coming into the World Cup they lost a friendly to Costa Rica and were booed off the pitch. They also lost to Luxemburg not so long ago. Those 2 defeats will knock confidence. However they are coached by Ottmar Hitfeild who is one of the best around. He won the Champions League with 2 different teams like Mourinho. However it took him 4 years to get his second whereas it took Mourinho 6 years. His expertise and tactical awareness should get the best out of his players.

Switzerland have a good chance of nicking second place in there group behind Spain. There crucial game will be against Chile as the winner of that game will most probably finish second as Honduras will likely finish bottom. If they proceed past the group stages they will more than likely struggle to get any further.

Goalkeepers: Diego Benaglio (VfL Wolfsburg), Johnny Leoni (FC Zurich), Marco Woelfli (Young Boys Berne);

Defenders: Mario Eggimann (Hanover 96), Stephane Grichting (Auxerre), Stephan Lichtsteiner (Lazio), Philippe Senderos (Arsenal), Ludovic Magnin (FC Zurich), Steve Von Bergen (Hertha Berlin), Reto Ziegler (Sampdoria);

Midfielders: Tranquillo Barnetta (Bayer Leverkusen), Valon Behrami (West Ham United), Gelson Fernandes (St Etienne), Benjamin Huggel (FC Basel), Marco Padalino (Sampdoria), Pirmin Schwegler (Eintracht Frankfurt), Goklan Inler (Udinese);

Forwards: Eren Derdiyok (Bayer Leverkusen), Alexander Frei (FC Basel), Blaise Nkufo (Twente Enschede), Hakan Yakin (FC Luzern), Xherdan Shaqiri (FC Basel), Albert Bunjaku (Nuiernburg)

Chris Guest

Platinum Stars v England LIVE

2010-06-07T06:53:00.001-07:00

www.flashsportstreams.info/vip1

Tanzania v Brazil LIVE

2010-06-07T05:44:00.000-07:00

Today, 4pm

Watch the favourites take on minnows Tanzania in South Africa.

Watch the game live in high quality flash at - http://www.flashsportstreams.com/forum/

Netherlands

2010-06-07T01:59:00.000-07:00

Coach: Bert Van Marwijk
Group: E
Region: Europe

Despite having had some footballing greats like Johan Cruff, Marco Van Basten play for them, memories of their ‘sexy football’ and constant homage paid to Van Basten’s amazing volleyed goal, Holland have in fact never won the World Cup. The Oranjes have gone close, finishing runners up in two consecutive tournaments, 1982 and 1986. The Dutch will be playing their eighth World Cup finals and topped their group in qualification with eight wins out of eight.

The Oranje have been in impressive form in the run up to South Africa, hitting six goals in last week’s warm-up game against Hungary. The victory came at a price though with Robben limping off injured and now a doubt for the World Cup. The former Chelsea man has been in superb form, helping his club side Bayern Munich to a domestic double and chipping in with some invaluable goals during the Germans’ Champions League campaign. They find themselves in Group E and kick off their campaign against Denmark on the 14th June. Japan and Cameroon make up the rest of the group, a group that could prove trickier than some believe.

Denmark has a great record at getting through the group stages, Japan have the work-rate and fitness and Cameroon are solid and uncompromising. Bookmakers hotly tip the Netherlands putting them 5th favourites to lift the cup behind Spain, Brazil, Argentina and England. Arsenal’s Robin Van Persie is also 5th favourite to leave South Africa with the Golden Boot. The star has been laid off with injury for the majority of the season but the Gunner should be fit, fresh and hungry to make an impact in the orange shirt of his nation.

The Netherlands' 23-man squad

Goalkeepers: Sander Boschker (FC Twente), Maarten Stekelenburg (Ajax), Michel Vorm (FC Utrecht)

Defenders: Khalid Boulahrouz (Stuttgart), Edson Braafheid (Celtic), John Heitinga (Everton), Joris Mathijsen (Hamburg), Andre Ooijer (PSV Eindhoven), Giovanni van Bronckhorst (Feyenoord), Gregory van der Wiel (Ajax)

Midfielders: Ibrahim Afellay (PSV Eindhoven), Nigel de Jong (Manchester City), Demy de Zeeuw (Ajax), Stijn Schaars (AZ Alkmaar), Wesley Sneijder (Inter Milan), Mark van Bommel (Bayern Munich), Rafael van der Vaart (Real Madrid)

Forwards: Ryan Babel (Liverpool), Eljero Elia (Hamburg), Klaas Jan Huntelaar (AC Milan), Dirk Kuyt (Liverpool), Arjen Robben (Bayern Munich), Robin van Persie (Arsenal)

Pete Guest

They're Dropping like flies!

2010-06-06T11:23:00.001-07:00

Another round of friendly fixtures gone, another host of big names who will be missing from this summer's World Cup.

It all began the day after the English FA Cup final when Germany's talismanic captain Michael Ballack was declared unable to play after a ankle injury he suffered during that final following a challenge from Ghana's Kevin-Prince Boateng, who would have received some abuse from his brother, Jerome Boateng who will be representing Germany in South Africa.

If it wasn't bad enough that one of the world's greatest mid-fielders would miss the finals, two of Ballack's Chelsea team mates will be joining him on the sidelines. Nigeria Captain John Obi Mikel will be absent with a knee injury that left him sidelined for a large proportion of Chelsea's historic double winning season. Ghana's most important player, Michael Essien, will also be missing, as he has been virtually all season, with an ankle injury he picked up during the African Cup Of Nations, an injury which limited Essien to just 14 league appearances last term.

Then we discovered that Argentina's Diego Milito had picked up an injury leaving a serious doubt over his participation, which could be a big blow for coach Diego Maradona who would be without the man who scored a brace in the Champions League final.

Then came the news that Ivory Coast captain Didier Drogba had fractured his elbow during his country's warm up game with China. Having undergone a successful operation, last season's Premier League top scorer is hoping to find a way of playing through the pain with the aid of some sort of protective strapping, which would have to be approved by FIFA.

But following the news that Drogba's participation was in doubt, came the news that all England fans feared. Captain Rio Ferdinand, who was hoping to appear at his fourth World Cup finals, suffered a knee injury after a training ground collision with Emile Heskey thus ruling him out, which resulted in the call up of Michael Dawson, who was unlucky to be omitted from the 23 man squad in the first place.

Holland were 6-1 up against Hungary and cruising before one moment made the whole of the Amsterdam Arena fall silent. Arjen Robben, who is coming into the tournament on the back of arguably the best season of his career thus far, having scored twice after coming on as a second half substitute, fell awkwardly which resulted in a hamstring injury landing the Bayern Munich man in hospital for scans last night. Bert Van Marwijk was clearly upset having said that he would rather have " lost the game than lost Arjen." But Robben isn't the only injury concern that Van Marwijk has, having seen Everton's Johnny Heitinga leave the pitch with an ice pack on his ankle.

Despite all these injury worries the World is waiting in anticipation for the first match of the finals, featuring the hosts South Africa and Mexico on the 11th June at 4:00 pm.

Paul Seed

Greece

2010-06-06T08:19:00.000-07:00

Confederation: UEFA (Europe)
Head Coach: Otto Rehhagel
Captain: Georgios Karagounis
Group: B

The Greeks are undoubtedly one of the tournaments underdogs. Having featured in only one other World Cup, USA ’94, the nation doesn’t have too much experience in high pressure tournaments. During USA ’94 they failed to win a single game losing to; Argentina, Bulgaria and Nigeria – also failing to score in any game.

Greece have recently tasted success though, winning UEFA EURO 2004 against a strong Portuguese side. Much like this World Cup, they weren’t given a chance of getting out of the group stages, never mind going all the way and being the eventual winners.
Despite a strong start to their qualifying campaign the Greeks had to settle for a play-off place against Ukraine to determine their fate. After a goalless first leg in Athens they managed to grab a one goal win away in Ukraine.

The Greeks do have some good players and they won’t simply be there to make the numbers up, make no doubt about it they’ll be giving the tournament their all. They boast the top scorer from the Euro zone qualification campaign; Theofanis Gekas, who scored more than the highly rated Spain striker David Villa and England’s Wayne Rooney, bagging himself ten goals.

Greece will have to perform as well as they did back in 2004 if they are to get out of what looks like a very tough group which includes; Argentina, Nigeria and Korea Republic – two of the sides which helped to knock Greece out of USA 1994.

Squad (23)

Goalkeepers: Michalis Sifakis (Aris Salonika), Alexandros Tzorvas (Panathinaikos), Kostas Chalkias (PAOK Salonika).

Defenders: Giorgos Seitaridis (Panathinaikos), Loukas Vintra (Panathinaikos), Evangelos Moras (Bologna), Socrates Papastathopoulos (Genoa), Sotiris Kyrgiakos (Liverpool), Avraam Papadopoulos (Olympiakos), Vasilis Torosidis (Olympiakos), Nikos Spiropoulos (Panathinaikos), Stelios Malezas (PAOK Salonika).

Midfielders: Kostas Katsouranis (Panathinaikos), Alexandros Tziolis (Siena), Giorgos Karagounis (Panathinaikos), Sotiris Ninis (Panathinaikos), Christos Patsatzoglou (Omonia), Sakis Prittas (Aris Salonika).

Forwards: Angelos Charisteas (Nuremberg), Dimitris Salpigidis (Panathinaikos), Pantelis Kapetanos (Steaua Bucharest), Theofanis Gekas (Hertha Berlin), Giorgos Samaras (Celtic).

Carl Leighton

Players to Watch: African Prospects

2010-06-06T05:44:00.000-07:00

These African youngsters are all gifted players with a good season in Europe behind them, but who are also new on the international stage and have not yet fully establisheded themselves for their national teams. If they are given the chance in South Africa, it could be their first chance to shine at a higher level.

Gervinho

Nicknamed 'Gervinho' by his Brazilian coach at an Ivorian youth academy, Gervais Yao Kouassi lives up to his Brazilian influences; he's a flair player, a pacy dribbler and good finisher who can play as a forward or at any of the offensive midfield positions. He's had an excellent season for his club Lille OSC, where he was mostly used to the right in a three-man attack. In the French top division Ligue 1, he scored 13 and assisted 9 goals, and in the group stage of the Europa League, he only made two starts but impressively managed to score 5 goals (one every 57 minutes on average) against qualified opposition in Valencia, Genoa and Slavia Prag. Whether he's used as a starter or substitute in South Africa, he's one who can make a real impact for Côte d'Ivoire at the World Cup.

Seydou Doumbia

Seydou Doumbia's statistcs look like they're straight out of a Football Manager game: a goal every 81 minutes over 64 games for Swiss side BSC Young Boys. Particularly incredible was the striker's first season at Young Boys, where he scored 20 league goals in 8(eight) starts and 24 substitute appearances, and bagged the Swiss Axpro League Player of the Season award. His second season wasn't too bad either, scoring 30 league goals in 29 starts; 9 more than the second highest scorer of the Swiss league. Doumbia is not yet established in the Ivorian national team, having only made a few subsutitute appearances, but he showed his worth when he came on in a November 2009 friendly against Germany and displayed his shooting technique with a very good goal.

If Drogba's injury forces him to sit out at the World Cup, Doumbia could be given a very important role for Côte d'Ivoire. Any impressed club managers watching will, however, be disappointed to find out that the Ivorian and his club have already agreed a deal with Russian giants CSKA, with a reported transfer fee of about €10 million.

Lukman Haruna

Having captained Nigeria to victory in the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2007, Haruna was a highly rated youngster when he joined AS Monaco in January 2008. This season, he's succesfully established himself in senior football, as the young midfielder started in 15 of the last 19 fixtures, in spite of the very tough competition he faced for a spot in central midfield at Monaco. It will be an even bigger challenge for Haruna to establish himself in the Nigerian first team during the World Cup, considering Nigeria's manager Lars Lagerbäck is renowned for valuing experience, and reluctance towards taking chances with inexperienced players. But he will have increased his chances as he scored the only goal Nigeria have managed to produce over their pre World Cup friendlies against Saudi Arabia and Colombia, with a daisy cutter just inside the post from far outside the area, against the latter. Now that fellow midfielder John Obi Mikel has withdrawn from the Nigerian squad due to doubts over his fitness, Haruna has a real chance of playing an important role for Nigeria during the World Cup.

G. Lindström

Japan

2010-06-05T08:52:00.000-07:00

Confederation:AFC(Asia)
Head coach:Takeshi Okada
Captain:Yoshikatsu Kawaguchi
Group:E

Japan will be taking part in their 4th World Cup this summer at South Africa. The "Samurai Blue" have suffered 4 straight defeats in warm up games, rivals South Korea, that defeat raised questions as to whether Head coach Takeshi Okada would keep his job. Okada is still in charge and has the task of bettering Japan's World Cup record, which is the second round. To English fans, Japan may not have many familiar names, Junichi Inamoto and Shunsuke Nakamura are probably the most recognisable. Inamoto, famous for his peroxide hair had spells at Arsenal, Fulham and West Brom, Whist Nakamura played at Scottish giants Celtic. Nakamura is dangerous from set pieces and could prove to be vital for the Japanese.

Defender Tulio has already made the headlines this summer, he scored at both ends against England and has potentially ended Didier Drogba's World Cup. The Brazilian born Tulio is a big, imposing defender and will offer Japan a much needed aerial threat. Wolfsburg midfielder Makoto Hasebe plays in the midfield and on his day, he can pull the strings in the middle of the park. Yasuhito Endo will likely partner Hasebe in midfield and will act as the enforcer. Young CSKA Moscow midfielder Keisuke Honda is also good at set pieces and has an eye for goal.

The Japanese strikeforce is mainly made up of home based players, Takayuki Morimoto is the only one who plays abroad. Yasuhito Okubo is tricky and fast, which will cause defenders problems. Keiji Tamada has 67 caps and he has scored 16 goals for his country.

Squad:

Goalkeepers: Seigo Narazaki (Nagoya Grampus), Eiji Kawashima (Kawasaki Frontale), Yoshikatsu Kawaguchi (Jubilo Iwata)

Defenders: Yuji Nakazawa (Yokohama Marinos), Marcus Tulio Tanaka (Nagoya Grampus), Yuichi Komano (Jubilo Iwata), Daiki Iwamasa (Kashima Antlers), Yasuyuki Konno (FC Tokyo), Yuto Nagatomo (FC Tokyo), Atsuto Uchida (Kashima Antlers)

Midfielders: Shunsuke Nakamura (Yokohama Marinos), Yasuhito Endo (Gamba Osaka), Kengo Nakamura (Kawasaki Frontale), Junichi Inamoto (Kawasaki Frontale), Yuki Abe (Urawa Red Diamonds), Makoto Hasebe (Wolfsburg, Germany), Keisuke Honda (CSKA Moscow, Russia), Daisuke Matsui (Grenoble, France)

Ant Myers

Adidas Jabulani, the World Cup Ball

2010-06-05T05:36:00.000-07:00

This video clip of a free kick in the France-China friendly gives us a good idea of what to expect from the high-tech piece of plastic in South Africa. 0:42 for the best angle.

Believe in Better…

2010-06-05T04:54:00.000-07:00

Just a few months ago I wrote a blog where I was massively behind England’s chances of winning the World Cup. I was urged by learned friends of football to tone down my enthusiasm with a bitter dose of realism. At every step of the way I continued to remind them that this time was different, England had a manager who would show all the Gladiatorial spirit his ancestors possessed and fire England home on a chariot of World Cup glory. Then the Italian, to whom I entrusted much of my credibility, names his 23-man squad. And my opinion has changed.

I have noted countless times that England sure not a world-class side, that’s not a negative, or a me being a cynical fan. It is a dose of realism that all England fans by now, I am sure, believes to be conventional wisdom. So if Steven Gerrard is to wrap his arms around the famous trophy in Johannesburg, England are going to need to have a whole lot of luck, married with some favorable refereeing decision, with a few red cards for opposition key players in crucial games, married to an injury-free Wayne Rooney throughout the tournament with a sprinkling of England’s famous bulldog spirit. England will win nothing through caution and if Fabio believes experience over youthful exuberance is the way forward then we beg to differ.

Like most fans looking at the 23, we find it simply incredible that Adam Johnson and Darren Bent are omitted from the 23 simply because those deemed to be more beneficial to England cannot even get a game at club level. Shaun Wright-Phillips for example, has been continuously been surplus to requirements since Adam Johnson moved to Manchester City in January. The trickery of the 22 year-old was winning the praise of England captain Steven Gerrard in training last week. When was the last time you heard Stevie G signing the praises of Wright-Phillips? When was the last time Michael Carrick had a good game yet Scott ‘parker who has single handedly kept West ham in the top flight and has all the spirit in the world was overlooked? When was the last time Emile Heskey scored?

The truth is, the latter is a man that divides opinion in this country even more than marmite. For some, Heskey has to go because he causes defenders so much trouble, and is the perfect foil for Rooney. To them it doesn’t matter that he cannot put the ball in the back of the net. To them it doesn’t matter that his passing his woeful and he is about as vicious as Mother Theresa. The notion that Heskey is essential to Rooney’s forward play is the biggest pile of you-know-what. If it were true then why did Sir Alex Ferguson not snap up Heskey? Rooney plays up front on his own these days and is mighty successful doing it. Lennon of him on the right and Cole of him on the left will see Rooney take the World Cup by storm, of that I have no doubt. But what country leaves behind their second top goalscorer over the last 4 years? What other nation suggests that a natural goalscorer who has put the ball in the back of the net versus United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Spurs this season, is somehow not good enough to be going? That’s right, you guessed it…team’s that actually win the World Cup.

Please don’t read this and suggest that I am a cynic writing off England’s chances because that is far from the truth. I am however heeding the advice of some and allowing myself an element of realism in my renewed judgment. In Fabio I trusted. Trusted to be brave and bold, believing in better which perhaps meant taking a chance with an unknown instead of accepting our fate with the security of experience. Like every single game of football, and the reason we love it so much, when the England team crosses the white line anything can happen. Football is a game that is hugely unpredictable because all 11 players can perform but still lose the match. Although I don’t agree with many of Fabio’s selection, it is now time for the talking to stop, the believing to begin and for the entire nation, around the game that we gave to the world, dare to dream!

Goalkeepers: Joe Hart (Manchester City), David James (Portsmouth), Robert Green (West Ham).

Defenders: Jamie Carragher (Liverpool), Ashley Cole (Chelsea), Michael Dawson (Tottenham), Glen Johnson (Liverpool), Ledley King (Tottenham), John Terry (Chelsea), Matthew Upson (West Ham), Stephen Warnock (Aston Villa).

Midfielders: Gareth Barry (Manchester City), Michael Carrick (Manchester United), Joe Cole (Chelsea), Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Aaron Lennon (Tottenham), James Milner (Aston Villa), Shaun Wright-Phillips (Manchester City).

Forwards: Peter Crouch (Tottenham), Jermain Defoe (Tottenham), Emile Heskey (Aston Villa), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United).

Gavin Callaghan

Another Big Name Out

2010-06-05T03:51:00.000-07:00

This time it's Nigeria captain John Obi Mikel, who has decided against going to the World Cup. Mikel has been crocked since April, due to a knee injury and he felt it was best to spend the summer recuperating, rather than potentially damaging the knee further. It's a massive blow for Nigeria, not only do they lose their captain, they also lose a fantastic defensive midfielder. Mikel joins a rapidly growing list of notable absentees, Michael Essien, Michael Ballack, Rio Ferdinand and possibly Didier Drogba will all miss the World Cup.

1 week to go!!!

2010-06-04T13:09:00.000-07:00

Hopefully we'll see many more top goals this World Cup..............

France 0- 1 China

2010-06-04T11:30:00.000-07:00

France failed to beat China today in their final warm up game before the World Cup starts next Friday. China shocked the French when Deng's free kick swerved erratically in the air and crept past the out stretched Hugo Lloris. Les Blues had plenty of possession and chances, but failed to convert. William Gallas had a goal disallowed when the linesman rightfully deemed him offside.

After China took the lead, France started to threaten the Chinese goal. Arsenal's Abou Diaby had a long range effort tipped around the post by the 'keeper and his Arsenal teammate Gallas was thwarted by a last ditch interception by a Chinese defender. The French natives will be seriously underwhelmed with that performance and will be hoping that their heroes turn up against Uruguay next week.

Ant Myers

Ferdinand - Out of World Cup

2010-06-04T07:17:00.000-07:00

England captain Rio Ferdinand will miss the World Cup after suffering a knee injury from a tackle by Emile Heskey in training. Ferdinand has had an injury hit season and has looked unfit in England's warm up games. Questions will be now asked regarding his replacement, Micheal Dawson is the obvious choice. Fabio Capello will need to decide who will partner John Terry, Ledley King is the best option, but, King is another who struggles with injuries.

Didier Drogba - Injured

2010-06-04T06:43:00.000-07:00

Reports are suggesting that Didier Drogba has fractured his elbow and will miss the World Cup. The incident occurred during Ivory Coast's 2-0 victory over Japan. Drogba picked up the injury from a challenge from defender, Tulio. If Drogba does miss the finals, then this will be earth shattering news to the Ivory Coast and the football world. The centre forward is considered to be one of the best strikers in the world and will be a huge loss to the World Cup if he is sidelined.

France vs China LIVE Stream

2010-06-03T15:55:00.000-07:00

Today 5pm

France will hope that they can find some form before they start their World Cup campaign next Friday. China are not the strongest of opponents, but they will not roll over for Les blues.

Watch the game live in high quality flash at - http://www.flashsportstreams.com/forum/

One to Watch: Lucas Barrios

2010-06-03T13:42:00.000-07:00

Lucas Barrios has been one of the biggest surprises in European football this season. He is a typical goal scorer who instinctively finds the right space in the penalty area, and with good composure and shooting technique, he's lethal when he receieves the ball in and around the box. A year ago, still unknown to most outside the Chilean league (where he impressively managed a strike rate of 87 goals in 120 games), Barrios was snapped up by German side Borussia Dortmund. The former Argentinian settled quickly in Dortmund and contributed with 19 goals to their surprisingly good 5th place Bundesliga finish.

Born to a Paraguayan mother, Barrios decided to apply for Paraguayan citizenship in March 2010 in hopes of a chance to play in the World Cup. His request granted, he was called up to Paraguay's preliminary World Cup squad in May. Sensationally, the 25 year old striker scored in all three of their training camp friendlies against Ireland, Côte d'Ivoire and Greece. In an unlikely turn of events over the last few months, which saw Paraguay's ace striker Salavador Cabañas shot in the head in a night club in Mexico, it's now the Argentinian born Barrios who looks set to lead the line for Paraguay in South Africa.

G. Lindström

South Africa

2010-06-03T13:02:00.000-07:00

Confederation: CAF
Head Coach: Carlos Alberto Parreira
Captain: Aaron Mokoena
Group: A

South Africa are a relatively unknown team on the international stage and they will be aiming to change that in what will be their third appearance at a World Cup.

They first appeared at a World Cup back in 1998 when the French hosted and went on to win the tournament. Unfortunately for South Africa, or the Bafana Bafana as the team is called, they failed to make it out of the group stages in '98 and again in Korea/Japan in 2002.

Bafana Bafana will be able to take confidence from the Republic of Korea who; while jointly hosting the World Cup in '02, managed to get to the semi finals despite having a relatively unknown team, something which possibly worked in their favour. South Africa will of course be able to take confidence from being the host nation and having their own supporters filling the stadia.

Despite history showing us that South Africa aren't a gifted footballing nation when it comes to the World Cup, they do have past glories. In 1996 South Africa hosted and won the Africa Cup of Nations at their first attempt, which isn't something to be ignored.

Last June South Africa hosted the FIFA Confederations Cup and showed the watching world that this current team has a lot of potential as they managed to reach the semi finals only to lose out to eventual winners Brazil.

Benni McCarthy has quite surprisingly been cut from Parreira's squad; McCarthy is South Africa's all time leading goal scorer. Captain Aaron Mokoena is another front runner for South Africa; he is the first player to reach 100 caps for the nation, an impressive feat.

Squad

Itumeleng Khune (Kaizer Chiefs); Moeneeb Josephs (Orlando Pirates), Shu-Aib Walters (Maritzburg United), Matthew Booth (Mamelodi Sundowns), Siboniso Gaxa (Mamelodi Sundowns), Bongani Khumalo (SuperSport United), Tshepo Masilela (Maccabi Haifa), Aaron Mokoena (Portsmouth), Anele Ngcongca (Genk), Siyabonga Sangweni (Golden Arrows), Lucas Thwala (Orlando Pirates), Lance Davids (Ajax Cape Town), Kagisho Dikgacoi (Fulham), Thanduyise Khuboni (Golden Arrows), Reneilwe Letsholonyane (Kaizer Chiefs), Teko Modise (Orlando Pirates), Surprise Moriri (Mamelodi Sundowns), Steven Pienaar (Everton), Macbeth Sibaya (Rubin Kazan), Simphiwe Tshabalala (Kaizer Chiefs), Katlego Mphela (Mamelodi Sundowns), Siyabonga Nomvete (Moroka Swallows), Bernard Parker (FC Twente).

Carl Leighton

Serbia

2010-06-03T12:53:00.000-07:00

Confederation: UEFA(Europe)
Head coach: Radomir Antic
Captain: Dejan Stankovic
Group: D

It's exactly 4 years since Serbia split from Montenegro and it's their first ever World Cup since becoming an independent state. Unfortunately for Montenegro, Serbia had the better players and took the FIFA and UEFA status, Montenegro had to apply for a new status. The Serbians have a host of top fooballers, Nemanja Vidic, Dejan Stankovic and Branislav Ivanovic, are just a few. Ivanovic got off to a slow start at Stamford Bridge, however, this season the right-back has been in excellent form. Solid defensively and good going forward, Ivanovic is a typical modern day full-back.

Internazionale midfielder Dejan Stankovic has played at the top level for years and captains the Serbians. Stankovic is a central midfielder who can attack and defend, he's also equipped with a very powerful shot. New Liverpool signing Milan Jovanovic, will operate on the left wing, but he can also play up front. Nenad Milijas of Wolves has the ability to score goals from long range and he will compete with Zdravko Kuzmanovic to partner Stankovic in midfield.

Birmingham City will have an intrest in Serbia as they have recently signed giant centre forward Nikola Zigic. At 6 ft 7¹⁄₂Zigic can dominate aerial battles and will be a real threat from set pieces. Danko Lazovic will partner Zigic up front and between them they have scored 26 goals for Serbia, Marko Pantelic and Dragan Mrdja will provide backup.

Vladimir Stojkovic (Sporting Lisbon, Portugal), Bojan Isailovic (Zaglebie Lubin, Poland), Andjelko Djuricic (Uniao Leiria, Portugal); Branislav Ivanovic (Chelsea, England), Antonio Rukavina (1860 Munich, Germany), Nemanja Vidic (Manchester United, England), Neven Subotic (Borussia Dortmund, Germany), Aleksandar Lukovic (Udinese, Italy), Ivan Obradovic (Real Zaragoza, Spain), Aleksandar Kolarov (Lazio, Italy); Dejan Stankovic (Inter Milan, Italy), Gojko Kacar (Hertha Berlin, Germany), Nenad Milijas (Wolves, England), Zdravko Kuzmanovic (Stuttgart, Germany), Radosav Petrovic (Partizan Belgrade), Milos Krasic (CSKA Moscow, Russia), Zoran Tosic (Manchester United, England) , Milos Ninkovic (Dynamo Kiev, Ukraine), Milan Jovanovic (Standard Liege, Belgium); Nikola Zigic (Birmingham, England), Marko Pantelic (Ajax, Holland), Danko Lazovic (Zenit St Petersburg, Russia), Dragan Mrdja (Vojvodina Novi Sad)

Ant Myers

Spain v South Korea - LIVE

2010-06-03T06:32:00.000-07:00

Tonight 5pm

2nd favourites Spain take on South Korea in South Africa with just 8 days until the big kick-off. South Korea will be a good test for the Spaniards and won't be easy opponents. It will be interesting to see if Spain choose their strongest side or try out some fringe players.

Watch the game live in high quality flash at - http://www.flashsportstreams.com/forum/

South Korea

2010-06-02T08:00:00.000-07:00

Confederation: AFC(Aisa)
Head coach: Huh Jung-Moo
Captain: Park Ji-Sung
Group: B

Everyone will Remember South Korea's famous run in the 2002 World Cup, where they reached the semi-finals. 2006 however, wasn't so successful for South Korea, they failed to make the second round. This time round, they won't just be going to make up the numbers. They have some very capable individuals, like, Park Ji-Sung, Lee Chung-Yong and Park Chu-Young. Manchester United's Park Ji-Sung is used to playing in the big games, Sir Alex Ferguson always uses him for big occasions. A tireless worker and very skillful, Park wouldn't look out of place in any side.

Bolton winger Lee Chung-Yong had a very good debut season in the English Premiership and will surely attract the attention of a bigger club, if he has a good tournament. Veteran Lee Young-Pyo will be known to Spurs fans, he spent 3 years at White Hart Lane. Middlesborough flop made the final squad, while at 'Boro he was appalling and didn't score a single goal.

Kim Young-Kwang (Ulsan), Lee Woon-Jae (Suwon), Jung Sung-Ryong (Seongnam); Kim Dong-Jin (Ulsan), Kim Hyung-Il (Pohang), Oh Beom-Seok (Ulsan), Lee Young-Pyo (Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia), Lee Jung-Soo (Kashima, Japan), Cha Doo-Ri (Freiburg, Germany) Cho Yong-Hyung (Jeju), Kang Min-Soo (Suwon); Ki Sung-Yong (Celtic, Scotland), Kim Bo-Kyung (Oita, Japan), Kim Nam-Il (Tomsk, Russia), Kim Jae-Sung (Pohang), Kim Jung-Woo (Gwangju), Lee Chung-Yong (Bolton, England), Park Ji-Sung (Manchester United, England); Park Chu-Young (Monaco, France), Ahn Jung-Hwan (Dalian, China), Lee Seung-Ryul (Seoul), Yeom Ki-Hun (Suwon), Lee Dong-Gook (Jeonbuk).

Ant Myers

Brazil v Zimbabwe - LIVE NOW

2010-06-02T07:42:00.001-07:00

http://www.flashsportstreams.com/forum/showthread.php?t=194

Nigeria

2010-06-01T14:54:00.000-07:00

Confederation: CAF (Africa)
Head coach: Lars Lagerbäck
Captain: Nwankwo Kanu
Group: B

After failing to qualify in 2006, the Nigerians will be keen to impress. Now under the guidance of former Sweden boss Lars Lagerbäck, Nigeria are heading to their 3rd World Cup. Nigeria finished just 1 point above Tunisia in group B in the African qualifiers. 7 English based are in the Nigerian squad, such as, Yakubu, Dickson Etuhu and Joseth Yobo. Nigeria are a team that are strong, pacey and very powerful. Etuhu will be the enforcer in midfield and will use his bulk to rough up the opposition. Everton striker is fit and will be a key player for Nigeria if he can rediscover his goalscoring form.

Football Manager legend Vincent Enyeama will most likely be no.1, so you will see if he deserves his super stats. Left-back Taye Taiwo has attratcted a lot of attention over the last couple years after performing consistently for Marseille. Taiwo loves to get forward and attack, he's good on set-pieces and can unleash some stinging shots. Nigeria have plenty of depth in the strikeforce department, with the likes of, Obafemi Martins and Portsmouth's John Utaka. Former Newcastle Newcastle man, Martins has explosive pace, but at times, his eratic finishing lets him down. The loss of John Obi Mikel will hit Nigeria hard, as his their captain and star man.

Two notable omissions from the squad are Ike Uche and Victor Anichebe, both are strikers and faced stiff competition. Everton's Anichebe has struggled with injuries and couldn't convince manager, Lagerbäck to choose him over the other candidates.

Squad(23):

Vincent Enyeama (Hapoel Tel Aviv), Dele Aiyenugba (Bnei Yehuda), Austin Ejide (Hapoel Petach Tikvah); Taye Taiwo (Marseille), Elderson Echiejile (Rennes), Chidi Odiah (CSKA Moscow), Joseph Yobo (Everton), Ayodele Adeleye (Sparta Rotterdam), Rabiu Afolabi (Salzburg), Danny Shittu (Bolton); Kalu Uche (Almeria), Dickson Etuhu (Fulham), Brown Ideye (Sochaux), Sani Kaita (Alaniya), Haruna Lukman (Monaco), Yusuf Ayila (Dynamo Kiev); Yakubu Aiyegbeni (Everton), Nwankwo Kanu (Portsmouth), Obafemi Martins (Wolfsburg), John Utaka (Portsmouth), Victor Obinna Nsofor (Malaga), Osaze Odemwingie (Lokomotiv Moscow), Chinedu Ogbuke Obasi (Hoffenheim).

Ant Myers

BRAZIL

2010-06-01T08:16:00.000-07:00

Five time World Cup winners Brazil's 23 man squad will be enough to strike fear into the hearts of other nations as manager Dunga has produced a squad that, despite lacking the traditional flair that Brazil are associated with, is powerful and ruthless as they fired their way to the top of the South American qualifying group. The Brazilians, who are already in South Africa preparing for their World Cup, are as usual amongst the favourites to win the tournament.

There were several major omissions that signal that Dunga is attempting to leave behind the traditional samba flair and replace it with a hard working physical side that was so typical of his game. There was no place in the squad for two time Fifa world player of the World Ronaldinho, a major surprise as the AC Milan player had been desperate to be included following a run of good late season form, a season that included 15 goals in all competitions. Elsewhere Adriano was left out after a good season with Flamengo in which he netted 19 times. Alexandre Pato, who made his return to action in Milan's last game of the season, was also not included in the squad after a frustrating season consisting of numerous hamstring injuries which resulted in Pato appearing just 20 times, although he did score 12 goals. However Dunga did find a place for Kaká, who has been struggling with injury but his 8 goals in 22 appearances in his first season in Madrid, were enough to convince Dunga.

Luis Fabiano, top scorer at the Confederations Cup with 5 goals, has echoed Dunga's philosophy by suggesting that the most important thing is winning by any means "If it is necessary to play dirty to win, we will do it, what counts at the World Cup it to win" Fabiano, who is amongst the front runners to take home the Golden Shoe, is expected to partner Manchester City player Robinho up front, and the two have formed a potent relationship since being paired together in 2007. A surprise inclusion is Wolfsburg striker Grafite who scored 11 times in the Bundesliga last season despite only having 2 caps for his country.

Brazil have been drawn in group G, which is widely regarded as the group of death, consisting of the Portuguese, the Ivory Coast and North Korea. Brazil kick off their campaign against North Korea, who are expected to finish bottom of the group, on the 15th June.

Key Player

Inter right back Maicon is a crucial part of Dunga's Brazilian team. Mainly used as an attacking threat, the pacey wing back is constantly getting forward to add an extra dimension to the attack. He is also defensively solid and will partner Brazil Captain and Inter team mate Lucio in defence. Maicon's attacking prowess is exemplified by the fact he was third in the assist league in Seria A last season. With Dani Alves to compete with at right back, coach Dunga is spoilt for choice.

Brazil's 23 man World Cup squad

Goalkeepers: Julio Cesar (Inter Milan), Doni (AS Roma), Gomes (Tottenham Hotspur)
Defenders: Maicon (Inter Milan), Daniel Alves (Barcelona), Michel Bastos (Olympique Lyon), Gilberto (Cruzeiro), Lucio (Inter Milan), Juan (AS Roma), Luisao (Benfica), Thiago Silva (AC Milan)
Midfielders: Gilberto Silva (Panathinaikos), Felipe Melo (Juventus), Ramires (Benfica), Elano (Galatasaray), Kaka (Real Madrid), Julio Baptista (Roma), Kleberson (Flamengo), Josue (VfL Wolfsburg).
Forwards: Robinho (Santos), Luis Fabiano (Sevilla), Nilmar (Villarreal), Grafite (VfL Wolfsburg).

Paul Seed

Switzerland v Costa Rica - LIVE stream

2010-06-01T07:17:00.000-07:00

Tonight, 7.15pm

Watch Switzerland carry on their World preparations live in high quality flash at - http://www.flashsportstreams.com/forum/

Darren Bent – Time to Retire

2010-06-01T05:47:00.000-07:00

As we learned today, England's 2nd best goalscorer has been omitted from Fabio Capello's squad. I find it absolutely amazing that Emile Heskey and Jermain Defoe are going to South Africa ahead of Darren Bent. What more can a striker do after scoring 24 Premiership goals for a mid table team? Oh, no, wait, he doesn't play with his back to goal or bulldoze defenders out of the way. What utter rubbish, how do these 'pundits' have the platform to spout their uninformed nonsense? Acorrding to http://expertfootball.com/coaching/positions.php the definition of a striker is "The main ability of this player must be his strength and heading. His job is simple: to stay in front of the enemy goal, attract enemy defenders and score." Does that describe Emile Heskey? No, does that describe Darren Bent? Yes.

Nick Collins, the reporter on Sky Sports News, just said Darren Bent "has had six caps, but hasn't really done anything"I'm sorry, but, anyone who isn't partially sighted should be able to say that Bent has had a complete lack of service. Against Brazil and Japan, England put in their two worst performances under the Capello regime and somehow Bent was expected to create his own chances convert them. Ask yourself this, what other country would leave out their second best goalscorer? If you answered no one, then you're correct.

Let me create these scenarios, 1 on 1 against Brazil in the semi-final, who would you fancy to score, Bent or Heskey? And in a penalty shootout, Bent or Heskey? Thought so. Personally, the image of Defoe representing my country over Bent, fills me blood boiling anger. Bent should now announce his retirement from international football, as the man simply cannot do anymore to gain squad status.

FACTS:

Premier League

Darren Bent - 38 apps, 24 goals. Scored against Chelsea(x2), Spurs(x2), Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool.

Jermain Defoe - 34 apps, 18 goals. Scored 5 against Wigan and 3 V Hull.

Emile Heskey - 31 apps, 3 goals. 2 of his goals came against 2 of the relegated clubs.

Ant Myers

The Vuvuzela

2010-05-31T13:58:00.000-07:00

Some of you may be wondering "what the hell is it" well, it's an instrument that the South African fans will be driving us mad with this summer. If you watched the Confederations Cup last summer you would have heard the most annoying stadium noise ever. The Vuvuzela is a trumpet and can be bought in different colours, fascinating eh?

Unfortunately the Vuvuzela is very cheap, so it is likely that the majority of supporters will have one. During the Confederations Cup, I had to mute the sound because the dreadful drone that resembled a swarm of angry hornets was to much to bare. I appreciate that every nation has its own footballing traditions and cultures, but how could anyone enjoy that sound? Some people will say it's better than a quiet Stamford Bridge like atmosphere, but surely no sound is better than the Vuvuzela's.

FIFA are going to decide after the opening game whether to ban the Vuvuzela or not. It will undoubtedly give South Africa an advantage, as their players are used to the racket. Whenever the South Africans attack, the decibel level will rise and thus, making a deafening, off-puting noise for the opposition. If the Vuvuzela's are allowed to be used then we'll have to accept it, come to think of it, they may be one positive about the Vuvuzela, at least we won't have to listen to Mark Bright's inane ramblings..............

Ant Myers

Holland V Ghana - LIVE

2010-05-31T11:11:00.000-07:00

Tuesday 1st June 2010, 19:30

Holland take on African hopefuls Ghana, in a warm up match 10 days before the World Cup. Managers Bert van Marwijk and Milovan Rajevac have both selected their final squads and will use this fixture to work out their first team plans. There will be some quality players on display, including Van Persie, Sneijder, Robben, Mensah, Gyan, Annan and many more.

Watch the game live in high quality flash at - http://www.flashsportstreams.com/forum/

Cameroon

2010-05-31T08:13:00.000-07:00

Confederation: CAF(Africa)
Head coach: Paul Le Guen
Captain: Samuel Eto'o
Group: E

When you look at the Cameroon squad, It's evident that they have some very good players at their disposal. The most famous current Cameroonian is Samuel Eto'o, who is one of best strikers in the world. There were rumours that Eto'o was going to withdraw from the squad, after receiving criticism from legend Roger Milla, however it's thought that he will remain in the squad. Arsenal defensive midfielder, Alexandre Song could be vital to their success if he can perform like he has at Arsenal this season. Alexandre's uncle Rigobert Song is also in the squad, the veteran defender will be familar to English fans, as he played for Liverpool and West Ham.

Cameroon's defense has a good balance of youth and experience, the likes of Geremi and Song will help youngsters Gaetan Bong and Nicolas Nkoulou. Spurs duo Benoit Assou-Ekotto and Sebastien Bassong have both played well this season, Assou-Ekotto in particular shone at left back. If Cameroon can keep it tight at the back, they could surprise a few teams this summer. In midfield they have a lot of defense minded players, Jean Makoun, Landry Nguemo and Joel Matip all like to protect the defense. Achille Emana , of Betis, will have the responsibility to get forward and supply the strikers.

The 'Indomitable Lions' will obviously look to Eto'o to get the goals, however, if the Inter Milan forward is under firing, they will have to rely on Pierre Webo and Mohamadou Idrissou. Webo has scored 12 times in 34 caps for his country and will likely partner Eto'o up front. Holland are the favourites in group E, so realistically, Cameroon will hope to see off Denmark and Japan for second place.

Squad:

Goalkeepers: Hamidou Souleymanou (Kayserispor/Turkey), Carlos Kameni (Espanyol/Spain), Guy Roland Ndy Assembe (Valenciennes/France)

Defenders: Benoit Assou-Ekotto (Tottenham/England), Sebastien Bassong (Tottenham/England), Gaetan Bong (Valenciennes/France), Aurelien Chedjou (Lille/France), Geremi (Ankaragucu/Turkey), Stephane Mbia (Marseille/France), Nicolas Nkoulou (Monaco/France), Rigobert Song (Trabzonspor/Turkey)

Midfielders: Eyong Enoh (Ajax/Netherlands), Jean II Makoun (Lyon/France), Georges Mandjeck (Kaiserslautern/Germany), Joel Matip (Schalke/Germany), Landry Nguemo (Celtic/Scotland), Alexandre Song (Arsenal/England)

Forwards: Vincent Aboubakar (Coton Sport), Eric Choupo-Moting (Nuremberg/Germany), Achille Emana (Betis/Spain), Samuel Eto'o (Inter Milan/Italy), Mohamadou Idrissou (Freiburg/Germany), Pierre Webo (Mallorca/Spain)

Ant Myers

2 weeks to go!!!

2010-05-28T12:49:00.000-07:00

Here's one to get you in the mood.............

One to Watch: Anthony Annan

2010-05-28T12:16:00.000-07:00

It's true Ghana's chances in South Africa took a hit after it was made clear that Michael Essien would be excluded due to injury, but if there's one position where Ghana have squad depth, it's in central midfield. Five of the remaining Ghanaians who can fill the position have played football at the top divisions of England and Italy this season. Internazionale's Sulley Muntari, Bologna's (permanently unfit) Stephen Appiah and Portsmouth Kevin-Prince Boateng, who's nationality switch was just recently approved by FIFA, being the well known ones. Then there is Udinese's young supertalent duo Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu and Kojo Asamoah, 19 and 21 respectively, who both impressed for Ghana at the Africa Cup of Nations 2010. But the player set to directly replace Chelsea's world class defensive midfielder in the World Cup is Rosenborg's 23 year old Anthony Annan.

The Norwegian champions only lost a single game last season, and Annan was voted Rosenborg's Player of the Season by both fans and media. The short Ghanaian is often compared to Claude Makelele, and the similarities are not merely physical. Sitting in front of the defensive line, he has a gift for winning the ball and the right attitude for doing his team's dirty work, relentlessly closing down the opposition. What he lacks in height, he makes up for in strength and positional sense. He has at times even been effectively used for marking the tallest player of the opposition on set pieces. With the ball, Annan is unlikely to be confused with a block of concrete. He shields the ball very well, and is a tidy passer, hardly ever losing possession or resorting to the hoof. In fact, he was earlier in his career, when he had a more free roaming midfield role, somewhat curiously likened to the skilled Argentinian playmaker of similar height, Pablo Aimar. As the midfield anchor however, Annan prefers to keep it simple and mostly leaves the dribbling and playmaking to his teammates.

With Rosenborg already resigned to losing the Ghanaian in the transfer window, Annan's peformances in the World Cup will directly affect the fee and destination the club and player can expect from the transfer. There will certainly be a lot of pressure on the young midfielder this summer, who will have to make the transition from partnering Ghana's best footballer of all time, to replacing him, if Ghana is to have success at the World Cup.

G. Lindström

Essien to miss World Cup

2010-05-28T12:06:00.000-07:00

Ghana's and Chelsea's defensive midfielder Michael Essien has been ruled out of playing in the World Cup by Ghana's Football Association. Essien is still troubled by a knee injury he picked up at the Africa Cup of Nations, and is not expected to be fit before the end of July.

Mexico

2010-05-26T12:07:00.000-07:00

Confederation: CONCACAF
Head coach: Javier Aguirre
Captain: Gerardo Torrado
Group: A

Having seen Mexico in the flesh on Monday night, I have to say I was very impressed with them. Flair, techique, movement and creativity are all qualities the Mexicans showed. At times they made England look very ordinary by making pass after pass. Some poor finishing let let them down, after breaching the English defense on a couple of occasions. Captain Gerardo Torrado was superb in the centre of midfield, everything went through him and he hardly wasted a pass. Small and lean, Torrado showed, you don't have to be an athletic powerhouse to dictate midfield possession. Both full backs were also excellent, Carlos Salcido and Efrain Juarez bombed forward all night and gave Mexico great width. Salcido, who has a penchant for scoring goals, was never afraid to have a shot and tested Robert Green with an effort.

Juarez played behind Spurs winger Giovani Dos Santos on the right hand side and both of them gave Leighton Baines a torrid time. The duo worked in tandem and complemented each other very well. Dos Santos was a threat all night with his pace and direct running. The English defense couldn't handle him at times and struggled to deal with his mazey runs. Dos Santos' club future is unclear at the moment, but if he puts in more performances like that this summer, then there will be many teams who will want his signature. West Ham striker Guillermo Franco, led the line well and offers Mexico a wealth of experience.

Manchester United fans will hope to see one of their latest new recruits, in Zavier Hernandez at the World Cup this summer. Hernandez, 21, hasn't been in the Mexico set up long, however he has scored 7 goals in just 12 caps. Carlos Vela will hope to gain a starting role this summer and show Arsene Wenger that he's ready to feature more at the Emirates. Andres Guardado is another one to watch this summer, Guardado is small and tricky with plenty of flair. The Mexicans are in group A along with hosts, South africa, France and Uruguay. That group is a tough one to call, as I believe all four could realistically reach the second round.

Squad:

Oscar Perez (Chiapas), Guillermo Ochoa (America), Luis Ernesto Michel (Guadalajara); Rafael Marquez (Barcelona), Ricardo Osorio (Stuttgart), Francisco Rodriguez, Carlos Salcido (both PSV Eindhoven), Hector Moreno (AZ Alkmaar), Paul Aguilar (Pachuca), Efrain Juarez (Pumas UNAM), Jonny Magallon (Guadalajara), Jorge Torres Nilo (Atlas); Andres Guardado (Deportivo La Coruna), Gerardo Torrado (Cruz Azul), Israel Castro (Pumas UNAM), Giovani dos Santos (Galatasaray, on loan from Tottenham); Pablo Barrera (Pumas UNAM), Adolfo Bautista, Alberto Medina (both Guadalajara), Cuauhtemoc Blanco (Veracruz), Carlos Vela (Arsenal), Javier Hernandez (Manchester United), Guillermo Franco (West Ham).

Ant Myers

Portugal

2010-05-24T07:06:00.000-07:00

Confederation: UEFA (Europe)
Head coach: Carlos Queiroz
Captain: Cristiano Ronaldo
Group: G

Portugal are a team with undoubted quality, they arguably have the best all round footballer in Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese have never won a major international tournament, they were widely tipped to beat Greece in the final of Euro 2004. Even on home soil, they failed to claim the trophy and left the Portuguese people wondering whether they will get a better opportunity to win something. A disappointing qualification campaign left them with a playoff match with Bosinia & Herzegovina, which they won 2-0 on aggregate. If Portugal are to succeed this summer they will need their star man Ronaldo, to be at the top of his game. In saying that, Ronaldo can not do it all his own, other players like Nani and Liedson will have to step up to the plate.

Nani is finally starting to realise his potential, the tricky winger has put in some impressive displays for Manchester United this season. Brazilian born Liedson, now has the main striking responsibility, after all time leading goal scorer Pauleta, retired from international football. Liedson has a phenominal goal scoring record for his club Sporting CP and the Portuguese will hope to see him add to his 3 international goals. Experienced central midfielders Deco and Raul Meireles will most likely partner each other in the heart of the midfield. Highly rated Miguel Veloso will also contend for a midfield place, Veloso posses great defensive abilities and a great range of passing.

Portugal are in group G, which is also the dreaded "group of death". Five time World Cup winners Brazil and much fancied African team Ivory Coast stand in the Portuguese's way to the second round, North Korea are the fourth team. Manager Carlos Queiroz decided to omit skillful winger Ricardo Quaresma due to a lack of first team football.

Squad:

Goalkeepers: Beto (Porto), Daniel Fernandes (Iraklis), Eduardo (Braga).

Defenders: Fabio Coentrao (Benfica), Paulo Ferreira (Chelsea), Ricardo Carvalho (Chelsea), Ze Castro (Deportivo La Coruna), Bruno Alves (Porto), Rolando (Porto), Ricardo Costa (Lille), Duda (Malaga), Pepe (Real Madrid), Miguel (Valencia).

Midfielders: Tiago (Atletico Madrid), Deco (Chelsea), Raul Meireles (Porto), Nani (Manchester United), Miguel Veloso (Sporting Lisbon), Pedro Mendes (Sporting Lisbon).

Forwards: Simao Sabrosa (Atletico Madrid), Hugo Almeida (Werder Bremen), Liedson (Sporting Lisbon), Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid), Danny (Zenit St Petersburg)

One to Watch: Samuel Inkoom

2010-05-20T16:38:00.000-07:00

You would struggle to find an (allegedly) young footballer who has achieved more than Samuel Inkoom within a year's time. In the end of March 2009, Inkoom made his debut for the Ghanaian national team in a World Cup qualification 1-0 win against Benin. He secured a move to Swiss top side FC Basel for the 09/10 season, where he immediately became a permanent fixture in the first team. With Basel, the right back went on to play 9 games in the Europa League, and domestically he contributed over 29 games, including the Swiss Cup final win over Lausanne. He was also a starter in Basel's all-deciding last game of the season, against long time league leaders BSC Young Boys, ahead of which they were level with said club, and ended up victorious with 2-0 at Young Boys' aptly named Wankdorf Stadium. Medals galore for the Baselians, while the Young Boys didn't even get to score.

Inkoom continued to impress for Ghana, who secured World Cup qualification as the first African nation. In Semptember 2009, he was called up for the (allegedly) Under 20 World Cup in Egypt. Not many had expected Ghana to go far in the tournament, and not many had expected them to defeat Brazil in the final, but on the 16th of October they stood as the first ever African victors of a U20 World Cup, having defeated their more famed South American adversary in a penalty shoot-out, with Inkoom taking and scoring Ghana's 2nd penalty. In January 2010 it was time for the African Cup of Nations. Inkoom was first choice right back and continued to impress as Ghana reached the final, where they finally fell to perennial ACN overachievers (or is it CAF WCQ underachievers?) Egypt.

Already considered one of the very best full backs in Switzerland, the (alleged) 20 year old is sure to get plenty of attention from scouts in South Africa. A modern full back, Inkoom is excellent going forward. He tirelessly overlaps, is comfortable on the ball and puts in dangerous crosses from the right. For a full back, his physique is more than adequate, but positionally he has looked suspect at times for Basel. The (allegedly) young Ghanaian has plenty of time to improve in that area, but if he has set his sights on big move this summer, or simply wants success with Ghana at the World Cup, it will be a big test to prove himself against the more qualified opposition in South Africa. At any rate, he will make the trek, or perhaps more accurately first class flight, there with three winner's medals and a best loser medal in his backpack. Stuffed in a locker over his head. No more than 10kg and 55cm x 40cm x 20cm if they're flying with Ryanair.

G. Lindström

Extra reading: Inkoom travels back in time from the future

Denmark

2010-05-20T09:48:00.000-07:00

Coach: Morten Olsen
Region: Europe
Group E

The Danish national team, led by their former captain Morten Olsen, will be competing in their fourth World Cup in South Africa. Despite being outsiders, the 1992 European Champions had a hugely impressive qualifying campaign, topping a group containing Portugal and Sweden, losing just one game and conceding six goals in the process.

Denmark will be looking to find their way out off Group E, a group that the Netherlands must surely be hot favourites to top. The Danish will be hoping to continue their record of getting to at least the second round, a feat they have achieved in all three of their previous World Cups. This time around they will be lucky to match their best ever World Cup performance where they marched through to the quarter-final stages at France 98.

The Danish squad includes Stoke City’s Thomas Sorenson who is currently nursing a dislocated elbow and is facing a race to be fit in time for the Scandinavians’ opening game against Holland. Newcastle forward Peter Lovenkrands will not feature in South Africa after asking not to be selected following the death of his father earlier in the season.

If they are to progress to the second round they will be relying on the fire-power of veteran striker Jon Dahl Tomasson and Arsenal’s Nicklas Bendtner. Despite the Gunner often being like lambasted for his inconsistency, the target man managed goals in both legs against Portugal during qualifying and could prove the biggest threat to the Dutch defence.

Squad:

Goalkeepers: Thomas Sorensen (Stoke City), Stefan Andersen (Brondby), Jesper Christiansen (FC Copenhagen)

Defenders: Daniel Agger (Liverpool), Simon Kjaer (Palermo), Per Kroldrup (Fiorentina), Lars Jacobsen (Blackburn Rovers), Simon Busk Poulsen (AZ), William Kvist Jorgensen (FC Copenhagen), Patrick Mtiliga (Malaga)

Midfielders: Daniel Jensen (Werder Bremen), Christian Poulsen (Juventus), Christian Eriksen (Ajax), Jakob Poulsen (AGF), Martin Jorgensen (AGF), Mikkel Beckmann (Randers), Thomas Enevoldsen (Groningen), Thomas Kahlenberg (Wolfsburg), Dennis Rommedahl (Ajax), Jesper Gronkjaer (FC Copenhagen)

Forwards: Jon Dahl Tomasson (Feyenoord), Nicklas Bendtner (Arsenal), Soeren Larsen (Duisburg).

Pete Guest

Michael Barrymore's team for the World Cup

2010-05-19T05:05:00.000-07:00

New Zealand - The All Whites.

Head coach Ricki Herbert takes his lowly ranked New Zealad side to the World Cup finals for only the second time. The 'All Whites' (or as Michael Barrymore would say the 'Aw wites') will look to better their previous finish of 1982, however achieving a better finish seems all but certain. The '82 World Cup in Spain saw New Zealnd grouped with Zico's Brazil, Dalglish's Scotland and a very strong Soviet Union side. In their 3 games The 'All Whites' conceded 12 goals, and only managed to hit the back of the net themselves twice.

Ricki Herbert's men should provide a sterner test for the worlds best. In the FIFA World Cup 2010 in South Africa they will encounter Slovakia, Paraguay and the mighty Italians, in a group they may well fancy themselves to spring a surprise or two in. The OFC Nations Cup Winners of 2008 qualified for this years World Cup by defeating Asian Football Confederation's fifth placed side Bahrain in a 2 legged play-off. After securing a 0-0 in Bahrain, New Zealand defeated Bahrain in front of a record crowd in Wellington 1-0, courtesy of a 45th minute strike from Plymouth Argyle striker Rory Fallon.

New Zealand were quick to name their 23 man squad for this years tournament. It features no fewer than 6 British based players, the most recognised being their talismanic centre half and captain Ryan Nelsen. The Blackburn Rovers stopper has been an integral member of the Blackburn side for 5 years and has a wealth of Premiership experince, which will be invaluable to New Zealand in their South African quest.

30 Man Preliminery Squad:
Goalkeepers:
James Bannatyne (TeamWellington), Glen Moss (Melbourne Victory), Mark Paston (Wellington Phoenix)

Defenders:
Andy Boyens (New York Red Bulls), Tony Lochhead (Wellington Phoenix), Ryan Nelsen (Blackburn Rovers), Winston Reid (FC Midtjylland), Ben Sigmund (Wellington Phoenix), Tommy Smith (Ipswich Town), Ivan Vicelich (Auckland City)

Midfielders:
Andy Barron (Team Wellington), Leo Bertos (Wellington Phoenix), Tim Brown (Wellington Phoenix), Jeremy Christie (FC Tampa Bay Rowdies), Aaron Clapham (Canterbury United), Simon Elliott (unattached), Michael McGlinchey (Motherwell), David Mulligan (unattached)

Strikers:
Jeremy Brockie (Newcastle Jets), Rory Fallon (Plymouth Argyle), Chris Killen (Middlesbrough), Shane Smeltz (Gold Coast United), Chris Wood (West Bromwich Albion)
KEY MAN: Ryan Nelsen (Defender, Centre, Blackburn Rovers) Captains his side with pride and determination, very under rated centre half.

ONE TO WATCH: Shane Smeltz (Striker, Centre, Gold Coast United) Has an eye for goal, having scored 15 times in 27 games for his country. A good world cup could see clubs from across the globe taking a gamble on the 28 year old.

Craig Stewart

David Villa signs for Barcelona

2010-05-19T03:55:00.000-07:00

Spain striker and bookies favourite to be the tournament's top goalscorer David Villa has signed for Barcelona in a £34.2 million deal. The 29 year old international will be a Barca player and join fellow compatriots Puyol, Iniesta and Xavi in Catalan next season following the successful completion of a medical on Friday.

The Spaniard has scored an astounding 36 goals in just 55 appearances for his national side and is believed to be Barcelona President Joan Laporta's parting gift as he waves goodbye to the presidency of the Spanish giants, a position he has held since 2003.

Pete Guest

“Some people are on the pitch"

2010-05-18T15:49:00.000-07:00

“Some people are on the pitch, they think it’s all over…it is now.” The infamous words that have become synonymous with England’s World Cup hopes over the past forty years are ringing in our ears once more as South Africa 2010 moves onto the horizon.

England will be awash with familiarity in the next 22 days. Cars with St George’s crosses hanging out of their sides, giant England flags attached to garage doors and bedroom windows, wall chart pullouts from newspapers and of course, the great English belief that 2010 is the year that Fabio Capello and England will recreate history and bring home the greatest prize of all.

The debates are already rife in pubs and bars across the land as to whom Mr. Capello should select to carry the hopes of a nation. There are unanswered questions, which for many so-called experts are questioned that should have been answered months ago. Like who is England’s number 1? Who will deputize for the injured Ferdinand or Rio? Who will play on the left? Will Heskey or Bent be in the final 23? Yet one of the major misconceptions amongst journalists is that they always think they know more than the England manager. Of course this is not the case when you are talking about a world-class tacticians like Capello and his assistant Franco Baldini.

In Capello England trust. Trust to make the right decision based on the right training sessions and right motivation and mindset. The Italian has already defied conventional wisdom and selected Adam Johnson, Darren Bent and Tom Huddlestone in his 30 strong squad for the upcoming two friendlies. Capello is a man who began his England career by laying down the law to players and to the press by claiming England had no world-class players and the media were stupid if they thought we did.

In order to win the World Cup, England will have to play to their strengths which, like it or not, may not be fast flowing attacking football, because we simply cannot compete with the Spanish, Brazilians or Argies. Defend for your lives however, rough the opposition up, tackle hard, show the grit and determination the likes of which has made the Barclays Premier League the envy of the world, and England all of a sudden become an international force.

There is not doubt that England is not the best team in the competition. There is no doubt England only have 1 world-class player in Wayne Rooney. Yet it is also true that the best teams don’t always win the World Cup. Moments of madness from the most brilliant of players can make or break tournaments, just ask Zindane. A team full of stars doesn’t necessarily produce World Champions, just ask Argentina. But a team who works hard, takes their chances, has a manager who can motivate his team and outwit his counterpart, has every chance of lifting the famous trophy.

I believe England is a team with a hard-working ethos, built to last and endure not simply to flatter. And so, in the first ever winter world cup, on the continent where human life began, perhaps the beautiful game’s most famous trophy will come home to the land of football’s birth.

Goalkeepers

Joe Hart
Robert Green
David James

Defenders

Glen Johnson
Stephen Warnock
Leighton Baines
Michael Dawson
Jamie Carragher
Ledley King
Rio Ferdinand
John Terry
Matthew Upson
Ashley Cole

Midfielders

Adam Johnson
James Milner
Tom Huddlestone
Steven Gerrard
Michael Carrick
Frank Lampard
Scott Parker
Gareth Barry

Attacking Midfielders

Aaron Lennon
Joe Cole
Shaun Wright-Phillips

Strikers

Theo Walcott
Wayne Rooney
Darren Bent
Jermain Defoe
Emile Heskey
Peter Crouch

Manager: Fabio Capello

Gavin Callaghan

Don't Cry For Me.

2010-05-18T11:14:00.000-07:00

ARGENTINA

There were 2 major shocks as unpredictable Argentina legend and manager Diego Maradona, chose to leave out the vastly experienced F.C Internazionale pair of Esteban Cambiasso and Javier Zanetti, as he adopted a youthful looking 30 man squad to take to their training camp before Maradona is forced to cut that number down to just 23 players on the 1st June.

Despite never playing under Maradona, who incidentally has called up over 100 different players in his year and a half in charge, Cambiasso was expected to be involved in the provisional squad having played an integral part in Inter's march to the Champions League final. Another defensive minded midfielder was left out as Real Madrid's Ferdnando Gago will have to watch the tournament from the sidelines along with Barcelona's Gabriel Milito. Although the older Milito brother, Diego, did make the squad following on from an impressive first season at Inter.

Maradona found a space for Newcastle United winger Jonás Gutierrez who has been plying his trade in the Coca Cola Championship this season, whilst Liverpool wide man Maxi Rodriguez also made the cut.

The Argentines are coming into the tournament on the back of a very difficult run of form. They only just scraped over the qualification line, with two late winning goals against both Peru and Uruguay, which was preceded by a humiliating 6-1 defeat at the hands of the mighty Bolivia. Maradona however remained confident in his ability despite raising many question marks with some strange team selections including a very peculiar rotation policy which included the dropping of talismanic midfielder Juan Roman Riquelme, which ultimately cause the Boca Juniors man to retire from international football.

However with qualification assured, the Argentina side, captained by Liverpool's enforcer Javier Mascherano, contains copious amounts of quality players, including the world's greatest player Lionel Messi, Carlos Tevez, and Sergio Aguero to name a few. It was Messi, Aguero and Riquelme who fired Argentina to the finals with each player ending with 4 goals the their names. Despite a very poor qualifying campaign, the Argentines will undoubtedly be amongst the favourites to win the competition, having been drawn in, what should be a relatively straight forward, Group B consisting of Greece, Nigeria and South Korea.

ONE TO WATCH

How do you narrow it down to just one?

Ángel Di María, who makes up one fourth of a devastating front four, will be one of the leading lights in this years finals, the speedy left winger is capable of breathtaking goals and skill and in fact is entering the tournament on the back of his best goalscoring season, having netted 10 times helping Benfica to the Portuguese title. His direct running and vision mean he is equally capable of taking the pressure off Lionel Messi and in fact many Argentina fans see Di María as their most important player at this years tournament. Defences will be hoping the winger has a poor competition but with his confidence high and his form being the best of his career thus-far, the omens don't look good for full back, as when Di María plays well, he is almost unstoppable, which suggests why he is so sort after, with Manchester United the most recent club to express an interest.

Sergio Aguero, who recently became Diego Maradona's son in law, is also set to show his quality on the world stage having helped his Athletico Madrid side to Europa League glory. He too has been linked with some top European clubs, with Chelsea his most likely summer destination, after South Africa of course. The striker, who scored 20 goals this year, can play on the shoulder of the last man or in a deeper, more creative role. He too is seen as a very important player for Argentina, having ended qualifying as joint top scorer with 4 goals.

ARGENTINA PROVISIONAL SQUAD

Goalkeepers: Sergio Romero (AZ Alkmaar/NED), Mariano Andujar (Catania/ITA), Diego Pozo (Colon)

Defenders: Nicolas Otamendi (Velez Sarsfield), Martin Demichelis (Bayern Munich/GER), Walter Samuel (Inter Milan/ITA), Gabriel Heinze (Marseille/FRA), Nicolas Burdisso (AS Roma/ITA), Clemente Rodriguez (Estudiantes), Ariel Garce (Colon)

Midfielders: Jonas Gutierrez (Newcastle/ENG), Maximiliano Rodriguez (Liverpool/ENG), Javier Mascherano (Liverpool/ENG), Juan Sebastian Veron (Estudiantes), Angel Di Maria (Benfica/POR), Javier Pastore (Palermo/ITA), Mario Bolatti (Fiorentina/ITA)

Forwards: Lionel Messi (Barcelona/ESP), Gonzalo Higuain (Real Madrid/ESP), Martin Palermo (Boca Juniors), Sergio Aguero (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Diego Milito (Inter Milan/ITA), Carlos Tevez (Manchester City/ENG)

Paul Seed

One to Watch: Simon Kjær

2010-05-18T09:39:00.000-07:00

At just barely 21 years of age, Danish centre back Simon Kjær is already a key player for Sicilian side Palermo in Serie A, who achieved a highly impressive and surprising 5th place finish this season, just missing out on a Champions League spot to Sampdoria in the final game. Kjær has been viewed as one of Europe's biggest centre back talents since youth, with his former club FC Midtjylland having turned down an offer from Real Madrid in 2007. After 62 apperances in Serie A, no European top club will have failed to take notice of the Dane, who will be one of the hottest transfer prospects of the World Cup, with a reported buyout clause of about £11M for non-Italian sides.

If Arsenal babyface duo Andrey Arshavin and Samir Nasri were to be out on the lash and suddenly ran into the angelic faced Dane in a dark alley, chances are the encounter wouldn't be a bloody one. But on the football field, the agile duo would have a much harder time getting past the strong and highly anticipative centre back. At 6 ft 2½ in and with good heading ability, he's also strong in the air and has contributed offensively with 5 league goals over two seasons for Palermo. Another key quality of Kjær, similarly to Liverpool's Daniel Agger, is his ability with the ball at his feet. In fact, the centre back duo are so comfortable with the ball that it's often them, rather than the full backs, who are given the responsibility of starting the Danish attacks and give them momentum, perhaps by dribbling the ball past the halfway line or hitting a decisive cross-ball. This results in a sometimes unconventional style of play from the Scandinavian side.

It wasn't until the 9th game of the qualifying campaign that Simon Kjær made his competitive debut for Denmark, but his performances in the remaining qualifiers, including two 1-0 wins againts Sweden and a 1-1 draw against Portugal, were vital in helping Denmark finishing the group ahead of the two favourites. Together with Daniel Agger, he will form one of the strongest center back partnerships in South Africa.

G. Lindström

Honduras

2010-05-18T08:25:00.000-07:00

Confederation: CONCACAF (North America)
Head coach: Reinaldo Rueda
Captain: Amado Guevara
Group: H

Some people may ask "Honduras, who are they?" and "who plays for them?" well, the Hondurans are a team that are on the rise. Located in Central America and home to 8M people, the country of Honduras is taking part in their second World Cup finals. Having finished in 3rd place in the CONCACAF qualifiers, they achieved automatic qualification. "Los Catrachos" were drawn in group H along with strong favourites Spain. Most capped player, Amado Guevara will captain the side, the playmaker has played for his country 133 times, scoring 29 times.

English Premier League fans will know of Wilson Palacios and Maynor Figueroa. Palacios, a combative midfielder has come leaps and bounds since moving to England. Consistently good perfomances for Tottenham Hotspur, has seen his name linked with Spanish giants Real Madrid. It will be interesting to see how he copes on the World stage. Wigan left back Maynor Figueroa is another who will hope to impress. Speculation around his future, never seems to go away, a few good displays this summer may get him a big money move. Hendry Thomas, who also plays for Wigan, will most likely partner Palicios in central midfield.

Powerful striker David Suazo, will have the job to get the goals, the Internazionale man has netted 16 times in 50 caps. In order to reach the second round, Honduras will need to see off fellow Hispanics, Chile and Switzerland. Head coach, Reinaldo Rueda has chosen his squad and decided against picking experienced striker Carlos Costly, who is recovering from an injury.

Squad(23):

Goalkeepers: Ricardo Canales (Motagua), Noel Valladares (Olimpia), Donis Escober (Olimpia)

Defenders: Victor Bernardez (Anderlecht), Maynor Figueroa (Wigan), Boniek Garcia (Olimpia), Sergio Mendoza (Motagua), Emilio Izaguirre (Motagua), Johnny Palacios (Olimpia), Mauricio Sabillon (Hangzhou Luchen), Osman Chavez (Platense)

Midfielders: Edgar Alvarez (Bari), Julio Cesar de Leon (Torino), Roger Espinoza (Kansas City), Amado Guevara (Motagua), Ramon Nunez (Olimpia), Wilson Palacios (Tottenham), Hendry Thomas (Wigan), Danilo Turcios (Olimpia)

Forwards: David Suazo (Genoa), Georgie Welcome (Motagua), Carlos Pavon (Real Espana), Walter Martinez (Marathon)

Ant Myers

The Golden Shoe

2010-05-17T13:02:00.000-07:00

One topic that is always intriguing in any major tournament, but especially the Fifa World Cup, is the race to take home the Golden Shoe. Germany's Miroslav Klose took the prestigious award last time out in Germany but the big German front man isn't considered as one of the favourites to finish as top marksmen in South Africa.

Instead the Spanish strikers Fernando Torres and Valencia talisman David Villa are the surest bets, and who can argue, Villa, the top scorer in the European Championships in 2008, hit 28 goals this term for Valencia whilst Torres found the back of the net 22 times in all competitions in a struggling Liverpool team. In addition to their goal scoring prowess, they have the unstoppable creative force behind them that is the Spanish Midfield, consisting of Xavi Hernandez, Andrés Iniesta, Cesc Fabregas and Xabi Alonso to name a few.

Elsewhere England's Wayne Rooney is a hot contender as he comes into the tournament on the back of his best goalscoring season, having hit 34 goals for Manchester United this season. His former Red Devils team mate turned Real Madrid "Galactico" Cristiano Ronaldo will also be in contention. The world's most expensive footballer scored 33 times in his first season in Spanish football. Ronaldo finished top scorer at Madrid but he was pushed all the way by Argentine Gonzalo Higuaín who netted 29 times, and he too will be looking to stake a serious claim to take home the Golden Shoe. However another Argentine will have something to say about that as the World's greatest player Lionel Messi, struck an incredible 47 goals this year, helping Barcelona to another La Liga victory.

More obscure contenders will be Uruguay's deadly front men. Diego Forlán, formerly of Manchester United and Luis Suárez, linked with a summer move to Old Trafford scored a combined 78 goals for Ajax and Athletico Madrid this season. Suárez was the only man to out score Messi this year, firing an almost unbelievable 49 goals for the Amsterdam club, whilst Forlán enters the tournament fresh from his match winning brace in the Europa League final against Fulham.

Didier Drogba cannot be ruled out either, having already taken home the Premier League Golden Boot, the big Ivory Coast man will be keen to add another personal award to his trophy cabinet. Whilst the Brazilians have Luis Fabiano and Alexandre Pato who will hope to end the competition as top marksmen. The French strikers Nicholas Anelka, Thierry Henry and Djibril Cissé, providing he makes the final squad, will want to have their say, in what promises to be an intriguing sideshow at the Fifa World Cup.

Paul Seed

Yew Ess Ay!! Yew Ess Ay!!

2010-05-17T12:39:00.000-07:00

USA
2009 Confederations Cup runners-up USA are looking forward to contesting in their ninth World Cup Finals. USA's best finish was 3rd place in the inaugral World Cup in Uruguay. Manager Bob Bradley has taken his team to 14th in the current FIFA World rankings and are the only team in 4 years to have defeated favourites for this years competition, Spain.

The Americans qualification to South Africa was far from easy, their home form was impressive, however their away form was a concern, only winning 2 games away out of 5 (Trinidad and Tobago, Honduras). USA did however top their group with 20 points from 10 games. Their qualification from the group in the World Cup is far from a certainty. USA's first game of the tournament is against the much fancied England, they then face the dangerous Slovenia and the little known Algeria. They'll fancy their chances of qualification into the knockout rounds, but have a difficult task in doing so.

USA are in horrific form in recent friendlies, losing 4 out of 5 and their only victory was a 2-1 win at home to minnows El Salvador courtesy of a 92nd minute winner. Bradley has named his 30man preliminary squad for the World Cup with very few surprises, the only talking point was the inclusion of Oguchi Onyewu, who has been struggling all season with injuries at AC Milan:
30 Man Preliminary Squad:

GOALKEEPERS
Brad Guzan (Aston Villa),Tim Howard (Everton),Marcus Hahnemann (Wolverhampton)

DEFENDERS
Carlos Bocanegra (C)(Rennes),Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA),Steve Cherundolo (Hannover),Jay DeMerit (Watford),Clarence Goodson (IK Start),Chad Marshall (Columbus Crew),Oguchi Onyewu (AC Milan),Heath Pearce (FC Dallas),Jonathan Spector (West Ham United)

MIDFIELDERS
DaMarcus Beasley (Rangers),Alejandro Bedoya (Örebro),Michael Bradley (Borussia Mönchengladbach),Ricardo Clark (Eintracht Frankfurt),Clint Dempsey (Fulham),Landon Donovan (Los Angeles Galaxy),Maurice Edu (Rangers),Benny Feilhaber (Aarhus),Stuart Holden (Bolton),Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA),Robbie Rogers (Columbus Crew),José Torres (Pachuca)

FORWARDS
Jozy Altidore (Villarreal),Edson Buddle (Los Angeles Galaxy),Brian Ching (Houston Dynamo),Robbie Findley (Real Salt Lake),Herculez Gomez (Puebla),Eddie Johnson (Aris Thessaloniki)

KEY MAN: Landon Donovan (Midfielder/Forward, Right/Centre, LA Galaxy) Impressive spell in England with Everton, Donovan has pace and an eye for goal, finding a set place for him on the team seems to be Bradleys most difficult decision, however if Donovan plays well, USA will play well.

ONE TO WATCH: Michael Bradley (Midfielder, Centre, Borussia Mönchengladbach)
Bradley isn't just picked because his father, Bob, is the head coach of USA. Hard working and a good tackler, he has a very good all round game but does pick up one too many bookings. Has an eye for goal, scoring 7 in 41 for the national team.

Craig Stewart

Australia

2010-05-17T02:32:00.000-07:00

Region: Asia
Head Coach: Pim Verbeek

The Socceroos will be participating in only their third World Cup in June. The men from 'down under' qualified for South Africa in impressive style without losing a single game and only conceding one solitary goal in the process.

The Aussies find themselves in a difficult Group D and have the unenviable task of opening their 2010 campaign against a much fancied German side.

Amongst their squad will be some familiar names for watchers of Premier League football. Everton's Tim Cahill and Mark Schwarzer, fresh from Fulham's Europa League escapade will be key players. Former Liverpool star Harry Kewell, now plying his trade in Turkey will be looking to end a career ravaged by injury with a World Cup swansong.

Squad:

Goalkeepers: Mark Schwarzer (Fulham/ENG), Adam Federici (Reading/ENG), Brad Jones (Middlesbrough/ENG).

Defenders: Scott Chipperfield (FC Basel/SUI), David Carney (FC Twente/NED), Lucas Neill (Galatasaray/TUR,captain), Michael Beauchamp (Al-Jazira/UAE), Craig Moore (no contract), Mark Milligan (JEF United/JPN), Luke Wilkshire (Dinamo Moscow/RUS).

Midfielders: Mark Bresciano (Palermo/ITA), Tim Cahill (Everton/ENG), Jason Culina (Gold Coast Utd/AUS), Brett Emerton (Blackburn Rovers/ENG), Richard Garcia (Hull City/ENG), Vince Grella (Blackburn Rovers/ENG), Brett Holman (AZ Alkmaar/NED), Mile Jedinak (Antalyaspor Kulubu/TUR), Carl Valeri (US Sassuolo Calcio/ITA), Dario Vidosic (FC Nurnberg/GER).

Strikers: Josh Kennedy (Nagoya Grampus/JPN), Harry Kewell (Galatasaray/TUR), Nikita Rukavytsya (FC Twente/NED).

Random Facts About Australia's Squad

* 7 members of the squad currently play in English football.

* Only 2 members of the squad currently play in Australia's Hyundai A League.

Pete Guest

STARS AND STRIPES

2010-05-16T13:57:00.000-07:00

The United States of America have named their preliminary squad for the World Cup and have chosen to leave out car crash victim Charlie Davies. Davies was involved in a car crash that left one dead, and Davies himself with serious injuries, however the Sochaux striker had worked extremely hard to attempt to overcome those injuries and make the plane to South Africa, but USA manager Bob Bradley decided the tournament is too soon for the 23 year old front man, having failed to get full medical clearance from his club.

The USA, who are competing in their ninth Fifa World Cup, will be participating in Group C alongside England, Algeria and Slovenia and many expect them to be a thorn in Fabio Capello's side when the two nation lock horns on the 12th of June in Rustenburg. Many of the US star players will be familiar to English fans, with nine members of the preliminary squad applying their trade in British football. Players such as Tim Howard, Clint Dempsey and DeMarcus Beasley provide top level experience having all played in European competitions this season.

However some players will be unknown to English fans but nevertheless have top level experience. Giant centre back Oguchi Onyewu currently plays for Italian side A.C Milan and was almost unplayable during the Confederations Cup, a tournament where the USA made it all the way to the final and were only beaten by a fantastic Brazil comeback.

ONE TO WATCH

The key player for the USA will be LA Galaxy star Landon Donovan, a player widely regarded as the best in the MLS, and he too spent a successful spell in England with Everton. He is the USA's most capped player with 121 appearances to his name, netting 42 goals in the process. Manager Bob Bradley will be hoping Donovan can continue his good understanding with former Hull man Jozy Altidore, who incidentally was the USA's top scorer during qualifying with 6 goals. Donovan looked highly impressive during his loan spell at Everton, scoring two goals and being named the Club's Player of the Month for his performances in January.

Donovan, capable of playing on the right hand side or as a striker, possesses great pace and loves to run directly at defences, attributes that are essential to the counter attacking style that the Americans like to use. There is no doubting that if Donovan is firing on all cylinders then there is every chance that the Americans can cause an upset or two.

USA'S 30 MAN PRELIMINARY SQUAD

Goalkeepers: Brad Guzan (Aston Villa), Tim Howard (Everton), Marcus Hahnemann (Wolves)

Defenders: Carlos Bocanegra (Rennes), Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA), Steve Cherundolo (Hannover), Jay DeMerit (Watford), Clarence Goodson (IK Start), Chad Marshall (Columbus Crew), Oguchi Onyewu (AC Milan), Heath Pearce (FC Dallas), Jonathan Spector (West Ham)

Midfielders: DaMarcus Beasley (Rangers), Alejandro Bedoya (Orebro), Michael Bradley (Borussia Monchengladbach), Ricardo Clark (Houston Dynamo), Clint Dempsey (Fulham), Landon Donovan (Los Angeles Galaxy), Maurice Edu (Rangers), Benny Feilhaber (Aarhus), Stuart Holden (Bolton), Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA), Robbie Rogers (Columbus Crew), Jose Torres (Pachuca)

Forwards: Jozy Altidore (Villarreal), Edson Buddle (Los Angeles Galaxy), Brian Ching (Houston Dynamo), Robbie Findley (Real Salt Lake), Herculez Gomez (Puebla), Eddie Johnson (Aris Thessaloniki)

Paul Seed

Uruguay

2010-05-15T09:28:00.000-07:00

Confederation: CONMEBOL (South America)
Head coach: Oscar Tabarez
Captain: Diego Lugano
Group: A

Two time World Cup winners Uruguay will travel to South Afica, after taking the last place in the South American qualifiers. An inconsistent qualifying campaign left them having to do battle with Costa Rica in the playoffs. The Uruguayans have some excellent talent in their ranks. Most notably, their strikeforce would leave many teams envious. In Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez they will have opposition defenses fearing the two hitmen. Forlan, who broke Fulham fans' hearts by scoring a brace in the Europa Cup final, will join Suarez in attack and between them, they have scored 33 goals for Uruguay.

Defender and captain, Diego Lugano is a very solid centre-half and will prove tough to breach at the finals. Central midfielder, Walter Gargano will operate as an enforcer type role in the heart of midfield. Gargano is an all round midfielder, good on ball and can also get stuck in if needed.

Speedy winger, Nicolás Lodeiro is definitely one to keep an eye on this summer. Pace, good technique and a danger from free-kicks are all attributes the Ajax man posses. Uruguay find themselves in group A, which on paper, is a difficult group. However, I'm tipping the Uruguayans to reach the second round and surprise a few people.

Squad:

Goalkeepers: Fernando Muslera (Lazio), Juan-Guillermo Castillo (Cali), Martin Silva (Defensor Sporting)

Defenders: Diego Lugano (Fenerbahce), Diego Godin (Villarreal), Andres Scotti (Colo Colo), Jorge Fucile (Porto), Martin Caceres (Juventus), Mauricio Victorino (Universidad de Chile), Maximiliano Pereira (Benfica)

Midfielders: Walter Gargano (Napoli), Egidio Arevalo-Rios (Penarol), Sebastian Eguren (AIK Stockholm), Diego Perez (Monaco), Alvaro Pereira (Porto), Alvaro Fernandez (Universidad de Chile), Ignacio Gonzalez (Valencia), Nicolas Lodeiro (Ajax)

Forwards: Sebastian Fernandez (Banfield), Luis Suarez (Ajax), Diego Forlan (Atletico Madrid), Sebastian Abreu (Botafogo), Edinson Cavani (Palermo).

Watch France v Uruguay(6th June) on flashsportstreams.com/forum/

Ant Myers

The Best World Cup 2010 song

2010-05-14T12:11:00.000-07:00

The Defending Champions

2010-05-14T10:01:00.000-07:00

The 2006 winners Italy have announced their 30 man preliminary squad that will attempt to defend the trophy at the World Cup in South Africa this summer. Manager Marcello Lippi chose to leave out Roma legend Francesco Totti, after rumours had been suggesting that he was ready to come out of International retirement for the first ever World Cup to be held in Africa.

Luca Toni has also been overlooked as Lippi chose to go for youth over experience with the inclusion of Villarreal and former Manchester United forward Giuseppi Rossi, who surprisingly is the only player to be selected from outside the Italian leagues. If Rossi makes the final 23, which must be announced before the 1st June, he will join Alberto Gilardino who was Italy's top scorer during qualifying with 4 goals.

Italy have been drawn into group F which appears to be fairly straight forward containing Slovakia, New Zealand, who have not qualified for the World Cup finals since 1982 and Paraguay. The Paraguayans, however, will prove to be a real test having finished third in a South American qualifying group containing both Brazil and Argentina. However the Italians will be confident having also finished top of their qualifying group, remaining unbeaten in the process, securing their position as the nation that has played the most World Cup football in history.

ONE TO WATCH

The big player to watch for Italy this year will be Daniele De Rossi, who is nicknamed "Capitan Futuro" by the Italian media who believe he will take over the captaincy of both Roma, from Francesco Totti, and Italy from Fabio Cannavaro, who will be skippering the side in South Africa

His ball winning skill is evident and crucial in allowing the flair players around him like A.C Milan veteran Andrea Pirlo to flourish, even if it does result in him picking up a yellow card...or two as he was in fact sent off 4 years ago in Germany for an elbow against the USA.

Despite his defensive attributes, De Rossi is equally capable of playing an attacking role, and in fact he is coming into the tournament on the back of his best ever goal scoring season, netting 10 goals for Roma this season, helping his side recapture Champions League football for next year. He found the back of the net twice during qualifying and manager Marcello Lippi believes he can do the same when they kick off against Paraguay in Cape Town on June 14th. "Daniele is already one of the most complete midfielders in the world. He is not inferior to either Frank Lampard or Steven Gerrard of England" It is now time for De Rossi to live up the hype his manager is creating and prove himself as one of the best midfielders in the world.

ITALY 30 MAN PRELIMINARY SQUAD

Goalkeepers: Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus), Morgan De Sanctis (Napoli), Federico Marchetti (Cagliari), Salvatore Sirigu (Palermo)

Defenders: Salvatore Bocchetti (Genoa), Leonardo Bonucci (Bari), Fabio Cannavaro (Juventus), Mattia Cassani (Palermo), Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus), Domenico Criscito (Genoa), Fabio Grosso (Juventus), Christian Maggio (Napoli), Gianluca Zambrotta (AC Milan

Midfielders: Mauro Camoranesi (Juventus), Antonio Candreva (Juventus), Andrea Cossu (Cagliari), Daniele De Rossi (Roma), Gennaro Gattuso (AC Milan), Claudio Marchisio (Juventus), Riccardo Montolivo (Fiorentina), Angelo Palombo (Sampdoria), Simone Pepe (Udinese), Andrea Pirlo (AC Milan)

Strikers: Marco Borriello (AC Milan), Antonio Di Natale (Udinese), Alberto Gilardino (Fiorentina), Vincenzo Iaquinta (Juventus), Giampaolo Pazzini (Sampdoria), Fabio Quagliarella (Napoli), Giuseppe Rossi (Villarreal)

Paul Seed

One to Watch: Atsuto Uchida

2010-05-14T05:10:00.000-07:00

31 international caps and three league titles are career achievements most footballers would be content with by the time they put their boots on the shelf, but Japanese right back Atsuto Uchida accomplished this before celebrating his 22nd birthday. Starting in all but one of Japan's admittedly uncompetitive Asian Football Confederation World Cup qualifiers, he helped his team qualify for the tournament that will now be the first big test of his career.

Like many players in the Japanese J. League, Uchida has quick feet and is comfortable on the ball, but with a lean build and at 5 ft 9½, he isn't a physically imposing defender. European clubs haven't exactly been eager to import Japanese defenders over the years, but the preference towards attacking full backs, who are expected to contribute as much offensively as defensively, is one of the last decade's most significant changes in European football. A move to Europe looks very likely for Uchida, who has been diligently scouted for quite some time. Recent successes of CSKA's Keisuke Honda, Catania's Takayuki Morimoto and Wolfsburg's Makoto Hasebe also suggests that Japan is an underused market with good value.

Perhaps the biggest indication of Uchida's quality is the recent strong link with a move to German top side Schalke 04 in Japanese media. Schalke's manager Felix Magath unearthed a number of gems, including Bosnian sensation Edin Dzeko and aforementioned Hasebe, when he transformed Wolfsburg from a lower midtable side to the German Bundesliga winners of 2009 during his short tenure there.

Followers of J. League and the Japanese national team have sometimes questioned Uchida's development over the last couple of years, stating that perhaps he's had it a little too easy in his career, winning consecutive league titles with Kashima Antlers in 2007, 2008, 2009 and having little competiton on his position in both Kashima and for the national team. It's not impossible that the more competitive environment of the World Cup and Europe can inspire him to improve further and reach his full potential.

G. Lindström

¡Viva España!

2010-05-14T02:39:00.000-07:00

Spain:
Perennial World Cup under-achievers Spain go into the World Cup 2010 in South Africa as clear favourites to win the golden trophy. Their qualification into this years tournament couldn't have been easier with a perfect record in Group 5 of 10 wins from 10. With the lively Fernando Torres and dangerous David Villa spear-heading the attack it's easy to see why Spain managed to score 28 goals in the ten games played, however, possibly more impressive is their goals against tally which stood at only 5 goals conceded in the 10 games played and never actually conceding at home! Spain's only blemish in the past 4 years was a defeat in the Confederations Cup Semi-Final to USA.

La Furia Roja (The Red Fury) have found themselves in a relatively easy group in the World Cup 2010. They'll face Switzerland in Durban, Honduras in Johannesburg, then Chile in Pretoria. Qualification should be plain sailing for the Spanish, as they look to win their first ever World Cup. Their favourites tag has been attached as a result of their impressive showing in the European Championships 2008 in Austria/Switzerland. Spain defeated Germany 1-0 to be crowned European Champions, striker David Villa took home the golden boot award, playmaker Xavi was named the tournaments best player and nine Spanish squad members in total made the Championships team of the tournament.

However Spain has a habit of choking on the biggest stage of all. Their best finish in a World cup was back over half a century ago in Brazil 1950. Spain managed to finish fourth in a tournament won by the then great Uruguayan side. It's for this reason alone why Spain may not be fancied to lift this years Fifa World Cup trophy. For all their skill, creativity and unique ability to make even the worlds best footballers look novice like, Spain has always seemingly lacked the grit and determination to succeed at the FIFA World Cup.
30 man Preliminary Squad:

Goalkeepers: Iker Casillas, David De Gea, Diego Lopez, Pepe Reina, Víctor Valdes.

Defenders: Raul Albiol, Alvaro Arbeloa, Cesar Azpilicueta, Joan Capdevila, Carlos Marchena, Gerard Pique, Carles Puyol, Sergio Ramos,

Midfielders: Xabi Alonso, Sergio Busquets, Cesc Fabregas, Andres Iniesta, Javi Martinez, Marcos Senna, David Silva, Xavi, Santi Cazorla, Jesus Navas, Juan Mata,

Forwards: Pedro, Daniel Guiza, Fernando Llorente, Alvaro Negredo, Fernando Torres, David Villa

KEY MAN: Xavi (Barcelona, Midfielder, Centre) Integral to everything Spain do.

ONE TO WATCH: Jesus Navas (Seville, Midfielder, Right) If Spain gamble on you Navas to go to the World Cup, he could have a place on the right wing. Direct, pacy and loves to take on his opponent.

Craig Stewart

Slovenia

2010-05-13T07:14:00.000-07:00

Confederation: UEFA (Europe)
Head coach: Matjaž Kek
Captain: Robert Koren
Group: C

Slovenia is the smallest nation that will be taking part in the World Cup this summer. This will be their second World Cup outing, since splitting from Yugoslavia in 1991. The Slovenians advanced through to the Finals by impressively beating giants, Russia, in the playoffs. They were placed in group C, along with Algeria, England and USA. They will have to perform amazingly well to reach the second round, as they are the clear underdogs in this group.

Captain Robert Koren will be familiar to English fans, as he played for newly promoted West Bromich Albion. The midfielder has good technical ability and can score some spectacular goals. Slovenia will need their star man to perform, if they are to succeed this summer. Head coach, Matjaž Kek, has picked his squad and it consists of players scattered all over Europe

Squad:

Samir Handanovic (Udinese), Jasmin Handanovic (Mantova), Aleksander Seliga (Sparta Rotterdam); Bojan Jokic (Chievo), Marko Suler (Gent), Bostjan Cesar (Grenoble), Branko Ilic (FC Moscow), Matej Mavric-Rozic (Koblenz), Elvedin Dzinic (Maribor), Miso Brecko (Cologne), Suad Filekovic (Maribor); Andraz Kirm (Wisla Krakow), Andrej Komac (Maccabi Tel-Aviv), Rene Krhin (Inter Milan), Dalibor Stevanovic (Vitesse Arnhem), Robert Koren (West Brom), Aleksander Radosavljevic (Larissa), Valter Birsa (Auxerre); Milivoje Novakovic (Cologne), Zlatko Dedic (Bochum), Zlatan Ljubijankic (Gent), Nejc Pecnik (Nacional), Tim Matavz (FC Groningen)

Ant Myers