Coming into the tournament without injured talisman Michael Ballack, doubts over the future of coach Joachim Loew and the second-youngest squad in the competition, many might have expected Germany to struggle in South Africa.
But if their effervescent display in Durban is anything to go by, the three-time champions could be real contenders for the title come 11 July.
Lukas Podolski and Miroslav Klose continued their remarkable scoring record at international level with a goal apiece to take their joint tally to 88, Thomas Mueller and Cacau added the gloss, while in playmaker Mesut Ozil they appear to have found a real superstar.
They were aided by the harsh dismissal of Australia's key man Tim Cahill, given a straight red card for a clumsy but hardly malevolent challenge on Bastian Schweinsteiger on 55 minutes.
Germany, though, had given notice of their attacking class long before that.
Klose has already been denied by Aussie keeper Mark Schwarzer when Podolski drilled in the opener from Mueller's cross, and moments after Klose had wasted another glorious chance, poking wide from eight yards, the Bayern Munich man nodded in Phillip Lahm's delicious cross to make it 2-0.
In fairness, Australia had the odd half-chance, Jason Culina heading a Brett Emerton cross over and Richard Garcia sending a snap-shot past the post - while a second-half appeal for handball against Per Mertesacker in the box might have warranted closer inspection.
But what Germany lacked in defensive strength, they more than made up for in pace, power and technique up front.
Ozil twice had the chance to get on the scoresheet having been sent through one-on-one, his first effort cleared off the line by Lucas Neill and his touch failing him the second time.
And then came Cahill's sending off, after which Germany's domination was absolute.
Schwarzer did his best to keep the score down, saving twice from Klose, and once apiece from Sami Khedira and Podolski as Germany tore through the Australia defences time and again.
Monday, June 14, 2010
World champions Italy had to fight back from a goal down to earn a point against Paraguay as they began the defence of their crown with an unconvincing draw.
Marcello Lippi's side looked like they would be on the wrong end of the first major shock of the 2010 World Cup when they fell behind to Antolin
Alcaraz's first-half header but an error from the South American side's goalkeeper Justo Villa gifted Daniele de Rossi an equaliser.
The ageing Azzurri, who featured five of their 2006 winning team in their starting line-up, looked short of ideas going forward and also have a concern over the fitness of legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, who was forced off at half-time with an apparent back injury.
Italy did avoid their first defeat in their opening game of a World Cup since losing to the Republic of Ireland in New York in 2004 but this was not a performance to reassure their army of travelling fans that they are in any sort of shape to defend their title.
In the absence of the injured Andrea Pirlo, who is expected to return later in the group stage, it fell on Simone Pepe to try to open up the Paraguayan defence, but it was only in the closing stages of the game that he and his side managed any sustained spells of pressure.
Lippi's men dominated possession but their opponents' disciplined and regimented approach, in some ways reminiscent of many cautious Azzurri sides in the past, held firm.
Italy's best opening of the first half hour actually came on the break when Riccardo Montolivo dispossessed Salvatore Bocchetti on the half-way line but, after running to the edge of the area, his low shot barely tested Villar.
At the other end, Paraguay were growing in confidence and they had already wasted a couple of decent shooting chances when they stunned the world champions by taking the lead after 39 minutes.
Aureliano Torres curled in a wicked free-kick and Alcaraz leapt to beat Fabio Cannavaro and De Rossi and power home his header into the corner of the net.
Things got even worse for Italy at half-time when goalkeeper Buffon, another survivor of 2006 and still the anchor of their side, had to be replaced by Federico Marchetti.
Paraguay continued to look comfortable after the break and Enrique Vera came close to adding a second when he drove a fierce shot over the bar when the ball broke to him in the area.
But Italy were gifted an equaliser by the sort of goalkeeping howler that we have become used to in the opening days of this World Cup.
Villar flapped horribly at Pepe's corner and missed his attempted punch, allowing the onrushing De Rossi to force the ball the home from close range.
Italy looked a lot sharper after equalising and ended the stronger side but they were still finding things frustrating in the final third and had to settle for shots from distance.
Pepe fired wide after cutting in from the right and Montolivo had a low effort turned round the post before the end but the Paraguayans held on for the draw that their performance merited.
Alcaraz's first-half header but an error from the South American side's goalkeeper Justo Villa gifted Daniele de Rossi an equaliser.
The ageing Azzurri, who featured five of their 2006 winning team in their starting line-up, looked short of ideas going forward and also have a concern over the fitness of legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, who was forced off at half-time with an apparent back injury.
Italy did avoid their first defeat in their opening game of a World Cup since losing to the Republic of Ireland in New York in 2004 but this was not a performance to reassure their army of travelling fans that they are in any sort of shape to defend their title.
In the absence of the injured Andrea Pirlo, who is expected to return later in the group stage, it fell on Simone Pepe to try to open up the Paraguayan defence, but it was only in the closing stages of the game that he and his side managed any sustained spells of pressure.
Lippi's men dominated possession but their opponents' disciplined and regimented approach, in some ways reminiscent of many cautious Azzurri sides in the past, held firm.
Italy's best opening of the first half hour actually came on the break when Riccardo Montolivo dispossessed Salvatore Bocchetti on the half-way line but, after running to the edge of the area, his low shot barely tested Villar.
At the other end, Paraguay were growing in confidence and they had already wasted a couple of decent shooting chances when they stunned the world champions by taking the lead after 39 minutes.
Aureliano Torres curled in a wicked free-kick and Alcaraz leapt to beat Fabio Cannavaro and De Rossi and power home his header into the corner of the net.
Things got even worse for Italy at half-time when goalkeeper Buffon, another survivor of 2006 and still the anchor of their side, had to be replaced by Federico Marchetti.
Paraguay continued to look comfortable after the break and Enrique Vera came close to adding a second when he drove a fierce shot over the bar when the ball broke to him in the area.
But Italy were gifted an equaliser by the sort of goalkeeping howler that we have become used to in the opening days of this World Cup.
Villar flapped horribly at Pepe's corner and missed his attempted punch, allowing the onrushing De Rossi to force the ball the home from close range.
Italy looked a lot sharper after equalising and ended the stronger side but they were still finding things frustrating in the final third and had to settle for shots from distance.
Pepe fired wide after cutting in from the right and Montolivo had a low effort turned round the post before the end but the Paraguayans held on for the draw that their performance merited.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
England v USA betting preview World Cup 2010
The World Cup is here and England get their World Cup campaign underway today, the England v USA odds make England strong favourites to win the game despite USA being no mugs, they beat Spain and went close to beating Brazil in last year’s Confederations Cup, which was held in South Africa, so they have proven form here.
The England World Cup odds have drifted plenty recently, England were 11/2 a couple of months ago but have since drifted out to 8/1 after several mediocre friendly displays, but that doesn’t seem to have dented confidence in the England camp with Fabio Capello’s players sure they can win the World Cup.
The game against USA looks as though it should be high scoring, USA’s strength seems to be in attack and that should play to England’s strengths, they are not the best at breaking down stubborn teams but when they are attacked, they can counter attack and make the most out of Wayne Rooney’s lethal finishing. Wayne Rooney is going to be a major figure for England this summer and England need to get the most out of the Man Utd striker if they are to win the World Cup.
With goals set be plentiful on Saturday it should pay to back over 2.5 goals which looks great value at just under evens. Those looking for a bigger priced bet should concentrate on the correct score market, where it could pay to cover two outcomes, 2-1 and 3-1 wins for England. We know England have struggled to keep clean sheets under Fabio Capello, they have just six in twenty five games under the Italian’s leadership, and whichever one comes in you should win a nice amount.
Although confidence in England has been fairly low recently, a goal or two for Rooney against USA and his odds look set to crash and he is well worth backing now. Click the following link for the Wayne Rooney World Cup Golden Boot odds and take advantage of some great free bet offers whilst you are there.
The England World Cup odds have drifted plenty recently, England were 11/2 a couple of months ago but have since drifted out to 8/1 after several mediocre friendly displays, but that doesn’t seem to have dented confidence in the England camp with Fabio Capello’s players sure they can win the World Cup.
The game against USA looks as though it should be high scoring, USA’s strength seems to be in attack and that should play to England’s strengths, they are not the best at breaking down stubborn teams but when they are attacked, they can counter attack and make the most out of Wayne Rooney’s lethal finishing. Wayne Rooney is going to be a major figure for England this summer and England need to get the most out of the Man Utd striker if they are to win the World Cup.
With goals set be plentiful on Saturday it should pay to back over 2.5 goals which looks great value at just under evens. Those looking for a bigger priced bet should concentrate on the correct score market, where it could pay to cover two outcomes, 2-1 and 3-1 wins for England. We know England have struggled to keep clean sheets under Fabio Capello, they have just six in twenty five games under the Italian’s leadership, and whichever one comes in you should win a nice amount.
Although confidence in England has been fairly low recently, a goal or two for Rooney against USA and his odds look set to crash and he is well worth backing now. Click the following link for the Wayne Rooney World Cup Golden Boot odds and take advantage of some great free bet offers whilst you are there.
Korea Republic v Greece, World Cup Group B, Match 3
When the fixtures first came out, there were certain games I looked for. Korea Republic against Greece wasn't one of them and that is exactly the reason why it will probably be the best game of the day.
It's usually the games you don't expect to be good that are the ones you should have made time for and if I'm right, this will be the best game of the day while England v USA later will be an anti-climax. I hope I'm wrong by the way.
In between those two games we also have Argentina against Nigeria, but we will get to that later. For now, we really should focus on Korea Republic and Greece.
It's also a tough one to call but it is a hugely important game for both sides, as the other two teams in Group B, Argentina and Nigeria, are the favourites to go through. A draw isn't something either of these teams will be playing for and as such, I think we will see some end to end football. If you were not planning to watch this match, think again, it will be a great game - make time.
It's usually the games you don't expect to be good that are the ones you should have made time for and if I'm right, this will be the best game of the day while England v USA later will be an anti-climax. I hope I'm wrong by the way.
In between those two games we also have Argentina against Nigeria, but we will get to that later. For now, we really should focus on Korea Republic and Greece.
It's also a tough one to call but it is a hugely important game for both sides, as the other two teams in Group B, Argentina and Nigeria, are the favourites to go through. A draw isn't something either of these teams will be playing for and as such, I think we will see some end to end football. If you were not planning to watch this match, think again, it will be a great game - make time.
Oscar Cardozo isn't going to miss the World Cup
The Paraguay team have dismissed reports that Oscar Cardozo could be out of the World Cup and declared the striker could still make next week's opening match against Italy.
Cardozo scored 36 goals for Benfica last season but has been struggling with an ankle injury and has been training away from the rest of the Paraguay squad and the outlook is positive.
"I must clarify that Oscar Cardozo is not out of the World Cup, as has been implied in some media," said Paraguay team doctor Manuel Aguilar. "What's more, neither has he been ruled out of the first game."
So, there you have it, he might even make the first game against Italy in Cape Town on Monday evening. It will be a good game and Paraguay supporters will be hoping he can bring some of his league form to the national stage and if he can, we all here fancy Paraguay could surprise a few people at this tournament.
Cardozo scored 36 goals for Benfica last season but has been struggling with an ankle injury and has been training away from the rest of the Paraguay squad and the outlook is positive.
"I must clarify that Oscar Cardozo is not out of the World Cup, as has been implied in some media," said Paraguay team doctor Manuel Aguilar. "What's more, neither has he been ruled out of the first game."
So, there you have it, he might even make the first game against Italy in Cape Town on Monday evening. It will be a good game and Paraguay supporters will be hoping he can bring some of his league form to the national stage and if he can, we all here fancy Paraguay could surprise a few people at this tournament.
Germany have no chance of winning World Cup - Matthaus
Former Germany captain Lothar Matthaus says his country have 'almost' no chance of winning the World Cup in South Africa and that he is unimpressed with the standard of Joachim Loew's squad.
"The problem with Germany is that they have no stars, no-one with any individual brilliance, now that Ballack is out," said Matthaus. "And their preparations have hardly been optimal."
"The loss of Michael Ballack was a blow, as he would have been a dominant personality at the tournament. And the Bayern contingent joined up with the rest of the squad very late.
"Expectations are high for Germany, but other countries have caught up fast. As I said, Germany lack the brilliant individuals who can settle a match on their own, and that's been obvious for some years now.
"But Germany have to make the quarter-finals at a minimum. Whether they go any further depends on a lot of factors. But I have Spain, Brazil and Argentina at the top of my list. They can pick from the best players in the world.
"Holland have great players too, but with the exception of 1974 and 1978, they've never really done well at the World Cup. There's a tendency for their individuals to play to the gallery, and that affects their performance as a team.
"I see Philipp Lahm as Michael Ballack's natural successor as Germany captain. But the only thing that bothers me is that he's a full-back, so by definition he's not in the midfield area."
Germany are in Group D up against Australia, Serbia and Ghana and were pre-World Cup were favourites to win the group, but injuries have had hampered their preparations and this is now one of the closest groups as far as the bookmakers are concerned.
"The problem with Germany is that they have no stars, no-one with any individual brilliance, now that Ballack is out," said Matthaus. "And their preparations have hardly been optimal."
"The loss of Michael Ballack was a blow, as he would have been a dominant personality at the tournament. And the Bayern contingent joined up with the rest of the squad very late.
"Expectations are high for Germany, but other countries have caught up fast. As I said, Germany lack the brilliant individuals who can settle a match on their own, and that's been obvious for some years now.
"But Germany have to make the quarter-finals at a minimum. Whether they go any further depends on a lot of factors. But I have Spain, Brazil and Argentina at the top of my list. They can pick from the best players in the world.
"Holland have great players too, but with the exception of 1974 and 1978, they've never really done well at the World Cup. There's a tendency for their individuals to play to the gallery, and that affects their performance as a team.
"I see Philipp Lahm as Michael Ballack's natural successor as Germany captain. But the only thing that bothers me is that he's a full-back, so by definition he's not in the midfield area."
Germany are in Group D up against Australia, Serbia and Ghana and were pre-World Cup were favourites to win the group, but injuries have had hampered their preparations and this is now one of the closest groups as far as the bookmakers are concerned.
Friday, June 11, 2010
France, Uruguay draw a blank
An opportunity to seize the initiative in Group A was missed at Cape Town’s Green Point Stadium as France and ten-man Uruguay served up a drab goalless draw. The earlier stalemate between South Africa and Mexico had presented their section rivals with the chance to claim top spot, but neither did enough to secure three points in a scrappy encounter in which Nicolas Lodeiro picked up the tournament’s first red card.
France’s difficulties at UEFA EURO 2008 and during FIFA World Cup™ qualifying has enabled them to sneak almost unnoticed into this competition, yet they reminded everyone of their considerable potential with some slick early play. Predictably, Frank Ribery was at the heart of the best of their attacking forays, and only Sidney Govou will know how he failed to convert the Bayern Munich winger’s inviting low cross after eight minutes. Ribery looked to have laid on a certain goal, with Govou inside the six-yard box when the ball arrived, but the Lyon player’s right-foot attempt lacked conviction and the ball trickled wide of the far post.
Les Bleus remained in the ascendancy, and Nicolas Anelka – who endured a frustrating evening – might have done better than head over from an intelligently weighted Yoann Gourcuff cross. The presence of Diego Forlan ensured that Raymond Domenech’s side were never able to rest easy, though, and the Atletico Madrid striker underlined his capabilities on 16 minutes with an effort out of nothing. Stepping inside from the left beyond William Gallas, Forlan unleashed a powerful right-foot drive that was heading for the net before Hugo Lloris got across to make a fine save.
Nonetheless, this was an isolated moment of concern for a French side who remained firmly in control, with Abou Diaby dictating the midfield pace. Gourcuff was also impressing, and with 18 minutes played he forced an alert save from Fernando Muslera with an audacious free-kick attempt on goal, inches from the left touchline. The game fell into something of a lull as half-time approached, but the tempo picked up again after the break, with Forlan blasting over after sneaking in between Gallas and Bacary Sagna. There was precious little penetration, however, and the growing frustration was summed up 12 minutes after the restart when Jeremy Toulalan tried his luck from all of 35 yards, bringing a comfortable save out of Muslera.
France introduced Thierry Henry in an attempt to re-establish their early superiority, but it was Uruguay who should have snatched victory, with Forlan wasting the best chance of the half, blasting wide from an unmarked position 12 yards from goal. Ultimately, however, La Celeste were happy to hold out for a point after second-half substitute Lodeiro earned a second yellow card for an ugly lunge on Sagna.
France’s difficulties at UEFA EURO 2008 and during FIFA World Cup™ qualifying has enabled them to sneak almost unnoticed into this competition, yet they reminded everyone of their considerable potential with some slick early play. Predictably, Frank Ribery was at the heart of the best of their attacking forays, and only Sidney Govou will know how he failed to convert the Bayern Munich winger’s inviting low cross after eight minutes. Ribery looked to have laid on a certain goal, with Govou inside the six-yard box when the ball arrived, but the Lyon player’s right-foot attempt lacked conviction and the ball trickled wide of the far post.
Les Bleus remained in the ascendancy, and Nicolas Anelka – who endured a frustrating evening – might have done better than head over from an intelligently weighted Yoann Gourcuff cross. The presence of Diego Forlan ensured that Raymond Domenech’s side were never able to rest easy, though, and the Atletico Madrid striker underlined his capabilities on 16 minutes with an effort out of nothing. Stepping inside from the left beyond William Gallas, Forlan unleashed a powerful right-foot drive that was heading for the net before Hugo Lloris got across to make a fine save.
Nonetheless, this was an isolated moment of concern for a French side who remained firmly in control, with Abou Diaby dictating the midfield pace. Gourcuff was also impressing, and with 18 minutes played he forced an alert save from Fernando Muslera with an audacious free-kick attempt on goal, inches from the left touchline. The game fell into something of a lull as half-time approached, but the tempo picked up again after the break, with Forlan blasting over after sneaking in between Gallas and Bacary Sagna. There was precious little penetration, however, and the growing frustration was summed up 12 minutes after the restart when Jeremy Toulalan tried his luck from all of 35 yards, bringing a comfortable save out of Muslera.
France introduced Thierry Henry in an attempt to re-establish their early superiority, but it was Uruguay who should have snatched victory, with Forlan wasting the best chance of the half, blasting wide from an unmarked position 12 yards from goal. Ultimately, however, La Celeste were happy to hold out for a point after second-half substitute Lodeiro earned a second yellow card for an ugly lunge on Sagna.
Africa RSS Feed Mandela's Great-Granddaughter Killed in Car Crash
The great-granddaughter of South Africa's anti-apartheid leader Nelson Mandela has been killed in a car crash as she traveled home from the concert kick-off for the 2010 soccer World Cup.
The Nelson Mandela Foundation said Zenani Mandela died in the one-car accident on a Johannesburg highway. It said no one else was injured in the crash.
Police in Johannesburg have charged the driver with drunk driving and say they are considering "culpable homicide" charges as well.
Zenani had celebrated her 13th birthday only two days earlier. She is one of nine great-grandchildren of Mr. Mandela, who was South Africa's first black president.
The foundation said the Mandela family asked for privacy as they mourned their loss.
The World Cup soccer championship officially begins Friday, with a match-up between South Africa and Mexico in Johannesburg.
The Nelson Mandela Foundation said Zenani Mandela died in the one-car accident on a Johannesburg highway. It said no one else was injured in the crash.
Police in Johannesburg have charged the driver with drunk driving and say they are considering "culpable homicide" charges as well.
Zenani had celebrated her 13th birthday only two days earlier. She is one of nine great-grandchildren of Mr. Mandela, who was South Africa's first black president.
The foundation said the Mandela family asked for privacy as they mourned their loss.
The World Cup soccer championship officially begins Friday, with a match-up between South Africa and Mexico in Johannesburg.
World Cup Play Begins
Play has begun at the 2010 World Cup - the first ever World Cup to be held on the continent of Africa.
About 90,000 fans mostly dressed in South Africa's team colors of yellow and green, packed into the newly refurbished Soccer City stadium in Johannesburg on Friday. They watched host South Africa battle Mexico to a 1-1 draw in the first game of the 32-nation, month-long tournament. France and Uruguay play in the second game of the day.
Earlier a spectacular opening ceremony featured singers and dancers in colorful costumes and body paint. South Africa's President Jacob Zuma and his Mexican counterpart, Felipe Calderon, sat side-by-side overlooking the festivities, each wearing their home team's scarf.
Television cameras also showed South African Nobel laureate and retired Archbishop Desmond Tutu wearing a team jersey and dancing in the stands. He was joined in the stands by U.S. Vice President Joe Biden who is representing the United States at the tournament.
About 90,000 fans mostly dressed in South Africa's team colors of yellow and green, packed into the newly refurbished Soccer City stadium in Johannesburg on Friday. They watched host South Africa battle Mexico to a 1-1 draw in the first game of the 32-nation, month-long tournament. France and Uruguay play in the second game of the day.
Earlier a spectacular opening ceremony featured singers and dancers in colorful costumes and body paint. South Africa's President Jacob Zuma and his Mexican counterpart, Felipe Calderon, sat side-by-side overlooking the festivities, each wearing their home team's scarf.
Television cameras also showed South African Nobel laureate and retired Archbishop Desmond Tutu wearing a team jersey and dancing in the stands. He was joined in the stands by U.S. Vice President Joe Biden who is representing the United States at the tournament.
Marquez equaliser frustrates South Africa
Rafael Marquez denied South Africa a dream start to their FIFA World Cup™ with a late equaliser for Mexico in a 1-1 draw in an absorbing Opening Match at Soccer City.
Carlos Alberto Parreira's hosts appeared on course for three points when Siphiwe Tshabalala fired them in front with a superb 55th-minute strike. But after Teko Modise had missed two clear chances to seal victory, Marquez rescued the draw that Mexico's first-half dominance deserved with a close-range finish 11 minutes from time.
South Africa's players were singing as they came down the tunnel before stepping out into a wall of noise inside Soccer City. But after referee Ravshan Irmatov blew the first whistle of these finals, it was Mexico who looked the team in tune. Their positive start might have yielded the earliest goal of any FIFA World Cup Opening Match as Alessandro Dos Santos nearly struck inside two minutes. Paul Aguilar delivered a low cross and when goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune failed to smother it, Dos Santos looked poised to bury the loose ball only for Aaron Mokoena to make a vital block.
Carlos Alberto Parreira's hosts appeared on course for three points when Siphiwe Tshabalala fired them in front with a superb 55th-minute strike. But after Teko Modise had missed two clear chances to seal victory, Marquez rescued the draw that Mexico's first-half dominance deserved with a close-range finish 11 minutes from time.
South Africa's players were singing as they came down the tunnel before stepping out into a wall of noise inside Soccer City. But after referee Ravshan Irmatov blew the first whistle of these finals, it was Mexico who looked the team in tune. Their positive start might have yielded the earliest goal of any FIFA World Cup Opening Match as Alessandro Dos Santos nearly struck inside two minutes. Paul Aguilar delivered a low cross and when goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune failed to smother it, Dos Santos looked poised to bury the loose ball only for Aaron Mokoena to make a vital block.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
FIFA World Cup 2010: World Cup 2010 Opening Ceremony and TV Game Schedules
The soccer event of the year is two days away from its opening day. FIFA World Cup 2010 is on its way of bringing the gathering of the world’s greatest soccer teams and players that will surely hit the crowd all over the world. As scheduled, FIFA World Cup 2010 will have its opening day on June 11, 2010 with 32 teams from 32 countries around the world.
For the first matches scheduled to kickoff, South Africa will face Mexico at 10:00 EDT. The game will be held in Johannesburg. Uruguay will face France in Cape Town at 14:30 EDT. The title match will be held on July 11, at 1:30 PM ET from the Soccer City Stadium in Johannesburg.
You can watch the FIFA World Cup 2010 matches on ESPN, ESPN360.com and ABC and other sports channels available in your area.
For the first matches scheduled to kickoff, South Africa will face Mexico at 10:00 EDT. The game will be held in Johannesburg. Uruguay will face France in Cape Town at 14:30 EDT. The title match will be held on July 11, at 1:30 PM ET from the Soccer City Stadium in Johannesburg.
You can watch the FIFA World Cup 2010 matches on ESPN, ESPN360.com and ABC and other sports channels available in your area.
Italy arrive to defend World Cup title
JOHANNESBURG — Reigning champions Italy arrived in South Africa on Wednesday to defend their crown after tournament favourites Spain showed off their firepower as they scored six times in their final warm-up game.
Coach Marcello Lippi's Italian squad, which includes nine of the players in the squad which triumphed four years ago in Germany, were guarded by dozens of police after their plane touched down at Johannesburg airport.
They headed off to the Leriba Golf Lodge, just outside Pretoria, to prepare for their opening Group F match against Paraguay in Cape Town on Monday.
The Italians' arrival ups the tempo two days before Friday's big kickoff when the host nation take on Mexico in front of 90,000 spectators -- including former president Nelson Mandela -- at Johannesburg's Soccer City stadium.
Italy have rarely shone since their triumph against France in the 2006 final in Berlin, but the country's football federation chief Giancarlo Abete insisted it would be a mistake to write off Lippi's squad.
"Italy are world champions, that should not be forgotten but you cannot deny that other teams have done better than us in the last few years," Abete said on the plane to South Africa.
"For everyone the favourites are Brazil, Spain, Argentina and England, but we've got great belief.
"For Italy we're talking about tradition and in big competitions our strengths show through."
But history is against the Italians -- no country has won back-to-back World Cups since Brazil in 1962.
Lippi has already lost key man Andrea Pirlo to a calf strain for the Paraguay game and the playmaker faces a race against time to be involved in any of the group games.
Injuries have blighted the preparations of many of the main contenders, but Spain will leave for South Africa on Thursday safe in the knowledge that striker Fernando Torres is approaching full fitness after knee surgery in April.
The Liverpool forward scored with a neat finish after coming on as a second-half substitute for David Villa in Spain's 6-0 thrashing of Poland in Murcia which showed the Spaniards are on track as they bid to win the World Cup for the first time.
"It's almost two months since I played so I am happy to have scored," said Torres.
Coach Vicente Del Bosque admitted he was delighted by the return to form of the man who netted the winner in the Euro 2008 final against Germany.
"We have finished our preparations and we can go to South Africa in good spirits," he said.
The only cloud on the horizon for Spain was a leg injury to playmaker Andres Iniesta, who will undergo a scan on Wednesday, although Del Bosque said he believed it was nothing major.
Portugal were counting the cost after in-form Manchester United winger Nani was ruled out of the entire tournament after injuring his collarbone in training, dealing a blow to his country's chances.
As a forlorn Nani watched from the sidelines, Portugal eased to a 3-0 win over Mozambique in Johannesburg on Tuesday with Hugo Almeida scoring twice.
Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz admitted Nani was a "sad" loss. "But the most important thing is the cohesion of the team and that we all play together to get over it," he said.
Queiroz was however given a boost after seeing defensive midfielder Pepe back in action after the Real Madrid player had been sidelined for six months with a knee injury.
England returned to the training pitch in Rustenburg, but all the fireworks came from coach Fabio Capello who unleashed an angry blast at photographers and cameramen.
Apparently believing some of the lenses were being trained beyond the players and into the changing room as his players emerged at the Royal Bafokeng Sports Campus, the no-nonsense Italian abruptly brought the shooting to a halt.
Meanwhile, England's opponents in their Group C opener, the United States, reported that Jozy Altidore, their top scorer in qualifying, and key defender Oguchi Onyewu had recovered from injuries and were available to play on Saturday.
Coach Marcello Lippi's Italian squad, which includes nine of the players in the squad which triumphed four years ago in Germany, were guarded by dozens of police after their plane touched down at Johannesburg airport.
They headed off to the Leriba Golf Lodge, just outside Pretoria, to prepare for their opening Group F match against Paraguay in Cape Town on Monday.
The Italians' arrival ups the tempo two days before Friday's big kickoff when the host nation take on Mexico in front of 90,000 spectators -- including former president Nelson Mandela -- at Johannesburg's Soccer City stadium.
Italy have rarely shone since their triumph against France in the 2006 final in Berlin, but the country's football federation chief Giancarlo Abete insisted it would be a mistake to write off Lippi's squad.
"Italy are world champions, that should not be forgotten but you cannot deny that other teams have done better than us in the last few years," Abete said on the plane to South Africa.
"For everyone the favourites are Brazil, Spain, Argentina and England, but we've got great belief.
"For Italy we're talking about tradition and in big competitions our strengths show through."
But history is against the Italians -- no country has won back-to-back World Cups since Brazil in 1962.
Lippi has already lost key man Andrea Pirlo to a calf strain for the Paraguay game and the playmaker faces a race against time to be involved in any of the group games.
Injuries have blighted the preparations of many of the main contenders, but Spain will leave for South Africa on Thursday safe in the knowledge that striker Fernando Torres is approaching full fitness after knee surgery in April.
The Liverpool forward scored with a neat finish after coming on as a second-half substitute for David Villa in Spain's 6-0 thrashing of Poland in Murcia which showed the Spaniards are on track as they bid to win the World Cup for the first time.
"It's almost two months since I played so I am happy to have scored," said Torres.
Coach Vicente Del Bosque admitted he was delighted by the return to form of the man who netted the winner in the Euro 2008 final against Germany.
"We have finished our preparations and we can go to South Africa in good spirits," he said.
The only cloud on the horizon for Spain was a leg injury to playmaker Andres Iniesta, who will undergo a scan on Wednesday, although Del Bosque said he believed it was nothing major.
Portugal were counting the cost after in-form Manchester United winger Nani was ruled out of the entire tournament after injuring his collarbone in training, dealing a blow to his country's chances.
As a forlorn Nani watched from the sidelines, Portugal eased to a 3-0 win over Mozambique in Johannesburg on Tuesday with Hugo Almeida scoring twice.
Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz admitted Nani was a "sad" loss. "But the most important thing is the cohesion of the team and that we all play together to get over it," he said.
Queiroz was however given a boost after seeing defensive midfielder Pepe back in action after the Real Madrid player had been sidelined for six months with a knee injury.
England returned to the training pitch in Rustenburg, but all the fireworks came from coach Fabio Capello who unleashed an angry blast at photographers and cameramen.
Apparently believing some of the lenses were being trained beyond the players and into the changing room as his players emerged at the Royal Bafokeng Sports Campus, the no-nonsense Italian abruptly brought the shooting to a halt.
Meanwhile, England's opponents in their Group C opener, the United States, reported that Jozy Altidore, their top scorer in qualifying, and key defender Oguchi Onyewu had recovered from injuries and were available to play on Saturday.
Algeria The wonders Kids World cup 2010
This is Algeria's first appearance in the World Cup since Mexico 1986, when they were eliminated in the first round. They were the last team to qualify for this year's finals, negotiating a tough one-off play-off clash with Egypt to book their place in South Africa. Defender Antar Yahia's venomous volley crashed in off the crossbar to seal a narrow 1-0 victory in the neutral venue of Sudan.
The Desert Foxes are currently ranked 28th in the world by Fifa, their highest ever position. They will be dangerous opponents in South Africa as they have enough ability and team spirit to cause problems. They play a tight, hard-tackling game, unlike the open and expansive style of many other African nations.
Portsmouth duo Nadir Belhadj and Hassan Yebda both make the squad. Belhadj has impressed as both full-back and midfielder down the left side for Pompey this year, and likes to get forward. Rangers defender Madjid Bougherra is also highly rated and has been linked with moves away from Ibrox. The Fennecs also possess a talented goalkeeper in Faouzi Chaouchi, who is one of only three players in the squad to play their football in his homeland.
However, both Belhadj and keeper Chaouchi will carry suspensions into the tournament. Belhadj misses the opening clash with Slovenia, while Chaouchi is banned for the first two games, so also misses the England game.
Coach Rabah Saadane has a talented squad at his disposal, with most of the players plying their trade across Europe in the major leagues. However, one key player not in the squad is Lazio midfielder Mourad Meghni, who has not recovered from injury in time. Nine of the players in the squad have switched their allegiance to Algeria having previously represented France at junior level.
Algeria are in Group C along with the United States, Slovenia and England. Although the Algerians didn't impress in a recent 3-0 warm-up loss to the Republic of Ireland, they should be a different proposition once the tournament starts. Their games with Slovenia and the US will be key, and they will need to win at leat one to have any hope of making the knock-out stages. However, I fear that a lack of experience on the world stage (I know the same could be said of Slovenia) could prove to be their downfall. Saying that, the Desert Foxes will be no pushovers and will be on the prowl for victims in South Africa.
Algeria squad:
Goalkeepers: Lounes Gaouaoui (ASO Chlef), Faouzi Chaouchi (Entente Setif), Rais M Bolhi (Slavia Sofia, Bulgaria)
Defenders: Abdelkader Laifaoui (Entente Setif), Madjid Bougherra (Rangers, Scotland), Carl Medjani (Ajaccio, France), Rafik Halliche (Nacional Madeira, Portugal), Anther Yahia (Bochum, Germany), Habib Belaid (Boulogne-sur-Mer, France), Nadir Belhadj (Portsmouth, England), Djamel Mesbah (Lecce, Italy)
Midfielders: Hassan Yebda (Portsmouth, England), Medhi Lacen (Racing Santander, Spain), Yazid Mansouri (Lorient, France), Adlene Guedioura (on loan at Wolverhampton, England from Charleroi, Belgium), Riad Boudebouz (Sochaux, France), Djamel Abdoun (Nantes, France), Fouad Kadir (Valenciennes, France), Karim Ziani (Wolfsburg, Germany), Karim Matmour (Borussia Moenchengladbach, Germany)
Strikers: Abdelkader Ghezzal (Siena,Italy), Rafik Djebbour (AEK Athens,Greece), Rafik Saifi (Istres, France)
England A Big Price For Successful World Cup
England can currently be backed at 8/1 with VC Bet and William Hill to win the World Cup 2010 and if you compare that to USA’s odds of 80/1 with Bet365, who offer up to £200 in free bets to new customers, you can see England are some way ahead of USA. England are rated at 1/2 with Bet365 and Paddy Power to win the game whilst USA are 13/2 with William Hill, the draw is 16/5 with Bet365. England are expected to win this game and go on to pick up 9 points in Group C of the World Cup 2010, that outcome is 15/8 with Bet365 and William Hill looks pretty fair, alternatively you could back England to win Group C at just 3/10 with Sportingbet.
Expect Goals Galore In England’s Opening Match
England v USA looks as though it could be a great game, England have made a habit of conceding poor goals but also tend to score plenty themselves so over 2.5 goals looks an outstanding bet at 21/20 with Bet365, who offer up to £200 in free bets to new customers. The most likely scoreline appears to be 2-1 to England and that is 8/1 with 888Sport but it could also be worth covering 3-1 at 14/1 with SkyBet. England’s World Cup hopes appear to rest with Wayne Rooney this summer and he should be backed to score first at 7/2 with Paddy Power and 888Sport and also to score anytime at evens with Paddy Power. Don’t forget that Paddy Power are refunding first/last goalscorer bets, correct score bets and scorecasts
Expect Goals Galore In England’s Opening Match
England v USA looks as though it could be a great game, England have made a habit of conceding poor goals but also tend to score plenty themselves so over 2.5 goals looks an outstanding bet at 21/20 with Bet365, who offer up to £200 in free bets to new customers. The most likely scoreline appears to be 2-1 to England and that is 8/1 with 888Sport but it could also be worth covering 3-1 at 14/1 with SkyBet. England’s World Cup hopes appear to rest with Wayne Rooney this summer and he should be backed to score first at 7/2 with Paddy Power and 888Sport and also to score anytime at evens with Paddy Power. Don’t forget that Paddy Power are refunding first/last goalscorer bets, correct score bets and scorecasts
Rooney must cut short fuse
World Cup 2010: Rustenburg
High above Nelson Mandela Drive - the long road that stretches into and out of Rustenburg - the face of Wayne Rooney looks down from a giant hoarding accompanied by the slogan: "Once In A Lifetime."
Rooney is one of the symbols of the World Cup, earmarked even before the opening ceremony as a unique talent capable of making an indelible mark on the tournament.
If stars of Rooney's stature are important to the overall image of this South African showpiece, then this is nothing compared to how integral he is to England's chances of success.
And that is why Rooney's behaviour in England's unconvincing win against local side Platinum Stars will surely draw a short but sharp rebuke from Fabio Capello ahead of Saturday's opening game against the United States.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/philmcnulty/2010/06/rooneys_must_cut_out_short_fus.html
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Argentina v Nigeria Live on Jun 12 2010
Argentina v Nigeria Live on Jun 12 2010
watch live on macropsorts
watch live on macropsorts
The World Cup: Scoring against racism
The road to the first football World Cup in Africa has been long for host South Africa, filled with frustrations and challenges. For the country's 45 million people, it is widely seen as an important step in nation building after years of oppression and inequality, the Voice of America reported.
Six years ago, South Africa won its bid to become the first African nation to host a football World Cup, the VOA's Scott Bobb said in his report.
"The 2010 World Cup will be organised in South Africa," said the head of football's governing body, FIFA's Sepp Blatter, at the time he made the announcement in Zurich.
The country's first post-apartheid president, Nelson Mandela, campaigned hard for the prestigious tournament because he saw it as a way to further reconciliation after decades of racial separation and conflict.
The head of the South African Organizing Committee, Danny Jordaan, a former football player and anti-apartheid activist, was there from the start.
"After 1990, when Mandela walked out of that prison, we saw it as a beginning of the creation of a new South Africa," Jordaan said. "After the elections of 1994, we then had to deal with building a new democratic, non-sexist South Africa."
Jordaan and other officials met during the 1994 World Cup in the United States and decided to bid on hosting the next available World Cup, in 2006.
South Africa lost this first bid to Germany by one vote, but Jordaan says that only strengthened the team's resolve.
Six years ago, South Africa won its bid to become the first African nation to host a football World Cup, the VOA's Scott Bobb said in his report.
"The 2010 World Cup will be organised in South Africa," said the head of football's governing body, FIFA's Sepp Blatter, at the time he made the announcement in Zurich.
The country's first post-apartheid president, Nelson Mandela, campaigned hard for the prestigious tournament because he saw it as a way to further reconciliation after decades of racial separation and conflict.
The head of the South African Organizing Committee, Danny Jordaan, a former football player and anti-apartheid activist, was there from the start.
"After 1990, when Mandela walked out of that prison, we saw it as a beginning of the creation of a new South Africa," Jordaan said. "After the elections of 1994, we then had to deal with building a new democratic, non-sexist South Africa."
Jordaan and other officials met during the 1994 World Cup in the United States and decided to bid on hosting the next available World Cup, in 2006.
South Africa lost this first bid to Germany by one vote, but Jordaan says that only strengthened the team's resolve.
Monday, June 7, 2010
The father & son plotting England's downfall
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Never heard of Bob and Michael Bradley? They are the father and son team plotting England's downfall when Fabio Capello's side meet the United States in their opening World Cup fixture on 12 June.
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Bob is the US coach and 22-year-old son Michael is a key midfielder - and both are determined to spoil England's party.
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"When we step on the field in Rustenburg, I'm sure that both teams will go after it," Michael told me. "Right now I feel fresh and excited. The US team will be ready to give everything."
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Series: World Cup Fans' NetworkPrevious | Next | Index England World Cup 2010 fan's preview: Pace could be the key
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2010 FIFA World Cup
Fabio Capello's squad is comfortable in a formation where everyone knows their role and, importantly, knows their place. But in recent months most have been injured, off-form, or both. We're left with a squad of half-ready players and half-ready understudies, so he has a big job to pull it all together. But our one big, match-winning strength remains pace: Aaron Lennon on the right, Ashley Cole on the left, rested and eager.
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Men to watch: Let's pray for Gareth Barry's ankle. Prescient anticipation, boundless energy and the ability to pass long and short, he can protect our back four and turn defence into attack. Steven Gerrard can also finally take his place in the world order, and James Milner will help with hard yards and killer crosses. And, yes, I may be a Spurs fan, but trust me, Ledley King's awareness, timing and pace over 10 yards mean he's well equipped to excel. And Ashley, mate, those things I shouted at the Lane last season: let's put that behind us, you're bang in form and could be a tournament star.
Kid's USA Home Jersey - White (M/ L)
The Girl Who Played with Fire (Vintage)
Weakest link: Wayne Rooney's partner. Jermain Defoe's link-up play is improved but he's not bright enough to outwit top-class defences, and Peter Crouch's percentage return diminishes in proportion to the defenders' ability.
The coach: He's wonderful. And the players are clearly scared witless of him, which I like.
Best chant: "Eng-er-land..." We all know the words.
Least-liked opponents: France. Not jingoism, just a whingeing waste of talent.
2002 FIFA World Cup
2010 FIFA World CupFabio Capello's squad is comfortable in a formation where everyone knows their role and, importantly, knows their place. But in recent months most have been injured, off-form, or both. We're left with a squad of half-ready players and half-ready understudies, so he has a big job to pull it all together. But our one big, match-winning strength remains pace: Aaron Lennon on the right, Ashley Cole on the left, rested and eager.Teva Women's Mush Flip Flop
Men to watch: Let's pray for Gareth Barry's ankle. Prescient anticipation, boundless energy and the ability to pass long and short, he can protect our back four and turn defence into attack. Steven Gerrard can also finally take his place in the world order, and James Milner will help with hard yards and killer crosses. And, yes, I may be a Spurs fan, but trust me, Ledley King's awareness, timing and pace over 10 yards mean he's well equipped to excel. And Ashley, mate, those things I shouted at the Lane last season: let's put that behind us, you're bang in form and could be a tournament star.
Kid's USA Home Jersey - White (M/ L)
The Girl Who Played with Fire (Vintage)
Weakest link: Wayne Rooney's partner. Jermain Defoe's link-up play is improved but he's not bright enough to outwit top-class defences, and Peter Crouch's percentage return diminishes in proportion to the defenders' ability.
The coach: He's wonderful. And the players are clearly scared witless of him, which I like.
Best chant: "Eng-er-land..." We all know the words.
Least-liked opponents: France. Not jingoism, just a whingeing waste of talent.
2002 FIFA World Cup
World Cup 2010: USA plan to wind up Wayne Rooney
The USA deserve to be ranked a laudable 14th in the world. During yesterday's 3-1 win over Australia here their confidence in attack confirmed they will present problems in England's opening World Cup match on Saturday. Nonetheless Bob Bradley's side must achieve solidity to restrict opponents six places above them in the Fifa standings.Philips Norelco 1059X Arcitec Men's Electric Shaver, White
That came to mind when the USA defender Jay DeMerit looked ahead to the game in Rustenburg. "I have played against Wayne [Rooney]," he said. "So far, so good." Either the centre-half is suffering from a faulty memory or believes damage-limitation is satisfactory. In two matches in 2007, including an FA Cup semi-final, Rooney scored three times against DeMerit's Watford.
There is no particular shame in that but it suggests that the USA have to come up with more rigour. "He's a fantastic player," DeMerit said, "and this season he's been in the best form of his life. If he takes that into the World Cup, he will be a difficult opponent for anybody.
USA 3-1 Australia
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This eventful match in Roodepoort held the crowd's interest, but the array of incidents would have been a particular pleasure to the watching Franco Baldini, England's general manager. The three goals for the victors will have counted for less than the realisation that the USA lacked resilience and organisation. There will have to be much improvement if they are to be in shape for the encounter with Fabio Capello and his men in Rustenburg on Saturday.
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Even so, the USA manager, Bob Bradley, could retort that flaws have been abundant in England's friendlies as well. "When you talk about areas to improve," he said, "I think of the co-ordination of our defence." Capello is not carefree over such matters these days, but he should enjoy superior firepower regardless of the fact that the USA will pose a threat.
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Both managers in the Ruimsig Stadium were trying to prepare for the tournament without revealing too much. A friendly in the week before the start of the World Cup must be as much about disguise as preparation. The terrible pitch connived in the subterfuge by making it hard to tell how much skill was actually present as players regularly needed a few touches to force the ball into submission.
This eventful match in Roodepoort held the crowd's interest, but the array of incidents would have been a particular pleasure to the watching Franco Baldini, England's general manager. The three goals for the victors will have counted for less than the realisation that the USA lacked resilience and organisation. There will have to be much improvement if they are to be in shape for the encounter with Fabio Capello and his men in Rustenburg on Saturday.
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Even so, the USA manager, Bob Bradley, could retort that flaws have been abundant in England's friendlies as well. "When you talk about areas to improve," he said, "I think of the co-ordination of our defence." Capello is not carefree over such matters these days, but he should enjoy superior firepower regardless of the fact that the USA will pose a threat.
Zumba Fitness Total Body Transformation System DVD Set.
Both managers in the Ruimsig Stadium were trying to prepare for the tournament without revealing too much. A friendly in the week before the start of the World Cup must be as much about disguise as preparation. The terrible pitch connived in the subterfuge by making it hard to tell how much skill was actually present as players regularly needed a few touches to force the ball into submission.
England's opening World Cup 2010 referee branded a 'crook'
The Brazilian referee appointed for England's opening Group C game against the USA was suspended last season by his national federation amid accusations of bribery and incompetence.
Carlos Eugênio Simon, who has officiated at the last two World Cup finals, was stood down by the Brazilian football confederation for the final six weeks of the domestic campaign after a build-up of perceived errors culminated in the president of Palmeiras denouncing him as "a crook, a scoundrel and a shameless bastard".
Some 12 months earlier Flamengo had been so incensed by the sending-off of their striker Diego Tardelli in a critical game against Cruzeiro – the forward appeared to be fouled for a penalty, only to be sent off for diving – that they wrote to the Fifa general secretary, Jérôme Valcke, with an accompanying DVD, demanding Simon was dropped for the tournament in South Africa. Their defeat by Cruzeiro had cost them a place in the following season's Copa Libertadores.
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Carlos Eugênio Simon, who has officiated at the last two World Cup finals, was stood down by the Brazilian football confederation for the final six weeks of the domestic campaign after a build-up of perceived errors culminated in the president of Palmeiras denouncing him as "a crook, a scoundrel and a shameless bastard".
Some 12 months earlier Flamengo had been so incensed by the sending-off of their striker Diego Tardelli in a critical game against Cruzeiro – the forward appeared to be fouled for a penalty, only to be sent off for diving – that they wrote to the Fifa general secretary, Jérôme Valcke, with an accompanying DVD, demanding Simon was dropped for the tournament in South Africa. Their defeat by Cruzeiro had cost them a place in the following season's Copa Libertadores.
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World Cup 2010: Stampede at Warmup Match
A stampede took place at the stadium where a warmup game between Nigeria and North Korea was to take place, injuring 14 people and one police officer seriously. The Makhulong Stadium in suburban Johannesburg, South Africa, with a seating capacity of just around 12,000, was hosting this FIFA World Cup 2010 friendly. This is the second stadium tragedy to hit before the mega event, the previous one was at Ivory Coast during a world cup qualifying match. That incident claimed the lives of 22 people and resulted in FIFA fining Ivory Coast a little less than $50,000.
The current tragedy took place when fans were supposedly given free tickets for the Nigeria - North Korea warmup game. There was a large crowd outside the stadium wanting to see the game, and once the free tickets were announced and the gates were opened, there was a mad rush which resulted in a stampede. Lt. Col. Eugene Opperman, police spokesman said, "At this moment we have 14 civilians that were slightly injured in the process, and one policeman seriously injured. Tickets for the game were given out for free outside the stadium. What then occurred was large groups of people gathered outside the gates wanting to come in and wanting to get free tickets. Unfortunately in the process, the gates were opened and there was a stampede." Col. Hangwani Mulaudzi, another police spokesman said, "I think the fans were excited to come and see their heroes who will be participating in the World Cup. Because this was an exhibition game, the Nigerian team - the designated host - was responsible for security, not World Cup organizers. Once trouble broke out, police stepped in."
The current tragedy took place when fans were supposedly given free tickets for the Nigeria - North Korea warmup game. There was a large crowd outside the stadium wanting to see the game, and once the free tickets were announced and the gates were opened, there was a mad rush which resulted in a stampede. Lt. Col. Eugene Opperman, police spokesman said, "At this moment we have 14 civilians that were slightly injured in the process, and one policeman seriously injured. Tickets for the game were given out for free outside the stadium. What then occurred was large groups of people gathered outside the gates wanting to come in and wanting to get free tickets. Unfortunately in the process, the gates were opened and there was a stampede." Col. Hangwani Mulaudzi, another police spokesman said, "I think the fans were excited to come and see their heroes who will be participating in the World Cup. Because this was an exhibition game, the Nigerian team - the designated host - was responsible for security, not World Cup organizers. Once trouble broke out, police stepped in."
Nigeria beat North Korea 3-1 in a World Cup warm-up
Nigeria beat North Korea 3-1 in a World Cup warm-up this afternoon but the game was overshadowed by a stampede which caused at least 14 people to be treated for injuries.
The 'incident' happened before kick-off when fans tried to get entry into the Makhulong Stadium in Tembisa and didn't impact the actual match and it kicked off on time, however it was a scare.
The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest
The 'incident' happened before kick-off when fans tried to get entry into the Makhulong Stadium in Tembisa and didn't impact the actual match and it kicked off on time, however it was a scare.
The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest
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Macro Sports blog is dedicated to sport lovers all over the world . This blog contains regular updates of FIFA 2010, football , cricket , athletics , basketball and important news updates
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