World Cup 2010 Contestant: Spain

On a scale of one to ten, Spain's performance in qualifying for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ can only be given top marks. On top of wins in each of their ten games, La Roja were the European Zone's second top scorers with 28 goals while conceding a miserly five at the other end. Maturity, resilience and the ability to overcome adversity were all in evidence during their campaign, and few national teams in world football are blessed with squads of such depth and sheer talent. The Iberians have not rested on the laurels of their UEFA EURO 2008 victory, consistently bringing in new faces without renouncing their commitment to attractive short-passing football.

The road to South Africa
The title of European champions inevitably meant that Spain's opponents redoubled their efforts to claim what would be a notable scalp. Their narrow 1-0 win against Bosnia-Herzegovina - courtesy of a solitary strike from David Villa - was typical of the kind of gritty resistance they have had to overcome since Austria/Switzerland. And though Armenia and Estonia were dispatched relatively comfortably, an away clash in Belgium and a double-header against EURO 2008 semi-finalists Turkey forced the Spaniards to dig deep for nine valuable points.

Following a 2-1 win in Brussels, when they fought back to clinch victory via an 88th-minute Villa strike, came a 1-0 success over Turkey in Madrid, the goal coming from Gerard Pique. The return in Istanbul marked another 2-1 comeback triumph courtesy of goals from Xabi Alonso and then Liverpool team-mate Albert Riera. Belgium were subsequently dispatched 5-0 in La Coruna and a ticket to South Africa 2010 was assured with two rounds to spare after a comfortable 3-0 home win over Estonia. Far from taking their foot off the pedal, La Selección capped a flawless campaign with victory in Armenia and a 5-2 away thrashing of closest challengers Bosnia-Herzegovina.

The star players
The team's success has been based on quality and balance throughout the side. In captain Iker Casillas Spain have one of the world's finest keepers, a man who can be relied upon to bring his superhuman reflexes to the rescue when most needed. Midfield string-puller Xavi Hernandez's inch-perfect passing and vision is vital to the Spaniards' fluid style, while at the sharp end of the attack there can be few if any better finishers than David Villa and Fernando 'El Niño' Torres.

The coach
Vicente del Bosque took over where Luis Aragones left off after the EURO 2008 triumph, keeping the same footballing philosophy and core of players which dazzled the continent that summer. The experienced supremo has also hit the heights at club level with Real Madrid, winning two UEFA Champions Leagues (2000, 2002), two La Ligas (2001, 2003), a Spanish Super Cup (2001) a UEFA European Super Cup (2002) and the Toyota Intercontinental Cup (2002).

Del Bosque continued Aragones' faith in the one-touch style that has traditionally characterised Spain's play and which relies upon midfielders of the highest quality. As a recult, the Spaniards have won every game but one since the former Los Blancos boss took charge, the exception being a semi-final reverse against USA at the FIFA Confederations Cup 2009.

Previous FIFA World Cups
- Spain have taken part in the finals of 12 FIFA World Cups and have not missed a single edition since failing to reach Germany 1974.
- La Roja's best performance at the global showpiece was a fourth-placed finish at Brazil 1950.
- At senior international level, Spain have two major titles to their name: the 1964 and 2008 European Championships.

Records
- Spain recorded ten wins from ten South Africa 2010 qualifiers.
- La Selección were the European Zone's second-highest scorers, firing 28 goals to end the campaign just six strikes short of the Fabio Capello's England.

The words
"We've got good players and a well-oiled team, but there are some very strong sides out there. Our aim is to challenge for the next World Cup but we know how difficult it is. We're not the favourites but we are among the hopefuls." Vicente del Bosque, Spain coach.

World Cup 2010 Contestant: Spain

On a scale of one to ten, Spain's performance in qualifying for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ can only be given top marks. On top of wins in each of their ten games, La Roja were the European Zone's second top scorers with 28 goals while conceding a miserly five at the other end. Maturity, resilience and the ability to overcome adversity were all in evidence during their campaign, and few national teams in world football are blessed with squads of such depth and sheer talent. The Iberians have not rested on the laurels of their UEFA EURO 2008 victory, consistently bringing in new faces without renouncing their commitment to attractive short-passing football.

The road to South Africa
The title of European champions inevitably meant that Spain's opponents redoubled their efforts to claim what would be a notable scalp. Their narrow 1-0 win against Bosnia-Herzegovina - courtesy of a solitary strike from David Villa - was typical of the kind of gritty resistance they have had to overcome since Austria/Switzerland. And though Armenia and Estonia were dispatched relatively comfortably, an away clash in Belgium and a double-header against EURO 2008 semi-finalists Turkey forced the Spaniards to dig deep for nine valuable points.

Following a 2-1 win in Brussels, when they fought back to clinch victory via an 88th-minute Villa strike, came a 1-0 success over Turkey in Madrid, the goal coming from Gerard Pique. The return in Istanbul marked another 2-1 comeback triumph courtesy of goals from Xabi Alonso and then Liverpool team-mate Albert Riera. Belgium were subsequently dispatched 5-0 in La Coruna and a ticket to South Africa 2010 was assured with two rounds to spare after a comfortable 3-0 home win over Estonia. Far from taking their foot off the pedal, La Selección capped a flawless campaign with victory in Armenia and a 5-2 away thrashing of closest challengers Bosnia-Herzegovina.

The star players
The team's success has been based on quality and balance throughout the side. In captain Iker Casillas Spain have one of the world's finest keepers, a man who can be relied upon to bring his superhuman reflexes to the rescue when most needed. Midfield string-puller Xavi Hernandez's inch-perfect passing and vision is vital to the Spaniards' fluid style, while at the sharp end of the attack there can be few if any better finishers than David Villa and Fernando 'El Niño' Torres.

The coach
Vicente del Bosque took over where Luis Aragones left off after the EURO 2008 triumph, keeping the same footballing philosophy and core of players which dazzled the continent that summer. The experienced supremo has also hit the heights at club level with Real Madrid, winning two UEFA Champions Leagues (2000, 2002), two La Ligas (2001, 2003), a Spanish Super Cup (2001) a UEFA European Super Cup (2002) and the Toyota Intercontinental Cup (2002).

Del Bosque continued Aragones' faith in the one-touch style that has traditionally characterised Spain's play and which relies upon midfielders of the highest quality. As a recult, the Spaniards have won every game but one since the former Los Blancos boss took charge, the exception being a semi-final reverse against USA at the FIFA Confederations Cup 2009.

Previous FIFA World Cups
- Spain have taken part in the finals of 12 FIFA World Cups and have not missed a single edition since failing to reach Germany 1974.
- La Roja's best performance at the global showpiece was a fourth-placed finish at Brazil 1950.
- At senior international level, Spain have two major titles to their name: the 1964 and 2008 European Championships.

Records
- Spain recorded ten wins from ten South Africa 2010 qualifiers.
- La Selección were the European Zone's second-highest scorers, firing 28 goals to end the campaign just six strikes short of the Fabio Capello's England.

The words
"We've got good players and a well-oiled team, but there are some very strong sides out there. Our aim is to challenge for the next World Cup but we know how difficult it is. We're not the favourites but we are among the hopefuls." Vicente del Bosque, Spain coach.

The Irish keep on whining

Latest news say that the Irish FA have sent a request to FIFA wanting an extra spot at the World Cup finals, thanks to their inability to get past France.

FIFA's president Sepp Blatter has promised to bring that subject to the attention of the executive committee meeting on Wednesday.

Also goal-line technology and extra referees will be a topics, amongst others. Some change is no doubt coming regarding this as Blatter said: "It's possible we will make additional officials for the World Cup but we have to see if it is feasible or realistic. Something has to be done in terms of match control."

Regarding the Irish whine, Blatter brought to attention, that Costa Rica also feel that they missed out on the World Cup 2010, after Uruguay scored a goal from a offside position. Now why don't we see the Costa Ricans complaining about it? More dignity maybe? Fact is Ireland had a chance to put the game to bed far before the Henry handball incident, but they didn't do it. Simple as that. It's football. And while still the stagnated system exists with 3 referees, there's no reason to keep on moaning weeks after an incident has happened, as these decisions happen week in week out in World football.

That extra referees idea would be a great thing. It's been tested in youth tournament and in the UEFA Europa League and with success I think. I follow the Europa League quite closely and I think this season there hasn't been any bad decisions made that have cost a team points. At least nothing so big that would made the headlines as a "shocker".

And don't get me wrong. That momentary blindness by the officials in the France - Ireland match, was also a shocker, but it's two weeks now since it happened and these Irish FA's actions are starting to look really lame. Just get over it!

Meet Adidas Jabulani

Officially to be revealed on 4 December by FIFA and Adidas in the World Cup draw, this is Adidas Jabulani, the ball, which will be used in the World Cup 2010 in South Africa.


Jabulani means "rejoice", "to celebrate" in Zulu language. There's a story involved with the colours on the ball and the number 11.

There will be three main colours, as seen, yellow, black and white. But in total there will be 11 different colours and as we all know there are 11 players in one team. 11 is also the number of different languages spoken in South Africa.

As every new ball, this has also been improved a lot by technology. Jabulani will suit both, the goalkeepers and the outfield players, as it has a perfect round figure, offering great accuracy on striking and a stable flight. It also has extra grip.

World Cup 2010 Stadium: Ellis Park Stadium

Ellis Park Stadium is located in the centre of Johannesburg and has hosted many epic sporting events including the final of the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup between Brazil and the United States. The ground was given a significant face-lift before the Confederations Cup finals and now seats 62,000 fans, increasing its capacity by almost nine per cent from the previous 57,000.

Ellis Park was first built in 1928 as a rugby union stadium. It was demolished and rebuilt in 1982, again exclusively for rugby. It was named after JD Ellis, a Johannesburg city councilor who approved the use of the land for a stadium, setting aside a full 13 acres.

The ground will always occupy a special place in the hearts of the country's sporting fans after the South African rugby team shocked New Zealand to lift the 1995 Rugby World Cup trophy soon after being allowed back onto the world sporting stage. It was a moment that brought the people of South Africa together in celebration as the iconic scenes of Nelson Mandela holding aloft the trophy at Ellis Park were beamed around the world.

The largest piece of construction has been the new tier on the north stand which has increased the seating capacity to 62,000. With state-of-the-art media facilities, team whirlpools, top-class VIP areas for dignitaries, accessibility for disabled fans, a new pitch and a top-notch audio-visual setup to keep the fans informed during the game, no one will be left disappointed.

Ellis Park is home to one of the country's most popular clubs, Orlando Pirates FC.

Name: Ellis Park Stadium
City: Johannesburg
Built: 1982
Construction: minor upgrade
Construction Completion: 2009
Gross Capacity: 61,000

World Cup 2010 Stadium: Ellis Park Stadium

Ellis Park Stadium is located in the centre of Johannesburg and has hosted many epic sporting events including the final of the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup between Brazil and the United States. The ground was given a significant face-lift before the Confederations Cup finals and now seats 62,000 fans, increasing its capacity by almost nine per cent from the previous 57,000.

Ellis Park was first built in 1928 as a rugby union stadium. It was demolished and rebuilt in 1982, again exclusively for rugby. It was named after JD Ellis, a Johannesburg city councilor who approved the use of the land for a stadium, setting aside a full 13 acres.

The ground will always occupy a special place in the hearts of the country's sporting fans after the South African rugby team shocked New Zealand to lift the 1995 Rugby World Cup trophy soon after being allowed back onto the world sporting stage. It was a moment that brought the people of South Africa together in celebration as the iconic scenes of Nelson Mandela holding aloft the trophy at Ellis Park were beamed around the world.

The largest piece of construction has been the new tier on the north stand which has increased the seating capacity to 62,000. With state-of-the-art media facilities, team whirlpools, top-class VIP areas for dignitaries, accessibility for disabled fans, a new pitch and a top-notch audio-visual setup to keep the fans informed during the game, no one will be left disappointed.

Ellis Park is home to one of the country's most popular clubs, Orlando Pirates FC.

Name: Ellis Park Stadium
City: Johannesburg
Built: 1982
Construction: minor upgrade
Construction Completion: 2009
Gross Capacity: 61,000

Italians conquest to retain the title

The World Cup is a wonderful competition. It's always tightly contested and a lot of team is frame for the win. In history, there have only been two teams, who've managed to retain their title. That amazing Brazilian side in the 60' lead by Pelé in (1958 & 1962) and by Italy in 1934 and 1938. These were the Italians first World Cup wins. They won their 4th in Germany 2006, can they make it five in South Africa?

Italy has always been a team of great performances in great tournaments. Since the beginning of 90's, they qualified for 9 out of 10 major tournaments and their record is impressive. Five World Cup performances read 1 win, 1 second place, 1 third place and also 1 5th place. European Championships have always been more difficult, with shock results, but they still made the final in 2000 and finished 5th in 2008, after getting dumped out by the eventual winners Spain.

There's a big problems with the international team, and also some club sides. Generational change is slow to come. The average age of the current Italy side is near 30. And while experience is no doubt a essential thing to have for a good footballer, you'd have to wonder if balance wise, it wouldn't be better to have some more younger players involved.

Fabio Cannavaro and Alessandro Nesta, who made their debuts in 1997 are still playing key roles in defence. Along them, Gianluigi Buffon and Filippo Inzaghi were also involved in France 1998. Players like Sebastian Giovinco and Davide Santon, who are one of the most talented young players to come out of Italy, have tough time getting selected for the international team, as well as their club sides, Juventus and Inter respectively.

This probably down to that Italy have always been more of tactical side, than a attractive one. Since 2004, Italy have only won 3 matches by more than 2 goals. Low scoring matches make up a majority, though in recent times under Marcello Lippi and Roberto Donadoni, it's showing signs of improvement.

Lippi delivered the World Cup title in 2006 and he's also in charge now. The former midfielder, who turns 62 in April, has a lot of experience and delivered silverware where ever he's been. Lippi is a avid supporter of the idea of having a good team spirit to achieve success. That might be the cause why the side has changed so little with time. And it might not be a bad thing, but it is still uncertain if it will lead to the similar success of Germany 2006 or the failure of Confederations Cup 2009.

European Champions aiming for history

I think it's safe to say Spain dominated World football a couple of years back. Setting a record of most undefeated matches in a row in 2007-2009, which is shared by Brazil. Also breaking the record of most games won in a row, 15 in 2008-2009. After the EURO 2008 success, the side even pipped Brazil, who've always looked like glued to the 1st place of the FIFA rankings, from the standings, to take top spot.

Until that win over Germany in the final, Spain has always looked as a infamous side regarding their performances at the final tournaments. The Spaniards always seem to do well at qualifying, dominating their group and qualifying with ease, but they've failed in the finals with a quarter-final stage being the best result in modern day.

European Championships record has been pretty much the same, but that win in 2008, was their second, they also won in 1964, plus finished runners-up in 1984.

Certainly, the current crop of players is phenomenal. Numerous world class players, with a same level back-up for every position on the field. A lot is expected no doubt. The same players won the EURO 2008 and it was still a very young side (Fernando Torres 23, Cesc Fàbregas 20 and so on). There's a big potential and every chance of this team to become of the best international teams in history.

When France won the EURO 2000, they were only the second team in history to have held both, the World Champions and the European Champions titles, after West Germany had it in 1974. This Spain side is more than capable of repeating that success.

World Cup 2010 Stadium: Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium

The Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, set on the shores of the North End Lake is the first football dedicated stadium in the city or surrounding areas. The stadium, one of the newly-built stadiums for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™, was completed a year prior to the commencement of the world's greatest show on earth - a major milestone for the city.

The Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium will host the match for third place , and a quarter-final amid a total of eight matches during the FIFA World Cup. The stadium has an eye-catching, unique roof-structure and a spectacular view, overlooking the North End Lake.

Before the construction of this multi-purpose venue, all international football matches were played at the Eastern Province rugby stadium, the EPRU Stadium. The playing field is going to be of natural grass with the outer /surrounding area to be artificial turf. One of its first major test events was the coveted Soweto Derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs - a game that attracts capacity crowds in South Africa.

Name: Port Elizabeth
City: Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth
Construction: new
Completion: 2009
Gross Capacity: 48 000

World Cup 2010 Stadium: Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium

The Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, set on the shores of the North End Lake is the first football dedicated stadium in the city or surrounding areas. The stadium, one of the newly-built stadiums for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™, was completed a year prior to the commencement of the world's greatest show on earth - a major milestone for the city.

The Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium will host the match for third place , and a quarter-final amid a total of eight matches during the FIFA World Cup. The stadium has an eye-catching, unique roof-structure and a spectacular view, overlooking the North End Lake.

Before the construction of this multi-purpose venue, all international football matches were played at the Eastern Province rugby stadium, the EPRU Stadium. The playing field is going to be of natural grass with the outer /surrounding area to be artificial turf. One of its first major test events was the coveted Soweto Derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs - a game that attracts capacity crowds in South Africa.

Name: Port Elizabeth
City: Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth
Construction: new
Completion: 2009
Gross Capacity: 48 000

Antic signs a new deal

Serbia have tied their manager Radomir Antic down for another year. His previous deal was due to run until 2011, but it's now extended to the end of EURO 2012 qualifying. A successful campaign there, would also mean the contract being extended until the end of the final tournament, which is co-hosted by Poland and Ukraine.

The former Real Madrid and Barcelona manager, took over Serbia at a perfect time you have to say. The current crop of players might be the best since the Second Yugoslavia fell in 1992. Some of Europe's best talent in all departments of the squad and the average age is just perfect - around 25-26.

The qualifying process for South Africa 2010 was impressive. Serbia topped the group ahead of France, picking up 7 wins from a possible of 10. It was a second great World Cup qualifying campaign in a row. Though in, the 2006 Montenegro was still part of Serbia. The team won their group ahead of Spain, with both finishing undefeated.

The tournament itself wasn't very good, with the team losing all of their matches, but the squad was mostly made up from the players, who are also now involved. Only this time, they have more experience in internationals and club football and Serbia might be a surprise package of South Africa 2010. That is, if they aren't considered as possible winners from the start. With players like Vidić, Ivanović, Stanković and Krasić in the side, that prediction might not be too far off.

Can US repeat their Confed Cup success?

The USA have happy memories of South Africa. Last summer they were losing finalist in the test tournament for the World Cup, Confederations Cup 2009.

USA lost their first matches (1:3 to Italy & 0:3 to Brazil), but managed to sneak through from the group thanks to goals scored, edging Italy's 3 out with 4. Spain, who at the time were leading the FIFA rankings, was the opponent in the semis. Surprisingly USA advanced thanks to a relatively easy 2:0 win. In the final they lost 2:3 to Brazil after having a 2:0 lead at half-time, so a mark was made and the side might be possible dark horses in the World Cup.

USA have been part of the World Cup finals ten times. Best position being 3rd in the very first in 1930. Like Asia, the US is seen with huge potential. The local league, Major League Soccer (MLS), is improving all the time, managing to lure better players to the continent (of course David Beckham being the most notable).

The rise of popularity began in 1990's. USA was picked as the host nation of World Cup 1994 and MLS was formed as the first outdoor league, since North American Soccer League (NASL) died out in the 80's. Even though World Cup 1990 in Italy was pretty much a catastrophe, with the US losing all of their games, the side managed to win the North American Cup a year later, as well as the Gold Cup.

1994 World Cup was a huge success. This not only brought attention to US as a whole, but popularized football in the country itself and also the national team got past the group stage for the first time since 1930.

1998 was the opposite, mainly due to poor manager-player relationships, but the game slowly grew in the nation and player selection widened. Also the managerial level got better with a number of specialist no involved with the team.

The 2000' arrived with another Gold Cup success and USA was involved in the "Group of Death" of World Cup 2002, where they managed to get a respectable draw versus Italy and only narrowly losing to Ghana.

2006 also turned out to be a bit of a failure. Notice a pattern? By that it looks like it's time for some success again in 2010.

Landon Donovan, who seems to have been around forever (120 caps), is now reaching his career's peak at 27. From the same age group, Clint Dempsey and DaMarcus Beasley are getting great experience in Europe at Fulham and Rangers respectively. Goalkeeper Tim Howard is one of the best in the World. And there's also the curios case of Freddy Adu. Can the one time wonder kid, who's still 20 years of age, finally make a mark in World football?

Adu has been off the radar for the past few season after coming to Europe and playing for Benfica and Monaco, but there's no doubt about his talent. I mean, there's only a limited amount of Djemba-Djemba's Alex Ferguson can take notice. And the Scot praised Adu, when he was on trial at Manchester United. Adu's now at Belenenses in Portugal, on-loan from Benfica. A more relaxed environment for the attacking-midfielder, who'll be hoping he gets enough first-team football to be in contention for a place in the US side for the World Cup. The competition is getting more fierce every year.

Chile's place in danger

Chile's have come in danger of losing their place World Cup place. And what's weird, it has nothing to do with the national side, but a local league team.

Club Social de Deportes Rangers disobeyed the 6+5 rule 2 weeks ago in a local league match. The rules allow teams to use a maximum of 5 foreign players, but Rangers manager Oscar del Solar used 6.

The club was fined $4,000 and docked 3 points, which resulted them being relegated. Of course the club doesn't agree with that and have taken the case to court. And that's the part that FIFA don't like.

A letter has been sent to the Chilean FA for them to stop Rangers pursuing the case and basically threatening to ban the nation from all competitions, World Cup included.

The letter read: "We beseech your association to call on your affiliated club... to withdraw the case it took to the Chilean courts of justice within the next 72 hours or... announce the pertinent sanctions against your affiliated club. If your association does not adopt the necessary measures as we have indicated, the case will be put to Fifa's executive committee in its session of December 3, 2009 in Cape Town... so it considers imposing a suspension against (the ANFP)."

So, a lot of topics to discuss for the main footballing governing body next week. But, for me again, it seems like a nonsense thing to do. Why should the national team get pushed for a local side's breach of rules? Chile have made it to the World Cup finals for the first time since 1998, playing some very good football. Why should the players, who took the nation to the World Cup finals, get punished? Plain silly this.

Luckily the storm has now settled. Rangers backed down with the case and Chile, with Sporting attacking-midfielder Mati Fernández being the starman, will have the chance to cause some shocks in South Africa.

World Cup banned in Korea DPR!

Korea DPR's leader Kim Jong-il has ordered the national television to not to show matches from South Africa next summer. He also wants to have the local side, Korea DPR, shown as the dominant force in all the matches in highlights.

This means that 99% of the Korea DPR population will never know who won the World Cup, if Korea DPR itself doesn't win it, which is unlikely I think we can all agree.

The Korea DPR matches will be edited to show them as the better side. Also, opposition fans will be blurred out, as well as the advertising boards.

Korea DPR specialist Mike Breen said: "Like everything else, the regime will also have total control over the World Cup. Korea DPR doesn't pay for TV-rights, so the national television can't show the matches. They'll most probably get tapes from South Korea and then edit it heavily, so it would match the regime. Only the upper class, who have access to satellite TV, will be able to watch other matches. Majority of the population will have to settle with one-sided highlights, which will probably be broadcasted days later after the matches. Losses will be ignored, or mentioned very little about them. If Korea DPR gets eliminated, I wouldn't be surprised if the World Cup would even get a mention at all."

Just ridicules that these kinds of regime's still exist in modern days World. And doesn't the DPR mean Democratic People's Republic? It looks more like Dictatorial Power Regime. While I have nothing against Korea DPR something needs to be done about this. The whole censorship is laughable, but the people, who will be represented by their team in a major competition, can't see the matches. It's unbelievable and shocking. I hope FIFA will also discuss this matter in their extraordinary meeting next week.

Asian teams as the whipping boys

Asia no doubt has big potential in sports in general. I mean, look how many World Championships and Olympic medals the Chinese have won in Athletic's and such. But someway they don't seem to perform in team sports and as we all know, football is all about team performance not individuals.

South Korea came close to glory in 2002. Being the host nation, they reached the semis and got into the 3rd place match. Even though they lost it in the end 3:3 to Turkey, thanks to World Cup histories fastest goal scored (10.8 seconds) by the legendary Turkish striker Hakan Sükür, it was looked as a turning point for Asia. But none of the teams that were involved in Germany 2006 (Iran, South Korea, Saudi Arabia & Japan) managed to get past the group stage, with South Korea coming the closest, even snatching a draw versus France. And it looks to be the same story again in South Africa. Even though the groups are yet to be drawn, I'm willing to bet my house on South Korea again being the best from Asia.

Australia will bring more competitiveness to the region, but I doubt the Aussies will repeat their success of Germany 2006, where they were knocked out by the eventual winner Italy in the first knock-out stage.

Japan are going through a generation change and while there are still some players, who've made a name for themselves in Europe (Shunsuke Nakamure being the most notable one), the squad is largely made up of players playing in the local J-league.

Korea DPR deservedly made it to South Africa, playing some very smart and tactical football under their manager Kim Jong-Hun, but with only a few players playing outside the local league, this will be more of a learning curve for them and they're there just to make up the numbers.

Africa is also the continent that hasn't yet tasted World Cup glory, but in terms of footballing quality they are light years ahead of Asia. Talent plays big part in football and while the Asian players might have physical skills, they are still learning the mental aspects of the game and being a team in general.

Endō voted the best

Japanese midfielder Yasuhito Endō has been voted as the best Asian footballer 2009. The 29 year old, who plays his club football at Gamba Osaka, fought off competition from Kengo Nakamura, also from Japan, Syrian forward Firas Al Khatib, Bahrein's Sayed Mohamed Adnan and Hadi Aghily from Iran. Last year's award was won by Server Djeparov of Uzbekistan.

In the ceremony that took place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, also the award for the best Asian club side was handed out and that was won by Pohang Steelers, who won the Asian Champions League this year.


Endō is a key player for the Japanese international team and no doubt his good performances will be the key for Japan, if the three-times Asian Champions want to have a successful World Cup 2010 finals campaign.

England back on the big stage

England's fans and media are infamous for their unrealistic expectations. Some might say it's ambition, but when Sven-Göran Eriksson was in charge of the Three Lion's the achievement of three consecutive quarter-final places in major competitions, a record only matched by Brazil, wasn't valued enough. They got a lesson when Eriksson finally left and Steve McClaren was handed the job. Reality hit and the team didn't make it to EURO 2008 finals. But now there's a new man in charge. Fabio Capello has the pressure on him to deliver the first major trophy since the World Cup triumph of 1966, or at least make it to the semi-finals, which England last did in EURO 1996.

It's possibly the last chance for some of the England's "Golden Generation" members to finally leave a mark of themselves at a major competition. David James, Rio Ferdinand, David Beckham, Frank Lampard to name a few broke into the England squad at the same period of time.

The World Cup 2002 was looked like the tournament, which the side should've delivered, but it didn't happened. Same was expected from EURO 2004, with Wayne Rooney injected to the squad, but again they failed. After that it seems like the peak has passed. Players are in their 30's and slowly fading from the top stage of the footballing world, but can Fabio Capello maybe squeeze the last out of them?

Coming with vast experience and knowledge of the game, no doubt only great results are expected. And judging from the start of the era, the expectations might not be very far off. You can say the team breezed through qualification for the World Cup 2010, winning 9 of the 10 matches and only losing the one, when qualification was already clear. But what's worrying is that the team haven't won matches versus the bigger, more serious opposition. England have lost to France, Spain, and more recently, to Brazil. Only managing to beat Germany. Of course you can say that friendlies don't matter, but you'd expect at least for a draw when playing against opposition in the same mold as yourself.

But a big part that sets Capello apart from his predecessors, is that he isn't afraid to leave the big names of out the team. David Beckham has been a victim of this, but is he really a victim.?When Beckham was at Real Madrid and Capello took charge he dropped the Englishman, only for the one time Three Lions to improve his form and fight his way back into the team. Beckham of course then left for USA, but since Capello took over England the same case has applied.

When Beckham gave up the captaincy after the failure in Germany 2006, it was also seen as a international retiring by many. And it was at first, but again the right-midfielder fought his way back into the team after getting a kick to his backside. His willingness of being part of the England side was really remarkable and lead to his loan-deal at AC Milan earlier in the year.

Beckham is set to return to Milan next year to keep himself under the eye of Capello and be in shape for the World Cup. While he hasn't been part of the latest squads that Capello has picked, there is no doubt in my mind we'll see the World's highest paid footballer in World Cup 2010. This will be the last chance for the "Golden Generation" of England to finally leave their mark in football history.

Emergency meeting for FIFA

FIFA have called for an emergency meeting to discuss various incidents that have happend recently in the World Cup play-offs.

Even though a replay is out of the question, the conroversial winner by France versus Ireland will be one of the matters.

Also crowd trouble before and after the sudden death match with Egypt and Algeria will be discussed.

There's also a new match-fixing scandal gathering pace with over 200 suspect matches, plus the Iraqi government has suspended it's FA's work.

The meeting will take place on 2 December in Cape Town, where the executive committee members were already due to meet to decide the seedings of the World Cup group stage draw. The draw will be made on 4 December, as mentioned before.

This kinds of emergency, or as others call it extraordinary, meetings are unusual for FIFA. But even though there's a risk of overshadowing the World Cup draw, no doubt the FIFA have to discuss the for mentioned topics to protect the beautiful game.

Quick courts

That's what's been set up in South Africa for the World Cup. Courts that will quickly deal with the crimes committed and other things involved. Makes sense with people travelling in and out the country during the month, so the visitors will be enable to keep evidence right away.

There will be a total of 54 courts in all of the host cities.

A statement said: "The experience from previous host countries has shown the influx of foreign nationals in World Cups also potentially increases criminal activities."

South Africa is well known as a crime filled country and the worries go back ever since the hosting of the FIFA World Cup 2010 was decided. That and the state of the stadiums. The stadiums are ready, was proven during the Confederations Cup 2009, but questions still remain over the safety of the thousands of visitors, who'll come to see the World's greatest sporting event.

Maradona's mysterious ways

Appointing Diego Maradona always looked more like a sentimental than a sensible thing to do by the Argentinian FA. The man had no experience of managing at high level, only trying his hand at lower league clubs some 15 years ago. Certainly appointing one of the more experienced Argentine managers, Diego Simeone or Carlos Bianchi, would've made more sense. But it didn't start off too badly.

Maradona was appointed near the end of last year. His first match in charge turned out to be versus Scotland, which the team won. Also wins in the World Cup 2010 qualifying process followed, but it all turned sour in the infamous game versus Bolivia. Argentina lost that match 6:1, which marks their worst defeat in their history along side 5:0 drubbings by Uruguay and Colombia and a similar scoreline defeat by Czechoslovakia in 1958.

Onwards, the campaign was very frustrating. Even though the next match was won, three straight defeats followed. Maradona using a unprecedented 80 different players in the squad didn't help the matter. His tactical choice was also naive, in every game lining up with a stagnated 4-4-2 with no interchange between the wings and little movement, or even no movement in some games, by the main striker. Maradona himself defended his tactics by saying that he's only just learning the tactical plan. But is post as the manager of Argentinian football team really a place, where you should only be learning?

To his luck, Maradona is worshiped in Argentina, in other circumstances he probably wouldn't have lasted until the end of the qualification. And his team did the business in the end. Even though a small miracle was needed against Peru and the win versus Uruguay, which sealed the qualification in the last round, came very hard.

There's no doubt about his motivating skills and effect on players, but he hugely lacks in other departments of what makes a successful football manager. As said, his tactical knowledge is near to none and his selection of players is mystifying. Having a serious lack of experience might be the cause of all of this. Maradona should've probably tried his hand at some Argentinian top club, before putting his name forward for the international team role.

Latest news say, that Guus Hiddink, who this time around with Russia failed to take a team to the World Cup after 3 successful runs, is lined up to somekind of a consulting role for Maradona. In a interview Hiddink revealed: "That would not be a bad idea, would it?
“We know each other well. It even makes me smile thinking about it. But I do have a contract with Russia, which covers the period of the World Cup.’’

And maybe that's what Maradona exactly needs. A more experienced manager along side him, to guide him through the tactical preparations for the match and such. His current partnership with Carlos Bilardo clearly isn't working.

Can Ronaldinho make it to SA?

The FIFA World Player of the Year 2004 & 2005, Ronaldinho, is out of favour with Brazil manager Dunga, but a renaissance in the Brazilian attacking midfielders form might mean we could still see his trademark smile next summer in South Africa.

Ronaldinho's last cap for the five-times World Champions is from April 2009. The player, who once was the biggest star of the star-studded team, has fallen out of favour due to his form in these few past years, but since his fellow countryman Leonardo took over at his club, AC Milan, his form has started to improve. This has lead to believe his could still make the plane for the World Cup.

Lately in Brazil there's always been controversial characters in the team. Ronaldo and Adriano are both wonderful football players, but have found that partying and such are more important at times. Ronaldo hasn't played for Brazil ever since Dunga took over. Adriano, after even the country's president plead for him to be selected, finally made his come-back this September. Ronaldo has expressed his desire to be part of what would be his 5th World Cup, but also admitted that he's basically too fat for that to happen. “I will confess, I’m fat. Television adds three kilos to your waistline. Here I have five cameras on me. Imagine, three kilos per camera”, he's joked. Adriano, since joining Flamengo this season, has started to improve his form, his goals speak for himself (19 in 28 games), and while he still looks out of shape, he's certainly in the frame for the finals squad.

I feel a lot of Ronaldinho's future for Brazil will depend on how AC Milan fares this season in all competitions. After Kaká left for Real Madrid, his senior countryman has come to life, but there's still a long road to go to regain Dunga's trust. Ronaldinho really let down the whole country by getting mixed in the finer things of life and Dunga, who himself was a very intelligent and modest player, might feel that Ronaldinho's past success isn't important anymore. Dunga has gone on record saying: "The national team is not only about skill anymore, it's about competitiveness and commitment."

There might even be a big role to play for Leonardo. The two were part of the USA 1994 success and no doubt been through thick and thin, so maybe there's chance Leonardo could convince his 6 years senior countryman, to take the one time untouchable player to the World Cup 2010. Ronaldinho's recent from has shown that he certainly would be worthy of the place.

Here's a reminder of how wonderful player he can be:

African Cup of Nations 2010 groups drawn

The draw for the African Nations Cup 2010 was made last night in Angola. All of the teams, who made it to South Africa 2010 are involved, except the host themselves.

Group A: Angola, Mali, Algeria, Malawi.

Group B: Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo, Burkina Faso.

Group C: Egypt, Nigeria, Benin, Mozambique.

Group D: Cameroon, Tunisia, Zambia, Gabon.

Group B looks like the most competitive group with two of African powerhouses, Ivory Coast and Ghana, involved along side Germany 2006 debutant's Togo and an ever improving Burkina Faso. But all groups should be tight and there's no doubt a lot of mouthwatering matches installed.

The tournament will take place 10-31 January.

It's interesting to note that Egypt, who have won this competition a record 6 times (currently two times defending Champions), haven't managed to carry that form over to World Cup qualifying, as they haven't made it to the finals since 1990.

Is Queiroz good enough for Portugal?

In the end Portugal made it to South Africa 2010 with quite comfortable performances versus Bosnia and Herzegovina, but the qualifying process as a whole was a bit of a disaster. The play-off spot versus Bosnia and Herzegovina was only sneaked ahead of Sweden by only a single point. Disastrous form considering Portugal had the chance to rely on FIFA World Player of the Year 2008, Cristiano Ronaldo. To Queiroz's and the teams credit they did only lose 1 match (at home to Denmark), but draws, like a home draw vs Albania were really shocking results, considering the qualify throughout the squad.. And in fact, Portugal needed an injury time goal to beat the Albanians away in Tirana. Luckily for them they had a favorable fixtures list with the last two matches being at home, vs Hungary and Malta, and Sweden bottled it in the end. But even though with a place booked for South Africa 2010, questions still remain over Carlos Queiroz's ability to manage the team.

Queiroz came to prominence with his great work with young players. His been named as the "discoverer" of the Portuguese "Golden Generation" consisting from the likes of 2001 FIFA Player of the Year, Luis Figo and Rui Costa. Mainly thanks to his successful work with the youth teams he was award the senior team's managerial role in 1991, but the former player himself, failed miserably, having not qualified for neither the European Championships 1992 nor the World Cup 1994.

Quieroz then went of to manage Sporting Lisbon. Queiroz had a world class team at his helm, many consider the Sporting team of that time the best ever Sporting side, but he failed again. During his three year stay, Sporting only managed to win one piece of silverware, the Portuguese Cup in 1995.

Reigns at obscure teams followed and Mr. Quieroz would've probably gone down in football history as a quite unknown man if it wasn't for one lucky summer. In 2002, Quieroz, who in the same year had lead South Africa to the World Cup finals, but resigned from the position before the tournament, managed to impress Sir Alex Ferguson and earned himself an assistant manager role at Manchester United.

Season 2002/2003 was greatly successful for United, with Queiroz playing a key role behind the scenes, so Real Madrid came knocking. But again Queiroz failed. Having an all-star squad at his disposal, he failed to deliver the league championship and was sacked after two years. He returned to United and his fate seemed to by as a forever number two.

And that what Carlos Queiroz is - a nr. 2. He's a very good assistant manager, but as a manager he just doesn't cut it. This understanding really hits when you read or listen to his interviews. He's too much of a nice guy, to ever be successful as a manager. Yes, he did deliver silverware for the Portuguese youth teams, but that's the stage, where you teach boys to play football, not instruct men to win football matches. Queiroz is great tactically, huge part of United's success when he was there's was down to his clever tactical choices, but he lacks in motivating players.

The Portuguese FA gave him another chance and they'll probably regret it now, but I expect them to learn from their mistakes. Even though Queiroz signed a 4-year deal in 2008, I doubt he'll still be in charge of Portugal after South Africa 2010. I certainly can't see how the team could be successful in the World Cup finals, and one of the best players of the World, Cristiano Ronaldo, will probably have to wait for another World Cup cycle before going down in history as one of the best players ever to play the game.

A Slovenian miracle

When that goal by Zlatko Dedič hit the net a miracle happened. The small Central European nation Slovenia qualified for their only second ever World Cup and only their 3rd major tournament. A huge achievement for a country with only a little over 2 million people.
And what's even more miraculous is that Slovenia were drawn into their qualifying group from Pot E, the fifth strongest of the pots, along the likes of Georgia, Albania, Iceland, Armenia and many more so called "lesser teams". Their group consisted of Slovakia, Czech Republic, Northern Ireland and Poland. All of them, which you'd expect Slovenia to struggle to beat. The only weak side in the group were San Marino.

But Slovenia's only wins weren't against San Marino. They won four home matches and only drew with Czech Republic. Away form was also solid with 2 wins, 2 losses and 1 draw. And what's even more remarkable. The defence, lead by fairly unknown players to the public yet, Marko Šuler and Boštjan Cesar, conceded only 4 goals. An achievement only bettered by two-times runner-up of the World Cup, the Netherlands.

Manager, Matjaž Kek, who himself also managed a national team cap for Slovenia back in 1992, has done a remarkable job with the resources available to him. When Slovenia last reached the World Cup finals, 2002 in South Korea, they were mostly seen as a one-man team, with everything running through captain Zlatko Zahovič, who's arguably the best ever player to come from that small nation. Now there's a good mix of youth and experience, captain Robert Koren, who plays his club football at West Bromwich Albion being the most well known name.

Kek has been praised for creating a wonderful team spirit among the players. When Zahovic was still playing, there were always miscommunication and arguments between him and then time manager Srečko Katanec, currently the manager of United Arab Emirates, and that caused a down fall of many things. Team spirit was really lacking in the qualifying process of EURO 2008. Until Kek took over the helm in January 2007, the team had only managed to beat Luxembourg. It turned out to be only one from the total three, but what Kek did, was installing a more intelligent approach to matches and created a togetherness feeling in the dressing room. That qualifying process was more of a learning curve with the exam being the World Cup qualifying 2010 and the manager, players and everyone involved with the team came through it with flying colours.

South Korea 2002 ended pointless for Slovenia, but with the defense rock solid and players ready to prove their worth, lead by a intelligent manager, no doubt Slovenia won't be on any teams wanted list when the World Cup 2010 draw is made in two weeks time.

Irish request denied

FIFA has denied the Irish FA's request to replay the match versus France, which ended in controversial circumstances. The statement read: "FIFA has today, 20 November 2009, replied to the request made by the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) to replay the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ play-off match held on 18 November 2009 between France and the Republic of Ireland in Paris. In the reply, FIFA states that the result of the match cannot be changed and the match cannot be replayed. As is clearly mentioned in the Laws of the Game, during matches, decisions are taken by the referee and these decisions are final."

It's funny how both, FIFA and UEFA, haven't mentioned this incident in their post match report. In some parts it's understandable, but it does leave a sour taste to all of this.

Anyways, while most of the Irish are mad about the whole situation, one isn't. Former captain, who infamously walked out on the team in South Korea 2002, Roy Keane has come out and said that his counter parts should just accept it and move on. "They can complain all they want but France are going to the World Cup - get over it. France were there for the taking and Ireland didn't do it. Same old story", he said. The man, who racked up 66 caps for the Republic of Ireland, also went on to criticize the players: "I'd be more annoyed with my defenders and my goalkeeper than Thierry Henry. How can you let the ball bounce in your six-yard box? How can you let Thierry Henry get goal-side of you? If the ball goes into the six-yard box, where the hell is my goalkeeper? These are skills and lessons you learn as a schoolboy."

Thierry Henry, the hero of "Hand of God II", has come under heavy criticism amongst fans of the game. While current and former players have defended him. Former Arsenal teammate Lee Dixon went on record saying that the thing Henry did, cheating, is totally out of character from him, while another former Arsenal teammate Emmanuel Petit compered Henry with Zinedine Zidane. "Zidane has been sent off 14 times, some for things a normal person in the street might be in prison for - we always found an excuse for him so why can't we find one for Thierry as well?", asked the man who himself played for France 63 times. Henry himself as agreed that a rematch would be the best possible solution.

Football is all about opinions and everyone has them. While all of them might not be right, most of them do have some valuable points. It's just sad how the beautiful game is being ruined with cheating and refereeing decisions, as the cost of a win has gone too high.

Domenech disjointing Les Bleus

Born in 1952, he mostly made his name at his hometown club Lyon. He had a respectable footballing career, which saw him pick up 8 caps for the French international team. After retiring he's worked as a manager at FC Mulhouse, Lyon, French U-21 and now he's the manager of the French senior squad. Who is he? Raymond Domenech.

Before taking over the senior side, Domenech worked with French youth teams for 10 years. He was appointed as the manager of Les Bleus after EURO 2004 when Jacques Santini didn't manage to take the team past the quarter final stage, where the French lost to, eventual champions, Greece. Even though Domenech had been involved with the French FA for over a decade, it was seen as a surprise appointment and that surprise still lingers five years after.

The side struggled right from the off. First match under Domenech was a 1:1 draw at home in Rennes versus Bosnia and Herzegovina, who at that time were far from the quality they are today. Qualifying for the FIFA World Cup 2006 didn't start better either. If fact it took over a year to mark the first win at home, 3:0 versus lowly Faroe Islands. And that turned to be one of only 2 wins France managed at home, the other being a 4:0 win versus Cyprus. To Domenech's credit, the side finished their group unbeaten and won it to get direct qualification to Germany 2006, but that was only after Domenech convinced, or rather plead, Zinedine Zidane and some other members of "the golden generation" to return to the international scene.

Team selection had been a major talking point by everyone under Domenech. Being an astrologist, the 57 year old, seems to favour players who have born with the "right" astrological sign. Players like Ludovic Giuly, who at the time when he was in the French international team frame was a important member of Barcelona, and Philippe Mexes have been among the sufferers of this. Mexes' case goes even further, as Domenech has once even gone on record saying that he basically hates Italian football and doesn't want to have anything to do with it, but Mexes, one team being seen as the next great centre back since Marcel Desailly and Laurent Blanc, of course plays in Italy, at AS Roma.

France, after starting poor, went on to get a final place in Germany 2006 and that saved Domenech's job, as the fans had forgotten how miserable the reign had been up until then. And to his luck his team actually started scoring goals in the EURO 2008 qualifying. France went through behind Italy from their group and were touted as potential winner of the finals, as always.

The Domenech syndrome struck again in the finals, though. France managed only 1 goal in three matches, playing awful football with no fluency and didn't make it past the group stage. Reality hit Les Bleus fans, there was some serious unrest with the national team manager, but somehow Domenech held on to his job.

The qualification phase of the FIFA World Cup 2010 started with an embarrassing defeat away at Austria. Through out the process it was an up and down road. There's was even reports about players being unhappy how the manager did his work. France struggled again with Faroe Islands and also Lithuania. That eventually saw them finish second in their group behind Serbia and play-off matches with Ireland. And even though Les Bleus made it in the end, albeit under controversial circumstances, Domenech didn't do his reputation any favours with again an anti approach to the match and especially keeping Karim Benzema on the bench for the entire match, even with the team needing a goal.

"The astrologist" as Domenech's called by many, will probably make it to the FIFA World Cup 2010 in South Africa, but after that, no doubt he won't be wanted anywhere near Les Bleus ever again.

Who didn't make it?

Now there were 204 nations, who started their quest to reach the FIFA World Cup 2010 in South Africa, but it's pretty pointless for me to list all of those who missed out, but I'll name a few more notables, who we won't be seeing next summer.

It's always tight in Europe and I've also mentioned the ones, who got close, but here's a more detailed look.

Sweden, with Barcelona star Zlatan Ibrahimovic, came to the qualifying with high hopes. It was always going to be tough with Denmark and Portugal also aiming for qualifications, but no doubt the Scandinavians, who qualified for the last two World Cups is Germany and South Korea, hoped to continue the good run. In the end a defeat in Copenhagen cost them dear, as their Southern neighbours took the first place of the group.

Czech Republic, who made their debut in the World Cup in Germany 2006, wanted to make it two in a row, but Slovenia surprised with a great campaign and snatched the play-off spot ahead of them with "brother" Slovakia winning the group.

Turkey, who finished third in South Korea 2002, didn't manage to edge Bosnia and Herzegovina largely thanks to point losses to Estonia and Belgium.

Croatia, France 1998 3rd place, who had a wonderful EURO 2008 qualifying campaign, couldn't repeat the success and 4:1 defeat at Wembley to England pretty much summed up their form.

Russia, 12th team in the FIFA ranking, were beaten in the play-off round by Slovenia, who are placed all the way down at 49th place. A really remarkable feat by the nation with only a population of two million.

There were no real surprises in Africa, with only Egypt failing is a sudden death match with Algeria. So they won't have a chance to continue their impressive play in South Africa, which they did in this year's Confederations Cup.

In Asia, local powerhouse China, who made their debut in South Korea 2002, failed twice in a row, finishing bottom of a group containing Australia, Qatar and Iraq. Iran, who impressed during Germany 2002 fell in the last stage in a group with South Korea, Korea DPR, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates.

In the North, Central America/Caribbean zone Trinidad & Tobago, who made their debut at Germany 2006, finished bottom of the last stage.

No surprise in Oceania as New Zealand passed and also no shocks in South America, maybe only the good play Chile showed. They last qualified for the World Cup finals in 1998, lead by the legendary strike duo Marcelo Salas and Iván Zamorano.

And rest of the World...

The North, Central America/Caribbean zone had 35 teams taking part to decide 3 automatic qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 2010 and 1 spot, who'd take on the 5th team from South America in a play-off round.

First round saw the entrants reduced to 24 teams. Second round decided the 12, who'd be drawn into thre groups of four, where the two top teams advanced to the final stage - a six-team group. USA won the group in the end. Mexico, who struggled in the beginning under Sven-Göran Eriksson, got 2nd place, while Honduras took 3rd with better goal difference ahead of Costa Rica. Costa Rica went to play Uruguay in a play-off round.

Oceania qualification was the first since Australia switched to the Asian Zone. The first stage started all the way back in 2007 at Pacific Games in Samoa, where the football competition also acted as a FIFA World Cup 2010 qualifying competition. Top three advanced to the second stage to be seeded along side New Zealand. The second stage was Oceania Nations Cup 2008 as well as the last stage of the FIFA World Cup 2010 qualifying in the Oceania zone. It consisted of a 4-team group, from where the winner advanced to the next phase - a play-off with Asian zone 5th team.

So, New Zealand faced Bahrain in a two-legged play-off. The first match in Bahrain ended goalless, but the All Whites, as the New Zealand football team is called, took the qualifying spot in the return leg, thanks to a goal from Plymouth Argyle striker Rory Fallon.

Who will be representing Asia?

Asia were allocated 4 places to the FIFA World Cup 2010 in South Africa, and one place in a play-off versus a representative from Oceania.

43 teams started the campaign. Timor-Leste started World Cup qualifying for the first time in their history, while Australia, who previously were part of the Oceania zone, made their debut in the Asian zone.

First round was a play-off round with 38 teams. Of the 19 teams that made through, eight lowest seeded were required to play in the second round, while others went straight through to round three. 20 teams were drawn to 5 four-teamed groups in the third round. Two top teams qualified for round four. Round four saw the remaining 10 teams drawn into 2 five-teamed groups, from where the two top teams qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2010 and 3rd placed teams played a play-off to decide who will take on a team from Oceania.

Group 1 was won by Australia, who finished the group unbeaten. They were followed by Japan and Bahrain went into the play-off.

Two Koreas topped Group 2, with South Korea taking 1st place and Korea DPR, who've had former England and Mexico boss Sven-Göran Eriksson linked to their managerial post for the World Cup finals, taking the second qualifying spot on goal difference ahead of Saudi Arabia, who'd take on Bahrain in a play-off.

Both matches in the play-off ended in draws (0:0 and 2:2), but Bahrain advanced in the end thanks to away goals to take on Oceania qualifying zone winners New Zealand.

Who will upheld the honour of the host continent Africa?

The Africa qualification started with a preliminary round to decide 48 progressing teams. As hosts of the FIFA World Cup 2010 South Africa qualified automatically, but they still had to take part of the process, as it also decided the teams that will play in the African Cup of Nations 2010 in Angola.

After the preliminary round 12 groups with four teams were drawn, with the group winners and 8 best runners-up advancing to the next group stage. The second group stage saw 20 teams split to 5 groups of 4. The group winners qualified for the FIFA World Cup finals. These teams were Cameroon, Nigeria, who edged out Tunisia by only a single point, Ghana and Ivory Coast. Group C saw Egypt and Algeria finish with exactly the same points and goal difference, so the two nations were forced into a winner takes all match on neutral ground in Sudan, to decide the final team, who'd pass through to the FIFA World Cup finals 2010. Algeria won the match 1:0 to mark the nations 3rd ever World Cyup finals place and the first since 1986.

Who made it from Europe?

53 teams started the FIFA World Cup 2010 qualifying stage all the way back in August 2008. It was marked as the first, where the small nation of Montenegro participated.

There were 9 groups, 8 with six teams and 1 with seven teams. The group winners qualified directly, while the 8 best second-placed teams participated in a play-off round.

Tightly contested Group 1 was won by the 1992 European champions Denmark ahead of Portugal, with Sweden and two-times World Cup runners-up Hungary narrowly missing out.

Life wasn't easier in Group 2, either. 2008 European Championships co-host Switzerland, under the legendary German manager Ottmar Hitzfeld, took the spoils in the end, with Greece going to the play-off round. Latvia and Israel were left ruing their luck.

Group 3 had five out of the six teams fighting for qualification, with San Marino being the bottom side. Slovakia got through in the end as winners. Close neighbours Slovenia, who conceded only 4 goal in the entire qualifying stage, finished second with Czech Republic, Northern Ireland and Poland missing out.

Group 4 was mostly dominated by the last FIFA World Cup hosts Germany. The three-times World Champions finished the group unbeaten and were followed by Russia. Finland also had a chance to qualify to their first World Cup in their history, but missed out in the end.

Current European Champions Spain had a easy run in Group 5, winning all of their games with a goal difference of 28-5. Bosnia and Herzegovina entered the play-off round, while 2002 FIFA World Cup 3rd placed team Turkey were also third this time, only in the qualifying group.

1966 World Champions England enjoyed similar success as Spain in Group 6, only losing their last match of the campaign to Ukraine and so helping the Eastern Europe side to the play-off round ahead of Croatia.

Only one point separated first and second in Group 7, with Serbia winning the group ahead of France.

Two teams finished Group 8 unbeaten. Defending World Champions Italy won the group as Ireland finished second, with Bulgaria missing out.

Group 9 was also a one-team show. Netherlands won all of their games. Norway and Scotland finished both on 10 points, but the Scandinavian team had better goal difference, so they took 2nd place. It didn't matter much in the end though, as Norway was the worst second-placed team in the qualifying stage and thus didn't make it into the play-off round.

In the play-off round, France took on Ireland, Greece were handed Ukraine, Bosnia and Herzegovina played Portugal, while Russia faced Slovenia.

Otta Rehhagel did his magic with Greece again, as the 2004 European Champions over came Ukraine away 1:0, after the first leg ended goalless. Portugal, with Cristiano Ronaldo missing through injury, proved they are not a one-man team and quite comfortably beat Bosnia and Herzegovina 1:0 in both matches. Slovenia got a vital away goal from Moscow and that helped them through with the aggregate score tied 2:2. France needed a handball to beat Ireland 2:1 on aggregate

Who's there from South America?

The South American zone kicked off with a simple ten-team league. The teams played each other twice and top four qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2010. The fifth side had a chance to book itself a ticket to South Africa via a play-off round versus the 4th team from the North, Central America/Caribbean zone.

Five-time World Champions Brazil won the qualifying, edging out Chile and Paraguay by one point. Argentina, who struggled through out the stage, took the final automatic qualifying spot in the end ahead of the first World Champions, Uruguay, who entered the play-off round with the 4th teams from North, Central America/Caribbean zone, Costa Rica. The tie ended 2:1 to Uruguay on aggregate, so there will be five teams from South America in the FIFA World Cup 2010

World Cup 2010 in South Africa

With now all the teams known, who'll take part of next years greatest sporting event, the FIFA World Cup 2010 in South Africa, I thought it was a good time to open a blog. My aim with this blog will be to give my own views on everything involved in the competition, as well as keep things updated with all the participating teams and such.



The World's premier football tournament itself will run from 11 June to 11 July, which is exactly 205 days from today. So there should be plenty of time for interesting points to be made and intriguing news to develop until the host nation, South Africa, will kick off at Soccer City Stadium, Johannesburg versus a team, which will be decided in the group stage draw on 4 December 2009 in Cape Town.

Liverpool 2 - Birmingham 2 Premier League, November 9, 2009

Liverpool 2 - Birmingham 2 Premier League, November 9, 2009
Liverpool took the lead, Hart made a brilliant double stop from David Ngog and Dirk Kuyt, Riera hooked the ball back across the goal and Ngog hit a ferocious left-footed volley into the roof of the net. Birmingham equalised in the 25th minute from a set piece, Christian Benitez eventually turning the ball home from four yards. Liverpool cranked up the pressure after the break, Steven Gerrard hitting the post with a header. With just over 20 minutes on the clock Liverpool won a penalty, Ngog diving under a challenge from Lee Carsley, and Steven Gerrard dispatched the spot kick for 2-2.
David Ngog Cheatinng
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