fifa 2010 final

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Chief Operating Officer, The NationPana Janviroj

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Showcase South Africa:The 2010 FIFA World Cup 6

Match Venues 8

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South Africa 10

France 11

Mexico 12

Uruguay 12

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Argentina 13

Nigeria 14

Korea Republic 15

Greece 15

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USA 17

Algeria 18

Slovenia 18

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Match Schedule 20

Serbia 22

Australia 23

Ghana 23

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Denmark 25

Japan 26

Cameroon 26

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Paraguay 28

New Zealand 29

Slovakia 29

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Portugal 31

Cote dIvoire 32

Korea DPR 32

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Switzerland 34

Chile 35

Honduras 35

Players to Watch 36

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Group Matches

Round of 16

Quarter-finals

Semi-finals

3rd Place

Final

49 26 June 1A VS 2B 20.30 1150 27 June 1C VS 2D 01.00 951 27 June 1D VS 2C 20.30 752 28 June 1B VS 2A 01.00 353 28 June 1E VS 2F 20.30 1154 29 June 1G VS 2H 01.00 955 29 June 1F VS 2E 20.30 756 30 June 1H VS 2G 01.00 3

57 2 July W53 VS W54 20.30 358 2 July W49 VS W50 01.00 759 3 July W51 VS W52 20.30 1160 4 July W55 VS W56 01.00 9

61 7 July W57 VS W58 01.00 962 8 July W59 VS W60 01.00 3

63 11 July L61 VS L62 01.00 11

64 12 July W61 VS W62 01.00 7

1 11 June A South Africa VS Mexico 20.30 32 12 June A Uruguay VS France 01.00 73 12 June B Argentina VS Nigeria 20.30 114 12 June B Korea Rep VS Greece 18.00 35 13 June C England VS USA 01.00 36 13 June C Algeria VS Slovenia 18.00 77 14 June D Germany VS Australia 01.00 98 13 June D Serbia VS Ghana 20.30 119 14 June E Netherlands VS Denmark 18.00 310 14 June E Japan VS Cameroon 20.30 711 15 June F Italy VS Paraguay 01.00 312 15 June F New Zealand VS Slovakia 18.00 1113 15 June G Cote d Ivoire VS Portugal 20.30 714 16 June G Brazil VS Korea DPR 01.00 315 16 June H Honduras VS Chile 18.00 916 16 June H Spain VS Switzerland 20.30 1117 17 June A South Africa VS Uruguay 01.00 718 18 June A France VS Mexico 01.00 1119 17 June B Greece VS Nigeria 20.30 920 17 June B Argentina VS Korea Rep 18.00 721 18 June D Germany VS Serbia 18.00 322 18 June C Slovenia VS USA 20.30 723 19 June C England VS Algeria 01.00 924 19 June D Ghana VS Australia 20.30 325 19 June E Netherlands VS Japan 18.00 1126 20 June E Cameroon VS Denmark 01.00 727 20 June F Slovakia VS Paraguay 18.00 1128 20 June F Italy VS New Zealand 20.00 929 21 June G Brazil VS Cote d Ivoire 01.00 330 21 June G Portugal VS Korea DPR 18.00 731 21 June H Chile VS Switzerland 20.30 932 22 June H Spain VS Honduras 01.00 333 22 June A Mexico VS Uruguay 20.30 334 22 June A France VS South Africa 20.30 1135 23 June B Nigeria VS Korea Rep 01.00 736 23 June B Greece VS Argentina 01.00 337 23 June C Slovenia VS England 20.30 338 23 June C USA VS Algeria 20.30 739 24 June D Ghana VS Germany 01.00 740 24 June D Australia VS Serbia 01.00 941 24 June F Slovakia VS Italy 20.30 342 24 June F Paraguay VS New Zealand 20.30 1143 25 June E Denmark VS Japan 01.00 1144 25 June E Cameroon VS Netherlands 01.00 745 25 June G Portugal VS Brazil 20.30 1146 25 June G Korea DPR VS Cote d Ivoire 20.30 947 26 June H Chile VS Spain 01.00 748 26 June H Switzerland VS Honduras 01.00 3

Contents TV Program Guide

Official Emblem of the 2010 FIFA World CupCelebratory and energetic in its nature, South

Africas official emblem for the 2010 FIFA World

Cup competition features a figure, reminiscent

of its earliest rock art paintings, performing a

bicycle kick that captures the flair of South

African football.

The ball soars upwards, inviting the worlds

nations to join the 2010 World Cup in Africa.

Behind, the colours of the South African flag

stretch south to north, embodying the energy,

diversity and fiery passion of the nation. The

original typeface captures the playful, free

spirited, bold, welcoming and friendly nature of

South Africas unique character.

In 2004, South Africa chalked up another first as the first

African country to be awarded the honour of hosting the

2010 FIFA World Cup football tournament. Aware of the

eyes of the world upon them, South Africa, with strong

commercial backing and firm support from international

corporations, quietly and confidently made all necessary

preparations: among the enormous amount of detail, the

modernizing, refurbishing, or building of brand new

stadiums, all to recognized international standards, took

priority.

Practice grounds and hotel accommodation for all teams,

officials and thousands of fans and supporters were

arranged. Special broadcasting facilities and technology

had to be installed to accommodate the media broadcasters

from around the world. Infrastructure was updated to cope

with the huge demand for travel facilities between the

various venues and special security arrangements had to

be organized and tested ready for the opening.

South Africa has accomplished its task and its citizens

stand proud, united and confident, ready to welcome all

the qualified teams and players, plus officials and the many

fans and supporters from all over the world to the Rainbow

Nation World Cup spectacular, which they fully expect to

be a resounding success.

Zakumi (ZA for South Africa and kumi =10) is the

official mascot for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South

Africa. He is a very friendly and jolly little leopard, who

symbolizes South Africa and is self-confident,

adventurous and spontaneous, representing all football

stadiums, organizers, officials, staff, teams and players,

as well as fans and supporters, whatever their age and

wherever they come from.

Zakumi looks forward to being a good host to all visitors

during the competition, firmly believing that football is

one of the top mediums for breaking down language

and nationality barriers between people. He loves

football and always carries a ball around with him, often

inviting people to join him in a spontaneous game.

However, Zakumis main priority during the competition

is to meet and entertain as many people, fans and

supporters as possible throughout the tournament,

especially schoolchildren and young teenagers, to

ensure they all enjoy their visit to South Africa and

experience the warmth and spirit of the people of the

African continent. Zakumi therefore looks forward to

bidding you all a warm and friendly welcome to South

Africa and hopes you all enjoy the tournament and the

unique Spirit of Africa during your stay!

Zakumi Official Mascot of the

2010 FIFAWorld Cup

76

Showcase South Africa:The 2010 FIFA World Cup

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Rustenberg

Polokwane

Nelspruit

Durban

Tshwane/Pretoria

Johannesburg

Mangaung/Bloemfontein

Nelson Mandela Bay/Port ElizabethCape Town

Rustenburg - Royal Bafokeng Stadium

Originally constructed in 1999, the Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace is named after the Bafokeng people who live in the area. With a seating capacity of 42,000, the stadium is situated 12 km from Rustenburg city centre. It has been host to many Premier Soccer League games and in 2001, hosted a FIFA World Cup qualifier between South Africa and Burkino Faso, which South Africa won 2-1.

Mangaung/Bloemfontein -Free State Stadium

Originally built in 1952, Free State Stadium underwent a medium upgrade

in 2008, followed by a plush new look for the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup, which included an increased capacity to 45,000. It was during this tournament that it hosted the memorable semi-final, when the USA beat Spain in one of the biggest upsets of the tournament. Since it was first built, it has hosted numerous major football and rugby union matches, but due to the explosion of football popularity throughout the African continent, soccer is the main game played in the stadium today.

Cape Town - Green Point Stadium

Green Point Stadium is one of the most artistic football venues in South Africa, situated a stones throw from the ocean in one of Cape Towns most sought-after areas. The 70,000 capacity, multi-purpose venue that will be used to stage major events and concerts, will also host eight matches during the FIFA 2010 World Cup tournament, including one of the two semi-finals.

Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth -Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium

The Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium is situated on the shores of the North End Lake and is one of the new purpose-built stadiums completed in 2009. The multi-purpose 46,000 capacity stadium has a playing field of natural grass with a surrounding area of artificial turf. During the tournament, it will host the match for third place and a quarter-final, amid a total eight matches during the tournament. One of a series of major tests for the newly-constructed stadium was the coveted Soweta Derby match between the Orlando Pirates and the Kaizer Chiefs a game that normally attracts capacity crowds - and which the stadium coped with admirably.

Tshwane/Pretoria - Loftus Versfeld Stadium

Situated in the heart of Tshwane/Pretoria, Loftus Versfeld Stadium is one of the oldest in South Africa and has been used for major sporting events since 1903. The first concrete structure, built by Pretoria City Council in 1923, enabled the stadium to accommodate 2,000 spectators. The stadium now boasts a 50,000 seating capacity and has hosted many significant matches, including those of the 1995 Rugby World Cup and the 1996 CAF African Cup of Nations.

Polokwane - Peter Mokaba Stadium

The newly completed Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, is the most northerly venue for the preliminary rounds of the competition, sitting right in the heart of the city as its new pride and joy. The new state-of-the-art 45,000 capacity stadium was officially opened in January, 2010, by Limpopo Premier Cassel Mathale, who said the people were justly proud of their beautiful new stadium, built for the benefit of the people. Its selection as a World Cup competition venue is a great honour and distinction for the city and its new stadium.

Nelspruit - Mbombela Stadium

One of a group of new stadia constructed for the 2010 World Cup, its name means many people together in a small space. Located 7km from Nelspruit in Mpumalanga Province, it has a 46,000 capacity and is a welcome addition for Nelspruits sports loving people, as before its construction, the city had never had a top football venue to host international matches.

Johannesburg - Soccer City Stadium

Described as one of the most artistic and awe-inspiring football venues on the African continent, the newly-reconstructed Soccer City Stadium will host the first and final matches of the 2010 World Cup. With an increased capacity to 94,700, the stadiums

design is based on the iconic African pot known as a calabash and its aesthetic design is further enhanced, when it is fully illuminated at night.Soccer City is the first international football stadium in South Africa and has hosted many international football and sporting events. It has also acted as a rallying point on various occasions in South Africas history, notably the first mass rally for Nelson Mandela f o l l o w i n g h i s r e l e a s e f r o m imprisonment.

Johannesburg - Ellis Park Stadium

Originally built in the centre of Johannesburg in 1928 as a rugby union stadium, Ellis Park Stadium was demolished and rebuilt in 1982. Seating 62,000, it has hosted many epic sporting events, including the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup final between Brazil and the United States. Its defining moment, however, has to be the hosting of South Africas shock defeat of New Zealand in the 1995 Rugby World Cup Trophy final. Iconic scenes of President Nelson Mandela holding the trophy aloft in Ellis Park were beamed around the world, uniting all South Africans in a glorious celebration.

Durban - Durban Moses Mabhida Stadium

The distinctive futuristic design of the newly-built Durban Moses Mabhida Stadium epitomizes the current wave of architectural innovation sweeping through South Africa. Taking design inspiration from the South African Flag, the 70,000 capacity stadium is appropriately situated in the heart of the Kings Park Sporting Precinct and features a soaring arch that begins on two legs, extends high over the centre of the stadium to meld together and descend as one leg on the opposite side,

representing the unity of a once-divided nation. A cable car ascends to a viewing platform at the top of the 350m arch, 106m above the pitch, providing spectacular panoramic views of the nearby shoreline and Durban.

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South Africa have failed to get past the group stages at either

of the countrys two previous World Cup appearances in 1998

and 2002 in France and Korea/Japan, respectively. As host

nation to the 2010 FIFA World Cup, South Africa gained

automatic qualification to the first World Cup competition to be

held on African soil. But, as previous matches against Brazil

and Spain in last years FIFA Confederations Cup show, South

Africa will be a tough team to beat.

The Bafana squad is not short of gifted talent, with confident

players up front and in midfield, and a world-class goalkeeper.

The main problem the side faces is a seeming inability to get

the ball into the opposing sides net.

The South African squad is being led this time by Brazilian

coach Carlos Alberto Parreira, himself a World Cup winning

coach, who has brought sweeping improvements to the Bafana

side. The star player in the South African team is Everton

midfielder Steven Pienaar, whose confidence and inspirational

moves can easily fire up the team. Also important

to the squad are backs Siboniso Gaxa and

Tsepho Masilela.

As hosts, South Africa will be putting

everything into their effort to get through the

group stage to the second round.

Anything else would be a

disappointment for the

fiercely supportive

fans.

France has 12 previous World Cup appearances with a single

win in 1998 and a controversial finals appearance at World

Cup 2006 in Germany. This time around Les Bleus will be

hoping to avenge their defeat with a second victory on footballs

greatest stage.

The team just managed to squeak through

qualification with a last gasp goal in extra

time against Ireland in a play-off match.

The play-off has gone down in history of one of the most

controversial qualification games of the competition, with Thierry

Henrys handling of the ball. The French seemed jaded and

their manager appeared to have run out of ideas. Consequently,

France may well have to endure another tense World Cup

campaign, especially with tough competitors Mexico and

Uruguay in their group.

The versatile Thierry Henry is captain of the French squad in

South Africa, with William Gallus, Jeremy Toulalan and Lassana

Diarra providing big-name support, plus Yoann Gourcuff, Franck

Ribery and Nicolas Anelka rounding out the side.

Appointed coach in 2004, Raymond Domenech has yet to lift

any silverware with Les Bleus and the highlight of his time as

their coach, so far, has been their appearance at the 2006

German World Cup Final and UEFA EURO 2008. His

appointment as Coach has led to great expectations for success

in South Africa and the French fans will be hoping for nothing

less than a win.

The StatsFixtures: V Uruguay (June 11, Cape Town), V Mexico (June 17, Polokwane), V South Africa (June 22, Mangaung/Bloemfontein)Road to South Africa: UEFA Play-off WinnersResults: Austria 3-1 France France 2-1 Serbia Romania 2-2 France Lithuania 0-1 France France 1-0 Lithuania Faroe Islands 0-1 France France 1-1 Romania Serbia 1-1 France France 5-0 Faroe Islands France 3-1 Austria Team Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 10 6 3 1 18 9 +9 21Coach: Raymond DomenechFIFA World Ranking: 10th

World Cup Appearances: 12 (1930, 1934, 1938, 1954, 1958, 1966, 1978, 1982, 1986, 1998, 2002, 2006)Best Results: Winners, 1998

South AfricaHosts will be giving their all

France

The objective was to qualify. We knew it

wouldnt be easy, but I never had any doubts.

Weve had difficulties for two years now, but

everyone kept believing and they were justified

in doing so. We grabbed hold of the right to

take part in something exceptional a World

Cup in South Africa.

Raymond Domenech France coach

home away

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The StatsFixtures: V Mexico (June 11, Johannesburg - JSC), V Uruguay (June 16, Tshwane/Pretoria), V France (June 22, Mangaung/Bloemfontein)Road to South Africa: Host CountryCoach: Carlos Alberto ParreiraFIFA World Ranking: 90th

World Cup Appearances: 2 (1998, 2002)Best Results: Round 1, 1998, 2002

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We are all aware that it is a huge honour

to play in a World Cup on home soil; not many

players have had such a privilege. We are

also aware of the task that lies ahead. For

us, the World Cup is our priority, its our

biggest goal. We need to represent our

country with pride.

Aaron MokoenaSouth Africa captain

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Mexico has appeared in the World Cup an impressive 13 times but has never succeeded in getting beyond the quarter finals, at home in 1970 and once again in 1986. In South Africa, El Tri will undoubtedly be looking to better this performance for the first time on foreign soil.

Mexicos path to World Cup qualification was far from smooth, with coaches coming and going without success until finally, under Atletico Madrid coach Javier Aguirre, the team managed to pull back with five wins and a single draw to finish in second place in the North American CONCACAF Group, behind neighbours and eternal rivals USA.

The current Mexican team is notably lacking in big-name attackers but is strong through the midfield with the veteran player Cuauhtemoc Blanco holding the team together with up-and-coming stars Guillermo Ochoa and Guillermo Franco, and the team captain Rafael Marquez offering solid defence.

El Tri is very much the heavyweight team of the North and Central American league with more World Cup appearances than any other country from the region. At very least they will be hoping to knock-out their rivals and finally break the long-standing impasse of the quarter finals round.

Although its population is but a little over 3 million, Uruguay nevertheless possesses an impressive list of world, Olympic and continental football titles that compares favourably with the worlds best. This includes an impressive 10 previous World Cup appearances, taking home the golden trophy twice in 1930 and 1950.

Captained by the authoritative Diego Lugano, who combines defensive play with profitable forays into the opposing penalty box, the Uruguay side includes a fearsome strike partnership between Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez, well capable of firing the team up, plus a talented assortment of other international players, such as midfielders Maximiliano Pereira and Diego Perez, as well as defenders Diego Godin and Jorge Fucilee.

Coach Oscar Tabarez in his second stint as coach he guided the Uruguayans to the last 16 in Italy in 1990 has a close rapport with his youthful squad, many of whom play for clubs in Europes major leagues and he feels they have the star quality to advance beyond the Group Phase.

The StatsFixtures: V South Africa (June 11, Johannesburg - JSC), V France (June 17, Polokwane), V Uruguay (June 22, Rustenburg)Road to South Africa: 2nd in CONCACAF GroupResults: USA 2-0 Mexico Mexico 2-0 Costa Rica Honduras 3-1 Mexico El Salvador 2-1 Mexico Mexico 2-1 Trinidad and Tobago Mexico 2-1 USA Costa Rica 0-3 Mexico Mexico 1-0 Honduras Mexico 4-1 El Salvador Trinidad and Tobago 2-2 Mexico Team Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 10 6 1 3 18 12 +6 19Coach: Javier AguirreFIFA World Ranking: 17th

World Cup Appearances: 13 (1930, 1950, 1954, 1958, 1962, 1966, 1970, 1978, 1986, 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006)Best Results: Quarter Finals, 1970, 1986

The StatsFixtures: V France (June 11, Cape Town), V South Africa (June 16, Tshwane/Pretoria), V Mexico (June 22, Rustenburg)Road to South Africa: CONMEBOL v CONCACAF Play-off WinnerResults: Uruguay 5-0 Bolivia Paraguay 1-0 Uruguay Uruguay 2-2 Chile Brazil 2-1 Uruguay Uruguay 1-1 Venezuela Uruguay 6-0 Peru Colombia 0-1 Uruguay Uruguay 0-0 Ecuador Argentina 2-1 Uruguay Bolivia 2-2 Uruguay Uruguay 2-0 Paraguay Chile 0-0 Uruguay Uruguay 0-4 Brazil Venezuela 2-2 Uruguay Peru 1-0 Uruguay Uruguay 3-1 Colombia Ecuador 1-2 Uruguay Uruguay 0-1 ArgentinaTeam Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 18 6 6 6 28 20 +8 24Coach: Oscar TabarezFIFA World Ranking: 18th

World Cup Appearances: 10 (1930, 1950, 1954, 1962, 1966, 1970, 1974, 1986, 1990, 2002)Best Results: Winners, 1930, 1950

home away

home away

MexicoIs it the turn of EI Tri?

UruguayTalented assortment of international players

Despite a tortuous qualification campaign, Argentina are

headed for South Africa with serious designs on winning the

title for the first time in 24 years. The 1978 and 1986 World

Champions have pinned their faith in Coach Diego Maradona,

the countrys most famous footballing son, to inspire the team

and win the worlds most celebrated trophy once again.

Argentinas hopes are largely invested in Lionel Messi, who is

widely regarded as the worlds best soccer player from his

consistently brilliant performances for Barcelona. Midfield

support will be provided by captain and driving force Javier

Mascherano, backed by the hugely experienced Juan

Sebastian, plus a large star-studded squad of youngsters with

several youth titles to their names.

Considered by many to be the finest footballer ever, Diego

Maradona now has the opportunity to repeat as a coach his

finest achievement as a player. Straight-talking, impulsive and

a born competitor, Maradona retains the aura that made him

such a revered figure during his playing days. Hopefully, this

will inspire his players to emulate.

Argentina

Maradona and I have been to two World

Cup finals, which is not bad! I hope this will

continue next year. In 1986 we had Maradona

as the key to our victory and now we have

[Lionel] Messi. Hes our decisive player.

Carlos BilardoArgentina general manager

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The StatsFixtures: V Nigeria (June 12, Johannesburg - JEP), V South Korea (June 17, Johannesburg - JSC), V Greece (June 22, Polokwane)Road to South Africa: 4th in CONMEBOL GroupResults: Argentina 2-0 Chile Venezuela 0-2 Argentina Argentina 3-0 Bolivia Colombia 2-1 Argentina Argentina 1-1 Ecuador Brazil 0-0 Argentina Argentina 1-1 Paraguay Peru 1-1 Argentina Argentina 2-1 Uruguay Chile 1-0 Argentina Argentina 4-0 Venezuela Bolivia 6-1 Argentina Argentina 1-0 Colombia Ecuador 2-0 Argentina Argentina 1-3 Brazil Paraguay 1-0 Argentina Argentina 2-1 Peru Uruguay 0-1 ArgentinaTeam Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 18 8 4 6 23 20 +3 28Coach: Diego MaradonaFIFA World Ranking: 7th

World Cup Appearances: 14 (1930, 1934, 1958, 1962, 1966, 1974, 1978, 1982, 1986, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006)Best Results: Winners, 1978, 1986

Serious designs on winning the title

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The so-called Super Eagles are pretty much the dark horses

of Africa after getting their ticket to the 2010 World Cup only

by the skin of their teeth in the qualifying rounds. But Nigeria

shouldnt be counted out easily after three previous World Cup

appearances, surprising top international teams with fast plays

and a characteristic attacking style.

The Super Eagles road to South Africa was very much a

struggle from the rear as Tunisia led the group for much of the

contest until losing 1-0 to Mozambique while Nigeria pipped

Kenya 3-2 in Nairobi, finding themselves at the top of the table

only on the final day of the competition.

As in previous games, attacking play is likely to be the hallmark

of the Nigerian squad, with first-rate strikers like Obafemi

Martins, who put on some fine goal-scoring performances in

the qualifiers, and Locomotiv Moscows Osaze Odemwingie.

Captain Joseph Yobo acts as a solid pillar as centre back.

Nonetheless, with such a scintillating offensive task force, its

no surprise that defence looks like being the teams weak spot.

Getting to South Africa would seem to be a success in itself

for the current Nigerian line-up but based on past performances

the Super Eagles fans will be hoping for a quarter finals result

or better.

NigeriaAs Asias most frequent competitor to the FIFA World Cup tournament, the South Korean team experienced an uncharacteristic bumpy ride on its way to qualifying. Lacklustre performances in early rounds, ended with a stalemate draw against North Korea in the final round, which fortunately sparked a return to form with stylish wins over the UAE and Saudi Arabia, booking their place at 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa.

Manchester United winger, Park Ji-Sung, played a pivotal role in the Republic of Koreas previous two World Cup challenges and is indispensable in creating space and chances for his team-mates. At 24, Park Chu Young is an ever-present threat anywhere near the goal area, while Coach Huh Jung-Moo says he will put all his energy into achieving a good result in South Africa.

Making their eighth appearance at the FIFA World Cup in South Africa, the Republic of Korea team is expected to concentrate on the pace and skills of its players to evade the heavier defending players in teams such as Germany, Greece and Nigeria, as witnessed in their recent 2-0 win over Cote dIvoire. If they can maintain their momentum and concentration, they are well capable of advancing to the later stages of the tournament.

The Greeks suffered a hammering in all three group matches at their only previous World Cup appearance in the United States in 1994. Since then, Greece has progressed beyond measure, defying the odds in 2004 with a triumph in the Euro 2004. This year, the Greek squad will be hoping to progress beyond the group stage to bring some much-needed smiles to the faces of their compatriots back home.

But getting a ticket to South Africa proved to be a hard-won fight for the Greeks. They finished second in their table behind Switzerland, who handed them defeats at home and away, forcing the Greek side to struggle and finally prevail through a two-legged play-off against Ukraine.

The Greek side has solid experience through the ranks, with stubborn defensive players like Liverpool player Sotirios Kyrgiakos, savvy midfielder and captain Giorgos Karagounis, and striker Theofanis Gekas, top scorer in the UEFA qualifiers.

Realistically, the Greeks will be concentrating all their efforts in getting through the group stage, with South Korea, Nigeria and Argentina doing their best to stop them. With such quality players making up the side, Greece dont need any miracles to achieve this aim.

The StatsFixtures: V Greece (June 12, Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth), V Argentina (June 17, Johannesburg - JSC), V Nigeria (June 22, Durban)Road to South Africa: 1st in AFC Group BResults: Korea DPR 1-1 Korea Republic Korea Republic 4-1 United Arab Emirates Saudi Arabia 0-2 Korea Republic Iran 1-1 Korea Republic Korea Republic 1-0 Korea DPR United Arab Emirates 0-2 Korea Republic Korea Republic 0-0 Saudi Arabia Korea Republic 1-1 Iran Team Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 8 4 4 0 12 4 +8 16Coach: Huh Jung-MooFIFA World Ranking: 47th

World Cup Appearances: 7 (1954, 1986, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006)Best Results: Fourth, 2002

The StatsFixtures: V South Korea (June 12, Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth), V Nigeria (June 17, Mangaung/Bloemfontein), V Argentina (June 22, Polokwane)Road to South Africa: UEFA Play-off WinnersResults: Luxembourg 0-3 Greece Latvia 0-2 Greece Greece 3-0 Moldova Greece 1-2 Switzerland Israel 1-1 Greece Greece 2-1 Israel Switzerland 2-0 Greece Moldova 1-1 Greece Greece 5-2 Latvia Greece 2-1 LuxembourgTeam Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 10 6 2 2 20 10 +10 20Coach: Otto RehhagelFIFA World Ranking: 12th

World Cup Appearances: 1 (1994)Best Results: First Round, 1994

home away

home away

Republic of KoreaMost frequent Asian Competitor

GreeceWill the gods smile?

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B Argentina

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USA

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D Germany

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E Netherlands

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home away

The StatsFixtures: V Argentina (June 12, Johannesburg - JEP), V Greece (June 17, Mangaung/Bloemfontein), V South Korea (June 22, Durban)Road to South Africa: 1st in CAF Group BResults: Mozambique 0-0 Nigeria Nigeria 3-0 Kenya Tunisia 0-0 Nigeria Nigeria 2-2 Tunisia Nigeria 1-0 Mozambique Kenya 2-3 NigeriaTeam Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 6 3 3 0 9 4 +5 12Coach: Lars LagerbackFIFA World Ranking: 20th

World Cup Appearances: 3 (1994, 1998, 2002)Best Results: Round of 16, 1994, 1998

14

Super Eagles on the attack

Osa

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eter

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mw

ingi

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We know that we will have a

tough job at the World Cup. We are

up against some tough teams like

Argentina, with top players like Messi. Its

important for us to prove that we can play

our own game against the best.

Nigeria forwardChinedu Obasi

CEn

gland

Team

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16 17

With 12 previous World Cup appearances and

a single win in 1966, England is one of the top

European sides, tipped to do well at South Africa.

Following their disappointing performance in Germany 2006,

the England team, under the direction of new Coach, Fabio

Capello, has been reignited with a vibrant team spirit. Their

new spirited performance resulted in nine wins from ten Group

6 games, scoring an impressive 34 goals and booking their

slot in South Africa with two games to spare.

Key players within the talented squad, include forward Wayne

Rooney, midfielders Frank Lampard and Steve Gerrard, while

Peter Crouch and Jermain Defoe both demonstrate a versatile

and omnipresent danger in the opposing goal area. Many

pundits have pinned their hopes firmly on Wayne Rooney, the

Manchester United star, but nagging injuries could prove to

be a major setback to his performance, as in previous

competitions.

Sporting an impressive coaching pedigree, Italian Fabio

Capello, in his relatively short period in charge, has imposed

his mark, which has transformed England into a cognitive,

disciplined and proud team, eager to perform together and

succeed in South Africa. The Three Lions will be disappointed

with anything less than a win.

Team USA has played in eight previous World Cup competitions,

three in the early years of the competition and - after a four-

decade-long hiatus - in the last five consecutive World Cups

from 1990 to 2006. Their best result was third place, way back

in 1930.

The Americans stormed through qualification in efficient style.

In the second and third rounds, the USA won seven of eight

matches, sufficient to go through to the final round Hexagonal

along with Mexico, Honduras, Costa Rica, El Salvador and

Trinidad and Tobago. The Yanks ended up at the top of the

table after winning six of their games with two away losses and

two draws under long-time coach Bob Bradley.

The 2010 squad is packed with young, up-coming talent,

although very few of the players are well known among

international soccer fans. The notable exception is Landon

Donovan of Los Angeles Galaxy, the teams principal goal-

scoring hope. Everton player Tim Howard will prove

essential in stifling the chances of opposing

teams as one of the best goalkeepers from

the English Premier League.

If the American squad can stay focused and

coherent, the USA has an excellent chance

of advancing through the group stage.

Beyond that, the Stars and Stripes

will be hoping to improve upon

their disappointing 2006 finish

to get to the quarters or even

semis and once again kick

off a golden age of

American soccer.

England

USA Every opponent at a World Cup is going to be difficult. I know from experience as a player that when you play here the

pressure is different and the mentality is

different. But are we going to win the World

Cup? We have to!

Fabio CapelloEngland coach

We feel this is a group that gives us a

real fair chance to move on. The (FIFA)

Confederations Cup has given us a real feel

for the venues and the weather that well

experience in South Africa, so it will make for

a good World Cup, Im sure about that.

Bob BradleyUSA coach

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USA

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home away

The StatsFixtures: V USA (June 12, Rustenburg), V Algeria (June 18, Cape Town), V Slovenia (June 23, Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth)Road to South Africa: 1st in European Group 6Results: Andorra 0-2 England Croatia 1-4 England England 5-1 Kazakhstan Belarus 1-3 England England 2-1 Ukraine Kazakhstan 0-4 England England 6-0 Andorra England 5-1 Croatia Ukraine 1-0 England England 3-0 BelarusTeam Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 10 9 0 1 34 6 +28 27Coach: Fabio CapelloFIFA World Ranking: 8th

World Cup Appearances: 12 (1950, 1954, 1958, 1962, 1966, 1970, 1982, 1986, 1990, 1998, 2002, 2006)Best Results: Winners, 1966

The StatsFixtures: V England (June 12, Rustenburg), V Slovenia (June 18, Johannesburg - JEP), V Algeria (June 23, Tshwane/Pretoria)Road to South Africa: 1st in CONCACAF GroupResults: USA 2-0 Mexico El Salvador 2-2 USA USA 3-0 Trinidad and Tobago Costa Rica 3-1 USA USA 2-1 Honduras Mexico 2-1 USA USA 2-1 El Salvador Trinidad and Tobago 0-1 USA Honduras 2-3 USA USA 2-2 Costa Rica Team Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 10 6 2 2 19 13 +6 20Coach: Bob BradleyFIFA World Ranking: 14th

World Cup Appearances: 8 (1930, 1934, 1950, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006)Best Results: Third Place, 1930

Reignited with a vibrant team spirit

Return to a golden era?Steven Gerrard

Landon Donov

an

home away

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18 19

Fans of Les Fennecs (the Desert Foxes) will be rooting for their side to progress beyond the group stage at South Africa this year after coming so close in their previous World Cup appearances in 1982 and 1986. In the 24 years since their last appearance, Algeria has largely disappeared from global competition, only to claw its way back onto the international soccer map in the last few years.

But the road to South Africa was a rocky one. In the second and third qualifying rounds, Algeria won all six of their home games but lost three away fixtures, ending the qualifying group on equal terms with Egypt. Only after a play-off on neutral terrain were the Fennecs able to sink the hopes of their fierce rivals, with no love lost between fans of the two sides.

This time around, the Algerian squad is more solid and professional than ever and also much younger. Captain Yazid Mansouri brings strength in the midfield as an anchor for the whole team, while Antar Yahia of the French league provides solid support in defence. Weaknesses, if any, would be a lack of quality strikers plus the teams seeming inability to succeed anywhere away from their home turf.

Just getting to the World Cup is already an enormous success for Les Fennecs. Anything beyond the group round would transform the Algerian players into national heroes.

Tiny Slovenia, a nation of just 2 million people, has virtually achieved the impossible, defeating soccer giants Russia, Poland and the Czech Republic to secure a place at South Africa. Whats equally amazing is that this is not Slovenias first appearance in a World Cup; they also played in the Far East competition in 2002.

Most considered the group qualification to be a foregone conclusion, with Poland and Czech Republic expected to finish at the top. In reality, the reverse happened with Slovakia and Slovenia ending up in the pole position, with Slovenia forced into a playoff against the Russians. Once again, the unexpected happened, with Matjaz Keks team losing away but winning 1-0 at home and shocking the Russians with an overall win on goal difference.

In the 12 qualifying games, Slovenia only conceded a total of six goals, giving some idea of the Slovenians impressive, rock-solid defence. Players to watch include Colognes Milivoje Novakovic, one of the countrys top strikers, and Samir Handanovic, Slovenias top goalkeeper who currently plays in the Italian league.

Slovenia is considered the underdog of the UEFA countries and both players and coach will be very happy indeed to get through to the second round.

The StatsFixtures: V Slovenia (June 13, Polokwane), V England (June 18, Cape Town), V USA (June 23, Tshwane/Pretoria)Road to South Africa: 1st in CAF Group CResults: Rwanda 0-0 Algeria Algeria 3-1 Egypt Zambia 0-2 Algeria Algeria 1-0 Zambia Algeria 3-1 Rwanda Egypt 2-0 AlgeriaTeam Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 6 4 1 1 9 4 +5 13Coach: Rabah SaadaneFIFA World Ranking: 31st

World Cup Appearances: 2 (1982, 1986)Best Results: First Round, 1982 and 1986

The StatsFixtures: V Algeria (June 13, Polokwane), V USA (June 18, Johannesburg - JEP), V England (June 23, Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth)Road to South Africa: UEFA Play-off WinnerResults: Poland 1-1 Slovenia Slovenia 2-1 Slovakia Slovenia 2-0 Northern Ireland Czech Republic 1-0 Slovenia Slovenia 0-0 Czech Republic Northern Ireland 1-0 Slovenia Slovenia 5-0 San Marino Slovenia 3-0 Poland Slovakia 0-2 Slovenia San Marino 0-3 SloveniaTeam Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 10 6 2 2 18 4 +14 20Coach: Matjaz KekFIFA World Ranking: 23rd

World Cup Appearances: 1 (2002)Best Results: First Round, 2002

home away

home away

AlgeriaBack on the international soccer map

SloveniaBeware the giant slayers

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Chile

Germany has one of the most successful records in international

football, appearing at every World Cup competition except in

1930 and 1950 (which they didnt enter), winning the

championship three times and coming in second four times.

They share the record of appearing in seven World Cup finals

with Brazil This time around, Germany will be doing their best

to make it championship number four.

Germany breezed through their qualification round without

losing a single game, winning important matches against rivals

Russia and finishing well clear at the top of the Group 4 points

table.

The great strengths of the German side are experience, tactical

expertise, toughness and an unbreakable team spirit, which

make the side consistently successful in any competition. Their

only stumbling block in recent times has been an inability to

beat the top-performing international teams, particularly Brazil,

Italy and Spain.

Chelseas Michael Ballack, team captain, is the cornerstone

and leader of the German squad, with almost 100 caps to his

name. After coming so close to winning in the World Cup 2002

and the Euro 2008, he will be gunning for a victory in South

Africa, perhaps his last chance of a win at top-level international

competition. Miroslav Klose, another celebrated played in the

German side, won the Golden Shoe in the 2006 World Club.

He too will probably earn his 100th cap for Germany in South

Africa.

Without any doubt the Germans will only have one objective

in the summer of 2010: to win the World Cup.

GermanyWinning team spirit

I wouldnt say we were too lucky

with the draw. Its not going to be an

easy section, but its certainly not

beyond us. I dont think we need

to fear any of the sides were

up against because weve

got a very strong squad

o u r s e l v e s . I m

looking forward

to it!

Joachim LowGermany coach

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E Netherlands

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home away

The StatsFixtures: V Australia (June 13, Durban), V Serbia (June 18, Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth), V Ghana (June 23, Johannesburg - JSC)Road to South Africa: 1st in UEFA Group 4Results: Liechtenstein 0-6 Germany Finland 3-3 Germany Germany 2-1 Russia Germany 1-0 Wales Germany 4-0 Liechtenstein Wales 0-2 Germany Azerbaijan 0-2 Germany Germany 4-0 Azerbaijan Russia 0-1 Germany German 1-1 Finland Team Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 10 8 2 0 26 5 +21 26Coach: Joachim LowFIFA World Ranking: 6th

World Cup Appearances: 16 (1934, 1938, 1954, 1958, 1962, 1966, 1970, 1974, 1978, 1982, 1986, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006)Best Results: Winners, 1954, 1974, 1990

Luka

s P

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ASouth Africa Mexico Uruguay France

Mp W D L Gf Ga PtsTeam

Germany GhanaAustralia


Serbia

Netherlands JapanDenmark


Cameroon Honduras SwitzerlandSpain


Chile

Argentina Nigeria Korea Rep Greece


Italy SlovakiaNew Zealand


Paraguay

England AlgeriaUSA


Slovenia

Cote dIvoire Korea DPRBrazil


Portugal

W61Match 64 Johannesburg July 12 01:30 Channel 7

W62

July 1101:30Channel 11

Match 63NelsonMandela Bay/

Port Elizabeth

L61 L62

Match 49 Nelson Mandela Bay/Port ElizabethJune 26 21:00 Channel 11

2B1A

Match 50 RustenburgJune 27 01:30 Channel 9

2D1C

Match 51 Mangaung/BloemfonteinJune 27 21:00 Channel 7

2C1D

Match 52 JohannesburgJune 28 01:30 Channel 3

2A1B 2F1E

Match 53 DurbanJune 28 21:00 Channel 11

2H1G

Match 54 JohannesburgJune 29 01:30 Channel 9

2E1F

Match 55 Tshwane/PretoriaJune 29 21:00 Channel 7

2G1H

Match 56 Cape TownJune 30 01:30 Channel 3

W49 W50 W53 W54 W51 W52 W55 W56

W58 W57 W59 W60

W62W61

Match 61 Cape Town July 7 01:30 Channel 9

Match 62 DurbanJuly 08 01:30 Channel 3

Match 59 Cape Town July 03 21:00 Channel 11

Match 60 JohannesburgJuly 04 01:30 Channel 9

Match 57 Nelson Mandela Bay/Port ElizabethJuly 02 21:00 Channel 3

Match 58 JohannesburgJuly 02 01:30 Channel 7

England vs USARustenburg

June 13 01:30 Channel 3

Algeria vs SloveniaPolokwane


Slovenia vs USA Johannesburg - JEP


England vs AlgeriaCape Town


Slovenia vs EnglandNelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth


USA vs AlgeriaTshwane/Pretoria


South Africa vs MexicoJohannesburg - JSC


Uruguay vs FranceCape Town


South Africa vs UruguayTshwane/Pretoria


France vs MexicoPolokwane


Mexico vs UruguayRustenburg


France vs South AfricaMangaung/Bloemfontein


Argentina vs NigeriaJohannesburg - JEP


Korea Rep vs GreeceNelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth


Greece vs NigeriaMangaung/Bloemfontein


Argentina vs Korea RepJohannesburg - JSC


Nigeria vs Korea RepRepublic Durban


Greece vs ArgentinaPolokwane


Netherlands vs DenmarkJohannesburg - JSC


Japan vs CameroonMangaung/BloemfontaineJune 14 21:00 Channel 7

Netherlands vs JapanDurban


Cameroon vs DenmarkTshwane/Pretoria


Denmark vs JapanRustenburg


Cameroon vs NetherlandsCape Town


Italy vs ParaguayCape Town


New Zealand vs SlovakiaRustenburg


Slovakia vs ParaguayMangaung/Bloemfontein


Italy vs New ZealandNelspruit


Slovakia vs ItalyJohannesburg - JEP


Paraguay vs New ZealandPolokwane


Cote dIvoire vs PortugalNelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth


Brazil vs Korea DPRJohannesburg - JEP


Brazil vs Cote dIvoireJohannesburg - JSC


Portugal vs Korea DPRCape Town


Portugal vs BrazilDurban


Korea DPR vs Cote dIvoireNelspruit


Germany vs AustraliaDurban


Serbia vs GhanaTshwane/Pretoria


Germany vs SerbiaNelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth


Ghana vs AustraliaRustenburg


Ghana vs GermanyJohannesburg - JSC


Australia vs SerbiaNelspruit


Honduras vs ChileNelspruit


Spain vs SwitzerlandDurban


Chile vs SwitzerlandNelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth


Spain vs HondurasJohannesburg - JEP


Chile vs SpainTshwane/Pretoria


Switzerland vs HondurasNamgaung/Bloemfontein


B C D

E F HG

20 21

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Playing as Yugoslavia and later Serbia and Montenegro, Serbia

has appeared in a total of 10 World Cups. Playing independently

as Serbia since 2006, this will be their first World Cup, wearing

a new red and blue kit and going by the nickname Beli Orlovi

or the White Eagles.

Drawn in the same group as France in the qualifying rounds,

Serbia ended above Les Bleus, earning their pass to South

Africa with a game to spare. Although finishing above France

in the points table, Serbia lost away to the French side and

only managed a draw at home.

As in the 2006 World Cup, the Serbian team is once again rock

solid in defence. Manchester Uniteds Nemanja Vidic, 2008/9

English Premier League player of the season, together with

set-piece partner Branislav Jovanovic, provide a seemingly

impenetrable defensive wall. Milan Jovanovic, playing in the

Belgian league, is dangerous in attack, although the squad

wants for true world-class strikers.

Drawn against Australia, Germany and Ghana, the Serbian

side will probably make it through the group stage.

After that, anything is a bonus for the White

Eagles, which are playing in their first ever

World Cup as an independent team.

SerbiaRock solid defence

My team is very young, physically and

technically strong and without a doubt the

best Serbian team there has ever been.

Were a very positive-thinking group and

were always looking to improve. I believe in

my players and Im sure theyre going to have

a great World Cup.

Radomir AnticSerbia coach

The StatsFixtures: V Ghana (June 13, Tshwane/Pretoria), V Germany (June 18, Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth), V Australia (June 23, Nelspruit)Road to South Africa: 1st in UEFA Group 7Results: Serbia 2-0 Faroe Islands France 2-1 Serbia Serbia 3-1 Lithuania Austria 1-3 Serbia Romania 2-3 Serbia Serbia 1-0 Austria Faroe Islands 0-2 Serbia Serbia 1-1 France Serbia 5-0 Romania Lithuania 2-1 SerbiaTeam Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts

10 7 1 2 22 8 +14 22Coach: Radomir AnticFIFA World Ranking: 16th

World Cup Appearances: 10 (1930, 1950, 1954, 1958, 1962, 1974, 1982, 1990, 1998, 2006)Best Results: Fourth, 1930, 1962

Following a 32-year hiatus from the world soccer stage, Australia returned to international recognition with a strong and spirited campaign at the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany, which propelled them through to the knockout-stage, where Italy scored a last-minute goal to knock Guus Hiddinks valiant team out of the tournament.

The current squad, with a new Dutch coach, Pim Verbeek, features many of the Germany 2006 veterans and considers itself more confident, experienced and battle tested than before.

The Socceroos impressed in a grueling 14-match qualifying campaign, overcoming many talented national teams to finish top of Group 1 and become one of the first nations to qualify for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa.

Pim Verbeek reckons positional sense and aerial ability of Tim Cahill, with Harry Kewell and Brett Emerton on the flanks and Vince Grella and Jason Culina in the center, among a wealth of talented players, plus his proven tactical acumen, should see the Socceroos reaching the upper echelons of the competition in South Africa.

The only African side to pass through the group stage at the 2006 World Cup in Germany, Ghana is keen to show the world that they are the African team to watch at the 2010 World Cup.

The Black Stars, as the Ghanaian side is known, earned their ticket to South Africa after going unbeaten in the four opening matches of their final round, against Mali, Benin and Sudan. Their only slip, a shock 1-0 defeat at the hands of Benin, came after they had already qualified.

Ghanas pre-eminence on the pitch is founded on a world-class midfield with the likes of Chelsea player Michael Essien, Sulley Muntari and captain Stephen Appiah, who are efficient at stopping opposing attacks dead in their tracks while generating goal-making opportunities for the trio of strikers. John Mensah and John Paintsil together with Premier League goalie Richard Kingson maintain a solid defensive wall.

The Black Stars are keen to show their mettle at South Africa but face stiff competition in group D against rising stars Australia, an ever-present Serbia and unrelenting top seeds Germany. Realistically aiming for second place position in the group, Ghana will be going all out for a win against Australia in their second game on June 19.

The StatsFixtures: V Germany (June 13, Durban), V Ghana (June 19, Rustenburg), V Serbia (June 23, Nelspruit)Road to South Africa: 1st in AFC Group AResults: Uzbekistan 0-1 Australia Australia 4-0 Qatar Bahrain 0-1 Australia Japan 0-0 Australia Australia 2-0 Uzbekistan Qatar 0-0 Australia Australia 2-0 Bahrain Australia 2-1 JapanTeam Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 8 6 2 0 12 1 +11 20Coach: Pim VerbeekFIFA World Ranking: 20th

World Cup Appearances: 2 (1974, 2006)Best Results: Round of 16, 2006

The StatsFixtures: V Serbia (June 13, Tshwane/Pretoria), V Australia (June 19, Rustenburg), V Germany (June 23, Johannesburg - JSC)Road to South Africa: 1st in CAF Group DResults: Ghana 1-0 Benin Mali 0-2 Ghana Sudan 0-2 Ghana Ghana 2-0 Sudan Benin 1-0 Ghana Ghana 2-2 Mali Team Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 6 4 1 1 9 3 +6 13Coach: Milovan RajevacFIFA World Ranking: 32nd

World Cup Appearances: 1 (2006)Best Results: Round of 16, 2006

home away

home away

AustraliaA wealth of talent

GhanaBlack Stars ready to scintillate

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F Italy

Paraguay

New Zealand

Slovakia

Gro

up

G Brazil

Korea DPR

Cte d'Ivoire

Portugal

Gro

up

H Spain

Switzerland

Honduras

Chile

home away

Nema

nja V

idi

ENetherlands

Team

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up

E

Denma

rkGro

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Team

24 25

The Netherlands reached their peak in world football in the

1970s, impressing the world with two World Cup performances

but in both cases failing to take home the trophy. Now the

Oranje are back once again and could prove to be a dangerous

side to beat in South Africa.

Following a robust and relatively easy qualifying campaign,

picking up eight wins from eight games, including Scotland and

Norway, and finishing at the top of UEFA Group 9, the current

Netherlands team under their new coach, Bert van Marwijk,

are determined to provide a stellar performance during the

competition.

The Netherlands offensive line is very strong with Robin van

Persie, hot favourite Wesley Sneijder and fast-paced Arjen

Robben forming an invincible trio. Other key players in the

current Oranje squad include Captain Giovanni van Bronckhorst,

Joris Mathijsen, Andre Ooijer, Dirk Kuyt, Mark van Bommel,

Rafael van der Vaart, Klaas Jan Huntelaar and Nigel De Jong.

Calm, affable, discrete and approachable, new Coach Bert van

Marwijk said he never expected his team to win every qualifying

match, but, the players resolutely put our plan into action and

I am very proud of their success so far. If they keep up the

same form and attitude, they can beat anyone, he said.

Denmark have appeared in three previous World Cup

competitions, reaching the quarter finals stage in 1998 before

losing narrowly to heavyweights Brazil. Now the Olsen Gang

is back once again, the only Scandinavian side to reach South

Africa, and they will be looking to go one better than their

previous best performance.

With just one defeat in ten matches, Denmark qualified in style

by winning matches against group favourites Portugal and

fierce rivals Sweden. Hungary proved to be more of a stumbling

block for the Danes, although the final 1-0 loss to this team

was just academic, having already qualified for South Africa.

The Denmark squad is notably strong in midfield which makes

it tough for opponents to get within striking distance of the

Danish goal. The Danish Dynamites main weakness is up

front, with a dearth of top-quality strikers. Players to watch in

this side include Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner, an

experienced international player despite being only 22 years

of age, and show-stopping goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen, who

also played in the 2002 World Cup.

With such strong performances in previous World Cup

competitions the Danish Dynamite under popular team coach

Morten Olsen will be hoping for nothing less than a quarter

finals finish.

The NetherlandsDenmark

We have a mission: that mission is to be champions of the world.

Frank de Boerassistant coach

Its a group with different styles of

football from different continents, and I think

thats intriguing. We know Dutch football very

well and I think its obvious that they must be

the clear favourites in this section. We hope

to play well and hope also to be lucky. That

always helps!

Morten OlsenDenmark coach

Gro

up

A South Africa

Mexico

Uruguay

FranceG

rou

p B Argentina

Nigeria

Korea Republic

Greece

Gro

up

C England

USA

Algeria

Slovenia

Gro

up

D Germany

Australia

Serbia

Ghana

Gro

up

E Netherlands

Denmark

Japan

Cameroon

Gro

up

F Italy

Paraguay

New Zealand

Slovakia

Gro

up

G Brazil

Korea DPR

Cte d'Ivoire

Portugal

Gro

up

H Spain

Switzerland

Honduras

Chile

home away

The StatsFixtures: V Denmark (June 14, Johannesburg - JSC), V Japan (June 19, Durban), V Cameroon (June 24, Cape Town)Road to South Africa: 1st in UEFA Group 9Results: Macedonia 1-2 Netherlands Netherlands 2-0 Iceland Norway 0-1 Netherlands Netherlands 3-0 Scotland Netherlands 4-0 Macedonia Iceland 1-2 Netherlands Netherlands 2-0 Norway Scotland 0-1 NetherlandsTeam Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 8 8 0 0 17 2 +15 24Coach: Bert van MarwijkFIFA World Ranking: 4th

World Cup Appearances: 8 (1934, 1938, 1974, 1978, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2006)Best Results: Runners-Up, 1974, 1978

they can beat anyone

Danish Dynamite to explode on the scene

home away

The StatsFixtures: V Netherlands (June 14, Johannesburg - JSC), V Cameroon (June 19, Tshwane/Pretoria), V Japan (June 24, Rustenburg)Road to South Africa: 1st in UEFA Group 1Results: Hungary 0-0 Denmark Portugal 2-3 Denmark Denmark 3-0 Malta Malta 0-3 Denmark Denmark 3-0 Albania Sweden 0-1 Denmark Denmark 1-1 Portugal Albania 1-1 Denmark Denmark 1-0 Sweden Denmark 0-1 HungaryTeam Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 10 6 3 1 16 5 +11 21

Coach: Morten OlsenFIFA World Ranking: 35th

World Cup Appearances: 3 (1986, 1998, 2002)Best Results: Quarter Finals, 1998

Gro

up

A South Africa

Mexico

Uruguay

France

Gro

up

B Argentina

Nigeria

Korea Republic

Greece

Gro

up

C England

USA

Algeria

Slovenia

Gro

up

D Germany

Australia

Serbia

Ghana

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up

E Netherlands

Denmark

Japan

Cameroon

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up

F Italy

Paraguay

New Zealand

Slovakia

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up

G Brazil

Korea DPR

Cte d'Ivoire

Portugal

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up

H Spain

Switzerland

Honduras

Chile

Wes

ley

Sne

ijder

Daniel Agger

ECam

eroon

Team

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up

Japan

Team

F

Italy

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up

Team

26

Japan has won the last five editions of the AFC Asian Cup and is considered one of the strongest squads in Asian football, with high hopes for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa, which is their fourth appearance at the global showpiece.

Their first objective is to improve on their previous performance at the Germany 2006 tournament, when they were ousted at the first hurdle following a resounding 4-1 defeat by Brazil.

Key players in their current game plan include former Celtic and current Espanyol playmaker Shunsuke Nakamura; young midfielder Keisuke Honda, a gifted left-footer, currently with VW Venlo; and solid defender and captain, Yuji Nakazawa, holder of over 90 senior caps.

Japan Coach, Takeshi Okada, has stated there are no tactical changes to be implemented in the Japan teams game plan, as he had already set his basic tactical approach for winning against the worlds top teams during the qualifying rounds and intends to continue with this same approach during the 2010 FIFA World Cup tournament, where their initial target is to reach the semi-finals.

Cameroons five World Cup appearances with a quarter finals finish in 1990 put the country far ahead of any other African team in terms of World Cup experience. Now the Indomitable Lions are back once again with arguably the best squad ever and one of the worlds best strikers in the form of Samuel Etoo.

The Indomitables faltered a bit in the first matches of their qualification round, losing to Togo and drawing to Morocco, while underdogs Gabon won their first two matches. Things picked up a bit with the arrival of coach Paul Le Guen, giving the Cameroonians four wins in a row and a ticket to their sixth World Cup.

With their star striker from Inter Milan at the top of his form, the Cameroon squad is expected to excel up front. But the sides midfield is also reckoned to be hard to beat with quality players like Jean Makoun, Stephane Mbia and Alexandre Song. Idriss Carlos Kameni, the Phenomenon of Espanyol and one of the top goalkeepers from Africa, will prove a tough nut to crack for the opposing sides.

At South Africa, anything less than their 1990 performance the quarter finals will be considered a disappointment. All eyes will be on Samuel Etoo and the other Indomitable Lions to deliver what everyone knows they are capable of.

The StatsFixtures: V Cameroon (June 14, Mangaung/Bloemfontein), V Netherlands (June 19, Durban), V Denmark (June 24, Rustenburg)Road to South Africa: 2nd in AFC Group AResults: Bahrain 2-3 Japan Japan 1-1 Uzbekistan Qatar 0-3 Japan Japan 0-0 Australia Japan 1-0 Bahrain Uzbekistan 0-1 Japan Japan 1-1 Qatar Australia 2-1 JapanTeam Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 8 4 3 1 11 6 +5 15Coach: Takeshi OkadaFIFA World Ranking: 45th

World Cup Appearances: 3 (1998, 2002, 2006)Best Results: Round of 16, 2002

The StatsFixtures: V Japan (June 14, Mangaung/Bloemfontein), V Denmark (June 19, Tshwane/Pretoria), V Netherlands (June 24, Cape Town)Road to South Africa:1st in CAF Group AResults: Togo 1-0 Cameroon Cameroon 0-0 Morocco Gabon 0-2 Cameroon Cameroon 2-1 Gabon Cameroon 3-0 Togo Morocco 0-2 CameroonTeam Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 6 4 1 1 9 2 +7 13Coach: Paul Le GuenFIFA World Ranking: 19th

World Cup Appearances: 5 (1982, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002)Best Results: Quarter Finals, 1990

home away

home away

JapanOne of the strongest squads in Asian football

CameroonAfricas indomitable spirit

Gro

up

A South Africa

Mexico

Uruguay

France

Gro

up

B Argentina

Nigeria

Korea Republic

Greece

Gro

up

C England

USA

Algeria

Slovenia

Gro

up

D Germany

Australia

Serbia

Ghana

Gro

up

E Netherlands

Denmark

Japan

Cameroon

Gro

up

F Italy

Paraguay

New Zealand

Slovakia

Gro

up

G Brazil

Korea DPR

Cte d'Ivoire

Portugal

Gro

up

H Spain

Switzerland

Honduras

Chile

Gro

up

A South Africa

Mexico

Uruguay

France

Gro

up

B Argentina

Nigeria

Korea Republic

Greece

Gro

up

C England

USA

Algeria

Slovenia

Gro

up

D Germany

Australia

Serbia

Ghana

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up

E Netherlands

Denmark

Japan

Cameroon

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up

F Italy

Paraguay

New Zealand

Slovakia

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up

G Brazil

Korea DPR

Cte d'Ivoire

Portugal

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up

H Spain

Switzerland

Honduras

Chile

Defending champions Italy is the only team other than Brazil

to win the World Cup tournament twice in succession, in 1934

and 1938. After victory in 2006, the Italians will be hoping for

a repeat performance in South Africa.

In qualifying for South Africa 2010, Italy topped Group 8 by

employing their traditional efficiency and pragmatism to record

seven wins and three draws, while firing in 18 goals

and conceding seven.

As one of the finest goalkeepers on the planet,

Gianluigi Buffon is one of two pillars in the

Italian defence; the other being their Captain

Fabio Cannavaro, with his superb

posit ioning sense and the vast

experience of his 130 caps. Midfielder

Gennaro Gattuso is an all-round

talent; while strikers Alberto

Gilardino, Antonio di Natale and

Simone Pepe are each capable

of being an ever and present

danger near any goalmouth.

One of the Titans in world

football, Coach Marcello

L i p p i p o s s e s s e s

extensive experience

as a club manager

and national coach.

He is looking forward

to the tournament in South Africa

and feels confident in the ability of his

team to pull it off, yet again!

Italy No team is superior to Italy. I dont want to say that were better than everyone, but

you might say that were not inferior to any

other team.

Marcello LippiItaly coach

27

Gro

up

A South Africa

Mexico

Uruguay

France

Gro

up

B Argentina

Nigeria

Korea Republic

Greece

Gro

up

C England

USA

Algeria

Slovenia

Gro

up

D Germany

Australia

Serbia

GhanaG

rou

p E Netherlands

Denmark

Japan

Cameroon

Gro

up

F Italy

Paraguay

New Zealand

Slovakia

Gro

up

G Brazil

Korea DPR

Cte d'Ivoire

Portugal

Gro

up

H Spain

Switzerland

Honduras

Chile

home away

The StatsFixtures: V Paraguay (June 14, Cape Town), V New Zealand (June 20, Nelspruit), V Slovakia (June 24, Johannesburg - JEP)Road to South Africa: 1st in UEFA Group 8Results: Cyprus 1-2 Italy Italy 2-0 Georgia Bulgaria 0-0 Italy Italy 2-1 Montenegro Montenegro 0-2 Italy Italy 1-1 Republic of Ireland Georgia 0-2 Italy Italy 2-0 Bulgaria Republic of Ireland 2-2 Italy Italy 3-2 CyprusTeam Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 10 7 3 0 18 7 +11 24Coach: Marcello LippiFIFA World Ranking: 5th

World Cup Appearances: 16 (1934, 1938, 1950, 1954, 1962, 1966, 1970, 1974, 1978, 1982, 1986, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006)Best Results: Winners, 1934, 1938, 1982, 2006

Can they pull it off,yet again!

Gen

naro

Gat

tuso

FGroup

Paraguay

Team

F

New

Zea

land

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up

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Slov

akia

Team

28 29

Paraguay will make their eighth FIFA World Cup finals

appearance and their fourth in a row at 2010 FIFA World Cup

South Africa. Stunned by their first round elimination in Germany

2006, the Paraguay team, under the guidance of their

Argentinean coach Gerardo Martino, are determined to avoid

a similar outcome this time around.

Coach Martino can choose from a large core of international

players with a wealth of experience playing for foreign clubs in

Europe. These include proven strikers Roque Santa Cruz,

Nelson Haedo Valdez and Oscar Cardozo, plus goalkeeper

Justo Villar and midfielders Edgar Barreto and Cristian Riveros.

The Albirroja qualified for South Africa in third place in the

CONMEBOL rankings, below Brazil and Chile, but above

Argentina and Uruguay. The team conceded just 16 goals in

18 matches, an indication of the strength of Paraguays defence.

Based on their impressive

qual ificat ion campaign,

Paraguay are entitled to an

increasing air of confidence

as they approach their

fourth consecutive World

Cup appearance, relying on

experienced players backed by a host of young talent eager

to make their mark in South Africa.

Paraguayhome away

The StatsFixtures: V Italy (June 14, Cape Town), V Slovakia (June 20, Mangaung/Bloemfontein), V New Zealand (June 24, Polokwane)Road to South Africa: 3rd in CONMEBOL GroupResults: Peru 0-0 Paraguay Paraguay 1-0 Uruguay Paraguay 5-1 Ecuador Chile 0-3 Paraguay Paraguay 2-0 Brazil Bolivia 4-2 Paraguay Argentina 1-1 Paraguay Paraguay 2-0 Venezuela Colombia 0-1 Paraguay Paraguay 1-0 Peru Uruguay 2-0 Paraguay Ecuador 1-1 Paraguay Paraguay 0-2 Chile Brazil 2-1 Paraguay Paraguay 1-0 Bolivia Paraguay 1-0 Argentina Venezuela 1-2 Paraguay Paraguay 0-2 ColombiaTeam Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 18 10 3 5 24 16 +8 33Coach: Gerardo MartinoFIFA World Ranking: 30th

World Cup Appearances: 7 (1930, 1950, 1958, 1986, 1998, 2002, 2006)Best Results: Round of 16, 1986, 1998, 2002

A large core of experienced international players

Under their new coach, Ricki Herbert, New Zealand are making their first appearance on the world soccer stage in 28 years, following their debut in Spain in 1982, when Ricki was a player.

After finishing top in the Oceania group, New Zealand played and won a two-leg play off against Bahrain, sufficient to earn them a ticket to South Africa 2010.

Following an unsuccessful bid four years ago, Ricki Herbert has since turned the All Whites into a cohesive and formidable team. Captain Ryan Nelsen is a resolute defender, while Shane Smeltz possesses a prolific all-round finishing ability and goalkeeper Mark Paston demonstrated his sharpness with an impressive penalty save in the Bahrain qualifier. Chris Killen has proved to be the perfect foil for Smeltz, while Rory Fallon and Chris Wood have both revealed good quality aerial talent.

Set to claim the unique honour of player and manager in his nations only two World Cup appearances, Ricki Herbert is full of optimism for his teams chances, saying his team has given four years of total commitment to the competition, resulting in them being back and ready for South Africa 2010!

The 2010 World Cup in South Africa will be Slovakias first World Cup appearance as an independent nation, although Slovak players have participated on eight previous occasions as part of the Czechoslovakian national team, which came in second in 1934 and 1962.

Slovakia came out on top in the European qualification Group 3, sinking the hopes of favourites Poland and Czech Republic. Their nearest rivals and underdogs Slovenia proved to be the biggest thorn in the sides of the Slovaks, handing them their only two losses of the qualifiers at home and away.

Slovakia is notably solid in defence, with goalkeeper Jan Mucha and Liverpool center back Martin Skrtel providing support for the squad. A lack of experienced international-level players, particularly strikers, might prove an obstacle to Slovakias progression in South Africa.

On paper, the odds of Slovakia getting much further than the group stage are slim. But if they can repeat the magic they displayed against reputedly greater rivals during the qualification stages then the world could be in for another surprise.

The StatsFixtures: V Slovakia (June 15, Rustenburg), V Italy (June 20, Nelspruit), V Paraguay (June 24, Polokwane)Road to South Africa: OFC v AFC Play-off WinnerResults: Fiji 0-2 New Zealand Vanuatu 1-2 New Zealand New Zealand 4-1 Vanuatu New Caledonia 1-3 New Zealand New Zealand 3-0 New Caledonia New Zealand 0-2 FijiTeam Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 6 5 0 1 14 5 +9 15Coach: Ricki HerbertFIFA World Ranking: 78th

World Cup Appearances: 1 (1982)Best Result: First Round, 1982

The StatsFixtures: V New Zealand (June 15, Rustenburg), V Paraguay (June 20, Mangaung/Bloemfontein), V Italy (June 24, Johannesburg - JEP)Road to South Africa: 1st in European Group 3Results: Slovakia 2-1 Northern Ireland Slovenia 2-1 Slovakia San Marino 1-3 Slovakia Slovakia 2-1 Poland Czech Republic 1-2 Slovakia Slovakia 7-0 San Marino Slovakia 2-2 Czech Republic Northern Ireland 0-2 Slovakia Slovakia 0-2 Slovenia Poland 0-1 SlovakiaTeam Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts 10 7 1 2 22 10 +12 22Coach: Vladimir WeissFIFA World Ranking: 38th

World Cup Appearances: First appearanceBest Results: Runners-Up, 1934, 1962

home away

home away

New Zealand a cohesive and formidable team

SlovakiaCan they surprise again?

Gro

up

A South Africa

Mexico

Uruguay

France

Gro

up

B Argentina

Nigeria

Korea Republic

Greece

Gro

up

C England

USA

Algeria

Slovenia

Gro

up

D Germany

Australia

Serbia

Ghana

Gro

up

E Netherlands

Denmark

Japan

Cameroon

Gro

up

F Italy

Paraguay

New Zealand

Slovakia

Gro

up

G Brazil

Korea DPR

Cte d'Ivoire

Portugal

Gro

up

H Spain

Switzerland

Honduras

Chile

Gro

up

A South Africa

Mexico

Uruguay

France

Gro

up

B Argentina

Nigeria

Korea Republic

Greece

Gro

up

C England

USA

Algeria

Slovenia

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up

D Germany

Australia

Serbia

Ghana

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up

E Netherlands

Denmark

Japan

Cameroon

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up

F Italy

Paraguay

New Zealand

Slovakia

Gro

up

G Brazil

Korea DPR

Cte d'Ivoire

Portugal

Gro

up

H Spain

Switzerland

Honduras

Chile

Gro

up

A South Africa

Mexico

Uruguay

France

Gro

up

B Argentina

Nigeria

Korea Republic

Greece

Gro

up

C England

USA

Algeria

Slovenia

Gro

up

D Germany

Australia

Serbia

Ghana

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up

E Netherlands

Denmark

Japan

Cameroon

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up

F Italy

Paraguay

New Zealand

Slovakia

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G Brazil

Korea DPR

Cte d'Ivoire

Portugal

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up

H Spain

Switzerland

Honduras

Chile

We have some of the best players in

the world. What is important is that we face

all our opponents in good form and with our

best skills. This will be a great experience for

all of our young players. It is a great

opportunity for them to play against the very

best teams in the world.

Gerardo MartinoParaguay coach

Roqu

e San

ta Cr

uz

GGroup

Brazil

Team

GGroup

Portugal

Team

30 31

Bearing in mind their impressive record as five-times world

champions and competitors at every World Cup tournament,

Brazil is always viewed as a strong contender to seize the

crown once again. Having skippered Brazil to victory in the

1994 USA tournament, Coach Dunga is fully

aware that anything short of a sixth world

crown will be considered a failure.

With five wins in a row in the qualifying

round, including an impressive 4-0 rout of

Uruguay and dramatic 3-1 defeat

of arch-r ivals Argent ina

(confirming their passage to

South Africa), Brazil, once

again, takes up the mantle

of Forget the rest, were

the team to beat if you

can!

Picking players in a country

replete with so many talented

individuals will always be tough,

but strong contenders include

Kaka (Real Madr id) ; Lu is

Fabiano, a world-class finisher;

keeper Julio Cesar, vital to defence; and

new boy Ramires, their energetic young

midfielder. Whatever happens, all squads

know deep down - Brazil is the team to watch

out for!

Despite displaying some dazzling football as finalists at UEFA

EURO 2004 and semi-finalists at Germany 2006, landing a

major prize continues to evade Portugal and expectations are

therefore sure to be running high for a good run this time,

preferably all the way to the finals in South Africa.

Qualification wasnt an overwhelming success for Portugal

however. The team started out falteringly,

earning just six points out of a possible

15. In the second half of the qualifying

rounds, Portugal pulled from behind

with a run of impressive victories,

finishing second in the table behind

Denmark. Portugal then beat

Bosnia-Herzegovina in the

play-off, earning a pass to

South Africa.

All eyes will be on

Captain, Cristiano

Rona ldo , who

excels on the big

occasion and whose

unique talent for creating goals and ability

to snatch goals, is legendary. Goalkeeper

Rui Patricio is also a favourite for selection,

as are defenders Paulo Ferreira and sure-

footed Ricardo Car

fifa 2010 final

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