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Spain Win The Fifa World Cup 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Sun, 11 Jul 2010 21:22:00 -0700

After a World Cup final of so toxic a nature the stadium is in need of decontamination more than the regular clean-up. To Spain comes rightful glory as they took this prize for the first time. The side prevailed over a Holland team that was reduced to 10 men when the English referee, Howard Webb, eventually dismissed the defender John Heitinga, with a second caution in the 109th minute. Cesc Fábregas, on as a substitute, fed Andrés Iniesta to score the winner seven minutes later.

Holland were already being rebuked prior to the final but these events were on a wholly different scale and Fifa should take additional action considering the harm done to the culmination of a tournament that means so much around the globe. The losers were overwhelmingly the guiltier party, with seven bookings, not including Heitinga's pair. Spain's count climbed to five with late cautions for Xavi and Iniesta near the end.

Repellent as many of the events were, talent insisted on creeping in and Spain both manufactured and misused a rising number of opportunities, particularly in extra-time. As it is, all four of their matches in the knockout phase have been won by the same 1-0 score. The Euro 2008 title, too, came with that result. In Johannesburg the frustration while waiting for the breakthrough was vast. An unbeaten run of 25 matches came to an end for Holland but it would have been better for their reputation had they lost earlier instead of tying themselves to this notoriety.

It would still be a misrepresentation to state that Holland devoted themselves entirely to wrong-doing and, in the 82nd minute, Arjen Robben was denied by an Iker Casillas save at his feet. No one can deny, though, that the victors are entitled to the prize. This occasion might bear less infamy if only they had scored earlier. As results show, chance-taking is the sole defect. The right-back Sergio Ramos, for instance, put a free header high from a corner kick in the 77th minute. The side's wastefulness was glaring, too, in extra-time.

Still, they are to be excused for any sense of disorientation. The mayhem and nastiness of the occasion were encumbrances for Spain, who would have envisaged a wholly different type of game. It was potentially unsettling that this victory in the World Cup could be seen as their destiny considering that they had never even reached the final before. Vicente del Bosque's side, for that matter, have developed a highly individual style founded on exceptional technique that exhausts and demoralises opponents as a midfield of supreme artistry confiscates the ball.

The flaw lies in the fact that possession can be an end in itself for Spain. European champions though they might be, the team began their World Cup programme in South Africa with defeat by Switzerland. They went behind then and a single goal sufficed for the victors. That occasion must have been prominent in the thoughts of the coach, Bert van Marwijk, and the Holland players. It can certainly be agreed that adversity of another sort lay before Spain in Johannesburg.

There had been an expectation that the Dutch would be much less respectful than the young Germany side that lost to Spain in the last four. Holland have a hard-bitten air and Mark van Bommel, the defensive midfielder, is utterly at peace while making enemies. Even so, no one anticipated this extreme conflict. Webb might well have shown Van Bommel a red card before the interval but was most likely trying to bring about some semblance of calm.

The standard medals for the officials should be seen as awards for a hazardous peace-keeping mission. Four bookings in the opening 22 minutes did not get the attention of players, particularly those of Dutchmen with their minds on anarchy.

Nigel De Jong took up old habits unacceptably later in the first half but escaped with a yellow card after landing his studs in the chest of Xabi Alonso.

The midfielder was unscathed but Spain had a fragility of sorts. Fernando Torres, out of form since a knee injury in March, did not come off the bench till near the close and, without him, the lack of a finisher is unmistakable. All the same, Ramos did connect with a Xavi set piece after four minutes and Maarten Stekelenburg was fully extended to parry to his right.

The subtler aspects of open play were generally forgotten. Spain, as anticipated, had more polish but the final assuredly did not gleam. Whatever was said at half-time did not lead to the players changing their ways. Before an hour was completed it had been necessary for Webb to caution Holland's Giovanni van Bronckhorst. Despite being captain, veteran and cultivated left-back, not even he was above the ugliness.

The tone might have altered swiftly with a goal that looked likely in the 62nd minute. Wesley Sneijder suddenly introduced artistry with a lovely pass that put Arjen Robben clear of Spain's defence and the winger attempted to take care, yet Casillas got his right leg in the path of the parting shot and conceded merely a corner.

It was a spell in which the Dutch were in the ascendancy. The better moments made it all the more infuriating that Webb still had to keep reaching for his yellow card. For convenience sake he would have been as well keeping it in his hand at all times. There were only three players from the Holland starting line-up who were not cautioned: Stekelenburg, Dirk Kuyt and Sneijder.

Whatever sanctions may lie ahead, Spain at least punished them by claiming the World Cup.

by guardian.co.uk

World Cup Final: Netherlands vs Spain Live Streams and TV Channels

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Sun, 11 Jul 2010 10:40:00 -0700

Netherlands vs Spain Live Stream

Date : 11-07-2010

Game Start Time : 20:30

FIFA World Cup 2010 Final

Venue: Johannesburg

It all comes down to this match. Over 200 countries entered qualifying, 32 made it South Africa, and on July 11th, 2010, 2 remain. The 2010 World Cup Final will be the biggest, most watched match in sports. One team will become world champion, a title they will hold for four years. Will we see a final ruled by controversy, as we did in 2006? Will it be a cagey affair, or will we see a back and forth match like the one in 1986, when Argentina beat West Germany 3-2? Here are all of the important details on the World Cup final:

here: Soccer City Stadium, Johannesburg, South Africa

When: July 11, 2010 at 8:30pm local time (2:30pm EST)

Who: Netherlands vs. Spain

MATCH PREVIEW

The general consensus is that Spain has played the better football in this World Cup 2010, while the Netherlands has been more effective. Spain maintains possession and passes, passes, passes, which has so far been enough to dominate games and find just enough goals to win (except against Switzerland in the opening group game, which shows what can go wrong with Spain’s approach). The Netherlands has protected it’s weak(ish) back four with two defensive midfielders and a lot hard work from the full XI, while relying on their all star attacking talents (and a wee bit of luck) to win every single game they’ve played so far.

Let’s get player specific. Spain’s dominance revolves around Xavi and Anres Iniesta. Xavi is like a valve controlling the flow of the game, and if he doesn’t find a hole in your defence to pass through then Iniesta will. If the two combine at the top of the box then say good night. On the end of all this is David Villa, who has five World Cup goals so far. Villa has been his usual deadly self, but long term striker partner Fernando Torres has not, and one of the big questions for Spain is whether they start with Torres and Villa up front, or just Villa and a five man midfield.

The key players for the Netherlands have arguably been defensive midfield duo Nigel de Jong and Mark van Bommel. The latter can play a bit too, and also has an uncanny knack of tackling tough without getting booked. Not everyone enjoys seeing it, but that’s a skill right there. Further forward, attacking midfielder Wesley Sneijder hasn’t quite bossed games in the manner of Xavi, but has proven time and again that he’ll deliver when needed. Whether it’s a perfect pass to the ever dangerous Arjen Robben, a long range strike or even a header from a corner. Sneijder is your man, and he’s currently level with Villa on five World Cup goals.

KEY MATCHUPS

David Villa vs Johnny Heitinga/Joris Mathijsen

Whether Villa has a strike partner or not, the World Cup final could very well turn on how well the Ducth defenders handle him.

Xavi & Iniesta vs Nigel de Jong & Mark van Bommel

Essentially Spain’s creators vs the Dutch destroyers. Will Xavi be able to dictate the game with MvB in his face?

Wesley Sneijder vs Sergio Busquets

The tactics obsessed website Zonal Marking did a good job explaining Busquet’s expertise in the defensive midfield role in terms of positioning and spatial awareness. Remains to be seen whether that’s enough to close down the threat posed by Sneijder.

Arjen Robben vs Joan Capdevila

Spanish leftback Capdevila is not a bad footballer. But if you had to pick a weak link in this team, then he’s probably the name you’d circle. Robben is arguably the Netherland’s most dangerous player and certainly the most explosive. Best of luck Joan.

Robin van Persie vs Carles Puyol/Gerard Pique

RvP has struggled to impose himself on World Cup 2010, but has contributed just enough in the lone striker role to help teammates like Sneijder take the glory. Puyol and Pique have been monsters at the back and it wouldn’t be a huge surprise to see one or both of them eat RvP alive. if we’re talking literally then my money would be on Puyol.

FURTHER READING

Jan at the Netherlands blog has plenty to sink your eyes into, including Six Reasons Why Oranje Will Win the World Cup, and the collected thoughts of various players past and present.

Corey at the Spain blog has a well thought out World Cup final preview assessing the Dutch threat and pondering potential Spanish lineups.

Tonight The Most Memorable Day of Netherlands & Spain

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Sun, 11 Jul 2010 10:22:00 -0700

At the final whistle tomorrow evening one team will be suddenly celebrating its country’s greatest ever football moment – one which will culminate with confetti, a captain and a golden trophy. But the other team will be left clinging to the past: the recent run of getting to this World Cup final and the memories from years gone by.

These will be a start – and a little reminder to the casual fans of what these two nations have brought to the game throughout the years. One recent, one not quite; one glorious, another bittersweet. Their most memorable moments yet, in video compilation.

Oranje ‘74

The Dutch fans know this all too well: the perfect footballing machine, an imperfect result. We’ve gushed on this before, but it never seems to water down. The 1974 Netherlands World Cup team were footballing artists, bringing forth Total Football into total domination, a revolutionary system in which any player could play in any spot on the pitch. They were the toast of the 1974 World Cup, rolling into the final in West Germany against West Germany and mesmerizing the world with their second minute penalty – which they won with Germany yet to have touched the ball. Then, in the words of Johnny Rep: “We wanted to humiliate the Germans. It wasn’t something we’d thought about, but we did it. We started knocking the ball around – and we forgot to score a second.” Germany didn’t, and the Dutch lost. The first in a string of two final losses. Total, except for that one big piece.

Spain ‘08

They were almost an afterthought going into 2008 for many; a brilliant collection of football talent, but one which still suffered from The Curse. From the opening whistle, they were the best team in the tournament and simply never looked back, curse or not. With decades gone since their first European Championships victory, they not only won the tournament, but set about creating a new identity for Spain: winners. Not just a trophy holder, but proper winners – a team which believed in itself and struck fear in its opponents. Finally they had the mental edge to do something outlandish. Something like get to their first ever World Cup final two years later.

The chokers no more. Very few single trophies have set about evolving both the perception and reality of a nation’s football so much, but Euro 2008 did just that.

Netherland move to Finals after 32 years

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Sun, 11 Jul 2010 09:12:00 -0700

This is the first time in 32 years that Netherlands has entered into the World Cup finals. It was an inevitable win against Uruguay whom they literally thrashed with a 3-2 win. It was Sneijder’s day as he scored his 5th World Cup goal and the other scores of the team included Giovannin, as well as Robben.

It was definitely a tough fight, but the Dutch seemed to have overcome all matters that were complicated to move on to the finals. Sneijder said “It was a tough fight and towards the end we complicated matters. Sunday we play in the World Cup finals. I have to get used to it.”

In the 18th minute of the game against Uruguay Van Bronckhorst scored the first goal for his team with a 35 meter yard shot. However Uruguay wasn’t to give up so early and the first equalizer was scored by Forlan who was still sore from his thigh injury.

The Dutch then got into attacking mode after half time and then the other two goals were scored by Sneijder and Robben. Although Uruguay scored in the injury time, it was not good enough to help them win. They finally succumbed to the Dutch aggressive which completely put them under pressure.

After their win the Dutch team then got back to the field and celebrated with a lot of cheer and dance along with around 1000 oranje clad fans who cheered them up further more with a lot of beating of the drums. The chanting was rhythmic and a complete celebration especially when the fans kept up their teams spirit by shouting out loud “Holland! Holland! Holland!”

The Dutch can’t seem to get over the fact that they have won the game and proceeded to the finals. According to Robben, “Unbelievable, if you win the final, you make yourself immortal, at least in our country.”

The Dutch will now be meeting the skillful Spanish players in the finals that take place on Sunday.. The World Cup has almost come to an end, and it has been quiet an eventful one, with a lot of frustration, ups and downs, cheer and YES EMOTIONS!

World Cup final: Holland v Spain match preview

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 13:05:00 -0700

World Cup final

Holland vs Spain

Soccer City Stadium, Johannesburg

Kick-off: Sun July 11, 7.30pm BST

At last, and in what ought to be a delight to all lovers of fine football, it is time for one of the two greatest footballing nations never to have won the World Cup to join the exclusive club of ‘magnificent seven’ winners alongside Uruguay, Italy, Germany, Brazil, England, Argentina and France.

Not before time, they will doubtless tut in Holland, where Johan Cruyff’s lovely 1974 side and their 1978 successors, both finalists, would have made handsome champions – so too the 1998 semi-finalists.

Bert van Marwijk’s current bunch, now unbeaten in 25 games, could cast off all the old ‘nearly men’ clothes by emulating the peerless 1970 Brazilians as the only team to have a 100 per cent record in both qualifying and the tournament itself.

Spain, home to arguably the two greatest clubs in football history, famously boast a dismal World Cup record, having never finished higher than fourth, their previous best being in Brazil 60 years ago.

Yet having won Euro 2008 and on a wondrous run themselves, with two defeats in 25 games under Vicente del Bosque, the coach believes their time has arrived.

Strangely, for two of the great footballing nations and bearing in mind the historic links between players such as Cruyff and Barcelona, Spain and Holland have met only nine times over 90 years of international football, and only three times in championships.

Perhaps their biggest clash, ironically, was their very first when they met in Brussels in an Olympic medal match.

Being the ‘nearly men’ of the modern game, though, it is no surprise to learn they were not actually playing for the gold, but for the consolation of silver, with Spain prevailing 3-1.

Their only ‘modern’ competitive matches came in qualifying for the 1984 European Championships, where they shared a win apiece, with Ruud Gullit scoring the winner for Holland in Rotterdam and Juan Antonio Señor converting a penalty to give Spain a 1-0 win in Seville.

Touchline duel

In a sitcom, you would cast Lambertus ‘Bert’ van Marwijk as Victor Meldrew figure – grumpy, sighing, never quite satisfied with anything – while Vicente del Bosque would be reprising René in ’Allo ’Allo with a whispered aside to Xavi: “I will say zees only once – pass, pass, pass!”

Van Marwijk, who was seen as uncharismatic and untested, was not really wanted by many when Marco van Basten’s reign ended but has yet to put a foot wrong, while Del Bosque, a double Champions League winner with Real Madrid, has been the most comforting safe pair of hands, preaching continuity after taking over from the man who won the European Championship, Luis Aragonés.

Key clashes:

Wesley Sneijder v Xavi

The brains of the respective teams, and what brains. Sneijder has enjoyed a stellar year, guiding Jose Mourinho’s Inter Milan to a unique treble, topped by their Champions League triumph, and enjoying a blinding — and, on occasion, blessed — tournament in South Africa. He can also be encouraged that when he went head to head with his Xavi in the Champions League tie with Barcelona, he prevailed.

Maarten Stekelenburg v Iker Casillas

If it comes down to a penalty shoot-out, you would have to favour Casillas, who has been Spain’s shoot-out hero a couple of times, earning victory with two saves against Ireland in the 2002 World Cup round of 16 (when he was 21) and also when he kept out two to beat Italy in Euro 2008.

Stekelenburg has no such experience but is not short of confidence, as his text calling Ajax team-mate Luis Suarez the “Lev Yashin goalkeeper of the tournament” suggests.

Arjen Robben v Joan Capdevila

Robben, after his fine season for Bayern Munich, has enjoyed a big tournament here too, with crucial goals against both Slovakia and Uruguay. He could turn out to be Sunday’s match-winner as he marauds in from the right flank with the goal in his sights.

A major responsibility rests on Capdevila, the Villarreal defender who, at the age of 32, is not the most agile any longer and may have to rely on his experience to try to neutralise Holland’s single most potent threat.

Probable teams

Holland: Stekelenburg; Van der Wiel, Heitinga, Mathijsen, Van Bronckhorst (capt); Van Bommel, De Jong; Kuyt, Sneijder, Robben; Van Persie

Spain: Casillas (capt); Ramos, Puyol, Pique, Capdevila; Busquets, Alonso; Iniesta, Xavi, Pedro; Villa.

Referee: Howard Webb (Eng)

Assistants: Mike Mullarkey (Eng), Darren Cann (Eng). Fourth official: Yuichi Nishimura (Jpn)

Previous meetings

Played 8: Holland 4 wins, Draws 1, Spain 3 wins

1957: (Madrid, Friendly): Spain 5 Holland 1

1973: (Amsterdam, Friendly): Holland 3 Spain 2

1980: (Vigo, Friendly): Spain 1 Holland 0

1983: (Seville, ECQ): Spain 1 Holland 0

1983: (Rotterdam, ECQ): Holland 2 Spain 1

1987: (Barcelona, Friendly): Spain 1 Holland 1

2000: (Sevilla, Friendly): Spain 1 Holland 2

2001: (Rotterdam, Friendly): Holland 1 Spain 0

Facts

David Villa has scored six of Spain’s last eight goals at World Cup finals. And he is on 43 goals, just one goal away from joining Raul as Spain’s top scorer of all time.

Spain have been the good boys of the World Cup, receiving just three yellow cards, the fewest in this summer’s finals. Holland, by contrast, have had 15 bookings.

Xavi, of Spain, has created 25 goalscoring chances – an impressive eight more than any other player.

And if Spain win the World Cup they will become the first team ever to be World champions after losing their opening game.

Expect Spain to use Carlos Marchena at some stage. The veteran now holds the World record for consecutive appearances without loss, his latest against Germany in the semi-final being his 54th game without tasting defeat.

Interestingly, either Holland or Spain will make history. No European team has previously won the World Cup outside of Europe.

Holland are on a roll: The Oranje have won their last 14 games in the World Cup qualifiers and finals, an all-time record.

Prediction

Spain are bidding to copy their success at Euro 2008 and, in David Villa and Xavi, they have two of the best players at the tournament.

But the new-look Oranje know how to win games and may just have enough, albeit by one goal. Paul the octopus disagrees.

Golden Ball nominees announced by Fifa

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 12:51:00 -0700

The FIFA General Secretary Jérôme Valcke and adidas Group CEO Herbert Hainer today officially announced the 10 nominees for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ adidas Golden Ball. The adidas Golden Ball is the official FIFA trophy for the “Best Player of the Tournament”. The ten nominated players were selected by the FIFA Technical Study Group and includes football experts such as Kalusha Bwalya, Christian Karembeu, Jomo Sono and Gérard Houllier.

Nominees for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ adidas Golden Ball trophy are: Diego Forlan (URU, shirt #10), Asamoah Gyan (GHA, 3), Andres Iniesta (ESP, 6), Lionel Messi (ARG, 10), Mesut Oezil (GER, 8), Arjen Robben (NED, 11), Bastian Schweinsteiger (GER, 7), Wesley Sneijder (NED, 10), David Villa (ESP, 7), Xavi (ESP, 8)

Accredited media representatives will vote to determine the winners of the adidas Golden, Silver and Bronze ball awards on FIFA.com. The winners will be announced after the final on 11 July.

adidas Golden Ball past winners:

1982 FIFA World Cup™ Spain: Paolo Rossi (Italy)

1986 FIFA World Cup™ Mexico: Diego Maradona (Argentina)

1990 FIFA World Cup™ Italy: Salvatore Schillaci (Italy)

1994 FIFA World Cup™ USA: Romario (Brazil)

1998 FIFA World Cup™ France: Ronaldo (Brazil

2002 FIFA World Cup™ Korea / Japan: Oliver Kahn (Germany)

2006 FIFA World Cup™ Germany: Zinedine Zidane (France)

FIFA Technical Study Group (TSG)

The FIFA Technical Study Group is headed up by Jean-Paul Brigger . Further prominent members of the TSG are Christian Karembeu, Humberto Grondona, Gérard Houllier, Holger Osieck, Leodegar Tenga, Gabriel Calderon, Alvin Corneal, Kwok Ka-Ming, Kalusha Bwalya, Ephraim Matsilele ‘Jomo’ Sono and Jim Selby.

The characteristics of the ten best players for the adidas Golden Ball as identified by the FIFA Technical Study Group (in alphabetical order):

Diego Forlan (Uruguay)

Architect of the team’s attack, very influential, great impact for his team, provider of quality final passes, goal scorer, set pieces/shots from long range

Asamoah Gyan (Ghana)

Huge work rate, efficient, good dribbler, creates problems to each defence, good goal scorer

Andres Iniesta (Spain)

Very fine ball-playing attacking midfielder, a star for the team, impressive dribbling ability

Lionel Messi (Argentina)

Outstanding in his pace and creativity for his team, dribbling, shooting, passing – spectacular and efficient

Mesut Oezil (Germany)

A real talent for the present and the future, quick feet and great vision, good final and decisive passes

Arjen Robben (Netherlands)

Very good pace and dribbling skills, wonderful ability to cut inside from the right, effective to his team

Bastian Schweinsteiger (Germany)

Impressive by his first pass (forward and accurate), very good passer, has moments of individual brilliance, ball-winner

Wesley Sneijder (Netherlands)

A maestro in midfield, exceptional work rate, the engine of Netherland’s attacks, excellent passer and scorer

David Villa (Spain)

Top scorer; quick, two footed, very good on one-on-one situations, provides good final passes, excellent finisher

Xavi (Spain)

The metronome and the engine of the Spanish team, very influential in the passing style of the game, one of the finest midfielders in the tournament

By, Fifa.com

FIFA World Cup: Spain beat Germany 1-0 to reach final

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Wed, 7 Jul 2010 21:33:00 -0700

Carles Puyol's header has given Spain a 1-0 lead over Germany in their World Cup semifinal match on Wednesday.

Puyol connected on Xavi Hernandez corner in the 73rd minute. Spain has had the best chances in the match in Durban. David Villa's close-range shot from a pass by Pedro Rodriguez was blocked by goalkeeper Manuel Neuer in the sixth minute. Neuer stopped Pedro's shot in the 58th, and Andres Iniesta missed from a tough angle moments later.

German substitute Toni Kroos tested Iker Casillas with a shot in the 69th, but the Spain goalkeeper blocked it with his palms. Casillas also saved Piotr Trowchowski's long-distance shot in the 32nd.

The winner will play the Netherlands in Sunday's World Cup final.

Durban: Reigning European champions Spain reached their first World Cup final Wednesday by defeating three-time winners Germany 1-0 thanks to Carles Puyol's second half goal.

Puyol scored in the 73rd minute as Spain set up an all-European final with the Netherlands Sunday at Soccer City in Johannesburg. One of those nations will become the first European nation to win a World Cup outside of Europe.

It will be the first Spain-Netherlands match-up at a World Cup.

Germany failed to reach eighth World Cup final and will now take on Uruguay Saturday in the third place game in Port Elizabeth.

Each coach made one change from their teams' quarter-final victories.

German boss Joachim Loew was forced to replace the suspended Thomas Mueller with Piotr Trochowski.

Spain coach Vicente del Bosque finally took his out-of-form striker Fernando Torres out of the starting line-up in favour of Pedro, who has been subbed in three times previously in South Africa and made his first international start.

In front of 60,900 spectators at Durban Stadium, Spain had a slight advantage in ball possession and had the first chance as Pedro sent a through ball to David Villa but German keeper Manuel Neuer rushed out to block off the attempt in the sixth minute.

The Iberians were close eight minutes later with Xavi's cross finding Puyol but the defender's header went over the crossbar from the edge of the box.

Germany were unable to create any chances in the first half hour as Loew's men were too busy avoiding mistakes against the creative Spanish midfield.

Trochowski finally tested Spanish keeper Iker Casillas in the 32nd minute with a long-range blast that the Iberian captain was forced to fend to corner.

Germany were a shadow of their usual attacking style and mustered very little up front though Mesut Oezil went down in the area of stoppage time after contact with Sergio Ramos in hopes of drawing a penalty from the Hungarian referee Viktor Kassai.

Five minutes after the re-start, Xabi Alonso's long blast sailed just wide right - his third long range attempt of the game and by far closest.

Spain were dangerously close in the 58th but Neuer made a superb stop on Pedro's long range blast and then Villa was just half a step from hitting home Andres Iniesta's pass across the mouth of the goal.

Germany finally pushed forward after the hour mark and created a fine chance in the 69th minute with Lukas Podolski's looping pass finding substitute Toni Kroos, whose one-time attempt was blocked by Casillas.

But Spain broke down the German wall in the 73rd minute on a set piece as Man of the Match Xavi's corner from the left side found Puyol, who hammered home a header from about 10 yards.

With the Germans giving everything they had to equalise, the Iberians could have ended the game with eight minutes left on a counter attack. But Pedro did not pass over to substitute Torres.

Germany, however, could not find the back of the net.

Semi-finals Netherlands vs Uruguay live football streaming

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Mon, 5 Jul 2010 11:16:00 -0700

Netherlands vs Uruguay Live Stream Semi-finals

Date : 06-07-2010

Game Start Time : 20:30

FIFA World Cup 2010

Venue: Cape Town

With the fixture of such a great match in the semi finals of the world cup, a Netherlands vs Uruguay Match Preview is indispensable. The match is to be held on the 6th of July at the new Green Point Stadium in Cape Town. Though it’s not really a match that anybody expected, it surely is just as high profiled as any other match would have been.

Both the teams have shown quite a performance in the world cup so far. The Netherlands is on a roll following their last performance against the Brazilians; even after trailing by a goal they fought back in the second half to clinch a 2-1 victory against the Samba Boys. The accomplishment has boosted the team’s confidence considerably as Robben puts it “We’re in the last four and we know we’re capable of reaching the Final”. But all this confidence has not made them reckless, as their coach Bert Van Marwijk is very wary of their next match and says “We’ve already seen a lot of Uruguay, It will be a very dangerous match”.

The Netherlands v/s Uruguay Match Preview will elaborate about the mindset of the Uruguayan team for their challenging match against the ‘Oranje’ team as well. Uruguay entered the semis by defeating the last African contender Ghana. The match against the black stars was a very close one going into extra-time and then ended in penalty shoot outs. In the process Luis Suarez’s hand-ball proved oddly decisive for the Ghanaians, he received a red card and will not be able to play in his next match against the Dutch. La Celeste team is fighting hard to revive their glory years which are but a fading memory for the world, the last time the men in blue managed to clear the round of sixteen was in 1970 in Mexico.

The Dutch have faced tougher challenges in the world cup till now; Uruguay on the other hand has yet to face the toughest teams of the world cup, having faced a challenge only in the form of Korea and Ghana since group stages.

Expected outcome:

The Dutch team is considered to be a stronger team with veterans such as Arjen Robben on their side. Uruguay has only just managed to win in their last 2 matches and now that Suarez is out for this match it would be quite a challenge for the last South American team to move into the final says our Netherlands vs Uruguay Match Preview

Semi-finals Germany vs Spain 2010 world cup

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Mon, 5 Jul 2010 10:43:00 -0700

Germany vs Spain Live Stream Semi-finals

Date : 07-07-2010

Game Start Time : 20:30

FIFA World Cup 2010

Venue: Durban

A match of such stature deserves a good Preview therefore this Germany vs Spain Match Preview will provide a comprehensive analysis. It’s not every day that teams of such excellence clash and that too on such a Grande stage, but when days like this come it is no surprise that the world stops and watches. This celebrated all European semi final match is to be held on the 7th of July in Durban.

Much to the delight of their fans it must be admitted that the German team has become somewhat of a Juggernaut in this World cup. They have displayed extraordinary performances against teams like England and Argentina thrashing both of them 4-1 and 4-0 respectively. None of the teams in South Africa so far have stood as challenge for Germany and it would come as no surprise to anyone if they won the cup this time, a feat which they have accomplished 3 times before as well. Their attitude is well represented by the words of Bastian Schweinsteiger, German midfielder “This is a very good team. We may well play Spain next.

Obviously we respect them, but we have the potential to go far and we want more.”

Our Germany v/s Spain Match Preview shows that Spain’s performance has been subpar for the last few matches. Though the La Roja team recovered after an insulting loss against the Swiss, they have failed to achieve decisive victories even against the weaker opponents. This belief is shared by their coach Vicente Del Bosque probably the only Spanish who did not have a smile on his face after the Spanish victory against Paraguay on Saturday. He said “We didn’t play well and we never looked comfortable” and added “We are not scared of Germany but I think they are playing better than anyone right now”.

Even though the Spanish team is star studded, when talents such as Fernando Torres underperform consistently, the chances for a victory by the Spanish Armada seem low. Though David Villa has held the Baton for the Spanish in the world cup so far, Bosque needs a few more of his star players to start scoring some goals.

Fifa World Cup 2010 Germany Defeats Argentina 4-0

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Sat, 3 Jul 2010 12:33:00 -0700

STRIKER Miroslav Klose celebrated his 100th cap with two second-half goals to help Germany reach the World Cup semi-finals with a 4-0 demolition of Diego Maradona's outclassed Argentina.

Germany will now face either Spain or Paraguay in Durban next Wednesday with a place in the final at Johannesburg's Soccer City on July 11 at stake.

A third-minute goal by Thomas Mueller gave Germany a 1-0 lead, before the three-time champions turned the screw after the interval.

Klose netted in the 68th minute, centre-back Arne Friedrich scored his first for his country six minutes later before Klose completed the rout with an 89th-minute volley which gave him a 14th World Cup goal, just one behind Ronaldo's record of 15.

German coach Joachim Loew got the better tactically of a bewildered Maradona as the men in black defended doggedly and attacked in numbers.

World footballer of the year Lionel Messi was tightly marked by Mueller and Bastian Schweinsteiger as Argentina's star-studded side failed to shine.

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

Klose was lucky not to receive a yellow card in the opening minute, when he fouled Argentina captain Javier Mascherano, but the Germans were soon in front.

They took the lead after just three minutes when Mueller headed home a Schweinsteiger free-kick for his fourth goal of the tournament, the ball deflecting in off goalkeeper Sergio Romero's leg.

Argentina right-back Nicolas Otamendi earned the first yellow card of the game on 11 minutes for a foul on Friedrich.

The South Americans' first sight of goal came when Messi slid a pass through the German defence to Carlos Tevez, but goalkeeper Manuel Neuer raced from his line to deal with the threat.

Mueller's bright start then suffered a setback when he picked up his yellow card for handling the ball on 35 minutes.

Argentina had an encouraging start to the second-half as Real Madrid new boy Angel Di Maria fired a long-range shot which had Neuer at full-stretch on 48 minutes and Per Mertesacker blocked a shot from Tevez on 54 minutes.

But Germany extended their lead when Podolski found space on the left flank and passed back inside for Klose to score on 68 minutes.

Schweinsteiger helped make sure of Germany's place in the last four when he darted through the Argentinian defence to give Friedrich a simple tap in on 74 minutes to claim his first international goal on his 77th appearance.

Argentina's defence crumbled as Klose completed the demolition with his 52nd goal for Germany as he volleyed home a cross from Mesut Ozil just before the final whistle.

Dutch beat Brazil 2-1 in World Cup 2010 biggest upset

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Fri, 2 Jul 2010 12:06:00 -0700

2010 FIFA World Cup: Brazil Is Out After Losing to Holland

The Netherlands came from behind to stun five-time champion Brazil 2-1 Friday at Port Elizabeth, South Africa, to become the first semifinalist of the FIFA World Cup.

Wesley Sneijder scored the winner in the 68th minute with a header following a corner kick.

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

It was the Netherlands' first win over Brazil since the 1974 World Cup, when Johan Cruyff was the team's star and "total football" reigned.

"It was an amazing game. I think we showed the whole world how we can play," Sneijder said. "Finally we won, we beat Brazil."

Robinho had given Brazil the lead in the 10th minute, but the Netherlands equalized in the 53rd with an own goal from Felipe Melo.

It was a match of sharp contrasts for Felipe Melo, who set up the opening goal with a brilliant through pass but then was shown a direct red card in the 73rd for stepping on Netherlands winger Arjen Robben, leaving Brazil with 10 men.

The Netherlands reached the semifinals for the first time since losing to Brazil on penalties at the 1998 World Cup in France and will next face either Uruguay or Ghana.

Team record stretched

Having won all five of its matches so far, the Netherlands extended its team-record unbeaten streak to 24 games, stretching back to a September 2008 loss to Australia.

At the final whistle, the Dutch players jumped on each other near midfield and lingered to savour the moment.

The majority of the fans inside the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium were clad in Brazilian yellow, although many of them were wearing South Africa jerseys of the same colour. Long after the match ended, the only fans remaining were orange-shirted Netherlands supporters, waving their country's red-white-and-blue flags and chanting "Oranje."

The Netherlands reached consecutive World Cup finals in 1974 and 1978 but lost both — to Germany and Argentina, respectively — and its only major tournament victory was the 1988 European Championship.

The Dutch will be favoured against either Uruguay or Ghana in the semifinals.

Brazil also lost in the quarter-finals four years ago, falling to France 1-0.

Dunga takes blame

Former Brazil captain Dunga was hired to coach the team after that loss despite no previous managerial experience, and his future is certain to come into question now.

"We didn't expect this," Dunga 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."

Dunga immediately accepted blame for the loss.

"Without a shadow of a doubt, I am the coach of the Brazilian team," he said. "I have the greatest responsibility."

On a warm and pleasant afternoon before a sellout crowd of 42,286, Brazil dominated the first 45 minutes, then fell apart.

Robinho's goal started with a long pass from Felipe Melo through the heart of the Netherlands defence, setting up an easy score for the Santos striker.

Two minutes before he scored, Robinho had a goal waved off for a close offside call on Brazil's first chance. Buzzing like a bee back and forth between the left wing and the centre of Brazil's attack, Robinho started another effort in the 31st that nearly became the most spectacular goal of the tournament.

Robinho dribbled through three defenders up the left flank then gave the ball to Luis Fabiano, who flicked it back with his heel to Kaka. The playmaker then sent a searing shot to the top right corner of the goal, but Netherlands goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg timed his leap perfectly to deflect the ball away with one hand.

Brazil unravels

The one-goal lead wasn't enough, though, and Brazil began to unravel when Felipe Melo headed the ball into his own net in a mixup with Brazil goalkeeper Julio Cesar following a cross from Sneijder, who also led Inter Milan to the Champions League title in May.

Sneijder's goal followed a corner kick from Robben. Dirk Kuyt flicked the ball on with a header by the near post and Sneijder found the target from the centre of the area.

Five minutes later, Felipe Melo walked off the field with his head hung low.

Brazil had one final chance in the 89th but a free kick from Daniel Alves smacked into a thick Dutch wall.

Felipe Melo missed Brazil's 3-0 victory over Chile but was rushed back into the lineup since fellow midfielders Elano and Ramires both sat out — Elano with a right ankle injury and Ramires due to yellow cards.

"The first half was really difficult for us. We were 1-0 behind, a great save by our goalkeeper on Kaka kept us there," Sneijder said. "At halftime we said to each other that we had to improve things and put more pressure on the Brazilian defence. For 45 minutes we went full throttle and we were rewarded."

Quarter-finals Paraguay vs Spain Live Streams and TV Channels

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Thu, 1 Jul 2010 05:48:00 -0700

Paraguay vs Spain Live Stream

Date : 04-07-2010

Game Start Time : 00:30

FIFA World Cup 2010

Venue: Johannesburg

Paraguay vs Spain Match Preview is done here for the upcoming quarter-finals match to be played on the 2nd of July in Cape Town at the Green Point Stadium. Moving forth into the quarter finals both teams are determined to perform at their best for this match. Even though this may not be the biggest of challenges for the La Roja team, they can hardly afford to screw this one up. Paraguay on the on the other hand are going to face some real tough opponent for the first time in this world cup.

With the early and unexpected exit of the Italians from group F, the post of the champions for the group was taken over by Paraguay. They qualified with 5 points and faced the Japanese in the round of 16, where Los Guaraníes just managed to grab a victory over Okada’s men by winning 5-3 in the penalty shoot-outs. Gerardo Martino, Paraguay coach also known as El Tata by his men was relieved by the result and said “ There’s a lot of tension and anxiety and you suffer because the players are putting in so much effort, Let’s hope we can recover quickly and keep making history” . And to make anymore history at this world cup the Paraguay teams needs to play far better than what they have played so far.

Paraguay vs Spain Match Preview is incomplete without the analysis of the Spanish team. The Spaniards moved to the quarter finals by defeating Christiano Ronaldo’s home team-Portugal. The Spanish fans are all praise for their luminary striker David Villa because of his exceptional performance in this world cup and the knack of scoring in every game that he seems to have acquired since the start of the tournament. This is what he commented after the match “We’ve beaten a very tough side and we have a lot of confidence in ourselves and in our potential”.

Though the Spanish star player Torres has failed to click in their last few matches since his return from injury, his performance was considerably better in the last match and Bosque, Spain’s coach showed confidence in him “Fernando Torres did what he had to do and we all felt pretty comfortable with how we played”.

Whoever wins the match will meet the winner of the Germany vs Argentina match in the Semi-finals at Durban.

Quarter-finals Argentina vs Germany Live Streams and TV Channels

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Thu, 1 Jul 2010 05:27:00 -0700

Argentina vs Germany Live Stream

Date : 03-07-2010

Game Start Time : 20:00

FIFA World Cup 2010

Venue: Cape Town

Clash of the Titans, is what this match is being hailed as and therefore, Argentina v/s Germany Match Preview is very important. Fixed for the 3rd of July in Cape Town at the Green Point Stadium this match between Argentina and Germany will definitely be a reveling juxtaposition of action and anxiety.

Argentina qualified to the knockout stages by winning all their group stage matches and stood at the top of their group. In the round of 16, La Albiceleste defeated Mexico very comfortably with a 3-1 victory to consolidate their place in the quarter finals. Not only is the Argentinean team high on talent, they are being coached by Diego Maradona, considered by many to be the finest player to have walked the planet. Though always involved in one controversy or another, Maradona’s virtues far outweigh his vices, when asked about the match against the Germans he said “We know Germany are a different team to the side we faced in Mexico” “we will try and put together the best team to showcase our talents against Germany”. This will be the biggest challenge that Argentina has faced so far in world cup 2010.

Argentina vs Germany Match Preview is no fun without an analysis of the German campaign so far. The Germans began their ordeal by topping their group and thus moved on to the round of 16 to face Fabio Capello’s side. But much to the delight of the German fans, the Three Lions were unable to stand the Blitzkrieg and were pounded 4-1 at Bloemfonteine. Having scored a total of 9 goals in the 4 matches, the Germans have proved themselves to be one of the strongest sides of the world cup. For the match against Argentina they are highly confident, Bastian Schweinsteiger, the Germany midfielder says “We respect Argentina, but there is no fear from us, we are confident”

Players to watch:

Argentina:

Lionel Messi-the current FIFA world player of the year, Carlos Tevez and Higuain who have been the serial goal scorers for Argentina in this world cup.

Germany:

Miroslav Klose, Lukas Podolski and Schweinsteiger are very essential to the otherwise young and comparatively inexperienced side.

Expected result:

Stats say that Argentina has won more number of times whenever the two sides have clash on the world stage but both sides are equally matched so just wait and watch says this Argentina vs Germany Match Preview.

Quarter-finals Uruguay vs Ghana Live Streams and TV Channels

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 23:35:00 -0700

Uruguay vs Ghana Live Stream

Date : 03-07-2010

Game Start Time : 00:30

FIFA World Cup 2010

Venue: Johannesburg

Uruguay vs Ghana Match Preview will clear the air for those who are all worked up for this match. This match is to be held on 2nd of July in Johannesburg at the swanky Soccer City Stadium. Being the first match to be decided for the quarter finals, the Uruguay v/s Ghana match has everyone talking as to what is in store for them in this next phase of the world cup.

Ghana defeated USA’s team in the round of sixteen with a 2-1 score line, thanks to the 93rd minute goal by Asamoah Gyan which helped the black stars dream alive. At first it seemed that this nail biter match could go either way but Ghana showed true spirit to overpower their opponents and win. “We have made everybody proud, not Ghana alone, but the whole of Africa” is what the elated Gyan had to say about their win and not without reason since Ghana is the solitary survivor of the African contingent which participated but failed to show great results. The match against the 16th ranked Uruguay team would not be an easy game to win for the Black Stars who hold the 32nd position but this does not stop Samuel Inkoom, Ghana midfielder from being confident “I don’t think Uruguay will be easy but I think we are capable of winning”.

A Uruguay vs Ghana Match Preview is the best method to comprehend the underlying factors which can affect this match.The Uruguay team for one has a relatively young side but highly talented none the less. La Celeste team is sprinkled with a great number of players who play for European clubs and the team is bolstered by their strong coach Oscar Washington Tabarez. El Maestro, as he is known in his homeland has done quite a job on his team having led Uruguay to the world cup second time consecutively. The Uruguayans entered the quarter finals by squashing the hopes of the South Korean team who played a grilling match but lost 2-1 to the two time world champions. “It was a very hard-fought victory that took a lot out of us” is how Tabarez described the clash between the nations.

Expected outcome:

Ghana team has shown great determination in South Africa so far but the South Americans look more poised for a good game having topped their group in the initial stages of the world cup as well.

This is what the Uruguay vs Ghana Match Preview says for this upcoming match in Johannesburg.

Quarter-finals Netherlands vs Brazil Live Streams and TV Channels

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 23:20:00 -0700

Netherlands vs Brazil Live Stream

Date : 02-07-2010

Game Start Time : 20:00

FIFA World Cup 2010

Venue: Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth

Netherlands vs Brazil Match Preview is done to get the most out of this upcoming match on the 2nd of June at Port Elizabeth. Now that the world cup has reached the quarter final stage the competition can only get tougher and out of these many great teams only a few shall have the rite of passage to the semis.

The Dutch team which is being seen in the world cup for the 8th time since 1930 has reached the finals twice but unfortunately, failed to win the cup both times. And this time again the ‘Oranje’ have displayed great resilience in their play so far, they topped their group and then went on to challenge Slovakia in the round of 16 at Durban. In Durban, the Dutch defeated the Slovaks by 2 goals to 1 thanks to return of their star player Arjen Robben. Bert van Marwijk, Netherlands coach was delighted with Robben’s return to the team “It’s obviously fantastic to have Robben come back after injury and show that he’s already fit enough to be scoring that kind of goal”. Netherlands v/s Brazil Match Preview will shows that for their next match against Brazil the Dutch need to perform better than ever before.

And not without reason did Marwijk say “Against Brazil, perhaps we might be the underdogs for the first time in South Africa”. The Brazilians have featured in all 19 world cups to date and are the only team to have won the coveted showpiece a record 5 times. The Brazilian lineup is studded with star players like Kaka and Fabiano who have been in the best of forms this world cup. None the less the match against the Dutch is the toughest they have yet to face and coach Dunga knows this, he said “We know the Netherlands are a very difficult team to beat and they are very able technically, we’ve got another decisive match ahead”

Expected Outcome:

Even though the Netherlands has played amazing football, they have yet to face a real challenge. And given Brazil’s great legacy we would expect Brazil to do the same this time as well and give us a great match.

But unlike before elimination of even a good team at this stage would not mean that the competition may become dull on the contrary the excitement will only intensify, this can be seen by our Netherlands vs Brazil Match Preview.

Portugal vs Spain Live Streams and TV Channels

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 06:19:00 -0700

Portugal vs Spain Live Stream

Date : 30-06-2010

Game Start Time : 00:30

FIFA World Cup 2010

Venue: Cape Town

The Round of 16 will close with the match between Spain and Portugal and open encounter involving Paraguay and Japan. Even with the opening game falter versus Switzerland, the European champions Spain was able to muscle their way through to the knockout stage and was able to finish top of their group in the course. They now come across a Portugal team in their trail who was able to pass a severe test of surviving a tough fight alongside Côte d’Ivoire and Brazil. This was the final 16 that a lot of people expected and coaches Vicente del Bosque and Carlos Queiroz should have had a lot of time to plan for the downfall of the other teams.

In comparison, very few people could have predicted Italy’s failure in Group F, where Paraguay finished on top even without the service of their leading scorer Salvador Cabanas in qualifying. Los Guaraníes now has to face the Japanese team that is aiming to reach unfamiliar games at this level by winning the second last-16 between South American and Asian competitor at the World Cup, where Uruguay winning past Korea Republic 2-1.

The big game will feature the match between Spain-Portugal. History will pick on Span to dominance, with the European champions winning over Portugal three times and drawing only once in four World Cup qualifiers. The 32 games overall A Selecção das Quinas have won a mere five times, while loosing 15 and having 12 draws.

Now they must try to reverse that development against one of the strongest line-ups of Spain, although their Iberian rivals began to show vulnerability with their fluid play possibly being decoded by the enemy coaches. Del Bosque made some sacrifices on his team’s keenness for the stunning for support of a more direct line of attack, as shown in their 2-1 win over Chile, but the opposition Queiroz, is confident of discovering an answer. His team emerged victorious from the strongest section in the group phase claiming to score seven goals and not conceding any and will continue with their ironclad defense and Cristiano Ronaldo star forward to make the big difference.

The Real Madrid star hassle defenders and makes an opening space for his team mates and he will enjoy matching up against fellow Liga stars like David Villa. Whatever happens, expect a lot of teasing about this match.

As for Okada, the 53-year-old clever tactician, knows his team will not win a physical contest but likes them to play at pace with passes going into the space behind defenders and full-backs coming close to help exploit the strength of the players. Expect different moves from two coaches, with one set to elevate his profile by getting into the last eight.

Paraguay vsJapan Live Streams and TV Channels

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 06:11:00 -0700

Paraguay vs Japan Live Stream

Date : 29-06-2010

Game Start Time : 20:30

FIFA World Cup 2010

Venue: Tshwane/Pretoria

Paraguay versus Japan meet will make history who ever wins in the Round of 16 in Pretoria will advance in the quarter-finals of the World Cup for the first time. Passing thru the group stage three times of their past seven finals emergence, Gerardo Martino’s team will be unwavering to build their success in finishing at the top of Group F versus the Japan team through for the first time in the knockout phase on foreign soil.

Paraguay vs. Japan, will take place in the Loftus Versfeld Stadium on 29 June, formerly famous for their persistent rearguard, Paraguay is not purely defense, their 4-3-3 formation that include the very experienced Santa Cruz in attack with Borussia Dortmund duo Valdez and Barrios. And they also have a scoring threat from Vera and Riveros midfields as displayed when each made a point in their 2-0 win against Slovakia. Rival Japan has warded off the uninspiring form they displayed in the upsurge of the tournament to defeat Cameroon and Denmark going to the last 16.

Coach Takeshi Okada’s tactic paid off with Keisuke Honda successful in a different attacking role. In his back are Endo and Hasebe have commanded the midfield and Japan displayed versus Denmark that their defense includes a distinct threat, two of their three goals came from direct free-kicks. Their determined line of attack gives them an edge in fitness against their other rivals. While there will be no change in the lineup of Japan, Paraguay will have to be content without Victor Caceres defensive midfielder because of suspension while Antolin Alcaraz centre-back could come back after being out in the last game due to an ankle injury. This is the first battle of the two teams at the World Cup but they have already engaged six times at the past. The South Americans have listed two wins and Japan has one.

This will be a match up between Justo Villar vs. Keisuke Honda. Villar was injured in the start of the opening minutes of Paraguay’s 2006 Germany campaign, he is trying to make amends now and let just one goal during the group match. The 32-year-old captain must be aware of Honda, Japan’s danger man. He is a midfielder who turned striker who has already scored twice so far. The CSKA Moscow man became Japan’s new talisman for several months now and scored six goals that anchored six wins.

Japan with play with pace and agility, the players can change the direction of a match so focused and keep running up to the end, said Paraguay forward Santa Cruz, Paraguay forward. Paraguay’s defense is very organized, their physical strength is good and also good on handling the ball, and they are difficult opponents, said Japan midfielder Yuki Abe.

Brazil vs Chile watch live soccer

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Sat, 26 Jun 2010 22:12:00 -0700

Brazil vs Chile Live Stream

Date : 28-06-2010

Game Start Time : 20:30

FIFA World Cup 2010

Venue: Johannesburg

Brazil So Far in the FIFA World Cup

It was a bit of a nervous looking Brazil that took the field for their opening game against little fancied North Korea, who ended up matching them for most of the ninety minutes. And in fact it was nearly an hour into the match before Brazil broke the deadlock with a goal from Maicon. Elano added a second shortly afterwards but North Korea still had some fight left in them as shown by Ji Yun Nam pulling one back with a minute to go.

The second match showed the Brazil fans were more familiar with, full of skill and passion and cruising to a 3-0 lead over Côte d’Ivoire with a brace from the talented Luis Fabiano and a third from Elano. Didier Drogba grabbed a consolation goal for the Ivory Coast but it was too little too late. Brazil had two wins in a row and a guaranteed place in the Round of 16.

What a shame therefore that Brazil’s final match against Portugal was such a disappointment with yellow cards and unsporting behaviour dominating over ability. The 0-0 scoreline reflected a dire match.

Chile So Far in the FIFA World Cup

Chile did not exactly come out of the traps running as they only managed a 1-0 win in their opening game against the group’s weakest team Honduras, Jean Beausejour scoring the only goal after half an hour’s play. But despite the low score, Chile were already showing some of the class that was set to take them though to the last 16.

Switzerland were always going to be a tougher task, especially after they’d beaten Spain in their opening game. The Swiss adopted spoiler tactics and looked like it was going to work until substitute Mark Gonzalez gave Chile the win with the only goal of the match with just fifteen minutes to go.

Chile started off their last match against Spain by dominating the opening twenty minutes but then a rash decision by goalkeeper Claudio Bravo to come out his area to make an unnecessary clearance ended up with Spain’s David Villa guiding a long range shot into an empty net. Spain’s Andres Iniesta added another before half time but worse for Chile was that the move earned Marco Estrada a second yellow and reducing them to ten men for the rest of the game. Estrada will now miss the Brazil match as will Waldo Ponce and Gary Medel, also suspended after picking up a yellow in the Spain game. Chile did pull one back just after half time through Rodrigo Millar but the news filtered through from the other game and both teams realised that 2-1 to Spain would see both through and thus Chile left Spain alone to pass the ball around in their own half for most of the final half hour.

Football Betting Odds For Brazil vs Chile

Football betting tips: Early odds put Brazil clear favourites with 1/2 or 4/9 on offer for a win on ninety minutes with Chile outsiders at 5/1 or 11/2. The draw is not really fancied either with 11/4 or 3/1 available.

Netherlands Vs Slovakia streaming live

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Sat, 26 Jun 2010 21:41:00 -0700

Netherlands Vs Slovakia Live Stream

Date : 28-06-2010

Game Start Time : 16:00

FIFA World Cup 2010

Venue: Durban

FIFA World Cup 2010 South Africa is clearly one of the greatest events of 2010. It is the 19th FIFA World Cup, a competition organized every four years, where 32 nations will try to win the trophy. The good news is that now you can watch the World Cup live online, if you won't be in South Africa on the stadiums, or you can't find the match on TV. We will provide links to several sites that offer legal streams with live telecast from the World Cup 2010 South Africa.

Watch live streams from the 2010 World Cup South Africa matches. Select from the available links, listed on this page, the ones that can be watched from your region/country.

Netherlands: The Netherlands national football team is the national football team of the Netherlands and is controlled by the Royal Netherlands Football Association (KNVB). The Netherlands, also known as Holland, the Clockwork Orange or The Flying Dutchmen, nicknames given by its fans due to its traditional orange shirts, is one of the 2010 World Cup competitors. Star players like Wesley Sneijder, Rafael van der Vaart, Arjen Robben or Robin van Persie to name a few can make the difference in a tight match due to their enormous talent. Netherlands is currently coached by Bert van Marwijk and captained by Giovanni van Bronckhorst(C) and Mark van Bommel (VC). The Netherlands, abbrieviated as NED, currently sits on the 4th place in the FIFA Ranking and plays its home matches at the Amsterdam Arena, De Kuip or Philips Stadion stadiums. Some of Holland's best achievements in international football: European Championship winners (1988); World Cup runners-up on two occasions (1974, 1978).

Slovakia: The Slovakia national football team represents Slovakia in international football and is controlled by the Slovak Football Association. Slovakia, also known as Repre is one of the 2010 World Cup competitors. The Slovakian star players are Marek Hamsik and Robert Vittek. Slovakia is currently managed by Vladimir Weiss and captained by Marek Hamsik (C). Slovakia, abbrieviated as SVK, currently occupies the 34th place in the FIFA Ranking and plays its home matches at the Tehelne pole sports facilities. Next, we present some of Slovakia's best achievements in international football: 2010 marks their first appearance in the World Cup, 2 times runners-up as Czechoslovakia (1934, 1962); European Championship Gold Medal (1996) as Czechoslovakia.

Argentina vs Mexico stream live

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Sat, 26 Jun 2010 00:11:00 -0700

Argentina vs Mexico Live Stream

Date : 27-06-2010

Game Start Time : 20:30

FIFA World Cup 2010

Venue: Johannesburg

With the pitch of the World Cup Fever now raising the bar into Stage 2, the Argentina v/s Mexico Match preview looks to be an affair of heated gameplay and flair of Football at its best run. Looking at the buildup to these Knockout matches, the promise of rigorous competition is going to hit Johannesburg on the 27th of June.

So far on, both teams have shown us their determination, but still, fact remains that Mexico is playing underdog and Argentineans are favorites challenged. While Mexico is a very physical team to reckon with, Argentineans have so far proved to be untouchable. With coach Diego Maradona, considered the best footballer in the world by millions, promising Argentina that history will repeat and Lionel Messi will do what Maradona himself accomplished in 1986; the Copán Americana football fanatics are looking on hard.

Looking at Mexican football, the El Tri wants nothing better than to maintain their success and performance so far into the world Cup. Running up in Team A over France and South Africa, the Mexican football team has shown promising skills and technique besides their usual speed and power play. However, there is a certain change in the tide now. While so far, in Stage 1, the games have been technical and defensive football, more representative of European Football was prevailing; the Knockout rounds mean there is no scope of recovery. The Argentina v/s Mexico Match preview indicates one certainty; that Latin and Central American aggressive physical football is about to strike the World Cup fever already in full pitch the world over.

While Mexico promises to make sure Argentineans don’t have any scope of finding this an easy first Knockout match; the Argentineans are also gearing up for anything. Even with their roster of star world footballers and golden boot candidates, Argentina knows that Mexico has similar strategy of ball control and field domination besides random scoring.

Prepared with their best line up of players in full form, Argentina expects to make their mark in the first Stage 2 match by flying colors. On the other front, Mexicans are prepared to put everything on the line to survive these knockout matches all the way to the Finals. On the subject, they have their eyes set on showing Argentina that great football is unpredictable, determination and then and there play does. The one thing the Argentina v/s Mexico match preview doesn’t give away is speculation; the world only prepares for excellent Football.

Germany vs England football world cup

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 23:54:00 -0700

Germany vs England Live Stream

Date : 27-06-2010

Game Start Time : 16:00

FIFA World Cup 2010

Venue: Mangaung/Bloemfontein

Out of the many matches in the World Cup, few will hold such emotional significance as the Germany v/s England match preview is speaking of. Set to go on the 27th of June at Bloemfontein, this match speaks volumes of the hopes and aspirations of Europe’s Football fans. So far, as per performance shows, European Football has been less than impressive except Portugal and Spain showing grand performance.

While Germany seems somehow not up to their usual rank; a shaky England side with out-of-form star Wane Rooney had finally gotten back team unity and performance in their last Stage 1 match against Slovenia. Now, Germany has found back their classic strategy and fast ball exchange gameplay, while England seems to be recovering from frayed management and fallen team spirit.

With the Knockouts ready to happen, all teams know that the situation is critically boiling with excitement. Stage 2 doesn’t leave scopes for draws or retakes; each match is decisive for progress into the Quarter Finals. Germany is looking forward to ensure rigid and hard gameplay and give the English competition well deserved. On the English squad, with emotions high as the team is uniting again to reach Victory, the British seem to be getting back to their class act.

From strategic gameplay to fast and aggressive ball battle; the English team seems to be prepared for any surprises from the German rivals. Knowing the football fever and the history between these two countries both in and out of the field; the Germany vs. England Match preview seems to be holding all the surprise back till the end of 90 minutes of serious Football action coming to conclusion.

Speculations do speak of the English team not really being prepared enough to face the promising German onslaught, but such speculations fall short in the Football field. Upsets are common and astonishing performances even more familiar in the Sport the world swoons for most. After all, this sporting event is the most popular and keenly hypnotizing event the world sees every 4 years. Champions are made on the grass as Countries compete for the Final glory.

With such a fervent build up of adrenaline and emotions; this match has mixed speculations from either supports. Looking closely at what has happened so far may really bear no mark on what may be to come. The Germany v/s England Match preview can only be described as an unpredictable event prepared to take stage on Sunday.

Ghana vs USA football world cup, world cup south Africa, live football

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 23:36:00 -0700

United States vs Ghana Live Stream

Date : 26-06-2010

Game Start Time : 20:30

FIFA World Cup 2010

Venue: Rustenburg

To take the United States vs. Ghana Match preview to light, let us consider the story yet unfolded. So far not really counted among the top Football nations of the world, USA soccer is rather impressive. From their first draw against a steady England in the Stage 1, USA has proven to be a well set team that has gathered the momentum to play more seasoned opponents.

While they are constantly learning and strategizing, the American team has so far proven well, getting the runners-up position in their Group C in spite of having to face England, Slovenia and Algeria; all rather strong teams. Many skeptics indicate that only England’s sorry form could be the reason for USA to reach till the Knockouts, but that’s simply pessimistic speaking. Without an impressive game, no team could reach Stage Two.

The Ghanan team has a football on their flag, and it’s not just for show. Like many African nations, the physical ability of Ghana’s footballers can be reckoned with as being only among the best. Looking at their player roster and team performance so far, yet, into the 2010 South Africa World Cup, Ghana is the only African team in the Knockout Stage 2. With big expectations from their neighbors who didn’t make it so far, the power and speed of Ghana’s footballers are about to make a mark on the 27th of June. The United States vs. Ghana Match preview is speaking in fair terms that the competition is matched and evenly set out, it could be any team’s game.

American Soccer is taking strides that it has to maintain, since they have proven to outlast minor competition; but now it’s more difficult to getting the job done. So far, USA has had a fairly successful World Cup, but sustenance and performance is in every American heart now, and they have the expectancy of a million people counting on a show to remember.

Regardless of what is to come later in Stage 2, people have to remember its Knockouts to talk of. One loss is the loss of all their perseverance so far; and the United States has no mind of slacking their football success. Ghana, on their front, also has expectancy of perhaps more millions with an entire continent looking on with glee. Being a more senior team with Football experience, more speculation lies in Ghana’s favor, perhaps much expected to be so.

However, as I mentioned, Knockout Stages of Football World Cup can turn at any moment. The United States vs. Ghana match cannot lean to team favoring. With the rolling so far, may the better team win.

Korea Republic vs Uruguay world cup soccer

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 23:21:00 -0700

Uruguay Vs Korea Republic Live Stream

Date : 26-06-2010

Game Start Time : 16:00

FIFA World Cup 2010

Venue: Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth

Uruguay, like most Latin American countries, lives off football and the passion in the game. For a just Uruguay vs. Korea Republic match preview, one can honestly say that the odds lie in the favor of the Uruguayans in white. While through Stage 1 both teams have shown consistent performance and a great strategic play off, Latin American trends of aggressive football is starting to take center stage from here onwards. On the other front, a well prepared and very physically prepared Korean team is going to set records right, for it is in these Stage two matches that South Korea had stunned the world in their last World Cup going a longer way than anticipated.

Uruguay is prepared for classic aggressive game play, a simple strategy of keeping the ball on the opponents’ side of the field and scoring in random at any given chance. Though the 2010 South Africa World Cup has given us plenty of defensive football so far, more in tune with European style; now, with the league fixtures done with and only the strongest standing, Copa America is going to start their offensive stretch of power and speed play.

South Korea not only has determined and strategic planning; but in fact, is a very formidable line up of footballers. With their coach promising the Republic of South Korea results that will prove their skills to the world, no one seems to be getting any form of intimation into the Korean players. The boys in deep blue are ready to go toe to toe with everything in their spirits, body and hearts with any team the schedule has to offer. They have great skill and tremendous agility; not to mention distinctive Asian stamina and speed. With the stage set on the 26th, and anyone with any speculation is only hoping that the Uruguay vs. Republic of Korea Match preview doesn’t give away too much of the surprise on hold.

Looking at the stage of excitement that the World Cup frenzy has built up, with many disappointments, much awe and a few astounding teams to make it to Second Stage, this frontier is all about aggressive field coverage and ball control.

While numbers are favoring Group A leaders Uruguay on both fronts, South Korea as Group B runners-up had an impressive match against Argentina where they have shown that even the world favorites hold nothing for them to fear. The Uruguay vs. Republic of Korea Match preview can only say with certainty that contest is the name of this sport, and there can be no contest that can be held ‘less’ at the Stage Two of the Football World Cup.

Switzerland vs Honduras watch live soccer online

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 22:40:00 -0700

Switzerland vs Honduras Live Stream

Date : 25-06-2010

Game Start Time : 20:30

FIFA World Cup 2010

Venue: Mangaung/Bloemfontein

World Cup 2010: Switzerland will play against Honduras on 25/06 20:30 in Mangaung / Bloemfontein

The World Cup 2010 Switzerland vs. Honduras match with Switzerland in prospective. This will be the ninth showing of Switzerland at the FIFA World Cup™ finals when the summer tournament gets on the move in South Africa. This is where Ottmar Hitzfeld the coach and his players are gunning for the top spot.

The past Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich coach took the national helm after Switzerland’s disappointing showing at UEFA EURO 2008 and will now lead them to their second FIFA World Cup finals in a row. The team made it up to Round 16 of the 2006 event in Germany, where they got eliminated on penalties by Ukraine.

The Swiss team has a combination of youth and experience. The players like Tranquillo Barnetta, Eren Derdiyok and keeper Diego Benaglio with veterans Blaise N’Kufo and Alexander Frei. The present lineup will try to at least try to be equal the achievements of their descendants who made the last eight last 1934, 1938 and 1954.

Soccer Euro 2008 Preview Teams Switzerland” width=”300″ height=”199″ class=”alignright size-medium wp-image-5816″ />On their way to Africa, Hitzfeld and his men made a distinctly unfavorable start going to the 2010 finals. They had a final minute draw to Israel and a 2-1 loss to Luxembourg in Zurich that brought embarrassment on the team. But the draw back worthy defeat made a wake-up call and the Swiss duly got five wins after against Latvia (2-1), Moldova (2-0 and 2-0) and Greece (2-1 and 2-0). They only lost points again in a 2-2 draw to the Latvians. With revenge victory of 3-0 in Luxembourg and scoreless draw with Israel in Basel sealed top spot in Group 2 Europe and confirmed a spot in South Africa for Frei and company.

The star players of the team are Alexander Frei their undisputed chief on and off the playing field. The Basel striker holds the all time record for goal scoring is his country. He was Hitzfeld’s choice as national team captain. He finished the qualifying games with five goals. That score was equaled by Blaise N’Kufo the striker of Twente Enschede who was first called up by the Swiss in 2000 and has a productive attacking partnership with Frei.

Their coach Ottmar Hitzfeld is Europe’s one of the most successful and highly regarded senior coaches. He is one of only two men to lead two different clubs to UEFA Champions League namely Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund.

He started being Switzerland head coach on 1 July 2008 and after a slow start, guided his squad to a direct qualifying match for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Watch the World Cup 2010 Switzerland vs. Honduras, it promises to be a great game.

Chile vs Spain watch soccer live on internet

noreply@blogger.com (Hannah Brown) — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 22:29:00 -0700

Chile vs Spain Live Stream

Date : 25-06-2010

Game Start Time : 20:30

FIFA World Cup 2010

Venue: Tshwane/Pretoria

World Cup 2010: Chile will play against Spain on 25/06 20:30 in Tshwane/Pretoria

An interview with Jorge Valdivia a Chilean international has always been successful. He has won his national league title in 2006 with Colo Colo club and Sao Paulo State Championship in 2008 then moved to Palmeiras the Brazilian giants.

With his star rising, experts expected him to follow the path to South America. But he made a big surprise when he signed up for the United Arab Emirates team Al Ain last August 2008. This 26-year-old midfield was instrumental in bringing the club three domestic trophies, namely the President’s Cup, the Federation Cup, UAE Supercup during his first season there.

Valdivia was also instrumental in Chile’s qualification in to the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™, and his dreams and hopes for this year’s event were part of the topics discussed in the interview with FIFA. Here is the interview.

Jorge, how significant is being a team captain? Being a captain is important to me. I played captain for Palmeiras and also led my country. It is a great pride but also needs lots of responsibility. Being captain means setting example for the team and for the youth players, a good role model.

Were you delighted being named 2009 Player of the Year in the Emirati league? It is a significant achievement, as it means the work was recognized. That award is a great incentive to achieve more goals and better play.

Do you want to play for a top European club? Of course, but now the priority is to play in the World Cup. My plan is to ensure to make it to the squad for South Africa. If I make it, I will fight to be a starter. I will do all I can to help my team go as far as possible. The outcome of how I play in the World Cup could be a factor in my European move.

Do you think the draw for Chile was a good one on the road to South Africa 2010? The tournament brings the best players of every continent so all the groups are hard. All groups have great teams with ambitions of winning. With regards to Chile’s group, that was the draw. It is impossible to assess if it is good or bad. After the tournament we will know if it is kind to us. The other three teams in the group are all worthy contenders and tough. Watch the World Cup 2010 Chile vs. Spain, it promises to be a tough one.