World Cup News and Information Resource

2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™ 1/2oz Silver Proof - Perth Mint

2012-08-17T19:08:00.001-07:00

2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™ 1/2oz Silver Proof Coin featuring:

Proof Quality 99.9% Pure Silver
Stunning Reverse Design
Australian Legal Tender
Limited Mintage – 10,000
Numbered Certificate of Authenticity
Souvenir Presentation Packaging

The FIFA World Cup is the ultimate competition for any football fan. The Perth Mint is thrilled to present this official licensed product for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™.

Get behind our Australian team with this fantastic memento, as the world’s best players battle it out for final victory.

Proof Quality 99.9% Pure Silver

The coin is struck by The Perth Mint from 1/2oz of 99.9% pure silver.

Original Reverse Design

The coloured coin’s reverse depicts a representation of a soccer player incorporating an Aboriginal motif and a map of Australia. The design also includes the inscription 2014 FIFA WORLD CUP BRAZIL™ and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark.

Limited Mintage

The Perth Mint will release no more than 10,000 coins.

Australian Legal Tender

Issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965, the coin depicts the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse.

Souvenir Presentation Packaging

The coin is presented in a prestigious display case and souvenir shipper that includes a specially designed numbered Certificate of Authenticity.

2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™ 0.5g Gold Proof Coin - Perth Mint Australia

2012-08-07T05:29:00.001-07:00

2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™ 0.5g Gold Proof Coin featuring:

Proof Quality 99.99% Pure Gold
Stunning Reverse Design
Australian Legal Tender
Extremely Limited Mintage – 7,500
Numbered Certificate of Authenticity
Souvenir Presentation Packaging

The FIFA World Cup is the ultimate competition for any football fan. The Perth Mint is thrilled to present this official licensed product for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™.
Celebrating the Australian team, this fantastic souvenir struck in gleaming gold makes a fantastic gift or memento of this much-anticipated event.

Proof Quality 99.99% Pure Gold

The coin is struck by The Perth Mint from 0.5g of 99.99% pure gold.

Original Reverse Design

The coin’s reverse depicts a representation of a soccer player incorporating an Aboriginal motif and a map of Australia. The design also includes the inscription 2014 FIFA WORLD CUP BRAZIL™ and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark.

Limited Mintage

The Perth Mint will release no more than 7,500 coins.

Australian Legal Tender

Issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965, the coin depicts the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse.

Souvenir Presentation Packaging

The coin is presented in a prestigious display case and souvenir shipper that includes a specially designed numbered Certificate of Authenticity.

Misfiring England avoid paying the penalty RWC News

2011-09-10T20:40:00.000-07:00

England's hard-fought 13-9 win over Argentina in their first Pool B match at Otago Stadium on Saturday provided a rigorous assessment of areas that need improvement if they are to go on to claim a second Rugby World Cup title.

Argentina dominated England at the breakdown and went 9-3 up before tiring in the final stages, as the 2003 winners finally found some fluency and forced a crucial late try by Ben Youngs.

The 67th-minute score from the replacement scrum half was one of the few times England were able to explode out of the ruck with any penetration.
And with Jonny Wilkinson missing five of his seven penalty attempts, the English would have been made to pay had Pumas kicker Martin Rodriguez not been equally wasteful.

The fact that England conceded 11 penalties will be an area of concern for manager Martin Johnson, who said he would be "looking at the details" of some of the decisions.

"We gave some penalties away, some were clumsy but others were a bit harsh," he said in a post-match press conference.

Heartening effort

"You concede possession and suddenly you've got them in your own 22, grinding you down and trying to get over the line."

Argentina were stopped just short of the line on several occasions and they will take heart from their performance having played only one match in the previous 11 months.
That lack of game time was telling in the last quarter of an hour, but they were also hampered by injuries to fly half and captain Felipe Contepomi and centre Gonzalo Tiesi, both of whom will have scans.

"In terms of the result, it can cost us dear. But in terms of performance, I think the whole team made a big step forward," said Contepomi, wearing an ice pack on his torso.

He said the medical team were unsure if there was damage to cartilage or bone in his ribcage, while Tiesi has a suspected sprained medial ligament in his knee.

Backs to the wall

The standard of kicking was a surprise, particularly in the case of Wilkinson, but Johnson resisted the temptation to bring on Toby Flood.
Wilkinson recovered from five consecutive misses to convert Youngs' try and then open up a four-point margin with a late penalty.

"You concentrate on what you control and for me that's kicking the ball," Wilkinson said.

"Today it felt good, felt right but it wasn't going over. I'm a bit better with my back to the wall. You can't let these things faze you."

England captain Mike Tindall said he was pleased at how England had handled the pressure.

"Nothing seemed to be going right for us but no one panicked and everyone just stuck to their jobs," he said.

"Credit to Argentina for what they did, but once we got into the tempo of rugby we wanted we were able to get under the sticks."

RUGBY WORLD CUP POOL C PREVIEW - WALLABIES LEAD THE PACK

2011-09-08T17:37:00.000-07:00

Pool C appears clear cut, with Australia poised to run away with the top spot in the group. Ireland should claim the other quarterfinals spot from the group ahead of Italy but the Irish have been on a run of poor form. The other countries in pool C are the United States and Russia; neither of whom should figure into this group's outcome.

Australia: IRB World Rank - 2nd
Coach: Robbie Deans
Captain: James Horwill

After winning the Tri Nations with a 25-20 victory over World Cup favourites New Zealand in Brisbane, the Wallabies must be considered serious challengers for the title.

A shock defeat to Samoa was certainly not an ideal start to the Wallabies' final World Cup preparations. But that slip-up at home in July may have served as a reminder not to take anyone for granted and the Australians will certainly be bringing their A-game.

At full strength the Wallabies can be a devastating force and are loaded with star power. Flanker David Pocock leads a terrific back-row while captain James Horwill is an imposing presence in the second row. Scrum-half Will Genia is one of the best in the game as is fly half Quade Cooper. And the forwards are no slouches either.

The two-time winners will be gunning for a third World Cup crown.

Ireland: IRB World Rank - 8th
Coach: Declan Kidney
Captain: Brian O'Driscoll

The wounded Irish have slipped to 8th in the World Rankings and are limping into the tournament after two depressing losses to France and another to England heading into the tournament.

The Irish can never be taken lightly though and could be seen as one of the tournament's dark horses. Their Six Nations drilling of England 24-8 back in March shows that they can be a dangerious, passionate side despite their recent struggles.

They have lots of experience in the likes of lock Paul O'Connell and some exciting younger players such as fly half Jonathan Sexton, prop Cian Healy and back row Sean O'Brien.

If they can shrug off their recent poor form, they should still easily finish second ahead of Italy.

Italy: IRB World Rank - 11th
Coach: Nick Mallett
Captain: Sergio Parisse

The World Cup is the swan song for Nick Mallett as the Italian coach and he would love to guide the team to their first ever knockout stage before he gives way to Jacques Brunel after the tournament.

There is reason for optimism as well as the Italians narrow 22-21 victory over France in this year's Six Nations showed that the team is capable of a big upset. They should also have confidence from playing Ireland, whom they will need to beat to advance, close in the Six Nations as well.

Sergio Parisse, one of the best number 8s in the world leads the squad on the field with his 80 caps. The Italians have talent and if they play up to form and the Irish are a little off the Azzuri could wind up booking their first ever trip to the final eight.

USA: IRB World Rank - 18th
Coach: Eddie O'Sullivan
Captain: Todd Clever

The USA have achieved a great deal of success in sevens rugby but have yet to translate that over to Rugby Union.

Zimbabwe-born Takudzwa Ngwenya, full back Chris Wyles and playmaker Todd Clever do give the States some hope though and are often the ones to provide the club's most positive moments.

The Eagles should be able to handle the Russians but a second win would come as a real shock. In the States Rugby is still the Ugly Stepsister to gridiron football.

Russia: IRB World Rank - 19th
Coach: Nikolay Nerush
Captain: Vladislav Korshunov

Russia qualified for their first ever Rugby World Cup which is a definite accomplishment but they shouldn't be much of a factor in Pool C.

They may not be completely outclassed however as they had three competitive displays against Canada, Italy A and the USA at the Churchill Cup in June. They fell 32-25 to the United States in that tournament and would love to claim their first ever World Cup win in a rematch.

Like the States the Russians have shown potential in rugby sevens and could be a bigger factor in future tournaments.

Hotels Rotorua, New Zealand: Rugby World Cup: Rotorua Brothers' Big Game Roles

2011-09-08T05:10:00.000-07:00

BJ and Sam Grouby are reaping the rewards of their parents' volunteer work - the pair are to be ball boys for the three Rotorua Rugby World Cup matches.

There are 10 ball boys for the games and the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union decided to divide the roles between the sub-unions, rewarding parents who play a part in community rugby.

Hotels Rotorua, New Zealand: Rugby World Cup: Rotorua Brothers' Big Game Roles

Hotels Christchurch: Rugby World Cup 2011: England Lend Support to Ravaged Christchurch

2011-09-08T04:34:00.000-07:00

The first thing you notice in downtown Christchurch is the hush. It is an eery feeling to be standing in the middle of what should be a bustling central square at lunchtime, listening to the sound of Kiwi tumbleweed. A few yards to the left lie the shattered remains of the city's pretty cathedral. Seven months on from the massive earthquake which destroyed much of the central business district, the area still feels booby trapped. "It broke our hearts," says the city's mayor Bob Parker, matter‑of‑factly.

Hotels Christchurch: Rugby World Cup 2011: England Lend Support to Ravaged Christchurch

Stay New Zealand Accommodation: Rugby World Cup Has Influence on Visitor Numbers

2011-09-08T04:19:00.000-07:00

Queenstown's loss appears to be Dunedin's gain as Rugby World Cup fans gear up for the South Island's opening match at the Otago Stadium on Saturday.

Although Queenstown is the chosen host for the English, Irish, Romanian and Georgian rugby teams, their fans remain to be seen, with bookings for accommodation below those at this time last year.

Stay New Zealand Accommodation: Rugby World Cup Has Influence on Visitor Numbers

New Zealand Takes Centre Stage for World Cup

2011-09-08T03:28:00.000-07:00

Children wait for New Zealand All Blacks Jerome Kaino (right) and Corey Flynn to sign autographs in Auckland on Thursday.

Many New Zealanders can scarcely believe they are hosting the Rugby World Cup as one of the planet’s largest sporting events prepares to kick-off in what promises to be a defining moment for the country.

An influx of about 95,000 international visitors will descend on the fomer British colony of four million for the September 9-October 23 tournament, stretching hotel accommodation in major cities to the limit.

“It seems funny, little old New Zealand holding this big event with all the world watching,” Wellington resident Kylie Goodman said ahead of the tournament’s opening game in Auckland on Friday.

“I still think we’ll do a great job though.”

It is the largest event ever staged here, a nation where sheep outnumber people eight-to-one and best known in recent years for the mountain vistas that provided a backdrop to Peter Jackson’s ‘Lord of the Rings’ movies.

The tournament comes after a horror start to the year with the Christchurch earthquake in February killing 181 people and severely damaging the main rugby stadium in New Zealand’s second largest city.

World Cup chief executive Martin Snedden has said the biggest obstacle organisers faced was the quake.

All seven matches scheduled for Christchurch, including two quarter-finals, had to be moved, although seismologists do not expect any major tremors during the six-week tournament.

New Zealand was a surprise winner over Japan and South Africa when the 2011 host nation was announced six years ago, lacking the large stadiums of its rivals and situated in a time zone unsuited to the European television market.

It is also geographically isolated - even Snedden describes the country as “stuck away at the end of the world”.

Travel any further south and you end up in Antartica, which was dramatically illustrated recently when an emperor penguin took a wrong turn in the Southern Ocean and eventually washed up on a beach near Wellington.

One attribute New Zealand has in abundance, however, is an all-pervasive passion for rugby union, which easily outranks other codes, including even football, as the nation’s most popular sport.

The national team, the All Blacks, is world rugby’s most successful side, winning 75 per cent of all its Test matches - even though it has a history of underperformance at the World Cup that it will be keen to end on home soil.

When framing the winning bid, New Zealand rugby chiefs promised to use the nation’s obsession with the game to transform the country into “a stadium of four million”, providing a hothouse atmosphere for the sporting showcase.

They have stayed true to their word in allocating matches for the 20 participating teams to 12 venues around the country, including small towns such as Whangarei and Nelson, with populations of 50,000 and 60,000 respectively.

International Rugby Board (IRB) president Bernard Lapasset this week described the fervour with which New Zealanders have embraced the tournament as extraordinary and said he expected a “wonderful” World Cup.

“Those who bought tickets will not be bored,” he said.

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand estimates that the influx of tourists will inject NZ$700 million ($578 million) into the economy, which is stil largely reliant on rural exports, lifting growth by 0.33 percentage points.

Hotels Wellington: Boks Prepare For Windy Wellington Gusts

2011-09-08T03:26:00.000-07:00

There are few sides in the world that know Wellington’s Westpac stadium like the Springboks, but come Sunday’s Rugby World Cup opener against Wales, the Boks will have to contend with the weather as much as they have to slay the Welsh dragons.

Bok captain John Smit even joked at the team’s welcoming ceremony that, being his fourth visit to Wellington this year, he knew his New Zealand mobile number better than his South African one.

But whether that knowledge will help the Boks as they contend with poor weather conditions to open their Rugby World Cup account is a moot point.

Hotels Wellington: Boks Prepare For Windy Wellington Gusts

Rugby World Cup 2011: All Blacks Hold Key to New Zealand's Wellbeing

2011-09-08T02:48:00.000-07:00

David Kirk, left, holds the Webb Ellis Cup in 1987, the last time New Zealand won the tournament. Photograph: Ross Setford/Associated Press

Back in 1987, when the Rugby World Cup took its first faltering steps, few people were particularly interested. The former All Black great Don Clarke was invited to kick the match ball through the posts before the opening game and promptly tore a hamstring. The Italian anthem was played on crackling vinyl only to cut out halfway through. After New Zealand had beaten France in the final, several players were back at their day jobs by Monday morning.

To contrast such a village-fete atmosphere with the 2011 edition is to be reminded how far the sport has advanced. New Zealanders are resigned to never hosting the tournament again; a population of 4.3 million means they simply do not have the economic clout. Estimates of how many overseas visitors will assemble in New Zealand continue to fluctuate, but the latest official figure is 95,000, almost a quarter of whom are making the trek from the UK. The organisers have even sold 55,000 tickets for a pool match between Fiji and Samoa, no mean feat even in Oceania.

For a nation still trying to regroup from the deadly earthquake that hit Christchurch in February, it is a bittersweet sensation. Kiwis are not naturally demonstrative but, on the streets of Dunedin, Hamilton and Auckland, there is an overwhelming sense of now or never. If the All Blacks could just do the decent thing and win the Webb Ellis Cup for the first time since the Special K era of David Kirk and John Kirwan, they could rest easy. "It has been a tough 12 months or so in New Zealand, with what has happened in Christchurch, what happened in Pike River with the mine disaster and the economic situation," said Martin Snedden, the tournament's chief executive. "I think the country is ready to have a party. We are ready."

Sadly for long-suffering All Black supporters, World Cups are not won to order. One missed Dan Carter drop goal or a split-second shake of Quade Cooper's hips could yet prompt another four years of introspection, always assuming New Zealand have not been ambushed already en route to the final.

Which is what lends this tournament its particular crackle. The temptation is to make comparisons with 1995 when South Africa were crowned world champions amid scenes so extraordinary they made a Hollywood film about it. The difference is that the Springboks had little prior notion such a feat might be possible. Graham Henry's All Blacks, as the former fly-half Grant Fox helpfully put it the other day, know they have a massive ape – "It's not a monkey, it's a gorilla" – to prise off their backs.

Nor has any host country conquered the world since Nelson Mandela handed the trophy to Francois Pienaar on that remarkable day in Johannesburg. The past three winners, reflecting the sweat-stained realities of the professional era, have been teams who planned their campaigns meticulously for months if not years in advance. There is no reason to suspect anything different this time, although Australia have the look of a team coming good at precisely the right time.

So what of the European challenge? Ireland are stuck in a peat bog of misery, largely bereft of the confidence they exuded in March. Suddenly it is not their Australian pool game that holds the key but the concluding fixture with Italy in Dunedin on 2 October. France have shown some encouraging flickers, without quite erasing doubts about their mental strength against quality opposition. Scotland's pre-tournament profile has been positively subterranean, while Wales may have to beat South Africa this weekend to ensure their pool qualification.

And England? No one really knows. They should be more than capable of exploiting a fair draw and, by virtue of maintaining their recent psychological hold over France, advancing to the semi-finals. At that point they could easily meet the Wallabies, whom they have beaten twice in the past 15 months. On current form they are not a looming threat to New Zealand but Courtney Lawes, Ben Youngs and Manu Tuilagi all have the precocious ability to make an eye‑catching impact. With Jonny Wilkinson to slot the goals, even All Black fans will be wary about taking them for granted.

Then again, Martin Johnson's team could just as easily disappear into a cul-de-sac of their own tactical making against Argentina and end up requiring victory over Andy Robinson's Scotland to reach the last eight. Johnson's mantra is that Test matches are generally won by sides who make the fewest mistakes. It is a truism that does not take into account the star quality all world champions must possess. Jake White's Springboks had Bryan Habana; Clive Woodward's England had Jason Robinson. If the English really are to be serious contenders, they need Chris Ashton and Ben Foden to rediscover the sharpness that helped secure four straight Six Nations wins.

The Springboks under Peter de Villiers face a similar challenge. There will be no shortage of teams at this World Cup who can tackle. Samoa, who beat the Wallabies in June, will cause at least one opposing team serious grief but, once again, will have to do more than simply thunder down a narrow 15-metre channel. The All Blacks can only hope Kieran Read recovers swiftly from injury and that Carter and Richie McCaw stay fit. News that Henry intends largely to abandon the rotation policy that backfired last time is sensible enough but is also tempting fate. At least they have Sonny Bill Williams, a man more than capable of sprinkling a little stardust on proceedings. "Everyone knows what he can do," said his centre partner Ma'a Nonu. "He's a megastar and a rock star and a great athlete. If he can do his magic, hopefully I can run off him."

For the competition truly to be a success, though, two collective things have to happen. As Snedden keeps reiterating, New Zealanders need to embrace the entire event, not only their beloved All Blacks. Georgia v Romania in Palmerston North may be the acid test. It would also help if the hosts and Australia are not the only squads willing to display genuine ambition behind the scrum. Either way, I foresee a final between the fast-rising Wallabies and a grim-faced New Zealand, with Henry's team narrowly managing to deny the exceptional David Pocock and Will Genia. Should the All Blacks fail to claim the ultimate prize in front of their own supporters, the sepia-tinged ghosts of 1987 will haunt them for ever.

Hotels Nelson, New Zealand: Italy Happy to Call Nelson Home

2011-09-08T02:29:00.000-07:00

The Italian rugby team have chosen Nelson as their World Cup base for a reason.

Head coach Nick Mallett is now hoping that Nelson's significant Italian community will help provide the crucial support base his team is looking for.

Although Italy begin their campaign against Australia at North Harbour Stadium next Sunday, they have critical pool C matches against Russia and USA at Nelson's Trafalgar Park, where Mallett is hoping for a decisive edge.

"We were very lucky that the [Nelson] mayor [Aldo Miccio] came over and watched our game against France in the Six Nations and we had a chance to meet him.

Hotels Nelson, New Zealand: Italy Happy to Call Nelson Home

Springboks Put Results Before Style - World Cup Rugby News

2011-09-08T01:42:00.000-07:00

If Wales coach Warren Gatland was trying to goad South Africa into changing to a more free-running style of rugby with his comment, "they don't play any rugby", he has missed his mark.

South Africa assistant coach Dick Muir said at a news conference at the team hotel on Thursday that results took preference over style as the Springboks prepare for their Rugby World Cup 2011 opening pool match against Wales on Sunday.

"You'd love to be scoring tries and playing a more flamboyant style but it's about winning at the end of the day. Nobody remembers the tries," Muir said.
Gatland raised eyebrows with his comment last Saturday that "they (South Africa) don't play any rugby; they don't do anything".

The Wales coach did concede, however, that the Springboks were very good at what they did do and were extremely difficult to beat because they played to their strengths of an excellent kicking game, solid set piece and tight defence.

But whether intended as criticism or compliment, South Africa will not be deviating one iota from their game plan, which is to play whatever style of rugby it takes to win.

Pressure and opportunities

Muir, who is in charge of the backs, said seeing his talented backline racking up the tries would be a bonus.

"You're always wanting to score more tries but it's more about winning games than just scoring tries," he said.

"If you have a look at the last six World Cup finals, only nine tries have been scored. It's down to pressure and down to opportunities, and the higher the level that you get, the less opportunities there are available to you."
Muir said South Africa have deliberately chosen players with the experience and proven ability to capitalise on limited opportunities, particularly under pressure.

"They're (the opposition) going to present you with certain opportunities and you've got to be able to convert those opportunities. And that's where the flexibility and decision-making comes in,'' he said.

"If you have a look at the squad overall, we've gone for a mature, experienced squad and it's for that fact: they are guys who are tried and tested, they've been under pressure situations before and their decision-making is key."

In the World Cup, History Weighs on New Zealand

2011-09-07T23:25:00.000-07:00

WELLINGTON, New Zealand — When David Kirk held aloft the Webb Ellis Cup after his team won the inaugural Rugby World Cup in 1987, he could not have imagined that nearly a quarter-century later he would still be the only New Zealand captain to have done so.

The All Blacks, as the New Zealand team is known, have dominated international rugby in the years since, except when it matters most. In the other World Cups — in 1991, 1995, 1999, 2003 and 2007 — New Zealand came up short despite usually entering as a favorite. They are a favorite again this year as the 20-team tournament returns to New Zealand, with play beginning Friday and concluding on Oct. 23.

Four years ago, New Zealand had its worst World Cup, being knocked out in the quarterfinals by France. A lack of leadership on the field in crucial games contributed to the semifinal failures in 2003 against Australia and in 1999 against France.

“I honestly thought at that time that New Zealand would win every second one, maybe — possibly even more regularly,” Kirk said. “They are pretty much the No. 1 team in the world every year, so there was no reason to suspect they wouldn’t win the World Cup.”

That anomaly has earned the team the tag of choker, and it is why New Zealand fans remain cautious. They will get their first look Friday, when the All Blacks play the opening match in Auckland, against Tonga.

“Of course I’m nervous,” said Hadleigh Lynn, a fan from Wellington. “The pressure is on them. They are at home, and they’ve got the whole country here watching them. I think they will be feeling the nerves as well.”

That anxiety has only been heightened by a loss last month to Australia in the deciding Tri-Nations match in Brisbane, Australia, which came after a loss to South Africa the previous week.

New Zealand was outplayed by Australia in the opening 40 minutes and had no answer to the hard-hitting intensity the Wallabies brought to the breakdown or the fleet-of-foot back line.

Not only did that 25-20 victory earn the Wallabies, New Zealand’s biggest rival, the Tri-Nations trophy for the first time in a decade, it also lifted the morale of the Australians, who along with South Africa and England shape up as New Zealand’s main foes in the coming weeks.

The Wallabies’ performance was similar in many aspects to the passion and intensity the French showed in the quarterfinal four years ago. Then, New Zealand showed an inability to change a game plan that was not working. This year that seems to be different.

In Brisbane, it may have taken a halftime pep talk from the coaches to bring about a change in tactics, but at least it happened, and that allowed the All Blacks to get back in the game.

History may also be on New Zealand’s side, and it will take some comfort from the fact that the winner of the Tri-Nations, a competition among the Southern Hemisphere powers New Zealand, Australia and South Africa, has never gone on to win the World Cup in the same year. The defeat has also ensured that there will be no complacency from the New Zealanders.

“I hate losing, so it was difficult, but we have a real focus now and there’s certainly no overexpectation or complacency,” New Zealand Coach Graham Henry said. “We have a very experienced side with experienced leaders, but also some young guys who will bring a lot of excitement and talent.”

Kirk also believes the players’ experience — and their past World Cup encounters — will give them an advantage. The 30 players have made a total of 1,133 appearances for their country, a figure unrivaled by any previous All Blacks squad. Only the South Africa squad, with 1,224, has more.

Nine of those, including the captain, Richie McCaw, fullback Mils Muliaina, fly-half Daniel Carter, prop Keven Mealamu and lock Ali Williams, have each played more than 50 matches. Perhaps more important, they will be embarking on their third World Cup; another seven players will be playing in their second.

“They’ve got a very experienced and capable coach,” Kirk said. “They’ve got depth. They’ve got star players in important positions.”

New Zealand has also lost only 8 of 84 matches in New Zealand since the game turned professional after the 1995 World Cup, and Kirk said that would be a big advantage.

“You just have to look at the statistics and how difficult teams find it to win in New Zealand,” he said. “That’s partly the conditions, partly because the All Blacks play even better at home and partly the intense focus on rugby in New Zealand.”

Henry, the only New Zealand coach to get two shots at the World Cup, sees playing at home as an inspiration for his players.

“One of the special qualities of rugby in New Zealand is the expectation of the public, and that’s one of the reasons why we have been so successful,” he said. “There will be huge expectation and I think that brings out the best in the guys.”

NZ Rugby World Cup Fixtures at Eden Park in Auckland, New Zealand

2011-06-08T04:10:00.000-07:00

NZ Rugby World Cup Fixtures at Eden Park in Auckland, New Zealand - Rugby World Cup 2011

09/09 - 20:30 New Zealand - Tonga Auckland

17/09 - 20:30 Australia - Ireland Auckland

24/09 - 20:30 New Zealand - France Auckland

25/09 - 15:30 Fiji- Samoa Auckland

01/10 - 20:30 England - Scotland Auckland

08/10 - 20:30 Winner B - Runner-up A Auckland

09/10 - 20:30 Winner A - Runner-up B Auckland

15/10 - 21:00 Winner QF 1 - Winner QF 2 Auckland

16/10 - 21:00 Winner QF 3 - Winner QF 4 Auckland
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21/10 - 20:30 Loser SF 1 - Loser SF 2 Auckland

23/10 - 21:00 Winner SF 1 - Winner SF 2 Auckland

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Hotels Christchurch, New Zealand

2011-01-22T01:52:00.000-08:00

Hotels Christchurch, New Zealand

Crowe sets his sights on Sonny Bill - Rugby World Cup News

2011-01-15T19:42:00.000-08:00

RUSSELL CROWE has made an audacious attempt to lure Sonny Bill Williams to South Sydney.

Not content with snaring the prized signatures of superstars Sam Burgess and Greg Inglis, Crowe has spoken to Williams about the possibility of shifting to Redfern after the Rugby World Cup this year.

It's understood that Crowe proposed the move after being introduced to Williams by mutual friend Anthony Mundine.

Advertisement: Story continues below Crusaders and All Blacks star Williams will become one of the most sought-after stars in either rugby code when he becomes a free agent at the end of the year. There will be no shortage of offers from NRL clubs - Williams was recently spotted dining with Parramatta coach Stephen Kearney, prompting speculation the cashed-up Eels are a contender for his services.

However, Crowe has displayed an uncanny ability to snare his man since taking over as co-owner of the Rabbitohs. Internationals Roy Asotasi, Burgess and Inglis have all joined the club after being wined and dined by the Oscar-winning actor.

Mundine was an influential figure in the Inglis deal and is also close friends with Williams. When Williams controversially walked out on the Bulldogs in 2008, Mundine offered to pay the compensation money demanded by the NRL club.

Mundine has also been helping the dual international prepare for his boxing bout against Scott Lewis on the Gold Coast on January 29.

The salary cap will again be one of the biggest stumbling blocks in Williams's potential return to league. The Inglis deal was initially knocked back by NRL salary cap auditor Ian Schubert and the Rabbitohs were forced to release local junior Beau Champion before it was ratified.

Williams, 25, could command upwards of $1 million a season following his selection for the All Blacks last year.

Photo Release -- Rugby World Cup 2011 Countdown Commences

2010-09-14T03:39:00.000-07:00

AUCKLAND, New Zealand, Sept. 9, 2010 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today the International Rugby Board (IRB) and Heineken launch the Rugby World Cup Tour presented by Heineken. The Tour marks the countdown to the Rugby World Cup (RWC) tournament, which kicks off in 365 days in New Zealand.

The Webb Ellis Cup begins its journey from Eden Park stadium in Auckland, New Zealand in the presence of Rugby legend Taine Randell, former captain of New Zealand's national rugby team, Bernard Lapasset, IRB Chairman, and Hans Erik Tuijt, Heineken International.

Taine Randell, "Holding the Cup is every rugby fan's dream. I am pleased that Heineken will take the Cup on their Tour around the world, and I'm very excited that, as the official Ambassador of the Tour in New Zealand, I will be joining the Cup on its Tour here!"

Bernard Lapasset stated, "It's my pleasure to hand our long-term partner Heineken the prestigious Webb Ellis Cup to take it on the first ever worldwide tour for the next 12 months. I am sure Heineken will create excitement amongst rugby fans on all continents, enabling them to get up close and personal to the Cup. New Zealand hosted the first RWC in 1987 and it is ready to welcome the world once more for RWC 2011!"

Heineken's Hans Erik Tuijt said, "We will be taking the Cup around the globe, travelling from New Zealand to Ireland and from Argentina to South Africa. Through the Tour we aim to encourage more people than ever to follow the event when it starts in September 2011."

The Webb Ellis Cup is awarded to the winning nation at each tournament. New Zealand was first to hold the cup in 1987. Australia won twice (1991 and 1999), as did South Africa (1995 and 2007) and England once (2003).

The Cup commences its tour on 24th September. For more information please visit the special RWC Tour section on the Heineken Facebook page, to be launched on 15th September 2010.

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All Black Juggernaut Gathers Momentum WORLD CUP CENTRE

2010-08-29T21:10:00.000-07:00

John Kirwan and myself were in Johannesburg last week promoting the 2011 Rugby World Cup for the New Zealand Government.

Talk about pushing against an open door - that must have been one of the easiest jobs I've ever had.

The deep passion that South Africans have for rugby was abundantly evident and we were staggered by how much air-time we were given on radio stations, TV shows and in newspapers.

We talked rugby morning, noon and night with just about everyone we met.

We both left with the indelible impression that South Africans are as passionate as anyone about rugby, New Zealand included.

We agreed that, whether we were there promoting it or not, come 2011, South Africans will be on the planes to New Zealand to cheer on the Boks.

JK has been back to South Africa only a few times since we had toured together there in 1992, and not only was he amazed at the political and social transformation that has taken place, he was also surprised that, as I mentioned last week, people really did come up to me and say "Fitzpatrick, it is nice to meet you and I have always wanted to say this: I hate you!"

It really is a thoroughly enjoyable rivalry, one we should nurture and treasure.

The game itself was a cracker. The most important perspective of the game from an All Black point of view was the fact that we didn't give up.

Those last 10 minutes were in stark contrast to the last 10 minutes in Cardiff against France in 2007. It was a huge win - exactly what we needed as we move towards next year.

Graham Henry has been picking his best team for the whole Tri Nations and that has given us continuity, momentum and a calm confidence under fire that allowed us to stay focused and deliver a win at the death.

It really was great stuff, and while he may use the autumn internationals to fill some gaps and cover key positions, Henry has clearly changed his approach.

He's a smart man. The game has evolved and he has developed the All Blacks to capitalise on the changes. The Springboks, by comparison, looked jaded and outdated.

Certainly the coaching team and senior players all know where they're going and what they're trying to do, and the whole group is gelling nicely.

We were staying at the same hotel as the All Black squad in the run-up to the game and meeting them at the various functions, seeing them around the hotel and chatting to them made me feel very proud.

They are a bunch of really nice guys; friendly, professional, disciplined, charming, and more - you just wouldn't want to meet them on the field ...

Physically, they're in great shape. They are well conditioned, strong and focused. I hadn't really appreciated where they're at mentally, but spending time in their company this week, I was highly impressed.

Richie McCaw carries himself wonderfully in his role as captain.

He blends a polite, humble approach with steely determination and absolute clarity on his team's mission.

The question of course remains. Will we, as many (mainly Northern Hemisphere) pundits predict, choke when it comes to the main event?

Time will tell, but you can take it from me as someone who knows when a team is feeling right that this group of All Blacks is drawing together, and becoming more than the sum of its parts.

I recognised that quiet, focused determination that is permeating the whole set-up.

The few days with the team reminded me how it felt to be part of an All Black side that was moving towards full ramming speed.

It was energising and exciting to be so close to it again.

Of course it is way too early to be clearing a space on the mantelpiece but, I tell you what, we're absolutely right where we need to be at the moment in terms of team development.

I wouldn't change a thing.

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Bok strategy for 2011 RWC World Cup Centre

2010-08-21T09:08:00.000-07:00

The Rugby World Cup bug is starting to bite. Yes it’s a year away, but already the “gees” is starting to brew deep down in the soul.

The Springboks have not had the greatest of seasons this year, so far at least, but we’ll always be a top 3 rugby nation so I’ll remain optimistic that by this time next year, our rugby woes will be a thing of the past and that we’ll be back to our winning best, ready to challenge the world and defend our Rugby World Champions’ status.

I’d like to propose something to SA Rugby, and our coach Peter De Villiers. In 2006, the Boks’ season was a disaster. But a year later, the Bulls and Sharks played in the Super14 final (sorry Sharks supporters for reminding you about that day), and Jake White, thinking ahead to the Rugby World Cup, rested key players during the subsequent Tri-Nations series. In short, the plan worked beautifully. The Springboks were fresh, exuberant and clinical as they smashed their way through the RWC tournament and were finally crowned World Champions.

We need a similar approach during the early part of next year’s season.

We should play all our players to get them contact fit and match ready through the 2011 Super15. Our mid-year tests should allow all of our thirty chosen players to get some game time, proving old and new combinations.

For the Tri-Nations however, I’d like to suggest that we play our best fifteen, only twice, those occasions being our opening two games against Australia (in Australia on the 23rd July), and New Zealand (in New Zealand on the 30th July).

I propose this for three reasons. Firstly, the 2011 RWC is being played on foreign soil, so we need the momentum of winning away from home with our best team. Secondly, our best fifteen need to be a settled outfit, with all combinations working. Lastly, injuries and possible match bans for offences committed during the Tri-Nations would seriously hurt our chances that close to the RWC tournament.

Let’s give our best fifteen a month’s rest, and enough weeks for any match bans to be exhausted. Also, our “B-team” would be given additional game time and another chance to show their mettle, as they compete for any remaining positions in the Bok squad.

On a final note, I’d like to wish the Springboks all the best for tomorrow’s huge clash at FNB Soccer City (just sounds better than FNB stadium). With almost 90 000 people, the game is going to be massive. I’ll be there with the rest of the screaming hordes, experiencing what’s likely to be an emotional and historic clash between the powerhouses of world rugby.

GO BOKS!

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Italy target Ireland & Australia at RWC 2011 World Cup Centre 2011

2010-07-27T05:24:00.001-07:00

Italy's coach Nick Mallet says that he is aiming for Italy to reach their first ever Rugby World cup Quarter final next year in New Zealand.

English born but generally considered to be South African Mallet coached the Springboks to 17 record equaling victories in 1998 is well respected in the rugby world cup but faces a stiff challenge as Italy have never made it out of the group stages.

Italy have been making progress under Mallet and are no longer considered "easy beats" in the Six Nations.

Mallett's predecessor Pierre Berbizier started the Italian surge and his Italy team threatened Scotland in the last Rugby world cup but failed to beat the Scots and were knocked out of the world cup.

Italy have been pooled at the 2011 Rugby World cup with Australia and Ireland which makes Mallet's task even more daunting.

"After three years of work I know the players and the ambience well," he told RTE from the team's pre-season training base in Valle d'Aosta.

"I think it is very important that Benetton (Treviso) and Viadana (Aironi) have been accepted into the Magners League because it will allow many players to play at a higher level, the fruits of which will be seen in several years."

Despite the Italian resurgence Italy have not yet taken a TriNations scalp but they will play three internationals against Southern Hemisphere opposition in November.

One of those November Internationals will be against Australia, on November 20 in Florence. They will also play Argentina, on the 13th of November in Verona, and finish with a clash against Fiji, in Modena on the 27th of November.

Two years ago not long after Mallet took over they lost to both Australia, Argentina and the Pacific Islanders but last year they beat Samoa and lost New Zealand and South Africa.

"The Argentina match will give us the chance to get revenge for our last defeat against them, then there will be the excellent Australians and finally Fiji, who are just ahead of us in the world rankings," added Mallett.

"These will be crucial matches in the build-up to the World Cup."

Spain reaches semis after tense clash World Cup Centre

2010-07-03T21:20:00.000-07:00

Spain has edged out Paraguay 1-0 in the World Cup quarter-finals at Ellis Park after both teams missed a penalty in the second half.

David Villa netted the winner on 83 minutes after a mostly static encounter as the Paraguayans looked to shut out Spain's passing game.

Paraguay's tail was up when Oscar Cardozo was hauled down in the box by Gerard Pique on 56 minutes, but Iker Casillas jumped to his left to save well.

A minute later, fortunes were reversed when David Villa broke into the box but went down very easily under the attentions of Antolin Alcaraz.

Drama ensued when Xabi Alonso stepped up to convert the penalty, but an encroachment by Spanish players running into the box meant it had to be retaken, and 'keeper Justo Villar dived left to save and keep out the ensuing rebounds.

But the game changed with Cesc Fabregas's introduction, subbed in for the out-of-sorts Fernando Torres, and combining with Andres Iniesta, proceeded to create the vital opening for Spain's winner.

Iniesta ran at the centre of Paraguay's backline, jinking past three defenders before feeding Pedro on the left, but the midfielder's shot cannoned off the post.

The rebound found Villa, who took a touch before firing the ball home, taking a touch off both posts before nestling into the back of the net.

Paraguay chased the game late on as Lucas Barrios charged down the flank and shot on sight, but Roque Santa Cruz's shot off the rebound was brilliantly pawed away by Casillas.

Static opening

Just 50 seconds into the game's opening period, Jonathan Santana had a chance for Paraguay but could only hit a tame shot at Casillas.

The attentions were firmly on the Spanish stopper who was nearly caught in possession as Nelson Valdez raced onto his attempted clearance to deflect it behind the line.

But the game opened up for Spain as Xavi found Villa on the byline, but the forward's cross inside the box was cut out.

Xavi then went for the spectacular with a spin-and-shoot, but his audacious volley dipped just over the crossbar.

Torres was having a wretched time on the right flank and the out-of-form striker was not able to create any headway in the attacking third.

He dinked a ball past his marker and looked for Villa in the box, but his cross floated harmlessly out of play.

Paraguay thought it was 1-0 to the good when Cardozo buried his shot from a deep cross, but was flagged offside. Replays suggest he was marginally behind the line.

Valdez ended the half with a barnstorming run with Carles Puyol struggling to contain him, but the forward's shot was blasted well over.

Spain: 1 (D Villa 83')

Paraguay: 0

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World Cup 2010: Joachim Loew hails 'incredible' Germany win over Argentina

2010-07-03T21:15:00.000-07:00

Germany coach Joachim Loew hailed his side's "incredible" performance after seeing them defeat Argentina 4-0 to progress to the World Cup semi-finals.

Loew's side stunned the pre-tournament favourites with goals from midfielder Thomas Mueller, defender Arne Friedrich and two for striker Miroslav Klose.

"We really turned in an incredible showing," said Loew, whose side will now either face Spain or Paraguay.

"Scoring four goals against Argentina you have to say that that was class."

Germany took the lead as early as the third minute and managed to keep their opponent's attacking trio of Lionel Messi, Carlos Tevez and Gonzalo Higuain quiet throughout.

And it was Germany's ability to limit the threat of world and European player of the year Messi that particularly pleased Loew.

"We closed down Messi very well - without resorting to fouls, so that was great," said Loew.

Germany led 1-0 at half-time but sealed victory with three second-half goals, proving as much as an attacking force as their star-studded opponents.

"We really stepped on the gas in the second half and played a liberated style of attacking football," added Loew.

"I have been proud of my team for a long time, not only today. We played some really great football in the second-half and the team has shown the will of champions.

"This result and the amount of goals we scored was almost unimaginable before the game."

The only blot on Germany's copybook was Mueller's first-half yellow card which sees him suspended for the semi-final.

"Everything went off superbly and to send Argentina packing 4-0, well, what can you say?," said Mueller.

"But we did it as a team and I can't pick out any individuals. We all pulled together for this and it's just great.

"It's insane to beat Argentina 4-0. It's hard to find the words for a result like that."

Man-of-the-match Bastian Schweinsteiger added: "That gives you goose bumps seeing the way people are celebrating at home.

"We may have to play Spain next - they're the best team in the world, in my view. But we're good enough, we believe in ourselves."

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Ghana heartbroken as penalties rescue Uruguay World Cup Centre

2010-07-02T19:09:00.000-07:00

Uruguay has eliminated Ghana from the World Cup and moved into the semi-finals with a dramatic penalty shootout win after both teams drew 1-1 at Soccer City Stadium in Johannesburg.

Sebastien Abreu calmly netted the winning penalty after Uruguay almost lost the match at the death of extra-time when Luis Suarez was sent off for handballing on the line, but Asamoah Gyan missed the spot kick that would have sent Ghana through.

Fernando Muslera came to the fore to save John Mensah and Dominic Adiyah's penalties and despite Maxi Pereira's miss over the bar, Uruguay held on to win the shootout 4-2 and deny Ghana the first World Cup semi-final berth for an African team.

It was heartbreak for Gyan who missed what would have been the winning penalty in extra-time after Suarez blatantly handballed on the line as Ghana laid siege to the Uruguay goal.

Ghana had a header hacked off the line first by Muslera, before firing the ball straight back to be cleared off the line again, only by Suarez's flailing hands.

The referee issued a straight red card for the same offence for which Harry Kewell was sent off, ironically against Ghana, as a tearful Suarez left the field having seemingly cost his side the match at the death.

But one more twist came when Gyan stepped up for the penalty, ready to send Ghana through to the semi-finals, only to smack the ball against the crossbar as Suarez's pain turned visibly to relief on the touchline.

It capped a huge spell of pressure applied by Ghana at the tail-end of extra-time after Gyan headed over Steven Appiah's right wing cross, before a long throw found Kevin Prince Boateng, whose header also missed.

Uruguay will now meet the Netherlands in the Cape Town semi-final.

End to end

The second half had earlier been an end-to-end affair with both sides exchanging spells of superiority.

On 55 minutes, Jorge Fucile, who copped a brusing in the first half, was bungled over outside the box as Ghana conceded a free kick.

It proved incisive for Uruguay as Diego Forlan lined up and struck a majestic free kick which swerved in the air past Richard Kingson.

Forlan's goal cancelled out Sulley Muntari's stunning opener, after the Inter Milan midfielder marked his first tournament start with a magnificent strike in first-half injury time.

Turning in midfield, Muntari bent the ball from 35 yards past the flatfooted Muslera to send the partisan crowd into ecstasy.

Having conceded the equaliser, Ghana kept its head up as Gyan collected Boateng's pass to fire at Muslera, who spilled his catch, but Muntari could not finish from the rebound.

Mensah hit a weak header behind which Forlan latched onto before whipping a cross to Suarez whose volley failed to hit the target.

Suarez was put through minutes later only to be denied by a reflex Kingson save before the forward again headed at the 'keeper from a Forlan free kick.

Kingson's barrier

Ghana had 'keeper Kingson to thank for keeping it in the game in the first half with a string of saves.

Suarez put Kingson to the test on 10 minutes before Forlan rifled a free kick from distance, forcing an uncertain punch sent skywards from the 'keeper.

Edinson Cavani put Forlan free through the middle, who arrowed a shot wide of goal before Suarez brought out another save from Kingson just a minute later.

But Ghana broke free from the siege when, on 29 minutes, Isaac Vorsah's header missed by a hair's breadth from a corner, before Boateng counter-attacked to set up Asamoah Gyan, who also shot wide.

Boateng dinked a ball into Gyan's path four minutes later but Muslera cut out the forward's run.

Uruguay had already lost captain Diego Lugano when he was forced to withdraw on 37 minutes before Jorge Fucile was knocked out cold when leaping for a header.

The full-back landed painfully on his head and required medical attention after landing motionless on the floor.

But more pain was to follow for Uruguay when, in added time, Sulley Muntari turned in centre midfield to hit a swerving shot past the wrong-footed Muslera from 35 yards.

Ghana: 1 (S Muntari 45'+2, PENS:A Gyan, S Appiah, J Mensah [miss], D Adiyah [miss])

Uruguay 1 (D Forlan 55', PENS: D Forlan, M Victorino, A Scotti, M Pereira [miss], S Abreu)

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Netherlands stuns Brazil in Cup quarterfinals World Cup Centre

2010-07-02T18:32:00.000-07:00

PORT ELIZABETH, South Africa - Don’t call the Dutch underachievers anymore.

Not after the way the Netherlands rallied to upset five-time champion Brazil 2-1 in the World Cup quarterfinals Friday.

After waking themselves up at halftime, the title that has eluded the Dutch for all these years is now just two wins away.

“For 45 minutes we went full throttle,” said Wesley Sneijder. “We were rewarded.”

One of the shortest players on the field, Sneijder put the Netherlands ahead in the 68th minute on a header — a thrill so huge he ran to a TV camera, tapped the lens and stuck his face in for a close up.

“It just slipped through from my bald head and it was a great feeling,” Sneijder said.

He was in the middle of the post-game party, too, as his teammates swarmed him when the final whistle blew. John Heitinga picked up Sneijder and slung him over his shoulder as Netherlands captain Giovanni van Bronckhorst, a Brazil shirt in hand, leaped up and rubbed Sneidjer’s closely shaved head.

The result was a case of role reversal for both sides.

The top-ranked team in the world and one of the most impressive squads in the tournament until Friday, Brazil lost its composure after falling behind and defender Felipe Melo was ejected in the 73rd minute for stomping on the leg of Arjen Robben.

The Dutch made the championship match in 1974 and ’78, lost both, and rarely have lived up to their talent in other World Cups. They did this time, helped by an own goal off the head of unfortunate Felipe Melo that brought them into a 1-1 tie in the 53rd.

“I’m devastated. It was hard to see the players crying back there,” Felipe Melo said after emerging from the locker room.

“I have to apologize to the Brazilian fans. I came here thinking about giving Brazil the title, but I’m a human being. Everybody can make mistakes.”

He was almost the hero.

Robinho gave the Brazilians the lead on Felipe Melo’s brilliant low pass up the middle of the field that the striker put home with a low shot.

But the second half presented the unusual sight of the Brazilians scrambling wildly to find an equalizer.

It never came.

Instead, it was the Oranje and their fans doing the dancing as Brazil’s players lay on the turf.

Brazil also lost in the quarterfinals four years ago, falling to France 1-0. Former team captain Dunga was hired to coach the team after that defeat, despite having no previous managerial experience.

“We didn’t expect this,” he said. “We know that any World Cup match is about 90 minutes. In the first half we were able to play better and we weren’t able to maintain that rhythm in the second half.”

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World Cup Centre: England comes alive just in time, advances past group stage

2010-06-23T21:45:00.000-07:00

Jermain Defoe knocked in a goal for the revived Three Lions as they beat Slovenia 1-0on Wednesday in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, advancing to the tournament's second round.

It was a narrow but welcome escape for England, a pretournament favorite that was fighting off talk of internal strife after disappointing ties against the United States and Algeria.

The English needed a victory to move on, and they got it, dictating the pace for much of the game. Now they'll play Germany in the second round.

"This team, this spirit, played together and tried together," said England coach Fabio Capello. "I am really happy because I found the team I know. We now go forward. We can play against all the teams because the mind is now free."

The victory gave England second place in Group C behind the United States, which beat Algeria 1-0. Slovenia entered the day the surprise leader in the group but finished with four points to five for the U.S. and England. The U.S. earned first place based on tiebreakers.

Playing more aggressively than they did in draws with the Americans and Algerians, the English went ahead when Defoe put in James Milner's cross from 5 yards out with a right-footed shot.

"I'm lost for words to be honest," Defoe said. "What a moment. Everyone was focused before the game. We are through, that's the most important thing."

England continued to dominate after the goal, and Slovenia goalkeeper Samir Handanovic had to make two saves within a few seconds of each other to stop shots from Defoe and Steven Gerrard.

Frank Lampard, Wayne Rooney and Glen Johnson also had shots on goal.

At the end of the game, relieved England players — who had met with Caello to discuss what went wrong against Algeria — embraced in a group hug.

Germany 1, Ghana 0: Germany won. Ghana lost, then won.

Mesut Oezil scored on a left-footed blast from outside the area to give Germany a 1-0 victory over Ghana in Johannesburg and first place in Group D at the World Cup.

Still, Ghana had reason to party. Moments after the game was over, Ghana learned that Australia had defeated Serbia 2-1, a result that meant Ghana took second place in the group and also will move on to the round of 16.

"It was a very difficult match, but we fought, and it was enough to get us through," said Ghana midfielder Andre Ayew. "We had opportunities, but the important thing is that we went through."

Once the scoreboard flashed the Aussie final, Ghana players hugged each other, waved their country's flag and ran to the corner where their supporters were cheering and dancing.

The Germans, too, were saluting their fans and enjoying the moment.

"It was a tense game. We could have made more out of our opportunities," Germany coach Joachim Loew said. "We were not very precise up front. But I can't blame my young players, there was a lot of pressure, we had to win."

The heavily favored Germans had an upset loss to Serbia that left them needing a victory to be assured of advancing. Ghana is the first of the six African teams in the tournament to make it to the knockout phase. It could also be the last. Only Ivory Coast still has a chance to gain the final 16.

Australia 2, Serbia 1: Tim Cahill and Brett Holman scored second-half goals in Nelspruit, South Africa, to help Australia beat Serbia in Group D of the World Cup. But both teams did not advance. Marko Pantelic scored for Serbia, which finished last The Aussies got four points, the same as Ghana, which got second place on goal differential (even to minus-3).

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