Guide To The 2010 World Cup - Bennett, Tom Hall, Steven Interact Publishing (Firm) - 2010 - London - HarperSport - 9780007358304 - Anna's Archive

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WITH EXPERT ANALYSIS FROM THEIAN WRIGHT
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GUIDE TO TLHD CEUP
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Northamptonshire Libraries
First published in 2010 by

HarperSport, in association with News Group Newspapers Limited, a subsidiary of News International Limited
HarperSport is an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers
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Hammersmith, London W6 8JB
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This book has not been endorsed by, or is in any way associated with, FIFA
13579108642
Created by Interact Publishing Ltd
Commissioning editor: Terry Pratt

Production editor: Jamie Stamper
Writers: Tom Bennett and Steven Hall
Editorial management: Jeff Fletcher
Assistant production editor: Martin Richardson
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Database management: Peter Watts
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Design: The Consult - www.theconsult.com
Pictures © Action Images
Additional photography © David Clerihew
Additional writing © News Group Newspapers Limited: Rob Beasley, Shaun Custis and Mike Dunn
Harry Redknapp, Terry Venables and lan Wright
lan Wright's copy courtesy of SEM

World Cup Guide concept © Interact Publishing (first published in 2006)
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permission of the publishers.
EVERY TEAM'S QUALIFYING RECORD IS DETAILED AND KEY HOW WE PUT THE PLAYERS
PLAYERS RATED WHILE PUNDITS HARRY REDKNAPP, IAN WRIGHT THROUGH OUR WORLD CUP
AND TERRY VENABLES GIVE THEIR OPINIONS ON EACH GROUP. FORM GUIDE.
GROUPA =—SC#PAGE'6 (am GROUP PAGE 22

FRANCE 8 ARGENTINA 24
MEXICO 14 GREECE 30
SOUTH AFRICA 16 NIGERIA é 32
URUGUAY 20 SOUTH KOREA 34
GROUP C GROUP D PAGE 64

GERMANY 66
{ SERBIA 72
USA , 58 AUSTRALIA 74
SLOVENIA 62 #£GHANA 78
GROUP E
NETHERLANDS 90
CAMEROON 96
JAPAN 100
DENMARK 102
D Ce) —
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ras DUP GG
BRAZIL
IVORY COAST
NORTH KOREA
PORTUGAL
A BRILLIANT BOOK OF WORLD CUP 2010 — WITH YOUR NAME ON

THE FRONT COVER AND YOUR OWN VIEWS AND PHOTOS INSIDE
INTRODUCTION 4 FINALS SCHEDULE
alee : IB Slade / “i
* — wai
THE TEAMS TOP 12GOALKEEPERS 154°
CONTENTS 3
START
WORLD CUP
DREAMING!
The Sun’s World Cup Guide ROB BEASLEY— STU RUS
is the best around. Alongside CHIEF SPORTS CHIEF FOOTBALL
the opinions of The Sun’s CORRESPONDENT WRITER
(cyclo llale m=).40)=)a-Mm nit-welele)4
contains the most up-to-date My very first football memory stems from Don’t you just love a World Cup? In an age
fo[¥ife=mcom aat-Wce)gtumelm (i= mer the first match I ever saw and | remember where the game has become dominated
it vividly to this day, even though | was only by balance sheets and talk of clubs
teams and 736 players just seven years old. going bust, the month long festival of
refe)iare mom ta-muelaleR@lblen international combat puts the ball at the ©
The date was July 30th 1966 and | remember top of the agenda.
Our pundits may not agree on sitting at home with my mum and dad watching
riz) aatallave pr-lalemvelas(-Me)mat-ilg a small black and white television as England Yes many of the players taking part are multi-
beat West Germany 4-2 at Wembley to become millionaires but this is one competition where
Wo) ge(-manlie]ai@ el-merelalice) (=)e-1te|| World Champions. | celebrated by running they are in it for the glory first and not the cash.
but that’s the beauty of it - into the back garden and smashing my plastic
sole) tey-|/Mt-w-1ie-lelelime) ellallelal-s football into the privet hedge three times For a footballer who truly loves the game it is
imagining | was Geoff Hurst. the ultimate, the true test of greatness. It defines _
|st-
|0)(om @r-|e)-1| (eho —gleliclale mile(=) your place in the sport.
And the greatest show on earth has continued
ate\ ci:me]ects] M@earclalercw: (are mtals to give me so many more unforgettable England centre-back Rio Ferdinand recalls
folcJejtame) me 'r-liia'mat-r-lellate mice, moments over the years since. That save by watching his first World Cup in1986 sitting on
oTolUita W-Vigler: Mieco (eC) mia)ts Gordon Banks from Pele in 1970, Johann Cruyff the couch at home marvelling at the grainy
tournament has all the and Holland's total football in 1974, Maradona’s pictures and distorted commentary coming from
Tate|gcvel(-laieMal-i-ve(-Lem (om el-) Hand of God goal in 1986 and David Platt’s Mexico. He recalls: “| was mesmorised by the —
volley against Belgium in 1990. | was there to whole thing. It was the moment | thought: “God,
the best World Cup ever! see Croatia thrash Germany 3-0 at France 98, I'd love to be a footballer.”
was in Sapporo, Japan to witness Beckham’s
“revenge” penalty against Argentina in 2002, Those memories drove him on to become a star
and in Berlin to see Zinedine Zidane’s glittering with Manchester United and England. He will be
international career come to an inglorious going to his fourth, and possibly last, werd Cup
end with that head butt. However, the most in South Africa this summer.
pulsating game of all was St Etienne 1998.
Ferdinand sat stunned on the subs bench-
Michael Owen's wonder goal, Beckham’s red when David Beckham got sent off in 1998
card and Sol Campbell's disallowed effort. and England were eliminated by Argentina. He
Heart-stopping action, heart-breaking outcome. was in tears in 2002 and 2006 as England got
| was shaking from start to finish like every other knocked out in the quarter-finals.
English fan who packed the stands for that
Classic encounter. There is nothing like a World Cup for sheer raw
emotion whether you are a player or a fan. And
So am | looking forward to this summer's finals if Fabio Capello’s England:can win football’s
in South Africa? It’s a no-brainer isn’t it? Roll on greatest prize this summer, expect Rio to be
June, come on England! leading the mother of all parties.
4 Introduction
TERRY'S HARRY'S WRIGHTY'S
INSIDE, THREE OF THE BIGGEST NAMES IN

FOOTBALL, HARRY REDKNAPP, TERRY VENABLES
AND IAN WRIGHT, HAVE THEIR SAY ON EVERY
TEAM IN THE TOURNAMENT
Position 1st 2nd ord 4th 6th 7th 8th
Group F D B H G C F
Total FIFA ranking 88 89 98 104 147 160 161
Gy,
The world's eyes will be on Johannesburg Pienaar and if the midfielder is fit, he will be 4: The whole
for the opening game of the 2010 World Cup key in this game. So too will Matthew Booth continent is praying for a
finals and this is the hosts' chance to show who will have to marshal his defence well to ‘home win’ but it won't come
us they can confound the pundits and make keep out the combined threat of Blanco, from the host nation.
an impact on the pitch in front of the fervid Carlos Vela and Giovanni Dos Santos, who Portsmouth defender Aaron
support of the Bafana Bafana faithful. Their was MVP for the tournament when Mexico Mokoena is the skipper and
player of 2009 was undoubtedly Steven lifted the CONCACAF Gold Cup. will take Premier League experience to the
oe
uae
Les!
camp. Bafana Bafana gave Brazil a hard
a time in the Confederations Cup last year
and with home advantage could finish
Hot on the heels of the competition opener, the defensively but hopelessly erratic so a lot might second in Group A but it will be tough.
world will wait to see which France has turned depend on how Les Bleus take to their task. HARRY'S VERDICT: Last 16.
up — the good, the bad or the ugly. France have Captain Diego Lugano will be one to watch as <1CO: Under-achievers at the World
not been the same since Zinedine Zidane he tries to marshal his side against the threat of Cup but this one will be a great stage for
retired and now is the time for someone to Henry and Anelka — and he is not shy of getting young Giovani Dos Santos at my club
stand up and be counted — step forward Franck in the box so the French will need to pick him Tottenham to show what he can do. A
Ribery. As for Uruguay, they are strong up — especially at set pieces. gifted attacking player he was a big hit on
loan at lpswich and is technically great.
a HARRY'S VERDICT: Group stage only.
jGUAY: Experienced World Cup
If the opening games go with the odds, this when they present themselves. For South campaigners but their best years seem
could be a make-or-break game for both sides Africa, this is a game that will probably define behind them. However, they do have a
and a draw will do nothing for either. Both know their World Cup. If they lose, they could end up potent strike partnership in former
this is their best chance of three points and with bottom of the group and facing the dreaded Manchester United star Diego Forlan and
the Praetorian crowd roaring South Africa on, null points — but if they can seal a win, it will Luis Suarez. A play-off win saw them
Uruguay will be forced to hold their nerve and send the host nation into raptures and set them squeeze into the finals but | still see it
rely on their forward line to take their chances up nicely for the third match against France. being a short-lived stay in South Africa.
HARRY'S VERDICT: Group stage only.
Fal vo a
t E: Everyone will be waiting,
watching and no doubt wanting them to
fail after the way they edged into the finals
This could be the game that decides who tops through the dodgy Thierry Henry handball
the group, and for Mexico, the chance to that led to the decisive goal in the play-off
become the first team to make it into the against Ireland. Keep an eye on Lassana
knockout stages of five consecutive World Cup Diarra though, what a player.
competitions. Regardless of how the two sides HARRY'S VERDICT: Quarters.
fared in the opener, games between the
group's leading contenders always tend to be SOL .: Weakest
tight and expect nothing less in this encounter. country in Group A. They put
However, France and Mexico do have plenty of on a fair performance when
attacking options in their current squads. they hosted last year's
Confederations Cup,
finishing a creditable fourth out of
eight teams, and will be hoping home
advantage and their undeniable spirit will
By this stage, it is likely that Uruguay will have see them through this summer. But don't
nothing to lose or everything to gain, so expect put your money on it.
a feisty encounter between two sides who are TEL'S VERDICT: Fall at first hurdle.
not shy and retiring — in the tackle, or in front of MEXICO: Recovered from their
goal. Mexico will more than likely be happy with disappointing spell under Sven Goran
a draw and if they have won both of their Eriksson to qualify for their 14th finals by
games, might even rest a few players. finishing one point behind the USA in the
CONCACAF group. Skipper Rafael
u Marquez, the Barcelona defender, has
hailed the return of former coach Javier
Depending on previous results, this game could French coach Raymond Domenech and his Aguirre for restoring the team's belief and
be emotional for one of two reasons — either squad. If France need points from this game in they will once again be difficult to beat.
that South Africa are saying goodbye to the order to progress it could be an absolute belter TEL'S VERDICT: Could just pip
tournament, or that they have an actual chance and with so many players — William Gallas and Uruguay to qualify.
of making it through into the knockout stages. Thierry Henry — both playing in possibly their URUGUAY: Clinched the very last placein
Either way the atmosphere will be electric in last World Cup, there could be fireworks. If the South Africa, but they were far from
Bloemfontein, and for once the focus of all the 1998 world champions are already through then convincing as they had to battle their way
attention will not be on the heavily criticised the hosts may have more of a chance. through a play-off with Costa Rica to seal
6 GROUP A
tao}
their spot at the finals. That was after they

won six, drew six and lost six in their
qualifying group. Coach Oscar Tabarez
needs to get best out of Diego Forlan.
FRA! : Their passage to the finals
received a helping hand from Thierry Henry,
but when the 1998 champions arrive in
South Africa | fully expect them to make it
out of a group, which has to be said is far
from challenging. Whether they will
progress further? | am not convinced.
TEL'S VERDICT: Poor group is handy
for Henry and co.
: The hosts
ine a reputation for being a
team of individuals, but will
need to work as a unit if they
are to make this summer even
more memorable for their
country. They will be hoping Benni
McCarthy can repeat the form he has
shown in the Premier League.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Must rise to
occasion.
MEXICO: Appearing at their 14th finals,
they have plenty of World Cup experience.
In skipper Rafael Marquez they have a
defender who has won plenty of silverware
with Barcelona. They are also used to
altitude. But despite all this, | still don't
fancy them to make much of an impact.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Could
struggle to get out of the group stage.
R : Another country with a World
ae pedigree, although they made hard
work of qualifying, beating Costa Rica 2-1
in the play-offs. They have some talented
players, especially Diego Forlan, who
regularly hits the net for Atletico Madrid.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Potential to
cause an upset.
FRANCE: The 1998 winners have a host
of quality players, but the French were far
from impressive qualifying. After their
controversial play-off win over the Republic
of Ireland, | would not be surprised if luck
deserted them early on in South Africa.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Shock exit?
GROUP STAGE LAST SIXTEEN QUARTER-FINALS
FRANCE FRANCE v NIGERIA RANCE v ENGLAND
SOUTH AFRICA SOUTH AFRICA v ARGENTINA ARGENTINA v SERBIA

GROUP A GROUP B GROUP C
SOUTH AFRICA, MEXICO, URUGUAY, ARGENTINA, NIGERIA, SOUTH KOREA ENGLAND, USA, ALGERIA, SLOVENIA
FRANCE (KOREAN REPUBLIC), GREECE GROUP D
GERMANY, AUSTRALIA, SERBIA, GHANA
GROUP A
i FRANCE FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH LOW AVGE FINAL
ROUTE TO THE FINALS FINAL PROSPECTS
It only took three poor results to leave poor first leg which France won 1-0, in the It has been a remarkable 12 years of
France scrambling for qualification and return game France were put to the sword by highs and lows for Les Bleus. From the
facing the play-off lottery and their Ireland in Paris. Having taken the lead via heady days of 1998 World Cup glory in
campaign opener was the worst of the Robbie Keane, the visitors missed chance after Paris, and the dramatic golden goal :
three, as Les Bleus travelled to Austria and chance before Thierry Henry used his hand to victory in Rotterdam that clinched the
suffered a humiliating 3-1 defeat. twice control the ball and cross for William European Championships in 2000,
They managed to reconcile things partially in Gallas to fire home from close range. France have also tasted equally glorious
their second game by beating eventual group FINAL QUALIFYING TABLE failure.
winners Serbia 2-0 but while Raymond EUROPE GROUP 7 As reigning World Champions in Japan and
Domenech's side went on to draw their third P WDL F A Pts Korea 2002, France were stunned by
and seventh match of qualification - both Serbia 100 simise ea Clee Senegal in the opening game and returned
against Romania - the Serbs won four straight, France * 10) 6 33 Sats Sed home in humiliation, bottom of their group
leaving Les Bleus playing catch up for the rest Austria 10 424 14 15 14 picking up just one solitary point. Then four —
of qualifying. When the two sides met again for Lithuania 10 40 6 10 11 12 years later, France improved throughout the —
the return leg and Serbia secured a 1-1 draw, Romania 10 $3 4 1218 12 tournament in Germany and reached the
qualification was out of France's hands and a Faroe Islands 10 Tie e6 20 oa final only to be undone by the agony of |
Serbia loss in their last game did not matter. * France beat the Republic of Ireland in the Zinedine Zidane's moment of madness !
Cue the play-off against Ireland and, after a play-offs. against Marco Materazzi. The Azzurri went
on to clinch the trophy on penalties.
Avge FIFA ranking
Cue the frustrating qualification campaign
06 Sep 08 Away Austria 1 Govou 61
for 2010 and the subsequent furore over that
10 Sep 08 Home Serbia 1 Henry 54, Anelka 64 Thierry Henry handball in the play-off victory
11 Oct 08 Away Romania 2 Ribery 36, Gourcuff 69 over the Republic of Ireland and you get just —
28 Mar 09 Away Lithuania 1 Ribery 67 over a decade of extreme drama.
01 Apr 09 Home Lithuania 0 Ribery 75 How this group of players
12 Aug 09 Away Faroe Islands 1 1 Gignac 38 will fare in South Africa is
05 Sep 09 Home Romania 1 Henry 48 anyone's guess.
09 Sep 09 Away Serbia 1 Henry 31
Twelve years have also seen a shift in
eo
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Qn 10 Oct 09 Home Faroe
ovnvrvoogwrtkt Islands i OC
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be
=0 0DWND
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= 0 Gignac 34, 39, Gallas 58, Anelka 86,
Benzema 88 personnel with France's ‘golden generation’.
all but retired; the likes of Zidane, Patrick |
=eo 14 Oct 09 Home Austria = re) 1 Benzema 17, Henry 26pen, Gignac 65
Vieira, David Trezeguet, Lillian Thuram,
14 Nov 09 Away Rep of Ireland 1 Anelka 72 Bixente Lizarazu and Marcel Desailly have all
= nm 18 Nov 09 Home Rep of Ireland 36 D 14 1 Gallas 103 headed into the sunset, leaving Henry as the
sole representative of the old guard.
Zidane aside, the departing stalwarts,
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION however, have been replaced by players who
are talented in their own right. Defenders
5 5 : 3
William Gallas and Patrice Evra of Arsenal
and Manchester United respectively, are both
Match 1234667 89101112 BBS Ss z
Venue AHAAHAHAHHAH A 33 § ee world class players. In midfield they have the
Result LWOWWWDODWWWD proven talent of Lyon's Jeremy Toulalan,-who
Goalkeepers has slipped into the Makelele role; Real
Hugo Lloris SOUR Umm« MMM 6 6 0 O 488 440 0 Oo 1 Madrid's Lassana Diarra alongside the much
Steve Mandanda itt
tt Peo Pee 7 6 APO 6196558 0. 0° 0
coveted play-maker Franck Ribery. .
Defenders
Eric Abidal ey an | fe | 69.6 0° 0 ) 460-406 0 1 0
Up front, the indomitable Henry has the
Gael Clichy ry) im. | © 8 2 2 0 0 180 162 0 0 0 experienced Nicolas Anelka for company
Julien Escude : Be OBw« ee oh my Mg Tet lo Xe Wielofe M3 Mate) with able support coming in the shape of
Patrice Evra BORER MM 110 0 O 930 88 0 1 0 Karim Benzema and Andre-Pierre Gignac of
Rod Fanni | ian | | ie e080 OOn Beit), aoe Oe 'O Toulouse.
William Gallas BS SSBB BM 10 10 0 O 98:0 88 21 0
Make no mistake, this side is not as classy
Philippe Mexes on aed Wee tel Mo) el KCL oot gues abe ate)
Bacary Sagna “BERR mee 111 Olhlht (999 900 0 1 0 as its predecessor but it is - on paper at
Sebastien Squillaci a Basen Be» 4 3 1 0 G82 S44 0 7 0 least — a very talented squad. How this
Midfielders group of players will fare in South Africa is
Alou Diarra y SS» \S8O8, Sean 64,2 0° 406).566 0 0 @ anyone's guess. They are equally capable of
Lassana Diarra BE SSBB @M 1010 0 O 9380 88 0 2 0 imploding and getting on the first plane
Yoann Gourouff e“eBa aaa ia, 10. 8 1 6 ‘766 68.1 1° 7 0
home as exploding into the knockout phase.
Florent Malouda @« «| |v iy» Gi Sd 2" 264 g2.e" Cor Oo
Franok Ribery
Moussa Sissoko
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Oe, TOP 15 RANKING
Jeremy Toulalan BES S@ee« Sr Si. 70" A) S681 G20" 10: 22.0
Forwards
Nicolas Anelka »» MMM MM 8 6 2 OO 626 4 3 0 (0 GROUP FIXTURES
Karim Benzema | Cee cs fae | | 8.86 2 G63 527 2°:0, 0
Plerre-Andre Gignac eBuaanaa Br Be Sy 440Gb FAs 0 -0 URUGUAY Fri 11 June 1930
Sidney Govou B« «B®» Sa T SE SES: SASS Ty te 2.0 MEXICO Thur 17 June 1930 BST
Thierry Henry
Peguy Luyindula
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SOUTH AFRICA Tue 22 June 1500 BST
8 GROUP A
Zone Europe
Population 64m
Language French
Top league Ligue 1
Playing season August - May
Major clubs and capacities
Girondins de Bordeaux (34,3771), Lille (1 8,185),
Olympique Lyonnaise (41,044), Paris SG (48,713),
Marseille (60,031), AS Monaco (18,500)
Where probable squad players play:
Premier League 7 ~Ligue 1 8
Serie A 1 Eredivisie
La Liga 6 Other Europe
Bundesliga 1 Outside Europe
Number of French players playing:
Premier League 40 Ligue 1 330
Serie A 14 3undesliga 11
La Liga 16 = Eredivisie 3
World Cup record * best performance
1930 - Round 1 1974 Did not qualify
1934 - Round 1 1978 Round 1
1938 - Quarter finals 1982 4th place
1950 - Did not qualify 1986 3rd place
1954 - Round 1 1990 Did not qualify
1958 - 3rd place 1994 Did not qualify
1962 - Did not qualify 1998 * Champions
1966 - Round 1 2002 Round 1
1970 - Did not qualify 2006 Final
7.
Goalkeepers Club side Age QG

Hugo Lloris Lyon 23 6
Steve Mar danda Marseille 25 7
Defenders
Eric Abidal Barcelona 30 5
Gael Clichy Arsenal 24 2
Julien Escude Sevilla 30 4

Patrice Evra Man Utd 29 10
Rod Fanni Rennes 28 1
William Gallas Arsena 32. 10
Philippe Mexes Roma 28 1
Fe th, Doe egoe a po|
’ a wn ry Bacary Sagna Arsenal AEE Nh
Fl
Sebastien Sauillaci Sevilla 29 4
Midfielders
THIERRY Alou
Lassana
Yoann
Diarra
Diarra
Gourcuff
Bordeaux
Real Madrid
Bordeaux
28
24
23
10
i
There is not much that hasn't already Florent Malouda Chelsea 29 6
been said about Barca’s Thierry Henry. Appearances: 26 Fy Samir Nasri Arsena 22 2
The ex-Arsenal striker is a goal machine, Minutes played: 1864 965 Franck Ribery Bayern Munict 27 6
one of the strikers of his generation who Percentage played: 54.5% 86.9%
possesses a grace that makes him a joy to Goals scored: 13 4 Jererny Toulalar Lyor 26
watch in full flight. He knows first-hand the Percentage share: 13.8% 20.0% Forwards
extreme highs and lows of international Cards: Y¥2, RO YO, RO Nicolas Anelka Chelsea
Strike rate: 143mins 241mins Karim Benzema Real Madrid Aa

football and with this likely to be his last
World Cup, he will want to bow out in style. Strike rate ranking: 21st 49th Pierre-Andre Gignac Toulouse 24
Sidney Govou Lyor

Thierry Henry Barcelona 2
@ Probable
GROUP A 9
It was always going to be a tough ask to Widely regarded as one of the best left-
replace the iconic Lilian Thuram in the backs in European football, Patrice Evra
French defence and while he might not be has it all - he is fierce in the tackle,
in quite the same bracket as the Les Bleus lightning fast and superb going forward.
legend, Eric Abidal has successfully taken
on the mantle.
Fast and strong, a dangerous crosser of the
ball and with a superb positional awareness, he
is an established member of Barcelona's World
and European conquering squad. He is able to
play at left-back or centre-back and his
versatility is a bonus for Les Bleus.
Appearances: 24 5
Minutes played: 2022 450 Appearances: 22 4
Percentage played: 59.1% 40.5% Minutes played: 1790 278
Goals conceded: 22 4 Percentage played: 52.3% 25.0%
Clean sheets: 8 2 Goals conceded: 28 2
Cards: Y6, R1 Y AGRO Clean sheets: 7 Z
Minutes between goals: 92mins 112mins Cards: Y7, RO YO, RO
Defender ranking: 49th 80th Minutes between goals: 64mins 139mins
Defender ranking: 136th 56th
ay le a NC a
debacle and played more minutes in qualifying

than any other French player.
D|
Appearances: 34 1
Minutes played: 2902 999
Percentage played: 82.7% 90.0%
A player who has stood out since an early Goals conceded: 31 8
Appearances: 36 age, Bacary Sagna is full of pace, power Clean sheets: 15 5
Minutes played: 38240 and technical ability. He is fast maturing Cards: Y8). RO ey ees
Percentage played: 94.7% into one of the best right-backs in Europe. Minutes between goals: 94mins 125mins
Goals conceded: 37 Sagna became a first choice at right-back for Defender ranking: 47th 68th
Clean sheets: 12 Raymond Domenech for the World Cup
Cards: Y1, RO YO, R1 qualifying campaign following their Euro 2008 a ae
Minutes between goals: 88mins 1638mins
Goalkeeper ranking: 13th 11th
Yet, he is the longest ever serving French

A manager — a paradox indeed, yet not one
that can be put down to results on the
pitch.
Yes, he managed France to a World Cup
final but they stuttered and struggled their
way through that tournament and since then
they have been generally below par — only
just making, and hopelessly
Appearances: 37 underperforming in Euro 2008 and getting
Minutes played: 3330 to South Africa only by virtue of a play-off
Percentage played: 97.4% win against Republic of Ireland, which was
Goals conceded: 31 To call Raymond Domenech a ‘colourful’ based more on Henry's handiwork than any
Clean sheets: 18 character would be something of an inspiration from the man in charge.
Cards: YO, RO YO, RO understatement. For the French fans he is like an
Minutes between goals: 107mins 88mins If being quoted as using star signs in team embarrassing uncle they would rather not
Goalkeeper ranking: 5th 25th selection wasn't bad enough, he is widely be seen with in public but this is surely his
pilloried by the French media. The swansong as the main man and maybe. if he
via
confounded French public often tear their hair can deliver respectability in this tournament
pet out at his bizarre selections and tactics. he can at least leave on a fond note.
10 GROUPA
WILLIAM
GALLAS
ARSENAL
A commanding centre-half, William Gallas
is a stalwart in the heart of defence for
club and country and has been for the last
five years.
Great in the air and quick over the ground he
quietly and consistently provides authority to
the whole team.
Gallas is also a genuine goal threat as
evidenced when he scored the winner in the
second leg of France's controversial play-off
game against the Republic of Ireland to take
France through to the finals.
He is particularly effective when in the box for
set-pieces.
Described by Zinedine Zidane as ‘the
Playing record 12 months Ige weq jewel of French football’, Franck Ribery Appearances: 20 6
Appearances: 26 10 is developing into a talismanic figure. Minutes played: 1445 341
Minutes played: 2340 930 An impressive all-round footballer, Ribery Percentage played: 47.2% 30.7%
has pace to burn and skill on the ball to Goals scored: 4 3

Goals conceded: 23 i frequently draw comparison with Cristiano Clean Sheets: 10 5
Clean sheets: 14 5 Ronaldo. Capable of scoring and creating Cards: Y4, R1 YO, RO
Cards: Yon Ro Y1, RO chances with his direct style he can set the Strike rate: 361mins 114mins
Minutes between goals: 102mins 133mins world alight in South Africa. Strike rate ranking: 58th 1st
GROUP A
It is fair to say that it is only in the last 12
months that Chelsea have started to see
the best of Florent Malouda.
The midfielder started to show the form that
persuaded them to buy him whilst at Lyon,
standing out in the Champions League and
winning the Ligue 1 Player of the Year 2006/7.
A powerful presence on the left flank, he is
equally at home as a forward or tucked in just
behind the front men. Malouda is very quick, After years of wandering aimlessly from
comfortable in possession and capable of club to club, Nicolas Anelka is now proving
delivering a very dangerous final ball. he is the player we all knew he could be,
having established himself a regular for his
current club side Chelsea.
Appearances: 29 In addition to that, he is proving to Raymond
Minutes played: Domenech that he is good enough to keep
Percentage played: Karim Benzema out of the starting XI and while
Goals scored: that might cause controversy in some quarters,
Clean sheets: 19 with Anelka you know that if your team is
Cards: Net creating chances, he will be scoring goals.
Strike rate: 251mins Remarkably for such a talented striker the first
Midfielder ranking: 30th time he represented his country in World Cup
action was just six matches ago in September
2008 as a ten-minute substitute against Austria.
be H
Part of the reason for this was his suspect
temperament, but his time at Chelsea has seen
this diminish as he has matured as a player.
_ ft cam Go.
Appearances:
Minutes played:
Percentage played:
A highly skilful central midfielder, Lassana Goals scored:
Diarra is often referred to as a 'defensive' Clean sheets:
midfielder but that is an injustice to a Cards: Y1, RO
player with the skill-set he has at his Strike rate: 203mins 756mins
disposal. Midfielder ranking: 19th 70th
He certainly plays in a deep-lying position but
rather than play in the defensive role made
famous by Claude Makelele, he links up play
with good passing skills, vision and ability to
beat the man. This season he has established
his place in Madrid's starting line-up - no mean
feat with the talent at the Bernabeu - and he
will be a vital presence in South Africa.
Appearances: 31 10 Appearances:
Minutes played: 2672 930 Minutes played:
Percentage played: 78.1% 83.8% Percentage played:
Goals scored: 1 0 Goals scored:
Clean sheets: alle 4 Clean sheets:
Cards: ¥13,R1 Y2, RO Cards:
Strike rate: 672mins - Strike rate:
Midfielder ranking: 117th - Midfielder ranking:
12 GROUPA
BENZEM
REAL MADRID
Destined to be one of the finest French
strikers of his generation, Karim Benzema
is something of a young prodigy in France,
having topped the league scorers charts in
his breakthrough 2007/8 season, with 20
league goals whilst still only 20.
A roving centre-forward capable of the
spectacular, he not only scores goals but also
creates them. He faces stiff competition for a
starting place from Nicolas Anelka but if he
plays he could be just the man to set France's
competition performance on fire. He may have
to settle for a place on the bench.
Playing record 12 months Ige we An exciting attacking midfielder Kaka until - after a frustrating lack of
Appearances: 33 8 comfortable orchestrating play from the appearances - he returned to France with
Minutes played: 2391 363 centre of the pitch, Yoann Gourcuff is Bordeaux. With the ability to dictate the
Percentage played: 69.9% 32.7% one of the young French pretenders pace of the game, score goals and create
Goals scored: 12 2 threatening to burst onto the world chances, he has represented France at
Percentage share: 13.5% 10.0% stage in South Africa. every level. He was a mainstay of their
Cards: YO,RO YO, RO Having risen through the ranks at Rennes, qualification campaign and could be the
Strike rate: 199mins 181mins he was bought by AC Milan where he was man to inspire Les Bleus in South Africa.
Strike rate ranking: 58rd 30th predominantly an understudy for Brazilian
GROUPA 13
& MEXICO FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH LOW AVGE FINAL
Qualifying from the CONCACAF fourth round of qualifying. Their stuttering An experienced international outfit,
confederation is a long, arduous and progress led to the dismissal of manager Sven- Mexico can consider themselves
Goran Eriksson, who was replaced by stalwarts of World Cup finals, with this
complicated process but despite a few
setbacks, Mexico navigated all of the experienced Mexican Javier Aguirre. their fifth consecutive appearance at
hurdles to finish second. The fourth round pitted them against the USA, football's elite tournament.
In the second round of qualifying - a one off Honduras and Costa Rica. Despite losing three They reached the last 16 in 2006 and their
game - they thrashed Belize 9-0 to reach the times on the road, their strong home form recent tournament history is impressive too.
third qualifying stage where they edged out ensured they were only one point behind group In 2009 they won the CONCACAF Gold Cup,
Jamaica on goal difference in a tight group, winners, the USA. beating the United States in the final on US
finishing runners up to Honduras to make the For final qualification table see Honduras. soil 5-0 in front of 80,000 fans. Despite a
challenging group here, they will be expected
Avge FIFA ranking
to reach the knockout stages once again.
1 15 Jun 08 Away Belize 175 WO 2 Vela 65, J. Borgetti 90pen They have few players that could be
2 22 Jun 08 Home Belize WwW “I 0 Vela 8, J. Borgetti 9, 90pen, considered household names outside of
Guardado 33, Arce 46, 47, Lennen 900g Mexico but have a wealth of experience in
3 21 Aug 08 Home Honduras 1 Pardo 73, 75 their squad. Striker Cuauhtemoc Blanco and
0 Guardado 3, Arce 33, Magallon 63 holding midfielder Gerardo Torrado have both
4 06 Sep 08 Home Jamaica
been capped more than 100 times.
5 11 Sep 08 Home Canada 1 Bravo 59, Marquez 73
Add Barcelona defender Rafael Marquez
6 12 Oct 08 Away Jamaica 0 and the precocious talent of Arsenal forward
7 16 Oct 08 Away Canada 2 Salcido 35, Vuoso 64 Carlos Vela into the mix and you have a
8 20 Nov 08 Away Honduras 0 squad to contend with. Providing they
0 manage to ease past South Africa in the
9 12 Feb 09 Away United States
opening game of the tournament, they
10 28 Mar 09 Home Costa Rica 0 Bravo 20, Pardo 53pen
should qualify for the latter stages.
11 02 Apr 09 Away Honduras 1 Castillo 82pen
12 07 Jun 09 Away El Salvador 1 Blanco 71pen DREAM TOP 15 RANKING

13 11 Jun 09 Home Trinidad & Tobago 1 Franco 2, Rojas 48pen
14 12 Aug 09 Home United States 1 |.Castro 19, Sabah 82 THE MANAGER
|
15 06 Sep 09 Away Costa Rica 3 Dos Santos 45, Franco 62, Guardado 70
16 10 Sep 09 Home Honduras 0 Blanco 76pen A well respected and experienced
17 10 Oct 09 Home El Salvador ee
fee
|i
1)NON
Ro2ONNDNONN=AN=A
1 Mar.Gonzalez 250g, C. Blanco 71, coach, Javier Aguirre is in his second
F, Palencia 84, Vela 90 spell in charge of Mexico after being re-
18 15 Oct 09 Away Trinidad & Tobago oO yp 2 Esqueda 58, Salcido 66 appointed in 2009 after Sven-Goran
Eriksson took the fall for some poor
Average FIFA ranking of opposition 74
results.
Following on from a successful playing
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION career in which he represented his country
59 times, Aguirre made the move into
n
8 9101112131415161718 &§ 3 BB Bele Sib management in domestic football in his

Match 1234567
Venue AHHHHAAAAHAAHHAHHA 8&8 § 88 2 2 8S xn home land. He was called up to manage his
Result WWWWWLOLLWLLWWWWWo *<4@06 3 ® OF ¢ country for the first time and took Mexico to
Goalkeepers
Ole Ora
the final of the Copa America in 2001 and to
Bees Tale 20) 2Ote) (080) 38:0
Guillermo Ochoa
Oswaldo Sanchez
RS BRBBReEee
iT LLiL_LtteLt bas 91/49 90 200810. 50:0, "OL G 8 the last 16 of the 2002 World Cup.
Defenders His achievements brought Spain's
Jose Antonio Castro S« B28. 0 er 24 A4OrOre0: 20 Osasuna knocking and after relative success
Israel Castro » RRR 7 6 Hie Ora Gb) 30. 1 te O80)
there he moved to Atletico Madrid. He then
Aaron Galindo BReSe> See Beene Gun 62 LO 7G ost nl O00
rT LL LEE » Ee MM@M@MM 1312 «1«0 «1092 674 1°41 «0 led Atletico into the Champions League and
Jonny Magalion
Rafael Marquez BBB W« & io Wt OP40e CO4NS7Sraheese their most successful season in a decade.
Ricardo Osorio > SSB «Bee« BRM RMe 16 15 1 2 1345 830 0 1 0 ki het
‘i
Fausto Pinto | i Bo BGO iO 27 Oe 16m eoN 40) 10;

Oscar Rojas | EERe> ae 43 “APES Ze goe te FO
Carlos Salcido BEES SEee « BOOM 15 15 0 O 1347 81 2 5 1
Midfielders
Fernando Arce B««B«B«« B« 10:10; (0.16. .766>.47;3) 13) 42. 0
Andres Guardado B«Bem BWM «Mew aww 81615 1 6 1237 764 3 2 0
Efrain Juarez ii tt a A. VOW (0 S660 22:20 OF 1 0,
Matias Vuoso » we 4 “ Grea eo eLOs Ieee) ee
Antonio Naelson «+ «» AP De So) 1226) TAO O? le 10
Leanuro Oldoni is] Bae ay A ORD. ROBOMES2 O's ie <0
Pavel Pardo @« Beee« Tien On Ee Bo god.On GO, a2. 0
Luis Perez BHUBB«« WM« T of. 00s Sri beo 1248 0) 0:0
Gerardo Torrado «S@»BRE« +» OM MM MM 1210 21 #89 5.2 0 4 1
Forwards
» mo »M«BMM» 10 5 5 1 538 332 3 2 0
GROUP FIXTURES
Cuauhtemoc Blanco
Omar Bravo anne Be
» Br Bed 56592) 9832. 205: 72-0) 0
Nery Castillo » «Rr Ban roe TER BANS MOOT AA Ors ofall a GO SOUTH AFRICA Thur 11 June 1500BST
Giovani Dos Santos «««BBoo« »B«« {Oo St aie: apes a4200 Sth 1 0 FRANCE Wed 17 June 1930 BST
Guillermo Franco ” Le Ba«aa i« 6 15) Ae ae 450 12615; 2° 1)
URUGUAY Mon 22 June 1500 BST —
Carlos Vela “Baa aeBa > ct » MM 1210 2 5 868 53.6 3 3 0
14 GROUP A
ar.
Zone North, Central America & Caribbean

Population 111m
Language Spanish
Top league Primera Division
Cruz Azul (85,000), Pachuca (31,000), Toluca
(27,000), Guadalajara (56,750), America (105,000)
Premier League 2 Ligue 1
Serie A Eredivisie
La Liga Other Europe
Bundesliga Outside Europe
Number of Mexican players playing:
Premier League 2 Bundesliga
Serie A 1 Ligue 1
La Liga 3 Eredivisie
1930 - Round 1 1974- Did not qualify
1934 - Did not qualify 1978 - Round 1
1938 - Withdrew 1982 - Did not qualify
1950 - Round 1 1986 - * Quarter finals
1954 - Round 1 1990 -Banned from Fifa
1958 - Round 1 1994 - Round 2
1962 - Round 1 1998 - Round 2
1966 - Round 1 2002 - Round 2
1970 - * Quarter finals 2006 - Round 2

Guillermo Ochoa America 24 7
Oswaldo Sanchez Santos Laguna 36 9
Defenders
Jose Antonio Castro UANL Tigres 29 3
Israel Castro Club Universidad 29 7
Aaron Galindo Guadalajara 28 9
Jonny Magallon Guadalajara 28 «13
Rafael Marquez Barcelona 31 7
Ricardo Osorio Stuttgart 30 16
Oscar Rojas America 28 4

Carlos Salcido PSV Eindhoven 30) 15
Midfielders
Fernando Arce Santos Laguna 30 10
Andres Guardado Deportivo 23, A6
Efrain Juarez Club Universidad 22 4
Rafael Marquez is a stylish and gifted Matias Vuoso Santos Laguna 28 6
defender able to play at centre-back or Appearances: 18 a
in defensive midfield. Minutes played: 1297 604
He is fast, aggressive, a superb tackler but Percentage played: 37.0% 37.3% Pavel Pardo America 33 7
also comfortable on the ball. This Goals conceded: 12 6 Luis Perez Monterrey 29 7
combination has seen him become a regular Clean sheets: 10 1 Gerardo Torrado Cruz Azul Ghe Ae
for club and country over the last five years. Cards: YSRine /¥4 Rl Forwards
Minutes between goals: 108mins101mins Cuauhtemoc Blanco Veracruz Be. 10
Injury wrecked much of 2009, but now fit he
Defender ranking: 16th 97th Omar Bravo Guadalajara 30 8
will be a massive presence.
Nery Castillo Dnipro 25 7
Giovani Dos Santos Galatasaray 24, AO
West Ham 33 6
aoe Guillermo. Franco
Carlos Vela Arsenal 214 »t2
@ Probable QG Qualification Games
GROUP A
>= SOUTH AFRICA FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH LOW AVGE- FINAL
As hosts, South Africa were not required to long periods, losing 1-0 courtesy of a Daniel The last time a host nation was as little
qualify for the tournament, leaving the Alves free-kick in the 88th minute in what was a fancied in a World Cup tournament,
Confederations Cup as the only real litmus very open game, with Steven Pienaar the man- South Korea stunned the footballing
test of their ambitions. of-the-match. In the third places play-off, they world to make the semi-finals in 2002 —
They didn't fare too badly, losing to Spain and were beaten 3-2 by a deflated Spain. but it would surely take some kind of
beating a woeful New Zealand before securing For the remainder of 2009, however, their miracle for 2010 hosts South Africa to
their place in the latter stages of the tournament record was hardly stellar with a solitary win over do the same.
with a goalless draw against Iraq. They then Madagascar, draws with Japan and Jamaica The bulk of the squad are playing in the
faced the mighty Brazil in the semi-final, and in and losses to Serbia, Germany, Republic of South African domestic league and have
front of 50,000 roaring fans held their own for Ireland, Norway and Iceland. played no serious competitive games in the
last 18 months. It is very difficult to know
how they will fare but with just three ‘name’ —
Avge FIFA ranking players — Fulham's Aaron Mokeona, Steven
Pienaar of Everton and West Ham’s goal
1 23 Jan08 Home Angola 77 D 1 1 Van Heerden 87
poacher Benni McCarthy — it willbe a steep
2 27 Jan08 Away Tunisia 49 L $3 1 Mphela 87 learning curve for this side come June 11th. —
3 31 Jan08 Away Senegal 60 D 1 1 Van Heerden 13 One thing is for certain, their preparation has —
hardly been ideal. :
4 01 Jun08 Away Nigeria 23-20
The vastly experienced and former World
5 07 Jun08 Home Equatorial Guinea - W_ 4 1 Dikgacoi 9, 90, Moriri 33, Fanteni 62 Cup winning Carlos Alberto Parreira was
6 06 Sep 08 Home Nigeria 28) Se Ont drafted in to lead the team into the
tournament in 2007. In April 2008 he quit,
7 14Jun09 Home Iraq Bt abe o2o
citing personal reasons, and was replaced
8 17 Jun09 Home New Zealand 87 W_ 2 0 Parker 21, 52 by Parreira's fellow Brazilian Joel Santana.
9 20Jun09 Away Spain eo miatmeesO
The Confederations Cup aside, Santana —
achieved little and when Bafana Bafana lost
10 25 Jun09 Away Brazil Ae et 0 eight games in nine, the writing was on the —
11 28Jun09 Away Spain 2 L $3 2 Mphela 73, 90fk wall and he was dismissed in October 2009.
Average FIFA ranking of opposition 8 One thing is for certain, .
their preparation has hardly ~
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIONS been ideal.
n Parreira then reached an agreement to
Match ft 2 3.4 5.6 7-8

Bronte
os 3 8 8
sear
Toy oc
return but was faced with a team in the
doldrums. They lacked confidence and form, —
Venue AHHHHAAA 2&8 3B 2 2 B2x
Result LWLDWLLL £09400 2 8 OF ¢ with leading striker McCarthy out in the cold -
Goalkeepers following a bust up with Santana.
Rowen Fernandez Be ieee ifhe [Ponta8 U1) SOn iz. 0b" O10 In terms of personnel, their great hope will
BEEBE e 7 0 0 660 880 0 0 O
ltumeleng Khune be Pienaar. Free of injury for most of the
Defenders season, he has been in the form of his life for
Matthew Booth SEER Eae 6-5) s010) 5480 64.0° O00 0
a eet 20. 440) OON12:.0) SON Sie Everton, starring in central midfield or on the
Bradley Carnell
Bevan Fransman @« Oe eh tah Pel tG. toate e s0! 10) left and scoring some crucial goals. If South
Siboniso Gaxa S SEES 6- 6i0) 00 6/0% 76,0 0) 0. 40 Africa can get the dynamic playmaker on the
Bongani Khumalo | ome tt ie 10.1 6G 67 65 807 700 ball, he will be a real threat as he con
Mbulelo Mabizela i| {sO 20 90 12,05 0 0. 0
from anywhere.
Tsepo Masilela «BB Sees er Pal 8 S| Gol, soe) “0 4 0
7. te O° 6467664 0 1.0 McCarthy and Mokoena aside, the omer
Aaron Mokoena B« BSSES
|, Etta fF fy OFV2) Or 0m JeOR2ON- 0: 0. -O players to keep an eye on are attacking full —
Bryce Moon
Nasief Morris @ aear hee Olt ie! 9012:0' 0 0 10 back, Tsepo Masilela, winger Teko Modise
Midfielders and tireless box-to-box midfielder Kagisho
“4 eee eal pet 65 O15 0 105:0
Delron Buckley Dikgacoi.
E> Saag en O° Ae 0.1 PI04 21S SEO © 1070
Lance Davids Time will tell if Parreira has been able to
Kagisho Dikgacoi ERE Eee 8) B= 0 0076010005 25 2) 70
>» BERBERS 1AOLa tke <0 Or 22, 010890 turn things around. With two of the teams in
Innocent Mdledle
Benson Mhlongo | it A *3> AL On 806 4018000) 40 Group A South American, Parreira will at
Teko Modise BBBBM« « 7 2) Os SU BOP eS ry Obr een 0 least have a good idea of what to expect.
Surprise Morigi || i B92 1 10 186264 = 1 On If the hosts were to make it through to the
|| Al aise (OO 90512,0- 10 10) 6
Siyabonga Nkosi last 16 it would be a major achievement oh
Steven Pienaar «a« oo» BB« « 7.6 4 45466 66:1" '0"*~2" 0
10. 3,0
the manager.
Ntuthuko Macbeth Sibaya B«8ea« On Tt *ta 0. 2° (beer eas
Siphiwe Tshabalala
Forwards
Boi«Mr naa 6. 3.2) 8. 2667,64:4" 0" O90
REAM TOP 15 RANKING
DREAM
Thembinkosi Fanteni >» ««8O8 AOE At Oe ROO S4SE 1h 180
Katlego Mashego
Benedict McCarthy
itl»
i|
cee ee
Te E160.
aa
0
51.
90
68
120
0
0
O ~0
0 0 GROUP FIXTURES
Katlego Mphela Baa,» Dee oa) BT. barely (0 =
Bernard Parker «« «Bil 6 46° (OBS 463r 817). 2.0.10 MEXICO Fri 14 June 1930 BST
Elrio Van Heerden Bae» » 2” De ree Bare iO. 0 URUGUAY Wed 16 June 1930 BST
Excellent Walaza » 1 Oe
e200
tie
10,
440 dB
Gerad.
Os:
O10
FQ
FRANCE Tue 22 June 1500 BST -
Sibusiso Zuma » + es
16 GROUPA
Zone Africa
Population 49m
Language Afrikaans, English
Top league ABSA Premiership
Mamelodi Sundowns (28,900), Kaizer Chiefs (94,700),
Orlando Pirates (40,000), Supersport United (28,900)
Serie A Eredivisie 1
La Liga Other Europe 4
Bundesliga 1 Outside Europe 13
Number of South African players playing:
Serie A Ligue 1
La Liga 1 Eredivisie 1
1930 - Did not enter 1974 -Banned from Fifa
1962 - Did not enter 1998 - *Round 1
1966 - Banned from Fifa 2002 - *Round 1
1970 - Banned from Fifa 2006 - Did not qualify
Goalkeepers Club side Age Int

Rowen Fernandez Arminia B 32 1
Itumeleng Khune Kaizer Chiefs 22 i
Defenders
Matthew Booth Mamelodi Sundowns 33
Bevan Fransman Maccabi Netanya 26

Siboniso Gaxa Mamelodi Sundowns 26
Morgan Gould Supersport United 27
Tsepo Masilela Maccabi Haifa 25

Aaron Mokoena Portsmouth 29 ON
“a
Midfielders
Delron Buckley Anorthosis 32
Lance Davids Ajax Cape Town 25
Kagisho Dikgacoi Fulham 25 WYO
On
A tough tackling defender, who can also Benson Mhlongo Orlando Pirates 29
play in midfield, Aaron Mokoena is South Appearances: 24 Teko Modise Orlando Pirates 27
Africa's captain and will be an Minutes played: 1453 Surprise Moriri Mamelodi Sundowns 29
instrumental player if the hosts are to Percentage played: 40.4% Steven Pienaar Everton 28
make it out of the group stages. Goals conceded: 30 Macbeth Sibaya Rubin Kazan 32 ON
NN
Now 29 and at the peak of his powers, he is Clean sheets: 8 Siphiwe Tshabalala Kaizer Chiefs 25 on
approaching a century of caps for his country. Cards: Y7, RO Y1, RO Forwards
He remains the youngest ever player to play Minutes between goals: 48 81mins Thembinkosi Fanteni Orlando Pirates 26
168th 118rd Katlego Mashego Orlando Pirates 28
for South Africa and will be a key figure. Defender ranking:
Benedict McCarthy West Ham 32
Katlego Mphela Mamelodi Sundowns
Bernard Parker Twente
a) Elrio Van Heerden Sivasspor 26
GROUP A Wi
A talented attacking full-back, Tsepo A pivotal figure for Bafana Bafana going
Masilela's performances on the left side forward, Teko Modise is a skilful winger
for Thanda Royal Zulu earned them a place and one of the most high profile players in
in South Africa’s top-flight and him a move the South African Premier League, where
to a top Israeli side. he plays for the Orlando Pirates.
He was a key member of the Maccabi Haifa With more than 40 caps for South Africa, he
side that won the Israeli Premier League in is one of the most experienced members of the
2008-09, and featured in this season's team and in 2008 became the inaugural PSL
Champions League. footballer of the year.
A regular for the national side since 2006,
Masilela will expect to play a major part in the
host nation's difficult quest to make it into the
knock out stages of a World Cup for the first
time.
bat
« |
ant,
oan
[ze
BaR
Sey
ig
ps
o
ra cord 12 months Ige intl
Appearances: 4 8
ot
ee
ee
aCREE
908
wooomt Minutes played: 66 750
Percentage played: 1.7% 100%
Goals scored: 0 2
Clean sheets: 3 2
Cards: YO, R1 Y2, RO
Strike rate: - 375mins
South African-based right-back Siboniso Midfielder ranking: - 41st
Gaxa was discovered by FA Copenhagen's
School of Excellence and spent six years
at Supersport United - the leading club
The Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper broke into side in his homeland - before sealing a
the national set-up in 2008, and has since profitable move to Mamelodi Sundowns.
tied down the number one jersey. Decent performances in the 2009
A sensational shot-stopper with terrific Confederations Cup cemented Gaxa's place in
distribution, Knune can occasionally be suspect the South Africa first team, but he'll need to be
when bombarded with crosses. A penalty save at his best and hope that his defensive team- An experienced and composed holding
off David Villa is the youngster's highlight in mates also perform if the Bafana Bafana are to midfielder, Macbeth Sibaya is one of the
international football prior to the World Cup. make it out of Group A. few South African players to play in
Europe.
He has spent the last seven years at Russian
side Rubin Kazan, where he picked up Russian
league winners' medals twice on the bounce.
international manager, taking Brazil to World

Cup triumph in 1994 and marshalling Kuwait,
United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia in the
1982, 1990 and 1998 tournaments
respectively.
This is his second spell in charge of South
Africa and his record, especially against
European competition, is poor. However, his
side did well — admittedly in his absence — in
_
the 2009 Confederations Cup on home soil,
making it to the semi-finals where they
One of only two men to have led four narrowly lost to Brazil.
nations into the World Cup finals Carlos Parreira walked out on Bafana Bafana in
Alberto Parreira is one of the most April 2009 but returned in October and will
experienced and successful international hope to enhance his reputation further by
managers of all time. taking the hosts into the knockout stages of
He has had an incredible 11 spells as an the 2010 tournament.
18 GROUPA
McCARTHY
WEST HAM
A predatory goalscorer with a proven track
record at the highest level, Benni McCarthy
has had a tough 18 months but will hope to
put all of the problems behind him as he
looks to fire Bafana Bafana to the
knockout stages.
Struggling for fitness, form and a place in
domestic football, McCarthy was also out in the
cold internationally having fallen out with the
South African hierarchy. With Carlos Alberto
Parreira back at the helm, McCarthy will be
given every chance to be the attacking focal
point of this team and his move to West Ham
should help.
Voted as South Africa's player of the
Playing record 12 months ige year in 2009, Steven Pienaar is one of Appearances: 30
Appearances: 28 the few players of proven top class in Minutes played: 2643
Minutes played: 1587 the hosts’ side. Percentage played: 75.3%
Able to play anywhere across midfield, Goals scored: 4
Percentage played: 43.0%
Goals scored: 6 Pienaar is quick, skilful and is equally at Clean sheets: 11
Percentage share: 15.4% home scoring goals or creating them. He is Cards: Y6, RO
Cards: Y5, RO susceptible to injury but providing he stays Strike rate: 661mins
Strike rate: 264mins fit, he will be the main man for South Africa. Midfielder ranking: 118th
Strike rate ranking: 83rd
GROUP A
= URUGUAY FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH | LOW AVGE FINAL
the last game of qualifying. That set up a do-or- If the FIFA rankings are to be believed,
Qualifying from the South American zone is
always a tough task. die showdown with Costa Rica and Uruguay then Uruguay have a real chance of
Ten teams — including Brazil and Argentina — sealed their place, winning the away leg thanks qualifying for the last 16 from Group A.
and eighteen games, with only the top four to a goal by captain Diego Lugano before Unlike Group rivals Mexico and France
securing a 1-1 draw in the second leg to take they have precious little recent World
guaranteed a place at the World Cup. Despite
some mixed results they had their destiny in the tie 2-1. Cup pedigree.
their own hands but failed to beat Argentina in For final qualification table see Paraguay This is only the second finals they have
qualified for since 1990 and in Japan and
Avge FIFA ranking Korea 2002, they went home early having
4 13 Oct07 Home Bolivia W 5 O Suarez 4, Forlan 38, Abreu 48, Sanchez failed to win a game.
67, Bueno 82
In qualifying for this tournament they
17 Oct 07 Away Paraguay 0 needed a play-off win against Costa Rica
2 Suarez 41, Abreu 81
having finished fifth in the CONMEBOL
18 Nov 07 Home Chile
behind Brazil and Argentina but did so
21 Nov 07 Away Brazil 1 Abreu 8
relatively comfortably, and the two-time
14 Jun 08 Home Venezuela 1 Lugano 12 champions have shown snatches of real
oOo
fF
NY
W
a 17 Jun 08 Home Peru ee
ai = 0 Forlan 8, 38pen, 57, Bueno 61, 69,
O-=-
nN quality in the past 18 months.
Abreu 90 Their relatively inexperienced side is
7 O7 Sep 08 Away Colombia 1 Eguren 15 maturing with every game and, aided by
talented campaigners such as Atletico
8 10 Sep08 Home Ecuador 0
Madrid's prolific striker Diego Forlan and
9 11 Oct 08 Away Argentina 1 Lugano 39
captain Diego Lugano of Fenerbahce, they
10 14 Oct08 Away _ Bolivia 2 Bueno 63, Abreu 88 could easily cause an upset against an
11. 28 Mar09 Home Paraguay 0 Forlan 29, Lugano 57 erratic France on the opening day of the
0 tournament. If they can get a result in that
12 01 Apr09 Away Chile
4
game they could well find themselves in a
13 06 Jun 09 Home Brazil
strong position to reach the knock out
14 11 Jun 09 Away Venezuela 2 Suarez 60, Forlan 72
stages.
15 05 Sep 09 Away Peru 0
DREAM
16 09 Sep09 Home Colombia 1 Suarez Diaz 7, Scotti 77, Eguren 87 TEAM TOP 15 RANKING
17 10 Oct09 Away Ecuador 2 Suarez 69, Forlan 90 pen
18 14 Oct 09 Home Argentina ‘4
19 15 Nov 09 Away Costa Rica 4 Lugano 21
20 18 Nov 09 Home Costa Rica Ge ©== 1 Abreu 70

va ie
16.
io
fete
2)
fe
[Oo
LY
N:
-Baearmer-ePeea2er- Oscar Washington Tabarez is a vastly
experienced manager who has been at
the helm at an impressive list of clubs
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION including AC Milan, Boca Juniors and
Cagliari.
Tabarez, 62, is in his second spell at the
n
onl
s z
oS Siena
RB g Q . helm of Uruguay having managed them first
Match 1234567 8 9 1011121314 151617181920
Venue HAHAHHAHAAHAHAAHAHAH 8 £88 9 € @S 4 twenty years ago. Back at Italia 90, his side
Result WLDOLDWWDOLDWDLOLWWLWD £80806 53 8 OFF made it into the knockout stages where they
Goalkeepers lost to the hosts Italy and a similar run would
Fabian Carini ff]dT | Ps 56 fo 10))5 1450.25.00" 0! 0
>>> BEES MMMM mm 8s 8 00 720400 0 1 0 exceed expectations in South Africa with a
Juan Castillo
Nestor Muslera mn | te | 4 4-0 0, ©3860: 200 0 0 0 tough group to get through. Y
Sebastian Viera ij i Fy Be HO Om e270 16,080" 0070. Tabarez definitely has the ability to take
Defenders Uruguay to the latter stages but he may be
Martin Caceres S SSBB SEEREBEBR« BB« 12542) (0) iett062 5910 0. 4
S28" een 683 37.9 0 2 0 lacking the resources this time around.
Jorge Fucile psa @ « a | fon
Diego Godin BREE EEE «eee MM 616 071 1430 794 0 4 0
Diego Lugano BEBE EERE Be Bee 77 OO 1530 80 4 4 0
Cristian Rodriguez B«MB BBM ««eanue » Ba « 15 1G) 2) (Ge 1150 '163.0) TO et
Andres Scotti Be«S2e8>S88 ay »BMlLi« 97 22 641 356 1 3 0
Bruno Silva »*E« Bae 28 wB (Seach itinae, 455: 926.0; 705 72) 10
Midfielders
Sebastian Eguren OS» «BB BOM «>» OMM 2 9 32 «826 459 2 4 0
Alvaro Fernandez B»»«>y BBL» ene ee al! 249°13.8, 0) 1 0
Walter Gargano SOE BREE « Oe MMM@« M 11 02 925 514 0 0 0
Alvaro Gonzalez » iB |» ae« ae Sa re 269 149 0 1 O
Ignacio Gonzalez »«“«B« i« b AD she Sabi is.3) 30," 10.5°0
Alvaro Pereira M««MMBMeee 1010 02 854 474 0 1 «0
Maximiliano Pereira Be @«Oo8>@»Ba« MM WM 612 31 #1169 649 0 2 1
Diego Perez M«« « BB @««m Me M 1414 «06 «1058 588 0 7 0
Forwards
Sebastian Abreu «| BBB) Be «oe eer @e Me 16 610 2 699 388 6 0 0 GROUP FIXTURES
Carlos Bueno ror «Bao Bin Bie os Beall a 4 e110
Diego Forlan «ff «BES «BBB WOBMM 5 15 083 1285 714 7 2 0 FRANCE Thur 11 June 1930 BST
Jorge Martinez » BOB « Shae ae B 188 104 0 0 O
SOUTH AFRICA Tue 16 June 1930 BST
> BIB Tie Oe SBE 279.155. 1 0 O
Vicente Sanchez yveanwe
O47 242 18525 75:77 76) S10
MEXICO Mon 22 June 1500 BST
Luis Suarez re) eros i | ee fe
20 GROUP A
Zone South America
Population 3.5m
Language Spanish
Top league Uruguay Primera Division
Nacional (20,000/76,000), Penarol (10,000), Defensor
Sporting (18,000)
Premier League - Ligue 1 1
Serie A 3 Eredivisie 2
La Liga 3 Other Europe 7
Number of Uruguayan players playing:
Premier League 1 Bundesliga 1
Serie A 13 Ligue 1 1
1930 - * Champions 1974 - Round 1
1938 - Did not enter 1982 - Did not qualify
1950 - * Champions 1986 - Last 16
1954 - Semi Finals 1990 - Last 16
1958 - Did not qualify 1994 - Did not qualify
1962 - Round 1 1998 - Did not qualify
1966 - Quarter Finals 2002 - Round 1
1970 - Semi Finals 2006 - Did not qualify

Fabian Carini Atletico Mineiro 30 5
Juan Castillo Botafogo 32 8
Defenders
Martin Caceres Juventus 23 12
Jorge Fucile Porto 25 9
Diego Godin Villarreal 24 16
Diego Lugano Fenerbahce 29 17
Cristian Rodriguez Porto 24 15
Andres Scotti Argentinos Juniors 34 9
Bruno Silva Ajax 30 6
Midfielders
Edinson Cavani Palermo 23 7
Sebastian Eguren Villarreal 20°12
Alvaro Fernandez Uni de Chile 24 6
One of the top strikers in Europe for He finished the top scorer of all the Walter Gargano Napoli 2B aed
some years now, Diego Forlan is European leagues, winning the coveted Alvaro Gonzalez Nacional Montevideo 25 5
Uruguay's ace up the sleeve with his ‘European Golden Shoe' award twice, in Ignacio Gonzalez Levadiakos 27 5
2004/5 whilst with Villarreal and in 2008/9 Alvaro Pereira Porto 25 10
eye for goal and proven ability against
with Atletico Madrid scoring 35 goals in 45 Maximiliano Pereira Benfica 26" 15
top-class opposition.
While some might remember his frustrating games. The clinical striker will need to be on Diego Pérez AS Monaco 30 14
spell at Manchester United, it is during his top of his game if Uruguay are to progress Forwards
to the latter stages of the competition. Sebastian Abreu Botafogo 33: 16
time in Spain that he has become the player
Carlos Bueno Real Sociedad 30 8
that Sir Alex Ferguson thought he would.
Diego Forlan At! Madrid Str eto
Vicente Sanchez Schalke 30 7

a Luis Suarez Ajax 23 19
GROUP A 21
TOTAL OF THE AVERAGE FIFA RANKINGS OF THE FOUR COUNTRIES °5
Position
Group |
Total FIFA ranking
SOUTH KOREA V GREECE Port Elizabeth, Saturday 12 June 1330 BST VIEW FROM THE EXPERTS
While the first match of the group may not be the beatable Nigerians and inconsistent group ARGENTINA: Should win
one for the neutrals, it could be a defining game favourites Argentina still to come. Two superbly the group comfortably. It all
of the opening stage. A win for either South organised defensive sides threaten to stifle this depends whether mercurial
Korea or Greece would see them in with a great match as a spectacle, but fingers crossed that coach Diego Maradona has
chance of making the knockout stages, with both managers go for the win. the nous to pick the right
team and a settled team. I'd
still like to see a more experienced
ARGENTINA \V NIGERIA Johannesburg JEP, Saturday 12 June 1600 BST
managerial figure in there to help him.
With question marks hanging over Argentina the South American's suspect defence some HARRY'S VERDICT: Semi-finals.
after a disappointing qualifying campaign, this problems. A win for the Super Eagles, who NIGERIA: Not as good as they were. The
game will set the tone for their tournament. A finished third in the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations, Super Eagles, who reached the semi-finals
victory would see them become clear favourites against one of the giants of world football would of the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations, still rely
to top the group, but Nigeria have some be a great way to help start the continent’s first on old King Kanu who played for me at
dangerous attacking options and could cause World Cup. Portsmouth and Yakubu who made up the
Pompey strike line. They could be
ARGENTINA V SOUTH KOREA Johannesburg JSC, Thursday 17 June 1230 BST dangerous as it's in Africa though.
HARRY'S VERDICT: Last 16.
The stand-out game in the group, South unit, while a handy counter-attacking game, SOUTH KOREA: | don't know much
Korea have a lot to live up to after their led by Manchester United's Ji-Sung Park, about this squad other than Manchester
exploits in 2002, where they made it through has the potential to embarrass the South United's Ji-sung Park has Premier League
to the semi-finals, but a win against Diego Americans’ flaky defence. Victory in this one quality. But you can guarantee they will be
Maradona's Argentina would go a long way would be a major stepping stone to the : well organised, work their socks off and be
to matching those achievements of eight knock-out stage for either side, but if either incredibly hard to beat.
years ago. The Koreans prefer to defend had failed to win in their opening game then HARRY'S VERDICT: Group stage.
deep and in numbers, which could be a defeat would see them facing an early exit GREECE: Great European champions in
blessing against Argentina's tricky creative from the tournament. the past. And if anyone is going to upset
MATCH
KEY the top two teams in this group it will be
them. Well-organised with great
application but not sure it will be enough.
GREECE V NIGERIA HARRY'S VERDICT: Group stage.
Bloemfontein, Thursday 17 June 1500 BST
If either Greece or Nigeria bagged three points ARGENTINA: In my book,
in their first game of the tournament, this match the most fascinating country
could have great significance. With Argentina in the tournament. Will they
being the obvious favourites in the group, a show their class like they
second win for either side is likely to take them did in 1978 and 1986? Or
through to the Knockout stages. Nigeria have will they implode like they
the more attacking options in their squad but almost did in qualification? It all depends,
could still struggle to break down a solid of course, on what coach Diego Maradona
Greece defence. does and whether he can get World Player
of the Year Lionel Messi to perform for his
NIGERIA V SOUTH KOREA country like he does for Barcelona."
TEL'S VERDICT: Argentina advance.
Durban, Tuesday 22 June 1930 BST NIGERIA: Have some talented players in
Regardless of their match against Greece, if their ranks, such as Joseph Yobo, Jon Obi
Nigeria are still in with a shout of qualifying Mikel, Obafemi Martins and Yakubu, but
entering their third match then expect this the hard work they made of qualifying with
game to have an incredible atmosphere. A win a last-gasp win over Kenya in Nairobi,
will then give them the possibility of making the raises cause for concern. Will not be a
. next stage. Expect a nervy encounter — unless pushover but | wonder if they have the
the few creative players on show embrace the quality of previous campaigns.
South Korea's Ji-Sung Park occasion. TEL'S VERDICT: No plans for Nigeria.
SOUTH KOREA: Huh Jung-Moo's men
secured a seventh successive appearance
GREECE V ARGENTINA Polokwane, Tuesday 22 June 1930 BST
at the finals and their qualification record of
lf Argentina's fate in Group B is still hanging in teams. Depending on results earlier in the four wins, four draws and just four goals
the balance coming down to their final game, group, Greece could be still in the mixer at this conceded shows what a well-drilled outfit
then the two-time World Cup winners will not stage, but needing a result against one of the they are. Skipper and Manchester United
be relishing the prospect of needing a win biggest football nations on the planet could be midfielder Ji-sung Park is their talisman,
against arguably the most formidable defensive too tough an ask for a team who work well but he may not be able to stop them from
outfit at the tournament. The Euro 2004 together, but lack stand-out individual quality. boarding the early plane home. >
Champions relish these sort of games, and are This is a match that Argentina should win if they TEL'S VERDICT: Close but no cigar
often at their best against the better attacking are to be feared. in group stage.
22 GROUP B
GREECE: After reaching their first World
Cup since 1994, | fancy Greece to
accompany Argentina out of this group.
They have a coach in German Otto
Rehhagel who has managed to get the very
best out of his squad of players, and in
captain and midfielder Giorgos Karagounis
they have a player who could become one
of the unsung heroes of the tournament.
TEL'S VERDICT: Greece slide through.
ARGENTINA: Argentina's
success this summer
depends mainly on the
performances of two men:
Diego Maradona and Lionel
Messi. If coach Maradona can keep his
erratic behaviour in check and World Player
of the Year Messi can play for his country
like he does for Barcelona then it could be
quite a tournament for them both.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Quarters at
the very least.
NIGERIA: The Super Eagles have a wealth
of experience and no shortage of talent,
with their squad boasting the likes of
Joseph Yobo, Jon Obi Mikel, Obafemi
Martins and Yakubu. As with all African
nations, though, much depends on their
discipline and preparation.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: A most
unpredictable threat.
SOUTH KOREA: A seventh successive
finals appearance, they are sure to be well
organised, very disciplined and fit. They
famously made it to the semi-finals in 2002
on home soil. Although strong opposition
nobody expects Huh Jung-Moo's squad to
repeat those heroics this time.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: No mugs.
GREECE: Did well to beat Ukraine in a
play-off to secure their place at their first
World Cup finals for 16 years, but | believe
they used up most of their luck at a major
tournament when they won Euro 2004.
That was a big footballing moment for them
and | can't see it happening for the Greeks
again, certainly not in South Africa.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Early exit.
GROUP STAGE QUARTER-FINALS

FIRST GROUP B IRST GROUP D or SECONE
ARGENTINA ARGENTINA v SOUTH AFRICA

SECOND GROUP B
NIGERIA NIGERIA v FRANCE
GROUP B GROUP A GROUP C

ARGENTINA, NIGERIA, SOUTH KOREA SOUTH AFRICA, MEXICO, URUGUAY, ENGLAND, USA, ALGERIA, SLOVENIA
(KOREAN REPUBLIC), GREECE FRANCE GROUP D
GERMANY, AUSTRALIA, SERBIA, GHANA
GROUP B 23
ARGENTINA FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH LOW ® AVGE5 FINAL
South American qualifying is always tough, outside of the qualification places with two One of the all-time great footballing —
but rarely have Argentina struggled as games remaining. nations, Argentina go into this World
much as they did this time round. A late Peru equaliser looked to have held Cup in the worst state they've been in
A run of three wins in the first ten games was Argentina to a draw in their penultimate game, for many years.
enough to see off coach Alfio Basile, who was only for Martin Palermo to score a 92nd minute One of the favourites for the last World
replaced by Diego Maradona. However, after a winner to spark jubilant scenes in a storm- Cup, the Albicelestes were knocked out at
4-0 victory over Venezuela in Maradona's first drenched Buenos Aires. A 1-0 win in Uruguay the quarter-final stage by Germany,
game, the Albicelestes were hammered 6-1 wrapped up qualification. continuing a very disappointing run of World
away in Bolivia and a poor run saw them For final qualification table see Paraguay. Cup performances that had seen them reach
the last eight just one other time since 1990.
Avge FIFA ranking England and Sweden ensured they didn't
1 13 0Oct07 Home Chile 32 W_ 2 O Riquelme 26, 45 make it out of the group stage in 2002, while
Nigeria and Bulgaria did likewise in 1994,
2 16 Oct07 Away Venezuela 60 W _ 0O 2 G.Milito 15, Messi 18
with a quarter-final defeat to the Netherlands
3 17 Nov07 Home Bolivia 66 W_ 3 0 Aguero 41, Riquelme 57, 74 in 1998 the nation's best World Cup
4 21 Nov07 Away Colombia 38 L 2 1 Messi 36 performance in the last 20 years. In other
5 15 Jun08 Home Ecuador 44 D_ 1 1 Palacio 89 words: they're due a big tournament.
6 19Jun08 Away Brazil Vaz DS Os0 Current manager Diego Maradona inspired
Argentina to their most recent World Cup
7 06 Sep 08 Home Paraguay 20 D_ 1 1 Aguero 61
triumph — in 1986 — but his introduction to
8 11Sep 08 Away Peru 76 D- 1 1 Cambiasso 84 management got off to a stuttering start, as-
9 11 Oct 08 Home Uruguay 22 W_- 2 1 Messi 5, Aguero 12 his lack of experience showed in the second ~
10 16 Oct08 Away Chile VA? Boma leg?) half of a qualification campaign that almost
ended in disaster.
11 28Mar09 Home Venezuela 60 W_ 4 O Messi 25, Tevez 47, Rodriguez 51,
Aguero 72 Any side with World Player
12 01 Apr09 Away Bolivia 66 L_ 6 1 L.Gonzalez 25 of the Year Lionel Messi in
13 06 Jun09 Home Colombia 38 W_ 1 0 Diaz 55 their midst should never be
14 10Jun09 Away Ecuador 44 e200 discounted.
15 06 Sep 09 Home Brazil 4 L 1 3 Datolo 65 t 2
Maradona called up an incredible number

16 10Sep 09 Away Paraguay 20) eee of players to represent the nation during his
17 10 Oct09 Home Peru 76 W_- 2 1 Higuain 48, Palermo 90 first year in charge. His failure to find a
18 140Oct09 Away Uruguay 22 W_ 0 1 Bolatti
84 settled first-team line-up is the main reason
why Argentina are not considered amongst
PN-lg-le(- tly We-lel dials mel me)e)olesiitiea) 40 the favourites to triumph in South Africa.
That said, any side with World Player of the
Year Lionel Messi in their midst should never
be discounted, and there's no shortage of
Key: ff played 90 mins « subbed off » subbed on [§f on bench 8 ae B
quality available in addition to Barcelona's
Cc Os Oo ae ne}
Match 123° 667689 101112191415181718 § BR a $ . fleet-footed star.
Venue HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA ee 2-8 8 2 2p The father of Maradona's grandchild, _
Result WWWLODODDDBWLWLWLLLWW IHAD =z & oF gf
Sergio Aguero, is a quality option up front,
Goalkeepers
Roberto Abbondanzieri es) betta “« Ca ate COD ee S54 6G4.cL Oe Oe 0 as is Carlos Tevez. Gonazalo Higuain's" .
Mariano Gonzalo Andujar eo | | Pea SiS) 0). O27 0) SO rOr Ov 20 stunning form with Real Madrid has also”
Juan Pablo Carrizo ee SS» SERRE Gis Srl OL? w626:732:5 Ole ®) seen him come into contention for a starting
Sergio German Romero wR Ban Sh BBO 109 270) 160. a:
Defenders
spot. Javier Mascherano, Fernando Gago
Nicolas Burdisso «SRB @« >» 18 Grid evacoe eer, 0) vO 710 and Esteban Cambiasso are defensive
Fabricio Coloccini Se Seeeee 28 3 8 0. 0 270, 16:7) (04):0, 30 midfield options that cannot be matched by
Martin Demichelis BEER SEES Bee »H 14°19 991 VO" NSS: The Os OC
any other side in the world. The back line is
Daniel Alberto Diaz | »E»» @ Or 2 5A O Vs IG oe JO
Gabriel lvan Heinze & BE« CMR MM« MOM 1414 OO 2 120 744 0 2 0 _ unlikely to be as strong as in past years —
Hugo Benjamin Ibarra «8 S79 Ol (248 1S ae On ie 0 despite the likely presence of Javier Zanetti.
Gabriel Milito aaa Ae Ao Oe0) S602 2 aie nO) There is still the chance that Argentina can
Rolando Schiavi SS» a 20 YO 101) ATS Gs 1G. 2g
defy their disappointing recent form and be a
Javier Zanetti BERBER See 16.15: 4) JO" 13956 861550), a. O
Midfielders major threat to the more in-form nations. But
Esteban Camblasso M@« « M«B« Bh B) LO 4 8670-41-45 Ss ORO they'll have to up their game from qualifying
Angel Di Maria «B@Bliji»« B« S38 2.2 ) 26651450 O81 to avoid a major upset at the hands of three
Fernando Gago »ee Re no Ba««S8 12° 84 2a 2 2Atiie0 AGO
JonasGutierrez Ome« EE gH rar 08 a bogs Alon 3) 0 dangerously underrated sides.
Ow. TOP 15 RANKING

Javier Mascherano BEEBE «BR BEB M MMMM 16 16 OO 1 (1412 872 0 5 O
Nicolas Hernan Otamendi |a | i| SF C0 i a7 RNG7 Om TO
Juan Riquelme BERBER «Bm« 8 9 0 2, 784-484. 4 2 0
Maxi Rodriguez «(jena ««0oB« jSW SP Peon ome ay Be) <¥e(OMe PP Po:
Juan Sebastian Veron
Forwards
“« »~SB>h« t 6, 72 443 27.3: 0 42 4 GROUP FIXTURES
Sergio Aguero » «BB
er «aeBa«Ba ly» «Be 12,8 4 6 G82 427 4 0 0
Gonzalo Higuain (“4 202, OP 2 146) i900: 0 NIGERIA Sat 12 June 1500 BST —
Lionel Andres Messi “BERBER «BB«BRRBMMMM« 8 18 0 4 16044 990 41 0 SOUTH KOREA Thur 17 June 1230 BST
Carlos Tevez “uae “« aa aaal iM 12141 1 8 726 448 12 2 GREECE Tue 22 June 1930 BST
Martin Palermo »» @ Zee’ 0 (he LA.8r Acad iO
24 GROUP B
Zone South America
Population 41m
Language Spanish
Playing season February - June
Major clubs and Capacities
Boca Juniors (49,000), Racing (51,389), San Lorenzo
(43,494)
Number of Argentinian players playing:
La Liga 30 ~—s Eredivisie 2
1930 - Second place 1974 - Round 2
1934 - Round 1 1978 - *Champions
1938 - Withdrew 1982 - Round 2
1950 - Withdrew 1986 - *Champions
1954 - Withdrew 1990 - Runners up
1958 - Round 4 1994 - Last 16
1962 - Round 1 1998 - Quarter finals
1966 - Quarter finals 2002 - Round 14
1970 - Did not qualify 2006- Quarter finals

Roberto Abbondanzieri Boca Juniors 37 7
Juan Pablo Carrizo Real Zaragoza 26 6

Sergio Romero AZ Alkmaar 23 3
Defenders
Nicolas Burdisso Roma 29 6
Fabricio Coloccini Newcastle 28 3
Martin Demichelis Bayern Munich 29 14
Daniel Alberto Diaz Getafe 30 6
Gabriel lvan Heinze arseille 32 14
Gabriel Milito Barcelona 29 4

Rolando Schiavi Newells Old Boys 37 3
Javier Zanetti nter Milan 36 16
Midfielders
Esteban Cambiasso nter Milan 29 8
Argentina's Diego Maradona has of the Year award to his name. Originally seen Angel Di Maria Benfica 22 5
described Lionel Messi as his as a winger, he has blossomed in Barcelona's Fernando Gago Real Madrid 2 12
‘successor’ in the national team, but it is three-pronged attack, although he has yet to Jonas Gutierrez Newcastle 26
no exaggeration to suggest that the replicate that form on the international stage. Javier Mascherano Liverpool 264-16
Barca star might even eclipse The national side do tend to rely on Messi to Nicolas Otamendi Velez Sarsfield 22 3
create chances out of nothing in tight games, Juan Riquelme Boca Juniors 31 9
Maradona's success.
but Argentina will have a great chance if he is Maxi Rodriguez Liverpool 29 8
Before he even turned 22, Messi had two
Juan Sebastian Veron Estudiantes La Plata 35 7
Champions League titles, three La Liga titles,
an Olympic Gold Medal and the World Player Forwards
Sergio Aguero Atl Madrid geil
Lionel Messi Barcelona 22 Ne

Carlos Tevez Man City 26) s.t2
@ Probable @ ble QG Qualification Games
GROUP B 25
GABRIEL FABRICIO
HEINZE COLOCCINI
MARSEILLE NEWCASTLE
Instantly recognisable, with his mop of
Capable of playing at left-back or in the
curly hair and aggressive playing style,
centre of defence, Gabriel Heinze has had
Fabricio Coloccini has spent the last
an illustrious career, winning the Premier
season in the second tier of English
League with Manchester United and La
football with Newcastle United.
Liga with Real Madrid.
A four-year spell at Deportivo La Coruna
A regular on the left of the Argentina defence
apart, Coloccini's club career has been a pal
but his versatility will prove vital.
reflection of his form for Argentina over the
Heinze is a Top 12 Defender.
years, with a five-year stay at AC Milan notab
for his lack of appearances for the Rossoneri,
NICOLAS while relegation with Newcastle in 2009 was «
BURDISSO career low-point.

However, he has put in some top-class
ROMA displays in central defence for his country,
showing quality on the ball as well as his usu
A highly experienced defender with an eye
commanding presence in the air.
for a tackle - and a short fuse - Nicolas
Despite being in and out of the side over th
Burdisso made a name for himself at Boca
last few years, Argentina's defensive
Juniors, before moving to Europe to join
weaknesses mean that Coloccini will expect t
Inter Milan in 2004, where he won four
play a large part in the Albicelestes' World Cu
straight Serie A titles.
campaign in South Africa — even if he starts tt
A versatile member of the Argentina squad,
tournament as back-up centre-half.
Burdisso can be used both in the centre and at
This could be a big tournament for Coloccin
right-back and could prove to be a vital part of
JUAN PABLO Maradona's team in South Africa.
especially if he wants a move to a larger club.
CARRIZO Playing record 12 months Ige weq

Playing record
Appearances:
12 months Ige
14
we
REAL ZARAGOZA Appearances: 27 6

Percentage played: 77.7% 16.7'
‘Playing record 12 months Ige weq Goals conceded: 24
Goals conceded: 29 2
Appearances: 16 6 Clean sheets: 2
Clean sheets: 10 4
Minutes played: 1440 526 Cards: V2, ROO, Fs
Cards: Y5,RO YO, RO
Percentage played: 94.1% 382.5% Minutes between goals: 52mins 135mir
Goals conceded: 30 9 Defender ranking: 168rd 61:
Clean sheets: 4 2
Cards:
Minutes between goals:
2, Otay
48mins
OMRO
58mins REAM RANKING 742
Goalkeeper ranking: 34th 29th
A string of personal problems saw the

attacking genius’ playing career come to an
undignified end, and his circus-like private life
ROBERT was aptly described by international team-
ABBONDANZIERI mate Jorge Valdano as ‘an ordeal that should

not be imitated’.
BOCA JUNIORS With no real managerial experience of note,
Maradona was a surprise choice to replace
Alfio Basile in 2008. Just four wins in his first
Playing record 12 months Ige weq
eight games in charge during qualifying were
Appearances: - 7
notable for his displays of tactical naivety and
Minutes played: - 554 One of the game's most famous and inconsistent selection. His relief as Argentina
Percentage played: - 34.2% vibrant personalities, Diego Maradona bagged a late win in their penultimate game
Goals conceded: - 5 has mixed the majestic and the was Clear for all to see, as he slid along on the
Clean sheets: - 3 controversial throughout his career, as touchline on his knees in celebration of Martin
Cards: - YO, RO both a player and manager. Palermo's goal.
Minutes between goals: - 111mins Considered by many to be one of, if not the However, a furious outburst at reporters live
Goalkeeper ranking: - 20th greatest player of all time, Maradona inspired on television after the final qualification game
Argentina to consecutive World Cup finals, saw the coach banned for two months at the
and was voted player of the tournament as end of 2009, bringing a disappointing opening
the Albicelestes triumphed in 1986. year in charge to a fittingly controversial end.
26 GROUP B
adidas
ZAN ae 8
INTER MILAN
The most capped Argentina player of all
time, Javier Zanetti has already written his
name into the nation's footballing history,
and it is testament to his outstanding
ability that he remains a regular even at the
age of 36.
The full-back is still a first team option for Inter
Milan — 16 years after moving to the Italian club
— and continues to combine consistently strong
defensive work with his trademark forays further
forward. He bagged a first Serie A title in 2006
and hasn't looked back since.
Ignored by Argentina coach Jose Pekerman
for the 2006 World Cup, Zanetti will be keen, to
make up for an eight year absence from the There are few bigger fans of Javier of club football. The fulcrum of both his club
world's biggest stage since he captained the Mascherano than Argentina manager and international sides, Mascherano is a
Albicelestes in 2002 — when he was also left Diego Maradona, who made him tough tackling presence in the centre of the
disappointed, as his side crashed out at the captain in November 2008 and park, who leaves the ‘Hollywood passing’
first hurdle. described the national side as and creative play to those more suited to
A favourite of Diego Maradona, the defender ‘Mascherano and ten more’. that role. The skipper's form and fitness
will expect to be one of the first names on the Arguably the world's best defensive alongside Fernando Gago in midfield will be
team sheet in South Africa and he will be key to midfielder, his move to Liverpool in 2007 vital to the side's hopes.
any success in the tournament. exposed the 26-year-old to the highest level
Zanetti
Zanetti ISic aa lon
!Op | 2 Defender.
1
GROUP B 27
FERNANDO CARLOS
GA G
GO
REAL MADRID
TEVEZ
MAN CITY
Prodigious young midfielder Fernando One of the biggest names in world football
Gago featured regularly in qualifying, and an impressive performer for
forming a defensive midfield partnership Manchester City, Manchester Utd and West
with Javier Mascherano. Ham in the Premier League over the last
After bagging two league titles at Boca four years, Carlos Tevez has flattered to
Juniors, Gago moved to Real Madrid in 2006, deceive for his country.
aged just 20, where he played a key role in Two red cards and just one goal in a
both of the club's La Liga titles in his first two disappointing qualifying campaign saw his
years at the club. position in the national side come under serious
Cultured on the ball, with an eye for a pass, threat, although he did feature more regularly
good defensive positioning and a decent after the appointment of Diego Maradona as
challenge on him, Gago seems to have it all, manager.
with his flowing locks and boyish looks also A hard-working yet skilful forward who isn't
making him the female fans' favourite. afraid to voice his opinions, Tevez is capable of
The influx of players to the Bernabeu in 2009 leading the line if need be, but performs at his
limited Gago's playing time over the last best when used either as a support striker in a
season, but he looks likely to remain a key part front-two or as a wide player in a three-pronged
of the national side. strike force.
However, with the inspirational Lionel Messi
Playing record 12 months Ige guaranteed to start if fit, and Sergio Aguero,
Appearances: 21 12 Gonzalo Higuain and Maxi Rodriguez among
Minutes played: 1600 772 those competing for the remaining attacking
Percentage played: 45.6% 47.7% positions, Tevez will be hoping that his form in a
Goals scored: 0 O star-studded City team has been good enough
Clean sheets: 13 6 to help him force his way into an Argentina side
Cards: Y9, R1 ¥3, RO who have the individual talent to leave a real
Strike rate: = > mark on the tournament.
Midfielder ranking: 158rd Tevez is a Top 12 Striker.
ESTEBAN C
AMBIASSO
ee MILAN MAXI
Midfielder Esteban Cambiasso has
dropped behind Fernando Gago in the
RODRIGUEZ
Argentina pecking order, but the Inter
LIVERPOOL
Milan legend put in another impressive Skilful attacking midfielder Maxi Rodriguez
season for his club to stake a decent claim has a rounded creative game, developed
for a starting berth. during an eight-year spell in La Liga.
An Inter legend and consistent performer for Pace, trickery and a powerful shot make the
his country over the last decade, Cambiasso Liverpool man a constant threat, and he has
was originally seen as a midfield ‘destroyer’ but that precious ability of being able to fashion a
has developed a more cultured side to his chance — or a goal — out of nothing. Scorer of
game. He endured mixed fortunes at the last one of the great World Cup goals in extra-time
World Cup, finishing off one of the great team of the last 16 clash with Mexico in 2006, Maxi
goals against Serbia, but missing the decisive will need to show that he's back to his best to
penalty against Germany in the quarter-finals. play regularly in South Africa.
Playing record 12 months Ige wcq Playing record 12 months Ige wcqg
Appeararices: 34 8 Appearances: 82 8
Minutes played: 2850 670 Minutes played: 2027 407
Percentage played: 79.2% 41.4% Percentage played: 60.1% 25.1%
Goals scored: 6 1 Goals scored: 2 1
Clean sheets: 14 4 Clean sheets: 6 3
Cards: Y2, RO YO, RO Cards: Y5, RO Y1, RO
Strike rate: 475mins 670mins Strike rate: 1013mins 407mins
Midfielder ranking: 87th 61st Midfielder ranking: - -
Restate ALEK % i
| AGESEALER
28 GROUPB
ARGENTINA (6) /
GONZALO
HIGUAIN
REAL MADRID
Young striker Gonzalo Higuain offers
Argentina the natural finishing ability they
need to complement the squad's wide
range of deep-lying creative talents.
Since signing for Madrid at the age of just 19,
Higuain has developed a fearsome goal-scoring
record at club level. He managed to tie down a
regular starting place for Los Blancos in er
2009/10, despite the arrival of flagship signings ONE TO WATCH
Kaka, Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema.
Ignored by Maradona until the penultimate
game of South American qualifying, Higuain
scored the opener in Argentina's vital 2-1 win S ERG 0 AG U ERO ATL MADRID
over Peru and should feature in South Africa.
One of the most promising talents in Playing record 12 months Ige weq
Playing record 12 months Ige wcq world football, the diminutive Sergio Appearances: 36 12
Appearances: 34 2 Aguero combines pace, skill and clinical Minutes played: 2741 692
Minutes played: 2423 146 finishing. Percentage played: 78.1% 42.7%
Percentage played: 69.0% 9.0% Capable of playing as a lone front man but Goals scored: 16 4
Goals scored: 22 1 more effective alongside another forward, Percentage share: 23.19% 17.39%
Percentage share: 24.18% 4.35% Aguero failed to tie down a regular berth Cards: Y6,RO YO, RO
Cards: YouRo 1s ¥O;.RO under manager Diego Maradona, but will be Strike rate: 171mins 173mins
Strike rate: 110mins - a dangerous option coming off the bench. Strike rate ranking: 34th 28th
Strike rate ranking: 8th -
AGE 22 § am RANKING 188 AGE 22 |STRIKER § OREAM RANKING 82
GROUP B 29
<= GREECE FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH LOW 20 AVGE 15 FINAL

Greece qualified for the World Cup for only Ukraine in one of the more favourable play-off One of the most defensive teams in
the second time in their history, but did so ties. A string of wasted chances in the home world football, Greece are unlikely to
the hard way being forced to go through leg left Greece needing a win in Donetsk, but repeat their shock Euro 2004 success in
the play-offs after missing out on they duly delivered thanks to a first half goal by South Africa, but will fancy their :
automatic qualification by just a single Dimitrios Salpigidis and a characteristically chances of qualifying from what should
point. impressive defensive display to keep Ukraine be an extremely competitive and evenly
The surprise Euro 2004 champions would out in the second half. matched Group B.
have been confident of qualifying automatically The Greeks have made just one previous
when they were drawn in one of the easier FINAL QUALIFYING TABLE World Cup appearance, in 1994. They lost
European groups, but lost twice to Switzerland EUROPE GROUP 2 all three games on that occasion, conceding
and dropped two crucial points in a shock draw PWODtL F A Pts ten goals without reply against the collective
with minnows Moldova, ensuring that the Swiss Switzerland 10.7.6 3S 248 Boe) might of Bulgaria and two of the countries
finished top of Group Two. Greece * 10)),6* 2'-2.520°405, 20 that they will face again in South Africa —
Successive victories in their final two games — Latvia 10m 5 2) 3etGnip eet, Nigeria and Argentina. However, with the
including a 5-2 defeat of nearest challengers Israel 10 442 2010 16 combination of a formidable defence and a
Latvia - wrapped up second place for Otto Luxembourg 10-8127 6 4395 #25 dangerous group of strikers, spearheaded by
Rehhagel's side. They reaped the rewards of Moldova 10,5808en7 6°18) <3 Europe's top goal-scorer in qualification,
FIFA's seeding system when they picked out * Greece beat Ukraine in the play-offs. Theofanis Gekas, Greece are rightly
Avge FIFA ranking
expected to improve that record in South
Africa.
1 06 Sep 08 Away Luxembourg 131 WoO 3 Torosidis 36, Gekas 45, Charisteas 77pen
Under the guidance of the impressive
2 10Sep 08 Away Latvia 63 W_ 0 2 Gekas 17, 50 tactician and long-serving manager Otto
3 11 Oct08 Home Moldova 78 W_ 3 O Charisteas 31, 51, Katsouranis 40 Rehhagel, they have what it takes to hurt
4 15 Oct08 Home Switzerland 27 LL 1 2 Charisteas 68 South Korea and Nigeria in their opening two
5 28 Mar09 Away Israel 21
games. They could also spring a surprise in
D 1 1 Gekas 42
their final game in the group against an
6 01 Apr09 Home Israel 21 W = 2 1 Salpigidis 32, Samaras 67pen
Argentina side who limped through
7 05 Sep 09 Away Switzerland Zia ee 2 10 qualifying, so the last 16 is a realistic target.
8 09Sep 09 Away Moldova 78 D-~ 1 1 Gekas 33
9 10 Oct09 Home Latvia 63 W_ 5 2 Gekas 4, 47pen, 57, 90, Samaras 73 Oram. TOP 15 RANKING
10 14 Oct09 Home Luxembourg 131 W_ 2 1 Torosidis 30, Gekas33
11 14Nov09 Home Ukraine 22: ) Der 020 THE MANAGER
12 18Nov09 Away Ukraine 22 W 0 1 Salpigidis 31

Manager of the Greek side since 2001,
Otto Rehhagel oversaw one of the great
football shocks as Greece won the Euro
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION 2004 title.
With almost 30 years of managerial
experience in the Bundesliga prior to his
Match 192.3°4.5
6 ¢°8'9'1011 12 switch to international football, Rehhagel has
Venue AAHHAHAAHHHA
developed a reputation as a manager who
Result WWWLDWLDWWODOW Started
Appearances
on Subbed
off
Subbed played
Mins GoalsYellow
Red
Goalkeepers puts together defensive teams that are more
Konstantinos Chalkias BEEBE effective than they are entertaining. That is
Michail Sifakis ii Ey exactly what he has done with this Greék
Alexandros Tzorvas ERG Oe side, and while the fans won't be queuing up
@
o-o-oo
oa
ore ooo fo)Go
De) OF
OC®N ooo
oOo
o.oo
Defenders
to watch them play, don't bet against
Traianos Dellas itt tT
Sotirios Kyrgiakos
Rehhagel leading Greece into the knock out
BERE«BEEE «8B = =
Evangelos Moras stages.
SO88«a> ae
Avraam Papadopoulos SEEEEE»
Sokratis Papastathopoulos 8 @ M« ie)N (o>)
Christos Patsatzoglou »O@ew o> BB ne
Giourkas Seitaridis itt iy |
Nikolaos Spiropoulos RSS Bee
Vassillis Torosidis BEEEEe i| |
Loukas Vyntra SRBRe )« B«ee =H
FOOnNOLOAN
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OO Ors
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Midfielders
loannis Amanatidis »@ 4 > b>
Angelos Basinas «»BB«»
Giorgos Karagounis B« »oB« ««Be ~N Er >
Konstantinos Katsouranis B« Been
Vassilios Pliatsikas
»» i»
Alexandros Tziolis «(SB R«ee» &©
N
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NOt
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Angelos Charisteas
GROUP FIXTURES
BESBR««e »«
Theofanis Gekas «a«aaaeBe« >» BBB « >
Nikolaos Liberopoulos «>» » | | il
=k
SOUTH KOREA Sat 12 June 1230 BST
Dimitrios Salpigidis » oD MEB« Seem
ria
OA
NIGERIA Thur 17 June 1500 BST
Georgios Samaras Waeaaenoon
eh BB B« = 4OoO--OW
ONAN ANNOO
oO
OOo
a ooooo°o ARGENTINA Tue 22 June 1930 BST
30 GROUP B
JUF
(7 ..) a >
HRS Ca be ek: eatSa, iin atASshay Sake

peae Lure prtivie ye Oa Ar ike, Sa ost Ra ty
Zone Europe
Population 10.7m
Language Greek
Top league Super League Greece
Panathinaikos FC (71,030), AEK Athens (71,030),
Olympiacos FC (33,334)
Premier League 2 Ligue 1 -
Serie A 2 Eredivisie -
Bundesliga 5 Outside Europe -
Number of Greek players playing:
Serie A 2 Ligue 1 1
La Liga Eredivisie 1
1958 - Did not qualify 1994 - * Round 1
Goalkeepers Club side

Konstantinos Chalkias PAOK Salonika
Michail Sifakis Aris
Alexandros Tzorvas Panathinaikos
Defenders
Traianos Dellas Anorthosis
Sotirios Kyrgiakos Liverpool
Evangelos Moras Bologna
Avraam Papadopoulos Olympiakos
Sokr Papastathopoulos Genoa NONh
Christos Patsatzoglou Omonia Nicosia 3

Giourkas Seitaridis Panathinaikos
Nikolaos Spiropoulos Panathinaikos
Vassillis Torosidis Olympiakos Oo
OD
+
ODa
fON
GIORGOS KARAGOUNI LOouKas
Midfielders
Vyntt an) Wie
loannis Amanatidis Eintr Frankfurt 28 4

A legend of Greek football, Giorgos Playing record
¢
12 months Ige weg Angelos Basinas Portsmouth 34
Karagounis may be better known for his Appearances: 10 fh Salonika
physicality, but he also has a refined Minutes played: Tah Giorgos Karagounis Panathinaikos 33 «6410
and underrated creative game that Percentage played: 71.38% Konstan Katsouranis Panathinaikos 30 10
makes the Greece team tick. Goals scored: Vassilios Pliatsikas Schalke 2 3
A powerful shot and good ability from set- Clean sheets: Alexandros Tziolis Panathinaikos 25 4
pieces also mean Karagounis is a real Cards: Forwards

danger from distance. If Greece do progress Strike rate: Angelos Charisteas Nurnberg 30 10
then Karagounis will play a major role. Midfielder ranking: Theofanis Gekas B Leverkusen oO 12
Nikolaos Liberopoulos Eintr Frankfurt 34 4
Konstantinos Mitroglot lymniak
Dimitrios Salpigidis Panathinaikos 28 8

Georgios Samaras Celtic 25° 10
@ Probable @ QG Qualification Games
GR OUP'B: i
B NIGERIA FIFA RANKINGS:
HIGH 17 LOW 29 AVGE 28 FINAL
Despite going through the whole of the glimmer of hope going into the final round of Africa's most consistently successful
lengthy African qualification campaign games. Nigeria still needed to win and hope World Cup nation of the last two
unbeaten, Nigeria left it extremely late to that Mozambique pulled off a shock by beating decades, Nigeria will once again have
seal a place at the World Cup. Tunisia in Maputo. aspirations of qualifying for the knock
The Super Eagles steam rollered their way However, that is exactly what happened, with out stages in South Africa.
through round two of African qualifying, winning goals from Obafemi Martins and Yakubu 2010 will be the Super Eagles’ fourth taste -
all six group games — including home and away Aiyegbeni drawing Nigeria level against Kenya, of World Cup football and the first of those
against World Cup hosts South Africa - and before Martins bagged a late winner to send four occasions, in 1994, remains their most
conceding just one goal in the process. the Super Eagles to their fourth World Cup. successful. They qualified top of a group that
However, a draw against Mozambique in their included Argentina and Greece, two of their
first game of the third and final stage of FINAL QUALIFYING TABLE group opponents again in South Africa. Then —
qualification left Shaibu Amodu's side with a AFRICA ROUND 3 GROUP B they were heartbreakingly close to making
tough task to finish top of Group B, and two P WDL F A Pts the quarter-finals, being beaten by eventual
draws against Tunisia left Nigeria trailing behind Nigeria Gkroro, Oe 91145 12 runners-up Italy in extra time.
the North Africans in the race for the solitary Tunisia Grropemia fy 4 44 With Premier League regulars Joseph
qualification space with two games remaining. Mozambique (Me. NE RR RY ye Yobo, John Obi Mikel and Seyi Olofinjana
A 98rd minute winner from Victor Obinna Kenya Cm lieOe om 5 11 poS they are ensured that the Super Eagles are
against Mozambique ensured there was a strong defensively. The collective talents of
Avge FIFA ranking Yakubu Aiyegbeni, Obafemi Martins and
1 01 Jun 08 Home South Africa 74 W_ 2 0 |.Uche 10, Nwaneri 44 Lokomotiv Moscow's Peter Odemwingie are —
2 07 Jun08 Away Sierra Leone 126 W 0 14 Yobo 89 TOEOnNRtheir
Coe day
orn Nigeria
ee can
——— be a match for
3 15 Jun08 Away Equatorial Guinea - W 0 1 Yobo 5 anyone. It would be no real surprise if they
4 21 Jun08 Home Equatorial Guinea - W_- 2 0 Yakubu 45, |.Uche 84 did progress from Group B, but as one of —
5 06 Sep 08 Away South Africa 74 W_ 0 1 |.Uche 69 the less-fancied African teams at the 2010
6 11.Oct08 Home Sierra Leone 126 W_ 4 1 Obodo 20, Obinna 34, Odemwingie 45, finals; it would De a huge surpHss stim
Odiah 50 improved on their last 16 best - but never
say never.
7 29Mar09 Away Mozambique Ot bes On0 DREAM
8 O07 JunNO9 Home Kenya 97 W_ 3 0 1.Uche 2, Obinna 72pen, 77 TEAM TOP 15 RANKING
9 20Jun09 Away Tunisia 49 D 00
10 06 Sep 09 Home Tunisia 49 D 2 2 Odemwingie 24, Eneramo 80 THE MANAGER
11 11 Oct09 Home Mozambique 91 W_ 1 0 Obinna 90
12 14Nov09 Away Kenya 97 W_ 2 3 Martins 60, 81, Yakubu 64 Shaibu Amodu has been manager of
UNele (Mall Weclal diate Me)Me) 9)eLes-si

(Te)a) Nigeria on three separate occasions,
leading the Super Eagles through
successful qualifying campaigns to
reach both the 2002 and the 2010 World
on
oO OD
Cup Finals.
e & . = 3 Despite their reputation as one of the most
il
Venue
PAMPER
HAAHAHAHAHHA
ci hig ht OP eo eee ee famous and successful African football
25283 te Eo RS pe ; ne , ¢
Result WWWWWWOWDOWW <2 G00 5S 8 GEC nations, Nigeria's current side lack the
Goalkeepers quality of old and it took all of Amodu's.
Dele Aiyenugba on 8B MM 2200 18 147 00 0 managerial nous to guide the current squad
Vincent Enyeama Baae BBM@M@M@M 1010 0 0 g00 83 00 0 to South Africa.
peer nie pitino rote tt After guiding Nigeria to third place at the
Dele Adeleye SRB OM 3 3:0 (0 270250 00 0 201 0 Africa Cup of Nations Amodu was
Obinna Nwaneri BeEEe 8 MM 8 8 00 720 67 1 20 relieved of his duties in February.
Chidi Odiah SSBB Ee« Seba Crh 34608 4016 sno) 10
Daniel Olusola Shittu Baar >» 4 8 1 0, 829.305 0-90.06
Taye Ismaila Taiwo BEEREEEE Bee 9 19 Or 0) 810) 75.0) (Ol 0. 10.
Joseph Yobo BEREE MMMM 98 8 OO 810 75.0 20 0
Midfielders
Yussuf Atanda Ayila «BRS Poi | (-sGcaly we SsOsODeOr gO usc. aC
Elderson Uwa Echigjile ME MM 3 3 00 270 2.0 0 2 0
Sani Kaita Ba 38 2) 32".0) OF “Tey Tehine eit a0
Yusuf Mohamed Baw Bwew« 4 4 90: Min C801 .27:017°0: 210810
John Obi Mikel Male Mm MWe MW 7 61 1 «(541 501 0 1 0
OldWaseyi George Olofinjana »» Oe Be« m@« Oo a7,- 22 2 90 04.60 10) Oy x0)
Forwards
Yakubu Aiyegbeni «BB«m» «ff Se? 12 eae Ole paeON= 0
Michael Eneramo ane ae Borer Be OS. v2 sl 214s Ft 0
Nwankwo Kanu »“«B« |My» >» Be 62) A) 72's $266.23:05 1.GarOi7
Obafemi Martins | > 3,122 50) 470 Soa? 10. 70 GROUP FIXTURES
Victor Nsofor Obinna BOrvli«aanan nw BOSS GuoN 415-1968) 4. 80= 0
Peter Odemwingie SO» «BB «BMMBMM 109 1 2 «798 739 220 ARGENTINA Sat 12 June 1500 BST
Ikechukwu Uche BMB« «a «Bu « 10°°.9 76" S735) (68.1. 4-4) 10 GREECE Thur 17 June 1500 BST
Kalu Uche «» BB«BOm« « 9-8) 42a 680-602220 0 ‘per
John Utaka «OOH » 4A <8 1 dh 234 (2720. <0" -0 POU Gere Tus 22 ne ee ;
32 GROUP B
Zone Africa
Population 149m
Language English
Top league Nigerian Premier League
Enyimba FC (25,000), Kano Pillars FC (25,000),
Bayelsa United FC (5,000)
Number of Nigerian players playing:
Premier League 11. +Bundesliga 3
Serie A 2 Ligue 1 6
1958 - Did not enter 1994 - * Last 16
1962 - Did not qualify 1998 - * Last 16
Goalkeepers Club side

Dele Aiyenugba Bnei Yehuda 26 2
Vincent Enyeama Hapoel Tel-Aviv 27 = 10
Defenders
Olubayo Adefemi Boulogne 2 2
Dele Adeleye S Rotterdam 21 3
Obinna Nwaneri Sion 28 8
Chidi Odiah CSKA Moscow 26 5
Daniel Olusola Shittu Bolton 29 4
Taye Ismaila Taiwo Marseille 25 9
Joseph Yobo Everton 29 9
Midfielders
Yussuf Atanda Ayila Dinamo Kiev 25 7
Elderson Uwa Echiejile Rennes 22 3
JOHN OB! MIKEL Sani Kaita

Yusuf Mohamed
Kuban Krasnodar
Sion
24
26
2
4
John Obi Mikel Chelsea 23 di
One of the young stars of African Playing record 12 months Ige Chinedu Obasi 1 Hoffenhei 4
football, John Obi Mikel has become a Appearances: 30 Christian Obodo Udinese 26 2
vital member of the Nigeria team. Minutes played: 2145 Oluwaseyi Olofinjana — Hull City 29 9
With a solid defensive game and an Percentage played: 61.1% Forwards
impressive passing range that rarely gets Goals scored: O Yakubu Aiyegbeni Everton 27 8
seen at Chelsea, Mikel's contribution could Clean sheets: 16 Michael Eneramo Sportive de Tunis 24 5
be key in both defence and attack. If Mikel Cards: Y4, RO Nwankwo Kanu Portsmouth 33 6
is in good form for his nation then they Strike rate: = Obafemi Martins Wolfsburg 25 3
might very well make the latter stages. Midfielder ranking: 159th Victor Nsofor Obinna Malaga 23 9
Peter Odemwingie Lokomotiv Moscow 28 10
Ikechukwu Uche Real Zaragoza 26 10
Kalu Uche Almeria 27 9
ohn Utaka
@ Probable @ P QG Qualification Games
GROUP B 33
SOUTH KOREA FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH 42 LOW 55 AVGE 48 FINAL

South Korea qualified for their seventh draw away from home, a 1-0 win in Seoul put Asia's most frequent representatives at
consecutive World Cup with ease, topping Huh Jung-Moo's side in the driving seat to top the World Cup, South Korea shocked
both qualification groups, going unbeaten Group B. Inspired by midfielder Ji-Sung Park, the footballing world when they beat
in all 14 games and conceding just seven Korea finished top with four points to spare. Portugal, Italy and Spain en-route to the
goals in the process. semi-finals and a fourth-place finish as
The Red Devils were twice held by neighbours FINAL QUALIFYING TABLE hosts in 2002.
and fellow qualifiers North Korea in the third ASIA ROUND 4 GROUP 2 That performance was far and away South
stage of Asian qualifying, but still managed to P-W:D L F A Pts Korea and Asia's best at any World Cup.
top the group on goal difference to go into the Korea Republic 8 440 12 4 16 The Red Devils had failed to win a single
final group stage of AFC qualifying as joint top Korea DPR Sivonsaee aire. 12 game at any of their five previous
seeds. Saudi Arabia Ba GoOm cm OlnD 112 tournaments. It is unlikely that they will come
Once again, South Korea were drawn Iran Seca ok Gwe s Att close to repeating that feat in South Africa.
alongside their Korean neighbours, but after a UA Emirates Se Om iame Onis.) at Led by Manchester United midfielder Ji-sung
Park, Huh Jung-Moo's side are a well-drilled
Avge FIFA ranking outfit, who are extremely hard to break down
1 06 Feb0O8 Home Turkmenistan 152 W 4 O TH Kwak 48, Seol 57, 85, and concede very few goals as a result.
Ji-Sung Park 70 However, they lack the striking firepower
2 26Mar08 Away Korea DPR 105 D OO that saw off those European ‘giants’ ofeight
- years ago, which is likely to prove their
3 31 May 08 Home Jordan 120 D = 2 2 Ji-Sung Park 39, CY Park 48 undoing in South Africa. Drawn alongside
4 07 JunO8 Away Jordan 120 W _ O 1 CY Park 24pen Argentina, Nigeria and Greece, South Korea
5 14Jun08 Away Turkmenistan 152. W_ 1 3 Do-Heon Kim 14, 81, 90pen still certainly have a chance of progressing.
6 22 Jun08 Home Korea DPR 105 D oO ile of ee group oe are le
7 10Sep08 Away Korea DPR 105 D 11 ;
Ki69 at all at their best going into the tournament.
Even if they do make the last 16 it is unlikely
8 15 Oct08 Home United Arab Emirates 113 W 4 1 TH Kwak 16, Keun-Ho Lee 20, 80, that they will repeat their feats of 2002,
diSung Parks 26 despite having a good squad, they will be
9 19Nov08 Away Saudi Arabia 55 W_ 0 2 Keun-Ho Lee 77, CY Park 90 outclassed in the latter stages.
10 11 Feb0O9 Away Iran 50 D_ 1 1 Ji-Sung Park 81 | TOP 15 RANKING
11 01 Apr09 Home Korea DPR 105 W 1 0 CWKim86 TEAM
12 06Jun09 Away United Arab Emirates 1138 W_ O 2 CY Park 9, Ki 37 T E M A
13 10 Jun09 Home Saudi Arabia 55 Dr 0:0 H AN GER
14 17 Jun09 Home Iran 50) 2D eat
South Korean's head coach since 2007,
Huh Jung-Moo has been involved in the
national set-up on-and-off since 1989.
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION A full international in his playing days,
Jung-Moo scored the goal that sent South
Ben ak oe ae Korea to the 1986 World Cup and trumped
Match 1234567 8 9 1011121314 g z 8 3 2 3 eo that by scoring again at the finals, against
Venue HAHAAHAHAAHAHH S 3 O49 g ao B24 Italy.
Result WODWWODOWWDWW0D £44 SR OSE He oversaw a comfortable qualification
Goalkeepers A oa tea
Sung-Ryong Jung SS SSBBeeee @ 7 7 (OO 6500 010 campaign as manager, picking up the:Asian
Woon-Jae Lee MMMM 6 6 (tO OO 540 429 000 Coach of the Year award for 2009 in the
Defenders ee
Coihees
ait
ceed cummeTama (¢¢ 2) rsa $3 5 (Mpgoiemntet Tadeo

process. Although his negative tactics are
Won-Hee Cho « » » ” 10. 8 4 4 692 470 0 1 O i n
Min-Soo Kang SE 0S 8880888 99 00 80 643 010 ae ;

Chi-Woo Kim S Seeeee» 4yAgs “Ae iGieaa4y 22/5 erator O great deal of creative quality.
Dong-Jin Kim BB +» »»Ba« Te 8 ABA RS 7 Oe RO ae. vn ,
Hee Ju Kwak © s88 aoe) 100M en 4 Cen0 aeto J
Young-Pyo Lee BOM« © MM«wee » 109 1 4 «723:574 02 0
Beom-Seok Oh BEBB«« BOM M11 O 2 916727 0 20
Midfielders
Hyo-Jin Choi om» 3 Hi artol tar Shea awe
Do-Heon Kim yee BBE 653. 80) “480i BAS) AOL0G
Jung-Woo Kim SS « BOM « & BiG. OA 478 379 0 3 14
Nam-ll Kim «««Boe 7 8 2. 8 467 arn OO 2 8
Chung Yong Lee « » MM o««BBBM« 10 9 1 4 #703 558 00 0
Jung Soo Lee | | coe | SS,» SEE 9 6; 13> 0) Gat S26 a0 080
Kedii-Ho Lee «4» BaueBaaeB 10 9 1 «7 «+735 583 3:0 «0
Ji-Sung Park Beawon Bh«seee tie DB A 982 779 4 2 0O
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Forwards
Jung-Hwan Ahn « O« Soret) ae 166° 12:3 Qh <1 0
Jae-Jin Cho “« “4 2 en Ol 2 104 BS -410 40) 70 GROUP FIXTURES
Sung Hoon Jung Baal 3 3° 0 2) 202 16.0.0 0 ~0
Sung-Yong Ki B«SBeee« Sn 8° (0. 2heas r6a0 Sere 20 GREECE Sat 12 June 1230 BST _
Tae Hee Kwak a | 2). °2)5.0) “GF $80 19453. 2 Gt 16 ARGENTINA Thur 17 June 1230 BST
Chu Young Park (Ti i | ew Ma««M 12 9 3 2 839 66 41 ~0 NIGERIA Tue 22 June 1930 BST
Ki-Hyeon Seol B« «ee 4 4° 0 2 606242 2 9 0 LA |
34 GROUP B
GROUP B S KOREA (KOREA REPUBLIC) (48)
ih,_
Zone Asia
Population 49m
Language Korean
Top league K League
Playing season March November
FC Seoul (68,476), Suwon Bluewings (43,288),
Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma (19,000), Incheon United
FC (19,000), Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors (43,348)
Serie A Eredivisie
Bundesliga Outside Europe 17
Number of South Korean players playing:
Serie A Ligue 1
La Liga Eredivisie
1930 - Did not enter 1974 Did not qualify
1950 - Did not enter 1986 3ound 1
1954 - Round 1 1990 Round 1
1958 - Banned from Fifa 1994 Round 1
1962 - Did not qualify 1998 Round 1
1966 - Did not enter 2002 *4th Place
1970 - Did not qualify 2006 Round 1
THE SQUAD
Sung-Ryong Jung Seongnam Ilhwa 25
Woon-Jae Lee Suwon Bluewings 37
Defenders
Won-Hee Cho Suwon Bluewings 27
Yong-Hyung Cho Jeju Utd 26
Min-Soo Kang Jeju Utd 24
Chi-Woo Kim FC Seoul 26
Dong-Jin Kim Zenit St Petersburg 28
Hee Ju Kwak Samsung Bluewing:
Young-Pyo Lee Al-Hilal 33

Beom-Seok Oh Krylia Sovetov 25
Midfielders
Hyo-Jin Choi Pohang Steelers 26
Do-Heon Kim Suwon Bluewings
JI-SUNG PARK MAN UTD Jung-Woo Kim Seongnam Ilhwa
Nam-ll Kim Vissel Kobe 33
Ji-Sung Park first made a splash in Playing record 12 months Iige weg Chung Yong Lee Bolton ?1
South Korea's outstanding run back in Appearances: 20 11 Jung Soo Lee Kyoto Sanga 30
2002, where he scored the winner Minutes played: 1268 982 Keun-Ho Lee Jubilo Iwata 25
against Portugal to secure a place in Percentage played: 34.4% 77.9% Ji-Sung Park Vian Utd 29
Goals scored: 1 4 Ki-HunyYeom Ulsan Hyundai
the knock out stages.
Hard-working, yet creative and with an eye Clean sheets: 12 8 Forwards
for goal, Park's all-round game makes him Cards: Y3, RO Y2, RO Jung-Hwan Ahn Jalian Shide 34
the turn-to man for South Korea. He will be Strike rate: 268mins 245mins ae-Jin Cho Gamba Osaka
pivotal for the Red Devils.. Midfielder ranking: 33rd 18th Sung Hoon Jung 3usan |'Park
Sung-Yong Ki C Seoul
Tae Hee Kwak Chunnam Dragons
MIDFIELDER DREAM
TEAM RANKING 1109
Chu Young Park
Ki-Hyeon Seol
AS Monaco
ulham
24
1
@ Probable ® Possible QG Qualification Games
GROUP B 35
DREAM TEAM
WORLD RANKING
This book is packed with DREAM TEAM RANKING In terms of defenders, England fair rather better,
Opinion from some of The Dream Team Ranking is a however, with two players in the top five — John
the biggest and most comprehensive index that takes into Terry ranked the second best in the world,
knowledgeable names in account the most important factors when Ashley Cole the fifth. But the next best ranked
assessing a player and it works as follows: are unlikely to make the plane to South Africa
football, but our great game
— Liverpool's Jamie Carragher is the 15th best
isn’t always about what we Each player gets points for every match played. at the back but has retired from international
think is true, it can also be football, while left-back Leighton Baines of
analysed based on facts These have three parts to their composition: Everton seems to be down Fabio Capello’s
and statistics. Domestic League activity (12 months), UEFA pecking order.
Champions and Europa Leagues (12 months)
and International activity (over the whole Brazil also have a strong presence, with Inter
In an attempt to give you some key insights into qualifying period). Milan’s Lucio and Maicon both in the top ten.
what the numbers say about the players and
teams involved in the 2010 World Cup, there Within each category players get points for each
are some overall and positional rankings inside SIToM of-1o{- afs Mcolmn atom Co)ofPAK (-\(clale(-16
game they play based upon:
every player’s stats panel. at the World Cup.
— strength of the league or competition
— strength of the opposition based upon
Two separate sets of rankings have been the two teams’ relative rankings at the Spain’s dominance in the rankings is highlighted
devised — a series of positional rankings based time of the fixture in particular by one look at the top midfielders.
on league and qualification performances and — time spent on the pitch Barcelona's central midfield hub of Xavi and
an overall DREAM TEAM RANKING which takes — cautions Andres Iniesta are first and seventh respectively,
a whole host of factors into the equation in — goals conceded while Real Madrid’s former Liverpool man Xabi
rating the top players in world football. — goals scored by the player Alonso is third in the table.
— goals scored by the team
In addition to the individual rankings, we have a — who wins the match As might be expected, Brazil, too, are well
TOP 15 TEAM RANKING - which looks to rank represented in midfield and can boast two
teams based on the strength of their top players This index is match based and therefore values players in the top five — Real Madrid’s Kaka is
— in stark contrast to the FIFA rankings which activity as well as impact, so players who play ranked second best in the world and Felipe
are based on team results. more frequently will — as you might expect — be Melo of Juventus is named fifth.
duly rewarded.
All of the above is explained in detail over the
next two pages and should you want to see SIToM of:[e(-Ms7 Mielmn (alee co)olePM nal(otit-y(e(-tec)
Where a player plays in a minor league not
any of the latest rankings — whether team or at the World Cup.
covered in depth we make an estimate for that
individual — in their totality, you can find them by category.
logging on to the Dream Team site at: In terms of strikers there is far more of a mix
The results thrown up are fascinating and can of nationalities and it will be interesting to see
www.dreamteamfc.com/worldcup be found in full on the Dream Team website — if some of the star names in the top ten can
read on for some of the highlights. do enough to fire their teams deep into the
competition. Cameroon's Samuel Eto'o tops
the list, closely followed by the world’s most
STRENGTH IN DEPTH expensive player, Cristiano Ronaldo who: plays
The Rankings highlight an embarrassment as a striker for Portugal. The rest of the top 12
of riches that some teams have in certain include players from France, Argentina, Ivory
departments. Coast and Uruguay.
Take Euro 2008 champions, Spain, for example.

See page 38 for the top 12 strikers
Three of the top seven ranked goalkeepers are
at the World Cup.
available to play for Spain. Iker Casillas rates as
one of the best 12 players in the world, while
Barcelona's Victor Valdes — who unbelievably
has never been capped for Spain — and Jose TOP PLAYER SECTIONS
Reina are the sixth and seventh best keepers in Using an algorithm based on the criteria
the world respectively. above, each player in world football’s major
leagues has been assigned a Dream Team
Compare that to England and you start to Ranking and the top players at the World
understand why the lack of a world-class keeper Cup in each position are named in four
is often a topic for conversation in the media. sections. The next four pages count down
Robert Green is only rated the 18th best keeper, the Top 12 strikers likely to be present in
while David James is well down the list in 60th — South Africa. =
partly due to missing games through injury.
See page 154 for the top four keepers

at the World Cup.
36 DREAM TEAM RANKINGS

THE DREAM TEAM WORLD RANKING IS YOUR
FORM GUIDE TO THE PLAYERS
IN SOUTH AFRICA
TOP 15 RANKING In terms of what is hot and what is not, in
In order to assess a team, not only by their domestic football, anything over 9Omins is pretty DIDN'T MAKE IT
results, but also by the quality of personnel at good — anything over 105 is special... Some of the unluckiest players in world
their disposal, a TOP 15 RANKING has been football, it could be argued, are those
attributed to each country in the tournament In World Cup qualifying, however, all bets good enough to mix it on the game’s
based on the Dream Team Ranking points are off. There are fewer games, a bigger gap biggest stage, but who will be forced
picked up by each of their Top 15 players. between the quality of the teams and some to watch from the side-lines along with
crazy numbers are therefore possible. the rest of the world come June?
The results are revealing and show that sometimes
teams are greater than the sum of their parts. Gerrard Pique managed to average a massive Victor Valdes has already been mentioned
240mins between goals — a goal conceded just and is the victim of a ridiculously strong
once every two and a half games — while for The goalkeeping line-up for Spain. In defence,
To see the full list of rankings by position, Arsenal's Thomas Vermaelen can feel
Netherlands, Joris Mathijsen banked a mammoth
go to www.dreamteamfc.com/worldcup aggrieved Belgium couldn’t make it, while
360 minutes between goals — conceding on
average just one goal every four games. up front, Worlsburg’s Edin Dzeko — who
has been scoring for fun in the Bundesliga
POSITIONAL RANKINGS The ‘Goalkeeper Ranking’ and ‘Defender Ranking’ — will be missed after he matched Wayne
The aim of #he positional rankings is to provide show how good each player's ‘Minutes between Rooney by netting nine times in the qualifiers
a snapshot of a player’s league form in the last goals’ figure is for their respective position. for Bosnia & Herzegovina.
12 months and also their form throughout the
World Cup qualifying campaign. All midfielders and strikers have a ‘Strike To see the full list of all players in the Dream
Rate’ which is the average number of minutes Team Rankings — not just those heading to
between each goal they score. To work this out, South Africa — go to:
Goalkeepers and defenders have ‘Minutes
between goals’ in their stat panel. This — as you the total number of minutes played are divided
by the number of goals scored.
www.dreamteamfc.com/worldcup
might expect — is the average number of minutes
between goals conceded while this player is on
the pitch. A figure of 90 minutes, for example, Each player also has a ranking based on their
would mean that this player’s team concedes — on ‘Strike Rate’ compared to the other players in
average — a goal a game when they are playing. their position.
DREAM TEAM RANKINGS 37

A player who fuses English determination wcq
and hard work with South American flair, Appearances: 12

Carlos Tevez plays with a smile on his face Minutes played: 726
and dynamite in both feet. Percentage played: 44.8%
{
Surrounded by controversy following his move Goals scored:
to West Ham and subsequent spat with Percentage share: 4.35%
Manchester United, Tevez has got back to his Cards: Y4, RO Y2, R2
best playing for Manchester City. He hasn't Strike rate: 175mins 726mins
been in the best goal-scoring form for Argentina Strike rate ranking: 36th 82nd
in recent times but is definitely going to be a big
part of the Argentinian set-up if they are to
make it far in South Africa.
A hungry centre-forward in great form, Luis

Fabiano has been Brazil's first choice striker Appearances:
for the last year and his pace, strength and Minutes played:
finishing ability make him the ideal focal Percentage played:
point for Brazil's attacking ambitions. Goals scored:
After a three-year spell in the international Percentage share:
wilderness, he returned in 2007 top-scoring for Cards: Y9, RO Y eR
Brazil in qualifying and also in the 2009 Strike rate: 134mins 89mins
Confederations Cup. As the man expected to Strike rate ranking: 17th 8th
deliver the firepower for the tournament
favourites, Fabiano will be in the spotlight, but
don't be too surprised if he rises to the occasion.
A clinical striker with an excellent goal weg

return — both internationally and in Serie A Appearances: 6
- Alberto Gilardino has yet to set the world Minutes played: 414
alight for the Azzurri but has the chance to Percentage played: 46.0%
do just that in South Africa. Goals scored: 4
In and out of the starting line-up in the Percentage share: 22.2%
qualifiers, Gilardino still managed to top score Cards: Y4, RO: YO, RO
for Italy thanks to his good all-round game and Strike rate: 199mins 103mins
ruthless eye for goal. With the options up front Strike rate ranking: 54th 9th
somewhat limited for Marcello Lippi, Gilardino
may get an opportunity and if he can fire his
way into the side, this could be his tournament.
There is no surprise that Diego Forlan is a weq

Top 12 Striker - he has twice in the last six Appearances: 13
seasons scored more goals than any other Minutes played: 1105
striker in European football to earn himself Percentage played: 61.4%
the 'Golden Shoe’. Goals scored: is
A naturally gifted all-round footballer, Forlan Percentage share: 23.3%
has added cutting edge to the ability he always Cards: Y3; RG Y2, RO
possessed. While Uruguay are not going to win Strike rate: 112mins ~158mins
the tournament in South Africa, he can earn his Strike rate ranking: 9th 25th
country some glory in what could be his last
World Cup and maybe land himself another
chance with one of the biggest clubs in Europe.
38 TOP PLAYERS
THE TOP1: ,
aRETS
David Villa scores goals at an incredible Appearances:

rate and has been one of the most prolific Minutes played:
strikers in European football for half a Percentage played:
decade. Goals scored:
A key part of Spain's success in the last few Percentage share:
years, Villa fired himself to the Golden Boot at Cards:
Euro 2008 and was Spain's top-scorer in their Strike rate:
qualifying campaign. If the European Champions Strike rate ranking:
make it as far as expected in South Africa, then
he will surely have played a major part in getting
them there.
Tt vowse
A centre-forward who on his day is simply
unplayable, Didier Drogba is unorthodox, Appearances: 33
extremely athletic and capable of scoring Minutes played: 2703
and creating goals in abundance. Percentage played: 79.0%
A big physical specimen, Drogba is also quick Goals scored:
on his feet and comfortable on the ball. He Percentage share:
might not be the most natural finisher in the Cards: Y5, RO YO, RO
game and is prone to going down dramatically, Strike rate: 150mins 61mins
but he can score from anywhere. He was the Strike rate ranking: 26th ist
top-scorer in qualifying and will be vital to the
lvorians' chances of progressing from arguably
the toughest group in South Africa.
Bth waynes ENGLAND 8

A whirlwind on the field and a creative
talisman for England, Wayne Rooney will be Appearances:
hoping to add to his sack of domestic and Minutes played:
European silverware in South Africa. Percentage played:
He was in superb form in the qualifiers, scoring Goals scored:
nine goals in nine games as England strolled to Percentage share:
the finals — only one player managed more in Cards: Y7,R1
Europe. With outstanding vision and awareness, Strike rate: 120mins
Rooney is the attacking hub of Fabio Capello's Strike rate ranking: 12th
side and if he finds his rhythm and eye for goal,
do not bet against the Manchester United star
firing England a long way into this tournament.
ARGENTINA & ‘
Destined, perhaps, to be considered one of

the all-time greats of football, it is easy to Appearances: 18
forget that Lionel Messi has his best years Minutes played: 1604
ahead of him and will celebrate his 23rd Percentage played: 99.0%
birthday during the 2010 World Cup. Goals scored: 4
A prodigious talent with superb skill, pace and Percentage share: 17.4%
finishing ability, Messi has become the pre- Cards: Y1, RO Yi; RO
eminent forward in world football and as well as Strike rate: 106mins 401mins
the medals picked up with Barca, was named Strike rate ranking: 6th 70th
“World Player of the Year in 2009. He played
“more minutes than any other Argentina player in
Rowing and will be key to any success.
TOP PLAYERS 39
:
Formerly the ‘enfant terrible’ of French Often referred to as the best centre- A supremely gifted footballer and the most
football, Nicolas Anelka — having made his forward in the world, Fernando Torres expensive player in history, Cristiano
debut in 12 years ago — has finally settled combines physical presence and appetite Ronaldo brings flair, drama and no small
into a steady role for Les Bleus, having for a tussle with sublime skill and finishing amount of ego to the World Cup, but
found some stability in his career wearing ability. Portugal will need all of his majestic
the blue of Chelsea. Having cut his cloth with Atletico Madrid, talents to get out of a tough group that
A quick, technically gifted striker with a real Torres made a big money switch to Liverpool includes Brazil and the Ivory Coast.
eye for goal, Anelka has scored goals and did not disappoint, bagging 33 goals in his His ability to run at players with the ball at
consistently throughout his long career, but is first season. He has been effective for Spain, pace is unparalleled in world football; add in his
now playing at a level for Chelsea that suggests too, scoring the only goal and being named ability to score and create goals from open play
he can make real impact for his country in man-of-the-match in the final of the European and set-pieces and you get a player who could
South Africa up front alongside Thierry Henry. Championships in 2008 v Germany. set the tournament alight.
Appearances: 33 8 Appearances: 30 ja Appearances: 27 7

Minutes played: 2674 626 Minutes played: 2313 451 Minutes played: 2216 565
Percentage played: 78.2% 56.4% Percentage played: 67.6% 50.1% Percentage played: 64.8% 52.3%
Goals scored: 10 3 Goals scored: 21 0 Goals scored: 17 0
Percentage share: 13.7% 15.0% Percentage share: 26.6% 0% Percentage share: 22.4% 0%
Cards: YORRO). SY Os Cards: Mey mo YO, RO Cards: Y5, RO YO, RO
Strike rate: 267mins 209mins Strike rate: 110mins . Strike rate: 130mins -
Strike rate ranking: 85th 41st Strike rate ranking: 7th Strike rate ranking: 7th -
40 TOP PLAYERS
SAMUEL ETO'O
A prolific goal-scorer at the highest level
for almost a decade, Samuel Eto'o is still Playing record 12 mths Ige weg
one of the deadliest finishers in world Appearances: 37 11
football and has the ability to fire . Minutes played: 3072 967
Cameroon through Group E. Percentage played: 87.5% 89.5%
Always passionate and often controversial, Goals scored: 23 9
Eto'o left Barcelona with a sack of medals to Percentage share: 30.3% 39.1%
join Inter Milan of Italy — and if he can inspire Cards: Y4, RO Y2, RO
Cameroon past Japan and Denmark, it could Strike rate: 134mins 107mins
well be Italy who lie in wait in the last 16. Strike rate ranking: 16th 12th
AGE29f)INTER MILAN | Ram! RANKING

vy
TOTAL OF THE AVERAGE FIFA RANKINGS OF THE FOUR COUNTRIES
Position
Group
Total FIFA ranking . 88
ENGLAND \) USA VIEW FROM THE EXPERTS

Eagerly anticipated, this could be the key England were magnificent in qualifying, while ENGLAND: My choice for
game in the group — if either side snatch a the USA have struggled since their ~ the winners of the whole
win they will fancy their chances of topping Confederation Cup heroics. Bob Bradley's shebang. We have the
the pile, but a draw could mean Group C is side are very well organised and they will players and manager, even
wide open. This will be the first time the two hope to keep it tight and frustrate Fabio the weather in a South
sides have met at a World Cup finals since Capello's side with Everton goalkeeper Tim African winter will suit us. It's
the USA's famous shock 1-0 victory in 1950 Howard a key figure. The longer it stays the best chance we'll ever have. Going all
and while a repeat result would not be as goalless the more the USA will fancy their the way with the Three Lions.
surprising as it was 60 years ago, it would chances but expect England to have a little HARRY'S VERDICT: Champions.
certainly be an upset. too much quality. USA: Dangerous opponents and many
have been unwise to write them off so
easily following the draw. The Yanks don't
ALGERIA SLOVENIA Polokwane, Sunday 13 June 1230 BST
stop working and will be super-fit.
Both sides will consider this as the ideal opener last 16. Slovenia will start favourites and have HARRY'S VERDICT: Last 16.
— the most winnable game of the group and an certainly attained the more impressive results in ALGERIA: Saw their first game at the
early chance to secure three points, in a the past 18 months — especially the way they Africa Cup of Nations and wasn't
relatively low-key fixture. The wider public will played against Russia in the play-off game. impressed, Nadir Belhadj sprinkles a little
know little about either side but it does have Algeria have already played in one tournament stardust over the squad but put it this way
the capacity to be a decent game of football — in Africa this year — the Africa Cup of Nations - he wouldn't get in the England team.
especially as both sides will be pushing for the where their results were decidedly mixed. Any HARRY'S VERDICT: Group stage.
win as their best chance of making it into the result is possible. SLOVENIA: You only have to look at their
run to the finals to see how dangerous this
SLOVENIA \/ USA team will be. Poland, the Czechs and then
Russia all knocked out in qualifying. They
Jo’burg JEP, Friday 18 June 1500 BST
are no walkover and could be another
Slovenia will be underdogs in this game — which team in the chase for the second place
tends to be the way that they like it — and the behind England.
USA will know exactly what they need to do to HARRY'S VERDICT: Group stage only.
reach the last 16. If they dropped points
against England, a win is vital here and Bradley ENGLAND: | know we say
might have to ditch his usually conservative it before every major
tactics and go for goals in this game. Whereas tournament, but England
the defence were the key against England, the have a real chance. Let's
forward line will need to be in top form and two not get carried away, they
i.
players capable of delivering goals are Landon are not as talented as
: USA's Clint Dempsey Donovan and Clint Dempsey. maybe Brazil or Spain but with a bit of
momentum and a couple of smiles from
ENGLAND \ ALGERIA Cape Town, Friday 18 June 1930 BST Lady Luck, who knows? We just need to
pray that our top players steer clear of
A must win game for England who, presuming England will certainly not underestimate the significant injuries, :
they picked up at least a point against the USA, North African side, they will be confident. TEL'S VERDICT: Semis at least.
will not want to face Slovenia knowing that only Splitting the Desert Foxes' defence will USA: England's hardest opponents if the
a win will do if they are to progress further in therefore be key for Fabio Capello’s side and group. A great number of their players ply
the tournament. These two sides have never expect Wayne Rooney to be the man looking to their trade in the Premier League. Ranked
met in international football before and while breach Algeria’s back line. in FIFA's top 20, having finished top of the
CONCACAF and lost to Brazil in last year's
Confederations Cup final, Bob Bradley's
SLOVENIA \/ ENGLAND P Elizabeth, Wednesday 23 June 1500 BST
side are no mugs.
These two sides have only met once before significant problems for Fabio Capello's team. TEL'S VERDICT: Amercian express to
and the 2-1 win for England in September 2009 The Italian will be wily enough to have analysed second stage...at least.
was every bit as close as the scoreline the match and know exactly where the game ALGERIA: The Desert Foxes are
suggests. True, the game was a friendly and will be won and lost but confidence could play appearing at their first World Cup for 24
England’have been notoriously sloppy in non- a big factor and if England come into this game years, but are not your archetypal African
competitive international fixtures for a long time, with four points or more, expect a decisive side. They play a very European way and
but Slovenia are not the same side when victory; but if England have stuttered against have gifted players in the form of
fighting tooth and nail either and they caused the USA and Algeria, it could be a tight game. Portsmouth's Nadir Belhadj and Lazio
midfielder Mourad Meghni. They should
USA \/ ALGERIA Pretoria, Wednesday 23 June 1500 BST not cause England too many problems.
TEL'S VERDICT: Will struggle to get
Chances are that one of these teams will need football before so there is no history to trade on past group. ==
a victory to secure their participation in the last but this game does pit two solid defensive units SLOVENIA: Pulled off something of a
16, so it could be a very open game. Algeria against each other so it will be a battle of the shock by beating Russia in a play-off to
have never faced the USA in international creative players. book their place in South Africa, but |
42 GROUP C
(11) W723)
cannot see them shocking England.

Fabio Capello's men beat them 2-1 ina
friendly at Wembley in September. Well-
organised and hard to break down, Matjaz
Kek's men lack a little bit of quality.
TEL'S VERDICT: Nothing to fear.
: Capello has
done a fantastic job getting
us to South Africa, but as
the finals approach | am
getting more nervous about
our chances. The potential
routes through the tournament are not as
cut and dried as some make out. We need
to start well to build some momentum.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Come on
England!
USA: | played for England when the
Americans beat us 2-0 in Boston in 1993.
The game led to The Sun's famous back
page headline: Yanks 2 Planks O. Football
in America has come a long way since
then, but one thing has not changed: they
still want to beat England. Bradley's squad
contains a number of Premier League
players to give the match against the Three
Lions a bit of a derby feel.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Not to be
taken lightly.
ALGERIA: Did well at the African Nations
Cup where they beat the much-fancied
lvory Coast 3-2 on the way to the semi-
finals. With Pompey's Belhadj and Lazio
midfielder Meghni in their ranks, it is maybe
not surprising their play has been likened
to that of a European nation. Hopefully that
will suit England.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Could spring
the odd surprise.
SLOVENIA: Making their second
appearance at the finals after winning their
play-off against Russia on the away goals
rule. They are more than capable of
grinding out results in high-pressure
situations. But realistically they should not
pose too many problems.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Very much run
of the mill.
ENGLAND ENGLAND v AUSTRALIA
USA USA v SERBIA
GROUP C GROUP D GROUP A

GERMANY, AUSTRALIA, SERBIA, GHANA SOUTH AFRICA, MEXICO, URUGUAY, FRANCI
ENGLAND, USA, ALGERIA, SLOVENIA
GROUP B
ARGENTINA, NIGERIA, SOUTH KOREA
(KOREAN REPUBLIC), GREECI
GROUPC 43
= = ENGLAND FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH © LOW “> AVGE®© FINAL
Fabio Capello not only guided England to contributed from midfield with three and four Whisper it quietly, but there is a genuine
one of the smoothest qualifying campaigns goals respectively and up front, despite swell of feeling from the serious pundits
they have known in a long time, he also featuring sparingly, Peter Crouch with four goals as well as the casual fans, that this ©
helped exorcise some of the ghosts and Jermain Defoe with three, both played their England side - under the stewardship of
accumulated during their ill-fated bid to part but it was Wayne Rooney who stole the Fabio Capello - can make a real impact
make Euro 2008 by not just beating, but show with nine goals in as many games. in South Africa and should, perhaps, be
thrashing Croatia - the side that knocked FINAL QUALIFYING TABLE considered serious contenders for the
them out in qualifying. EUROPE GROUP 6 title.
Comprehensive doesn't quite describe the 4- P WDL F A Pts OK, so we have been here before and
1 away win and 5-1 home victory over Slavan England 1005 98.0 Te S4) 16> 27 England's chances are always hyped up but
Bilic's team and with similar results home and Ukraine 10 63 1 21 6 21 there is something genuinely different about
away against Kazakhstan, Andorra and Belarus; Croatia 105 Ge2ue 19) 13020 things this time around - and not just the
it was no surprise that England topped the Belarus 10 415 19 14 13 impressive style in which they qualified,
goalscoring chart in the European Zone. Usual Kazakhstan 10 20 8 1129 6 sweeping away Croatia and Ukraine and
suspects Steve Gerrard and Frank Lampard Andorra 10 0010 339 0 topping the ‘goals for’ column in the
European Zone in the process.
Avge FIFA ranking With talent in abundance in midfield and
1 06 Sep 08 Away Andorra 192 W_ 0 2 J.Cole 49, 55 Capello having found the right mix to get the
2 10Sep 08 Away Croatia 8 W 1 4 Walcott 26, 59, 82, Rooney 63 most out of Steven Gerrard and Frank
3 11. Oct08 Home Kazakhstan 130 W_ 5 1 Ferdinand 52, Kuchma 6409, Lampard, the key areas for England will be
Rooney 76, 85, Defoe 90 up front and at the back.
4 15 0ct08 Away Belarus 72 W 1 8 Gerrard 11, Rooney 50, 75 Up front, it is all about Wayne
5 01 Apr09 Home Ukraine 22 W_ 2 4 Crouch 29, Terry 85 Rooney. He has been banging
6 06 Jun09 Away Kazakhstan 130 W_ 0 4 Barry 39, Heskey 45, Rooney 73, in the goals this season
Lampard 77pen
At the back, a fit and in-form Rio Ferdinand
7 10 Jun09 Home Andorra 192 W 60 poe pe Lampard 29, Defoe 73, 75, and John Terry playing together in central
defence will be very important. The two have

8 09Sep 09 Home Croatia 8 W _ 5 1 Lampard 7pen, 59, Gerrard 18, 66, formed a good understanding over the years
Rooney 77 and their presence would make up for
S40 Oct 0S Away! “Uleaine eR England's lack of a truly world class keeper.
Up front, it is all about Wayne Rooney. He
10 14 Oct09 Home Belarus 72 W_ 8 0 Crouch 4, 75, Wright-Phillips60 has been banging in the goals this season
PWiele-le(<Malg Weel diate me)mele) eles-tit (eye) 85 but with Rooney you always get so much
more, with his vision and ability to split the
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION defence a huge asset - especially with the
goalscoring potential that England possess
Key: Mi played 90 mins « subbed off »»subbed on ff on bench in midfield.
When the draw for this tournament was
ro)
announced, the media almost universally
Subbed
on Subbed
Started
Appearances off played
Mins Goals proclaimed it a dream group and while
Goalkeepers
England could certainly have done worse,
Ben Foster BM
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Robert Green ie. the USA can never be underestimated,
David James Orn oto
= ooo ooo Red
o-oO
Slovenia gave England a good gamein a
Defenders
Wayne Bridge friendly in 2009 and Algeria made it to the
Wes Brown semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations,
Ashley Cole
beating the Ivory Coast along the way.
Rio Ferdinand
Philip Jagielka wo Saying all that, though, England should
fo) ra)
Glen Johnson make it through the group without having to
Joleon Lescott
John Terry @« hit the high gears and would probably face
Matthew Upson RONNODWBAN
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C0 Serbia or Germany in the last 16 followed by
Midfielders
Gareth Barry
France or Argentina in the quarters.
David Beckham One of the best things about this side,
Michael Carrick however, is the fact they look more of a unit
Joe Cole *
Stewart Downing «@ than any England squad in a long time and
Steven Gerrard MMMB« « « much of this is down to Capello and his
Jermaine Jenas oo os oO
ry | | |
regime.
Frank Lampard B a ms
Aaron Lennon cS
| + 2:7H DREAM
James Milner
TEAM TOP 15 RANKING
Theo Walcott
Shaun Wright-Phillips OW s=OOhOON-=2-40 |“-WDOODOROWONOO=
©:
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—
Forwards
Gabriel Aqbonlahor
GROUP FIXTURES
Carlton Cole
Peter Crouch
USA Sat 12 June 1930 BST
Jermain Defoe
Emile Heskey 3 +S ALGERIA Fri 18 June 1930 BST
Wayne Rooney SLOVENIA Wed 23 June 1500 BST
Ashley Young -ONOAN—
oOon+WO—
-O+-+f+-+NO oo+-O0O00co
ooooco0c°o
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44 GROUP C
Zone Europe
Population 51m
Language English
Top league The Premier League
Manchester United (76,212), Chelsea (41,181),
Arsenal (60,355), Liverpool (45,276)
La Liga - Other Europe -
Bundesliga Outside Europe
Number of English players playing:
Premier League 260 Bundesliga -
Serie A 1 Ligue 1
La Liga 1 Eredivisie -
1938 - Did not enter 1982 - Round 2
1954 - Quarter finals 1990 - Fourth place
1962 - Quarter finals 1998 - Round of 16
1966 - * Champions 2002 - Quarter finals
1970 - Quarter finals 2006- Quarter finals
Robert Green West Ham 30 4

David James Portsmouth 39 6
Joe Hart Birmingham 23 6)
Defenders
Wayne Bridge Man City 29 3
Wes Brown Man Utd 30 3
Ashley Cole Chelsea 29 8
Rio Ferdinand Man Utd 31 6
Glen Johnson Liverpool 25 7
John Terry Chelsea 29 8
Matthew Upson West Ham 31 5
Midfielders
Gareth Barry Man City 29 8
David Beckham AC Milan 35 9
involved in the action. But with Ronaldo's Joe Cole Chelsea 28 2

Although the departure of Cristiano
Steven Gerrard Liverpool 30 7
Ronaldo to Real Madrid may have been departure, Rooney is being deployed as an
Frank Lampard Chelsea St 210
to the detriment of Manchester United, out-and-out striker and asked to weigh-in
Aaron Lennon Tottenham 23 4
and perhaps the Premier League, it with more goals - and he has duly delivered
James.Milner Aston Villa 24 3
might end up being to the benefit of for United. He has also been in cracking Theo Walcott Arsenal 21 6
England. form for England, being the second highest Shaun Wright-Phillips | Man City 28 5
With the Portuguese hogging the limelight in Europe with nine goals in nine qualifying
Forwards
and scoring most of the goals, Rooney was games.
often dropping deep to find the ball and get Peter Crouch Tottenham 29 4
Jermain Defoe Tottenham af 5
Emile Heskey Aston Villa 32 7
Wayne Rooney Man Utd 24 9
16
GROUP C 45
A big, imposing goalkeeper and impressive A hardened veteran of 18 years of top- The former England number one, Paul
shot-stopper, Robert Green is probably one flight football, David James - even at 39 - Robinson suffered from a drop in form and
of only two keepers in with a chance of continues to show flashes of brilliance confidence at Spurs. Now settled: at
making the starting line-up in South Africa between the posts and has made more Blackburn, he has been looking the
alongside David James. appearances in the Premier League than accomplished presence we all remember
Having broken through at Championship side any other player. from a few years ago.
Norwich City he became their first choice at the His international career spans an impressive The feeling is, he still has to impress himself
relatively tender age at 21. Four seasons later 13 years but he has only been the England : on Fabio Capello and there is little opportunity
he was a regular in the England squad and the number one choice in sporadic bursts. Having to do that. If all the other keepers are fit, he will
Canaries were in the Premier League but the played second fiddle to David Seaman until probably miss out, but if form or fitness give
season after, Green joined West Ham. He was 2002, James wore the number one jersey at him a chance, he will be given the opportunity
injured for the 2006 World Cup. Euro 2004 and started in Capello’s first game. to prove he is still the best in England.
orc
Appearances: 38 4 Appearances: 28 6 Appearances: 37 0
Percentage played: 94.5% 31.4% Percentage played: 69.6% 58.4% Percentage played: 96.1% 0%
Goals conceded: 54 1 Goals conceded: 40 5 Goals conceded: 58 -
Clean sheets: 10 3 Clean sheets: rf 1 Clean sheets: 11 -
Cards: YO, RO YO, R1 Cards: Yai eG) YO, RO Cards: YO, RO -
Minutes between goals: 63mins 283mins Minutes between goals: 63mins 105mins Minutes between goals: 5/mins -
Goalkeeper ranking: 27th 4th Goalkeeper ranking: 28th 21st Goalkeeper ranking: 30th
RANKING 159|
as ha
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ND!
£
f 30 FAN
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46 GROUPC
ENGLAND (7)
THE MANAGER
Not only was Fabio Capello a good they have been extremely effective.
choice as England manager, he was a Firstly he has England playing as a cohesive
good choice at exactly the right time. unit when not in possession. The ability to
A man who demands respect from staff, press in unison from the front, close down
press and players alike, he was the perfect teams and force mistakes is crucial in
tonic to the affable Steve McClaren who international football where even modest
was widely accused of being too close to teams are comfortable at keeping the ball. It
the players. might not be the most attractive element of
The respect Capello demands is based the game but it has been part of England's
firmly on achievement. An accomplished success under the Italian.
midfielder, he scored the goal for Italy that Secondly, he has Steven Gerrard and Frank
JOE consigned England to their first ever Lampard playing well as part of the same
Wembley defeat in 1973. He won Serie A midfield. Yes, Gerrard starts on the left but
HART medals three times in his playing career.

As manager of the all conquering AC Milan
the presence of Gareth Barry means both
players have freedom to get forward at will
BIRMINGHAM side that won Serie A three times on the
bounce and four times in five years between
"If everyone is fit, we have
One of the brightest jewels in England's
goalkeeping crown, Joe Hart is fast 1991 and1996, he also clinched the the quality to do it. Why not?
maturing into one of the best young Champions League in 1994. Add to that The expectation is always
keepers in Europe and at just 23, is Serie A titles at Juventus and Roma and La
approaching 100 games in the top flight. Liga honours twice with Real Madrid in two the same for the England
A big, brave, in-your-face character on-field, spells at the Bernabeu and you have a team. It is always very high.”
he has been superb for England's U-21's and shrewd and very successful manager.
has had a great season with Birmingham on His appointment was greeted with cautious and Gerrard has the ability to make an
loan from Manchester City. His experience in welcome by the English media but any impact no matter where he plays; and this
the England set up plus his form this season negativity soon drifted away as England was born out in the qualifiers with the pair
playing first team football make him a firm netting almost 20% of England's goals
favourite to be on the plane to South Africa. “At this moment, the English between them.
Last, but by no means least, he has Wayne
players are in a really good Rooney in the form of his life and the United
Piaying record 12 months Ige weq
Appearances: 22 0 moment of form. We hope it striker is playing more as a genuine forward
Minutes played: 1980 0 than ever - no longer chasing the ball in
will be the same at the end order to get involved. This has made a
massive difference to his goal return with
Goals conceded: 20 - of the season." Rooney surpassing his previous season's
Clean sheets: 8 :
Cards: Y2, RO : strolled to qualification in emphatic fashion, goal tally by January in 09/10.
Minutes between goals: 99mins - thrashing Euro 2008 bogey side Croatia If any manager was ready to take England
Goalkeeper ranking: 7th home and away and winning nine out of ten deep into this tournament, there could be
games - the sole loss against Ukraine once few more qualified than Fabio Capello - and
crucially for the Italian, he is doing so at just
OEY, RANKING 615 England had already qualified. Capello has
made some simple changes to the side and the right time.
GROUP C 47
A classy, cultured centre-back, Rio Playing record 12 months |
Ferdinand has been one of the finest Appearances: 14
England defenders for a decade now, Minutes played: 1239 537
and would be pride of place in the Percentage played: 33.6% 59.7%
defence of any top club in Europe. Goals conceded: 17 5
With great anticipation and the pace to get Clean sheets: 5 1
himself out of trouble, Ferdinand is a Cards: Y2e R07.) RO
first-rate defender but has the added Minutes between goals: 73mins 107mins
advantage of being comfortable on the ball. Defender ranking: 107th 86th
| 353
JOHN TERRY
CHELSEA
One of the first names on the team sheet,
John Terry is the heart and soul of Fabio Appearances: 37
Capello's England. Minutes played: 3327
An old-school defender, Terry's awareness, Percentage played: 94.8%
instinct and no-nonsense approach have been Goals conceded: 30
vital for club and country over the years. The Clean sheets: 19
only England player named in Fifa's all-star Cards: NRO Varo
squad - he was captain throughout qualifying, Minutes between goals: 111mins 179mins
before being replaced by Rio Ferdinand. One of Defender ranking: 15th 388th
the best defenders in the world, Terry will play a
big part if England make it to the latter stages.
Terry is a Top 12 Defender
GLEN JOHNSON
LIVERPOOL
One of the best right-backs in World Playing record
football acéording to Fabio Capello, Glen Appearances: 32
Johnson is superb going forward and will Minutes played: 2831
‘be a certain pick providing he can avoid Percentage played: 80.7%
injury. Goals conceded: 37
He is the first player to become an automatic Clean sheets: 11
pick at right-back since Gary Neville but he Cards: yeni Y1, RO
could not be further from the United stalwart in Minutes between goals: 7/mins 205mins
terms of style. With superb pace, and the ability Defender ranking: 97th 28th
to link up play and deliver from the by-line, his
Ge) |
major assets are going forward - although his
defending has improved over the years.
ASHLEY COLE
CHELSEA
One of the finest left-backs in world Playing record i2 months Ige
football, Ashley Cole will be a certain Appearances: 35
starter for England in South Africa. Minutes played: 2990
A veteran of two World Cups and a European Percentage played: 85.2%
Championship, Cole needs no tutoring on the Goals conceded: 30
demands of international football and has been Clean sheets: ie
in fine form for Chelsea this season. A complete Cards: Y6, RO YO, RO
full-back in that he is strong both going forward Minutes between goals: 100mins 139mins
and defending, his ability to get down the left Defender ranking: 30th 57th
with no traditional left-winger playing in front of
him will be an important weapon for England.
Cole is a Top 12 Defender koe G 19)
MATTHEW UPSON
WEST HAM
Fabio Capello's first reserve at centre-back Playing record {12 months |
if either Rio Ferdinand or John Terry are Appearances: 32
unavailable, Upson is more similar in style Minutes played: piae
to the latter. Percentage played: 76.4%
Not the quickest, he is, however, superb in Goals conceded: Sf
the air, a fine tackler and as brave as they Clean sheets: 10
come. Unfortunately, he is also somewhat injury Cards: Y3, RO YO, RO
prone, and his participation in this tournament Minutes between goals: /4mins 121mins
will mean he has bucked the trend of the last Defender ranking: 108rd 73rd
_ few seasons and remained fit for six months at
"least. With all the main protagonists fit, Upson
* will start this tournament on the bench.
. GROUP C 49
'
ae cation - | 42) iw
An accomplished presence on the left or in Playing recorc la Tt
the centre, Gareth Barry has excellent all- Appearances:

round skills and his passing ability and Minutes played:
calmness under pressure have led to him Percentage played: 91.6%
occupying a holding role in central midfield Goals scored: 3
for England. Clean sheets: 11
His ability to pick a pass from midfield and Cards: Y5)RG Y2, RO
shield the defence have been key in Capello's Strike rate: 99mins 675mins
decision to play him there, as it has given Midfielder ranking: 8th 62nd
licence to Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard
a
EY
NG 115|
:{ |i
to get forward more and pick up goals from
midfield, which was vital in qualifying. i i Cty
2 ee
=
SS
A
One of the best midfielders of his weg

generation, there are few teams in world Appearances: 30
football that Steven Gerrard wouldn't walk Minutes played: 2580 530
into, and it is no wonder. Percentage played: 73.5% 58.9%
He is a real-life Roy of the Rovers, a midfield Goals scored: 13 3
tour de force, capable of the utterly spectacular, Clean sheets: 14 2
yet relentless enough to make a contribution in Cards: Y5, RO YO, RO
every game and inspire those around him. Not Strike rate: 198mins 177mins
always at his fluent best playing in central Midfielder ranking: 17th 6th
midfield in partnership with Frank Lampard, he RB
a Ee
often starts on the left for Capello.
He may have spent much of the last two Playing recot 12 months Ig wecq
seasons out injured, but Joe Cole offers Appearances: 2
something different to England's midfield - Minutes played: 99
an extremely technically gifted and tricky Percentage played: 11.0%
player, comfortable with the ball at his feet, Goals scored:
he can create something out of absolutely Clean sheets:
nothing. Cards:
With more than 50 caps, he also has a lot of Strike rate:
international experience but perhaps the Midfielder ranking:
highlight was the 2006 World Cup, where he
was one of the better players for England,
1 > ‘ Le 28
scoring a spectacular volley against Sweden. & ari
The most capped England outfield player nN snths

tins lae
ige weg
of all time, David Beckham needs little Appearances: 20 9
introduction and no matter what the Minutes played: 1593 214
naysayers claim - if fit and in form, he is Percentage played: 44.3% 23.8%
worthy of a place in the squad. Goals scored: 2 0
He might be entering the second half of his Clean sheets: 10 8
30s but he was never a player who relied on his Cards: Y4, RO Y1, RO
pace and his fitness cannot be called into Strike rate: 796mins
question. Neither too, can his ability to deliver Midfielder ranking: 138th 219th
the ball from the flank or from a set-piece.
Although he is unlikely to start a game, his
presence from the bench could be vital.
50 GROUP C
There can be few players in the history appearances, with an amazing 164 straight
of modern football who have performed games. An accomplished all-round footballer,
to such high standards as consistently Lampard was the only England player to
as Frank Lampard and it is testament to start all ten of the qualifiers, scoring four
his fitness and work ethic that he times. Now in his early 30s, and with the
continues to deliver at the very highest experience of two major competition finals
level for both club and country. for England, Lampard is at the height of his
He is a talisman for Chelsea, averaging just powers and is well capable of taking
under a goal every three games and holding England a long way in this tournament.
the Premier League record for consecutive
The most gifted forward at England's been in fine goalscoring form for club and
disposal, Wayne Rooney has country for the last two years, his ability to
consistently proved himself to be one of set up goals and split defences will suit
the finest strikers in European football Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard and
for Manchester United and England. company, and make him a massive asset
He has all of the skill you would associate for Fabio Capello in South Africa. Whether
with a top international but it is his vision scoring or creating, Rooney's form will be
and awareness that makes him stand head critical to England's chances of making the
and shoulders above his peers and suits latter stages.
England's strong midfield. While he has Rooney is a Toy
ICTCD
CIcCh
CROUCH
ai yal TT a Li
TOTTENHAM
A tall, gangly handful of a centre-forward, The best out-and-out finisher in the squad, He might not have the goal record you
Peter Crouch has a superb goalscoring and perhaps the best England has seen would expect of a top striker but Emile
record for England and even if he does not since Gary Lineker, Jermain Defoe is a Heskey brings more to the table than his
start, has the ability to make an impact in natural predator in and around the box and stats might suggest.
games coming off the bench. has been in fine form for Spurs. A powerhouse centre forward with the pace
Despite his height — Crouch is 2.01m / 6ft Despite the goals he has put away in the last to scare any defence, Heskey is a handful and
7ins — heading the ball is not Crouch's 18 months, he is not a guaranteed starter, with his ability to hold up the ball and link up play
speciality, with many of his goals relying on Fabio Capello preferring a big centre forward to make him an invaluable presence — especially in
magnificent timing, using his long legs to hook partner Wayne Rooney but if given the chance a team that relies on goals from midfield. Fabio
volleys home from strange angles. Expect him — from the bench or perhaps if injuries come Capello's preferred partner for Wayne Rooney,
to make a contribution somewhere along the into play — he could fire England a long way into he might not score that many himself but he will
line — especially if England go far. this tournament. increase the goal output of those around him.
Playing record 12 months Ige wed

Goals scored: 7 4 Goals scored: 17 3 Goals scored: 4 1
Percentage share: 10.45% 11.76% Percentage share: 25.37% 8.82% Percentage share: 8.00% 2.94%
Cards: Y8,RO YO0,RO Cards: eat YO, RO Cards: ¥O; RO” -WIARO
Strike rate: 415mins 7Omins Strike rate: 113mins - Strike rate: 468mins 504mins
Strike rate ranking: 110th 2nd Strike rate ranking: 10th Strike rate ranking: 113th 76th
E32 RANKING £27
GROUP C 53
BEN THEO
FOSTER WALCOTT
MAN UTD ARSENAL
A promising young keeper with time on his A lightning quick right sided winger who
side. Ben Foster has suffered injuries at can also play up front, Theo Walcott is fast
key times in his short career although he enough to scare the life out of any defence
has been a player who Fabio Capello has and has already proven his potential worth
turned to in the past. to England.
It was September 2008 that the youngest
Playing record 12 months Ige weq player ever to play for England became the
Appearances: 10 ‘t youngest to score a hat-trick as Walcott's three
Minutes played: 900 90 goals helped inflict a 4-1 defeat on Croatia in
Percentage played: 24.4% 10.0% Zagreb in England's second qualifier for this
Goals conceded: 9 0 World Cup. Walcott can cement himself as an
Clean sheets: 4 | England regular if he performs in South Africa.
Cards:
YO,RO
-
YO, RO
- MICHAEL Playing record 12 months Ige weq
Goalkeeper ranking: E :
CARRICK Appearances:
Minutes played:
17
801 454
6
DREAM MAN UTD Percentage played: 22.3% 50.4%

TEAM RANKING A deep-lying midfield playmaker with a Goals scored: 2 3
superb range of passing, Michael Carrick Clean sheets: - -
has never really established himself as a Cards: YO,RO YO, RO
midfield regular for England as he strives Strike rate: - 151mins
WES to flourish in the shadow of Steven

Gerrard, Frank Lampard and Gareth Barry.
Midfielder ranking: - 22nd
BROWN Unlikely to be a starter if all personnel are fit,

Carrick is nonetheless an asset to England.
DREAM RANKING
MAN UTD Playing at the highest level with Manchester
A dependable defender able to play at United, it is unfair to consider him as a back up
right-back and centre-back, Wes Brown is
not the most talented player in England but
only, but if ever a player was needed to step
into the central midfield berth, you could not
SHAUN
he has plenty of experience at the highest ask for better than Carrick. He will be an
important part of England's campaign.
WRIGHT-PHILLIPS
level with Manchester United.
MAN CITY
Playing record 12 months Ige wcq Playing record 12 months Ige Playing record 12 months Ige wecq
Goals conceded: 7 3 Goals scored: 4 ) Goals scored: 55m q
Clean sheets: 8 O Clean sheets: 17 0 Clean sheets: 9 4
Cards: V2ZaRO! ew ayGuRO Cards: 2) ROMMEYON RO Cards: Y3, RO’ «* YORRO
Minutes between goals: 162mins 90mins Strike rate: 650mins - Strike rate: 411mins ~ -
a
Defender ranking: 8rd 108rd Midfielder ranking: 116th 185th Midfielder ranking: 73rd 221st
a ara a Ear
DREAM
WAYNE JAMES ASHLEY

BRIDGE MILNER
MAN CITY ASTON VILLA ASTON VILLA
Playing record 12 months lIge weq Playing record 12 months Ige weq Playing record 12 months Ige wcq
Appearances: 30 S Appearances: 37 3 Appearances: 35 1
Goals conceded: 34 1 Goals scored: 7 0 Goals scored: 5 )
Clean sheets: 8 2 Clean sheets: 13 3 Clean sheets: 10 1
Cards: ¥2).ROP > SYORRG Cards: N6;RO) = YOPRRO Cards: Y8, R1 YO, RO
Minutes between goals: 77mins - Strike rate: 464mins Strike rate: 618mins -
Defender ranking: 96th Midfielder ranking: 85th 176th Midfielder ranking: 111th =s365th
A
DREAM
RANKING
54 GroupC
A physical centre forward with an eye for
goal who has impressed as a sub.
Carlton Cole has been in fine form for West
Ham this season and will hope to be part of the
squad that heads for South Africa in the
summer.
Playing record 12 months Ik C

Appearances: 23 2
Goals scored: 12 0
Percentage share: 26.09% 0.00%
Cards: Y4, Rl YO, RO
Strike rate: 153mins -
Strike rate ranking: 30th -
Nt
is RI
680
A diminutive, skilful and very quick

Playing record 12 months Ige wc right-winger, Aaron Lennon, on his day, Appearances: 33 4
Appearances: 34 0 could get the better of any defence in Minutes played: 2876 207
Minutes played: 2651 O world football. Percentage played: 81.9% 23.0%
Percentage played: 77.5% 0% Fleet footed and lightweight, Lennon is an Goals scored: 7 0
Goals scored: 18 - old fashioned wide player, intent on beating Clean sheets: 11 3
Percentage share: 34.0% . his man and delivering from the by-line. Cards: ¥1,,R0~ “YO,;RO
Cards: Y3, RO - Much will depend on how Fabio Capello Strike rate: 411mins -
Strike rate: 147mins - views his end of season form. Midfielder ranking: 72nd 216th
Strike rate ranking: 23rd -
= 112
GROUP C 55
ALGERIA FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH LOW AVGE ©> FINAL
It is a long hard road to qualify from the claim to a berth in South Africa courtesy of a 1- Algeria are hardly the biggest name in
African Confederation. O win. There were a few standout players, but this competition but do not be deceived —
Algeria started well, edging out Senegal and Bochum centre-half Anthar Yahia was - they are an extremely capable side.
Gambia in the second round group stage and impressive as any, scoring three times including Having walked though fire to make it to.
impressing further in the third round group the crucial goal against Egypt in the play-off. South Africa, this will be a highly motivated
stage, topping the pile ahead of reigning Africa group of players and while they cannot boast
Cup of Nation holders following a controversial FINAL QUALIFYING TABLE the star names of some of their competitors,
one-off game after the sides could not be split AFRICA ROUND 3 GROUP C they are not to be underestimated. Central
on their overall or head-to-head record. P WODL F A Pts defender Antar Yahia is a regular at
The last group game in Cairo spilled into Algeria* Teme Patek PCP Se Bundesliga side Bochum and the rock of
violence and alleged crowd trouble in the Egypt 1) °4 Ap 2 9 M518 Algeria's defence and is joined inthe back
playoff that took place in Sudan lead to political Zambia 6 Sie 2ecur 2s. 0mm o four by Glasgow Rangers' Madjid Bougherra
tension between the two countries with Algeria Rwanda 6.002045 le Sie and Nadir Belhadj of Portsmouth. Add
settling matters on the pitch and staking their *Algeria beat Egypt in tiebreaking play-off. Lorient playmaker Yazid Mansouri and striker
Karim Ziani of Wolfsburg and you have a
Avge FIFA ranking side with the kind of experience that will
31 May 08 Away Senegal 60 Ee ei0 prove invaluable come June. In January they
06 Jun 08 Home Liberia W 3 0 Djebbour 16, Ziani 20, 47pen proved exactly what they are capable of in
ae a0)
the pressure cooker environment of a short
14 Jun 08 Away Gambia
tournament, overcoming a horrendous start
20 Jun 08 Home Gambia W_ 1 0 Yahia 33
and knocking out the Ivory Coast en route to
05 Sep 08 Home Senegal W 3 2 Gueye 60og, Saifi 66, Yahia 72 the semi-finals were they suffered a painful
11 Oct 08 Away Liberia D OO defeat to bitter rivals Egypt. They have a
28 Mar 09 Away Rwanda DB oO dream low-key start to the competition
against Slovenia and if they win that, they will
= 07 Jun 09 Home
WON
Onogw’rkt Egypt W 3 1 Matmour 60, Ghezzal Abdel 64, j
Djebbour 77 be definite contenders to make the last 16
where a likely tie with Germany or Serbia
9 20 Jun 09 Away Zambia W 0 2 M.Bougherra 21, Saifi 66 awaits.
mee(2) 06 Sep 09 Home Zambia W 1 0 Saifi 59 DREAM
11 11 Oct 09 Home Rwanda W 3 1 Ghezzal Abdel 22, Belhadj 45, TEAM TOP 15 RANKING
Ziani 9Open
12 14 Nov 09 Away Egypt 20 THE MANAGER

13 18Nov09 Home Egypt 28 W 1 0 Yahia 40
A part of the backdrop of the Algerian
PN 7-ye-le(-Mal le WecliLtiire me)me) syeresti cela)
national team for almost 20 years,
Rabah Saadane is in his fifth stint at the
helm ang will be looking to make his
mark with a team that impressed during
Q
qualifying.
Match fe2gse4
ore. 7 S/ONOt21G atte ee eae es He will also be looking to exorcise the
Venue AHAHHAAHAHHAH
Sean
&(oe & Sea8238le; 2 g°
=
@9 SD3 3
ghosts of 1986, when he last lead Algeria to
Result LWLWWDDWWWWLW *£ 20D ee Whee ard a World Cup, and they returned home,
Goalkeepers
bottom of the group, without a points Luck
Faouzi Chaouchi ARBaRaH re ty eae) 900) 7.f2 10" 70) 10
Lounes Gaouaoui BERBER Eee 1212, TOO) 080) 923510) 82) 10
was against them in the draw with three
Defenders strong teams - but they couldn't have asked
Nadir Bethadj w« BMBBBMBMM tt lO 1 (98 842 1 4 «OO for much more than an opening game
Madjid Bougherra SBBBBMBMMBMMM ij1010 0 0 900 769 1 1 0 against the weakest - and least fashionable
Slimane Raho i ttt ili bee ae Tat, .0) 40) .830"58:8>..0, 10.550
of the three sides.
Anthar Yahia ««BEE BEBE « tt ti 0) 3 (S36: 80:0' +S 3) 40
Samir Zaoui HE » 8 Seen» Gus 4. 2 10" 8063.8 20" tr SO
Abderaouf Zarabi SS» 8B 8 8 2) 19 0: 185) 35:8: 30) (0) 0
Midfielders
Cherif Abdesslam 22 SO OF AON 1S 45/0 i)
Yacine Bezzaz B«araanvii»r» Be» 82:3 5. NG" S08 26:50, A 40
Hameur Bouazza » » > wl a By 0) 6.0. 5107) 9 Os OP 0
Rafik Djebbour «B« ar Ql7, 2 6) 502 "506 veel) 20
Lamouri Djediat »» E>» 6 Oe ae tOe eoo sens (Onan ono
Brahim Hemdani “« | 2 2-10) A) ISS ASSO OO
Kaled Lemmouchia Bee. Bees {0e10" 0 “Oy 9008769 ~0" “250
Yazid Mansouri BREESESBMBM WM iiti Oo O 990 86 0 3 0
Karim Matmour B«BBB« » 7 Oe etek 628 44.7 et, ele °O)
Mourad Meghni O«B« SIGS Olin e218 6.60 sO. 00
Hassan Yebda » SO SAG Ow foe 92° OF UOoLO
Karim Ziani BEBBBM M« «MMM 12 12 :«O 2 1028 879 3 4 0 GROUP FIXTURE
Forwards
Kader Ghezzal Abdel Cr oe | Ze Si Od 1469 AO 22: 0
SLOVENIA Sun 13 June 1230 BST
Kamel Ghilas «ae«eanlifie ” Gs os eo S0TL ine. 78. Oo) .0
Rafik Halliche »» SEER « G8 ot 2a 641 548 0 0 O
ENGLAND Fri 18 June 19380 BST —
Rafik Saifi BM««B« » Baaa TiO) a. 6 838. 76s S35 USA Wed 23 June 1500 BST
56 GROUP C
BROUPC
Zone Africa
Population 33.8m
Language Arabic
Top league Algeria Division 1
MC Alger (80,200), JSM Bejaia (19,000), Belouizdad
(20,000)
Premier League 3. Ligue 1 1
Number of Algerian players playing:
Serie A Ligue 1
1938 - Did not enter 1982 - * Round 1
Lounes Gaouaoui ASO Chlef Semele

Defenders
Nadir Belhadj Portsmouth PHA al
Madjid Bougherra Rangers 27 0
Slimane Raho ES Setif 34 7

Anthar Yahia Bochum ZO smi
Samir Zaoui ASO Chlef 34 6
Midfielders
Yacine Bezzaz Strasbourg 28 8
ViAUWIIL DUUUNEHI! Rafik Djebbour AEK Athens 26 9

Lamouri Djediat ES Setif 29 6
Madjid Bougherra is an all-action t i]
centre-half who manages to star from Appearances: 28 10 Kaled Lemmouchia ES Setif 28 10

defence, often - as he did in the Africa Minutes played: 2388 900 Yazid Mansouri Lorient 32) di
Cup of Nations - with critical goals. Percentage played: 69.8% 76.9% Karim Matmour B M’gladbach 24 if
Having spent his early career playing in Goals conceded: 15 6 Mourad Meghni Lazio 26 3
lower league football in France and then Clean sheets: 14 6
England, Bougherra started to turn heads Cards: Voum2e ¥1)RO
Minutes between goals: 159mins150mins Karim Ziani Wolfsburg Df mile
until Rangers saw off the interest of a
number of Premier League clubs to sign him. Defender ranking: 4th 52nd Forwards
Kader Ghezzal Abdel Siena 25
Kamel Ghilas Hull City 26 6
Rafik Halliche Nacional 23 9
Rafik Saifi Al Khor so. 44
GROUP C57
FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH LOW ’' AVGE FINAL
The US made light work of the second and strong home form and a superb 3-2 away to The USA are no longer the team of
third round of qualifying, thrashing Honduras that sealed them top-spot in the college kids they were when they first
Barbados 9-0 in a one-off game before group, qualifying alongside Mexico. strode into the world's footballing
losing just one game in six in the third Jozy Altidore top-scored in the campaign with consciousness as hosts in 1994.
round qualifying group to finish top and six goals but Landon Donavan and midfielders The stereotype was one of an athletic and
proceed to the group stage of the fourth Clint Dempsey and Michael Bradley all weighed willing side with little in the way of the skill,
qualifying round. five apiece to prove the US have goalscorers guile and ‘soccer’ savvy needed to do really
In a group containing Mexico, Costa Rica and throughout the team, a leaky defence could well well in international football. Things have
Honduras, they had mixed results, beating be their downfall though. changed since then and while the USA have —
Mexico at home but then losing away to Costa not suddenly become a Brazil or an Italy,
Rica and Trinidad and Tobago and it took For final qualification table see Honduras. they are certainly a more tasty proposition.
Improvement in the last 16 years has been —
Avge FIFA ranking
born out with a quarter-final appearance in
1 15 Jun08 Home Barbados 118 W_ 8 O Dempsey 1, 62, Bradley 12, Ching 20, 88, the 2002 World Cup and a FIFA ranking high —
Donovan 58, Johnson 82, Ferguson 850g of four in 2006. 7
2 22 Jun08 Away Barbados 118 W 0O 1 Lewis 21 s while the USA have not | ;
3 21Aug08 Away Guatemala 106 W_ 0 1 Bocanegra 70 suddenly become a Brazil or ‘]
4 07 Sep 08 Away Cuba 90 W_ 0O 1 Dempsey 39 an Italy, they are certainly a
5 11 Sep 08 Home Trinidad & Tobago 79 W_- $3 0 Bradley 10, Dempsey 18, Ching 57 tasty ro osition
6 12 Oct08 Home Cuba 90 W_ 6 1 Beasley 10, 30, Donovan 48, Ching 63, more p p
Altidore 87, Onyewu 89 With the MLS still developing as a
7 16 Oct08 Away Trinidad & Tobago 79 L 2 1 Davies 74 let ae oe me see

8 20Nov08 Home Guatemala 106 W_ 2 0 Cooper 54, Adu 69 overseas. The experience of mixing itin
9 12Feb 09 Home Mexico 24 W_ 2 0 Bradley 43, 90 some of the most competitive leagues inthe |
10 29Mar09 Away El Salvador 107 D 2 2 Altidore 77, Hejduk 88 world has added an extra dimension to the
11 02Apr09 Home Tinidad & Tobago 79 W_ 3 0 Altidore 13, 71, 89 personnel available and allowed coach Bob
. Bradley to bring in some young players to
12 04 Jun09 Away Costa Rica 53 L 3 1 Donovan 90pen learn from their more experienced peers. The
13 07 Jun09 Home Honduras 43. W_ 2 1 Donovan 41pen, Bocanegra 67 problem, however, is that with his best “
14 12 Aug09 Away Mexico 24 L 2 1 Davies9 players playing in Europe, they are not
15 06 Sep 09 Home El Salvador 107 W_ 2 1 Dempsey 41, Altidore 45 always available to him. a
16 10Sep 09 Away Trinidad & Tobago 79 W014 Clark 61 Nes) “ts‘te‘inponaa ped.
17 11 Oct 09 Away Honduras 43 W_~ 2 3 Casey 54, 65, Donovan 71 back Oguchi Onyewu and forward Clint
18 15 Oct09 Home Costa Rica 53 D 2 2 Bradley 72, Bornstein 90 Dempsey have been out for long periods this
season. Both players will be critical to the
PWcle-le(Ml Well dale me)me)*)eles-ti tela)
USA's chances, particularly Dempsey who is
one of the key sources of goals.
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION The other frustration for Bradley is that for
g every USA player starring on foreign shores.
Match 12345 67 8 9 101112131415161718 : 55 8 ry i) 9 9 ;
Veniie HOA ALA HHUATHEH AGHA. HAVRE RNRA CT 33 § B for example Landon Donovan, he has
Result WWWWWWLEWWOWLWLWWWD i 2 8 3 2a 38 & . players who are not getting regular football.
Goalkeepers
hed Gotan BEE SUBEEBMBBBBBMMM 5 SFtA OO
cA 40Se278 rk0 SD
0 It re oa
is difficult therefore, to accurately gauge
Tim Howard BEee BH BBB BRMMM 3 13 0 O 1170 722 0 2 0 how the US will fare. They did well in the
Defenders 2009 Confederations Cup, beating Spain
Carlos Bocanegra | at te BOBM«MMMMM 15 15 0 1 1330 81 2 1 0 d losing the fi Maisie ing i ‘oe
Jonathan Bornstein SES OWMOMMMMM « 6 OO 540 333 1 1 0 an osing e inal : aving lead 2-
Danny Califf RE Seen we SUcSeOleOheme7Or Gir .OurOe 0 against Brazil but their form since has been
Steven Cherundolo BB « = | oe | 7 Gt 10) S10) 31:6" 40" 725 4 quite poor.
Jay DeMerit | it fy | Si 2) 4) SO 200) 18a ont iG ; : Fe
Frankie Heiduk oS +88 BEB @ 6 4 0m 475 200) Al ar 0 They face England in the much anticipated
Pablo Mastroeni 4) 4 @ OM« « 6 6 0 4 969 240 0 2 0 opening game - drawing comparison with
Oguchi Onyewu a aRea8 B BOM M OW@MM 1313 0 O 1170 722 12 0
Heath Pearce rT1 OR i 9 9 0 3 753 445 0 0 0 the 1950 World Cup when they famously
Jonathan Spector a BOM@M@BM 4 4 0 0 860 222 0 0 0 triumphed 1-0 - and then take on the
Midfielders j
DaMarcus Beasley « BBE Sees» 12 10 2) 7 (929673 2 0) "0 underrated Slovenia.
Michael Bradley See8«s 8« OR MMMM 15 15 © 2 1325 818 5 4 0 They will need to have won at least one
pet Clark a» x | = a Oe ~ a a | i. 5 z : a 1g i ; : match by the time they face Algeria in their
int Dempsey “4 “a4 444 “4 13 1 4 : ;
Maurice Edu © >» een a ere ee oe eee final group game if they are to go through.
Benny Feilhaber a oe | GQ. 2 4 +2) <2 Mb Oh 3G DREAM
Stuart Holden Peewee 6 8.2 | 220 196-.0.0-.0 TEAM TOP 15 RANKING
Sacha Kliestan BO @«BBaasy oD 10 7 8 S$ 662 409 0 1 0
Eddie Lewis » Bam» Ano. SOME eae Greil AO a0)
hil
Jose Francisco Torres » 4
anehipaiean
“« by eee ee eetO ark Ox 0
GROUP FIXTURES
Freddy Adu | naa » G48 13.53 S42 214° 1-860 ~
Jozy Altidore » BB» » BBM «ar 13 8 5 2 773 477 6 2 0
Conor Casey a « “a« 8 8 0S 289 149 2) 1 0 BA SANG Sat 12 June 180.BST)
Brian Ching Mm B@M@«« home «mi» 119 2 5 744 459 4 0 0 SLOVENIA Fri 18 June 1500 BST
Charlie Davies » eo Maaaa G42 4 SS2 2052 UO ALGERIA Wed 23 June 1500 BST
Landon Donovan « BBE BRBMBBBMMMMM 15 15 0 1 1339 827 5 1 0
58 GROUP C
Zone North, Central America & Caribbean
Population 303m
Language English
Top league Major League Soccer
Playing season March - November
Chicago (20,000), LA Galaxy (27,000), Columbus
(23,425)
Serie A 1 Eredivisie :
Number of American players playing:
Serie A 1 Ligue 1 2
La Liga Eredivisie
1930 - * Semi finals 1974 - Did not qualify
1966 - Did not qualify 2002 - Quarter finals

Brad Guzan Aston Villa 25 5
Tim Howard Everton 31 138
Defenders
Carlos Bocanegra Rennes St 5
Jonathan Bornstein Chivas 25 }
Steven Cherundolo Hannover 96 31 7

Frankie Hejduk Columbus Crew 35 6
Pablo Mastroeni Colorado Rapids 33 6
Oguchi Onyewu AC Milan 28 13
Heath Pearce FC Dallas 25 9
Jonathan Spector West Ham 24 4
Midfielders
DaMarcus Beasley Rangers 28 :
Michael Bradley B M’gladbach 22:4 ND
Ricardo Clark Houston Dynamo 27 ((
A compact, skilful attacking midfielder, Clint Dempsey Fulham 27 13
>
Landon Donovan is quick and incisive, Appearances: 15
can play up front as a second striker Minutes played: 227 1339 Benny Feilhaber AGF Aarhus 25 6
and is the all-time leading goalscorer Percentage played: 6.5% 82.7% Stuart Holden Houston Dynamo 24 5
for the USA. Goals scored: 0 5 Sacha Kljestan Chivas BA. vO
Donovan plays for LA Galaxy but recently Percentage share: 0.00% 11.90%
showed his potential effectiveness in Cards: YO, RO Y1, RO Jose Francisco Torres Pachuca 22 7
European football with a successful ten- Strike rate: 268mins Forwards

week loan spell at Everton. Strike rate ranking: 56th Freddy Adu Aris 21 6
Jozy Altidore Hull City 20 13
Brian Ching Houston Dynamo a2 611
Ace ee, ay “ch. Charlie Davies Sochaux 2 6
AGE28 § STR
rh!
ea
eee ee
ii
a bal
Landon Donovan LA Galaxy/Everton 28 15
GROUP C59
A defender who can play anywhere along A tenacious wide player who can also play
the back-line, Jonathan Spector usually as a striker, Clint Dempsey, is a fierce
plays at left-back but has the innate skill competitor but also has some superb skills
and defensive ability to play in the middle - - and frequently looks to go past
or as a defensive midfielder. He is an defenders.
integral part of West Ham’s defence. One of the few USA players playing in Europe
who is a first team regular, Dempsey became
td iG roUuO ta ttl the most expensive export from the MLS when
Appearances: 18 4 Fulham paid around £2m to secure his services
Minutes played: 1275 360 in 2006. He soon cemented his place in the
Percentage played: 35.4% 22.2% side and top scored in 2007/8 as the Cottagers
Goals conceded: 2a 4 miraculously avoided relegation on the last day
Clean sheets: 6 1 of the season. Entering his prime at 27, the
Cards: Neila ® YO, RO experienced international will be a key player for
Minutes between goals: 55mins - the USA if he is fit.
Defender ranking: 154th -
Playing recorc 12 months Ige weq
Appearances: 39 13
Goals scored: 9 5
Clean sheets: 14 7
A towering centre-back, Oguchi Onyewu Cards: YS, RO: Yao
has spent his entire professional career Strike rate: 3877mins 213mins
playing in Europe, with Metz, Standard Midfielder ranking: 62nd 13th
Liege and currently with AC Milan. Onyewu
A dominant keeper with excellent shot- is a big, quick and strong defender and AAI
stopping skills, Tim Howard is one of the who is a certain starter if fit. A
finest American keepers to ever wear the
gloves for his country and has become one laying record 2 months Ige weq - Ol ANRACH
of the most consistent performers in the Appearances: 0 13 B sie Mage =
English Premier League for Everton. Minutes played: 0 1170
A key performer for the States, Howard has Percentage played: 0.0% 72.2% Playing record 12 months Ige weg
proved his worth against top opposition, Goals conceded: 0 11. Appearances: 30 15
making a string of crucial saves as the USA Clean sheets: 0 7 Minutes played: 2555 1325
beat European Champions Spain in the semi- Cards: YO,RO Y2,RO Percentage played: 83.5% 81.8%
finals of the 2009 Confederations Cup. Minutes between goals: - 106mins Goals scored: 6 5
i Kee} Defender ranking: - 88th Clean sheets: 6 8
rey as es | hn Beeches Cards: Y6, RO Y4, RO
31 - RANKING |” 28 fiat ertagh LANKING 1230) Strike rate: 426mins 265mins
= Midfielder ranking: 77th 21st
Appointed as the interim manager following

the USA's poor showing in the 2006 World
Cup, he was made permanent boss when he
guided his side to ten games unbeaten but it
was the 14-month purple patch from August
2008 that really turned heads. The USA
cruised through World Cup qualifying, in the
meantime, they went to the 2009
Confederation Cup in South Africa and had a
phenomenal tournament, beating European
Champions Spain and making the final where
An intelligent and composed manager, they were 2-0 up against Brazil at half time,
USA coach Bob Bradley has had a torrid only to lose the match 3-2. Since then they
time of late but will be hoping to have had some poor results, suffering an
rediscover the form his side showed embarrassing 5-0 loss to arch-rivals Mexico on
early in his reign in time for the World home soil in the final of the Gold Cup and
Cup. losing to Slovakia, Denmark and Honduras.
60 GROUP C
An experienced campaigner with a knack
for finding the back of the net, Brian Ching
might not be the most talented or the most
well known striker in Bob Bradley's squad
but he is likely to be on hand in South
Africa to provide firepower if needed.
Say what you want about Ching - the one
thing he has done throughout his career is
score goals.
Averaging almost a goal every other game in
more than 150 senior appearances in the MLS,
his international record at a goal every four
games is not quite as impressive. But he did
find the net four times in the qualifiers.
A talented young centre forward with
Playing record 12 months Ige wcc bags of skill and energy, Jozy Altidore is Appearances: 15 13
Appearances: - i the great American hope and despite Minutes played: (25 773
Minutes played: - 744 featuring sparingly for current club side Percentage played: 20.7% 47.7%
Percentage played: - 45.9% Hull City, looks destined to lead the line Goals scored: 0 6
Goals scored: - 4 for the USA. Percentage share: 0.00% 14.29%
Percentage share: 9.52% Having starred in the 2007 U-20 World Cup, Cards: Yap ROSS ¥2 RO
Cards: e YORRO Villarreal paid around £6m in 2008 making Strike rate: 129mins
him the most expensive MLS player in history. Strike rate ranking: 17th
Strike rate ranking: - 32nd
975
GROUP C 61
“~ SLOVENIA FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH “) LOW! AVGE © FINAL
Group 3 proved one of the more curious another 2-0 win over Slovakia - to finish just The serial overachievers of Europe,
UEFA groups and it threw up its fair share two points behind the group leaders. This led to Slovenia make yet another World Cup
of surprises, the fact that neither Poland or a play-off tie with Russia and despite going two finals appearance having left Poland, the
the Czech Republic came remotely close goals down away from home, Nejc Pecnik Czech Republic and Russia in their —
to qualifying is one of them. headed one back and they won 1-0 at home to wake during qualifying.
Slovakia ended up group winners but having pull off the shock of the round on away goals. There is barely a known name amongst
drawn with Poland in the opening game, Matjaz Kek's squad but that has not
Slovenia beat them at home 2-1. A win against FINAL QUALIFYING TABLE prevented his team from producing some
Northern Ireland followed but that was the last EUROPE GROUP 3 amazing results and that is down to the
of the positive cheer in 2008 as Slovenia lost P WDL F A Pts organisation and team spirit he has installed
away and then played out a goalless draw Slovakia NOME alee meee 10) lee in his side.
against the Czech Republic in a double header. Slovenia* 10°'6829 25.18" (4) 20 They boast a very consistent selection
2009 started no better, with a 1-0 defeat in Czech Republic 10 4 4 2 17 6 16 strategy and this clearly means the players
Belfast against Northern Ireland but the rot was Northern Ireland 10 43 3 13 9 15 know their roles and in West Bromwich
stopped with a 5-0 thrashing of San Marino Poland 10 325 19 14 11 Albion's Robert Koren, they have a talented
and Slovenia did not look back, comfortably San Marino 10 0010 147 O playmaker and captain.
winning their last three games - including *Slovenia beat Russia in the play-offs. Up front, Cologne's Milivoje Novakovic
scored five times in qualifying. At the back,
Avge FIFA ranking
full-back Miso Brecko, also of Cologne, and
1 06 Sep 08 Away Poland 35 D1 1 Dedic 35 centre-back Marko Suler of Gent, were
2 10 Sep 08 Home Slovakia 51 W- 2 1 Novakovic 22, 81 almost ever present in qualifying and will be
3 11 Oct 08 Home N Ireland 109 W_ 2 0 Novakovic 84, Ljubijankic 85 important players when the action starts.
4 15 Oct08 Away Czech Republic <5 ReRearG The good news for Slovenia isthat their
5 28Mar09 Home Czech Republic AZ Des 107-0 bade got ove ta
6 01 Apr09 Away N Ireland We Rede chance to get points on the board before
7 12Aug09 Home San Marino 201 W_ 5 0 Koren 19, 73, Radosavijevic 38, Kirm 54, they face their daunting tasks against USA -
Ljubijankic 90 and England.
8 09Sep09 Home Poland 35 W_ 3 0 Dedic 18, Novakovic 44, Birsa 63 DREAM
9 100ct09 Away Slovakia 51 W__ 0 2 Birsa 56, Pecnik 90 Team TOP 15 RANKING
10 14 Oct09 Away San Marino 201 W _ 0 3 Novakovic 24, Stevanovic 67, Suler 81 THE M AN AGER
11 14Nov09 Away Russia 11. L 2 1 Pecnik 88
12 18Nov09 Home Russia 11 W~ 1 0 Dedic 44
It's hard to overestimate how impressive
PM(cle-le(Mal o-We-liLdiire Me)me) eleres-ii dela] 40) it is that a country of just two million
people has not only competed in Europe
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION but also managed - for the second time
in eight years - to make it to the World
Match 1234567 8 9 101112 g ss 8 S Cup finals.
Venue AHHAHAHHAAAH [ore g oe ae Matjez Kek was managing his hometown
Result OWWLOLWWWWLW & § 88 &g & $8 yg club Maribor when the national team were
Somenapers at Ge BOT competing in the 2002 World Cup, a’club
Jasmin Handanovic BB 8 i H S300 ¥ 270" 25,0! 10) 0) 10 ' ;
Samir Handanovic Be @ OMB °§ 29 0 oO 810750 01 0 where he spent much of his playing eareer
Dalendcrs and won the title as player and manager
Miso Brecko Bee« «Be « BM 1111 oO 8 «(974 9:02 0 83 O before taking over as national coach in
Bostjan Cesar BES SBS BMRB 1010 0 O 900 83 0 2 O 2007. A fiercely determined character, he
Branko llic BEBE © BM MM 5 4 1 :O 366 339 0 2 0 has proven he knows his fair share about
Bojan Jokic SS» BRBBBBBR 8 8 1 OO 782 678 0 0 0 management and opponents should beware.
Mitja Morec Beane 1 eOl Or 605-88) 0; (010
Marko Suler SEBS SMBMBBM 1010 0 Oo 90 83 1 20 5
Midfielders
Armin Bacinovic » mWey 2 eke [ope 2; The 6 0, ote 710
Suad Filekovic Bm CET ETON Nok rico) shale SO) gal 20)
Andraz Kirm «««B« » BB“ 1241 1 5 #990917 1 1 0
Andrej Komac «Be «ml» 6), Sin clice 2 teA5 42. Ome un O
Robert Koren BERBER Bet Oo lO lop 817 2 8 OO
Matej Mavric 7 | ba ba S070) 01 270) 2504 010. 0
Nejc Pecnik Bray By » Re letowen| 9D; Oo 2 0
Aleksandar Radosavijevic a | «« BBS Feet 10 c2) ROL SEO tie Or VO
Mirnes Sisic Baaa« 5 be 0 4) S09 ae0 Oy 250
Dalibor Stevanovic » «ah» CS Nk gee OO) RSs teh, 10
Anton Zlogar »» |r Be ww SOs St sO 210 8i< CeO) 0
Forwards
Valter Birsa >My» B« «Ba « Div Our e4en b5l.61.0) sae 7 20) GROUP FIXTURES
Zlatko Dedic “MMH “ean ed Th ah OM ag CE ote 6s wae
Zlatan Ljubijankic ary» »» EB» mi» » Bo sh YiesO) wo-276) 826.8) 24 GOP CO ALGERIA Sun 13 June 1230 BST
Ales Mejac » Ba Oe Seamer le amico) 90" 1D 0 : :
Milivoje Novakovic BEBE MMMM M i211 «1 *O 1009 934 5 0 0 reer Pel 76 dae
Etien Velikonja « { oO 4. 7? eB 8 0.0 ENGLAND Wed 23 June 1500 BST
62 GROUPC
Zone Europe
Population 2m
Language Slovene
Top league Prva Liga
Interblock Ljubljana (5,000), Drava Ptuj (2,200), NK
Rudar Velenje (2,500)
Premier League - Ligue 1 3
La Liga Other Europe a
hss
Number of Slovenian players playing:
Premier League - Bundesliga 3
Serie A 2 Ligue 1 3
La Liga Eredivisie 3
1930 - Did not enter 1974- Did not enter
1950 - Did not enter 1986 - Did not enter

Jasmin Handanovic AC Mantova 32 3
Samir Handanovic Udinese 25 9
Defenders
Miso Brecko Cologne 26 11
Bostjan Cesar Grenoble 2h. 10)
Branko llic FC Moscow 27 S
Bojan Jokic Sochaux 24 9
Marko Suler Gent 27 wo

Midfielders
Suad Filekovic Floating 31 2

Andraz Kirm Domzale ZO a he
Andrej Komac Djurgarden 30 6
Robert Koren West Brom 29 11
Matej Mavric Koblenz 31 3
A talented creative midfielder, Robert Nejc Pecnik Nacional 24 6
Koren is Slovenia's current captain and Appearances: 17 14 Aleksr Radosavijevic Tom Tomsk 31 7
their pivotal player going forward. Minutes played: 1442 990 Mirnes Sisic Crvena Zvezda 28 5
Having stood head and shoulders above Percentage played: 89.0% 91.7% Dalibor Stevanovic Vitesse Arnhem 25 4
; 2 Anton Zlogar Omonia Nicosia 32 3
those around him playing at Norwegian side Goals scored:
Lillestrom, English club West Bromwich Clean sheets: Forwards
Cards: Y1, RO Y3, RO Valter Birsa Auxerre 23 9
Albion took a chance on him in 2007 and he
helped them out of the Championship and Strike rate: 787mins 495mins Zliatko Dedic Bochum 26°07
Midfielder ranking: Zlatan Ljubijankic Gent 26 8
into the Premier League.
Darijan Matic Interblock Ljubljana 27 3
Ales Mejac Koper 27 3
fore) Cl Es
ere
Milivoje Novakovic Cologne 31\ .12
GROUP C_ 63
TOTAL OF THE AVERAGE FIFA RANKINGS OF THE FOUR COUNTRIES £9
Position |
Group
Total FIFA rankin |
SERBIA V GHANA Pretoria, Sunday 13 June 1500 BST VIEW FROM THE EXPERTS
Two highly-rated sides both likely to be going them with a mountain to climb — with a crunch GERMANY: Everyone always
all-out for a win to get their tournament off to a match against Germany still ahead — and the fancies them to do well but |
good start and give them a decent chance of result of this game is likely to set the tone for think this is a very mediocre
making it out of the group. Ghana will expect to the group. One for the neutrals, there's enough Germany team. Not potential
contro! central midfield, but Serbia will oe world-class quality in these two sides to ensure wy, winners to me this time
confident of doing more damage when they that this game should continue a strong start to around, they will do well to last
have the ball. Defeat for either side would leave the tournament. beyond three matches. A poor show by
their standards.
GERMANY V AUSTRALIA Durban, Sunday 13 June 1930 BST
AUSTRALIA: With the likes of Tim Cahill
Traditional slow-starters and talked of as one of and the Socceroos' direct attacking game has and Lucas Neill the Socceroos have some
the big teams that might not make it out of the the potential to expose their European fearsome competitors in their squad.
group stages, Germany will be desperate to win opponents’ frailties at the back. While the smart Slowly and steadily improving as the sport
their opener to silence the doubters and give money will be on a win for the group favourites becomes more popular Down Under. Hard
them a decent shout of qualification with two here, it wouldn't be a surprise to see Australia done by against Italy in the 2006 World
tricky games to come. However, Australia's get a result to throw Group D wide open. Cup.
solid defence may prove tricky to break down, Expect it to be a decent match to watch. HARRY'S VERDICT: Last 16.
SERBIA: Nemanja Vidic is the headline
act. The Manchester United defender is an
GERMANY V SERBIA Port Elizabeth, Friay 18 June 1230 BST awesome presence. And when you throw
One the biggest games of the entire group qualification, but defeat would certainly see in the traditional Slav way of playing
stage, Germany against Serbia has all the them needing something from their last football - on the ground with technically
hallmarks of a potential classic. Depending game — a position that neither team would skilful players - they could be a handful.
on results in the first set of matches, want to be in. It should be another cracking HARRY'S VERDICT: Quarters.
qualification or an early exit could be on the game to watch. If Vidic is available then he GHANA: Sulley Muntari cost Inter Milan
cards for either of these sides. A win here will have a huge role to play in keeping the £15 million to buy him off me at
likes of Klose and Podolski quiet. Portsmouth. That shows there is real
MATCH
KEY might not necessarily guarantee
quality in the Black Stars' squad. The key
will be whether Michael Essien's knee
injury has the last say as the Chelsea
GHANA V AUSTRALIA midfielder is world class.
Rustenburg, Saturday 19 June 1500 BST HARRY'S VERDICT: Group stage only.
If either of these teams managed three points in
the opening round of games then they could GERMANY: Winners three
qualify today, but the reverse is also true — two times and runners-up on
defeats usually means that a team's four occasions, the
tournament is over. The Africans may struggle Germans always seem to
to break down an organised Aussie defence, rise for the big World Cup
while the likes of Cahill and Kewell will fancy occasions. Maybe not as
their chances against Ghana's back-line. powerful as they once were, but stil’a
force to be reckoned with. a
TEL'S VERDICT: Last eight at least.
GHANA V GERMANY AUSTRALIA: The Aussies sailed through
Jo’burg JSC, Wed 23 June 1930 BST their final qualifying phase. They do not
If Ghana are still in with a chance of qualifying at have the easiest of groups, but you can
this stage then expect the atmosphere to be guarantee Pim Verbeek's squad, which will
buzzing for this one, particularly if Germany contain plenty of faces familiar to Premier
have still not qualified. Low will not want to still League fans, will not fall short when it
be needing points going into a game against comes to preparation, fitness and desire.
the Ghanaians, who will hope to control the TEL'S VERDICT: No one will want to
centre of the park to prevent Germany's play them.
Germany's Lukas Podolski SERBIA: The fact Serbia finished above a
attacking players getting too much of the ball.
below-par France in their qualifying group
possibly offers no indication of the
AUSTRALIA V SERBIA Nelspruit, Wednesday 23 June 1930 BST progress the team has made under their
Both could be looking to secure a place in the plenty on both sides plying their trades with top coach, former Luton star Raddy Antic.
knock-out stage when they meet in Nelspruit. European clubs. Vidic and Ivanovic will offer a They have two quality defenders in
They have strong defences and the match is muscular presence in the Serbia defence. Nemanja Vidic and Branislav lvanovic,
likely to be won or lost in midfield. Everton However, Raddy Antic's team can also play while Nenad Miliias has performed well at
powerhouse Cahill could be the key for the good football and have enough skill to unlock Wolves, but inexperience could be their
Socceroos, especially with his runs from the any defence. Australia will not give up without a undoing.
middle and a talent for getting goals in crucial fight and will battle to the death if there is a TEL'S VERDICT: Not to be taken
matches. It should be tough and physical with place in the next round to play for. lightly.
64 GROUP D
GROUP D (24) SERBIA (20) GHANA (38)
GERMANY(5) AUSTRALIA
GHANA: With an engine room of

Chelsea's Michael Essien and Inter Milan's
former Portsmouth midfielder Sulley
Muntari, there will be no shortage of
stamina and enthusiasm in the Black Stars
squad. But the lack of a quality striker
raises questions about whether they will
be able to qualify from the group like they
did in 2006.
TEL'S VERDICT: Second phase at
best.
GERMANY: Apart from

Michael Ballack and Miroslav
Klose, Joachim Low's squad
might not contain the big
international names of previous
German campaigns, but their strong
performance in qualifying suggests they
will be as ruthless and efficient as always.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Never write
them off.
AUSTRALIA: The Socceroos have come
a long way in recent years with many
players plying their trades in the Premier
League and across Europe. All of their
squad will be super fit, totally prepared
and blessed with that Australian winning
mentality.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: | wouldn't
want to play them.
SERBIA: Still relatively an unknown
quantity in European football, but any
country that produces Manchester United
defender Nemanja Vidic has to command
respect. Their opponents will be hoping
there are not too many more like him in a
their ranks. Re
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Tough nuts to eZ iS Are ae)
crack. "Nemanja Vidic is the headline act.
GHANA: Blessed with flair and boundless _— ae ‘
athleticism, the Black Stars will never give
up the ghost. They were the only African
side to progress beyond the first round of
The Manchester United defender
the last World Cup and they could do so
again, thanks to their talismen Sulley
Muntari and Michael Essien. is an awesome presence”
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Ready to
shock a few. ees ayy a
THE LIKELY ROUTES FOR THE TOP TWO TEAMS FROM THE GROUP For the full draw please see page 80

FIRST GROUP D v SECOND GROUP C v FIRST GROUP B or SECOND GROUP A
SERBIA mE SERBIA v USA

| SECOND GROUP D v FIRST GROUP CG S
t AUSTRALIA > = AUSTRALIAVENCLAND ENGLAND v FRANCE

| GROUPD GROUP C GROUP A
_ GERMANY, AUSTRALIA, SERBIA, GHANA ENGLAND, USA, ALGERIA, SLOVENIA SOUTH AFRICA, MEXICO, URUGUAY, FRANCE
GROUP B
f : ARGENTINA, NIGERIA, SOUTH KOREA
5B (KOREAN REPUBLIC), GREECE
GROUP D- 65
GERMANY FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH 2 LOW 5 AVGE 3 FINAL
It may be a cliche, but Germany are always First half goals from Lukas Podolski and skipper Germany might not have the pool of
a threat when it comes to major Michael Ballack earned Germany a deserved world-class talent at their disposal that
championships and they will be again in victory, before a run of five straight wins without we've come to expect, but under
South Africa after maintaining their record conceding put Joachim Low's side in pole manager Joachim Low they have
of qualifying for every World Cup that the position. A victory in the penultimate game in developed into a formidable unit.
country has been allowed to enter. Russia secured top spot. They play to their strengths with a decent
Drawn in a potentially tricky group alongside batch of attacking players and remaining
Euro 2008 surprise package Russia and the FINAL QUALIFYING TABLE reasonably solid at the back, despite limited
ever-dangerous Finland, Germany were ruthless EUROPE GROUP 4 options.
throughout qualifying, going all ten games P WDL F A Pts One of the most successful World Cup
unbeaten and scoring 26 goals in the process. Germany 10) °-S5200) 205 5.720 nations of all-time, Germany have lifted the
They got the ball rolling with a 6-O demolition Russia mA vf a} Ph oaks Xl ps trophy on three occasions — most recently in
of Liechtenstein before a Miroslav Klose hat- Finland 10 53 2 14 14 18 1990 - and travel to South Africaonthe
trick ensured they came from behind three Wales 10° 4, 056Ges9n12 5 12 back of the terrific record of making at least
times to claim a draw in Finland. This set-up a Azerbaijan 10 1°22 a7 44n14 75 the last 16 in each of the last seven
pivotal clash with the highly fancied Russians. Liechtenstein 10> O 2eSaie2e23 ee 2 tournaments.
Over recent years, Germany have
Avge FIFA ranking
developed a reputation for exceeding
expectations at major tournaments and will
need to do so again if they are to make the
latter stages in South Africa.
Full-back Philipp Lahm, captain Michael
Ballack and goal-poacher Miroslav Klose
bring real quality to the side, while the likes
of Bastian Schweinsteiger and Lukas
Podolski are capable of causing opponents
serious problems on their day.
Over recent years, Germany
have developed a reputation —
for exceeding expectations
at major tournaments
“10° 14 Bee09 see Finland 49 D 1 1 Podolski 90
However, the overall squad lacks the
PNY -le-le(-M di We-lal diare me)me)®)eles-ti (ela) abundance of quality and strength in depth —
of other leading nations at the tournament,
and Low will need to be at his tactical best
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION to get the Germans any further than the last
eight. The defence is a particular worry, and
Key: played 90 mins «« subbed off »»subbedon fi on bench n
with out-of-favour Torsten Frings likely to —
Match 12345678910 § BRR ase as miss out on the squad, there is a lack of ©
Venue AAHHHAAHAH 25238 2 a Ss ¥y solidity to the side —something you peppy
Result wWwDWWWWWWWil I HDADA 2h OE ec expect from a German team.
Goalkeepers
Despite being drawn in a tricky group.
Rene Adler @ MM@m@ 5 5 00 450 500 00 0
Robert Enke Re Bean 5 =°5)0) 0’ , 450) /50:0' 07 (0) 0 alongside Australia, a dangerous Ghana side
Defenders and one of the most improved nations at the
Andreas Beck Ba » JH AS ap 90) SID AGS 1G 0s 0 finals, Serbia, Germany will still expect to
Jerome Boateng «4 i eet (aA 6BiF FOO ea qualify. Australia - such a dangerous outfit in
Arne Friedrich B« @')»> 4223 PI.” Wein ge6S 29,2 a O00)
2006 — aren't the side they once were, while
Clemens Fritz «>» Coys OTe oto OS 0 S70
Marcell Jansen Ba BY “a » Osan aetel tt ih S.C. aah eeOe 'O, their defensive mindset should invite
Philipp Lahm BEBMBMRBMM 1010 0 O 9001000 0 0 O Germany's attacking players on to them. For
Per Mertesacker rE TTL LLy f 20 e Oy OL 630) FOO CiaOD 10) all the hype, Ghana are a beatable side,
Marcel Schafer Beah«ae 2 20) lve 1358 SOOO. 20: relying on a clutch of top-class midfielders to
Serdar Tasci | | Peed tt Be 5-6 10) > O) 450% 50,0 520)" ily 20)
carry a team that lacks balance and quality
Heiko Westermann |i i | eee tt BET) ole Oa O42 2712S eho)
Midfielders in other areas of the pitch. Serbia are one of
Mesut Ozil ~ » «a» Ay Oe Rdg 219'529;7, On OnO the 'dark horses' at this World Cup, but
Michael Ballack BERBERS « 8-48) SOL le GOZO, 4) Ono despite quality in all positions they are hardly
Christian Gentner oe 1) O06 SO) Oo OD a team to strike fear into German hearts.
Tiiomas Hitzlsperger B««B«BRBee « OOS Ol sAbeeouaiO tar
Marko Marin
Simon Rolfes
»
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Bastian Schweinsteiger BRBB««B« eo 95°, 0" “3 8778 86.4 3) (0 =o
Piotr Trochowski BO«M i> «»»M 9 6 3 2 566 629 10 0
Forwards
GROUP FIXTURES
Cacau »~ PO i eet 2 OST) WOie'O
Mario Gomez oe» BBa am « 10 5 & 3° 466.641.4606. 0 6 AUSTRALIA Sun 13 June 1930 BST —
Patrick Helmes » Hy» » aS -O554d. -O 8 96 0 0 0 SERBIA Fri 18 June 1230 BST
Miroslav Klose «B« « me 8.6 2 6 490 54:4°-7" 10 0
GHANA Wed 23 June 1500 BST —
Lukas Podolski «BB«B« B« 9-9 0 A 762)'847, 6...0— 10
66 GROUP D
GERMANY (5)
Zone Europe
Population 82.3m
Language German
Top league Bundesliga
Bayern Munich (69,900), Borussia Dortmund (80,552),
Werder Bremen (80,552)
Premier League 1 Ligue1
Serie A - Eredivisie
La Liga - Other Europe
Bundesliga 22 Outside Eu rope -
Number of German players playing:
Serie A 1 Ligue 1
1930 - Withdrew 1974 - * Champions
1934 - 3rd place 1973 2nd Round
1938 - Round 1 1982 - Runners up
1950 - Banned 1986 - Runners up
1954 - * Champions 1990" * Champions
1958 - 4th place 1994 - Quarter finals
1962 - Quarter finals 1998 - Quarter finals
1966 - Runners up 2002 - Runners up
1970 - 3rd place 2006 - 3rd place
THE SQUAD
Rene Adler B Leverkusen 25 5
Manuel Neuer Schalke 24 0
Defenders
Andreas Beck TSG Hoffenheim 23 4
Jerome Boateng Hamburg 21 1
Arne Friedrich Hertha Berlin 31 4
Clemens Fritz W Bremen 29 3
Marcell Jansen Hamburg 24 2
Philipp Lahm Bayern Munich 26 10
KEY PLAYER Per Mertesacker

Marcel Schafer
Serdar Tasci
W Bremen
Wolfsburg
Stuttgart
25
26
23
7
2
5
Heiko Westermann Schalke 26 8
MIROSLAV KLOSE savern municu Midfielders

Mesut Ozil W Bremen 21 4
Michael Ballack Chelsea 33 8
One of the most feared finishers in Playing record 12 months Ige weq Christian Gentner Wolfsburg 24 1
world football, Miroslav Klose has had Appearances: 21 8 Thomas Hitzisperger Stuttgart 28 9
decent club careers with Kaiserslautern, Minutes played: 1191 490 Marko Marin W Bremen 21 2
Werder Bremen and Bayern Munich in Percentage played: 38.9% 54.4% Simon Rolfes B Leverkusen 28 6
the Bundesliga, but ups his game at Goals scored: 4 7 Bastian.Schweinsteiger Bayern Munich 25 9
international level. Percentage share: 6.06% 26.92% Piotr Trochowski Hamburg 26 9

The striker has bagged five goals in each of Cards: YO,RO YO, RO Forwards
the last two World Cup finals — matching his Strike rate: 298mins 7Omins Cacau Stuttgart 29 2
Strike rate ranking: 94th 3rd Mario Gomez Bayern Munich 24° 10
2002 haul to win the Golden Boot in 2006.
Patrick Helmes B Leverkusen 26 4
Miroslav Klose Bayern Munich 32 8
REAM RANKING 1151

DREAM Kevin Kuranyi
Lukas Podolski
Schalke
Cologne
28
25
1
9
@ Probable ™ Possible QG Qualification Games
GROUPD_ 67
am GERMANY |
KEY GOALKEEPERS KEY DEFENDERS
HEIKO PER
WESTERMANN MERTSACKER
SCHALKE WERDER BREMEN
A versatile defensive player, Westerman Towering centre-back Per Mertesacker has
can be used across the back line and ina been Germany's first-choice in defence
defensive midfield role. since establishing himself in the team
Tall, athletic and with an eye for goal, the during qualification for the last World Cup.
defender moved to the Bundesliga when he Still just 25, Mertesacker has already
joined Arminia Bielefeld in 2005, before sealing passed 50 caps for his country.
a transfer to Schalke in 2007. Strong in the air, he does lack the pace and
physicality needed to rank him alongside the
Playing record 12 months Ige best defenders at the tournament, but his clean
Appearances: 34 8 style sees him rarely give away free-kicks in
Minutes played: 3015 642 dangerous areas of the pitch. A real threat
Percentage played: 98.5% 71.3% presence from set-pieces at the other end of
Goals conceded: 30 8 the pitch, Mertesacker is often used as a foil to
Clean sheets: 15 5 allow the likes of Miroslav Klose and Lukas
Cards: Y4, RO YO, RO Podolski more space in the opposition box. The
Minutes between goals: 100mins 128mins youngster started his career with local club
face0JRANKING
SSA 212
Defender ranking: 28th 67th Hanover, but an impressive string of
performances at the 2006 World Cup saw him
snapped up by Werder Bremen. Injured for
much of qualification for this tournament, he
ARNE
strolled back into the starting line-up when
back to full fitness. If Germany are to impress in
FRIEDRICH South Africa, Mertesacker's performances are
likely to be crucial.
HERTHA BERLIN
RENE Playing record

Appearances:
12 months Ige
23
wcq
4
Playing record
Appearances:
12 months Ige
29 7
ADLER Minutes played: 1927 263 Minutes played:
Percentage played:
2610
85.3%
630
70.0%
BAYER LEVERKUSEN
Goals conceded: 43 2 Goals conceded: 30 1
Playing record 12 months Ige weq Clean sheets: 4 2 Clean sheets: 10 6
Appearances: 33 5 Cards: Y6, RO YO, RO Cards: YO, RO YO, RO
Minutes played: 297( 450 Minutes between goals: 45mins 131mins Minutes between goals: 8/mins 630mins
Percentage played: 97.1% 50.0% Defender ranking: 170th 66th Defender ranking: 61st 7th
Clean sheets:
Cards:
1(
Y3, Ri YO, RO
3
CS Ee See re
Goalkeeper ranking: 16th 8th THE MANAGER
a re managing, Low was seen as a surprise choice
when appointed as assistant coach of
Germany in 2004 by personal friend Jurgen
Klinsmann.
MANUEL However, he excelled in the role, taking

much of the credit as Germany finished third
NEUER on home soil in the last World Cup, and his
obvious tactical ability saw him emerge as the
SCHALKE
clear successor for the manager's job when
Playing record 12 months Ige weq Klinsmann stepped down in 2006, Low has
Appearances: 33 0 since turned Germany into a potent attacking
Minutes played: 2970 0 The suave Joachim Low has shown force, relying on a host of creative talent to
Percentage played: 97.1% 0% enough managerial nous during his take pressure off a shaky defence. He led
Goals conceded: 28 tenure as coach of Germany to suggest them to the final of Euro 2008, before
Clean sheets: 15 that the national side will once again be qualifying for South Africa with ease.
Cards: Y2, RO serious contenders for the World Cup His innovative training methods and ability to
Minutes between goals: 106mins title. make the most of the players at his disposal
Goalkeeper ranking: 6th However, they lack the individual talent of are two of the great strengths of the current
some of the other leading football nations. Germany side, but he will need to be at his
a are After a solid but unspectacular playing
career and an equally unremarkable start to
tactical best to get his team out of an
extremely tough group.
68 GROUP D
. ‘
GERMANY(5) AUSTRALIA (24) SERBIA (20) GHANA (38).
PHILIPP
LAHM
BAYERN MUNICH
One of the world's best attacking full-
backs, Philipp Lahm - like a number of the
Germany squad - ups his game at
international level.
After playing all three games in Euro 2004, he
established himself as the first-choice right-
back, before excelling at the 2006 World Cup.
Switched to left-back in Euro 2008, Lahm
also excelled on the other side of defence,
proving the versatility that has seen him
alternate between full-back positions during his
time with Bayern Munich. An ever present in
Qualifying and the only German to play every
MICHAEL BALLACK cnesea
minute of all ten games.
Veteran Germany skipper Michael Playing record 12 months Ige wcq
Ballack will play at his third World Cup Appearances: 33 8
Playing record 12 months Ige wcq
in South Africa, having finished second Minutes played: 2436 675
Appearances: 32 10
in 2002 and third in 2006. Percentage played: 69.4% 75.0%
The three-time German Player of the Year Goals scored: 4 4
has had a fantastic career, racking up a host Clean sheets: 19 6
of titles with FC Bayern and Chelsea, but Cards: Y¥2, RO YO, RO
Clean sheets: 8 7
has an unfortunate record of losing in major Strike rate: 609mins 169mins
Cards: Y2,RO YO, RO
finals. This may well be his last chance. Midfielder ranking: 110th 4th
/AGE2|MIDFIELDER
Defender ranking: 62nd 36th
PAGE
26 |OREM RANKING 29 DREAM
TEAM RANKING 104
GROUP D 69
eam GERMANY {Kr
KEY MIDFIELDERS KEY STRIKERS
SIMON LUKAS
ROLFES PODOLSKI
BAYER LEVERKUSEN COLOGNE
A powerful and experienced central Lukas Podolski is another Germany
defensive midfielder, Simon Rofles made international who seems more at home
his Germany debut in 2007. when representing the national side.
Joachim Low uses the midfielder in games The forward failed to tie down a regular first
against attacking sides, but the 28-year-old is team place when he moved to Bayern Munich
far from a guaranteed starter for the national in 2006, forcing him into a return to Cologne —
side. A powerful shot has seen him rack up a the club with whom he started his career. The
fair few goals in the Bundesliga with both Germany squad's youngest member at Euro
Werder Bremen and Bayer Leverkusen — having 2004, Podolski made a name for himself in the
made more than 100 appearances for both 2006 World Cup, being named the Best Young
clubs. Tall, strong in the air, but lacking pace Player at the tournament, ahead of the likes of
and the quality on the ball needed to stand out Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Polish-
at the top level. born, the forward also excelled at Euro 2008.
He can either be used in a partnership with
Playing record 12 months Ige Miroslav Klose or in an attacking left-wing
Appearances: 25 6 position. Podolski is in his element when
Minutes played: 2189 321 playing for Germany and his versatile qualities
Percentage played: 71.5% 35.7% make him a real asset for Joachim Low's side.
Goals scored: 5 1
Clean sheets: 7 5 Playing record 12 months Ige weq
Cards: Y2, RO Y1, RO Appearances: 28 gi
Strike rate: 438mins 321mins Minutes played: 2257 762
Midfielder ranking: 80th 30th Percentage played: 73.8% 84.7%
Goals scored: 4 6
a Eee Percentage share:
Cards:
15.38%
Y6, RO
23.08%
YO, RO
Strike rate: 564mins 127mins
PIOTR Strike rate ranking: 118th 16th
THOMAS TROCHOWSKI AGE25 |ORAM RANKING 703

HAMBURG
HITZLSPERGER An extremely talented attacking midfielder,
STUTTGART Piotr Trochowski has emerged as a
Versatile midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger is genuine first-team option for the German
hard working, with an eye for a pass and a national side since his debut in 2006.
powerful shot, his defensive work allows Let go by Bayern Munich in 2005 after
the more attacking players in the midfield becoming disillusioned with a lack of playing
unit freedom to create. time, the playmaker excelled with a Hamburg
Capable of playing in the middle or out on side who have established themselves as a
the left, the 28-year-old made a big impression major force in the Bundesliga. Born in Poland,
at Aston Villa — where he started his career — the diminutive Trochowski instead opted to
earning the nickname of 'The Hammer’ for his represent Germany and has become a key
trademark long-range drive, before moving to member of Joachim Low's squad. A certainty
Stuttgart in 2005. for the World Cup finals if fit, Trochowski's
The midfielder played in nine of the ten creative skills can make the most of the
qualifying matches but is unlikely to retain his collective talents of Lukas Podolski, Miroslav
starting place at the tournament. Klose and company.
Playing record 12 months Ige Playing record 12 months Ige

Appearances: ANS 9 Appearances: 32 9
Cards: Y5, RO YO, RO Cards: YO) YO, RO
Strike rate: 438mins 729mins Strike rate: 378mins 566mins
Midfielder ranking: 79th 68th Midfielder ranking: 63rd 58th
AGE 23 § Ore RANKING 396 iM AGE 26 REAM RANKING 185

DREAM
70 GROUP D
BOR
—
(24) SERBIA (20) GHANA(38)
GERMANY(5) AUSTRALIA
MARIO
GOMEZ
BAYERN MUNICH
A talented and prolific front man at club
level, Mario Gomez has struggled to
establish himself in the Germany side, with
Joachim Low appearing to prefer a Lukas
Podolski and Miroslav Klose partnership.
The tall and powerful forward did partner
Klose in the group stages of Euro 2008 — at the
expense of Bastian Schweinsteiger, with :
Podolski moving out wide — but he failed to
replicate his sensational form with Stuttgart — ONE TO WATCH
his club at the time — and was relegated to the
raed genuinely top

bench in the knockout stages. Gomez lacks the
BASTIAN SCHWEINSTEIGER savern municu
class.
Another of Germany's group of talented the club with whom he started his career —
Playing record 12 months Ige attacking midfielders, Bastian but can't always replicate his form for
Appearances: Schweinsteiger has excelled at major Germany at club level. Supreme in Euro
Minutes played: tournaments in the past. 2004 and impressive at the 2006 World
Percentage played: , Right-footed, but often used as a left- Cup, Schweinsteiger was initially dropped
Goals scored: winger who cuts inside, Schweinsteiger has from the Germany side for Mario Gomez,
Percentage share: : also been deployed in a more central but regained his place in the knockout
Cards: : creative role at club level. He has racked up stages as Low's team reached the final.
g9mins over 200 appearances for Bayern Munich — Schweinsteiger is a Top 12 Micfielde
Strike rate:
Strike rate ranking: 4th
AGE24) REAM RANKING140 MIDFIELDER |OSA" RANKING48

AGE 25 ||
GROUPD_ 71
Li SERBIA FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH LOW 40 AVGE 28 FINAL
Serbia qualified for the World Cup as an consistency in their remaining matches that set Serbia could yet shape up to be one of
independent nation at the first time of them apart in the group. The only other game the surprise packages in South Africa.
asking as they topped European they failed to win was their final one in They earned the right to be there with
qualification Group 7, forcing group Lithuania, when top spot in the group was some impressive performances in qualifying,
favourites France into the play-offs. already assured. Nenad Milijas' penalty helped consigning France to second place in Group
Serbia is the FIFA recognised descendant of Serbia to a 1-1 draw with France in September 7. In terms of personnel, they are a talented
what was Serbia and Montenegro until 2006. 2009, a result that proved vital, leaving Raddy squad and have a good crop of players in
The team did the country proud in a Antic's side four points clear at the top and their prime — led by the vastly experienced
qualification campaign that saw them emerge needing just a win in one of the two remaining midfielder Dejan Stankovic of Inter Milan.
as one of the potential dark horses for South games to secure automatic qualification. Manchester United's Nemanja Vidic is the
Africa. Serbia's success was built on a solid They did so in style, thrashing Romania 5-0 most familiar face in a quality defensive unit
defence, led by Nemanja Vidic and Branislav on a famous night in Belgrade. Dangerous front that also includes Chelsea's underrated full-
Ivanovic. But an attacking unit containing Nikola man Nicola Zigic opened the scoring in the first back Branislav Ivanovic.
Zigic, Milos Krasic and the team's top-scorer in half, before Marko Pantelic and Zdravko Stankovic is joined in midfield by the
qualifying, Milan Jovanovic, was a handful for all Kuzmanovic wrapped up the win after the talented CSKA Moscow playmaker Milos
their opponents in the group. break, leaving winger Jovanovic to secure Krasic — who was superb in this season‘s
Despite picking up just a point from two qualification in style with two late goals. Champions League — and Milan Jovanovic.
games against the French, it was Serbia's For final qualification table see France. Valencia marksman Nikola Zigic is the
perfect target to lead the line.
Avge FIFA ranking
Serbia's opener against the highly fancied
1 06 Sep08 Home Faroe lslands 178 W 20 J.Jacobsen 300g, Zigic
88 Ghana in front of a partisan African crowd
2 10Sep 08 Away France 10 L 2 1 Ivanovic 76 will be crucial, with both teams eyeing the
3 11OctO8 Home Lithuania = ) Ivanov knockout stages. Things won't get any
easier when they face the ever-dangerous
4 16 Oct08 Away Austria =
Germany in the following game. In a tough-
5 28 Mar09°Away Romania to-call group, Raddy Antic's side will
probably need a victory in their final game
ou) 06 Jun 09° Home Austria — 3 a et i against Australia if they are to progress.
7 10Jun09 Away Faroelslands 178 W O 2 A evs RSubotic 62
8 09 Sep 09 Home France 10 1 1 Milijas 13pen
OTL TOP 15 RANKING
9 100ct09 Home Romania = —— 21. *W_§&(0Zigic 37,Pantelic
50, Kuzmanovic
Re ee Ce ee a rn THE MANAGER
10 140Oct09 Away Lithuania 54 LL 2°1.Z.1osic:‘59
Former manager of Real Madrid,
PN(-Se-le(-M oll Weelaldiale Me) me)e)eles-t1((e)4) 67
Atletico Madrid and Barcelona — the only
manager to have taken charge of all
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION three Spanish giants - Radomir ‘Raddy’
Antic was made coach of Serbia in 2008.
fo oss i,
7)
He has turned a talented squad into a well-
Match {1253 4 5, 6°7 819410 5 BBB ie Rae balanced unit that topped their qualification
Venue HAHAAHAHHA 8&8 8G #2 @ 88 x4 group. They are considered a major threat to
Result WLWWWWWOWL * 02 @0 3 8 OF fe the more established nations in South Africa.
Goalkeepers
A talented player who forged a great .
Viadimir Disljenkovic EREEE ME 2542510 .10) 9 180 20:0 OF 0) 0
Vladimir Stojkovic SBUMBBBBMBS 8 8 0 oO 720 8.0 0 0 O reputation in England during a four-year spell
Defenders with Luton Town. Antic has had even more
Ivica Dragutinovic Be« BEOS>sB 6. 5) it tele 428 A 6C 10 AG success as a coach, with a league and cup
Branislav Ivanovic SERRE 9. 49' 20) TOF) B10 /S0.0TSS> aXO. double at Atletico Madrid in 1996 being the
Gojko Kacar » Sry» «OH Sy 52) 3) lee ecewco4, Ole 00 nO
highlight to date.
Mladen Krstajic a» DA th Oat Name HOt O
Ivan Obradovic BB Bee B« 6116" 10) 7to 600) 66,6501" 12 ae0
Antonio Rukavina ESaeEae» & fed 2 yet SGP StG5 815.0 01. 10
Neven Subotic » Rae» B Gr Serie. (Osa Meas) ete ee oC)
Dusko Tosic B ead oO" .8 90 10:0 0 0 0
Nemanja Vidic BRBBB« @« 8) 8.70) 2a) (657, 73.010) a 10
Midfielders
Bosko Jankovic » E> > wp Sy) Sr 60 e202 922.400) 20
Aleksandar Kolarov | Dee os OF OMe 801200 MONON 0
Milos Krasic BB» «BBR «BB« 10,49) Sr Sie) 160 Baise 2 0-0
Zdravko Kuzmanovic BH» BH» » Bike 24 FOR S0G0883. ale) 0
Aleksandar Lukovic | B@«» BAe (ier S46. 88:4. 0 te 0
Nenad Milijas « B«BBB« « © BOL 10 +4605 67.2) 12> a, 0)
Radoslav Petrovic B ote OCU 90 100 0 0 O
Dejan Stankovic B«8«Be 8B Si 80. 72° -'626"68.90" 20! 4-6
Zoran Tosic
Forwards
«1» aa» Sater Ate Gia aly 0 0
GROUP FIXTURES
Milan Jovanovic BBa«aaan se BB 87 8: 0 4 650, 722" 6 TO
Danko Lazovic BOaBBB«»« oes | ae] O6I0:7 OO. 1 GHANA Sun 13 June 1500 BST
Marko Pantelic BM«aeB« B« S. 19° O16 6a 767%, di O10 GERMANY Fri 18 June 1230 BST
Miralem Sulejmani
Nikola Zigic >
“« | io
@Me Meee
Zor Aerl
98 8 1
sai
O
82: e910)
754 888
0 =O
3 2 0
AUSTRALIA Wed 23 June 1930 BST
72 GROUP D
GERMANY (5) AUSTRALIA (24) SERBIA (20)
Zone Europe
Population 7.4m
Language Serbian
Top league Prva Liga
Crvena Zvezda (54,069), Partizan (30,887), Vojvodina
(15,205)
Number of Serbian players playing:
1930 - * 4th place 1974 - Round 2
1954 - Quarter finals 1990- Quarter finals
1958 - Quarter finals 1994 - Banned
1962 - * 4th place 1998 - Last 16
1970 - Did not qualify 2006- Group stages
‘including Serbia & Montenegro and Yugoslavia
THE SQUAD
Viadimir Disljenkovic Metalurh Donetsk 28 2
Vladimir Stojkovic Wigan 26 8
Defenders
\vica Dragutinovic Sevilla 34 6
Branislav Ivanovic Chelsea 26 9
Gojko Kacar Hertha Berlin 23 5
Mladen Krstajic Partizan 36 2
lvan Obradovic Real Zaragoza 21 6
Antonio Rukavina 1860 Munich 26 2
Neven Subotic B Dortmund 21 5
Dusko Tosic W Bremen 25 1
KEY PLAYER
Nemanja Vidic Man Utd 28 8
Midfielders
NEMANJA VIDIC mancuester utp gare

Bosko Jankovic
ae
Genoa
<a
26 6
/
Aleksandar Kolarov Lazio 24 2
= ‘
Playing record 12 months Ige weq Milos Krasic CSKA Moscow 25 210
Combative defender Nemanja Vidic has
developed into a world-class centre- Appearances: 30 8 Zdravko Kuzmanovic Stuttgart 2966
Minutes played: 2569 657 Aleksandar Lukovic Udinese Pas
back at Manchester United.
Percentage played: 69.6% 73.0% Nenad Milijas Wolverhampton 27 IG
The leader of Serbia's back-four, Vidic's
Goals conceded: 18 6 Radoslav Petrovic Partizan BAe oat
ability in the air gives the side solidity at the
Clean sheets: 17 4 Dejan Stankovic Inter Milan Sie es
back and a real threat in the opposition
Cards: tian lg Zoran Tosic Man Utd 23° 3
penalty box from set-pieces. No striker at
Minutes between goals: 143mins109mins Forwards
_ the tournament will relish facing a fit and in-
Defender ranking: 7th 83rd Milan Jovanovic Standard Liege 29 8
form Vidic who will be vital for Serbia.
Danko Lazovic PSV Eindhoven e728
4 31 9
Marko Pantelic Ajax
i
DREAM ar Miralem Sulejmani Ajax oy! 2
i
Team RANKING 46 Nikola Zigic Valencia 29 9
|AGE28|DEFENDER
@ Probable @ Possible QG Qualification Games
é
GROUP D 73
AUSTRALIA FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH 14 LOW 43 AVGE 30 FINAL
Australia reaped the rewards of a switch to games — in their final game when top spot was A far more defensive side than the
the Asian qualifying process, topping both already assured. Australian team that reached the last 16
groups in the two-stage campaign and A 4-0 win over Qatar was the highlight of under Guus Hiddink in 2006, the Aussie
bagging an automatic qualification spot for qualification, with goals from Tim Cahill, Joshua outfit that travels to South Africa will still
the finals as a result. Kennedy and two from Brett Emerton wrapping feel confident that they can qualify from —
Defeats to Iran and China in the first phase of up a fine win in Brisbane. Group D and maybe even improve on
qualifying left the Socceroos level on points with their efforts of four years ago. ae
Qatar after all six games, but they topped the FINAL QUALIFYING TABLE The tactical genius of Hiddink inspired the
group on goal difference, picking up an all- ASIA ROUND 4 GROUP 1 Socceroos to a second-place group finish in
important seeded place for the final stage of P WDL F A Pts Germany four years ago. A win over Japan
qualifying. Australia Se 6c2sCete, 7h. 20 and a late Harry Kewell penalty against
Drawn against Japan, Bahrain, Uzbekistan Japan bE otWOM te WeRe teBs Croatia was enough to see them through to
and Qatar once again in Group A, Australia Bahrain 83° 14 6) 8 10 the second round. A gut-wrenching defeat to
cruised to victory, finishing top of the group by Qatar 8 134 514 6 a 95th-minute penalty winner against the
five points, and conceded just one goal in eight Uzbekistan Seis Gee ontOmn 4 eventual winners Italy was a cruel way to go
out of the tournament. Progress to the
Avge FIFA ranking
knockout stages represented a huge step
1 06 Feb 08 Home Qatar 85 W_ 3.0 Kennedy 10, Cahill 18,Bresciano 33 forward for the country after they had failed
2 26Mar08 Away China PR 98° D000 to score in all three games of their only other
3 01 Jun08 Home Iraq ERS SB CATES CORKewell
AY aoe ot aaa eee noes World Cup appearance back in 1974.
4 07 Jun08 Away Iraq Bi eis e10 Their quality proved too
5 14Jun08 Away Qatar 85 ~W_ 1 8 Emerton 17, 56, Kewell75 oi much for the Asian teams in
6 22 Jun08 Home China PR de Sto qualification for South Africa
7 10 Sep 08 Away Uzbekistan Ti ONE MO TeChippetied
28 ne eae
8 15 Oct08 Home Qatar 85 W_ 4 0 Cahill8,EmertonNem i Kennedy76
7 A comfortable qualification campaign this
time out saw a squad of predominantly
9 19Nov08 Away Bahrain AV WEN 0 4 Bresciand
00 Fe San hee
European-based players dominate their
10 11 Feb09 Away Japan 36 D OO Asian opponents, as the Socceroos
11 01 Apr09 Home Uzbekistan 71. W> 2 0 Kennedy 66, Kewell 73pen competed in AFC qualifying for the first time.
12 O06 Jun09 Away Qatar 85 D 00 The ageing Australian team is set up in a
13 10 Jun09 Home Bahrain ; 71 W_ 2.0 Sterjovski55,Carney88 much more orthodox way than it was under
Hiddink, with manager Pim Verbeek tending
14 17 Jun09 Home Japan 06 OW 2 Cansei) SEV iG to prefer either a 4-4-2 system, or a 4-5-1
PW (-ve-le(-M lo We-lal dale me) mele) lett) lela) és) formation with Tim Cahill supporting the lone
forward. Big target man Joshua Kennedy or
the nippier alternative Brett Holman allow the
likes of Cahill and Kewell the opportunity to
get on the ball in the final third. Their quality
8 D
Be Be gee proved too much for the Asian teams, and is
likely to cause many of the world's best
Match 1234567 891011121314 § 3 B® a BO hg
Venue HAHAAHAHAAHAHH Ai fae et Oe eee Oe 5 some problems. Emerton and Mark
Result WOWLWLWWWDWOWW 2464248 Ss hole
Goalkeepers
Bersciano add steel and quality in midfield,
Michael Petkovic BRR ReReeae 1 OF 70 80 70. 30 with Verbeek often using two defensively
Mark Schwarzer BERBER BRB BBMMM ij13 13 :~«0 iO 1170 9229 0 2 0 minded central players to shield the back
Defenders
Michael Beauchamp Bann © || Bouche HO0F0 * 450 CBair = (Oe 100 line. Scott Chipperfield and Lucas Neill lead
David Carney BEEBE » 8: Sen 1034 (By 2 NOV eT BOSS, fh eet O an experienced defensive unit in front of
Chris Coyne B«e (a « B« 6:26: SOP 31 Bb S04: 0) 0
Mark Milligan B ti OD BOle gear Ole oO Mark Schwarzer, one of the most underrated
Craiq Moore “ BB 33) OLE 256" 20:8 60s ie 6 goalkeepers at the finals. However, their big-
Lucas Neill | BBB e MB 8 8 OO 810 643 0 2 0 name players will need to be at their best to
Shane Steffanuto x a ee OG 1G: 90' 71 0 0. 0
Nikolai Topor-Stanley cy h -tO) 0 90 ats HOw 0550 lead Verbeek's side out of a group that
Luke Wilkshire BERR BERR th 7d (05 (Oe “990 78.65"0" 16-10 contains Germany and two of the most
Midfielders
Mark Bresciano Be«°R «§ B«« 9) 9 (0 Ae fAS) 6914.52 a)" 0 highly-fancied ‘dark horses', Ghana and
Jacob Burns & ss | » B: od 2) 0% F109) 8:76 Oso O Serbia.
Tim Cahill « Baat«a « 6 6 0 5 498 395 4 0 0
Germany's defensive weaknesses may
Scott Chipperfield B« Bee Sav SOP Te eeObane. lr oleate tO
Jason Culina Beeee MMMM 2 12 «OO CO 1080 87 0:0 «(0 offer an upset in the opening game, but
Bruce Djite ”» »H» On Be 4 SB VO eed SB Ore Oat) Serbia's all-round game and Ghana's strong
Brett Emerton B@ Bee @« 6 64 Oni SG6s82.5.4 45 3110
Richard Garcia ws » E> SA 2 ORME aeO 4a 08 0 midfield will really test the Socceroos.
Vineenzo Grella Be« B«. © OBA 2s VEDS M401 O20
Michael John Jedinak
Harry Kewell
2° B«
aaaB«
BRB»
«
R«
«BB
ie
9)
Cea
9: 90
eee
6 e733)
Oe
58:2)
Ola
S00
Oe. TOP 15 RANKING
Jade North SE eee »MM>»>»M 9 6 3 0 598 475 0 0 0
Matthew Spiranovic ea} 1a, Oe 90) 27-100. 10
Carl Valeri >» BEBE 8a« Wee a whe G54 167.8% 20: 3% 0 GROUP FIXTURES
Ruben Zadkovich Bb Wb Dr0) 905 Fits 0. 0%. 0:
Forwards
Brett Holman Le ek | 12) 4 8. 3 550. 43:7" 0 4) 0 GERMANY Sun 13 June 1980 BST
Joshua Kennedy “4 » SEE» EH 6 838-1 4482 5680) 63.00. 0 GHANA Sat 19 June 1500 BST
Scott McDonald
Mile Sterjovski
Bi i«»@ «|
» >
«Bi»
Ba
“6 2. 3
So 2280s
<AGBR82.25
249-419:5
90.70)
“120
20
0
SERBIA Wed 23 June 1930 BST
74 GROUP D
AUSTRALIA (24)
Zone Asia
Population 20.1m
Language English
Top league The A League
Playing season August - March
Melbourne Victory (56,347), Sydney FC (45,508),
Newcastle Jets (26,164)
La Liga - Other Europe 10
Bundesliga - Outside Europe 5
Number of Australian players playing:
Serie A 1 Ligue 1 -
La Liga - Eredivisie 3
THE SQUAD
Michael Petkovic Sivasspor 33 1
Mark Schwarzer Fulham 37 = 18
Defenders
Michael Beauchamp _— Aalborg BK 29 5
David Carney Twente 2621 G
Chris Coyne Perth Glory 31 5
Mark Milligan Shanghai Shenhua 24 1
Craig Moore AO Kavala 34 3
Lucas Neill Galatasaray 39 9
Luke Wilkshire Dinamo Moscow Ce mil
KEY PLAYER Midfielders

Mark Bresciano Palermo 30 9
Jacob Burns Perth Glory 32 3
TIM CAHILL everton Tim Cahill

Scott Chipperfield
Jason Culina
Everton
Basel
Gold Coast United
30
34
29 12
6
5
Playing record 12 months Ige wcq Bruce Djite Genclerbirligi 23 4

A vastly underrated attacking
Appearances: 35 6 Brett Emerton Blackburn 30 6
midfielder, Tim Cahill will have a major
Minutes played: 2912 498 Richard Garcia Hull City 28 3
part to play if Australia are to progress
Percentage played: 83.0% 39.5% Vincenzo Grella Blackburn 30 if
from Group D, as long as the injury-
Goals scored: 6 4 Michael John Jedinak Antalayaspor 25 3
prone Evertonian remains fit.
Clean sheets: 15 5 Harry Kewell Galatasaray 31 9
____ Despite his lack of height, Cahill is a threat Jade North Incheon Utd 28 9
Cards: YF RO YO, RO
__ in the air and is at his best when making Carl Valeri Grosseto 251/39
late runs to support a lone striker or front- Strike rate: 485mins 124mins
Midfielder ranking: goth 2nd Forwards
two. ’ Brett Holman AZ Alkmaar 26 12
Vg 8
Joshua Kennedy Nagoya Grampus 27
ee a DREAM
TEAM RANKING 203
Scott McDonald
Mile Sterjovski
Celtic
Perth Glory
26
31
7
5
@ Probable M Possible QG Qualification Games
GROUP D 75
> AUSTRALIA
KEY GOALKEEPER KEY DEFENDERS KEY MIDFIELDERS
LUCAS VINCENZO
NEILL GRELLA
GALATASARAY BLACKBURN
An experienced and reliable right-back, Underrated defensive midfielder Vince
Lucas Neill brings proven quality to a solid Grella epitomises Pim Verbeek's Australia
Australian defence. Usually deployed as a side. Hard-working and not a player likely
full-back, the skipper can also play in the to steal the headlines, Grella's role in
centre of defence if needed. shielding the Socceroos back line is key.
He excelled in that position to such an extent
Playing record 12 months Ige back in 2006 that he was named on the
Appearances: 29 9 shortlist for Team of the Tournament. A team-
Minutes played: 2450 810 mate of Brett Emerton at Blackburn Rovers for
Percentage played: 69.8% 64.3% the past two seasons, the midfielder has
Goals conceded: 34 1 struggled with injuries and has failed to tie
MARK Clean sheets:

Cards: ¥O.RO
10
Y2~R0
8 down a first team place...at club level at least.
He could play a major role in South Africa, if he
SCHWARZER Minutes between goals:
Defender ranking:
72mins
111th
810mins
4th
is fit.
FULHAM Playing record 12 months Ige

Mark Schwarzer has had a great couple of
years with overachieving Premier League BRETT Appearances:
Minutes played:
23
1651 505
ie
side Fulham.
The 37-year-old's experience and ability to
EMERTON Percentage played:
Goals scored:
44.7%
0
40.1%
0
BLACKBURN Clean sheets: 11 5 i
control his area make Australia a very strong
defensive unit. His shot-stopping ability and Another experienced member of the Cards: Y4, R1 Y2, RO
terrific penalty saving record could make the Australia side, Brett Emerton can play Strike rate: - -
difference between the Socceroos crashing out right-back, right midfield or in a central Midfielder ranking: 178th 137th
at the first hurdle or springing another World role. He will hope to avoid a repeat of the
Cup surprise. With both Serbia and Germany 2006 World Cup, where a late red card
dangerous going forward, Schwarzer will need
to be at his best.
against Croatia saw him suspended for the
second round defeat to Italy.
JASON
Playing record 12 months Ige Playing record 12 months Ige
CULINA
GOLD COAST UNITED
Appearances: 38 13 Appearances: 16 6
Percentage played: 90.5% 92.9% Percentage played: 29.5% 42.5% Playing record 12 months Ige
Goals conceded: 4 3 Goals conceded: - - Appearances: - 12
Clean sheets: 13 10 Clean sheets: 7 4 Minutes played: - 1080
Cards: YORROiMaa 20 Cards: Y2, RO Yl ine Percentage played: - 85.7%
Minutes between goals: 83mins 390mins Minutes between goals: - - Goals scored: - 0
Goalkeeper ranking: 14th 2nd Defender ranking: Clean sheets: - 9
Cards: -.« YO, RO
AGE 37 § ORSAY RANKING 40 fi AGE30§ RAM RANKING 1711 Strike rate:
Midfielder ranking:
-
.
-
THE MANAGER DREAM

TEAM RANKING 1083
qualification, Verbeek has come in for criticism
for a perceived negative style that sees his
side often use a lone front man and two
holding midfielders, relying on crosses and
knock-downs rather than the passing football
that the fans had become accustomed to. An
outspoken man, Verbeek has backed his
tactics to the hilt, dismissing claims that
Australia now play boring football.
Qualification for the country's third World
Cup with an ageing squad of players — most
Assistant to Guus Hiddink with South of whom are based with clubs on the other
Korea at the 2002 World Cup, Pim side of the world — should have pacified most
Verbeek faced a tough task when he of the manager's critics. Hiddink's impressive
took over as manager of the Socceroos feats at the 2006 World Cup were always
in 2007. going to be a tough act to follow, and he will
Despite leading the country through need all his experience to get out of Group D.
76 GROUP D
GROUP D AUSTRALIA (24)
BRETT
HOLMAN
AZ ALKMAAR
Brett Holman is another of Australia's
talented attacking midfielders. However,
having played for most of his career in
Holland's Eredivisie, it is unclear whether
the creative talent has enough quality to
cut it at the top level of club football.
He certainly doesn't score enough goals for a
player of his natural ability, but the combination
of work-rate and spark that he brings to the
side — from either a central or wide attacking
midfield position — is perfect for an Australia
team who prefer to play on the break. Holman
could secure himself a move to a bigger team if
HARRY KEWELL catatasaray
he has a good tournament.
Still only 31 years old, Harry Kewell's Playing record 12 months Ige weq
career has been hampered by a string Appearances: - 9
Playing record 12 months Ige
of injury problems. Minutes played: - 733
Appearances: 16 12
Probably the stand out Australian player of Percentage played: - 58.2%
his generation, Kewell is a skilful attacking Goals‘scored: - 3
midfield player, effective in either a wide or Percentage share: - 15.8%
Goals scored: 3 0
central role. Man of the Match as Australia Cards: - YO, RO
Percentage share: - -
beat Croatia to make the last 16 in 2006, Strike rate: 244mins
Cards: Y3, RO Y1, RO
Kewell will be a key member of the team. Strike rate ranking: 51st
Strike rate: - -
Strike rate ranking: -
DREAM
TEAM RANKING 1471 AGE31|MIDFIELDER} Way’ RANKING 1617
GROUP D 77
FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH 14 LOW 28 AVGE 28 FINAL
Ghana wrapped up automatic qualification seven goals scored and not a single goal One of the more highly rated of an
for the World Cup with two games to conceded, saw Ghana top the group with impressive group of African teams at the
spare, despite suffering a scare in the first consummate ease. A hard-fought 2-2 draw World Cup, Ghana will fancy their
stage of the lengthy African qualification with Mali was a strong way to finish the chances of making the last 16 in South
process. campaign. The most successful nation in Africa.
Defeats to Gabon (2-0) and Libya (1-0) left the African football history will have high hopes of Despite being one of the powerhouses of
Black Stars in a three-way tie at the top of building on their qualification successes in the African football for many years, Ghana failed —
Group E, with just two teams set to go through, _ first ever World Cup hosted in their continent. to qualify for a single World Cup until 2006.
but they finished top courtesy of superior goal They made amends for their long-term
difference with Libya being the unfortunate FINAL QUALIFYING TABLE absence by being the only African side to
team to miss out. AFRICA ROUND 3 GROUP D make it out of the group stage, losing to
The second stage of qualification was far P WDL F A Pts Brazil in the last 16.
more straightforward, despite the fact that Ghana B41 Tae) 3) AS The world-class Michael Essien is ably
Milovan Rajevac's side were drawn in a group Benin Gans ole 2eeO 0 610 supported by Sulley Muntari and Stephen
with the much-improved Mali and Benin. Mali Gere so Ale On 72 a9 Appiah in a formidably strong midfield. Itis
Four wins from their first four games, with Sudan Gm Os eo moe. onus this central unit that means Ghana will be a
decent match for every side in Group D and ~
Avge FIFA ranking are certainly worth a wager to progress. :
1 01 Jun08 Home Libya RAN
Prae econ 417. Ki i However, a slightly suspect defence anda
lack of genuine top-class options up front
2 O8Jun08
Away Lesotho = ~—«‘16 mean that the Black Stars lack the quality
2 HERE ESSSWAY CODOD 7 <n imtre me ean needed to become the first African World
4 22Jun08 Home Gabon Cup final winners. It will be a surprise if they
5 05Sep 08 Away Libya improve on their second-round best —
6 11OctO8 Home Lesotho 16 8 0Appiah 19, Agogo 24, MAmoah 62. particularly given that one of the tournament —
6
eau oy EEGs — : _ —— favourites, England, are the likely opponents
7
(pepe ne oma in the second round if they do manage to
8 ma make it through the group phase.
-9
9 20Jun09 Away Sudar oT f ah 6,| > DREAM
1006 Sep 09Home Sudan 7 WwW intari 14,Essien§ Bt team | OP 15 RANKING
11. 11 Oct09 Away Benin OT aie t70
12 15Nov09 Home Mali 50 D2 2 MAmoah 65, Annan 83 | THE MANAGER
PWiele-le(-Mal Welt diare me) me)e)eles-ti cela) 90
A surprise choice when appointed
Ghana coach in 2008. Never having
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION played or managed outside of his home
n
country of Serbia, Milovan Rajevac
3 56 2, proved his doubters wrong leading the
Match 1234567891012 § BBB OF 4s Black Stars to the 2010 finals with an
Venue HAAHAHHAAHAH s 9 93 & om 8 3 3 impressive qualification campaign,
Result WWLWLWWWWWL I ee ; peat losing just once in 12 games.
Goalkeepers Success with club side Borac Cacak

einen eos BERBER RBRBRB 2 12 0 O 10801000 0 1 0 earned Rajevac international recognition. He
eftendcers .
Harrison Afful (TL Lite ti fl 10710204 (0 -900-83;8) 0) -0).-0 Nes ee ae sie nee— ei 5
Samuel Inkoom BOMB Mm 864 64C(C ClO hl8680 833 0 0 O soietite yes te amy ie gut peel
tea «BEE 8 BBB Buta tiny he Rete OO ee into the last 16 - although he will need luck
John Paintsil BEES <«See Bee tt Oo 1 988915 0 2 0 on his side to take a squad short on match-
Jonathan Quartey SUB oS BM 4 4 «OO oO 386 333 00 0 winning players any further than that.
Midfielders : ees of
Eric Addo Be« BMRB 111 Oo 1 945 875 01 0
Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu RB» Be « » Dee te 22 ee eri. O) Omi: a0)
Anthony Annan BERR BBBMMBBMB«B 2 12 0 1 «1074 994 1 1 0
Stephen Appiah a4 “44 Gab ll 45 4A2 24019) 6lie, 20
Michael Essien B«BB« O« BOR « Ahetts <04 409 '809;5:83'2. Sie AsO
Laryea KingSton MM@«« « > 7060 12.5 Saeed (3G ieee 22/0
Samuel Kyere @ioi« tie ho Oma 70: “6:5; LO" a0 10
Sulley Muntari « BM@« « «Ma 8) Bc Oy Bi tB7O 462,02 82) 0)
Samuel Yeboah 7 | je ObeO mePCOmEBS: <Om. Ol 0
Forwards
Junior Agogo “Be «B« Br T Sr 2 ose 405/408 §4: 1 0 ni a
Matthew Amoah B«B« «SB 7 tte Os Sen 589" 54,505: te CO
Kwadwo Asamoah En i a oer ee ss 0 GROUP FIXTURES
Eric Bekoe » «>» » Feros Ae 75406.0N 1008.6
Haminu Draman » Bye Be > oe be ob 10, 2. 8.0. °279°26.8.20..'0' 0 SERBIA Sun 13 June 1500 BST
Asamoah Gyan » » Ee o59\ 0) 201 18:6 90).00 AUSTRALIA Sat 19 June 1500 BST —
Quincy Owusu-Abeyie BR» Br» OF 352.0 182 ne Oe 0 GERMANY Wed 23 June 1980 BST _
Prince Tagoe «BB » M« « air A 185 "626° 627:9:9.3) 0-0
78 GROUP D
GHANA (38)
Zone Africa
Population 22.2m
Language English
Top league Ghana Premiere League
Playing season November - July
Hearts of Oak (40,000), Asante Kotoko (40,000),
Goldfields (30,000)
Serie A 3. Eredivisie
La Liga - Other Europe
Bundesliga 2 Outside Europe WONNND
Number of Ghanaian players playing:

Serie A 2 Ligue 1
1938 - Did not enter 1982 - Withdrew
1950 - * Quarter finals 1986 - Did not qualify
1970 - Did not qualify 2006 - Last 16
THE SQUAD
Richard Kingson Wigan Si) 42Z
Defenders
Harrison Afful Sportive de Tunis 23 10
Samuel Inkoom Basel 20 4
Gabriel Issah Asante Kotoko 28 1
John Mensah Sunderland ae 8
John Paintsil Fulham 28) at
Jonathan Quartey Nice 22 4
Midfielders
Eric Addo Roda JC Kerk Sie oa
Emm Agyemang-Badu Udinese 19 3
Anthony Annan Rosenborg BK oi sle
Stephen Appiah Fenerbahce 29 6
Age
MICHAEL ESSIEN cnevsea

John Boye Rennes
Michael Kojo Essien Chelsea Siam
Ss
Laryea Kingston Lokomotiv Moscow 29 7
t
__ One of the world's best central Playing record 12 months Ige weq Samuel Kyere El Shorta 27 1
f midfielders, Michael Essien is a crucial Appearances: 23 11 Sulley Muntari Inter Milan 25 8
__ member of the Ghana side and a huge Minutes played: 1784 899 Isaac Vorsah TSG Hoffenheim 21 4
B presence in the centre of midfield. Percentage played: 50.8% 83.2% Samuel Yeboah Genk 2 ]
{
___ Equally adept in a defensive or more Goals scored: 4 Forwards
attacking role, the Chelsea man's versatility Clean sheets: 14 8 Junior Agogo Apollon Limassol 30 7
_ has seen him used in a variety of positions Cards: Y2, RO Y1, RO Matthew Amoah NAC Breda 29 r
Strike rate: 446mins 899mins Kwadwo Asamoah Udinese 21 4
_for the Premier League club. Ghana are a
solid side, and Essien has world-class ability. Midfielder ranking: 83rd 75th Eric Bekoe Petrojet 21 4
Haminu Draman Lokomotiv Moscow 24 10
i FA Asamoah Gyan Rennes 24 4
DREAM Quincy Owusu-Abeyie Spartak Moscow 24 3

MIDFIELDER TEAM
RANKING 210 Prince Tagoe TSG Hoffenheim 23 8
M@ Probable ™ Possible QG Qualification Games
GROUPD 79
MATCH 1 — JOHANNESBURG J SC 1500 BST (1600 SAST) MATCH 2 — CAPE TOWN 1930 BST (2030 SAS
A soutHarrica i Qj mexico A uruGUAY [ij ) Bj France

2i MATCH 4 —PORT ELIZABETH 1230 BST (1330 SAST) MATCH 3 — JOHANNESBURG JEP1500 BST (1600 SAS
B souTHKoREA I i creece ARGENTINA [ij fj niceria

MATC H 6 — POLOKWANE 230 BST (1330 SAST) MATCH 8 — PRETORIA 1500 BST (1600 SAS
SERBIA I’ BM cuana
MATCH 9 — JOHANNESBURG JSC 1230 BST ( MATCH 10 ~ BLOEMFONTEIN 1500 BST (1600 SAS
JAPAN [ij ) Mj cameroon

sue 12 RUSTENBURG 1230 BST (1330 SAST) MATCH 13 — PORT ELIZABETH 1500 BST (1600 SAST)
ivory coast fj i portucat

MATCH 15 = NELSPRUIT 1230 BST (1330 SAST) MATCH 16 - DURBAN 1500 BST (1600 SAST)
sPAIN [ § swizerianp
MATCH 20 - JOHANNESBURG JSC 1230 BST MATCH 19 - BLOEMFONTEIN 1500 BST (1600 SAS
GREECE jj niceria
MATCH 22 — JOHANNESBURG JEP 1500 BST (1600 SAS
SLOVENIA
i ij usa
MATC yH_ 25 — DURBAN 1230 BST MATCH 24 —- RUSTENBURG 1500 BST (1600 SAS
GHANA fj [ austrauia
MATCH 28 — NELSPRUIT 1500 BST (1600 SAST)
ITALY ij ew zeaanp
MATCH 31 — PORT ELIZABETH 1500 BST (1600 SAST)
cHILe fj GR swizerianp
— RUSTENBURG 1500 BST (1600 SAST) MATCH 34 — BLOEMFONTEIN 1500 BST (1600 SAST)
MATCH 38— PRETORIA
CH 41 -J HANNESBURG JEP 1500 BST (1600) SAST)
MATCH 49 — PORT ELIZABETH1 500 BST (1600 SAST)

1STA 2ND B
MATCH 50 — RUSTENBURG 19 30 BST (2030 SAST)

1ST.G 2ND D
7 MATCH 51 BLOEMEONTENN rT BST (1600 SAST)

1SVD -2ND'C
MATCH 52 — JOHANNESBURG J SC 1930 oll (2030 SAST)
1ST B -2ND A
MATCH 53OUREAN 500 BST (1600 SAST)
ISTE — 2NDF
MATCH 54 - JOHANNESBURG JEP 1930 BST (2030 SAST)

1STG . 2N, H
snneneenee
MATCH 55 - _PRETORIA 1500 BST (1600SAsT

{STF ie
1STH
MATCH 5 — RUSTENBURG 1930 BST (2030 SAS
ENGLAND [i fj usa
MATCH 7 — DURBAN 1930 BST (2030 SAS
GERMANY fj fj austrauia
MATCH 11 — CAPE TOWN 1930 BST (2030 SAST)
ITALY WM paracuay
BRAZIL fj ( NortH KoreA

MATCH 17 — PRETORIA 1930 BST (2030 SAS
A souTH AFrica ij . fj urucuay

MATCH 18 — POLOKWANE 1930 BST (2030 SAS
FRANCE [i © [ij mexico

MATCH 23 - CAPE TOWN 1930 BST (2030 SAS
ENGLAND fj» 9 atceria

¢ MATCH 26 — PRETORIA 1930 BST (2030 SAST)
cameRoon fj ij penmark f.
MATCH 29 — JOHANNESBURG JSC 1930 BST (2030 SAS
BRAZIL I ivory coast

SPAIN [jj Mj xonpuras

MATCH 35 — DURBAN 1930 BST (2030 SAS MATCH 36 — POLOKWANE 1930 BST (2030 SAST) 5Fe i aes
NIGERIA fj f soutn korea GREECE Mj Q Arcentina i Jun
n=
usTRALIA [i » (ij sersia
MATCH 39 — JOHANNESBURG JSC 1930 BST (2030 SAS MATCH 40 — NELSPRUIT 1930 BST (2030 SAST)
GHANA fj. I cermany D _a

MATCH 43 — RUSTENBURG 1930 BST (2030 SAST) MATCH 44 — CAPE TOWN 1930 BST (2030 SAST)
DENMARK fj» fj Japan camEROON fj i NETHERLANDS

MATCH 47 — PRETORIA 1930 BST (2030 SAS MATCH 48 — BLOEMFONTEIN 1930 BST (2030 SAST)
SWITZERLAND [fj . Mj Honpuras
QUARTER FINALS |
:
ATCH 59 — CAPE TO'
pron ian ee
pe
ae a = S43
( — JOHANNESBURG JEP 1980 BST (2030 SAST)
ppomnanaay
é Hal PRE neae
re yen ren
ne
SEMI FINALS. i (CARS

AN 193 (2030 SAST)
ZABETH 1930 BST (2030 SAST)
THIRD PLACE
WORLD CUP SCHEDULE 81

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An attacking midfield playmaker, Yoann weq
Gourcuff is perhaps the only one of the Appearances: 35 10
current crop of French internationals Minutes played: 2838 756
compared to the great Zinedine Zidane Percentage played: 80.9% 68.1%
who matches him for style — if not yet Goals scored: 14 1
impact or ability. Clean sheets: 20 4
Still only 23, he has plenty of time to grow on Cards: Y2, RO Y1, RO
the world stage but he is already showing signs Strike rate: 2038mins 756mins
it will be a smooth transition. French Player of Strike rate ranking: 19th 70th
the Year for 2009, he is unbelievably skilful, a
dead-ball specialist who can cut through a
defence singlehandedly.
One of the finest players of his generation, iths Ige weq

Steven Gerrard at his best is a talismanic Appearances: 30 re
figure for Liverpool and England and is not Minutes played: 2580 530
far from being the complete midfielder. Percentage played: 13.5% 58.9%
Able to play anywhere across midfield and Goals scored: 13 3
also as a second striker, Gerrard is a dynamic Clean sheets: 14 2
presence -— tireless, direct and powerful going Cards: Y5,, RG YO, RO
forward. Strike rate: 198mins 177/mins
He often comes up with the miraculous and Strike rate ranking: 17th 6th
sets up, and scores goals on a regular basis.
Gerrard will be expected to pitch in with match-
winning performances.
A highly influential midfield general, Daniel ige wcq

De Rossi is widely expected to succeed Appearances: 34 9
Fabio Cannavaro as Italy's next captain and Minutes played: 2954 745
will be a major part of the Azzurri's bid to Percentage played: 80.1% 82.8%
retain the World Cup. Goals scored: 7 2
A dominant and vocal, all-action box-to-box Clean sheets: 10 5
midfielder, De Rossi is at the centre of things, Cards: Y112 Ri Y3, RO
both defensively and going forward and he often Strike rate: 422mins 372mins
scores spectacular goals. Watching him in full Strike rate ranking: 76th 39th
flow, he is reminiscent of Roy Keane at his best
and he will be at the heart of everything Italy
accomplish in South Africa.
A talented midfielder usually found on the Ige weg

left wing, Bastian Schweinsteiger is already Appearances: 83 9
a veteran of the German national side at the Minutes played: 2744 778
tender age of 25. Percentage played: 89.7% 86.4%
Tipped by many to get close to Lothar Goals scored: 3 3
Matthaus' record of 150 caps, Schweinsteiger is Clean sheets: 11 7
a powertul, skilful midfielder and versatile Cards: Y4, RO YO, RO
enough to play in a number of positions. Strike rate: 915mins 259mins
Offering great delivery from free-kicks and often Strike rate ranking: 149th 20th
scoring crucial goals — he averages a goal every
four games for Germany. He is the creative heart
of the German side.
TOP PLAYERS
One of the finest defensive midfielders in
today's game, Javier Mascherano is the Appearances:
captain of Argentina and will be Minutes played:
determined to lead his country on a Percentage played:
successful campaign in South Africa with Goals scored:
expectations high back at home. Clean sheets:
A tough tackling midfield general with great Cards:
awareness, he is a big presence on the pitch. Strike rate: - mins
Despite his obvious leadership skills, he had to Strike rate ranking: 154th
be persuaded to take the captain's armband by
manager Diego Maradonna who stated his
team would be "Mascherano and ten more".
An integral part of Barcelona's ascent to the

pinnacle of European football, Andres Iniesta Appearances:
is a versatile midfielder who does everything Minutes played:
well and is something of a player's player, Percentage played:
with Wayne Rooney amongst those who Goals scored:
have heralded him the best in the world. Clean sheets: 18
For Spain, too, he has been a major influence — Cards: Y3, RO YenmRO
featuring in every game in Spain's triumphant Strike rate: 713mins 433mins
Euro 2008 campaign — and you can expect Strike rate ranking: 127th 47th
Spain's quiet man to feature heavily again in
South Africa, alongside club colleague Xavi in the
heart of midfield.
A mercurial playmaker who controls the

game from a deep-lying midfield role, Appearances:
Andrea Pirlo is no stranger to World Cup Minutes played:
success, having been an integral part of Percentage played:
Italy's 2006 winning side and man-of-the- Goals scored:
match in the final against France. Clean sheets: 16
A superb passer of the ball and set-piece Cards: Y8, RO Y1, RO
specialist, Pirlo is the creative hub of the Azzurri Strike rate: 249mins 530mins
and if he plays well, then so, invariably, do Italy. Strike rate ranking: 31st 56th
He may be something of a surly figure, but do
not underestimate Pirlo's desire to help his side
successfully retain their world crown.
It has been a meteoric rise for defensive

midfielder Felipe Melo who in 2009 sealed a Appearances: 30
25 million euro move to Juventus, made his Minutes played: 2537
debut for Brazil and subsequently cemented Percentage played: 70.5%
his place in the side. Goals scored: 3
An impressive force for Fiorentina in 2008/09, Clean sheets: VE
he was called up by Brazil coach Dunga and Cards: alts Ae Yara
starred in the Confederations Cup, in the Strike rate: 846mins 499mins
‘volante’ role alongside Gilberto Silva. His start at Strike rate ranking: 142nd 55th
Juve was not ideal and he suffered much
criticism as the team struggled but expect Dunga
to retain faith in a player after his own heart.
TOP PLAYERS 85
The archetypal box-to-box midfielder with An inventive midfielder who always One of the finest attacking midfielders in
fantastic technique, Frank Lampard has appears to have time on the ball, Xabi world football, Kaka needs only a World
been one of the best players in world Alonso is not only one of the best Cup triumph to seal his place in the
football for over five years. midfielders in world football - he also pantheon of Brazilian greats.
A hard worker on and off the pitch, brings out the best in those around him. With incredible skill, pace and vision —- Kaka
Lampard's exquisite timing and eye for goal Preferring a deeper role in midfield, Alonso can do it all. He scores goals, creates goals
make him a genuine threat and he is one of can pick a pass in an instant and his speed of and looks good doing it — no wonder Real
England's top-20 all-time goal-scorers. Playing thought and creativity are often the catalyst for Madrid were willing to pay almost 70 million
better than ever under Fabio Capello, his side's attacking intent. Part of a brilliant euros for him. He is vital for Brazil, and if the
Lampard's influence — and goals — could be Spain midfield, he might not be the most eye- side's attacking game clicks then he could be
instrumental if England are to do well. catching but will be one of the most effective. the player of the tournament.
: weq
Goals scored: 10 4 Goals scored: 1 1 Goals scored: 12 iS)
Cards: Y2, RO YO, RO Cards: Y7, RO YO, RO Cards: Y2, RO yaa
Strike rate: 319mins 222mins Strike rate: 249mins 537mins Strike rate: 192mins 191mins
Strike rate ranking: 48th 15th Strike rate ranking: 30th 57th Strike rate ranking: 16th 11th
86 TOP PLAYERS
A truly sublime playmaker, Xavi can
pick a pass like few others in the Appearances:
modern game and - for club and Minutes played:
country - is a man very much in form. Percentage played:
A lifelong Barcelona fan, Xavi has been Goals scored:
instrumental in his club's recent successes Clean sheets:
and, together with midfield partner Andres Cards: 1, RO
Iniesta, has helped bring the same success Strike rate: - mins
to the Spanish national side. Strike rate ranking: 83rd
Position 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th
Group D B H A G Cc &
Total FIFA ranking 93 95 96 101 109 x Ply 138
u
The opener in Group E looks like being a close quality in virtually every area of the pitch. Daniel : A fantastic
call between two of the tightest defences in Agger and Simon Kjaer of Palermo will have to \ football nation and a threat at
European qualifying. The Danes missed out on be at their best to hold off a talented Holland any World Cup. Robin van
the World Cup in Germany and will be extra attack, while two Arsenal strikers go head-to- Persie is a class act but has
keen to make an impression this time round. head, with Robin van Persie lining up against been dogged by injury.
They may struggle to get their campaign off to Nicklas Bendtner. A win here would put either Should emerge from this
a strong start against a Dutch side that has side in pole position to make the second round. group in good shape though and fairly
comfortably.
HARRY'S VERDICT: Quarters.
2: The Danes have dipped
A defining game in Group E. Japan against team to make a splash in the continent's first below the radar recently. Were thrashed 3-
Cameroon is a tough one to predict. The World Cup. Samuel Eto'o will be on a different O by England in Japan eight years ago.
organised Asian side have high hopes of level to the strikers that Japan's defenders face Now back with Morten Olsen in charge
making it into the knockout stages, while in their domestic J-League, while a solid looking they are rejuvenated. | can't see them
Cameroon are probably the best placed African Cameroon side will be difficult to break down. sticking around long but could make a run
for second place in the group.
ats : HARRY'S VERDICT: Group stage only.
i N: | can't really see them causing
These two sides met in a friendly back in solid defensive record, but may struggle to much of an impact. This is not the
September 2009, with Netherlands running out contain Holland's star-studded attacking line- toughest group but | still think it will be
comfortable 3-0 winners. While their encounter up, and a lack of quality up-front themselves beyond them to make any headway other
in Durban will be on a totally different level to could see Shunsuke Nakamura's set-piece than a flying visit for the first stage. Their
that game, it would be no surprise if the Dutch deliveries as the main threat to the European 15 minutes of fame was co-hosting the
similarly ran out winners again. Japan have a side's defence. tournament in 2002.
HARRY' S VERDICT: Group stage only.
\ is
AME! : Inter Milan's Samuel Eto'o
S ceaty a top international striker and will
enjoy star billing. The Indomitable Lions
Qualification for the second round or an early have some decent players and could be
exit may well be hanging in the balance for dangerous, | look forward to seeing
these two sides going into the clash in Pretoria, Tottenham defenders Bassong and Assou-
so expect the atmosphere to be electric as the Ekotto play in South Africa.
African fans get behind one of the continent's HARRY'S VERDICT: Last 16.
best teams. Denmark are solid at the back and
could be hard to break down, but if Cameroon : 3: Bert van
manage to create chances then Samuel Eto'o Marwijk's boys were the first
will be a real test for an inexperienced Denmark European team to qualify for
back two. Christian Poulsen will need a good South Africa as they
game to protect those centre-backs. The Lions breezed through Group 9
haven't been strong at the back for a few years with a 100 per cent record from eight
either, but Denmark are hit and miss going games, conceding just twice in the
forward. This could be a tight encounter. process. This has raised expectations that
this may finally be the Dutch's year. They
certainly have enough quality on the pitch.
TEL'S VERDICT: Looking good for the
While this isn't the most entertaining of matches enough space to allow his creative game to last four.
on paper, if either side still have a chance of come to the fore but Japan's main strength is : They came through arguably
going through then it could actually turn out to their defensive work-rate. If they can starve the hardest European qualifying group,
be a great one for the neutrals. Both Denmark Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner of possession, finishing top ahead of Portugal, Sweden
and Japan are solid at the back, but will need then they have a great chance of getting a and Hungary, to reach their first major
to throw bodies forward in search of a win. positive result. Though this is unlikely to see tournament since Euro 2004. But | do not
Shunsuke Nakamura could thrive if given them progress to the last 16. know if they have enough quality to make
it through to the latter stages.
My TEL'S VERDICT: No Dane-ger.
2AN: Appearing at their fourth
A potentially huge game to round off Group and Jean Makoun facing off against Mark successive finals there is no doubt the
E in style, Cameroon v Netherlands will be van Bommel and Nigel de Jong. Whichever Japanese are a force in the Asian game.
even better to watch if both teams still have team gets the upper hand here will be They made it to round two when they co-
something to play for. The Dutch attack in favourites to the win, as both teams’ strikers hosted the tournament in 2002 and they _
numbers and will be a real test for a defence will fancy their chances against back lines will do well to emulate that this time.
that has only recently become settled under that can be shaky at times. If either of these TEL: SsMace Sayonara.
new manager Paul Le Guen. The battle in crash out at this stage of the competition ME : Made hard work of
midfield will be key, with Alexandre Song then it will be a major shock. qualification, ‘but
| former Rangers boss Paul
88 GROUPE
(27) (40) (#4)
Le Guen has licked them into shape and

guided them to their sixth appearance at
the finals a record for an African team. And
they have enough quality in their line-up,
such as Inter Milan's Samuel Eto'o,
Arsenal's Alex Song and Tottenham's
Sebastien Bassong to make an impact.
TEL'S VERDICT: Possible surprise
package.
: A faultless
qualifying campaign, having
won all eight of their group
games and conceding just
twice in the process. But the
Dutch are the World Cup's perennial
underachievers and there is bound to be
some controversy or dispute that blights
their summer.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Waiting for
things siage wrong.
ENT : The Danes qualified as
wicrene of one of the hardest European
groups, beating Portugal home and away
along the way. But despite possessing a
sprinkling of talented players, such as
Bendtner and Poulsen, it is unlikely they
will come close to repeating their triumph
at Euro 1992.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Not so great
Danes.
2AN: The Japanese reached round two
when they co-hosted the tournament in
2002, but they will do well to reach that
stage again. Well drilled and disciplined, it
will be up to ex-Celtic midfielder Shunsuke
Nakamura, now with Espanyol, to provide
the spark.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Rising Sun
Sigg ensi in South Africa.
CAMEROON: Playing in the finals for a
ahh time, the Indomitable Lions have
enough experience to go far in South
Africa and in striker Samuel Eto'o they
have a player | believe could win the
Golden Boot and become one of the stars
of Africa's first World Cup.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Must get their
heads right.
NCTUCPILANDS
NETHERLANDS vv BVAZI
BRAZIL
CAMEROON CAMERON ON V ITALY
GROUP E GROUP F GROUP G

NETHERLANDS, DENMARK, JAPAN, ITALY, PARAGUAY, NEW ZEALAND, SLOVAKIA BRAZIL, NORTH KOREA (KOREA DPR), IVORY
CAMEROON COAST, PORTUGAL
GROUP H
SPAIN, SWITZERLAND, HONDURAS, CHILE
GROUPE 89
=== NETHERLANDS FIFARANKINGS: HIGH LOW AVGE FINAL
ROUTETOTHEFINALS FINAL PROSPECTS
Netherlands coasted through qualifying Manager Bert van Marwijk used 25 players in One of the form teams going into the
with consummate ease, winning all eight the eight games, of which seven players only tournament, Netherlands will expect to
games, scoring 17 goals and conceding featured once qualification was secured, and qualify from this group.
just two. the Dutch squad are rightly one of the Anything less than a semi-final appearance
Drawn in one of the more straightforward favourites for the title in South Africa. would be a major disappointment for the
European qualification groups, second-half Goals come from all areas of the pitch, with side ranked third in the world.
goals from Johnny Heitinga and Rafael van der 11 players contributing in qualifying. Strikers The Dutch have a reputation of imploding
Vaart secured an opening 2-1 win against Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and Dirk Kuyt were joint at major tournaments. A possible quarter-
Macedonia. The Dutch did not concede again top-scorers with three apiece. final clash against the winners of Group G -
in international football for another ten months. Tougher tests await in South Africa, but likely to be one of Brazil, lvory Coast or
Wins home and away against Norway Holland will be confident of making a big Portugal — will be a huge test of their
confirmed Holland's dominance. They ended impression on the tournament. credentials. Twice losing finalists, in 1974
up 14 points clear, as the Norwegians and FINAL QUALIFYING TABLE and 1978, they have never won a World
Scotland both failed to pick up enough points EUROPE GROUP 9 Cup. They have only a 1988 European
to secure even a place in the play-offs. Holland P WDL F A Pts Championship to show for decades of being
were coasting by the time they met the Scots in Netherlands & & 0:.0 "17'-2 24 one of the most talented teams in world
their final game, and a first international goal Norway 82°>2-482, 9 72410 football.
from 22-year-old sub Eljero Elia finished the Scotland ; 8a3 v4.» 6e1ie 10 Bert van Marwijk will be
campaign in style and secured their impressive FYR Macedonia 8 215 511 7 2
100% record. Iceland Bret 2e5 2. 14an 6 hoping that Arsenal's
FIFA ranking Robin van Persie is fit.
1 10Sep 08 Away Macedonia 93 W_ 1 2 Heitinga 46, Van der Vaart 60 Ph alin th ‘ wieure
- , enomenal in the group stages in Eu
2 11 Oct 08 Home Iceland 90 W_- 2 0 Mathijsen 15, Huntelaar 65 2008, a quarter-final exit to Russia was a
3 15 Oct08 Away Norway 43. W_ 0 1 van Bommel 63 shock, but continued the nation's history of
4 28Mar09 Home Scotland 26 W_ 3 O Huntelaar 30, Van Persie 45, Kuyt 77pen underachievement at major finals.
5 01 Apr09 Home Macedonia 93 W 4 0 Kuyt 16, 41, Huntelaar 25, Scintillating going forward, the Dutch also
Van der Vaart 88 tightened up at the back in qualifying,
conceding just two goals in eight games, but
6 06 Jun 09 Away _Iceland 90 W 1 2 De Jong 9, Van Bommel 16 in truth were rarely tested by their out-of- —~
7 10 Jun09 Home Norway 43. W_- 2 0 Ooijer 33, Robben 51 form opponents. The lack of an experienced
8 09Sep09 Away Scotland 26 W 0 1 Elia82 goalkeeper is a weakness, while a first-
. choice of back-four of Giovanni van
Bronckhorst, Andre Ooijer, Joris Mathijsen
and Johnny Heitinga has plenty of
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION experience but lacks the quality of some of
the other defences.
Key: ll played 90 mins « subbed off » subbed on i on bench
Arjen Robben, Dirk Kuyt and Klaas-Jan
Match 42345678 : S 3 . Huntelaar are dangerous attacking options,
Venue AHAHHAHA § BBS 8 2 y= but manager Bert van Marwijk will be hoping
Result WWWWWwwww 8&8 $8 £€ O29 B8g that Arsenal striker Robin van Persie is fit
Goalkeepers <9 99 2 * © * & and in form to spearhead the front three.
Maarten Stekelenburg 3 Pit ft 5 5 0 0 450 625 0 0 0 A typically talented midfield has been —
ide a heel a8 2.2 0 0 180 250 0 © © — gtrengthened by the return of the manager’ s
-iotnaioig Ms D8 SOA ROOIA Sa taee son-in-law, Mark van Bommel, tothe
Khalid Boulahrouz » ge 1 0s) “Ole ese iso sa C national Set:ua f ;
Edson Braafheid SEE>M 1010 4 63000 The holding midfielder will need to be at his
John Heitinga a MBM 33 00 27375 100 commanding best if and when the Oranje
Dirk Marcellis Bn 2 2) (0! 0) 1801 25.0) Our On 10 come up against the better attacking teams
Joris Mathijsen BEBMBBBM 8s 8 OC O 7201000 1 0 0 in the knockout stages. Manchester City's
Andre Ooijer “MMMM 8 8 0 1 67 91.3 1 0 0 Nigel de Jong partners Van Bommel in a
Giovanni van Bronckhorst MMMM «B 8 8 O 1 675 938 0 0 O terrific defensive midfield, while Rafael van
tetris M@emm 3 3 0 0 270 375 0 0 0 ger Vaart is likely to be the attacking player
Ibrahim Afellay arenes: E.G. Ee eserottans in the Netherlands three-man midfield.
Nigel de Jong B« «B« @ 6. 6 (05S 44) eolta rh Poo Hugely talented, with plenty of goals in
Demy de Zeeuw »o WM 32 10 27 37 000 them and a settled side, the Dutch will be
David Mendes da Silva » @ Teh mimo Mah GMs\, eye fo Te highly-fancied to challenge Brazil and Spain
Stijn Schaars » MMMM 211 0 101 140 0 0 Oo for the World Cup title.
Wesley Sneijder > bb bP « DA 2 Sree Oem at aeOL wOs EO DREAM
Mark van Bommel PTTiiti. 77 0 0 63 875 20 0 team OP 15 RANKING
Rafael van der Vaart B««y «Be Pa 5) 2) 37 54397 61.0) .2 1 90
Forwards
Ryan Babel Baalin » » DB) 25 eS 2 166) 2c OMO. nO GROUP FIXTURES
Eljero Elia ST EEG) GeO Site Beat ce Kon Se
Klaas-Jan Huntelaar B« «Ber» B95 53) 22) 443) 6t SG) Co ee0 DENMARK Mon 14 June 1230 BST
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Robin van Persie «oie «Mae 6 5 1 4 423 588 1 2 0 eaters shia Th 2a i
90 GROUPE
Zone Europe
Population 16.4m
Language Dutch
Top league Eredivisie
Ajax (51,638), Feyenoord (51,577), PSV Eindhoven
(45,186), AZ Alkmaar (17,150)
1
Number of Dutch players playing:
Premier League 18 Bundesliga )
Serie A 3 Ligue1
1930 - Did not enter 1974 - * Runners up
1934 - Round 1 1978 - * Runners up
1938 - Round ! 1982 - Did not qualify
1954 - Did not.enter 1990 - Round 2
1958 - Did not qualify 1994 - Quarter finals
1962 - Did not qualify 1998 - 4th place

Maarten Stekelenburg Ajax 27 5
Michel Vorm Utrecht 26 1
Defenders
Khalid Boulahrouz Stuttgart 28 1
Edson Braafheid Bayern Munich 27 1
John Heitinga Everton 26 3
Dirk Marcellis PSV Eindhoven 22 2
Joris Mathijsen Hamburg 30 8
Andre Ooijer PSV Eindhoven 35 8
Gio van Bronckhorst Feyenoord 35 8
Gregory van der Wiel Ajax 22 3
Midfielders
Ibrahim Afellay PSV Eindhoven 24 5
Nigel de Jong Man City 25 6
Demy de Zeeuw Ajax 27 3
A player whose three career clubs have David Mendes da Silva AZ Alkmaar 27 1
been Ajax, Real Madrid and Inter Milan Appearances: 24 5 Stijn Schaars AZ Alkmaar 26 2
must be something special - Wesley Minutes played: 1723 Wesley Sneijder Inter Milan 26 5)
Sneijder is exactly that. Percentage played: 47.9% 28.1% Mark van Bommel Bayern Munich 33 i
Sneijder will turn 26 just before the start of Goals scored: 4
Rafael van der Vaart Real. Madrid 27 rf
South Africa 2010 and is certain to play a Clean Sheets: 18
Forwards
crucial role in Holland's campaign. Sneijder Cards: Y8, R1
Ryan Babel Liverpool 23 5
is renowned for scoring spectacular goals, Strike rate: 431mins
particularly set-pieces. Strike rate ranking: 78th
Klaas-Jan Huntelaar AC Milan 26
Dirk Kuyt Liverpool 29 8
Arjen Robben Bayern Munich 26 6
Robin van Persie Arsenal 26 6
GROUP E 91
A mainstay in the centre of the Dutch Despite approaching the twilight of his
defence. career, Giovanni van Bronckhurst is still
Joris Mathijsen played more minutes than any very much an important part of the Dutch
other player in the squad during qualifying and defence.
is a certainty to start if fit. The 35-year-old has enjoyed an illustrious
career, which flourished at Feyenoord in the
1990s and then led him to Rangers, Arsenal
and Barcelona. After winning domestic title
honours at all three of those clubs, Van
Bronckhurst's club career peaked with a
Champions League winners' medal for
Barcelona's victory over former team Arsenal in
2006. Van Bronckhurst then returned to
For a player once tipped to fill Jaap Stam's Feynoord where he was appointed captain and
considerable boots, Khalid Boulahrouz continued his consistently high level of
hasn't quite lived up to expectations in defensive performances. For Holland, he has
recent seasons. been selected for two World Cups and three
The former Chelsea defender, now playing for European Championships, proving equally
Stuttgart, has fallen out of favour with Bert van adept at left back, left midfield or central
Marwijk but should still see some action in midfield. His pace may have slowed a yard or
South Africa due to his ability to play anywhere two over the years, but Van Bronckhurst's
across the back line. impeccable positioning, perfectly-timed tackles
He'll also be keen to erase memories of a and wide range of passing has seen him
World Cup 2006 red card against Portugal. become a valuable member of the squad.
49% ? s4 .
record months tae weg
Goals conceded: 20 1 Goals conceded: 30 2
Clean sheets: 4 O Clean sheets: 12 6
Appearances: Cards: Y2, RO YO, RO Cards: Y8, R1 YO, RO
Minutes played: Minutes between goals: 53mins - Minutes between goals: 80mins 337mins
Percentage played: Defender ranking: 159th - Defender ranking: 79th 12th
Goals conceded:
Clean sheets:
Cards:
Minutes between goals: 87mins
YO, RO
225mins
2 ee
Goalkeeper ranking: 13th
zoe
=
once by Holland in a 20-year career that failed
of to really take off at international level.
Two spells in charge of Feyenoord earned
Van Marwijk a reputation as a clever coach,
leading the club to UEFA Cup glory in 2002,
before impressing enough on his return to De
Kuip to get the Holland job.
Playing to the strengths of a talented squad,
Van Marwijk has kept his tactics simple and
his side settled, sticking with the classic Dutch
Appearances: 4-3-3 system, with two solid defensive
Minutes played: An experienced club coach, Lamberus midfielders shielding the defence.
Percentage played: ‘Bert' van Marwijk was a surprise The retirement of Edwin van der Saar and
Goals conceded: appointment as the Netherlands boss Ruud van Nistelrooy from international football
Clean sheets: when he took over from Marco van was a blow, but Van Marwijk has shown faith
Cards: Basten in 2008. in the likes of Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and Rafael
Minutes between goals: 92mins In a clear switch from the policy of naming van der Vaart, who have both struggled ia club
Goalkeeper ranking: 8th big-name former players as manager of football over the past few seasons.
Holland, Van Marwijk has so far succeeded in Plenty of options on the bench give the
uniting a squad packed full of sizeable egos. manger scope for change and he will need to
Z39 A handy creative player, he was capped just be at his best if Holland are to reach the final.
92 GROUPE
JOHNNY
HEITINGA
EVERTON
He may be famed for his versatility, but it
seems Johnny Heitinga has finally matured
into a first-choice centre back for Holland.
The Everton defender is expected to partner
Joris Mathijsen in the Dutch's assault on South
Africa 2010 and may well have his work cut
out. Holland's attacking abilities have never
been in doubt but defensive mistakes have so
often let them down in years gone by. However
Heitinga, formerly of Ajax and Atletico Madrid,
possesses all the attributes required to shore
up their back line. He has now racked up over
50 caps for Holland and is set to be a regular
MARK VAN BOMMEL savern municu
fixture in orange for many years to come.
Mark van Bommel is back in the Dutch Playing-record 12 months ige weg
Playing record 12 months Ige weq side after a very public fall-out with Appearances: 25 7
Appearances: 32 3 previous manager Marco van Basten in Minutes played: 2220 630
Minutes played: 2643 270 2006. Percentage played: 72.5% 87.5%
Percentage played: 75.3% 37.5% Since then the midfielder, who can act as Goais scored: 1 2
Goals conceded: 44 2 enforcer or playmaker, has rebuilt his career; Clean sheets: 9 5
Clean sheets: 6 1 first as the club captain of Bayern Munich Cards: Y12,RO YO, RO
Cards: Y12;RO YO)RO and now as the form midfield cog in the Strike rate: 220mins 315mins
Minutes between goals: 60mins 135mins Dutch side. Van Bommel will be vital. Strike rate ranking: 23rd 28th
Defender ranking: 143rd 61st
DREAM RANKING—~ AGE MIDFIELDER

jj RANKING
GROUPE 93
Being compared to the likes of Johan Dirk Kuyt could be considered a rarity in
Cryuff, Ruud Gullit and Phillip Cocu could modern football — an unselfish striker
be a burden for some but Holland's chief whose outstanding work rate puts many of
playmaker in 2010, Rafael van der Vaart, his team mates to shame.
looks up to the job. Kuyt, who more often than not is utilised on
Another player to come through Ajax's the right wing for his club side Liverpool, has
academy. Van der Vaart has developed into an been a valuable member of Holland's squad for
essential cog in Holland's midfield. At the age over six years. Now 29, he was an outstanding
of 27 he has already amassed over 70 caps prospect as a fledgling striker at Feyenoord,
and at this rate will hit the magical century mark netting 83 goals in 122 games. That prompted
before he's 30. The left-footed midfielder, who Liverpool to shell out £10 million for Kuyt's
has been known to operate on either flank, services, but a barren spell in front of goal saw
spent five years in Ajax's first team before him converted into a winger. For Holland he
moving to Hamburg. There he was handed the plays in either position and was used in every
captaincy and enjoyed three fruitful seasons game in qualifying, netting three goals along the
before moving to Real Madrid in 2008. For way. What he lacks in pace, Kuyt makes up for
Holland, Van der Vaart made his senior debut when straining every sinew to chase down lost
aged just 18 and went on to feature at Euro Causes and help out team mates.
2004 and 2008, although injury restricted him
to a bit-part role in the 2006 World Cup. He has >
12
1Gge
NCO
wecqg
captained the Dutch side and it seems Van der Appearances: 38 8

Vaart is maturing into one of the wise old heads Minutes played: 3082 617
of the squad. Creating goals is his specialty but Percentage played: 87.8% 85.7%
he knows where the net is too, having scored Goals scored: 12 3
15 international goals in total. It's in attack Percentage share: 15.19% 17.65%
where Holland's strength lies and if Van der Cards: Yipee Y1, RO
Vaart can orchestrate the likes of Robin van Strike rate: 257mins 206mins
Persie and Arjen Robben, the Dutch have the Strike rate ranking: 78th 39th
potential to go all the way this summer.
Appearances: 29 a
In a Dutch team full of creative outlets, Goals scored: 3 2
Arjen Robben is surely the most Clean sheets: 20 6
spectacular to watch when in full flow. Cards: Y4, RO aeRO
Like Robin van Persie, injuries have disrupted Strike rate: 889mins 219mins
his progress, but the Bayern Munich winger has Midfielder ranking: 65th 14th
the capacity to win any football match single-
handedly, such are the abilities at his disposal.
A huge talent from a very young age, Robben
was courted by the best sides in Europe before
Chelsea snapped him up in 2004. After a
hugely successful spell at Stamford Bridge,
Real Madrid came calling and now Robben
plies his trade in Germany. He was excellent for
Holland at the 2006 World Cup.
Goais scored: 10 1 Goals scored: O 1
Cards: Y2, RO Y1, RO Cards: Y7,RO Y2, RO
Strike rate: 199mins 455mins Strike rate: - 441mins
Midfielder ranking: 18th 51st Midfielder ranking: 162nd 48th
2
94 GROUPE
KLASS-JAN
HUNTELAAR
AC MILAN
The latest in a long line of prolific Dutch
strikers, Klaas-Jan Huntelaar has a point
to prove in this summer's World Cup.
Sensational goal records at Heerenveen and
Ajax earned Huntelaar a dream move to Real
Madrid but, as at subsequent club AC Milan,
things just didn't click for the 26-year-old.
However, his undoubted ability has never
forsaken him at international level where
Huntelaar, Holland's all-time record under 21
goalscorer, has continued his Dutch club form.
With a senior Holland record just shy of one
goal every two games, Huntelaar could find
ROBIN VAN PERSIE arsenat
himself thrust into the spotlight in South Africa.
Pace, power, creativity, skill, technique - Playing. record 12 months ige
Playing record 412 months Ige weg Robin van Persie has got it all. Appearances: 23
Appearances: 31 8 The left-footed Arsenal striker has excelled Minutes played: 1910 423
Minutes played: 1558 443 in the Premier League where he has Percentage played: 53.1% 58.8%
;
Percentage played: 43.3% 61.5% consistently, often extravagantly, found the Goais scored: 10
Goals scored: 11 3 net if it weren't for numerous injuries Van Percentage share: 11.36% 5.88%
Percentage share: 15.07% 17.65% Persie would surely have propelled himself Cards: Y4, RO Y2, RO
Cards: Sai Gait Y2, RO into the pantheon of world strikers for, when Strike rate: 191mins 423mins
Strike rate: 142mins 148mins fit, he is practically unstoppable. Strike rate ranking: 45th 73rd
Strike rate ranking: 20th 20th
DREAM
TEAM : RANKING i AGE ijSTRIKER —
GROUP E 95
‘CAMEROON FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH LOW AVGE FINAL

Cameroon's star man Samuel Eto'o scored Togo and Morocco wrapped up top spot in The Indomitable Lions are the most
nine goals to help The Indomitable Lions their group and bagged a thoroughly deserved successful African World Cup nation and
ease through the lengthy African spot in South Africa. Without Eto'o's goal- will aim to put in a good showing in the
qualification process. scoring heroics, the Lions may have been first tournament on their continent.
Five wins out of five helped Cameroon struggling to make the World Cup, but no They are the highest-ranked African
through their first stage of qualifying, but they defender will relish facing the clinical Inter Milan country at the finals, and can put out a first
had a shaky start to the final group stage, striker at the tournament. XI of players based in top European clubs.
losing to an Emmanuel Adebayor inspired Togo Of the six African sides, they appear to be
side in their opening game. With pressure FINAL QUALIFYING TABLE one of the best-placed to reach the quarters
mounting, a goalless draw at home to Morocco AFRICA ROUND 3 GROUP A - with Ghana and Ivory Coast in tough
in their second match was enough to see off P WDL F A Pts qualification groups.
manager Otto Pfister. Cameroon 64.47% O° 72.13 2010 will be the country's sixth
In came new boss Paul Le Guen and the Gabon 62320530 Sass 9 appearance at a World Cup, with the Lions
highly-rated coach had the desired effect, Togo G22 22255 Sael aes only missing one tournament since 1990,
managing his side to back-to-back wins over Morocco 6 OS Salou OmeS when the put in their best ever showing,
group leaders Gabon, before victories over
winning three games and reaching the
quarter-finals.
Avge FIFA ranking
1 31 May 08 Home Cape Verde Islands 103 0 R.Song 8, Eto’o 57pen
This may be the best World Cup
2 08Jun08 Away Mauritius 172 3 Bikey 11, Eto’o 27, Bebbe 87 for the peerless Samuel Eto‘o
3 14 Jun 08 Away Tanzania 104 0
Manager Paul Le Guen took over mid-way
4 21 Jun08 Home Tanzania 104 1 Eto'o 65, 89 through qualifying and quickly worked out
5 06 Sep08 Away Cape Verde Islands 103 2 Emana 51, Somen 65 the best formation to recover a qualification
6 11 Oct08 Home Mauritius 172 Se
0
SSSao-4-NOCORN
0 Eto'o 26, 46pen, Meyong Ze 56, 72, campaign that was beginning to stutter.
Makoun 70 Keeper Carlos Kameni is only 25 but has
7 28Mar09 Away Togo
been one of the top keepers in Spain's La
78 0
Liga for five years, while the colourful
8 07 JunO9 Home Morocco 46 0 Rigobert Song — now 33 - leads a defensive
9 05 Sep09 Away Gabon 59 2 Emana 66, Eto’o 68 line-up that can call on Benoit Assou-Ekotto-
10 09Sep09 Home Gabon 59 1 Makoun 25, Eto’o 64 and Sebastien Bassong of Spurs.
11. 10 Oct09 Home Togo 78 In midfield the talented Jean Makoun
0 Geremi 32, Makoun 47, Emana 52
12 14Nov09 partners Arsenal's Alexandre Song — nephew
Away Morocco 46 ee
et
oe CoWNOOH8
2 Webo 19, Eto'o 52 of Rigobert — in a solid defensive partnership,
Average FIFA ranking of opposition 94 while Geremi brings quality on the ball either
in the centre of the park or out on the right.
This may be the best World Cup for the
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION peerless Samuel Eto'o, who brings genuine
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GROUP FIXTURES
Paul Alo'o Efoulou
Samuel Eto'o «8
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Achille Webo “au B« « “444 10, 10-0 9: - 714.66 12 6
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96 GROUPE
é
Zone Africa
Population 18.5m
Language French, English
Top league MTN Elite One
Playing season October - June
Contosport Garoua (35,043), Tiko United (8,067),
Canon Yaounde (48,720)
Number of Cameroonian players playing:
Serie A 2 Ligue 1 9
1930 - Did not enter 1974- Did not qualify
1954 - Did not enter 1990 - * Quater finals
1970 - Did not qualify 2006 - Did noi qualify

Carlos Kameni Espanyol 26 12
Defenders
Benoit Assou-Ekotto Tottenham 26 4
Timothee Atouba Ajax 28 5
Andre Bikey Burnley 25 6

Geremi Njitap Ankaraguku 31 11
Nicolas Nkoulou AS Monaco 20 5
Alexandre Song Arsenal 22 8
Rigobert Song Trabzonspor 33 12
Midfielders
Giles Augustin Binya Neuchatel 25 3
Aurelien Chedjou Lille 24 2
Achille Emana Real Betis 28 10

One of the most experienced players at Enoh Eyong Ajax 23 4
South Africa 2010, Rigobert Song has Appearances: Stephane M'bia Marseille 24 10
been the heartbeat of Cameroon's side Minutes played: Jean Makoun Lyon or «Ne
Percentage played: Modeste Mbami Almeria 27 7
for many years.
He featured in the 1994 USA World Cup, Goals conceded: Landry Nguemo Celtic 24 3
and has gone on to become his country's Clean sheets: Daniel Ngom Kome Tenerife 30 o
record cap holder with over 130 Cards: Y1, RO Alain Mosely Nkong Indios 31 3
appearances to his name. Now 33, this is Minutes between goals: 352mins Atchoyi Somen Salzburg 27 6
surely the defender's last hurrah. Defender ranking: 10th Forwards

Paul Alo'o Efoulou Nancy 26 4
"AGE
Samuel Eto'o Inter Milan 29 11
O25 Albert Meyong

Achille Webo
Braga
Mallorca
29
28
2
10
GROUPE 97
IW R
Nephew of Cameroon team mate Rigobet Already a dominant force in the French
Song, Alex Song burst onto the Ligue 1, Jean Makoun has the ability to
international scene at the 2008 African Cup leave an indelible mark on South Africa
of Nations. Despite only making his 2010. The Lyon midfielder played in every
national debut in the group stages, Song qualifying game for the Indomitable Lions.
was named in the Team of the Tournament. A typical box-to-box player, Makoun has a
scoring record of roughly one in four for
-l tL. }
ay A a Ti ns ide
Cameroon but doesn't mind doing the dirty
Appearances: 32 8 work either. Strong in the tackle, he specialises
Minutes played: 2494 719 in breaking up opposition attacks with his
Percentage played: 69.3% 66.6% boundless energy and willingness to sacrifice
n¢ Goals conceded: . - personal gain for the good of the team. Having
shah Clean sheets: 14 5 been a regular at three Africa Cup of Nations
Cards: Veo NATE tournaments, it's now time for Makoun to prove
Minutes between goals: himself on the world stage.
Defender ranking:
Firmly established as Cameroon's number Playing record 42 months Ige weq
one keeper, Carlos Kameni now has the Appearances: 33 2
chance to prove his worth on the biggest Minutes played: 2709 1000
stage of them all. Since making his Percentage played: 79.2% 92.6%
international debut aged just 17, Kameni DARI Goals scored: 5 3
has matured into one of the finest shot- Tce Clean sheets: 11 10
stoppers in Africa. A veteran of Champions League finals, Cards: Y5,RO! “YOuRe
Plying his trade with Espanyol in Spain has Premier League titles and African Cup of Strike rate: 542mins 333mins
given Kameni the platform to play against some Nations triumphs, Geremi has done it all in Midfielder ranking: 100th 33rd
of the finest strikers in world football, which world football. The former Real Madrid and
should stand him in good stead in South Africa. Chelsea midfielder, still only 31, has won
He has over 50 caps. over 100 caps for the Indomitable Lions.
Playing record 12 months Ige wecq laying record 12 months Ige weg
Appearances: 37 te Appearances: - VW
Minutes played: 3329 1080 Minutes played: - 977
Percentage played: 94.8% 100% Percentage played: - 90.5% Playing recorc e weq
Goals conceded: 44 4 Goals conceded: - 2 Appearances: - 10
Clean sheets: 13 8 Clean sheets: . 8 Minutes played: - 536
Cards: 2 auGxil YO,RO Cards: - Y1, RO Percentage played: - 49.6%
Minutes between goals: 76mins 270mins Minutes between goals: - - Goals scored: - 3
Goalkeeper ranking: 19th 6th Defender ranking: - - Clean sheets: - -
ey mR ETE aE CCS RSE Cards: - ‘¥4, RO
GE s: team RANKING | Strike rate: - 178mins
Midfielder ranking:
struggled on leaving Ligue 1 and lasted less

than a season as manager of Rangers in the
2006/07 season. More disappointment was to
follow with Paris Saint Germain - for whom he
had made over 200 appearances as a player -
and he was let go by the club in 2009.
Le Guen took over from Otto Pfister as
Cameroon manager that summer, with the
Lions languishing in their qualification group
after picking up just one point from their
opening two games. However, he turned the
A former France international defender, campaign around, and his decision to give
Paul Le Guen has had an inconsistent Samuel Eto'o the responsibility of captain was
start to his management career. key, as the Inter Milan striker's inspired form
Massive success with Lyon in France helped Le Guen's side to four wins from four
earned Le Guen a reputation as one of the in the remainder of qualifying, sealing a place
best young coaches in the game, but he in South Africa.
98 GROUPE
ACHILLE
WEBO
MALLORCA
An unsung hero of the Cameroon side,
Pierre Webo has been a loyal servant to
The Indomitable Lions for over seven
years. Never a prolific scorer, Webo is
more likely to be found setting goals up on
a plate for Samuel Eto'o. (>
a)
The 28-year-old, currently following in Eto'o's
footsteps at Spanish club Mallorca, uses his
unparalleled work rate and unselfish play to
create space for his attacking team-mates. He
certainly knows where the back of the net is,
though, as proved in 2005 when he netted a
famous hat trick against the Ivory Coast in a
SAMUEL ETOO inter mitan
World Cup qualifier.
Surely no other team at South Africa Mallorca, but it was a big-money move to
Playing record 12 months Ige weg 2010 relies so heavily on one player Barcelona which was the making of the 29-
Appearances: 29 10 than Cameroon do on their superstar year-old. Eto'o scored 130 goals in 200
Minutes played: 952 714 striker Samuel Eto'o. appearances for Barca to establish himself
Percentage played: 27.1% 66.1% The Inter Milan player has scored goals at as one of the world’s most prolific
Goals scored: 4 1 a phenomenal rate throughout his career, goalscorers. His passionate nature can
Percentage share: 6.06% 4.35% averaging one every two games despite often be the driving force behind
Cards: Y2oRO.. “Y2,AG playing at the very highest level. He first Cameroon's play.
Strike rate: 238mins 714mins came to prominence with Spanish side
Strike rate ranking:
GROUPE 99
@ | JAPAN bs FIFARANKINGS: HIGH LOW AVGE FINAL
ROUTETOTHEFINALS — | : FINAL PROSPECTS
A defeat to Australia was Japan's only secure a place in South Africa with ease, and Underdogs of the group, Japan have ~
disappointment as they breezed through Japan will be confident of making an high hopes of defying expectations and
qualification. impression on the tournament after an making it into the knockout stages in
Japan and Australia played out a O-O draw in impressive showing back in 2002. South Africa.
Yokohoma, and a Tim Cahill brace in the dead Japan's biggest problem was a lack of a Organised at the back, with quality in
rubber at the end of qualification was the reliable option up front, with manager Takeshi midfield, they do struggle to score from open
difference when they met in Melbourne. Odaka using ten forwards in 14 qualifying play — although 23-year-old Shinji Okazaki
The first stage was comfortable for a side who games — who only managed six goals between has forced his way into the reckoning with
racked up seven goals in two games against them. Shunsuke Nakamura weighed in with three starts at the end of qualifying and a
Thailand. A 1-0 defeat in Bahrain was a three from midfield, while defenders Marcus hat-trick in a 5-0 friendly win over Togo in
surprise, but little more than a stumble. Tulio and Yuki Nakazawa scored three apiece October hinted at a bright future. —
Japan got their revenge in the final group from the back, as they cemented their places in Most of the squad play in Japan's own J-
stage, beating Bahrain both home and away. a settled back four. League, with only Shunsuke Nakamura —
Three wins and two draws was enough to For final qualification table see Australia now with Espanyol — and Wolfsburg's
Avge FIFA ranking Makoto Hasebe based with top European
1 06 Feb 08 Home Thailand 113 W_ 4 1 Endo 21, Okubo 54, Nakazawa 66, Sides. If Japan can keep Samuel Eto'o quiet
Maki 90 — which would be no mean feat — then an
opening game against Cameroon offers a
2 26 Mar 08 Away Bahrain fh slg 0 chance to get points on the board. A 3-0
3 02 Jun08 Home Oman 85 W_ 3 0 Nakazawa 10, Okubo 22, S.Nakamura 49 defeat to the Netherlands in September
4 07 Jun08 Away Oman 85 D 1 1 Endo 53pen 2009 suggests that the game against the
5 14Jun08 Away Thailand 113 W 0 3 Tanaka 23, Nakazawa 38, K.Nakamura 88 Dutch might be too tough an ask. Butif
: ; qualification for the second round is still up
Bice Ona Been Ren Ca ae for grabs, then they will fancy being able to
7 06 Sep 08 Away Bahrain 71 W_~ 2 3 S.Nakamura 18, Endo 44pen, take points off an unspectacular Denmark.
K-Nakamura 85 Takeshi Odaka's team will need luck on
8 15 Oct08 Home Uzbekistan 71D 1 1 Tamada 40 their side, but they have an opportunity of at
9 19Nov08 Away Qatar 85 W_ 0 38 T.Tanaka 19, Tamada 47, MT. Tanaka 68 eet ee i eee
10.11 Fe6.08 Home Austral 30 D 00 vor TOP 15 RANKING
11 28 Mar 09 Home Bahrain 71 W_~ 1 0 S.Nakamura 47
12 06 JunO09 Away Uzbekistan 71. W- 0 1 Okazaki 9 THE M AN AGER
13 10 Jun09 Home Qatar 85 D 1 1 AlBinali 30g
14 17 Jun09 Away Australia 30 L 2 1 MT.Tanaka 39
Former Japan international defender
Average FIFA ranking of opposition Takeshi Okada took charge of Japan for
the second time in 2007 when coach
Ivica Osim suffered a stroke.
An experienced manager in the J-League,
g aie: 8 he has made the most of a limited pool of
Match 1234567 8 9 1011121314 iS 3 yls ae. g 8g oN players available to lead Japan to a World
Venue HAHAAHAHAHHAHA 2 § gg 28 2 834 Cup for the second time - he also steered
Rak wEWDWWWDWOWWOL S090 2-8 07 ¢ Ge Okada has
Yoshikatsu Kawaguchi aes Seeen 3 3 0 0 270214 6 0 © confidently targeted a semi-final spot in;
Seigo Narazaki SSE BEEH MMMM 1010 0 0 900 714 000 South Africa, but a lack of genuine quality up
Be ee M@@ee 1100 #0 741 0 0 front means that he will need to be at his
ers
Hat Aba w« BeeCO Mm 67 6 1 Seer eeE Ce aS .
tactical best to even steer Japan out of the
Yuichi Komano BEES MMMM 6 6 OO 540 429 0 1 0 group stage.
Yasuyuki Konno @@»>»»»>» (BS (S08 8) 68 6 0 9813)-24:5' 2 0 OO
Yuto Nagatomo « SS SBE 8 6 46." 0. 0592-242: 0 416
Yuji Nakazawa BEEEEREES SEES 12° 12) 10) On 10800e5.7 3 nO
Marcus Tulio Tanaka BERBER MM 12 12 «OO O 108 87 300
Shuhei Terada rt | eo i ly) (ONO 0 7Om TO a0
Atsuto Uchida @ “BRR BBBB BM ito 1 989 785 10 0
Michihiro Yasuda « « 2 250 Oe 428 1 Sar O ena tO
Midfielders
Yasuhito Endo EB SERRE e 42. 1) at A 1026S BA™ Sr te0
Makoto Hasebe BBB «BMMB« « 9 FO. ONS 2786 624m Oseme 4
Hideo Hashimoto @» OH« 3.12). 1) Vie 2468544 or Oe 0) 20)
Keisuke Honda “4 » Sy, ee 114, 20. 0..0.0
Shinji Kagawa » le “« 2 Tee iifene mews a iG
Daisuka Matsui Ba«allallwnanlwa« 9 6) (SG AOR ESI0.0). 2) 410
Kengo Nakamura BESS» 8-88 O@«Bo BB Be TG Br CARLO 12 0 10) oP
Shunsuke Nakarnura BB«BRBBBM« « Us di) Oe 88 SSBB B08 23) / 54) 10 ;
Keita Suzuki
Forwards.
Be S88 2) 210) 0, e180) 14S" (08 101 0
Seiichiro Maki »>Ery la» al 4 wily) Sy SO C6 AOS att 0
GROUP FIXTURES :
Shinji Okazaki »»» eo BEE () St GAY Os sS1e M2525 (OO) 3

Yoshito Okubo «Ba « “« > Ba 9 8 1 6 “esr Got 2 oO 3 CAMEROON Mon 14 June 1500 BST
Keiji Tamada _ lea «Baa «Baa 12 11 1 «7 «2927 7326 2 00 NETHERLANDS Sat 19 June 1230 BST
Tatsuya Tanaka Bi«a«« 4 AN O) Gre of 2609 1 aie 26 }
Koji Yamase «« Br)» 4. 2°22) BW A26) (ORO d ces Ther 24 BST
100 GROUPE
ar
Zone Asia
Population 127m
Language Japanese
Top league League 1
Playing season March - December
Furukawa Electric, JEF United Chiba (19,781),
Toyo Industries, Sanfrecce Hiroshima (50,761),
Mitsubishi Motors, Urawa Red Diamonds (63,702)
Premier League Ligue 1
Serie A Eredivisie
Number of Japanese players playing:
Premier League Bundesliga
Serie A 1 Ligue 1
1950 - Banned 1986 - Did not qualify
1966 - Did not enter 2002 - * Last 16

Yoshikatsu Kawaguchi Jubilo Iwata 34 3
Seigo Narazaki Nagoya Grampus icy a 16)
Defenders
Yuki Abe Urawa Reds 28 7
Yuichi Komano Jubilo Iwata 28 6
Yasuyuki Konno FC Tokyo 27 8
Yuto Nagatomo FC Tokyo 23 6
Yuji Nakazawa Yokohama F Marinos 32 12
Marcus Tulio Tanaka Urawa Reds 29 ude
Atsuto Uchida Kashima Antlers 22) ald
Midfielders
Yasuhito Endo Gamba Osaka 30 12
Makoto Hasebe Wolfsburg 26 9
Hideo Hashimoto Gamba Osaka 31 3
Following the retirement of Hidetoshi

Nakata after the 2006 World Cup, Appearances: 29 Shinji Kagawa Cerezo Osaka 21 3
Shunsuke Nakamura became the new Minutes played: 2014 Daisuka Matsui Grenoble 29 9
darling of Japanese football. Percentage played: 57.4% Kengo Nakamura Kawasaki Frontale 29 8
Already a dominant force at Celtic, Goals scored: 5 Shunsuke Nakamura Espanyol Ser? Ht
Nakamura was the new focal point of the Clean Sheets: 14 Keita Suzuki Urawa Reds 29 2
Cards: Y2, RO Vi RO
national side and has since gone on to earn Forwards
over 90 caps. His wand of a left foot has Strike rate: 67 1mins 319mins Seiichiro Maki JEF United Chiba 29 4
dazzled many a defence. Strike rate ranking: 120th 29th Shinji Okazaki Shimizu S-Pulse 24 if
Yoshito Okubo Vissel Kobe 28 9
Keiji Tamada Nagoya Grampus 30 2
Tt Tatsuya Tanaka
Koji Yamase
Urawa Reds
Yokohama
27
F Marinos 28
4
4
GROUPE 101
-+— DENMARK © FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH LOW AVGE FINAL
ROUTE TOTHEFINALS FINAL PROSPECTS
Denmark topped a tricky qualification Portuguese in real trouble. Denmark will have high hopes of at least
group containing Portugal, Sweden and A 1-0 win away in Sweden and a point making it into the last 16 after being
Hungary to reach the World Cup. Despite a against Portugal put Morten Olsen's side in drawn in one of the less daunting
lack of star names and a squad of lesser pole position for the automatic qualification spot groups.
quality than their group opponents, the with three games remaining. The Netherlands are the stand out team in
Danes were consistently the strongest side A draw away against minnows Albania Group E, but Morten Olsen's side will fancy
and fully deserved to finish ahead of their threatened to derail the campaign and let one their chances against an inconsistent
more illustrious opponents. of Sweden and Portugal leapfrog into top spot, Cameroon and a Japan team which lacks
After a O-O draw away in Hungary in their but Jakob Poulsen's strike against Sweden any sort of cutting edge.
opening game, a thrilling win in Lisbon kick- secured a crucial 1-0 win in their penultimate Well-organised defensively, only the
started the successful campaign. match to wrap up first place. Netherlands conceded less goals in all of the
Nicklas Bendtner's 82nd minute equaliser Despite their qualification success, Denmark European qualifying groups, while a strong
looked to have earned the visitors a point, only will still be one of the less-fancied sides in spine of Thomas Sorensen, Daniel Agger,
for Deco to put Portugal ahead again from the South Africa, and will attempt to use that to Christian Poulsen and Nicklas Bendtner
spot with five minutes left on the clock. their advantage to make it out of one of the means there is quality throughout all of the
However, late, late goals from Christian easier groups. team.
Poulsen and Daniel Jensen wrapped up all A lack of strength in depth could prove
three points and left the underperforming For final qualification table see Portugal their undoing if they suffer any injury or
Avge FIFA ranking suspension problems, but if the main players
1 06 Sep 08 Away Hungary 49 D OO are available then don't bet against Denmark
as surprise quarter-finalists.
2 10 Sep 08 Away Portugal at W 2 3 Bendtner 84, D.Jensen 90,
The second group game against
Chistian.Poulsen 90
Cameroon will be key to their chances of
3 11 Oct 08 Home Malta 1 44 W_ 3 0 Larsen 10, 47, Agger 29pen making the last 16.
4 28 Mar 09 Away Malta 1 44 WO 3 Larsen 12, 23, Nordstrand 89 The winner of that game will be huge
favourites to make it out of the group along
a 01 Apr 09 Home Albania 89 W_ 3 0 Andreasen 31, Larsen 37,
Chistian.Poulsen 80
with the Netherlands.
6 06 Jun 09 Away Sweden 32 W 0 1 Kahlenberg 22

7 05 Sep 09 Home Portugal 11 D1 1 Bendtner 42 REAM TOP 15 RANKING
DREAM
8 09 Sep 09 Away Albania 89 D 1 1 Bendtner 40

9 10 Oct 09 Home Sweden 32 W_ 1 0 Jakob.Poulsen 79 THE MANAGER
0 14 Oct 09 Home Hungary 49 ant
_.. Average FIFA ranking of opposition «= With over 100 caps Morten Olsen was a
permanent fixture in the Danish defence
for 19 years.
He seemed a natural to succeed at
n
management and started with top Danish
Match
eS ae ee Superliga side Brondby as soon as his
i898.
4 6°GE720LG 10 oR mace eu eee playing career ended.
Venue AAHAHAHAHH dS rely Ie: &B 25298
» 3
2 a ye He was fired after short spells with both
Result WW WWW WL IDA 2 ee Oe ir
Goalkeepers Cologne and Ajax before moving to the
Stephan Andersen EES BEReae ch Aan Wah S fede) AcloKops eyo wari fo) Danish national team in 2000. ee
Thomas Sorensen EERE Bee CeO OS OS070:00 i= 2.0 He has mixed and matched brilliantly —
Defenders
around a handful of class players to qualify
Daniel Agger EBRREEe Ba B26 *OF O14 20580:0) 44P 5G) 20)
Kasper Bogelund a
ahead of Portugal and Sweden and he could
ne elas eto) 90° 10,01 0. 0 20
Anders Christensen S SSB S53" O10) F270. S007 101510 spring a surprise on heavyweights
Lars Christian Jacobsen B« SREB EEEe 9-9! 10) “AS 764" Bho Oo eo Cameroon and the Netherlands.
Michael Jakobsen Be Ba 4° 4 0! 0)" 1360) 400) 0) 1-6
Simon Kjaer it | 4A’ 0) 0) 7660) 40000. Ht wo
Per Billeskov Kroldrup ai ee dia OL aO 90 100 0 0 0
William Kvist Jorgensen > ase @ 2 te 0) 20562218) 20) 080
Martin Laursen Ban SF SOV ON 2700300) SONeaia so
Christopher Poulsen | 1 fall 0NrO 90 100 0 1 0
Thomas Rasmussen | ie | Ae Ome 90 100 0 0 O
Midfielders
Leon Andreasen «@vil Se ict. 1 eOpe 2eoe ey Oo
Daniel Monberg Jensen M@«« « 8» C8 sh 2B GBA aay ye
Thomas.Kahlenberg «SEB 3 23 10.1) |28S 2661's ‘OV 0
Chrisiian Bager Poulsen BRM BBRMBBM 10 10 0 0 001000 2 10
Jakob Poulsen MBr««« G25) Ak 3) 48794861 ONO
Michael Silberbauer @» D« > Fs eee: ae 176 196 0 0 0
Forwards
Nicklas Bendtner «8 «>»
Jonas Borring » + EB» »
«BRE Oa 8,
40%
1)
$4)
SOS
107 1381
78:39
14:6)
"SO 0
0 405-10
GROUP FIXTURES
Lars Martin Jorgensen Baaaaa 6 6 0 5 863° 403) 0) 0° 0
Soren Larsen ««B i» BR» 6 S22 F807 (G4 tess te 10 NETHERLANDS Mon 14 June 1230 BST
Morten Nordstrand Ba» oa 2) ale KO S95 11.0. 5 0) 010
Dennis Rommedah| CAMEROON Sat 19 June 1930 BST
BREE «BBBe « 10 10 0 2 860 956 0 1 0
Jon Dahl Tomasson «i B«@« 6 6. 10) (8 A472 3604 Oh. 10 JAPAN Thur 24 June 1930 BST
102 GROUPE
Zone Europe
Population 5.5m
Language Danish
Top league Superligaen (SAS Ligaen)
FC Copenhagen (38,050), Brondby IF (29,955),
AaB (16,342)
Number of Danish players playing:
Serie A 6 Ligue 1 -
1962 - Did not enter 1998 - * Quarter finals

Stephan Andersen Brondby 28 3
Thomas Sorensen Stoke 33 fi
Defenders
Daniel Agger Liverpool 25 8
Anders Christensen Odense 32 3

Lars Christian Jacobsen Blackburn 30 9
Michael Jakobsen Aalborg BK 24 4
Simon Kjaer Palermo 21 4
William Kvist FC Copenhagen 25 3

Christopher Poulsen —_ Silkeborg 28 1
Thomas Rasmussen Brondby 33 1
Midfielders
Leon Andreasen Hannover 96 27 3
Daniel Jensen W Bremen 30 6
Having already established himself in Thomas Kahlenberg Wolfsburg 27 3
the Premier League and the Champions Appearances: 20 8 Christian Poulsen Juventus 30 10
League, Daniel Agger is set to make his Minutes played: 1468 720 Jakob Poulsen AGF Aarhus 26 6
mark on the international stage in his Percentage played: 41.8% 80.0% Michael Silberbauer Utrecht 28 4
first major championships. Goals conceded: 15 3 Forwards
Still only 25, the left-footed Liverpool centre Clean sheets: 12 6 Nicklas Bendtner Arsenal 22 9
half will play an integral role in Denmark's Cards: Y1,RO YO, RO Jonas Borring Midtiylland 25 4
2010 World Cup side. He is a quick, strong Minutes between goals: 98mins 240mins Jesper Gronkjaer FC Copenhagen 32 3
defender who is good in the air. Defender ranking: 36th 22nd Lars Martin Jorgensen Fiorentina 34 6
Soren Larsen Duisburg 28 §
Dennis Rommedahl Ajax BT. ald

obo Jon Dahl Tomasson Feyenoord 33 6
GROUPE 103
TOTAL OF THE AVERAGE FIFA RANKINGS OF THE FOUR COUNTRIES (°°
Position
Group
Total FIFA ranking |
ITALY \’ PARAGUAY VIEW FROM THE EXPERTS

The reigning champions take the first step of second gear. Marcello. Lippi's side were ITALY: Defending champions
towards attempting to retain their trophy in underwhelminginthe group stages in 2006 and always good in
what could be the stand out match of the and despite the fact Italy should qualify — competition, but the current
group. Paraguay are in the best shape in regardless of whether they win this game or squad is not their strongest.
their history having defeated South American not, they will need to be very careful to set But Marcello Lippi is a top
heavyweights Brazil and Argentina in the right tone first up. Roque Santa Cruz and manager and the Azzurri will
qualifying and could be a genuine force in the co, will be gunning for them and this game is be well organised and difficult to beat.
tournament, while the Italians made South © highly likely to decide if one of these sides HARRY'S VERDICT: Quarters.
KEY
MATCH Africa at a mild canter, never really getting out can top the group. sue PARAGUAY: Roque Santa Cruz has
dominated the team sheet but has had
more than his fair share of injury problems.
NEW ZEALAND \ SLOVAKIA Rustenburg, Tuesday 15 June 1230 BST lf he makes it for the finals then he can
prove a bit of a handful although the rest of
It goes without saying that this is a massive Group F, with captain Ryan Nelsen no doubt the squad is not of the same quality.
game for both sides with each knowing that — desperate to prove to the naysayers that the All HARRY'S VERDICT: Group stage only.
on paper at least — this fixture offers the best Whites will not prove a whitewash. NEW ZEALAND: Ryan Nelsen is their
chance to pick up invaluable points in a tough For Slovakia, goals are likely to be the key, most famous name. The Kiwis should
group. It also offers New Zealand the chance to with Bochum's Stanislav Sestak the most likely perhaps stick to rugby because | can't see
prove that they will not be the whipping boys of source. this lot doing much. Soccer is not nearly as
high on the agenda as it is in England or
even in Australia. It is hard to see them
SLOVAKIA \’ PARAGUAY Bloemfontein, Sunday 20 June 1230 BST
doing anything except enjoying the
If the odds are to be believed, this game should means their young captain Marek Hamsik. The experience and then going home early.
decide which of these teams make the last 16 22-year old attacking midfielder has been HARRY'S VERDICT: Group stage only.
alongside Italy and that alone should guarantee making waves in Italy for Napoli and he won't SLOVAKIA: Not a team sheet which trips
an action packed affair. The big games bring have a better chance to make his mark on the off the tongue. Nevertheless the country
forth the big players and for Slovakia, that biggest stage in world soccer. borne out of the old Czechoslovakia still
possesses the same attitude to football as
ITALY Y NEW ZEALAND its predecessors - good passing and
technical skill. Skrtel is a solid defender
Nelspruit, Sunday 20 June 1500 BST
and | can see them sneaking into second
This game should be a banker for Marcello place and into the knockout stages.
Lippi’s Italian side but they will have to make HARRY'S VERDICT: Last 16.
sure that complacency does not creep in
against possibly the weakest side in the whole ITALY: The reigning
tournament. The defending champions will champions will be
hope this ends up being shooting practice for determined to retain their
Alberto Gilardino and co. but for New Zealand, crown. The Azzurri did not
Plymouth Argyle's Rory Fallon — only recently have it all their own way in -
qualified to play for the All Whites — will be qualifying, but they remained unbeaten and
looking for the chance to leave the Azzurri with Lippi, his talented group of playets -
faithful choking on their pasta. and their World Cup pedigree, | would be
surprised if they do not reach the latter
SLOVAKIA \) ITALY stages.
TEL'S VERDICT: Will not give up
Johannesburg JEP, Thur 24 June 1500 BST trophy without fight.
If Italy have already qualified for the last 16, this PARAGUAY: Finished one point behind
might not be a thriller but it won't be for the Brazil in qualifying for their fourth
want of trying on Slovakia's part, with Vladimir successive finals. Gerardo Martino's side
Weiss' side almost certainly needing at least a are renowned for their counter-attacking
point to progress further in this tournament. It and in Nelson Haedo Valdez, Oscar
might also be a chance for Italy to rest some of Cardozo and Roque Santa Cruz they have
their leading players ahead of the knockout the firepower to cause damage.
ea ree Alberto Gilardino stages with many of the expected first team the TEL'S VERDICT: Could reach second
wrong side of 30. phase.
NEW ZEALAND: New Zealand have
PARAGUAY \/ NEW ZEALAND Polokwane, Thursday 24 June 1500 BST already bagged the tag of "whipping boys"
as they prepare for only their second
Paraguay could not have hoped for a better Whites in the 2009 Confederations Cup to appearance at the World Cup finals. In.
fixture if winning this game means they have a know that they are a side capable of taking a Spain in 1982 they did not get further than
chance of making the last 16. No matter how beating. The Paraguayan strike force will be the first round and | cannot see them
New Zealand have done so far, you only have relishing the opportunity to dish out just that, doing any better this time.
to look back to Spain's 5-O demolition of the All especially if goal difference is important. TEL'S VERDICT: Kiwi fruitless.
104 GROUP F
SLOVAKIA: Did well to top their qualifying
group ahead of Slovenia, Czech Republic
and Northern Ireland, but their 4-0 defeat
by England in a friendly in March 2009 may
be a more accurate reflection on their
chances in South Africa. In midfielder and
captain Marek Hamsik they have a true
star in the making, but there is a lack of
quality elsewhere.
TEL'S VERDICT: Will be a feat if they
make it through group.
ITALY: Marcelo Lippi's men

will be worthy reigning
champions and they will not
give up their trophy without a
fight. The World Cup is what
the Italians live for. Everything The Azzurri
does is geared towards this. Nothing else
matters. They will put in strong a challenge
as they did four years ago.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Need a
goalscerer.
PARAGUAY: Appearing at their fourth
successive finals, Paraguay will be looking
to improve on Germany 2006 when they
failed to make it through the group stages.
Whether they can better it this time
depends on the displays and goal-scoring
of Manchester City's Roque Santa Cruz.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Santa must
deliver.
NEW ZEALAND: What a shame they are
not in England's group! Yes they have
done well to reach their first finals since
1982. Yes they will be happy to be there,
sharing the stage with the world's best.
But | reckon they could be the
tournament's whipping boys.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Good luck to
them...because they'll need it.
SLOVAKIA: Qualified for their first World
Cup by winning their group, ahead of
Poland and the fancied Czech Republic.
But | do not expect them to record many
more shocks in South Africa. England beat
them 4-0 in a friendly last year.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Happy just to
be there.
LAST SIXTEEN QUARTER-FINALS

GROUP STAGE
FIRST GROUP F
ITAIV ., CDAIN
ITALY v SPAIN
SECOND GROUP F
SLOVAKIA SLOVAKIA v NETHERLANDS v BRAZI
GROUP E GROUP G
GROUP G
NETHERLANDS, DENMARK, JAPAN, BRAZIL, NORTH KOREA (KOREA DPR), IVORY
ITALY, PARAGUAY, NEW ZEALAND, SLOVAKIA
CAMEROON COAST, PORTUGAL
GROUP H
GROUP F 105
H ITALY FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH LOW 5 AVGE 4 FINAL
The Azzurri were effective in qualifying as They only once scored more than two goals in It is difficult to find any compelling—
they strolled their way to the finals without a game and it was Alberto Gilardino who reasons why Italy should be ruled outof
really breaking sweat. They won seven and scored all three against Cyprus, and a crucial World Cup contention in South Africa. —
drew three of their ten games - but it was equaliser against Ireland, but it was Daniele De Results-wise they have done what has
very much substance over style. Rossi who was the star of the campaign. They been necessary and many of the calm heads
Following a relatively disappointing Euro 2008, will need to improve in South Africa if they want that were a key part of their 2006 triumph
Italy dispensed with manager Roberto to retain their title. remain an important part of the side. =
Donadoni and returned to Marcello Lippi who Fabio Cannavaro still marshals the defence
brought them the World Cup in 2006. FINAL QUALIFYING TABLE and captains the side, Gianluigi Buffon isstill
Much in the way that Lippi's side of 2006 did EUROPE GROUP 8 an imperious presence between the posts,
the bare minimum for periods of those World P WDL F A Pts Gianluca Zambrotta and Fabio Grosso
Cup finals, so too did his team here. Italy 10-763 OF 180n7, 24 remain the versatile full-backs, while Ar
They made a habit of sealing matters late, but Rep of Ireland 10 460 12 8 18 Pirlo pulls the strings as he did in 2006,tr
only twice did it really influence the result - Bulgaria 10% 35 25 179130014 Gennaro Gattuso his midfield enforcer. Up _
the final two games when they claimed a draw Cyprus 1025273 55514716) 59 front, Alberto Gilardino and Vincenzo laquinta
and a win against Republic of Ireland and Montenegro 102 21°.6 (Sie On1459 still offer the best source of goals. So, why —
Cyprus respectively. Georgia 1030%3) 754/819) 03 not expect the same result as 2006?
The main protagonists are four years older
and hardly setting the world on fire — yet the
Avge FIFA ranking same could be said in the 2006 finals when
1 06 Sep 08 Away Cyprus Seen fi 12 DiNatale8,90 Italy were lukewarm for much of the
2 10Sep08 Home Georgia - 100 tournament. The key could be the players—
2.0 De Rossii? Bh who have come into the equation since Italy 4
3 11 Oct08 Away Bulgaria - 21 00 were crowned world champions. =
4 15 Oct08 Home Montenegro — AAT. 21 Aquilani8,29
De Rossiisaleader,
5 28Mar09 Away Montenegro 117 0 3 Pirlo 11pen, Pazzini aa
6 01 Apr09 Home Rep of Ireland 36 1 1 laquinta 10
dominates midfield and the
7 05 Sep 09 Away Georgia’ = 1002 0 2 Kaladze 570g, 670g team unify around him.
~ 8 09Sep09 Home Bulgaria Seedy 2 0 Grosso 11, laquinta
40. Daniele De Rossi was in the 2006 squad ~
9 10 OctO9 Away Rep of Ireland 36 2 2 Camoranesi 26, Gilardino 90 but an elbow to Brian McBride meant he
10 14 Oct09 Home Cyprus ie eo
SCR
ae
Z0R3 2 Gilardino 78, 81,90 missed much of it. He is now the heartbeat
of the side and is set to inherit the captaincy
rNicie-(e(-M a Mela dia Molme)o)sfesyi tela) 70 from Cannavaro. He is a leader, dominates
midfield and the team unify around him.
In defence, Giorgio Chiellini has taken over
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION from the retired Alessandro Nesta and looks —
Key: MJ played 90 mins « subbed off »subbedon {™ onbench
every bit the part, while going forward
8 hee z
c 6 6 S Antonio Di Natale and Alberto Aquilani, 2
Match 12-84 6°6-7:6y0 10 eee Oe eee eee despite the latter's injury woes, are working _
Venue ASH AHCACHLA
HA He Roy eee) he ee Oo eee
Result WWOWWDWWOW Oo, 3 5 = ° Dd Oo to fill the gap left by Francesco Totti.
IDnADA ee Oe ie
Goalkeepers So where do the question marks appear in
Marco Amelia Bann 2 OM ON 0 160220:0 On ate nO Italian's quest to reclaim the trophy?
Gianluigi Buffon
Federico Marchetti
Ba BEEBE if © 104 Ole S630; 70,0) SOOO In 2006, unbelievably, Italy played no’ South
BMM@M 1100 99 100 0 0 oO
Defenders American sides. That run will end when they :
Salvatore Bocchetti » 2a otis Og Ob .dds) On Om ko face Paraguay in their opening match. They
Fabio Cannavaro BERBER EEae OS OP On S10n 90100 oene also played no side in any particular form
Giorgio Chiellini ERE ae a T2569 (07085 GaG.e7 0.01
Domenico Criscito
20 amo! and should they make it into the quarter-
a Tite tte (OI 90°-10:0:-'0 1.0
Andrea Dossena @m@« >» Se 5301) ae 270 30-80 = 0 O
finals and beyond, that will all end with Spain
Alessandro Gamberini «Beas 8 Orr eeOred 93: 10.3 07 6 oO and Brazil lurking in their part of the draw.
Fabio Grosso « Be w@« 5 65" OF 22° 962 402 aad ene In terms of Group F, however, they will huff
Nicola Legrottaglie a an | 22) 0. (OF aiS0irecOOmG L.Oma0
Davide Santon and puff and at some stage they will blow
>a 2 Al sO ETO" OA SOL, Oy ao
Gianluca Zambrotta BEER 8 9 0 © 810 900 0 oO 6
the door down but don't expect it to be Z
Midfielders pretty or straightforward. After that sterner
Alberto Aquilani SBe« 22. Oleh) Se eigen
Matteo Brighi .
tests and greater challenges await. 1
» Ae Nelo tOn OG entds OOO
Mauro Camoranesi Bn «Be» CP 6n Oh a A767 62-8 ody
Italy are definitely in the hunt and stand as
dom
Gaetano D'Agostino » » ia Bs S105, ig a0 OB good a chance as a handful of sides of =
DanieleDe Rossi BERERERE Be» Or 8 Lh On R4Se e282 20 Sh 6 making the latter stages.
Gennaro Ivan Gattuso » EE a | AS: tO) at eeasO! Ore 22.0
Angelo Palombo
Simone Pepe
» Be@
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Andrea Pirlo @« ««Be 7 tt (Or sa") 550; 68:0" 1 10
Forwards
Antonio Di Natale B«aae Bay ke Berl SCS Al B46)e% DOR OLS CO GROUP FIXTURES
Alberto Gilardino Be«B Be«odg Gh Gr iene 4148460 4.000
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Vincenzo laquinta
Fabio Quagliarella
Br ««B«ee Ce Bn i Gare 47 so” ate 0 PARAGUAY Mon 14 June 1930 BST
Giuseppe Rossi
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6 NEW ZEALAND Sun 20 June 1500 BST
Luca Toni “an St S27 16S ASS Oo
SLOVAKIA Thur 24 June 1500 BST —
106 GROUP F
Zone Europe
Population 58.1m
Language Italian
Top league Serie A
AC Milan (80,074), Inter Milan (80,074), Juventus
(65,895), AS Roma (72,698)
Serie A 21 ~~ Eredivisie -
La Liga 1 Other Europe -
Bundesliga - Outside Europe -
Number of Italian players playing:
1934 - * Champions 1978 - 4th place
1938 - * Champions 1982- * Champions
1950 - Round 1 1986 - Last 16
1954 - Round 1 1990 - 8rd place
1958 - Did not qualify 1994 - Runners up
1962 - Round 14 1998 - Quater finals
1966 - Round 1 2002 - Last 16
1970 - Runners up 2006- * Charnpions
; ee : an

Marco Amelia Genoa 28 2
Gianluigi Buffon Juventus 32 rf
Defenders
Salvatore Bocchetti Genoa 23 2
Fabio Cannavaro Juventus 36 9
Giorgio Chiellini Juventus 25 7
Andrea Dossena Napoli 28 4
Alessandro Gamberini Fiorentina 2% 2
Fabio Grosso Juventus 32 5
Nicola Legrottaglie Juventus 33 2
Davide Santon Inter Milan 19 2
Gianluca Zambrotta AC Milan 33 9
Midfielders
DANIELE DE ROSSI ro N
Alberto Aquilani Liverpool 25 2
Matteo Brigh Roma }
Mauro Camoranesi Juventus 33 6

For years Daniele De Rossi has been an in his own right. Essentially the heartbeat of Gaetano D'Agostino Udinese 28 3
unsung hero at international level, with Italy's team, his work-rate is phenomenal. Daniele De Rossi Roma 26 9
Andrea Pirlo and Gennaro Gattuso Playing with the kind of commitment and Gennaro lvan Gattuso AC Milan 32 4
earning Italy's midfield plaudits, while at passion which has made him hugely Angelo Palombo Sampdoria 28 5
Roma he has constantly played second popular with the Azzurri faithful, De Rossi Simone Pepe dinese 26 i
scores, prevents and creates goals on a Andrea Pirlo AC Milan 31 7
fiddle to Francesco Totti.
Finally, at the age of 26, it seems the regular basis. The midfielder is set to play Forwards
an integral role in South Africa. Antonio Di Natale Udinese 32 if
midfield lynchpin has emerged from the
Alberto Gilardino Fiorentina 27 6
shadows to become an outstanding player
Vincenzo laquinta Juventus . 30 6
Fabio Quagliarella Napoli 27 5
Giuseppe Rossi Villarreal 23 4
GROUP F 107
EY DEFENDERS
GIORGIO GIANLUCA
CHIELLINI ZAMBROTTA
JUVENTUS AC MILAN
No-nonsense defender Giorgio Chiellini, Italy's 'Mr Dependable’, Gianluca
equally adept at left-back or centre-half, Zambrotta is set to appear at his third
has become an Italy regular over the last World Cup. When he first burst onto the
two years. international scene, the then-Juventus
Impressive displays at Euro 2008 brought him player was an established right midfielder
to prominence and the 25-year-old hasn't before he was moulded into an attacking
looked back since. Compared favourably with full-back.
Paolo Maldini, the Juventus man is very much Now at Milan, after a two-year spell with
regarded as a Classic Italian defender. Barcelona, Zambrotta's experience could prove
priceless for the Azzurri in South Africa. At 33
Playing record 12 months Ige his pace may have slowed a yard or two, but
Appearances: 29 7 Zambrotta's positioning, technique and smart
Minutes played: 2590 630 footballing brain continue to see him get the
Percentage played: 71.9% 70.0% better of some of the world's best wingers. His
Goals conceded: 32 4 flexibility remains his greatest asset, though,
Clean sheets: 10 4 with Zambrotta able to play on both the right
Cards: Y4, RO Y1, RO and left flanks. He will play an integral part if
Minutes between goals: 81mins 157mins Italy are going to retain their title.
Defender ranking: 77th 47th Zambrotta is a Top 12 defender
DREAM RANKING 5
TEAM
FABIO years ago. Grosso should start every game.
GROSSO Playing record 12 months Ige weq

JUVENTUS Appearances: 27 5
Since playing a starring role in Italy's Percentage played: 62.8% 40.2%
successful 2006 World Cup, Fabio Grosso's Goals conceded: 32 2
club career hasn't quite taken off as Clean sheets: 7 3
expected, but the 32-year-old has been a Cards: Y5; ROM
mainstay down Italy's left flank. Minutes between goals: 71mins 181mins
A tall, accomplished defender, Grosso can Defender ranking: 115th 32nd
GIANLUIGI bomb forward to great effect, as showcased
when he famously scored Italy's extra time
BUFFON opener in their semi-final win over Germany four
JUVENTUS
Buffon is a Top 4 goalkeeper
THE MANAGER
from an ill-fated season in charge of Inter
Milan, he spent nine seasons between 1994
and 2004, winning Serie A five times and the
Champions league in 1996. He left Juve to
MARCO become national team boss in 2004 and
AMELIA
despite an at times turgid and stuttering
campaign, Lippi inspired the Azzurri to lift the
GENOA 2006 World Cup in Germany. He promptly
resigned but after a poor showing by Italy in
Playing record 12 months lge
Euro 2008 was lured back to the helm and
Appearances: 35 Way” under his guidance, Italy comfortably qualified
Minutes played: 3123 A charismatic leader and scholar of the for South Africa. His belief in team spirit and
Percentage played: 86.8% game, Marcello Lippi has very definite the system fitting the personnel have always
Goais conceded: 56 ideas on how a football team should be inspired great loyalty in the dressing room -
Clean sheets: 8 managed - and with the record of and this loyalty has made its way into his
Cards: Y2, RO achievement he can boast, who could selections, with the bulk of this squad
Minutes between goals: 56mins argue with him. remnants of their 2006 side - including captain
Goalkeeper ranking: 31st Following a ten-year career as a centre-half Fabio Cannavaro. It is a risk for Lippi who has
with Sampdoria, Lippi turned his hand to faced criticism from the media for relying on
ea.
TEAM | RANKING
management and success at Napoli led to
him taking the helm at Juventus where, apart
the old guard but he is not fazed by adversity
nor does it hinder his chances at success.
108 GROUP F
“ ede, 3
FABIO
CANNAVARO
JUVENTUS
The man who lifted the 2006 World Cup
returns for his fourth and surely final
outing in the tournament.
Italy's captain, most accomplished defender
and highest-capped player in history, Fabio
Cannavaro has enjoyed a glittering career at the
very top. In recent seasons the 36-year-old has
taken his talents to Spain, winning La Liga
twice with Real Madrid, but is now back at
Juventus and forming a formidable partnership
with Giorgio Chiellini. On his day, this strong,
intelligent, stylish defender is practically
unbeatable. However, his height will always be
a disadvantage to the Azzurri captain.
The phrase 'playmaker' could well have Cup, including in the final, Pirlo played a
Playing record 12 months Ige wcq been invented for Andrea Pirlo, such is pivotal role in Italy's success, forming an
Appearances: 31 9 his association with the role for both almost telepathic partnership with team
2605 810 Italy and AC Milan over the last ten mate Gennaro Gattuso. Now 30, the AC
Minutes played:
Percentage played: 72.4% 90.0% years. Milan iegend has added experience to his
38 5 Pirlo leads by example, particularly at considerable list of assets, which also
Goals conceded:
Clean sheets: 12 5S international level where his influence on the includes pinpoint passing, deadly set-pieces
Cards: YOuROMp eee Azzurri has been undeniable. Winning three and exceptional positional sense.
Man of the Match awards at the last World Pirlo is a Top 12 midfielder
Defender ranking: 121st 44th
"RANKING 0 |
GROUP F 109
MAURO BERTO
CAMORANAS! GILARDINO
JUVENTUS FIORENTINA
Gilardino is a Top 12 striker
Despite being one of the more unheralded With Franceso Totti and Christian Vieri
members of the victorious 2006 World Cup retired from football altogether and
winning side, Mauro Camoranesi has been Alessandro Del Piero and Luca Toni well
a regular for Italy since making his debut into their 30s, it seems the baton of Italy's
back in 2003. main striking berth has passed to Alberto
The Argentine-born midfielder is often Gilardino.
mistaken for being too over-confident, but is Aged 27, the Fiorentina striker's career has
actually one of the hardest-working players at blossomed in recent years as he finally realises
Marcello Lippi's disposal. the enormous potential shown at Under 21
His crossing abilities are second to none and level, where he became Italy's all-time record
his work-rate is a great asset to the Italy squad. scorer.
These qualities have helped Camoranesi earn At senior level, despite enjoying a decent goal
50 caps for his country, making him the most- record, he has often been on the fringes and
capped naturalised player in Italy's history. indeed was left out of Roberto Donadoni's Euro
At club level, he's been at Juventus since 2008 squad.
2002, staying loyal to the Old Lady despite But Gilardino possesses all the attributes
enforced relegation to Serie B and several needed to be a top striker and it was only a
advances from some of Europe's top clubs. matter of time before the speedy, adaptable,
Never one to shirk a challenge, the versatile Clinical six-footer established himself in Marcello
Camoranesi can also play centrally or wide on Lippi's side.
the left and is likely to be a valuable commodity Italy's top scorer in qualifying with four goals
in Italy's defence of their World Cup crown. from six appearances, Gilardino's prolific form
On what could well be his swansong at at club level for La Viola should ensure he
international level, Camoranesi will be looking to reaches South Africa with the world at his feet.
leave his mark on football's greatest If the Azzurri are going to reach the latter
tournament and he could well do this if he stages, Gilardino may be their top-scorer.
manages to play the way we know he can.
GENNARO Playing record 12 months Ige weq

GATTUSO Appearances:
Minutes played:
27
1711 476
6
AC MILAN
A tough-tackling midfield terrier if ever Goals scored: 3 1
there was one, Gennaro Gattuso has been Clean sheets: 13 3
the brawn to Andrea Pirlo's brain during Cards: Y4, R11 Y1, RO
the last ten years for Italy. Strike rate: 570mins +476mins
The 32-year-old, a veteran of two World Midfielder ranking: 103rd 54th
Cups, has long been the undoing of many a
flamboyant attacking midfielder. Gattuso hasn't DREAM RANKING 2
found his place in the national side a certainty _TEAM _
since Euro 2008, mostly due to a serious knee
injury restricting his appearances. But his
combative, uncompromising style at the fulcrum
of midfield should see him play an important SIMONE
role once again this summer if he manages to
keep his fitness up.
PEPE
UDINESE
Playing record 12 months Ige weq Playing record 12 months Ige wceq
Minutes played: 611 S15 Minutes played: 2158 380
Godis scored: 0 ¢) Goals scored: 3 O
Clean sheets: 5 2 Clean sheets: - -
Cards: Your Y2, RO Cards: Y6, RO YO, RO
Strike rate: . - Strike rate: 719mins -
Midfielder ranking: 216th 95th Midfielder ranking: 127th -
tam RANKING a Err

DREAM
110 GROUP F
VINCENZO
[AQUINTA
JUVENTUS
A tall, hard-working striker with an eye for
goal, Vincenzo laquinta has been a useful
option for Italy since debuting in 2005.
A Juventus regular for the last three years
since moving from Udinese, his impressive
domestic form has kept him in the Italy squad.
Never prolific for his country, the powerful
striker represents an ideal focal point up front,
but can also be utilised on either flank.
He made five substitute appearances at
Germany 2006 and this is probably the last
chance that laquinta will get to play at the \RREAL
World Cup finals so he will be desperate to
make an impression for the Azzurri.
A rarity in the Italy squad in that he Playing record 12 mo
12 months Ige weq plies his trade abroad, Rossi represents Appearances:
Playing record
Appearances: 25 the next generation of Azzurri talent. Minutes played:
1730 429 At 23 the Villarreal striker is inexperienced Percentage played:
Minutes played:
50.1% 47.7% compared to many of his Italy team-mates, Goals scored:
Percentage played:
Goals scored: 13 but Rossi's abilities could see him star at Percentage share:
27% 11.1% South Africa 2010. Blessed with a wicked Cards:
Percentage share:
Y2, Ril Y1, RO left foot, the former Manchester United Strike rate: 263mins
Cards:
133mins 214mins youngster can score goals from nothing. Strike rate ranking: 82nd
Strike rate:
Strike rate ranking: 17th 48rd
GROUP F
NEW ZEALAND
a ka
AS
FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH LOW AVGE 7 FINAL
When FIFA decided to move Australia into on Germany 2006. The only time New Zealand previously—
the Asian Federation's World Cup The first leg finished 0-0 in Manama so New reached the World Cup finals, in 1982,—
qualification arena, life got a lot easier for Zealand couldn't concede in the return in they lost all three group games, ra
New Zealand. Wellington's ‘Cake Tin’. It was nerve-wracking conceding 12 goals. :
The All Whites are top dogs in the Oceania stuff as Plymouth's Rory Fallon put the All International football has changed since
Federation. When your main rivals turn out to Whites through, after Celtic striker Chris Killen then and New Zealand will go to South
be the tiny New Caledonian islands, then the had hit the bar in the first half. Bahrain hit back, Africa with a decent defence. It is therefore -
play-offs beckon. Ryan Nelsen and his team earning a penalty that Mark Paston famously unlikely that they will be whipping boys of
duly obliged, the only hiccup being a weakened saved in the 50th minute. They also had the ball Group F, but saying that, they willhave to
side's 2-0 defeat to Fiji, after they had already in the net only to see it disallowed. punch above their weight to pick up points.
confirmed top spot. With qualifying so uncompetitive, the only
Bahrain offered a real test though, having FINAL QUALIFYING TABLE recent yardstick was the 2009
come through a rigorous three stage OCEANA GROUP Confederations Cup and the All Whites _
qualification process. They had finished third P WDL F A Pts hardly distinguished themselves.
behind Australia and Japan in Asian Qualifying New Zealand * Ga SO eta14 53215 They were thrashed 5-0 by Spain, lost 2-0
Round Four, before beating Saudi Arabia over New Caledonia Gue2o2e2i2.105. 5S to hosts South Africa and managed only a
two legs to reach this point. Bahrain were also Fiji 6a 2123s 5841 7 solitary point in their group ina O-O draw
ranked 61st by FIFA, compared to New Vanuatu Crete 14 5013.0 584 with Iraq.
Zealand's 83rd, and had narrowly missed out * New Zealand beat Bahrain in a play off. The key to New Zealand's tournament —
might be their opening game against
te FIFA
A oak Slovakia - the third best side in the group
1 17Oct07 Away Fiji N 0sernenetemernncenecomea
2 Vicelich 37, Smeltz 86 according to the FIFA rankings. If they can
oe nacinscnti secure some kind of result in that game,
2 1TNow 07 Away Vanuatu aE Lee NE then they will be looking to do the same —
3 21 Nov07 Home Vanuatu : 145. W 4 1 Mulligan 14, 81, Smeltz 29pen, 34 against Italy or Paraguay. However, the -
4 06 Sep 08 Away NewCaledonia 128 ~W_ 1 8 Nelsen 15, Smeltz 66, 76 chances of them picking up any points is —
5 10Sep 08 Home NewCaledonia -« 128.~W_ 3-0 Smeltz 50, 76, Christie6Q small, and barring a miracle, they Wil iOrs
6 19Nov08 Home Fiji 1a Gen eee ke ee helene
. DREAM
7 10 Oct09 Away aie = Tp : 00 ae ath TOP 15 RANKING
_8 14Nov09 Home Bahrain — Se (ie Wis Oh Fallon Ae.
PN(glelmally Wr-la) diate Mel me)s)eleliisiela] 116 THE MANAG ER
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION Ricki Herbert was one of the Na a

Zealand defenders during the 1982
mit is ete g es z World Cup and he will be determined
Gans rary ee bre 5 aoe e 3 that none of the current side have to go ;
Bch wwwwwlow S$ £288 @ § 2B through the same humiliation he did.
Goalkeepers TAHe OG aS ee OLS In the All Whites' only World Cup outing to
Glen Moss Bw « IMUM ON Moye VIS Flos) oy fee A date, they were hopelessly out-classed, -
ciinnates ats : an : : : : wi a ‘ : a losing all three games and shipping twelve
See ee ¥ goals in the process. Herbert knows his
Andrew Boyens «BEB» m@» 5 3 2 1 270375 000 chances of steering New Zealand out of-
Tony Lochhead MEMBER Me 7 7 OO 680 875 000 Group F are small, but he has had some
David Mulligan «ne«MBB@ 6 5 1 2 433 601 3 1 0 good results since his appointment in 2005, -
Fyan Nelsen m« WH 4 4 0 1 333 463 1 1 0 — gome decent players at his disposal and an
Steven Old >on 21" Ol Oy AON OUP O mo sae ; ;
Raton eae | “j Oe See thet eS inviting opening game in fa
the form of the third
Ben Sigmund ~MMBMBBBM 8 7 1 (OO 688914 010 ranked side in the group, Slovakia.
Ivan Vicelich B« Ba 6: 360 40) Tal 480) 69:7 4 10 20
Midfielders
Leo Bertos MBM MMB «6 6 OO 540 750 00 0
Tim Brown BEB @fo«« 6 <6)-.0" 22 SBN Geren 1) ae tO
Jeff Campbell » EB» @ 2.0) 2) 10 CY Ame on ie Wo fen mane)
Jeremy Christie BG«>on 5 0" 52 Aiea ase eh eo
Simon Elliott MMMM 3 3 00 270375 0 6 O
Chris James SES>n 2 iO {Boon QanOwnOleO
Michael McGlinchey »« ahs BA eal 8 11.9..0, 0. @
Duncan Oughton Bee « Din Oe (Ol A2650,2 30) 0) 6
Cole Peverley | 1) Gl nO 0) Feomeias) oa. 6
Forwards
Costa Barbarouses / f “« ‘okealis hock Somme Gr «83 OD. 70~-0
Jeremy Brockie Bon 21590: “Oe 18005 10:-10: 0. 0
fon Fain «M2207
Greg Draper
25100 POGUUmabenias
“« :
Christopher Killen «[] \—« a V8e O) 427° 50575 35.7 O10 nF

Allan Pearce «BS Sel sera 56: 7,820.0, 0 SLOVAKIA Tue 15 June 1230 BST
pak as er eee Sun 20 June1600BST
Christopher Wood f »» 2270) 2 80) 6447) Oe a.G PARAGUAY Thur 24 June 1500 BST
112 GROUP F
Zone Asia
Population 4. 2m
Language English, Maori
Top league N.Z.F. Championship
Playing season October - March
Waitakere United (5,563), Auckland City (3,000)
YoungHeart Manawatu (18,759)
Serie A - Eredivisie -
Number of New Zealander players playing:
Serie A - Ligue 1 -
La Liga - Eredivisie =
World Cup record *“ best performance
Goalkeepers Club side Age

Glen Moss Melbourne Victory 27
Mark Paston Wellington Phoenix 33
JaCOD Spe
Defenders
Andrew Boyens New York Red Bulls 26
Tony Lochhead Wellington Phoenix 28
David Mulligan Wellington Phoenix 28
Ryan Nelsen Blackburn 32
Steven Old Kilmarnock 24
James Pritchett Auckland City 27
Ben Sigmund Wellington Phoenix 29
Ivan Vicelich Auckland City 33
Midfielders
RYAN NELSEN Leo Bertos

Tim Brown
Wellington Phoenix
Wellington Phoenix
28
29
Jeremy Christie Waitakere Utd oi
The Blackburn captain is a tenacious Simon Elliott Sn Jose Earthquakes 36
centre-back and one of the Premier Appearances: 34 2 Chris James Floating 22
League's most underrated players. Minutes played: 2848 153 Michael McGlinchey Centl Coast Mariners 26
He was one of Mark Hughes’ super Percentage played: 77.2% 21.3% Duncan Oughton Columbus Crew 32 ®
ad
anww
signings in 2005 and instantly made a Goals conceded: 48 1 Forwards

relegation threatened Rovers side into one Clean sheets: 9g 1 Jeremy Brockie N Queensland Fury 22 Nh
of the tightest defensive units around. He Cards: YS-AGe aYOURS

has 38 caps for New Zealand and is Minutes between goals: 59mins - Rory Fallon Plymouth 3
definitely their most vital player. Defender ranking: 144th - Christopher Killen Celtic 28
Shane Smeltz Gold Coast United 28

Jarrod Smith Floating 25
Christopher Wood West Brom 18
GROUP F 113
== PARAGUAY FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH ¢: LOW 28 AVGE 20 FINAL
Paraguay took four points off Argentina FINAL QUALIFYING TABLE The media focus will be on favourites
and beat Brazil early in the qualifying SOUTH AMERICA GROUP Italy in Group F, but Marcello Lippi's
campaign to claim their place in South P WDL F A Pts team aside, the bookies are backing —
Africa. Brazil 18-972 3311 34 Paraguay to make it into the last 16
They flew off the blocks with 13 points from Chile 18 10 3 5 32 22 33 ahead of Slovakia and they have good
the first five games. These included wins over Paraguay 18 103 5 24 16 33 reason to do so.
key rivals Chile away, Uruguay and Ecuador. Argentina 18 8 4 6 23 20 28 Paraguay overcame mountains to reach
The fifth game against Brazil announced them. Uruguay 18 6 6 28 20 24 South Africa and the results Gerardo
Roque Santa Cruz only started three out of 18 Ecuador 1855.65 5.7) a220260 23 Martino's side secured against the likes of
qualifying games but came in for this match, Colombia 1S) e60507 914.1523 fellow qualifiers Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay
opening the scoring on 26 minutes. Mexico- Venezuela 18 64 8 23 29 22 and Chile - as well as some impressive
based Salvador Cabanas netted a second and Bolivia 18 4 311 22 36 15 performances away from home - point to an
a full-strength Brazil couldn't reply. Peru 18 3 411 11 34 13 extremely effective side who can be a
Avge FIFA ranking genuine force in this competition.
1 14 Oct 07 Away Peru (6: De sOe0 They have a tight and experienced
2 17 Oct 07 Home Uruguay 22 W 1 O Valdez 15 defensive unit, marshalled by goalkeeper and
wo 18 Nov 07 Home Ecuador 44 W 5 1 Valdez 9, Riveros 27, 88, Santa Cruz 51, captain Justo Villar - only Brazil conceded
N.Ayala 83 fewer goals in qualifying - and a solid
midfield, but it is up front they look
4 22 Nov 07 Away Chile 32 W_ 0 3 Cabanas 24, Da Silva 45, 57
particularly juicy, with Nelson Valdeez and
5 15 Jun 08 Home Brazil 4 W_- 2 0 Santa Cruz 26, Cabanas 49 Manchester City's Roque Santa Cruz
6 18 Jun 08 Away Bolivia 66 L 4 2 Santa Cruz 66, Valdez 82 providing the firepower up top.
ff 06 Sep 08 Away Argentina 6 D1 1 Heinze 130g When they beat Argentina 1-0 to seal f
8 10 Sep 08 Home Venezuela 60 W_ 2 0 Riveros 28, Valdez45 qualification, the country declared a national
holiday - and they will not get a better ii
9 12 Oct 08 Away Colombia 38 W_ 0 1 Cabanas9
chance to prove their worth thaninthe =
15 Oct 08 Home Peru 76 W_ 1 O Benitez 82
Group F opener against reigning champions
28 Mar 09 Away Uruguay 22 eae 20 Italy.
01 Apr 09 Away Ecuador 44D 1 1 Benitez90
06 Jun 09 Home Chile 32 Jeet O72 ORM TOP 15 RANKING |
11 Jun 09 Away Brazil 4 L 2 1 Cabanas 25
05 Sep 09 Home Bolivia 66 W_ 1 0 Cabanas 45pen THE MANAGER
10 Sep 09 Home Argentina 6 W_ 1 0 Valdez 27
10 Oct 09 Away Venezuela 60 W_ 1 2 Cabanas 55, O.Cardozo 79 A decent player in his time, Gerardo
15 Oct 09 Home Colombia 38 MES Ore Martino was an attacking midfielder and
played most of his career in his native
Argentina, with two brief stints in Spain.
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION When he retired from playing, he earned
his managerial spurs at a number of lower
a
=
ete
Oo oO
league Argentinian sides before going on to
Match ro) = = = nr eeoa a 4 = ay s 3 8 8 make his name in Paraguay with First -
Venue aha
Gece
28
So) as
Division sides Cerro Porteno and Club
Result 5ie tiInnD played
Mins GoalsYellow
Red
Goalkeepers
Libertad, winning the title in 2004. He ‘was
Aldo Bobadilla 1) eoane awarded for his achievements by being—
Justo Villar r->Mm
Oe o>M@Me
-hrseMM
-iz5 =2r5 ile
15 0 oo a oo handed a stab at the national job and he has
Defenders
i Sieh done a superb job, quietly guiding Paraguay
Antolin Alcaraz EB
@
<r
Marcos Caceres t1220).0 to their best ever South America zone
Julio Cesar Caceres 1414
OF 0 qualifying campaign.
Denis Caniza ys Paes
Paulo Da Silva fr Ar OO
Julio Manzur 88S
a Seas 0
Claudio Morel Rodriguez O <9 610.92
Dario Veron @:ea
@ 6BBYa0
ae8
G& Be
88
@
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a
&S
8 Tel Pace OOOnNOTOOCOO
=-oo+-o0co0o0o0o
Midfielders
Sergio Aquino St) eae rel
Edgar Barreto 4 TR 2) °F
Carlos Bonet We Thee ae
Victor Caceres RS Lbigs ad)
Eduardo Ledesma Be seracnee
Osvaldo. Martinez Tig aug
Nestor Ortigoza a PanicBee
Cristian Riveros SEG« SSE eeeeee aes
ee |e,
Jonathan Santana » On m« « an« O68) Aa
Aureliano Torres >>> «eee 625 asec
Enrique Vera BERBER
«B Bh«««R BES 18.138)
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GROUP FIXTURES
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0
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Forwards
Jorge Achucarro »» i» 44-84
Edgar Benitez Boos 60
Salvador Cabanas “« Baa « «BEB 15 15 0 8 ITALY Mon 14 June 1930 BST
Oscar Cardozo » » » “eer» » Ba ee eels *e) SLOVAKIA Sun 20 June 1230 BST
Nelson Haedo Valdez Tce Cee ce | 17 16 1 12 NEW ZEALAND Thur 24 June 1500 BST
Roque Santa Cruz «ae Sages22 aa-Oaoo
ONNNO
oooo0co
114 GROUP F
Confederation South America
Population 7m
Language Spanish and Guarani
Playing season January - May
Club Nacional (5,124), Libertad (10,000), Guarani
(8,290)
Number of Paraguayan players playing:
Serie A 1 Ligue 1
World Cup record *
best performance
1950 - Round 1 1986- * Last 16
1954 - Did not qualify 1990- Did not qualify

Aldo Bobadilla Boca Juniors 34 1
Justo Villar Valladolid 32 17
Defenders
HIN
Julio Cesar Caceres Boca Juniors 30 14

Denis Caniza Olimpia 35 8
Paulo Da Silva Sunderland 380° 17
Julio Manzur Tigre 29 3
Cla Morel Rodriguez Boca Juniors 32 9
Dario Veron Universidad 30) tid
Midfielders
Edgar Barreto Atalanta 25. 14

Carlos Bonet Olimpia 32 10
Victor Caceres Libertad 25 13
A striking star for his local club Olimpia Eduardo Ledesma Lanus 24 5
from an early age, Roque Santa Cruz Appearances: 16 Osvaldo Martinez Monterrey 24 7
was brought to Europe by Bayern Minutes played: 696 Cristian Riveros Cruz Azul ae I?
Munich, but injury and a strong squad Percentage played: 19.3% Jonathan Santana Wolfsburg 28 9
limited his chances. Goals scored: 3 Aureliano Torres San Lorenzo 27 6
That changed when Mark Hughes Percentage share: 4.84% Enrique Vera LDU Quito 31 13
snapped him up for Blackburn where 23 Cards: Y1, RO Forwards

goals in 58 games earned a £17.5m transfer Strike rate: Jorge Achucarro Newells Old Boys 28 4
to Manchester City. On his day he is lethal. Strike rate ranking: Edgar Benitez Pachuca 22 5
Cristian Bogado Colo Colo 23 1
Oscar Cardozo Benfica 27, 72
Nelson Haedo Valdez B Dortmund 20 ou
Roque Santa Cruz Man City 28 5
@ Probable & QG Qualification Games
GROUPSP ° 445
= SLOVAKIA FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH 22 LOW 6? AVGE 5? FINAL
Qualification brought Slovakia together beaten by Slovenia again in their penultimate The surprise package in the European
with three of its closest neighbours and game, that would be their only other loss of the Zone, Slovakia defied the odds — and the
few would have backed Vladimir Weiss' campaign. history books - to knock out prestigious
side to make it over the line ahead of the Having edged out lowly San Marino 3-1, they neighbours Poland and the Czech
Czech Republic and Poland. won back-to-back games against two of the Republic to top Group 3.
That they - on paper at least - cruised through favourites to win the group, sealing a late win at They have not qualified for a World Cup
qualifying to top the group ahead of their third home to Poland and then sensationally earning since their independence in 1993 and-
close neighbour Slovenia, was one of the a 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic in their hardly bristling with big-name talent—few
biggest upsets in the European zone. However, own back yard - again sealing the win with a would have expected them to do so this —
qualification is testament to a side that - like goal in the last ten minutes. time around. They will be more than likely
many of the ‘smaller’ international teams - adds By this stage, they were top of their group largely unfancied to make it out of Group F,
up to more than the sum of its parts. and looking real contenders, and sealed a place and but for the presence of New Zealand -
They opened up with a 2-1 win against in South Africa with a 7-0 thrashing of San would have been the minnows of the group. —
Northern Ireland but four days later slumped to Marino, a draw with the Czech Republic and However, playing underdogs again will no
a 2-0 reverse in Slovenia and at that stage, few victories over Poland and Northern Ireland. doubt suit Vladimir Weiss and co. downto
would have expected the run they were about the ground. In terms of personnel, they have —
to embark on. Despite the fact they were For final qualification table see Slovenia. Liverpool's Martin Skrtel at the heart of —
defence and Bochum's Stanislav Sestak—
Avge FIFA ranking who netted six goals in qualifying — up front, —
: but it is young captain Marek Hamsik of —
06 Sep08 Home NIreland - 109 W 2 1 Skrtel 46, Hamsik 70 Cees
: ; ae Napoli who could make the biggest impact _
2 10 Sep 08 Away Slovenia 64 L 2 1 Jakubko 83 from midfield. They face lowly New Zealand
3 11 Oct08 Away San Marino 201 W_ 1 3 Sestak 33, Kozak 38, Karhan60. 0 in their low-key opener and then— favourites
4 15 Oct 08 Home Poland 35 W 21 Sestak85,86 — ee to finish second in the group -Paraguay os
5 01 Apr09 Away Czech Republic 12 W 4 2 Sestak 23, Jendrisek83 fie os that ioe sat oo Se Le
6 06 Jun 09 Home San: Marino :
201 W 7 0 Cech 3, 32, Pekarik 12, Stoch 35, Kozak) DANO 80 Mounl a chavenge lo reac)
last 16 — it would certainly be rash to bet
Me
42, Jakubko 63, Hanzel 68 ; a
: ee against them doing just that.
7 05 Sep 09 Home Czech Republic 12 D 2 2 Sestak 60, Hamsik 73pen DREAM
8 09Sep 09 Away N Ireland ~ 109 W_ 0O 2 Sestak 15, Holosko 67 j TEAM TOP 15 RANKING
9 10 Oct09 Home Slovenia 64 2s 042
10 14Oct09 Away Poland 35 W_ 0 1 Gancarczyk
30g THE MANAGER
PAV ctg-lo(-M dl We-lal dare me)mess) elel-yh ale) | lg
Viadimir Weiss has taken his young side ~
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION arilfom @8to94 theFIFA ae

n
rankings.
8 a eet ae He took Artmedia Bratislava to the
ah eS iver neers Naples te eM Us Ga Rene Slovakian League title and into the
Result wLwwwwowtw $833 & & $3 8 o ort iat
Champions League in 2005/06 and
. .
Goalkeepers managed briefly in Russia before returning to.

ioe aren ae an : 7 -——\- A : ae i 2 . - make Artmedia champions again. ; ;
Stefan Senecky Eeees § 3 0 0 270300 O41. 0 On the back of that he took over the” Ne
Defenders national side for the qualifying tournament.
petal aie
Jan Durica
BO M>w@iim
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out of
Lubos Hanzel | Wekoares | eav-clotepuer past scraps, enticing good contributions from
Matej Krajcik | 1°24. OMG SOt10'0) Of coun players who rarely feature for their club sides —
Roman Kratochvil “ 1 tO 7: es 2 ee Ne |
Peter Pekarik MM MBM © 9 0 0 81090100 teams ini Group P F.
and couldWi shockshock thethe teams
Martin Petras Ea | 4 4 0 0 360 400 0 0 0
Peter Petras gi»e PA Vote i oA) QB 107 Ort 50
Kornel Salata ” @ de Sie hOn 10 90: 10/0: 0) 07-0
Martin Skrtel Ba = See 66-50 m0) 1540 600m no
Radoslav Zabavnik »S® «BSB 6 sores ls 45857509 Ono ao
Midfielders
Balazs Borbely «Bil» OE as lees | 74.82. 0. OO. 0
Marek Hamsik BRwB««« Be By GOs Oe Gob 72,00 ce Olay
Miroslav Karhan ««» OH > >> if BS! 2a G05 45.08 Meteo
Kamil Kopunek of 2.20 20" (OmeatsOs 2On etOn MO ft
Jan Kozak | 7 ee | Wi) 6054 720 7A BersinO aid
Marek Sapara | | Fk ee Ts ech Ne MOISISO:A (OO. 10
Zdeno Strba a 2 @e«e 6-260 Hie Saag asee (Oy 1 0
Dusan Svento > pe By 3°20) (3520 93 103 0 0 0
Viadimir Weiss ««MM 4 4 0 2 342 3830 0 2 0
Forwards
Filip Holosko «OOgo«» 43 1 2 247 274 1 00 MOUs @ni iss
Martin Jakubko «o>» « 6 aI 3 2. Vere s02) 2. Ge :
Erik Jendrisek Ba«ii>n»»M 7 4 3 2 3875 44.7 1°00 0 Get
Marek Mintal » ia 2 4 ot aeRO OS NEW ZEALAND Ddd 15 June 1230 BST —
Stanislav Sestak “Bae au i« 646 (0 85° —466NSiae<6 2 3G PARAGUAY Sun 20 June 1230 BST
Miroslav Stoch »«Be«M) 4 3 1 2 248 276 1 2 0 Y Thur 24 1500 BST
Robert Vittek «BES» Saa« 9 8. 1. 2) *7084 78:1" 0.0.0 a betes ee
116 GROUP F
Zone Europe
Population 5.5m
Language Slovak
Top league Corgo Liga
Playing season July - April
MSK Zilina (11,181), Slovan Bratislava (30,087),
Dukla Banska Bystrica (11,505)
Premier League 2 Ligue1
Number of Slovakian players playing:
Serie A 2 Ligue 1 2
La Liga - Eredivisie 3
1934 - * Final 1978 - Did not qualify
1954 - Round 1 1990- Quarter finals
1962 - * Final 1998 - Did not qualify

Ues a ) |
Jan Mucha Cesena 30 6

Stefan Senecky Ankaraspor 30 3
Defenders
Marek Cech West Brom 27 4
Jan Durica Hannover 28 8
Matej Kraicil
Peter Pekarik Wolfsburg 23 9
Martin Petras Cesena 30 4
Peter Petras Slovan Bratislava 31 2
Kornel Salata Slovan Bratislava 25 1
artin Skrtel Liverpool 25 6
MARTIN Radoslav Zabavnik

Midfielders
Terek Grozny 29 6
arek Hamsik Napoli 22 8

Pacy, strong in the air, aggressive and a Playing record 12 monil s ige iroslav Karhan Mainz 33 7
tough-tackler, Slovakia's most Appearances: 26 6 Jan Kozak Slovan Bratislava 30 6
recognised player has all the qualities Minutes played: 2108 540 arek Sapara Rosenborg 27 7
required to become a world class Percentage played: 60.1% 60.0% Zdeno Sirba Xanthi 34 6
central defender. - Goals conceded: 26 8 Dusan Svento Salzburg 24 3

He moved from Zenit St Petersburg to Clean sheets: 9 1 Viadimir Weiss Man City 20 4
Liverpool in January 2008. A lot rests on his Cards: Y6,RO Y2, RO Forwards
shoulders but Slovakia can rest assured that Minutes between goals: 81mins 6/mins Filip Holosko Besiktas 26 4
Skrtel can handle the pressure. Defender ranking: 76th 122nd Martin Jakubko FC Moscow 30 G
Erik Jendrisek Kaiserslautern 23 7
Stanislav Sestak Bochum 27 6
Miroslav Stoch Twente 20 4
Robert Vittek Lille 28 9
M@ Probable @ QG Qualification Games
GROUP F 117
A highly versatile and effective wing-back,
Gianluca Zambrotta can operate on either Appearances: 35 9
flank and has done so.at the very highest Minutes played: 2898 810
level for more than a decade with Percentage played: 80.5% 90.0%
Juventus, Barcelona and AC Milan. Goals conceded: 32 5
Now something of a veteran — he is close to Clean sheets: 15 5
100 caps for Italy - he seems to be settled in Cards: Y3, RO YO, RO
the left-back berth for club and country and his Minutes between goals: 91mins 162mins
experience will be a big asset. His versatility is Defender ranking: 51st 45th
also key and his ability to slot into the midfield
on either flank could be useful if Italy go deep
into the competition.
A tough-tackling left-back with a stack of

experience, Gabriel Heinze is a world-class Appearances: 31
operator as he has consistently proved for Minutes played: 2672
club and country. Percentage played: 78.1%
A tenacious presence on the flank, his energy Goals conceded: 35
and directness make him effective — whether his Clean sheets: 15
side are in possession or not. Now playing well Cards: Y6, RO
for Marseille, he will be in good form and Minutes between goals: 76mins
looking forward to contributing to Argentina's Defender ranking: 98th
push for a third World Cup success. One of the
few automatic picks during qualifying, only three
players played more.
Fast becoming known as one of the best

full-backs in domestic European football, Appearances: 33
Dani Alves is excelling at right-back for Minutes played: 2788
Barcelona and has made his way into the Percentage played: 79.4%
reckoning for Brazil. Goals conceded: 28
He became the most expensive defender in Clean sheets: ily
world football when Barcelona paid just shy of Cards: Y8, RO
30 million euros for him in the summer of 2008. Minutes between goals: 100mins
Despite his defensive prowess and Defender ranking: 82nd
effectiveness going forward, he plays second
fiddle to Maicon for Brazil, but will still be an
important member of the squad.
A product of Real Madrid's academy,

Alvaro Arbeloa is now back at the club of Appearances: 23
his youth following an 18-month stint at Minutes played: 2038
Liverpool. Percentage played: 58.1%
In England he played as a right-back — the Goals conceded: 18
position he is most known for — and impressed Clean sheets: 13
in bursts, although he was never as heralded as Cards: Y5, RO
some of his team-mates. Now back at Madrid, Minutes between goals: 113mins
he is being asked to play left-back due to the Defender ranking: 14th
personnel available and having featured in only
f i
Va one qualifying game, he will have to impress to
claim a place in the Spain side.
118 TOP PLAYERS

A veteran of domestic football in the
Netherlands and Germany, Joris Mathijsen Appearances: 33
is perhaps not a household name across Minutes played: 2970
Europe, but if the Netherlands realise the Percentage played: 97.1%
potential they have shown in the last 18 Goals conceded: 41
months, he might soon be. Clean sheets: 8
Ever-present as the Dutch qualified Cards: Y8, RO YO, RO
impressively for South Africa, he is an Minutes between goals: 72mins 360mins
uncompromising central defender — tough in the Defender ranking: 109th 11th
tackle and good in the air — and is a good foil
for the more cultured Jonny Heitinga who is
likely to partner him in the heart of defence.
Re ¥
As the mgst capped Argentina

international of all time, Javier Zanetti is a Appearances:
living legend in his homeland and the Minutes played:
current captain for his club, and formerly Percentage played:
for his country. Goals conceded:
With a world class all-round game, his Clean sheets:
flexibility means that he has no fixed position — Cards:
able to play at full-back on either flank or Minutes between goals:
equally comfortable in midfield — and is one of Defender ranking:
the first names on Diego Maradona's team
sheet. Having been overlooked for Germany
2006, he will be desperate to play.
Only two players played more minutes for

France in qualifying than Patrice Evra and Appearances:
while Raymond Domenech might have Minutes played:
many of his selections called into question, Percentage played:
Evra has been a reliable performer at left- Goals conceded:
back. Clean sheets:
The diminutive defender is hitting his peak as Cards: Y5, RO Y1, RO
a player — he will be 29 by the time the Minutes between goals: 93mins 116mins
tournament starts — and his ability to surge Defender ranking: 47th 76th
down the left flank and link play will be a vital
outlet for France. He's no mug as a defender
either, so expect Evra to play a starring role.
One of the most highly regarded left-backs

in world football, Ashley Cole is also one of Appearances: 35
the most consistent performers and has a Minutes played: 2990
lot of experience at the highest level, with Percentage played: 85.2%
this his third World Cup finals. Goals conceded:
Fast and direct, he is also a very balanced Clean sheets:
full-back — equally capable going forward as he Cards: Y6, RO YO, RO
is in defence. He will be Capello's first-choice Minutes between goals: 100mins 139mins
for the tournament, as he was in qualifying Defender ranking: 30th 57th
where only Frank Lampard and Wayne Rooney
played more minutes than him, he will be vital in
South Africa.
TOP PLAYERS 119

A dangerous attacking full-back, Maicon A centre-back with bags of potential, A throwback compared to some of the
has stepped into the void left by former Gerard Pique has made something of a more cultured defenders on the world
captain Cafu and will be an instrumental meteoric rise in European football and will scene, John Terry is an old fashioned, -
part of Brazil's push to win the title for a shortly be able to test himself on the very blood and guts, no-nonsense defender and
sixth time. highest stage at just 23. England's first choice centre-back.
Fast, skilful and able to open up a game with Now back at Barcelona having won the An inspirational figure on the pitch, Terry
his delivery from the right flank, Maicon is also Champions League with Manchester United, he possesses courage and determination in
defensively adept and plays in one of the picked up another winners' medal against his abundance; and these attributes, coupled with
tightest backlines in Europe with Inter Milan. An former side in 2009. He made his debut for his inherent ability and positional awareness
automatic pick in qualifying — only keeper Julio Spain in place of injured team-mate Carles make him one of the giants of world football at
Cesar played more minutes for Brazil. Puyol and is now the first choice centre-back. centre-back.
Appearances: 28 ikea Appearances: 30 6 Appearances: or 8

Goals conceded: 23 ~ 9 Goals conceded: 23 Pi Goals conceded: 30 4
Clean sheets: 13 9 Clean sheets: hs) 4 Clean sheets: 19 4
Cards: Y4, R1 YO, RO Cards: Vey int YO, RO Cards: Y7, RO: Yagi
Minutes between goals: 107mins 142mins Minutes between goals: 108mins 240mins Minutes between goals: 111imins 179mins
Defender ranking: 21st 54th Defender ranking: 17th 21st Defender ranking: 15th 38th
120 TOP PLAYERS

THE TOP DEFENDER
ET Lucio
Brazil's captain Lucio is a dominant Playing record 12 mths ige
centre-back and one of the most Appearances: 34
experienced players currently playing in Minutes played: 3005
world football. Percentage played: 83.5%
Approaching a century of caps for his Goals conceded: 28
country, Lucio played every single minute of Clean sheets: 13
Brazil's 2002 cup-winning campaign and then Cards: Y2,RO Y4, RO
again in 2006 when they lost out in the Minutes between goals: 107mins210mins
quarter-finals to France. Defender ranking: 19th 27th
AGE32 )INTER MILAN J "an' RANKING5

TOTAL OF THE AVERAGE FIFA RANKINGS OF THE FOUR COUNTRIES ‘47
Position
Group
Total FIFA ranking
IVORY COAST V PORTUGAL Port Elizabeth, Tuesday 15 June 1500 BST VIEW FROM THE EXPERTS
A massive game, lvory Coast against Elephants have talent all over the pitch and BRAZIL: The Samba Kings
Portugal should kick-start the ‘Group of failure to make the last 16 would be a huge are a big favourite with the
Death’ in style. Portugal may have limped blow. A win for either nation in this one neutrals and have fabulous
through qualifying, but they have an would give them a fantastic chance of players spread all round the
extremely talented squad and are still a qualifying — with games against North Korea world. They are a lot of
major threat, while the Ivory Coast side is still to come — while defeat would leave them people's choice to win the
probably the most highly-fancied African — knowing that they must get a result against tournament outright but do face a tough
team ever at a World Cup. Even tipped by Brazil to stand any chance of making it to group stage. Don't be too shocked if in the
end they go home disappointed.
MATCH
KEY some as potential outsiders for the title, The the knockout stages.
NORTH KOREA: | have not been there

BRAZIL VY NORTH KOREA Johannesburg JEP, Tuesday 15 June 1930 BST
lately to watch them play. | don't think even
Anything other than a comfortable win for Brazil extremely defensive game, hitting teams on the the North Korean people know much
in this one would come as a massive shock. A counter-attack when possible and generally about their national football team. But I'm
win for the North Koreans would be one of, if defending deep in numbers — tactics that may pretty convinced they will be heading back
not the greatest World Cup shock of all time. frustrate Brazil, but are unlikely to keep them to their secretive homeland quite quickly.
The chances of them pulling off a positive result out for 90 minutes. If the unthinkable happens HARRY 'S VERDICT: Group stage only.
are obviously slim. With the make-up of the and the South Americans lose, then they will be PORTUGAL: It's a toss-up between
North Korean side shrouded in secrecy, the one in very serious danger of crashing out of the Portugal and the lvory Coast to finish
thing that is known is that they will play an tournament at the first hurdle. behind Brazil. But on their day the
Portuguese are capable of shocking even
BRAZIL V IVORY COAST Johannesburg JSC, Sunday 20 June 1930 BST
the world's best team. They have an
awesome line-up with great players such
Probably the most anticipated game of the African crowd getting fully behind the as Cristiano Ronaldo and Ricardo
group stages, the highly-rated Ivory Coast take continent's leading representatives. Both teams Carvalho.
on one of the best teams in world football. If are decent going forward, but also have solid HARRY'S VERDICT: Last 16.
either or both of these sides won their first defences, meaning that this one is extremely IVORY COAST: Scary. Didier Drogba
game then qualification could be secured today, tough to call. With North Korea to come next, a alone is enough to give any rival team
but likewise, two defeats from two would likely win for lvory Coast here would leave one of sleepless nights. It's possible and plausible
guarantee an early exit from the competition. Brazil and Portugal facing the likelihood of a _ they could edge Brazil - this is a tough,
The atmosphere should be wonderful, with the shock exit. tough group and one | shall be watching
with enormous excitement.
PORTUGAL V NORTH KOREA
Cape Town, Monday 21 June 1230 BST
BRAZIL: You cannot talk
None of the three big sides in Group G will about the World Cup
accept defeat to North Korea, but the minnows without mentioning Brazil.
won't just roll over. Their defensive record in They are the only country to
qualification was phenomenal, and despite a have appeared at every +
plethora of attacking talent, Portugal have finals and have lifted the trophy five times.
struggled to score over recent years. Even so, With the likes of Kaka and Luis Fabiano. in
4 Mn wv North Korea are likely to be out of the their squad they have every chance of ©
competition after this game. Portugal will know making it six.
that a win will either send them through, or TEL'S VERDICT: Possible, some
Portugal's Ronaldo and Nani leave them needing a result against Brazil. would say probable, champs.
NORTH KOREA; South Africa's genuine
unknown quantity after reaching their first
PORTUGAL V BRAZIL Durban, Friday 25 June 1500 BST
finals since 1966. Back then, they
In the likely event that qualification is still not shock, with many tipping the South Americans famously defeated Italy 1-0 before being
guaranteed for either of these sides, this is a for the title. Even if both teams are already beaten 5-3 in the quarter-finals by Portugal
massive match. While few would be surprised if through to the next round this should still be a - having taken a 3-0 lead. They are unlikely
Portugal failed to make it out of the group great game to watch, with some of the world's to reach that stage this time, but who
stage, an early exit for Brazil would be a huge best attacking players on display. knows?
TEL'S VERDICT: The most
unpredictable team in tournament.
NGRTH KOREA V IVORY COAST Nelspruit, Friday 25 June 1500 BST
PORTUGAL: You can never rule out any
If the Ivory Coast are still in with a chance of Ivorians don't get an early goal then this has team which contains a player like Cristiano
qualifying for the knock-out stages at this point the potential to be an extremely nervy Ronaldo. But they will have to improve on
then a game against the weakest team at the encounter. Suspensions and injuries also come their displays in qualification in which they
tournament gives them a terrific opportunity to into play, and if Didier Drogba is missing then only secured their place at the finals with a
do so. However, North Korea will be keen to go that will be a huge blow to The Elephants. If the hard-fought play-off win over Bosnia.
put in a great performance in what is likely to African side go through, then expect the TEL'S VERDICT: Must do better or
be their last game at this World Cup. If the atmosphere in Nelspruit to be fantastic. will be out in Africa.
122 GROUP G
IVORY COAST: Regardless of their
performance in the 2010 Africa Cup of
Nations they are the strongest African
nation at the finals. With Kolo Toure at the
back, Didier Zokora in midfield and Didier
Drogba up front, the Elephants will be a
test for any team. They just need to make
sure they keep their discipline. :
TEL'S VERDICT: One to watch.
BRAZIL: One of the

favourites to lift the trophy
and rightly so, their World
Cup record is simply
awesome. Defensively, they
might appear lackadaisical at times but
there is no doubting their attacking threat,
particularly with Seville's prolific striker Luis
Fabiano leading the line.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: There or
thereabouts.
NORTH KOREA: South Africa's mystery
men. The majority of players in the North
Korean squad are based domestically. In
the recent 0-0 draw against Congo in
France - their first match on European soil
since 1966 — they gave little away despite
the side missing six key players.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Who knows?
PORTUGAL: Another strongly tipped
nation who stuttered through qualification.
Coach Carlos Queiroz, the former
Manchester United No. 2, has been heavily
criticised in his homeland and that means
the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Deco will
hardly be in the best of spirits as they head
to South Africa.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Under
pressure already.
IVORY COAST: Reckoned to be one of
Africa's strongest challengers and their
striker Didier Drogba can definitely
enhance his reputation and become the
tournament's highest scorer, provided he
gets the service he does at Chelsea and,
of course, his country remain in the
competition long enough.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Force to be
reckoned with.
BRAZIL v NETHERLANDS
PORTUGAL PORTUGAL v SPAIN SPAIN v ITALY

GROUP H GROUP E
GROUP G
BRAZIL, NORTH KOREA (KOREA DPR), IVORY SPAIN, SWITZERLAND, HONDURAS, CHILE NETHERLANDS, DENMARK, JAPAN,
CAMEROON
COAST, PORTUGAL
GROUP F
GROUP G 123
Sa »}.4:V4\i FIFA RANKINGS:
HIGH |LOW 6AVGE 4FINAL
Unlike fellow South Americans Argentina, spearheading a fearsome attacking unit, The most successful national side in
qualification was a breeze for Brazil, as Dunga's main achievement as Brazil boss has football history and the only nation to
Dunga's side recovered from a slow start been to add defensive solidity to a side that has have appeared at every single World —
to top the ten-nation group. never struggled to score goals. This more Cup, Brazil are once again one of the
Two wins from their opening six games put conservative style has won the manager few tournament favourites.
the manager under pressure, with fans and friends in Brazil, but it was the cornerstone of Winners of the tournament in 1994, losing
pundits critical of the European-based players’ the team's successful run in qualification and finalists at France '98 and champions again
commitment to the cause, but seven victories in saw a place at the finals secured with three in 2002 — despite having one of the weakest
the next ten saw Brazil reach the World Cup games to spare. line-ups for many years, Brazil's recent
with ease. With Sevilla's Luis Fabiano For final qualification table see Paraguay. World Cup pedigree is more than a match
Avge FIFA ranking for their glittering past.
1 14 0Oct07 Away Colombia 38°.-D= 00 A quarter-final defeat to France in 2006 —
came as a huge disappointment, and saw
2 18 Oct07 Home Ecuador 44 W_ 5 0 Love 18, Ronaldinho 71, Kaka 76, 84,
coach Carlos Alberto Parreira replaced by
Elano 82
Dunga, even though the former World Cup —
3 18Nov0O7 Away Peru 76 D 1 1 Kaka 40 winning captain had no previous managerial
4 21 Nov0/7 Home Uruguay 22 W_~ 2 1 Fabiano 44, 64 experience. :
Over the course of his four years in charge
5 15 Jun08 Away Paraguay 20a 20
Dunga has transformed Brazil into an
6 19Jun08 Home Argentina 62-):2960-0 uncharacteristically well-drilled outfit, often
7 08Sep 08 Away Chile 32 W_ 0 8 Fabiano 21, 83, Robinho 45 opting for two defensively minded central —
8 11 Sep 08 Home Bolivia 66 D 00
midfielders to shield the back four, allowing
the full-backs to roam forward and a hugely
9 12 Oct08 Away Venezuela 60 W_ 0 4 Kaka 6, Robinho 9, 66, Leite Ribeiro 19 talented attacking unit freedom to play.
10 16 Oct08 Home Colombia 383%:D7'0°0
Don't be surprised if Fabiano is
11 29Mar09 Away Ecuador : 44 D 1 1 Baptista 72
challenging for the Golden Boot
12 02 Apr09 Home Peru 76 W_- 3 O Fabiano 18pen, 27, Melo de Carvalho 64
at the end of the tournament.
13 06 Jun09 Away Uruguay 22 W_ 0 4 DAlves 12, dos Santos 36, Fabiano 52,
Kaka 75pen The coach's decision to move away from ~
14 11 Jun09 Home Paraguay 20 W_- 2 1 De Souza 40, Honorato da Silva 50 the policy of just picking players fromthe
major European sides was greeted with
15 06 Sep 09 Away Argentina 6 W 1 3 Da Silva 28, Fabiano Clemente 30,68 |
scepticism at first. The likes of Luis Fabiano,
16 10Sep 09 Home Chile 32. W_ 4 2 Honorato da Silva 31, 74, 76, Baptista 40 Nilmar and Vagner Love played a large part
17 11 OctO9 Away Bolivia 66 L 2 1 Nilmar 70 in the team's improvement and the
18 14Oct09 Home Venezuela 60 D 00 introduction of many home-based players to
the set-up was also a welcome change to
r\(-te-lel-m al| We-la) dale Mme)me)e)elesiit
(ela) 40
the usually European dominated squads.
Triumphs in the 2007 Copa America and
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup signalled
Brazil's return to form, and with their new-
Key: ff played 90 mins « subbed off »subbedon § on bench 3 hgh z
c Oo 90 > Ao} found defensive solidity added to the usual
Match 12346567 8 9101112131415161718 § 9 BRB mS > attacking flair, the Samba stars are
Venue AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH ether Ai PH ater |beamed
Result DWDWLDWOWDDWWWWWL I ee RL ie Sx 62 Bo considered to be one of the leading
Goalkeepers
Julio Cesar iT PEEP PEEL ELLE Lire 18 18 O O 16201000 0 1 0O
candidates for the title.
Defenders The most likely stumbling block for the
Daniel Alves Sea» » DS »+- S88 Oo S'S 3408 Gee iaee oud a uee et
Andre Santos » B«« nod -U. gaa een Whee Go te &
Brazilians could be in this year's ‘Group of
Adriano mae CO 2 We 26e 736-0) 0.20 Death’, with the mercurial Portugal and a
Gilberto rT TTT ery | 8. 6 010) 47207444» Get. 0
Kleber oo « EHH 8B BrtGis 0) sO 496306: 5OU hugely talented Ivory Coast side presenting a
Miranda > BHH« APS) lO PE1O toon ONO ot serious threat to Dunga's hopes of leading
Maicon fa 4 44-# WHMMM 15 15 O 2 1278 789 00 0
Lucio Bae Trt ELLiiLlt 14-44 80" OF 41260 718 0 4G the squad to the knock out stages.
Luisao = 88 B« OMMMM 8 8 01 641 396 1 40 lf Kaka and co. do play to their potential
Juan Maldonado »H (8 2G Tce: dese Co Omen arG
Juan TT TLL “« « | id {0:.10' “0 29 S50" Go “fo Oo then they could go to the final and with Luis
Marcelo B hate JOCS) OO NS.6r 100, Fabiano leading the frontline for the Samba
Midfielders
Alex Costa a | fe ede ee GO" 616) 000 stars, anything is possible.
Josue ; h »«SRB« HB» » 1079 16t. 4-2 ea orn 35.27 (Or 20 Don’t be surprised if Fabiano is challenging
Gilberto Silva TTT. BH BOB WM 44 (OO lo 1200778 0 2 0
Julio Baptista » >» a» » » BB« TR i OBE Bs osOY OD for the Golden Boot at the end of the
Elano Gr» oe ke 1A SF RR Be) SPSS S64 eS 1 eo tournament.
Mineiro cage «i 6) 6 On si b0deo1.4. VO) 70i, (0
veaM TOP 15 RANKING

Ronaldinho B « “« « Be? le Aba iaes.ou lOO
Diego amee Bes) ee A bs I 0 2
Kaka ««B «HB «Se At Wt. -Onc4 sSoe68:9. 6 2) 0
Lucas Leiva « i ee HO! NS ASO 9:3) 0. 0 2.0
Feline Melo BEBEG« Be 6 i) OA OO iN30.Bi tt ad
Ramires
Forwards
» » « Sy ee Sab TS OO Se Oo GROUP FIXTURES
Jo » 1B ie ory Mie 8) 04 58 0 0 O
Robinho «M« « | ey B«BM«a«aa 1D. 0 Bo I20t rae.” (OO NORTH KOREA Tue 15 June 1930 BST
Luis Fabiano » BB» « BM« « @. ty) Bro" Ss: 8015 49:4 0/9 4
Nilmar » S« BES ee a Se | 358.22.) 6° 9. 0 IVORY COAST Sun 20 June 1930 BST
Adriano var’ | iat SOS Me Sioa co thee PORTUGAL Fri 25 June 1500 BST
Vagner Love “4 4 AIS 1 2S) eneees 14 a0 20
124 GROUP G
FEES
Zone South America

Population 199m
Language Portuguese
Top league Serie A
Playing season May - December
Flamengo (95,402), Internacional (56,000), Sao Paulo
(80,312), Corinthians (88,800)
Premier League - Ligue 1 -
Number of Brazilian players playing:
1930 - Round 1 1974 - 4th place
1934 - Round 1 1978 - 8rd place
1938 - 3rd place 1982 - Round 2
1950 - Runners up 1986 - Quarter finals
1954 - Quarter finals 1990 - Last 16
1958 - * Champions 1994- * Champions
1962 - * Champions 1998 - Runners up
1966 - Round 1 2002- * Champions
1970 - * Champions 2006- Quarter finals

Julio Cesar Inter Milan 30 618
Doni Roma 30 0
Defenders
Daniel Alves Barcelona 27 9
Adriano Sevilla 25 3
Gilberto Cruzeiro 34 8
Kleber Internacional 30 6
Miranda Sao Paulo 25 4
Maicon Inter Milan 237 IS
Lucio Inter Milan 32. «14
Luisao Benfica 29 8
Juan Roma 3t 10
Midfielders
Josue Wolfsburg 30 10
Gilberto Silva Panathinaikos 33 14
A supremely talented player, Kaka is as one of a trio of attacking players behind Julio Baptista Roma 28 re
often described as an attacking midfield Fabiano in Brazil's formation in World Cup Elano Galatasaray 28 «14
player, but scores so many goals that qualifying, Kaka is all-but guaranteed a
he could just as easily be seen as a starting place if fit, with the likes of Robinho, Ronaldinho AC Milan 30 8
support striker. Ronaldinho and Nilmar competing to play Diego Juventus 25 5

Naturally gifted, Kaka's game is more than alongside him. A threat when given space to Kaka Real Madrid 28:0 14
fancy tricks, it's his clever runs, decent pace shoot from distance, Kaka's link-up play Felipe Melo Juventus 26 6
and a great eye for a pass that set him with Fabiano will be the key to any success. Ramire fic
apart as one of the world's best. He plays Forwards

Robinho Man City/Santos 26 15
Luis Fabiano Sevilla 20) 4
Nilmar Villarreal 25 5
Alexandre Pato AC Milan 20 3
GROUP G 125
i he
TING Lf
A superbly talented right-back, the true Instantly recognisable with his upright
mark of Maicon's quality is that he has running style and aggressive approach to
been considered Brazil's first-choice in the game, Lucio was the obvious
that position over the last few years, candidate to take over the Brazilian
despite competition from a player of the captaincy when Dunga was appointed
quality of Dani Alves. head coach in 2006 due to his vocal on-
Along with a dangerous attacking game, field presence and all-action qualities.
Maicon is reliable defensively, while his A towering presence in the air, the centre-
phenomenal work-rate and an aggressive back is as dangerous in the opposition box as
streak mean that he is not a player that any he is commanding in his own, which he
opposing left-winger should take lightly. highlighted with a headed winner in the 2009
Maicon is a Top 12 defender Confederations Cup Final against the United
States. Nine years in the Bundesliga — with
Bayer Leverkusen and Bayern Munich — saw
Lucio cement his reputation as one of the
leading defenders in world football and a move
to Jose Mourinho's Inter Milan in the summer of
A hugely experienced centre-back, Juan 2009 saw him finally test himself in one of the
has become a mainstay of the Brazil team. ‘Big Three' European leagues. South Africa will
Unspectacular yet effective in defence, be the defender's third World Cup, after he
Juan impressed in a five-year spell at played every single minute en-route to the 2002
Bayer Leverkusen, before furthering his title and also set a record in 2006 for the most
reputation at AS Roma. minutes without conceding a foul at a World
Juan's partnership with Lucio at the back is Cup — 386. His partnership with Juan in the
likely to be key if Brazil claim another World title. centre of defence has impressed over recent
years and his vocal presence in the box
g record 12 months Ige wcq ensures that he also works well with goalkeeper
Appearances: 22 10 Julio Cesar. A key component of this Brazil
Minutes played: 1805 830 side, Lucio's form and fitness will be vital to the
Percentage played: 48.9% 51.2% Samba Kings hopes of lifting a sixth World Cup.
Goals conceded: 19 5 Although he can be sometimes exposed for a
Clean sheets: 11 6 lack of pace, a new defensive formation with
Cards: Vivek ay2yRO two holding midfielders should protect the
Defensive rating: 95mins 166mins skipper's weaknesses.
Defender ranking: 42nd 42nd LUCIO IS a 1Op 142
ae
Geena
a
Parreira as head coach of the national side

after the last World Cup, Dunga's tenure got
off to a shaky start, with his negative tactics —
mixed with poor results — leading to
widespread media criticism...and even from
the president of Brazil.
However, success in the 2007 Copa America
and a comfortable World Cup qualification
campaign saw Dunga's defensive mindset
Diavinga racny: 49 monthe Iqe
it rout i< Mmontns ige
help add uncharacteristic steel to this Brazilian
Appearances: j‘fe side. His decision to mix domestic talent with
Minutes played: 1530 A former World Cup-winning Brazil the big names from Europe has given the
Percentage played: 44.7% captain, Dunga was appointed manager squad both balance and unity.
Goals conceded: 29 of Brazil in 2006, despite having no His decision to move to a more balanced
Clean sheets: 3 previous coaching experience. 4-2-3-1 formation — with an out-and-out front
Cards: Y2, RO A defensive midfielder in a playing career man and two defensive midfielders, allowing
Minutes between goals: 53mins that spanned 20 years, Dunga was capped the creative players freedom to express _
Goalkeeper ranking: 33rd 91 times by Brazil, leading the Canarinho to themselves — has made Brazil a more
World Cup glory in 1994 and again to the consistent side, making them one of the clear
final at France '98. favourites to become the world champions in
A surprise choice to replace Carlos Alberto South Africa.
126 GROUPG
DANI
ALVES
BARCELONA
The most expensive right-back in the
history of the game, Dani Alves still can't
tie down a regular starting place in the
Brazil side, with manager Dunga preferring
Inter Milan's Maicon.
Hugely attacking, Alves made a name for
himself with two-time UEFA Cup champions
Sevilla, before sealing a move to Spanish giants
Barcelona. It was feared that a partnership with
Lionel Messi down the right might be exposed
defensively, but Alves proved his critics wrong,
playing a key role in Barcelona's all-conquering
2008-09 campaign, winning the Champions
League and a Spanish league and cup double
in his first season, before adding the Spanish Luis Fabiano is a clinical finisher, with three years, before finally being recalled by
and UEFA Supercups and the FIFA World Club an aggressive streak and the ability to Dunga in 2007. The move to bring a
Cup at the end of 2009. Alves offers natural hold the ball up. genuine target man into the side proved vital
width down the right, and with a terrific set- The striker provides the perfect foil to allow — in changing Brazil's fortunes, as the new
piece delivery and a wicked shot, he is an the more typically ‘Brazilian’ talents of the manager turned the team from occasionally
extremely dangerous player to bring off the likes of Kaka, Robinho, Ronaldinho and magical to consistently efficient. Expect
bench in tight matches. It could be that Dunga Nilmar the space to play in and around Fabiano to find the back of the net with
opts to use Alves on the left of defence to find opposition defences. Fabiano made not a alarming regularity in South Africa.
single appearance for the national side in Fabiano is a Top 12 strike
a place for such quality in the starting line-up.
Alves is a Top 12 defender.
GROUP G 127
ya ava Y,
KEY MII
JUVENTUS
Dunga's preference for two defensive The World Cup comes at the perfect time
midfield players has seen Felipe Melo tie for Robinho to restart a career that
down a regular starting spot in the Brazil appears to have reached a crossroads.
side since his debut in February 2009. Signed by Manchester City from Real Madrid
The manager's tactics may have attracted in the summer of 2008, the attacking midfielder
many critics in Brazil, but Melo's partnership failed to impress in the Premier League and
with Gilberto Silva in the middle of the park has returned on loan to the club with whom he
been the cornerstone of Brazil's transformation started his career — Santos — in January 2010.
into a side who are as strong at the back as A typical Brazilian flair player, with sumptuous
they are going forward. More than comfortable ability on the ball and an eye for goal. However,
on the ball, Melo's pace and eye for a pass with the likes of Ronaldinho, Kaka and Nilmar
perfectly off-sets veteran Gilberto's more all competing for a place in midfield in support
physical approach to the game. A starting of lone striker Fabiano, his place in the Brazil
player in all five games as the South Americans starting line-up is far from assured. A player of
won the Confederations Cup last summer, the Robinho's talent with a point to prove is a
midfielder's impressive displays allowed Brazil's dangerous combination and if Dunga does find
creative midfielders a platform to attack. His a place for him in the side then Portugal, Ivory
displays at the tournament saw him attract Coast and North Korea should be beware.
attention from some of the biggest clubs in
European football — and the fact that Arsene Playing record 12 months Ige weq
Wenger was publically interested in taking the Appearances: 25 16
midfielder to north London should indicate what Minutes played: 1796 1201
a natural footballer Melo is. Instead he opted to Percentage played: 49.9% 74.1%
remain in Italy and move from Fiorentina to Goals scored: 3 4
Juventus, where he struggled to settle into the Percentage share: 4.84% 12.12%
team in his debut season. His defensive skills Cards: Y1,.RO'- “YOR RG
will be tested by the talented Ivory Coast and Strike rate: 599mins 300mins
Portugal and he will play an important role if Strike rate ranking: 120th 60th
Brazil are going to lift the title.
Melo is a Top 12 midfielder.
A veteran in this Brazil side, defensive

midfielder Gilberto Silva has defied his
declining club form te remain a key part of
the national set-up.
Benefitting from manager Dunga's use of two
holding midfielders in a defensive formation, Elano's versatility makes him the perfect
Gilberto's partnership with Felipe Melo shields a squad member for a Brazil side who have
central defensive partnership that has plenty of high hopes of going all the way in South
quality but lacks pace. He has his fair share of Africa.
critics and playing his club football in the Greek Decent on the ball with an eye for a pass and
league with Panathinaikos does little to suggest a terrific long-distance shot, the former
that his career is not one on the wane. Manchester City man can play anywhere across
However, he still has terrific ability in the air and the midfield. A reliable penalty taker, Elano will
the sort of leadership skills that a team needs. be a useful asset if Brazil progress.
19 monthe Ia
Diavin
Playing
my
racarrd
record 12 montns ige weg Playing record 12 months Ige wcq
Appearances: - 14 Appearances: - 14
Minutes played: - 1260 Minutes played: - 594
Percentage played: - 77.8% Percentage played: - 36.7%
Goals scored: - 0 Goals scored: - 1
Clean sheets: - rf Clean sheets: - 8
Cards: - Y2, RO Cards: - Y1, RO
Strike rate: - - Strike rate: - 594mins
Midfielder ranking: - - Midfielder ranking: - -
128 GROUP G
ALEXAN
PATO
AC MILAN
A talented young striker, Alexandre Pato
has had limited playing time for Brazil so
far in his career, but is likely to feature in
the tournament, either as a replacement
for Fabiano up front, or as a partner for the
front man.
Decent pace, lightning reactions and
predatory instinct in the box have seen Pato
become a regular for club side AC Milan, and
the influence of legendary finisher Filippo
Inzaghi is clear to see in the youngster's
evolving style. The 20-year-old has more ability
on the ball than the Italian veteran, but is
similarly effective in and around the penalty box.
Nilmar was recalled to the national set-
Playing record 12 months Ic up by Dunga in 2008, four years after Appearances: 13 5
Appearances: BO 3 his previous cap. Minutes played: 781 358
Minutes played: 2650 66 Still just 25, the talented attacker can be Percentage played: 22:3%" "22.1%
Percentage played: 73.6% 4.1% used either as a striker or one of the three Goals scored: 4 5
Goals scored: 16 0 support players in Brazil's 4-2-3-1 Percentage share: 6.67% 15.15%
Percentage share: 21.92% 0.00% formation, and his club performances over Cards: YO,RO YO, RO
Cards: ¥1; RO. —¥0;.AO the last year have seen him emerge as a Strike rate:
Strike rate: 166mins - genuine contender for a starting place, Strike rate ranking:
Strike rate ranking: 32nd
GROUP G 129
B IVORY COAST FIFA RANKINGS:
HIGH 18 LOW 38 AVGE 2? FINAL
The most highly-fancied African side at the Faso was a highlight, and qualification was Ivory Coast are rightly seen as the a
World Cup, Ivory Coast cruised through confirmed with a 1-1 draw away in Malawi. of a strong African contingent atthe _
qualification, topping their groups in both However, the campaign was overshadowed World Cup, despite once again being Ses
—
stages of CAF qualifying. by a crowd crush in March 2009, thousands of drawn in the 'Group of Death’.
The Elephants eased through round two with extra fans crammed into the stadium to watch The Elephants qualified for their first Finals
three wins at home and three draws on the them hammer Malawi 5-0 in their opening in 2006, where they were handed atough
road enough to see off Mozambique, Botswana game. The incident left at least 22 dead and draw against Argentina, Netherlands anda
and Madagascar. A 4-0 win versus Botswana hundreds injured. highly-rated Serbia and Montenegro side. —
was a highlight, as even defensive midfielder Yet nearly qualified after narrowly losing at
Didier Zokora got his name on the score-sheet FINAL QUALIFYING TABLE 2-1 in the first two games, despite terrific
— his first goal for his country and only the AFRICA ROUND 3 GROUP E performances, before beating the Serbian in
fourth in his entire professional career. The PWODL F A Pts the final match of the group.
second and final group stage saw Ivory Coast Ivory Coast 6 .541.0°-19' 4° 16 The core of the talented 2006 squad
really turn on the style, with Didier Drogba Burkina Faso 63.402. 10 11 12 remains intact four years on, and with — ae
bagging six of his side's 19 goals in just half a Malawi 6 114 411 4 experienced players across the park there| is
dozen games. A 5-0 hammering of Burkina Guinea Gee Onoe 7 2t4 23 a nice balance to the side. =
Avge FIFA ranking Progress to the latter stages is likely ion
' aa REE depend on the form and fitness of thehugely
TOL pee Ni DES influential Didier Drogba, but Aruna Dindane
2 08 Jun08 Away Madagascar 136 D 00 and the Kone brothers —Arouna and Bakari
3 14Jun08 Away Botswana 120 D 1 1 Meite 65 i — offer decent support in attack, while
4 22 Jun08 Home Botswana 120 W_ 4 OSanogo 16, Zokora
22,Cisse 46,70 Salomon Kalou and the lively Abdul-Kader
5 07 Sep 08 Away Mozambique 91D 144 BKone 48 Kelta are useful options up-front ang Out
- . wide if the team need goals,
6 11 Oct08 Home Madagascar 136 W 30 ‘Sanogo 41, 55, S. Kalou 65 : Manager Vahid Halihodzic's preference of :
is 29 Mar 09 Home Malawi 109 W_ 5 O Romaric 1,Drogba 6pen, 27,8. Kalou §9,. Emmanuel Eboue on the right of midfield :
y -B.Kone70 gives the team solidity down that flank, while
8 07 Jun 09 Away Guinea awe - Bs es Kalou offers a more direct threat on the left.
9 20Jun09 Away BurkinaFaso = 64: W 28 Yaya,Toure14, M.Tall8409,Drogba 70 Many pundits had picked this
10 05Sep09 Home Burkina Faso 64 W__ 5 0 Panandetiguiri 120g, Drogba 48, 65, group of players as possible
ARNE resaS dark horses for the title prior
11 10 Oct 09 Away Malawi 109 D1 1 Drogba 67 to the draw, but...
12 14Nov09 Home Guinea = ———~S*«SsSsS Ws 83:0 Gevinho 16, 311,Cisse 67
One of the strengths of the lvory Coast
PN(tele(-Mlly Weal dale Me) me)oleloly1ile)a] 94 side is their experienced and talented central
defensive midfield partnership of Didier ;
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION Zokora and Yaya Toure, with the former's
presence in front of the back-four allowing
8 ce 8 the more naturally gifted Barcelona man the~
Match tS 84°67 GO 102 pan or eae ee aron tee freedom to support the attacking players.
Cc > 3 . et
Venue HAAHAHHAAHAH & § BQ 2 0 @8 4 Adboulaye Meite and Kolo Toure offer.

Hepp has WO WED WWW BSE ee SRS OR ees 7 Premier League experience in the centre of a
eiaten Barty PrTTiTittiti oo 4424 OL ee reliable defensive quartet that gives the team
. * . £,
Aristide Zogbo Beas 2aeee wi Ons0m = COmeecar0 108.0 a solid base, and the Ivorians will feel they —
racine — ae have the talent at the back to cope with the
enjamin Angoua » PMD iP MAS, gO 718.8" 0° <0 0 : ‘
Stdlediae aatbe Pa >CIe MMM 63°20. 286 264 0 1 0 better teams in South Africa on theirH day. !
Arthur Boka BEEBE MMe 8 8f(to lO 72067 00 0 Many pundits had picked this group of
Guy Demel @« Bm o@« Me 7 7 O 2 588 544 0 1 0 players as possible dark horses for the title
rushes Eboue a =A ~a -Sae588 Us _ ‘ es ee ; : : prior to the draw, but a place in Group G
igor Lolo » h Y :
Abdobisve: ele «BB « «a 6 Gr oan aorta ene 4.6 alongside Brazil and Portugal could see one
Siaka Tiene B«@>O@OMB»« MBM 10 8 2 2 74 686 0 2 0 of the most talented African teams ever seen
Habib Kolo Toure Baa «8 a S00 FO10R 56.50" 05.0 at a World Cup struggle to even make the
Marco Zoro Haar BB» Basti o2 On Sit OOO we NG knockout stages.
Midfielders
Kanga Akale Baaann 6 4 2 3 333 308 00 0 That said, as long as at least some of their
Emerse Fae » «>» shat « 6113 Sane oerCARO e Onn Ola WO star men perform, Ivory Coast are more than
Hake i Gosso eet ~ a im» : : i 4 ae es . : m capable of beating their European foes and
mmanuel Kone » be wv j f ‘ * * £
Yaya seare «Bo «MB 7 6 1 2 542 502 21 0 could even spring a surprise against Brazil. _
Didier Zokora BEB BBBBEMMRMMM 2 12 ~«O O 1080 100 110 DREAM
Forwards TEAM TOP 15 RANKING
Sekou Cisse »w ae» » «ee Fe Gee meron eeodl!. 4 a oO
Aruna Dindane « A es eal Baro OY tb
Didier Drogba «Ba» 5 4) ji Oe ces 43.0 6 6100 GROUP FIXTURES
Salomon Kalou »««B« «ll BU eae, Oe6. 68.0)" Bit 0
Abdul Kader Keita TE 4 Ss 20 3 es) 46.90. 7 Oe 6
Bakary Kone «B«m« 5 6 0 8 4iesc87 2 1 0 PORTUGAL Tue 15 June 1500 BST
Gervais Yao Kouassi 7] iG» > Sule 2enO te to. Tm Oso! ot BRAZIL Sun 20 June 1930 BST
Boubacar Sanogo «BEBE» i» S65 42) F 554 “SIS 3 0" 0 NORTH KOREA Fri 25 June 1500 BST
Kandia Traore as | Seis 12 ot) (26h 242. On 4os "0
130 GROUP G
Zone Africa
Population 17.5m
Language French
Top league Cote d'Ivoire Premier Division
Playing season February - November
ASEC Mimosas (35,491), Africa Sports National
(20,000), Stella Club d'Adjame (20,842)
Number of Ivorian players playing:
Serie A - Ligue 1 10
1970 - Did not enter 2006 - * Found 1

Boubacar Barry Beveren 30 10
Defenders
Souleymane Bamba Hibernian 25 5

Arthur Boka Stuttgart 27 7
Guy Demel Hamburg 28 7
Emmanuel Eboue Arsenal av. oii
Abdoulaye Meite West Brom 29 5

Siaka Tiene Valenciennes 28 9
Habib Kolo Toure Man City 29 6
Marco Zoro Setubal 26 3
Midfielders
Kanga Akale Lens 2g 5
Emerse Fae Nice 26 §
One of, if not the best striker in world Chelsea since his move from Marseille in Jean-Jacques Gosso AS Monaco 27 2
football, Didier Drogba is the spearhead 2004, the striker's only negative quality is a Emmanuel Kone International Curtea 23 6
of an impressive Ivory Coast side. perceived attitude problem, which has seen Yaya Toure Barcelona 27 ¢
The most highly-rated African side at the him lacking drive at some points in his Didier Zokora Sevilla 29 11
tournament have quality throughout their career, Drogba's combination of pace, Forwards
ranks, but it is the presence of such a power and finishing ability make him Sekou Cisse Feyenoord 25 6
talented front man that means that the extremely difficult to play against. Drogba Didier Drogba Chelsea 32 5
lvorians are even some people's dark will be key for Ivory Coast. Salomon Kalou Chelsea 24 8
Abdul Kader Keita Galatasaray 28 3
horses for the title. A major player at
Bakary Kone Marseille 28 e
Gervais Yao Kouassi Lille 3
Boubacar Sanogo St Etienne 27 7
Kandia Traore Caen 29 4
GROUP G_ 131
Emmanuel Eboue may not be the most A defensive midfielder, Didier Zokora is
glamorous option on the right, but the one of the most experienced members of
Arsenal man is extremely effective at back the Ivory Coast squad.
or half-back. His partnership with Yaya Toure in the centre
of midfield is one of the strengths of the side,
Playing record 12 months Ige wcq with his work-rate and energy allowing the more
Appearances: 26 12 naturally gifted Toure the opportunity to get
Minutes played: 1198 1004 forward more than he does at club level.
Percentage played: 33.3% 93% Zokora's performances in the 2006 World Cup
Goals conceded: al 6 saw him attract attention from some of
Clean sheets: 18 8 Europe's biggest clubs and opted for a move to
Cards: Y4, R41 Wala ln@, Tottenham Hotspur.
Minutes between goals: 190mins 167mins lavina j record
P laying record l 12 months Ige weq
Defender ranking: 2nd 43rd Appearances: 25 12
— —
The Ivory Coast goalkeeper will know that Goals scored: 0 1
he's likely to be in for a tough time in Clean sheets: 10 8
Group G. Cards: Y8, RO Y1, RO
Protected by a solid defence and a decent Strike rate: - 1008mins
midfield, Boubacar Barry — who goes by the Midfielder ranking: 158th -
name of Copa in club football — will need to be
at his shot-stopping best in South Africa. It's The older of the Toure brothers, Kolo Toure
fair to say that Barry may be the lvorians' main brings proven quality to the Ivory Coast
weakness, but the Belgium-based stopper has defence. The Manchester City skipper will
an opportunity to prove his critics wrong and need to be in good form if The Elephants
earn a move to one of the major European are to withstand the inevitable assault on
leagues if he excels at the World Cup. their defence from Brazil and Portugal.
Playing record 12 months Ige wcq record

Appearances: - 11 Appearances: 7
Minutes played: - 990 Minutes played: 2879 610
Percentage played: - 91.7% Percentage played: 80.0% 56.5% Playing record 2 months Ige wcq
Goals conceded: - 3 Goals conceded: 37 2 Appearances: 27 7
Clean sheets: - 6 Clean sheets: 15 S| Minutes played: 1983 588
Cards: - Y1, RO Cards: Y1,RO YO, RO Percentage played: 64.8% 54.4%
Minutes between goals: - 830mins Minutes between goals: 78mins 305mins Goals scored: 1 0
Goalkeeper ranking: - 2nd Defender ranking: 92nd 13th Clean sheets: 8 4
Cards: Y6,RO Yi,;RO
Strike rate: 983mins a
Midfielder ranking: 151st
A talented striker back in his playing career,

winning the Ligue 1 title in his first season with
Nantes and twice finishing top-scorer of the
French league. He also achieved fame as a
coach in France with Rennes and Lille, helping
the former avoid relegation and leading the
latter into the Champions League. An
undefeated record in World Cup qualifying saw
Halihodzic's choice of a 4-4-2 formation turn
Ivory Coast into a more solid side defensively.
The manager often uses Emmanuel Eboue on
Fearsome man-manager Vahid the right of midfield, despite the availability of
Halihodzic was brought in as Ivory Coast more creative options, meaning that a quality
head coach in 2008 with the aim of midfield four of Eboue, Yaya Toure, Didier
uniting a talented squad of players and Zokora and Salomon Kalou give Didier Drogba
ensuring they fulfil their huge collective and his usual strike partner Bakary Kone a
potential in South Africa. solid platform.
132 GROUP G
IVORY COAST (19 )
SALOMON
KALOU
CHELSEA
Salomon Kalou brings yet more big game
experience to an Ivory Coast side packed
full of players who have competed at the
top level of European football.
The Chelsea man is often deployed as a left
ae
winger for his country, making up an impressive
first-choice midfield four with Yaya Toure, Didier
Zokora and Emmanuel Eboue. With Didier
Drogba occupying defenders up top, Kalou has
more time to make runs from deep, take on the
full-back and cut inside to support the front
players. Still only 24, Kalou doesn't score
enough goals, but has a habit of finding the
YAYA TOURE sarcetona
back of the net in important games for his club.
Central midfielder Yaya Toure joins Playing record 12 months Ige wcq
Playing record 12 months Ige weq Didier Drogba as one of the Ivory Appearances: 21 7
Appearances: 24 8 Coast's world-class players. Minutes played: 1552 542
Minutes played: 1351 626 A terrific box-to-box midfielder with an eye Percentage played: 44.2% 50.2%
Percentage played: 38.5% 58.0% for a pass, decent strength, and good Goals scored: 2 2
Goals scored: 4 2 defensive awareness, the midfielder has Clean sheets: 12 5
Percentage share: 5.48% 7.69% often been used as a holding midfielder for Cards: 2 RO Y1, RO
Cards: Yar o Y1, RO Barcelona, but has much more to his game Strike rate: 776mins 271mins
Strike rate: 338mins 313mins than just defending. Midfielder ranking: 134th 22nd
Strike rate ranking: 101st 61st
DREAM RANKING 492 MIDFIELDER |R54" RANKING 206

}
GROUP G 133
‘© NORTH KOREA (DPR) FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH LOW P\ ths FINAL
FINAL PROSPECTS
North Korea qualified for only their second the fourth and final round of qualifying — North Korea face the toughest of tasks
World Cup thanks to a point away in Saudi including being paired with their neighbours to make it out of qualifying after being
Arabia in the final game of a marathon once again — North Korea started with a 2-1 drawn alongside Brazil, Portugal and
Asian qualifying campaign. win over the United Arab Emirates. Their Ivory Coast.
A staggering 9-2 aggregate win over Mongolia impressive defensive record continued as they South Africa will be the nation's second
back in 2007 earned the nation a place in the lost just two of their next six games, leaving taste of World Cup football, after they
opening group stage of the Asian qualifying them in the second automatic qualifying place shocked the world in 1966, beating Italy to
process, where they were drawn alongside in Group B with one game remaining, just become the first ever Asian team to make it
neighbours South Korea, Jordan and ahead of their final opponents, Saudi Arabia, on out of the first round.
Turkmenistan. goal difference. The team were at their However, a 5-3 defeat to Portugal in the
Despite scoring just four goals in the six defensive best again in the winner-takes-all quarter-finals — with the tournament's top-
games, they went through the group unbeaten, clash, never giving the home side a sniff as they scorer Eusebio bagging four — put paid to a
winning three games and amassing twelve secured the 0-0 draw that the nation needed to glamour semi-final clash with hosts England.
points, mainly thanks to a faultless defensive make it to the World Cup for the first time in North Korea's squad is relatively unknown,
record, qualifying in second place behind group over 40 years. with most players yet to ply their trade
favourites South Korea. After a tricky draw for For final qualification table see Korea Republic. outside of their home nation. Much will rely
on the fitness of star man and captain in:
Avge FIFA ranking
qualifying Hong Yong-Jo — who plays for
1 06 Feb 08 Away Jordan 120. W091 Hong 44 Russian Premier League side FC Rostov —
2 26 Mar 08 Home Korea Republic 48 D 00 while young striker Jong Tae-se has a
3 02 Jun08 Away Turkmenistan 152: D'- 50:0 formidable striking record for both club —
4 07 Jun 08 Home Turkmenistan 2 WT ORE Ghee a Japan's Kawasaki Frontale — and country
5 14Jun08 Home Jordan 120 W 20Hong44,72 Aino a Se nie '
6 22 Jun 08 Away Korea Republic fone e side who will need to recreate their superb
7 06 Sep 08 Away United Arab Emirates 113. W_ 1 2 KC.Choe 72, CH.An 80 defensive form from qualifying to stand any
8 10Sep 08 Home Korea Republic 48 D 1 1 Hong 64 pen chance of picking up points against some of
9 45 Oct 68 “Away iran SO 24 long 78 the best players in world football.
10 11 Feb09 Home Saudi Arabia 5 W 10. Zerit TOP 15 RANKING

11 28 Mar 09 Home United Arab Emirates 113. W. 2.0 NC.Pak 51, Mun 90 ~
12 01 Apr09 Away Korea Republic 48 L 10 THE Ave ER
13 06 Jun 09 Home Iran SOD On
14 17 Jun09 Away Saudi Arabia persia BE aia # bast]
North Korea manager Kim Jong-Hun is
Average FIFA ranking of opposition 84 an unknown quantity, much like his
team, but has put together an efficient
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION defensive unit who qualified with a
phenomenal record of nine goals
8 c& B * conceded in 16 matches.
Match 1234567 8 91011121314 5 yA ae ODS tageae pomees Secrecy surrounding the squad — with key
Venue AHAHHAAHAHHAHA 25288 (SD ee ae players rested and friendly fixtures cancelled
Result W0.D WwW EOW'D LWW Gig SO ee ee — suggests that Jong-Hun may have a —
Goalkeepers surprise or two up his sleeve for the Finals.
Myong: Gls: Ri BESERRRERRRRRB 4 4 0 O 12601000 0 2 0 — But he will need luck on his side to even get
Detsnders a positive result against three strong sides in
ake SRR Bey OBBr 8 08 1 11 88 1 1 0 Group G. Whatever happens in South Africa,
doe peJi
Yun Nam »»
aR CRB RRRRRRRRe
MOO MM«MM 45 25 O2 11 1141
489 906
348 00 00 00 Jong-Hun will be remebered
: for gettng North
Song Chol Nem SESE BBR 1 9 1 Oo Bt e202 0 Korea to their first finals since 1966.
Chol Jin Pak « B« BBB 2 2 0 2 986 783 0 0 0
Jun I Ri BERBER 44 COO Oo 12601000 0 0 Oo
Kwang Chon Ri BB BRB 3 13 :*«0O O 1170929 0 10
Midfielders
Yong Hak An BOS«BBOMe«m Me 3 13 (Oo 2 11145 85 0 2 0
Song Chol Han B«>> a BoB 2 OS 24:00 20nd 0
Tae.Se Jong «BB BE See « 12) 12) Ou Ove BOG) 140
Yong Jun Kim “Bae Baan BMan a 11° 8 8 7 «514 408 0 O 1
In Guk Mun BRM aw «6814 14 «OO 8 1239 983 1 «1 «OO
Nam @Moi Pak Jr ye Ben WG Bn ie soaeee 720110) 6
Nam Choi Pak Snr MM MMMM 6 5 1 (OO 451 38 10 0
Song Chol Pak by 1 AO) DOL sO OhO
Kwang Hyok Ri Ps] SRR 1 i OF20 SO il 10.70" 0
Yong Gi Ryang » te AiO" ati a 50 4.0, 0.0 0 GROUP FIXTURES
Forwards
Kum Chol Choe BH» »«yr Brow 825 °6 42) 934. (26158 2 F020 BRAZIL Tue 15 June 1930 BST
Yong Jo Hong BRB«B« «BRB « Be « 14°14) 0 “HS 2h S90 4; 1.0
KumI Kim 2S6e88>>MOMew» 38 0 3 0 128 102 000 PORTUGAL Mon 21 June 1230 BST
Myong Won Kim e>eol» » OG “2.05386 S675. 0.0 s6 IVORY COAST Fri 25 June 1500 BST
134 GROUP G
N KOREA (DPR) (91)
Zone Asia
Population 23.5m
Language Korean
Top league DPR Korea League
Playing season February - June
Locomotive LS (17,50), Ch'ongjin Chandongcha
(15,000), Nampo April (80,000)
Number of North Korean players playing:
Premier League - Bundesliga -
Serie A - Ligue 1 -
La Liga - Eredivisie ‘J
1934 - Did not enter 1978 - Withdrew
1966 - * Quarter finals 2002- Did not enter
THE SQUAD
Myong Guk Ri Pyongyang City 23 «14
Kim Myong-Gil Amrokgang 26 0
Defenders
Chol Hyok An Rimyongsu 24 3
Jong Hyok Cha Amrokgang 2A ts
Yun Nam Ji April 25 24 5
Song Chol Nam April 25 28 10
Chol Jin Pak Amrokgang 24 12
Jun Il Ri Sobaeksu Zee iT4
KEY PLAYER
Kwang Chon Ri April 25 24 13
Pak Chol-Min Rimyongsu 21 6)
Midfielders
Yong Hak An Suwon Bluewings 31 13
YONG JO HONG cc Rostov

Song Chol Han April 25 ae 5
Tae Se Jong Kawasaki Frontale 26 12
Yong Jun Kim Chengdu Blades 26.001
Firat Being the only man in the North Korea Playing record 12 months Ige weq In Guk Mun April 25 31 614
squad to play his football in Europe, Appearances: 14 Nam Choi Pak Jr Amrokgang 21 6
_ Yong-Jo Hong is likely to come under Minutes played: 1121 Nam Choi Pak Snr April 25 24 6
the spotlight this summer as he tries to Percentage played: 89.0% Song Chol Pak Rimyongsu 22 1
Goals scored: A
engineer his country's path to the Kwang Hyok Ri Kyonggongop 22 1
knockout stages. Percentage share: 36.3% Yong Gi Ryang Vegalia Sendai 28 1
Captain of his country, Hong was highly Cards: Y1, RO Kim Kuk-Jin FC Wil 1900 21 0
~
instrumental in North Korea's stunning Strike rate: 302mins Forwards
qualification for South Africa. Strike rate ranking: 61st Kum Chol Choe Floating 23 8
Yong Jo Hong FC Rostov 28 «14
Kum Il Kim April 25 rd 3
8 STRIKER § REAM RANKING 3100 Myong Won Kim

Jong Chol-Min
Amrokgang
Rimyongsu
26
21
3
0
@ Probable @ Possible QG Qualification Games
GROUP G 135
PORTUGAL FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH 9 LOW 17 AVGE 11 FINAL
FINAL PROSPECTS
Portugal made hard work of qualifying, goals from Christian Poulsen and Daniel Jensen Despite a dismal qualification campaig
scraping a play-off spot with a second- consigned the group favourites to a defeat that Portugal are likely tobe one ofthe =
place finish in Group One, before beating left them facing an uphill struggle. Three straight teams to avoid in the knock out stages...
Bosnia and Herzogivina 1-0 home and 0-0 draws left Carlos Queiroz's side on just six as long they make it out of a particularly’ :
away to reach their third consecutive points at the half-way stage of the group, tough group. of
World Cup. trailing eventual group winners Denmark, as Semi-finalists in 2006, Portugal have been =
A routine 4-0 win away in the opening game well as Sweden and Hungary. An injury-time a force tobe reckoned withonthe = =
against Malta was quickly forgotten, as a shock winner by Bruno Alves away in Albania and a international stage over the last decade,
3-2 defeat to Denmark in Lisbon — which saw late equaliser by debutant Liedson in Denmark which makes the fact that South Africa wi
four goals scored in the last eight minutes — set gave Portugal the momentum they needed to be just their fifth taste of World Cup football
the tone for a dismal campaign by Portugal's mount a late challenge for second place ahead even more surprising.
recent high standards. Nani's first-half strike of Sweden, before three wins in their last three An appearance back in 1966 saw the
looked to have won the game for the home games ensured Portugal entered the play-offs, legendary Eusebio finish top-scorer with nine
side, only for Nicklas Benatner to level in the where Bosnia and Herzegovina were brushed goals as he led Portugal to the semi-finals,
82nd minute. A Deco penalty restored aside 2-0 on aggregate. but the nation had to wait another 20 years
Portugal's advantage, but heartbreakingly late For final qualification table see Denmark. before they qualified again. ES
Back-to-back World Cup appearances
Avge FIFA ranking
2002 and 2006, as well as decent displays
1 06Sep 08 Away Malta 144 WO 4 Said 240g, Hugo Almeida 61, Fonseca Re in recent European Championships, mean
_ Sabrosa
71, Nani 78 : that this talented group of players shouldn
2 10 Sep 08 Home Denmark 30 L 2 3 Nani 42, de Souza 86pen be discounted as title outsiders. iOs
3 11 Oct 08 Away Sweden apo _ How to fit so many top-drawer —
4 15 Oct08 Home Albania 89 D oO creative players in one team is —
5 28Mar09 Home Sweden 3.0.0 a problem that most would
6 06 Jun09 Away Albania 89 ~W 1 2 Pereira de Almeida 27, Regufe Alves90 struggle to solve. .
7 05 Sep 09 Away Denmark 30. D_ 1 1 da Silva Muniz 86 ae b
ee ACTER NN A FES Cristiano Ronaldo is the star man,
ep way — Hungary ESGEY CUES ea aoe supported by a talented crop of attacking
9 10. Oct 09 Home Hungary 49 W380 Simao 18, 79, players including vice-captain Simao ie
10 14.Oct09 Home Malta 144 W 4 0 Nani 14, Simao 45, Miguel 52,Edinho90 Sabrosa, Deco and Nani. =
11. 14Nov09 Home Bosnia == —isi(is«iF WO Bruno ANesSt Tiago, Miguel Veloso, Raul Meireles and
12 18Nov 09 Away’ Bosnia Sr Ww CO Nee Joao Moutinho offer creative options in the
| centre of midfield, while a decent groupof
Average FIFA ranking of opposition 67 defenders — Ricardo Carvalho, Bruno Alves, —
Jose Bosingwa and Pepe — are at the core —
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION Of 2 quality Unk that Kept ve Suc ae
clean sheets at the end of qualifying.
8 ane R With so many Portuguese players excelling —
fad (oyun) S ;
biatch 123456789012 BE pReQ s 8 = at club level across Europe, the poor 7
Venue AHAHHAAAHHHA & EBB 2 4 8 5 performance of the national side in qualifying
Result WLE WOWWWWW +000 S28 OF & has been partly blamed on manager Carlos
Ht Queiroz, whose tactics and selections have a
Eduardo SR CBRBBMBBMB 8 8 OO 720 67 0 00 been confusing at times. Ree S|
Quim BEE 4 OmsOf S60) 83.3; 10' 070
Betendere How to fit so many top-drawer creative
Jose Bosingwa BER «Bees ) OPNOm Ol inn 764.070 ameOmr ino players in one team is a problem that most
Fernando Meira | Pa 1 SOL SO 90/5483: ~.0) 30, 0 would struggle to solve.
Miguel «(Be Mee ss 211 «175 162 10 ~0 A ‘ re
Pepe BERBRRee Bee it oo om o7 1 8 O nN opening
a ongame against
.: Ivory u Coastane
will
Vitorino Antunes a5 2 1-1 6 060 Sa -60"0 be crucial to Portugal's hopes of making the -
Rolando » MM» mm 2020 4 44 0.00 knock out stages. Anything other than a win
Paulo Ferreira SEE eS 8 5 SO" Oya 450m aay 510) 0) 20 over North Korea would be a huge F
pee
Ricardo Carvalho
BGBBEBERRSBB
BB ©<«B@B@BBMBM
9 9 0 O
1010 0 1
810 750
88589
2 0 0
000
— gigappointment.
lficati ‘
Queiroz
bef
will want to have
he ae 5,
Midfielders qualification sewn up before the fin oie
Danny Me rvae Vein ee eaPly ih weiale Sf ic) game against Brazil, but the possibility of a
Duda BERBER BR 7 7 OO 6380 583 0 1 0 head-to-head qualification match-up
ee tales Wie tA oe a 4 A i : ao Fe , 5 4 between the two is one of the most exciting
Deco PT »MB«BB«» 10 8 2 2 710657 110 clashes in the whole of the buna.
Simao Sabrosa “4 Br«n«aBa « 10 8 2 6 729,675 4 1 0 group stage.
Joao Moutinho >» «OS i )» { } 8) 2053.) AS he 6:8) OF Od EAM
Carlos Martins «EE 8 f oe OP e iol. Act «Om sOcu DR TOP 15 RANKING
Manuel Fernandes Sn De ee 20 90 83 0 0 0 TEAM
Raul Meireles BBBBMB«MM«MM 2 12 0 2 1042 965 1 1 0
Forwards
Nani Ba«y wv nwraaa Lil SO oe Oy FGTS. 57.2) 85) 0 GROUP FIXTURES
Liedson » «a4 Ba Ga O. 5) 4449416 S2= Too ge
Cristiano Ronaldo BEBeee« Toute 20' de '665s-52:3) 70 0850 IVORY COAST Tue 15 June 1500 BST i
Hugo Almeida “«a«aBy « » 7) 6 2. 24¥ — 388" 86.9 2.5 01° 0 NORTH KOREA Mon 21 June 1230 BST
Ricardo Quaresma Cl» » 2-0. 2.0 C2” 20.7 One F790
Nuno Gomes » » Ep! >i» 520) 4610 76a C.0l) OasO0
BRAZIL Fri. 25 June 1500 Sie
ee
BST
136 GROUP G
PORTUGAL (10)
Zone Europe
Population 10.6m
Language Portuguese
Top league Portuguese Liga Sagres
FC Porto (52,000), Sporting Lisbon (52,000), Benfica
(65,000)
Premier League 5 Ligue 1 =
Number of Portuguese players playing:
Serie A 5 Ligue 1 3
1966 - 3rd place 2002 - Round 1
1970 - Did not qualify 2006- * Semi finals
THE SQUAD
Eduardo Braga 27 8
Quim Benfica 34 4
Defenders
Jose Bosingwa Chelsea 27 9
Fernando Meira Zenit St Petersburg 32 1
Miguel Valencia 30 «63
Pepe Real Madrid 27 anil
Vitorino Antunes Leixoes 23 1
Rolando Porto 24 2
Paulo Ferreira Chelsea 31 5
Bruno Alves Porto 28 9
Ricardo Carvalho Chelsea 32 18
: Midfielders
RICARDO CARVALHO cnetsea ee a se ar

Danny Zenit St Petersburg 26 4
- See ¢ Tiago Atl Madrid 29 5
_ Perhaps one of the most underrated Playing record 12 months lge weq Pedro Mendes Rangers 31) 2
defenders in world football, Ricardo Appearances: 19 10 Deco Chelsea 32 10
_ Carvalho is the bedrock on which Minutes played: 1654 885 Simao Sabrosa Atl Madrid 30 10
Portugal lay their foundations. Percentage played: 47.1% 81.9% Joao Moutinho Sp Lisbon 23 « «#5
The centre-back's career exploded in Goals conceded: 20 S Carlos Martins Benfica one 12
2004 when he was named UEFA Defender Clean sheets: 9 7 Raul Meireles Porto He ag
of the Year as Porto won the Champions Cards: Y5,RO YO, RO Forwards
Minutes between goals: 83mins 177mins Nani Man Utd 25:44
te League. He's guided Chelsea to domestic
"success and will be vital for Portugal. Defender ranking: 69th 39th Liedson Sp Lisbon 820.6
<a Cristiano Ronaldo Real Madrid 25 7
fa
Hugo Almeida W Bremen 26 7
. ae DREAM rt Ricardo Quaresma Inter Milan 26 >
|DEFENDER | TEAM RANKING 395 Nuno Gomes Benfica 33, 5
MES
a @ Probable ™ Possible QG Qualification Games
GROUP G_ 137
One of the most expensive defenders in The focal point around which Portugal's
history, Pepe is set to test his reputation at attacking exploits have centered since Luis
the world's greatest football tournament Figo's retirement, Deco is perhaps the
for the first time. Real Madrid splashed out ultimate luxury player.
€30 million to acquire the centre back from The Brazilian-born midfielder is never happier
Porto in 2007. than when sitting behind strikers and threading
passes through defences. His first call up to the
Playing record 12 months Ige wcq national team was controversial but a debut
Appearances: 25 11 goal, ironically against Brazil, helped win over
Minutes played: 2189 990 the Portugal supporters. Match-winning
Percentage played: 62.4% 91.7% displays at Euro 2004 followed, a red card
Goals conceded: 15 5 against Holland at the 2006 World Cup stained
Clean sheets: 16 8 his reputation. At club level he has enjoyed
Cards: Yoel Y3, RO tremendous success, winning the Champions
Minutes between goals: 146mins 198mins League with Porto and Barcelona. One criticism
Playing record 12 months Ige wcq Defender ranking: 6th 29th aimed at Deco is his poor goalscoring record —
Appearances: - 8
he averages a goal every 14 games.
Minutes played: - 720
Percentage played: - 66.7%
Playing record 12 months Ige wcq
Goals conceded: - 2
Appearances: 18 10
Clean sheets: . 6
Cards: ey OA EAD)
Minutes between goals: - 360mins
A pacey, skilful Brazilian-style full back Goals scored: 2 1
Goalkeeper ranking: - 1st
who never misses an opportunity to hare Clean sheets: 11 i
down the right flank, Jose Bosingwa has Cards: Yt; RO7 SyieeRo
come into his own over the last two years. Strike rate: 445mins 710mins
Making his international debut in 2007, and Midfielder ranking: 82nd 65th
joining Chelsea a year later, Bosingwa's
performances have seen him emerge as
one of the best right-backs in the world.
Playing record = wcq

Appearances: 1 4 Appearances: 9
Minutes played: - 360 Minutes played: 1819 764
Percentage played: - 383.3% Percentage played: 51.8% 70.7% Playing record 12 months Ige weq
Goals conceded: - 3 Goals conceded: lv 5 Appearances: - 12
Clean sheets: - 3 Clean sheets: 10 6 Minutes played: - 1042
Cards: - YO, RO Cards: ¥3;) RO! Yi, RO Percentage played: . 96.5%
Minutes between gcais: - 120mins Minutes between goals: 107mins 153mins Goals scored: - 1
Goalkeeper ranking: - 17th Defender ranking: 20th 48th Clean sheets: - 9
Cards: - tO
Midfielder ranking: = :
a ee
F
Portuguese ‘golden generation’ as under-20

coach and leading South Africa to the 2002
World Cup.
A disappointing spell in charge of Real
Madrid was a low point, but Queiroz's
subsequent return to Manchester United saw
him achieve further success at Old Trafford as
assistant to Sir Alex Ferguson.
His preference for a 4-5-1 formation seems
to fit the players at his disposal, but Portugal
have struggled for fluency since Queiroz's
Question marks remain over Carlos appointment as national team manager in July
Queiroz's leadership skills and tactical 2008.
nous after a disappointing qualification Portugal will have to put in a performance in
campaign. South Africa to prove that they are still the top
After never really making it as a player, class side they were a few years ago, and
Queiroz turned to coaching, nurturing the Queiroz will have his work cut out.
138 GROUP G
i GROUPG
MAN UTD
A raw, lightning-quick two-footed winger in
the Cristiano Ronaldo mould, Nani could
finally be ready to step out of his team-
mate's shadow.
He has been forced to play second fiddle at
both club and international level for the last
three years to Cristiano Ronaldo, with whom he
has so much in common. Immaturity has been
holding Nani back but recent performances for
Manchester United have suggested he has
blossomed into a potentially world-beating
footballer. Nani moved from Sporting Lisbon to
United in 2007 and immediately impressed with
his fleet-footed dribbling and long-range
shooting. Nani came to the fore in World Cup
2010 qualification, making 11 appearances.
Often regarded as the finest footballer other way. Able to play on either flank or up
Playing record 12 mo ; Ige CC on the planet, expectations surrounding front, Ronaido's exceptional pace, dribbling
Appearances: 14 11 Cristiano Ronaldo at this summer's ability and goalscoring exploits led
Minutes played: 788 618 World Cup are inevitably sky high. Manchester United to two successive
Percentage played: 21.4% 57.2% However the man who has every possible Chamipions League finals. Ronaldo has
Goals scored: 1 3 attacking attribute contained within his changed many a game in one fell swoop
Percentage share: é = armoury, and who enthralls and delights and his list of individual and club honours is
Cards: YO,RO Y1, RO millions of football fans around the world endless. Ronaldo has the world at his feet.
Strike rate: - 206mins week in week out, would surely have it no
Strike rate ranking: 226th 12th
AIVIA 7h
f f
GROUP G 139
Position 1st 2nd Srd 5th 6th 7th 8th
Group E G F C
‘Total FIFA ranking 88 147 160 161
Two vastly underrated sides, Honduras and swept through qualification on a fantastic run of : A superb team that
Chile will both have high hopes of making it out form, playing some scintillating attacking could easily win the trophy.
of the group, but are likely to need to win this football and will be disappointed if they don't They have a fantastic squad
game to do so. The nation celebrated when make the last 16. But probably lack the quality with great midfielders and a
Honduras qualified for only their second World to go much further than that. Humberto Suazo world-class striker in the
Cup, but the team have enough proven quality spearheads an attack who will fancy their shape of Torres. The
to cause the South Americans problems. Chile chances against the Honduras defence. Spaniards will not disappoint as they have
done at previous World Cups and will be a
real threat to England's chances.
HARRY'S VERDICT: Semi finals.
One of the less glamorous sides at the tournaments off to explosive starts. They will ZE : A good side but | can't
tournament, Switzerland are consistent expect to do the same against Switzerland, see them having enough firepower or
overachievers. An organised defence has been with Fernando Torres and David Villa both defensive strength to hold back Spain and
the bedrock of the team's success over recent aiming to get on the scoreboard early in the the other rivals. Only lasted the minimum
years, but they will struggle to contain a Spain tournament. The underdogs will look to hit three matches at Euro 2008 and nothing
side that is magical going forward. The Euro Spain on the break when possible, but aren't has radically changed in the Swiss camp
2008 Champions have got their last two likely to see a great deal of the ball. since then.
: I'd love to see them make it
through the group even if only for Wilson
Palacios, my midfielder at Tottenham who
With Spain expected to win the group at a has endured terrible sadness with the
canter, the fight to join them in the last 16 is kidnap and murder of his brother. Wigan
impossible to call. Chile play some fluid football defender Figueroa is another familiar name
and score plenty of goals — 32 in qualifying, as to English fans but | feel they'll be heading
many as Brazil — and have a real threat up front home after three matches.
in Humberto Suazo. But they won't have it all HARRY'S VERDICT: Group stage only. -
their own way as Switzerland are tough to : A bit of a resurgence going on in
break down and offer plenty going forward, Chilean football with several players out to
particularly if Alexander Frei is fit and in form. make a name for themselves in front of a
world audience in South Africa. | can see
them snatching second place behind
Spain and enjoying a bit of a run.
HARRY'S VERDICT: Last 16.
Wilson Palacios has earned a terrific reputation
during his time in the Premier League, but will : The Spaniards will be
need to be at his very best at the heart of the looking to add the World
Honduras midfield if they are to get anything Cup to the European
out of a game against one of the tournament Championship they won two
favourites. Xavi and Andres Iniesta run rings years ago, and you have to
around the best, and it will be tough enough for say they have every chance of iS
the Hondurans to even get the ball up the other accomplishing that. They have so many
end of the pitch. talented players, such as Fabregas, Iniesta,
Xavi and Torres that, just like Brazil, it is
impossible to back against them.
TEL'S VERDICT: Going all the way.
Spain will fully expect to have already give Iker Casillas a testing afternoon : The Swiss impressed at
bagged a place in the second round by the between the sticks. Chile's passing game the last World Cup. But Ottmar Hitzfield's
time they face Chile, but if their fate still may play straight into the hands of their team are blighted by inconsistency, as their
hangs in the balance then they could be in European opponents, but if Spain have qualifying campaign showed when they
for a shock against a side who play some already qualified and give some of their suffered a shock defeat to Luxembourg
great football and score goals freely. The squad players a run-out then there is real before embarking on an eight-match
Spanish defence rarely gets fully tested, but potential for an upset here. Marcelo Bielsa's unbeaten run.
the joint top goal-scorers in South American side will be up against it if they need a win TEL'S VERDICT: Too unpredictable to
qualifying have enough going forward to to qualify. call.
: Qualified for the finals
against the backdrop of a military coup in
their country, So we can't say their players
If either of these teams still have a chance of one of these teams to stamp their mark on the lack focus on the job in hand. What they _
qualification for the last 16 then this should be tournament. Even if qualification is out of the do lack, however, is experience with this
hugely entertaining game. With the two question for Switzerland or Honduras, expect being only the second finals they have
attractive teams in the group battling it out in them to put in a good showing to end their reached. The previous one was in 1982.
the other game, this match is an opportunity for tournament on a high. TEL'S VERDICT: Group stage only.,
140 GROUP H
=; Reckoned to be the most
attractive team in South America at the
moment, even more than Brazil, their first
appearance at the finals since 1998 is
bound to be entertaining, certainly if their
qualification is anything to go by as they
conceded 22 goals.
TEL'S VERDICT: Face a battle with
Swiss to get out of group.
: They used to be the

team that always choked at
major tournaments, but not
any more. Their success at
Euro 2008 has given the
Spaniards a level of belief to match their
undoubted talent. Expect Torres,
Fabregas, Xavi, Iniesta and co. to have a
major say and prove why they are my
joint-favourites with Brazil.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Viva Espana.
vee to cruise on and upwards.
ZE : The Swiss impressed
- the last World Cup, where they did not
concede a single goal prior to a second-
round penalty shoot-out loss against
Ukraine, and the experience that will come
from co-hosting Euro 2008 should put
them in good shape for South Africa.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Lack of quality
could cost them.
: Reaching the finals was a
major gehivement for a country that has
Wilson Palacios and Wigan duo Hendry
Thomas and Maynor Figueroa in their
ranks. Getting past the group stage would
be an even bigger feat.
WRIGHTY'S VERDICT: Potential to
cause an upset.
=: One of the youngest squads at
the finals with an average age of 23. But
with players like Matias Fernandez and
Jorge Valdivia and the goal-scoring
prowess of strikers Alexis Sanchez and
Humberto Suazo. Chile could well be one
to keep an eye on and could well upset a
few sides.
WRIGHTY’'S VERDICT: Keep an eye
on them.
SPAIN SPAIN v PORTUGAL SPAIN v ITALY
CHILE CHILE v BRAZIL BRAZIL v NETHERLANDS
GROUP G GROUP E
GROUP H
BRAZIL, NORTH KOREA (KOREA DPR), IVORY NETHERLANDS, DENMARK, JAPAN,
COAST, PORTUGAL CAMEROON
GROUP F
GROUP H 141
FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH LOW AVGE FINAL
Fresh from their triumph in the 2008 With the squad seemingly even stronger than Spain are ranked as a favourite to lift the
European Championships, Spain waltzed in 2008, Spain's performances in qualifying trophy in South Africa, along with five-
through qualifying with the best record of simply confirmed their status as the team to time champions Brazil. *
any European team to reach the World Cup beat in South Africa. This will be Spain's 12th visit to a World —
finals. Cup finals, but they have yet to even make it
Their 100% record was constructed over two FINAL QUALIFYING TABLE to a final — a terrible record for a country that
more games than the Dutch and only England EUROPE GROUP 5 has consistently been one of the most
averaged more goals in qualifying. talented in the world.
A 5-0 win over Belgium was the highlight, with Spain Victory in Euro 2008 was only their second
Valencia duo David Villa and David Silva both Bosnia-Herz major title, but was achieved in style, and the
scoring twice. Striker Villa was in prolific form Turkey core of that side remain in place going into
throughout qualifying, continuing his terrific Belgium South Africa.
scoring record for the national team with seven Estonia A strike partnership of Fernando Torres a
goals. Armenia David Villa is the best in the world by some —
FIFA rani distance, and, as ever, Spain have an
fistekikc
™ abundance of quality in midfield. Barcelona
duo Xavi and Andres Iniesta pull the strings,
ably supported by the talented David Silva -
who has fought off quality opposition to tie
zi % eretee ; ny ?
down a spot on the left of midfield. Much of
‘“Saforcada69 a the praise for Spain's improvement in 2008
was directed towards defensive midfielder
2 Iniesta Lujan 36, VillaSanet Marcos Senna, but he is far from guaranteed -
a place in the first XI in South Africa, with
Sergio Busquets of Barcelona and Real
mond40,ae Madrid's Xabi Alonso in the squad as more
aie youthful and creative alternatives.
Spain have an abundance of
quality in midfield
The fact that Cesc Fabregas hasn't even
been mentioned yet is an indication of just
Mata 89 f
=a tepoe) RA ‘ eS tae
how strong the Spanish midfield is. In tough
games it isn't out of the question that Villa's
place might be sacrificed to allow a second —
deeper-lying midfielder to come in and
protect the back line.
If Spain have a weakness then it is their
Key: i played 90 mins «4 subbed off subbed on # on bench g 3 defence, although opponents may not see
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Juanito eV EEee 2 2 0 0 180 200 10 0 a versatile replacement for all positions.
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Santiago Cazorla »«Bae«y@e Mi 8 5 3 3 453 503 10 0 straightforward for a team as talented as
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David Silva » «Bale Sy Ad BO -896 587.9131 0! 10 DREAM
Juan Mata » ye Pea er Tr | iAe tect oe. 0 0 TEAM TOP 15 RANKING
Albert Riera Ortega » Boon Spl oD Omen ita OUO
Marcos Senna BESSa« Be» We yen Mw Glo foKobe Men 0
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Daniel Guiza » «a iv Bw BB» Sit tie tOre Mido OT Oe ro
GROUP FIXTURES 3
Bojan @ » iO mat erOuer 260 A0ss0e40" "0 ae
Fernando Llorente » Aim eCDe ene gl) Sc. On ON 6 SWITZERLAND Wed 16 June 1500 BST
Alvaro Negredo 20015) NOs 27a Ae On 0 HONDURAS Mon 21 June 1980 BST
Fernando Torres Baaacnana® faa 0 Gs | 46a SOS POs 20710 : =
David Villa «B«B« m« Pode Keer SA o) Nakfa re Moker CHILE Fri 25 June 1930 BST
142 GROUP H
Zone Europe
Population 40.5m
Language Spanish
Top league La Liga
Playing season September - June
Real Madrid (80,440), Barcelona (98,772), Valencia
(65,848)
Bundesliga - Outside Europe -
Number of Spanish players playing:
Serie A 3 Ligue 1 1
1938 - Banned 1982 - Round 2
1950 - * 4th place 1986- Quarter finals
1958 - Did not qualify 1994- Quarter finals
1962 - Round 1 1998 - Round 1

Iker Casillas Real Madrid 29 9
Jose Reina Liverpool 27 1
Defenders
Raul Albiol Real Madrid 24 6
Joan Capdevila Villarreal 32 9

Andoni lraola Athl Bilbao 27 2
Carlos Marchena Valencia 30 3
Juanito Atl Madrid 33 2

Gerard Pique Barcelona 23 6
Carles Puyol Barcelona 32 6
Sergio Ramos Real Madrid 24 8
Midfielders
Xabi Alonso Real Madrid 28 8
One of the deadliest strikers in world Liverpool in the last couple of years, his Santiago Cazorla Villarreal 25 8
football, Fernando Torres has been a pace and physical presence are a key part Francesc Fabregas Arsenal 23 7
big contributing factor to Spain's recent of Spain's plans in attack. When he does Xavi Barcelona 30 9
success - they are ranked the best in score, though, it is often in the big games Andres Iniesta Barcelona 26 6
the world and one of the firm favourites as he proved in the final of Euro 2008 when David Silva Valencia 24 Le
for the tournament. his first half goal sealed Spain's win over Juan Mata Valencia 22 4
Tall and powerful, he is as strong as he is Germany and earned him the man-of-the- Albert Riera Liverpool 28 4
match award. Marcos Senna Villarreal 33 8
skilful and while he may not have scored as
many goals for country as he has for Forwards
Daniel Gonzalez Guiza Fenerbahce 29 6
Alvaro Negredo Sevilla 24 2
Fernando Torres Liverpool 26 Kf
David Villa Valencia 28 f
GROUP H 143
A big physical centre back, still maturing When he moved to Real Madrid from
as a player, Gerard Pique will only be 24 at Seville in 2005, 19-year old Sergio Ramos
the World Cup and has made a big impact became the most expensive player to
in a short space of time for Spain. move within La Liga and the second most
In competition with Carlos Marchena to expensive teenager in history with Madrid
partner Pique's club captain at Barcelona, paying a reported 27 million euros.
Carles Puyol, he scored three goals in six It is testament to the youngster's talent and
games in qualifying and will be a big part of maturity that, despite the enormous pressure
Spain's tournament. that came with the move, he has been a big hit
at Madrid and translated this onto the
international stage.
Comfortable playing fullback, centre-back or
even as a defensive midfielder, Ramos usually
plays right-back for club and country and was a
regular there for Spain during qualifying in what
has become a well established back four.
An ultra attacking left-back, Joan A gifted natural all-round footballer with great
Capdevila is crucial to the makeup of the delivery from the flanks plus impressive passing,
Spain side and as such, no player played pace and a decent shot, Ramos is also pretty
more minutes in qualifying. handy in the air. He was an ever present
Having sealed his place in the squad during throughout the victorious Euro 2008 finals,
Euro 2008 when he played all but one game, where his presence on the right side of a solid
he will be one of the most experienced heads in defensive unit was a key part of Spain's
the side in South Africa. SUCCESS.
Goals conceded: 50 5 Goals conceded: 31 5)
Clean sheets: 7é 6 Clean sheets: 18 4
Cards: Y7, RO YO, RO Cards: Y14, R1 Y1, RO
Minutes between goals: 64mins 162mins Minutes between goals: 93mins 121mins
All set to become the most capped Spain Defender ranking: 135th 44th Defender ranking: - 48th
international of all time, Iker Casillas will
surely go down as one of the best ever
Spanish keepers.
After breaking into the Galactico filled Madrid
side of the late 90's, the teenager was often
a
required to be a one man defence with the ultra
attacking Zidane and Co. giving him little cover. between 2000 and 2003. Let go by Real in
favour of Carlos Queiroz, he failed to impress
in his next job — at Besiktas — lasting less than
a season in Turkey.
Manager of the current Spanish national
team is not a tough job, with a host of the
world's top players at his disposal and
confidence on a high after Euro 2008, but he
did lead the side through qualifying with a
100% record.
Appearances: 38 1 We Ay Injury to Andres Iniesta ensured he avoided
Minutes played: 3420 90 Vincente del Bosque took over as Spain the headache of how to set up the Spain
Percentage played: 97.4% 10.0% boss after their Euro 2008 triumph. A midfield, but he has shown a willingness to
Goals conceded: 39 1 former defensive midfielder, Del Bosque bring fresh faces into an established squad —
Clean sheets: 16 0 made over 300 appearances for Real with Barcelona's Sergi Busquets a good
Cards: YI, ROn 9YOuRG Madrid and was a popular choice when example.
Minutes between goals: 88mins - appointed manager of the club in 1999. Yet to be truly tested, Del Bosque will need
Goalkeeper ranking: - 11th In charge during the first 'Galacticos' era, to show he has tactical nous and the ability to
he led Real to their most consistent run of make the right substitutions at the right times
success in the modern era, winning two if Spain are to win their first ever World Cup in
Champions Leagues and two La Liga titles South Africa.
144 GROUP H
CARLES
PUYOL
BARCELONA
Every side needs at least one player like
Carles Puyol and his heart-on-sleeve, no
nonsense and physical style make him a
perfect centre-half.
He is the long term captain at Barcelona -
where he has won trophy after. trophy - and the
inspiration he provides and dogged approach
are the perfect foil to some of his more silky
skilled team-mates. Having started his career as
a marauding right back, he matured superbly
into a place in the centre and has been a
mainstay of Spain's side for the best part of a
decade. If Spain manage to make a serious
impact in South Africa, Puyol will be key.
One of the most effective central at the Nou Camp and also for Spain with
12 month: midfield playmakers in world football, fellow Barca stalwart, Andres Iniesta. Player
Playing record
Appearances: 27 6 Xavi is an extremely intelligent of the tournament at Euro 2008, he scored
Minutes played: 2354 540 footballer and uses his immaculate in the semi-final and provided the assist for
Percentage played: 67.1% 60.0% technique and speed of thought to run Fernando Torres to score the winning goal
Goals conceded: 25 2 rings around most teams. in the final. A player who makes this game
12 4 Never hurried in possession and with look so simple, Xavi might be the most
Clean sheets:
Cards: Y6,RO Y4, RO superb distribution, the lifelong Barcelona crucial of all Spain's great assets.
94mins 2/0mins fan and player graces the middle of the park
Defender ranking: : 45th
GROUP H_ 145
One of the finest midfield playmakers in A composed, skilful central midfielder with
modern football, Cesc Fabregas is mature a thunderbolt of a shot, Marcos Senna was
beyond his 23-years and the current born in Brazil but has represented Spain
captain of Arsenal. since he became eligible to do so in 2006.
A prodigious talent from a young age, Something of a late starter, Senna was on the
Fabregas rose through the youth ranks at books at a number of Brazilian clubs — including
Barcelona before joining Arsenal and becoming Corinthians — but made very few appearances
the youngest player to play, and score a goal before moving to Spain, joining Villarreal in 2002
for, the club at just 16. He was a first team at the age of 26. He spent two seasons on the
regular by 18 and was the man pulling the periphery before bursting into life as a starter
strings for Arsene Wenger's fiercely talented and then being installed captain as the Yellow
side, playing a brand of football that was Submarines got to the semi-finals of the
leaving the pundits struggling for superlatives. Champions League in 2006. Having been
Simply put, Fabregas understands football and granted Spanish citizenship, he was called up
has the innate ability to put the ball where he to the side by Luis Aragones and went to the
wants to, picking passes that few others would 2006 World Cup. A good passer and tenacious
be able to see, let alone execute. If he gets his in the tackle, he plays a holding role for Spain,
chance in South Africa, he will not disappoint. allowing Xavi and Andres Iniesta to roam.
Percentage played: 51.3% 42.0% Percentage played: 55.596 70.0%
Cards: Ole Yalu Cards: Y7, ROR SYO7 RO
Strike rate: 168mins 189mins Strike rate: 630mins -
Midfielder ranking: 14th 10th Midfielder ranking: 172nd 59th
One of the best passers in world football, One of the best midfield practitioners in
Xabi Alonso always has time on the ball world football, Andres Iniesta is also one of
and will be a vital part of Spain's bid to add the most understated and his modest
to their Euro 2008 triumph. demeanour makes him popular with Spain
Having made his mark with Real Sociedad, fans of all domestic club persuasions.
Alonso secured a £10m move to Liverpool and A selfless servant to Barcelona, Iniesta has
became part of the side that tasted Champions spent his entire career at Camp Nou where he
League victory in 2005, and FA Cup win in has played in every position across the middle
2006. During his time at Liverpool he became of the park since his debut at 18, becoming a
the creative hub in midfield and built up a regular starter by the time he had hit 20. A
superb understanding with Steven Gerrard, technically gifted player, comfortable runner with
often providing the ammunition for the Liverpool the ball and with a great range of passing,
captain. His form and ability persuaded Real Iniesta was often deployed on the wing early in
Madrid to part with £30m in the summer of his career. He has developed and adapted as
2009 and Alonso became one of the newly the needs of his team have changed and he
established Galacticos. At 28, he is entering his now forms one half of the most creative midfield
prime and is one of the most experienced partnerships in football, alongside Xavi, for both
players in Spain's squad. He might not start club and country. Iniesta was one of Spain's
every game but he will make an impact when best players at Euro 2008, and will be looking
he plays. to add a world crown to his trophy cabinet.
146 GROUP H
”
ax
Se
DAVID
VILLA
VALENCIA
One of the most feared strikers in world
football, David Villa's partnership with
Fernando Torres is far and away the best
strike pairing of any team at the
tournament.
Villa's phenomenal form for Valencia saw him
finally — and deservedly — oust Raul from the
national side. The all-action front-man has gone
on to fully justify his place in the side with an
exceptional goals to game ratio, which
comfortably betters that of both Raul and
Torres. Villa was top-scorer as Spain won Euro
2008 — despite the fact that he only played in
four games — and would be expecting to also
challenge for the 'Golden Boot' in South Africa. A diminutive attacking midfielder, David
His constant harrying of defenders, lightning Silva is quick, direct, can play on either Appearances: 28 5
pace, razor-sharp reactions and natural finishing flank, or in the middle, and offers a very Minutes played: 2267 336
potent attacking threat to Vincente del Percentage played: 66.2% 37.3%
ability make him the perfect foil to the Liverpool
forward, although, with Spain so strong in Bosque's side. Goals scored: 5 3
midfield, it is Villa who misses out if the Linked with a move to some of the biggest Percentage share: 8.1% 11.1%
clubs in Europe over the past year, the Cards: Y6, R1 YO, RO
manager opts for a 4-5-1 formation. There isn't
Valencia winger is extremely skilful and started Strike rate: 453mins 112mins
a single club in Europe who wouldn't be
interested in signing Villa. all but one of Spain's qualifying games. Strike rate ranking: - 15th
Hais
Na |
GROUP H_ 147
“™™' CHILE FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH LOW AVGE FINAL
Four matches into qualifying Chile were third place. Arguably the form team of South
hammered at home by Paraguay in a result Chile had momentum and they finished America, Chile have risen almost 50
that suggested they were going to struggle strongly, winning six and drawing two of their places in the world rankings in just four
to get anywhere near the top four. last nine games, with Nilmar's hat-trick years, firmly establishing themselves in
Nine games later and they were visiting condemning them to a solitary defeat in Brazil. Fifa's top 20.
Asuncion on 20 points, just four behind group Marcelo Biesla's side played some scintillating 2010 will be Chile's eighth visit to a World
leaders Paraguay. Sporting Lisbon's Matias football at times and scored 32 goals in the Cup, but just the national team's third since
Fernandez scored from the edge of the area campaign, a tally that only Brazil could better. 1974. A third place finish as hosts back in
and first choice striker Humberto Suazo headed 1962 was their best showing, losing 4-2 to
the second to move Chile on point behind in For final qualification table see Paraguay. eventual winners Brazil in the semi-final, and
Avge FIFA ranking while there is little chance of them bettering
1 13 O0ct07 Away Argentina Coe evaa210 that in South Africa, a last-eight spot isn't
out of the question.
2 17 0ct07 Home 76 W2 0 Suazo 11, Femandez51 Vastly underrated going into the
3 18Nov07 Away Uruguay 2 2 Salas 59pen, 69pen.
tournament, Chile are a talented side who
4 22 Nov 07 Paraguay 03 play decent football and score plenty of
EGE
2Medel29,76 Says | goals. They concede a fair few too, which
/ 2 3 Suazo S4pen, 90,Jara72
Spa BAS ha 2)
will make their group match against Spain a
7 08 Sep 08 bit interesting, but the South Americans are
03
definitely a good team for the neutrals.
8 10Sep 08 | Strikers Humberto Suazo and Alexis
Sanchez are two of a number of players in
9 12 Oct 08 Ecuador the squad who play for top European sides.
10 16 Oct 08 H cena The 21-year-old Udinese forward Sanchez
has the ability to become a real star.
11 30 Mar 09 Away Peru Spain are clear favourites to top Group H,
12 01 Apr09 _Uroey but Chile have a real chance to go through.
RREST
13 06 Jun
09
= cae Bolivia”ros DREAM
TEAM TOP 15 RANKING
15 06 Sep 09 Home Venezuela 2 2 Vidal 10, Millar 52 —
16 10Sep 09 Away Brazil 4 SiG sa 2 pe Daope 62 THE MANAGER
An innovative manager, Argentinean

Marcelo Bielsa has turned around the
14 Oct09 Home Ecuador
18 fortunes of the Chile national side.
Average FIFA ranking of opposition
He dropped veteran Marcelo Salas soon
after his appointment and has since put the
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION emphasis on a promising crop of young
players.
oo
Bielsa's policy with Chile is to keep the ball
eel Se sy ee
oO
Match 1234567 8 9101112131415161718 §& 9 BB a 2 > on the floor and attack in numbers, which
Venue AHAHAAHHAHAHAHHAAH Aelia Saree ee Q agi, has seen them become one of the most -
Result LWOLWWLWLWWOWWOLWW 28626 5 2x 8&8&
Goalkeepers entertaining teams in world football.
Claudio Bravo BERBER BBR 8 is Oo oO 16201000 0 10 The manager is a firm favourite of the
Defenders
Cristian Alvarez « «ff Cees OLS Z0 ied 2 40a press, with post-match press conferences
Jean Beauseiour “ « Mitel | ba 0546 126 1h) Ne SAR SIZ eeOd 4s 711 al) 30 known to last for up to four hours, as he
Roberto Cereceda Ba«vaa By B@B«» BM 10 7 3 4 +631 3990 0 3 0
Pablo Contreras oe H n al {1 SP F230 T2897 -8 Or CI 0 insists on answering every question.
Marco Estrada Be ae * ae » He Cer Be 8). 0% 1609) 180.4> sah eo
Ismael Fuentes ga»» « » @ Taree, Ole COO ee.D, wl cilia? al
Gonzalo Jara || - AH « anon Wie 19) 2. ade Ole 1OO7 Orie eet 00.1 ut
Garv Medel wy BERR M« MMMM@M 12 12 «0 1 1076 64 2 2 0
Waldo Ponce TT) ee «BBB MOM 312 1 1 «1116 689 1 1 «0
Miauel Auausto Riffo a | Ai A OVA * 3605 22:25 018 20
Arturo Vidal «Be» B« @« lide 10) 1a eS e108 466 pecligs 2 410
Midfielders
Carlos Carmona BE BH«ee «se We Ae 10°92 292086713 SOR 6270
Huao Droauett 4 ry me« ¥ Bona 2a aoe e268.) (Ove ied
Matias Fernandez iy mm « B« noe BB « 15505 OS itS0tre Os 120, 0
Gonzalo Fierro “4 | @ i» @ R22 82 TBI OO grow TOKO
Mark Gonzalez | | oe» «BB«BB« « 1S AT eared OBES IERSBran O oyole iC)
Mauricio-Anabal Isla ae “4 4 » i» Seen) Tehama Ole tie mel
Manuel Iturra «BB «' @ » a | G4 ih Sie Ons es eLOre 2 £u0
Claudio Maldonado * a By pdr dTate eatal ee ed GO
Rodriao Millar »«» «Bi 6 Are 2 AZO 25.91 a 0-0
Pedro Morales “« 4“ » A AED 2a TBS O14 On. 0
Esteban Paredes Bee» Heo eee Pil) to): a HO © Yam 0)
Jorae Valdivia
Carlos Villanueva » ob
« i838 | ccs |
3
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ORS rS Oe
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A269
riser
7.80902
To
sO
A GROUP FIXTURES
Forwards
Fabian Orellana
Eduardo Rubio 44
8 AL. rt im) |)hd) ho oo SalZusa
RR Be tS)
Ol obe
6 142
a6 Ole ome
1538:8' 0. 1090
4 HONDURAS Thur 16 June 1230 BST
Marcelo Salas » « aw AS the 1912) 193: 22 0) 0 SWITZERLAND Tue 21 June 1500 BST
Alexis Sanchez
Humberto Suazo B@«a« | rya
“
«BB
“a
«
al
125125
1818.08
(OT 2s
8)
T0820 64.0%
1475910710.
Seal
Fi
a4
10
SPAIN Sat 25 June 1930 BST
148 GROUP H
Zone South America
Population 16.5m
Language F Spanish
Top league Primera Division del Futbol Prof Chileno
Playing season January - June
Unidn Espanola (22,041), Colo-Colo (49,958),
Universidad de Chile (65,127)
La Liga 2 Other Europe "4
Number of Chilean players playing:
Serie A 5 Ligue 1 =
La Liga 2 Eredivisie -
1930 - Round 1 1974 - Round 1
1934 - Withdrew 1978- Did not qualify
1954 - Did not qualify 1990 - Disqualified
1958 - Did not qualify 1994 - Banned
1962 - * 3rd place 1998 - Round 2

Claudio Bravo Real Sociedad 27 +18
Defenders
Jean Beausejour Club America 26 12
Roberto Cereceda Colo Colo 25g
Pablo Contreras PAOK Salonika 31 5
Marco Estrada Universidad de Chile 27 9
Ismael Fuentes Universidad Catolica 28 7
Gonzalo Jara West Brom 24 13
Gary Medel Boca Juniors 22 a2
Waldo Ponce Velez Sarsfield rE Pgelh(2}
Arturo Vidal B Leverkusen 2S VGH

Midfielders
Carlos Carmona Reggina 23°" 11
Hugo Droguett Monarcas Morelia 27 6
Matias Fernandez Sp Lisbon 24 15
A talented winger turned striker, Alexis Mark Gonzalez CSKA Moscow 25 13
Appearances: 30 12
Sanchez was snapped up by Udinese in Mauricio Anabal Isla Udinese 21 5
2007, aged just 17. Minutes played: 1656 1052 Manuel Iturra Universidad de Chile 25 5
|nitially loaned back to South America to Percentage played: 46.0% 64.9%

1
Goals scored: 3 Rodrigo Millar Colo Colo 28 6
continue his development, the youngster is
now a first-team option in Serie A and has Percentage share: 1.79 9.38 Pedro Morales Dinarno Zagreb 25 4
Cards: Y6, R1 Y4, R1 Jorge Valdivia Al Ain 26: +6
shown enough in the Italian championship
Strike rate: 656mins 351mins
to suggest that he could be a star of the
Strike rate ranking: 123rd 66th Forwards
tournament.
Fabian Orellana Deportivo Xerez 24 5
Eduardo Rubio Union Espanola 26 4
Alexis Sanchez Udinese tae
Humberto Suazo Real Zaragoza 29 18
GROUP H 149
cme | 0 ND U R AS FIFARANKINGS: HIGH LOW AVGE FINAL
Honduras qualified for only their second the Swede his job. Carlos Pavon bagged seven One of the tournament's lesser rated
World Cup thanks to 1-0 win in El Salvador —_ goals in qualifying, but it was the team's sides, Honduras have enough quality in
in the final game of their CONCACAF defence that saw them through, with no other their squad to surprise a few teams, and
qualifying campaign. side conceding fewer goals in the CONCACAF even make it out of their group. :
The three points brought Reinaldo Rueda's group. A reasonably kind draw has given Reinaldo
side level on points with Costa Rica- who drew FINAL QUALIFYING TABLE NORTH, Rueda's side a chance of reaching the last
their final game against the United States with CENTRAL AMERICA & CARIBBEAN 16, with games against Switzerland and
a superior goal difference securing the third P WDL F A Pts Chile definitely winnable, but they will do well
automatic qualification spot behind United USA 10'.. 6.2 (2 19413: + 20 to match the 1-1 draw with Spain from the —
States and Mexico. Mexico 1O70G Vespa 49 country's last and only other World Cup
A 1-0 win over Mexico back in November Honduras 10554) 40497541. 16 appearance — back in 1982.
2008 had almost forced Sven Goran Eriksson's Costa Rica On oanili Aull OuelOeed Midfielder Wilson Palacios is the team's
side out of qualifying in the initial group stage, El Salvador Oar? a Otee O: 31 ean stand out player, but there is plenty of quality
and a 3-1 win in the fourth and final stage cost Trinidad & Tobagoi0 13 6 10 22 6 elsewhere in the side. Inter Milan's David
Suazo and the prolific Carlos Pavon are a
ae Avge FIFA ranking : dangerous partnership up front and have the
1 04 Jun 08 Home Puerto Rico 180 We Fe o De Leon 25, W.Palacios 51, Se potential to disrupt any defence, while
23) Suazo 52,90as Hendry Thomas and the captain Amado
2 14Jun08 Away Puerto Rico 150 D 2 2 D.Suazo 22, WPalacios 52 Guevara complement Palacios wellin
midfield. Maynor Figueroa brings more
78 A RRURIE pesndletns Meee eed “Wave a siecle proven quality, but there isn't a great deal of
_ 4 07 Sep08 Away Canada — ue OWE he Rane? 47; 96: strength in depth, with over half the squad
6 11Sep0 Home Jamaica
8 = == ~~ 81. ~W_ 2 O R.Nunez 65, Guevara 73p still playing in the domestic league.
6saererperegarers
120ct08 Home: Canada: ===—79.:~‘W_ 3. 1 WMartinez
8,Costly 60, Tho Boba oe ae Bree
pundits have given them credit for,
16Oct 08 A sly len ab ay is ifthey
#8 sae - gs cman pees —emeeme do make it into the last 16 then that is likely
ve Be 2OcNov 08 Home.” Mexico: 88825 eT as Wis 9) Oo OSONO
S100 see Oe to be as far as they will go due to strong
9 12Feb09 Away Costa Rica 53s Leee2.0 potential opponents.
10 28 Mar09 Away Trinidad
& Tobago 79 D~ 1 1 C.Pavon 50 DREAM
11. 02Apr09 Home Mexico = ————s«4S Ws. 1 Costly 17, 79,C.Pavon 438 TEAM TOP 15 RANKING
12 O07 JunO9 Away United States 8) Es 2 2apCostly:4
13
11 Jun09 Home ElSalvador 107° W140 CiPavon 15 eR Nen sel ch THE MANAGER
14 13Aug09
Home CostaRica = ss 3. «Ws O Costly3ae Pavon 50, Valladares
90
Ein16° Deinee De ET Tone
Y6See (09 Away Wesieo
eRe
54 SY
eaameeennimers| ARueda
highlyhasrespected manager, Resim
had a short but successful
; career to date.
17 11 Oct09 Home United States a 8 E 2 3 De Le 46, 77 Making a name for himself with the
18 150ct09 Away ElSalvador = 107 ~
W_ Se ay Colombia national side —-Rueda was brought
Average FIFA ranking of OABoBKICN 67 in to take charge of an underperforming
Honduras side in 2007. Helped by an
MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION unprecedented) talented (07
led the country to their secondWorld Cup in
8 5 3 some style, beating Central American giants
Match 12345 6 7 8.9 101112131415161718 o s g i f
atk AAA TOCH AA AHH AH oe ogee meme Deere Mexico three times along the way. He has
Result WDLWWWLWLOWLWWWLLW Q 5 22 2 a is 2 3 built his side around a solid defence and
Goalkespers ir Faseneae wanda 7 “a 5 hard-working midfield, but likes to play with
Geeaioe BREF RRO e Ree width to make chances for an experienced
Mario Beata | | 22 SO LO BOR. OP? AL front two.
Victor Bernardez TTT TLPTLiLLe » a 10:' “8.2 F POL eid e501 Or 1 (0
Jorge Samuel Caballero B eed (eine! 90 56 0 0 0
Osman Chavez «® BSE SEREERER Se Ad TLS Ole 4 8978.'60:4' 0). 4 0
Maynor Fiqueroa B«« BRR GP A6e VO es 1406. 86:6. 10> Seen
Junior Izaquirre © BEE» S® SSE SEBBBBM 110 1 Oo 91612 000
Sergio Mendoza BEB «Beaeae So (Oe Wis, 44.Op Oee 50
Erick Norales 2a 2H ‘gH 2 2) OO S180 On ALO
Mauricio Sabillon SHEER «ae BinBs 10 "SEIOsoad7 oO) 10: 0
Danilo Turcios A Bi , “« Bry Baa i» 12-6 6) — 4) 3673 744.5.) O°" Se0
Midfielders
Edaar Alvarez «© 13. mo la 4 1 Se. 228) 73:8 90) 'O.
0
Julio Cesar De Leon Ma « B«'i«»o8 BM» «BM 10 2 5 735 454 4 3 0
Oscar Garcia BM», (8 BER 2 a2» ae B 25 58) 50) 2 AAA Cee Oe tae
Ivan Guerrero by >> Ba 6 2) BOes Zod 4 45 10. (0) 18
Amado Guevara “BRR «B«BRBBBee«m M7 17 «0 4 1486 917 2 2 0
Emil Jose Martinez «i 202 OF ett GO! $99 (OTOArO
Ramon Nunez & “(Bern nraaaaeauBay MH 1410 4 8 824 509 3 1 0
Milton Palacios i Le eh OO 90) 56 0. 0. 0
Wilson Palacios steel + Be Ow@«des ann T6516: O° 11325781802 Sh) 0
Hendry Thomas Bea«ae8>e8>>f8 15 10 5 2 868 536 1 2 0 GROUP FIXTURES
Forwards
Carlo Costly “4 co m« BOM + «M«M » Me 1612 4 5 1062 66 6 5 O
Walter Martinez “> m« » » i» 8 2 6 2 240148 1 0 0 CHILE Thur 16 June: 1eceiaiaes
Jerry Palacios « M232. 0 ie Ae ono, (6 SPAIN Tue 21 June 1930 BST
Carlos Alberto Pavon «B«B« BB « 9) 4B. Ord 7446.7 7 OO WITZ!
David Suazo BOBS « Ba a 11~ 0 = 2:°53> (807, 498) 4 4 20 : bended Sat 26 Jie
150 GROUP H
REE peaies
Zone Central America

Population 7.6m
Language Spanish
Top league _Liga Nacional de Futbol de Honduras
Playing season July - November
CD Olimpia (32,863), CD Marathon (45,881), CD
Motagua (34,985)
Premier League 4 Ligue 1 .
Number of Honduran players playing:
Serie A 3 Ligue 1 =
La Liga - Eredivisie =
1938 - Did not qualify 1982 - * Round 1

Noel Valladares Olimpia Sore
Defenders
Victor Bernardez Anderlecht 28 10

Osman Chavez Platense 250 slit
Maynor Figueroa Wigan 27 716
Junior Izaquirre Victoria Sort
Sergio Mendoza Motagua 29 8
Erick Norales Marathon 25 2
Mauricio Sabillon Hangzhou 31 8
Danilo Turcios Olimpia Bay eile
Midfielders
Edgar Alvarez Bari 30 4
Marvin Chavez FC Dallas 26 3

Julio Cesar De Leon Torino 30 10
A talented central midfielder, Wilson Oscar Garcia Wigan 25 5
Palacios is crucial to the fortunes of Appearances: 34 15 lvan Guerrero Motagua 32 5
Honduras in South Africa. Minutes played: 2821 1325 Amado Guevara Motagua 34° «617
Defensively strong, the Tottenham Hotspur Percentage played: 80.4% 81.8% Emil Jose Martinez Indios 27 2
1 2 Ramon Nunez Floating 24 14
man is comfortable on the ball and a driving Goals scored:
influence in the middle of the park. He'll Clean sheets: 14 6 Wilson Palacios Tottenham 25. 15
need to be at his tough-tackling best Cards: Y9, R1 Y5, RO Hendry Thomas Wigan 25015
against Spain, but will have an opportunity Strike rate: 821mins 662mins Forwards
to shine in the other two group games. Midfielder ranking: 140th 60th Carlo Costly GKS Belchatow or AG
Walter Martinez Marathon 28 8
Carlos Alberto Pavon — Floating 36° 9

David Suazo Genoa 30) Catt
GROUP H 151
+ SWITZERLAND FIFA RANKINGS: HIGH LOW AVGE FINAL
Just one defeat in ten games ensured a 3-0 revenge win over Luxembourg in the Switzerland have achieved great
Switzerland topped their European penultimate game and a draw at home to Israel success with limited resources over F
qualifying group to reach South Africa. was enough to seal top spot, just a point ahead recent years, qualifying for the last four —
A draw away in Israel in their opening game of Greece. : major tournaments. ;
was a followed by a humiliating 2-1 loss at Five clean-sheets and just eight goals Knocked out on penalties by Ukraine in the
home to usual whipping-boys Luxembourg — conceded was the basis of Switzerland's second round of the last World Cup, the
the minnows’ first win in World Cup qualifying success, and while they failed to find the back Swiss did themselves proud, not conceding —
since 1972. of the net in only one game, they were a single goal in any of their four games at the ©
Despite such an atrocious start, Ottmar frighteningly consistent in front of goal, scoring tournament. Oy
Hitzfeld's side recovered in style, winning six of twice in seven of the ten matches and only The side's defensive solidity remains their
their next seven games, and avoiding any bagging more on one occasion. great strength, with a settled back-line ably
further defeats in the whole of the campaign. If they keep their discipline at the back then assisted by a hard-working midfield. Phillipe
2-1 wins at home to Latvia and away in Switzerland will be very tricky opponents for Senderos is the most high-profile name _
Greece put the Swiss back in contention to any team in Group H, but don't expect too amongst those defensive ranks, but Stephan:
qualify automatically from one of the easier many fireworks. They will once again rely heavily Lichsteiner, Cristoph Spycher and Stephane
groups, before they avoided another slip-up on the contribution of legendary striker Gichting all proved themselves to be reliable
with consecutive wins over Moldova. Alexander Frei. during qualifying. 23
Centre-back Phillipe Senderos scored twice in For final qualification table see Greece Gokhan Inler and Valon Behrami bring
genuine class to a team that lacks spark,
Avge FIFA ranking
particularly in the absence of Hakan Yakin,
1 06 Sep 08 Away Israel 21 D 2 H.Yakin 45, N’Kufo 56 who was ignored by manager Ottmar
2 10 Sep 08 Home Luxembourg 1 2 N’Kufo 43 Hitzfeld for much of qualifying.
3 11 Oct 08 Home Latvia : 24 Frei 63, Nikuto. 72° As ever, much depends on the form and
fitness of star striker Alexander Frei.
4 15 Oct 08 Away — Greece _ 1 2 Frei 42pen, N’Kufo 77.
Switzerland's all-time record goal-scorer was
5 28 Mar 09 Away Moldova —
“8 01Anr09 Home: Moldova ° Paé oO ie)2S mna. oOA
a pivotal figure again in qualifying, top-
scoring with five, and his clinical finishing will
7 05 Sep09 Home Greece 2 0 Grichting 84, Padalino88 be vital again in South Africa.
8 09 Sep 09 Away Latvia 2 Frei 43, Derdiyok 80 DREAM
9 100ct09 Away Luxembourg) ae ) 3 Senderos 6,8,Huggel 22,00 TEAM TOP 15 RANKING
10 14 Oct09 Home Israel eds
=
<
fo)
fs)
s
= SCONN
NORD
=D
0
THE MANAGER
P\Y-tg-le(-M allo We-lal aisle Me) mele) elel-stilel| 62
Legendary coach Ottmar Hitzfeld was a

MAIN PLAYER PERFORMANCES IN QUALIFICATION popular choice when he took over as
n coach of the Switzerland side in 2008.
ae a eee ee A handy striker in a playing career that
Match 152 8.4 Ge6ug 6) OOS come
er ame saw him win two Swiss League titles with FC
bute ato eitat ig 9 =
Venue AHHAAHHAAH 25 28 ee i. g2gx
Result DLWWWWWD wi IDaDD PSG NOMS foe
Basle, Hitzfeld has eclipsed his on-field
Goalkeepers success in the last 20 years of management.
Diego Benaglio BERR 9, 9 0) “O: =810 "90/0; 0:0”. 0 A two-time World Coach of the Year, the
Marco Wolfi a 8°98 88 Jw Ob SOOO ON On 30 60-year-old has won the Champions League
Defenders with both Borussia Dortmund and Bayern
Johan Djourou B« »& 4°13 eH © WheeeeGineod 30) (Oued
Mario Eggimann » Bene Ol aso 1o:0! BO! Or 0
Munich and has seven Bundesliga titles to
his name.
Stephane Grichting BEER ERREEE So Or Om Oe S10'90:0) =o) 1) 0
Stephan Lichtsteiner B° BEE eee 88a Oho 7 20ReO0m Os) 6 Tactically astute, Hitzfeld got the most out
Ludovic Magnin || foe tT CRS 5) & 0: :O>.5450'-60:0: 0.) 1.8 of an average Switzerland squad to lead
Alain Nef w« “« 2 ee Oe 1Ste IAG 1O' Or 0 them to South Africa.
Philippe Senderos || foe Tt 4.4: >'0° 10) (3360 40:0) <2 40) 6
Christoph Spycher » OE SHEE 6 6 1 1054863 (S03 OO) 9
Steve von Bergen Baa! Sinc3e (Oe 0) meerO G00 a2) tO
Reto Ziegler » # hr Oo Ge 99 60-10) 0
Midfielders
Almen Abdi » » Si OL se 46°6:1' 0° 0" 0
Tranquillo Barnetta «Hae uoB« «MM 10 10 0 6 792 880 0 1 0
Valon Behrami » « EB Sire: VO (26 e2Or, raOiee OGaG:
Blerim Dzemaili Br Teter cite 0) 190 20.0 (Op eb
Gelson Fernandes Be» »»B« «BE Sg ee OID eae Ao ee
Benjamin Huggel GB Se«see” jo\iaaic! Re pee! Wigwie av
Gokhan Inler ETT ELL |i | 8). cB Ge 0 7204800 (OF “1 10
Marco Padalino ««B« Oi 5. 5.30) 3) 419 46:6) hn
Valentin Stocker oH baa ee SOS 3G 90 100 0 0 0
Hakan Yakin re >» » Ta SB o2aes2e8s 26.3 th Ap
Forwards GROUP FIXTURES
Eren Derdiyok @vrrnw nna Chee Get GO: “37.8. tT .0' 010
Alexander Frei «««BBG« » OS B ol - 4h 062673:67 «5% 0) 40 SPAIN Wed 16 June 1500 BST
Mauro Lustrinelli » AS Yo ae 20% 22:9 0 40
CHILE Mon 21 June 1500 BST —
Blaise Nkufo MMM« «6 «Mm 1010 0 4 868 964 5 0 0
Johan Vonlanthen » » ae | (oO Lae: ae | 128) 14:2 J0' 1. 10
HONDURAS Fri 25 June 1930 BST
152 GROUP H
Zone Europe
Population 7.5m
Language German, French, Italian
Top league Swiss Super League
Playing season July - May
FC Zurich (26,682), Grasshopper-Club Zurich
(24,012), FC Basel (42,903)
Serie A 3 Eredivisie 7,
Number of Swiss players playing:
Serie A 5 Ligue 1 3

Diego Benaglio Wolfsburg 26 9
Marco Wolfi Young Boys 27 1
Defenders
Johan Djourou Arsenal 23 4
Mario Eggimann Hannover 96 29 2
Stephane Grichting Auxerre 31 9
Stephan Lichtsteiner — Lazio 26 8
Ludovic Magnin FC Zurich 31 5
Philippe Senderos Arsenal 25 4

Christoph Spycher Eintr Frankfurt 32 6
Steve von Bergen Hertha Berlin 27 3
Midfielders
Almen Abdi Le Mans 23 3
Tranquillo Barnetta B Leverkusen 25: 10
Valon Behrami West Ham 25 3
A classic centre-forward, Alexander Frei
leads the line expertly for Switzerland. Appearances: Gelson Fernandes St Etienne 23 6
Frei is the country's all-time goal-scorer, Minutes played: Benjamin Huggel Basel 32 8
with a record of better than a goal every Percentage played: Gokhan Inler Udinese 25 8
other game, he is the first name on Ottmar Goals scored: Marco Padalino Sampdoria 26 5
Hitzfeld's team-sheet if fit. A clinical finisher, Percentage share: Valentin Stocker Basel 21 1
Frei will need to be on form if the Swiss side Cards: Hakan Yakin Lucerne 33 i
are to make it beyond the group stage and Strike rate: Forwards
he will carry the nation on his shoulders. Strike rate ranking: Eren Derdiyok B Leverkusen 21 7
Alexander Frei Basel 30 9
Blaise Nkufo Twente 35. 10

Johan Vonlanthen Zurich 24 5
GROUP H 153
One of the standout keepers of the modern A player who has continued to improve A quite simply brilliant goalkeeper, Iker
era, Gianluigi Buffon is no stranger to throughout his career, Tim Howard is an Casillas has been a big part of Spain's
World Cup finals and set a remarkable extremely athletic, well-rounded keeper success over the last few years and, as the
record as Italy triumphed at Germany 2006, and is widely regarded as one of the best current captain, will be a key figure in”
keeping five clean sheets and conceding in the English Premier League after an South Africa.
only two goals in the entire tournament. unsettled start to his career in England Already a Spain and Real Madrid legend,
With peerless reflexes and anticipation, Buffon with Manchester United. people sometimes forget that, at 29, Iker
is the bedrock of Italy's defence and his talent Now number one for Everton — where he set a Casillas is still some years away from what
and experience will be invaluable for the Azzurri new clean sheet club record in 2008/09 — traditionally is seen as a goalkeeper's prime.
in South Africa as the reigning champions seek Howard has also cemented his place as first- Destined to go down as one of the players of
to defend their title. He comes into the choice for the US and will play a big part if they his generation, he often singlehandedly keeps
tournament in good form and will be vital. are to reach the last 16. an attacking Real side in games.
wcq
Appearances: 35 7 Appearances: SF. 13 Appearances: 38 9

Percentage played: 89.7% 70.0% Percentage played: 97.4% 72.2% Percentage played: 100% 90.0%
Goais conceded: 42 4 Goals conceded: 44 12 Goals conceded: 39 4
Cards: YO,RO YO, RO Cards: NAR) VAR SIO Cards: YO,RO YO, RO
Concede rate: 75mins 157mins Concede rate: 76mins 97mins Concede rate: 88mins 202mins
Concede rate ranking: 22nd 13th Concede rate ranking: 19th 24th Concede rate ranking: 12th 9th
Laeay
154 TOP PLAYERS

THE TOP GOALKEEPER
JULIO CESAR
A prodigiously gifted keeper with a big Playing record weq
personality, Julio Cesar has matured into Appearances: 18
one of the best in the world and itis not Minutes played: 1620
hard to see why. Percentage played: 100%
A phenomenal shot-stopper, he is also a Goals conceded: 11
vocal and dominant figure in the defensive Clean sheets: 10
unit and — crucially in the modern game — is Cards: Y1, RO
very comfortable under the high ball. He has = Concede rate: 147mins
been in cracking form for Inter. Concede rate ranking: 15th
DREAM
AGE 30 § INTER MILAN TEAM RANKING 2
THE TEAMS
a. ml
AFRICA ~ CAF OCEANIA — OFC
(2 wa
fm
FT DENMARK
Population 5.5m Sq km 43,000
WC finals 3 winners 0
| ee ALGERIA
Population 33.8m Sq km
2.4m
NEW ZEALAND
ns
nolan ; ENGLAND CAMEROON
Population 51m Sq km 130,000 Population 18.5m Sq km 475,000
~ WC finals 12 winners 1 WC finals 6 winners 0
nav
Boa FRANCE IVORY COAST
5 fi } Population 62.1m Sq km 547,000 Population 17.5m Sq km 322,000
~~" WC finals 12 winners 1 WC finals 1 winners 0
~~ GERMANY* GHANA
r Population 82.3m Sq km 357,000 Population 22.2m Sq km 239,000
WC finals 16 winners 3 WC finals 1 winners 0
===
w= ~, GREECE
— _ Population 10.7m Sq km 132,000 fag NIGERIA
i WC finals 1 winners 0 WC finals 3 winners 0
4 a
e ITALY
= SOUTH AFRICA
Population 43.8m Sq km 1.8m
ey NETHERLANDS
gues § Population 16.4m Sq km 42,000
PORTUGAL
eo. | + Population 10.6m Sq km 92,000
ra SERBIA*
+’ Population 10.1m Sq km 102,000
SLOVAKIA
a _! Population 5.5m Sq km 48,000
“~~ WC finals 1 winners 0
> SLOVENIA
ad | Population 2m Sq km 20,000
~ WC finals 2 winners 0
= SPAIN
we SWITZERLAND
P™ Population 7.5m Sq km 41,000
* includes records for countries of West Germany and
Yugoslavia
NORTH AMERICA — CONCACAF

aa ©. HONDURAS
maa =~ Population 7.6m Sq km 112,000
MEXICO
a-al ¥ Population 109m Sq km 2m
f= <>» UNITED STATES
=== ~m Population 303m Sq km 9.6m
SOUTH AMERICA — CONMEBOL

ARGENTINA
Population 39.8m Sq km 2.8m
BRAZIL AUSTRALIA
Population 187m Sq km 8.5m Population 20.1m Sq km 7.7m
CHILE JAPAN
Population 16.5m Sq km 760,000 Population 127m Sq km 378,000
PARAGUAY KOREA DPR

Population 6.4m Sq km 407,000 Population 23.5m Sq km 121,000
- URUGUAY KOREA REPUBLIC

Population 3.5m Sq km 170,000 Population 48.8m Sq km 98,000
156 THE TEAMS

Winners Host Year Winners Host
Uruguay Uruguay (South America) 1974 Germany Germany (Europe)
Italy Italy (Europe) 1978 Argentina Argentina (South America)
Italy France (Europe) 1982 Italy Spain (Europe)
Uruguay Brazil (South America) 1986 Argentina Mexico (South America)
Germany Switzerland (Europe) 1990 Germany Italy (Europe)
Brazil Sweden (Europe) 1994 Brazil USA (South America)
Brazil Chile (South America) 1998 France France (Europe)
England England (Europe) 2002 Brazil Japan/S.Korea (Asia)
Brazil Mexico (North America) 2006 Italy Germany (Europe)
THE TEAMS 157

POLOKWANE
NELSPRUIT
PRETORIA
JOHANNESBURG
BLOEMFONTEIN
DURBAN
PORT ELIZABETH
CAPE TOWN
Stadium Soccer City

Built 1987 (upgrade 2009)
Capacity 94,700
City population 3.2 million
Altitude 1,753 metres
Matches
South Africa v Mexico (Opening match of
tournament); Netherlands v Denmark; Argentina
v South Korea; Brazil v lvory Coast; Ghana v
Germany; Round of 16; Quarter-final; Final
Stadium — Ellis Park Stadium (Coca-Cola Park)

Built 1928 (upgrade 2009)
Capacity 61,000
City population 3.2million
Altitude 1,753 metres
Matches
Argentina v Nigeria; Brazil v North Korea;
Slovenia v USA; Spain v Honduras;
Slovakia v Italy; Round of 16; Quarter-final
158 STADIUMS
Stadium Green Point Stadium
Built 2009
Capacity 70,000
Altitude O metres (sea level)
Matches
Uruguay v France; Italy v Paraguay;
England v Algeria; Portugal v North Korea;
Cameroon v Netherlands; Round of 16;
Quarter-final; Semi-final
Stadium Durban Stadium

Built 2009
Capacity 70,000
Altitude O metres (sea level)
Matches
Germany v Australia; Spain v Switzerland;
Netherlands v Japan; Nigeria v South Korea;
Portugal v Brazil; Round of 16; Semi-final
Stadium Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium Stadium Loftus Versfeld Stadium Stadium Free State Stadium
Built 2009 Built 1906 (upgrade 2008) Built 1952 (upgrade 2008)
Capacity 48,000 Capacity 50,000 Capacity 48,000
City population 1.0 million City population 2.2 million City population 369,500
Altitude O metres (sea level) Altitude 1,214 metres Altitude 1,400 metres
Matches Matches Matches
South Korea v Greece; Ivory Coast v Portugal; Serbia v Ghana; South Africa v Uruguay; Japan v Cameroon; Greece v Nigeria;
Germany v Serbia; Chile v Switzerland; Cameroon v Denmark; USA v Algeria; Slovakia v Paraguay; France v South Africa;
Slovenia v England; Round of 16; Quarter-final; Chile v Spain; Round of 16 Switzerland v Honduras; Round of 16
Match for third place
Stadium Royal Bafokeng Stadium Stadium Peter Mokaba Stadium Stadium Mbombela Stadium
Built 1999 (upgrade 2010) Built 2010 Built 2009
Capacity 42,000 Capacity 46,000 Capacity 46,000
City population 395,539 City population 508,272 City population 221,541
Altitude 15,000 metres Altitude 1,310 metres Altitude 660 metres
Matches Matches Matches
England v USA; New Zealand v Slovakia; Algeria v Slovenia; France v Mexico; Honduras v Chile; Italy v New Zealand;
Ghana v Australia; Mexico v Uruguay; Greece v Argentina; Paraguay v New Zealand Australia v Serbia; North Korea v lvory Coast
Denmark v Japan; Round of 16
STADIUMS 159
“SCORE A WOR LD CU P
HAREADT-TRTHE ICBREAKING
K NEWSWITH EVERY DAYTHE IN THESUSUN.
N:
FOLLOW OUR LIVE MATCH CENTRE AT THESUN.CO.UK —
KEEP UPDATED ON THE MOVE WITH THESUN.MOBI
BIG OPINIONS E! ERY DAY FROM

OUR WORLD-CLAS TEAM. ONLY IN
i
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bee
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. THE
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GUIDE TO THE
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2010 WW
DREAM TEAM PLAYER RANKINGS
CREATED FROM OUR UNIQUE
2009-10 FORM-GUIDE.
HiPLAYER-BY-PLAYER GUIDE TO ALL

32 FINALISTS — GIVING THEIR CLUB
SIDES, QUALIFYING INTERNATIONAL
APPEARANCES, GOALS ity CAUTIONS.
=
A FILL-iN CK: OUT OPPONE GUIDE

TO THE WHOLE TOURNAMENT.
UM347
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Sui

First published in 2010 by

Created by Interact Publishing Ltd

Commissioning editor: Terry Pratt

lan Wright's copy courtesy of SEM

A catalogue record of this book is available from the British Library

Printed and bound in Italy by L.E.G.O. SpA

GROUPA =—SC#PAGE'6 (am GROUP PAGE 22

GROUP C GROUP D PAGE 64

A BRILLIANT BOOK OF WORLD CUP 2010 — WITH YOUR NAME ON

INTRODUCTION 4 FINALS SCHEDULE

THE TEAMS TOP 12GOALKEEPERS 154°

INSIDE, THREE OF THE BIGGEST NAMES IN

their spot at the finals. That was after they

GROUP STAGE LAST SIXTEEN QUARTER-FINALS

FRANCE FRANCE v NIGERIA RANCE v ENGLAND

SOUTH AFRICA SOUTH AFRICA v ARGENTINA ARGENTINA v SERBIA

ROUTE TO THE FINALS FINAL PROSPECTS

Goalkeepers Club side Age QG

Julien Escude Sevilla 30 4

There is not much that hasn't already Florent Malouda Chelsea 29 6

Strike rate: 143mins 241mins Karim Benzema Real Madrid Aa

Sidney Govou Lyor

debacle and played more minutes in qualifying

Yet, he is the longest ever serving French

has pace to burn and skill on the ball to Goals scored: 4 3

Defender ranking: 27th 64th

ROUTE TO THE FINALS FINAL PROSPECTS

12 07 Jun 09 Away El Salvador 1 Blanco 71pen DREAM TOP 15 RANKING

8 9101112131415161718 &§ 3 BB Bele Sib management in domestic football in his

Fausto Pinto | i Bo BGO iO 27 Oe 16m eoN 40) 10;

Zone North, Central America & Caribbean

Goalkeepers Club side Age QG

Oscar Rojas America 28 4

@ Probable QG Qualification Games

ROUTE TO THE FINALS FINAL PROSPECTS

Match ft 2 3.4 5.6 7-8

Goalkeepers Club side Age Int

Bevan Fransman Maccabi Netanya 26

Tsepo Masilela Maccabi Haifa 25

@ Probable QG Qualification Games

international manager, taking Brazil to World

ROUTE TO THE FINALS FINAL PROSPECTS

18 14 Oct 09 Home Argentina ‘4

19 15 Nov 09 Away Costa Rica 4 Lugano 21

20 18 Nov 09 Home Costa Rica Ge ©== 1 Abreu 70

Goalkeepers Club side Age QG

Vicente Sanchez Schalke 30 7

GROUP STAGE QUARTER-FINALS

ARGENTINA ARGENTINA v SOUTH AFRICA

NIGERIA NIGERIA v FRANCE

GROUP B GROUP A GROUP C

ROUTE TO THE FINALS FINAL PROSPECTS

Maradona called up an incredible number

Ow. TOP 15 RANKING

Goalkeepers Club side Age QG

Juan Pablo Carrizo Real Zaragoza 26 6

Gabriel Milito Barcelona 29 4