LONDON (AP) — Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp said the next England coach should be English, and effectively offered himself as a candidate Tuesday if the Football Association decides to fire Fabio Capello.
The FA is to decide in two weeks whether to keep the Italian as coach after England's World Cup exit. Redknapp said he strongly believed the job should go to someone born in the country with experience in English football.
"This guy (Capello) has a fantastic record at club level," the 63-year-old Redknapp said. "But look, we've had a go with it now. When he finally moves on, in four years or whatever, surely there has to be a young guy or somebody in this country. Surely we have to find a manager from England, an English manager.
"I'm not talking about a Scottish manager or an Irish manager, I'm talking about an English manager because this is where we're from. This is our country."
Swedish coach Sven-Goran Eriksson led England to two World Cup quarterfinals. Capello and his team were eliminated in the round of 16 on Sunday, losing to Germany 4-1 — England's heaviest World Cup loss.
"I am English," Redknapp said. "Who wouldn't want to manage England? No one is ever going to turn that job down. If you're English you cannot not want to manage your country."
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Spain, Portugal, Japan, Paraguay aim for quarters
JOHANNESBURG (AP) — The lineup for this week's World Cup quarterfinals will be completed Tuesday when Spain meets Iberian neighbor Portugal and Japan takes on Paraguay.
European champion Spain has recovered from an early stumble against Switzerland but now comes up against Portugal and Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo in Cape Town. Ronaldo has not shown his best form at the tournament but Portugal still progressed to the second round after an avalanche of goals.
Neither Japan nor Paraguay have ever reached the quarterfinals.
Five-time world champion Brazil beat South American rival Chile 3-0 Monday to make the quarterfinals for a fifth straight tournament. The Netherlands beat Slovakia to join Uruguay, Ghana, Germany and Argentina in the last eight.
European champion Spain has recovered from an early stumble against Switzerland but now comes up against Portugal and Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo in Cape Town. Ronaldo has not shown his best form at the tournament but Portugal still progressed to the second round after an avalanche of goals.
Neither Japan nor Paraguay have ever reached the quarterfinals.
Five-time world champion Brazil beat South American rival Chile 3-0 Monday to make the quarterfinals for a fifth straight tournament. The Netherlands beat Slovakia to join Uruguay, Ghana, Germany and Argentina in the last eight.
Spain, Portugal, Japan, Paraguay aim for quarters
JOHANNESBURG (AP) — The lineup for this week's World Cup quarterfinals will be completed Tuesday when Spain meets Iberian neighbor Portugal and Japan takes on Paraguay.
European champion Spain has recovered from an early stumble against Switzerland but now comes up against Portugal and Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo in Cape Town. Ronaldo has not shown his best form at the tournament but Portugal still progressed to the second round after an avalanche of goals.
Neither Japan nor Paraguay have ever reached the quarterfinals.
Five-time world champion Brazil beat South American rival Chile 3-0 Monday to make the quarterfinals for a fifth straight tournament. The Netherlands beat Slovakia to join Uruguay, Ghana, Germany and Argentina in the last eight.
European champion Spain has recovered from an early stumble against Switzerland but now comes up against Portugal and Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo in Cape Town. Ronaldo has not shown his best form at the tournament but Portugal still progressed to the second round after an avalanche of goals.
Neither Japan nor Paraguay have ever reached the quarterfinals.
Five-time world champion Brazil beat South American rival Chile 3-0 Monday to make the quarterfinals for a fifth straight tournament. The Netherlands beat Slovakia to join Uruguay, Ghana, Germany and Argentina in the last eight.
走法律漏洞不露面‧卜基不知幕後操手
（吉隆坡）大馬警方自世界杯開踢以來逮捕多名卜基，但未見據傳有拿督頭銜的幕後老闆落網。一名前卜基向《光明日報》大爆內幕說，操控這些卜基集團的幕後主使者，大多使用4大手段躲過警方追查，專走法律漏洞，且從不與卜基見面，就讓警方面對查案的困難。
這名前卜基聲稱，即使警方逮捕了卜基，也很難可以查出幕後老闆是何人物，因為卜基根本就不知道是誰，完全說不出一個名字。
同時，他也說，幕後老闆通常會在世界杯開踢之前，在“安全時間”離開大馬，“證明”他沒有在大馬操控非法事務。此外，他們也會在外國開設公司，“洗乾淨”在世界杯開踢以來所賺的金錢。
警方自世界杯開踢以來逮捕數十名卜基，涉及的款項高達數百萬令吉。許多人對於卜基的操作方式都很好奇，例如卜基如何運作、幕後老闆如何選擇卜基、如何操控他們等。
世杯結束就“金盤洗手”
《光明日報》透過互聯網越洋訪問了一名前卜基，他一一道出做卜基的過程，以及幕後老闆如何盡一切能力撇開關係，不讓執法單位掌握他的身份或犯罪證據。
這名卜基阿廣（化名）曾在2006年世界杯期間當卜基，世界杯結束沒多久就“金盤洗手”。他目前已移居外國工作。
30多歲的阿廣（化名）稱，卜基集團的幕後老闆定下多個原則，目的很簡單，就是不讓警方抓到他們。“普通人不可能知道卜基集團的幕後老闆，就連我曾經當過卜基，也不知道幕後老闆是誰，更何況是一般人。”
他形容，卜基集團的操作就好像直銷公司，一層一層往下，下層的人根本不知道頂頭是何人物。他說，其實他不認識幕後老闆，他會當上卜基也是因為朋友介紹。“所有事務都是這個朋友告訴我，我從來沒有見過老闆，也沒有他的聯絡方式。”
外國設網站主機避取締
阿廣透露，現在的卜基集團都是透過上網下注，而且這些網站主機都設在外國，網站裡面的價碼還是用外幣，即使執法單位知道這個網站，也難以對付他們。
“雖然網站上註明的是外幣如港元、美元，不過所有的金額都是以令吉計算。如果在網站輸入200，就是200令吉。”
阿廣認為，幕後老闆單單用這些手段，幾乎就完全與卜基脫離關係，執法單位難以查到他的身份，“就算是走法律漏洞：賭球網站主機在外國，賭注金額都是外幣從不見卜基：老闆從來不會與卜基見面，所有接洽都是由親信去做，避免這些卜基落網後，說出他的名字安全期遠走：在世界杯還沒有開踢之前已逃走，為自己做“不在場證明”，證明沒有在大馬操控賭球外國開公司：在世界杯賺取的金錢，就是由這些外國公司“洗乾淨”
幕後老闆避險手段輸球欠債01萬逃出國“證明”沒操控賭球面獨家封真的查到了，也沒有足夠的證據證明他涉案。”
老闆親信推薦就可當卜基
當卜基不需要甚麼特別手續和過程，只要是集團老闆的親信推薦，就可以當上卜基。
阿廣曾經開了一間餐館，有時候晚上需要陪客人聊天，在一次的聊天中認識了一名卜基集團老闆的馬仔。2006年世界杯開踢之前，這個馬仔問阿廣有沒有興趣當卜基，他就是這樣當上卜基。
他稱，這個馬仔是卜基老闆的親信，大部份由他推薦的新新卜基，通常都會“批准”。當上卜基不需要任何手續，更不需要像政府部門般提供身份證，只要知道活動地點，簡單的聯絡方式就沒有問題。
“之後，老闆就會打電話給我，隨便聊幾句，不懂這算不算是一種確認。不過，老闆不是用手機打電話給我，他更沒有向我要求聯絡方式，也沒有留下他的聯絡方式給我。”
找人下注
賭徒可當小卜基
賭徒獲得卜基為他們開設戶頭後，他們可能會向其他人收取賭注。其實卜基集團並沒有為這些賭徒命名，若真要形容的話，只能稱他們為“小卜基”。
阿廣說，這些所謂的小卜基有了自己的戶頭，他們也可以看到網站上所註明的賠率，“如果他們的朋友或是其他人要向他們下注，他們可將賠率告知他們，當上小卜基。小卜基可以自己向外收取的賭注，數目一般都是數百令吉，只要不能超過限定的數額。”
他稱，小卜基向誰收取賭注我們根本不知道，但是最後他們必須負責收錢，將錢交到我的手上。
另一方面，阿廣表示，他頂上的老闆同樣也有賭注限定，他們的限定可能是百萬令吉。“頂上的老闆還有他們的大老闆，他們可能就是操控一切的幕後人物了。”
他說，卜基集團的操作方式就象直銷公司，一層一層下去，下層的人根本不知道上層是何許人物。
網上開戶頭限定賭額
現在幾乎所有的賭注都是透過網上下注，每一個卜基都有屬於他們的戶頭，這個戶頭可以讓卜基將收取的賭注額填進網頁，卜基也有權限為他相信的賭徒開設戶頭。
阿廣說，現在的卜基集團都是透過網上下注，每一個卜基都有這個網址。這個網址需要登入賬號和密碼才可以進入，否則根本瀏覽不到任何內容。登入網站後，裡面就可以看到每一場球的賠率和賭法，另外旁邊就是下注的球隊以及空格輸入賭注金額。
操作方式如直銷
只要老闆確認了新的卜基，他就會吩咐手下開設一個戶頭給卜基，預先設定這名卜基的投注額。“就好像我之前有一個戶頭帳號，我的投注額最多只有5萬令吉，我接受的賭注不能超過這個數目。當然，5萬只是我的數目，其他的卜基可能比較多，也可能比較少。”
他表示，一個卜基認識的賭徒越多，他所收到的賭注額也相對增加。當卜基收到賭注後，就必須將這些賭注金額輸入。
他補充，如果卜基信任一個賭徒，他可以在網站開設一個戶頭給對方，當然也必須限定賭注金額，這些賭徒就算是卜基的“下線”，就與直銷的操作方式差不多。賭徒可以自行輸入他們的賭注金額，不需要透過卜基。
“就好像我的投注額是5萬令吉，我可以為幾個賭徒開設戶頭，每一個賭徒有2000令吉的賭注額。不過，一個卜基會看情況限定賭注額，如果對方是值得信任的，那麼賭注額可以更多，如果你要定下一萬兩萬的賭注額也可以；但若你不信任一個賭徒，他可能會在輸錢後跑掉，你覺得你會設下很高的賭注額給他嗎？可能只是1000令吉。”
賭注額20%當佣金
卜基集團提供給每一個卜基的傭金可能有所不同，不過一般都是收到賭注額的20%。
阿廣闡明，20%是收到的賭注額，不是集團贏錢的數額。就好像一個卜基收到每個卜基必須親自向賭徒收錢，每週二和週五就是交錢的日子，即使這10萬令吉都是賭徒贏錢，集團同樣會給20%傭金。
“卜基需要自己算清楚賭徒輸贏的金錢，扣除了賭徒所贏的錢，如果是集團有賺，就要將輸球金額上繳；若是集團輸錢，他們會自動將錢匯入卜基的銀行戶頭。”
他表示，卜基收錢的方式和向誰收錢，集團都不會負責，只要到時間，卜基就必須算清價錢，當面交給老闆的跑腿，老闆從來不會出現與卜基見面。
最怕賭徒輸球不還錢
另一方面，阿廣說，雖然卜基害怕遇到輸球不還錢的賭徒，不過卜基沒有辦法向他們收取現款，這是因為賭徒認為自己必贏的心態。
“每一個賭徒都認為自己在這場球一定贏錢，他們只會想到這場球賽後如何從你那兒拿錢，從來不會想到如何輸錢給你。而且一個賭徒可能不只認識一個卜基，其他卜基不收現錢，卻只有你一個收，他們就會轉碼頭了。”
阿廣也說，遇到一些信用不好卻要賭球的“賭鬼”，卜基同樣會接受賭注，不過絕不會為他們開設網上戶頭，以免他們到時在網上隨便輸入數額，最後可能輸球還不到錢。這些賭鬼的賭注全部都是由他本身來輸入。
輸球欠債01萬逃出國
雖然當卜基可以抽20%傭金好像很高，不過卜基能賺的錢不多，而且還因自己賭球而“倒貼”。阿廣就是當上卜基之後，反而欠下10萬令吉賭債，最終出國找吃不敢回來，當卜基當到“撲街”。
阿廣形容，每一個卜基其實也是一個賭徒，如果對賭球沒有興趣，根本就不會當上卜基。“所謂十賭九輸，你何時看過賭徒可以贏大錢的？贏大錢的都是那些幕後老闆。”
他以自己為例，上一屆世界杯開始那幾場球，他收到的賭注金很多，傭金相對的增高。
不過他忍受不住誘惑，有時候看到賭徒贏錢，他就會心癢癢，最後自己也下注。
他以為自己的眼光很好，接連幾場球賽都贏錢，結果越賭越大，最後連傭金都輸了。
“輸球以後，我就是不信邪，我為了可以將輸掉的贏回來，再次下注，當然也是越輸越多。整個球賽，我欠了老闆10萬令吉賭債。”
此外，阿廣說，要當一個不輸錢的卜基，除非要夠定力，也要受得住誘惑，只是收賭注的話的確傭金很高，但是千萬別下注。“不過，可以做到這點的人，少之又少。”
所以，阿廣以他過來人的身份，勸告公眾不要賭博，否則只會越陷越深，無法自拔。
【幕後老闆避險手段】
走法律漏洞：賭球網站主機在外國，賭注金額都是外幣
從不見卜基：老闆從來不會與卜基見面，所有接洽都是由親信去做，避免這些卜基落網後，說出他的名字
安全期遠走：在世界杯還沒有開踢之前已逃走，為自己做“不在場證明”，證明沒有在大馬操控賭球
外國開公司：在世界杯賺取的金錢，就是由這些外國公司“洗乾淨”.
光明日報‧2010.06.27
這名前卜基聲稱，即使警方逮捕了卜基，也很難可以查出幕後老闆是何人物，因為卜基根本就不知道是誰，完全說不出一個名字。
同時，他也說，幕後老闆通常會在世界杯開踢之前，在“安全時間”離開大馬，“證明”他沒有在大馬操控非法事務。此外，他們也會在外國開設公司，“洗乾淨”在世界杯開踢以來所賺的金錢。
警方自世界杯開踢以來逮捕數十名卜基，涉及的款項高達數百萬令吉。許多人對於卜基的操作方式都很好奇，例如卜基如何運作、幕後老闆如何選擇卜基、如何操控他們等。
世杯結束就“金盤洗手”
《光明日報》透過互聯網越洋訪問了一名前卜基，他一一道出做卜基的過程，以及幕後老闆如何盡一切能力撇開關係，不讓執法單位掌握他的身份或犯罪證據。
這名卜基阿廣（化名）曾在2006年世界杯期間當卜基，世界杯結束沒多久就“金盤洗手”。他目前已移居外國工作。
30多歲的阿廣（化名）稱，卜基集團的幕後老闆定下多個原則，目的很簡單，就是不讓警方抓到他們。“普通人不可能知道卜基集團的幕後老闆，就連我曾經當過卜基，也不知道幕後老闆是誰，更何況是一般人。”
他形容，卜基集團的操作就好像直銷公司，一層一層往下，下層的人根本不知道頂頭是何人物。他說，其實他不認識幕後老闆，他會當上卜基也是因為朋友介紹。“所有事務都是這個朋友告訴我，我從來沒有見過老闆，也沒有他的聯絡方式。”
外國設網站主機避取締
阿廣透露，現在的卜基集團都是透過上網下注，而且這些網站主機都設在外國，網站裡面的價碼還是用外幣，即使執法單位知道這個網站，也難以對付他們。
“雖然網站上註明的是外幣如港元、美元，不過所有的金額都是以令吉計算。如果在網站輸入200，就是200令吉。”
阿廣認為，幕後老闆單單用這些手段，幾乎就完全與卜基脫離關係，執法單位難以查到他的身份，“就算是走法律漏洞：賭球網站主機在外國，賭注金額都是外幣從不見卜基：老闆從來不會與卜基見面，所有接洽都是由親信去做，避免這些卜基落網後，說出他的名字安全期遠走：在世界杯還沒有開踢之前已逃走，為自己做“不在場證明”，證明沒有在大馬操控賭球外國開公司：在世界杯賺取的金錢，就是由這些外國公司“洗乾淨”
幕後老闆避險手段輸球欠債01萬逃出國“證明”沒操控賭球面獨家封真的查到了，也沒有足夠的證據證明他涉案。”
老闆親信推薦就可當卜基
當卜基不需要甚麼特別手續和過程，只要是集團老闆的親信推薦，就可以當上卜基。
阿廣曾經開了一間餐館，有時候晚上需要陪客人聊天，在一次的聊天中認識了一名卜基集團老闆的馬仔。2006年世界杯開踢之前，這個馬仔問阿廣有沒有興趣當卜基，他就是這樣當上卜基。
他稱，這個馬仔是卜基老闆的親信，大部份由他推薦的新新卜基，通常都會“批准”。當上卜基不需要任何手續，更不需要像政府部門般提供身份證，只要知道活動地點，簡單的聯絡方式就沒有問題。
“之後，老闆就會打電話給我，隨便聊幾句，不懂這算不算是一種確認。不過，老闆不是用手機打電話給我，他更沒有向我要求聯絡方式，也沒有留下他的聯絡方式給我。”
找人下注
賭徒可當小卜基
賭徒獲得卜基為他們開設戶頭後，他們可能會向其他人收取賭注。其實卜基集團並沒有為這些賭徒命名，若真要形容的話，只能稱他們為“小卜基”。
阿廣說，這些所謂的小卜基有了自己的戶頭，他們也可以看到網站上所註明的賠率，“如果他們的朋友或是其他人要向他們下注，他們可將賠率告知他們，當上小卜基。小卜基可以自己向外收取的賭注，數目一般都是數百令吉，只要不能超過限定的數額。”
他稱，小卜基向誰收取賭注我們根本不知道，但是最後他們必須負責收錢，將錢交到我的手上。
另一方面，阿廣表示，他頂上的老闆同樣也有賭注限定，他們的限定可能是百萬令吉。“頂上的老闆還有他們的大老闆，他們可能就是操控一切的幕後人物了。”
他說，卜基集團的操作方式就象直銷公司，一層一層下去，下層的人根本不知道上層是何許人物。
網上開戶頭限定賭額
現在幾乎所有的賭注都是透過網上下注，每一個卜基都有屬於他們的戶頭，這個戶頭可以讓卜基將收取的賭注額填進網頁，卜基也有權限為他相信的賭徒開設戶頭。
阿廣說，現在的卜基集團都是透過網上下注，每一個卜基都有這個網址。這個網址需要登入賬號和密碼才可以進入，否則根本瀏覽不到任何內容。登入網站後，裡面就可以看到每一場球的賠率和賭法，另外旁邊就是下注的球隊以及空格輸入賭注金額。
操作方式如直銷
只要老闆確認了新的卜基，他就會吩咐手下開設一個戶頭給卜基，預先設定這名卜基的投注額。“就好像我之前有一個戶頭帳號，我的投注額最多只有5萬令吉，我接受的賭注不能超過這個數目。當然，5萬只是我的數目，其他的卜基可能比較多，也可能比較少。”
他表示，一個卜基認識的賭徒越多，他所收到的賭注額也相對增加。當卜基收到賭注後，就必須將這些賭注金額輸入。
他補充，如果卜基信任一個賭徒，他可以在網站開設一個戶頭給對方，當然也必須限定賭注金額，這些賭徒就算是卜基的“下線”，就與直銷的操作方式差不多。賭徒可以自行輸入他們的賭注金額，不需要透過卜基。
“就好像我的投注額是5萬令吉，我可以為幾個賭徒開設戶頭，每一個賭徒有2000令吉的賭注額。不過，一個卜基會看情況限定賭注額，如果對方是值得信任的，那麼賭注額可以更多，如果你要定下一萬兩萬的賭注額也可以；但若你不信任一個賭徒，他可能會在輸錢後跑掉，你覺得你會設下很高的賭注額給他嗎？可能只是1000令吉。”
賭注額20%當佣金
卜基集團提供給每一個卜基的傭金可能有所不同，不過一般都是收到賭注額的20%。
阿廣闡明，20%是收到的賭注額，不是集團贏錢的數額。就好像一個卜基收到每個卜基必須親自向賭徒收錢，每週二和週五就是交錢的日子，即使這10萬令吉都是賭徒贏錢，集團同樣會給20%傭金。
“卜基需要自己算清楚賭徒輸贏的金錢，扣除了賭徒所贏的錢，如果是集團有賺，就要將輸球金額上繳；若是集團輸錢，他們會自動將錢匯入卜基的銀行戶頭。”
他表示，卜基收錢的方式和向誰收錢，集團都不會負責，只要到時間，卜基就必須算清價錢，當面交給老闆的跑腿，老闆從來不會出現與卜基見面。
最怕賭徒輸球不還錢
另一方面，阿廣說，雖然卜基害怕遇到輸球不還錢的賭徒，不過卜基沒有辦法向他們收取現款，這是因為賭徒認為自己必贏的心態。
“每一個賭徒都認為自己在這場球一定贏錢，他們只會想到這場球賽後如何從你那兒拿錢，從來不會想到如何輸錢給你。而且一個賭徒可能不只認識一個卜基，其他卜基不收現錢，卻只有你一個收，他們就會轉碼頭了。”
阿廣也說，遇到一些信用不好卻要賭球的“賭鬼”，卜基同樣會接受賭注，不過絕不會為他們開設網上戶頭，以免他們到時在網上隨便輸入數額，最後可能輸球還不到錢。這些賭鬼的賭注全部都是由他本身來輸入。
輸球欠債01萬逃出國
雖然當卜基可以抽20%傭金好像很高，不過卜基能賺的錢不多，而且還因自己賭球而“倒貼”。阿廣就是當上卜基之後，反而欠下10萬令吉賭債，最終出國找吃不敢回來，當卜基當到“撲街”。
阿廣形容，每一個卜基其實也是一個賭徒，如果對賭球沒有興趣，根本就不會當上卜基。“所謂十賭九輸，你何時看過賭徒可以贏大錢的？贏大錢的都是那些幕後老闆。”
他以自己為例，上一屆世界杯開始那幾場球，他收到的賭注金很多，傭金相對的增高。
不過他忍受不住誘惑，有時候看到賭徒贏錢，他就會心癢癢，最後自己也下注。
他以為自己的眼光很好，接連幾場球賽都贏錢，結果越賭越大，最後連傭金都輸了。
“輸球以後，我就是不信邪，我為了可以將輸掉的贏回來，再次下注，當然也是越輸越多。整個球賽，我欠了老闆10萬令吉賭債。”
此外，阿廣說，要當一個不輸錢的卜基，除非要夠定力，也要受得住誘惑，只是收賭注的話的確傭金很高，但是千萬別下注。“不過，可以做到這點的人，少之又少。”
所以，阿廣以他過來人的身份，勸告公眾不要賭博，否則只會越陷越深，無法自拔。
【幕後老闆避險手段】
走法律漏洞：賭球網站主機在外國，賭注金額都是外幣
從不見卜基：老闆從來不會與卜基見面，所有接洽都是由親信去做，避免這些卜基落網後，說出他的名字
安全期遠走：在世界杯還沒有開踢之前已逃走，為自己做“不在場證明”，證明沒有在大馬操控賭球
外國開公司：在世界杯賺取的金錢，就是由這些外國公司“洗乾淨”.
光明日報‧2010.06.27
足球已死！荷蘭都打防守攻勢‧世界杯只剩2隊主攻
（南非‧約翰內斯堡）荷蘭隊用強硬兇悍的防守反擊，掀翻大黑馬斯洛伐克。
然而比賽中，橙衣軍團鮮少踢出精彩配合、華麗的反擊。荷蘭以接近傳統的意大利球風躋身世界杯8強。
巴西不再桑巴足球
事實上，信奉攻勢足球的傳統豪門，已開始轉變打法，比如巴西隊。桑巴舞曾是世界杯炫目的一道風景線，然而自從敦卡帶隊後，4年來巴西已完成了從主攻轉向防守反擊的改造。
不少名宿認為，敦卡的球隊更接近1994年奪冠的巴西隊，以少犯錯加取勝為比賽主旨，無視比賽內容是否華麗。
德國主張攻守平衡
德國隊的建隊思想主要還是攻守平衡，日耳曼人精密計算，以期在穩固後方的情況下通過奧茲爾、慕勒幾個年輕人策動反擊以一擊致命。
堅持攻勢足球-阿根廷、智利
世界杯上真正堅持打攻勢足球的，只有阿根廷與智利。智利踢全攻足球並不奇怪，他們的主帥是“瘋子”畢爾薩（前阿根廷主帥），所以智利與2002年世界杯的阿根廷非常相似，每場比賽都與對手死磕。
馬拉多納的個性，同樣不會考慮收縮。
阿根廷的陣型是難得一見的單後腰中場、前場使用三前鋒；中前場只有馬切拉諾負責防守斷球，其他人都是進攻與進球的狂熱份子。
4連勝期間，阿根廷打入10球，每場比賽控球率與射門次數等指標都勝過對手不少。
只是世界杯上，像老馬和畢爾薩這樣，堅持進攻理念的教練實在太少，所以小組賽創下歷史最低進球紀錄。
許多消極數據急劇增長，多場比賽激烈有餘、精彩不足，讓許多媒體，特別是球迷，都不太滿意。
星洲日報／體育‧2010.06.29
然而比賽中，橙衣軍團鮮少踢出精彩配合、華麗的反擊。荷蘭以接近傳統的意大利球風躋身世界杯8強。
巴西不再桑巴足球
事實上，信奉攻勢足球的傳統豪門，已開始轉變打法，比如巴西隊。桑巴舞曾是世界杯炫目的一道風景線，然而自從敦卡帶隊後，4年來巴西已完成了從主攻轉向防守反擊的改造。
不少名宿認為，敦卡的球隊更接近1994年奪冠的巴西隊，以少犯錯加取勝為比賽主旨，無視比賽內容是否華麗。
德國主張攻守平衡
德國隊的建隊思想主要還是攻守平衡，日耳曼人精密計算，以期在穩固後方的情況下通過奧茲爾、慕勒幾個年輕人策動反擊以一擊致命。
堅持攻勢足球-阿根廷、智利
世界杯上真正堅持打攻勢足球的，只有阿根廷與智利。智利踢全攻足球並不奇怪，他們的主帥是“瘋子”畢爾薩（前阿根廷主帥），所以智利與2002年世界杯的阿根廷非常相似，每場比賽都與對手死磕。
馬拉多納的個性，同樣不會考慮收縮。
阿根廷的陣型是難得一見的單後腰中場、前場使用三前鋒；中前場只有馬切拉諾負責防守斷球，其他人都是進攻與進球的狂熱份子。
4連勝期間，阿根廷打入10球，每場比賽控球率與射門次數等指標都勝過對手不少。
只是世界杯上，像老馬和畢爾薩這樣，堅持進攻理念的教練實在太少，所以小組賽創下歷史最低進球紀錄。
許多消極數據急劇增長，多場比賽激烈有餘、精彩不足，讓許多媒體，特別是球迷，都不太滿意。
星洲日報／體育‧2010.06.29
世杯16強：巴西3球輕取智利‧8強硬碰荷蘭
（南非‧約翰內斯堡）巴西隊於週一（6月28日）舉行的南非世杯決賽圈16強賽，憑胡安、法比亞諾與羅比尼奧各下一城，以3比0淘汰智利，闖進8強賽會師荷蘭。
面對同樣來自南美洲的智利，巴西在16強賽延續在入選賽對陣智利時的強勢，並以3球輕取對手。
巴西球星卡卡結束禁賽，羅比尼奧也回到首發陣容，巴西隊以全主力陣容對陣在南美洲的老對手。
在本屆世界杯入選賽，巴西和智利分別在南美洲以第一和第二身份出線，但巴西在對陣智利的時候有著明顯優勢，在主客場都大比分擊敗對手。
開場後，智利隊攻勢較為兇猛，不過巴西防守反擊的打法也甚是奏效，只是雙方都很重視中場的拼搶，因此很難製造出絕對意義的機會。
以三前鋒陣形出戰的智利人場面上並不佔下風，前鋒蘇亞索明顯不在狀態，射門和突破屢屢失誤。
智利在開賽前30分鐘最有威脅的射門，來自第8分鐘比達爾的射門，但被巴西門將塞薩爾撲出。
巴西隊此前也並沒有太好的機會，兩隊過多地在中場糾纏，但經驗豐富的“桑巴軍團”還是利用自由球打開局面。
第34分鐘，巴西隊麥孔開出角球，中後衛胡安奮力頭球，為巴西取得1比0領先。
第37分鐘，巴西再次打出犀利的反擊，羅比尼奧內切後分給卡卡，卡卡禁區前沿直傳法比亞諾，後者過掉門將推射得手，巴西再下一城擴大比數至2比0。
第59分鐘，巴西隊中場搶斷，拉米雷斯帶球30米殺至禁區前沿再傳給羅比尼奧，後者為巴西人將比分擴大為3比0。
在76分鐘，巴西隊中場直傳，羅比尼奧禁區內推射破門，但裁判示意羅比尼奧越位在先。
卡卡本場表現平平，除了巴西隊的第二個進球時他奉獻一次助攻外，全場基本沒有搶眼表現，反在第30分鐘吃到一張黃牌。
賽前有消息說，他腹股溝的傷勢比較嚴重，有可能在世界杯後進行手術治療。
相比之下，回到巴西桑托斯隊的羅比尼奧顯得更加活躍，他也被評為本場最佳球員。
智利隊教練貝爾薩在下半場換上沃迪維亞、米拉格等人讓智利隊繼續進攻，但無法敲破巴西隊城池，最終，巴西以3比0完勝智利。
光明日報／體育‧2010.06.29
面對同樣來自南美洲的智利，巴西在16強賽延續在入選賽對陣智利時的強勢，並以3球輕取對手。
巴西球星卡卡結束禁賽，羅比尼奧也回到首發陣容，巴西隊以全主力陣容對陣在南美洲的老對手。
在本屆世界杯入選賽，巴西和智利分別在南美洲以第一和第二身份出線，但巴西在對陣智利的時候有著明顯優勢，在主客場都大比分擊敗對手。
開場後，智利隊攻勢較為兇猛，不過巴西防守反擊的打法也甚是奏效，只是雙方都很重視中場的拼搶，因此很難製造出絕對意義的機會。
以三前鋒陣形出戰的智利人場面上並不佔下風，前鋒蘇亞索明顯不在狀態，射門和突破屢屢失誤。
智利在開賽前30分鐘最有威脅的射門，來自第8分鐘比達爾的射門，但被巴西門將塞薩爾撲出。
巴西隊此前也並沒有太好的機會，兩隊過多地在中場糾纏，但經驗豐富的“桑巴軍團”還是利用自由球打開局面。
第34分鐘，巴西隊麥孔開出角球，中後衛胡安奮力頭球，為巴西取得1比0領先。
第37分鐘，巴西再次打出犀利的反擊，羅比尼奧內切後分給卡卡，卡卡禁區前沿直傳法比亞諾，後者過掉門將推射得手，巴西再下一城擴大比數至2比0。
第59分鐘，巴西隊中場搶斷，拉米雷斯帶球30米殺至禁區前沿再傳給羅比尼奧，後者為巴西人將比分擴大為3比0。
在76分鐘，巴西隊中場直傳，羅比尼奧禁區內推射破門，但裁判示意羅比尼奧越位在先。
卡卡本場表現平平，除了巴西隊的第二個進球時他奉獻一次助攻外，全場基本沒有搶眼表現，反在第30分鐘吃到一張黃牌。
賽前有消息說，他腹股溝的傷勢比較嚴重，有可能在世界杯後進行手術治療。
相比之下，回到巴西桑托斯隊的羅比尼奧顯得更加活躍，他也被評為本場最佳球員。
智利隊教練貝爾薩在下半場換上沃迪維亞、米拉格等人讓智利隊繼續進攻，但無法敲破巴西隊城池，最終，巴西以3比0完勝智利。
光明日報／體育‧2010.06.29
重壓下足聯改口‧布拉特：支持門線技術
（南非‧約翰內斯堡）南非世界杯16強賽發生兩場比賽中接連出現重大誤判，因此電子設備的引入再次引發了廣泛的討論。
此前國際足聯會長布拉特一直對此持堅決的否定態度，不過週一（6月28日）他在接受CNN採訪時卻一改之前的態度，表示將在足球比賽中引入門線攝像技術來協助裁判。
他表示：“我支持引進門線技術來幫助裁判執法比賽，但有個前提，這種技術要成熟、精確、簡便，而且只要在爭議較大的情況下才可以使用。”
此前國際足聯秘書長瓦爾克曾堅決的表示絕不會使用電子設備來協助裁判工作。
布拉特本人也曾暗示對啟用高科技設備協助裁判不予支持：“誤判是難以避免的，它本身就是足球運動的一部份。”
星洲日報／體育‧2010.06.29
此前國際足聯會長布拉特一直對此持堅決的否定態度，不過週一（6月28日）他在接受CNN採訪時卻一改之前的態度，表示將在足球比賽中引入門線攝像技術來協助裁判。
他表示：“我支持引進門線技術來幫助裁判執法比賽，但有個前提，這種技術要成熟、精確、簡便，而且只要在爭議較大的情況下才可以使用。”
此前國際足聯秘書長瓦爾克曾堅決的表示絕不會使用電子設備來協助裁判工作。
布拉特本人也曾暗示對啟用高科技設備協助裁判不予支持：“誤判是難以避免的，它本身就是足球運動的一部份。”
星洲日報／體育‧2010.06.29
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Error Message: The File or Directory Is Corrupt...
SYMPTOMS
When you attempt to open, delete or rename a file or folder using Windows NT Ex...When you attempt to open, delete or rename a file or folder using Windows NT Explorer, File Manager or a command prompt, you may receive one of the following error messages:
CAUSE
This behavior can occur if the file, folder or file system index (Master File Table [MFT] or File Allocation Table [FAT]) is damaged.
RESOLUTION
WARNING: When Chkdsk detects problems with the file system and attempts to repair the damage, data loss can occur. Microsoft does not recommend running Chkdsk with the /f command-line switch unless you have a full backup of your hard disk.Attempt to repair the damaged file, folder or file system index using Chkdsk. To do so, follow these steps:
1) Click Start, and then click Run.
2) In the Open box, type chkdsk /f : , where is the letter of the drive on which the damaged file, folder or file system index exists.
3) Click OK.
NOTE: If the hard disk is large, Chkdsk may take several minutes to several hours to complete.
MORE INFORMATION
Chkdsk saves each repaired file in the root folder as a File.chk file, and each repaired folder in the root folder as a Found. folder, where is a number.
For information about how to use Chkdsk, click Start, click Help, click the Index tab, type "chkdsk" (without quotation marks), and then double- click the "Chkdsk Command" topic.
For more information, please see the following articles in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:
ARTICLE-ID: 156571 (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/156571/EN-US/ )
ARTICLE-ID: ID: 160963 (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/160963/EN-US/ )
TITLE : CHKNTFS.EXE: What You Can Use It For
ARTICLE-ID: 161801 (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/161801/EN-US/ )
TITLE : Chkdsk reports an erroneous Event ID 41
APPLIES TO
- Microsoft Windows 2000 Server
- Microsoft Windows 2000 Advanced Server
- Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional Edition
- Microsoft Windows NT Workstation 3.5
- Microsoft Windows NT Workstation 3.51
- Microsoft Windows NT Workstation 4.0 Developer Edition
- Microsoft Windows NT Server 3.5
- Microsoft Windows NT Server 3.51
- Microsoft Windows NT Server 4.0 Standard Edition
- Microsoft Windows NT Server 4.0 Enterprise Edition
Saturday, June 26, 2010
World Cup 2010 last 16: USA v Ghana
We are looking forward to this game and we are sure it is going to be a good one. Part of us think that the United States should get through this, but there is a little bit of us that think Ghana will have an advantage and that the United States have had all the luck they are going to get in this World Cup.
We don't think this game is going to be all about luck but we think it might be a factor in who ultimately wins.
World Cup 2010 last 16: Uruguay v South Korea
The winner of this match will play Ghana or the United States. The winner of this match, much like the winner of the other match, will think they have a very good chance of making the semi-finals and nobody is wrong.
This really does offer up a fantastic opportunity for whoever does wins and you can be assured that the match will be one of the most entertaining of the World Cup so far, because both teams will know that they have to attack - they can not win, sitting back.
Round of 16 World Cup
Upcoming matches - Round of 16:
Uruguay vs. South Korea - 26 Jun 10:00pm (Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur))
United States vs. Ghana - 27 Jun 2:30am (Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur))
Germany vs. England - 27 Jun 10:00pm (Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur))
Argentina vs. Mexico - 28 Jun 2:30am (Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur))
Friday, June 25, 2010
North Korea v Ivory Coast Preview, Prediction, and TV Listings
Ivory Coast need a win in their final group stage match as they face North Korea. The match will take place at Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit, South Africa on Friday, June 25, 2010. Kickoff is scheduled for 15:00 BST, 16:00 local time in South Africa, and 10:00 EST.
It will be televised on ESPN 2 in the United States, CBC in Canada, SBS in Australia, BBC (via the red button) in the United Kingdom, SuperSport in Africa, and on Al Jazeera Sport in the Middle East. You can also find the match at the link on the bottom of this post.
North Korea v Ivory Coast Preview
It’s a must win for Ivory Coast and they will need to make up a substantial goal difference.
With Portugal’s 7-0 win over Ivory Coast, they will need to overcome a nine goal difference in this match. This would have to combine with a Portugal loss against Brazil. It’s not impossible for that to happen as North Korea are eliminated from contention to advance and were exposed defensively.
North Korea looked strong in their opening match against Brazil but appear to have dropped in form. They will play a defensive and compact style which will force the Ivory Coast to be patient and use the width of the pitch.
Ivory Coast will need a great performance from Didier Drogba if they are to have a chance. They need to score probably at least 5-6 goals and hope Brazil beats Portugal by a decent margin. It’s likely Brazil will win their match so it should be up to the Ivorians.
Getting a win by that many goals doesn’t seem likely but they should still get the three points.
Betting Odds
North Korea win – 15/2
Draw – 4/1
Ivory Coast win – 1/3
North Korea v Ivory Coast Prediction
Ivory Coast will win the match 3-0.
Watch North Korea v Ivory Coast Live Online
The match can be seen at Free Live Sports TV.
(Source : http://www.the90thminute.com)
It will be televised on ESPN 2 in the United States, CBC in Canada, SBS in Australia, BBC (via the red button) in the United Kingdom, SuperSport in Africa, and on Al Jazeera Sport in the Middle East. You can also find the match at the link on the bottom of this post.
North Korea v Ivory Coast Preview
It’s a must win for Ivory Coast and they will need to make up a substantial goal difference.
With Portugal’s 7-0 win over Ivory Coast, they will need to overcome a nine goal difference in this match. This would have to combine with a Portugal loss against Brazil. It’s not impossible for that to happen as North Korea are eliminated from contention to advance and were exposed defensively.
North Korea looked strong in their opening match against Brazil but appear to have dropped in form. They will play a defensive and compact style which will force the Ivory Coast to be patient and use the width of the pitch.
Ivory Coast will need a great performance from Didier Drogba if they are to have a chance. They need to score probably at least 5-6 goals and hope Brazil beats Portugal by a decent margin. It’s likely Brazil will win their match so it should be up to the Ivorians.
Getting a win by that many goals doesn’t seem likely but they should still get the three points.
Betting Odds
North Korea win – 15/2
Draw – 4/1
Ivory Coast win – 1/3
North Korea v Ivory Coast Prediction
Ivory Coast will win the match 3-0.
Watch North Korea v Ivory Coast Live Online
The match can be seen at Free Live Sports TV.
(Source : http://www.the90thminute.com)
Preview Line Up Formation North Korea vs Ivory Coast Predictions
The Ivory Coast have never drawn against Asian opposition, winning four matches and losing three.North Korea conceded just four fouls against Portugal, only one team has conceded fewer in one game in the World Cup since 1966, West Germany (v Chile in 1974).This will be the first time that either the Ivory Coast have met an Asian side or North Korea have met an African side in the World Cup.North Korea have won just one of six meetings with African sides in their history, losing three and drawing two.The Ivory Coast’s only World Cup win came in their third group game of the 2006 World Cup when they beat Serbia 3-0.North Korea have lost their last three World Cup games, conceding 14 goals in the process, although only three of those came in the first half.North Korea had 17 shots off target from outside the box in their opening two matches, more than any other side in the competition.The Ivory Coast made 27 unsuccessful dribbles in their first two matches at this World Cup, more than any other side in the tournament.North Korea have not won any of their last eight international fixtures, losing six and drawing two.
Brazil vs Portugal: World Cup 2010 Preview and Prediction
The “Group of Death” gets back underway with the top spot up for grabs where some of the best talent of the World Cup will be on display. Perhaps the most anticipated game in the group stages is finally upon us where Brazil will clash with Portugal in Durban Stadium. Brazil has won both of their games but has been scored on in both encounters. Portugal, although looking a bit shaky in their opener, completely dismantled North Korea in their second. The top spot in Group G is still wide open so we are again most likely in store for one of the more exciting matches of the tournament.
Brazil:
A Seleção has already booked their ticket into the knockout stages but will look to maintain the top spot in the group. Portugal, with 4 points in two games could beat Brazil and go through ahead of the Brazilians. Elano suffered a calf strain in the 3-1 win over Côte d’Ivoire, but is expected to be fit for the Portugal game on Friday. Benfica’s Ramires will most likely replace Elano if he has not yet recovered. Kaká amazingly is suspended for an undeserved red card (2 yellows) for “elbowing” Ivory Coast’s Abdel-Kader Keïta. AS Roma’s Julio Baptista will probably be the replacement, but I would like to see a bit of Dani Alves on the pitch. Villarreal forward Nilmar could also feature for Dunga and company. WSN.com Player to Watch: Robinho. I don’t necessarily like him either, but you cannot deny his natural talent and ability. Look for the Brazilian sensation to continue to razzle-dazzle in a style of play where he feels at home.
Portugal:
Portugal, after completely demolishing the North Koreans by the biggest margin yet in the World Cup, has only gained confidence in their style of play. Portugal, on a good day, could beat any team in the world, but has had a problem with consistency. Their game against the Ivory Coast provided few threats and ultimately very questionable play from one of the world’s top teams. Portugal will play for a win and the top spot in Group G, but will need at least a draw to ensure a second round bid as the Ivorians could theoretically still see them out. The Ivory Coast, however, has to overcome an incredible goal differential thanks to Portugal’s field day vs. Korea DPR. Deco is still battling a hip problem and is minute by minute whether the Brazilian native will feature for Portugal. Look for Ronaldo to step up his game in front of the world’s best.
Prediction:
The most successful football team in the history of the sport will again show what they are made of. Brazil has shown holes in their matches but always play up for the big games. Brazil does not want to face Spain in the second round and only needs a draw to do avoid the Spanish. Brazil beat Chile 2x in the qualifiers and would not mind continuing that trend. Without Kaká and with a doubtful Elano, Brazil will need their backups to shine. Portugal however, will A) push to ensure second round qualification and B) push to avoid Spain. Close one to call considering the injuries/suspensions, but Brazil will continue to be Brazil and edge out the talented but unpredictable Portuguese.
Pick:
Brazil 4 – 3 Portugal
Thursday, June 24, 2010
U.S. tops Algeria, 1-0, to advance to knockout round of 2010 World Cup
PRETORIA, South Africa -- Landon Donovan scored in injury time as the United States advanced to the round of 16 with a 1-0 win over Algeria in a stunning climax to Group C play today at the World Cup.
After coming within minutes of elimination, Donovan's late winner lifted the United States to first place in Group C with five points, topping a World Cup group for the first time since 1930.
Now the Americans will play Ghana at Rustenburg on Saturday at 2 p.m.
England also progressed with five points but in second place, on the basis of goals scored, after its 1-0 win over Slovenia at Port Elizabeth.
Donovan slotted in the rebound after Algeria goalkeeper Rais M'Bolhi had stopped Clint Dempsey's shot from close range in the first minute of injury time. It was his fourth World Cup goal, equaling Bert Patenaude's U.S. record.
"Hands down the biggest moment in my career," Donovan said of the goal.
"I'm shocked. I'm so proud of our guys. Unbelievable," he said. "Clint made a good run in the middle, the ball
fell to me ... time kind of stopped. You can't miss from there."
Both teams had chances but failed to score during regulation time in the free-flowing match at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria. A 0-0 result would have eliminated both teams, as England had just completed its win over Slovenia, which had four points going into the last match.
(Source : www.nj.com)
After coming within minutes of elimination, Donovan's late winner lifted the United States to first place in Group C with five points, topping a World Cup group for the first time since 1930.
Now the Americans will play Ghana at Rustenburg on Saturday at 2 p.m.
England also progressed with five points but in second place, on the basis of goals scored, after its 1-0 win over Slovenia at Port Elizabeth.
Donovan slotted in the rebound after Algeria goalkeeper Rais M'Bolhi had stopped Clint Dempsey's shot from close range in the first minute of injury time. It was his fourth World Cup goal, equaling Bert Patenaude's U.S. record.
"Hands down the biggest moment in my career," Donovan said of the goal.
"I'm shocked. I'm so proud of our guys. Unbelievable," he said. "Clint made a good run in the middle, the ball
fell to me ... time kind of stopped. You can't miss from there."
Both teams had chances but failed to score during regulation time in the free-flowing match at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria. A 0-0 result would have eliminated both teams, as England had just completed its win over Slovenia, which had four points going into the last match.
(Source : www.nj.com)
Portugal and Brazil match promises football feast
DURBAN, South Africa (AP): Even without one of world football's biggest stars, Portugal's World Cup clash with Brazil promises a feast of skillful, attacking football as both teams seek to win and avoid a possible round of 16 clash with Spain.
"Portugal and Brazil have what it takes to put on a great football show for the world," Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz said. Not surprisingly, given the pedigree of both teams and their close cultural and historical ties, the match between Brazil and Portugal was one of the first World Cup matches to sell out.
The luster was taken off slightly when midfielder Kaka was sent off in the 88th minute of Brazil's 3-1 defeat of Ivory Coast, meaning he will miss a showdown with Real Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo in Durban.
Portugal midfielder Tiago said Brazil would not have a problem filling Kaka's boots. "Brazil has a very strong squad," he said. "They have other players who can step into that position."
Portugal, meanwhile, has Ronaldo back in scoring touch, after he broke a two-year international goal drought in his team's emphatic 7-0 demolition of North Korea.
"Without a doubt he is a great player, he has been showing this for a long time," Brazil captain Lucio said. "We need to try to defend as a team, it's key we help each other and stay focused. We will have to pay attention to a player like Ronaldo and also to the others."
Brazil's defeats of North Korea and Ivory Coast guaranteed it a place in the round of 16. It now wants to continue its winning ways to top Group G and avoid a possible match against fellow World Cup favorite Spain in the next round.
Portugal is second in the group on four points after starting the tournament with a lackluster 0-0 draw against Ivory Coast before hitting form against North Korea.
That means a draw is enough for a place in the next round, while a victory will see Queiroz's team win the group.
Portugal's quick passing and silky ball skills have earned the team the reputation of "Brazilians of Europe." Its squad also includes three Brazilian-born players - defender Pepe, midfielder Deco and striker Liedson, though they all could start on the bench.
Deco is struggling to recover from a right hip injury before Friday's match in Durban's Moses Mabhida Stadium and may miss out even if he is fit after his replacement Tiago gave a standout performance against North Korea.
"I don't know if he'll be fit in time. I hope he'll be able to play," Tiago said. "He's an important player and we'll miss him" if he doesn't make it.
Pepe underwent knee surgery in December and only returned to the national team two weeks ago, while Liedson did not start against North Korea.
All three rose to stardom in the Portuguese league and became naturalized Portuguese when Brazil failed to give them an international call-up.
"They're Portuguese, as far as we're concerned," Tiago said. "They've brought quality to the squad. We're glad they're on our side."
Underscoring the cross-pollination between the two football powers, two members of the Brazil squad, Luisao and Ramires, play for Lisbon club Benfica.
"There is always a lot talked about when Brazil and Portugal play," Luisao said. "We will have to play at our best because they have a team with a lot of quality. We have to respect them. Both teams have the goal to finish first so I hope it's going to be a good match."
Brazil has won 12 of the 18 games between the two countries but they have met just once at a World Cup, in 1966 when a Portugal team led by Eusebio beat Brazil and the South Americans were knocked out in the group phase.
However, the last time the two met, Brazil beat Portugal 6-2 in Sao Paulo.
Brazil has won the World Cup five times, while Portugal's third place in 1966 is its best finish. Portugal also was a semifinalist four years ago in Germany, losing 1-0 to France.
"Portugal and Brazil have what it takes to put on a great football show for the world," Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz said. Not surprisingly, given the pedigree of both teams and their close cultural and historical ties, the match between Brazil and Portugal was one of the first World Cup matches to sell out.
The luster was taken off slightly when midfielder Kaka was sent off in the 88th minute of Brazil's 3-1 defeat of Ivory Coast, meaning he will miss a showdown with Real Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo in Durban.
Portugal midfielder Tiago said Brazil would not have a problem filling Kaka's boots. "Brazil has a very strong squad," he said. "They have other players who can step into that position."
Portugal, meanwhile, has Ronaldo back in scoring touch, after he broke a two-year international goal drought in his team's emphatic 7-0 demolition of North Korea.
"Without a doubt he is a great player, he has been showing this for a long time," Brazil captain Lucio said. "We need to try to defend as a team, it's key we help each other and stay focused. We will have to pay attention to a player like Ronaldo and also to the others."
Brazil's defeats of North Korea and Ivory Coast guaranteed it a place in the round of 16. It now wants to continue its winning ways to top Group G and avoid a possible match against fellow World Cup favorite Spain in the next round.
Portugal is second in the group on four points after starting the tournament with a lackluster 0-0 draw against Ivory Coast before hitting form against North Korea.
That means a draw is enough for a place in the next round, while a victory will see Queiroz's team win the group.
Portugal's quick passing and silky ball skills have earned the team the reputation of "Brazilians of Europe." Its squad also includes three Brazilian-born players - defender Pepe, midfielder Deco and striker Liedson, though they all could start on the bench.
Deco is struggling to recover from a right hip injury before Friday's match in Durban's Moses Mabhida Stadium and may miss out even if he is fit after his replacement Tiago gave a standout performance against North Korea.
"I don't know if he'll be fit in time. I hope he'll be able to play," Tiago said. "He's an important player and we'll miss him" if he doesn't make it.
Pepe underwent knee surgery in December and only returned to the national team two weeks ago, while Liedson did not start against North Korea.
All three rose to stardom in the Portuguese league and became naturalized Portuguese when Brazil failed to give them an international call-up.
"They're Portuguese, as far as we're concerned," Tiago said. "They've brought quality to the squad. We're glad they're on our side."
Underscoring the cross-pollination between the two football powers, two members of the Brazil squad, Luisao and Ramires, play for Lisbon club Benfica.
"There is always a lot talked about when Brazil and Portugal play," Luisao said. "We will have to play at our best because they have a team with a lot of quality. We have to respect them. Both teams have the goal to finish first so I hope it's going to be a good match."
Brazil has won 12 of the 18 games between the two countries but they have met just once at a World Cup, in 1966 when a Portugal team led by Eusebio beat Brazil and the South Americans were knocked out in the group phase.
However, the last time the two met, Brazil beat Portugal 6-2 in Sao Paulo.
Brazil has won the World Cup five times, while Portugal's third place in 1966 is its best finish. Portugal also was a semifinalist four years ago in Germany, losing 1-0 to France.
Ivory Coast seeks minor miracle at WCup
JOHANNESBURG (AP): Ivory Coast needs one of the unlikeliest results in World Cup history if it is to prolong its stay at the 2010 tournament.
The Ivorians retain just the slimmest of mathematical chances of qualifying for the last 16 stage.
Sven-Goran Eriksson's team has to beat already-eliminated North Korea in Nelspruit in the final round of Group G matches on Friday _ but that's the easy part.
At the same time Portugal has to lose to Brazil in Durban - not impossible. And there also has to be a nine-goal swing in Ivory Coast's favor _ almost inconceivable.
"There's one match to go and we owe it to ourselves to win it and hope events go in our favor," said defender Guy Demel, insisting The Elephants still retained hope of an incredible outcome. "Nothing's over yet."
World Cup history is not in Ivory Coast's favor.
A one-goal loss by Portugal to five-time champion Brazil would require the Ivorians to win by at least eight and in the 80-year history of the World Cup there have been just six matches with an 8-0 scoreline or greater.
North Korea has been stung by its 7-0 defeat by Portugal, and is eager to make up for that poor display against Ivory Coast.
"Tactically speaking we fell apart," said North Korea coach Kim Jung Hun, who took responsibility for the change in his team's formation at halftime that led to six second-half goals from the Portuguese.
"Back home I believe that they will look at the next game," Kim said. "We have one left. We will reinforce our mental abilities and really work well."
Midfielder An Yong Hak said the mood in the locker room "wasn't good" following the Portugal match, which was the first North Korea game abroad to be aired live prime-time on state TV in the isolated country.
An said the Ivory Coast game is a chance to regain lost pride in its first World Cup appearance in 44 years.
"We made a lot of mistakes that forced us to eat too many goals," he said of the pounding by Portugal, "but we'll try our hardest to the end and do our best in the final game."
North Korea showed in its opening game, when Japan-born striker Jong Tae Se set up Ji Yun Nam for a surprise goal in a brave 2-1 loss to the mighty Brazil, that it can compete with the world's best.
Eriksson said earlier this week "to beat Brazil you must be almost perfect," after his own team was outclassed by football's most successful World Cup team.
Ivory Coast will now need to be near-faultless against North Korea if they are to win by the huge margin required and it will have to chase goals with lingering doubts over the fitness of its biggest attacking threat, captain and striker Didier Drogba.
Drogba has played with a protective cast after breaking his right arm in the buildup to the tournament and undergoing hasty surgery to ensure his participation.
He scored what turned out to be a consolation goal in the 79th minute against Brazil but will need help from fellow forwards like Salomon Kalou, Aruna Dindane and Gervinho on Friday after Ivory Coast failed to convert attacking opportunities in its last game.
"We didn't put our chances away and failed to make the most of our counterattacks," said Kolo Toure.
"Those are the kinds of mistakes we have to avoid against North Korea. We need to be more compact and above all do better with our chances."
The Ivorians retain just the slimmest of mathematical chances of qualifying for the last 16 stage.
Sven-Goran Eriksson's team has to beat already-eliminated North Korea in Nelspruit in the final round of Group G matches on Friday _ but that's the easy part.
At the same time Portugal has to lose to Brazil in Durban - not impossible. And there also has to be a nine-goal swing in Ivory Coast's favor _ almost inconceivable.
"There's one match to go and we owe it to ourselves to win it and hope events go in our favor," said defender Guy Demel, insisting The Elephants still retained hope of an incredible outcome. "Nothing's over yet."
World Cup history is not in Ivory Coast's favor.
A one-goal loss by Portugal to five-time champion Brazil would require the Ivorians to win by at least eight and in the 80-year history of the World Cup there have been just six matches with an 8-0 scoreline or greater.
North Korea has been stung by its 7-0 defeat by Portugal, and is eager to make up for that poor display against Ivory Coast.
"Tactically speaking we fell apart," said North Korea coach Kim Jung Hun, who took responsibility for the change in his team's formation at halftime that led to six second-half goals from the Portuguese.
"Back home I believe that they will look at the next game," Kim said. "We have one left. We will reinforce our mental abilities and really work well."
Midfielder An Yong Hak said the mood in the locker room "wasn't good" following the Portugal match, which was the first North Korea game abroad to be aired live prime-time on state TV in the isolated country.
An said the Ivory Coast game is a chance to regain lost pride in its first World Cup appearance in 44 years.
"We made a lot of mistakes that forced us to eat too many goals," he said of the pounding by Portugal, "but we'll try our hardest to the end and do our best in the final game."
North Korea showed in its opening game, when Japan-born striker Jong Tae Se set up Ji Yun Nam for a surprise goal in a brave 2-1 loss to the mighty Brazil, that it can compete with the world's best.
Eriksson said earlier this week "to beat Brazil you must be almost perfect," after his own team was outclassed by football's most successful World Cup team.
Ivory Coast will now need to be near-faultless against North Korea if they are to win by the huge margin required and it will have to chase goals with lingering doubts over the fitness of its biggest attacking threat, captain and striker Didier Drogba.
Drogba has played with a protective cast after breaking his right arm in the buildup to the tournament and undergoing hasty surgery to ensure his participation.
He scored what turned out to be a consolation goal in the 79th minute against Brazil but will need help from fellow forwards like Salomon Kalou, Aruna Dindane and Gervinho on Friday after Ivory Coast failed to convert attacking opportunities in its last game.
"We didn't put our chances away and failed to make the most of our counterattacks," said Kolo Toure.
"Those are the kinds of mistakes we have to avoid against North Korea. We need to be more compact and above all do better with our chances."
Chile stands in Spain's way at World Cup
POTCHEFSTROOM, South Africa (AP): Chile stands in the way of Spain's lofty World Cup hopes, as the European champion goes into its final Group H match on Friday needing victory to secure its spot in the knockout phase.
With both Switzerland and Honduras still in the mix for one of the last two places in the last 16, Spain know it's time to live up to pre-tournament expectations or potentially go home early.
"For us it's clear what we have to do - we have to beat Chile," said midfielder Andres Iniesta, who is available for the final group match after overcoming a right leg injury. "We've got a clear idea about what we need to do and we're confident of reaching the next round. Nothing else is important."
Whether it's the World Cup favorite tag slapped on it, overconfidence or tactical changes, Spain hasn't quite been able to emulate the attractive play that led it to its European triumph two years ago.
Despite dominating opponents, it has only found the back of twice through David Villa in a 2-0 win over Honduras. Switzerland stifled it in a 1-0 win that led to questions over coach Vicente del Bosque's tinkering with the team as he prefers defensive midfielders Sergio Busquets and Xabi Alonso over the likes of attacking players Cesc Fabregas and David Silva.
"The idea is to play our own (strengths), take the initiative and take control of the game but we don't know if they will let us," Del Bosque said. "They can play different ways, they have good players and style of play. They're ready."
Chile needs only a draw at Pretoria's Loftus Versfeld Stadium to win the group as its six points leads the three Spain and Switzerland each have. Honduras has zero.
The winner of the group, which could come down to goal difference if there is a three-way tie on points, is also likely to avoid a matchup with Group G leader Brazil.
"First and foremost, we will, as we do in all matches, stand our ground," Chile coach Marcelo Bielsa said after the 1-0 win over the Swiss. "On Friday, we will try to again show our talents. That's the best way to try to be better than our opponents."
Bielsa's love of attacking football should provide an exciting finale to the group stage and be nothing like the two teams' previous encounter in 2008 - a 3-0 win for Spain. Chile has never beaten Spain in the teams' past seven matches, suffering defeats in six.
"It's going to be a totally different game, they are going to come out attacking and we're going to apply our own way of playing," Chile winger Mark Gonzalez said. "All of our attention is on reaching the next round and finishing first (in the group)."
Spain will have David Villa in attack after avoiding a FIFA ban for slapping an opponent, while Fernando Torres should also start despite missing three scoring chances against Honduras.
"You've got to believe that he will find his accuracy," Del Bosque said of the Liverpool striker, who looked rusty after starting for the first time since knee surgery.
Spain and Chile took more shots than any other team after two games but both only scored two goals. Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas will finally get some work after facing only three shots on goal so far.
While Spain frets over which super star will become a super sub, Bielsa is without midfielders Carlos Carmona and Matias Fernandez to suspension. Jorge Valdivia will likely fill in for Fernandes, while striker Humberto Suazo is also available.
"Sometimes (new players) bring freshness and have more energy," Bielsa said. "But most of the time they suffer to find their rhythm."
Chile is using a torn and muddied Chilean flag as extra motivation. The flag was pulled from the wreckage left behind by the earthquake and tsunami that hit the South American country in February, killing more than 500 people and leaving 200,000 homeless.
With both Switzerland and Honduras still in the mix for one of the last two places in the last 16, Spain know it's time to live up to pre-tournament expectations or potentially go home early.
"For us it's clear what we have to do - we have to beat Chile," said midfielder Andres Iniesta, who is available for the final group match after overcoming a right leg injury. "We've got a clear idea about what we need to do and we're confident of reaching the next round. Nothing else is important."
Whether it's the World Cup favorite tag slapped on it, overconfidence or tactical changes, Spain hasn't quite been able to emulate the attractive play that led it to its European triumph two years ago.
Despite dominating opponents, it has only found the back of twice through David Villa in a 2-0 win over Honduras. Switzerland stifled it in a 1-0 win that led to questions over coach Vicente del Bosque's tinkering with the team as he prefers defensive midfielders Sergio Busquets and Xabi Alonso over the likes of attacking players Cesc Fabregas and David Silva.
"The idea is to play our own (strengths), take the initiative and take control of the game but we don't know if they will let us," Del Bosque said. "They can play different ways, they have good players and style of play. They're ready."
Chile needs only a draw at Pretoria's Loftus Versfeld Stadium to win the group as its six points leads the three Spain and Switzerland each have. Honduras has zero.
The winner of the group, which could come down to goal difference if there is a three-way tie on points, is also likely to avoid a matchup with Group G leader Brazil.
"First and foremost, we will, as we do in all matches, stand our ground," Chile coach Marcelo Bielsa said after the 1-0 win over the Swiss. "On Friday, we will try to again show our talents. That's the best way to try to be better than our opponents."
Bielsa's love of attacking football should provide an exciting finale to the group stage and be nothing like the two teams' previous encounter in 2008 - a 3-0 win for Spain. Chile has never beaten Spain in the teams' past seven matches, suffering defeats in six.
"It's going to be a totally different game, they are going to come out attacking and we're going to apply our own way of playing," Chile winger Mark Gonzalez said. "All of our attention is on reaching the next round and finishing first (in the group)."
Spain will have David Villa in attack after avoiding a FIFA ban for slapping an opponent, while Fernando Torres should also start despite missing three scoring chances against Honduras.
"You've got to believe that he will find his accuracy," Del Bosque said of the Liverpool striker, who looked rusty after starting for the first time since knee surgery.
Spain and Chile took more shots than any other team after two games but both only scored two goals. Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas will finally get some work after facing only three shots on goal so far.
While Spain frets over which super star will become a super sub, Bielsa is without midfielders Carlos Carmona and Matias Fernandez to suspension. Jorge Valdivia will likely fill in for Fernandes, while striker Humberto Suazo is also available.
"Sometimes (new players) bring freshness and have more energy," Bielsa said. "But most of the time they suffer to find their rhythm."
Chile is using a torn and muddied Chilean flag as extra motivation. The flag was pulled from the wreckage left behind by the earthquake and tsunami that hit the South American country in February, killing more than 500 people and leaving 200,000 homeless.
World Cup 2010 Final: England 1, Slovenia 0
England is through to the round of 16. Jermaine Defoe scored in the 23rd minute and England eventually held on for a 1-0 win over Slovenia to reach the elimination round.
England finished second in Group C, while the U.S., which beat Algeria 1-0 in dramatic fashion on a goal by Landon Donovan in stoppage time, came in first.
The U.S. wins Group C, while England finishes second.
Full Time: England wins - and the U.S. takes the lead!!!! Donovan buries one
Stoppage Time: England's stalling tactics are working right now. They're sitting on the ball in the corner.
86th Minute: Defoe is out. Slovenia plays a corner in to no avail.
84th Minute: Ball has been played on Slovenia's side all match.
80th Minute: Birsa gets booked.
79th Minute: Matavz is on and Kirm is off.
76th Minute: Slovenia needs to make something happen. And no it can't be a 40-yard free kick that goes high.
71st Minute: Birsa tries once again on a free kick from 40 but it goes high and wide. Altidore is robbed for the U.S.
68th Minute: Slovenia finally gets a pair of chances, but Novakovic's shot is blocked and Birsa's attempt sails wide to the right of the goalpost.
65th Minute: Birsa gets off a weak left-footer, but James is easily able to block it.
64th Minute: Handanovic snatches a corner kick. If only he could play offense as well.
62nd Minute: The first substitution for either side comes in the form of Dedic going on and Ljubijankic coming off.
England finished second in Group C, while the U.S., which beat Algeria 1-0 in dramatic fashion on a goal by Landon Donovan in stoppage time, came in first.
The U.S. wins Group C, while England finishes second.
Full Time: England wins - and the U.S. takes the lead!!!! Donovan buries one
Stoppage Time: England's stalling tactics are working right now. They're sitting on the ball in the corner.
86th Minute: Defoe is out. Slovenia plays a corner in to no avail.
84th Minute: Ball has been played on Slovenia's side all match.
80th Minute: Birsa gets booked.
79th Minute: Matavz is on and Kirm is off.
76th Minute: Slovenia needs to make something happen. And no it can't be a 40-yard free kick that goes high.
71st Minute: Birsa tries once again on a free kick from 40 but it goes high and wide. Altidore is robbed for the U.S.
68th Minute: Slovenia finally gets a pair of chances, but Novakovic's shot is blocked and Birsa's attempt sails wide to the right of the goalpost.
65th Minute: Birsa gets off a weak left-footer, but James is easily able to block it.
64th Minute: Handanovic snatches a corner kick. If only he could play offense as well.
62nd Minute: The first substitution for either side comes in the form of Dedic going on and Ljubijankic coming off.
Facebook Privacy: What You Need to Know
Even the most active of users on Facebook are confused about Facebook's privacy policies. One minute Mark Zuckerberg announces a "Like" button that publishers could place on their web pages, then the next minute we're seeing privacy rights groups like the ACLU calling out Facebook for their blatant disregard and self-serving policies regarding users' privacy. So what's the real deal? Here's what you need to know.
Privacy in social media has long been an issue, and Internet privacy even longer. A hot topic today are the issues revolving around Facebook privacy (just look at Mark Drummond's post "A Day in the Life of a Trending Topic" to see for yourself).
The Internet isn't a place where one can easily hide. Whether it's those drunken photos in Cabo on Spring Break, that complaint you posted about your boss to your friends, or pictures and information about your kids, nothing is safe anymore. And should that information get into the wrong hands it could cost you relationships, dignity, your job, your family's safety, and potentially your life. But it doesn't have to be that way.
Why Are Privacy Advocates Upset?
Facebook's addition of the "Like" feature, available for any site to place on their content, allows users with a Facebook profile to "Like" anything on the web, anywhere, and the ability to connect with the things they care about. Each user has instant personalization; favorite sites are automatically social if you're signed into your Facebook account. Information about your own interests (found in your basic profile) and the interests of your friends (found in their basic profiles) are shared and utilized to personalize your experience.
Within a matter of weeks, more than 50,000 sites added the "Like" button to their sites. Sounds fabulous right? Sounds scary, too.
Information Collected Regardless of User Action
You don't have to click the "Like" button for any your information to be collected. The way the social plug-in works is Facebook collects the address of the web site/page being visited and the Internet address of the visitor as soon as the page is loaded.
Facebook claims this information collected is anonymized after three months and isn't shared or sold to others. Privacy advocates are upset that this information is collected regardless of user action (i.e., clicking the "Like" button) without an easy opt-out solution.
In addition, critics are concerned that some of the interests located in your basic profile are required to be public, even if you have opted out.
It isn't just users who should be concerned about the data being collected. As a publisher, if you put the "Like" button on your site, "you're potentially selling out your users' privacy even if they never press that button," said Nicole Ozer of the ACLU of Northern California. The actions they take on your site are being used and not shared with you.
Did you know that even if you opt-out of sharing your information, it can still be shared by your friends to "partner sites"? This is the default setting. Users are required to take additional steps to completely opt-out: by blocking each individual partner application.
Critics are calling for the latter to be the default setting, due to the fact that your information is being shared, again, regardless of the user's action.
So Many Settings!
Initially users had 50 settings required to make information shared private. After much scrutiny and backlash, Facebook changed this feature on May 26 to reduce that number to 15.
Many users simply don't realize the privacy settings in place on social networking sites like Facebook either because they don't care, they're too lazy to actually implement the steps needed to take care of it, or because they just aren't privy to that information. I understand the laziness factor: Facebook made it so complicated to figure out how and what to do, that frankly even I had given up hope of having my information completely private.
Further Privacy Concerns
Currently, Facebook has no option for users to transmit data via encrypted HTTPS connections. User traffic is better protected through the use of HTTPS connections from malicious interception.
Many sites, including Google, have implemented the use of HTTPS connections to better protect their users. Facebook swears they are testing this feature out and hopes to roll out the option in a few months.
What Does Facebook Say?
Facebook maintains that more people are concerned with Facebook charging a fee sometime in the future (merely a rumor) than about privacy. They haven't seen any notable changes in user statistics due to users' privacy concerns. Facebook officials maintain this statement, even after the highly publicized "Quit Facebook Day."
Over the next few months Facebook hopes to continue simplifying the privacy settings they have in place, but maintains their stance that users really do want to share information, especially if they have control over it as reported on ClickZ.com.
Not sure what information you're sharing? Try out ReclaimPrivacy.org, a site providing an independent tool to help you scan your Facebook privacy settings and spell it out to you in simple language. And be sure to check out these seven tips on what you should stop doing on Facebook.
(Source :By Kaila Strong, Search Engine Watch, Jun 21, 2010)
Privacy in social media has long been an issue, and Internet privacy even longer. A hot topic today are the issues revolving around Facebook privacy (just look at Mark Drummond's post "A Day in the Life of a Trending Topic" to see for yourself).
The Internet isn't a place where one can easily hide. Whether it's those drunken photos in Cabo on Spring Break, that complaint you posted about your boss to your friends, or pictures and information about your kids, nothing is safe anymore. And should that information get into the wrong hands it could cost you relationships, dignity, your job, your family's safety, and potentially your life. But it doesn't have to be that way.
Why Are Privacy Advocates Upset?
Facebook's addition of the "Like" feature, available for any site to place on their content, allows users with a Facebook profile to "Like" anything on the web, anywhere, and the ability to connect with the things they care about. Each user has instant personalization; favorite sites are automatically social if you're signed into your Facebook account. Information about your own interests (found in your basic profile) and the interests of your friends (found in their basic profiles) are shared and utilized to personalize your experience.
Within a matter of weeks, more than 50,000 sites added the "Like" button to their sites. Sounds fabulous right? Sounds scary, too.
Information Collected Regardless of User Action
You don't have to click the "Like" button for any your information to be collected. The way the social plug-in works is Facebook collects the address of the web site/page being visited and the Internet address of the visitor as soon as the page is loaded.
Facebook claims this information collected is anonymized after three months and isn't shared or sold to others. Privacy advocates are upset that this information is collected regardless of user action (i.e., clicking the "Like" button) without an easy opt-out solution.
In addition, critics are concerned that some of the interests located in your basic profile are required to be public, even if you have opted out.
It isn't just users who should be concerned about the data being collected. As a publisher, if you put the "Like" button on your site, "you're potentially selling out your users' privacy even if they never press that button," said Nicole Ozer of the ACLU of Northern California. The actions they take on your site are being used and not shared with you.
Did you know that even if you opt-out of sharing your information, it can still be shared by your friends to "partner sites"? This is the default setting. Users are required to take additional steps to completely opt-out: by blocking each individual partner application.
Critics are calling for the latter to be the default setting, due to the fact that your information is being shared, again, regardless of the user's action.
So Many Settings!
Initially users had 50 settings required to make information shared private. After much scrutiny and backlash, Facebook changed this feature on May 26 to reduce that number to 15.
Many users simply don't realize the privacy settings in place on social networking sites like Facebook either because they don't care, they're too lazy to actually implement the steps needed to take care of it, or because they just aren't privy to that information. I understand the laziness factor: Facebook made it so complicated to figure out how and what to do, that frankly even I had given up hope of having my information completely private.
Further Privacy Concerns
Currently, Facebook has no option for users to transmit data via encrypted HTTPS connections. User traffic is better protected through the use of HTTPS connections from malicious interception.
Many sites, including Google, have implemented the use of HTTPS connections to better protect their users. Facebook swears they are testing this feature out and hopes to roll out the option in a few months.
What Does Facebook Say?
Facebook maintains that more people are concerned with Facebook charging a fee sometime in the future (merely a rumor) than about privacy. They haven't seen any notable changes in user statistics due to users' privacy concerns. Facebook officials maintain this statement, even after the highly publicized "Quit Facebook Day."
Over the next few months Facebook hopes to continue simplifying the privacy settings they have in place, but maintains their stance that users really do want to share information, especially if they have control over it as reported on ClickZ.com.
Not sure what information you're sharing? Try out ReclaimPrivacy.org, a site providing an independent tool to help you scan your Facebook privacy settings and spell it out to you in simple language. And be sure to check out these seven tips on what you should stop doing on Facebook.
(Source :By Kaila Strong, Search Engine Watch, Jun 21, 2010)
Sunday, June 20, 2010
World Cup 2010: Slovakia v Paraguay – live!
Slovakia preview: After 84 games, 7,560 minutes and 17 years Slovakia finally saw their World Cup premiere. It was going to be a memorable occasion and hopes were high. Slovakia's performance in their final friendly against Costa Rica should have been a sign of things to come – the Slovaks created a lot of chances and scored three goals. Three points against the All Whites were seen as a must.
But in Rustenburg we were punished. Weiss had a great game – if Stoch played too, I am convinced that Slovakia would have scored more than a goal. Jendrisek, his replacement, was invisible. Everyone expected much more from the captain Hamsik; Sestak and Vittek failed to convert chances; Durica and Strba left Reid unmarked to score that (in)famous goal. New Zealand played with heart and deserved to equalise. Regardless of their ranking, they are an inspiration to any team.
Paraguay preview: A ludicrous grope at fresh air by goalkeeper Villar from an Italy corner undid Paraguay in the opener, but there's no doubt they were hanging on for the last 20 minutes. Their tactic of shoeing every Italian who threatened to attack escaped censure, but rough-housing may not be as successful against the Slovaks. The incessant downpour on the night prevented flowing football, but Paraguay still strung together some nice moves – just without a cutting edge.
Surely Cáceres and Riveros will boss midfield a bit better this time, and giving Santa Cruz or Cardozo a start ahead of the disappointing Barrios might add some zing to the attack. At the other end, Villar can expect a lifetime of chopping cane in the Chaco should he repeat his howler. It will be tight: my money will be on a draw. Which would suit Paraguay very nicely indeed.
But in Rustenburg we were punished. Weiss had a great game – if Stoch played too, I am convinced that Slovakia would have scored more than a goal. Jendrisek, his replacement, was invisible. Everyone expected much more from the captain Hamsik; Sestak and Vittek failed to convert chances; Durica and Strba left Reid unmarked to score that (in)famous goal. New Zealand played with heart and deserved to equalise. Regardless of their ranking, they are an inspiration to any team.
Paraguay preview: A ludicrous grope at fresh air by goalkeeper Villar from an Italy corner undid Paraguay in the opener, but there's no doubt they were hanging on for the last 20 minutes. Their tactic of shoeing every Italian who threatened to attack escaped censure, but rough-housing may not be as successful against the Slovaks. The incessant downpour on the night prevented flowing football, but Paraguay still strung together some nice moves – just without a cutting edge.
Surely Cáceres and Riveros will boss midfield a bit better this time, and giving Santa Cruz or Cardozo a start ahead of the disappointing Barrios might add some zing to the attack. At the other end, Villar can expect a lifetime of chopping cane in the Chaco should he repeat his howler. It will be tight: my money will be on a draw. Which would suit Paraguay very nicely indeed.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
《點石成金》日本可至少逼和風車國
從西班牙意外0比1不敵瑞士開始，直到烏拉圭3比0大勝東道主南非、阿根廷4比1完爆“亞洲紅魔”韓國、再到墨西哥意外以2比0擊敗法國後，本屆世界杯正式掀起高潮！小石子看得實在過癮。
言歸正傳，今日（週五，6月18日）E組第二輪中，“風車國”荷蘭與“太陽帝國”日本之間的對決，莊家開出荷蘭讓一球的盤口，小石子認為不妨博冷門小敲下盤。
韓國在倒在阿根廷腳下後，給了日本一個很好的警惕，面對攻擊力和控球能力比自己更強的對手，不該選擇與對手對攻，反而要向瑞士學習。
而且，日本在首仗以1比0打敗喀麥隆後，激發了武士般的鬥志，本田圭佑在這場比賽還打進漂亮的絕殺球，狀態漸入佳境。
荷蘭雖然也在首仗敲開勝利之門，但整體水平還是沒有發揮出來，尤其是前鋒范佩西，他屬於輕巧型前鋒，不是身體強壯型的中鋒，這對日本來說反而沒這麼可怕。
日本經過熱身賽的調整後，也一改後防漏洞百出的問題，上一仗顯得進步許多，此役至少不會輸荷蘭。
星洲日報／體育‧2010.06.18
言歸正傳，今日（週五，6月18日）E組第二輪中，“風車國”荷蘭與“太陽帝國”日本之間的對決，莊家開出荷蘭讓一球的盤口，小石子認為不妨博冷門小敲下盤。
韓國在倒在阿根廷腳下後，給了日本一個很好的警惕，面對攻擊力和控球能力比自己更強的對手，不該選擇與對手對攻，反而要向瑞士學習。
而且，日本在首仗以1比0打敗喀麥隆後，激發了武士般的鬥志，本田圭佑在這場比賽還打進漂亮的絕殺球，狀態漸入佳境。
荷蘭雖然也在首仗敲開勝利之門，但整體水平還是沒有發揮出來，尤其是前鋒范佩西，他屬於輕巧型前鋒，不是身體強壯型的中鋒，這對日本來說反而沒這麼可怕。
日本經過熱身賽的調整後，也一改後防漏洞百出的問題，上一仗顯得進步許多，此役至少不會輸荷蘭。
星洲日報／體育‧2010.06.18
Vuvuzela: China kaut untung
Pengilang sukar penuhi permintaan tinggi Asia
BEIJING: Vuvuzela yang mencetus bunyi bingit di Piala Dunia Afrika Selatan kini menjadi ‘lombong emas’ buat pengilang di China dan mendapat sambutan hangat dalam kalangan pembeli di negara Asia.
Jualan hon plastik berbunyi kuat di China dan di negara lain di seluruh dunia meningkat, dengan pengilang menghadapi kesukaran memenuhi permintaan dengan bekalan dikatakan sudah habis menurut laman web China.
Akhbar kerajaan China, Global Times berkata hampir 90 peratus vuvuzela Afrika Selatan – yang mengeluarkan bunyi ibarat sekumpulan lebah serta menimbulkan rungutan peminat, pemain dan stesen penyiar – dihasilkan di China.
Sebuah syarikat, Jiying Plastic Product Corp yang berpangkalan di wilayah timur Zhejiang, sudah menjual lebih sejuta hon pada empat bulan pertama tahun ini, kebanyakan ke Afrika Selatan dan sambutan terus meningkat.
“Kami bercadang menghasilkan 300,000 ke 500,000 lebih memasuki peringkat Piala Dunia,” kata pengarah pemasaran syarikat, Wu Yijun. Syarikat itu menghasilkan 37 jenis vuvuzela, pada harga borong dua yuan (92.8 sen), katanya. Peminat di China dan penjual juga dilanda demam vuvuzela.
“Bermula pada Mei, kami menerima permintaan domestik untuk 150,000 vuvuzela. Sebelum itu semua vuvuzela yang dihasilkan adalah untuk eksport,” kata Wu. – AFP
(source : Bharian online)
Belanda akur sentuhan Jepun
DURBAN: Belanda ada sebab untuk menunjukkan rasa hormat terhadap Jepun sebelum perlawanan Kumpulan E, hari ini, bukan sekadar kerana kemenangan mengejutkan Blue Samurai ke atas Cameroon dalam pembukaan Piala Dunia tempoh hari.
Belanda yang mahu melihat peningkatan persembahan berbanding kemenangan 2-0 ketika bergelut menentang Denmark, Isnin lalu, masih terkenang episod diperkotak-katikkan Jepun selama sejam dalam perlawanan persahabatan, tahun lalu.
Belanda akhirnya meraih kemenangan 3-0 pada perlawanan di Enschede dan keputusan sama di Stadium Moses Mabhida hari ini, akan membantu usaha mereka menempah tempat ke pusingan 16 terakhir.
“Tempoh sejam pertama, Jepun menguasai perlawanan tetapi akhirnya kami menang,” kata perancang tengah Belanda, Wesley Sneijder kepada wartawan.
“Jurulatih kami berkata, ia adalah perlawanan tunggal yang menyaksikan lawan kami memberi kesukaran kepada kami, jadi biarkan ia menjadi perlawanan terakhir seperti itu.”
Jurulatih, Bert van Marwijk dijangka mengekalkan barisan yang sama apabila menentang Denmark, sekali lagi cenderung menggunakan pemain sayap hebat, Eljero Elia sebagai pemain yang mencetuskan impak dari bangku simpanan.
Kemenangan Jepun ke atas Cameroon di Bloemfontein Isnin lalu turut menamatkan rentetan keputusan buruk Takeshi Okada dan jurulatih itu dijangka melupakan gaya permainan corak hantaran pendek kepada gaya lebih
defensif dan kompak. – Reuters
(source : Bharian online)
Belanda yang mahu melihat peningkatan persembahan berbanding kemenangan 2-0 ketika bergelut menentang Denmark, Isnin lalu, masih terkenang episod diperkotak-katikkan Jepun selama sejam dalam perlawanan persahabatan, tahun lalu.
Belanda akhirnya meraih kemenangan 3-0 pada perlawanan di Enschede dan keputusan sama di Stadium Moses Mabhida hari ini, akan membantu usaha mereka menempah tempat ke pusingan 16 terakhir.
“Tempoh sejam pertama, Jepun menguasai perlawanan tetapi akhirnya kami menang,” kata perancang tengah Belanda, Wesley Sneijder kepada wartawan.
“Jurulatih kami berkata, ia adalah perlawanan tunggal yang menyaksikan lawan kami memberi kesukaran kepada kami, jadi biarkan ia menjadi perlawanan terakhir seperti itu.”
Jurulatih, Bert van Marwijk dijangka mengekalkan barisan yang sama apabila menentang Denmark, sekali lagi cenderung menggunakan pemain sayap hebat, Eljero Elia sebagai pemain yang mencetuskan impak dari bangku simpanan.
Kemenangan Jepun ke atas Cameroon di Bloemfontein Isnin lalu turut menamatkan rentetan keputusan buruk Takeshi Okada dan jurulatih itu dijangka melupakan gaya permainan corak hantaran pendek kepada gaya lebih
defensif dan kompak. – Reuters
(source : Bharian online)
Group C: State of play (FIFA.com)
(FIFA.com) Saturday 19 June 2010
Favourites England did not expect to be going into their final group game outside the qualifying places but that is where they stand ahead of their showdown with the surprise section leaders Slovenia. With only three points separating the four sides, however, Group C remains wide open – only a final-day victory will provide a sure guarantee of progress for every team bar the Slovenians.
As it stands
1. Slovenia: 4 pts; GD +1; three goals scored
2. USA: 2 pts; GD 0; three goals scored
3. England: 2 pts; GD 0; one goal scored
4. Algeria: 1 pt; GD -1; no goals scored
Next up
Slovenia-England, 23 June, Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth, 16.00
USA-Algeria, 23 June, Tshwane/Pretoria, 16.00
Qualifying criteria
According the Regulations of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™, the ranking of each team in each group will be determined as follows:
a) greatest number of points obtained in all group matches;
b) goal difference in all group matches;
c) greatest number of goals scored in all group matches.
If two or more teams are equal on the basis of the above three criteria, their rankings will be determined as follows:
d) greatest number of points obtained in the group matches between the teams concerned;
e) goal difference resulting from the group matches between the teams concerned;
f) greater number of goals scored in all group matches between the teams concerned;
g) drawing of lots by the FIFA Organising Committee.
Permutations
– If Slovenia win or draw against England, they are guaranteed a first-ever last-16 berth.
– If Slovenia win they will finish first. If they draw they will finish first if USA fail to beat Algeria.
– If Slovenia draw and USA win, first place will go down to goal difference.
– If USA beat Algeria they will progress. If they draw they can progress so long as England fail to beat Slovenia, although this will go down to goal difference if England also draw.
– If England beat Slovenia, they will progress. If they draw they can progress only if the USA-Algeria match ends in a draw and goals scored will be the deciding factor.
– If Algeria beat USA, they are guaranteed qualification if England fail to win. If Algeria win and England beat Slovenia, Algeria and Slovenia will be tied on four points with goal difference deciding.
Favourites England did not expect to be going into their final group game outside the qualifying places but that is where they stand ahead of their showdown with the surprise section leaders Slovenia. With only three points separating the four sides, however, Group C remains wide open – only a final-day victory will provide a sure guarantee of progress for every team bar the Slovenians.
As it stands
1. Slovenia: 4 pts; GD +1; three goals scored
2. USA: 2 pts; GD 0; three goals scored
3. England: 2 pts; GD 0; one goal scored
4. Algeria: 1 pt; GD -1; no goals scored
Next up
Slovenia-England, 23 June, Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth, 16.00
USA-Algeria, 23 June, Tshwane/Pretoria, 16.00
Qualifying criteria
According the Regulations of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™, the ranking of each team in each group will be determined as follows:
a) greatest number of points obtained in all group matches;
b) goal difference in all group matches;
c) greatest number of goals scored in all group matches.
If two or more teams are equal on the basis of the above three criteria, their rankings will be determined as follows:
d) greatest number of points obtained in the group matches between the teams concerned;
e) goal difference resulting from the group matches between the teams concerned;
f) greater number of goals scored in all group matches between the teams concerned;
g) drawing of lots by the FIFA Organising Committee.
Permutations
– If Slovenia win or draw against England, they are guaranteed a first-ever last-16 berth.
– If Slovenia win they will finish first. If they draw they will finish first if USA fail to beat Algeria.
– If Slovenia draw and USA win, first place will go down to goal difference.
– If USA beat Algeria they will progress. If they draw they can progress so long as England fail to beat Slovenia, although this will go down to goal difference if England also draw.
– If England beat Slovenia, they will progress. If they draw they can progress only if the USA-Algeria match ends in a draw and goals scored will be the deciding factor.
– If Algeria beat USA, they are guaranteed qualification if England fail to win. If Algeria win and England beat Slovenia, Algeria and Slovenia will be tied on four points with goal difference deciding.
Turgid England held goalless by Algeria
(CNN) -- Fabio Capello's England were held to a disappointing goalless draw by Algeria in their World Cup Group C clash in Cape Town on Friday night.
Following the earlier 2-2 draw between Slovenia and the United States, it means all four teams can still qualify for the last 16 knockout stage.
England will play group leaders Slovenia and the U.S. take on Algeria, whose confidence will be boosted after keeping Capello's men at bay.
The Italian showed his ruthless streak by dropping goalkeeper Robert Green, after his blunder cost England dear in a 1-1 draw with the U.S. in their group opener.
His replacement David James was scarcely called into action after an early mis-punch which seemed to sum up a nervy England display.
Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard had their best chance in the first half but saw his effort from 10 meters out well saved by M'bohi Rais Ouheb, who had an excellent game in the Algeria goal.
With England's talisman Wayne Rooney again kept in check, they were only a shadow of the team which breezed through qualifying and entered the tournament as one of the favorites.
Capello, who surely could have found better ways to celebrate his 64th birthday, was perplexed by his team's display.
"This is not the team I recognize from training or from qualifying," he told ITV Sport.
"We missed too many passes, lost too many balls. It was not a good game. We have to do better.
"We have another game to play. It's our last chance to continue in the tournament. The players know what they have to do."
Earlier, the United States came back from two goals behind to draw 2-2 with Slovenia in a pulsating encounter in Johannesburg.
First half goals from midfielder Valter Birsa and striker Zlatan Ljubijankic looked to be enough to guarantee Slovenia would reach the last 16, but it proved only the signal for a courageous fight back by the U.S.
LA Galaxy star Landon Donovan pulled the first goal back in the 48th minute as he smashed his shot into the roof of the net with ferocious power.
The equalizer came with nine minutes remaining as Jozy Altidore headed down for Michael Bradley -- son of coach Bob Bradley -- to convert with an equally emphatic strike.
The U.S. looked to have scored the winner when Maurice Edu prodded home a Donovan free kick from the right, but referee Koman Coulibaly had already blown for a foul to the dismay of the Americans.
"I am assuming it was a foul, it couldn't have been an offside, we asked the referee many times, but he couldn't explain it," man of the match Donovan told AFP.
(source : CNN)
Following the earlier 2-2 draw between Slovenia and the United States, it means all four teams can still qualify for the last 16 knockout stage.
England will play group leaders Slovenia and the U.S. take on Algeria, whose confidence will be boosted after keeping Capello's men at bay.
The Italian showed his ruthless streak by dropping goalkeeper Robert Green, after his blunder cost England dear in a 1-1 draw with the U.S. in their group opener.
His replacement David James was scarcely called into action after an early mis-punch which seemed to sum up a nervy England display.
Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard had their best chance in the first half but saw his effort from 10 meters out well saved by M'bohi Rais Ouheb, who had an excellent game in the Algeria goal.
With England's talisman Wayne Rooney again kept in check, they were only a shadow of the team which breezed through qualifying and entered the tournament as one of the favorites.
Capello, who surely could have found better ways to celebrate his 64th birthday, was perplexed by his team's display.
"This is not the team I recognize from training or from qualifying," he told ITV Sport.
"We missed too many passes, lost too many balls. It was not a good game. We have to do better.
"We have another game to play. It's our last chance to continue in the tournament. The players know what they have to do."
Earlier, the United States came back from two goals behind to draw 2-2 with Slovenia in a pulsating encounter in Johannesburg.
First half goals from midfielder Valter Birsa and striker Zlatan Ljubijankic looked to be enough to guarantee Slovenia would reach the last 16, but it proved only the signal for a courageous fight back by the U.S.
LA Galaxy star Landon Donovan pulled the first goal back in the 48th minute as he smashed his shot into the roof of the net with ferocious power.
The equalizer came with nine minutes remaining as Jozy Altidore headed down for Michael Bradley -- son of coach Bob Bradley -- to convert with an equally emphatic strike.
The U.S. looked to have scored the winner when Maurice Edu prodded home a Donovan free kick from the right, but referee Koman Coulibaly had already blown for a foul to the dismay of the Americans.
"I am assuming it was a foul, it couldn't have been an offside, we asked the referee many times, but he couldn't explain it," man of the match Donovan told AFP.
(source : CNN)
U.S. and Slovenia draw in Group C thriller
June 18, 2010 -- Updated 2030 GMT (0430 HKT)
Landon Donovan celebrates his superb goal for the United States at Ellis Park.
(CNN) -- The United States came back from two goals behind to draw 2-2 with Slovenia in a pulsating World Cup Group C encounter in Johannesburg on Friday.
First half goals from midfielder Valter Birsa and striker Zlatan Ljubijankic looked to be enough to guarantee Slovenia would reach the last 16, but it proved only the signal for a courageous fight back by the U.S.
LA Galaxy star Landon Donovan pulled the first goal back in the 48th minute as he smashed his shot into the roof of the net with ferocious power.
The equalizer came with nine minutes remaining as Jozy Altidore headed down for Michael Bradley -- son of coach Bob Bradley -- to convert with an equally emphatic strike.
The U.S. looked to have scored the winner when Maurice Edu prodded home a Donovan free kick from the right, but referee Koman Coulibaly had already blown for a foul to the dismay of the Americans.
"I am assuming it was a foul, it couldn't have been an offside, we asked the referee many times, but he couldn't explain it," man of the match Donovan told AFP.
With England and Algeria drawing 0-0 in the later Group C match in Cape Town on Friday, all four teams can still qualify for the last 16 knockout stages.
Group leaders Slovenia, who have four points, take on England, while the U.S play Algeria.
England and the U.S are tied on two points, with Algeria the outsiders with a single point after two games.
Slovenia, the smallest nation by population in the finals at just over two million, had made a perfect start as Auxerre's Birsa beat U.S. goalkeeper Tim Howard from 30 meters out in the 13th minute.
The U.S. threatened an equalizer when Bradley's shot was cleared off the line, but with three minutes left of the half, Ljubijankic took a pass which beat the offside trap, and shot past Howard.
(Source : CNN)
June 18, 2010 -- Updated 2030 GMT (0430 HKT)
Landon Donovan celebrates his superb goal for the United States at Ellis Park.
(CNN) -- The United States came back from two goals behind to draw 2-2 with Slovenia in a pulsating World Cup Group C encounter in Johannesburg on Friday.
First half goals from midfielder Valter Birsa and striker Zlatan Ljubijankic looked to be enough to guarantee Slovenia would reach the last 16, but it proved only the signal for a courageous fight back by the U.S.
LA Galaxy star Landon Donovan pulled the first goal back in the 48th minute as he smashed his shot into the roof of the net with ferocious power.
The equalizer came with nine minutes remaining as Jozy Altidore headed down for Michael Bradley -- son of coach Bob Bradley -- to convert with an equally emphatic strike.
The U.S. looked to have scored the winner when Maurice Edu prodded home a Donovan free kick from the right, but referee Koman Coulibaly had already blown for a foul to the dismay of the Americans.
"I am assuming it was a foul, it couldn't have been an offside, we asked the referee many times, but he couldn't explain it," man of the match Donovan told AFP.
With England and Algeria drawing 0-0 in the later Group C match in Cape Town on Friday, all four teams can still qualify for the last 16 knockout stages.
Group leaders Slovenia, who have four points, take on England, while the U.S play Algeria.
England and the U.S are tied on two points, with Algeria the outsiders with a single point after two games.
Slovenia, the smallest nation by population in the finals at just over two million, had made a perfect start as Auxerre's Birsa beat U.S. goalkeeper Tim Howard from 30 meters out in the 13th minute.
The U.S. threatened an equalizer when Bradley's shot was cleared off the line, but with three minutes left of the half, Ljubijankic took a pass which beat the offside trap, and shot past Howard.
(Source : CNN)
Germany stunned by Serbia at World Cup
(CNN) -- A first half goal from Milan Jovanovic gave Serbia a shock 1-0 win over 10-man Germany at the World Cup on Friday to throw Group D wide open.
Germany suffered an early blow in Port Elizabeth when leading striker Miroslav Klose was sent off for his second yellow card, shortly before Jovanovic fired Serbia in front. Lukas Podolski then saw his second half penalty, given following a handball by Nemanja Vidic, blocked by Serbian goalkeeper Vladimir Stojkovic.
The result was perennial challengers Germany's first defeat at the group stage of a World Cup tournament since 1986, when then-West Germany were beaten by Denmark. That year, the three-times world champions went on to reach the final.
It also marked the latest setback for the tournament's traditional giants following Switzerland's win over Spain and Mexico's win over France.
German coach Joachim Loew admitted it was a big setback for his team.
"We had a lot of problems, the double yellow card for Klose, they got the first goal, then we failed to score from the penalty spot -- all in all it was difficult to come to terms with all this, " he told AFP.
"We're devastated of course but I'm still confident we will go through to the last 16. we have our fate in our own hands still and a good goal difference."
We're devastated of course but I'm still confident we will go through to the last 16.
(Source : CNN)
Germany suffered an early blow in Port Elizabeth when leading striker Miroslav Klose was sent off for his second yellow card, shortly before Jovanovic fired Serbia in front. Lukas Podolski then saw his second half penalty, given following a handball by Nemanja Vidic, blocked by Serbian goalkeeper Vladimir Stojkovic.
The result was perennial challengers Germany's first defeat at the group stage of a World Cup tournament since 1986, when then-West Germany were beaten by Denmark. That year, the three-times world champions went on to reach the final.
It also marked the latest setback for the tournament's traditional giants following Switzerland's win over Spain and Mexico's win over France.
German coach Joachim Loew admitted it was a big setback for his team.
"We had a lot of problems, the double yellow card for Klose, they got the first goal, then we failed to score from the penalty spot -- all in all it was difficult to come to terms with all this, " he told AFP.
"We're devastated of course but I'm still confident we will go through to the last 16. we have our fate in our own hands still and a good goal difference."
We're devastated of course but I'm still confident we will go through to the last 16.
(Source : CNN)
England v Algeria: match preview
Group C
England v AlgeriaGreen Point Stadium, Cape Town
Kick-off: Fri June 18, 7.30pm BST
No room for error for England in Cape Town. The Algerians offered little in their 1-0 defeat against Slovenia and looked even worse when losing a friendly against Ireland in Dublin last month.
But with the Slovenians lying in wait in Port Elizabeth next midweek, England must record a victory in Cape Town, otherwise a possible last 16 clash against Germany could zoom into focus.
Algeria goalkeeper Faouzi Chaouchi is a doubt with a knee injury, while striker Abdelkader Ghezzal is banned due to a red card against Slovenia. Fabio Capello faces big decisions on his goalkeeper and a partner for Wayne Rooney. Ledley King’s knee injury rules him out.
Touchline duel
Fabio Capello v Rabah Saadane: Saadane, in his fifth spell as Algeria coach, was at the helm when the Desert Foxes defeated Germany in the 1982 World Cup, but repeating that feat against England and Capello would top even that shock result.
Capello will note Saadane’s success in overcoming African champions Egypt in the play-offs, but the pressure is on the Italian to deliver. Failure to do so against Algeria will putgland’s qualification prospects in jeopardy.
Talking tactics
Algeria’s 3-0 friendly defeat against the Republic of Ireland in Dublin last month highlighted a glaring weakness in the Desert Foxes ability to cope with crosses into the penalty area.
The centre-half Rafik Halliche also displayed a reckless nature by diving into tackles, so England should profit from the north Africans’ defensive frailties.
Key clash
Gareth Barry v Karim Ziani: Barry’s return from an ankle lay-off is well-timed, with Algeria’s playmaker Karim Ziani the one player who has the ability to trouble England.
The Wolfsburg midfielder will play just behind the front two, so Barry will be expected to stifle his creative talents while also providing protection for England’s flat-footed centre-back pairing of John Terry and Jamie Carragher.
Whether Barry is fully-fit remains open to debate with the Manchester City midfielder sidelined for six weeks with damaged ankle ligaments.
What they say
Fabio Capello: "In the second half of our first game, we finished better than the US and were able to run a lot. This usually happens with us as the other teams suffer because of the running. For this reason I'm really relaxed about this game."
Rabah Saadane: "England is one of the biggest teams in the tournament. My players will not need any other motivation than they are playing against England. If my team plays against Brazil or England it is a big motivation for them."
Teams
England (4-1-3-2): Green (12); Johnson (2), Carragher (18), Terry (6), A Cole (3); Barry (14); Lennon (7), Lampard (8), Gerrard (4); Rooney (10), Defoe (19)
Subs: James (g), Hart (g), Upson, Dawson, Warnock, J Cole, Milner, Wright-Phillips, Carrick, Heskey, Crouch.
Algeria: (4-3-1-2): Mbolhi (23); Guedioura (17), Bougherra (2), Halliche (5), Yahia (4); Mansouri (6), Lacen (8), Belhadj (3); Ziani (15); Djebbour (11), Yebda (19).
Subs: Gaouaoui (g), Matmour, Kadir, Boudebouz, Saifi, Bellaid, Laffaoui, Medjani, Mesbah, Abdoun.
Referee: Ravshan Irmatov (Uzbekistan)
(Source : Telegraph)
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Argentina v S Korea teams (2)
46 mins SUBSTITUTION
South Korea's Kim Nam-il replaces fellow midfielder Ki Sung-yong. Nam-il is a defensive midfielder, apparently, nicknamed "The Hoover". Quality nickname.
48 mins
Argentina force the first corner of the half, but when it falls to Lionel Messi on the edge of the area he can only volley harmlessly wide from 20 yards out.
52 mins
Oh, lovely move. Argentina work the ball well from right to left and it ends with Angel di Maria laying it into Gonzalo Higuain eight yards out, whose snap-volley is well kept out on the dive by South Korea keeper Jung Sung-Ryong. The corner comes to nothing.
Argentina v S Korea teams (1)
Argentina: 22-Sergio Romero; 2-Martin Demichelis, 13-Walter Samuel, 6-Gabriel Heinze, 17-Jonas Gutierrez; 14-Javier Mascherano, 20-Maxi Rodriguez, 7-Angel Di Maria; 10-Lionel Messi, 11-Carlos Tevez, 9-Gonzalo Higuain.
South Korea: 18-Jung Sung-ryong; 2-Oh Beom-seok, 12-Lee Young-pyo, 4-Cho Yong-hyung, 14-Lee Jung-soo, 8-Kim Jung-woo, 16-Ki Sung-yong, 7-Park Ji-sung, 17-Lee Chung-yong, 10-Park Chu-young, 19-Yeom Ki-hun.
Referee: Frank De Bleeckere (Belgium)
South Korea: 18-Jung Sung-ryong; 2-Oh Beom-seok, 12-Lee Young-pyo, 4-Cho Yong-hyung, 14-Lee Jung-soo, 8-Kim Jung-woo, 16-Ki Sung-yong, 7-Park Ji-sung, 17-Lee Chung-yong, 10-Park Chu-young, 19-Yeom Ki-hun.
Referee: Frank De Bleeckere (Belgium)
16 mins GOAL Argentina 1-0 South Korea
Oh dear. Poor old Park Chu-young, the South Korean forward inadvertantly deflecting Lionel Messi's free-kick from the left past his helpless keeper under little to no pressure at all. Advantage Argentina. 33 mins GOAL Argentina 2-0 South Korea
It's 2-0, and Argentina have their first 2010 World Cup goal from open play. Maxi Rodriguez drifts a nice ball right-footed in from the left, Nicolas Burdisso flicks it on, and Gonzalo Higuain - onside - is in miles of space as he picks his spot with his header at the back stick. Is that game, set and match?
38 mins Commentary
This is very impressive from Argentina, a performance built on their willingness and commitment to win the ball back when they lose possession. Carlos Tevez - who else? - is typifying such an approach, but the work-rate of Diego Maradona's side is almost as impressive as their guile going forward right now.
38 mins Commentary
This is very impressive from Argentina, a performance built on their willingness and commitment to win the ball back when they lose possession. Carlos Tevez - who else? - is typifying such an approach, but the work-rate of Diego Maradona's side is almost as impressive as their guile going forward right now.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Honduras brings 3rd Palacios brother to WCup team
NELSPRUIT, South Africa (AP) — Honduras will be the first country to have three brothers in a World Cup squad after Jerry Palacios was called up because of an injury to another player.
The midfielder will arrive Thursday in Johannesburg to replace the injured Julio Cesar de Leon, who has been ruled out of the tournament with a right leg injury. Jerry will join brothers Wilson and Johnny, who are also midfielders.A fourth brother, Edwin Rene Palacios, was kidnapped and murdered in 2007. The kidnappers killed him after the family had paid a $500,000 ransom. Edwin was the youngest of the footballing brothers and played briefly for Honduras' under-23 team and the under-17s.
Honduras plays Chile in the team's opening Group H match Wednesday.
Brazil vs Korea DPR
Brazil take on unknown quantity North Korea in Johannesburg in their World Cup opener and will be expecting to get off to proceedings with a comfortable win. Dunga has seen his side perform wonderfully in recent warm up games against a side expected to field very defense minded opposition. Many will be predicting a healthy win for the five time winners as they take on the lowest ranked team in South Africa and it would take a very brave man to bet against anything other than a big win for the Brazilians.
My prediction is Brazil will win 2-0 or draw 2-2.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Let the games begin: 7 FIFA World Cup 2010 offerings to look forward to!
It's June - guess what's sweeping the nation this month? WORLD CUP FEVER! With the much-anticipated global event just days away, here are seven FIFA World Cup-related offerings to look forward to this month to make your experience this time around the best one yet!
1. Maxis Mobile Broadcasts
Being "Committed to the Game", Maxis offers their customers access to an exceptional range of exclusive 2010 FIFA World Cup services online and on your phone. On the Maxis website, customers can enjoy live streaming of all 64 matches, with full match replays alongside live commentary, polling and games like Fantasy Football. No extra charges apply - just pay for your Internet usage! You should take note that in order to offer you good quality video streaming, Maxis has made all live streaming strictly on a first-come-first-served basis per match (but don't be kiasu and log in early for every single match. Give others a chance please!).
On your mobile, you can also view live streaming of matches in addition to SMS/MMS alerts, access to official game downloads, caller ringtones, wallpapers and even exclusive footage of past World Cup golden moments. For more information on Maxis content offerings, visit the Maxis website.
2. ASTRO Sports Package World Cup broadcasts
Aside from offering you all 64 matches live (and this time in HD if you're an ASTRO Byond subscriber) for Sports Package subscribers featuring an interactive home page for match scheduling as well as data and statistics, ASTRO is also offering online live video streaming of matches on its Stadium ASTRO page. Plus, if you're a Maxis customer with an iPhone, you can also download the ASTRO B.Player app absolutely free to get exclusive World Cup content on your phone - including live streaming of all matches via 3G (data charges apply though)! Available at the apps store on your iPhone, you can also watch match clips and highlights, and even play fun online games with other app users.
3. Visa FIFA World Cup Match Planner
This Match Planner is a social media application that allows users to create customisable, dynamic FIFA World Cup viewing schedules to share with friends via Facebook. The Visa Match Planner will be available in four languages and customised for each of the 32 qualified countries. In addition to building a customised FIFA World Cup match viewing schedule, the application also lets users organise match viewing parties, chat with friends, track scores and standings, and obtain exclusive offers from merchants such as the "FIFA Official Store" on FIFA.com. Wow talk about being organised this season! Click here to get yours.
4. FanXT Fantasy World Cup
To keep your afternoons busy while you eagerly wait for the day's match to begin at night, why not try this nifty fantasy football game centred around this year's World Cup? An application available on Facebook, iPhone and online via their website, the game sees you (the player) as the football team manager with USD100 million to form your own World Cup team. You can buy players from all 32 competing World Cup countries, including star players Christiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Wayne Rooney, and also get live match results of the actual World Cup matches. What's best about this is that it's FREE! Click here to find out more and start building your own team.
5. Yahoo!'s dedicated football page
With coverage of the 2010 World Cup Yahoo!'s dedicated football site for Malaysia features rich, to-the-minute editorial content, including the latest match results, top news of the day, live commentary, group standings, team and player profiles, plus the hugely popular Fantasy Football game from Yahoo! Fantasy Cup 2010. In this fantasy on-line game, users can play as individuals or create a private group to play against their friends. Players can also gain points and bonuses and move to the top of the standings by accurately predicting the winning teams and scores throughout this football season.
6. Official licensed products at Giant Hypermarket
Be festive! Adorn yourself in official World Cup merchandise available at all Giant Hypermarkets - the official event store for 2010 FIFA World Cup licensed merchandise. Available for sale are team jerseys, soft toys of Zakumi - the official 2010 World Cup mascot, team backpacks and fanny packs, caps, water tumblers, key chains and many more!
7. World Cup-themed food promos and events
Watch your favourite matches live with other avid football fans at live public screenings across town, including at your local mamak. In conjunction with the month's festivities, places like Uncle Chilli's at Hilton PJ, Bentley's Pub at Hotel Nikko and Sheraton Imperial KL's Pavilions Lounge will be hosting World Cup screenings of all matches throughout the World Cup period from 11 June to 11 July, offering special snack menus from participating World Cup countries. You can also look forward to special deals on your favourite brands of beer, live performances and even take part in fun activities to win fabulous prizes!
(source: KLUe)
1. Maxis Mobile Broadcasts
Being "Committed to the Game", Maxis offers their customers access to an exceptional range of exclusive 2010 FIFA World Cup services online and on your phone. On the Maxis website, customers can enjoy live streaming of all 64 matches, with full match replays alongside live commentary, polling and games like Fantasy Football. No extra charges apply - just pay for your Internet usage! You should take note that in order to offer you good quality video streaming, Maxis has made all live streaming strictly on a first-come-first-served basis per match (but don't be kiasu and log in early for every single match. Give others a chance please!).
On your mobile, you can also view live streaming of matches in addition to SMS/MMS alerts, access to official game downloads, caller ringtones, wallpapers and even exclusive footage of past World Cup golden moments. For more information on Maxis content offerings, visit the Maxis website.
2. ASTRO Sports Package World Cup broadcasts
Aside from offering you all 64 matches live (and this time in HD if you're an ASTRO Byond subscriber) for Sports Package subscribers featuring an interactive home page for match scheduling as well as data and statistics, ASTRO is also offering online live video streaming of matches on its Stadium ASTRO page. Plus, if you're a Maxis customer with an iPhone, you can also download the ASTRO B.Player app absolutely free to get exclusive World Cup content on your phone - including live streaming of all matches via 3G (data charges apply though)! Available at the apps store on your iPhone, you can also watch match clips and highlights, and even play fun online games with other app users.
3. Visa FIFA World Cup Match Planner
This Match Planner is a social media application that allows users to create customisable, dynamic FIFA World Cup viewing schedules to share with friends via Facebook. The Visa Match Planner will be available in four languages and customised for each of the 32 qualified countries. In addition to building a customised FIFA World Cup match viewing schedule, the application also lets users organise match viewing parties, chat with friends, track scores and standings, and obtain exclusive offers from merchants such as the "FIFA Official Store" on FIFA.com. Wow talk about being organised this season! Click here to get yours.
4. FanXT Fantasy World Cup
To keep your afternoons busy while you eagerly wait for the day's match to begin at night, why not try this nifty fantasy football game centred around this year's World Cup? An application available on Facebook, iPhone and online via their website, the game sees you (the player) as the football team manager with USD100 million to form your own World Cup team. You can buy players from all 32 competing World Cup countries, including star players Christiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Wayne Rooney, and also get live match results of the actual World Cup matches. What's best about this is that it's FREE! Click here to find out more and start building your own team.
5. Yahoo!'s dedicated football page
With coverage of the 2010 World Cup Yahoo!'s dedicated football site for Malaysia features rich, to-the-minute editorial content, including the latest match results, top news of the day, live commentary, group standings, team and player profiles, plus the hugely popular Fantasy Football game from Yahoo! Fantasy Cup 2010. In this fantasy on-line game, users can play as individuals or create a private group to play against their friends. Players can also gain points and bonuses and move to the top of the standings by accurately predicting the winning teams and scores throughout this football season.
6. Official licensed products at Giant Hypermarket
Be festive! Adorn yourself in official World Cup merchandise available at all Giant Hypermarkets - the official event store for 2010 FIFA World Cup licensed merchandise. Available for sale are team jerseys, soft toys of Zakumi - the official 2010 World Cup mascot, team backpacks and fanny packs, caps, water tumblers, key chains and many more!
7. World Cup-themed food promos and events
Watch your favourite matches live with other avid football fans at live public screenings across town, including at your local mamak. In conjunction with the month's festivities, places like Uncle Chilli's at Hilton PJ, Bentley's Pub at Hotel Nikko and Sheraton Imperial KL's Pavilions Lounge will be hosting World Cup screenings of all matches throughout the World Cup period from 11 June to 11 July, offering special snack menus from participating World Cup countries. You can also look forward to special deals on your favourite brands of beer, live performances and even take part in fun activities to win fabulous prizes!
(source: KLUe)
Jepun buktikan 'Asia Bagus'
BLOEMFONTEIN: Pemain tengah Keisuke Honda muncul wira Jepun apabila menjaringkan gol tunggal perlawanan untuk mengecewakan wakil Afrika, Cameroon pada perlawanan pertama Piala Dunia Kumpulan E yang berlangsung di Stadium Free State Bloemfontein, malam tadi.
Kemenangan itu membolehkan skuad Blue Samurai mengikut jejak langkah satu lagi pasukan dari Asia, Korea Selatan yang menang pada perlawanan pembukaan dengan menewaskan Greece dalam saingan Kumpulan B, Sabtu lalu.
Jepun dan Cameroon yang mempunyai rekod tidak pernah menang selepas dibolosi gol pertama dalam perlawanan Piala Dunia nyata mengambil pendekatan berhati-hati sehingga menyebabkan aksi di awal permainan berlangsung agak hambar.
Satu-satunya gerakan bahaya yang berjaya dijana wakil Afrika, Cameroon adalah menerusi penyerang Pierre Webo yang membuat hantaran lintang di depan pintu gol tapi gagal disambar Maxim Choupo-Moting pada minit ke-8.
Malah kehadiran penjaring terbanyak Cameroon, Samuel Eto'o yang mengumpul 42 gol antarabangsa juga tidak banyak membantu bahagian serangan skuad The Indomitable Lions itu.
Bagaimanapun permainan kembali dihidupkan apabila Jepun yang gagal membuat percubaan tepat ke arah pintu gol lawan selepas hampir separuh babak berjaya memecah kebuntuan.
Gol itu berpunca daripada kegagalan pemain pertahanan Cameroon memintas bola hantaran lintang Daisuke Matsui sehingga memberi ruang buat pemain tengah Honda melepaskan tendangan menewaskan penjaga gol Souleymanou Hamidou pada minit ke-39.
Jaringan itu cukup manis buat bintang CSKA Moscow itu selepas menyambut hari jadi ke-24 kelmarin. Ketinggalan 1-0, Cameroon memberi petanda awal untuk mencipta kebangkitan apabila melancarkan serangan pada babak kedua, namun sepakan lencong Choupo-Moting di minit ke-49 tersasar meskipun berada di posisi terbaik untuk menghasilkan gol.
Ketika Cameroon bertungkus lumus mencari gol penyamaan, skuad kendalian jurulatih Takeshi Okada hampir menggandakan jaringan namun rembatan dari luar kotak penalti Makoto Hasebe berjaya ditepis keluar Hamidou di minit ke-81.
Peluang terakhir Cameroon untuk mengelak kekalahan hadir menerusi percubaan pemain pertahanan Stephane M'Bia, namun rembatan derasnya sekadar menggegar palang gol Jepun. - Agensi
(Source : myMetro)
Kemenangan itu membolehkan skuad Blue Samurai mengikut jejak langkah satu lagi pasukan dari Asia, Korea Selatan yang menang pada perlawanan pembukaan dengan menewaskan Greece dalam saingan Kumpulan B, Sabtu lalu.
Jepun dan Cameroon yang mempunyai rekod tidak pernah menang selepas dibolosi gol pertama dalam perlawanan Piala Dunia nyata mengambil pendekatan berhati-hati sehingga menyebabkan aksi di awal permainan berlangsung agak hambar.
Satu-satunya gerakan bahaya yang berjaya dijana wakil Afrika, Cameroon adalah menerusi penyerang Pierre Webo yang membuat hantaran lintang di depan pintu gol tapi gagal disambar Maxim Choupo-Moting pada minit ke-8.
Malah kehadiran penjaring terbanyak Cameroon, Samuel Eto'o yang mengumpul 42 gol antarabangsa juga tidak banyak membantu bahagian serangan skuad The Indomitable Lions itu.
Bagaimanapun permainan kembali dihidupkan apabila Jepun yang gagal membuat percubaan tepat ke arah pintu gol lawan selepas hampir separuh babak berjaya memecah kebuntuan.
Gol itu berpunca daripada kegagalan pemain pertahanan Cameroon memintas bola hantaran lintang Daisuke Matsui sehingga memberi ruang buat pemain tengah Honda melepaskan tendangan menewaskan penjaga gol Souleymanou Hamidou pada minit ke-39.
Jaringan itu cukup manis buat bintang CSKA Moscow itu selepas menyambut hari jadi ke-24 kelmarin. Ketinggalan 1-0, Cameroon memberi petanda awal untuk mencipta kebangkitan apabila melancarkan serangan pada babak kedua, namun sepakan lencong Choupo-Moting di minit ke-49 tersasar meskipun berada di posisi terbaik untuk menghasilkan gol.
Ketika Cameroon bertungkus lumus mencari gol penyamaan, skuad kendalian jurulatih Takeshi Okada hampir menggandakan jaringan namun rembatan dari luar kotak penalti Makoto Hasebe berjaya ditepis keluar Hamidou di minit ke-81.
Peluang terakhir Cameroon untuk mengelak kekalahan hadir menerusi percubaan pemain pertahanan Stephane M'Bia, namun rembatan derasnya sekadar menggegar palang gol Jepun. - Agensi
(Source : myMetro)
PTPTN buru 100,000 liat bayar pinjaman
KUALA LIPIS 14 Jun - Perbadanan Tabung Pendidikan Tinggi Nasional (PTPTN) sedang memburu hampir 100,000 peminjam yang gagal membayar balik pinjaman mereka berjumlah RM1.9 bilion sejak 1997.
Pengerusi PTPTN, Datuk Dr. Mohamad Shahrom Osman menegaskan, pihaknya telah menghantar notis amaran tetapi sehingga kini masih belum menerima maklum balas daripada peminjam liat terbabit.
''PTPTN sedia berunding mengenai pembayaran balik pinjaman mengikut kemampuan peminjam.
''Kita belum berhasrat untuk mengambil tindakan yang keras terhadap peminjam terbabit," katanya.
Beliau berkata demikian kepada pemberita selepas menyerahkan Waran Pinjaman Pendahuluan (WPP) PTPTN berjumlah RM270,000 kepada 180 pelajar dalam Parlimen Lipis yang bakal melanjutkan pengajian di peringkat diploma di sini hari ini.
Hadir sama, Pemangku Ketua Eksekutif PTPTN, Wan Ahmad Wan Yusoff dan Penghulu Mukim Penjom, Azhar Bakar.
Mohamad Shahrom yang juga Ahli Parlimen Lipis menasihati peminjam yang liat itu tampil berbincang dengan PTPTN mengenai pembayaran hutang tertunggak tersebut.
Sehingga 30 April lalu, jelas beliau, bayaran balik terkumpul yang diperoleh PTPTN ialah sebanyak RM1.7 bilion atau 47 peratus berbanding jumlah sepatutnya dikutip iaitu sebanyak RM3.6 bilion.
Dalam pada itu, beliau memberitahu, pihaknya mengeluarkan WPP bernilai RM71 juta kepada 47,366 pelajar baru yang akan mula mengikuti pengajian peringkat diploma di institusi pengajian tinggi awam (IPTA) seluruh negara mulai minggu depan.
Jumlah itu, jelas beliau, merupakan sebahagian daripada peruntukan keseluruhan bernilai RM32.6 bilion yang disediakan untuk sesi pengajian semester ini.
Beliau berkata, setiap peminjam menerima wang pendahuluan bernilai RM1,500 dan boleh menukarkan waran berkenaan di mana-mana cawangan Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) mulai hari ini.
''Wang pendahuluan ini boleh membantu penuntut membuat persiapan membeli peralatan belajar, yuran pendaftaran dan keperluan lain ketika menjejak kaki ke IPTA nanti," katanya.
Menurut Mohamad Shahrom, kerajaan mempunyai mekanisme terbaik menerusi PTPTN untuk membantu pelajar daripada keluarga berpendapatan kurang RM3,000 bagi membiayai pengajian di IPTA.
''Pihak tertentu tidak wajar menimbulkan pelbagai isu mengenai pinjaman PTPTN kerana kerajaan sentiasa terbuka untuk membaiki setiap kelemahan pengurusan agar membolehkan anak-anak kita melanjutkan pengajian ke peringkat yang lebih tinggi.
''Lagi pun kerajaan tidak memilih bulu dan fahaman politik untuk memberi pinjaman pengajian di IPTA asalkan pelajar memenuhi syarat berasaskan latar belakang ekonomi keluarga," katanya.
Beliau juga mengingatkan pelajar menghargai dan berterima kasih dengan pelbagai bantuan yang disediakan kerajaan untuk membantu mereka menyambung pengajian ke IPTA.
''Gunakanlah wang ini untuk menyediakan keperluan memasuki pengajian nanti. Jangan boros berbelanja seperti membeli telefon bimbit dan motosikal. Hargailah dengan ikhlas setiap pertolongan kerajaan dan PTPTN.
''Kita rasa bertuah kerana generasi masa kini berpeluang menerima bantuan kerajaan berbanding pada masa dahulu," katanya.
(Sumber : Utusan Malaysia)
Brazil awasi ancaman Korea Utara
AHN YOUNG-HAK (kanan) antara pemain yang perlu diawasi dalam skuad Korea Utara.
JOHANNESBURG - Brazil yang dibarisi bintang-bintang dunia bakal membuka kempen Piala Dunia 2010 menentang pasukan yang tidak diketahui kekuatannya, Korea Utara awal pagi esok.
Tatkala Brazil sudah lima kali menjulang trofi Piala Dunia, Korea Utara pula sudah lebih 40 tahun tidak beraksi di pentas tertinggi itu.
Situasi tersebut membuatkan Brazil tetap berasa bimbang terhadap pasukan dari Asia itu yang pernah mencipta kejutan terbesar menewaskan Itali pada Piala Dunia 1966.
Penyerang Brazil, Ramires berkata: "Saya tidak tahu apa-apa tentang pasukan Korea Utara ini. Saya hanya menonton aksi mereka pada perlawanan pemanas badan sebelum ini. Kami hanya menanti arahan jurulatih."
Namun, maklumat tersebut bukanlah semudah yang disangka memandangkan Korea Utara mengambil sikap menjauhkan diri daripada media sejak mereka menetap di sebuah hotel terpencil di pinggir utara Johannesburg.
"Kami perlu menghormati Korea Utara. Apabila melihat kepada sejarah, Brazil memang memiliki kelebihan berbanding mereka pada Piala Dunia. Tetapi apabila saingan bermula, kami perlu menghormati semua pasukan," kata pemain tengah Brazil, Elano.
Pada Piala Dunia 1966, Korea Utara menewaskan Itali 1-0 untuk muncul pasukan Asia pertama layak ke suku akhir sebelum mereka tewas 3-5 kepada Portugal.
Namun pada saingan kali ini, Korea Utara dilihat sukar untuk mengulangi kejayaan tersebut setelah diundi dalam kumpulan sukar.
Pemain Korea Utara, Ahn Young Hak berkata: "Kami sedar semua pemain Brazil cukup terkenal dan Brazil adalah pasukan terkuat di dunia. Tak nampak mereka memiliki sebarang kelemahan."
Brazil yang tersingkir pada suku akhir Piala Dunia 2006 setelah tewas 0-1 kepada Perancis hanya mengadakan dua aksi pemanas badan dengan menewaskan Zimbabwe 3-0 dan Tanzania 5-1.
Korea Utara pula tewas 1-3 kepada Nigeria tetapi berjaya mengikat Greece 2-2.
Tiada rekod pertemuan membabitkan Brazil dan Korea Utara sebelum ini.
- AP
(Source : Kosmo)
Cabaran getir buat Ivory Coast
DROGBA (kanan) belum pasti diturunkan dalam kesebelasan utama Ivory Coast pada perlawanan menentang Portugal di Stadium Nelson Mandela Bay, Port Elizabeth malam ini.
PORT ELIZABETH - Ivory Coast berdepan cabaran sukar menghadapi Portugal pada aksi sulung Kumpulan G malam ini dengan kemungkinan besar penyerang utama mereka, Didier Drogba tidak dapat diturunkan.
Pertembungan tersebut cukup penting bagi menentukan pasukan mana yang akan layak dari kumpulan maut itu yang turut dihuni juara lima kali, Brazil dan pasukan penuh misteri, Korea Utara.
Bagi Portugal, ramai pemerhati mahu melihat sejauh mana kemampuan Cristiano Ronaldo yang mempamerkan aksi cemerlangnya ketika bersama Real Madrid setelah hanya beraksi di bawah tahap sebenar sepanjang kempen pusingan kelayakan.
Namun bagi Ivory Coast pula, biarpun memiliki ramai pemain berbakat mereka tetap merasai kehilangan inspirasi Drogba yang meledak 37 gol bersama Chelsea sepanjang musim lalu dalam usaha mereka melangkah ke pusingan kedua buat kali pertama.
Drogba sudah pun kembali berlatih se- lepas menjalani pembedahan setelah lengannya patah pada aksi pemanas badan 4 Jun lalu tetapi jurulatih Ivory Coast, Sven-Goran Eriksson masih berteka-teki berhubung kedudukannya.
Kolo Toure yang bakal menggalas tugas sebagai kapten Ivory Coast pada malam ini jika Drogba tidak diturunkan berkata, dia yakin pemain-pemain muda seperti Salomon Kalou dan Seydou Doumbia mampu menampung ketiadaan Drogba.
"Skuad Ivory Coast ini dibarisi beberapa pemain bertaraf dunia tetapi bola sepak masih merupakan permainan berpasukan.
"Sejak Eriksson mengambil alih pasukan ini, beliau telah cuba untuk membentuk satu pasukan yang mantap dan kami sedang menuju ke arah itu," kata Toure.
Eriksson begitu mengenali kemampuan Portugal setelah bekas pasukan bimbingannya, England tewas dua kali kepada Portugal pada peringkat suku akhir Euro 2004 dan Piala Dunia 2006. - Reuters
(sumber : Kosmo)
Sunday, June 13, 2010
FIFA World Cup Match Preview – Germany vs Australia
Australia will open its FIFA World Cup campaign in its Group D clash against Germany on Sunday 13 June 2010 at the Durban Stadium in Durban, South Africa.