Germany v Serbia

Group D, 11:30 GMT, June 18, 2010

Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Undoubtedly the form team at the World Cup after their 4-0 demolition of Australia, Germany go into the match with confidence flowing and their hopes of qualification almost assured if they pick up another win.


Almost forced into playing an extremely attacking formation with the injuries to Simon Rolfes and Michael Ballack pre-tournament, the Germans line up without a holding midfielder - preferring instead to play Bastian Schweinsteiger and Sami Khedira in the two central areas with Mesut Ozil in an advanced attacking role ahead of them - and it works. Fluid in attack, Lukas Podolski can use his pace down the left with Thomas Muller providing the vision and guile on the right for main man Miroslav Klose.

Before the tournament, many were talking of the German striking conundrum but the first match won over the critics and a tough Serbian defence will have a lot to do if they are to keep a clean sheet. They do, of course, have two of the best in the Premier League - Nemanja Vidic and Branislav Ivanovic - to aid their cause, but the lack of attacking options shown by the Serbs in their first game suggests that their defence will find itself under a lot of pressure.

A lot more can be expected from giant striker Nikola Zigic, while Milos Krasic and Dejan Stankovic were just as toothless in the first game defeat to Ghana and will need to come to the fore if they are to have any hopes of causing an upset.

Germany player to watch: Lukas Podolski. Having failed to fire for Bayern Munich, the Cologne striker moved back home but had a pretty poor season by his standards last year. Still, he seems to turn it on when he pulls on the Germany shirt and his opening goal against Australia proved he hasn't lost his touch. Full of pace and direct running, his role down the left flank is crucial in getting behind the opposition defence.

Serbia player to watch: Neven Subotic. Linked with Arsenal and Manchester United, the young Dortmund defender is one of the hottest properties in the European game and will come in for the suspended Aleksandar Lukovic. A tough tackler with good aerial ability, Subotic chose to play for Serbia over USA (having settled in the country in 1999) and will have the eyes of the world upon him as he auditions for a possible big move in the summer.

Key battle: Thomas Muller v Aleksandar Kolarov. Muller has been one of the form players in Europe this season and has been keeping Klose and Mario Gomez out of the Bayern Munich side. His versatility allows him space on the right for this country, but he carries a good goal threat when he cuts in and he will also be keen to banish the Champions League final from his memory after he missed a one-on-one chance against Inter that would have levelled the scores at 1-1. Kolarov is another to have had a good season (albeit in a poor overall one for Lazio) and has many admirers in the Italian game - most notably champions Inter Milan. Tall and strong, his pace and power are vital to Serbia's defence.

Trivia: If Miroslav Klose scores against Serbia he will go level with the greatest of all-time, Pele, on 12 goals in the competition. Ronaldo has the record with 15 though.

Stats: Serbia have lost all four of their matches at the World Cup and have conceded three goals to penalties in their last three World Cup matches.

Odds: Germany (1.66), Serbia (5.75) and the draw (3.60) are all on offer at Bet 365, but given Serbia's aerial ability, Nemanja Vidic at 15.00 to score anytime looks good.

Prediction: German confidence is high and their attacking prowess suggests that they should win comfortably, most likely sending Serbia out.

Slovenia v United States

Group C, 14:00 GMT, June 18, 2010

Ellis Park, Johannesburg, South Africa

Having won their first game at a World Cup thanks to an error from Algerian goalkeeper Faouzi Chaouchi, Slovenian confidence will be at an all-time high and, with England to come as their final group game, will be going all out to win and seal their progress to the second round.

A nation of around two million people, Slovenia impressed in getting to the tournament by knocking out Russia in the play-offs and have won over many neutral fans with their exploits in South Africa. Not the most attacking side, results are the order of the day and a well organised defence, combined with some invention up front, means that they have the chance to seal one of the most historic World Cup moments if they can beat USA.

For their part, USA were lucky to get a point from England thanks to Robert Green's error, but they will have gained confidence from the way in which they were able to halt the English attacks. With pace and skill to burn down the flanks, a tough central area that includes the hard tackling Michael Bradley and a defence full of experience and grit from the likes of Jay DeMerit, Carlos Bocanegra and Oguchi Onyewu, coach Bob Bradley will be confident of progression against a side that many view as minnows.

Slovenia player to watch: Milivoje Novakovic. A consistent performer for his club side Cologne, Novakovic has also managed to net 16 goals in 29 games for his country and carries the bulk of their attacking hopes. He uses his body well to shield the ball and, at 6' 3'', carries an aerial threat as well. He needs to time his runs better, but will provide the USA backline with a tough test. If he scores he will become the second highest scorer in Slovenian history, moving clear of retired Saso Udovic.

USA player to watch: Clint Dempsey. After being gifted a goal against England, Dempsey will find his attacking talent utilised again on the left side of midfield, with Landon Donovan on the other. Comfortable on the ball, Dempsey's pace and skill when dribbling will ensure Miso Brecko endures a tough afternoon and he will be tasked with providing a lot of the creativity in the final third.

Key battle: Samir Handanovic v Tim Howard. If Slovenia keep a clean sheet then they will have one foot in the next round, so Handanovic will have to be on top form to stop a potent USA attack. The Udinese stopper has caught the eye in Italy this season and, at 6' 5'', is rarely beaten from crosses, while he is often one for the spectacular. At the other end, Everton goalkeeper Howard injured his ribs against England and should play through the pain barrier for his country. One of the best players on the pitch in the first game, his agility and reflexes - as well as his organisation from set pieces - will play a key part in USA's defence.

Trivia: USA are the fourth CONCACAF side to face Slovenia, who have previously played friendlies against Mexico, Honduras and Trinidad and Tobago.

Stats: Slovenia have won seven of their last eight matches since losing to England in September. The USA have gone 11 consecutive matches without keeping a clean sheet.

Odds: Slovenia (3.80), USA (2.10) and the draw (3.25) are all on offer at Bet 365, but look for Landon Donovan to score first at 7.50.

Prediction: Slovenia have a real chance of qualifying if they can pull off a result here. Even a draw would be a good result, but USA should have enough in the bank to avoid an upset.

England v Algeria

Group C, 18:30 GMT, June 18, 2010

Green Point Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

England go into the game against Algeria with the media spotlight well and truly on them after their 1-1 draw with USA. Headlines of 'The Hand of Clod' greeted goalkeeper Robert Green after his error gifted Clint Dempsey an equaliser and there has been much talk over who Fabio Capello will install as his No.1 - keep the faith with Green, or turn to the veteran David James?


It is an unusual situation for Capello's side to be under such pressure, especially after a qualifying campaign that saw them lose just once, but the Italian's secrecy over his team selection has not helped matters and the press have gone into overdrive, creating a frosty atmosphere with the coach that worsened when he snapped at photographers recently.

With injury issues surrounding Ledley King, Jamie Carragher has been called into action at the heart of the defence alongside John Terry and, worryingly, there is now a distinct lack of pace in the centre. Algeria are not blessed with speed at the back either and there were rumours before the game that Jermain Defoe could be given a chance to run at the defenders in place of the lumbering Emile Heskey, with Peter Crouch's height continuing to be used as an option off the bench.

With the pace of Lennon and Johnson down the right, Algeria will look to left-back Nadir Belhadj to hold off their attacks and use his own speed to push them back into their own half. A defensive 4-5-1 formation from their opening game against Slovenia suggests that they won't be pushing forward with that much gusto, but the defeat already on their record means they need a win and should be looking to score early and then sit back. Former Marseille star Karim Ziani will be key to Algeria's hopes in the final third and his combination play with striker Rafik Djebbour could prove their best hope of scoring, especially on the counter attack.

Although this will be the first meeting between England and Algeria, the Three Lions have kept a clean sheet in four of their five World Cup encounters against African sides.

England player to watch: Gareth Barry. A gaping hole in the England midfield was left when Barry went down with an ankle injury before the tournament, and Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard were left to try to fill in against USA. Barry is fit again now, so the defensive midfield slot is assured and the balance of the England side is much better. The left-footer will be alongside Lampard, with Gerrard switched to the left, and suddenly England look capable of providing more of an attacking threat.

Algeria player to watch: Hassan Yebda. The 'heart and soul' of the team, Yebda's tracking back and tigerish tackling will assist in keeping the wing threat of England down. But he also has his own box of tricks and is a very capable crosser and dribbler of the ball. While he would want more in terms of a goal return, how he deals with Gerrard on the left of the midfield will determine how Algeria compete.

Key battle: Robert Green v David James v Joe Hart v Faouzi Chaouchi. A rather odd battle perhaps, but whichever England goalkeeper gets the nod in the end will have his hands full with the media spotlight and will be under pressure not to make a mistake. Green is expected to keep the gloves, despite his error against USA and conventional wisdom suggests James will take his place if he is dropped, although Hart has been the man in form of late. Algeria's Chaouchi is under his own pressure after his mistake against Slovenia gifted them the win, so the 'keepers at both ends of the pitch will be key to the game.

Trivia: Algeria's national anthem is called "Qassaman" - (The Pledge). Qassaman was written during Algeria's struggle for independence from French colonial rule. Seventeen of the 23 Algerian players were born in France.

Stats: England have never lost against an African team: 11 wins and four draws, while Algeria have never kept a clean sheet in seven World Cup matches.

Odds: England (1.25), Algeria (12.00) and the draw (6.25) are all on offer at Bet 365, but Steven Gerrard to score last at 8.00 looks a nice bet.

Prediction: England stuttered a bit in the first game, but then so did Algeria. If England get an early goal it will settle the nerves, otherwise it will be tough to break down the Algerian side.

Full-time - 90'
Germany
0 - 1
Serbia
Group D, 11:30 GMT, June 18, 2010

Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Milan Jovanovic and Vladimir Stojkovic teamed up to re-ignite Serbia's World Cup campaign as much-praised Germany faltered.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Milos Krasic - A good attacking outlet for Serbia, Krasic's guile and skill down the right gave German defender Holder Badstuber a torrid afternoon. His cross to Zigic provided the goal and he was a constant threat, even when Serbia sat back and defended.

Germany verdict: Until the sending off they were excellent, but Klose's dismissal changed everything. Niggly fouls and tiredness played their part, but they continued to attack throughout, although the sense of injustice following the red card stopped them from focusing on getting back in the game.

Serbia verdict: Extremely lucky in both the sending off and the penalty save, Serbia knuckled down once they had a man advantage and offered very little by way of attacking intent. The result was all that mattered for them, but it was disappointing to see them fail to take control once Klose was off.

Could do better: Lukas Podolski - An incisive runner, Podolski was a threat down the left but all too often missed his chances to get Germany back in the game. The focal point of the attack after the sending off, his penalty was poor and his attitude was not impressive either.

Stat attack: Germany's last non-shootout penalty miss in the World Cup was by Uli Hoeness in 1974 versus Poland.

Jovanovic blasted home a 38th-minute winner from close range two minutes after Germany striker Miroslav Klose had been sent off, and Wigan keeper Stojkovic saved a second-half Lukas Podolski penalty to blow Group D wide open.

Each of the three games in the group to date has seen a red card, and Klose will be suspended for Wednesday's final first round clash with Ghana in Johannesburg as Serbia take on Australia in Nelspruit.

Germany arrived in Port Elizabeth having established themselves among the favourites to win the tournament once again following a crushing 4-0 defeat of the Socceroos in their first game, but with coach Joachim Low insisting he had not been completely satisfied by their performance in Durban.

Low's mood will have darkened considerably after an opening 45 minutes at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium during which little went right for his team.

Podolski blasted a seventh-minute volley just wide, but in a largely uninspiring first half, the fireworks came in the last nine minutes.

Spanish referee Alberto Undiano had issued the first of six yellow cards to Klose for a foul on Branislav Ivanovic with just 12 minutes gone, and it was the Germany striker who also collected the final caution of the opening 45 minutes for a trip on Serbia skipper Dejan Stankovic.

Things were to deteriorate further for the Germans within two minutes when impressive winger Milos Krasic picked out 6ft 6in striker Nikola Zigic at the far post and he headed down for Jovanovic to control in front of goal and steer the ball past stranded Germany keeper Manuel Neuer.

Low's men belatedly responded with midfielder Sami Khedira firing against the underside of the crossbar and Thomas Muller forcing a goal-line clearance from Aleksandar Kolarov with his follow-up in injury time, but Serbia held out.

Werder Bremen midfielder Mesut Ozil, who had started the game playing behind Klose, found himself pushed further forward after the break, but it was Podolski who shot across the face of goal within a minute of the restart.

For all they were a man short, it was Germany who made the running during the opening minutes of the second half, and it took a last-ditch challenge by Nemanja Vidic to prevent Bastian Schweinsteiger from collecting Philipp Lahm's superb 54th-minute through-ball.

Stojkovic spilled Schweinsteiger's well-struck shot seconds later and was grateful to see Podolski fire wide of the far post under pressure from Ivanovic with the Germans turning the screw.

But Stojkovic came to the rescue on the hour when, after Vidic had needlessly handled in the area, he dived to his left to save Podolski's spot-kick.

Serbia might have increased their lead, but Jovanovic's 67th-minute shot came back off the post and Zigic's header clipped the bar seven minutes later with Neuer beaten.

Stojkovic had to turn away substitute Marko Marin's deflected shot with 12 minutes remaining, but there was no way back for the Germans.

Full-time - 90'
Slovenia
2 - 2
United States
Group C, 14:00 GMT, June 18, 2010

Ellis Park, Johannesburg, South Africa

Slovenia went two up against USA after Valter Birsa and Zlatan Ljubijankic goals, but Landon Donovan got one back before Michael Bradley rescued a point. Maurice Edu looked to have scored a winner for the Americans but it was controversially disallowed.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: - Michael Bradley. He may not have had the same impact in the first half, but the son of coach Bob was a key part of the USA's turnaround. It was fitting that he was the one to apply the finishing touch to grab the equaliser.

Slovenia verdict: A wonderful opening half with attacking football, neat moves and two goals. The pace of the game eventually caught up with the minnows, though, and when USA hit one back, they sat back and invited pressure. Luckily for them, the referee ruled Maurice Edu's goal out, for reasons best known to himself.

USA verdict: Awful in the first half, but whatever Bob Bradley said at half-time seemed to work and their attacking ambition was in full view. Clint Dempsey, Jozy Altidore and Landon Donovan as a front three can rattle anybody on their day, but questions will be asked where they were in the first 45 minutes.

Could do better: Samir Handanovic - As a goalkeeper you are expected to get everything behind the ball, whatever it takes to stop a shot. Therefore, when Landon Donovan was closing down on goal from a tight angle, Handanovic should have stood tall and taken the shot like a man. He didn't and Donovan blasted it past his ducking head to get the USA back on track.

Stat attack: It was the 13th time USA have conceded two or more goals in a World Cup game, losing 11 of the previous 12 games. Now they have a draw to add to the list.

It leaves all to play for in Group C going into the final round of matches. There was a very early stoppage when Clint Dempsey caught Ljubijankic with an elbow to the head as the pair challenged for a high ball near the halfway line. The Gent striker was fine to continue and Malian referee Koman Coulibaly opted to take no action against Dempsey.

Birsa created the first chance with a whipped cross from the right which Milivoje Novakovic failed to connect with on the volley, but the classy Slovenia number 10 took charge himself after 12 minutes. He was allowed to turn and take stock before curling a shot past the helpless Tim Howard from 25 yards, with no American defender going to close him down.

Francisco Torres tested Handanovic with a left-foot free-kick from a wide angle, with the Udinese goalkeeper probably expecting a ball into the box rather than a cross.

It lifted the US, who had Robbie Findley booked for a handball in the Slovenia box which ruled him out of the final group match against Algeria, and Slovenia full-back Miso Brecko had to get a vital touch to deny Donovan a far-post tap-in after a flowing move involving Altidore, Findley and Dempsey.

But in a flash Bob Bradley's men were 2-0 down as Novakovic slotted a pass through to strike partner Ljubijankic, who beat the offside trap and calmly rolled a right-foot shot under Howard. The US coach responded by bringing on Rangers midfielder Edu for Torres and Benny Feilhaber for Findley at the start of the second half.

Within three minutes of the restart the Americans had halved the deficit when right-back Steve Cherundolo's ball down the flank evaded Bostjan Cesar and Los Angeles Galaxy star Donovan raced into the box at an angle before drilling the ball hard and high past Handanovic at his near post.

Marko Suler then injured himself as he climbed over Altidore and from the resultant free-kick Dempsey's glancing header from Donovan's inswinging ball was just wide.

Howard then had to claw away a Birsa free-kick as Suler threatened to head it home and Suler was then involved at the other end to tackle Altidore after the former Hull loanee looked set to get clear of him just before the hour mark.

The game was now evenly poised and after Suler manhandled Altidore once too often for the referee's liking and was booked, the burly striker fired a shot straight at Handanovic. Andraz Kirm joined Suler in the book for going in late on Cherundolo and so too did Bojan Jokic for a clumsy foul on Donovan.

Bradley's final change was to bring on forward Herculez Gomez for defender Oguchi Onyewu as the US pressed for the leveller - and it was the coach's son who got it. Altidore climbed high to nod down a long ball into the box and Bradley junior sprinted into the box to fire past Handanovic and send the majority of the Ellis Park crowd into hysterics with eight minutes to go.

They thought they had a winner when Edu turned in Donovan's free-kick but the referee disallowed it, apparently seeing a tug in the box although both sides appeared equally guilty of that. Slovenia pushed forward for the glory goal and Aleksandar Radosavljevic forced an excellent parry from Howard from 25 yards as time ticked away.

Full-time - 90'
England
0 - 0
Algeria
Group C, 18:30 GMT, June 18, 2010

Green Point Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

There was no happy birthday for Fabio Capello in Cape Town as England were booed by their own supporters following a dreadful performance against Algeria that leaves them needing to beat Slovenia to guarantee their World Cup progress.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: - Nadir Belhadj. He showed plenty of acceleration throughout and was always looking to get the cross in, causing Glen Johnson plenty of problems. In defence, he also made a crucial interception when Emile Heskey was through on goal. Karim Ziani was also impressive early on, pulling the strings in midfield, although he faded as the game went on.

England verdict: Completely outfought and constantly outnumbered in the middle of the field, England always seemed hurried and never had the opportunity to build their self-confidence. As the game went on, their passing grew steadily worse and worse. Despite having suffered similar problems using a 4-4-2 against a 4-5-1 in the first half of the warm-up match against Japan, it was surprising to see Fabio Capello so reluctant to bring on someone like Joe Cole or even Michael Carrick to help assert some control.

Algeria verdict: From the off, they looked more composed in possession and comfortable with their gameplan, restricting the space for England in midfield by playing a 4-5-1 formation and breaking at pace. While they never looked likely to win it, they will feel they have carried out their plans to perfection and were the better team on the night.

Could do better: Wayne Rooney - As so often for England, he looked frustrated and isolated, but even his usually assured touch completely deserted him against Algeria. With Emile Heskey putting in a poor performance, too, England's attacks constantly broke down as soon as they reached the front two.

Stat attack: Algeria had never kept a clean sheet in their previous seven World Cup matches.

Although they exerted some late pressure, if Capello's men had denied Algeria a point it would have been a massive injustice on a night when Franz Beckenbauer's assessment of England being a "kick and rush'' team was proved to be false. They weren't as good as that.

The maths are now quite simple. Beat Slovenia - when they will be without the suspended Jamie Carragher - in Port Elizabeth on Wednesday and England have scrambled their way into thes econd round. Fail and in all probability they will go home.

Having told the world he would not confirm the identity of his chosen goalkeeper until two hours before kick-off, it transpired Capello's mind had been made up by the final training session on Thursday night.

A couple of mistakes from Rob Green were enough to convince Capello the West Ham man could not be trusted, so David James was in for his first competitive start in 15 months.

Really though it was supposed to be a watching brief for the man who stood between the sticks. Against a side ranked 30th in the world, and from a continent that has never beaten England, in front of Prince William, the Three Lions were supposed to deliver a performance fit for a king.

How wrong that assumption was. England's lack of guile was embarrassing at times and it took Capello's men until three minutes before the break to retain possession for any decent period.

Every time they got hold of the ball, it seemed England were in a rush to get rid of it, or at least try to force something to happen, which ultimately amounted to the same thing.

Wayne Rooney did not appear fit and he certainly endured a frustrating time of it. Penalised after two muscular tangles, England's talisman eventually managed a shot when the opening period was in its death throes. Like so many England efforts, it was struck from the edge of the area and posed little threat.

The best chance fell Frank Lampard's way after Aaron Lennon's cross had been half-cleared by Rafik Halliche but it was saved.

For the first hour Algeria were the more inventive side. They were quicker, slicker, possessed greater imagination and incisive movement. In short, they were superior in all the technical aspects of the game.

After waiting so long for Gareth Barry to recover from his ankle injury, the England boss watched his preferred holding midfielder lose the ball to Karim Matmour.

Possession was quickly transferred upfield and after cutting inside Glen Johnson, Karim Ziani - a menace throughout - drilled his shot into the side-netting rather than testing James fully with the controversial Jabulani ball Capello hates so much.

The Italian could not have been happy, and the England supporters certainly weren't. And the second half did not start any better.

Steven Gerrard and Lampard both wasted possession after finding themselves in decent positions, while at the other end Carragher stuck out an arm to deny Hassan Yebda a chance to race into the box and was booked.

The yellow card had additional significance and means Capello must either turn to Matthew Upson for next Wednesday's encounter with unbeaten Slovenia, or hand Michael Dawson his debut.

Finally England's fitness was allowing them to dictate the game. Yet old failings remain and the introduction of additional pace in the form of Shaun Wright-Phillips and Jermain Defoe could not rectify them.

After 83 minutes of fruitless toil, Capello turned to Peter Crouch. Back to the long ball, but even that did not work and Algeria stood firm, even coming close to winning the game themselves moments from the end.

Belhadj whipped a dangerous ball into the box, but with three Algerian players loitering with intent at the back post, James clung onto the ball like his life depended on it.

Ghana v Australia

Group D, 14:00 GMT, June 19, 2010

Royal Bafokeng Stadium, Rustenburg, South Africa

The display Australia put in as they went down to a 4-0 defeat to Germany in the opening game suggests that it cannot get much worse for the Socceroos. Ripped apart by the Germans, Australia now have to rebuild and somehow gather their confidence as they face a Ghana side who picked up Africa's first win at this year's World Cup by beating Serbia.


To add to the Socceroos' woes, they have to play the game without talisman Tim Cahill after he received a one-game ban for his sending off against the Germans. The Everton midfielder formed the focal point of their 4-6-0 formation and such a lack of attacking ambition will surely be punished again if Pim Verbeek does not alter his plans.

For their part, Ghana are flying after a hard-fought win over the Serbs and, although they did not set the world alight with their display, morale is at an all-time high. Shorn of Michael Essien before the tournament, Ghana have dealt well with his absence and will look to rework the history books by beating a side that are unbeaten in their last three meetings against them.

Ghana player to watch: Anthony Annan. He may play his club football in Norway, but Annan is one of the young stars of this Ghana side and does his best work in the centre of midfield winning the ball back. Rumoured to be on the radar of some big European clubs, he has a lot of strength for a man measuring just 5' 7'' and his tough-tackling and never-say-die attitude will be a key component in keeping the Australian attack quiet.

Australia player to watch: Lucas Neill. After a defensive performance against Germany that saw the former Blackburn defender screaming at anyone who would listen, he will have to do a lot better if he is to keep the Socceroo defence together. Alongside Craig Moore, Neill was guilty of playing a few German attackers onside, but he should be more confident of keeping a lid on the attacking ambitions of the Ghanaians.

Key battle: John Paintsil v Brett Emerton. They have come up against each other in the Premier League playing for Fulham and Blackburn respectively, and the battle down the flank at the World Cup could prove crucial. Paintsil likes to get forward when he can, while Emerton is a converted right back himself, so both are capable of making an impact at either end of the pitch. As Australia may not play with a recognised striker, Emerton's forays down the right will be key if they are to get behind the Ghana defence, but Paintsil is as committed as they come on the pitch - even if his reputation off it is that of dressing-room joker.

Trivia: Ghana have been awarded three penalties in just five World Cup finals games, and their last two goals came from the penalty spot (against USA in 2006 and Serbia in their 2010 opener).

Stats: Australia have won only one of their eight matches at World Cup finals and have failed to score in six of these fixtures, while Ghana are yet to draw after five games at the finals.

Odds: Ghana (2.00), Australia (3.80) and the draw (3.40) are all on offer at Bet 365, but Kevin-Prince Boateng could score first at 13.00.

Prediction: Australia were dire against Germany and something really has to change if they are to make an impact. Ghana are strong and talented and should overcome the Aussies.

Cameroon v Denmark

Group E, 18:30 GMT, June 19, 2010

Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria, South Africa

Cameroon coach Paul Le Guen slammed his side's attitude after their opening defeat to Japan, but some of the side's senior players have questioned the decision of the coach to play some of the young players in such a vital match. All is not well in the camp and, as Le Guen attempts to heal the divisions, Denmark arrive on the scene determined to press their claims for a spot in the next round.


In dire need of a win, both sides know that defeat here could end their World Cup campaigns, but Cameroon are in crisis as off-pitch criticism hinders their preparations and Denmark will view them as ripe for the picking.

The Danes were seen as favourites to come second in the group, but their opening defeat to the Dutch leaves them playing catch-up. They were exposed for a lack of creativity in midfield and something will have to change if they are to unlock the Cameroon defence, but a qualification campaign that saw off the likes of Portugal and Sweden proves they have the players to make an impact.

Cameroon player to watch: Alex Song. The Arsenal midfielder was left on the bench for the first game and they missed his presence in the middle of the pitch. A real ball-winner, Song's influence calms the Cameroon side and, when they have the ball, they can rest assured that he will provide the defence with cover. A good passer as well, he distributes the ball well and his inclusion is likely to stiffen the resolve of the Indomitable Lions.

Denmark player to watch: Nicklas Bendtner. A striker who blows hot and cold for club and country, he does not lack self-belief but, after a poor showing against Netherlands, he will be pushed further into the spotlight. A tall and agile frontman, he certainly gets himself into good positions but sometimes lacks the composure and finishing touch that make for a top-class striker. He will be under pressure to perform, but will fancy facing up against a shaky Cameroon defence.

Key battle: Samuel Eto'o v Simon Kjaer. After some pre-tournament build-up that suggested Eto'o may not even make the finals, he was marked out of the first game against Japan and did not make the impact he would have hoped for. However, now he will get his chance to play through the middle and will find himself up against one of the best young defenders in the business. The Palermo man is seeking his big move and most of Europe's elite are tracking him. How he handles one of Europe's best strikers could impact on where he ends up.

Trivia: Rigobert Song has racked up 135 caps with Cameroon. A defender now playing in the Turkish leagues, Song has the dubious distinction of being the youngest player ever sent off in the World Cup, aged 17.

Stats: Cameroon have won just one of their last 11 matches at World Cup finals, and have lost the last two without scoring. Denmark have always qualified for the knockout stages in their previous World Cup participations (1986, 1998 and 2002).

Odds: Ghana (2.87), Australia (2.50) and the draw (3.25) are all on offer at Bet 365, but a 2-1 win to Denmark will get you 10.00.

Prediction: Both historical encounters between Cameroon and Denmark have ended 2-1 with each team winning once, so this one is too close to call. With Cameroon's issues off the pitch, 2-1 to Denmark looks a realistic outcome.

Full-time - 90'
Netherlands
1 - 0
Japan
Group E, 11:30 GMT, June 19, 2010

Durban Stadium

Wesley Sneijder's second-half goal handed Holland a narrow win over Japan in their second Group E match and put the Oranje within reach of the last 16 of the World Cup.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Wesley Sneijder - In a game that was largely bereft of excitement, Sneijder produced the stand-out moment as his vicious effort proved too much for Eiji Kawashima. The Inter Milan playmaker was his usual cultured self in possession and worked hard for his team in an unspectacular game.

Netherlands verdict: The World Cup is still waiting for the Oranje to bloom. Having beaten Denmark 2-0 in their opening game, Bert van Marwijk's side took a significant step towards qualification and should now top the group, but they are steady rather than spectacular. This was not a convincing performance from the country that brought us Total Football.

Japan verdict: Japan were widely expected to struggle at the World Cup following an abysmal build-up to the finals, but they have hardly disgraced themselves so far. A 1-0 win in their opening game against Cameroon means this defeat can be swiftly forgotten, but Okada's side were not overwhelmed against superior opposition and defended resolutely for much of the game. In Honda, Hasebe and Matsui they also have talent in attack and could have snatched a late equaliser.

Could do better: Eiji Kawashima - Sneijder executed his shot well but the Japan goalkeeper should have saved the effort. Instead, the ball squirmed in off his left glove. Kawashima denied Afellay late on with a fine stop but his mistake cost his side a point.

Stat attack: Netherlands have won all nine of their competitive games in which Sneijder has scored.

After a frustrating opening half for the Dutch side, they finally broke through in the 53rd minute with Sneijder's stinging drive deflected by Japan goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima into his own net.

Japan had the best chance to level the score one minute from time but an unmarked substitute Shinji Okazaki fired over the bar from just 10 yards as Holland held on for victory.

The Oranje, who had a sea of supporters at Durban's Moses Mabhida Stadium, dominated possession but had just one shot on goal in the opening half. Rafael van der Vaart's 25-yard shot towards the near post proved an easy save for Kawashima.

Holland coach Bert van Marwijk fielded the same line-up that beat Denmark 2-0 in their group opener, with Van der Vaart, Sneijder and Dirk Kuyt playing in support of forward Robin Van Persie.

Holland dominated the early exchanges and created the first chance after four minutes when Van Persie's teasing cross from the left flashed across the goal and just eluded Liverpool striker Kuyt. Shortly after, Sneijder's curled free-kick went over the bar.

At the other end, Yuto Nagatomo's right-footed strike from the edge of the area went wide.

On the half-hour mark, Yuji Nakazawa did well to clear Giovanni van Bronckhorst's cross from the right with Van Persie waiting inside the area. Soon after, Keisuke Honda nodded high from Daisuke Matsui's free-kick. Tulio Nataka then latched onto Yasushito Endo's free-kick and his header went wide as Japan got closer.

Japan first tested Maarten Stekelenburg in the 37th minute, with Matsui's volley forcing a save from the Holland goalkeeper. Five minutes before the break, Honda wasted a good chance when he fired a 40-yard strike way over the bar.

Holland pressed forward more aggressively after the break and Van Persie twice had the chance to break the deadlock. His weak header from Van Bronckhorst's cross proved an easy save for Kawashima and seconds later, the Arsenal striker fired wide from 15 yards.

Holland took the lead soon after. A poor headed clearance from Japan's defence fell to Van Persie who spotted Sneijder and the Inter Milan winger's powerful strike came off Kawashima and into the back of the net.

Japan reacted and Yoshito Okubo forced a good save from Stekelenburg with a stinging drive from 25 yards. Shortly after, Okubo fired over the bar as the Blue Samurai surged for the equaliser.

With 15 minutes remaining, the ever-present Okubo shot wide of the far post as another opportunity went by for Japan.

Substitute Ibrahim Afellay twice had the chance to put the game beyond Japan's reach in the latter stages of the match but his close-range efforts were denied by Kawashima.

With seconds left to play, Okazaki struck wide from close-range, much to the relief of the Dutch fans.

Full-time - 90'
Ghana
1 - 1
Australia
Group D, 14:00 GMT, June 19, 2010

Royal Bafokeng Stadium, Rustenburg, South Africa

Ten-man Australia kept their slim hopes of qualifying for the next round of the World Cup alive after a dogged second-half display earned them a point against Ghana in Rustenburg.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Asamoah Gyan - The Ghana striker's credentials have been questioned in recent months but he now boasts two goals in two World Cup games, albeit both from the penalty spot. Gyan put in a purposeful performance and was a menace throughout. He just pips his excellent team-mate Andre Ayew to the award.

Ghana verdict: The Black Stars started in sluggish fashion and were unable to take full advantage of the red card shown to Harry Kewell. Their second-half performance left something to be desired as they allowed Australia to gain a foothold in the game, missing the chance to take a huge step towards the last 16.

Australia verdict: After looking so devoid of inspiration against Germany, this was a vast improvement by Pim Verbeek's side. Australia found themselves down to ten men for the second game in succession but refused to buckle this time, and could have snatched an unlikely win in the latter stages of the contest.

Could do better: Referee Roberto Rosetti - The Italian was responsible for one of the worst mistakes in the World Cup so far as he inexplicably missed a superb save by Mark Schwarzer when deciding that a shot from Kevin-Prince Boateng had merely gone out for a goal-kick. Shocking.

Stat attack: Brett Holman is the youngest ever goalscorer for Australia in the World Cup, beating Tim Cahill by 105 days.

Harry Kewell was sent off for the Socceroos midway through the first half after referee Roberto Rosetti deemed he had used his arm to keep out a certain goal for Jonathan Mensah after 23 minutes.

Asamoah Gyan made no mistake with the resulting penalty to cancel out an earlier strike from Brett Holman at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium as the two sides went on to end the Group D encounter with a point each.

At the start Ghana coach Milovan Rajevac was forced into two changes in the key centre-back area, where Isaac Vorsah and John Mensah were ruled out, with Jonathan Mensah and Lee Addy drafted in instead.

There were changes from Pim Verbeek too - four in total with Holman, Marco Bresciano and Kewell amongst them - and it clearly made a difference from the outset.

Australia looked hungry and Kewell had an early penalty shout turned down after a nervous Addy was almost dispossessed in the box.

More suspect defending saw Addy and goalkeeper Richard Kingson collide after pressure from another chasing Australian, before the deadlock was broken.

Carl Valeri was brought down by Anthony Annan just outside the box and Bresciano's free-kick was fumbled by the Ghanaian goalkeeper allowing Holman to swoop.

The Black Stars slowly began to recover and came close after 20 minutes when Andre Ayew and then Gyan saw their shots deflected over.

Then came the turning point of the game - Ayew's trickery down the right allowing him to lay the ball on for Jonathan Mensah, whose shot was kept out by the hand of Kewell.

Referee Rosetti had no hesitation in sending off the forward and Gyan easily dispatched the penalty by sending Mark Schwarzer the wrong way.

The goal came in the 24th minute and moments later Prince Tagoe had a good chance to put his side in front, but dragged his long-range strike wide.

Schwarzer made a fine save moments before half-time when he turned Boateng's strike wide to ensure his side head into the break level.

After the restart Kwadwo Asamoah wastefully shot wide after a promising counter-attack, while Gyan showed good accuracy from distance with a low shot that was not cleanly gathered by the Australia goalkeeper, who was fortunate not to have had any attacking players close by.

Quincy Owusu-Abeyie replaced Tagoe in the 56th minute, but Ghana were still restricted to long-range shooting - Rennes striker Gyan again sending in a comfortable shot for Schwarzer to deal with.

Scott Chipperfield was brought on ten minutes later and had a great chance to make an immediate impact when Luke Wilkshire swung over a cross from the right, but the free header went flying over.

When the Ghanaians did manage to get into the box, Gyan sliced wide after a neatly threaded pass from Boateng.

Verbeek's side had another great chance to take the lead after 73 minutes when Wilkshire was played in on the right, but Kingson did well to close down the shot and then acrobatically save the much easier rebound shot from substitute Joshua Kennedy.

Sulley Muntari was introduced but by then there was more defending to do for the Inter Milan midfielder with Australia throwing everything forward.

With time running out, Jonathan Mensah headed wide, while Quincy forced Schwarzer to punch over his 18-yard shot as the game finished 1-1.

Full-time - 90'
Cameroon
1 - 2
Denmark
Group E, 18:30 GMT, June 19, 2010

Loftus Versfeld Stadium

Denmark hit back from an early deficit to re-ignite their World Cup challenge and in the process extinguish Cameroon's chances of getting through to the second round.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Dennis Rommedahl - So often a frustrating player at club level, Rommedahl was superb for Denmark. His pace has never been in doubt, and it was used to devastating effect for the Danes' opening goal. His excellent control and perfectly weighted cross for Bendtner to score was only bettered by his delightful curling finish for the winner.

Cameroon verdict: This was a much improved performance by Cameroon, and unsurprisingly it was brought about by returning the talismanic Samuel Eto'o back to his accustomed centre-forward position. Achille Emana's introduction into the midfield helped to feed the energetic Eto'o, and will leave their fans wondering what might have been if they would have adopted this approach in their opening game.

Denmark verdict: Barring an early lapse in concentration from Christian Poulsen, Denmark were highly impressive. Though not as openly attacking as their opponents, they used Rommedahl to exploit Benoit Assou-Ekotto on the counter-attack to perfection. It was a performance where Denmark's experienced grafters quietly got the job done and helped their side to a vital three points.

Could do better: Defences - Although no player on the pitch played particularly badly, sloppy defending had a hand in the opening two goals. Christian Poulsen's lapse of concentration for Cameroon's opener could have cost his team dear, while Assou-Ekotto allowed Rommedahl to ghost beyond him for Denmark's equaliser. It must be said though, the poor defending helped contribute to the most open match of the tournament so far.

Stat attack: This is the first time Denmark have ever come from behind to win a World Cup match.

In what was a hugely entertaining encounter between the bottom two teams in Group E in Pretoria, Cameroon took the lead in the 10th minute through captain Samuel Eto'o following a bad defensive error by Christian Poulsen.

Denmark recovered from that setback though, and goals from Nicklas Bendtner and the dangerous Dennis Rommedahl in either half earned the Scandinavians a hard-fought victory.

The result means that Denmark join their next opponents Japan on three points, while group leaders Netherlands are now guaranteed a top-two finish - making them the first team to progress.

For battling Cameroon though, the defeat sees them become the first side to bid farewell to the World Cup after losing both their opening two games.

Denmark coach Morten Olsen made two changes to the side that lost to Holland, bringing in fit-again captain Jon Dahl Tomasson and Jesper Gronkjaer. Bendtner also took his place in the starting line-up for the second successive game despite struggling with a groin injury that means he can only train every other day and only having lasted an hour against the Dutch.

Cameroon coach Paul Le Guen, meanwhile, drafted in Geremi, Achille Emana and Alexandre Song as the Indomitable Lions sought to end an eight-game winless streak stretching back to the African Nations Cup.

Denmark, who had lost their previous three games without scoring a goal, had the first opportunity but Rommedahl fired over after breaking the offside trap in the sixth minute.

The Ajax winger should have done better with that, and four minutes later Eto'o showed him how it should be done by putting Cameroon ahead following a bad defensive error by Christian Poulsen.

Poulsen picked up possession from his goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen on the edge of the box and then attempted to find Simon Kjaer with a first-time pass without looking up.

The pass was intercepted by Emana, who quickly picked out the unmarked Eto'o in the middle and the Inter Milan star took one touch before drilling a low shot past Sorensen.

That was another bad goal for the Danes to concede following the own goal by Daniel Agger against Netherlands, when Simon Poulsen's attempted headed clearance hit the Liverpool defender before going in.

The Danes were back on level terms just after the half-hour mark at Loftus Versfeld stadium, though. Cameroon goalkeeper Souleymanou Hamidou had done well to deny Tomasson earlier but he could do nothing about the equaliser as his defence were cut open far too easily.

A superb long ball from inside his own half by Kjaer just cleared Benoit Assou-Ekotto and fell perfectly for the flying Rommedahl, and his low ball into the centre was slid home by Bendtner from eight yards.

Both sides had chances to snatch the lead during a hectic spell just prior to half-time. For Denmark, Rommedahl could not take advantage of getting clear once again before, from the same attack, Tomasson saw a goal-bound shot blocked.

Then for Cameroon, Eto'o fired against the post following another defensive mistake, while Emana was denied by Sorensen after bursting through the two Danish centre backs.

The all-action encounter continued apace at the start of the second half when Stephane M'bia and Kjaer both brought fingertip saves out of their opposing goalkeepers.

Cameroon striker Pierre Webo then blazed a decent opening high into the stands before also being denied by Sorensen as the African side looked to be taking control.

However, it was Denmark who got the next goal through the dangerous Rommedahl in the 61st minute.

Bendtner's pass put Rommedahl away down the right and the 31-year-old cut inside Jean Makoun before curling a low left-footed shot past Hamidou. That left Cameroon staring World Cup elimination in the face, and they almost fell 3-1 behind in the 71st minute, Hamidou coming to their rescue to superbly keep out Tomasson's effort.

Sorensen then produced an even better save six minutes later, diving low to his right to parry away Emana's shot.

Cameroon laid siege to Sorensen's goal in the closing stages, but they could find no way through as Denmark held on for the points.

Slovakia v Paraguay

Group F, 11:30 GMT, June 20, 2010

Free State Stadium

Paraguay go into this Group F clash in high spirits after holding world champions Italy to 1-1 draw in their opening match and victory against Slovakia would leave them with one foot in the knockout stages.

However, coach Gerardo Martino believes his team can progress with two more draws so it is unlikely that Paraguay will go all out in attack, especially with World Cup minnows New Zealand still to come.

Star forwards Roque Santa Cruz and Oscar Cardozo are both returning from injury lay-offs and started on the bench against Italy, although they both came on to get taste of the action. Martino is unlikely to want to radically change his team so it is expected only one of the pair will make his starting XI.

Slovakia's late lack of concentration cost them victory against New Zealand when they allowed Winston Reid to score an injury-time header to claim a 1-1 draw. As a consequence, the pressure is on to get a result in a group where all four teams have one point after the first round of games. With Italy lying in wait, this will be the game earmarked for three points.

Slovakia player to watch: Vladimir Weiss - As the son of the manager the spotlight is always going to be on the young winger and against New Zealand he put on a scintillating display. Weiss provides a constant threat and is always quick to go the attack.

Paraguay player to watch: Cristian Riveros - The Cruz Azul player is the hub around which Paraguay's midfield operates. He offers a mix of sharp tackling, box-to-box running and an excellent pass-and-move game. Although not prolific, he is a scorer of important goals.

Key battle: Marek Hamsik v Victor Caceres. Slovakia's playmaker is rumoured to be attracting the attention of Europe's top clubs and will be given the task of unlocking Paraguay's rear-guard. Caceres is the tough tackling, tactically astute defensive midfielder charged with stopping Hamsik. But if he picks up another yellow card he will miss Paraguay's final group game.

Trivia: Robert Vittek scored in his first appearance in the 2010 finals, this after failing to score in any of his nine appearances for Slovakia during qualification.

Stats: Six of the last ten goals Paraguay have conceded at the World Cup finals have come from set-pieces. And they have won just one of their last 12 World Cup games against European opposition.

Odds: Slovakia (3.75), Paraguay (2.10) and the draw (3.20) are all on offer at Bet365, but a 2-2 draw will get 21.00.

Prediction: This will be a closely fought match and with both sides struggling to win recently a draw looks the likely result.

Italy v New Zealand

Group F, 14:00 GMT, June 20, 2010

Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit, South Africa

Ricki Herbert's New Zealand claimed a surprising, last-gasp 1-1 draw against Slovakia in their opening game of the World Cup and are expected to stick with the same line up for Sunday's clash with defending world champions Italy.

With midfielder Tim Brown still to fully recover from a shoulder injury, Herbert will be hoping one of his regulars can recreate the goalscoring heroics of Winston Reid as the All Whites head into their greatest ever challenge.

But Marcello Lippi's Italy, who had to come from behind to salvage a 1-1 draw in their Group F opener against Paraguay, have a few issues to contend with and the 62-year-old coach was heard to launch into a tirade at his shot-shy strikers during training. As a consequence, Italy may well go with two up top in 4-4-2 formation as they go for the win.

The Azzurri also have to make changes at the back after goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon was ruled out until the latter stages of the World Cup with a herniated disc problem, meaning Federico Marchetti, who came on at half-time against Paraguay, will start.

Italy player to watch: Gianluca Zambrotta - The ever reliable full back was the man of the match against Paraguay and provided the Italians with some much needed width. He makes intelligent runs and provides consistently good crosses into the box.

New Zealand player to watch: Shane Smeltz - The Gold Coast United striker got a taste for feeding on scraps against Slovakia and will have to do so again. However, he is the All Whites' best natural finisher and their top marksman in qualification with eight goals.

Key Battle: Claudio Marchisio v Simon Elliott - The Juve midfielder prodded and probed without too much end product against Paraguay and he needs to up his game against New Zealand to provide the supply to Italy's strikers. The man hoping to stifle Marchisio will be 36-year-old veteran Elliot, who remains the most influential man in the All Whites' engine room and is a defensive midfielder of considerable poise.

Trivia: These teams have only met once, in June 2009, when Italy won 4-3 despite having been behind three times during the match.

Stats: The Azzurri's second choice keeper Federico Marchetti, who will start in Nelspruit, has kept four clean sheets in six caps so far.

Odds: Italy (1.22), New Zealand (15.00), the draw (6.00) are all on offer at Bet365, but a 1-1 draw will get 13.00.

Brazil v Ivory Coast

Group G, 18:30 GMT, June 20, 2010

Soccer City Stadium, Johannesburg, South Africa

Five-time world champions Brazil had to give a bigger effort than expected to defeat North Korea 2-1 in their opening game, but it was a performance that galvanised the team and secured three points for the Group H leaders. Brazil boss Dunga played four out-and-out attackers ahead of two holding midfielders and he is expected to do the same again against Ivory Coast.


Robinho outshone Real Madrid's out-of-sorts playmaker Kaka to create seven goalscoring chances for his team-mates, which was more than any other player in the opening round of fixtures at the 2010 World Cup. Robinho was involved in everything that was good about Brazil and he can expect more space against Ivory Coast than he did against North Korea's five-man defence.

Ivory Coast drew their opening match against Portugal 0-0, and with A Seleccao expected to beat the Koreans, they cannot afford to lose against Brazil. The good news for the Elephants is that coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has hinted star striker Didier Drogba will be fit to start.

Drogba broke his arm in a World Cup warm-up match against Japan but he made a miraculous recovery to feature off the bench against Portugal while wearing a special FIFA-approved protective cast. Drogba wasn't his usual bustling self, but his talismanic status in the Ivory Coast team means his inclusion against Brazil would surely lift the African side.

If Drogba does play, Eriksson will probably drop Gervinho from his three-man front line and shift Chelsea team-mate Salomon Kalou out to the left in a 4-3-3 system.

Brazil player to watch: Kaka - The squeaky clean Brazilian arrived at the World Cup following a pretty poor first season at Real Madrid and there are still question marks over his ability to get back to his best. But team-mate Robinho is backing the former World Player of the Year to come good saying: "When Kaka plays well he can decide any game. He is very important to us."

Ivory Coast player to watch: Aruna Dindane - The striker, who spent last season on loan at Portsmouth, was one of the few bright sparks in a dull draw with Portugal and will be charged with providing the bullets to Drogba's gun. Played on the right of the front three he will almost certainly be asked to whip crosses in for Drogba and his ability to do so with accuracy could hold the key for Ivory Coast.

Key battle: Lucio v Didier Drogba - The bulldozer of a forward will provide a focal point for Ivory Coast and he will almost certainly ruffle the feathers of Brazil's cultured defenders. The only problem is that he will be up against Brazil skipper Lucio, who shackled the Chelsea striker so well when playing for Inter Milan in the Champions League. But Drogba didn't end the season as top scorer in the Premier League by backing down from a challenge. This will be a grudge match to keep an eye on.

Trivia: Brazil have won all of their five World Cup matches against African teams, keeping a clean sheet each time in the process.

Stats: Ivory Coast scored an average of 3.2 goals per game with Didier Drogba in the qualifiers for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, compared to 1.9 without him.

Odds: Brazil (1.66), Ivory Coast (6.00), the draw (3.60) are all on offer at Bet365. But Ivory Coast have kept eight clean sheets in their last 16 competitive matches and the Elephants to win 1-0 will get 12.00.

Prediction: This Ivory Coast team are hailed as the most talented African side since the 1990 Cameroon side that reached the quarter-finals, but they will really have to pull out all the stops to beat Dunga's organised Brazil so the draw looks tempting.

Full-time - 90'
Slovakia
0 - 2
Paraguay
Group F, 11:30 GMT, June 20, 2010

Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein, South Africa

A first-half strike from winger Enrique Vera and a late strike from Cristian Riveros saw Paraguay claim a deserved 2-0 victory over Slovakia.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Lucas Barrios - He has scored three goals and delivered two assists in his first five games for Paraguay and his throughball found Enrique Vera in the right place to net the opener. A talented and quick thinking performer whose stock is on the rise.

Slovakia verdict: Set up to defend in the first-half, and nothing really changed after they went a goal down. A lack of ambition, probably coupled with a desire not to be embarrassed by the bigger teams in the competition, has hindered their abilty to pull off a shock and only Vladimir Weiss shone. Quite disappointing.

Paraguay verdict: Still missing something from the attacking performances we saw in qualifying, Paraguay were solid and their front three of Santa Cruz, Barrios and Valdez were lively. Right winger Vera looked to get forward a lot and was rewarded with a goal, while Cristian Riveros rounded things off in style.

Could do better: Marek Hamsik - For someone who has seen so much hype around his performances for Napoli (he scored 12 goals for them last season), Hamsik has not stamped his mark on the tournament and could not get hold of the ball. Closed down too easily, he did not have the space to find his team-mates and was hardly in the game.

Stat attack: Before the game, seven of Paraguay's last nine wins had been by a 1-0 scoreline, so they were glad of Riveros' clincher.

It was just the result Paraguay coach Gerardo Martino was looking for after the draw with reigning world champions Italy in their opening game and puts the team in sight of the second round.

Vera made the breakthrough in the 27th minute after a spell of sustained pressure at the Free State Stadium and, while Paraguay then squandered a number of good chances to extend their advantage, Riveros sealed the win with five minutes to go.

It is Slovakia's first appearance in the finals and they are heading for an early exit. The team's only effort of note came in stoppage time when substitute Filip Holosko's shot was turned over the bar by goalkeeper Justo Villar.

Paraguay dictated the pace from the start and Manchester City striker Roque Santa Cruz, who returned after a minor injury, came close to scoring twice. He almost gave his side the lead in the third minute, his effort turned away at the post by Everton-bound goalkeeper Jan Mucha.

Then Nelson Valdez turned quickly but saw his effort go wide before play switched back down the other end. Marek Hamsik played the ball out to Jan Durica but he sent his shot over the bar.

Paraguay were having the majority of possession and Paulo Da Silva was only inches away from making contact at the back post following a free-kick by Claudio Morel.

Cristian Riveros then drilled a shot from the edge of the area but Mucha was equal to it before Lucas Barrios was off target from an acute angle. Slovakia again found themselves on the back foot in the 24th minute but Valdez fired wide.

Paraguay's pressure paid on the 27th minute when they made the breakthrough. Barrios released Vera and he got the better of Durica to hook the ball home.

Slovakia hit back and Kornel Salata headed over the bar from inside the area in the 37th minute. It proved brief respite, however, with Santa Cruz almost adding a second a minute later only for Mucha to boot the ball clear.

Slovakia tried to step up the tempo at the start of the second half but Paraguay looked well in control.

Vera should have scored his second goal of the game in the 72nd minute following a swift counter attack. However, he steered a header wide in front of the posts following a cross and some good skill from Santa Cruz, who was unhappy at some of his treatment from Liverpool's Martin Skrtel.

Substitute Aureliano Torres then saw his effort take a deflection off a Slovakia defender and finish high over the bar.

Paraguay extended their advantage in the 85th minute when Da Silva played the ball into Riveros and he curled a shot into the corner.

Full-time - 90'
Italy
1 - 1
New Zealand
Group F, 14:00 GMT, June 20, 2010

Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit, South Africa

Shane Smeltz gave New Zealand their greatest ever result as they held world champions Italy to a 1-1 draw in Group F. The All Whites went ahead early, before being pegged back by a Vincenzo Iaquinta penalty, but the minnows held on to claim an historic point.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Ryan Nelsen - The New Zealand skipper led by example, putting his body on the line to repel wave after wave of Italian attacks. When the All Whites defence looked to be breached he was the last man sweeping up at the back. He must also be commended for helping young centre-back Tommy Smith recover from conceding the penalty.

Italy verdict: After going a goal down, the Italians upped the tempo and looked dangerous but once they had equalised after 29 minutes the intensity dropped and so did the quality of their football. The Azzurri had plenty of the ball but only really tested Kiwi keeper Mark Paston on two occasions. Coach Marcello Lippi changed personnel and formation as the game went on but couldn't find a spark to ignite his side.

New Zealand verdict: A 1-1 draw against the defending world champions is undoubtedly the greatest result in New Zealand's history. Nobody can criticise the World Cup minnows for sticking ten men behind the ball after taking a shock early lead.

Could do better: Alberto Gilardino - Despite Italy going hammer and tongs for a goal after conceding early on, striker Gilardino just couldn't get into the game. He didn't muster a single shot at goal and had the fewest touches of any Italian player before being given the hook at half-time.

Stat attack: Italy have conceded two goals from the only two shots on target against them at this World Cup.

Italy dominated a compelling Group F contest thereafter but could not find a way past outstanding goalkeeper Mark Paston. The surprise result keeps alive New Zealand's hopes of reaching the second round for the first time in their history and leaves Italy with much still to do.

The All Whites, buoyant after their last-gasp equaliser against Slovakia, made the perfect start as Smeltz crept into the box to give them a seventh-minute lead.

Italy coach Marcello Lippi had warned New Zealand's greatest threat would come from set-pieces and his side were caught out as Simon Elliott swung in a free-kick from the left.

The ball dipped over Alberto Gilardino and Leo Bertos and wrong-footed Fabio Cannavaro, who could only divert it into the path of Smeltz. The Gold Coast forward, who has also played for Mansfield and AFC Wimbledon, gleefully accepted and poked past second-choice goalkeeper Federico Marchetti.

Italy responded with a free-kick from Claudio Marchisio bouncing awkwardly and forcing Paston to save.

New Zealand were incensed when Rory Fallon was booked for catching Cannavaro in the face and replays did suggest contact had been minimal. Italy complained soon after when Fallon's elbow appeared to connect with Giorgio Chiellini but this time Guatemalan referee Carlos Batres was lenient.

Moments earlier Chiellini had stabbed wide when well placed and then Riccardo Montolivo hit the post with a long-range shot as Italy stepped up the pressure.

New Zealand were caught out after 28 minutes as Daniele de Rossi went down in the area after the slightest of shirt pulls from Ipswich defender Tommy Smith.

The Kiwis complained about the decision but Iaquinta stepped up to convert from the spot, much to Italian relief.

New Zealand recovered their composure but Paston made a good save from a 20-yard De Rossi effort in first-half injury time.

Italy played at a slower tempo in the second period but dominated possession. Half-time substitute Antonio di Natale threatened with a smart shot on the turn but Paston was equal to the half-volley.

Iaquinta controlled on the edge of the area but Winston Reid did enough to force him to fire wide as he turned.

New Zealand struggled to break out of their own half and it was not until just after the hour they threatened again, Ivan Vicelich firing narrowly wide after a Cannavaro clearance fell invitingly.

The introduction of Mauro Camoranesi gave Italy extra drive and he put Montolivo through to force a fine save from Paston from 25 yards.

Reid then claimed to have been caught in the face by Chiellini and stayed down as Italy attacked but the Danish-born defender soon recovered.

Italy's urgency increased as time ran down but Camoranesi and Di Natale both shot wide and Chiellini missed the target with a header.

Kiwi substitute Chris Wood, of West Brom, almost caught Italy off guard on a rare counter-attack eight minutes from time but shot across goal.

In a frantic finish Camoranesi then tested Paston from long range and Ryan Nelsen blocked well from Iaquinta as New Zealand held on for a famous draw.

Full-time - 90'
Brazil
3 - 1
Ivory Coast

Group G, 18:30 GMT, June 20, 2010

Soccer City Stadium, Johannesburg, South Africa

Kaka was controversially sent off as a brace from Luis Fabiano and an Elano strike helped Brazil ease to victory in their battle with Ivory Coast at Soccer City.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Luis Fabiano - The striker had offered little in this tournament until his 25th-minute thunderbolt put Brazil on their way. There may have been more than a hint of handball about his second but he was the matchwinner nonetheless.

Brazil verdict: It was a comfortable victory for the World Cup favourites though they might have expected to be tested more by an Ivory Coast side with plenty of attacking talent. Surely greater challenges await in the coming weeks.

Ivory Coast verdict: Dour. There's very little else to say about an African team who some thought could go a long way in this tournament. The manager has to take much of the blame for a listless performance which saw the team only come to life when they were three goals behind.

Could do better: Sven Goran Eriksson - After a performance which will be very familiar to England fans, you have to wonder why Eriksson was chosen to spearhead the Ivorians' challenge just weeks after he left League Two side Notts County. No sign of any tactical decision making whatsoever, you have to wonder what was going on in Sven's mind as it went from 1-0 to 2-0 to 3-0.

Stat attack: Luis Fabiano's brace is the 35th time a Brazilian player has scored two or more goals in a match at the World Cup, which is the most all-time by any nation. Germany are second all-time with 27. Ronaldo has the most braces in Brazil's history with four.

• Fabiano admits handball goal
• Photo gallery

Didier Drogba grabbed a late goal for the Elephants, but the game was marred by the late dismissal of Kaka for an off the-the-ball foul on Kader Keita.

It came too late, though, for the Elephants to respond as they slipped to defeat that leaves them with just a point in Group G, while Brazil now have six.

Chelsea forward Drogba, a second half substitute in the goalless draw against Portugal last week, was named in the starting line-up by coach Sven-Goran Eriksson, while Brazil were unchanged for the much-anticipated encounter in Johannesburg.

The South Americans had a chance inside the opening 60 seconds when a quick break through the middle ended with Robinho sending a dipping shot narrowly over Boubacar Barry's goal from 30 yards.

The Elephants had three free-kicks in dangerous positions on the right, but the quality of delivery was poor, including one from Drogba that flew over. When Emmanuel Eboue did manage to send over a decent set-piece from the left, Julio Cesar punched the ball away.

At the other end, Gilberto Silva smashed an Elano corner from 12 yards out into a defender after 19 minutes, before the deadlock was eventually broken by Luis Fabiano six minutes later.

Robinho and Kaka were heavily involved in the build-up with the Real Madrid midfielder threading a neat final pass to the striker to blast home from six yards out on the right.

The goal initially deflated the Africans, but Aruna Dindane and then Eboue sparked some life back into their attack with decent long-range efforts before half-time.

Five minutes after the restart, the advantage was doubled by Luis Fabiano, who looked to have used his arm to control the ball in the build-up. The initial problem was created when Siaka Tiene allowed the ball to bounce, letting the striker take charge and beat two defenders, before volleying home.

Drogba should have grabbed a goal straight back for his side, but could only head Dindane's cross wide. The former Portsmouth striker was immediately replaced by Yao Gervinho, but it was Brazil that continued to press.

After Kaka's close-range effort was punched away by Barry, the Ivorian goalkeeper was helpless to stop Elano scoring a third - the Madrid midfielder providing a telling low pass from the right that was guided in by Elano at the far post.

That goal came after 65 minutes and shortly afterwards Maicon sent a low 20-yard shot into the side-netting with Brazil well on top.

With nothing to lose, Eriksson threw on Ndri Romaric, who almost made an instant impact with his driving 20-yard shot only parried by Cesar.

Drogba finally made his mark in the 79th minute in a move inspired by Gervinho. The Lille striker ran almost the length of the pitch and then, after being stopped in his tracks, pulled the ball back to Yaya Toure to lift over a good cross for the Chelsea forward to head home.

The game got slightly scrappy late on and Kaka received his marching orders after being shown a second yellow card.

Cheik Tiote forced Cesar to tip over a late effort but the game was decided by then.

Australia striker Harry Kewell has claimed referee Roberto Rosetti had "killed" his World Cup dream after sending him off during the 1-1 draw with Ghana.

Harry Kewell and Craig Moore of Australia argue with referee Roberto Rosetti
After missing the Socceroos' 4-0 trouncing in their opening match against Germany, Kewell lasted just 24 minutes before he was dismissed for deliberate handball after keeping out Jonathan Mensah's fierce shot on the goal-line and FIFA has confirmed he will receive a one-match ban.

The Galatasaray forward vehemently contested the decision, but was given his marching orders before Asamoah Gyan slid home the ensuing penalty to cancel out Brett Holman's earlier strike.

The incident was the turning point for the Socceroos, who can still mathematically qualify for the round of 16, but must win against Serbia and hope the result in the other Group D match goes their way.

Kewell felt he had no hope of getting his arm out of the way of the shot and while he conceded the incident warranted a penalty, he did not think he should have seen red.

"It's a shame that it happened that way but, if you look at the situation, it's hit my arm, but it wasn't deliberate," he said. "It was only that I was trying to get my shoulder there. I think the ref made a decision that he can only answer.

"Unless I actually detach my arm and put it somewhere else, there is no other way I can move my arm.

"I didn't deliberately go for the hand, I didn't try and handball it, I tried to use my chest. I was playing by the rules, but the ref saw it another way. He's probably the only one who did.

"The guy has killed my World Cup."

FIFA's regulation regarding deliberate handball would, however, suggest Rosetti got the decision correct.

The rule states: "A player is sent off - if he prevents a goal or an obvious goalscoring opportunity by deliberately handling the ball.

"This punishment arises not from the act of the player deliberately handling the ball but from the unacceptable and unfair intervention that prevented a goal being scored."

Kewell's dismissal meant he became the second Australian player to be sent off in as many games after Tim Cahill was shown a straight red against Germany.

Cahill will return for the must-win clash against Serbia, but Kewell will be left to watch on from the sidelines and hope his team-mates can pull off an unlikely progression to the second round.

"I'm devastated. We got the early goal. I thought okay, they started to come back, but I thought they had the grip on it," he said.

"We controlled it, I thought, and then again a decision like that, they have haunted us throughout the World Cup, but again, that's football you have to take it on the chin.

"It's just unfortunate that the ref saw something that probably everyone thought, 'Okay, fair enough, it was a handball, but was it red card?'

"We've seen some decisions in this World Cup that haven't been red cards. Why is this one different? That's why everyone gets confused, everyone gets frustrated with referees because one minute they're are saying this and one minute they are saying that.

"He's the referee at the end of the day. You can't tell him what to do. He's the judge, jury and executioner."

Portugal v North Korea

Group G, 11:30 GMT, June 21, 2010

Green Point Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

North Korea can take a lot of heart from their opening defeat against Brazil. They may have lost the game, but it took the five-time World Cup winners over an hour to break them down and they even managed to sneak a consolation goal to add weight to the claims that they'll be no pushovers in the Group of Death.


Korea's defensive wall largely held firm against Brazil, but Portugal should be an easier proposition as Carlos Queiroz's men have struggled to make an impact in the final third of late. A dull 0-0 draw against Ivory Coast was preceded by the same scoreline against Cape Verde Islands and they have not managed to win over their doubters yet.

Of course, Portugal go into the game as favourites, but one feels that there is a possibility of an upset on the cards, given the recent form of the two sides. If Korea are to make an impact on the finals - more so than confusing stories over 'missing' players and interest in their fans' chants - then this may be the game in which to do it.

Portugal player to watch: Tiago: With Deco out injured, Tiago is likely to come in to replace him. He may not have shined while at Chelsea, but the midfielder has a wealth of experience at the top of the game and has a good range of passing that can unlock a defence. Having gone on loan to Atletico Madrid from Juventus in order to seal his spot in the squad, he will be keen to prove he is worthy of keeping it.

North Korea player to watch: Ji Yun-Nam. He finished off a decent move against Brazil to give the North Koreans their first goal at this year's finals and played his part in the game filling in at left-back. Full of experience, he will attempt to get forward when he can, but will find himself up against pace, tricks and creativity from Portugal's front three.

Key Battle: Liedson v Pak Chol-Jin: The Brazilian-born striker has the burden of goalscoring upon his shoulders and it is a position in which Portugal have suffered, essentially since the retirement of Eusebio. Liedson has the aerial ability as well as the power in the box that a central striker needs, but has been lacking some decent service of late. Pak's job will be to keep it that way and his resolve at the back proved indispensible in the qualifying campaign. A gritty and committed defender, he will be in for a busy afternoon.

Trivia: Portugal and Italy are the only two sides to have played both South and North Korea at World Cups.

Stats: North Korea's three goals scored against Portugal in their 1966 World Cup quarter-final defeat is still the only time an Asian side has scored three times in a World Cup match.

Odds: Portugal (1.33), North Korea (10.00), the draw (4.50) are all on offer at Bet365, but Cristiano Ronaldo to score first is a safe bet at 4.00.

Prediction: North Korea have already shown that they will be tough to break down and a draw could be on the cards if Portugal's attack continues to misfire.

Chile v Switzerland

Group H, 14:00 GMT, June 21, 2010

Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth, South Africa

After two impressive 1-0 wins in their first games, Switzerland and Chile find themselves in the odd position of fighting it out for a place in the second round already. A win will virtually guarantee progress and both teams will be keen to avoid leaving it up to Spain to decide who makes it through.


Two more contrasting styles could not be found, given their opening games. The Swiss, defensive to the last and with only two meaningful attacking moves to their name, against one of the most impressive attacking forces seen at this year's World Cup.

Their preparations, too, have contrasting fortunes as Swiss defender Philippe Senderos looks set to miss the rest of the tournament with an ankle injury, while Chile's leading striker Humberto Suazo will return after recovering from the hamstring strain that threatened his participation. Winner takes all.

Chile player to watch: Alexis Sanchez: The Wonder Boy showed his full repertoire of tricks and flicks in the win over Honduras. His work on the right wing impressed no end and he was the focal point of the Chilean attack. Once again, he will work his magic and try to make his mark in the final third. A very tough player to mark.

Switzerland player to watch: Gokhan Inler. After beating Spain with the famous 'anti-football' we've seen from sides in the past, Switzerland had midfielder enforcer Inler to thank for keeping a clean sheet. His tackling, strength and domination of the central areas will play a part in breaking up the Chile attacks.

Key Battle: Humberto Suazo v Stephane Grichting: The talisman for Chile, Suazo, should feature in their most important game of the group and will be raring to go after nearly missing the tournament due to injury. He was the highest scorer from any confederation in qualifying and boasts pace and a great eye for goal. With Senderos ruled out, the onus falls on tough Auxerre defender Grichting to stop him. Powerful and committed, Gritchting held off the likes of David Villa and Fernando Torres so Suazo should prove easy by comparison, as long as he doesn't get complacent.

Trivia: The Swiss only managed 132 touches in the opposition half in their victory over Spain, fewer than any other side in the first round.

Stats: Chile's opening 1-0 win over Honduras was their first victory at a World Cup outside of South America, while Switzerland have yet to record a victory against a South American side at a World Cup.

Odds: Chile (2.30), Switzerland (3.40), the draw (3.10) are all on offer at Bet365, but if you think it'll be 0-0 then you'll pick up 6.50.

Prediction: A draw would be a bad result for both sides, although possibly Switzerland would fancy it more with Honduras to come. One feels that the Swiss may attack more now that the Spain game is behind them, and that may open a few doors for Chile.

Spain v Honduras

Group H, 18:30 GMT, June 21, 2010

Ellis Park, Johannesburg, South Africa

Having been upset 1-0 by Switzerland in their opener, favourites Spain face a must-win game against the minnows of Honduras, knowing that another shock defeat effectively ends their hopes of progressing.


The Spanish boast some of the world's best players, but their team unit failed to fire against the Swiss and there have been questions raised over the morale of the squad. WAGs, tactics and tiredness have all been blamed for Spain's demise, but they will have to dig deep to bounce back, and quickly, if they are to make an impact on the tournament.

Standing in their way are the lowly Hondurans, who defended stoically but still lost to Chile 1-0, and if they were to pull off a draw, it would represent the greatest moment in their footballing history. Led by Tottenham's Wilson Palacios, there is a lack of quality through the side, but there is no substitute for team spirit and, with Spain rattled, anything can happen.

Spain player to watch: David Silva: He did not have an impact on the side against Switzerland and was replaced by Jesus Navas, but his quality is unquestioned and he should have the confidence to bounce back against Honduras. A tricky winger with pace and skill on the ball, he should command respect on the right side of midfield.

Honduras player to watch: Noel Valladares. If Honduras are to hold off the Spanish attacks, then their last line of defence, the goalkeeper, will have to be at his best. Pulling off the save of the tournament so far against Chile, his reflexes and agility will be tested to the limit and if he can deny the likes of David Villa and Fernando Torres, then he will have earned his crust.

Key Battle: Xavi v Wilson Palacios: The best playmaker in world football was kept quiet against the Swiss, but has the skill and experience to make an impact on any game, at any time. His passing range is unmatched and Palacios will have to marshal him carefully if Honduras are to avoid conceding a goal. Xavi's awareness of what is going on around him gives him the vision to pick out a killer pass, but Palacios will match him for stamina and has the power and strength to assert his will on any opponent.

Trivia: Honduras are the only Central American football team to eliminate Brazil in a tournament (Copa America 2001 in the quarter-finals), so they are used to causing upsets.

Stats: Spain's defeat against Switzerland was the first time that they have lost with Andres Iniesta in the starting line-up.

Odds: Spain (1.12), Honduras (23.00), the draw (9.00) are all on offer at Bet365, but Fernando Torres to score three or more comes in at 23.00.

Prediction: Surely it can't happen again? Spain have the power to overcome their opponents and it could be a high scoring game.

Full-time - 90'
Portugal
7 - 0
North Korea
Group G, 11:30 GMT, June 21, 2010

Green Point Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

Portugal produced a spectacular performance of fluidity and flair to earn their first win of the World Cup in style against North Korea.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Fabio Coentrao - The left-back was an impressive attacking outlet and his surging runs proved a constant menace. His pinpoint cross set up Hugo Almeida's goal and he also claimed an assist for Liedson and Tiago's goals. Combining well with Cristiano Ronaldo and Tiago, it was refreshing to see a full-back play with such freedom.

Portugal verdict: Increasingly dominant as the game went on, they grew in confidence with every goal scored, as the intense pre-match pressure subsided. North Korea were no walkovers and it was an impressive defensive performance from the Portuguese too. But it was in attack where Carlos Queiroz's side truly flourished, counter-attacking with speed and venom - they delivered a lesson in finishing.

North Korea verdict: Completely exposed on the counter-attack, the midfield was non-existent when asked to track back and defend. Out of the competition as all onlookers predicted before the tournament, it was a second-half collapse of epic proportions as the energy of the players ebbed away everytime the ball hit the back of the net.

Could do better: The North Korean players - It's not nice being embarassed on the world stage as the likes of Zaire and El Salvador can testify, but the organisation so prevalent against Brazil was nowhere to be seen. Must improve against the Ivory Coast if they are to reclaim any iota of pride.

Stat attack: It is only the second time Portugal have scored more than two goals in a match at the World Cup since 1966.

Having failed to impress in their opening Group G stalemate with the Ivory Coast, Carlos Queiroz's side were under pressure to deliver against North Korea with a showdown against Brazil still to come. And they did that emphatically as Raul Meireles scored in the first half before Simao Sabrosa, Hugo Almeida and Tiago hit one apiece within seven second-half minutes.

Liedson and Cristiano Ronaldo got in on the act before Tiago grabbed his second in the dying minutes.

Portugal came into the match hoping to boost their goal difference with the Ivory Coast, their main rivals to join Brazil in the next round, still to play a North Korean side who were excellent in their 2-1 defeat by Dunga's side in the first game. Queiroz made four changes, one of which was enforced due to Deco's hip injury and Tiago coming in. North Korea were unchanged.

Portugal captain Ronaldo, without a competitive goal for his country in two years, had an early effort blocked. His side came close to a breakthrough in the seventh minute when Ricardo Carvalho was allowed to reach Simao's corner but saw his header hit the post and bounce away.

Cha Jong-hyok and Jong Tae-se had half chances for North Korea and a better opportunity then went begging after 17 minutes as Hong Yong-jo cut inside and when Eduardo parried his shot, Pak Nam-chol headed over.

In the 29th minute the impressive Meireles opened the scoring. Breaking into the box, he was found by Tiago's clever ball and expertly drove the ball beyond Ri Myong-guk.

Tiago had an early chance in the second half as his effort from distance was tipped over by the goalkeeper. Ronaldo blasted one over in a lively opening to the half, then saw Ri Myong-guk spill a left-footed effort soon after.

Jong's deflected drive from a free-kick was saved by Eduardo and at the other end Almeida failed to finish off a nice move down the left when he could not convert Fabio Coentrao's cross.

However, it was 2-0 in the 53rd minute. Almeida held up a long ball for Meireles and when the midfielder saw Simao bursting into the box to his right, the pass perfectly set up his team-mate for a straightforward finish.

North Korea were deflated and it was soon over as a contest. In the 56th minute Coentrao was put clear down the left and his perfectly-pitched cross found Almeida, who made no mistake with the header.

North Korea coach Kim Jong-hun sent on two substitutes in response but it was to no avail as Tiago added to the deficit, rushing forward to sweep home Ronaldo's cut-back from the left on the hour mark.

Meireles and Coentrao had further chances while in the 70th minute a fizzing Ronaldo shot hit the bar.

Ronaldo kept plugging away as he looked to break his two-year barren spell before Liedson made it 5-0 four minutes after coming off the bench.

Fellow replacement Duda whipped in a ball which Ri Kwang-chon failed to clear, allowing Brazil-born Liedson to hammer home on the turn. Ronaldo finally got his goal when Liedson capitalised on a defensive mix-up to put him through before he rounded the goalkeeper and slotted home and Tiago headed home his second to complete the rout in the 89th minute.

Full-time - 90'
Chile
1 - 0
Switzerland
Group H, 14:00 GMT, June 21, 2010

Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Mark Gonzalez's 75th-minute goal put Chile on the brink of the second round with a 1-0 win over Switzerland. A fussy referee produced eight yellow cards and sent off Valron Behrami for an elbow on Arturo Vidal.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Alexis Sanchez - Though Jorge Valdivia also made a good impression after his arrival as a second-half substitute, it was Chile's flying forward who caught the eye once more thanks to his pace, invention and repertoire of tricks. His value is soaring game by game.

Chile verdict: Marcelo Bielsa's well-drilled side are delivering on the promise that many felt they had prior to the tournament and now top the group with maximum points. After another fluent and energetic display, a draw against Spain in their final game will secure top spot and they look real dark horses for the tournament. They could have enjoyed a greater margin of victory though and may have to be more ruthless.

Switzerland verdict: Ottmar Hitzfeld's size were inhibited by the dismissal of Valon Behrami in the first half but three points from two games against the group favourites hardly ranks as a disappointing tally. Though a win against Honduras in their final game will not completely guarantee their progression, they have a good base to work from. Will need to find more of a cutting edge though, as demonstrated by Eren Derdiyok's late miss, and doubts remain as to whether they can chase a game.

Could do better: Officials and players - Once again we saw a referee - in this case Khalil Al Ghamdi of Saudi Arabia - prove far too card-happy as he produced a succession of bemusing bookings. Valon Behrami was also hard done by when being dismissed for fending off Arturo Vidal. However, some mitigation comes in the fact that certain players seem so committed to embarrassing play-acting. Steve von Bergen joins Ivory Coast's Kader Keita in this club of shame after an over-the-top reaction in the second half.

Stat attack: Humberto Suazo's second-minute yellow card is the joint third-quickest booking ever awarded at the World Cup (two have been awarded in the first minute).

Gonzalez, formerly of Liverpool but now at CSKA Moscow, struck with 15 minutes remaining as Switzerland, reduced to ten men when Behrami was sent off before the break, finally succumbed at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth.

His goal will send the South Americans into their final Group H clash with Spain knowing a point will be enough to take them through to the knockout stages.

Switzerland, looking to build upon their shock victory over the Spaniards, found themselves up against it even before their numbers were reduced.

Goalkeeper Diego Benaglio had to make a fine double save from Arturo Vidal and Carlos Carmona with just ten minutes gone, and he was in the right place at the right time five minutes before the break when Alexis Sanchez toe-poked a shot towards goal with his defenders once again conspicuous by their absence.

In the meantime their task had increased markedly when Behrami, having tangled with Jean Beausejour, did so with Vidal and saw the midfielder go to ground clutching his face. Referee Khalil Al Ghamdi had little hesitation in producing a red card and the Swiss were very much on the back foot.

In truth, they had been already for much of the first half with Chile's midfield trio of Vidal, Carmona - who will miss the final group game against Spain after picking up a second booking - and Matias Ferrnandez repeatedly causing problems.

Switzerland offered little in response and skipper Alex Frei, who missed the opening game through injury, departed before the break having struggled to make an impact.

Sanchez in particular made a nuisance of himself as the South Americans stepped up a gear in the wake of Behrami's exit, although the Swiss just about held firm.

Chile thought they had taken the lead within three minutes of the restart when Sanchez blasted home a shot with the help of a significant deflection, but an offside flag correctly halted his celebrations in their infancy.

Benaglio needed to be at his best once again with 55 minutes gone when defender Stephane Grichting gifted the ball to Sanchez, who raced in on goal but could not beat the goalkeeper one-on-one.

Half-time substitute Gonzalez headed over from a Fernandez corner but, as the game became increasingly bad-tempered, Fernandez, who will also miss the Spain game, Gokhan Inler and Gary Medel were all cautioned in quick succession.

Grichting made a fine 69th-minute block to deny substitute Esteban Paredes, but it was he who did the damage with 15 minutes remaining when he rounded Benaglio and crossed for Gonzalez to power a downward header in off the underside of the bar.

The lively Paredes might have doubled his side's advantage twice within the final six minutes but was unable to hit the target on either occasion, and Swiss substitute Eren Derdiyok passed up a glorious opportunity to level with seconds remaining when he fired wide.

Full-time - 90'
Spain
2 - 0
Honduras
Group H, 18:30 GMT, June 21, 2010

Ellis Park Stadium

David Villa almost had a perfect night as a goal in each half from the new Barcelona recruit helped Spain get their World Cup campaign back on track.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: David Villa - A missed penalty did not dampen his impact on the left side of a front three that included the impressive Jesus Navas and Fernando Torres. With a sublime first and a lucky second, Villa got himself on the scoresheet for the first time at a World Cup (from open play) and was a constant threat with his pace and vision. He was, however, lucky the referee didn't see his slap in Emilio Izaguirre's face.

Spain verdict: Back to their sublime best, Spain's nerves were settled after the early goal and they never looked like letting Honduras back into the game. Fluid and commanding in possession, their passing moves were a joy to watch and Iker Casillas in goal hardly had a touch.

Honduras verdict: After the first goal, there was very little the Hondurans could do to get the ball back, let alone mount a decent attack.They battled hard and were not embarrassed, but the gulf in quality between the two sides was obvious. Spain were given far too much space and time on the ball.

Could do better: Sergio Mendoza - He may be down on the team sheet as Honduras' right-back, but Mendoza was pulled left, right and centre by Spain's attacking moves. Villa had him in his pocket for the entire game and his lack of pace and positional sense was exposed.

Stat attack: Villa's is the first ever missed penalty by Spain at the World Cup. They had scored 13 out of 13.

A wonderful individual effort in the first half was followed by a goal forged by brilliant movement off the ball in the second.

The only thing missing was the hat-trick to crown the performance as he sidefooted wide a second-half penalty and struck the crossbar early on.

The win was vital after the opening Group H defeat to Switzerland and Vicente Del Bosque's side finally looked to have settled into the tournament.

Honduras had an early escape when Emilio Izaguirre handled the ball in the box as Fernando Torres tried to flick it over his head, but Japanese referee Yuichi Nishimura waved play on.

Spain were even more unfortunate in the seventh minute when a 30-yard Villa shot smacked against the crossbar with goalkeeper Noel Valladares well beaten as the European champions came flying out of the blocks.

Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos wasted a glorious chance when he headed over a Xavi free kick from the left from three yards out and Villa cut in from the left and fired wide after Xabi Alonso had cleverly switched the play.

Spain still looked a little nervy in defence after the Switzerland setback and a deflected Walter Martinez cross drew an unorthodox clearance with the knees by Iker Casillas.

Spain then gained the lead they deserved, though, with a stunning strike from Villa after 16 minutes.

Again the new Barcelona man had drifted out to the left, but this time he somehow manoeuvred the ball between Sergio Mendoza and Amado Guevara with supreme close control, cut inside Osman Chavez and at full stretch smashed an angled shot across Valladares into the top corner.

Torres showed he was still some way from rediscovering his killer instinct as he headed a Ramos cross into the turf and over and then fired wildly over after full-back Mendoza, run ragged by Villa, gifted possession to him.

Villa then caught the eye for the wrong reasons after lashing out at Izaguirre as the pair waited for a free-kick to come in, and he was fortunate to escape a booking or even a red card as Spain took a single-goal lead into the interval.

The second goal arrived within six minutes of the restart as Spain launched a counter-attack.

This time it was Villa's movement off the ball that proved key as he drifted back to the edge of the box to receive Navas' cutback from the right and his shot looped in off Chavez.

Ramos almost added the third seconds later with a right-foot toe-poke from the edge of the area and more goals looked on the cards.

Villa wasted a chance to complete a hat-trick from the penalty spot when he sidefooted wide after Navas made the most of some contact in the box from Izaguirre.

Cesc Fabregas was then given his first taste of the 2010 World Cup, coming on for Xavi to a wall of vuvuzela noise.

The Arsenal midfielder almost scored within seconds as Ramos played him in over the top, he rounded Valladares but Maynor Figueroa got back to clear his shot from an awkward angle.

Substitute Ramon Nunez was the first to try his luck for Honduras in the second half with a right-foot free-kick over the top midway through the half, and Torres was withdrawn with 20 minutes to go for Juan Manuel Mata of Valencia.

Mata was quickly into the action with a left-foot shot over from 20 yards as the Hondurans allowed him too much space and tried to turn provider for his old club colleague Villa with eight minutes left, swinging in a cross from the left which Figueroa had to divert for a corner.

Villa was again denied his treble as Mendoza blocked a late effort from yet another Navas cross.

Mexico v Uruguay

Group A, 14:00 GMT, June 22, 2010

Royal Bafokeng Stadium, Rustenburg, South Africa

The two favourites to progress from Group A meet on Tuesday knowing a draw will be enough for both sides to reach the second round. Though a tie is the ideal scenario for both nations, one hopes that there will be no repeat of West Germany's mutually beneficial 1-0 win over Austria at the 1982 finals. With the team that comes second in Group A facing the daunting prospect of Argentina in the second round, there is certainly plenty left for Mexico and Uruguay to play for.


Mexico have shown plenty of attacking promise, with Giovani Dos Santos emerging as a key creative figure for Javier Aguirre's side, and their victory against France was just reward for a policy of throwing caution to the wind. But question marks remain over their defence, and with a real tendency to leave large spaces on the wings, Uruguay's pair of Pereiras - Alvaro and Maxi - have the ability to punish them in a way that Les Bleus didn't manage. Mexico's failure to convert their chances proved costly in the 1-1 draw with South Africa, but against France they proved they have the ability to add substance to their unquestionable style.

After a cagey approach to the opening 0-0 draw with France, Oscar Tabarez unleashed Diego Forlan to devastating effect against South Africa. Edinson Cavani was brought into partner Luis Suarez up front, with Forlan moving back into the hole, where the Atletico Madrid forward was free to drop deep and influence the game - even netting two goals for his troubles. The formation change also gave Luis Suarez a new lease of life as he created two of Uruguay's goals and the South American's renewed attacking freedom means Mexico's Rafael Marquez will likely be charged with keeping a watchful eye on the in-form Forlan.

Uruguay player to watch: Diego Perez. The unsung hero of the Uruguay side, Perez provides a combatative and steely presence in midfield, doing all the ugly work so the more creative players can flourish. Without Perez, the likes of Diego Forlan, Alvaro Pereira and Luis Suarez would not have the ball to work with; he is a vital cog in the thus far efficient Uruguay machine.

Mexico player to watch: Cuauhtemoc Blanco . At 37 years old, legendary striker Blanco is the oldest player to have appeared at the 2010 finals and has taken up the Roger Milla-esque role of veteran super sub. Having been overlooked for the 2006 World Cup in Germany, the Mexican public were delighted by Javier Aguirre's decision to recall the cult figure to the national team set-up. His goal against France means he has now scored in three finals (1998, 2002 and 2010) and the man who brought us the bunny-hop still has the touch and football brain to cause any team problems.

Key Battle: Guillermo Franco v Diego Lugano. Uruguay have yet to concede at this year's finals, and the presence of defensive colossus and team captain Lugano has been key to their two clean sheets. Imperious in the air and hard in the tackle, Lugano takes no prisoners, which does not bode well for misfiring Mexico striker Guillermo Franco. Having scored in a warm-up game against England, Franco has regressed to the profligate figure West Ham fans were accustomed to watching last season. He does possess good anticipation and seven international goals says that he can score at this level, but he will need something special to escape Lugano's clutches.

Trivia: Seven different players recorded multiple-goal games for Uruguay in its first three trips to the World Cup (1930, 1950, and 1954), including Oscar Miguez, who did it three times. But Diego Forlan was the first Uruguayan player to score twice in a World Cup match since Juan Hohberg scored a brace against Hungary in 1954.

Stats: Mexico striker Javier Hernandez (age 22) and Cauhetemoc Blanco (37) set a record of sorts by scoring against France. Never before had a pair of teammates that far apart in age scored in the same World Cup match.

Odds: Mexico (3.75), Uruguay (4.30), the draw (1.80) are all on offer at Bet365, while Diego Forlan is attractively priced at 6.50 to score the first goal.

Prediction: Though neither side will be keen on facing Argentina, what's more important is that they both progress to the second round. It's a match that seems to scream Latin flair, but in reality will be a tight contest that threatens to end in the draw that both nations need.

France v South Africa

Group A, 14:00 GMT, June 22, 2010

Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein, South Africa

It is safe to say that France are in complete disarray. Following their drab 0-0 draw with Uruguay and 2-0 reverse against Mexico, Les Bleus stand on the precipice of a second group stage exit in the last three World Cups. The surprise run to the final in 2006 seems just a distant memory and this time around, Domenech's side do not possess the Zinedine Zidane get-out-of-jail card.

Poor performances on the pitch have been commonplace in the four years since that fateful night in Berlin and in South Africa, there has been no sparkle. Whispers about players being unhappy with much-maligned coach Raymond Domenech have been bubbling under the surface for a while, but they have erupted into the public arena in the past few days.

Nicolas Anelka's alleged foul-mouthed rant at Domenech at half-time in the Mexico game was widely reported and certainly pointed to the sort of unrest that the French Football Federation (FFF) felt was unacceptable. Anelka was sent home but the problem was not solved. The players revolted - refusing to train on Sunday. Perhaps the strangest development in the whole debacle was that Domenech - the victim of Anelka's tirade - was the one to read the statement revealing the players' unhappiness. If the incident provokes the players and coach to be aligned in opposition to the FFF, it could amazingly bring the team closer together.

For South Africa, the end of the road seems near. The Bafana Bafana fans have provided a colourful, passionate presence and will do everything to lift their team going into the final game. But after the opening draw against Mexico, the hosts' world ranking of 83 was exposed fully by Uruguay in a comprehensive 3-0 defeat. Salt was rubbed into South African wounds as goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune was sent-off, with back-up stopper Moeneeb Josephs in line to replace him against France.

It would seem that Carlos Alberto Parreira's side need a miracle, and what they (as well as France) will also be hoping for is a winner in the Mexico v Uruguay game. The miracle could have come in the form of Les Bleus' tumultuous preparation, but changes need to be made to take full advantage, starting with the 4-5-1 formation that has left star striker Katlego Mphela marginalised in the opening two matches.

France player to watch: Thierry Henry. Les Bleus' all-time leading scorer has become a peripheral figure in South Africa; the once mighty captain fantastic seems to have lost his va-va-voom to such an extent that he was an unused substitute against Mexico. But Anelka's departure opens the door for a return to the starting line-up that will likely be encouraged by his team-mates. One of the most talented players of his generation, Henry still possesses the talent to unlock any defence and could yet provide the inspiration to pull France back from the brink.

South Africa player to watch: Reneilwe Letsholonyane. The 'Divine Ponytail' he may not be, but Letsholonyane's locks have been seen bounding up and down the pitch in Bafana Bafana's first two games. Full of energy, he has been a driving force in South Africa's midfield; his ability to close-down opponents when they have the ball and burst forward at pace when his own team are in possession have made him an integral player for Parreira's side.

Key Battle: Abou Diaby v Steven Pienaar. Diaby will have to shoulder the responsibility of being France's midfield ball-winner because of Jeremy Toulalan's suspension, providing a box-to-box presence and some strength in the middle of the park. He will have his hands full facing up to the energy of Letsholonyane and Siphiwe Tshabalala, as well as the guile of Steven Pienaar, who produced one of his most memorable performances at club level against Diaby's Arsenal last season. Pienaar has not lived up to his billing as South Africa's key man thus far but he relishes the big occasion and will hope to prove himself and provide a spark against the French.

Trivia: Uruguay's 3-0 win over South Africa last Wednesday represented the largest margin of victory against a host nation in the group stage in World Cup history.

Stats: Only three hosts have failed to finish among the top eight teams at a World Cup: Spain in 1982 (12th), the United States in 1994 (14th), and Japan in 2002 (9th).

Odds: South Africa (3.25), North Korea (2.30), the draw (3.30) are all on offer at Bet365, while Thierry Henry to score the last goal might be worth a flutter at 7.50.

Prediction: Anelka's removal from the squad and the subsequent player revolt may just spark the sort of siege mentality needed to inspire a struggling France side to victory. South Africa will be no walkovers but their fans will leave Free State Stadium feeling disappointed at Bafana's exit.

Nigeria v South Korea

Group B, 18:30 GMT, June 22, 2010

Durban Stadium, Durban, South Africa


After a comfortable 2-0 victory against Greece in their opening game, South Korea were brought back down to earth in dramatic fashion by an emphatic defeat to a ruthless Argentina side. Huh Jung-Moo's players competed well with the South Americans until the third goal was conceded and there was enough to suggest that they can still get through the group with a positive result.


Led by captain Park Ji-Sung, South Korea proved to be an effective outfit against Greece, combining solid defensive organisation with attacking flair through the likes of Lee Chung-Yong Park Chu-Young. The players will be hurting after the Argentina result, but as long as the sound team ethic remains intact, Huh's side should be able to progress.

Nigeria's task is simple. They must beat South Korea and hope that Argentina defeat Greece. If that happens, they will progress to the second round on goal difference, a reward of sorts for keeping the deficit against Argentina down to a single goal, while South Korea capitulated. The Super Eagles have a team full of talented individuals and against both Argentina and Greece showed great promise in the attacking third, though the main problem has been finishing the chances that have been created. Lars Lagerback's side will need to be at their penetrative best to beat South Korea, but will have the support of a continent hoping that Nigeria don't become the second African side to be eliminated.

South Korea player to watch: Yeom Ki-Hun. One of South Korea's most dangerous outlets, Kim has proved to be effective as either a left-winger in a 4-4-2 formation or as the left-sided forward in an attacking trio alongside Park Ji-Sung and Park Chu-Young. A tricky player with bags of pace, he will be asked to test the inexperienced Nigeria right-back Samuel Inkoom.

Nigeria player to watch: Vincent Enyeama. Nigeria's star at the 2010 finals so far, he has been instrumental in keeping the Super Eagles' defeats respectable, with FIFA naming him man of the match for his displays against both Argentina and Greece. A mistake against the Greeks was overshadowed by numerous other saves and he has displayed consistent catching and shot-stopping ability - as a certain Lionel Messi will testify.

Key Battle: Dickson Etuhu v Kim Jung-Woo. With Sani Kaita suspended, there will be more responsibility for Nigeria's tough-tackling defensive midfielder Etuhu. He struggled to do the job of two men after Kaita was sent-off against Greece but his athleticism and physicality was impressive against Argentina and he will be charged with stifling Park Ji-Sung and playmaker Kim. A busy central midfielder with a very effective pressing game, Kim has the ability to pick a telling pass and comparisons with Paul Scholes are heightened because of his tendency to be booked for rash challenges.

Trivia: On the day after giving up four goals to Argentina, South Korea goalkeeper Jung Sung-Ryong had some good news: his wife giving birth to their new baby boy.

Stats: South Korea has failed to advance from the group stage six times, the third-highest total in World Cup history. The only teams not to advance as often as South Korea are Scotland (8) and Mexico (7).

Odds: Nigeria (3.75), South Korea (2.60), the draw (3.25) are all on offer at Bet365, while Nigeria to lead at half-time but South Korea to win is at 34.00.

Prediction: South Korea were embarrassed by a hugely talented Argentina side, but proved against Greece that they are capable of winning against a side of lesser quality. Nigeria have flattered to deceive so far and it should be the continent of Asia and not Africa that will have a representative advance to the second round.

Greece v Argentina

Group B, 18:30 GMT, June 22, 2010

Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane, South Africa


As the half-time whistle approached in Greece's match against Nigeria, Otto Rehhagel's side were staring a group stage exit in the face. But Dimitrios Salpingidis' goal - amazingly Greece's first ever at the World Cup - brought them level and with Nigeria reduced to ten men, the Pirate Ship went on to record an historic victory.

Defeat to South Korea in the opening game was made all the more disappointing because of the tame performance, but it was rectified as Greece mustered a significantly improved display against the Super Eagles to give themselves a chance of progress from Group B. Now Rehhagel, the oldest coach in World Cup history, must mastermind a way past the most intimidating of obstacles, Diego Maradona's Argentina.

Comparing the individuals at both sides' disposal makes for grim reading if you are associated with Greece. The likes of Salpingidis and Theofanis Gekas are certainly no match for Lionel Messi and Gonzalo Higuain on paper, but Rehhagel has made his name by springing the most shocking of upsets. But even if the spirit of Euro 2004 is invoked on Tuesday, one feels it may still not be enough to overcome a hugely impressive Argentina side.

Higuain spurned several opportunities in the narrow 1-0 victory over Nigeria but the Real Madrid striker was at his prolific best in his last outing, netting a hat-trick against South Korea. Argentina have been inspired by the irrepressible Messi, who seems determined to prove that he can succeed where Ronaldinho failed - by proving his credentials as one of the world's best on the biggest stage of them all. For Maradona, it's simply a case of "same again please boys", and if his players heed that call, there is little hope for Greece.

Greece player to watch: Giorgos Karagounis.The"Greek Gattuso", as he is affectionately known, is not just a tenacious midfield dynamo, but the Greeks' creator-in-chief. Capable of playing in either defensive or attacking midfield, Karagounis has drifted between the two roles in the opening two games - looking particularly dangerous in an offensive capacity against Nigeria. Greece are renowned for their ability from set-pieces and Karagounis is the man they rely on to deliver.

Argentina player to watch: Carlos Tevez. The industrious Tevez failed to find the net in the first two fixtures but he has continued to be an effective outlet in harassing opposing defenders. He continues to demonstrate a high work rate and despite Diego Milito and Sergio Aguero waiting in the wings, Tevez's overall contribution to the team should mean he retains his place even if he continues to fire blanks.

Key Battle: Dimitrios Salpingidis v Gabriel Heinze - Salpingidis' purposeful display against Nigeria resulted in the Greece forward netting the equalising goal and he has the potential to be a menace when drifting out to the wings where he will look to exploit Jonas Guttierez's lack of defensive nous and Heinze's lack of pace. Argentina continue to be dominant in attack but it's at the back where question marks remain, with Heinze and defensive partner Martin Demichelis prone to lapses in concentration.

Trivia: There are eight Panathinaikos players in Greece's World Cup squad, the largest representation by one club in any World Cup team. There are three clubs with seven representatives in one World Cup squad: Bayern Munich (Germany), Barcelona (Spain) and April 25 (North Korea).

Stats: Gonzalo Higuain (age 22 years, 189 days) became the youngest player to score a hat-trick in a World Cup match since Florian Albert (20 years, 261 days) against Bulgaria in 1962. Only two other Argentines aged 22 or younger have scored multiple goals in one game at the World Cup: Diego Maradona (age 21) in 1982 and Carlos Peucelle (21) in 1930.

Odds: Greece(6.00), Argentina (1.61), the draw (3.80) are all on offer at Bet365. A 1-0 win for Greece may seem like a long shot but it's priced at 13.00.

Prediction: Greece have to go all-out to win the game and they have proved under Rehhagel before that they are more than capable of holding on to one-goal leads at major tournaments. But their desire to get forward will open them up, and with Messi & Co waiting to pounce, Argentina have more than enough quality to emerge as winners.

Full-time - 90'
Mexico
0 - 1
Uruguay
Group A, 14:00 GMT, June 22, 2010

Royal Bafokeng Stadium, Rustenburg, South Africa

A first-half goal from Luis Suarez was enough to help Uruguay secure top spot in Group A and progress into second round of the World Cup after a close victory over Mexico, who also qualified.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Diego Perez - The man charged with protecting the back four had an exceptional game. Mexico were out in search for a goal which would have guaranteed their qualification, and Perez was on hand throughout to snuff out the attacks.

Mexico verdict: The team which impressed so much in beating France lacked a cutting edge in this game. They have to be thankful that they had a goal difference buffer against South Africa. With Argentina likely to lie in the second round, they face a tough test.

Uruguay verdict: Uruguay always said they would not be defensive as they were eager to finish top and thus book a meeting with the second placed side from Group B, and they did not disappoint. They played on the counter attack and created the better chances. In truth, as soon as they did get the goal they were happy to protect the lead.

Could do better: Guillermo Franco - Showed the touch of a player who has seen little club football with West Ham United in recent months. If he could control the ball then Mexico may not have lost this match.

Stat attack: Luis Suarez has now scored 53 goals in 60 appearances for club and country this season. On the last 20 occasions that Suarez has found the net in all competitions, he has finished on the winning side.


The only goal came two minutes before half-time when Edinson Cavani's superbly floated cross allowed the Ajax striker to head in at the back post.

With hosts South Africa unable to alter the goal difference too much in their 2-1 win over France, the result in Rustenburg also put the nervous Mexicans through.

Their coach Javier Aguirre made two changes to his line-up, bringing in veteran Cuauhtemoc Blanco for his first start in place of the injured Carlos Vela up front, while Andres Guardado was in for the suspended Efrain Juarez.

Uruguay also made one surprise change, with Diego Godin dropping to bench in place of Mauricio Victorino.

There was a buzz in the Royal Bafokeng Stadium at the start, with most of the noise coming from the fans in green, who outnumbered those in blue. But the Mexicans and their supporters were almost silenced early on.

First Maxi Pereira saw his rising 30-yard free-kick fly over, and then an error from Hector Moreno allowed Suarez in but the striker only managed to send his shot across the face of goal.

El Tri had a good chance moments later when Giovani dos Santos crossed for Blanco, but the 37-year-old headed over.

After 15 minutes Victorino managed to find space from a corner but nodded his free header over, before Alvaro Pereira drilled his shot wide after racing down the left - much to the fury of the unmarked Diego Forlan in the box.

Midway through the half, Guardado almost stunned Oscar Tabarez's side with a wicked 30-yard effort that beat Fernando Muslera, but not the underside of the crossbar.

At the other end, Oscar Perez punched weakly at a Forlan cross, but there was no one following up at the back post. The chances seemed to dry up 15 minutes before the break, but then Suarez broke the deadlock.

Aguirre decided to make a change at the break, bringing Pablo Barrera for Guardado. And his side had the first chance of the half courtesy of a Blanco free-kick 25-yards out that was curled into the arms of Muslera.

Uruguay then almost doubled the advantage when Forlan swung over a free-kick from the right, but Diego Lugano's powerful header drew an excellent low save from Perez.

In another attacking move, Israel Castro and Javier Hernandez were thrown in, but it was a defender, Francisco Rodriguez, that had a golden opportunity to equalise from Barrera's cross, which was a glanced header that ended up wide.

Hernandez was next to have a chance, but it was only a half one as he found little room to try and get away a shot in the six-yard box, with the ball deflected for a corner.

The Mexicans again had their goalkeeper Perez to thank in the 87th minute when he parried away and awkward 30-yard Cavani strike for a corner. It proved the last chance for either side as La Celeste held on.

Full-time - 90'
France
1 - 2
South Africa

Group A, 14:00 GMT, June 22, 2010

Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein, South Africa

France exited the World Cup at the first round stage with barely a whimper after this humbling defeat by the host nation at the Free State Stadium.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Katlego Mphela - The forward was energetic throughout the game and finally showed the form that he had produced in the warm-up games. He put himself in a great position to net the second and was a livewire throughout.

France verdict: Dismal, farcical, embarrassing, chaotic. You could never run out of words to describe France's display at this tournament. France were woeful even before they went down to ten men and didn't get any better. You have to pity Laurent Blanc.

South Africa verdict: After such a poor display in defeat to Uruguay, South Africa can exit the World Cup with pride with victory over the 'mighty' France. They may be the first host country to fail to emerge from their group, but they were never expected to go far. They only go out on goal difference and that, in a way, is a triumph.

Could do better: Franck Ribery - He may have got the assist for Florent Malouda's consolation, but yet again he offered very little for a player of such quality. You would barely think the Bayern Munich player has been in South Africa.

Stat attack: Thierry Henry has drawn level with Fabien Barthez in making the most World Cup appearances in French history (17).


On a day of drama Raymond Domenech stripped Patrice Evra of the captaincy and handed the armband to Alou Diarra instead. Then the coach, set to be replaced by Laurent Blanc, saw his side reduced to 10 men after 26 minutes of this Group A game when Yoann Gourcuff was sent off.

South Africa took advantage with Bongani Khumalo and Katlego Mphela both finding the target. Although Florent Malouda stepped off the bench to pull a goal back France are heading home early.

Evra was dropped after the squad boycotted a training session after striker Nicolas Anelka was expelled following a row with Domenech. The Manchester United full-back cut a lonely figure on the bench on another dreadful day for France.

Yet they could have opened the scoring in the third minute when Gourcuff released Andre-Pierre Gignac. He had a clear sight of goal but only succeeded in drilling a shot into the arms of Moneeb Josephs.

France were rocked in the 20th minute when South Africa made the breakthrough, which led to pandemonium in the stadium. Goalkeeper Hugo Lloris failed to cut out a corner from Siphiwe Tshabalala and Khumalo took advantage to score with a header at the back post.

It might have been worse for the former world champions five minutes later but Mphela dragged a shot narrowly wide of the post.

France's troubles increased, however in the 26th minute when they were reduced to 10 men with Gourcuff sent off by Colombian referee Oscar Ruiz for an aerial challenge on Macbeth Sibaya.

Domenech could not believe what was happening and held his head in frustration at seeing his side down on numbers.

South Africa were growing in confidence and Tshabalala whipped a free-kick over the bar in the 34th minute before they extended their lead three minutes later. Mphela clipped the ball home after being sent up by Bernard Parker with France in disarray at the back.

Steven Pienaar then found the net for South Africa but his effort was disallowed and Mphela saw his shot turned around the post by Lloris.

Malouda was introduced at the start of the second half but France were soon pegged back. Parker sent his shot into arms of Lloris and Mphela's effort clipped the outside of the post.

France could not contain Mphela and the goalkeeper did well to push away his powerful drive in the 58th minute. However South Africa were caught napping in the 70th minute and failed to track Malouda, who pulled a goal back following a cross from Franck Ribery.

That was as good as it got for France, whose only point in the group came against Uruguay.

It was a bitter sweet win for South Africa as they have become the first host nation to be eliminated at the first round stage of the finals.

Full-time - 90'
Nigeria
2 - 2
South Korea

Group B, 18:30 GMT, June 22, 2010

Durban Stadium

South Korea clinched a place in the last 16 of the World Cup for the first time on foreign soil despite being held to a draw by Nigeria in their final Group B match in Durban.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Park Chu-Young - A constant menace up front, he was South Korea's most inventive player and showed skill and vision in the final third. A great free-kick - which was the first goal from a dead-ball situation that was actually meant - gave him something to remember.

South Korea verdict: Fluent in attack, they created plenty of chances, but there are concerns about their defensive play. Cha Du-Ri was very sloppy for the first goal and the penalty was something the coach will not want to see again. They may trouble Uruguay in attack, but it could be a very open game.

Nigeria verdict: A few good first half an hour, they let the Koreans control the game too much which is why it slipped away from them. That said, the final ten saw them have at least three good chances to seal the win.

Could do better: Yakubu - He may have scored a penalty soon afterwards, but the miss beforehand was one of the worst in World Cup history. Four yards out, with an open goal, all Yakubu had to do was put the ball in the net, but his sidefoot slid wide. Awful.

Stat attack: For all of their attacking efforts, Nigeria only had two shots on target after Uche's goal in the 12th minute.

Kalu Uche opened the scoring for the African team in the 12th minute and almost doubled his side's lead shortly after the half-hour mark but his powerful strike smashed off the near post.

Lee Jung-Soo equalised in the 38th minute and then Park Chu-Young's free-kick early in the second half turned the match on its head.

Korea shot themselves in the foot when substitute Kim Nam-Il brought down Chinedu Obasi inside the area midway through the second half. Ayegbeni Yakubu, having missed the easiest of tap-ins seconds earlier, made amends by restoring parity from the penalty spot.


The outcome sealed second spot in the group for Korea and a second-round match against Uruguay on Saturday in Port Elizabeth. Argentina, who beat Greece 2-0, topped the pool.

Needing a win to progress to the next round, Nigeria coach Lars Lagerback made four changes to his starting XI from the side that lost 2-1 against Greece, one of which saw Portsmouth striker Kanu included after failing to feature in his side's opening two defeats.

South Korea enjoyed a strong start and almost took the lead after two minutes, but Bolton's Lee Chung-Yong directed his close-range effort just wide of the far post.

Shortly after, Celtic midfielder Ki Sung-Yueng's right-footed strike from 25 yards went over the bar as South Korea got closer. But it was Nigeria who took a surprise lead soon after.


In their first purposeful attack, Chidi Odiah went on a superb run and crossed towards the heart of the area, where Uche beat Cha Du-Ri to the ball and fired past Jung Sung-Ryong.


Uche's free-kick went over the bar in the 20th minute and, seconds later, Obasi struck wide from the edge of the area as Nigeria looked to double their lead.

Nigeria were gaining confidence and, on the half-hour mark, Obasi surged inside the area but his central shot was saved by Jung.

Shortly after the half-hour mark, Park Chu-young's free-kick went wide as Korea struggled to find the finishing touch.

But the Koreans did find the equaliser before the break when Ki Sung-Yueng's free-kick towards the far post was met by Lee Jung-Soo, whose first-time finish beat Nigeria goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama.

Both teams went into the break with all to play for. Korea picked up where they left off after the interval and went ahead in the 48th minute. Park Chu-Young's free-kick swerved towards the post and Enyeama failed to get a touch.

Lagerback introduced Obafemi Martins to replace Kanu in the 56th minute in the hope he could spark his team to life. On the hour mark, Yeom Ki-Hun's dangerous cross towards the area found Park Chu-young and his seemingly goalbound strike was met by a fine save from Enyeama.

Nigeria should have pulled level seconds later after Uche set up an unmarked Yakubu, but he inexplicably tapped wide of an open goal from two yards - much to the horror of his team-mates.

Yakubu made amends soon after by firing a spot-kick past Jung.

Park Ji-Sung fired wide of the near post with 15 minutes remaining while, at the other end, Martins surged inside the area and his chip beat Jung but went wide.

Korea defended deeply thereafter but held on for a vital point.

Full-time - 90'
Greece
0 - 2
Argentina

Group B, 18:30 GMT, June 22, 2010

Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane, South Africa

Defender Martin Demichelis and substitute Martin Palermo succeeded where Argentina's multi-talented strikeforce had failed as they scored the goals to break Greece's resilience and end their World Cup hopes at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Clemente Rodriguez - The left-back bombed forward at every chance and was a constant threat. Not the first name on the lips when you think of an Argentine defender, but he was excellent and it just goes to show what happens when you play a proper defender as a full-back.

Argentina verdict: Very comfortable on the ball, but they were hardly troubled. Going about their business quietly, Maradona was not forced into making any real decisions as Greece sat back. Argentina only needed a point and they won't have worked up much of a sweat picking up the win.

Greece verdict: Utterly awful. Even when they knew they needed to score goals and win the game, they didn't come out of their shell. Seemed very happy with a small defeat and some may say they showed a disrespect to the competition for playing as they did. They should regret not giving it a go.

Could do better: Otto Rehhagel - The man behind the tactics that bored everyone to death at Euro 2004 was at it again. Greece are by far and away the worst team to watch in the entire competition and Rehhagel really needs to change something if they are to ever be taken seriously.

Stat attack: At one point, Juan Sebastian Veron had more touches of the ball (98) that the top three players on Greece combined (97).


Demichelis fired home from close range in the 77th minute after his header from Lionel Messi's corner bounced back off team-mate Diego Milito. Palermo tapped in the rebound from Messi's shot to complete the victory a minute from time.

It sent Argentina into the knockout phase to face Mexico full of confidence on the back of three successive wins as Greece's best defensive efforts ultimately proved to be in vain. South Korea's 2-2 draw with Nigeria put them through as Group B runners-up.

For long periods Diego Maradona's side were frustrated by Greece, for whom defending is what they do best - having used the tactic to become surprise European champions in 2004.

However, what Otto Rehhagel's side desperately needed more than anything was a goal and despite the unstinting efforts of Celtic striker Georgios Samaras - who at times appeared to be the one in a 10-1 formation - they just did not threaten enough.

Argentina, by contrast, did not really need to exert themselves as they were virtually guaranteed to progress as group winners before the match kicked off. Messi captained the side after Maradona made seven changes from victory over South Korea but found himself closely marked throughout.

Sergio Aguero's first sight of goal saw the busy Alexandros Tzorvas palm his shot away for a corner in the 18th minute and the goalkeeper then immediately had to tip over Juan Sebastian Veron's 30-yard strike.

Tzorvas almost undid all Greece's hard work when he spilled Diego Milito's low cross into the path of Aguero but Loukas Vyntra charged down his shot at the far post.

But he redeemed himself in first-half added time when he saved from Maxi Rodriguez and Messi in quick succession.

Three minutes into the second half Greece almost snatched the lead when Samaras beat Demichelis to another long ball out of defence and raced into the penalty area but drove wide of far post with his left foot - Greece's first shot of the match.

But injuries were not kind to Rehhagel's side as they lost Georgios Karagounis, Konstantinos Katsouranis and Vasileios Torosidis all within 10 minutes of the restart.

Argentina pressed on regardless with Milito inches from heading in a cross from left-back Clemente Rodriguez, who himself hit a dipping shot just wide.

In the 68th minute Messi's long-range free-kick brought another save out of Tzorvas and from the resulting corner the ball dropped to defensive midfielder Mario Bolatti but he shot straight at the goalkeeper from six yards.

It was 24 years to the day since Maradona scored his infamous Hand of God goal against England in the quarter-finals of 1986 Mexico World Cup - Argentina's last triumph at this tournament - and the frustrated players might have felt like indulging in similar skulduggery themselves.

But Demichelis saved anyone the embarrassment by drilling into the roof of the net with 13 minutes to go.

Things opened up after that and Messi smashed a left-footed shot off the post having weaved his way into the penalty area.

His next effort was more productive as Tzorvas parried his strike into the path of the 36-year-old Palermo who took full advantage.

Slovenia v England

Group C, 14:00 GMT, June 23, 2010

Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth, South Africa

The preparations for what could be their final game at the World Cup could not have been worse for Fabio Capello's men. 'Clear the air' talks followed their drab 0-0 draw with Algeria and John Terry's press conference where he stated some of his worries over the coach's decisions gained criticism from the media and, indeed, the coach, who called it a ''very big mistake''.


Add in Wayne Rooney being forced to apologise for his rant at fans after the game, plus injury and suspension crippling the centre of defence and it has not been a happy trip to South Africa thus far for England. A lack of ambition and creativity has been in evidence since Emile Heskey slipped the ball to Steven Gerrard to score their first goal just four minutes into their campaign and calls have come for Joe Cole to be introduced on the left in a 4-3-3 formation. Certainly, changes will come, and Capello won't underestimate England's opponents with the side he eventually picks.

The Italian could hand Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe his first start at the Finals after he paired the striker with Rooney in a crucial training session ahead of the match.

Slovenia are the shock leaders of Group C after they dismissed Algeria thanks to another goalkeeping error and then held the USA to a 2-2 draw. Confidence may have ebbed after their second-half performance against the States saw them surrender a two-goal lead, but they can take great heart from an attacking performance that had many observers in awe of their skill and team spirit.

While Slovenia can seal their progress to the second round with a point, England need to win to be certain of progressing. In fact, they desperately need to win as nothing less than a 3-3 draw would get them through if the USA somehow contrives to draw 0-0 with Algeria. Any US win, plus an England draw and the Three Lions go home in disgrace.

Slovenia player to watch: Miso Brecko. The right-back had an excellent first half against the USA, but things slipped in the second and he will be under the microscope to attack the frailties on England's left flank. He has stated that Ashley Cole is one of his role models, and will come into direct competition with the Chelsea defender as he bombs down the wing, but will have to be at his very best to stop the threat offered at the other end.

England player to watch: Matthew Upson. With Ledley King injured and Jamie Carragher suspended, the pressure falls on the West Ham man to quickly form a good partnership with Terry at the heart of the defence. Strong in the air and a committed tackler, he is not blessed with great pace but is seen as a better option than the young Michael Dawson. West Ham players have not had the best of luck in the tournament so far - Robert Green and Valon Behrami in particular - so Upson will have to battle hard to turn his side's fortunes around.

Key Battle: Marko Suler v Wayne Rooney. For nearly 50 minutes against the USA, Suler looked composed and comfortable snuffing out any attacking surges with good positioning and committed aerial play. However, as the Slovenians sat back, they were more exposed and Suler's influence waned. He will find Rooney a far tougher prospect that other strikers in the group but the Manchester United man has failed to find the back of the net in over 10 hours of action for England. Rooney's form for his country is the subject of much debate in the English media, as is his temperament for the big occasion, but if the Three Lions have any hopes of qualifying they will need him back at his best.

Trivia: In 1950, England were famously humiliated by USA - they lost to Spain and victory over Chile didn't see them qualify - while in 1958, England drew with Brazil, Soviet Union and Austria and then lost a play-off to the Soviets. These are the only two occasions England have not escaped the group stage.

Stats: England have failed to win any of their last five first round matches against a fellow European side, while Slovenia have lost just one of their last nine international games since losing 2-1 to England in a friendly in September 2009, winning seven of these matches.

Odds: Slovenia (7.50), England (1.44) and a draw (4.33) are all available at Bet 365, but Frank Lampard to score first could come in at 7.50.

Prediction: England surely can't be as bad they were against Algeria and knowing they have to win could be the spark they need to get the result. Nothing else is good enough.

United States v Algeria

Group C, 14:00 GMT, June 23, 2010

Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria, South Africa

The stakes are high, as a win in this game for either side will seal their progress to the next round if England fail to beat Slovenia. The odds are stacked towards the USA as they have made it to the second round three times in their history, while Algeria have never progressed that far.

With a second-half performance in the 2-2 draw against Slovenia to take heart from, the USA's biggest challenge will be to banish the painful memory of the first half, and also ignore the vitriol spouted in the press from the disallowed goal that would have put them in a much better position to qualify. How they react in their first foray back onto the pitch since that incident will be key to their hopes of qualification, but they have a good recent record against African sides, winning two out of two and keeping a clean sheet in the process.

Underdogs Algeria have only hit the back of the net once in six games (from a penalty) and have lost their only games against CONCACAF opponents in the past. If the Algerians can manage to overcome the striking issues that have seen them fail in front of goal then a famous win could be on the cards, but the USA will be fully focused on righting the wrongs of the previous game.

USA player to watch: Landon Donovan. Donovan is the all-time top-scorer for the United States with 43 goals in 125 caps and will equal the USA's all-time record of 11 appearances at the World Cup finals, currently held by Cobi Jones and Earnest Stewart. His pace and vision were wasted in the first half against Slovenia, but he played a vital part in the turnaround and will, once again, be the most important player for the side in the attacking third.

Algeria player to watch: Rais M'Bolhi. Having overtaken the unpredictable Faouzi Chaouchi in the starting line-up following his error against Slovenia in the opener, M'Bolhi was a solid performer against England even though he was not tested to his fullest extent. Just 24, the experience has done him the world of good and if the Algerians have realistic hopes of beating the USA and making it to the next stage, he will have to be on top form.

Key Battle: Jozy Altidore v Rafik Halliche. The focal point of the USA attack, Altidore has not lit up the World Cup thus far, but has always had an impact on the games. Having recovered fully from injury that hindered his preparations, Altidore's strength and pace up front will be a test for his opponents. Halliche was one of the stars of the African Cup of Nations and, brave and strong, will not be easy to get past. He also has youth on his side, so it could be an intriguing battle.

Trivia: Since the 1950 World Cup, the United States have lost all of their third and final matches in the opening group stage.

Stats: Algeria have scored just once in their last six matches - a penalty against the United Arab Emirates in a World Cup warm-up.

Odds: USA (2.00), Algeria (3.75) and a draw (3.50) are all available at Bet 365, but a 2-0 win for the USA comes in at 9.00.

Prediction: Algeria are tough to break down but offer little in attack. As long as Bradley gets his tactics right, they should have enough to score and pick up the win.

Ghana v Germany

Group D, 18:30 GMT, June 23, 2010

Soccer City Stadium, Johannesburg, South Africa


The eyes of the African continent will be focused on Ghana as their only representative with a realistic chance of making it to the second round. After some good displays in their win and draw thus far, facing the experienced Germans in their final game is a tall order, but not one that is beyond them.


Having coped admirably with the loss of Michael Essien before the tournament, Ghana have impressed more than any other African side with their style of football and won't be expected to lie down as Germany look to rebuild their form after a crushing defeat to Serbia.

In fact, the Germans are under a great deal of pressure as a point will not be enough to secure their progress if, as expected, Serbia beat Australia. And they must manage without Miroslav Klose, who was sent off for a second yellow card against the Serbs as well. Coach Joachim Low has targeted the Africans' fitness and stamina as something to watch out for and revealed that ''fitness is written with a capital 'F' in the Germany squad'' so he remains confident of progress.

Ghana player to watch: Kevin-Prince Boateng. The focal point of Germany's anger before the World Cup as he injured Michael Ballack in the FA Cup final - thus ruling the Chelsea midfielder out of the tournament - Boateng actually spurned Germany's advances and chose to play for Ghana before the tournament as well. You couldn't write such a story but, amidst some loud booing from the German fans, he will surely have an impact on the match.

Germany player to watch: Bastian Schweinsteiger. If the Germans are to make it through the group, the Bayern man will have to show a lot more than he did against Serbia. Often caught up in a heated discussion, Schweinsteiger's head has to keep cool against a physical Ghanaian side, but he has shown in the past that he has the experience and skill to rise to the big occasion.

Key Battle: Asamoah Gyan v Per Mertesacker. Gyan has netted 50% of Ghana's goals in the World Cup so far (three out of six) and uses his pace and strength up front to cause problems for defenders. One of the star performers at this tournament, his nerve from the penalty spot has been tested already and he has shown no fear in his attacking forays; but he comes up against a 6' 5'' defender that won't shirk a physical challenge. Mertesacker oozes class on the ball and has the positional sense to make vital interceptions with his giant frame. He will have to cover if Ghana choose to attack the right side of defence (and 5' 7'' Philipp Lahm) from the air.

Trivia: Germany have won their final group matches in the last four World Cup tournaments, without conceding a single goal in the last three and, before Serbia, had not lost a group game in 24 years. In the preliminary stages of the 1986 World Cup they were beaten 2-0 by Denmark.

Stats: Germany have won all of their last 11 games against a non-European or South American side at the World Cup finals, keeping a clean sheet in five of the last six of these; while the last three goals scored by Ghana in the World Cup have all come from the penalty spot.

Odds: Ghana (6.00), Germany (1.53) and a draw (4.20) are all available at Bet 365, but Asamoah Gyan to score first and Germany to win 2-1 gets you 81.00

Prediction: Ghana have the passion, the support and a burning desire to make an impact on their own continent, but Germany are ruthless and experienced in this situation and it would be a shock if they didn't progress.

Australia v Serbia

Group D, 18:30 GMT, June 23, 2010

Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit, South Africa

With both sides suffering some discipline issues so far this tournament, the time for cool heads is now as both sides have a mathematical chance of getting through. If Germany lose, then whoever wins this match will take the second spot behind Ghana, so there is all to play for.


Serbia will certainly be favourites as they upset the odds to beat ten-man Germany - although they rode their luck and had a missed penalty to thank for their win. A strong spine of established players like Nikola Zigic, Milos Krasic and Nemanja Vidic give them a good chance of making it to the second round.

However, the Socceroos showed their resilience in drawing 1-1 with Ghana after having Harry Kewell sent off. It was their second red card in as many games and while Kewell won't be available, they will have Tim Cahill back and raring to go after his sending off in their opener.

Australia player to watch: Brett Holman. Having become the youngest ever goalscorer for Australia in the World Cup, beating Tim Cahill by 105 days, Holman's star is on the rise and he has become an important part of the Socceroos' setup. Strong, quick and aggressive, he could be the key to the attacking ambitions of the side.

Serbia player to watch: Dejan Stankovic. He has not fulfilled the hype he was given before the tournament, but the Inter Milan midfielder is never one to let his side down and he will make the most of the space he is afforded by the Australian midfield. His defensive role means he doesn't get as far forward as he does for his club, but he is still a threat from free-kicks and will look to give his team-mates a platform on which to build.

Key Battle: Tim Cahill v Nemanja Vidic. Having had a nice rest for a game, Cahill will be back and ready for action against the Serbs. Likely to play in an advanced attacking role, the Everton midfielder will come up against Vidic on more than one occasion and the duel in the air will be crucial. Cahill, for his height, is excellent in the air, but there are few better than Man Utd's Vidic. It will be a tough battle, but whoever wins it could impact on the result.

Trivia: Australia have only ever had foreign coaches at the World Cup. Yugoslavian Rale Rasic in 1974 and Dutchmen Guus Hiddink in 2006 followed by Pim Verbeek in 2010.

Stats: The entire first-choice defence for Serbia have kept a clean sheet in six of their last ten internationals.

Odds: Australia (4.20), Serbia (1.90) and a draw (3.50) are all available at Bet 365, but Tim Cahill to score first comes in at 9.00.

Prediction: With a place in the second round potentially up for grabs, and a possible clash with England, both sides should go all-out to win and Serbia might just have too much for Australia to cope with.

My Tips tonight to win their matches

England
USA
Germany
Australia

4 Leg multi = 12/1 for $1

GO THE SOCCEROOS !!!!!!!

Full-time - 90'
Slovenia
0 - 1
England

Group C, 14:00 GMT, June 23, 2010

Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Fabio Capello's decision to drop Emile Heskey and start Jermain Defoe paid off against Slovenia as the striker volleyed home to seal England's progress with a 1-0 win in Port Elizabeth.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: James Milner - Made a shaky start but quickly recovered to provide an invaluable outlet on the right for England. His cross led to Jermain Defoe's goal and he combined well on the flank with Glen Johnson, both in attack and defence. A tireless performance. Honourable mentions must also go to John Terry and Steven Gerrard.

Slovenia verdict: Posed a threat from set pieces and kept England goalkeeper David James on his toes with some long-range strikes. Played a counter-attacking game and fought until the end to contribute to a nerve-jangling finale.

England verdict: After an understandably nervous start England got into the groove and rediscovered the form of old. For a 20-minute spell after half-time they looked like genuine world beaters and should have added to their goal tally - Wayne Rooney hit the post and Slovenia goalkeeper Samir Handanovic made string of good saves.

Could do better: Matthew Upson - Looked a little lumbering in defence and didn't catch the eye until a last-ditch tackle denied Slovenia an almost certain equaliser late on. Before that, he was a spectator to Terry's combative heroics.

Stat attack: Jermain Defoe's last goal for England was also against Slovenia on September 5, 2009.

Landon Donovan's injury-time effort in Pretoria meant the outcome was not exactly what England wanted in Group C, as it means they finish second and leaves them in the same quarter of the draw as Diego Maradona's dangerous Argentinians. But the main thing is they are still there.

With the notable exception of Wayne Rooney, who did not look impressed to be replaced by Joe Cole, and the fact their goals difference read only one, England found themselves again, producing all the verve and fire their manager knows they are so capable of.

Days of rancour gave way to the sheer exhilaration of seeing a team play in the manner of old and though their profligacy ensured there were some nervy moments to survive before victory could be achieved, in the end they made it.

The men who combined to give England that crucial, crucial goal were both exorcising a personal ghost.

It has almost been forgotten it is so long ago but right at the beginning of England's World Cup, Defoe was a starter for Capello.

Hauled off after a goalless 45 minutes against Andorra in Barcelona, Defoe was condemned to the role of impact substitute for the remainder of the qualifiers, admittedly scoring three times in the process.

Milner's wound is much fresher. Always a Capello favourite, the Aston Villa man was asked to plug a hole on the left of England's midfield for the opening encounter with the United States.

Given a right old chasing by Carlos Bocanegra, the 24-year-old was hauled off after half an hour and must have wondered if he would see any more action in South Africa.

Capello is intensely loyal though. Deciding he needed more solidity defensively than Aaron Lennon can provide, the Italian turned to Milner for the right-sided role.

His early contribution was riddled with mistakes. But the cross he swung deep into the Slovenia box midway through that opening period was almost Beckham-esque.

Defoe had made his way into the danger zone, like any instinctive marksman would, got just in front of Marko Suler and stuck out his leg, prodding the ball goalwards with enough power to get it past Samir Handanovic, who did nearly make a save.

It had taken Defoe 23 minutes to achieve what Heskey had managed once in eight years; a competitive goal.

Visibly, the pressure lifted from English shoulders. The high-tempo, quick passing, tigerish pressing game Capello had yearned for, and which temperatures of a South African winter suit so well suddenly appeared, and so did the opportunities.

Frank Lampard and skipper Steven Gerrard had the first couple before half-time, the Liverpool man knowing he would have scored if he had put more power behind a side-footed effort that failed to beat Handanovic after a hitherto quiet Rooney had provided the superb square ball.

Capello cut a frustrated figure when, eight yards out and completely unmarked, Defoe made no contact after Barry had lofted a pass into a Slovenia penalty area in a state of confusion thanks to some selfless running from Rooney.

John Terry brought a brilliant save out of Handanovic when he rose to meet Barry's corner at the far post before Rooney struck the base of a post after his unchecked run into the penalty area had been spotted by Lampard.

It was sumptuous fare lifted directly from the Premier League, the kind of football that prompted Capello to make his "crazy'' claim that England could reach the final of this grand and prestigious tournament in Soccer City on July 11.

In a week for apologies and forgiveness, the England supporters responded by showing they bore no hard feelings for Rooney's rant in Cape Town by chanting his name with gusto, although on the second occasion it was for their talisman's exit - unhappily - to make way for Joe Cole to make his long-awaited bow.

Amid the euphoria at finding a team, one fairly large problem was being overlooked. England's lead remained stuck at one and could so easily be snatched away.

Had first Terry, then Glen Johnson, not thrown themselves in front of Slovenian shots, the smallest country in the tournament would have had their equaliser and England would have been out.

For Slovenia, events elsewhere would give them cause for huge regret. For England, pride was restored - and a sigh of relief could be breathed.

Full-time - 90'
United States
1 - 0
Algeria

Group C, 14:00 GMT, June 23, 2010

Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria, South Africa

USA have topped Group C as Landon Donovan hit a late winner against Algeria to give them a 1-0 win. Clint Dempsey's first-half goal was wrongly ruled out for offside but Donovan struck with seconds left to leapfrog England.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Michael Bradley - A solid all-round performance from the coach's son. He looked inventive on the ball and provided a creative presence in midfield, though he also worked hard. He showed plenty of industry in chasing back and breaking up possession when Algeria had the ball in what was an impressive box-to-box display.

USA verdict: By far and away the better team, it seemed that USA's profligacy would cost them after both Jozy Altidore and Clint Dempsey were guilty of missing clear-cut chances. But Landon Donovan popped up late on to save their tournament and ensure Bob Bradley's side top the group.

Algeria verdict: Started brightly, with Rafik Djebbour hitting the bar in first ten minutes, but after that they were dominated by their opponents. Looked shaky at the back and were reduced to ambitious efforts from distance as they fell limply out of the tournament. Nadir Belhadj was once again one of Algeria's star performers along with Karim Ziani, but there were few positives to take out of this one for the Desert Foxes.

Could do better: Assistant referee - For the second game in a row, USA were denied a goal by a poor decision from the match official. On this occasion, the assistant referee ruled Clint Dempsey's first-half strike offside, despite the fact that replays showed Majid Bougherra to be playing him on.

Stat attack: This was USA's first World Cup clean sheet since their 1-0 win over England back in 1950.

The United States, watched on by former President Bill Clinton, dominated for large periods and created a host of chances but looked set to be denied by a mixture of the woodwork, good goalkeeping and poor finishing.

However, Donovan popped up right at the end to slot into the net and send the Americans through as Group C winners ahead of England, who beat Slovenia in the other game. USA will now play the second-placed team from Group D, which includes Ghana, Germany, Serbia and Australia.

Algeria, who have never progressed to the second round of the World Cup, hit the woodwork early on and created a couple of other chances but were unable to net their first goal of the finals as they tumbled out.

They also finished with 10 men after captain Anthar Yahia was sent off for a second booking late on in Pretoria.

Algeria coach Rabah Saadane, knowing his side could not afford a third successive match without a goal, made one change to the team that held England 0-0, bringing in AEK Athens striker Rafik Djebbour for Ryad Boudebouz.

USA boss Bob Bradley, meanwhile, made three changes. Algeria started brightly and almost took the lead in the sixth minute when Djebbour rattled the crossbar.

US defender Jay DeMerit failed to cut out a long punt forward and Djebbour stole in behind him, controlled the ball on his chest before smashing a volley against the crossbar from 12 yards out.

It was also a big let-off for the Americans, but Bradley's side would return the favour with interest during the remainder of the period as they spurned a number of good chances themselves.

Herculez Gomez brought a save out of Rais M'Bohli, before the US thought they had taken the lead in the 20th minute when Gomez, having seen his first effort saved, saw his cross-shot turned in at the far post by Clint Dempsey. However, the effort was chalked off for a marginal offside that seemed questionable.

The Americans were denied a winning goal in their last match against Slovenia when Maurice Edu's late strike was controversially disallowed, but it was not to prove as decisive a decision this time round.

After a slow start USA were starting to look increasingly dangerous and they created two great chances around the 35th minute.

Dempsey saw the first saved by M'Bohli after being put through by a great pass by Donovan, and then Jozy Altidore blazed horribly over after the influential Donovan had dinked the ball past M'Bohli to set up a magnificent opening.

The Desert Foxes were still posing problems of their own though, and Karim Matmour earned a corner after testing Tim Howard with a long-range thunderbolt as the half ended in stalemate.

With England leading Slovenia in the other game, both USA and Algeria were on their way out of the World Cup at the interval.

The Americans should have improved their lot in the 56th minute though as they spurned another great chance. The ball fell invitingly for Dempsey on the edge of the box, but his shot rebounded back off the inside of the far post before the Fulham midfielder sliced the rebound wide with the goal gaping.

Bradley's side continued to dominate and Benny Feilhaber went close before his fellow substitute Edson Buddle powered a header straight at M'Bohli from five yards out.

Algeria briefly stemmed the one-way traffic when Karim Ziani dragged a shot wide from a good chance in the 69th minute, but otherwise it was largely all USA.

The Desert Foxes had a late chance to snatch what could have been a winner when Rafik Saifi headed straight at Howard, and moments after that the US claimed the victory.

Dempsey was just unable to slot home after a breakaway attack, but the ball fell kindly for Donovan who slotted into a gaping net from close range.

That proved to be the winner and demoralised Algeria would end the game with 10 men when Yahia was dismissed soon after.

Full-time - 90'
Ghana
0 - 1
Germany

Group D, 18:30 GMT, June 23, 2010

Soccer City Stadium, Johannesburg, South Africa

A terrific strike from Mesut Ozil gave Germany a 1-0 win over Ghana and put them into top spot in Group D, where they will face England in the second round. The result also puts Ghana through, as Serbia failed to win.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Mesut Ozil - The forward was involved in most of Germany's good work and toiled tirelessly up front. He was a constant thorn in the side of the Ghana defence and scored the goal to send his side into the next round.

Ghana verdict: Started the match in a very lively manner and created some good chances, but lacked a real clinical finsher up front. The Black Stars looked like they tired after the break and then clearly settled for second place as results came in from elsewhere.

Germany verdict: A good performance, but there are worries at the back for Die Mannschaft, who were torn apart by Ghana early on. However, Joachim Low's side plugged away and deserved their win after showing much more guile than their opponents in the final third.

Could do better: Cacau - Only got into the side because Miroslav Klose was suspended and is highly unlikely to retain his place after failing to seize his chance. The VfB Stuttgart was also sloppy in possession.

Stat attack: Mesut Ozil's strike was the first German goal scored from outside the 18-yard box.

The win for Joachim Low's side took them to the top of Group D and means they will face England in Bloemfontein on Sunday afternoon, while Ghana ensured African representation in the knockout phase by edging out Australia on goal difference. The Black Stars will now take on the United States in Rustenburg.

Germany created the first chance when Brazil-born Cacau, in for the suspended Miroslav Klose, broke through in the third minute but his low shot was easily gathered by Richard Kingson in the Ghana goal.

The German contingent were jeering any touch for Berlin-born Kevin-Prince Boateng, whose tackle on Michael Ballack in the FA Cup final last month ruled the Germany star out of the World Cup. However, the Portsmouth man was able to tune out from it and one incisive ball to Gyan should have led to a chance, but the Rennes forward's first touch was poor.

Kingson then had to react quickly at his near post as Anthony Annan deflected a Lukas Podolski cross from the left goalwards in the 10th minute, and at the other end a clever ball from Kwadwo Asamoah played in the advancing Boateng but Bastian Schweinsteiger did enough to cut out his cutback to Gyan.

The game was finely poised and Andre Ayew hesitated when a chance to shoot presented itself, and Ozil wasted a good opportunity for Germany when played in by Cacau as his shot was blocked by the legs of Kingson.

Gyan's glancing header from a corner was shepherded away from the goalline by Germany captain Philipp Lahm, although replays suggested he perhaps used his arm to initially keep it out.

Cacau was next to go close, hooking a shot on target after a clever flick from Sami Khedira which Kingson got down well to save.

Ghana were proving more than a match for the Germans and Boateng was just unable to get meaningful contact on an Ayew cross from the right.

Ayew was then unlucky to be booked for a challenge on Cacau and Schweinsteiger's resulting free-kick drifted all the way through to Kingson, who needed to push it away from danger.

Ghana created a golden opening early in the second period as Asamoah burst through, but his weak effort was blocked by the onrushing Manuel Neuer.

It was a costly miss as Thomas Muller found Ozil in space outside the area and he flashed a left-foot shot beyond Kingson on the hour mark to take Germany to the top of the group.

For the first time in the game Ghana had been slow to close down their opponents but their response was positive at least as Gyan header goalwards was blocked for a corner by Germany defender Jerome Boateng, the half-brother of Kevin-Prince.

Lahm made a crucial block to deny Ayew after Gyan back-heeled the ball into the path of the onrushing midfielder but Germany were not sitting on their lead and Cacau drilled a long-range shot goalwards which Kingson parried away awkwardly.

Ghana continued to press without creating too many clear-cut openings and Neuer was given a rare test by an Annan shot, although it appeared with Australia beating Serbia both teams were happy enough if the result stood and the last few minutes were played out uneventfully.