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WORLD CUP 2010: Portugal 0 Brazil 0 - Joga Bonito gives way to petulance in defensive draw of convenience

2010-06-25T12:56:00.000-07:00

Given the runaround: Ronaldo (No 7) tries to get away from Dani Alves .In acres of space: Brazil right back Maicon takes the ball in his stride.So close: Nilmar rattles the Portugal upright

Left out: Robinho (far right) watches from the Brazil bench

This was the game that made the mouth water when the World Cup draw was made last December - but there was little samba football to report in Durban.

A draw was always going to be good enough to see both teams progress from Group G, and a stalemate is exactly what we got.

Indecent proposal: A Portugal fan gets her message across

Two wins out of two before this afternoon means Brazil top the group, with Portugal finishing second with an unbeaten record above the Ivory Coast.

This was an unsavoury goalless draw, including a flurry of first-half yellow cards, petulant displays and few moments when either team were really prepared to take risks.
Brazil, already qualified, surprisingly left Robinho out of their starting line-up, replacing him with Nilmar, while Julio Baptista stood in for the suspended Kaka in midfield and Dani Alves came in for the injured Elano.

Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz made four changes to the side that thrashed North Korea 7-0, including a first start at this tournament for Real Madrid's Brazil-born defender Pepe, who feared his dream of playing at the tournament had been crushed when suffering a serious knee injury last December.
Seven players were booked in a bad-tempered first period including Brazil midfielder Felipe Melo, hauled off just before half-time by coach Dunga and replaced by Josue as his duel with Pepe - also yellow carded - threatened to boil over.

Despite Portugal having the motivation that a win would hand them top spot in the Group G, there were only three efforts on target before the break as both teams cancelled each other out.
The best first-half chances fell to Nilmar, who first had his close-range effort tipped on to the upright by Eduardo after a cross by Maicon.

The Villarreal striker then saw a downward header bounce just wide of the goal after another cross from Maicon.
Tempers calmed down after the break with Portugal looking the sharper and substitute Simao Sabrosa forced Brazil goalkeeper Julio Cesar to make a tricky save from a long-range effort at the second attempt.

Portugal should have gone ahead soon after when Cristiano Ronaldo's run ended with the ball falling to Raul Meireles but his close-range effort was saved by Cesar, who dived bravely to turn the ball around the post and was hurt in the process.
In the 73rd minute, Alves' 30-yard strike went wide while three minutes from time Lucio's header was saved by Eduardo.

Substitute Ramires almost earned Brazil victory but his right-footed strike was denied by an acrobatic save from Eduardo in stoppage time.

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WORLD CUP 2010: Diego Maradona tells Luis Fabiano there is only one Hand of God

2010-06-25T12:48:00.000-07:00

In black and white: Maradona's infamous handball in 1986 and Fabiano on Sunday

Luis Fabiano's second goal against Ivory Coast at the World Cup was not with the Hand of God as the Brazilian claimed, Diego Maradona said on Monday.

'No, this one was with his arm, he brought it down with his arm, it's very evident, I think there was a double handball,' Argentina's coach said laughing.

Seeing double: Maradona claims Fabiano handled the ball twice

After the match, Fabiano joked: 'It was an unintentional hand, a holy hand, the hand of God.'
But the Brazil striker said he did not intend handling the ball. 'Well that is true, it seems as though the ball hit my hand,' he said.

'It seems the ball hit my hand and the second time it hit my shoulder. 'But in order to make the goal more beautiful, there had to be a doubtful element. It was a spectacular goal and I believe it was not a voluntary handball.

'It was a legitimate goal and it was one of the most beautiful goals that I've scored in my career. 'It was magnificent and where better to score such a goal than at the World Cup?'

Maradona scored the original 'Hand of God' goal in a 2-1 quarter-final win over England in the 1986 tournament in Mexico in which he captained Argentina to victory in the final.
'What's tragicomic is the referee's smile afterwards,' Maradona told a news conference the day after Brazil's 3-1 Group G win over the Ivorians put them into the second round.

'When I scored the goal against England, I didn't see the referee laugh. He had so many doubts, he looked at his linesmen, there was no fourth referee at that time, he looked at the crowd to see if they gave him a hand.

'But yesterday (Sunday), the referee went (back to the centre circle) laughing and that's what shocked us all,' said Maradona on the eve of Argentina's final Group B match against Greece in Polokwane.

'So if you saw it why didn't you penalise it?' he added as if talking directly to the referee, Frenchman Stephane Lannoy.
Luis Fabiano, having put Brazil ahead in the 25th minute, scored his second goal five minutes after halftime and the record five-times champions qualified with a game to spare.

'It happened at a particular moment in the match because at 2-0 Brazil had practically closed out the match,' Maradona said.

Maradona, who always brushes aside suggestions Argentina are favourites to win the World Cup despite an impressive start to the tournament, said Brazil were still the team to beat.

'Brazil are not playing well but they settle their matches and for that reason they are still the big favourites,' he said.

WORLD CUP 2010: Brazil coach Dunga says sorry for branding journalist 'wimp' and 'donkey'

2010-06-25T12:38:00.000-07:00

Sorry for his harsh words: Brazil coach Dunga

aking steps to put things right: Dunga has been under pressure, he claims

Brazil coach Dunga apologised to his country's fans ahead of today's World Cup match against Portugal in Durban.
Dunga verbally insulted a Brazilian reporter after his team's 3-1 triumph over the Ivory Coast.

The former Brazil star used the words 'donkey' and 'wimp' as well as launching a verbal attack on the journalist in question in his post-match press conference.

'I'm sorry to the fans for the language I used and for the manner in which I spoke after that game,' said Dunga.

Ball juggler: Dunga shows his skills at a Brazil training session

'The fans have always supported the national team and all I want to do is to be able to work for the good of this team.'

Dunga, whose side have claimed maximum points from their opening two matches to already seal a place in the last 16, has an added reason to succeed in South Africa and not just because he is in charge of the five-time world champions.

'My father has been ill for some time,' said Dunga. 'This is another opportunity for me to show my dad all the virtues that he conveyed to me.

'The fact that I have to be strong, transparent, dignified and that I have to apologise when I err.

'My mother has given me the best example in life, never to give up, to do my best and to be a decent person.'

Nothing comes easy in this World Cup and proof of that is that tournament hosts South Africa, reigning champions Italy and 2006 finalists France were knocked out in the first round of the competition.
We know that football is always something of a Pandora's box,' he said. 'All the teams that are here are very good sides.

'We are talking about globalised football and we have to be prepared for unexpected surprises.'

The past, according to Dunga, makes no difference in this day and age.
We have to start evolving and forget about the traditional teams,' he said. 'Those days are over.

'If the traditional teams don't play well, they will be eliminated. We, the so called traditional teams, have to be aware of that.'

Portugal, meanwhile, who lie second in Group G, have the utmost respect for the Canarinha.

'We play against the highest-ranked team in the world,' said Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz.

'They have tremendous organisation. They are a very solid team, full of outstanding players.

'I think it's going to be a very difficult game. But then again, any victory against Brazil is always an excellent result for any team. But even a draw for that matter.'

Portugal need just a point to join Brazil in the next round although a defeat is likely to see them through as they have a big goal difference advantage with respect to the Ivory Coast, who have one point from their two games.

WORLD CUP 2010: Fabio Capello's England boys will wear lucky red strip again on Sunday

2010-06-25T12:27:00.000-07:00

Red alert: Fabio Capello's side will wear their all-red strip against Germany on Sunday

Lucky omen? John Terry and Matthew Upson both scored in England's win over Germany when the sides last met

England will play against Germany in their all-red strip after the colour brought Fabio Capello luck against Slovenia.

As group winners, the Germans are technically the 'home team' when the old rivals meet in Bloemfontein on Sunday to dispute a place in the World Cup quarter-final and they will wear their traditional white shirts, black shorts and black socks.

England could have opted for red shirts, white shorts and red socks, the combination they wore in the 1966 World Cup final, but have decided to stick with all red after Wednesday's 1-0 win.
Bloemfontein has been experiencing freezing temperatures at night and the pitch has suffered.

Switzerland play Honduras in the stadium today but FIFA banned the two teams from training inside the venue.

As of last night, boss Capello had yet to study the tapes of Germany's three games - wins against Australia and Ghana and defeat to Serbia - but is reluctant to tinker with a winning formula, which is good news for Jermain Defoe and Matthew Upson.
Yesterday, the players who played against Slovenia had a gentle work out in the gym, while those not involved were put through their paces.

Michael Carrick and Aaron Lennon, both nursing ankle injuries, were the only players absent.

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World Cup 2010: USA out for revenge as they face Ghana in 2nd Round

2010-06-25T12:15:00.000-07:00

Bob Bradley has his mind focused on progression

USA's reward for beating England to the summit of Group C is a second-round meeting with Ghana instead of Germany. But given that their participation at the 2006 World Cup ended at the hands of the Black Stars, Bob Bradley and his side will not underestimate Saturday's opponents as they look to build on the momentum generated by Landon Donovan's dramatic goal against Algeria.

Four years ago in Germany, USA would have qualified for the knockout stages with a victory over Ghana in their final group game but goals from Haminu Draman and Stephen Appiah in Nuremberg condemned them to an early departure. Nine Ghanaians and seven Americans remain from that contest but, in South Africa, an improved USA side are targeting a place in the quarter-finals, and a meeting with either Uruguay or South Korea.

That they are even contemplating a possible place in the last four of the World Cup is thanks to Donovan. In injury time of their final group game against Algeria, USA were heading out of the competition until the LA Galaxy star displayed a perfect grasp of dramatic timing to snatch top spot away from England. Having outplayed Algeria, suffered injustice at the hands of Slovenia and held England to a draw, USA deserve their place in the second round. Bradley dropped Oguchi Onyewu for the Algeria game but he could return in defence, while Robbie Findley is back from suspension and will come in for Herculez Gomez.

Ghana have been Africa's leading light in a disappointing tournament for the country and have matched their feat of four years ago when they fell to Brazil in the second round. Milovan Rajevac's side have overcome the pre-tournament loss of Michael Essien but goals are a problem with a 1-0 defeat of Serbia and a 1-1 draw with Australia both secured thanks to penalties from Asamoah Gyan. To address that concern, Rajevac could hand a first start of the tournament to promising striker Dominic Adiyiah who was named Africa's young player of the year in 2009.

USA player to watch: Michael Bradley. Previously accused of benefiting from nepotism given that his father coaches the national side, the midfielder is very much a star in his own right after a brilliant World Cup to date. After scoring a crucial goal against Slovenia, Bradley was man-of-the-match in the 1-0 win with Algeria as he impressed with his all-round game. Snapping into tackles and launching counter-attacks, his was a box-to-box performance and reminiscent of one of his heroes, Roy Keane.

Ghana player to watch: Andre Ayew. Another player who has lived in the shadow of a famous father, Ayew has some act to follow in Ghanaian legend Abedi Pele. Though his progress at club level has been slow, the Marseille winger is effective for his country and shone at the FIFA Under-20 World Cup and the African Nations Cup before appearing in all three of Ghana's group games in South Africa. Ayew is a sprightly presence out wide and USA will need to keep him quiet.

Key battle: Clint Dempsey v John Pantsil. The Fulham team-mates will indulge in a personal duel on Saturday with Pantsil operating at right back and Dempsey expected to play wide on the left for USA. Both men boast extensive experience and their contest could be crucial in the context of the game. Dempsey has impressed for USA in South Africa and Pantsil faces a real test in blunting his colleague from Craven Cottage.

Trivia: If Ghana emerge victorious they will match the feats of Senegal (2002) and Cameroon (1990), who are the only two African sides to have made it to a World Cup quarter-final.

Stats: Ghana's past three goals at the World Cup finals (including the second in their 2-1 win over USA in 2006) been from the penalty spot.

Odds: USA (2.70), the draw (3.10) and Ghana (2.87) with Bet365. USA to win in extra time is 13.00.

Prediction: This looks set to be a close contest and do not be surprised if it goes the distance. USA have shown their resilience in the tournament and could just nick it.

David Beckham has made me believe I can be a star for England, says James Milner

2010-06-25T12:01:00.000-07:00

Eye-catching: Milner produced an inspired display for England against Slovenia

Cheers mate: Jermain Defoe and Milner celebrate as England qualify for the next stage of the World Cup

James Milner says David Beckham has given him the belief that he can become a star for England at this World Cup.

Becks has been assisting England boss Fabio Capello after getting the invite to help out in South Africa.

And Milner says Becks' advice has had a positive influence on him and was pivotal to his eye-catching performance against Slovenia on Wednesday.
The Aston Villa midfielder set up Jermain Defoe to score the winner and created problems for the Slovernians throughout as England booked a place in the last-16 against Germany on Sunday.

England will need to hit top form to beat Germany... who won't be practising penalties, warns Michael Ballack

2010-06-25T11:47:00.000-07:00

Big test: Wayne Rooney will spearhead England's battle with Germany

Michael Ballack has warned England they will need to be at their very best to beat Germany in Sunday's World Cup showdown.

The old enemies meet again in Bloemfontein for a place in the quarter-finals and German legend Franz Beckenbaur has already stoked up the fires by branding England as 'stupid' and 'burnt out'.
Now Ballack has turned up the heat on their rivals by questioning their nerves under pressure - and he also claimed that they will not be practising penalties in the build-up to the game.

Triumph: Germany celebrate during their crucial win over Ghana

Pain game: Ballack was injured in the FA Cup Final win over Portsmouth

The former Chelsea midfielder, who missed the finals after tearing his ankle ligaments in the FA Cup Final, said: 'England have not shown their true selves and have a lot more to give.

'Watching them play in the group matches you could see they were feeling the pressure. because they were afraid of going home early.

'At the knockout stages you have to perform to your limit or you'll be knockout out. The gap from where they are now to their best is bigger for England but they can get there.'
England are confident of winning but should the last 16 clash go to a penalty shoot-out, the Germans would be the overwhelming favourites.

Yet, while England have been fine-tuning their spot-kicks for the past month, Ballack has revealed that the Germans will not be doing any extra work in training.

'We don't fear penaltiesbut have missed one already, which shows we are not invincible,' added Ballack in reference to Lukas Podolski, who had a penalty saved against Serbia in the group stages.
The secret to our success in shootouts is that we try not to think about it too much. It's a unique situation that you cannot train for.

'Every player is different but in my opinion you cannot practise penalties. I've spoken to the manager Joachim Low and he agrees.

'The coach won't go mad if some players choose to take some penalties after training but their will be no organised practice.'

Joyous Japan fans take dawn dips after Denmark win

2010-06-25T11:36:00.000-07:00

Japanese football fans celebrated wildly as dawn broke today and police were called on to fish revellers out of rivers after the national side stunned Denmark 3-1 to reach the second round of the World Cup in South Africa.

Newspaper headlines boasted of “history in the making” after the Blue Samurai reached the last 16 for the second time, while television viewing figures nudged past 41 per cent despite the game finishing just before 5.30am local time.

The famous “scramble crossing” intersection in Tokyo’s Shibuya district erupted in a crescendo of chanting and drumming as more than 1,000 fans clad in Japan’s blue team shirts hugged as the final whistle blew.

“I’m still shaking, I just can’t believe it,” tearful 21-year-old clothes shop assistant Yuka Higashi told Reuters, shouting to be heard over the noise around her. “Honda’s amazing!”

Midfielder Keisuke Honda scored Japan’s first goal against Denmark in Rustenburg after firing the winner against Cameroon in their opening game.

Screaming fans doused each other with water from plastic bottles at the end of yesterday’s match, gleefully ignoring police loudspeaker warnings to “stop being a nuisance!”

Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan, on official business in Canada, sent a message of congratulations to Japan, who arrived at the tournament mired in a miserable run of form but now face Paraguay on Tuesday for a place in the quarter-finals.

“I wish to congratulate the team on their excellent achievement,” Kan said. “The side has given the whole country energy and pride.”

Energy drinks were being guzzled by many fans as euphoria gave way to exhaustion and thoughts of a train straight to work.

“I won’t get any sleep now,” 33-year-old banker Tsuyoshi Hamada said, wincing. “Shower and straight to the office. It’s worth it though.”

In Osaka, more than 50 fans plunged into the murky waters of the city’s Dotonbori River in a repeat of the jubilant scenes of 2002 when Japan reached the last 16 as World Cup co-hosts.

“Don’t take the Mickey!” Japan’s Brazilian-born defender Tulio told the Nikkan Sports, warning Paraguay they will not get things all their way in the last 16.

“Every last drop!” blared the Sankei Sports, praising the team’s endeavour after Japan capitalised on their first World Cup win on foreign soil against Cameroon in their opening game.

Former Japan captain Hidetoshi Nakata, who retired from the game in tears after the country’s meek exit from the 2006 finals, added his support.

“That’s the sort of game we’ve wanted to see,” he said. “They’ve grown up at this World Cup. Now let’s hope they can go further than we did in 2002.”

World Cup 2010 : Opportunity knocks for Uruguay and South Korea in 2nd Round

2010-06-25T11:32:00.000-07:00

Luis Suarez is a player in the spotlight

Following France's farcical implosion and England's potentially fatal failure to finish top of their group, Uruguay and South Korea know that their quarter of the draw has opened up nicely and the victors in Port Elizabeth will compete with Ghana and USA for a place in the semi-finals. It is a huge motivation for both countries as they prepare for Saturday's second-round tie.

Uruguay took advantage of the chaos generated by France's misguided industrial action to saunter to first place in Group A and did not concede a single goal when beating South Africa and Mexico and holding les Bleus to a 0-0 draw in their opening game. With prolific forwards Luis Suarez and Diego Forlan both finding the net in the group stage, expectation is growing that Uruguay will reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 1970.

Coach Oscar Tabarez looks set to stick with a three-pronged attack, with Edinson Cavani complementing Forlan and Suarez. The only change to Uruguay's starting XI could be the inclusion of Diego Godin at the expense of Mauricio Victorino, who is one booking away from a suspension.

South Korea's previous meeting with South American opposition was not a happy one as they were hammered 4-1 by Argentina. However, a 2-0 win over Greece and a dramatic 2-2 draw with Nigeria were enough for Huh Jung-Moo's side to progress from Group B. As they embark on their first knockout campaign on foreign soil, Huh may drop right-back Cha Du-Ri after he was at fault for Nigeria's opening goal. Kim Dong-Jin may replace him.

Uruguay player to watch: Luis Suarez. After scoring no less than 49 goals for Ajax last season, much was expected of the lively forward and he looked a touch subdued in the games against France and South Africa. However, Suarez scored the only goal of the game against Mexico as Uruguay cemented top spot and will be a threat with his clever movement and impressive finishing ability.

South Korea player to watch: Ki Sung-Yueng In a fluid midfield that sees players interchange with ease, Ki has been largely overshadowed by his iconic captain Park Ji-Sung and the new great hope of Korean football, Bolton's Lee Chung-Yong. But the Celtic midfielder is a talent in his own right and a real threat thanks to his set-piece delivery, which has so far brought him two assists. With a penchant for the unexpected, Ki is a unique player but at just 21 years of age remains inconsistent.

Key battle: Diego Forlan v Lee Jung-Soo The tussle between Uruguay's premier striker and South Korea's most reliable defender could prove decisive. Forlan hit his stride with two goals in the 3-0 defeat of South Africa and, since leaving Manchester United in 2004, he has never failed to reach double figures in La Liga and the Atletico Madrid star is a formidable opponent for any defender. In Lee he comes up against the heartbeat of the South Korean defence, but also a player who is currently rivalling him in the goalscoring charts having netted against Greece and Nigeria. If he can finish the 90 minutes still level with Forlan, South Korea have a great chance.

Trivia: Uruguay have not lost to South Korea in any of their five meetings. The only World Cup clash between the two came in 1990, when Uruguay won 1-0 thanks to a goal from Daniel Fonseca. Tabarez also managed the side during the finals in Italy 20 years ago.

Stats: South Korea have been the most dangerous side from set-pieces so far in the tournament with three of their five goals coming from dead-ball situations.

Odds: Uruguay (1.90), the draw (3.40) and South Korea (4.50) with Bet365. Diego Forlan to score first and Uruguay to win 1-0 is 11.00.

Prediction: Uruguay are full of confidence after an impressive group campaign and should have enough to shade this game, but South Korea will ensure it is a close contest.

WORLD CUP 2010: Fabio's magic formula! England boss Capello has learned some new tricks just in time for Germany

2010-06-25T11:22:00.000-07:00

Keeping up appearances: Fabio Capello shows the strain during England's win over Slovenia

New tricks: Capello reveals his softer side as he embraces skipper Steven Gerrard at the final whistle in Port Elizabeth

Even for a manager of Fabio Capello's considerable experience and expertise, the last few weeks have been an education.

Because for all the pressure that comes with winning trophies in Milan and Madrid, there is nothing quite like a World Cup. Nothing that compares to the burden of responsibility that an international manager has to cope with at a major tournament.

Good call: Bringing back David James was the right decision

Making noises: Germany legend Franz Beckenbauer continues to bash England in the build-up to Sunday's crunch last 16 clash in Bloemfontein

Some would say there is nothing quite like being the England manager at a World Cup, and the headline splashed across the front page of La Gazzetta Dello Sport last week must have been a new one on the 64-year-old Italian.
'God Save Capello,' cried Italy's leading sports daily after England's hugely disappointing display against Algeria.

Capello gets it with England. He feels the weight of an expectant nation on his shoulders, just as he accepts that it is his job to deliver the dream.

But after flirting with disaster, after suddenly being faced with such problems on and off the pitch, there was an extraordinary out-pouring of emotion at the final whistle in Port Elizabeth on Wednesday night.

Marcel Desailly said that in all the years he had known Capello, dating back to when he played for him at Milan in the early 1990s, he had never seen anything like it. Capello was almost overcome with a mixture of joy and relief, not just high-fiving David Beckham but anyone associated with the England squad. He hugged his players. Shook them with delight.

It might have just been a 1-0 win against Slovenia but when the situation looked as desperate as it did in the wake of Friday's game in Cape Town, it was little wonder he dropped his guard.

'For him that is not normal,' said Desailly.International management is different to anything Capello has experienced and only now he is here, in this unique environment, with these unique demands, is he beginning to evolve.

Only now he understands there is a balance to be struck between staying focused and professional and keeping his players relaxed and happy is he getting the best out of them.

In fairness to Capello, he has adapted quickly and he has been decisive when it comes to making the big calls.

He was right to drop Robert Green and turn instead to David James, just as he was right to bring in Jermain Defoe and James Milner for that final group game.

Managers live and die by such decisions and Capello is alive and kicking today as he looks ahead with relish to Sunday's meeting with the Germans.

He deserves credit for the flexibility he has shown. For suggesting his players have a beer on the eve of the game and giving them a much clearer indication of what he had in mind for his line-up.

'We did a bit of team shape the day before the Slovenia game, so we had a bit of an inkling then,' said Milner.

'The manager announced the team like he always does, a couple of hours before the game, but everybody knew once we did the team shape in training.'

All of which enabled England to overcome what Capello described as a 'mental hurdle' and prove to themselves that they are indeed a force to be reckoned with. A team, despite the observations of Franz Beckenbauer, that should now prepare for the monumental clash in Bloemfontein with real confidence.

'I think I know these players,' he said.
They needed this victory. I needed it. They can play against all the teams and now they have played like that I'm sure the performance will always be at this level, with this spirit. This will be important.
'The team worked very well in every moment. Their position on the pitch was very good. When we won back the ball we played quickly. The team was there when we had the ball. The passing was really good, dangerous. We had the movement I was looking for and we switched the ball quickly. In the first two games, every two passes we lost the ball. But against Slovenia, it didn't happen.'

Only when it comes to converting the chances they create do England need to improve. They cannot afford to be so wasteful against the Germans.

'We created the chances but we have to score,' he said.

'Against Slovenia I suffered until the last minute because that second goal did not come. It wasn't good for my heart!'

He must have been encouraged by the sight of his players coming together in a huddle at the end, even if some appeared reluctant to answer John Terry's call.

The pressure will mount as the week progresses. If Capello spoke to his wife yesterday, she might well have mentioned how she boarded a British Airways flight in Port Elizabeth only to find a German pilot displaying a German flag in the cockpit window.
Meanwhile, Beckenbauer seems determined to provide Capello with material for his team-talk at The Free State Stadium. The Kaiser has been scathing in his criticism.

He has dismissed England as a 'kick and rush' team; dared suggest they have not progressed in two and a half years under Capello; even said yesterday that England's players look 'burnt out'.

Last Friday it might have been regarded as a fair observation. But not today. Not now a manager and his team are starting to flourish on this international stage.

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WORLD CUP 2010: Joe Cole doubts he will start for England against Germany but insists he can make impact from bench

2010-06-25T11:10:00.000-07:00

Super sub: Cole in the thick of action as he battles with Slovenia's Bojan Jokic

Big chance: Cole comes on for Wayne Rooney and receives a rousing reception

Joe Cole admits he does not expect to start England's crunch World Cup last-16 clash against Germany on Sunday.

The former Chelsea midfielder tasted his first action of the tournament on Wednesday after being overlooked by England boss Fabio Capello for the opening two games with United States and Algeria.

Cole received a rousing reception from the England fans when he came on mid-way through the second half of the vital win over Slovenia and is desperate to make his mark in South Africa.
But Cole expects to be nothing more than a substitute as England gear up to face for Germany.

He said: 'It was a great reception when I came on. The England fans know what I can do for my country. I've performed well for years now.

'Of course, it will be hard to get in after England's performance but things have never come easy to me so that's cool.

'People ask if it is easy to keep your head up when on the bench but it is a mental game. You want to play but it's a team game.

'If I get one minute, I'll fight for that one minute. If I start, I'll fight for that. I came on and the thing was to stop their midfield, keep hold of the ball, break it up, win fouls.
'I did my job but hopefully I'll be able to come on and do something more progressive.'

Cole claimed John Terry is the best centre-half in the world after his performance against Slovenia.

Terry dominated the headlines before the crunch meeting with Slovenia over his claims players wanted to discuss concerns over tactics and team selection with coach Fabio Capello.

But Cole says it was on the pitch the Chelsea player proved his true worth with a rock solid performance.

Cole said: 'You can't knock 'JT' (Terry). He is the best centre-half in the world. Some of the blocks and the tackles he put in against Slovenia were brilliant.'

But Cole expects to be nothing more than a substitute as England gear up to face for Germany.

He said: 'It was a great reception when I came on. The England fans know what I can do for my country. I've performed well for years now.

'Of course, it will be hard to get in after England's performance but things have never come easy to me so that's cool.

'People ask if it is easy to keep your head up when on the bench but it is a mental game. You want to play but it's a team game.

'If I get one minute, I'll fight for that one minute. If I start, I'll fight for that. I came on and the thing was to stop their midfield, keep hold of the ball, break it up, win fouls.
'I did my job but hopefully I'll be able to come on and do something more progressive.'

Cole claimed John Terry is the best centre-half in the world after his performance against Slovenia.

Terry dominated the headlines before the crunch meeting with Slovenia over his claims players wanted to discuss concerns over tactics and team selection with coach Fabio Capello.

But Cole says it was on the pitch the Chelsea player proved his true worth with a rock solid performance.

Cole said: 'You can't knock 'JT' (Terry). He is the best centre-half in the world. Some of the blocks and the tackles he put in against Slovenia were brilliant.'

7 yellow cards in ugly 1st half of Brazil-Portugal

2010-06-25T10:46:00.000-07:00

DURBAN, South Africa — What was supposed to be a World Cup classic between two teams known for their attacking flair turned into a huge letdown Friday, with Portugal's 0-0 draw against Brazil light on quality football and full of yellow cards.

Brazil and Portugal are supposed to be friendly nations with a shared language and colonial past.

But there was no love lost in Friday's first half in Durban. Four Portugal players and three from Brazil were booked before the break.

Tempers cooled with the night air in the second half, but so did the match's intensity as the most keenly anticipated first-round fixture fizzled out and the players were jeered at the final whistle.

WORLD CUP 2010: Germany boss Joachim Low insists it's World Cup first, new contract second

2010-06-25T10:40:00.000-07:00

That's why I am here: Germany coach Joachim Low is not distracted

Model coach: Joachim Low will concentrate on winning the World Goblet rather than worrying about his Germany deal that ends at the end of the tournament

Germany coach Joachim Low insists uncertainty over his future will not affect his side's bid for World Cup glory.

Negotiations between Low and the German Football Federation (DFB) over an extension to his deal which runs out after the tournament broke down at the start of the year.

But the 50-year-old, whose side take on England in a last-16 clash on Sunday, said he will hold talks with DFB president Dr Theo Zwanziger after the World Cup.

'It remains the case that we will talk after the tournament - whenever that will be,' said Low.
But I want to emphasise again, my relationship with the president is absolutely fine. Two days ago he was with us in the hotel, we sat together and talked for a long time in the evenings. Everything is okay between us.And Low claimed the Germany squad is as united as any in the tournament.

'We are a team - and that is what we want to convey to our great fans day in day out,' he added.

'That is very important to me - everyone should see that we are building unity. We belong to two, three teams at the World Cup who show absolute unity.

'We are a young, inexperienced team. And it is not always easy. But you can identify with this team. Everyone is rooting for us, everyone. That is a good feeling.'

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WORLD CUP 2010: England lack fear factor! Rooney and co have failed to convince anyone so far, say Germans

2010-06-25T10:33:00.000-07:00

On their way: Defoe's goal against Slovenia sealed England's passage through to the second round and a mouth-watering tie against Germany

Waiting to hit top gear: Rooney has played below his best in South Africa

When the German players returned to their hotel 20 miles south-west of Pretoria on the Highveld, they gathered out in the courtyard for an impromptu party and watched as a fireworks display lit up the night sky.

England, by contrast, spluttered and popped once or twice against Slovenia, but there has been no real spark, no explosion of colour to draw admiring 'oohs' and 'aahs' from a World Cup crowd.

Italian job! Fabio Capello and Steven Gerrard embrace at the final whistle on Wednesday

Bring on the English! Germany boss Joachim Loew

Fabio Capello's men have mostly been duds, disappointing everyone watching and waiting for some pyrotechnics.
The Germans were talking diplomatically yesterday about how England are 'favourites' ahead of Sunday's match in Bloemfontein, but they don't really mean it. Actually, they are happy to admit they have seen nothing yet to be afraid of.

Behind the scenes they even half endorse Franz Beckenbauer's claim that England's firecracker may have prematurely burnt out. But they are intelligent and professional enough to realise Capello's side must be approached with extreme caution, as they remain capable of catching alight.Germany's experienced defender Arne Friedrich said: 'I don't think England have convinced or impressed anyone, even they would say that. They've not had the best tournament so far, in fact they they've been poor.

'Despite that we know they are perfectly capable of doing something. They can still spark and we have to be ready. If you go through the England line-up man for man, they are probably the favourites. They have more star names in the side compared to us and because of that you'd have to give them a slight advantage.

'We are young, they are experienced - we'll be seeing a meeting of two extremes. But our edge comes from the fact that we're more of a team. 'We're growing together and will get better as the tournament goes on.

'The key to our success is to play with the freedom and lightness that our game has had at times in South Africa. We were a little inhibited against Ghana. 'We can't afford to play at that level again against England, but now we're at the knock-out stage we feel a lot more liberated.'

If England are a dormant powder keg then Wayne Rooney is the fuse and, sticking to the theme, German coach Joachim Low said he was worried the Manchester United ace may yet 'explode'.
He added: 'Rooney may not have been the big gun we expected so far but he is ready to fire and our defence will have to be careful.'

Friedrich, the centre half likely to mark England's striker, agreed: 'He has incredible qualities, and has proved it year after year. Rooney's been disappointing so far too, but he will come into his own sooner or later - if we let him.'

In Germany, they call this game 'Der Klassischen', or 'The Classic'. It's a showdown as fiercely anticipated in Munich and Berlin as it is across the cities of England.
A TV audience of 28 million watched Low's men crush Australia last weekend, a 74 per cent share of the audience. The England game will approach the country's alltime rating high of 29.7m when Germany lost to Italy in the World Cup semi-final four years ago.

No doubt then that Low's side, underestimated and overlooked pre-tournament, has captured the public imagination with its verve.

Assistant coach Hans Dieter Flick, the former Bayern Munch player, believes defeating England could bethe start of something special.

'There has been a wave of enthusiasm at home that is so big, nobody will be satisfied if we go out now,' he said. 'This is the kind of game that has everyone excited. When we beat Ghana to go past the group stage we negotiated one challenge, but we're not satisfied.

'It's a meeting of two major football nations and they are always feisty and emotional games. The players know this could be a high point of their careers.'

History is always invoked when these two meet: 'Two World Wars and one World Cup - doo dah', and so on. It is the first World Cup finals encounter since the unforgettable semi-final at Italia '90 in Turin, when Paul Gascoigne broke down in tears and England crashed out on penalties.

But if England were looking for some sliver of hope that their disastrous 17 per cent shoot-out success rate (compared to Germany's 83 per cent at tournaments) would be boosted by the presence of a nervous young goalkeeper they will be disappointed.

The shocking suicide of keeper Robert Enke in November 2009 elevated Manuel Neuer to the main squad behind Rene Adler and when Adler suffered a rib injury before the World Cup the youngster was asked to step up again. But the 24-year-old is unfazed by the challenge.

'A year ago I wasn't in this squad, but I got used to being German No 1 very quickly. There is no element of fear whatsoever. I try to be a tower of strength in every game.

'If the England game goes to penalties I will be prepared. It's a huge help that our goalkeeping coach is Andy Kopke, who was in goal when we beat England in the semi-finals in Euro ' 96. He will be giving me plenty of advice.

'As a keeper I can only win in such a situation and I believe Germany will win too,' he added. We'll see. Either way, expect more fireworks.

Proof that Wayne Rooney's no longer thinking outside the box Analysis show Ronney start putting deadly balls in goal area.

2010-06-25T10:20:00.000-07:00

Germany beware - the signs are that Wayne Rooney is beginning to find his feet at this World Cup.

England fans have been pinning their hopes on the 24-year-old, but lacklustre displays against the USA and Algeria suggested the Manchester United star was struggling to reproduce his scintillating club form on the biggest stage of all.

But take a look at our graphics, which show Rooney's touches throughout all three of England's Group C games.

After two matches in which Rooney touched the ball mainly in deep midfield areas (1), even spending long periods in his own half against Algeria (2) his performance against Slovenia (3) clearly shows that he is finally starting to get the ball in the box.

His total number of touches is down, but those touches are coming in much more influential and dangerous areas.

Rooney's last international goal for England came nine games ago, against Croatia in September last year, and his overall tally is just 25 goals from 63 appearances.

It is a far cry from 2004 when he burst on to the international scene at the European Championship finals. He scored twice in a 3-0 win against Switzerland and then twice more as Croatia were swept aside 4-2 and was being hailed as the most promising young striker in world football.

But against Portugal in the quarter-final, he broke a metatarsal in his right foot. In April 2006, Rooney suffered more metatarsal agony in a Premier League game at Chelsea which upset his World Cup preparation.

Although he announced 'the big man's back in town' when he eventually linked up with the squad, he was never fully fit, his tournament ending with a red card against Portugal.

Four years later, all of England hopes there is a lot more to come from the selfproclaimed 'Big Man'. It looks like we might just be starting to see what he can really do.

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Germany captain Philipp Lahm anticipates a classic with England

2010-06-25T10:13:00.000-07:00

Captain Fantastic: Philipp Lahm (right) inherited the armband when Michael Ballack was ruled out of the tournament through injury

Classic encounters: England and Germany have met in the World Cup on four separate occasions, most notably the 1966 final

Germany captain Philipp Lahm described his side's forthcoming World Cup last 16 encounter with England as a 'classic'.

A second-half goal from Mesut Ozil helped Germany beat Ghana 1-0 at Soccer City on Wednesday night which took them to the top of Group D, meaning a meeting with England in the first knockout round.

The last World Cup finals meeting between the teams came in 1990, when West Germany beat England on penalties in the semi-finals. Prior to that, they also met in the 1982 second group stage, the 1970 quarter-finals and the final in 1966 at Wembley.

Lahm was keenly aware of the history of the fixture and said: 'The duel against England is of course a classic. The anticipation ahead of it is huge.

'We are looking ahead with confidence. But we know that we have to do some things better.'

Germany team manager Oliver Bierhoff started the mind games early by insisting that England, in spite of their nervy and unimpressive start to the tournament, will be favourites for the game in Bloemfontein on Sunday afternoon.
Perhaps it is an advantage not to be the absolute favourite against England,' said Bierhoff.

Germany boss Joachim Low still believes Wayne Rooney is England's main danger man, and fears he could 'explode' into life at any point after a disappointing start to his World Cup campaign.

He said: 'Rooney may not have been a big gun so far but he is always ready to explode, he is difficult to mark and control so our defence will need to watch that he doesn't score.'

England fan who berated team in the changing room has trespassing case adjourned

2010-06-25T10:09:00.000-07:00

Court case: Pavlos Joseph charged with two counts of trespassing after entering the England changing room

So close: Wayne Rooney watches ball fall onto the roof of the net

An England supporter accused of trespassing after he entered England's dressing room following their 0-0 draw against Algeria today had his case adjourned until next Wednesday.

Pavlos Joseph, 32, from Crystal Palace, south-east London, appeared at a special World Cup court in Cape Town this morning.
His solicitor Craig Webster requested an adjournment until June 30 because the the defence are still awaiting requested CCTV footage from inside the stadium.

Screen shot: Furious Rooney rants at the camera. He later issued an apology for 'any offence caused' by his actions

At a previous hearing Joseph was banned from attending future World Cup matches, his passport was withheld, and he was released on 500 rand bail after allegedly entering the dressing room and berating the England players following the match last Friday.

Mr Webster asked magistrate Aziz Hamied to postpone the case until next Wednesday, when he expects to be in possession of the footage.

Mr Hamied said: 'We will adjourn the matter until June 30, next Wednesday, which will either be for the representation, which if successful will be the end of the matter. Alternatively, we will be at trial.'

Joseph was arrested after the incident at the Green Point stadium in Cape Town
He said later he was looking for a toilet after the match when a security guard sent him in the direction of the players' tunnel.

After taking a wrong turn, he found himself in the changing room where he says he told David Beckham: 'David, we've spent a lot of money getting here. This is a disgrace. What are you going to do about it?'

The incident, which happened minutes after Princes William and Harry left, prompted the Football Association (FA) to make an official complaint to World Cup organiser Fifa.

A spokeswoman for the UK policing team in South Africa has said a football banning order would not be pursued because the incident was not linked to violent behaviour.
Joseph, a life-long England and Manchester United supporter, told the Sunday Mirror that when Beckham asked him who he was, he responded: 'I'm Pavlos and I actually need the toilet.'

He said he then addressed the players, who were sitting on benches with towels around their waists.

'I told them 'That was woeful and not good enough'. The room was so quiet, you could hear a pin drop. The players' chins were on their chests - they looked pretty ashamed.'

The story is reminiscent of the 'Smithy' sketch performed by James Corden, in which the comedian confronts the players to psyche them up.

Joseph, surrounded by photographers, declined to make a statement upon leaving court.

Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, Wayne Rooney, James Milner and Gareth Barry: Fateful five picked to end England spot jinx

2010-06-25T09:59:00.000-07:00

On the spot: Frank Lampard will lead England's charge from the spot

Record breaker: Lukas Podolski saved penalty against Serbia was the first German miss outside a shootout since 1974

Fabio Capello has identified the five men he hopes will end England's penalty jinx if Sunday's clash against Germany goes to the wire.

Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, Wayne Rooney and James Milner will step forward if they are on the pitch at the end of extra-time and Gareth Barry is expected to be the fifth taker.

Spot of bother: Jermain Defoe had a seres of spot kicks saved for Spurs last season but he's confident he can come good for England if needed

High hopes: Defoe is hoping his goal win keep him in the starting XI

England's outfield players have all been practising spot kicks regularly since they met for a pre-World Cup training camp in Austria last month.

But Lampard, Gerrard, Rooney and Milner did extra practice sessions in the time before Barry returned to full training after his ankle injury.

It will be a special test of nerve for Lampard and Gerrard, who both missed penalties for England in the World Cup quarter-final defeat by Portugal four years ago.

Lampard has missed his last two spot-kicks, in the FA Cup final and England's friendly against Japan, and Milner missed for England Under-21s in the European Championships semi-final against Sweden last year.

Ashley Cole, John Terry and Jermain Defoe are among the others ready to take one, although Defoe has missed six of his last 11 for Tottenham.

Spurs manager Harry Redknapp tried unsuccessfully to take the responsibility from him earlier this season, but England's goal hero from their 1-0 win against Slovenia insists he can handle the pressure.

England were beaten on penalties by Germany in Italia '90 and Euro '96 but Joachim Low's team are showing rare vulnerability from 12 yards.

Lukas Podolski's penalty was saved by Vladimir Stojkovic in their Group D defeat to Serbia, the first penalty missed by Germany outside a shoot-out since 1974. They have only ever missed two in shoot-outs.

It's a nice pressure, if that makes sense,' said Defoe.

'In your mind you know it means so much to everyone at home and your family, helping the team achieve something special.

"Most of it is in the mind to be honest. You've got to be confident. I understand, when you look at what's happened over the years, that people remember losing on penalties to the Germans but this is a different game, it's a different time.'

Defoe admits he is still 'buzzing' after his match-winner on Wednesday, and his friends and family are all scrambling on to flights to South Africa today to see him play on Sunday.

Capello told him about the team ahead of the Slovenia game, bumping into him in the gym on Tuesday morning and asking if he was ready to play.

Defoe's mother Sandra St Helen promptly invited the family around for a big-match party and her son delivered the winner.

'She was really emotional after the game,' said Defoe, who admits he is spurred on by his omission from the World Cup squad four years ago.
You practice things all your life, going across the front post and finishing, and when you do it and score, it's a great feeling. To win the game as well was so special.'

It was a moment to rejoice for a family hit by tragedy last year when Defoe's half-brother, Jade, was attacked in the street and killed at the age of 26. The England striker has a tattoo in his memory on his right arm.
Defoe now hopes his goal will be enough to keep him in Capello's starting XI to face Germany. He has a habit of scoring in clusters for his club and believes he can forge a prolific partnership with Wayne Rooney.

'When you're playing and you score, you want to start,' said Defoe, criticised by Redknapp towards the end of the season for failing to hold the ball up and run in the channels.

'As a forward when you score you feel confident and I believe if I get the chances I will score. It's about having a clear head. All the other stuff is negative.

'If you think about chances you've missed in previous games and go into the next game feeling like that you'll miss again. If you're confident, I believe you'll score.

'It worked well with Wayne, with the movement. If he drops in, I go long and, if I drop in, he goes long. Also switching around in the box. These are things we've done in training and now we've actually done them in a game.'

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Fears over Port Elizabeth pitch adds to England woes ahead of crunch clash

2010-06-22T23:16:00.000-07:00

Life's a pitch: Officials work on the pitch at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium after Chile's win over Switzerland

If England thought their pitch problems had been left behind at Wembley they thought wrong as they were forced to reschedule Tuesday’s training because of fears about the surface in the Port Elizabeth Stadium.

FIFA stepped in on Monday to cancel the planned sessions of both England and Slovenia inside the arena where they will play their crucial Group C game.

Alternative arrangements: England were due to train on the Port Elizabeth pitch but concerns were raised over its suitability

To be Frank: Lampard admits the heat is on England as they head into the match with Slovenia

They are worried about the condition of the pitch, which could be seen to cut up badly during Monday’s game between Chile and Switzerland — the fourth game there in 10 days.Officially, heavy rain has been blamed by FIFA but local turf experts believe the problem is actually related to the amount of sand piled on before the tournament in an attempt to create a smoother surface. But it has instead served to make the top three centimetres loose and the pitch very heavy.

Four more games are scheduled for Port Elizabeth, including a quarter-final and the third-place game, and the frequency means FIFA have no time to address the sand issue, beyond rolling it extensively before kick-off and hoping for the best.

England were forced to hastily rearrange their travel plans for Tuesday, changing the flight so they can train at their base camp, the Royal Bafokeng Sports Campus near Rustenburg, before flying to the coast where England manager Fabio
Capello and Steven Gerrard will hold an evening press conference.

Capello could have done without the added complications ahead of a game which has become the most important of his reign.Only a win will guarantee a place in the last 16; the Italian’s future could hinge on the outcome and Frank Lampard admits the heat is on England.

‘We don’t want to get knocked out,’ said Lampard. ‘We want to go through the group and if we get a win we can get the lift we need. If you’re not at your best, you have a down period after a game but it’s important to snap out of that.

'Apart from Brazil and Argentina a lot of teams are in a similar position to us. If you keep working, then eventually the most special thing can come.’
The Chelsea midfielder drew on parallels at Stamford Bridge this season, when the team responded to a European defeat against Inter Milan and a disappointing draw at Blackburn with a series of wins to clinch the Barclays Premier League and FA Cup Double.

Capello’s team may have started badly but they have one more chance and Lampard wants England to play with fire and passion on Wednesday.

‘We have to remember to play with our qualities,’ he said. ‘Pace and power, getting tight to people and putting on the pressure, showing spirit and guts.

‘We’re not Brazil. We’re not going to play with that style. We should never try to be that.

‘We can’t afford to get too down about one performance. It didn’t look great the other day. I don’t know about fear but there was uncertainty in our play and the movement wasn’t fluid.

‘It didn’t look good and natural. We have to turn in an instant because of the quality in the team.

‘America wasn’t vintage but it was a decent start to the tournament. Algeria wasn’t as good but we have to look at our qualifying campaign when we did play well. You sometimes forget the good stuff.’

The Chelsea players in the England squad may not be thrilled to learn the referee selected for the game is Wolfgang Stark of Germany, the man in charge when they were beaten by Inter in the Champions League in March.

John Terry branded it a ‘really bad performance by the referee’ at the time, and added: ‘I, as captain, went to speak to the referee and he turned his back on me. That is pure disrespect.’

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson tells Wayne Rooney to 'relax'

2010-06-22T23:12:00.000-07:00

Under pressure: Wayne Rooney has struggled to find his form in South Africa

Just relax: Sir Alex Ferguson has told Rooney to enjoy the World Cup

Wayne Rooney has sought advice from Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson as he looks to drag his country out of crisis, it has emerged.

Rooney has had a miserable World Cup so far and has not looked like breaking his nine-month international goal drought in England's dismal draws with the USA and Algeria.

Ferguson said he had spoken to his player and felt there were problems in the England camp.
He said: 'I get a feeling that the expectation is affecting England. Sometimes the expectation can be debilitating.

'I spoke to Wayne Rooney last week and said, "Relax and enjoy it". I sensed there was a tension in and around the camp.'
Ferguson, whose Scotland side earned just one point in the 1986 World Cup, told US radio station Sirius XM this weekend that the Barclays Premier League may need to phase in a winter break for England to succeed at major tournaments.

'It's a real task to ask players to perform at the best level they can achieve after the season in England,' he said.

'Germany always take that month-long break in January.'

He has also watched France's struggles with interest, as former United defender Laurent Blanc is due to take over from coach Raymond Domenech after the World Cup.

The United boss observed: 'There seems to be a lot of disharmony in the camp.

'I think it was bad preparation for the players to know that Domenech was leaving.

'They should have brought Blanc along as an overseer or assistant. Maybe he would have had a calming influence.'

John Terry failed coup said Sorry for big mistake.

2010-06-22T23:08:00.000-07:00

No doubt who's boss: John Terry had to back down

Making the news: Monday's report by Matt Lawton prompted Terry to respond

John Terry has contacted Sportsmail to apologise to Fabio Capello and his England team-mates in the wake of his astonishing press conference in Rustenburg on Sunday.

Speaking exclusively to this newspaper on Monday night, Terry said he was stung by accusations that he had undermined the manager by calling for him to make changes before it was too late at this World Cup. Capello yesterday described Terry’s outburst as a ‘big mistake’.

Back in business: Terry returned to training with his England colleagues on Monday morning

Terry told me: ‘I went into yesterday’s press conference with the intention of being honest. I was asked a question about Joe Cole and maybe I went too far. But it was never my intention to upset the manager or the players and if I did upset anyone, I apologise.

'I have told the manager he has my total support and I would like to stress that I don’t believe I have been a disruptive influence in the camp.
‘I would now like to put this episode behind me and concentrate on trying to win what is a massive game for England. All I was trying to do was to say how important it is to me to try to win the World Cup. I just hope people at least appreciate that I have taken the time to call you and have asked you to report what I have to say in response.’

This was a contrite and emotional Terry, completely at odds with the bullish performance on Sunday when he declared his intention to stage an Italia ’90-style coup at a scheduled team meeting with Capello. He called for a new team, new tactics and a fresh approach ahead of tomorrow night’s crucial clash with Slovenia.
He spoke of how Nicolas Anelka had been sent home for challenging France manager Raymond Domenech and said: ‘Maybe a few of us will be sent home after this evening.’ He then said he would have his say whether Capello liked it or not. ‘If it upsets him then I’m on the verge of just saying, “So what, I’m here to win it for England”,’ he said.

But Terry was quickly informed he would have no such say at the meeting by senior members of Capello’s coaching staff before realising he did not have the backing of the players, either. After speaking privately to Terry yesterday, Capello declared that his former captain had made ‘a big mistake’.

Terry knew then that he had seriously misjudged the situation but he was further wounded by the coverage that reflected the mood of Capello and the players, in particular in this newspaper.

It prompted Terry to contact me and stress how hurt he was by the accusation that he has been a disruptive influence since arriving here and how keen he was to repair his battered image, having been stripped of the captaincy in February amid the Vanessa Perroncel affair and Sportsmail’s revelations about his private Wembley box.
During a conversation that lasted for more than half an hour, Terry remained perfectly calm, accepting he had made mistakes while also defending himself rather eloquently. He insisted he was not motivated by revenge for being stripped of the captaincy and said his only motivation was to succeed for England.

Capello not only revealed his disappointment with Terry but confirmed that his actions had ‘disappointed some players’.

‘I spoke with some players but only John Terry said this,’ said Capello. ‘No one speak with me about the problems. My door is open always and if you want to speak with me, you can speak with me.

‘Every time we have a meeting I ask the captain, problems? You want to say something? Never. I read yesterday that John Terry said this, and I don’t understand why he don’t speak with me every time.

‘I think he’s more disappointed some players because when you speak you have to speak privately, not with you (the media). This is the big mistake, this is a very big mistake. It is not a revolution, it is one mistake from one player. But I hope sometimes
from the big mistake comes a big performance.’

Judging by his mood yesterday, Terry has never been more determined to deliver such a performance against Slovenia on Wednesday night.

Steven Gerrard talks the talk ahead of must-win match with Slovenia

2010-06-22T23:02:00.000-07:00

No exit: Fabio Capello and Steven Gerrard have issued a rallying call to the rest of the England set up

Shuffling his pack: Capello (right) has admitted he may have made some mistakes in England's first two games

Driving England forward: Gerrard will hope his reign as captain stretches beyond Wednesday afternoon

Steven Gerrard has issued a rallying call to his England team on the eve of their clash with Slovenia, calling the match a 'do-or-die' situation.

The captain is the only member of the team to have scored in South Africa so far, and he knows another blank against the smallest nation in the competition would be disastrous for the country.

In good spirits: Both Gerrard and Capello insist the mood in the England is good

Frustration: Wayne Rooney landed himself hot water when he reacted to the jeers of fans

'As captain it's important I switch attention to the game as it's a do-or-die situation,' he said. 'Training was very good and sharp this morning so we need to go out and do the business.'
Concerns about morale in the camp have been raised in the wake of last week's drab goalless draw with Algeria, a point accentuated by John Terry's controversial press conference.

Gerrard, though, insists the past is the past and he only has eyes for the future.
He's gone out and said what he said but I think it's time to move on,' added the Liverpool midfielder.

Manager Fabio Capello also insisted today that his relationship with his players is 'really good'.

The Italian claimed he never contemplated dropping John Terry following the defender's choice to raise a number of grievances within the squad in a public forum on Sunday rather than behind closed doors.

'John Terry is one of the most important players,' Capello said.

Asked about his relationship with the players, he added: 'Really good, because every time when I speak with the players they follow me. The players are happy. They trained very well.

'I think it's normal to have pressure at the moment. We have a play-off to be in or out. We have to win.'

Capello also backed Wayne Rooney to up his game following recent criticism of his below-par performances, especially in the goalless draw with Algeria.

'I spoke a lot of time with Rooney and he is an important player for us,' said Capello.

'Sometimes the pressure is so big, also for the important players. He improved in the last three days during training. I am sure tomorrow he will play really well.'

Rooney has faced criticism in some quarters for voicing his displeasure at the England fans booing the team off the pitch after the Algeria game.
Gerrard sympathises with the supporters and revealed the team are desperate to put on a better performance tomorrow in order to get them back on side.

'I can certainly understand,' he said. 'We came into this tournament with big expectations.

'People have paid good money and expect us to win football matches so we as players take responsibility for underperforming in the last game and the idea is try to put in a good performance tomorrow, win the game and change the perception of how we've done so far.

'We want to make the nation proud and happy. A good win tomorrow would certainly give the people more confidence.

'You can see that the players hurt from the Algeria performance. We let the country down by underperforming and we want to put that right.
'I can see the hunger in the guys, we can't wait for the game to start to put it right because we haven't enjoyed the past couple of days - the criticism and that feeling you get when you've underperformed and you've not done yourself justice.'

Capello admitted it was possible he had made mistakes in England's opening two games but has called for his players to knuckle down and start battling.

'It's possible I made some mistakes,' he said. 'It's possible. We have to improve if we want to win. I expect to see the spirit of the team. I want to see them fighting every moment, I want that we win the ball back quickly.
'We have to press more, we have to run more. This I want to see.'

Gerrard insisted the players would try to present a more attacking threat tomorrow as they look to more closely resemble the England team that breezed through the World Cup qualifiers.

The Liverpool skipper added: 'In the last performance we stopped doing what we done in the qualifying games. We were really confident, we played aggressive football and we were really difficult to beat.

'Although we never lost against Algeria, there were certainly things missing and tomorrow hopefully we can get those things back.

'We want to start the game really well, play compact, difficult to beat but also have the cutting edge in the final third where we can get the goals that we need.'

Gerrard also denied that he and his team-mates had put pressure on Capello to pick Joe Cole in his team tomorrow, adding: 'No not at all. Obviously the manager picks the team he thinks best to do the job.

'And obviously the players aren't in any position to question who the manager picks. Whoever he picks we go with that and we give it our best shot.'

Fabio Capello said he is not crazy saying England can win world Cup 2010

2010-06-22T22:55:00.000-07:00

We can do it: Fabio Capello leads the rallying cry to his England troops, insisting they can win the World Cup

Stand and deliver: West Ham captain Matthew Upson is ready to impress alongside John Terry in defence

Fabio Capello defended his sanity as he claimed England can still emerge from their campaign in South Africa as world champions.

Capello's team must beat Slovenia on a suspect pitch in Port Elizabeth on Wednesday afternoon to be certain of reaching the World Cup's last 16.

Jer-main man: Defoe looks set to start alongside Wayne Rooney in England's attack

The England manager said: 'I was not crazy when I said my target was the final of the World Cup, I showed this is a really good squad. If - no, not if, when we win the game, then all the teams have to fight against us.'
In his hour of need he will turn to Jermain Defoe. The Tottenham striker is poised to replace Emile Heskey as partner to Wayne Rooney in attack as Capello rings the changes in a bid to avoid an embarrassing early exit.
ames Milner is the favourite to come in for Aaron Lennon on the right, having trained in that role on Tuesday, and Joe Cole, the man the senior players want, is also understood to be under consideration.

Matthew Upson steps in for the suspended Jamie Carragher. In the aftermath of Friday's flop against Algeria, John Terry tried to lead the players in opposition to the manager, resulting in the boss's backlash and Terry's subsequent apology
The unrest fuelled suggestions that Capello might quit if England crashed out at this stage for the first time in more than half a century but, when asked if he would be in a job after this game, the Italian simply said: 'Thank you for the question' and left.

England beat Slovenia 2-1 in a friendly at Wembley last year but while Capello's team have dipped in form, their opponents have flourished.
Capello, who criticised his players for freezing with fear in the goalless draw with Algeria, added: 'This is a play-off, like a final in the Champions League, a semi-final in the Champions League. That's the spirit we must have. We are in or out. We have to win. We have not had good results but as you know my target was to get to the final.'

The teams were prevented from training on the Port Elizabeth pitch on Tuesday night because of FIFA concerns about the surface.

'It's not so good but that's not an excuse,' added Capello.

Robert Koren gives his verdict on the Slovenian team standing in the way of England's progression

2010-06-22T22:49:00.000-07:00

England's dream of World Cup glory could end embarrassingly early on Wednesday afternoon when they come up against the smallest nation in the tournament.

Slovenia are a largely unknown quantity yet still sit pretty at the top of Group C, two points clear of England and the USA. Avoiding defeat against the Three Lions will guarantee progression for Matjaz Kek's team.

Mr Organised: Bostjan Cesar is the firm foundation upon which the team is built

Man in the middle: Koren stars for his team in the engine room but has played wide-right for West Brom

But who are his merry men? Captain and former West Brom midfielder Robert Koren gives the lowdown on his team-mates hoping to inflict defeat on Fabio Capello's so far unimpressive side.

Matjaz Kek (coach)
At the start he had some problems because he was coaching a club in Slovenia along with the national team. But he has a very good eye for putting together a team. He does not allow people to do things for themselves. Has a good work ethic. He has been watching England since the draw was made and we know what to expect. He wants to develop as a coach and we are happy to go with him.
Samir Handanovic (Goalkeeper, Udinese)
Really good reaction saves, very good hands. His shotstopping is excellent. One of the best goalkeepers in the world at the moment. There are a lot of clubs keeping a close eye on him. He will go to a big club soon. Very professional.

Matej Mavric (Defender, Kapfenberger)
He has been around the team for a few years and, while not always being first-choice, has picked up a significant number of caps. A strong defender who has never let us down.

Miso Brecko (Defender, Koln)
Good athlete. Likes to get forward, played for a couple of years in Cologne. Plenty of potential but has played in Germany for Hamburg already. His performances improved as the group games progressed. Best is yet to come.

Bostjan Cesar (Defender, Chievo)
Our leader in the back four. The one who organises. Doesn’t stop talking. Very good left foot. Decent in the air, tall and dangerous from set-pieces.Bojan Jokic (Defender, Chievo)
Small player on the left-hand side. Again, nice left foot. Quick and not many beat him in oneon- one situations.

Marko Suler (Defender, Gent)
Right-sided centre back. Very aggressive. Good in the air for a player who is not that tall.
Robert Koren (Midfielder, Unattached)
I’ve played on the right for West Brom. But for the national team I play down the middle. What can I say? I’m trying to keep it all together, keeping us compact and trying to be involved.

Andraz Kirm (Midfielder, Krakow)
Right-footed but plays on the left. He is another good athlete and does not mind defending. He allows us to be compact and he works well with Jokic. Will slot in if the left back charges ahead of him.

Valter Birsa (Midfielder, Auxerre)
Takes all of the setpieces. Good delivery from distance. A big threat.

Aleksander Radosavljevic (Midfielder, Larisa)
My midfield partner. He likes to play. When you come from Slovenia, everyone wants to be on the ball. But out of the two of us he will cover my back more often than I cover his.

Milivoje Novakovic (Forward, Koln)
Our main target man. Very dangerous in the box. He’s very good. I think he will be another who comes back from this tournament with a big reputation. A lot of pressure on him to score but he’s high on confidence at the moment.

Zlatko Dedic (Forward, Bochum)
To compare him to others, I’d say he wants to be like Ivica Olic at Bayern Munich. He works hard and scores goals.

Zlatan Ljubijankic (Forward, Gent)
Has been an understudy to Dedic and Novakovic. But has played his part when called upon and was prefered to Dedic in the game against the USA when he scored.

One to watch: Novakovic

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2010-06-11T10:44:00.000-07:00