Football Weekly - World Cup Preview 2010

TM

WORLD CUP PRevieW

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• the 32 contenders • host Venues Guide • Predictions & analysis

GROUP

A

South Date: 11/06

Africa

Venue:

Venue:

Africa

Venue:

Loftus Versfeld

– Cape

Venue:

Peter Mokaba

Royal Bafokeng South

Venue:

Free State

Venue:

Venue:

W

Date: 23/06

Venue:

L

F

Date: 23/06

Pts

Venue:

Soccer

Venue:

P

Peter Mokaba

Elizabeth

WORLD CUP

GROUP

TM

2010 SOUT PREVIE MATCH H AFRICA W SCHEDULE

– Durban

W

2B

D

F

United

Time: 02.30

Venue:

Venue:

Venue:

P

Date: 13/06

– Polokwane Date: 14/06

Venue:

Venue:

Germany Venue:

Green Point

– Cape

Date: 18/06

Town

Nelson

Mandela United

W

Loftus Versfeld

D

Bay – Port

Date: 19/06 Elizabeth

F

Date: 24/06

Time: 02.30

POINTS TABLE 1D

& MY) times (SG

Nelson

Mandela

Royal Bafokeng

Soccer

Pts

at local

LOSER

SF1

played

53

MATCH

54

Date: 26.6.2010 ROUND 16 Date: 27.6.2010 (49) Time: 22.00 1A Date: 27.6.2010 (50) Time: 02.30 1C Date: 28.6.2010 (51) Time: 22.00 (52) Time: 1D 02.30 1B

QUARTE

R-FINAL Soccer City – Johannesb 2 Date: 3.7.2010 urg Time: 02.30 MATCH

WINNER

49

WINNER

MATCH

50

Green Point

– Cape

Town

Slovakia Royal Bafokeng

– Rustenburg

Paraguay Free State

Mbombela

– Bloemfontein

–Nelspruit Italy

Ellis Park

– Johannesburg

New Zealand

Time: 22.00

Venue:

P

Peter Mokaba

W

D

– Polokwane

L

3F

F

Pts

4F

QF1

Venue:

Venue:

Time: 22.00

P

Soccer

Mandela

Bay – Port

Elizabeth

Green Point

– Cape

– Durban

W

Mbombela

D

Date: 26/06

– Nelspruit

L

Date: 26/06

Pts

Time: 02.30

Time: 02.30

POINTS TABLE 1H 3H

P

Mbombela

– Nelspruit

Moses Mabhida

– Durban

Switzerland Nelson

Mandela

Bay – Port

Elizabeth

Honduras Ellis Park

– Johannesburg Spain

Venue:

Switzerland

F

2H

QF4

Venue:

Venue:

Venue:

Loftus Versfeld

– Pretoria

Honduras Venue:

W

Free State

D

– Bloemfontein

L

F

Pts

4H

v 2F v 2H v 2E v 2G

SEMI-FI

WINNER

Time: 22.00

Time: 02.30

Chile

Ivory Coast Venue:

3G

Venue:

Switzerland

Time: 22.00

Chile

Spain Date: 22/06

4G

Date: 28.6.2010 ROUND 16 Date: 29.6.2010 (53) Time: 22.00 1E Date: 29.6.2010 (54) Time: 02.30 1G Date: 30.6.2010 (55) Time: (56) Time: 22.00 1F 02.30 1H

NAL 2 Moses Mabhida Date: 8.7.2010 – Durban Time: 02.30 WINNER QF3

Chile

Time: 19.30

Spain Date: 16/06

Date: 21/06

Town

Brazil Moses Mabhida

H

Honduras Date: 16/06

– Johannesburg

City – Johannesburg North Korea

Venue:

Venue:

North Korea Date: 25/06

POINTS TABLE 1G 2G

Nelson

Ellis Park

Ivory Coast

Time: 02.30

Time: 19.30

Portugal Time: 22.00

GROUP

Portugal Venue:

North Korea

Time: 02.30

Brazil

Portugal Date: 21/06

Date: 25/06

SF2

v 2B v 2D v 2C v 2A

SEMI-FI

Green Point NAL 1 Date: 7.7.2010– Cape Town Time: 02.30 QF2

WINNER WINNER

QUARTE

Green Point R-FINAL 3 Date: 3.7.2010– Cape Town Time: 22.00 MATCH

WINNER

52

WINNER

MATCH

51

QUARTE

Ellis Park R-FINAL – Johannesb 4 Date: 4.7.2010 urg Time: 02.30 WINNER MATCH

WINNER

S$10 / RM15

Paraguay Venue:

Venue:

Venue:

Venue:

Venue:

Paraguay Date: 24/06

Pts

G

Time: 22.00

Brazil Date: 16/06

Date: 21/06

SF2

Nelson THIRD / FOURT Mandel H a Bay – Date: 11.7.201 Port 0 Time: Elizabeth 02.30 LOSER

QUARTE

Mandela R-FINAL 1 Bay – Port Date: 2.7.2010 Elizabeth Time: 22.00 MATCH

Nelson WINNER

Town

F

New Zealand

Time: 22.00

Time: 22.00

Ivory Coast

Soccer City Date: 12.7.201– Johannesburg 0 Time: 02.30

SF1

WINNER

F

4D

WINNER

L

Time: 19.30

Italy

Slovakia

2F

GROUP

Date: 15/06

FINAL

WINNER

– Nelspruit

L

– Cape

D

Time: 19.30

Slovakia Date: 20/06

Date: 20/06

Date: 24/06

POINTS TABLE 1F

Elizabeth

Serbia

D

W

Time: 02.30

New Zealand Date: 15/06

–Durban

– Pretoria

– Rustenburg

– Pretoria

Bay – Port

– Rustenburg

City – Johannesburg

Mbombela

W

P

3E

F

Italy Date: 15/06

– Bloemfontein Japan

Loftus Versfeld

Royal Bafokeng

Green Point

4E

Serbia Venue:

Venue:

Venue:

Venue:

P

2D 3D

City – Johannesburg Cameroon

Venue:

2E

– Durban

Germany

Time: 02.30

Australia Date: 24/06

Pts

Loftus Versfeld

Australia

Time: 19.30

Ghana

States

– Pretoria

L

Time: 19.30

Ghana

England Venue:

Venue:

3C

Moses Mabhida

Ghana

Time: 02.30

Soccer

Free State

Moses Mabhida

Denmark

Venue:

Netherlands

Time: 02.30

POINTS TABLE 1E

Australia

Time: 22.00

Serbia

State

– Johannesburg

4C

All matches

Date: 25/06

GROUP

Denmark Venue:

Venue:

Venue:

Venue:

Japan

Time: 02.30

Cameroon

D

Germany

Algeria

Time: 02.30

Slovenia Time: 22.00

Ellis Park

Algeria Time: 22.00

Peter Mokaba

United

Time: 22.00

England Date: 19/06

Date: 23/06

Date: 23/06

POINTS TABLE 1C 2C

GROUP

State

– Rustenburg

Slovenia

Time: 19.30

Slovenia Date: 18/06

Royal Bafokeng

Time: 22.00

Time: 22.00

Time: 02.30

Denmark Date: 25/06

Algeria

Time: 19.30

Japan

Netherlands

Cameroon Date: 20/06

Pts

4B

England Date: 13/06

Date: 13/06

E

Netherlands Date: 14/06

Date: 14/06

Date: 19/06

– Polokwane

L

3B

C

Bay – Port

– Bloemfontein

City – Johannesburg

Moses Mabhida

Argentina

Time: 02.30

POINTS TABLE 1B

4A

– Johannesburg

Mandela

Free State

Korea Republic Venue:

Korea Republic

Time: 02.30

– Bloemfontein

D

Nelson

Nigeria

Time: 22.00

Time: 02.30

Nigeria

Greece

P

2A

Ellis Park

Greece

Time: 22.00

Greece

Argentina Date: 18/06

– Rustenburg Africa

3A

GROUP

Nigeria

Time: 19.30

Korea Republic Date: 12/06

Date: 17/06

– Polokwane

Uruguay Venue:

B

Argentina Date: 12/06

Town

– Pretoria

Mexico

Time: 02.30

Time: 22.00

Time: 22.00

City – Johannesburg

Green Point

Uruguay

Time: 02.30

France

Mexico

France

POINTS TABLE 1A

Soccer

France

Time: 02.30

South

GROUP

Mexico

Time: 22.00

Uruguay Date: 12/06

Date: 17/06

Date: 18/06

Date: 22/06

Date: 22/06

MATCH

55

56

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The Time is Near The 2010 FIFA World Cup is just around the corner and to be honest, I cannot wait for the tournament to begin. It is the first World Cup to be held in Africa and the build-up to the event has been phenomenal. While South Africa got down to business building stadiums and country awareness, everybody else began the long and tedious qualifying campaign that took commenced as early as August 2007.

• The 32 Contenders • Host Venues Guide • Predictions & Analysis

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Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

Over the next two years, the 204 nations that were involved fought it out over 848 matches with a total over 2337 goals scored. In the end, only 32 nations qualified for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. It has been a long road for the 32 nations that qualified and now, they will need to walk the final stretch in South Africa. With a rough estimation of over 26 billion television audience across 214 countries and territories, the 2010 FIFA World Cup will be a worldwide spectacle in celebration of the game of football.

The glory of being world champions is what these nations have been playing for in the past two years. But before the champion is crowned in July, Football Weekly takes you on the road to beautiful South Africa, host of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Walk with us as we take you through all the 32 participating nations and the 10 stadium venues. Also, find out which country Football Weekly thinks could be the world champions in our World Cup Prediction sections. Let the tournament begin!

Tom Lim

WORLD CUP CONTENTS

20 22

World Cup Features 14 World Cup History: Recap Germany 2006 18 South Africa Gets Thumbs Up 20 Podolski Rates Germany’s Chances 22 The World At His Feet 24 England’s Perfect World Cup

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Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

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WORLD CUP CONTENTS

GUIDE TO THE

32

TEAMS 26 Group A: South Africa, Mexico, Uruguay, France 36 Group B: Argentina, Greece, Nigeria, South Korea 46 Group C: England, United States, Algeria, Slovenia 56 Group D: Germany, Australia, Ghana, Serbia 66 Group E: Netherlands, Denmark, Japan, Cameroon 76 Group F: Italy, Paraguay, New Zealand, Slovakia 86 Group G: Brazil, North Korea, Ivory Coast, Portugal 96 Group H: Spain, Chile, Honduras, Switzerland

World Cup Specials 106 World Cup Prediction 110 World Cup Venues World Cup Official Stadium at Johannesburg

10

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

56 26

110 Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

11

WORLD CUP HISTORY

Recap Germany 2006

Italy, the 2006 FIFA World Cup champions!

We take a walk down memory lane and travel four years back to the 2006 FIFA World Cup held in Germany to relive some of football finest moments in the tournament.

By Tom Lim Netherland’s Robin van Persie (right) celebrates with team mate Arjen Robben (left) after scoring a crucial goal in their group match against Ivory Coast.

14

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

Italy’s Francesco Totti (left) offers a hand to Pavel Nedved (right) after the Azzurri won 2-0 in the final group game and knocked out Czech Republic in the first round.

England’s Wayne Rooney (left) receives his marching order for shoving Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo after the latter rants for a red card to referee Horacio Elizondo.

Emmanuel Adebayor (right) of Togo clashes with Fabien Barthez (left) of France as the two fight for the loose ball in front of goal.

Portugal Coach Luiz Felipe Scolari (right) consoles a red-eyed Cristiano Ronaldo after France knocked Portugal out of the semi-finals.

Bonaventure Kalou celebrates Ivory Coast’s third goal in their group match against Serbia & Montenegro with a traditional dance move.

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

15

WORLD CUP HISTORY

Germany’s Miroslav Klose does his customary forward flip after scoring against Ecuador.

The view in the Olympic Stadium in Berlin after the prize presentation ceremony was held where Italy were crowned champions of the world.

Mexico’s Oswaldo Sanchez flies through the sky as he makes a perfect save.

16

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

18

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

Kaka of Brazil celebrates scoring Brazil’s first goal in the 2006 World Cup. Brazil hung on to defeat Croatia 1-0, thanks to Kaka’s late first half goal.

Zinedine Zidane (right) of France delivers his last piece of action before retiring from the game of football with a headbutt on Italy’s Marco Materazzi (left).

Spain’s Fernando Torres sits dejected on the floor after France came from behind to win 3-1 in the Round of 16.

Italy players cannot wait to get their hands on the World Cup trophy, football’s biggest prize of the world.

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

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WORLD CUP FEATURE

South Africa Gets Thumbs Up

A lot of people are skeptical when South Africa was announce as the 2010 FIFA World Cup hosts. Despite its rich history and beautiful landscapes, the country is torn by poverty and a high crime rate. Can the World Cup unite the people and transform the situation in South Africa? By Tom Lim

O

ne of the biggest headaches South Africa faces is the issue of crime.

In fact, many emigrants from South Africa state that crime was a big factor in their decision to leave. The country’s high rate of murders, assaults, rapes and other crimes is high compared to most countries.

With safety a real worry for people around the world travelling to South Africa during June, the South African government began making safety and security plans to ensure that the tournament runs without many problems off the pitch.

Besides working closely with international agencies to gather intelligence, there will be a focus on border security at ports of entry, including South Africa’s land, sea and air borders. Commonly travelled routes from the airports into the cities will also be subjected to tighter security.

18

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

The South African police will also divide the host cities into sections, with teams patrolling each section and focusing their attention on FIFA headquarters, hotels, other accommodation establishments, the stadiums, fan parks, restaurants and tourist venues. In total, there will be a dedicated force of 41,000 police officers deployed for such purposes.

For the first time, military technology with regards to information and communication will be set up for the World Cup. Manned vehicles and crowd-control equipment will also be purchased to beef up the security just in case.

Four mobile command centres will be set up, each equipped with high-tech monitoring equipment, are to be used during the World Cup. But it must be said that the crimes in South Africa have been exaggerated to a certain extent, striking fear into the hearts of

travelers making the trip to the country during the World Cup. The majority of foreigners in South Africa have expressed their delight at the security in the country and most have admitted they would return again.

Such testimonials are pleasing to the ears of the South African government and the people trying their best to make the World Cup a successful event.

In 2009, South Africa hosted the FIFA Confederations Cup as a dress rehearsal to the World Cup. With more than 8,000 police officers deployed at cup venues, major airports

and hotels to provide security for visiting and local football fans, the situation was kept well under control and it turned out to be an outstanding tournament.

“As far as security is concerned it’s all going according to plan,” says the national spokesperson for the police, Senior Superintendent Vishnu Naidoo. “We worked very, very closely with various other government departments, with the South African national defence force, traffic, metro and all other government departments that form part of the national joint operational structure.”

The Local Organising Committee of the FIFA World Cup is equally confident that all necessary security measures have been put in place to ensure that no visitors would have any problems.

“We were very confident that the Confederations Cup will be very secure and of course also the World Cup itself will be very secure,” says Rich Mkhondo, Chief Media Spokesperson for the Local Organising Committee of FIFA. “We held 12,000 security officers who were on duty during the Confederations Cup. Everything is in place when it comes to security. The spectators, the visitors and the teams were always going to be secure,” he adds.

Despite taking all safety precautions, a discerning news report happened in Angola during the 2010 African Cup of Nations tournament.

In what was described as an “isolated incident”, the Togo team bus was shot at by gunmen, killing the driver and wounding two

FIFA President Sepp Blatter (left) and National Commissioner of the South African Police Service Bheki Cele (right) at a press conference after a two-day workshop on security plans for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

players. Apparently, the team had travelled by road rather than flying to Angola. Crossing the extremist group responsible for the shooting was bad luck enough, let alone being shot at.

Such an incident immediately cast doubt on the level of safety during the 2010 World Cup. However, South Africa and Angola are two very different countries.

International football functionaries, from FIFA President Sepp Blatter on down, have been quick to offer assurances that the shooting in Angola did not mean that this summer’s World Cup in South Africa would be unsafe.

“The measures taken for the Africa Cup are not comparable with those for a football World Cup, which are planned years in advance,” German World Cup advisor Horst R. Schmidt told the Frankfurter Rundschau newspaper.

Still, the incident has sent shivers down the spines of some European nations heading into South Africa this summer. Indeed, while the teams will be taken care of, who is to confirm that such an incident will not happen again?

But for one former World Cup star, he feels South Africa is ready to host the finals this summer. Hristo Stoichkov, the former Barcelona star and Bulgarian international, is a great admirer of South Africa – the place he has called home for the last eight months.

“ South Africa’s 2010 World Cup local organising committee Chief Executive Officer Danny Jordan addresses the media on the Togo attacks and World Cup 2010 security.

Stoichkov went to South Africa to take up the coaching position at Mamelodi Sundowns but he resigned after failing to lead the club to the league title. However, the flamboyant Bulgarian, who has rather expectedly enjoyed a love-hate relationship with the South African media, heaps praises on the country that is preparing to host the 2010 FIFA World Cup. “I have been staying in South Africa for many months now, and I think it’s a very beautiful country. It’s very nice here, I like it a lot,” said Stoichkov. “I don’t like comparing places because places are different.

Barcelona is different from Johannesburg, so is Cape Town.”

“I don’t mean that in a bad way, but people must understand that places are different. In those three places, you find different people with different cultures, so of course the experiences will be different.”

“FIFA’s President Blatter fought hard for Africa to be given a chance to host a World Cup, and I think he was right. Now it’s up to South Africans and Africans to repay the confidence he showed to them by hosting a successful World Cup. Having seen the infrastructure here, I’m sure they will not disappoint. South Africa will pass this test.”

With a seal of approval from Stoichkov, South Africa looks ready to take on the biggest tournament of their lives – the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

The Local Organising Committee of the FIFA World Cup is equally confident that all necessary security measures have been put in place to ensure that no visitors would have any problems.

”

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

19

WORLD CUP FEATURE

Podolski Rates Germany’s Chances The World Cup trophy has eluded Germany for a good 20 years although they did come close in 2002 when the nation finished as runner-up behind champions Brazil. This year could be Germany’s title to lose but Lukas Podolski is not counting this chicken just yet. By Tom Lim

G

ermany have never failed to make it to the quarter-final stage of the World Cup since 1978 when they went out of the second round following a 3-2 loss to Austria. They were the golden boys in 1990, when they defeated Diego Maradona’s Argentina 1-0 in the World Cup final, courtesy of an Andreas Brehme in the 85th minute.

However, Germany have not had much luck since then. In USA 1994, Hristov Stoichkov led Bulgaria to a triumphant 2-1 quarter-final victory over Germany and in France 1998, they were crushed 3-0 by an on-form Croatian team.

It was a cruel heartbreak in 2002 when Brazil’s Ronaldo scored a brace to deny Germany in the final and when they hosted the World Cup in 2006, they fell to two extratime goals in the semi-final to Italy.

Was it a matter of luck or a moment of madness? For Podolski, luck had a part to play in winning the World Cup. Lukas Podolski was one of the top performers for Germany in 2006. He scored his World Cup debut goal in a 3-0 victory over Ecuador in the group stage and got another two goals as Germany knocked out Sweden

20

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

in the Round of 16. Podolski also scored a penalty in the shoot-out against Argentina in the quarter-final but fired blanks as they lost to Italy in the semi-final.

‘Prince Poldi’, as he is known in his beloved Cologne, is by no means a veteran in international football. Yet, the 24-year-old has been capped 70 times by Germany and it is proof of his scoring ability that can only help Germany to its fourth World Cup title, hopefully in South Africa 2010.

Born with Polish blood, Podolski chose to represent Germany after he obtained a German passport. Despite his Polish citizenship, the young man grew up in Bergheim, near Cologne and his affection for his resident town tilted his loyalty to the country that housed him.

Through his earlier years, Podolski impressed German scouts during his time at FC Cologne and was recommended to the Germany squad well before he matured into a top striker. Podolski is the first second-division player since 1975 to break into the senior national team and this fact highlights his potential as a future star for Germany.

Podolski had a hand in Germany’s qualifying success when he opened the scoring against Russia in a crucial 2-1 win. He also notched a 90th minute equalizer in their final group game against Finland to protect their unbeaten record.

So how does Podolski compare his performances for both club and country?

“I feel just as good with the national team as I do here in Cologne,” said Podolski. “It’s always a pleasure when I’m with the Germany squad, and it’s always a pleasure when I come back here to Cologne.”

I’m always highly motivated. I go into every match, for both club and country, aiming to win. Obviously, representing your country at a World Cup is very special, knowing you have an entire nation behind you.”

It must be noted that while Podolski prefers the forward role, the left-footer has played on the left midfield for Germany and he is not too worried about where he will end up on the field come matchday.

“Where I end up playing isn’t the most important thing for me. I’ve played on the left and at centre-forward for the national team, against good opposition too. I have enough experience now to know what I have to do in a given position.”

“

I go into every match, for both club and country, aiming to win. Obviously, representing your country at a World Cup is very special, knowing you have an entire nation behind you.

”

While competition is expected for Podolski in the national team, he is adamant that he does not see himself fit only for the striker’s role.

“I want to put myself forward, and prove I can do a job for the coach, simply by doing well for my club. In any case, I don’t have to play up front, I can also play on the left.

Versatility can hardly be a disadvantage.”

Podolski is optimistic about the situation in Germany. If he plays well, his team (club and country) will play well. But while he is looking forward to Germany reaching the final in South Africa, Podolski cannot afford to underestimate the other nations in the same group.

“It’s far from being an easy group,” explained Podolski. “The first job is to stand your ground against all these teams. There are no easy opponents these days, and especially not at the World Cup. But I’m convinced that if

we play to our potential, we’ll qualify from our group and could go far.”

When asked how he feels about Germany being named as favourites to hoist the World Cup trophy, Podolski prefers to be humble with his opinions.

“I actually don’t think there’s one country you can call favourites.

There are several teams with real potential; Spain, Brazil, Argentina and France too.”

But one thing is certain.

Podolski is a young talent yet to reach his peak and winning the Best Young Player of the World Cup in 2006 not only motivates him to work harder, but it also means ultimate success which the team will benefit from.

Podolski said: “I’d like to play every game, deliver the goods and

perform well against the best the world has to offer. But individuals count for less. The vital thing is to work hard for the team and succeed as a team.”

Spoken like a true professional, Podolski will take to the skies in South Africa. While 2006 was a special year for him – making his World Cup debut and winning the Best Young Player award, 2010 will be an exciting challenge and a thrilling experience for Podolski.

“The World Cup in 2006 was a bit special,” said Podolski. “It was my first World Cup, it was at home, and the atmosphere was just unbelievable.”

“The first World Cup in Africa will be a new and thrilling experience. I’m looking forward to the fabulous atmosphere created by the local people too. We had a foretaste of that at the Confederations Cup.” With Podolski assuring himself of a good time in South Africa, Germany, could get lucky.

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

21

WORLD CUP FEATURE

The World At His Feet The little Argentine became the youngest player to represent Argentina at a World Cup when he came on as a substitute in the 2006 World Cup. Since then, Lionel Messi has gone on to far greater things. Can the little wizard amaze the world in South Africa? By Tom Lim

I

t was 16 June 2006. Argentina was leading Serbia & Montenegro by 3 goals. With 16 minutes remaining in the game, an 18-yearold came onto the field, making his World Cup debut and also became the youngest player to represent Argentina at a World Cup. Within four minutes, he took the ball down the left wing and delivered a low cross which Hernan Crespo tapped in from close range to make the score 4-0. In the 88th minute, he was put through on goal with a clever pass and ran home to finish a 6-0 rout, becoming the youngest scorer in the World Cup and the

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Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

sixth youngest goalscorer in the history of the tournament.

That boy was Lionel Messi.

Four years on, he looks sharper, faster and better than before.

Lionel Messi is a football miracle. At the age of 11, he was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency. The symptoms of the problem are disastrous. Besides poor memory, social withdrawal and depression, the affected may experience loss of strength, stamina and musculature.

Despite the deficiency, Messi’s talents

were immensed. He secured a trial with Barcelona and was immediately signed on the spot with the club offering to pay for the medical bills. It was a marriage that would rocket the boy to stardom.

At just 17 years and 114 days, Messi made his official debut in a league match against Espanyol. In another six months, Messi became the youngest to ever score in a La Liga match until 2007 when his team mate Bojan Krkic broke both records.

Since then, Messi has scored 79 goals in 134 appearances for Barcelona. He has also won the La Liga, the Copa Del Rey, UEFA Champions League, the UEFA Super Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup with Barcelona, as well as numerous personal accolades including the Ballon d’Or and the FIFA World Player of the Year.

Messi is also called “Messidona” for replicating Maradona’s famous goal against England at the 1986 FIFA World Cup in

a Copa del Rey semi-final against Getafe.

Messi ran 62 metres, beating six players in similar fashion and also scoring from a very similar position. Even the goal celebration was replicated to perfection.

That was not all. Against Espanyol in the La Liga, Messi launched himself at a cross but guided the ball past goal keeper Carlos Kameni to score a similar goal as Maradona’s “Hand of God” goal. Is Lionel Messi the new Diego Maradona?

As similar as both players are, Messi has a remarkable control that few could match. He does not fear the bigger and taller opposition and instead, he teases them with his dribbles and runs. It is like watching David versus the Goliaths.

Messi is mesmerising to watch. Just a few years ago, Ronaldinho was the man to watch as he would taunt his opponents with tricks before running circles around them. Messi has no such tricks but his quick change of pace and his quick acceleration would be his biggest weapons.

But as the world prepares for the biggest football tournament in South Africa, Lionel Messi is not going to just enjoy his second stint with the World Cup. His goal is to win the World Cup as he sees it as an epitome of being one of sport’s greats.

“To become a legend, to be great, you also have to win a World Cup,” said the Argentina international. “I have only just turned 22. It’s all happening very quickly and you

“

To become a legend, to be great, you also have to win a World Cup. – Lionel Messi

”

have to stay calm. I just play football. In my own way.”

Certainly not one of the chattiest persons but he has always let his feet do the talking.

His style of play has led people to compare him to football greats; Argentina’s Diego Maradona and Brazil’s Pele. What was once a little boy has now turned into a young man who strikes fear into the hearts of defenders whenever he plays.

However, Messi’s club form has hardly been reproduced on the international scene.

Argentina barely scrapped through qualifying and Messi was non-existent in some matches which were lost. But without Messi, Argentina could never have made it to the World Cup on their own.

Indeed, even Maradona has gone public about Messi’s talent. Just like how Maradona single-handedly steered Argentina to the World Cup trophy in 1986, the man has gone on to proclaim Messi as his successor.

“I have seen the player who will inherit my place in Argentine football and his name is Messi,” Maradona was quoted as saying.

“Messi is the best player in the world, along with Ronaldinho. I see him as very similar to me.”

“He’s a leader and is offering lessons in beautiful football. He has something different to any other player in the world.”

As ‘godly’ as Maradona was, when he was a teenage senior international, he was not selected for the Argentine team that won the 1978 World Cup. Messi, on the other hand, is expected to featuring for his country at the World Cup for a second time at only the age of 22.

Messi has the whole world at his feet and the world can no longer wait.

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

23

WORLD CUP FEATURE

England’s Perfect World Cup Steven Gerrard believes that this year will be England’s best in a World Cup and acknowledges the country’s best chance of winning a major international tournament for the first time since 1966.

By Tom Lim

W

ith a huge contingent of stars in the England squad, ‘Captain Fantastic’, as he is known in the Liverpool camp, feels that the wait for international glory is too long. The 29-year-old midfielder has lifted the FA Cup, UEFA Champions League, League Cup and UEFA Cup in his time at Liverpool, but is still at a loss for words about England’s blanks at the World Cup. Gerrard still has bad memories from the 2006 World Cup when England lost to Portugal on a penalty shoot-out after the match ended 0-0 after extra-time. Gerrard was one of the penalty takers that night and it was a heart-wrenching moment for the England midfielder as he watched his spot kick saved

by Portugal’s Ricardo.

Portugal went on to win the shootout and England were out, once again, failing to make any progress in the World Cup despite all the high hopes in the build-up to the tournament.

Gerrard, spoke of the moment when he sent his penalty kick straight into the outstretched hands of Ricardo.

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Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

“It is massive pressure, but that’s what we’ve got to do, we’ve got to try and handle that pressure. I didn’t handle it in 2006, so if I’m put in that situation again I will try and deal with the pressure a lot better.”

Gerrard added: “But it’s difficult, it’s not like taking a normal penalty in practice – you’ve got so much responsibility. You know all the fans back home are watching and when you’re tired, when you’re under so much pressure, that’s when mistakes happen and that’s what happened to me in 2006.”

But Gerrard insists the England team of this year will be extra special after they showed tremendous improvements during qualifying.

“If you consider the overall campaign (qualifying), we were very consistent,” said Gerrard. “We became a very difficult team to beat and we put in some excellent performances, but the most important thing is that we still keep working hard to improve ahead of the World Cup. We’ve still got a long way to go.”

Despite England’s dominating performances in qualifying, there was further jubilation for the English when the World Cup draw was announced. England landed United States, Algeria and Slovenia in Group C, which put the Three Lions one step into Round Two on paper.

However, Gerrard is not taking anything to chance and he admits that England will need to be at their very best in the group fixtures.

“We are pleased with the draw and we’re very confident that we can qualify from the group, but at the same time we have to show the teams respect.”

“Every team has done fantastically well to get to the World Cup and all three teams against us in the group [Algeria, Slovenia and the USA] are desperate to beat England. We know they’re going to play the game of their lives, so we need to make sure we perform well to win.”

The English FA appointed Fabio Capello as national head coach after Steve McLaren delivered a poor show in the Euro 2008 tournament. Capello immediately set about his work and the results have been good so far.

Unbeaten in qualifying was an achievement, and Gerrard believes that Capello is the man to lead England to World Cup glory.

Speaking on Capello’s first World Cup, Gerrard said: “He’ll bring many qualities to the team. He’s a winner; he’s got an unbelievable amount of experience and has enjoyed a remarkable amount of success. He’s

“

It is massive pressure, but that’s what we’ve got to do, we’ve got to try and handle that pressure. I didn’t handle it in 2006, so if I’m put in that situation again I will try and deal with the pressure a lot better.

– Steven Gerrard

”

transmitting a winning mentality to the team, so fingers crossed that will stand us in good stead for the tournament.”

On 12 June, England will face its first opponent in the United States. Gerrard has seen enough qualities in the Americans, with Jozy Altidore a member in Premier League’s Hull City and Landon Donovan, who arrived at Everton for a short loan, spearheading the attacking front for United States.

“Altidore’s a big, strong centre-forward.

He likes to run behind and cause defenders a lot of problems with his strength and his height, so the England defenders will have to play well to contain him. We have fantastic defenders in England, but we need to keep him really quiet, because if we give him time

and space he will hurt the team.”

Gerrard, whose Liverpool team beat Donovan’s Everton 1-0 in the league is also convinced the American will be a big hit for his country at the World Cup. “He’s a great lad, Donovan. He’s got speed, skill and is an excellent midfielder. We’ve got to look out for him. He’s a dangerman.”

But all eyes will be on Steven Gerrard and England this coming World Cup. For England, 44 years seem like a lifetime and Gerrard has no intentions of increasing the number of years on that figure. As for Gerrard, it could be the biggest moment of his life since that nightmare four years ago.

Football’s coming home. And this time, they won’t be empty handed.

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

25

SOUTH AFRICA

Benni McCarthy 26

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

A

GROUP FRANCE URUgUAy

As hosts, South Africa will be eager to prove to their supporters that they are not the minnows in the group. They will face group favourite France, South America’s Uruguay and CONCACAF runnerup Mexico. The Les Bleus did not have a smooth passage en route to the finals and will need to improve on their performances over recent years.

Likewise, Uruguay scrapped through qualifying and barely made the trip after a narrow one goal aggregate advantage over Costa Rica in the playoffs. Mexico qualified comfortably behind the United States and have always lit up the big stage with quality football. With a whole nation behind South Africa, it will be interesting to see how the ‘Host’ group finishes.

SOUTH AFRICA

MEXICO

URUgUAy

FRANCE

MEXICO

MATCH SCHEDULE DATE

TIME

MATCH

VENUE

11 June (FRI)

22:00

South Africa v Mexico

Soccer City – Johannesburg

12 June (SAT)

02:30

Uruguay v France

Green Point – Cape Town

17 June (THU)

02:30

South Africa v Uruguay

Loftus Versfeld – Pretoria

17 June (THU)

19:30

France v Mexico

Peter Mokaba – Polokwane

22 June (TUE)

22:00

Mexico v Uruguay

Royal Bafokeng – Rustenburg

22 June (TUE)

22:00

France v South Africa

Free State – Bloemfontein

Football Weekly Weekly World World Cup Cup prEVIEW prEVIEW Football

27 27

Group a – South africa

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY South African Football Association (SAFA) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking

Appearances at finals: 1998 - First round 2002 - First round

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 6, Won 1, Draw 3, Lost 2.

Best performance: First round in 1998 and 2002.

Most appearances at finals: Lucas Radebe (1998, 2002), Quinton Fortune (1998, 2002), Benni McCarthy (1998, 2002) - 6.

Most goals at finals: Benni McCarthy (1998, 2002), Shaun Bartlett (1998) - 2.

World Cup high: Their first ever finals victory at their second tournament appearance in 2002, beating Slovenia 1-0 with an early Siyabonga Nomvethe goal to decide the tie.

World Cup low: Bafana Bafana failed to qualify for the 2006 World Cup in Germany after being named as hosts of the 2010 World Cup. South Africa finished third in their qualification group behind Ghana and Congo DR. Qualification: South Africa qualified automatically for the tournament as hosts but did play a number of friendlies while qualification was taking place. They failed at the first hurdle of African qualifying with a place at the 2010 African Nations Cup at stake, finishing 11 points adrift of Nigeria in the group and missed out on the tournament. Bafana Bafana continued to suffer defeat after defeat in international friendlies and eventually saw the sacking of boss Joel Santana and the reappointment of former boss Carlos Parreira to take them through the World Cup campaign.

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1991 1992 81st

Name: Steven Pienaar D.O.B: 17 March 1982 Birth Place: Johannesburg, South Africa Height: 1.75m Weight: 58kg Age: 28 Position: Midfielder Club: Everton (England) Biography: Everton playmaker Steven Pienaar has been impressive at Goodison Park this season since first joining the club in 2007 on loan from Bundesliga outfit Borussia Dortmund. His pace and flair won him a three-year deal and he stayed on at Everton.

Steven Pienaar was part of the Ajax team that won the Dutch Eiredivisie in 2002 and 2004. His move to Borussia Dortmund was largely unimpressive and left for Everton when Moyes came knocking.

Pienaar feature regularly in the absence of team mate Mikel Arteta and subsequently broke into the first team as a regular in the latter half of the 2008/09 season. He is not known for scoring goals although his ability to dribble at pace is key to unlocking a stubborn defence. However, Pienaar has made news for the wrong reasons recently when the South African midfielder was arrested and charged with drink driving in February this year.

Despite Steven Pienaar’s shortcomings, his form will be vital for South Africa to have any hope of proceeding to the 2nd round.

HEAD COACH Name: Carlos Alberto Parreira Born: February 27, 1943 Birthplace: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Previous Clubs: São Cristóvão; Asante Kotoko; Ghana; Fluminense; Kuwait; United Arab Emirates; Saudi Arabia; Bragantino; Valencia; Fenerbahçe; São Paulo; MetroStars; Atlético-MG; Internacional; Corinthians; Brazil Honours: Brazilian Championship: 1984; Turkish Championship: 1996; Brazilian Third Division: 1999; Brazilian Cup: 2002; Torneio Rio-São Paulo: 2002; World Cup: 1994

S.AFRICA FIxTuRES Date: 11 June (FRI) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Soccer City – Johannesburg

Match: South Africa v Mexico

Name: Kagiso Dikgacoi D.O.B: 26 November 1984 Birth Place: Brandfort, South Africa Height: 1.8m Weight: 83kg Age: 25 Position: Midfielder Club: Fulham (England) Biography: Little known Kagiso Dikgacoi rose to prominence as one of the country’s best defensive midfielder, while plying his trade with the Golden Arrows (A South African club). His good form alerted Roy Hodgson, and the latter invited him to have a trial with Fulham.

On 26 August 2009, the Cottagers finalized the deal to bring Dikgacoi to London. Unfortunately for Dikgacoi, his biggest claim to fame to date is a slap which he aimed at Hammers midfielder, Scott Parker, which resulted in him being red-carded in the 41st minute of his Premier League debut for Fulham.

Dikgacoi was part of the Bafana Bafana’s 2008 African Nations Cup squad as well as a participant at the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup. Competitive in midfield, Dikgacoi has great strength and balance, but is not known for scoring goals.

Dikgacoi will be competing for a defensive midfield spot with the more established Aaron Mokoena. Their defensive play will allow the creative likes of Steven Pienaar to concentrate on attack.

Kagiso Dikgacoi

RISING STAR

Date: 17 June (THU) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Loftus Versfeld – Pretoria

Match: South Africa v Uruguay Date: 22 June (TUE) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Free State – Bloemfontein

Match: France v South Africa

SQuAD LIST GOALKEEPERS Sebastian Viera Néstor Fernando Muslera Juan Castillo DEFENDERS Matthew Booth Innocent Mdledle Bryce Moor Siboniso Gaxa Bongani Khumalo Morgan Gould Tsepo Peter Masilela MIDFIELDERS Aaron Mokoena Steven Pienaar Elrio van Heerdenr Teko Modise Kagisho Evidence Dikgacoi Benson Mhlongo Macbeth Sibaya Lance Davids Siphiwe Tshabalala Bernard Parker FORWARDS Thembinkosi Fanteni Katlego Mashego Katlego Mphela

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

29

Group a – MEXICo

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Federación Mexicana de Fútbol Asociación (FEMEXFUT) Association Founded 1927 FIFA Affiliation Since 1929 FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking 15th

Appearances at finals: 1930 - First round 1950 - First round 1954 - First round 1958 - First round 1962 - First round 1966 - First round 1970 - Quarter-finals 1978 - First round1986 - Quarter-finals 1990 - Qualified but suspended by FIFA1994 - Second round 1998 - Second round 2002 - Second round 2006 - Second round

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 45 games, Won 11, Drawn 12, Lost 22.

Best performance: The quarter-finals in 1970 and 1986.

Most appearances at finals: Antonio Carbajal (1950, 1954, 1958, 1962, 1966) - 10.

Most goals at finals: Luis Hernandez (1998) - 4.

World Cup high: Reaching the quarter-finals in 1970 and 1986, both as the host nation.

World Cup low: A 2-0 defeat in the second round against their fiercest continental rivals United States in the 2002 World Cup was regarded as a major upset for Mexico and their fans.

Qualification: Mexico had a disastrous World Cup qualifying and were almost knocked out in the third round, going through to the next stage thanks to a superior goal difference. A total of three coaches were hired during Mexico’s qualifiying campaign, with Jesus Ramirez and Sven-Göran Eriksson failing to impress. Former Atletico Madrid boss Javier Aguirre then came to the rescue for the second time in his career, winning 11 games out of a total of 16 matches under his belt.

Mexico qualified for the 2010 World Cup after beating El Salvador 4-1 in October last year.

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Name: Cuauhtémoc Blanco Bravo D.O.B: 17 January 1973 Birth Place: Mexico City, Mexico Height: 1.78m Weight: 72kg Age: 37 Position: Forward Club: Veracruz (Mexico) Biography: Best known for his bizarre “bunny hop” trick, where he traps the ball between his feet and jumps through any opposing defender, releasing it in the air and landing the ball under control, leaving the defender behind. The trick is so well known that it has been incorporated as a special move in the FIFA series of football games. Although the trick is eye catching, it will be interesting to see if opposing defenders will still be duped in this year’s World Cup. Despite Blanco’s age, he is somewhat of a talisman for Mexico’s coach, Javier Aguirre. Since being recalled by Aguirre, he has single handedly won matches for Mexico, ensuring their passage to the World Cup finals.

Flanked by promising youngsters, Carlos Vela and Giovani dos Santos, Blanco will have to play the role of ‘big brother’, and set an example for the starlets to follow.

HEAD COACH Name: Javier Aguirre Born: December 1, 1958 Birthplace: Mexico City, Mexico Previous Clubs: Atlante; Pachuca; Mexico; Osasuna; Atlético Madrid Honours: CONCACAF Gold Cup: 2009

MEXICO FIXTURES Date: 11 June (FRI) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Soccer City – Johannesburg

Match: South Africa v Mexico

Name: Giovani dos Santos D.O.B: 11 May 1989 Birth Place: Monterrey, Mexico Height: 1.74m Weight: 77kg Age: 20 Position: Attacking midfielder Club: Galatasaray (Turkey) Biography: Giovani dos Santos is the son of Brazilian footballer Gerardo dos Santos (better known as Zizinho). Giovani made his debut for the senior Barcelona teamas a substitute during a 3-1 home win against Athletic Bilbao on 2 September 2007. In Barcelona’s last game of the 2007-2008 season, Giovani scored a hat trick against Real Murcia which ensured victory for the Catalans. It was also the last game the media-dubbed new Ronaldinho played before joining Tottenham Hotspur for an initial fee of £4.7m.

Unfortunately, Giovani wasn’t favoured

by Harry Redknapp, and the spasming Spurs manager deemed Giovani surplus to requirements and unceremoniously shipped him out on loan. In January 2010, Dos Santos joined Turkish club Galatasaray on loan, with an option to purchase him at the end of the season. The move reunites Giovani with Frank Rijkaard, his former coach at Barcelona.

Giovani, on his day, can light up a football match all on his own, and Mexico’s manager Javier Aguirre will be hoping that this up and coming star can fulfil his undoubted potential on the World Cup stage.

Giovani dos Santos

RISING STAR

Date: 17 June (THU) Time: 19:30 SG Venue: Peter Mokaba - Polokwane

Match: France v Mexico Date: 22 June (TUE) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Royal Bafokeng - Rustenburg

Match: Mexico v Uruguay

SQUAD LIST GOALKEEPERS Oscar Pérez Francisco Guillermo Ochoa Jesús Corona DEFENDERS José Castro Juan Valenzuela Efraín Juárez Ismael Rodríguez Edgar Dueñas Fausto Pinto Israel Castro MIDFIELDERS Pablo Barrera Luis Noriega Gerardo Torrado Johnny Magallón José Martínez Salas FORWARDS Omar Arellano Riverón Guillermo Franco Carlos Vela Miguel Sabah Carlos Esquivel Giovani Dos Santos José Cárdenas Alberto Medina Omar Bravo Cuauhtemoc Blanco Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

31

Group a – uruGuay

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Asociación Uruguaya de Fútbol (AUF) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking

1900 1923 19th

Appearances at finals: 1930 - Winners 1950 - Winners 1954 - Fourth place 1962 - First round 1966 - Quarter-finals 1970 - Fourth place 1974 - First round 1986 - Second round 1990 - Second round 2002 - First round

PAST RECORDS Overall record: Played 40, Won 15, Drawn 10, Lost 15.

Best performance: They won the championship in their first two appearances, in 1930 and 1950.

Most appearances at finals: Ladislao Mazurkiewicz (1966, 1970, 1974) - 11.

Most goals at finals: Oscar Míguez, Juan Alberto Schiaffino (1950, 1954) - 7.

World Cup high: The ‘Maracanazo’ saw a 2-1 victory for Uruguay over Brazil in the 1950 World Cup final. The match was decided by goals from Juan Alberto Schiaffino and Alcides Ghiggia after Friaça had put the hosts ahead.

World Cup low: A 6-1 defeat by Denmark in the first round of Mexico 1986 is Uruguay’s biggest upset in their World Cup history.

Qualification: Uruguay toiled through qualifying to reach their 11th World Cup final. Defeat to Argentina in their final CONMEBOL qualifier saw them contest with fourth-placed CONCACAF side Costa Rica in the play-offs. A 1-0 away win by Uruguay was then made safe with a 1-1 home draw in the second leg at the legendary Estadio Centenario in Montevideo to grab the last available spot in South Africa.

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Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

Name: Diego Forlan D.O.B: 19 May 1979 Birth Place: Montevideo, Uruguay Height: 1.79m Weight: 75kg Age: 30 Position: Striker Club: Atlético Madrid

Biography: Forlan played for several South American clubs before being snapped up Manchester United for a fee of £6.9m.

Alex Ferguson signed Forlan in January 2002 with the hope that he can take over the goalscoring void left by Andrew Cole.

Alas, it took him eight months and 27 games to score his debut goal, and the vicious English media dubbed him “Diego Forlorn”. When Wayne Rooney was signed in August 2004, it signaled the end of Forlan’s English Premier League career.

On 21 August 2004, Forlan joined Villarreal and proved an instant hit, as he won the Pichichi (top goalscorer in La Liga) with 25 goals. His goals prompted Atlético Madrid to shell out €21million to replace Fernando Torres who was leaving for Liverpool. For the 2008-2009 season, he won the Pichichi again, as well as the European Golden Boot for the 2nd time.

Forlan is already 30 years old and this will probably be his last World Cup. Forlan would want to retire from international football with a bang, and Uruguay will be relying on him to get the goals.

HEAD COACH Name: Oscar Tabárez Born: March 3, 1947 Birthplace: Montevideo, Uruguay Previous Clubs: Bella Vista; Uruguay U-20; Danubio Wanderers; Peñarol; Deportivo Cali; Cagliari; AC Milan; Real Oviedo; Cagliari; Vélez Sársfield; Boca Juniors Honours: Copa Libertadores: 1987, 2003

URUGUAY FIxTURES Date: 12 June (SAT) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Green Point – Cape Town

Match: Uruguay v France

RISING STAR

Date: 17 June (THU) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Loftus Versfeld – Pretoria

Name: Luis Suárez D.O.B: 24 January 1987 Birth Place: Salto, Uruguay Height: 1.81m Weight: 81kg Age: 23 Position: Forward Club: Ajax Amsterdam (Netherlands)

Date: 22 June (TUE) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Royal Bafokeng - Rustenburg

Match: Mexico v Uruguay

SQUAD LIST

Luis Suárez

Biography: During his early days, Suárez was considered one of Uruguay’s biggest talents. Soon the European clubs came knocking, and Dutch club FC Groningen took a chance on him. Suárez’s did well in his debut season for Groningen, and Ajax shelled out 7.5 million for him on 9 August 2007.

Suárez showed that his debut season in Dutch football, was just a sign of things to come, as he scored 20 goals in 40 appearances in his first season for Ajax. And he followed that up with 22 goals from 31 league games last season, finishing 2nd in the top scorers table.

This season, Suárez was made captain

by Ajax Amsterdam’s new coach Martin Jol, highlighting his importance to the club.

Suárez will be tasked with the creative job of making the final pass for the Uruguay National team more known for its aggressive style than flair. If Suárez can replicate anything like his Ajax form, Uruguay should be a shoo-in for the next round, as long as they can curb their disciplinary problems.

Match: South Africa v Uruguay

GOALKEEPERS Sebastian Viera Néstor Fernando Muslera Juan Castillo DEFENDERS Jorge Ciro Fucile Diego Alfredo Lugano Diego Godín José Martín Caceres Andrés Scotti Bruno Carlos Adrián Suarez Valdez MIDFIELDERS Jorge Rodríguez Ignacio María González Alvaro Daniel Pereira Nicolas Lodeiro Diego Pérez Victor Maximiliano Pereira Alvaro González Wálter Alejandro Gargano Alvaro Fernández FORWARDS Cristian Gabriel Rodríguez Edison Cavani Diego Martín Forlán Sebastián Abreu Sebastián Fernández Luis Suárez Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

33

Group a – france

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Fédération Française de Football (FFF) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking Appearances at finals: 1930 - First round 1934 - First round 1954 - First round 1958 - Third place, 1978 - First round 1982 - Fourth place 1998 - Winners 2002 - First round,

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 51, Won 25, Drawn 10, Lost 16.

Best performance: Winners in 1998.

Most appearances at finals: Fabien Barthez (1998, 2002, 2006) - 17.

Most goals at finals: Just Fontaine (1958) - 13.

World Cup high: Their maiden and only World Cup trophy won in 1998 was highlighted by two superbly taken goals by Zinedine Zidane in a 3-0 win over Brazil in the final at the Stade de France.

World Cup low: Failure to score a single goal in a first round elimination in the 2002 World Cup, defending champions France finished bottom of the group with then manager Roger Lemerre dismissed for the poor results.

Qualification: France stuttered during qualification and finished second behind Serbia in Group Seven. They opened their campaign with a 3-1 defeat to Austria and went on to record narrow victories over Lithuania and the Faroe Islands. But their draws with Romania meant they slot in behind Serbia for the play-off.

Even then, their qualification was shrouded with controversies after Thierry Henry’s handball against the Republic of Ireland sent France through to the World Cup finals and created a huge debate in the footballing world about the use of video replays and additional officials behind goalposts to spot similar incidents in the future.

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1919 1907 7th

1938 - Quarter-finals 1966 - First round 1986 - Third place 2006 - Runners-up

Name: Thierry Henry D.O.B: 17 August 1977 Birth Place: Les Ulis, Essonne, France Height: 1.88m Weight: 83kg Age: 32 Position: Forward Club: Barcelona (Spain) Biography: Henry came through the youth ranks at Monaco under the mentorship of Arsene Wenger, but didn’t make an impact in Serie A, after his big money move to Juventus, where he was largely used as a winger.

Henry made his breakthrough when he moved to Arsenal, reuniting him with his ex-Monaco Mentor Arsene Wenger. The French professor transformed Henry from a struggling winger to a world class striker.

Henry’s consistent brilliance in the English game yielded him 226 goals in 380 games. Henry achieved many honours, the more notable amongst them: Winning the double with Arsenal in the 2001-2002 season, World Cup and European Championships with France in 1998 and 2000 respectively. As age stole a yard of pace from Henry, he was sold to Barcelona where he had to reinvent himself as a left forward, as part of Barcelona’s 4-3-3 formation.

Unfortunately, Henry who is known for his sportsmanship will forever be haunted by a single event where he used his hand and helped France to the World Cup Finals at the expense of Ireland.

HEAD COACH Name: Raymond Domenech Born: January 24, 1952 Birthplace: Lyon, France Previous Clubs: Mulhouse; Lyon; France U-21 Honours: French Division Two: 1989; Toulon Tournament: 2004

FRANCE FIxTuRES Date: 12 June (SAT) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Green Point – Cape Town

Match: Uruguay v France

Name: Yoann Gourcuff D.O.B: 11 July 1986 Birth Place: Ploemeur, France Height: 1.85m Weight: 79kg Age: 23 Position: Playmaker Club: Bordeaux (France) Biography: Gourcuff started his career at Lorient (French Ligue One club) which is managed by his father, Christian Gourcuff.

He quickly became a fan favourite with some eye catching displays, and soon the big clubs came calling and Milan moved in quickly to sign him for 3.5 million as an understudy to Kaka.

Despite his immense potential, Gourcuff didn’t play enough which hindered his progress as a player and he jumped on the opportunity to return to France with Bordeaux on loan. Gourcuff subsequently decided to stay with Bordeaux and was signed permanently in a 15 million deal.

This gangly heir apparent to French legend Zinedine Zidane, is blessed with a silky first touch, outstanding technique and the ability to split a defence with a single pass. France manager Raymond Domenech has already place his faith in Gourcuff and installed him in the ‘hole’ behind the main striker, which has not been adequately filled since the retirement of Zidane.

Yoann Gourcuff

RISING STAR

Date: 18 June (FRI) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Peter Mokaba - Polokwane

Match: France v Mexico Date: 22 June (TUE) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Free State – Bloemfontein

Match: France v South Africa

SQuAD LIST GOALKEEPERS Cedric Carrasso Hugo Lloris Steve Mandanda DEFENDERS Aly Cissokho Rod Fanni Patrice Evra Sebastien Squillaci Bacary Sagna Eric Abidal Julien Escudé William Gallas MIDFIELDERS Abou Diaby Jeremy Toulalan Florent Malouda Alou Diarra Lassana Diarra Moussa Sissoko Yoann Gourcuff Loic Remy FORWARDS Karim Benzema Sidney Govou Thierry Henry Nicolas Anelka STRIKER Andre Pierre Gignac Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

35

ARGENTINA

Carlos Tevez

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Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

B

GROUP GREECE NIGERIA

Arguably one of the favourites for the World Cup, Argentina certainly did not make things easy for themselves as they struggled through qualification.

While all eyes will be on Lionel Messi, it is intriguing to see how Diego Maradona will steer the Argentines through the group stages. Group B also features Nigeria, one of the most flamboyant and aggressive African nation also known as the ‘Super Eagles’.

Asia’s best and unbeaten in qualifying, South Korea, will be hoping to go one better than their 2002 stint while Euro 2004 champions Greece will be hoping their Euro champions tag is not a fluke. Group B has no easy fixtures and there are certainly no clear-cut winners here.

souTh koREA

ARGENTINA

GREECE

NIGERIA

souTh koREA

mATCh sChEDuLE DATE

TImE

mATCh

VENuE

12 June (SAT)

22:00

Argentina v Nigeria

Ellis Park – Johannesburg

12 June (SAT)

19:30

South Korea v Greece

Nelson Mandela Bay – Port Elizabeth

17 June (THU)

22:00

Greece v Nigeria

Free State – Bloemfontein

17 June (THU)

19:30

Argentina v South Korea

Soccer City - Johannesburg

23 June (WED) 02:30

Greece v Argentina

Peter Mokaba – Polokwane

23 June (WED) 02:30

Nigeria v South Korea

Moses Mabhida - Durban

Football Weekly Weekly World World Cup Cup prEVIEW prEVIEW Football

37 37

Group B – arGentina

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Asociación del Fútbol Argentino (AFA) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking Appearances at finals: 1930 - Runners-up 1934 - First round 1962 - First round 1966 - Quarter-finals 1978 - Winners 1982 - Second group stage 1990 - Runners-up 1994 - Second round 2002 - First round 2006 - Quarter-finals

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 65, Won 33, Drawn 13, Lost 19.

Best performance: Winners in 1978 and 1986.

Most appearances at finals: Diego Maradona (1982, 1986, 1990, 1994) - 21.

Most goals at finals: Gabriel Batistuta (1994, 1998, 2002) - 9.

World Cup high: Winning the 1978 World Cup as hosts after defeating the Netherlands in extra time.

World Cup low: A poor showing in the 1958 World Cup in Sweden saw Argentina lose 6-1 against Czechoslovakia, a humiliating result in the history of Argentine football.

Qualification: All was not smooth sailing for Argentina during qualifying. Coach Diego Maradona took over from Alfio Basile after their defeat against Chile but it did not change things around as Bolivia demolished the La Albiceleste 6-1 in La Paz. Victories in their last two games against Peru and Uruguay were enough to ensure Argentina reach the World Cup in South Africa. Despite the troubled qualifying campaign, many people in Argentina are looking forward to the South America nation’s run in the World Cup, resting their hopes on a particular Lionel Messi to repeat the 1986 World Cup victory where they won for only the second time in history.

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Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

1893 1912 9th

1958 - First round 1974 - Second group stage 1986 - Winners 1998 - Quarter-finals

Name: Lionel Messi D.O.B: 24 June 1987 Birth Place: Rosario, Argentina Height: 1.69m Weight: 67kg Age: 22 Position: Forward Club: Barcelona (Spain) Biography: Messi’s story reads like a fairytale. Gifted with amazing close control and dribbling skills, he was quickly dubbed the new Maradona, like all young Argentinean talents usually are. Alas, fate has it that he is cursed with growth hormone deficiency, and his hometown club, Newell Old Boys cannot afford the expensive treatment.

Enter Barcelona, who not only offered to pay for the expensive treatment, but also relocate his entire family to Spain. And the Catalan club is rewarded with probably the best player in the world today.

Messi, under the guidance of current Barcelona coach, Pep Guardiola, has been lighting up La Liga with some of the best individual displays not seen since Maradona was playing. Last season, was Messi’s most prolific with an incredible 38 goals in 41 starts for Barcelona, which suggest that his best days are still ahead of him.

However, Messi has been criticized for not being able to replicate his club form on the international stage. If Maradona can coax Messi to play anywhere close to his club level, Argentina will be unstoppable.

HEAD COACH Name: Diego Maradona Born: October 30, 1960 Birthplace: Lanús, Argentina Previous Clubs: Mandiyú de Corrientes; Racing Club Honours: None Tournament: None

ARGENTINA FIxTuRES Date: 12 June (SAT) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Ellis Park – Johannesburg

Match: Argentina v Nigeria

Name: Gonzalo Higuain D.O.B: 10 December 1987 Birth Place: Brest, France Height: 1.84m Weight: 75kg Age: 22 Position: Striker Club: Real Madrid (Spain) Biography: Higuain started out at River Plate and came into prominence when he scored a brace against their bitter rivals Boca Juniors. Real Madrid came calling, and snapped him up for €10 million when he was just 19.

Higuain is a versatile player and he can play anywhere across the forward line. Although not known for any particular playing style, maybe a victim of being too versatile, he was prolific for Real Madrid last season, scoring 22 goals in 31 starts when played mainly as an out and out striker.

Born in France, Higuain had the choice of turning out for Les Bleus, but in the end he chose to represent his dad’s country, Argentina. Higuain was called up for the final two World Cup qualifying matches, and scored a crucial goal in Argentina’s 2-1 win over Peru.

Blessed with blistering pace, close control, good technique and an eye for goal, Higuain could be the solution to Argentina’s striking woes.

Gonzalo Higuain

RISING STAR

Date: 17 June (THU) Time: 19:30 SG Venue: Soccer City – Johannesburg

Match: Argentina v South Korea Date: 23 June (WED) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Peter Mokaba – Polokwane

Match: Greece v Argentina

SQuAD LIST GOALKEEPERS Sergio Germán Romero Mariano Andújar Juan Carrizo DEFENDERS Clemente Rodríguez Walter Adrián Samuel Fabricio Coloccini Martín Demichelis Daniel Alberto Díaz Nicolas Burdisso Gabriel Heinze MIDFIELDERS Javier Zanetti Esteban Cambiasso Javier Mascherano Jesús Dátolo Jonás Gutiérrez Fernando Gago Mario Ariel Bolatti Maxi Rodríguez Juan Verón FORWARDS Lionel Messi Carlos Tevez Gonzalo Higuain Sergio Aguero Martín Palermo Alberto Diego Milito Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

39

Group B – Greece

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Hellenic Football Federation (HFF) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking Appearances at finals: 1994 - First round

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 3, Won 0, Drawn 0, Lost 3.

Best performance: Reaching the group stage in 1994.

Most appearances at finals: Ioannis Kalitzakis (1994), Savvas Kofidis (1994), Nikos Nioplias (1994), Nikos Machlas (1994) - 3.

Most goals at finals: Greece have yet to score a World Cup goal.

World Cup high: Sealing their second World Cup in history by beating Ukraine away in their second leg of the play-off.

World Cup low: Greece did not manage a single goal during their only appearance in 1994, losing all three games and getting eliminated in the first round.

Qualification: It was not an easy qualifying campaign for Greece although they managed to beat Luxembourg 2-1 to finish second behind Switzerland and make it to the play-off with Group Six runnersup Ukraine. Despite a boring 0-0 draw in Athens and having to travel to Donetsk for the away leg, Dimitrios Salpigidis managed to break away from the Ukranian defence on the counter and scored the only goal of the game. Greece’s single goal was enough to gift them a ticket to only their second World Cup finals.

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Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

1926 1927 10th

Name: Giorgos Karagounis D.O.B: 6 March 1977 Birth Place: Pyrgos, Greece Height: 1.76m Weight: 74kg Age: 32 Position: Midfielder Club: Panathinaikos Biography: Karagounis made his name playing for Panathinaikos before hitting the big time with Inter Milan in 2003.

Karagounis moved on the Portuguese football with Benfica before returning to his roots at Panathinaikos.

This pocket dynamo is known for his combustible nature; in fact, no player gets more bookings for complaining to referees than he does, but he has been a key player for Greece for many years and even won top honours with them in their shock win of the 2004 European Championships.

However, the clock is ticking on the international career of the midfield wizard, and this could be his last shot at showcasing his dead ball ability, eye for a pass and flair on the ball, on the world stage.

HEAD COACH Name: Otto Rehhagel Born: August 9, 1938 Birthplace: Essen, Germany Previous Clubs: Kickers Offenbach; SV Werder Bremen; Borussia Dortmund; Arminia Bielefeld; Fortuna Düsseldorf; FC Bayern Munich; 1. FC Kaiserslautern Honours: German championship: 1988, 1993, 1998; German Cup: 1980, 1991, 1994; European Cup Winners’ Cup: 1992; European Championship: 2004

GREECE FIxTuRES Date: 12 June (SAT) Time: 19:30 SG Venue: Nelson Mandela Bay – Port Elizabeth

Match: South Korea v Greece

Name: Vasileios Pliatsikas D.O.B: 14 April 1988 Birth Place: Athens, Greece Height: 1.74m Weight: 69kg Age: 21 Position: Defensive Midfielder Club: Schalke 04 (Germany) Biography: Pliatsikas started off his short career with his hometown club AEK Athens in 2005, rising through the youth system after joining from Chaidari FC, a Greek football club from the third division.

Despite making 39 league appearances for AEK, Pliatsikas spent most of his time in the reserves but soon caught the eye of Felix Magath of Schalke 04. Pliatsikas eventually signed for Schalke for a mere 400,000 pounds and continue to feature regularly for the reserves.

Pliatsikas fared better for the U19 and U21 for Greece during his time with AEK. He captained the U19 team that reached the final eight of the Under19 European Championships.

Greece manager Otto Rehhagel saw potential in the youngster and called him up for the FIFA World Cup qualification matches against Luxembourg, Ukraine and Latvia where he impressed as a defensive midfielder, playing a pivotal role that ensure Greece made it to the World Cup Finals.

Despite not being the tallest Greek player on the field, Pliatsikas shows composure and vision playing in front of defence and his versatility means that he can stand in as a right back if needed.

Vasileios Pliatsikas

RISING STAR

Date: 17 June (THU) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Free State – Bloemfontein

Match: Greece v Nigeria Date: 23 June (WED) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Peter Mokaba – Polokwane

Match: Greece v Argentina

SQuAD LIST GOALKEEPERS Kostas Chalkias Alexandros Tzorvas Michail Sifakis DEFENDERS Giourkas Seitaridis Christos Patsatzoglu Avraam Papadopoulos Vassilis Torosidis Loukas Vyntra Socratis Papaststhopoulos Sotirios Kyrgiakos Nikos Spyropoulos Evangelos Moras MIDFIELDERS Angelos Basinas Vassilis Koutsianikoulis Giorgos Karagounis Alexis Tziolis Vasileios Pliatsikas Grigoris Makos Kostas Katsouranis Ioannis Amanatidis Sotiris Ninis STRIKERS Dimitrios Salpigidis Theofanis Gekas Georgios Samaras Angelos Charisteas Evangelos Mantzios Dimitris Papadopoulos Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

45

Group B – niGeria

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking Appearances at finals: 1994 - Second round 1998 - Second round 2002 - First round

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 11, Won 4, Drawn 1, Lost 6.

Best performance: Second round in 1994 and 1998.

Most appearances at finals: Jay-Jay Okocha (1994, 1998, 2002) - 10.

Most goals at finals: Emmanuel Amuneke (1994), Daniel Amokachi (1994) - 2.

World Cup high: In the 1998 finals, Nigeria defeated Spain 3-2 after coming back from 1-0 and 2-1 down. The Super Eagles qualified for the second round following a win against Bulgaria.

World Cup low: Despite making it to the second round of the 1998 finals, Nigeria were put to a stern test against Denmark, the 1992 European Championship winners. The Super Eagles went out of the tournament with a disappointing 4-1 loss.

Qualification: Many had expected Nigeria to stroll through qualifying but it was surprising to watch how the Super Eagles struggled after the opening qualifying round, although they made it to the final qualifying round.

Nigeria drew against rivals Tunisia in both legs and was on the verge of failing to make it to the World Cup. In the final match of qualifying, group leaders Tunisia suffered a shock loss to Mozambique and there was no invitation for Nigeria as they came from behind to beat Kenya 3-2 in Nairobi to qualify against the odds.

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Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

1945 1960 21st

Name: John Mikel Obi D.O.B: 22 April 1987 Birth Place: Jos, Nigeria Height: 1.88m Weight: 86kg Age: 22 Position: Midfielder Club: Chelsea (England) Biography: Mikel broke out of obscurity when he played a starring role in Nigeria’s participation of the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship, only losing narrowly to a Messi-led Argentina in the final. Manchester United then announced that Mikel had signed a £4 million deal with them. Chelsea then issued a counter claim that they too have made an agreement with Mikel and his agents, the matter was resolved when the Blues paid £12 million to the Red Devils and £4 million to Lyn Oslo (Mikel’s original club).

Bought as a replacement for the aging Claude Makélélé, Mikel is often deployed as a defensive midfielder by then Chelsea manager Mourinho.

Mikel has all the right attributes to be a success at the highest level; He is a great physical presence and has good technique with a wide range of passing.

However, his disciplinary problems have hindered his progress for both club and country. If Mikel can overcome them, Nigeria will look to him to dominate the midfield.

HEAD COACH Name: Lars Lagerback Born: 16 July, 1948 Birthplace: Katrineholm, Sweden Previous Clubs: Kilafors; Arbra IK; Hudiksvall ABK; Sweden Under-21; Sweden B; Sweden Honours: None

NIGERIA FIxTuRES Date: 12 June (SAT) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Ellis Park - Johannesburg

Match: Argentina v Nigeria

RISING STAR

Biography: After playing for several native Nigerian clubs, Obasi moved to Lyn Oslo (Norway) at the same time as his international team-mate John Obi Mikel.

After scoring 14 goals in 29 games for the Norwegian club, Hoffenheim (playing in the 2nd tier of German football at the time) was sufficiently impressed to shell out £4.3 million to bring him to Germany. At the end of the 2007/2008 season, Hoffenheim won promotion to play in the Bundesliga, helped by Obasi’s 12 goals in 27 appearances for them.

Obasi earned glowing reports for his performances for both club and country, and it would not be too long before the bigger European clubs make a bid for him. Running into channels and dribbling with pace against defenders are features of Obasi’s play, and his dynamism and energetic displays will be a handful for any defence.

Chinedu Obasi

Name: Chinedu Obasi D.O.B: 1 June 1986 Birth Place: Enugu, Nigeria Height: 1.88m Weight: 78kg Age: 23 Position: Forward Club: Hoffenheim (Germany)

Date: 17 June (THU) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Free State – Bloemfontein

Match: Greece v Nigeria Date: 23 June (WED) Time: 03:30 SG Venue: Moses Mabhida - Durban

Match: Nigeria v South Korea

SQuAD LIST GOALKEEPERS Austin Ejide Vincent Enyeama Dele Aiyenugbu DEFENDERS Dan Shittu Chidi Odiah Ayiila Yussuf Onyekachi Apam Uwa Echiejile Joseph Yobo Taye Ismaila Taiwo MIDFIELDERS John Mikel Obi Seyi George Olofinjana Ajilore Oluwafemi Ayila Yussuf Sani Kaita FORWARDS Kalu Uche Victor Nsofor Obinna Nwankwo Kanu Ayegbeni Yakubu Obafemi Martins Chinedu Obasi STRIKERS Joseph Akpala Peter Osaze Odemwingie

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

41

Group B – South Korea

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Korea Football Association (KFA) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking Appearances at finals: 1954 - First round 1986 - First round 1994 - First round 1998 - First round 2006 - First round

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 24, Won 4, Drawn 7, Lost 13.

Best performance: Fourth in 2002.

Most appearances at finals: Hong Myung-Bo (1990, 1994, 1998, 2002) - 16.

Most goals at finals: Ahn Jung-Hwan (2002, 2006) - 3.

World Cup high: The winning golden goal by Ahn Jung-Hwan against Italy in the 2002 World Cup quarter-finals was highlighted as South Korea’s finest football moment.

World Cup low: South Korea suffered heavy losses to both Hungary and Turkey in their maiden finals appearance in 1954, exiting the tournament without scoring a goal and conceding 16 in total.

Qualification: It was rather comfortable for South Korea in their Asian qualifying who were unbeaten in all their matches. Although they drew with neighbours North Korea and Iran, they secured crucial wins against Saudi Arabia and their home fixture against North Korea in Round Four to book their ticket to South Africa. It was a fine moment for coach Huh Jung-Moo who could bring back the glory World Cup year of 2002 when Guus Hiddink led the South Korea to the semifinals when the nation co-hosted the tournament with Japan.

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Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

1928 1948 53th

1990 - First round 2002 - Fourth place

Name: Park Ji-Sung D.O.B: 25 February 1981 Birth Place: Seoul, South Korea Height: 1.77m Weight: 70kg Age: 29 Position: Attacking Midfielder Club: Manchester United (England) Biography: Park started his football career with South Korean club, Myongji University, before moving to play for Japanese club, Kyoto Purple Sanga. It was Park’s national coach at that time, Guus Hiddink who gave him his European opportunity, when Park followed Hiddink to PSV. Park’s stock rose when he starred in PSV’s 2004-2005 Champions League semi-finals against Milan, which prompted Alex Ferguson to fork out £4 million to bring him to Old Trafford.

Park, like his international teammates, is known for his work ethic and boundless energy and stamina. These qualities endeared him to the Old Trafford faithful.

On 11 October 2008, Park was given the captain’s armband in a friendly against Uzbekistan, and he was captain ever since. South Korea will rely on their captain’s trademark darting runs into the box to unlock the opposition’s defence.

HEAD COACH Name: Huh Jung-Moo Born: January 13, 1955 Birthplace: Jindo, Jeonnam, Republic of Korea Previous Clubs: Pohang Atoms; Republic of Korea; Chunnam Dragons Honours: None

S. KOREA FIxTuRES Date: 12 June (SAT) Time: 19:30 SG Venue: Nelson Mandela Bay – Port Elizabeth

Match: South Korea v Greece

Name: Lee Chung-Yong D.O.B: 2 July 1988 Birth Place: Seoul, South Korea Height: 1.80m Weight: 69kg Age: 21 Position: Right Winger Club: Bolton (England) Biography: Lee’s talent was spotted by a FC Seoul scout while he was playing for his middle school, and

he was signed there and then. In 2007, legendary Turkish coach recognised Lee’s immense potential and builds the team around him and his good friend Ki Sung-Yong. In 2008, Lee and Ki earned fan favourite status and they were affectionately dubbed “Double Dragon”.

Lee’s good form convinced then Bolton manager to part with £2.2 million to bring him to England.

Predominantly used as a right winger, Lee plays with great flair and has terrific acceleration.

When allowed time on the ball, Lee can hurt his opponents with his incisive passing.

Lee will look to link up with Lee Chung-Yong again and together with Park Ji-Sung, they represent the best chance of a goal for South Korea.

Lee Chung-Yong

RISING STAR

Date: 17 June (THU) Time: 19:30 SG Venue: Soccer City - Johannesburg

Match: Argentina v South Korea Date: 23 June (WED) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Moses Mabhida - Durban

Match: Nigeria v South Korea

SQuAD LIST GOALKEEPERS Woon-Jae Lee Sung-ryong Jung Young-kwang Kim DEFENDERS Yong-Hyung Cho Du-Ri Cha Beom-Seok Oh Tae-Hwi Kwak Chi-Woo Kim Min-Soo Kang Young-Pyo Lee Dong-Jin Kim MIDFIELDERS Sung-Yueng Ki Won-hee Cho Jung-Soo Lee Jung-woo Kim Nam-Il Kim Ji-Sung Park Do-heon Kim Chung-Yong Lee FORWARD Seol Ki-Hyeon STRIKERS Dong-Gook Lee Keun-ho Lee Ki-Hun Yeom Chu-Young Park Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

43

England

Wayne Rooney

46

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

C

GROUP SlOVEnia algERia

One of the favourites of the tournament, England has one of the best chances this time round to lift the trophy for only the second time in history. England coach Fabio Capello and his men will have to face the likes of United States, Algeria and Slovenia. The United States have seen their team mature of late and will be even more prepared this time round. Algeria beat North African rivals Egypt to qualify against all odds and it will be interesting to see what the Desert Foxes can deliver on the big stage. Slovenia will be keen to improve on their 2002 performance when they lost all three games in the group stage. Will the Three Lions secure a comfortable victory in Group C or will they succumb to the pressure?

UnitEd StatES

England

UnitEd StatES

algERia

SlOVEnia

match SchEdUlE datE

match

VEnUE

13 June (SUN) 02:30

timE

England v United States

Royal Bafokeng – Rustenburg

13 June (SUN) 19:30

Algeria v Slovenia

Peter Mokaba – Polokwane

18 June (FRI)

22:00

Slovenia v United States

Ellis Park – Johannesburg

19 June (SAT)

02:30

England v Algeria

Green Point – Cape Town

23 June (WED) 22:00

Slovenia v England

Nelson Mandela Bay – Port Elizabeth

23 June (WED) 22:00

Algeria v United States

Loftus Versfeld – Pretoria

Football Weekly Weekly World World Cup Cup prEVIEW prEVIEW Football

47 47

Group C – ENGLAND

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY The Football Association (The FA) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking

1863 1905 8th

Appearances at finals: 1950 - First round 1954 - Quarter-finals 1958 - First round 1962 - Quarter-finals 1966 - Winners 1970 - Quarter-finals 1982 - 2nd group stage 1986 - Quarter-finals 1990 - Fourth place 1998 - 2nd round 2002 - Quarter-finals 2006 - Quarter-finals

PAST REcORdS

Overall record at finals: Played 55, Won 25, Drawn 17, Lost 13.

Best performance: Winners in 1966.

Most appearances at finals: Peter Shilton (1982, 1986, 1990) - 17.

Most goals at finals: Gary Lineker (1986, 1990) - 10.

World cup high: England’s 4-2 win over West Germany in the final of the 1966 World Cup at Wembley was won by a hat-trick from Geoff Hurst. He becomes the only player ever to have scored three times in a World Cup final.

World cup low: A first round exit in the 1958 World Cup was making the headlines following three straight draws against Brazil, Soviet Union and Austria.

Qualification: One of England’s best run in qualifying, England dominated the group, winning nine games out of 10 and scoring a total of 34 goals. What would have been a perfect 10 was marred by a 1-0 loss in Ukraine, whose victory was vital in their own qualification route.

The Three Lions secured their World Cup berth with a convincing 5-1 victory over Croatia and with two games to spare. England started qualifying campaign with new coach Fabio Capello, who took over the reins from Steve McClaren after England failed to qualify for Euro 2008.

The Italian will take England to the World Cup with a possible two-year extension after his contract expires at the end of the tournament.

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Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

Name: Wayne Rooney d.O.B: 24 October 1985 Birth Place: Croxteth, Liverpool, England Height: 1.78m Weight: 78kg Age: 24 Position: Forward club: Manchester United (England) Biography Rooney, dubbed ‘Bobby’ (after Bobby Charlton) by his team-mates because he’s going bald like the Manchester United legend, rose through the youth ranks with Everton. He made his EPL debut at the tender age of 16 and his first goal made him the youngest goalscorer in EPL history at the time. His matured displays and undoubted genius convinced Ferguson to cough out £30 million for him.

Build like a boxer, Rooney is powerful and strong on the ball and is arguably at his best when he is running at defenders.

What sets him apart from his other world class counterparts, is his willingness to run himself to the ground and play in any position for the cause of the team.

Rooney made his name playing in the ‘hole’ behind the main striker, but has added a new dimension to his game this season, scoring 23 goals in 27 games for Manchester United at the time of writing. If Rooney can stay fit, he will be more than capable to carry the weight of expectations of England.

HEAd cOAcH Name: Fabio Capello Born: June 18, 1946 Birthplace: San Canzian d’Isonzo, Italy Previous clubs: AC Milan; Roma; Juventus; Real Madrid Honours: Serie A: 1992, 1993, 1994, 1996, 2001; 2005; La Liga: 1997; 2007; champions League: 1994; European Super cup: 1994

ENGLANd FIxTuRES date: 13 June (SUN) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Royal Bafokeng – Rustenburg

Match: England v United States

RISING STAR

Biography Walcott started his football education in the Southampton youth setup and broke several youth records which provoked Arsene Wenger to pay an initial fee of £5 million (with the potential to rise to £12 million), which was a record fee for a teenager at the time.

Walcott shot to prominence when he was controversially selected in the England squad for the 2006 edition of the World Cup without making his debut for Arsenal.

Often compared with Arsenal legend, Thierry Henry, when he first came on the scene, due to their scorching pace, but that is where the similarity ends. Walcott needs to show his brilliance on a more consistent basis, and he also needs to improve his final pass, but all these should come with more experience.

The undisputed highlight of Walcott’s fledging international career is his performance against Croatia on 10 September 2008, and he became the youngest player in history to score a hat-trick for England.

Theo Walcott

Name: Theo Walcott d.O.B: 16 March 1989 Birth Place: Stanmore, England Height: 1.75m Weight: 71kg Age: 21 Position: Winger, Striker club: Arsenal (England)

date: 19 June (SAT) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Green Point – Cape Town

Match: England v Algeria date: 23 June (WED) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Nelson Mandela Bay – Port Elizabeth

Match: Slovenia v England

SQuAd LIST GOALKEEPERS Ben Foster Robert Green David James dEFENdERS John Terry Rio Ferdinand Glen Johnson Wes Brown Ashley Cole Matthew Upson Joleon Lescott MIdFIELdERS Michael Carrick James Milner Aasron Lennon Ashley Young Gareth Barry Shaun Wright-Phillips Joe Cole Steven Gerrard Frank Lampard FORWARdS Wayne Rooney Peter Crouch Jermain Defoe Theo Walcott Emile Heskey

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

49

Group C – united states

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY United States Soccer Federation (USSF) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking Appearances at finals 1930: Third place 1950: First round 1994: Second round 1998: First round 2006: First round

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 25, Won 6, Drawn 3, Lost 16.

Best performance: A third place finish at their first ever World Cup in 1930 was the highlight of the team, although United States did lose 6-1 to Argentina in the semi-finals.

Most appearances at finals: Cobi Jones (1994, 1998, 2002), Earnie Stewart (1994, 1998, 2002) - 11.

Most goals at finals: Bert Patenaude (1930) - 4.

World Cup high: Having beaten ‘The Rest Of Europe’ 6-1 in an exhibition match, England went on to face the United States in the 1950 World Cup and lost 1-0 to the Americans. The game was being referred to as the “Miracle on Grass”.

World Cup low: Their return to the World Cup after missing out on the finals for the next four decades after their 1950 stint was promptly ended in the group stages. The U.S. lost all three games to Czechoslovakia, Italy and Austria.

Qualification: It was always going to be the United States and Mexico vying for first and second in the CONCACAF qualifying. The U.S. defeated Mexico 2-0 in the opening game of the Fourth Round but were beaten soundly by Costa Rica afterwards. Despite losing to Mexico 2-1 in the reverse fixture, the U.S. went on to win their remaining games up to the final game. Despite a 2-2 draw with Costa Rica, Mexico were held 1-1 by Trinidad & Tobago in the other fixture and that meant the U.S. claimed top spot in the CONCACAF qualifying.

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Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

1913 1914 18th

1990: First round 2002: Quarter-finals

Name: Landon Donovan D.O.B: 4 March 1982 Birth Place: Ontario, California, United States Height: 1.73m Weight: 72kg Age: 27 Position: Attacking Midfielder Club: LA Galaxy (USA) Biography Landon ‘Landycakes’ Donovan is a product of the IMG Soccer Academy that is based in Florida. Donovan, representing USA, was named player of the tournament in the 1999 U-17 World Championship, and his form in the competition persuaded Bayer Leverkusen to take a chance on him.

Although a success in the less competitive MLS, Donovan is often considered not good enough for the top European leagues. Against all odds, David Moyes decided to take him on loan to Everton.

Despite his potential shown at a young age, he has yet to fulfil the country’s expectations of him. At Everton, under the guidance David Moyes, he has shown a good change of pace and an eye for a pass, but it is his attitude that needs improving.

Which Donovan will we see in the World Cup? The player that was named Everton Player of the Month for his outstanding performances or the player that managed to miss an open goal from two yards out (in a league match against Spurs)?

HEAD COACH Name: Bob Bradley Born: March 3, 1958 Birthplace: Montclair, United States Previous Clubs: Chicago Fire; MetroStars; Chivas USA; United States U-23 Honours: CONCACAF Gold Cup: 2007, MLS Cup: 1998, U.S. Open Cup: 2000, 1998

USA FIxTURES Date: 13 June (SUN) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Royal Bafokeng – Rustenburg

Match: England v United States

RISING STAR Biography Altidore kicked off his career with the New York Red Bulls, and scored his 1st professional goal when he was just 16. When he scored against DC United in the Eastern Conference Semifinals Series, he became the youngest player to score in the Major League Soccer playoffs at 16 years 337 days.

Altidore broke another record when Villarreal parted with €7.4 million to bring him across the Atlantic, as the transfer fee eclipsed the previous fee paid for any MLS player.

On 1 November 2008, Altidore became the 1st American international to score in La Liga, when he scored against Athletic Bilbao. Villarreal then sent him out of loan spells to Xerex, which was uneventful due to an injury.

On 5 August 2009, Altidore join Hull City on a seasonlong loan with the option of a permanent deal at the end of the season. He quickly made an impact with his new team; scoring in Hull City 3-1 win over Southend in the 2nd round of the Carling Cup. But a miserable haul of 1 goal in 12 EPL starts for Hull shows that he is not the finished product yet.

Bestowed with athleticism, reasonable speed and power, Altidore has the necessary physical attributes required to be a success in the EPL, and his best years are ahead of him. United States will need him to reproduce his goal scoring form, shown when he scored a hat trick in a 3-0 win over Trinidad and Tobago.

Jozy Altidore

Name: Jozy Altidore D.O.B: 6 November 1989 Birth Place: Livingston, New Jersey, United States Height: 1.85m Weight: 79kg Age: 20 Position: Striker Club: Hull (England)

Date: 18 June (FRI) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Ellis Park – Johannesburg

Match: Slovenia v United States Date: 23 June (WED) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Loftus Versfeld – Pretoria

Match: Algeria v United States

SQUAD LIST GOALKEEPERS Brad Guzan Tim Howard Troy Perkins DEFENDERS Carlos Bocanegra Jonathan Bornstein Jay DeMerit Frankie Hejduk Chad Marshall Oguchi Onyewu Jonathan Spector Heath Pearce MIDFIELDERS DaMarcus Beasley Michael Bradley Ricardo Clark Clint Dempsey Landon Donovan Benny Feilhaber Stuart Holden Sacha Kljestan José Francisco Torres FORWARDS Jozy Altidore Robbie Rogers STRIKERS Conor Casey Brian Ching Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

51

Group C – ALGErIA

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY

Fédération Algérienne de Football (FAF) Association Founded

FIFA Affiliation Since

FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking

Appearances at finals: 1982 - First round 1986 - First round

1962 1963 32nd

Name: Nadir Belhadj d.O.B: 18 June 1982 Birth Place: Saint-Claude, France Height: 1.75m Weight: 67kg Age: 27 Position: Left Back, Left Winger club: Portsmouth (England)

PAST REcORdS

Overall record at finals: Played 6, Won 2, Drawn 1, Lost 3.

Best performance: First round in 1982 and 1986.

Most appearances at finals: Faouzi Mansouri (1982, 1986), Mahmoud Guendouz (1982, 1986), Rabah Madjer (1982, 1986) - 6.

Most goals at finals: Salah Assad (1982) - 2.

World cup high: One of the greatest World Cup upsets was provided

by Algeria when they defeated European Champions West Germany 2-1 in the first round of the ‘82 World Cup in Spain.

World cup low: Algeria’s exit from the same tournament was one of the biggest controversies in world football. The match between West Germany and Austria was widely believed to have been fixed as a one goal victory for West Germany would be enough to send both teams through at the expense of Algeria. West Germany beat Austria 1-0 and Algeria exited the tournament in rage.

Qualification: Algeria started qualifying in great style, winning their respective group in Round Two of the African qualifying. Despite losing their matches against Senegal and Gambia, Algeria managed to win both games on the reverse fixtures to qualify for Round Three.

Group favourite Egypt took Algeria as far as they could go. The Desert Foxes had defeated Egypt 3-1 earlier and it came down to the final match where Egypt needed a 2-0 victory to force a play-off against Algeria. The 2-0 scoreline was achieved and it came down to the playoff to decide which team goes to the World Cup. Algeria provided a shocking 1-0 win after Anthar Yahia fired home a volley just before half-time. Egypt could not turn the table and Algeria sent the entire nation into celebrations as the final whistle blew, signalling their return to the World Cup Finals.

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Biography Belhadj had different stints with varying success in several French clubs before securing a season-long loan move to Portsmouth from Lens. After impressing on the left flank, Pompey made the deal permanent.

Belhadj’s overlapping runs from the back, crossing ability and long range shooting are features of his play, but sometimes his natural attacking instincts will leave gaps at the back.

Although, Belhadj originally opted to play for France in the Under-18 level, he had a change of heart and decided to play for the Algerian senior team instead, making his official debut in a friendly against China, and has been a regular, playing as left back and left wing.

HEAd cOAcH Name: Rabah Saadane Born: May 3, 1946 Birthplace: Batna, French Algeria Previous clubs: Raja Casablanca; Étoile Sportive du Sahel; Yemen; ES Sétif Honours: None

ALGERIA FIxTuRES date: 13 June (SUN) Time: 19:30 SG Venue: Peter Mokaba - Polokwane

Match: Algeria v Slovenia

RISING STAR Biography Matmour came through the youth ranks of his hometown club RC Strasbourg (French Ligue Two club). However, Matmour failed to impress the youth coaches there, and was not offered a professional contract.

Matmour persevered in amateur football and appeared for Vauban Strasbourg (a team playing in the Championnat de France Amateurs 2 Group B where Arsene Wenger played for them from 1975 to 1978) briefly before making the decision to go to Germany in the hope of playing professional football.

Matmour eventually joined Freiburg’s reserve side, and did enough to be promoted to the senior where he made 80 league appearances in 3 seasons in the Bundesliga II. Newly promoted Bundesliga club,

Karim Matmour

Name: Karim Matmour d.O.B: 25 June 1985 Birth Place: Strasbourg, France Height: 1.81m Weight: 72kg Age: 24 Position: Right Winger club: Borussia Monchengladbach

Borrusia Monchengladbach, then snapped him up for £2 million on 4 June 2008.

Matmour plays predominantly as a right winger, and is known for his tireless runs down the flank. Matmour has good technique and respectable dribbling ability, and could be Algeria’s hidden weapon at the World Cup.

date: 19 June (SAT) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Green Point – Cape Town

Match: England v Algeria date: 23 June (WED) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Loftus Versfeld – Pretoria

Match: Algeria v United States

SQuAd LIST GOALKEEPERS Hichem Mezair Lounes Gaouaoui Mohamed Benhamou dEFENdERS Brahim Zafour Samir Zaoui Maamar Mamouni Anthar Yahia Haddou Samir Beloufa Salim Aribi Nadir Belhadj MIdFIELdERS

Karim Ziani

Djamel Belmadi

Karim Ziani

Abdelnasser Ouadah

Fodil Hadjadj

Hocine Achiou

Yazid Mansouri

Loic Remy FORWARdS Abdelmalek Cherrad Nassim Akrour Hamza Yacef STRIKERS Mansour Boutabout Fares Fellahi Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

53

Group C – SoLVENIA

HISTORY Nogometna zveza Slovenije (NZS) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking Appearances at finals: (As Yugoslavia) 1930 - Semi-finals 1950 - Fourth place 1958 - Quarter-finals 1962 - Fourth place 1982 - First round 1990 - Quarter-finals (As Solvenia) 2002 - First round

1920 1992 27th

1954 - Quarter-finals 1974 - Second round

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 36, Won 14, Drawn 7, Lost 15.

Best performance: (As Yugoslavia) Fourth place in 1962.

Most appearances at finals: Branko Oblak (1974) - 5 (for Yugoslavia).

Most goals at finals: Branko Oblak (1974, for Yugoslavia), Sebastjan Cimirotic (2002, for Slovenia), Milenko Acimovic (2002, for Slovenia) - 1.

World Cup high: Playing as Yugoslavia at the 1974 World Cup, the nation made it to the second round of the tournament top of their group, ahead of Brazil thanks to a 9-0 victory over Zaire in their second game.

World Cup low: In their first World Cup appearance in 2002 as Slovenia, they failed to pick up any points and went out in the group stage.

Qualification: Nobody expected Slovenia to qualify for the World Cup Finals after they were drawn in a group that included the Czech Republic, Poland, Northern Ireland and Slovakia. Helped by four straight victories in their final blitz, Slovenia managed to creep ahead of the Czech Republic and booked their place in the play-offs.

Slovenia were to square off against Guus Hiddink’s Russia and there was little hope initially.

But Nejc Pecnik scored a crucial away goal in the first leg and when Zlatko Dedic grabbed the only goal of the game against Russia, Slovenia managed to reach their third major international tournament.

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PLAYER SPOTLIGHT Name: Robert Koren D.O.B: 20 September 1980 Birth Place: Dravograd, Slovenia Height: 1.76m Weight: 81kg Age: 29 Position: Midfielder Club: West Brom (England) Biography Koren played for Dravograd and Celje in his home country before moving to Norwegian club Lillestrom, and was regarded one of the best foreigner to have played in the Tippeligaen. Since signing for West Brom (then playing in the Championship) on a Bosman, he never looked back.

In his 2nd season with West Brom, Koren helped them to win promotion to the EPL, and was described by then Baggies manager Tony Mowbray as a model professional. In the 2008/09 EPL season, Koren proved vital to West Brom’s passing game, by making the most appearances of the season for an outfield player at West Brom.

Dubbed ‘Mr Versatile’ by Tony Mowbray, the creative midfielder can play anywhere across the midfield. Koren has a good first touch, and his experience at the highest level, will add much needed maturity to Slovenia’s engine room.

HEAD COACH Name: Matjaz Kek Born: September 9, 1961 Birthplace: Maribor, Slovenia Previous Clubs: Maribor; Slovenia U-15; Slovenia U-16 Honours: Slovenian championship: 2001, 2003

SLOvENIA FIxTuRES Date: 13 June (SUN) Time: 19:30 SG venue: Peter Mokaba - Polokwane

Match: Algeria v Slovenia

RISING STAR Name: Valter Birsa D.O.B: 7 August 1986 Birth Place: Sempeter pri Gorici (Slovenia) Height: 1.84m Weight: 79kg Age: 23 Position: Forward Club: AJ Auxerre (France)

Valter Birsa

Biography Birsa’s talent was spotted at a young age and he was on the books of Bilje (a small Slovenian football club) since 5 years old. Birsa then moved on to play for other bigger clubs in Slovenia and was named the best Slovenian player of 2006 by prominent Slovenian website Nogomania.com, which prompted Sochaux (French Ligue One club) to sign him.

Birsa struggled at Sochaux and was not particularly prolific, only managing 8 goals in 66 appearances, and was subsequently sent on loan to Auxerre, and on 29 May 2009, Auxerre was impressed enough to make the deal permanent, and gave Birsa the coveted number 9 shirt.

Birsa is an athletic striker who possesses good technique, and could possibly be Slovenia’s hidden ace in the pack.

Date: 18 June (FRI) Time: 22:00 SG venue: Ellis Park - Johannesburg

Match: Slovenia v United States Date: 23 June (WED) Time: 22:00 SG venue: Nelson Mandela Bay – Port Elizabeth

Match: Slovenia v England

SQuAD LIST GOALKEEPERS Aleksander Seliga Samir Handanovic Jasmin Handanovic DEFENDERS Bojan Jokic Aleksandar Radosavljevic Matej Mavric Marko Suler Bostjan Cesar Branko Ilic Miso Brecko MIDFIELDERS Anton Zlogar Rene Krhin Dalibor Stevanovic Andraz Kirm Andrej Komac Robert Koren Aleksander Radosavljevic Nejc Pecnik Mirnes Sisic FORWARDS Milivoje Novakovic Zlatko Dedic Klemen Lavric STRIKERS Zlatan Ljubijankic Valter Birsa Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

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GERMANY

Michael Ballack

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Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

D

GROUP AustRAliA GhANA

The powerful Germans head Group D as they try to do one better than their third place in 2006. Germany have always been outstanding in the group stage of the World Cup, most notably the 8-0 thrashing of Saudi Arabia in 2002. It will not be easy this time as Germany will have their hands full with Australia, Serbia and Ghana in the same group. Australia have overtaken Japan and South Korea in the Asian rankings and will be the dark horse of the group while Serbia stormed to the World Cup in superb form and must not be taken lightly. Ghana are one of the powerhouses in Africa and could give the other teams a run for their money. With no easy fixtures in Group D, will Germany face a shocking early elimination?

GERMANY

AustRAliA

GhANA

sERBiA

sERBiA

MAtch schEDulE DAtE

tiME

MAtch

VENuE

13 June (SUN) 22:00

Serbia v Ghana

Loftus Versfeld – Pretoria

14 June (MON) 02:30

Germany v Australia

Moses Mabhida - Durban

18 June (FRI)

19:30

Germany v Serbia

Nelson Mandela Bay – Port Elizabeth

19 June (SAT)

22:00

Ghana v Australia

Royal Bafokeng - Rustenburg

24 June (THU) 02:30

Australia v Serbia

Mbombela - Nelspruit

24 June (THU) 02:30

Ghana v Germany

Soccer City - Johannesburg

Football Weekly Weekly World World Cup Cup prEVIEW prEVIEW Football

57 57

Group D – Germany

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Deutscher Fußball-Bund (DFB) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking

(As East Germany)

(As Germany)

Appearances at finals: 1974 - Second round (As West Germany) 1958 - Fourth place 1962 - Quarter-finals 1970 - Third place 1974 - Winners 1982 - Runners-up 1986 - Runners-up 1934 - Third place 1938 - First round 1998 - Quarter-finals 2002 - Runners-up

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 58, Won 37, Drawn 9, Lost 12.

Best performance: Winning the tournament in 1954, 1974 and 1990.

Most appearances at finals: Lothar Matthäus (1982, 1986, 1990, 1994, 1998) - 25.

Most goals at finals: Gerd Müller (1970, 1974) - 14.

World Cup high: The ‘total football’ employed by the Netherlands that included Johan Cruyff, was no match for the mighty Germans as Germany won the World Cup with a 2-1 win in the 1974 final on home soil.

World Cup low: The extra time goal in the 1966 World Cup final by Geoff Hurst, nicknamed Wembley-Tor (Wembley Goal), was judged to have crossed the line after hitting the crossbar by Soviet linesman Tofik Bakhramov. This controversial goal, was later deemed to have never crossed the line with video technology.

Qualification: It was a comfortable qualifying campaign for Germany as they virtually swept aside all competition. Despite an early setback following a 3-3 away draw against Finland, Germany would go on to enjoy a seven-match winning streak. Germany beat Guus Hiddink’s Russia in the process and the crucial 1-0 away win in Moscow was vital to their South Africa ticket. Germany would then go on to draw 1-1 against Finland although that match had little bearing on the final outcome.

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1900 1904 5th

1954 - Winners 1966 - Runners-up 1978 - Second round 1990 - Winners 1994 - Quarter-finals 2006 - Third place

Name: Michael Ballack D.O.B: 26 September 1976 Birth Place: Gorlitz, Germany Height: 1.88m Weight: 89kg Age: 33 Position: Midfielder Club: Chelsea (England) Biography: Ballack began his youth career at Chemnitz, his local team, and went on to play for Kaiserslautern in 1997, where he won the Bundesliga in his first season at the club. He moved to Bayer Leverkusen for €4.1 million in 1999. A €12.9 million move to Bayern Munich soon followed, and Ballack won the Bundesliga and German Cup double in 2003, 2005 and 2006.

It was at Bayern Munich where he established himself as one of the best midfield generals that is prolific in front of goal. In 2006, Ballack joined Chelsea on a Bosman and won the FA Cup and League Cup in his first season with them. On the international front, Ballack is a key member of the German national team, and has captained them on many occasions.

Ballack is one of the few midfielders in the world that can dominate a game with his physical presence and wide range of passing. He also has good aerial ability in both boxes. How many times have we seen him popping into the box and heading one in a German jersey?

HEAD COACH Name: Joachim Löw Born: February 3, 1960 Birthplace: Schönau, West Germany Previous Clubs: VfB Stuttgart; Fenerbahçe; Karlsruher SC; Adanaspor; FC Tirol Innsbruck; Austria Wien; Germany (assistant) Honours: DFB Pokal: 1997; Austrian championship: 2002

GERMANY FIxTuRES Date: 14 June (MON) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Moses Mabhida - Durban

Match: Germany v Australia

RISING STAR

Date: 18 June (FRI) Time: 19:30 SG Venue: Nelson Mandela Bay – Port Elizabeth

Name: Mesut Özil D.O.B: 15 October 1988 Birth Place: Gelsenkirchen, Germany Height: 1.82m Weight: 80kg Age: 21 Position: Midfielder Club: Werder Bremen (Germany)

Date: 24 June (THU) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Soccer City - Johannesburg

Match: Ghana v Germany

SQuAD LIST

Mesut Özil

Biography: Born of Turkish descent, Mesut Ozil began his youth career with clubs in his birth place. It was not until 2005 that Ozil managed to break into the Schalke 04’s youth team. His performances in Schalke’s Ligapokal matches attracted Werder Bremen and on 31 January 2008, he moved to the Bremen club for a reported fee of €4.3 million.

On the international front, Mesut Ozil featured heavily for Germany Under-21 from 2007 onwards. In 16 appearances for the U21 team, Ozil scored five times and was often the playmaker of the team. Nicknamed ‘The German Genius’, Ozil is a good dribbler of the ball and likes to take on opponents. Likened to England’s Joe Cole, Ozil operates from the middle of the park although he has been able to play down the wings as well.

Mesut Ozil is the main catalyst for most attacking plays and his partnership with Michael Ballack will be crucial to the success of Germany in the World Cup. His game is built around speed and creativity, and will be the key to unlocking other teams’ defences with his silky runs.

Match: Germany v Serbia

GOALKEEPERS Rene Adler Manuel Neuer Tim Wiese DEFENDERS Philip Lahm Per Mertesacker Andreas Beck Andreas Hinkel Arne Friedrich Heiko Westermann Marcel Schafer Mesut Ozil Michael Ballack MIDFIELDERS Piotr Trochowski Thomas Hitzlsperger Christian Gentner r Marko Marin Bastian Schweinsteiger Marcell Jansen r Simon Rolfes STRIKERS Thomas Muller Stefan Kiessling FORWARDS Miroslav Klose Lukas Podolski Mario Gomez Patrick Helmes

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

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Group D – australia

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Football Federation Australia (FFA) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking Appearances at finals: 1974 - First round 2006 - Second round

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 7, Won 1, Drawn 2, Lost 4.

Best performance: Second round in 2006.

Most appearances at finals: Lucas Neill (2006), Craig Moore (2006), Vince Grella (2006), Mark Viduka (2006), Luke Wilkshire (2006), Jason Culina (2006), Tim Cahill (2006), John Aloisi (2006), Mark Bresciano (2006), Scott Chipperfield (2006) - 4.

Most goals at finals: Tim Cahill (2006) - 2.

World Cup high: Japan led Australia by a goal to nil in Germany 2006 until the 84th minute when Tim Cahill equalized for the Socceroos.

Cahill added another in the 89th minute and John Aloisi completed the remarkable comeback in injury-time to beat Asian giants Japan.

World Cup low: Australi finished bottom of their group in the 1974 World Cup , their first appearance at the finals, with no goals to account for and only one point – a 0-0 draw with Chile.

Qualification: Since 1994, Australia have come up short during the play-off. But Australia eased through qualifying this time, topping their group in Round Three although they lost their final game against China, a match that had no outcome on their qualification.

Drawn against the likes of Japan and Bahrain in Round Four, Australia turned up the heat and chalked up six wins and two draws to qualify for the World Cup with a massive five-points lead. Despite drawing 0-0 with Japan and Bahrain, the Socceroos won their remaining matches, conceding only one goal in all eight games, which came in their 2-1 win over Japan in their last game.

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1961 1963 23th

Name: Tim Cahill D.O.B: 6 December 1979 Birth Place: Sydney, Australia Height: 1.78m Weight: 69kg Age: 30 Position: Midfielder Club: Everton (England) Biography: In 1997 Millwall signed Tim Cahill on a free transfer from Sydney United. leading them to the FA Cup Final in the 2003/04 season. He was then picked up for a bargain £1.5 million pounds by Everton manager, David Moyes. Cahill proved to have enough quality to play at the highest level when he finished his 1st season as Everton’s top goal scorer.

Although Cahill is not blessed with the best technique and cannot split the most organized defence, he more than makes up for it with his unquestioned commitment to club and country and enviable goal ratio. Possessing a leap more common amongst basketball players than football players, Cahill often jumps above taller defenders to head in crucial goals for club and country.

Despite the Socceroos’ dominance in Asia, their performances have seen ups and downs when playing against nations from the other continents. Cahill will be one of the stars expected to take Australia to another level in world football come June.

HEAD COACH Name: Pim Verbeek Born: March 12, 1956 Birthplace: Rotterdam, Netherlands Previous Clubs: Sparta Rotterdam; De Graafschap; Feyenoord; FC Groningen; Fortuna Sittard; Omiya Ardija; Kyoto Purple Sanga; Netherlands Antilles; South Korea Honours: None

AUSTRALIA FIxTURES Date: 14 June (MON) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Moses Mabhida - Durban

Match: Germany v Australia

RISING STAR

Biography: Williams first club was with ECU Joondalup in his native country. In 2004, his club performances led him to be selected in the Western Australian U-16 state representative squad for the 2004 National Talent Identification Championship.

After the tournament, he had trials with various English clubs, and ultimately signed with Middlesbrough who loan him out to Burnley on the same day. He returned to Middlesbrough in May 2009.

Williams couldn’t stopped scoring in the preseason friendlies this season bagging 4 goals in 5 games, and Southgate, current Middlesbrough manager rewarded him with a start in central midfield in the opening Championship match against Sheffield United, where he kept up his good work, and has since been a regular starter for Middlesbrough. The versatile Williams can play in any position across the back four and is also comfortable as a holding midfielder.

Being of mixed parentage, Williams had the choice of representing Wales, Australia, India or England. Once Williams declared his preference he was called up to the Australian national squad and made his full debut on 17 June 2009 in a World Cup qualifier against Japan.

Match: Ghana v Australia Date: 24 June (THU) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Mbombela - Nelspruit

Rhys Williams

Name: Rhys Williams D.O.B: 14 July 1988 Birth Place: Perth, Australia Height: 1.87m Weight: 82kg Age: 21 Position: Defender/Midfielder Club: Middlesbrough (England)

Date: 19 June (SAT) Time: 22:30 SG Venue: Royal Bafokeng - Rustenburg

Match: Australia v Serbia

SQUAD LIST GOALKEEPERS Mark Schwarzer Ante Covic Michael Petkovic DEFENDERS Patrick Kisnorbo Rhys Williams Lucas Neill Mark Milligan Craig Moore Brett Emerton David Carney MIDFIELDERS Marco Bresciano Scott Chipperfield Vincenzo Grella Carl Valeri Nick Carle Dario Vidosic Tim Cahill Luke Wilkshire Mile Sterjovski STRIKERS Harry Kewell Jason Culina FORWARDS Scott McDonald Brett Holman Joshua Kennedy Archie Thompson

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

61

Group D – serbia

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Fudbalski savez Srbije (FSS) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking

1919 1921 13th

Appearances at finals: (As Yugoslavia) 1930 - Semi-finals 1950 - Fourth place 1954 - Quarter-finals 1958 - Quarter-finals 1962 - Fourth place 1974 - Second round 1982 - First round 1990 - Quarter-finals 1998 - Second round 2006 - First round (As Serbia & Montenegro)

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 40, Won 16, Drawn 8, Lost 16.

Best performance: (As Yugoslavia) Fourth place in 1962.

Most appearances at finals: Dragan Stojkovic (1990, 1998) - 9 (for Yugoslavia).

Most goals at finals: Ivan Bek (1930), Kosta Tomasevic (1950), Todor Veselinovic (1958) - 3 (for Yugoslavia).

World Cup high: Playing as Yugoslavia in 1962, they reached the semifinals but were defeated by Czechoslovakia when Adolf Scherer scored two goals in the late minutes to send Yugoslavia out and into the thirdfourth placing match. Yugoslavia lost 1-0 to Chile for fourth place.

World Cup low: Qualified as Serbia & Montenegro in the 2006 World Cup but could not get past the group stage, losing all three games to Argentina, Netherlands and Ivory Coast.

Qualification: While everyone expected Serbia to fight for the second spot, with France being the favourite in Group Seven of UEFA Qualifying, nobody expected Serbia to leap into top spot. Despite losing 2-1 to France in the early stage, Serbia came back strongly and won six of the next seven matches.

Serbia confirmed their World Cup entry by thrashing Romania 5-0 at the Stadion Crvena Zvezda while France had to contest for the playoff match.

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Name: Nemanja Vidic D.O.B: 21 October 1981 Birth Place: Titovo Uzice, Serbia & Montenegro Height: 1.88m Weight: 82kg Age: 28 Position: Centre back Club: Manchester United (England) Biography: Vidic have stints with Red Star Belgrade and Spartak Moscow, before Alex Ferguson managed to beat bitter rivals Liverpool to Vidic’s signature with a £7 million fee.

Known for his no-nonsense defending and aerial prowess at both ends, Vidic’s partnership with Rio Ferdinand formed a rock at the heart of Manchester United’s defence. Last season, Vidic helped United to a record breaking run of fourteen consecutive clean sheets and was awarded the Barclays Player of the Season.

Vidic is not without his weaknesses.

Vidic’s lack of pace, has been consistently exposed by Liverpool’s Fernando Torres, resulted in him being shown the red card in 3 consecutive matches against them.

Vidic was part of the Serbian national team’s “Famous Four” defence, that conceded just one goal in 10 2006 World Cup qualification matches, in the process setting a new record for the fewest goals conceded. Serbia will once again bank on their solid defence to see them through the group stage.

HEAD COACH Name: Radomir Antic Born: November 22, 1948 Birthplace: Zitiste, FPR Yugoslavia Previous Clubs: Real Zaragoza; Real Madrid; Real Oviedo; Atlético Madrid; Real Oviedo; FC Barcelona; Celta Vigo Honours: Spanish Championship: 1996; Copa del Rey: 1996

SERBIA FIxTuRES Date: 13 June (SUN) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Loftus Versfeld – Pretoria

Match: Serbia v Ghana

RISING STAR

Date: 18 June (FRI) Time: 19:30 SG Venue: Nelson Mandela Bay – Port Elizabeth

Name: Milos Krasic D.O.B: 1 November 1984 Birth Place: Kosovska Mitrovica, Serbia Height: 1.85m Weight: 75kg Age: 25 Position: Attacking Midfielder/Winger Club: CSKA Moscow (Russia)

play for Vojvodina and Novi Sad. In January 2004, CSKA signed him and he was off to Moscow. Krasic won many honours with CSKA including the Russian Premier League in 2005 and 2006, the Russian Cup in 2005, 2006 and 2008 and the Russian Super Cup in 2006 and 2007.

Krasic is a fleet footed right sided attacking midfielder and possesses a wide array of skills and is not afraid to use it. Krasic has an eye for goal and does not hesitate on taking long shots at goal. Krasic won the eyes of many admirers with his performances in 2008 and even scored a superb effort in the Champions League against Manchester United.

Krasic has been impressive for Serbia, mostly playing in a roaming role in midfield.

Nicknamed ‘The New Pavel Nedved’ partly because of his long golden locks, Krasic shows great composure on the ball, pace and movement, reminiscent of the great Czech playmaker.

Date: 24 June (THU) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Mbombela - Nelspruit

Match: Australia v Serbia

Milos Krasic

Biography: Krasic started his footballing education with his hometown side Rudar Kosovska Mitrovica, he then went on to

Match: Germany v Serbia

SQuAD LIST GOALKEEPERS Zeljko Brkic Vladimir Stojkovic Bojan Isailovic DEFENDERS Ivica Dragutinovic Aleksander Lukovic Nenad Tomovic Jagos Vukovic Neven Subotic Aleksandar Kolarov Nemanja Vidic Branislav Ivanovic MIDFIELDERS Dejan Stankovic Nenad Milijas Milos Krasic Milos Ninkovic Antonio Rukavina Radosav Petrovic Zdravko Kuzmanovic Gojko Kacar Zoran Tosic STRIKERS Marko Pantelic Nikola Zigic Danko Lazovic Dejan Lekic FORWARD Milan Jovanovic

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

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Group D – Ghana

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Ghana Football Association (GFA) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking Appearances at finals: 2006 - Second round

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 4, Won 2, Drawn 0, Lost 2.

Best performance: Second round in 2006.

Most appearances at finals: Richard Kingson (2006), John Paintsil (2006) - 4.

Most goals at finals: Stephen Appiah (2006), Sulley Muntari (2006), Haminu Dramani (2006), Asamoah Gyan (2006) - 1.

World Cup high: Despite opening their World Cup campaign with a 2-0 loss to Italy, Ghana managed to defeat the United States and Czech Republic to qualify for the Round of 16.

World Cup low: The Ghanaian team of 2006 was unlucky to meet Brazil in the Round of 16 and lost 3-0 to the South American team.

From as early as the fifth minute, Ronaldo put the African champions under pressure and they never came back, conceding another two goals and exiting the tournament.

Qualification: Ghana survived an initial scare in Round Two when Libya downed the African giants 1-0. Ghana then won big against Lesotho while Gabon defeat Libya, ensuring Ghana scraps through on goal difference.

Round Three was much more comfortable for Ghana. They won their first four games and was virtually as good as through to the World Cup. Despite a loss to Benin and a draw against Mali, Ghana maintained pole position all the way and eventually qualified for their second World Cup.

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Name: Michael Essien D.O.B: 3 December 1982 Birth Place: Accra, Ghana Height: 1.77m Weight: 86kg Age: 27 Position: Midfielder Club: Chelsea (England) Biography: Essien caught the attention of scouts when he played in the 1999 FIFA U-17 World Championship, in the end he was signed by French club Bastia in July 2000. In 2003, Lyon signed Essien in a €7.8 million deal. At Lyon, Essien showed that defensive midfield was his preferred position as he put in some commanding displays. In 2005, Chelsea outbid Man Utd and paid £26 million for the Ghanaian.

Essien is built like a Russian tank, who shuttles energetically from box to box, breaking up play, making challenges, harassing opponents and making audacious long range efforts. He can do them all, and he does it with the minimum of fuss.

Essien’s combative style will come in handy for Ghana as they are facing the likes of Germany and Australia, two very physical teams. However, Essien had a scare during the African Nations Cup at the beginning of the year when he limped off injured during training amid fears that he may not play in the World Cup at all.

HEAD COACH Name: Milovan Rajevac Born: January 2, 1954 Birthplace: Cajetina, SFR Yugoslavia Previous Clubs: Red Star Belgrade; FK Vojvodina; Borac Cacak Honours: Red Star Belgrade; FK Vojvodina; Borac Cacak

GHANA FIxTuRES Date: 13 June (SUN) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Loftus Versfeld – Tshwane/Pretoria

Match: Serbia v Ghana

Name: Asamoah Gyan D.O.B: 22 November 1985 Birth Place: Accra, Ghana Height: 1.80m Weight: 80kg Age: 24 Position: Striker Club: Rennes (France) Biography: Gyan began his career at Ghanaian club Liberty Professionals before Udinese snap him up in 2003.

Gyan then spent 2 seasons on loan at Serie B club Modena to gain valuable playing experience.

He then returned to play for Udinese in Serie A, although not considered a regular starter; he scored 10 goals in 2006/07 edition of Serie A which helped Udinese to a 10th place.

Injury woes plagued his remaining time at Udinese, and on 11 July 2008, Gyan was signed by Frence Ligue One Club Rennes for four years on an €8 million transfer fee.

“I always thought Ghana would do well if he played well,” said Abedi Pele, one of Ghana’s greatest ever player. “He is very good and you can play him alone up front. He’s composed and fast, good at dribbles, good in the air. He has all that.”

Asamoah Gyan

RISING STAR

Date: 19 June (SAT) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Royal Bafokeng - Rustenburg

Match: Ghana v Australia Date: 24 June (THU) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Soccer City - Johannesburg

Match: Ghana v Germany

SQuAD LIST GOALKEEPERS Isaac Amoako Richard Kingson Daniel Adjei DEFENDERS Daniel Addo Rahim Ayew Issac Vorsah Lee Addy Jonathan Quarpey Eric Addo Samuel Inkoom John Pantsil MIDFIELDERS Emmanuel Badu Agyemang Stephen Appiah Sulley Muntari Opuko Agyemang Anthony Annan Michael Essien Kevin-Prince Boateng Laryea Kingston STRIKERS Dominic Adiya Andre Ayew Matthew Amoah Asamoah Gyan FORWARDS Kwadwo Asamoah Prince Tagoe

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

65

NETHERLANDS

Robin Van Persie

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Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

E

GROUP CAMEROON DENMARK

Netherlands, better known as Oranje, will have a tough job on their hands in Group E. Despite the nation’s slick pass-and-move gameplay known as ‘Total Football’, the Netherlands have never landed the biggest prize in world football, the World Cup Trophy. Standing in their way are Denmark, Cameroon and Japan. The Danes edged past their neighbours Sweden to qualify for the World Cup, looking strong throughout qualifying and could be Netherlands closest rivals. The Indomitable Lions is Africa’s most successful side but have yet to rediscover the form that took them to the quarterfinals of the World Cup in 1990. From the East, Japan is back yet again for another shot at world glory but can the smaller-sized Asians sneak past their bigger counterparts? Whatever the outcome, Group E will definitely see some surprising results!

NETHERLANDS

DENMARK

JAPAN

CAMEROON

JAPAN

MATCH SCHEDuLE DATE

TiME

MATCH

VENuE

14 June (MON) 19:30

Netherlands v Denmark

Soccer City – Johannesburg

14 June (MON) 22:00

Japan v Cameroon

Free State – Bloemfontein

19 June (SAT)

Netherlands v Japan

Moses Mabhida – Durban

20 June (SUN) 02:30

19:30

Cameroon v Denmark

Loftus Versfeld – Tshwane/Pretoria

25 June (FRI)

02:30

Cameroon v Netherlands

Green Point – Cape Town

25 June (FRI)

02:30

Denmark v Japan

Royal Bafokeng – Rustenburg

Football Weekly Weekly World World Cup Cup prEVIEW prEVIEW Football

67 67

Group E – NEthErlaNds

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY

Koninklijke Nederlandse Voetbalbond (KNVB) Association Founded

FIFA Affiliation Since

FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking

Appearances at finals: 1934 - First round 1938 - First round 1974 - Runners-up 1978 - Runners-up 1990 - Second round 1994 - Quarter-finals 1998 - Fourth place 2006 - Second round

PAST REcORdS

Overall record at finals: Played 36, Won 16, Drawn 10, Lost 10.

Best performance: Runners-up in 1974 and 1978.

Most appearances at finals: Johnny Rep (1974, 1978), Ruud Krol (1974, 1978), Wim Jansen (1974, 1978) - 14.

Most goals at finals: Johnny Rep (1974, 1978) - 7.

World cup high: The Netherlands brought ‘total football’ to the World Cup in 1974, beating both Brazil and Argentina in the second group stage and reaching the final on their first appearance in the tournament for 36 years.

World cup low: Despite having some of the strongest teams over the years, Netherlands have never won the World Cup, which many people have found it difficult to accept.

Qualification: Netherlands massacred all competition in front of them to become the first European side to qualify for South Africa in June 2009. With not much of a competition in their group, the Dutch steam-rolled to a perfect record, winning all eight qualifying games.

Netherlands ran out 3-0 winners against Scotland and a non-flattering 4-0 scoreline against Macedonia all but virtually assured qualification as early as April 2009.

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Name: Dirk Kuyt d.O.B: 22 July 1980 Birth Place: Katwijk aan Zee, Netherlands Height: 1.84m Weight: 77kg Age: 29 Position: Striker/Winger club: Liverpool (England) Biography Kuyt began his professional career with FC Utrecht in 1998 and spent 5 seasons there. The highlights in his Utrecht career include winning the Dutch Cup and the Dutch Golden Shoe Winner. Feyenoord then paid €1 million for his services and he became the club captain in 2005, and was the club’s top scorer for three consecutive seasons. His 71 goals in 101 matches convinced Rafa Benitez to shell out £10 million to bring him to Liverpool.

A bona fide team player, Kuyt can often be seen running his socks off to win back possession for his team. Kuyt also has a knack of scoring crucial goals. Although not endowed with fantastic dribbling skills or the greatest of finishers, he has great awareness and with his never say die attitude, he will win most 50-50 challenges.

Hardworking and fit as a fiddle, Kuyt’s relentless runs on the field will be a huge boost for the Netherlands. His winning mentality is a huge advantage for the Oranje who will attempt to break their World Cup duck in South Africa.

HEAd cOAcH Name: Bert van Marwijk Born: May 19, 1952 Birthplace: Deventer, Netherlands Previous clubs: FC Herderen; RKVCL Limmel; SV Meerssen; Fortuna Sittard; Borussia Dortmund; Feyenoord Honours: KNVB cup: 2008; UEFA cup: 2002

NETHERLANdS FIxTURES date: 14 June (MON) Time: 19:30 SG Venue: Soccer City - Johannesburg

Match: Netherlands v Denmark

RISING STAR

date: 19 June (Sat) Time: 19:30 SG Venue: Moses Mabhida - Durban

Name: Eljero Elia d.O.B: 13 February 1987 Birth Place: Voorburg, Netherlands Height: 1.76m Weight: 75kg Age: 23 Position: Striker/Winger club: Hamburg SV (Germany)

date: 25 June (FRI) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Green Point – Cape Town

Match: Cameroon v Netherlands

SQUAd LIST

Eljero Elia

Biography Elia excelled in the ADO Den Haag youth team, earning interst from FC Twente and Ajax Amsterdam. Elia chose to join FC Twente instead as Ajax made it clear that he would be loaned back to ADO Den Haag if he joined the Amsterdam club. In just two seasons at Twente, Eljero Elia was named Dutch Football Talent of the Year in 2009 and Hamburg came knocking on the door.

Despite making his debut as a substitute, Elia quickly became one of the most consistent players in the Bundesliga and had a little fan club of him going. At the same time, Elia was introduced into the Netherlands senior team after figuring in just one outing for the B team. His two matches for the Netherlands yielded good results, creating two assists and scoring the only goal in his second game against Scotland.

A direct and skilful player, Eljero Elia is a carbon copy of fellow Dutch team-mate Ryan Babel. Elia’s slinky runs are usually accompanied by little tricks which he uses to wrong-foot his opponents. Netherlands have uncovered another gem in Eljero Elia and the theory on ‘Total Football’ may soon be changed forever.

Match: Netherlands v Japan

GOALKEEPERS Maarten Stekelenburg Michel Vorm Piet Velthuizen dEFENdERS Khalid Boulahrouz Edson Braafheid Gregory Van Der Wiel Johnny Heitinga Joris Mathijsen Giovanni Van Bronckhorst Andre Ooijer Demy De Zeeuw Wesley Sneijder MIdFIELdERS Rafael Van der Vaart Stijn Schaars Ryan Babel Orlando Engelaar Wout Brama Mark Van Bommel Ibrahim Afellay Nigel De Jong FORWARdS Dirk Kuyt Eljero Elia Klaas-Jan Huntelaar Robin Van Persie Arjen Robben Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

69

Group E – DENMArK

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY

Dansk Boldspil-Union (DBU) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking

Appearances at finals: 1986 - Second round 1998 - Quarter-finals 2002 - Second round

PAST REcORDS

Overall record at finals: Played 13, Won 7, Drawn 2, Lost 4.

Best performance: The quarter-finals in 1998.

Most appearances at finals: Michael Laudrup (1986, 1998) - 8.

Most goals at finals: Preben Elkjaer-Larsen (1986), Jon Dahl Tomasson (2002) - 4.

World cup high: Denmark blitzed past Nigeria 4-1 in 1998 in the Round of 16 as they made it to the quarter-finals of the World Cup, their highest ever achievement in the tournament.

World cup low: A disappointing 3-0 defeat at the hands of England in the Round of 16 in 2002 saw Denmark exit the tournament after a bright start saw them top their group after the first hurdle.

Qualification: The days of Euro glory appear to have returned for the Danes after they topped their group ahead of Portugal in qualifying.

Backed by a strong defensive pairing of Simon Kjaer and Daniel Agger, Denmark found themselves in a great position with victories over group favourite Portugal and fierce rivals Sweden and looked to have the situation under control.

Denmark would go on to draw 1-1 against Portugal and Albania, but a convincing 1-0 victory against Sweden meant that the Danes would be heading to the World Cup instead of the Swedes and ensured that they qualify top of the group.

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Name: Daniel Agger D.O.B: 12 December 1984 Birth Place: Hvidovre, Denmark Height: 1.88m Weight: 75kg Age: 25 Position: Centreback club: Liverpool (England) Biography Agger started his professional career with Danish giants, Brondby. In July 2004, he established himself as a key player and won the Danish Superliga. Despite only 20 at the time, Agger played with great authority and maturity throughout the season and was rewarded with an international cap for the friendly against Finland. In the January 2006 window, Liverpool came in with a £5 million bid, making Agger the most expensive export in Danish history.

Agger has been a mainstay in the Danish national team and only injuries has kept him from accumulating more than the 29 caps that he had already collected. At only 25 years of age, Agger is destined to feature at the centre of Denmark’s defence alongside team mate Simon Kjaer at the World Cup. The effortless way the Danish covers the ground and brings the ball forward have led him to be likened to Alan Hansen.

He is a natural talent with a good left foot and has skills that many attacking players do not possess.

HEAD cOAcH Name: Morten Olsen Born: August 14, 1949 Birthplace: Vordingborg, Denmark Previous clubs: Brøndby IF; 1. FC Köln; Ajax Amsterdam Honours: Danish championship: 1990, 1991; Dutch Eredivisie: 1998; KNVB cup: 1998

DENMARK FIxTURES Date: 14 June (MON) Time: 19:30 SG Venue: Soccer City - Johannesburg

Match: Netherlands v Denmark

RISING STAR

Biography Bendtner first came into prominence when he scored 4 goals in 6 games for the Danish national youth team. Arsene Wenger then brought him to Arsenal to train with their youth team. Bendtner’s made his English debut against Sunderland in a League Cup, when he came on as a substitute. Bendtner was loaned out to Championship team Birmingham in for the 2006/07 season and had an impressive season with them. He then signed a new five-year contract with Arsenal on his return in 2007.

The big dane is targetmanmaterial. He is big, strong and good heading abilities. Never short of confidence, Bendtner can work through tight marking and he does not shy away from taking a shot at goal.

However, he is known to waste easy chances in front of goal although he tends to score the ones that matter to the results.

Denmark will be looking to Bendtner to prove his worth when he claimed that he will be “the next biggest star in the World Cup”. Should Bendtner exceed his own expectations, Denmark should be good to re-write their World Cup history with their best ever showing this summer.

Date: 20 June (SUN) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Loftus Versfeld – Pretoria

Nicklas Bendtner

Name: Nicklas Bendtner D.O.B: 16 January 1988 Birth Place: Copenhagen, Denmark Height: 1.92m Weight: 79kg Age: 22 Position: Striker club: Arsenal (England)

Match: Cameroon v Denmark Date: 25 June (FRI) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Royal Bafokeng - Rustenburg

Match: Denmark v Japan

SQUAD LIST GOALKEEPERS Kim Christensen Thomas Sorensen Stephan Andersen DEFENDERS Per Kroldrup Simon Kjaer Morten Rasmussen Anders Moller Christensen Daniel Agger Michael Jakobsen Lars Jacobsen Jacob Poulsen MIDFIELDERS William Jorgensen Martin Jorgensen Soren Rieks Jesper Gronkjaer William Kvist Daniel Jensen Michael Silberbauer Christian Poulsen FORWARDS Nicklas Bendtner Jon Dahl Tomasson STRIKERS Martin Bernburg Johan Absalonsen Dennis Rommedahl Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

71

Group E – JApAN

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY

Japan Football Association (JFA) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking

Appearances at finals: 1998 - First round 2002 - Second round 2006 - First round

PAST REcORdS

Overall record at finals: Played 10, Won 2, Drawn 2, Lost 6.

Best performance: Second round in 2002.

Most appearances at finals: Hidetoshi Nakata (1998, 2002, 2006) - 10.

Most goals at finals: Junichi Inamoto (2002) - 2.

World cup high: Junichi Inamoto’s goal six minutes into the second half saw Japan claim a huge 1-0 victory over Russia in 2002.

World cup low: It was a fairytale not to be for Japan in 2002. Despite making it past the group stage, Umit Davala’s solitary goal in the 12th minute was enough to win the game for Turkey and eliminate Japan from their home World Cup. Qualification: Arguably the most popular Asian football nation with a large number of followers around Asia, Japan crept to the top of its group in Round Three following a 1-0 victory over Bahrain in its final game.

Round Four saw Japan square off with Bahrain once again but Japan found it difficult to handle Australia. The first fixture ended in a 0-0 draw and Japan went on to notch victories over Bahrain and Uzbekistan. Its final game was a contest for first place in the group but the Aussies handed Japan a 2-1 defeat and they would be contented to qualify for the World Cup in second place.

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1921 1929 46th

Name: Shunsuke Nakamura d.O.B: 24 June 1978 Birth Place: Yokohama, Japan Height: 1.78m Weight: 69kg Age: 31 Position: Attacking Midfielder club: Yokohama Marinos (Japan) Biography Nakamura made his professional debut with Yokohama Marinos at the age of 19.

In 2000, he had his best season for them scoring 5 goals and 11 assists, and winning the J league MVP award. This prompted Reggina (Serie A) to pay US$ 3.5 million for him. He was highly regarded at Reggina, but unfortunately injuries blighted his career.

After 3 seasons with the Italians, he decided to accept Celtic’s offer to move to Scotland, and became an important player for them. Nakaruma won several accolades and titles during his time with the Scottish giants but on June 2009 he made a surprise switch to Espanyol. But he did not see much first team action for the Catalan side, and was sent back on loan to his hometown club, Yokohama Marinos, on 26 February 2010.

He is best known for being a dead-ball specialist and his accurate 40-50 yards cross field passes. The elegant playmaker has a good football brain, and can split the tightest defences, which made him a worthy successor to Hidetoshi Nakata, who was the main playmaker in Japan’s attack.

HEAd cOAcH Name: Takeshi Okada Born: August 25, 1956 Birthplace: Osaka, Japan Previous clubs: Japan; Consadole Sapporo; Yokohama F Marinos Honours: Japan championship: 2003, 2004

JAPAN FIxTuRES date: 14 June (MON) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Free State – Bloemfontein

Match: Japan v Cameroom

Name: Keisuke Honda d.O.B: 13 June 1986 Birth Place: Settsu, Osaka Prefecture, Japan Height: 1.82m Weight: 76kg Age: 23 Position: Midfielder club: CSKA Moscow (Russia) Biography As a youth, Keisuke Honda joined Gamba Osaka’s junioryouth team although he was not promoted. Honda did get chosen as one of the Designated Players for Development by J League and JFA in 2004 and with this, he join Nagoya Grampus Eight as a high school student. Holland’s VVV Venlo decided to sign Honda in 2008, where he made a name for himself.

The Japanese managed 24 goals in just under 70 games for Venlo and was nicknamed ‘Keizer Keisuke’, Dutch for Emperor Keisuke.

Despite huge interest for Honda across Europe, he chose to join Russian club CSKA Moscow, the only club which registered a bid for the player.

Keisuke Honda

RISING STAR

date: 19 June (Sat) Time: 19:30 SG Venue: Moses Mabhida - Durban

Match: Netherlands v Japan date: 25 June (FRI) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Royal Bafokeng - Rustenburg

Match: Denmark v Japan

SQuAd LIST GOALKEEPERS Eiji Kawashima Shusaku Nishikawa Seigo Narazaki dEFENdERS Atsuto Uchida Yuichi Komano Yuhei Tokunaga Yuji Nakazawa Daiki Iwamasa Yasuyuki Konno Marcus Tulio Tanaka MIdFIELdERS Daisuke Matsui Makoto Hasebe Keisuke Honda Kengo Nakamura Yuki Abe Shunsuke Nakamura Junichi Inamoto Yasuhito Endo Mitsuo Ogasawara Yoshito Okubo FORWARd Takayuki Morimoto STRIKERS Hisato Sato Keiji Tamada Shinji Okazaki Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

73

Group E – CAMErooN

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Fédération Camerounaise de Football (FCDF) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking Appearances at finals: 1982 - First round 1990 - Quarter-finals 1994 - First round 1998 - First round 2002 - First round

PAST RECORdS Overall record at finals: Played 17, Won 4, Drawn 7, Lost 6.

Best performance: Quarter-finals in 1990.

Most apearances at finals: Roger Milla (1982), (1990), (1994) - 10.

Most goals at finals: Roger Milla (1990, 1994) - 5.

World Cup high: The Indomitable Lions reached the quarter-finals in 1990 and opened the campaign with a sensational 1-0 victory against defending champions Argentina. What looked like a certain save was dropped by Nery Pumpido, which Omam-Biyik duly poked in for the only goal of the game.

World Cup low: The 6-1 thrashing by Russia in 1994 was an embarrassment for Cameroon. Oleg Salenko scored a record five goals in the match to condemn Cameroon to bottom spot in the group, their worst ever World Cup appearance.

Qualification: Cameroon looked in marvelous form in Round Two of qualifying but had a scary blip in Round Three. The opening game of the third round saw the Lions lose 1-0 to Togo away and scrapped through a goalless draw with Morocco in the second game. Otto Pfister was sacked and in came former Lyon boss Paul Le Guen, who transformed the nation’s fate. Cameroon went on to seal four consecutive victories against Gabon, Togo and Morocco, sending the Lions to the top of the table and into the World Cup once again.

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Name: Samuel Eto’o d.O.B: 10 March 1981 Birth Place: Doula, Cameroon Height: 1.80m Weight: 75kg Age: 28 Position: Striker Club: Inter Milan (Italy) Biography When on loan at Mallorca, Eto’o scored 6 goals in 13 games, and when the loan move became a permanent deal, Eto’o won fan favourite status. His record of 54 goals in 133 appearances attracted the likes of Barcelona to shell out €24 million for his services in 2004.

Eto’o was a huge success at Barcelona and played as the main striker flanked by Messi and Ronaldinho, and they helped Barcelona to the La Liga titles in the 2004/05 and 2005/06 seasons and the Champions League in the 2005/06 seasons, as well as an unprecedented sextuple in a single year. On 27 July 2009, he moved on to Inter Milan as part of a player exchange deal.

Eto’o’s devastating combination of pace and finishing prowess makes him one of the world’s deadliest strikers. He has been Cameroon’s main striker for many years and his international scoring record of 44 goals in 94 appearances makes him indispensible for the Indomitable Lions.

HEAd COACH Name: Paul Le Guen Born: March 1, 1964 Birthplace: Pencran, France Previous Clubs: Stade Rennais; Olympique Lyonnais; Rangers; Paris Saint-Germain Honours: French Championship: 2003, 2004, 2005; Trophée des Champions: 2002, 2003, 2004; Coupe de la Ligue: 2001, 2008

CAMEROON FIxTuRES date: 14 June (MON) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Free State – Bloemfontein

Match: Japan v Cameroon

RISING STAR

Biography Alexandre Song Billong, more commonly known as Alex Song, signed for Arsenal on a season-long loan from Bastia in 2005. Song was part of the youth team at Bastia who was promoted to the senior squad and attracted interest from Europe within the first year. Arsene Wenger was impressed when Song was on trial during Arsenal’s pre-season training camp and it was not long before the deal was made permanent.

Initially used as a centre back in Arsenal, Song started to play regularly as a defensive midfielder in front of the back four. Strong and composed, Song is crucial at winning balls in midfield and laying off to the wingers for the counter-attack.

Song is also versatile, and can stand-in as a centre back and right back.

Song played in defence for Cameroon during the 2008 African Nations Cup and he was a revelation in defence. His cousin, Rigobert Song, is also a Cameroon international footballer and both players will be rear-guarding the defence for the Indomitable Lions in the World Cup, where Song’s youthful and energetic displays will be put to the test.

date: 20 June (SUN) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Loftus Versfeld – Pretoria

Alexandre Song

Name: Alexandre Song Billong d.O.B: 9 September 1987 Birth Place: Doula, Cameroon Height: 1.85m Weight: 75kg Age: 22 Position: Midfielder Club: Arsenal (England)

Match: Cameroon v Denmark date: 25 June (FRI) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Green Point – Cape Town

Match: Cameroon v Netherlands

SQuAd LIST GOALKEEPERS Carlos Kameni Souleymanou Hamidou dEFENdERS Sebastien Bassong Andre Bikey Benoit Assou-Ekotto Nicolas N’Koulou Rigobert Song Pierre Wome MIdFIELdERS Achille Emana Jean Makoun Mandjeck Georges Somen Tchoyi Stephane M’bia Etoundi Eyong Enoh Aurelien Chedjou Fongang Alexandre Song Billong Landry N’Guemo Geremi Alain N’Kong FORWARdS Pierre Webó Samuel Eto’o Albert Ze Meyong Paul Alo’o Efoulou Daniel Ngom Kome Mohammadou Idrissou Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

75

ITALY

Gianluigi Buffon 26

FOOTBALL WEEKLY WORLD CUP PREVIEW

F

GROUP PARAGUAY NEW ZEALAND

The Italians are smiling and it is not hard to see why.

The Azzurris have one of the easiest groups in Group F but will it really be easy? Paraguay qualified ahead of Argentina and their quality of football is definitely not something to be taken lightly. Slovakia put up a strong show to dispose of the once fearsome Czech Republic in qualifying and will be gunning for further glory in the tournament proper. Oceania’s long awaited representative New Zealand, will enjoy just being at the World Cup but the Kiwis have a scoring machine in Shane Smeltz who will be eager to prove the All Whites are not in the tournament by fluke. Group F carries plenty of uncertainty and it will be exciting to find out which two teams will go to the next round.

ITALY

PARAGUAY

NEW ZEALAND

SLOVAKIA

SLOVAKIA

MATCH SCHEDULE DATE

TIME

MATCH

VENUE

15 June (TUE)

02:30

Italy v Paraguay

Green Point – Cape Town

15 June (TUE)

19:30

New Zealand v Slovakia

Royal Bafokeng – Rustenburg

20 June (SUN) 19:30

Slovakia v Paraguay

Free State – Bloemfontein

20 June (SUN) 22:00

Italy v New Zealand

Mbombela - Nelspruit

24 June (THU) 22:00

Slovakia v Italy

Ellis Park - Johannesburg

24 June (THU) 22:00

Paraguay v New Zealand

Peter Mokaba - Polokwane

FOOTBALL WEEKLY WEEKLY WORLD WORLD CUP CUP PREVIEW PREVIEW FOOTBALL

77 27

GROUP F – ITALY

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Federazione Italiana Gioco Calcio (FIGC) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking Appearences at finals: 1934 - Winners 1938 - Winners 1954 - First round 1962 - First round 1970 - Runners-up 1974 - First round 1982 - Winners 1986 - Second round 1994 - Runners-up 1998 - Quarter-final 2006 - Winners

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 77, Won 44, Drawn 19, Lost 14.

Best performance: Winners in 1934, 1938, 1982 and 2006.

Most appearances at finals: Paolo Maldini (1990, 1994, 1998, 2002) - 23.

Most goals at finals: Roberto Baggio (1990, 1994, 1998), Paolo Rossi (1978, 1982, 1986) - 9.

World Cup high: Italy’s fourth World Cup trophy in 2006 was won against Brazil, the match ending 1-1 after extra-time, only for the Azzurri to up their tempo and win the final 5-3 on penalty kicks.

World Cup low: The tragic loss of 12 Italian players following the 1949 Superga air disaster saw Italy fail to make it past the first round in their next four appearances in the World Cup from 1950 to 1966.

Qualification: It was pretty smooth sailing for Italy in qualifying, with Ireland the only real threat, holding them to draws in both fixtures.

Although Italy did not pull off big victories against the other teams, Marcello Lippi’s men did well enough to win seven other games and earned more than enough points to leap to the top of the table.

Ireland did push Italy all the way and even led 2-1 in the penultimate match which could have changed the final table positions. But Alberto Gilardino scored a 90th-minute equaliser to book Italy’s place at the World Cup finals.

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FOOTBALL WEEKLY WORLD CUP PREVIEW

1895 1905 4th 1950 - First round 1966 - First round 1978 - Fourth place 1990 - Third place 2002 - Second round

Name: Fabio Cannavaro D.O.B: 13 September 1973 Birth Place: Naples, Italy Height: 1.75m Weight: 72kg Age: 36 Position: Defender Club: Juventus (Italy) Biography: Cannavaro is no stranger to the World Cup, having won the trophy as well as the FIFA World Player of the Year award in 2006. Cannavaro began his career with Napoli in 1992, but he would go on to experience domestic cup and European success with Parma before making the famed transfer to Juventus in 2004. Despite winning the Scudetto with Juve, the match-fixing scandal meant that Cannavaro have to move clubs.

Real Madrid stepped in with a bid of 7 million Euros and Cannavaro would reunite with coach Fabio Capello in Spain. Cannavaro wore the number 5 shirt of the legendary Zinedine Zidane and won the La Liga title two seasons in a row but in 2009, the Italian decided to return to Juventus upon the expiration of his contract with the Spanish giants.

Team captain Cannavaro has a wealth of experience when it comes to the World Cup. He was part of the Italian squad at the 1998 World Cup alongside veteran Paolo Maldini.

Cannavaro is not the tallest defender around but where he lacks the height, he makes up with his speed and great reading of the game.

Cannavaro can play at right-back as well, offering extra defensive options for current coach Marcello Lippi.

HEAD COACH Name: Marcello Lippi Born: April 12, 1948 Birthplace: Viareggio, Italy Previous Clubs: Sampdoria (youth team); Pontedera; Siena; Pistoiese; Carrarese; Cesena; Lucchese; Atalanta; Napoli; Juventus; Internazionale; Juventus; Italy Honours: Italian League Championship: 1995, 1997, 1998, 2002, 2003; Coppa Italia: 1995; Supercoppa Italiana: 1995, 1997, 2002, 2003; UEFA Champions League: 1996; European Supercup: 1996; Intercontinental Cup: 1996; FIFA World Cup: 2006

ITALY FIXTURES Date: 15 June (TUE) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Green Point – Cape Town

Match: Italy v Paraguay

Name: Giuseppe Rossi D.O.B: 1 February 1987 Birth Place: Teaneck, New Jersey, United States Height: 1.73m Weight: 72kg Age: 23 Position: Forward Club: Villarreal (Spain) Biography: Born to Italian immigrant parents in Teaneck, Rossi moved back to Italy upon being offered a spot in Parma’s youth setup.

Manchester United brought Rossi to England where he impressed.

However, Rossi was loaned to Newcastle and Parma in order to gain more first team experience. Back at Parma, Rossi managed to help the club avoid relegationbut was sold to Spanish club Villarreal for an undisclosed fee.

It was at Villarreal that the player matured, scoring on his debut and helping himself to a handful of goals in the following two seasons. Rossi has represented Italy at every level from Under-16 to Under-21 but in the 2010 World Cup qualifier against Bulgaria, he was called up to the Italy squad and has never looked back since.

A thorough-bred striker, Giuseppe Rossi has excellent pace and acceleration. Known for his amazing dribbles, Rossi has an eye for goal and rarely gives up the chance for a long range effort on goal. Italy’s chance at a backto-back World Cup trophy will depend on Rossi’s partnership with the main striker and his pace will be the weapon that could decide the nation’s fate.

Giuseppe Rossi

RISING STAR

Date: 20 June (SUN) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Mbombela - Nelspruit

Match: Italy v New Zealand Date: 24 June (THU) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Ellis Park - Johannesburg

Match: Slovakia v Italy

SQUAD LIST z GOALKEEPERS Gianluigi Buffon Morgan De Sanctis Federico Marchetti DEFENDERS Alessandro Gamberini Gianluca Zambrotta Andrea Dossena Fabio Grosso Giorgio Chiellini Fabio Cannavaro Nicola Legrottaglie Daniele Bonera MIDFIELDERS Daniele De Rossi Mauro Camoranesi Angelo Palombo Riccardo Montolivo Andrea Pirlo Gennaro Ivan Gattuso Claudio Marchisio Alberto Aquilani FORWARDS Alberto Gilardino Vincenzo Iaquinta Giuseppe Rossi Fabio Quagliarella Simone Pepe Antonio Di Natale FOOTBALL WEEKLY WORLD CUP PREVIEW

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GROUP F – PARAGUAY

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Asociación Paraguaya de Futbol (APF) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking

1906 1925 29th

Appearences at finals: 1930 - First round 1934 - Withdrew from competition 1950 - First round 1958 - First round 1986 - Second round 1998 - Second round 2002 - Second round 2006 - First round

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 19, Won 6, Drawn 7, Lost 9.

Best performance: Second round in 1986, 1998, 2002 Most appearances at finals: Carlos Gamarra (1998, 2002, 2006) - 11.

Most goals at finals: Nelson Cuevas (2002, 2006) - 3.

World Cup high: Paraguay’s 3-1 win over Nigeria in the group stage of 1998 was enough to eliminate Spain in the first round and send the South American nation to the Round of 16.

World Cup low: France thrashed Paraguay 7-3 at Sweden 58, with famed Just Fontaine grabbing a hat-trick in the process and going on to create history with thirteen goals in the same tournament.

Qualification: Paraguay was never under threat during qualifying, comfortable victories against Ecuador (5-1), Chile (3-0) and Brazil (2-0) gave the nation a head-start in the CONMEBOL group. While a blip in form midway through saw Paraguay claim only one point in four games, their crucial 1-0 victory against Argentina was enough to ensure their ticket to the South Africa. Paraguay then made sure of their World Cup qualification with a 2-1 win away at Venezuela.

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FOOTBALL WEEKLY WORLD CUP PREVIEW

Name: Roque Santa Cruz D.O.B: 16 August 1981 Birth Place: Asuncion, Paraguay Height: 1.89m Weight: 80kg Age: 28 Position: Forward Club: Manchester City (England) Biography: At just age 16, Santa Cruz made his professional debut for Olimpia Asuncion, leading the club to a Paraguayan championship in his first two seasons and winning the Paraguayan Football of the Year award in 1999. A lengthy spell at German club Bayern Munich did not help Santa Cruz as his appearances were limited by injuries.

Santa Cruz would leave Bayern to join Blackburn, where he was a prolific scorer for the English club. Santa Cruz then had a bust-up with Rovers and ultimately signed for Manchester City in the summer of 2009.

Santa Cruz so far been unable to bring back the form he had during the early years of his career.

Santa Cruz is a key member of the Paraguay team. His height and physique allows him to hold up play and also win headers in set-pieces. Santa Cruz is also a good technical player but he has lost his speed over the years. Nevertheless, Santa Cruz will be the main striker for Paraguay, who will look to expose weaknesses in defence with his aerial ability.

HEAD COACH Name: Gerardo Martino Born: November 20, 1962 Birthplace: Rosario, Argentina Previous Clubs: Almirante Brown; Platense; Instituto; Club Libertad; Cerro Porteño; Colón de Santa Fe; Club Libertad

PARAGUAY FIXTURES

Honours: Paraguayan League: 2002, 2004, 2006; Apertura: 2002, 2006

Date: 15 June (TUE) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Green Point – Cape Town

Match: Italy v Paraguay

RISING STAR

Match: Slovakia v Paraguay

Egdar Benitez

Name: Egdar Benitez D.O.B: 8 November 1987 Birth Place: Repatriacion, Paraguay Height: 1.76m Weight: 72kg Age: 22 Position: Striker Club: Pachuca CF (Mexico)

Date: 20 June (SUN) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Free State – Bloemfontein

Biography: Benítez made his name in Paraguay, playing for Club Sol de América and quickly established himself in the club as one of the team’s top goalscorers. Due to his good performances with Sol de América, he was called up to the Paraguay national football team” Paraguay senior team and impressed on his debut in his first 2010 World Cup qualification match against Peru in which Paraguay won 1-0.

Edgar Benitez moved to Mexico in 2009 to join Pachuca CF. Again, the striker made an impressive debut in the Interliga, scoring his first goal with the club in a 4-0 win over Tecos UAG. Benitez is used mainly as a substitute although he did score twice in a match that he started.

Not the most fanciful player on the pitch, Benitez likes to operate deep within midfield but often finds himself on the receiving end of good crosses and through passes which he would then go on to score.

Paraguay would refer to him as a good luck charm, most notably after he scored in injury time against Ecuador after he latched onto a loose ball and slammed home the equalizer.

Date: 24 June (THU) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Peter Mokaba - Polokwane

Match: Paraguay v New Zealand

SQUAD LIST z GOALKEEPERS Diego Barreto Justo Villar Aldo Bobadilla DEFENDERS Paulo Da Silva Julio César Manzur Dario Verón Claudio Morel Rodríguez Denis Ramón Caniza Pedro Benítez Julio Cáceres Aureliano Torres MIDFIELDERS Jonathan Santana Enrique Vera Víctor Cáceres Christian Riveros Osvaldo Martínez Carlos Bonet Eduardo Ledesma Edgar Barreto FORWARDS Roque Santa Cruz Fredy José Bareiro Salvador Cabañas Nélson Haedo Váldez Oscar Rene Cardozo Edgar Benítez FOOTBALL WEEKLY WORLD CUP PREVIEW

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GROUP F – NEW ZEALAND

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY New Zealand Football (NZF) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking Appearences at finals: 1982 - First round

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 3, Won 0, Drawn 0, Lost 3.

Best performance: First round in 1982.

Most appearances at finals: Frank van Hattum (1982), Ricki Herbert (1982), Wynton Rufer (1982), Steve Wooddin (1982), Steve Sumner (1982), Keith Mackay (1982), Kenny Cresswell (1982), Adrian Elrick (1982), Allan Boath (1982), Duncan Cole (1982) - 3.

Most goals at finals: Steve Sumner (1982), Steve Wooddin (1982) - 1.

World Cup high: New Zealand qualified for the 1982 World Cup, their first ever after defeating China 2-1 in a sudden-death play-off match following a five-team round-robin tournament against teams from Asia.

World Cup low: Elimination in the first round of the 1982 World Cup came after losing all three games, against Scotland, Brazil and the Soviet Union.

Qualification: Qualification was easy for New Zealand as they cruised past the second stage of qualifying for the Oceania Nations Cup. The All Whites successfully made it to the play-off match against Asia’s fifth-best side, Bahrain and after a tiring 0-0 draw in the first leg, the Kiwis scored the winning goal through a Rory Fallon header in the second leg. That goal was enough to send New Zealand to the World Cup for only the second time in history and gave the 35,000 fans at Wellington’s Westpac Stadium a night to remember.

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1891 1948 80th

Name: Ryan Nelsen D.O.B: 18 October 1977 Birth Place: Christchurch, New Zealand Height: 1.85m Weight: 80kg Age: 32 Position: Defender Club: Blackburn Rovers (England) Biography: The New Zealand captain spent four years in the MLS with D.C. United and was named team captain by the second year. He won several personal honours while playing in the MLS, most notably the League’s Best XI in 2003 and 2004.

Nelsen signed for Blackburn Rovers on a free transfer after the 2004 MLS season ended. At Blackburn, Nelsen forged a strong defensive partnership with Christopher Samba and his performances helped Blackburn to qualify for the UEFA Cup in 2006. But Nelsen suffered a serious hamstring injury and forced him out of action but he returned with a bang and has been a firm fixture for Blackburn in all competitions.

Ryan Nelsen’s vast experience will aid New Zealand’s aspirations in the World Cup finals. A strong and firm defender, Nelsen is well-versed in marking and will be depended on to keep the opposition away from the danger area. The All Whites will also bank their chances on Nelsen grabbing a goal or two when attacking on set-pieces.

HEAD COACH Name: Ricki Herbert Born: April 10, 1961 Birthplace: Auckland, New Zealand Previous Clubs: New Zealand Knights; Wellington Phoenix Honours: Chatham Cup: 1997,

NEW ZEALAND FIXTURES

1998; New Zealand Championship: 1999; OFC Nations Cup: 2008

Date: 15 June (TUE) Time: 19:30 SG Venue: Royal Bafokeng - Rustenburg

Match: New Zealand v Slovakia

RISING STAR

Date: 20 June (SUN) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Mbombela - Nelspruit

Name: Chris Wood D.O.B: 7 December 1991 Birth Place: Auckland, New Zealand Height: 1.91m Weight: 81kg Age: 18 Position: Striker Club: West Bromwich Albion (England)

Date: 24 June (THU) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Peter Mokaba - Polokwane

Match: Paraguay v New Zealand

SQUAD LIST

Chris Wood

Biography: This young Kiwi was called a goalscoring prodigy while playing for English club West Bromwich Albion’s youth academy team. He maintained the same scoring statistics in West Brom’s reserve team and became the surprise inclusion in the senior squad to face Portsmouth in the Premier League. At the end of the season, Wood signed his first professional contract with West Brom.

Wood has also represented New Zealand in the FIFA Under-17 World Cup, which earned him the trial with West Bromwich Albion. Ricki Herbert decided to pull Wood in for the 2009 Confederations Cup in South Africa and despite not having registered a goal, the boy looks certain to feature for New Zealand in South Africa.

Wood has a frightening potential in scoring goals and it is not just his height that is his main advantage. The 18-year-old is surprisingly quick on the ground and is capable of unleashing some fierce shots from distance.

The young Wood will certainly lend New Zealand a fresh pair of legs when his chance comes could decide the nation’s fate.

Match: Italy v New Zealand

z GOALKEEPERS Mark Paston Glen Moss James Bannatyne DEFENDERS Dave Mullingan Andy Boyens Steven Old Tony Lochhead Ben Sigmund Ivan Vicelich Ryan Nelsen Duncan Oughton MIDFIELDERS Leo Bertos Andy Barron Jeremy Christie Simon Elliott Tim Brown Chris James FORWARDS Chris Killen Jeremy Brockie Chris Wood Kris Bright Shane Smeltz Rory Fallon

FOOTBALL WEEKLY WORLD CUP PREVIEW

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GROUP F – SLOVAKIA

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Slovenský Futbalový Zväz (SFZ) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking

1938 1994 31st

Appearences at finals: (As Czechoslovakia) 1934 - Runners-up 1938 - Quarter-finals 1954 - First round 1958 - First round 1962 - Runners-up 1970 - First round 1982 - First round 1990 - Quarter-finals

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: (As Czechoslovakia) Played 30, Won 11, Drawn 5, Lost 14.

Best performance: (As Czechoslovakia) Runners-up in 1934 and 1962.

Most appearances at finals: Jan Popluhar (1958, 1962) - 8 (for Czechoslovakia).

Most goals at finals: Adolf Scherer (1962) - 3 (for Czechoslovakia).

World Cup high: Qualifying for the 2010 finals, which will be their first appearance at a major international tournament as an independent nation.

World Cup low: Narrowly close to qualifying for the 2006 World Cup only to be beaten 5-1 by Spain in the play-off first leg, ending any hopes of their first appearance in a World Cup. Qualification: Group Three of UEFA Qualifying was thrown wide open by Slovakia and neighbours Slovenia, both nations finishing above favourite Czech Republic. Slovakia did one better than Slovenia in qualifying despite losing both fixtures, completing the double over Northern Ireland and Poland as well as a vital 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic. Slovakia’s 1-0 victory away to Poland highlighted a remarkable qualifying campaign for the Slovaks and the entire nation was delighted with the team’s first World Cup appearance since regaining independence.

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FOOTBALL WEEKLY WORLD CUP PREVIEW

Name: Martin Skrtel D.O.B: 15 December 1984 Birth Place: Handlova, Czechoslovakia Height: 1.91m Weight: 80kg Age: 25 Position: Defender Club: Liverpool (England) Biography: Even though Skrtel was a regular for Zenit Saint Petersburg from 2004 to 2007, his name was virtually unheard of until his final year at the Russian club.

Top clubs were eager to sign the young defender but in January 2008, Skrtel signed instead for Liverpool of England.

Aggressive, quick and good in the air, Skrtel was introduced by Liverpool’s manager Rafa Benitez as a player for the future as well as to replace the ageing Sami Hyypia. Skrtel fitted into defence well alongside Jamie Carragher and soon knocked Daniel Agger down to the bench with his consistent displays. Skrtel broke his right metatarsal early this year and is facing a rush against time to recover for the World Cup. Skrtel is an important player for Slovakia and has been voted Slovakia’s Player of the Year twice. His fearless tackling and marking abilities are the reasons why Slovakia had a good qualifying campaign for the World Cup and he will once again be called to mark some of the world’s finest attackers. Skrtel is a good header of the ball and could pop up with a goal or two during corners or set pieces.

HEAD COACH Name: Vladimir Weiss Born: September 22, 1964 Birthplace: Bratislava, Czechoslovakia Previous Clubs: Artmedia Petrzalka; Saturn Moscow Region

SLOVAKIA FIXTURES

Honours: Slovakian Championship: 2005, 2008 Slovak Cup: 2004, 2008

Date: 15 June (TUE) Time: 19:30 SG Venue: Royal Bafokeng - Rustenburg

Match: New Zealand v Slovakia

RISING STAR

Biography: Hamsik’s arrival in Italy was the beginning of a bright career for the Slovak. As a young 17-year-old, he proved his qualities to Brescia’s scouts and signed for the Italian club in 2004. Although Brescia were relegated to Serie B, Hamsik found it a good learning experience and Napoli snapped him up after he impressed in the 2006/07 season.

Despite being a newly promoted Serie A club, Napoli were soon back with the big boys thanks to the contributions of Hamsik.

He was top scorer for the club in his first two seasons and was also voted best young Slovak Footballer two years in a row in his country. Hamsik was also drafted into the Slovakia senior team and has since been a regular starter for his country.

The spiky-haired Hamsik operates down he centre or left midfield as an attacking player and has been touted as the midfield star of the future. His willingness to run at defence as well as popping up with goals when needed makes Hamsik an important addition to Slovakia’s attack and the key person to string attacking plays from midfield.

Match: Slovakia v Paraguay

Marek Hamsik

Name: Marek Hamsik D.O.B: 27 July 1987 Birth Place: Banska Bystrica, Czechoslovakia Height: 1.83m Weight: 76kg Age: 22 Position: Forward Club: Napoli (Italy)

Date: 20 June (SUN) Time: 19:30 SG Venue: Free State – Bloemfontein

Date: 24 June (THU) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Ellis Park - Johannesburg

Match: Slovakia v Italy

SQUAD LIST z GOALKEEPERS Dusan Kuciak Jan Mucha Lubos Kamenar DEFENDERS Jan Durica Martin Skrtel Radoslav Zabavnik Lubomir Michalik Martin Petras Peter Pekarik Marek Cech Kornel Salata MIDFIELDERS Miroslav Stoch K Kopunek Dusan Svento Marek Hamsik Miroslav Karhan Vladimir Weiss Zdenko Strba Jan Kozak FORWARDS Marek Sapara Martin Jakubko Robert Vittek Erik Jendrisek Stanislav Sestak Marek Mintal FOOTBALL WEEKLY WORLD CUP PREVIEW

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BRAZIL

Robinho 26

FOOTBALL WEEKLY WORLD CUP PREVIEW

G

GROUP IVORY COAST NORTH KOREA

The ‘Group of Death’ as it is known as, will see five-times world champions Brazil face fierce competition against Portugal, Ivory Coast and North Korea. The ‘Samba’ have been known for their flair and creativity on the field but Portugal may have a weapon up their sleeves in the form of Cristiano Ronaldo. Will the Portuguese be able repeat their good performance of 2006? Ivory Coast have blossomed into one of the most fearsome African nations in football and could still shock the world with a few surprising results.

Asia’s dark horse North Korea returns to the World Cup hoping to repeat their 1966 miracle but will they strike themselves out at the first hurdle? Group G is the most difficult group in the World Cup and everyone will be keeping an eye on Brazil’s results in this group.

BRAZIL

PORTUGAL

IVORY COAST

NORTH KOREA

PORTUGAL

MATCH SCHEDULE DATE

TIME

MATCH

VENUE

15 June (TUE)

22:00

Ivory Coast v Portugal

Nelson Mandela Bay - Port Elizabeth

16 June (WED) 02:30

Brazil v North Korea

Ellis Park - Johannesburg

21 June (MON) 02:30

Brazil v Ivory Coast

Soccer City - Johannesburg

21 June (MON) 19:30

Portugal v North Korea

Green Point - Cape Town

25 June (FRI)

22:00

North Korea v Ivory Coast

Mbombela - Nelspruit

25 June (FRI)

22:00

Portugal v Brazil

Moses Mabhida - Durban

FOOTBALL WEEKLY WEEKLY WORLD WORLD CUP CUP PREVIEW PREVIEW FOOTBALL

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GROUP G – BRAZIL

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Confederação Brasileira de Futebol (CBF) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking Appearences at finals: 1930: First round 1934: First round 1950. Runners-up 1954: Quarter-finals 1962. Winners 1966: First round 1974: Fourth place 1978: Third place 1986: Quarter-finals 1990: Second round 1998: Runners-up 2002: Winners

1938: Third place 1958: Winners 1970: Winners 1982: Second group stage 1994: Winners 2006: Quarter-finals

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 92, Won 64, Drawn 14, Lost 14.

Best performance: Winners in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994 and 2002.

Most appearances at finals: Cafú (1994, 1998, 2002, 2006) - 21.

Most goals at finals. Ronaldo (1998, 2002, 2006) - 15.

World Cup high: Winners of five World Cups, Brazil’s brilliant 4-1 victory over Italy in the final of the 1970 was among the finest ever tournament for the men in yellow. The squad boasted legends such as Pelé, Jairzinho and Rivelino and they slaughtered Italy with no mercy.

World Cup low: The final of France 98 was a huge disappointment for Brazil after they lost 3-0 to France. Ronaldo was not in the right shape and mind and Zinedine Zidane punished them with a fine performance.

Qualification: Brazil had no trouble during qualifying, although they drew one too many throughout the qualifying campaign. Yet, Brazil led the group comfortably and could afford to lose and draw their last two matches with Bolivia and Venezuela respectively.

There was huge disappointment when Brazil lost to Paraguay and then drew 0-0 with Argentina but the team made amends with three convincing wins and especially the 3-1 away victory at Argentina where they all but sewed up qualification and secured their Worth Cup berth in South Africa.

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FOOTBALL WEEKLY WORLD CUP PREVIEW

1914 1923 2nd

Name: Kaká D.O.B: 22 April 1982 Birth Place: Brasilia, Brazil Height: 1.86m Weight: 74kg Age: 27 Position: Midfielder Club: Real Madrid (Spain) Biography: A firm believer of God, Kaká is one of the best midfielders in the world.

He grew up playing football with Sao Paulo FC. Kaká suffered a spinal fracture when he was 18 but fully recovered from the accident and dedicated his life to the saving hands of God. His impressive track record at Sao Paulo earned him a move to AC Milan.

Featuring in central midfield, Kaká is influential in creating goals playing a supporting role behind the strikers. Kaká won the Ballon d’Or as well as the FIFA Player of the Year during his time in Milan.

After seven years in Italy, Kaká signed for Real Madrid in a 68.5 million pounds deal.

Kaká’s elegant footwork have been the lynchpin of his success. He has been able to swiftly transform defence to attack with his dribbling ability. His vision allows him to split open defences with well-time through passes for strikers to score. Kaká is also a good striker of the ball from distance. Such is Kaká’s talent that Brazil will largely depend on him to control the entire midfield single-handedly.

HEAD COACH Name: Dunga Born: October 31, 1963 Birthplace: Ijuí, Brazil Previous Clubs: None Honours: Copa América: 2007; FIFA Confederations Cup: 2009

BRAZIL FIXTURES Date: 16 June (WED) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Ellis Park - Johannesburg

Match: Brazil v North Korea

Name: Alexandre Pato D.O.B: 22 April 1982 Birth Place: Pato Branco, Brazil Height: 1.79m Weight: 71kg Age: 20 Position: Striker Club: AC Milan (Italy) Biography: Alexandre Pato, or simply Pato, began his football career on the smaller game of futsal. From young, Pato has been playing for Internacional in the Brazil League at the age of 17 and in just one year, AC Milan came asking for his signature.

In 2008, Pato officially became a Milan player although he has already been involved in friendlies and training sessions with the Italian club since September 2007. It is a remarkable young career for the Brazilian as Pato manages to achieve a scoring ratio of one goal in every two games. In only his third season with Milan, Pato has helped Milan to victories when they seemed like certain defeats.

Known for his quick pace and skilful dribbling, Pato is an extremely dangerous player. Pato prefers his game on the ground and will be more than happy to try shots in tight situations. His speed and skills are different from the power play that Adriano and Luis Fabiano offer to Brazil, and Pato will certainly be the man to look out for when Brazil opens their World Cup campaign.

Alexandre Pato

RISING STAR

Date: 21 June (MON) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Soccer City - Johannesburg

Match: Brazil v Ivory Coast Date: 25 June (FRI) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Moses Mabhida - Durban

Match: Portugal v Brazil

SQUAD LIST z GOALKEEPERS Doni Gomes Julio Césarz DEFENDERS Maicon Marcelo Juan Lúcio Kléber Alex Juan Luisão Daniel Alves MIDFIELDERS Josué Felipe Melo Julio César Baptista Kaká Blumer Elano Gilberto Silva Ramires FORWARDS Robinho Ronaldinho Pato Nilmar Adriano Luis Fabiano FOOTBALL WEEKLY WORLD CUP PREVIEW

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GROUP G – PORTUGAL

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Federação Portuguesa de Futebol (FPF) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking Appearences at finals: 1966 - Third place 1986 - First round 2006 - Fourth place

1914 1923 6th

2002 - First round

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 19, Won 11, Drawn 1, Lost 7.

Best performance: Third place in 1966.

Most appearances at finals: Luís Figo (2002, 2006) - 10.

Most goals at finals: Eusébio (1966) - 9.

World Cup high: Their third place finish at the 1966 World Cup with Eusebio scoring ning goals in the tournament.

World Cup low: Portual had a poor 2002 World Cup campaign and was knocked out in the first round. After a huge 4-0 thrashing of Poland, South Korea’s Ji-Sung Park inflicted maximum damage on the Portugese with the only goal to send them crashing out.

Qualification: Portugal were always in danger of not making it to the finals from as early as the second match. One of the hot favourites to clear the group with ease, they struggled early on, losing 3-2 to Denmark and three draws on the trot forced Portugal to rally back.

It took a late goal from Bruno Alves for Portugal to down Albania and an early goal from Pepe to start the great comeback. Portugal won its remaining matches with ease and coupled with Sweden’s failure to beat Denmark mean that Portugal will head into the play-off. A goal each in both matches against Bosnia completed their miracle and into the World Cup.

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Name: Cristiano Ronaldo D.O.B: 5 February 1985 Birth Place: Funchal, Madeira, Portugal Height: 1.86m Weight: 77kg Age: 25 Position: Forward Club: Real Madrid (Spain) Biography: Easily the most popular player around, Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the trickiest and hardest player to mark. His move to Sporting Lisbon was the start of his love affair with Manchester United, who captured his signature when Ronaldo was just 18 years old. It was the start of great things to come.

Ronaldo dazzled football fans with his stepovers, earning him a nickname of “twinkletoes”. In just seven years with United, Ronaldo has won just about every medal and award dished out to footballers, including the FIFA World Player of the Year and the Ballon d’Or. But Ronaldo left United to join Real Madrid after the Spanish club president courted the player over an entire season and he continued his fine form with a remarkable 15 goals from 17 games and still counting.

With great pace and control, good dribbling techniques and a bagful of tricks, Ronaldo will represent Portugal as captain of the team in the World Cup but no one will forget 2006, where the world branded him a cheat for his infamous wink after his then-club team-mate Wayne Rooney was sent off. Still, if Portugal relish their chance at this year’s World Cup, they will need Ronaldo in tip top form.

HEAD COACH Name: Carlos Queiroz Born: March 1, 1953 Birthplace: Nampula, Portuguese East Africa Previous Clubs: Portugal U-20; Sporting CP; NY/ NJ MetroStars; Nagoya Grampus Eight; United Arab Emirates; South Africa; Real Madrid

PORTUGAL FIXTURES

Honours: FIFA World Youth Championship: 1991; Spanish Super Cup: 2004

Date: 15 June (TUE) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Nelson Mandela Bay - Port Elizabeth

Match: Ivory Coast v Portugal

RISING STAR

Date: 21 June (MON) Time: 19:30 SG Venue: Green Point - Cape Town

Name: Nani D.O.B: 17 November 1986 Birth Place: Praia, Cape Verde Height: 1.75m Weight: 72kg Age: 23 Position: Forward Club: Manchester United (England)

Date: 25 June (FRI) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Moses Mabhida - Durban

Match: Portugal v Brazil

SQUAD LIST z GOALKEEPERS

Nani

Biography: Nani join Manchester United in 2007 and teamed up with his friend and Portugal team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo. Despite impressing during pre-season for United, Nani did not make the same impact as Ronaldo did.

Nani’s “snorkel dribble” against Arsenal earned him criticism from the Arsenal manager and players as being a showoff. But Nani could not transform a game entirely despite his technical ability. In recent months, Nani has been criticised by the media for overdribbling and there were even rumours than Sir Alex Ferguson is going to offload him after the World Cup. Nani is a fast player and operates down the wings. While he is not known for shooting, he has hit some stunning strikes against Liverpool and Middlesbrough. Despite not being a regular starter for Portugal, Nani has been able to assist the team with energetic displays when things are starting to slow down. While his good form often arrives in spurts, Portugal will be hoping Nani can light up the stage when being called upon.

Match: Portugal v North Korea

Carvalho dos Reis Eduardo Henrique Hilario Rui Patrício DEFENDERS Miguel Ricardo Costa Miguel Pepe Bruno Alves Paulo Ferreira Jorge Pires da Fonseca Rolando Ricardo Carvalho Jose Bosingwa MIDFIELDERS João Moutinho Deco Simão Raul Meireles Nani Duda Miguel Veloso Alexandre da Silva Fabio Coentrao Tiago FORWARDS Hugo Almeida Cristiano Ronaldo Arnaldo Edinho Nuno Gomes Da Silva Muniz Liedson

FOOTBALL WEEKLY WORLD CUP PREVIEW

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GROUP G – IVORY COAST

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Fédération Ivoirienne de Football (FIF) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking Appearences at finals: 2006 - First round

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 3, Won 1, Drawn 0, Lost 2.

Best performance: First round in 2006.

Most appearances at finals: Didier Zokora (2006), Arthur Boka (2006), Yaya Toure (2006), Emmanuel Eboue (2006) - 3.

Most goals at finals: Aruna Dindane (2006) - 2.

World Cup high: Housed in a tough Group at the 2006 finals, Ivory Coast beat Serbia & Montenegro 3-2 in their final group game to record their first ever World Cup victory.

World Cup low: ‘The Elephants’ were unable to bring their African Nations Cup form to the World Cup in 2006, and lost narrowly to Argentina and the Netherlands by 2-1 in both games in the first round.

Qualification: Ivory Coast were fortunate to have an easy group in Round Three of African qualifying. In fact, ‘The Elephants’ were ruthless in their matches, winning 5-0 against Malawi and Burkina Faso on home turf. It was trouble-free for Ivory Coast as they won four out of four, a 1-1 draw against Malawi the only taint in their otherwise unbeaten record. They scored 19 goals in six matches and looked the strongest of all participating African nations that qualified for the finals.

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1960 1961 22nd

Name: Didier Drogba D.O.B: 11 March 1978 Birth Place: Abidjan, Ivory Coast Height: 1.89m Weight: 78kg Age: 32 Position: Forward Club: Chelsea (England) Biography: Drogba spent the early years of his career in the French Ligue, starting off at Le Mans in 1997. A late bloomer, Drogba did not start out from a football academy but focused on his studies when he was younger. It was Drogba’s arrival at Marseille that shot the player to stardom.

Chelsea came in for his signature in 2004 and it did not take Drogba long to open his scoring account for the Blues.

Drogba would put in strong performances week after week but he almost left Chelsea when Mourinho benched him for most of the time when he was manager. Drogba was offered a lifeline under Guus Hiddink and has since regained his scoring touch in front of goal under Carlo Ancelotti.

Drogba’s strength on the ground and in the air makes him a tough cookie on the pitch and while he is not a fancy player, Drogba is capable of powering past defenders with his dribbles and packs a powerful shot with his right foot. Ivory Coast will be glad Drogba is on their side and he will continue to terrorize defenders in what could be his last World Cup for ‘The Elephants’.

HEAD COACH Name: Sven-Goran Eriksson Born: 5 February 1948 Birthplace: Sunne, Sweden Previous Clubs: Degerfors, Goteborg, Benfica, Roma, Fiorentina, Benfica, Sampdoria, Lazio, England, Manchester City, Mexico Honours: Swedish Allsvenskan: 1981, 1982; Svenska Cupen: 1979, 1982; UEFA Cup: 1982, 1999; Portugese Liga: 1983, 1984, 1991; Cup of Portugal: 1983; SuperCup Candido de Oliveira: 1989; Coppa Italia: 1986, 1994, 1998, 2000; Italian Super Cup: 1998, 2000; Seria A Scudetto: 2000; UEFA Super Cup: 1999

IVORY COAST FIXTURES Date: 15 June (TUE) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Nelson Mandela Bay - Port Elizabeth

Match: Ivory Coast v Portugal

Name: Salomon Kalou D.O.B: 5 August 1985 Birth Place: Oume, Ivory Coast Height: 1.86m Weight: 74kg Age: 24 Position: Forward Club: Chelsea (England) Biography: Salomon Kalou was one of Feyenoord’s brightest youngsters during his time at the Dutch club. Kalou had originally decided to attain Dutch citizenship but was decided against it by his brother, Bonaventure Kalou who plays for SC Heerenveen in Holland.

Kalou is a natural goal-scorer in his earlier days at Mimosas and Feyenoord.

With a good track record, he moved to Chelsea where he impressed immediately.

Lined up with compatriot Didier Drogba, Kalou found it difficult in the Premier League due to the robust nature of the challenges. However, that has not stopped the youngster from adding 20 goals to as many appearances for Chelsea. However, Kalou regularly starts off the bench, albeit with good effect and has scored many match winners for the Blues.

While it is not certain Kalou will start in all Ivory Coast’s games at the World Cup, his pace will be put to good use when required.

Not a natural shooter, Kalou is better off playing down the wings where his penetrating runs will have an impact in creating chances from the flanks.

Salomon Kalou

RISING STAR

Date: 21 June (MON) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Soccer City - Johannesburg

Match: Brazil v Ivory Coast Date: 25 June (FRI) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Mbombela - Nelspruit

Match: North Korea v Ivory Coast

SQUAD LIST z GOALKEEPERS Boubacar Barry Vincent de Paul Angban Aristide Zogbo DEFENDERS Abdoulaye Meite Souleymane Bamba Guy Demel Arthur Boka Kolo Toure Siaka Tiene Emmanuel Eboue MIDFIELDERS Jean-Jaques Gosso Ndri Romaric Emmanuel Kone Gneri Toure Yaya Didier Zokora Ismael Cheik Tiote Gilles Yapi Yapo FORWARDS Didier Drogba Salomon Kalou Bakari Kone Yao Kouassi Gervinho Aruna Dindane Sekou Cisse Seydou Doumbia Abdulkader Keita FOOTBALL WEEKLY WORLD CUP PREVIEW

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GROUP G – NORTH KOREA

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY DPR Korea Football Association (DPRKFA) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking Appearences at finals: 1966 - Quarter-finals

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 4, Won 1, Drawn 1, Lost 2.

Best performance: Quarter-finals in 1966.

Most appearances at finals (starts only): Li Chan-Myong (1966), Shin Yung-Kyoo (1966), Lim Zoong-Sun (1966), Im Seung-Hwi (1966), Pak Doo-Ik (1966), Pak Seung-Zin (1966), Han Bong-Jin (1966) - 4.

Most goals at finals: Pak Seung-Zin (1966) - 2.

World Cup high: Among the biggest upsets in world football is the 1-0 victory over Italy in the 1966 World Cup by North Korea. The win secured a quarter-final spot for the Asian nation.

World Cup low: Another upset was almost on the cards when North Korea led 3-0 in the first 25 minutes of their quarter-final match with Portugal. However, a Eusebio-inspired comeback destroyed the North Koreans as Portugal stormed back to win the match 5-3.

Qualification: North Korea demolished Mongolia for the Round Three qualifying, where they shared the same group with their neighbours South Korea. A tight and stingy defence was the key to Round Four qualifying, as North Korea conceded zero goals in all six games. In Round Four, they were once again thrown into the same group as South Korea, but this time, alongside Saudi Arabia, Iran and the UAE. Their crucial victories over UAE and a 1-0 defeat of Saudi Arabia put them in prime position to finish second in the group. Despite South Korea finally getting the win against their fierce rival, Iran and Saudi Arabia drew blanks against North Korea and allowed the Korean underdogs to steal the final slot to the World Cup finals.

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1945 1958 102nd

Name: Pak Nam-Chol D.O.B: 2 July 1985 Birth Place: North Korea Height: 1.82m Weight: 75 Age: 24 Position: Midfielder Club: 4.25 Sports Group (North Korea) Biography: The North Korean midfielder is a no nonsense player who is also capable of putting the ball into the back of the opposition’s net. Strong in the air and tough on the ground, Pak is part of the fine midfield in the North Korea defence that has played brilliantly in the build-up to the World Cup. Pak has scored five times for his country, but while he is not as outstanding as his other compatriots Ryang Yong-Gi and youngster Pak Song-Chol, Pak has got a battling attitude and never backs away from a challenge. Pak’s defensive capabilities mean that he is considered the first line of defence in the centre of midfield and Pak is relishing the battles in what is considered the toughest group in the World Cup. Pak was not involved in the 2010 AFC Challenge Cup that saw his other midfield team-mates compete in but he will be one of the main stars for North Korea when the World Cup begins. If need be, Pak is also capable of playing in defence and his versatility will be a huge plus for North Korea.

HEAD COACH Name: Kin Jong-Hun Born: N/A Birthplace: Korea Previous Clubs: None Honours: None

NORTH KOREA FIXTURES Date: 16 June (WED) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Ellis Park - Johannesburg

Match: Brazil v North Korea

RISING STAR

Biography: Already considered a national hero at just age 23, Ri Myong-Guk knows there is still a lot of hard work to be done if North Korea is to create another sensation at the World Cup. Most likely to be the number one custodian for his country, Ri has made some vital saves during qualifying to keep North Korea in the competition.

Ri’s performance in North Korea’s 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia was highlighted as one of his finest. He threw himself at every shot that night and the draw clinched North Korea’s place at the World Cup. Ri was quick to play down his contributions and said that it was not just down to the talent of the goalkeeper that ensured qualification.

Ri has amazing agility as a goalkeeper and his bravery deserves a mention. The 23-year-old has been involved in many lastditched tackles and saves at the opponents’ feet to keep his goal intact while most keepers would just stand their ground. As one of the best players for North Korea, Ri will once again be required to be at his best to keep out kingpins Brazil and Portugal in Group G.

Ri Myong-Guk

Name: Ri Myong-Guk D.O.B: 2 July 1985 Birth Place: Pyongyang, North Korea Height: 1.85m Weight: 79 Age: 23 Position: Goalkeeper Club: Pyongyang City (North Korea)

Date: 21 June (MON) Time: 19:30 SG Venue: Green Point - Cape Town

Match: Portugal v North Korea Date: 25 June (FRI) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Mbombela - Nelspruit

Match: North Korea v Ivory Coast

SQUAD LIST z GOALKEEPERS Ri Myong-Guk Kim Myong-Gil DEFENDERS Pak Chol-Min Han Song-Chol Cha Jong-Hyok Ri Jun-Il Nam Song-Chol Pak Chol-Jin Ji Yun-Nam MIDFIELDERS Kim Kuk-Jin Ryang Yong-Gi Park Song-Chol Ri Chol-Myong Choe Myong-Ho Ahn Young-Hak Ri Kwang-Chon Pak Nam-Chol Mun In-Guk Kim Yong-Jun FORWARDS Jong Chol-Min An Chol-Hyok Hong Yong-Jo Jong Tae-Se Choe Kum-Chol Choe Chol-Man

FOOTBALL WEEKLY WORLD CUP PREVIEW

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SPAIN

Fernando Torres

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H

GROUP ChIle hoNdurAS

Spain is the team of the moment and they head Group F with every hope of finally lofting the World Cup trophy at the end of the tournament. But the Spanish face tricky opponents in Switzerland, Chile and Honduras. The Swiss are also eager to impress after a good qualifying campaign, where they will try to do better than they did in 2006. Chile, spurred on by the swift recovery from the February Earthquake, will have memories of 1962 when they claimed third place as hosts after recovering from the 1960 Valdivia Earthquake. Honduras are considered outsiders to make it to the next round but can they defy all odds to go through? The ‘Group of Hope’awaits.

SwITzerlANd

SPAIN

ChIle

hoNdurAS

SwITzerlANd

mATCh SChedule dATe

TIme

mATCh

VeNue

Honduras v Chile

Mbombela - Nelspruit

16 June (WED) 22:00

Spain v Switzerland

Moses Mabhida - Durban

21 June (MON) 22:00

Chile v Switzerland

Nelson Mandela Bay – Port Elizabeth

22 June (TUE)

02:30

Spain v Honduras

Ellis Park - Johannesburg

26 June (SAT)

02:30

Chile v Spain

Loftus Versfeld – Pretoria

26 June (SAT)

02:30

Switzerland v Honduras

Free State – Bloemfontein

16 June (WED) 19:30

Football Weekly Weekly World World Cup Cup prEVIEW prEVIEW Football

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Group H – Spain

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Real Federación Española de Fútbol (RFEF) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking Appearances at finals: 1934 - Quarter-finals 1950 - Fourth place 1966 - First round 1978 - First round 1986 - Quarter-finals 1990 - Second round 1998 - First round 2002 - Quarter-finals

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 49, Won 22, Drawn 12, Lost 15.

Best performance: Reaching the final group round in the 1950 tournament, finishing fourth.

Most appearances at finals: Andoni Zubizarreta (1986, 1990, 1994, 1998) - 16.

Most goals at finals: Estanislao Basora (1950), Emilio Butragueno (1986, 1990), Fernando Hierro (1994, 1998, 2002), Fernando Morientes (1998, 2002), Raul (1998, 2002, 2006) - 5.

World Cup high: Trailing from a Jesper Olsen penalty, Emilio ‘The Vulture’ Butragueno scored four goals as Spain completed a turn-around on the result, dominating the second half in a stunning 5-1 demolition of Denmark in the 1986 World Cup Round of 16.

World Cup low: Spain’s fantastic start to the 2002 World Cup was halted in the quarter-final when they lost out on penalties to fourth place South Korea. It was a bitter blow to Spain for what seemed like two good goals, were being disallowed by the officials and as a result, saw Spain crush out in anger.

Qualification: Truly a remarkable qualifying campaign by Euro 2008 champions Spain, they never saw defeat at all, securing a perfect 10 wins out of 10 matches. In the process, they conceded just five goals and scored 28, with David Villa on target seven times. The points difference was so massive that Spain needed just seven games to qualify for the World Cup finals in June.

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1909 1913 1st

1962 - First round 1982 - Second round 1994 - Quarter-finals 2006 - Second round

Name: David Villa D.O.B: 3 December 1981 Birth Place: Tuilla, Spain Height: 1.75m Weight: 74kg Age: 28 Position: Forward Club: Valencia (Spain) Biography: Nicknamed El Guaje (The Kid), David Villa is one of the most prolific strikers for Spain.

Villa started playing football with Sporting Gijon but prior to that, he was rejected by Real Oviedo for being too short and lacking potential. It was a remark that would push him to excel with Gijon.

A short stint with Real Zaragoza attracted the likes of Valencia and he signed for 12 million Euros. Villa would go on to be a star striker for the club, scoring 104 goals in 156 appearances. However, Villa’s poor stamina has seen him starting on the bench on most occasions, although he would come on and transform the entire game.

Described as a complete player, David Villa is blessed with being ambidextrous from young. He is one of the most intelligent footballers and rarely does anything wrong with the ball at his feet.

His partnership with team mate Fernando Torres can be described as the deadliest strike force the world has ever seen. Spain is the favourite to win the World Cup this year and it could be Villa’s moment to shine as well.

HEAD COACH Name: : Vicente del Bosque Born: December 23, 1950 Birthplace: Salamanca, Spain Previous Real Madrid Castilla; Real Madrid; Be_ikta Honours: UEFA Champions League: 2000, 2002, Spanish championship: 2001, 2003; Spanish Supercup: 2001; UEFA Super Cup: 2002, Intercontinental Cup: 2002

SPAIN FIxTuRES Date: 16 June (WED) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Moses Mabhida - Durban

Match: Spain v Switzerland

Name: Cesc Fabregas D.O.B: 4 May 1987 Birth Place: Vilassar de Mar, Spain Height: 1.75m Weight: 72kg Age: 22 Position: Midfielder Club: Arsenal (England) Biography: A Barcelona supporter since childhood, Fabregas was proud to start his playing career with the club.

However, due to the number of stars playing in the senior team, Fabregas realised he will find limited chances to start regularly. In 2003, Fabregas decided to leave for Arsenal and made his debut in a League Cup match.

The following season rocketed Fabregas stardom. Due to injuries to Edu, Gilberto Silva and Vieira, Fabregas found plenty of playing time and he began to put in impressive performances week after week. Over the years, Fabregas has been nominated as captain of Arsenal to replace William Gallas as well as being named the PFA Young Player of the Year in 2008.

While Fabregas is not one of the strongest midfielders on the pitch, he is quick, has good balance and is a good holder of the ball. With surprisingly good vision and reading of the game, Fabregas is capable of making that important final pass to strikers as well as making that decisive run on goal.

If Spain want to control the game in midfield, Fabregas could slot in very well.

Cesc Fabregas

RISING STAR

Date: 22 June (TUE) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Ellis Park - Johannesburg

Match: Spain v Honduras Date: 26 June (SAT) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Loftus Versfeld – Pretoria

Match: Chile v Spain

SQuAD LIST GOALKEEPERS Iker Casillas Diego López Pepe Reina DEFENDERS Joan Capdevila Sergio Ramos Alvaro Arbeloa Raúl Albiol Gerard Pique Carlos Marchena Carles Puyol MIDFIELDERS Cesc Fábregas Sergi Busquets Xabi Alonso Marcos Senna Santiago Cazorla González Pablo Hernández Domínguez Xavi Andres Iniesta FORWARDS Llorente Daniel Güiza David Silva Juan Mata David Villa Fernando Torres Alvaro Negredo Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

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Group H – cHile

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Federación de Fútbol de Chile (FFC) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking

1895 1913 14th

Appearances at finals: 1930 - First round 1950 - First round 1962 - Third place 1966 - First round 1974 - First round 1982 - First round 1994 - Disqualified 1998 - Second round

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 25, Won 7, Drew 6, Lost 12.

Best performance: Third place in the 1962 World Cup, as hosts.

Most appearances at finals: Leonel Sánchez (1962, 1966), Elías Figueroa (1966, 1974, 1982) - 9.

Most goals at finals: Guillermo Subiabre (1930), Leonel Sánchez (1962, 1966), Marcelo Salas (1998) - 4.

World Cup high: Chile hosted the 1962 World Cup despite the Great Chilean Earthquake in 1960 and reached the semi-finals to face Brazil.

World Cup low: Being banned from qualification for the 1994 tournament after goalkeeper Roberto Rojas faked injury at Brazil’s Estádio do Maracanã during a qualifier for Italia 90. He had claimed a firecracker hurled from the crowd had hit his head, causing the game to be abandoned. He was consequently banned for life.

Qualification: Argentinean coach Marcelo Bielsa, who coached his own country at the 2002 finals, pulled off a famous victory against Diego Maradona’s men as his team made determind progress to South Africa. Chile eventually came second in the CONMEBOL qualifiers, only a point behind Brazil. Famous striker Marcelo Salas retired early on in the campaign, but a group of unheralded players always looked likely to qualify.

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Name: Mark Gonzalez D.O.B: 10 July 1984 Birth Place: Durban, South Africa Height: 1.76m Weight: 72kg Age: 25 Position: Forward Club: CSKA Moscow (Russia) Biography: Known for his lightning pace, left-footer Mark Gonzalez plays down the left wing and sometimes as a forward. It was a complicated start to his professional career, where he was playing for Albacete in Spain but decided on a move to Liverpool on loan for one season. However, he could not obtain a work permit and after much hassle

by Liverpool, Mark Gonzalez officially signed for the English club in 2006 after spending a season with Real Sociedad.

Despite scoring a crucial winning goal in the Champions League qualifier for Liverpool against Maccabi Haifa, Gonzalez joined Real Betis soon after and scored on his home debut with a penalty goal. When Betis were relegated, Gonzalez joined Russian club CSKA Moscow where he has become a regular player since.

Gonzalez is not a powerful player but he has great pace which he uses to tear down the wings for CSKA and Chile. Gonzalez will be crucial at supplying crosses and with his amazing pace, could get himself in among the scorers when the tournament kicks off.

HEAD COACH Name: Marcelo Bielsa Born: July 21, 1955 Birthplace: Rosario, Argentina Previous Clubs: Newell’s Old Boys; F.C. Atlas A.C.; Club América; Vélez Sársfield; Espanyol; Argentina; Chile Honours: Torneo Apertura:1990; Torneo Integración: 1991; Torneo Clausura: 1992; Olympic Games: 2004

CHILE FIxTuRES Date: 16 June (WED) Time: 19:30 SG Venue: Mbombela - Nelspruit

Match: Honduras v Chile

RISING STAR

Biography: Tagged as one of the ‘50 most exciting teenagers in the world game’, Alexis Sanchez is worth 3 million pounds in just his first transfer move from Chilean club Cobreloa.

Dubbed ‘The Wonder Boy’ in his country, Sanchez was quickly ‘borrowed’

by Colo Colo to represent them in upcoming tournaments in Chile.

Sanchez also played for River Plate on loan, impressing many with his single dribble past five players and winning a penalty for his team. Sanchez was finally added to the Udinese squad and courted the Italian people with his tricks and skills. Sanchez is also regarded highly for his country. He featured for the senior team at just age 17 and also joined the team on an Europe tour while they were preparing for the 2006 World Cup. Sanchez is a creator of opportunities. He is not afraid to take on numerous defenders in tight situations to unlock the situation in his team’s favour.

Sanchez can also play on the right wing, where his trickery has been put to good use to get past defenders and deliver crosses to the box.

Alexis Sanchez

Name: Alexis Sanchez D.O.B: 19 December 1988 Birth Place: Tocopilla, Chile Height: 1.72m Weight: 70kg Age: 21 Position: Forward Club: Udinese (Italy)

Date: 21 June (MON) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Nelson Mandela Bay – Port Elizabeth

Match: Chile v Switzerland Date: 26 June (SAT) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Loftus Versfeld – Pretoria

Match: Chile v Spain

SQuAD LIST GOALKEEPERS Cristopher Toselli Nery Veloso Claudio Andrés Bravo DEFENDERS Pablo Contreras Gary Medel Arturo Vidal Hans Martínez José Rojas Ismael Fuentes Waldo Ponce Roberto Cereceda MIDFIELDERS Pedro Morales Carlos Villanueva Luis Antonio Jiménez Jorge Valdivia Marco Estrada Matias Ariel Fernandez Rodrigo Tello Rodrigo Javier Millar Gonzalo Fierro Esteban Paredes FORWARDS Alexis Sánchez Héctor Raúl Mancilla Humberto Suazo Mark González

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

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Group H – Honduras

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Federación Nacional Autónoma de Fútbol de Honduras (FENAFUTH) Association Founded 1951 FIFA Affiliation Since 1951 FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking 35th Appearances at finals: 1982 - First round

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 3, Won 0, Drew 2, Lost 1.

Best performance: The first round of the 1982 World Cup in Spain.

Most appearances at finals: Gilberto Yearwood (1982) - 3.

Most goals at finals: Hector Zelaya, Antonio Laing (1982) - 1.

World Cup legend: Hector Ramon, nicknamed ‘Eagle Chest’, left his mark by scoring the country’s first goal in a World Cup in 1982.

World Cup high: Despite finishing bottom of the group in the first round of the 1982 World Cup, Honduras achieved two draws, one of them a 1-1 draw against hosts Spain.

World Cup low: Defeat against Yugoslavia in their final group game at ’82 meant they were on their way home. Had Honduras beaten Yugoslavia, they would have gone on to Round 2.

Qualification: Surprisingly, Honduras got through to the fourth round of qualifying by beating Mexico 1-0 and leaping to the top of the group.

In Round Four however, Honduras had to battle neck for neck with Costa Rica for the third spot. They defeated Mexico again at home, this time a flattering 3-1 scoreline, but it was the big 4-0 victory over Costa Rica that put the Hondurans one step ahead.

They barely lost to the United States and it was the final match against El Salvador that gave Honduras a direct qualification to the World Cup via third spot. A Carlos Pavon header was enough for the 1-0 victory to see Honduras through for their second appearance at the World Cup.

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Name: Wilson Palacios D.O.B: 29 July 1984 Birth Place: La Ceiba, Honduras Height: 1.78m Weight: 77kg Age: 25 Position: Midfielder Club: Tottenham Hotspur (England) Biography: Wilson Palacios is part of the brotherhood in the Honduras national team, where his brothers Milton, Jerry, Johnny and Edwin, are also members. A successful player during his time with Olimpia, Palacios quickly attracted attention from European. His first stint was a short loan spell to Birmingham which was swiftly ended when he went back to Honduras, following his brother’s kidnap.

Palacios joined Wigan soon after and after a year at the club, he left to join Tottenham. Armed with a battling attitude, Palacios made the central midfield role his own and was winning important challenges to safeguard Tottenham’s defence.

A very important player in the Honduran line-up, Palacios is a ballwinner in midfield. He can also quickly transform defence to attack and with a good ball sense and control, Palacios can successfully support the attack. Not known for scoring goals, Honduras will hope Palacios can bring his club form to the national team during the World Cup.

HEAD COACH Name: Reinaldo Rueda Born: February 3, 1957 Birthplace: Cali, Colombia Previous Clubs: Colombia U-20; Colombia Honours: None

HONDURAS FIxTURES Date: 16 June (WED) Time: 19:30 SG Venue: Mbombela - Nelspruit

Match: Honduras v Chile

RISING STAR

Biography: Espinoza moved to the United States to begin his education schooling when he was 12 years old. He played college soccer through his teens and by the time he graduated, Espinoza has been drafted over to Major League Soccer (MLS) to join Kansas City Wizards.

Espinoza was made a US citizen in 2008 but chose to play for Honduras, his birth country. While Espinoza is not a player with much flair, his football is simple and effective, making him one of the most intelligent midfielders in the Honduran team. Espinoza helped Honduras to a 3-0 victory over the United States in a friendly early January this year and scored the third goal of the match.

While his team-mate Wilson Palacios is a battler in midfield, Espinoza can be consider a playmaker in the same class as United State’s Claudio Reyna.

Espinoza will be the man pulling the strings for Honduras although the World Cup will be a good learning experience for the youngster still learning his trade.

Match: Spain v Honduras

Roger Espinoza

Name: Roger Espinozaa D.O.B: 25 October 1986 Birth Place: Puerto Cortes, Honduras Height: 1.80m Weight: 74kg Age: 23 Position: Midfielder Club: Kansas City Wizards (United States)

Date: 22 June (TUE) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Ellis Park - Johannesburg

Date: 26 June (SAT) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Free State – Bloemfontein

Match: Switzerland v Honduras

SQUAD LIST GOALKEEPERS Noel Valladares Ricardo Canales Donis Slatiel Escober DEFENDERS Osman Danilo Mariano Acevedo Nery Medina Osman Chávez David Molina Jonny Palacios Erick Morales Juan Garcia MIDFIELDERS Roger Espinoza Hendry Thomas Marvin Chavez Ramon Nunez Amado Guevara Julio Cesar de Leon Wilson Palacios FORWARDS Carlos Costly Walter Martínez Georgie Welcome Carlos Pavon Allan Lalín Melvin Valladares

Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

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Group H – Switzerland

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

HISTORY Schweizerischer Fußballverband (SFV) Association Founded FIFA Affiliation Since FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking

1895 1904 15th

Appearances at finals: 1934 - Quarter-finals 1938 - Quarter-finals 1950 - First round 1954 - Quarter-finals 1962 - First round 1966 - First round 1994 - Second round 2006 - Second round

PAST RECORDS Overall record at finals: Played 26, Won 8, Drawn 5, Lost 13.

Best performance: Quarter-finals in 1934, 1938 and 1954.

Most appearances at finals: Kiki Antenen (1950, 1954, 1962) - 8.

Most goals at finals: Josef Hügi (1954) - 6.

World Cup high: Reaching the quarter-finals as host nation in 1954 by beating Italy 4-1 in the final group game.

World Cup low: Switzerland crashed out of the 1966 World Cup in Round One, but the damage was done in the first game after the Swiss lost 5-0 to Beckenbauer’s West Germany. A further 2-1 loss to Spain and a 2-0 defeat by Argentina summed up their campaign.

Qualification: Top of the group during qualifying, Switzerland put in impressive performances to beat Greece 2-1 in Athens and 2-0 back at home. However, the Swiss made hard work in disposing the other nations and even lost to lowly Luxembourg at home in their second qualifying match. But Switzerland came back strongly and they just needed a draw in the final game to qualifying as first place after beating Luxembourg 3-0 away. Switzerland drew 0-0 against Israel in the final game and all but assured of World Cup qualification.

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Name: Alexander Frei D.O.B: 15 July 1979 Birth Place: Basel, Switzerland Height: 1.79m Weight: 79kg Age: 30 Position: Striker Club: FC Basel (Switzerland) Biography: Alexander Frei spent most of his younger years moving around clubs in Switerzland.

He was scoring regularly, averaging close to a goal in every two games. In 2003, French club Rennes bought his services where he became the top goalscorer in Ligue 1 in only his second season with the club.

After Switzerland’s premature exit from the 2006 World Cup, Frei signed for Germany’s Borussia Dortmund where he continued his scoring spree. Frei played only two seasons in the Bundesliga before returning back to Switzerland for FC Basel, where he has been in spectacular scoring form since.

Frei is Switzerland’s captain and top goal scorer with 40 goals to his name. With plenty of experience, Frei will be the main player to get the goals for Switzerland. However, he has recovered only recently from a broken arm injury and no doubt, his fitness will have suffered a beating but his inclusion in the squad will definitely boost the team’s confidence during the World Cup.

HEAD COACH Name: Ottmar Hitzfeld Born: January 12, 1949 Birthplace: Baden-Württemberg, West Germany Previous Clubs: FC Zug; FC Aarau; Grasshopper Club Zürich; Borussia Dortmund; Bayern Munich Honours: Swiss Cup: 1985, 1989, 1990; Swiss Championship: 1990, 1991; German championship: 1995, 1996, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2008; German Cup: 2000, 2003, 2008; UEFA Champions League: 1997, 2001; Intercontinental Cup: 1997, 2001; World Coach of the Year: 1997, 2001

SWITZERLAND FIxTuRES Date: 16 June (WED) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Moses Mabhida - Durban

Match: Spain v Switzerland

RISING STAR

Biography: Eren Derdiyok has been knocking in goals since young and it prompted FC Basel to sign the youngster when he was 18 years old. Despite being used mainly as a substitute, Derdiyok started to get in on the goals and became a first team regular.

Bayer Leverkusen then offered Derdiyok a four year contract and on May 2009, he officially became a player for the Bundesliga outfit.

While Derdiyok played second fiddle to main targetman Stefan Kiessling, he was still able to get on the scoresheet nine times in 20 appearances. Derdiyok also has a phenomenal strike rate for Switzerland Under-19 and Under21 teams but has yet to find his feet while playing for the senior team.

Understudy to Alexander Frei, Derdiyok tall and powerful and can also fill in as a centre-back if needed. While it is uncertain if Derdiyok will shine, it is apparent that he will be able to aid Switzerland in front of goal when being called upon and will need to put on his scoring boots if Switzerland are to advance to the later stages of the World Cup.

Match: Chile v Switzerland Date: 26 June (SAT) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Free State – Bloemfontein

Eren Derdiyok

Name: Eren Derdiyok D.O.B: 12 June 1988 Birth Place: Basel, Switzerland Height: 1.90m Weight: 83kg Age: 21 Position: Striker Club: Bayer Leverkusen (Germany)

Date: 21 June (MON) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Nelson Mandela Bay – Port Elizabeth

Match: Switzerland v Honduras

SQuAD LIST GOALKEEPERS Diego Benaglio Marco Wolfli Eldin Jakupovic DEFENDERS Heinz Barmettler Ludovic Magnin Alain Nef Stephane Grichting Christoph Spycher Stephan Lichtsteiner Reto Ziegler Philippe Senderos Steve Von Bergen MIDFIELDERS Pirmin Schwegler Marco Padalino Hakan Yakin Fernandes Gelson Benjamin Huggel Tranquillo Barnetta Gokhan Inler Valon Behrami FORWARDS Marco Streller Johan Vonlanthen Eren Derdiyok STRIKERS Alexander Frei Blaise Nkufo Football Weekly World Cup prEVIEW

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WORLD CUP PREDICTIONS

What The Experts Say Football Weekly’s favourite predictions column is back, this time for the 2010 FIFA World Cup! Football Weekly’s pundits Tom Lim and Shaun Loh walk us through all 32 participating nations and find out their chances in the month-long tournament. Will Italy defend their World Cup, or will Spain finally lift the golden trophy? Let’s find out!

SOUTH AFRICA

As hosts of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the entire nation will be cheering Bafana Bafana on. With a heavy weight of expectations on their shoulders, can South Africa defy seemingly impossible odds to make it to the second round of the World Cup? VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

ALGERIA

The Desert Foxes make their World Cup debut in June and they could bow out of the tournament as early as

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the second game. They have struggled against better teams in international friendlies and the difference in standards will show.

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

ARGENTINA

The Argentineans are slow and steady in their game but with explosive players like Messi and Higuain, Argentina will be exciting to watch in this World Cup and will be a far cry from the standards they have shown during qualifying.

VERDICT: SEMI FINAL

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AUSTRALIA

The Socceroos are a determined bunch which has shown impressive improvements since the last World Cup. With a bit of luck and good results, Australia could be the only Asian nation in the second round, which is about as far as they would go really.

VERDICT: SECOND ROUND

BRAZIL

Five-times champions Brazil have a good chance to win the World Cup but they must not press the self-destruct button. The Samba boys have a tendency to switch off after taking the lead although they do not concede goals easily as well.

VERDICT: CHAMPION

CAMEROON

Like their African neighbour Algeria, Cameroon have fallen in standard and have a mountain to climb in South Africa. Cameroon will have a chance to go through if they can obtain a result against Denmark in their second game.

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

CHILE

Chile could get the perfect head start if they can beat Honduras but they do not have good attacking options and their weakness in attack might prove fatal in their matches against Denmark and Spain.

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

DENMARK

Denmark shone in qualifying and they should carry that form in the group stage. Denmark will face tricky opponents in Japan and Cameroon but victories against both teams should be enough to see them through to the second round.

VERDICT: SECOND ROUND

ENGLAND

The English should breeze through the group stage and the second round without much problems. But if history plays a part, they will have to pay extra caution to their opponents in the quarter-final, a stage where England have fallen on numerous occasions.

VERDICT: SEMI FINAL

FRANCE

It is interesting to see France in the World Cup after the manner in which they qualified. A number of young stars will be showcased during the tournament and France can go far if those youngsters can shake off the big stage jitters.

VERDICT: SECOND ROUND

GERMANY

There is no doubt Germany are defensively sound and strong in attack. If things go according

to plan, their biggest stumbling block is the quarter-final, where they could face Argentina and an on-form Messi could spell trouble for the Germans.

VERDICT: QUARTER FINAL

GHANA

Ghana must be cursing their luck when the draw was made.

Both Serbia and Australia are no pushovers and if Ghana could steal a win from either of these two teams, they will make it to the next round.

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

GREECE

Euro 2004 champions Greece have lots to prove since the last World Cup. The Greeks will bank their hopes on top scorer Theofanis Geokas to get the goals and sad to say, they may not have the luck to go through.

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

HONDURAS

The Hondurans rely on patience in their game but are usually clueless in front of goal. Their inability to score goals could be their downfall.

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

ITALY

Defending champions Italy will use their experience to surge ahead of the opposition in South Africa but can the ageing stars bring glory to the nation for a second consecutive World Cup title? They have not looked the same since 2006 and could easily be knocked out at any stage this time.

VERDICT: QUARTER FINAL

IVORY COAST

One of the two African nations with a good chance at the World Cup, Ivory Coast, are in the famous ‘Group of Death’. A big goal difference will be important here as I believe it will go down to goal difference to decide who goes to the second round.

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

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WORLD CUP PREDICTIONS JAPAN

Japan’s chances could be ruined by the pace of the Netherlanders and the size of the Danish. Their persistence in stringing good passes in midfield can give them an advantage, but could also be their nemesis.

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

MEXICO

The Mexicans have constantly been underachievers at the World Cup and this year could be one of their toughest. They will miss Jared Borghetti, Mexico’s top scorer in the last tournament but still have a weapon in World Cup veteran Cuauhtemoc Blanco.

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

NETHERLANDS

It is embarrassing that Netherlands have never won a single World Cup. Despite a team of stars in every tournament, Netherlands have failed when it matters most. This year could count as another one of those near misses that Netherlands have grown so accustomed to.

VERDICT: QUARTER FINAL

NEW ZEALAND

The Kiwis celebrate their second appearance at the World Cup in June but they might not be in party mood after the group stage.

Without a sense of urgency in their football, New Zealand could be punished severely and they will have plenty of work to do to prevent being victims of huge defeats.

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

NIGERIA

Nigeria have a fantastic mentality when it comes to the World Cup. Jay Kay Okocha once shone on the same big stage with his tricks but this year could be a different approach to their style of football.

Will a direct approach yield better results for the Super Eagles?

VERDICT: SECOND ROUND

NORTH KOREA

One of the dark horses in this year’s World Cup, North Korea exceeded expectations to land themselves with a trip to South Africa. Despite the underdogs tag, North Korea have claimed the scalp of Italy in 1966. Can the North Koreans shock the world again?

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

PARAGUAY

While not the heavyweights of South American football, Paraguay have great passing abilities although they rely a lot on the form of star Roque Santa Cruz. The second round is a formality for Paraguay, but anything beyond that may become a lottery.

VERDICT: SECOND ROUND

PORTUGAL

Once considered as favourites to land the big prize, Portugal have since gone quiet in recent years. The team has a style similar to Brazil but their flamboyance has cost them dearly on many occasions. Will we witness another crying Cristiano Ronaldo this time?

VERDICT: SECOND ROUND

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SERBIA

Serbia are quite a force in Europe and have shown their capabilities during qualifying when they qualified ahead of France and topped the group. Serbia should surprise the world with their robust approach; effective although not beautiful to watch.

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

SLOVAKIA

The Slovaks has proven that they deserved to be in the World Cup but will the jitters finally get to them on the big stage? Slovakia have a gem in Marek Hamsik and they have looked formidable when he is on form. Can Slovakia play alongside the big boys in South Africa?

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

SLOVENIA

Many people doubt Slovenia’s chances at the World Cup and attribute their qualification to a bout of luck. Indeed, Slovenia do not have an easy group to play in but they could sneak through

if they manage a good result against United States.

VERDICT: SECOND ROUND

SOUTH KOREA

A team that builds its football around the game of passing with a solid back four, South Korea is not an easy team and they have shown they can take on the giants in the 2002 World Cup. It is a tough group for the Republic this time round but can they slay the opposition to go to the second round?

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

SPAIN

SWITZERLAND

The Swiss have improved in recent years but have hardly impressed during World Cups.

Chances are Switzerland will need to buck up against Chile and Honduras to have any chance of making it to the next round.

VERDICT: SECOND ROUND

UNITED STATES

Despite having an impressive midfield lineup containing Clint Dempsey and Landon Donovan, the United States have often failed to create clear cut chances.

Their inability to break down tough defenses and a weak defensive lineup could force them out of the tournament early on.

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

URUGUAY

The Uruguayans struggled to reach the World Cup finals but now, they have a good chance to go all the way. The team is built around attacking football and the two main strikers, Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez could be a fearsome partnership for Uruguay.

VERDICT: QUARTER FINAL

Considered as huge favourites to claim their first ever World Cup title, Spain have been conquering all before them prior to the finals in June. Will the Euro 2008 champions accomplish the same achievements as France did in 1998 and 2000 when the Les Bleus won the World Cup and the Euro tournament in succession?

VERDICT: RUNNER UP

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WORLD CUP VENUEs

soccer City – Johannesburg 64 matches, 32 teams, 1 final. All 2010 World Cup matches will be played over 10 beautiful venues in South Africa this summer, starting with the opening game between South Africa and Mexico at the Soccer City in Johannesburg on June 11.

By Tom Lim

Soccer City Stadium

Venue Brief Name: Soccer City Stadium (formerly FNB Stadium) Year of Completion: 1989 Construction Cost: Rand 3.3 billion (USD $ 440 million) Capacity: 94,700 Home to: Kaizer Chiefs Football Club Location: Johannesburg, South Africa Surface: Grass Information: Located in the Soweto area of Johannesburg, South Africa, Soccer City, formerly known as the FNB Stadium, is the largest stadium in Africa with a capacity of 94,700. It is located next to the South African Football Association headquarters (SAFA House) where both the FIFA offices and the Local Organising Committee for the 2010 FIFA World Cup are housed.

The design of the stadium resembles a calabash, an African pot, while the cladding on the outside is a mosaic of fire and earthen colours with a ring of lights running around the bottom of the structure, simulating fire underneath the pot. There are absolutely no restricted views in the stadium and no

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spectator will be more than 100 metres away from the action on the pitch.

To celebrate and symbolize the 2010 World Cup, the stands in Soccer City are articulated by ten black vertical lines, with nine of them aligned geographically with the nine other stadiums involved in the tourament.

The tenth line is aligned to Berlin’s Olympic Stadium, which hosted the previous World Cup final in 2006. It represents the road to the final and arrangements have already been made to place pre-cast concrete panels of each goal scored at the Soccer City on a podium to mark down the full history of the tournament’s scores when it can be

viewed for years to come.

Soccer City was the main venue for the 1996 African Nations Cup where a total of 10 matches including the opening match and the final were played.

For the 2010 World Cup, Soccer City will host the opening match between South Africa and Mexico on 11 June 2010, followed by four more first-round matches, one secondround match, one quarter-final and the final itself on 11 July 2010.

Free state stadium – Bloemfontein Venue Brief Name: Free State Stadium (Vodacom Park) Year of Completion: 1952 Upgrade Cost: Rand 245 million (USD $ 33 million) Capacity: 48,000 Home to: Central Cheetahs & Free State Cheetahs (rugby), Bloemfontein Celtic (football) Location: Bloemfontein, South Africa Surface: Grass Information: Also known as the Vodacom Park, the Free State Stadium is located in Bloemfontein, South Africa. With a maximum sitting capacity of 48,000 after an upgrade in July 2007, Free State will be one of the host venues at the 2010 World Cup. Free State was built back in 1952 and in 1996, the stadium underwent major renovation costing US$33 million. The

upgrade included an extra tier of seats for the main stand, new turnstiles and scoreboard, CCTV and upgraded floodlights and sound system. In addition to the upgrade, the grounds outside became a multi-sport complex that offer cricket, tennis, athletics, swimming and hockey facilities.

The stadium is used by the Free State Cheetahs and the Central Cheetahs to host rugby matches while football is represented by Bloemfontein Celtic. The stadium was one of the host venues for the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup and will once again be involved in a major football tournament this summer.

There will be five group matches to be played at the

Mbombela Stadium Loftus Versfeld Stadium Free State Stadium

Free State Stadium and will stage one of South Africa’s biggest games in the World Cup as they take on France on 22 June 2010. There will also be a Round of 16 match to be played at Free State on 27 June 2010.

Loftus Versfeld Stadium – Pretoria

Mbombela Stadium – Nelspruit

Name: Loftus Versfeld Stadium Year of Completion: 1906 (renovated 2009) Renovation Cost: Rand 88.4 million (USD 12 million) Capacity: 49,365 Home to: Blue Bulls (rugby), Mamelodi Sundowns (football) Location: Pretoria, South Africa Surface: Grass

Name: Mbombela Stadium Year of Completion: 2009 Construction Cost: Rand 1.05 billion (USD 140 million) Capacity: 43,500 Home to: Location: Nelspruit, South Africa Surface: Grass

Information: Considered one of the oldest stadiums in South Africa, it was named after Mr. Loftus Versfeld, who tried to develop sport in the area of Pretoria. Loftus Versfeld Stadium has played host to a number of matches from major tournaments, including the 1995 Rugby World Cup, the 1996 African Cup of Nations and was also a host venue for the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup. There will be five group matches to be played at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, including the match between host South Africa and Uruguay on 16 June 2010. Another match worth noting is Chile taking on Spain on 25 June 2010. There will also be a Round of 16 match to be played at the stadium.

Information: The Mbombela Stadium is a new stadium built for the 2010 World Cup. Located west of Nelspruit, South Africa, the stadium has 18 roof supports that resemble giraffes, thus earning its nickname, the ‘Giraffe Stadium’. The multi-purpose venue is expected to host key soccer and rugby matches, while its conference facilities are capable of hosting major conferences and events.

A total of four group matches will be played at the Mbombela Stadium, featuring mostly ‘underdogs’ of the World Cup. Italy play New Zealand on 20 June 2010 and North Korea will take on Ivory Coast on 25 June 2010 at the Mbombela Stadium.

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WORLD CUP VENUEs

Green Point stadium – Cape Town Venue Brief Name: Green Point Stadium (Cape Town Stadium) Year of Completion: 2009 Construction Cost: Rand 4.4 billion (USD 600 million) Capacity: 69,070 Home to: TBA Location: Cape Town, South Africa Surface: Grass Information: The Green Point Stadium is a venue specially built for the 2010 World Cup. Located in Green Point, the Green Point Stadium was completed in 2007 and is one of the most modern stadiums in the world and has a completed capacity of 69,070. Despite the official name being Cape Town Stadium, many people still refer to it as the Green Point Stadium.

Considered one of the most modern stadiums in the world, the Green Point Stadium has a retractable glass roof and 360

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inner spotlights. It is also connected to the waterfront by a new road connection and is surrounded by a 60 hectare urban park.

Despite construction work being delayed by strikes, the stadium was completed on time and hosted the first game on the 23 January 2010 where the Cape Town derby between Ajax Cape Town and Santos was

Green Point Stadium

held. However, there have been no confirmed tenants yet for the stadium although plans have been made to reduce the stadium capacity after the World Cup has ended to cater for all types of sports, including rugby, as well as music concerts and other major events.

The Green Point Stadium will host five group matches, including the second game which sees Uruguay take on France on 11 June 2010.

Cameroon will play Netherland at the Green Point on 24 June 2010. The stadium will also host one match from the Round of 16, quarter-finals as well as the semi-finals.

Moses Mabhida stadium – Durban

Peter Mokaba Stadium Moses Mabhida Stadium

Venue Brief February 2010, the world’s largest swing opened at the stadium, which allows clients to jump off the fourth ladder rung and fall towards the pitch before being swung out in a 220 meter arc over the pitch.

There will be five group matches, one Round of 16 match and one semi-final match to be played at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Among the most highly anticipated matches to be played there are Spain vs Switzerland on 16 June 2010 and Brazil vs Portugal on 25 June 2010.

Name: Moses Mabhida Stadium Year of Completion: 2009 Construction Cost: Rand 3.4 billion (USD 450 million) Capacity: 70,000 (max 80,000) Home to: TBA Location: Durban, South Africa Surface: Grass Information: Built on the site of the old Kings Park Soccer Stadium, the new multi-purpose venue is named after a former General Secretary of the South African Communist Party. The Moses Mabhida Stadium has a

planned capacity of 70,000 during the 2010 World Cup and 54,000 afterwards.

With a familiar Wembley Stadium arch which will carry visitors from the north side of the stadium to a viewing platform at the top of the arch for a panoramic view of the city and ocean, the Moses Mabhida Stadium will include an indoor arena, a football museum, a sports institute and a transport hub.

The Moses Mabhida Stadium took a little over three years to complete and hosted its first football match – Amazulu taking on Maritzburg United just five days after its completion on 24 November 2009. On 24

Peter Mokaba Stadium – Polokwane Name: Peter Mokaba Stadium Year of Completion: 2010 Construction Cost: Rand 1.24 billion (USD 150 million) Capacity: 46,000 Home to: Location: Polokwane, South Africa Surface: Grass Information: Named after Peter Mokaba, a former leader of the ANC Youth League, the Peter Mokaba Stadium is located just five kilometres from the city centre. The design of the stadium is inspired by the iconic Baobab tree and is a newly built stadium for the 2010 World Cup. Peter Mokaba Stadium will host four group matches including an interesting clash between France and Mexico on 17 June 2010. Greece will take on Argentina at the same stadium on the 12 June 2010.

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WORLD CUP VENUEs

Royal Bafokeng Stadium

Ellis Park Stadium

Venue Brief Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium

Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium – Port Elizabeth Name: Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium Year of Completion: 2009 Construction Cost: Rand 2.05 billion (USD 270 million) Capacity: 48,459 Home to: TBA Location: Port Elizabeth, South Africa Surface: Grass Information: Located right at the heart of the city, Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium is one of the three coastal stadiums built for the 2010 World Cup although it has already hosted several football and rugby matches, as well as the Miss World Sports event of the Miss World 2009 pageant and the Bay Summer Concert.

With a capacity of approximately 48,000, the unique roof-structure overlooks the North End Lake. With the roof structure resembling that of white ‘petals’ of a flower, the stadium has been nicknamed, The Sunflower. Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium is equipped with a gym, lecture and function rooms as well as two conference rooms that are capable of hosting large scale events.

The stadium was removed from the list of stadiums for the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup as the organizers felt it would not be completed on time. Finished well ahead of schedule however, Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium went on to host a number of football and rugby matches, including a friendly between South Africa and Japan on 14 November 2009.

Royal Bafokeng Stadium – Rustenburg Name: Royal Bafokeng Stadium Year of Completion: 1999 (renovated 2009) Renovation Cost: Rand 353.7 million (USD 48 million) Capacity: 42,000 Home to: Platinum Stars (football) Location: Rustenburg, South Africa Surface: Grass Information: The Royal Bafokeng Stadium was name after its owners, the prominent local tribe in Phokeng. The stadium was upgraded for the 2010 World Cup and featured major improvements including new electronic signboards, seats and floodlights. Due to its ability to host athletic events, spectators will not be able to get close to the pitch to watch the action.

Like the Loftus Versfeld Stadium, the Royal Bafokeng will host five group matches including a thrilling encounter between Ghana and Australia on 19 June 2010, as well as Mexico vs Uruguay on 22 June 2010. There will also be a Round of 16 match to be played on 26 June 2010.

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Besides hosting five group matches during the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the stadium will also host one match from the Round of 16, the quarter-finals as well as the third/fourth place play-off match. The matches to take note of include Ivory Coast taking on Portugal on 15 June 2010 as well as a tough fixture on the 18 June 2010 which sees Germany play Serbia.

Ellis Park Stadium – Johannesburg Name: Ellis Park Stadium Year of Completion: 1928 (rebuilt in 1982) Upgrade Cost: Rand 450 million (USD 58 million) Capacity: 62,567 Home to: Golden Lions, Orlando Pirates FC, South African Rugby Union Location: Johannesburg, South Africa Surface: Grass Information: Also known as the Coca-Cola Park due to its sponsorship by The Coca-Cola Company, this stadium has been around since 1928 and has hosted numerous matches, both rugby and football, as well as cricket matches. Ellis Park also held the 1995 Rugby World Cup where South Africa were the champions, and also hosted the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup as one of the playing venues.

There will be seven matches to be played at the Ellis Park Stadium during the 2010 World Cup, most notably Argentina vs Nigeria on 12 June 2010. The stadium will also play out one match from the Round of 16 and one match from the quarter-finals.