Villa tỏa sáng, Tây Ban Nha vào tứ kết

Tiền đạo tân binh của Barca tiếp tục lập công giúp đội bóng xứ bò tót có chiến thắng tối thiểu 1-0 trước láng giềng Bồ Đào Nha ở vòng 1/16.

Villa có bàn thắng thứ 4 ở World Cup 2010. Ảnh: AFP.

Đối đầu với đội bóng có lối chơi giàu kỹ thuật như Tây Ban Nha, thầy trò HLV Queiroz quyết định chọn phương án chơi phòng ngự, tranh cướp bóng tích cực và liên tục áp sát. Lối chơi này gây nhiều khó khăn cho đối thủ trong thời gian của hiệp một. Tuy nhiên, do thể lực và sự tập trung không thể đảm bảo trong cả trận, Bồ Đào Nha phải trả giá khi hàng phòng ngự phạm sai lầm và sự tỏa sáng của chân sút Villa.

Trong hiệp một, Bồ Đào Nha cho thấy sự chắc chắn trong khâu phòng ngự. Chính đội bóng của bán đảo Iberia có nhiều cơ hội ăn bàn hơn nhờ những pha phản công sắc bén của mình. Phút 20, C.Ronaldo sút xa khá hiểm hóc buộc thủ môn Casillas phải đẩy bóng và Almeida lao vào áp sát nhưng sự xuất sắc của thủ thành khoác áo Real Madrid từ chối cơ hội ghi bàn của Bồ Đào Nha.

Các học trò của HLV Del Bosque thực sự bế tắc trong những đường lên bóng và họ phải trông chờ vào những cú sút xa của Xabi Alonso và Xavi. Những pha phối hợp bóng ngắn của Tây Ban Nha luông vấp phải sự kín kẽ của hàng phòng ngự chơi nhiều lớp của Bồ Đào Nha.

Hiệp một kết thúc không bàn thắng và bước sang hiệp hai, HLV Del Bosque có sự thay đổi trên hàng công khi thay Torres bằng Llorente, tiền đạo đang chơi cho CLB Athletic Bilbao có khả năng không chiến rất tốt. Trong khi đó, Villa dạt sang chơi ở cánh trái và tạo ra những cơ hội nguy hiểm cùng sự yếu kém của hậu vệ Costa.

Phút 63, sau cú giật gót điệu nghệ của Xavi, Villa thoát xuống rất nhanh tung ra cú dứt điểm bị thủ thành Eduardo cản phá nhưng cú đá bồi tiếp theo của Villa mang về bàn mở tỷ số 1-0 cho Tây Ban Nha.

C. Ronaldo cùng các đồng đội dừng bước ở vòng 1/16. Ảnh: AP.

Ở những phút tiếp theo, Bồ Đào Nha phải chơi thiếu người sau chiếc thẻ đỏ của hậu vệ Costa sau pha đánh nguội Capdevila. Với thế trận như vậy, các học trò của HLV Queiroz quá khó khăn để triển khai tấn công khi Tây Ban Nha cầm bóng rất tốt. Kết thúc 90 phút, Bồ Đào Nha chấp nhận thua trận và chia tay Nam Phi. Trong khi đó, đội bóng của HLV Del Bosque đi tiếp và đối thủ của họ ở vòng tứ kết sẽ là Paraguay.

Đội hình thi đấu:

Bồ Đào Nha: Eduardo; Coentrao, Bruno Alves, Carvalho, Ricardo Costa; Pepe (Mendes 70’), Meireles, Tiago; Simao (Simao 70’), Ronaldo, Hugo Almeida (Danny 57’).

Tây Ban Nha: Casillas; Ramos, Piqué, Puyol, Capdevila; Busquets, Xabi Alonso (Marchena 90'), Xavi; Torres (Llorente 57’), Iniesta, Villa (Pedro 88’).

Bàn thắng: David Villa 63'

Trọng tài Howard Webb thổi trận CK: Câu chuyện của một cảnh sát

- Trọng tài người Anh Howard Webb đã được vinh dự bắt chính trận chung kết World Cup 2010 trong khi "Vua áo đen" người Mexico, Benito Archundia sẽ là người điều khiển chính trận tranh 3-4 giữa Đức và Uruguay. Thông báo trên được FIFA chính thức công bố.

Webb có vinh dự bắt chính trận chung kết - Ảnh Getty

Với người hâm mộ bóng đá, cái tên Howard Webb không còn quá xa lạ bởi người đàn ông từng làm nhân viên cảnh sát này là trọng tài số 1 của Premier League, giải đấu nổi tiếng nhất hành tinh. Chính Webb cũng là người đã bắt chính trong trận chung kết Champions League giữa Inter và Bayern Munich hồi cuối tháng 5 vừa qua. Công bằng mà nói, Webb hiện đang được đánh giá là một trong những "vua áo đen" tốt nhất của châu Âu.

Tại World Cup 2010, Webb đã bắt chính 3 trận đấu tính đến thời điểm này với 2 trận ở vòng bảng (Tây Ban Nha - Thuỵ Sĩ, Slovakia - Italia) và một trận vòng 1/8 (Brazil - Chile). Cho đến hiện tại, trọng tài 38 tuổi này về cơ bản đã điều khiển các trận đấu khá tốt. Tuy nhiên cũng không thể khẳng định Webb đã hoàn thành xuất sắc nhiệm vụ của mình khi ông vẫn tương đối "lỏng tay" trong một số tình huống. Đơn cử như chỉ rút thẻ vàng cảnh cáo với Jan Mucha dù thủ thành này đã dùng tay đấm thẳng vào mặt của Fabio Quagliarella trong trận Slovakia - Italia. Bên cạnh đó, ông còn không công nhận một bàn thắng cho Italia khi cho rằng Fabio Quagliarella đã rơi vào thế việt vị. Ở trận đấu giữa Brazil và Chile tại vòng 1/8, với tư cách là trọng tài chính, Webb đã công nhận bàn thắng cho Luis Fabiano dù cho trước khi ghi bàn tiền đạo của Salecao đã dùng tay chơi bóng.

Trong một VCK mà dấu ấn trọng tài để lại quá lớn (sai lầm của các trọng tài khi bàn thắng rõ ràng của Lampard ở trận gặp Đức không được công nhận và tình huống Carlos Tevez đứng dưới hàng thủ Mexico đến cả mét khi mở tỷ số trong tận đấu vòng 1/8 là ví dụ điển hình), FIFA cũng đã cân nhắc và tiến hành chọn lựa khá kĩ càng trước khi chính thức chỉ định Howard Webb bắt chính trận đấu cuối cùng của World Cup năm nay. Trợ lý của Webb trong trận đấu cuối cùng này sẽ là hai cộng sự đã cùng làm việc với ông suốt từ đầu giải là Darren Cann và Michael Mullarkey (cùng là người Anh).

Với việc lựa chọn Howard Webb, đương nhiên trọng tài người Mexico, Benito Archundia sẽ bắt chính trận tranh 3-4 giữa Đức và Uruguay. Ông Archundia, là một luật sư, cũng được FIFA đánh giá khá cao ở giải lần này sau các trận đấu được bắt chính là Italia - Paraguay và Bồ Đào Nha - Brazil.

Như vậy, kể từ năm 1974 đến nay mới lại có một trọng tài người Anh có mặt tại trận chung kết World Cup. Trước đó, Jack Taylor, một trọng tài của Anh đã bắt chính trận chung kết giữa Đức và Hà Lan tại Munich 1974 (Đức thắng 2-1).

10 ngôi sao mới ấn tượng tại World Cup

Những siêu sao hàng đầu như Rooney, C. Ronaldo hay Messi đều lần lượt chia tay Nam Phi với nỗi thất vọng lớn, trong khi có rất nhiều cầu thủ trẻ tạo được dấu ấn khó quên trong lòng người hâm mộ. Tổng hợp của Xinhua.

Không phải là một cái tên mới nhưng Wesley Sneijder thi đấu thực sự bùng nổ tại giải đấu, nhất là hai trận vòng loại trực tiếp giúp Hà Lan vào bán kết.

Hậu vệ Maicon chắc chắn khi phòng ngự nhưng cũng rất nguy hiểm mỗi khi lên tham gia tấn công.

Gonzalo Higuain (Argentina) là cầu thủ đầu tiên lập hat-trick tại World Cup năm nay.

Tiền đạo trẻ Jozy Altidore của Mỹ.

Alexis Sanchez của Chile.

Cầu thủ Rahim Ayew giúp Ghana, đại diện châu Phi duy nhất lọt vào tứ kết.

Tiền vệ tài hoa của tuyển Nhật Bản, Keisuke Honda.

Cùng với Park Ji Sung, ngôi sao Hàn Quốc, Lee Chung Yong, gây ấn tượng mạnh tại Nam Phi năm nay.

Tiền vệ tấn công mới 21 tuổi của Mexico, Giovani dos Santos Ramirez.

Thomas Mueller dần làm người hâm mộ Đức quên đi sự vắng mặt của đội trưởng Michael Ballack với những bàn thắng đẹp mắt.

Truyền thống kỳ lạ của Tây Ban Nha

Đấy là truyền thống… không ai muốn có: truyền thống gây thất vọng ở đấu trường World Cup. Tất nhiên, Tây Ban Nha đã phần nào xua tan được nỗi buồn thất bại tại giải kỳ này, khi lần đầu tiên lọt vào vòng bán kết World Cup. Nhưng hãy nhìn lại lịch sử: từ đâu ra truyền thống kỳ lạ, dự World Cup chỉ để gây thất vọng, nơi đội tuyển Tây Ban Nha? Chuyện sẽ chẳng có gì đáng bàn nếu Tây Ban Nha không phải là đất nước của 2 trong số những CLB vĩ đại nhất thế giới, Barcelona và Real Madrid. Cũng chẳng có gì để nói nếu Tây Ban Nha không phải là đất nước đã 2 lần vô địch Euro và có thể gọi là một trong vài nước thống trị các Cúp châu Âu tầm CLB. Một nền bóng đá như vậy mà lại chưa hề vượt qua vòng tứ kết World Cup tính đến trước lần giải này, thua cả Hàn Quốc, Thổ Nhĩ Kỳ, Mỹ, Ba Lan, Bỉ… thì rất khó hiểu. Luis Enrique và Fernando Hierro tại World Cup 1994 Càng khó hiểu hơn khi những gì thế giới nhìn vào và cố gắng giải thích thì chính người Tây Ban Nha lại chưa bao giờ công nhận. Có vẻ như bóng đá Tây Ban Nha luôn bí ẩn ở đặc điểm này. Cũng như cách đây nhiều năm, khi báo chí châu Âu “soi” kỹ Real Madrid và cho rằng đội bóng này bị chi phối bởi “quyền lực đen” của những Raul, Fernando Hierro, thì chính Real lại không bao giờ thừa nhận. Vậy, thế giới nói gì về đội tuyển Tây Ban Nha? Người ta cho rằng đấy là đội đại diện của một đất nước bị phân hóa rõ rệt về ngôn ngữ, văn hóa, bóng đá, và ĐTQG không có một giá trị rõ rệt ở đất nước ấy. Đối với giới hâm mộ bóng đá Tây Ban Nha, các trận derby Real - Atletico, Barcelona - Espanyol hoặc Sevilla - Betis đã là quá đủ, chưa kể trận Barcelona - Real Madrid luôn là cuộc chiến không khoan nhượng về nhiều mặt. Những niềm kiêu hãnh địa phương ở Tây Ban Nha có thể lấn át niềm kiêu hãnh của ĐTQG, nhất là khi người ta từng xem đấy là đội Tây Ban Nha “của Franco”. Cổ vũ ĐTQG làm gì nữa? Một trong những thất bại điển hình của Tây Ban Nha trên đấu trường World Cup xảy ra vào năm 1982, khi Tây Ban Nha giành quyền đăng cai. Trên sân nhà, Tây Ban Nha bị Đức loại khỏi bán kết, trong thể thức thi đấu vòng tròn ở giai đoạn 2. Hồi ấy, thủ môn nổi tiếng Luis Arconada để Gerry Armstrong (Bắc Ireland) sút bóng qua 2 chân một cách dễ dàng. Nhưng chi tiết đáng nhớ là Arconada mặc vớ màu trắng thay vì chấp nhận chiếc vớ màu đen của ĐTQG. Vớ trắng là của đội Real Sociedad, CLB ở xứ Basque của Arconada. Người ta xem đấy là chi tiết điển hình của việc các tuyển thủ Tây Ban Nha vẫn luôn xem trọng tính địa phương hơn ĐTQG. Chỉ ở Tây Ban Nha mới có chuyện các đội tuyển xứ Basque hoặc xứ Catalonya thường xuyên thi đấu để duy trì “ĐTQG” của họ (thường là trong đợt nghỉ đông, khi giải VĐQG tạm thời hưu chiến). Còn có những lời kêu gọi thế giới bóng đá công nhận đội tuyển xứ Basque hoặc đội tuyển xứ Catalonya như những ĐTQG nữa. Đội tuyển Tây Ban Nha không có SVĐ quốc gia. Họ thường thi đấu khắp nơi trong nước, nhưng rất hiếm khi chọn Bilbao hoặc San Sebastian làm sân nhà. Họ càng hiếm khi xuất hiện ở sân Nou Camp. Mỗi khi thi đấu ở Barcelona, Tây Ban Nha thường chơi trên sân của Espanyol. “Lãnh địa” quen thuộc nhất của đội tuyển Tây Ban Nha thật ra không phải ở Madrid, mà là Valencia - nơi cũng có tính địa phương rất cao nhưng ít ra người ta hầu như không bàn đến phong trào ly khai. Tại World Cup 2002, khi Tây Ban Nha toàn thắng 3 trận vòng bảng, các tờ El Mundo Deportivo và Sport (phát hành ở xứ Catalonya) bình luận: “Luis Enrique là cầu thủ hay nhất thế giới. Cạnh đó, World Cup còn có Rivaldo và Ronaldo”. Các tờ Marca và AS ở Madrid lại khen ngợi cánh Real: “Khán giả World Cup đang say đắm với những Raul, Hierro, Morientes, Roberto Carlos”! Rõ ràng, họ thấy Barcelona và Real Madrid “to” hơn hẳn ĐTQG. Nhưng xin nhắc lại: đấy chỉ là những điều báo chí thế giới viết về bóng đá Tây Ban Nha. Chứ ở Tây Ban Nha, người ta lại chưa bao giờ thừa nhận là ĐTQG có giá trị thấp hơn các CLB, càng không muốn bàn về các niềm kiêu hãnh địa phương trong nội bộ ĐTQG! TRI KỶ

World Cup 2010: Pele đọ tài với Paul - “Vua” thua bạch tuộc

Quả là không ngoa khi nói như vậy bởi sự thật nó vốn phũ phàng như thế. Trong cuộc sống mỗi người giỏi một lĩnh vực, Pele vốn nổi tiếng trong làng túc cầu giáo ở địa vị là một cầu thủ có kỹ thuật siêu phàm. “Số 10” huyền thoại của Brazil đã giúp Selecao hai lần lên ngôi ở giải bóng đá lớn nhất hành tinh vào các năm 1958 và 1970.

Nhưng có lẽ Pele đã có đôi chút nhầm lẫn vì từ cầu thủ chuyển sang công việc của thầy… bói là hai lĩnh vực chẳng có điểm tương đồng nào cả. Bởi vậy mới có chuyện khi Pele đưa ra những tiên đoán “nổi tiếng” của mình thì sẽ có chuyện người nghe phải làm công việc tiếp theo là suy luận ngược lại nếu muốn có kết quả đúng.

Nếu vua bóng đá muốn theo đuổi đam mê dự đoán của mình có lẽ sau giải bóng đá năm nay “số 10” huyền thoại của Brazil nên theo học một lớp cấp tốc do “thầy” Paul ở Viện hải dương học Sea Life đứng lớp. Bởi thực tế trong hai năm trở lại đây bắt đầu từ năm 2008 mà chính xác là từ Euro 2008, “gia cát Paul” đã đưa ra các lời tiên đoán của mình về các trận đấu có sự góp mặt của ĐT Đức chính xác gần như tuyệt đối (11/12 trận dự đoán đúng – quả là con số ấn tượng). Trong cuộc sống, thánh thần cũng có lúc sai và chuyện “thầy” Paul sai “có một lần” cũng có thể… thông cảm được.

"Thầy" Paul khá bận rộn trong những ngày diễn ra các trận đấu có ĐT Đức

Rõ ràng với những lời giải chính xác mà “tiên tri” Paul đã đưa ra cho các trận đấu thì có lẽ không chỉ có “vua” Pele muốn theo học mà còn có nhiều tay cá độ chuyên nghiệp muốn xin làm đệ tử “ruột”. Bởi như vậy thì họ sẽ có cuộc sống sung túc sau những lần thắng độ. Và nếu “thầy” Paul kết nạp nhiều đệ tử thì hẳn là các nhà cái nổi tiếng trên thế giới như William Hill là kẻ oán hận nhiều nhất bởi họ sẽ hết cửa làm ăn.

Và còn một chuyện nữa là sau khi thu nạp đệ tử biết đâu “gia cát Paul” sẽ tung ra hết các chiêu để truyền bá cho học trò của mình nhằm tham gia làm ăn ở các lĩnh vực khác không chỉ dừng lại ở môn thể thao vua. Chưa rõ sự tình chuyện này thế nào nhưng tính mạng của “thầy” Paul đang bị đe dọa nghiêm trọng bởi Hooligan của Đức và Argentina muốn dùng "thầy" Paul cho nồi lẩu hải sản. Bởi vì sau lời tiên đoán của “gia cát Paul” thì số phận của “Cỗ xe tăng” và các vũ công tango ở giải năm nay cũng chấm dứt.

Tuy nhiên những “con chiên” theo "thầy” Paul sẽ không để xảy ra chuyện này một cách dễ dàng như vậy. Bởi bây giờ họ mong muốn “thần tài” Paul sống càng lâu càng tốt để còn gỡ gạc lại chút đỉnh chứ không có mất mãi cho các nhà cái thì lấy cái gì ra để mà chơi tiếp. Nếu “gia cát Paul” tiếp tục đưa ra câu trả lời đúng cho hai trận còn lại ở giải năm nay thì chắc hẳn số lượng đệ tử đến bái “thầy” Paul làm sư phụ sẽ tăng lên không phải theo cấp số cộng mà phải là theo cấp số nhân.

Argentina-Nigeria preview

After 16 years, Diego Armando Maradona makes his return to the FIFA World Cup™ in South Africa. The Argentinian bowed out of world football’s showpiece in 1994 after Argentina's match against Nigeria, a team he now faces as head coach tomorrow in the opening match in Group B.

The Africans, meanwhile, will be looking to avenge the defeat in the final of the Olympic Football Tournament 2008 in China, where La Albiceleste triumphed with a number of players who will be present in Johannesburg. They will be hopeful Swedish coach Lars Lagerback, one of the masterminds behind Argentina’s elimination from 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan™, will help them settle an old score.

The Match
Argentina-Nigeria, Group B, Johannesburg, Saturday 12 June, 16:00 (local time)

Having come through a difficult qualifying campaign, the Argentinians are ready to start afresh in South Africa and, for the third time in a row, an African side will provide their first test - in 2002, they edged out Nigeria in a 1-0 win, while in 2006 they were 2-1 victors against Côte d'Ivoire. Maradona has at his disposal two of the top goalscorers in Europe this season as they look to secure their third consecutive victory over an African side: Lionel Messi and Gonzalo Higuain, who amassed an astonishing 61 goals between them. Starting hopeful Carlos Tevez, for his part, notched up another 22 for Manchester City.

The Super Eagles also struggled during the qualifying phase, although they will be hopeful head coach Lagerback can help them rediscover their rhythm. They will go into this game anxious to reverse the trend of their previous two FIFA World Cup encounters with the Argentinians, in 1994 and 2002, which saw La Albiceleste run out winners on both occasions. They will look to exploit their 'home' advantage, and also build on their recent 3-1 friendly victory over Korea DPR.

Key duel
Gonzalo Higuain vs Vincent Enyeama

The Argentinian scored 27 goals for Real Madrid in La Liga last season, and has reproduced the same clinical form for his country: he has found the net twice in four games and seems ready to add to that tally. "My dream is to be among the top scorers at the World Cup", Higuain said on his arrival in South Africa. To fulfil that dream he must first find a way past Vincent Enyeama, one of the few Nigerians to have kept his place in the Super Eagles' rearguard despite constant changes to their defensive formation. Enyeama, whose reflexes have earned him the nickname 'The Cat', already boasts FIFA World Cup experience, including a clean sheet against England in Korea/Japan 2002.

The stat
10 – The number of players that took part in the final of the Olympic Football Tournament Beijing 2008 who will come face to face again in Johannesburg: Sergio Romero, Angel Di Maria, Javier Mascherano, Lionel Messi, Sergio Aguero, Dele Adeleye, Sani Kaita, Peter Odemwingie, Chinedu Ogbuke and Victor Obinna.

What they said
"Nigeria is a physically strong side capable of creating problems in attack. However, I think they are still a little disorganised in defence. That’s where we have to make the most of our potential," Diego Armando Maradona, Argentina coach.

"Messi is a good player and we respect him. We hope he respects us too. We’re not thinking about Messi, we’re thinking about playing Argentina, a good team," Yakubu Aiyegbeni, Nigeria forward.

Voice of the fans
"Great game in prospect. I reckon Argentina will win because their attacking style will push Nigeria back. That’s where the game will be won by Argentina, who I am supporting along with all the other South American teams." FIFA.com user AlanLeo-URU

The question
Are Nigeria strong enough to upset Argentina in their opening match?

Korea Republic-Greece preview

"The next game is always the most important." Coaches and footballers alike have been using this old adage to emphasise their focus on an upcoming match for decades. At the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™, the phrase "the first game is the most important" is arguably more appropriate for the likes of Korea Republic and Greece, who go head to head on Saturday.

Considering the strength of the other two teams in Group B, Argentina and Nigeria, this clash could well prove decisive. La Albiceleste are undoubted group favourites, while the other three will all feel they are capable of claiming second spot and a place in the last 16.

The match
Korea Republic–Greece, Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth (Port Elizabeth Stadium), Saturday 12 June, 13.30 (local time)

Although Saturday's clash will be the first time these two sides have met at a FIFA World Cup, there have been two previous encounters between the two nations. History favours the Asians, who ran out 1-0 friendly winners in February 2007, following a 1-1 draw in January 2006.

Korea Republic were the only team to remain undefeated in Asian Zone qualifying, with seven victories and a draw, and as a result go into the tournament full of confidence despite losing each of their final warm-up matches 1-0, against Belarus and Spain. The Greeks, meanwhile, took the long road to South Africa. The 2004 European champions had to come through a tricky play-off tie with Ukraine to book their place at the finals.

Players to watch
Ji-Sung Park vs Georgios Karagounis

Ji-Sung Park is the undisputed star of the Korea Republic team. Thanks to his exploits with Premier League powerhouse Manchester United, the attacking all-rounder is an idol in his homeland and in 2008 became the first ever Asian player to win the UEFA Champions League.

The 29-year-old faces an intriguing midfield battle with Georgios Karagounis at the Port Elizabeth Stadium. The Panathinaikos captain is hailed as the heartbeat of the Greece side and will be doing his best to break down the Koreans' attacking endeavours with another typically industrious display.

The stat
0 – Greece crashed out of their only FIFA World Cup to date in 1994 with zero points and zero goals. In the USA they lost 4-0 to Argentina, 2-0 to Nigeria and 4-0 to Bulgaria. They will now be hoping to put things right against the Albiceleste and the Super Eagles at South Africa 2010.

What they said
"Countries like South Korea have great team spirit and plenty of passion. We won't disappoint the Greek people. You feel as though you are among the best teams in the world, and that's no small thing." Otto Rehhagel, Greece coach

"In our eyes, the match against Greece is the most important of the group stage. If we can win that, we'll have the opportunity to play differently against Argentina and Nigeria." Lee-Young-Pyo, Korea Republic defender

Voice of the fans
"I can hardly wait to see who wins this game. The winner of this match will go through to the next round with Argentina." FIFA.com user jungho_hwang.

The question
Can the Greeks score their first ever FIFA World Cup goal or even pick up a maiden victory in only their second appearance on the biggest stage of all?

England-USA preview

The opening game in Group C brings together two countries, England and USA, with a history of close relations and comradeship off the field but very little in the way of history on it. Except for one startling exception: the 1950 FIFA World Cup clash in Belo Horizonte which the Americans, seen as a 'ragtag' outfit back home, took a battering ram to convention and upset their fancied opponents 1-0. With Slovenia and Algeria also in the group at South Africa 2010, the Rustenburg game could be pivotal in the fight for qualifying places.

The match
England-USA, Group C, Rustenburg (Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace), Saturday 12 June, 20.30 (local time)

Under their new coach Fabio Capello, England put together a near-perfect qualifying campaign, winning nine of their ten games and scoring 34 goals - six more than Spain, the next best - to top Europe's goal chart with Wayne Rooney joint second in the individual scoring roster.

The US were also demonstrating efficiency, losing just twice in the final six-team Hexagonal phase of North, Central America and Caribbean Zone, finishing a point ahead of second-placed Mexico. A year ago their stock, and that of coach Bob Bradley, rose considerably with their performances at FIFA Confederations Cup 2009 where USA ousted favourites Spain in the semi-finals before going down to a narrow 3-2 final defeat to Brazil.

England haven't impressed in the run-up to South Africa, beating Mexico none-too-convincingly and then only overcoming Japan via two own-goals. Capello, who lost skipper Rio Ferdinand for the entire tournament after sustaining a knee injury in their first training session in Rustenburg, was also unhappy with the first-half performance in a practice match against the Platinum Stars. He is likely to install Ledley King, who has his own fitness worries, alongside John Terry in the heart of the defence while Joe Cole and Shaun Wright-Phillips might earn surprise starting roles to augment Wayne Rooney's attacking thrust.

The Americans have scored victories over Australia and Turkey but went down 4-2 to Turkey. They are likely to stick with the tried and trusted formula that saw them reach the final of the FIFA Confederations Cup with midfielder Michael Bradley, son of the coach, warning their opponents to expect a physical approach.

Players to watch
Jozy Altidore vs John Terry

Altidore has made giant strides with the national team, impressing in qualifying and becoming the youngest ever hat-trick hero in US history. He will prove a powerful opponent for Terry, England's former skipper, who's star has fallen during a difficult second half to last season. With his regular England partner, Ferdinand, absent, it will be down to Terry to keep the US heavy-hitters at bay.

The stat
3 - Half of USA's six wins in 25 FIFA World Cup encounters were achieved against European opposition. As well as that famous 1950 victory over England they also beat Belgium 3-0 in 1930 and Portugal 3-2 in 2002.

What they said
"The big difference is that we've got a fit Wayne Rooney in this squad. And the squad is quite experienced. Obviously we're missing Rio but this squad is balanced. I think this is a lot of guys' last chance, considering their age at this World Cup," Joe Cole, England midfielder.

"If we give up too many wide free-kicks and direct free-kicks, we will probably get punished for it. It's important we're solid in defence and not leave guys open one-on-one," Tim Howard, USA goalkeeper.

Voice of the fans
"Let's not forget the underdog in the World Cup 2002: USA 3-2 Portugal. Portugal were the semi-finalists in the Euro 2000. This match against the English squad could be a very good match or a blow out," FIFA.com user dmuma55.

The question
England often carry a 'fancied' tag into a FIFA World Cup only to depart disappointingly on a penalty shoot-out. Will 2010 be the year when they finally make amends?

Argentina-Nigeria preview

Argentina's coach Diego Maradona controls the ball during a team training session

After 16 years, Diego Armando Maradona makes his return to the FIFA World Cup™ in South Africa. The Argentinian bowed out of world football’s showpiece in 1994 after Argentina's match against Nigeria, a team he now faces as head coach tomorrow in the opening match in Group B.

The Africans, meanwhile, will be looking to avenge the defeat in the final of the Olympic Football Tournament 2008 in China, where La Albiceleste triumphed with a number of players who will be present in Johannesburg. They will be hopeful Swedish coach Lars Lagerback, one of the masterminds behind Argentina’s elimination from 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan™, will help them settle an old score.

The Match
Argentina-Nigeria, Group B, Johannesburg, Saturday 12 June, 16:00 (local time)

Having come through a difficult qualifying campaign, the Argentinians are ready to start afresh in South Africa and, for the third time in a row, an African side will provide their first test - in 2002, they edged out Nigeria in a 1-0 win, while in 2006 they were 2-1 victors against Côte d'Ivoire. Maradona has at his disposal two of the top goalscorers in Europe this season as they look to secure their third consecutive victory over an African side: Lionel Messi and Gonzalo Higuain, who amassed an astonishing 61 goals between them. Starting hopeful Carlos Tevez, for his part, notched up another 22 for Manchester City.

The Super Eagles also struggled during the qualifying phase, although they will be hopeful head coach Lagerback can help them rediscover their rhythm. They will go into this game anxious to reverse the trend of their previous two FIFA World Cup encounters with the Argentinians, in 1994 and 2002, which saw La Albiceleste run out winners on both occasions. They will look to exploit their 'home' advantage, and also build on their recent 3-1 friendly victory over Korea DPR.

Key duel
Gonzalo Higuain vs Vincent Enyeama

The Argentinian scored 27 goals for Real Madrid in La Liga last season, and has reproduced the same clinical form for his country: he has found the net twice in four games and seems ready to add to that tally. "My dream is to be among the top scorers at the World Cup", Higuain said on his arrival in South Africa. To fulfil that dream he must first find a way past Vincent Enyeama, one of the few Nigerians to have kept his place in the Super Eagles' rearguard despite constant changes to their defensive formation. Enyeama, whose reflexes have earned him the nickname 'The Cat', already boasts FIFA World Cup experience, including a clean sheet against England in Korea/Japan 2002.

The stat
10 – The number of players that took part in the final of the Olympic Football Tournament Beijing 2008 who will come face to face again in Johannesburg: Sergio Romero, Angel Di Maria, Javier Mascherano, Lionel Messi, Sergio Aguero, Dele Adeleye, Sani Kaita, Peter Odemwingie, Chinedu Ogbuke and Victor Obinna.

What they said
"Nigeria is a physically strong side capable of creating problems in attack. However, I think they are still a little disorganised in defence. That’s where we have to make the most of our potential," Diego Armando Maradona, Argentina coach.

"Messi is a good player and we respect him. We hope he respects us too. We’re not thinking about Messi, we’re thinking about playing Argentina, a good team," Yakubu Aiyegbeni, Nigeria forward.

Voice of the fans
"Great game in prospect. I reckon Argentina will win because their attacking style will push Nigeria back. That’s where the game will be won by Argentina, who I am supporting along with all the other South American teams." FIFA.com user AlanLeo-URU

The question
Are Nigeria strong enough to upset Argentina in their opening match?

Korea Republic-Greece preview

Georgios Karagounis of Greece celebrates with his team mate Sotirios Kyrgiakos

"The next game is always the most important." Coaches and footballers alike have been using this old adage to emphasise their focus on an upcoming match for decades. At the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™, the phrase "the first game is the most important" is arguably more appropriate for the likes of Korea Republic and Greece, who go head to head on Saturday.

Considering the strength of the other two teams in Group B, Argentina and Nigeria, this clash could well prove decisive. La Albiceleste are undoubted group favourites, while the other three will all feel they are capable of claiming second spot and a place in the last 16.

The match
Korea Republic–Greece, Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth (Port Elizabeth Stadium), Saturday 12 June, 13.30 (local time)

Although Saturday's clash will be the first time these two sides have met at a FIFA World Cup, there have been two previous encounters between the two nations. History favours the Asians, who ran out 1-0 friendly winners in February 2007, following a 1-1 draw in January 2006.

Korea Republic were the only team to remain undefeated in Asian Zone qualifying, with seven victories and a draw, and as a result go into the tournament full of confidence despite losing each of their final warm-up matches 1-0, against Belarus and Spain. The Greeks, meanwhile, took the long road to South Africa. The 2004 European champions had to come through a tricky play-off tie with Ukraine to book their place at the finals.

Players to watch
Ji-Sung Park vs Georgios Karagounis

Ji-Sung Park is the undisputed star of the Korea Republic team. Thanks to his exploits with Premier League powerhouse Manchester United, the attacking all-rounder is an idol in his homeland and in 2008 became the first ever Asian player to win the UEFA Champions League.

The 29-year-old faces an intriguing midfield battle with Georgios Karagounis at the Port Elizabeth Stadium. The Panathinaikos captain is hailed as the heartbeat of the Greece side and will be doing his best to break down the Koreans' attacking endeavours with another typically industrious display.

The stat
0 – Greece crashed out of their only FIFA World Cup to date in 1994 with zero points and zero goals. In the USA they lost 4-0 to Argentina, 2-0 to Nigeria and 4-0 to Bulgaria. They will now be hoping to put things right against the Albiceleste and the Super Eagles at South Africa 2010.

What they said
"Countries like South Korea have great team spirit and plenty of passion. We won't disappoint the Greek people. You feel as though you are among the best teams in the world, and that's no small thing." Otto Rehhagel, Greece coach

"In our eyes, the match against Greece is the most important of the group stage. If we can win that, we'll have the opportunity to play differently against Argentina and Nigeria." Lee-Young-Pyo, Korea Republic defender

Voice of the fans
"I can hardly wait to see who wins this game. The winner of this match will go through to the next round with Argentina." FIFA.com user jungho_hwang.

The question
Can the Greeks score their first ever FIFA World Cup goal or even pick up a maiden victory in only their second appearance on the biggest stage of all?

Preview: Uruguay vs France

THE BIG PICTURE

It’s every bride’s worse nightmare: the bridesmaid is more attractive than the woman in the big white dress tying the knot. South Africa and Mexico will be a wonderful show engulfed by the buzzing stadium and on the back of the opening ceremonies, but this is the ‘paper game’. France has some of the biggest names at the Cup and Uruguay has an attack that even South American nations dream of (Brazil and Argentina are perfectly pleased with the status quo, however).

Not quite the purists’ dream, it still has the potential to flow rock back and forth, particularly if Oscar Tabarez’s wingbacks plan to go kamikaze and open up space in the back, and goals could be had aplenty. It could be quite the show, with a bit more focus on the pitch.

WHAT’S AT STAKE
Group A:

This seems to be the hardest group to project, with the hot Mexico (form, not culinary temperature) and hosts South Africa making this one of the true four horse races on paper, so though it’s an overused cliché: every game does count.

But it may just mean a bit more for the psychology of France, given the way the nature of qualification (notice how skillfully ‘the way they handled…’ was avoided), their friendly loss to the footballing colossus China and the general aura surrounding lame duck Raymond Domenech. A loss and they might be starting the Laurent Blanc early – real early.

Bet on Uruguay v. France

SQUADS

Uruguay: GK: Muslera, Castillo, Silva; DF: Lugano, Godin, Scotti, Victorino, Caceres, Fucile, Pereira; MF: Eguren, A Pereira, Gargano, Perez, A Fernandez, Lodeiro, Rios, Gonzalez; FW: Suarez, Forlan, Abreu, Cavani, S Fernandez

France: GK: Lloris, Mandanda, Carrasso; DF: Sagna, Evra, Gallas, Abidal, Squillaci, Planus, Clichy, Reveillere; MF: Diarra, Toulalan, Malouda, Gourcuff, Diaby (Arsenal); FW: Henry, Anelka, Gignac, Ribery, Govou, Cisse, Valbuena

KEY MATCHUP
Half joking, half for serious it should probably be Hugo Lloris versus the Jabulani. France have had more trouble with adidas’ latest mad creation, with China’s physics-defying swerve felling Hugo in their final friendly and a bounce boggling Steve Mandanda against Costa Rica.

But the real matchup is just ahead of Llories where France have one of the best fullback pairings at the World Cup but have suffered in the center recently. In Gallas and Abidal, they have two high-quality defenders, but two who’ve seen their share of injuries this season – Gallas hasn’t played a competitive game in months. Next they’ll get to see their share of Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez, one of the best strike pairings in South Africa, who will exploit any space they’re afforded, or any needles Walter Gargano feels like threading. There are shades of a circumstantial mismatch here, made worse if Gallas fancies the opposition box as he’s apt to do.

OUR PREDICTION

The opening game of 2002 keeps knocking on the door, asking to come in, and we say let’s embrace her (blindly, too): France will shock the world again…by winning 3-1. Uruguay have yet to enjoy the friendly African soil, last playing May 26th in Montevideo, and though France were Jabulanied by China, it’s still some degree of match fitness. The game will be ugly and muddled in the first half, but France will take advantage of set pieces and get a late third to hammer the predictably rusty nail into the Uruguayan coffin.

[Bonus prediction: 'Jabulanied' lands in Merriam-Webster by 2011.]

World Cup 2010 begins this afternoon

The scale of the last-minute preparations would hardly convince the sceptics they have been wrong to suspect this World Cup might not run entirely smoothly. For the hosts, though, it is simply renewed evidence of their determination to do Africa proud during the next 31 days.

No fewer than 50 of the continent’s heads of state are due in Soccer City this afternoon when the South Africans and Mexicans take the field for the opening game.

A few will be eager to see their own national teams eclipse the locals in terms of matches won and rounds reached but all will be hoping a successful tournament can make a major point on behalf of the region as a whole.

For the two key figures involved in South Africa’s successful bid, Danny Jordaan and Nelson Mandela, the event will be the culmination of almost a quarter century of work.

As far back as 1987, Jordaan was leading delegations from the old South African Soccer Federation to meetings abroad with ANC officials where the idea of using football to progress the cause of democracy was high on the agenda.

Mandela knew well the potential of the game to help reshape the political landscape and after minority rule was ended neither man seems to have paused for long before shifting their ambitions upwards.

The country controversially missed out on hosting 2006 by just one vote but might feel now it was not an entirely bad thing that New Zealand’s Charles Dempsey decided to abstain in the last round of voting back in 2000 after having consistently voted for the South Africans through the earlier stages of the process.

Four years later they were ready and when the decision came down to a choice between Morocco and South Africa, Mandela’s towering presence made it seem like a one-horse race.

Now 91, he is old and frail but perhaps the most celebrated news in these parts this week was the announcement he too intends to make an appearance at today’s game, even if he is highly unlikely to stay for much more than the opening ceremony and kick-off.

If Africa is hoping the tournament goes well, then those involved with the tournament are desperate to see the locals prosper over the next few weeks.

Sadly, the team cannot remotely be considered as contenders but their recent improvement under returned manager Carlos Alberto Parreira has at least suggested they have a reasonable chance of avoiding the ignominy of becoming the first host nation to fail to make it beyond the opening round of games.

They are, of course, fortunate to find themselves in what is probably the entire competition’s most open and unpredictable group.

Having waited so long for the opportunity to face the game’s major powers on their own soil, the strongest of the African sides all seem to have been hit by significant injuries, with the prospects of what looked to be the strongest African side, the Ivory Coast, hugely dependent on Didier Drogba’s ability to play despite a serious elbow problem.

The tournament also goes ahead without the continent’s most experienced operators in this sort of event, Cup of Nations Champions Egypt, who were narrowly beaten by Algeria for a place here last November and so it seems any African presence beyond the second round would be a pleasant surprise.

The widely held view is the title will go to one of two other continental champions, Spain or Brazil, with the Europeans the favourites with both the bookmakers and most pundits on the basis of their hugely impressive form in Euro 2008 and an almost flawless qualifying campaign for this event.

Certainly, Vicente Del Bosque will have an enviable array of talent to choose from and having shaken the title of serial underachievers two years ago, there will be no doubts about the mental capacity of the Spanish to deliver on the big occasions.

Brazil, though, have quite an allure about them too and with three of the back five that power Inter Milan to an outstanding treble this year, as well as an attacking unit based around Kaka and Luis Fabiano that consistently seems to come up with the goods, Dunga’s men may just have a fractional edge over their European rivals.

Outside of those two, there are perhaps half a dozen countries that can think seriously about securing the title, with the likes of Argentina, the Netherlands, Italy and England all potential champions in the event that things go their way. All, however, look vulnerable in one department or another over the course of such a testing event, whether it is through, for instance, the rather erratic nature of the coach (Argentina) or the chronic lack of remaining cover in key positions (England).

Whoever wins, there would seem to be a firm basis for expecting a memorable tournament over the coming weeks.

The referees will again be under pressure to provide protection to the more creative players and the weather will not be a problem for any of the leading sides.

The setting too promises to catch the eye with a series of impressive stadiums, many in wonderful surroundings, providing a great stage on which the drama can unfold.

Shaken by the horror of the attack on the Togolese in Angola at the start of the year, the African leaders who gather at Soccer City this afternoon know only too well they all stand to suffer a little when things go badly on their continent.

Between now and July 11th, though, they will be hoping to bask in the reflected glory of an outstanding festival of sport. Nothing is certain but if effort alone was enough then the hosts would be sure to deliver. As it is, Africa, not to mention the world, will be united in rooting for them.

Uruguay-France preview

The second match of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ pits together two former world champions: Uruguay, the winners in 1930 and 1950; and France, who triumphed 1998. With hosts South Africa and Mexico making up what promises to be a tight Group A, the three points up for grabs in Cape Town on Friday could prove crucial. The last meeting between the two was a 0-0 draw in the group phase at Korea/Japan 2002, a result that contributed to the early elimination of both sides.

The match
Uruguay-France, Group A, Cape Town (Green Point Stadium), Friday 11 June, 20.30 (local time)

Despite their rich footballing traditions, both teams struggled en route to the world finals, only clinching their places in the play-offs. While La Celeste were squeezing past Costa Rica, Les Blues were being pushed all the way by Republic of Ireland, a nerve-racking end to a campaign that raised doubts about their ability to contest for honours at South Africa 2010.

The Uruguayans have looked the more convincing of the two in the build-up to the finals, beating Switzerland and Israel as part of their preparations. France, meanwhile, were brushed aside by Spain in March and lost 1-0 to China only last week.

In a bid to turn his side’s worrying form around, coach Raymond Domenech has introduced a new 4-3-3 formation, with Jeremy Toulalan operating in a lone holding role and Florent Malouda and Yoann Gourcuff supplying the bullets for the front men. Charrúa boss Oscar Tabarez will be sticking to his tried-and-trusted 3-5-2 line-up, with the midfield tandem of Ignacio Gonzalez and Alvaro Pereira supporting the fearsome strike partnership of Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez.

Players to watch
Diego Forlan vs William Gallas

Never lacking in grit and determination, Uruguay have plenty of attacking firepower to call on in South Africa. As usual, Forlan will be the spearhead. Having enjoyed a productive end to the league season with Atletico Madrid, he should not be lacking in confidence. His duel with Gallas will go some way to deciding the outcome of the match, although the Arsenal central defender has plenty of questions to answer after a frustrating injury-affected season. A solid performance against the ever-dangerous Forlan should help restore his confidence.

The stat
16 - Uruguay have won just one of their last 16 matches at the FIFA World Cup finals, a 1-0 defeat of Korea Republic at Italy 1990. Their last victory prior to that came 20 years earlier at Mexico 1970, when they won twice on the way to finishing fourth.

What they said
“Against Uruguay we’ll see whether we’re solid or not. Anything could happen to be honest. Uruguay do a lot of pressing when they’re not in possession, but if we can find a way round that by passing the ball then I’m sure we’ll see an improvement on our performances in the warm-up games,” Jeremy Toulalan, France midfielder.

“I’ve more or less decided on the formation we’ll be using. The tactics will depend on how the game unfolds because the only thing we’ll know for sure before the game is France’s line-up. But no matter how they play, the players we put out there will be able to adapt,” Oscar Tabarez, Uruguay coach.

Voice of the fans
“4-3-3 is a sound tactic when you have experienced players but it can be a bit of a risk if the coach has only just started to use it. The players will have to work really hard because there won’t be any space in the midfield. At the same time, to create chances you have to attack down the wings. France have been playing 4-5-1 for years and they’ll have to prove that they know how to use this system,” FIFA.com user PlayaDeNoche.

The question
France failed to score in their opening games at Korea/Japan 2002 and Germany 2006. Will they find the back of the net on Friday?

South Africa-Mexico preview

The waiting is almost over. The 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ begins on Friday when the tournament hosts take on Group A rivals Mexico in the magnificent surroundings of Soccer City in Johannesburg, the first match to be staged at this impressive arena.

No host nation has ever lost their opening game in the world finals. Though this is new territory for the South Africans, the Mexicans have had the honour of opening up the competition on four previous occasions (1930, 1950, 1958 and 1970), although they failed to win any of those games.

The match
South Africa-Mexico, Group A, Johannesburg, Friday 11 June, 16.00 (local time)

The Bafana Bafana have never won a FIFA World Cup finals match and go into the game with the weight of a nation’s expectations on their shoulders. Hopes have been buoyed by an unbeaten run of 13 games under Carlos Parreira, including notable wins over Colombia and Denmark. Led by the in-form duo of Steven Pienaar and Katlego Mphela, the hosts have not looked stronger in recent years.

If their impressive 2-1 warm-up defeat of world champions Italy is anything to go by, the dynamic Mexicans are sure to provide the home favourites with a stern test. El Tricolor offer up a compelling blend of youth and experience, with the likes of Giovani dos Santos and Carlos Vela dovetailing to perfection with old hands such as Gerardo Torrado, Cuauhtemoc Blanco and Rafael Marquez. On this form, they might just break their Opening Match hoodoo.

Key duel
Steven Pienaar vs Rafael Marquez

Much of the Bafana Bafana’s creativity originates from the classy Everton midfielder. His confidence high after an exceptional season in the English Premier League, Pienaar can be expected to shine in front of his home fans.

One of the men out to stop him will be Mexico skipper Marquez, who has been employed in a holding midfield role by coach Javier Aguirre. Should the Barcelona stopper fulfil his mission of snuffing out the threat posed by Pienaar, he will have gone a long way to helping his side prevail in this opening skirmish.

The stat
3 - The number of times these two teams have met, all of them on neutral territory. Los Aztecas hold sway with two wins to South Africa’s one, although the Bafana Bafana did win the most recent meeting, at the 2005 CONCACAF Gold Cup, in which both sides fielded experimental line-ups.

What they say
“People always say the local team invariably does well but I can tell you we’re focusing only on the game against Mexico. If we can get a good result we can set the tournament alight. We need to show as much mental strength as we can. That’s the key to us having a good run,” Steven Pienaar, South Africa midfielder.

“It’s a great opportunity but at the same time facing the hosts is a tough challenge. The whole world is looking forward to this game and that’s something we’re very aware of. I think the most important thing for us is to not let nerves and pressure get the better of us. That way we can perform to the best of our ability,” Carlos Vela, Mexico forward.

Voice of the fans
"South Africa might not win the first game but they will show why no host nation has failed to advance from first round in the WC. Some Mexican fans on FIFA.com say they will have an easy win, I say beware of the power of the vuvuzela," FIFA.com user litowadowice.

The question
Will the South Africans get off to a winning start?

World primed for a football feast

AFP

The wait is almost over. At 4pm (CAT) tomorrow, a FIFA World Cup™ like none of the 18 that have gone before will begin and not only South Africa but an entire continent will rejoice. Over the next 31 days a footballing and cultural fiesta will unravel in Nelson Mandela's homeland and the colour, noise and excitement promise to stun the senses.

From 15 May 2004, when South Africa was invited to host the 2010 FIFA World Cup, to this moment – with the big kick-off between the host nation and Mexico but hours away – the resonance of the first world finals to be held on the continent of Africa has proved an inspiration for millions. In footballing terms South Africa have some way to go to join the elite. They are down at 83rd in the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking and have just a solitary FIFA World Cup victory to their name, 1-0 over Slovenia in 2002. But as it becomes the 16th nation to stage football's greatest event, South Africa will dominate the world's sporting consciousness like never before.

As a country they believe it will bring significant changes, uniting black and white around the green and gold of the Bafana Bafana jersey and lengthening the distance between today and a troubled past. With their noisy vuvuzelas and inherent exuberance they promise to make this a spectacle that our eyes and ears will not forget for a long, long time. That goes for players as well, the superstar names – Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney – and the rest who have travelled from all four corners of the globe to showcase their skills in ten magnificent stadiums

The footballing calendar is so congested it can sometimes be difficult to generate real excitement around an event with another, equally big and exciting competition following swiftly on. South Africa 2010 promises to be different as it unleashes the potential of a continent whose teams have never progressed beyond the quarter-finals of a FIFA World Cup before.

In the seven months since all 32 contestants became known, conjecture has swirled from north to south, east to west, as to who will be the likely winners. Can Brazil make it to a sixth title? Will Spain, crowned European champions for the first time two years ago, take the vital last step to global dominance? Can Diego Maradona inspire Argentina from the bench in the same mercurial fashion as he managed on the pitch in 1986? Will England under their Italian coach at last bolt some tangible achievement on to their undoubted potential? Can Italy repeat their success of the 1930s in winning back-to-back competitions?

Similarly, will it be the host nation, Cameroon (making their sixth appearance at the global showpiece), or the talented Côte d'Ivoire who lead the African charge? All will become clear over the next five weeks until only two teams are left standing and, at Soccer City Stadium, they will dispute the right to be called world champions for the next four years before it all starts up again at Brazil 2014.

The same awe-inspiring Johannesburg venue, which witnessed Mandela's first mass rally following his 1990 release, will stage tomorrow's Opening Match, the first of 64 games. In one sense, it is familiar territory for the South Africa coach, Carlos Alberto Parreira, as he prepares to lead a team at his sixth FIFA World Cup, which is a new record. In another respect, it will be like nothing he has experienced before, with the recurring hopes of a FIFA World Cup host nation lent an extra dimension by the passion and fervour with which the Rainbow Nation's people will back their team.

There are exciting games to anticipate in all ten venues. There is the traditional 'group of death' – commonly perceived to be Group G, where Brazil, Côte d'Ivoire, Portugal and Korea DPR lock horns – and match-ups that renew long-standing rivalries. Only one newcomer has joined the party - Slovakia - while two coaches will attempt to emulate Franz Beckenbauer and Mario Zagallo in becoming FIFA World Cup winners as player and coach. They call Johannesburg the City of Gold and there could be no more appropriate setting for the winners of the 2010 FIFA World Cup to clasp the gleaming Trophy above their heads. Before that moment, late in the evening of 11 July, a huge number of unforgettable stories are waiting to be written.

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