Yugoslavia, Serbia and Montengro and now simply Serbia, this is the first time technically that Serbia, as a single nation, has qualified for the World Cup. Yet, talisman Dejan Stankovic has appeared in the finals under all three. Serbia though qualified in style, with consistency being the key, knocking France off their perch to book a place in South Africa 2010.
Serbia did lose away at France and could only muster a draw against a French side that had been reduced to 10men early on, yet they were faultless throughout the rest of their qualifying campaign (apart from a 2-1 loss to Lithuania after they had already topped the group). Qualification was secured with a 5-0 thrashing of Romania.
The manager Raddy Antic is the only person ever to manage all three of the big three in Spain, Atletico Madrid, Real Madrid and Barcelona. He has instilled a unity amongst the squad, something which at times they had lacked in previous campaigns, like when Sava Milosevic had a training ground incident with Kezman and Vidic – three people I would never get into an incident with...
However, with the players now totally focused on the game in hand, the team has been able to play some rather attractive attacking football, earning them the reputation of dark horses at this year’s World Cup.
Naturally, when thinking about a nation such as Serbia, connotations of fierce tackling, shaven headed, aggressive defenders spring to mind, and the Beli Orlovi’s (white eagles) do not disappoint. Nemanja Vidic is quite simply, a nutter. He attacks everything, fears nobody and loves a tough tackle, attributes that have made him a world-class centre-back.
For Manchester United he has been instrumental, for Serbia he is the keystone that holds the bridge up on the strength of his own two shoulder-blades. In qualifying for the 2006 World Cup Serbia and Montenegro conceded one goal in 10 games with him playing. In the finals when he was injured, they leaked 10 in 3 games. Vidic is Serbia.
If you thought facing him was bad enough, Serbia have Ivanovic there also. As well as his defensive capabilities the Chelsea man also scored 3 goals in qualifying. Set pieces are something Serbia are exceedingly good at, conceding from only 1 in qualifying, yet scoring from 8. Vidic’s defensive partner shall be Aleksander Lukovic, another man who thrives on a strong tackle.
Unusually though for a team of the modern era, Serbia do not play with a holding midfield player. Captain and current Inter Milan legend, Dejan Stankovic, shares the defensive and attacking role with Wolves’ Nenad Milijas. They work as a pair, if one goes, the other stays, and vice versa, but then with such solid defenders, why would you need a holding midfielder?
Antic believes in playing creative, attacking football and so two people to keep an eye on in South Africa are the two wingers, Milos Krasic and Milan Jovanovic. Kraisic plays on the right-wing and was voted Serbia’s player of the year in 2009. Jovanovic plays on the left and was the top scorer in qualifiers with 5 goals in 8 games. Both are highly rated, so much so Liverpool have snapped up Jovanovic before the World Cup has begun.
To complete the outfield team, Pantelic and Zigic play up top. There are concerns over Pantelic’s ability at international level, yet no doubt he will silence his critics at the finals. Zigic is Serbia’s Peter Crouch. All 6ft 7½inches of him provide the perfect target for longballs, if the team has to resort to that tactic. However, his team work rate also provides opportunities for others around him.
The wink link may be the keeper. Stojkovic technically plays for Wigan Athletic, but I say technically because he doesn’t really get a game, as Kirkland has the number 1 jersey. Despite this he is Antic’s firm choice keeper, but then he got Serbia into the World Cup, so no doubt he be looking to keep them there for as long as possible.
Serbia have been unfortunate, landing in the only group in the World Cup that is full of teams who finished top of their respective qualifying groups. Many people expect Ghana to provide a shock and Australia have often performed well previously in tournaments. And after that there is also a German side who, although look poor on paper (by their standards), generally outdo themselves in World competitions.
Serbia do have quality throughout their side. The midfield, strike force and defence all possess elements of the world class, yet whether they can hold it all together to negotiate a difficult group is another matter. If they do come second in Group D, a horrifying match against England will no doubt await. A fait more horrifying for the English than the Serbs. Let’s just hope it does not come to that.
Wednesday, 2 June 2010
Portugal
Second only to France as the most hated team at the World Cup, Portugal set out to overturn a dismal qualifying campaign to once again reassert their worldwide prowess. Naturally this hatred stems from jealousy, England have been knocked out by Portugal in the quarterfinals of the last two competitions they have qualified for – 2004 and 2006 – and in 2002, they got beaten in the quarters by Brazil, a nation who many of the current Portuguese squad are controversially from.
Sir Alex Ferguson’s previous assistant Carlos Queiroz is the man in charge of Portugal and his popularity is not high amongst the Portuguese supporters. Only 1 win in the first 5 qualifiers left Portugal on the brink of embarrassment, and Queiroz took his fair share of the flack. However, a last minute winner by Bruno Alves in Albania created some momentum.
Portugal snuck into second place behind Denmark, squeezing past Sweden into the play-offs where they were drawn against Bosnia and Herzegovina. 1-0 home and away does not show much of a beating, but they did comfortably outplay their eastern opponents.
One potential worry, apart from the group they have been drawn in, is that main man Cristiano Ronaldo failed to even score in qualifying. Anyone who can remember his glory days at Manchester United may have noticed that he tends to overcomplicate things in big matches, trying so hard to create something glorious, he forgets to simply run at his opponents. Also, he does get surrounded by three men as soon as the ball reaches his wondrous feet.
Come the start of the tournament though and no doubt Ronaldo will be back to his same eye-winking, greasy self. Although, he is not the only attacking option they have, usually adopting a 4-3-3 formation. Nani is finally coming into his own at Manchester United and it is hoped he will carry this form into the finals.
In the middle of the front three is one of the Brazilians. Liedson’s years of residency in Portugal means he has finally achieved national citizenship, much to the annoyance of some in the country. However, his 3 goals in 7 caps has done a little to quieten the critics. Expect him to be among the scorers in South Africa.
Behind these three lightning players, Deco and Raul Meireles will conduct. Deco being the creative playmaker, whilst Meireles is more akin to playing a typical box-to-box midfielder role. Expect these two to be running the games, competitive but inventive when on the ball.
One of the most expensive defenders in the world, Pepe, will sit in front of the back four, providing a domineering force in midfield. The Real Madrid star is another man born in Brazil but his doubts remain only in fitness, having picked up a knee injury in the second half of the season.
The back four go on to show the class that Portugal possess, with Paulo Ferreira, Bruno Alves, Ricardo Carvalho and Miguel providing a world-class defensive line. Expect Carvalho especially to be a commanding force, organising his defence and generally keeping goals to a minimum.
Unfortunately for the Seleccao das Quinas, their poor form in qualifying meant that they did not make one of the seeded sides when the groups were made in December. Due to this they were always likely to find themselves in a group with one good side, however, for the Ivory Coast to land in that group also was extremely unfortunate, as Group G became the “Group of Death”.
Brazil may prove too good an opponent, yet the Ivory Coast are beatable, meaning the Portuguese’s first game in the tournament against the Elephants, is probably the pivotal one. If a draw occurs, the outcome may well possibly be decided on goal difference, so good luck to North Korea.
Portugal clearly have the talent, some of their players are the best in the world at what they do. Yet, their performance in qualifying was less than inspiring. Their group in South Africa is hard, but they will probably progress over the Ivory Coast. Portugal’s main problem though, is that their players are all exceptionally talented individuals. The skills, the tricks and the flicks all look good, but the lack of team players may well cost them. They will look to individuals to provide moments of inspiration in every game. A task surely too tall if they want to win every game in the finals.
Sir Alex Ferguson’s previous assistant Carlos Queiroz is the man in charge of Portugal and his popularity is not high amongst the Portuguese supporters. Only 1 win in the first 5 qualifiers left Portugal on the brink of embarrassment, and Queiroz took his fair share of the flack. However, a last minute winner by Bruno Alves in Albania created some momentum.
Portugal snuck into second place behind Denmark, squeezing past Sweden into the play-offs where they were drawn against Bosnia and Herzegovina. 1-0 home and away does not show much of a beating, but they did comfortably outplay their eastern opponents.
One potential worry, apart from the group they have been drawn in, is that main man Cristiano Ronaldo failed to even score in qualifying. Anyone who can remember his glory days at Manchester United may have noticed that he tends to overcomplicate things in big matches, trying so hard to create something glorious, he forgets to simply run at his opponents. Also, he does get surrounded by three men as soon as the ball reaches his wondrous feet.
Come the start of the tournament though and no doubt Ronaldo will be back to his same eye-winking, greasy self. Although, he is not the only attacking option they have, usually adopting a 4-3-3 formation. Nani is finally coming into his own at Manchester United and it is hoped he will carry this form into the finals.
In the middle of the front three is one of the Brazilians. Liedson’s years of residency in Portugal means he has finally achieved national citizenship, much to the annoyance of some in the country. However, his 3 goals in 7 caps has done a little to quieten the critics. Expect him to be among the scorers in South Africa.
Behind these three lightning players, Deco and Raul Meireles will conduct. Deco being the creative playmaker, whilst Meireles is more akin to playing a typical box-to-box midfielder role. Expect these two to be running the games, competitive but inventive when on the ball.
One of the most expensive defenders in the world, Pepe, will sit in front of the back four, providing a domineering force in midfield. The Real Madrid star is another man born in Brazil but his doubts remain only in fitness, having picked up a knee injury in the second half of the season.
The back four go on to show the class that Portugal possess, with Paulo Ferreira, Bruno Alves, Ricardo Carvalho and Miguel providing a world-class defensive line. Expect Carvalho especially to be a commanding force, organising his defence and generally keeping goals to a minimum.
Unfortunately for the Seleccao das Quinas, their poor form in qualifying meant that they did not make one of the seeded sides when the groups were made in December. Due to this they were always likely to find themselves in a group with one good side, however, for the Ivory Coast to land in that group also was extremely unfortunate, as Group G became the “Group of Death”.
Brazil may prove too good an opponent, yet the Ivory Coast are beatable, meaning the Portuguese’s first game in the tournament against the Elephants, is probably the pivotal one. If a draw occurs, the outcome may well possibly be decided on goal difference, so good luck to North Korea.
Portugal clearly have the talent, some of their players are the best in the world at what they do. Yet, their performance in qualifying was less than inspiring. Their group in South Africa is hard, but they will probably progress over the Ivory Coast. Portugal’s main problem though, is that their players are all exceptionally talented individuals. The skills, the tricks and the flicks all look good, but the lack of team players may well cost them. They will look to individuals to provide moments of inspiration in every game. A task surely too tall if they want to win every game in the finals.
Paraguay
When the national team of Paraguay comes up in conversation, there is only one man worth talking about, Jose Luis Chilavert. The goalkeeper with a bulldog imprinted across his chest was a deadball specialist, and never as a 10year old boy whilst watching France 98 did I ever get more excited than when he came striding up the pitch to take a freekick. It replicas the feeling of when a team is losing by a goal in the last minute of the game and the keeper comes up for a corner, the sheer madness is exuberating.
However, those magical days are now over, but a new influx of talent has embraced the challenge of international football. The Guaranies took the South American World Cup qualifying campaign by storm, racing to 13 points from 5 games, beating both Chile and Brazil. They did appear to stutter towards the latter stages, however, they notched up their biggest ever points total, finishing 3rd, one point behind the top placed Brazil.
Argentinian manager Gerardo Martino has his team well set-up, with a versatile defence. The side only conceded 16 goals in qualifying, the second lowest of the South American sides. They may play four at the back, or go for a flat back three, either way they are more than competent.
Despite having a strong defence, it is Paraguay’s strikers that have made all the headlines. Their top scoring forward in qualifying Salvador Cabanas got shot in the head in Mexico City back in January. The bullet remains in his skull and despite his protestations to play, doctors have informed Cabanas that it would be too dangerous.
This unfortunate occurrence has however not left La Albirroja without a top class striker, as Borussia Dortmund’s Nelson Haedo Valdez is still available. His strike rate of 9 goals in 38 caps needs a little improvement, but he was the second top goalscorer for the team in qualifying with 5 goals so his form may be on the up.
Along with Haedo Valdez Paraguay boast the use of Roque Santa Cruz. The Premier League has seen a mixture of performances from the lanky striker, yet his class is unquestionable. The fact that he is warming the bench now-a-days says more about Carlos Tevez and Craig Bellamy then it does about the hot and cold Paraguayan.
Paraguay have landed a favourable draw in South Africa, in a very progressible Group F. Italy are the seeded side in the group and should cruise through. Although, Paraguay have beaten Brazil and Argentina in qualifying and so should not be underestimated. Slovakia and New Zealand are the other opponents and so I would fully expect to see them advance to the last 16.
This is the fourth consecutive finals Paraguay have been involved in. In 2006 they failed to make it out of England’s group, but in 98 and 2002 they progressed to the last 16. Having never been past this point, the South Americans will be looking to advance to the quarterfinals, yet a last 16 match against the Netherlands is likely and so their tournament may well once again end there.
Paraguay have a very capable side and could be one of the teams that causes an upset in South Africa. The new generation of players have a lot to live up to but with the likes of Santa Cruz and Cristian Riveros they have the potential to do well. Whether or not they will be able to recreate the magic of 74 caps and 8 goals that Chilavert brought is another matter, but then again, even Emile Heskey’s 58 caps and 7 goals cannot do that.
However, those magical days are now over, but a new influx of talent has embraced the challenge of international football. The Guaranies took the South American World Cup qualifying campaign by storm, racing to 13 points from 5 games, beating both Chile and Brazil. They did appear to stutter towards the latter stages, however, they notched up their biggest ever points total, finishing 3rd, one point behind the top placed Brazil.
Argentinian manager Gerardo Martino has his team well set-up, with a versatile defence. The side only conceded 16 goals in qualifying, the second lowest of the South American sides. They may play four at the back, or go for a flat back three, either way they are more than competent.
Despite having a strong defence, it is Paraguay’s strikers that have made all the headlines. Their top scoring forward in qualifying Salvador Cabanas got shot in the head in Mexico City back in January. The bullet remains in his skull and despite his protestations to play, doctors have informed Cabanas that it would be too dangerous.
This unfortunate occurrence has however not left La Albirroja without a top class striker, as Borussia Dortmund’s Nelson Haedo Valdez is still available. His strike rate of 9 goals in 38 caps needs a little improvement, but he was the second top goalscorer for the team in qualifying with 5 goals so his form may be on the up.
Along with Haedo Valdez Paraguay boast the use of Roque Santa Cruz. The Premier League has seen a mixture of performances from the lanky striker, yet his class is unquestionable. The fact that he is warming the bench now-a-days says more about Carlos Tevez and Craig Bellamy then it does about the hot and cold Paraguayan.
Paraguay have landed a favourable draw in South Africa, in a very progressible Group F. Italy are the seeded side in the group and should cruise through. Although, Paraguay have beaten Brazil and Argentina in qualifying and so should not be underestimated. Slovakia and New Zealand are the other opponents and so I would fully expect to see them advance to the last 16.
This is the fourth consecutive finals Paraguay have been involved in. In 2006 they failed to make it out of England’s group, but in 98 and 2002 they progressed to the last 16. Having never been past this point, the South Americans will be looking to advance to the quarterfinals, yet a last 16 match against the Netherlands is likely and so their tournament may well once again end there.
Paraguay have a very capable side and could be one of the teams that causes an upset in South Africa. The new generation of players have a lot to live up to but with the likes of Santa Cruz and Cristian Riveros they have the potential to do well. Whether or not they will be able to recreate the magic of 74 caps and 8 goals that Chilavert brought is another matter, but then again, even Emile Heskey’s 58 caps and 7 goals cannot do that.
Tuesday, 1 June 2010
North Korea
North Korea. As far as players, tactics and the manager are concerned, it is hard to find any real conclusive evidence on who is in fact going to turn up for this most secretive of nations. I can tell you however, that they play in either a red strip or a white one. I also find the fact that they have been labelled the “underdogs” rather ironic, it does however certainly go a long way to proving the phrase ‘you are what you eat’.
North Korea qualified for only their second ever World Cup on the last day of qualifying thanks to a 0-0 draw away at Saudi Arabia, with South Korea holding Iran to a 1-1 draw. This meant that they came second in the group on goal difference, pipping Saudi Arabia to that all elusive World Cup slot. Over 14 games they had scored 11 goals, but their impressive defensive record proved enough, conceding only 5.
Joking aside, most of their players play their football in the North Korean national league meaning that evidence about their football technique is hard to come by. However, one player can be seen in Europe, striker Hong Yong-jo for Russian club Rostov. Probably due to the fact that analysts can find information on him more than anything else, he has been dubbed Korea DPR’s main hope of success. In fairness though, he did score 4 goals in the qualifying campaign, so hopefully he can put one away in South Africa.
In 1966 North Korea stunned the World by making it through to the quarterfinals of the competition after a 1-0 victory over Italy saw them progress to that stage. Even more astounding was the fact that they went 3-0 up against Portugal, only to see Eusebio score 4 to send Portugal through to the semi-finals, 5-3 the eventual score. To see them cause so much upset this year would be sensational.
North Korea are the unlucky participants in the “Group of Death”, Group G. Brazil, Portugal and the Ivory Coast all await the men from Asia. The Choilima are basically just making up the numbers this year. If they score a goal it will be a miracle, if they earn a point a nuclear war may even be averted. If they progressed to the next round a nuclear war may have already started, with the first three targets being Brazil, Portugal and the Ivory Coast.
Manager Kim Jong-hun will likely adopt a very defensive formation. That suits their natural style apparently, but then again, what other option would they have in South Africa? Expect to see all 11 men behind the ball, harassing the opposition, tenacious like their Southern counterparts, some may even say dogged.
The men from North Korea have done brilliant to make it to South Africa and will no doubt enjoy their time there. The experience of playing against such top class opposition – the likes of Kaka, Ronaldo and Drogba – is a memory that nobody is ever going to be able to take away from them. Unfortunately, none of their homeland is ever going to read about on the internet. They will watch the games on screens though, just not live.
Come the end of the group stages they will be going home, yet many of their names may be more common upon the tongue. For once, North Korea are going to be the team that everyone wants to win, but realistically, they have as much chance as Ronaldo turning up without doing his hair. But what do they expect, it’s a dog eat dog world.
North Korea qualified for only their second ever World Cup on the last day of qualifying thanks to a 0-0 draw away at Saudi Arabia, with South Korea holding Iran to a 1-1 draw. This meant that they came second in the group on goal difference, pipping Saudi Arabia to that all elusive World Cup slot. Over 14 games they had scored 11 goals, but their impressive defensive record proved enough, conceding only 5.
Joking aside, most of their players play their football in the North Korean national league meaning that evidence about their football technique is hard to come by. However, one player can be seen in Europe, striker Hong Yong-jo for Russian club Rostov. Probably due to the fact that analysts can find information on him more than anything else, he has been dubbed Korea DPR’s main hope of success. In fairness though, he did score 4 goals in the qualifying campaign, so hopefully he can put one away in South Africa.
In 1966 North Korea stunned the World by making it through to the quarterfinals of the competition after a 1-0 victory over Italy saw them progress to that stage. Even more astounding was the fact that they went 3-0 up against Portugal, only to see Eusebio score 4 to send Portugal through to the semi-finals, 5-3 the eventual score. To see them cause so much upset this year would be sensational.
North Korea are the unlucky participants in the “Group of Death”, Group G. Brazil, Portugal and the Ivory Coast all await the men from Asia. The Choilima are basically just making up the numbers this year. If they score a goal it will be a miracle, if they earn a point a nuclear war may even be averted. If they progressed to the next round a nuclear war may have already started, with the first three targets being Brazil, Portugal and the Ivory Coast.
Manager Kim Jong-hun will likely adopt a very defensive formation. That suits their natural style apparently, but then again, what other option would they have in South Africa? Expect to see all 11 men behind the ball, harassing the opposition, tenacious like their Southern counterparts, some may even say dogged.
The men from North Korea have done brilliant to make it to South Africa and will no doubt enjoy their time there. The experience of playing against such top class opposition – the likes of Kaka, Ronaldo and Drogba – is a memory that nobody is ever going to be able to take away from them. Unfortunately, none of their homeland is ever going to read about on the internet. They will watch the games on screens though, just not live.
Come the end of the group stages they will be going home, yet many of their names may be more common upon the tongue. For once, North Korea are going to be the team that everyone wants to win, but realistically, they have as much chance as Ronaldo turning up without doing his hair. But what do they expect, it’s a dog eat dog world.
Nigeria
Apparently, a staggering one in every six Africans is Nigerian, giving the Super Eagles a vast amount of men to choose from when picking the national side. Of course, as China shows us, in football population does not always guarantee success. However, with so many players to choose from the last thing you would want to do is sack your manager right before the World Cup.
Indicative to African football though, the Super Eagles joined their West African counter-parts – the Ivory Coast – in seeing fit to do just that after their African Cup of Nations ended in dismal failure. Nigeria finished 3rd.
Previous coach Shaibu Amodu can count himself unlucky, yet also possibly a little bit foolish. Amodu led Nigeria through qualifying for the 2002 World Cup, only to see him get sacked after a poor African Cup of Nations. In 2010 déjà vu has occurred. I think he can consider himself rather unfortunate, another innocent victim to a reckless African football association.
His replacement is ex-Sweden coach Lars Lagerback. Lagerback steered Sweden into 5 consecutive World Cups and European Championships so his credentials are high. The Swed will have only 3 weeks to prepare his squad and so changes from the side that performed poor at the African Cup of Nations can only be minimal, as he won’t know who is worth bringing in, making the sacking of Amodu even more bewildering.
One thing is clear about the Nigerian side, they have physical presence. The Super Eagles have a wealth of somewhat sturdy players whose preferred route to goal would be a bulldozer technique. This is epitomised by the fact that John Obi Mikel is seen as their “in the hole” playmaker. The Chelsea star is undoubtedly talented, but he is more renowned for his tough tackling than creative flair.
The strikers have about as much appeal to stylish football as David James has to good haircuts, not that I would ever say that to their faces even in an open light shopping centre, let alone a dark ally. Yakubu and Obafemi Martins are two massive frontmen. Both can score exceptional goals, expect them to give the opposition defence an extremely physical game.
Commanding the field from the back is probably one of the most underrated centre-backs in the Premier League, Everton’s Joseph Yobo. Yobo has been a key figure in Everton’s recent success in the Premier League and should perform well for his nation. In South Africa he may be partnered by Bolton’s Danny Shittu who also is reasonable capable, and physical.
One to watch in the Nigerian side is left winger Peter Obemwingie. The Lokomotiv Moscow was one of the few to play the whole of the latter stages of the African World Cup qualifying, netting 2 goals in his campaign. He will also be looked upon to provide good service for the front two.
Nigeria have been presented with a relatively easy group, in the form of Group B, in South Africa. Argentina, who they face in the group stages for the 3rd time in 4 World Cup appearances (losing 2-1 in 1994 and losing 1-0 in 2002), will expect to top the group. However, Maradona’s erratic style to management may leave them more susceptible to a bullying.
The other two teams are South Korea and Greece, two very hard working nations who will give little to their opponents, yet both very beatable. If Nigeria do progress to the last 16 they will play a nation from Group A. France would probably have no problems dismissing them at this stage, and even a raring South Africa would probably outdo them. However, if Argentina do get topped and Uruguay or Mexico come up against the Super Eagles, there is a slight chance of a quarterfinal appearance for Africa’s biggest underachievers.
Nigeria have a competitive first eleven. Legend that is Kanu may appear frequently off the bench, but realistically his days in the sun are over. The old Nigeria we use to know and love with Jay-Jay Okocha and Celestine Babayaro are long gone. Flair has turned to power. Yet, this lack of creative ability could be their downfall, especially against well organised teams. So it looks like Africa may have to look to another country to fly the African flag after the group stages.
Indicative to African football though, the Super Eagles joined their West African counter-parts – the Ivory Coast – in seeing fit to do just that after their African Cup of Nations ended in dismal failure. Nigeria finished 3rd.
Previous coach Shaibu Amodu can count himself unlucky, yet also possibly a little bit foolish. Amodu led Nigeria through qualifying for the 2002 World Cup, only to see him get sacked after a poor African Cup of Nations. In 2010 déjà vu has occurred. I think he can consider himself rather unfortunate, another innocent victim to a reckless African football association.
His replacement is ex-Sweden coach Lars Lagerback. Lagerback steered Sweden into 5 consecutive World Cups and European Championships so his credentials are high. The Swed will have only 3 weeks to prepare his squad and so changes from the side that performed poor at the African Cup of Nations can only be minimal, as he won’t know who is worth bringing in, making the sacking of Amodu even more bewildering.
One thing is clear about the Nigerian side, they have physical presence. The Super Eagles have a wealth of somewhat sturdy players whose preferred route to goal would be a bulldozer technique. This is epitomised by the fact that John Obi Mikel is seen as their “in the hole” playmaker. The Chelsea star is undoubtedly talented, but he is more renowned for his tough tackling than creative flair.
The strikers have about as much appeal to stylish football as David James has to good haircuts, not that I would ever say that to their faces even in an open light shopping centre, let alone a dark ally. Yakubu and Obafemi Martins are two massive frontmen. Both can score exceptional goals, expect them to give the opposition defence an extremely physical game.
Commanding the field from the back is probably one of the most underrated centre-backs in the Premier League, Everton’s Joseph Yobo. Yobo has been a key figure in Everton’s recent success in the Premier League and should perform well for his nation. In South Africa he may be partnered by Bolton’s Danny Shittu who also is reasonable capable, and physical.
One to watch in the Nigerian side is left winger Peter Obemwingie. The Lokomotiv Moscow was one of the few to play the whole of the latter stages of the African World Cup qualifying, netting 2 goals in his campaign. He will also be looked upon to provide good service for the front two.
Nigeria have been presented with a relatively easy group, in the form of Group B, in South Africa. Argentina, who they face in the group stages for the 3rd time in 4 World Cup appearances (losing 2-1 in 1994 and losing 1-0 in 2002), will expect to top the group. However, Maradona’s erratic style to management may leave them more susceptible to a bullying.
The other two teams are South Korea and Greece, two very hard working nations who will give little to their opponents, yet both very beatable. If Nigeria do progress to the last 16 they will play a nation from Group A. France would probably have no problems dismissing them at this stage, and even a raring South Africa would probably outdo them. However, if Argentina do get topped and Uruguay or Mexico come up against the Super Eagles, there is a slight chance of a quarterfinal appearance for Africa’s biggest underachievers.
Nigeria have a competitive first eleven. Legend that is Kanu may appear frequently off the bench, but realistically his days in the sun are over. The old Nigeria we use to know and love with Jay-Jay Okocha and Celestine Babayaro are long gone. Flair has turned to power. Yet, this lack of creative ability could be their downfall, especially against well organised teams. So it looks like Africa may have to look to another country to fly the African flag after the group stages.
New Zealand
When you think of New Zealand, you think of the All Blacks. One of, if not the best rugby team in the World. Maybe your thoughts will slip to Lord of the Rings, the scenery, the mountains, the little hobbits trying to find their way to Mordor, or the fortress that is Helms Deep. Football comes way down the list, after Kiwis, bungee jumping and sheep...
However, with Australia deciding to qualify through the Asian Federation, New Zealand had a clear path to at least the play-offs. The All Whites topped the four team group, fending off Fiji, New Caledonia and Vanuatu. This gave them a play-off against Bahrain to reach South Africa. A 0-0 draw away and a 1-0 win at home, thanks to a Rory Fallon goal and Mark Paston saving a penalty, sent the biggest New Zealand football crowd ever, into wild celebrations.
New Zealand have once before made the World Cup finals. They lost all three games in Spain 82, losing to Brazil (4-0), the Soviet (3-0) and Scotland (5-2). These two goals against Scotland are the only goals New Zealand have ever scored in the World Cup, Steve Sumner and Steve Wooddin the national heroes.
Manager Ricki Herbert was part of the national side in 82 and that experience will no doubt have given the players he manages inspiration. With the national side having so few games, only one in 2005, Herbert also manages the only professional club side in New Zealand Wellington Phoenix. They play their games in the Australian A-League and reached the Australian league finals for the first time under Herbert.
Five players play under Herbert in both teams. The keeper Mark Paston, defenders Tony Lochhead and Ben Sigmund, and midfielders Leo Bertos and Tim Brown. This continuity should hopefully aid the national side come summer, having played together all season.
Two familiar names play upfront for the All Whites. Rory Fallon plays for Plymouth Argyle whilst his strike partner Chris Killen plays for Middlesbrough. Playing off the front two Shane Smeltz will attempt to link the midfield with the forwards, in order not to leave them stranded.
However, the most recognisable player in the New Zealand squad is captain and Blackburn Rovers captain Ryan Nelsen. Expect the aggressive Kiwi defender to act as a sweeper in a 5 man defence. Whether his deniable talent can prevent any goals being leaked is a sceptical conclusion.
New Zealand have been drawn in Group F with Italy, Paraguay and Slovakia. Italy should easily push their Oceania opponents aside, ever though they are generally slow starters. Paraguay and Slovakia may provide some opportunity for success, but with their extremely defensive set-up, success in this case is likely to be a 0-0 draw. On this basis New Zealand may be not that exciting to watch, unless you like stern defending, however, score one and the ship is likely to sink.
Many believe that New Zealand will struggle to emulate their achievements in Spain in 82, this time round they probably won’t even score a goal. However, if Nelsen can inspire his teammates the world could witness the biggest ever celebration to a 0-0 draw...
However, with Australia deciding to qualify through the Asian Federation, New Zealand had a clear path to at least the play-offs. The All Whites topped the four team group, fending off Fiji, New Caledonia and Vanuatu. This gave them a play-off against Bahrain to reach South Africa. A 0-0 draw away and a 1-0 win at home, thanks to a Rory Fallon goal and Mark Paston saving a penalty, sent the biggest New Zealand football crowd ever, into wild celebrations.
New Zealand have once before made the World Cup finals. They lost all three games in Spain 82, losing to Brazil (4-0), the Soviet (3-0) and Scotland (5-2). These two goals against Scotland are the only goals New Zealand have ever scored in the World Cup, Steve Sumner and Steve Wooddin the national heroes.
Manager Ricki Herbert was part of the national side in 82 and that experience will no doubt have given the players he manages inspiration. With the national side having so few games, only one in 2005, Herbert also manages the only professional club side in New Zealand Wellington Phoenix. They play their games in the Australian A-League and reached the Australian league finals for the first time under Herbert.
Five players play under Herbert in both teams. The keeper Mark Paston, defenders Tony Lochhead and Ben Sigmund, and midfielders Leo Bertos and Tim Brown. This continuity should hopefully aid the national side come summer, having played together all season.
Two familiar names play upfront for the All Whites. Rory Fallon plays for Plymouth Argyle whilst his strike partner Chris Killen plays for Middlesbrough. Playing off the front two Shane Smeltz will attempt to link the midfield with the forwards, in order not to leave them stranded.
However, the most recognisable player in the New Zealand squad is captain and Blackburn Rovers captain Ryan Nelsen. Expect the aggressive Kiwi defender to act as a sweeper in a 5 man defence. Whether his deniable talent can prevent any goals being leaked is a sceptical conclusion.
New Zealand have been drawn in Group F with Italy, Paraguay and Slovakia. Italy should easily push their Oceania opponents aside, ever though they are generally slow starters. Paraguay and Slovakia may provide some opportunity for success, but with their extremely defensive set-up, success in this case is likely to be a 0-0 draw. On this basis New Zealand may be not that exciting to watch, unless you like stern defending, however, score one and the ship is likely to sink.
Many believe that New Zealand will struggle to emulate their achievements in Spain in 82, this time round they probably won’t even score a goal. However, if Nelsen can inspire his teammates the world could witness the biggest ever celebration to a 0-0 draw...
Netherlands
A bout of Dutch courage is needed for the Netherlands to finally achieve what their pedigree demands, success in the World Cup. Beaten in the final in 1974 and 1978, by West Germany and Argentina respectively, a 4th place finish at France 98 since, although they did earn European glory in 1988. Still, it is about time the Flying Dutchman ruled the World.
The amass of orange is a delight for anybody to see, as stadium after stadium is filled with a nation united in attire. An clearly this unified support is aiding the national side come closer together, having on previous visits to national tournaments, been hampered by excessively large egos. But then again, if I was Edgar Davids, Clarence Seedorf, Dennis Bergkamp or Marc Overmars, I would struggle to keep my feet on the ground.
As most Scots will already know, the Dutch sailed through qualifying, winning all eight of their games, making them the first European side to book their place in the finals. The Netherlands scored 17 goals and only conceded twice, exemplifying their natural attacking flair.
The manager Bert Van Marwijk is likely to adopt an almost 4-2-4 formation, with Wesley Sneijder playing in the hole just behind the main striker. Sneijder has had an unbelievable season for Inter Milan, helping the Italian giants claimed the Champions League for the first time. His skill and technique make him the ultimate playmaker, making him a must watch in South Africa.
However, despite Sneijder being influential, he is by no means the only attacking option for Van Marwijk. The right and left wings will be marshalled by an industrious Dirk Kuyt and, when not injured, the best winger in the World Arjen Robben. If Sneijder helped Inter win, Robben single-handedly got Bayern Munich to the final. His pace and trickery is matched by his crossing ability, and his finishing isn’t bad either. He does have a receding hairline though.
If those names don’t already wet your appetite, a returning to full fitness Robin Van Persie will make you drool enough with his performances in order to use any excess salvia to gel is hair even more. Having got injured in a friendly against Italy back in November, it was worried the Arsenal striker would not make South Africa, but his return at the end of the season proved successful, with the frontman looking sprightly.
In contrast to the attacking flair of the other players Nigel de Jong will be left to do all the dog work. His manager has told him to calm down on the tackling, after the Manchester City midfielder broke the leg of USA’s Stuart Holden in a friendly.
His partner in crime is the recalled Mark Van Bommel. After falling out with previous manager Marco Van Basten he left the national side, but the new manager is his father-in-law, so the relationship with the manager is better, a vital add to the Dutch line-up.
After the retirement of their most capped player ever, Edwin van der Sar, the choice of who goes in between the sticks has been a tricky one. Maarten Stekelenburg appears to be the number one choice, but critics are sceptical if the Ajax keeper is capable to perform on the international stage, a common worry amongst some of the most fancied nations.
The Netherlands have a relatively easy group, with Group E containing Cameroon, Denmark and Japan. Topping that group will see them get an easy second round match against Paraguay or Slovakia, provided Italy finish first in Group F. So the Netherlands first real test may be at the quarterfinal stage, where they may face Brazil, Spain or Portugal. This game will show us how serious a Dutch challenge will be.
Holland are a must watch team and are welcome at any finals, even if just to see the fans turn a stadium into a giant tangerine. They are renowned for skilful, attacking football and their start to the Euro 2008 campaign was utterly memorising, beating France (4-1) and Italy (3-0). If the players fulfil their potential, they will be unstoppable. Could this be their year? I think it will be.
The amass of orange is a delight for anybody to see, as stadium after stadium is filled with a nation united in attire. An clearly this unified support is aiding the national side come closer together, having on previous visits to national tournaments, been hampered by excessively large egos. But then again, if I was Edgar Davids, Clarence Seedorf, Dennis Bergkamp or Marc Overmars, I would struggle to keep my feet on the ground.
As most Scots will already know, the Dutch sailed through qualifying, winning all eight of their games, making them the first European side to book their place in the finals. The Netherlands scored 17 goals and only conceded twice, exemplifying their natural attacking flair.
The manager Bert Van Marwijk is likely to adopt an almost 4-2-4 formation, with Wesley Sneijder playing in the hole just behind the main striker. Sneijder has had an unbelievable season for Inter Milan, helping the Italian giants claimed the Champions League for the first time. His skill and technique make him the ultimate playmaker, making him a must watch in South Africa.
However, despite Sneijder being influential, he is by no means the only attacking option for Van Marwijk. The right and left wings will be marshalled by an industrious Dirk Kuyt and, when not injured, the best winger in the World Arjen Robben. If Sneijder helped Inter win, Robben single-handedly got Bayern Munich to the final. His pace and trickery is matched by his crossing ability, and his finishing isn’t bad either. He does have a receding hairline though.
If those names don’t already wet your appetite, a returning to full fitness Robin Van Persie will make you drool enough with his performances in order to use any excess salvia to gel is hair even more. Having got injured in a friendly against Italy back in November, it was worried the Arsenal striker would not make South Africa, but his return at the end of the season proved successful, with the frontman looking sprightly.
In contrast to the attacking flair of the other players Nigel de Jong will be left to do all the dog work. His manager has told him to calm down on the tackling, after the Manchester City midfielder broke the leg of USA’s Stuart Holden in a friendly.
His partner in crime is the recalled Mark Van Bommel. After falling out with previous manager Marco Van Basten he left the national side, but the new manager is his father-in-law, so the relationship with the manager is better, a vital add to the Dutch line-up.
After the retirement of their most capped player ever, Edwin van der Sar, the choice of who goes in between the sticks has been a tricky one. Maarten Stekelenburg appears to be the number one choice, but critics are sceptical if the Ajax keeper is capable to perform on the international stage, a common worry amongst some of the most fancied nations.
The Netherlands have a relatively easy group, with Group E containing Cameroon, Denmark and Japan. Topping that group will see them get an easy second round match against Paraguay or Slovakia, provided Italy finish first in Group F. So the Netherlands first real test may be at the quarterfinal stage, where they may face Brazil, Spain or Portugal. This game will show us how serious a Dutch challenge will be.
Holland are a must watch team and are welcome at any finals, even if just to see the fans turn a stadium into a giant tangerine. They are renowned for skilful, attacking football and their start to the Euro 2008 campaign was utterly memorising, beating France (4-1) and Italy (3-0). If the players fulfil their potential, they will be unstoppable. Could this be their year? I think it will be.
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