Rampaging Robben Stars In Dutch Delight!

Brazil has not lost a match in which Robinho scores and he made the Dutch net bulge twice in the first half hour. The first one denied as Alves was offside but on the half hour mark, Robinho latched on to a through ball from Felipe Melo to bend one past Stekelenburg. Brazil one nil up and looking menacing as they repeatedly danced round the Dutch midfield and defence. The Selecao were in full stride in the first half and Brazil were on course for the semifinals as the Dutch looked shell shocked.

But football is played in two halves and the Oranjemen took over in the second half. It was now Brazil who looked uncertain and nervy. Arjen Robben's pace and dribbling trickery troubled the left side of Brazil and neither Bastos, Juan nor Melo could cope with the flying Dutchman's directness and constant provocation.

It did take an own goal and a straight red card for the frustrated Felipe Melo to completely swing the match towards the Dutch. By the time Melo received his marching orders, Clockwork Orange were already two up thanks to an Arjen Robben assist. Wesley "the Smurf" collected his third goal of a personally satisfying tournament.

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Selecao Scores Three Against La Roja, Books Quarterfinal Match With Oranjemen

When it mattered, Brazil have stepped it up. The Selecao did just enough against North Korea, they turned it on against Ivory Coast and then conserve energy with a draw against Portugal. Chile were touted as a much harder opposition than Brazil's group opponents. The lively and quick short passes are trademarks of Chile's attacking football and have been one of the highlights of this World Cup. Chile was expected to test the South American champions footballing-wise.

With such high stakes, Brazil proved that they are made of sterner stuff these days. They made quick work of La Roja. First, they withstood an early flurry of  Chile attacks. Gilberto Silva, Ramires, Juan and Lucio knuckled down and in typical European style, rendered the Chilean attacks ineffectual. Once that occurred, Brazil could then develop their own attacks to trouble the Chile defence, devoid of suspended stalwarts Gary Medel and Waldo Ponce.

Luis Fabiano stayed on course for the Golden Boot with his third goal in four matches. O Fabuloso's goal came off a superb move involving Brazil's "Big Three" of Robinho, Kaka and Fabiano. This was proof enough that Brazil are capable purveyors of the beautiful game. In truth, once Brazil scored the second goal, the match was all over. That three-minute salvo from Brazil knocked the stuffing out of a young Chile side. The third Brazilian goal was the icing on the cake and a thing of beauty as well. Ramires, deputising for Felipe Melo, dribbled the ball samba-style, leaving five Chile players in his wake before laying the ball expertly for Robinho's curler.

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Group G Decided! Selecao I and Seleccao II Advance

Brazil and Portugal advanced from the group of death at the expense of Ivory Coast and newcomers, North Korea. Portugal was aided by a unexpected 7-0 rout of the Chollimas and therefore built up an unassailable goal advantage. It was never likely that Ivory Coast could emulate Portugal's feat but they tried gallantly.

Brazil and Portugal met in their final group match. It was a highly anticipated match but sadly, the match was marred by fouls and the referee took centre stage in the first half. Cristiano Ronaldo kept on blasting freekicks high and wide all through the match. Those were wasted setpiece opportunities. The best chance did fall for Portugal when Raul Meireles ran onto a loose ball (from a Ronaldo run) which Julio Cesar palmed away. At least Brazil kept a clean sheet and this should boost Juan's confidence. Juan is prone to errors and in the 93rd minute, his sloppy play almost let Danny in on goal.

Carlos Quieroz had a different opinion of the match or maybe he was watching a different match?

"I think it was a great show, a football feast. Brazil played very strong in the first few minutes but after their initial period of domination, Portugal slowly started to control the game. In the end, it was a game where we attacked and they defended. Today is a day to celebrate because Portugal has qualified with a great degree of merit. It was a great game of football, the players played extremely well and they must be congratulated. I think the draw was a fair result.''

Sounds just like the usual drivel coming from a manager with blinkers on. Make no mistake about it, Brazil-Portugal was one big yawn.

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Kaka's Dismissal Overshadows Impressive Selecao Win

Brazil outclassed Ivory Coast and put three points on the board last night. They did so amidst the cynical tackles and rough plays by Les Elephants. The likes of the Toure brothers, Kalou, Dindane and Drogba could not cope with the passing and movement of the Selecao.

The physical challenges made the game less free-flowing and unfortunately it hampered Brazil's attacking rhythm. Luis Fabiano, like Maicon, chose to step up his game and against Ivory Coast, his finishing was devastating. Elano, making a habitual late run from midfield, scored in his second goal in as many matches.

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Brazil Gets Off To Winning Start Thanks To Elano's Excellent Goal!

The Selecao overcame a well-organized North Korea team to start their World Cup campaign on a winning note. However, it was far from being an easy victory as the North Koreans showed why they are worthy of a place in the greatest show on earth.

Brazil was expected to win by at least four goals but a superb North Korea defence ensured that honours were even at the break. Dunga must have instructed his players to shoot on sight in the second half because that's exactly what they did. That rattled the North Koreans a bit and finally the breakthrough came courtesy of Maicon who caught the Chollimas keeper by surprise to score almost from the touchline.

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2010 World Cup Group G Head To Head

The "Group of Death" is the term used to describe Group G. Footballing-wise, this group have the potential to produce the most memorable matches of World Cup 2010.

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Brazil Sweats Over Kaka's Form!

It's been a hard season for Kaka at Real Madrid. So hard that there are murmurs that he has been a flop at Madrid and that he has been saving his best for Brazil in the coming World Cup. Kaka has never looked like the player who carried AC Milan on his shoulders season after season. Perhaps not being the focal point of the galacticos had taken the edge off Kaka's game. The persistent groin and thigh problems have blotted his Real Madrid career. Still he remains the best playmaker in the game and a player that undoubtedly rises to the occasion.

The form and fitness problems at Real Madrid have prompted Kaka to declare that he will be 100% in South Africa. This should allay Brazil's fears.

I'll be at 100% for the World Cup," Kaka told AS.
"I had a difficult season but there have been many cases of players who have had a bad year and then shine on the World Cup. I'm not worried at all."

Kaka was the most valuable player in the Confederations Cup last year, and that should be a reminder of the elegance and class from the "Athlete of Christ". assistmaster9 captures this succintly in this video (once you get past the dorky interview!).

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Confederations Cup Final Match Report: Brazil 3 - 2 USA

Brazil came back from two goals down at half time to beat The United States 3-2 in the 2009 Confederations Cup final, which was played at the Coca Cola Park Stadium in Johannesburg on Sunday night.

The entertaining final provided a fitting end to what has been a goal-filled ‘Festival of Champions', full of thrilling action and top class play by the world’s best footballers.

As the score-line suggests, it was very much a game of two halves as the Samba Boys struggled to find their rhythm in the first stanza, during which time they were duly punished by some ruthless play on the counter attack by Bob Bradley’s side.

The second half however was one way traffic – following Luis Fabiano’s goal 40 seconds after the restart, Brazil just kept coming at the US defence, which bowed to the pressure on a further two occasions.

Brazil were off to a positive start, earning several corners in the early stages and getting a number of crosses into the box, some of which were dealt with rather unconvincingly by the United States defenders.

However, with one of the few attacks they had, it was the US who took a surprise early lead when Jonathan Spector’s hopeful looking 10th minute ball from a fair distance out on the right found its way to Clint Dempsey, who improvised superbly, getting the faintest of touches to divert the ball just beyond the reach of Brazil goal keeper Julio Cesar.

Dempsey continues his hot run - Image from Associated Press

Brazil looked to hit back through Robinho two minutes later, but Tim Howard got down well to turn his low shot out for a corner kick. A Selecao had further chances through Felipe Melo and Maicon, but again Howard came up trumps, pulling off another two good saves. The initiative appeared to be with the Samba Boys, but in the 27th minute they were caught out with a classic counter-attack - Charlie Davies played an inch-perfect pass into Landon Donovan, whose first touch intelligently saw him evading the cover defence before sweeping the ball beyond Cesar from 18-yards out with his left foot.

Donovan gets his just rewards with his goal - Image from Associated Press

Brazil finished the half the stronger side, but could never really get into good enough positions in front of goal to overly trouble Howard. When he was tested, by the likes of Andre Santos and Robinho, the Everton goalkeeper again proved to be on top of his game. Brazil did almost manage to pull a goal back just before the break when Maicon flashed the ball across goal. Fabiano was inches away from getting on the end of the cross, but it had taken a crucial touch off the foot of American defender Carlos Bocanegra.

The complexion of the game changed dramatically just 40 seconds after the restart when Fabiano received the ball with his back to goal, took one touch, swivelled, and then picked out the bottom corner of the net, giving Howard no chance. The pressure continued to mount from the team in yellow and in the 58th minute Howard had to pull off a superb save to stop Lucio heading home a corner kick. The rebound fell to Gilberto Silva, whose close range shot deflected off Spector and over the cross bar.

Two minutes later Brazil came even closer when Kaka’s back-post header was pushed off the line by Howard onto the underside of the crossbar and back into play – replays suggested that the ball may have crossed the line. There was a brief respite for the States when Dempsey’s well-struck shot forced Cesar into conceding a corner.

But Brazil were soon back on the offensive and in the 70th minute Fabiano was put through on goal and looked set to level the match, but Howard moved off his line with blistering speed to make a wonderful close range block. The pressure finally paid off for Dunga’s side in the 74th minute when Fabiano headed home from close range after Robinho had blasted Kaka’s cross into the crossbar from only six yards out.

Fabiano equalises! - Getty Images

The come-from-behind win was completed five minutes from time when Elano’s corner kick was powered home via the head of skipper Lucio, the ball hitting the inside of the upright before ending up in the back of the net.

Joy for Brazil, Heartbreak for USA - Image from Associated Press

TEAMS
Brazil: Julio Cesar, Maicon, Lucio, Luisao, Andre Santos (Daniel Alves 67'), Felipe Melo, Gilberto Silva, Ramires (Elano 67'), Kaka, Robinho, Luis Fabiano

USA: Tim Howard, Jonathan Spector, Jay DeMerit, Oguchi Onyewu, Carlos Bocanegra, Benny Feilhaber (Jonathan Bornstein 74'), Ricardo Clark (Connor Casey 88'), Landon Donovan, Clint Dempsey, Charlie Davies, Jozy Altidore (Kleystan 74')

Brazil celebrates the thrilling comeback win - Image from Reuters

This report is featured at MTNFootball.

Confederations Cup Semifinal Match Report: Brazil 1 - 0 South Africa

South Africa put up a world-class performance, but went down to a late goal in a 1-0 defeat to Brazil in Confederations Cup semifinal defeat at the Coca Cola Park Stadium on Thursday night.

There are 67 FIFA rankings between the two sides, but you wouldn’t have thought it as the home side put up a performance which tested the star-studded South American champions to the fullest and bodes really well for the future.

Joel Santana and team did South Africa proud - Image from Associated Press

South Africa put up a wonderful showing in the first half, throughout the game for that matter – dedication was shown in winning the ball back and spaces were quickly closed down on a consistent basis, ensuring that Brazil’s chances were limited.

Not only were the likes of Kaka, Robinho and Luis Fabiano kept under wraps, but South Africa had several good moments in attack, keeping the ball well at times, in general giving as good as they got against a world class unit.

A Selecao had to wait until the 11th minute for their first chance of the game when Ramires tested Ithumeleng Khune with a dipping shot from 20-yards out, but the Chiefs keeper got down well to make a comfortable save.

Two minutes later the home side had their first chance, showing they were prepared to match the South Americans blow for blow as the impressive Siboniso Gaxa won a challenge before flashing a shot just wide.

Bafana continued to look solid at the back and had a great chance to open the scoring in the 21st minute when a Teko Modise picked out Aaron Mokoena at the back post from a free kick.

It should have been 1-0 South Africa, but the skipper headed over the bar from close range.

By this stage of the game the Bafana players’ confidence was up, sensing that they could indeed match the Brazilians and Simphiwe Tshabalala forced a great save out of Julio Cesar with a well struck free kick on the half hour mark.

There were a few half chances for the likes of Kaka and Andre Santos before the break, but when South Africa went into the recess at 0-0, it was very much job done.

The second half more or less duplicated the first as Joel Santana’s men made life difficult for Brazil. Excellent man marking by Benson Mhlongo on Kaka meant that Brazil’s main playmaker was nullified, with a result that in general, the Samba Boys were only able to manufacture half-chances on goal.

Excellent man marking by Benson Mhlongo on Kaka meant that Brazil’s main playmaker was nullified, with a result that in general, the Samba Boys were only able to manufacture half-chances on goal.

Mokoena’s first half miss had been the defining moment in the first stanza, and there was an incidence of similar importance in the 58th minute when Modise’s shot took a deflection off a Brazil defender - the ball seemed to be headed for the back of the net, until Cesar made a world-class save.

Prior to that moment, the South Africans has been in the ascendancy, showing through their play that there was a belief that they could win the game, the likes of Steven Pienaar, Tshabalala, Mhlongo and Modise doing outstanding work in the middle of the park.

There was little more goal-mouth action of note, until Bafana suffered the killer blow two minutes from time when Mokoena gave away a free kick just outside the box and substitute Dani Alves buried the ball with an effort that gave Khune very little chance.

Alves' substitute impact - Image from Associated Press

The relief on the Brazil players’ faces was in clear evidence – it had been a fantastic performance by South Africa and it has started to appear as if the Samba Boys were starting to run out of ideas as extra time approached.

Dani Alves celebrates his trademark goal - Image from Associated Press

Brazil players happy to be in final - Image from Associated Press

This report is featured at MTNFootball.

Confederations Cup Match Report: Brazil 3 - 0 Italy

Brazil Cruises into the Semi finals, Sets up date with South Africa

Kaka shoots at Italian goal - Image from Reuters

Brazil maintained their 100% record at the 2009 Confederations Cup as they made light work of Italy, sweeping the World champions aside with ease in a commanding 3-0 win at the Loftus Stadium on Sunday night.

Italy did off to a relatively brisk start, possibly surprising their opponents with purposeful attacking play early on.

However, it was Brazil who had the first couple of chances in the game, the best falling to Robinho, who skewed his shot wide of goal after having been released into the box by Luis Fabiano’s nicely weighted sixth minute ball.

In the 15th minute Fabiano found himself through on goal, but Italian keeper Gianluigi Buffon showed his experience, and excellent anticipation, as he raced off his line to intercept the ball.

The next chance fell the way of Italy as lively midfielder Mauro Camoranesi sent a cracking half-volley from 25-yards out just over the bar in the 31st minute.

The game continued to swing from end to end and Brazil nearly broke the deadlock in the 33rd minute through an unlikely source – central defender Lucio. The Bayern Munich hard-man showed great skill to beat two Italian defenders inside the box, before sending an angled shot goal-wards, which struck Daniele De Rossi and deflected onto the upright.

By now Brazil were very much in the ascendancy, and took a deserved 35th minute lead when Fabiano slotted home with a clinical shot from eight yards out after the Italian defence had failed to clear their box.

A further two goals in quick succession then left Italy pretty much dead and buried as Brazil gave two examples of devastating counter-attacking play.

In the 43rd minute South American team broke with lightning speed up the field, the ball reaching Robinho, who played a one-two with Kaka, before the ball broke kindly for Fabiano to net his brace; 2-0 Brazil.

Barely a minute later Brazil added a third, Kaka again involved as he picked the ball up deep and set Robinho free down the left wing, who looked to try and pick out Fabiano. Italian defender Andrea Dossena managed to intercept the pass, but only succeeded in redirecting the ball past Buffon and into his own goal.

Azzurri were onto the offensive early in the second half as they desperately tried to force their way back into the game, with goal difference of crucial importance. Dossena put in a couple of dangerous crosses from the left, but it was from one such delivery that Brazil again countered with breath-taking precision, although Robinho’s poor finish meant there was no addition to the scoreboard.

Midway through the second half and Marcello Lippi’s side created a succession of chances, but Julio Cesar was up to the task, saving comfortably from Alberto Gilardino and Simone Pepe, before being more severely tested with a stinging drive from Giuseppe Rossi.

Again though Dunga’s charges showed their potential threat on the counter as Kaka came within inches of adding a fourth after yet another quick break up field in the 68th minute.

There was a chance for Azzurri in the 75th minute when some unorthodox goal keeping from Cesar saw the ball worked to Pepe, but his shot was blocked by a defender.

De Rossi and Dossena had late strikes but it just wasn’t Italy’s night as yet another effort from the European side failed to find the back of the net.

TEAMS

Brazil: Julio Cesar; Maicon, Lucio, Juan (Luisao 23’), Andre Santos; Felipe Melo, Kaka, Gilberto Silva (Kleberson 85), Ramires (Josue 85’); Luis Fabiano, Robinho

Italy: Gianluigi Buffon; Andrea Dossena, Giorgio Chiellini, Fabio Cannavaro, Gianluca Zambrotta; Mauro Camoranesi, Riccardo Montolivo (Simone Pepe 46’), Daniele De Rossi, Andrea Pirlo; Vincenzo Iaquinta (Giuseppe Rossi 38’), Luca Toni (Alberto Gilardino 57’)

This report is featured at MTN Football.

Confederations Cup Match Report: Brazil 3 - 0 USA

Felipe Melo heading past the hapless Tim Howard - image from Associated Press

The United States became the first casualties of the 2009 Confederations Cup – a 3-0 defeat to an improved Brazilian side at the Loftus Stadium on Thursday afternoon confirming their first round exit. With six points from two games, the result guarantees Brazil their place in the semi-finals.

Brazil were in control of the game pretty much from the word go, settling into their rhythm and never allowing the Americans to get out of their blocks. An early goal was important for the South American side in helping to put memories of their shaky opening game against Egypt to rest.

And this was duly achieved, the opening goal coming after only six minutes as Maicon delivered a world-class free kick from the right, giving Felipe Melo the opportunity to rise high above the defence and power a header past Tim Howard, who had remained motionless on his line.

There was no sitting back after the restart for Dunga’s men and a second soon arrived.

The goal had its origins in a rare USA attack – after DaMarcus Beasley had lost the ball in the Brazilian box, a counter attack of clinical simplicity saw the ball being transported up field through Kaka and Ramires in seconds, resulting in Robinho finishing with a comfortably with a low shot from 12-yards out.

At 2-0 down after 20 minutes, the US side desperately needed to muster a reply, but they found it tough going against a Brazil side who dominated possession and played the game at their own pace. It was thus no surprise that it was Brazil who had the next chance as Kaka went on a typical surging 40-yard run, leaving several players in his wake...{Read more about if Kaka scored}

This report is featured at MTN Football.

Confederations Cup Match Report: Brazil 4 - 3 Egypt

image from Reuters

Brazil emerged victorious from a seven goal thriller against African Champions Egypt, in what turned out to be a VERY entertaining match in Bloemfontein. The South Americans opened the scoring inside the first five minutes through a sublime finish from Real Madrid's new signing Kaka. The Brazilian attacker showed the South African crowd why Real were prepared to pay 56 Million pounds for his services as he danced through the Egyptian defence with a two brilliant flicks before calmly slotting the ball past Essam El-Hadry in the Egyptian goal.

Egypt were soon back on level terms though as Mohammed Zidan finished off a good attacking move by heading past Julio Cesar from a pinpoint cross 4 minutes later. However Brazil fought back and unbelievably re-took the lead in the 12th minute after Sevilla striker Luis Fabiano headed in from Elano's free-kick, in looked like being another high scoring match in the Confederations Cup. Brazil then extended their lead in the 38th minute when Juan scored with a powerful header from Elano's corner-kick, which left the Egyptians with a mountain to climb in the second half.

Egypt wasted little time in mounting their fight back...{Read more about this amazing match}

This report is featured at SA Football Fans

South Africa 2009: Confederations Cup Preview

The FIFA Confederations Cup is a tournament for national teams, currently held every four years by FIFA. It is contested by the winners of each of the six FIFA confederation championships (CAF, CONMEBOL, UEFA, AFC, OFC, CONCACAF), along with the FIFA World Cup winner and the host country.

This year, the Confed Cup will be held in South Africa - sort of a sneak preview of what's to come in the soon approaching 2010 World Cup Finals. This tournament will start on June 14th and end with the final on June 28th 2009.

Group A
Spain (UEFA European champions)

Coach: Vicente Del Bosque
Goalkeepers: Iker Casillas, Jose Reina, Diego Lopez
Defenders: Raul Albiol, Alvaro Arbeloa, Joan Capdevila, Carlos Marchena, Gerard Pique, Carles Puyol, Sergio Ramos
Midfielders: Xabi Alonso, Sergi Busquets, Santi Cazorla, Cesc Fabregas, Xavi, Pablo Hernandez, David Silva, Juan Manuel Mata, Albert Riera
Forwards: Daniel Guiza, Fernando Llorente, Fernando Torres, David Villa

Probable starting formation:

(GK) Casillas — (D) Ramos, Pique, Marchena, Capdevila — (M) Alonso, Silva, Xavi, Fabregas — (F) Torres, Villa

Current FIFA Ranking: 1

Strengths:
Spain has strength, quality and depth in their squad. Virtually any player in the 23-man squad can be thrust into the team and will do well. Del Bosque has enough quality in this squad to field two similar strength teams. The confidence of this squad is well high right now having won the European championships. It is a team that has played together for two years now and so the players know each other's game very well.

Weaknesses:
No glaring weaknesses. A hint of the Arsenal about Spain i.e. because they are so good, there is that tendency to want to walk the ball into the net. Midfield is lightweight so opposition may want to stop the Spanish midfield by deploying a spoiler's game in the middle of the park.

Player to Watch: Xavi, Cesc Fabregas

Tournament Prospects:
Vicente Del Bosque and Spain have not lost a match since the 2008 European championships. Del Bosque have already stated that "we are here to win" and the confidence is sky high. An easy group A means that Spain will top this group and will face either Brazil or Italy in the semifinal. Spain will be favourites to win this tournament.

The Fans:

Iraq (AFC Asian champions)

Coach: Bora Milutinovic
Goalkeepers: Mohammed Kasid, Nour Sabri, Uday Talib
Defenders: Basim Abbas, Muayad Khalid, Isam Yaseen, Samir Saeed, Farid Majeed, Salam Shaker, Ali Hussein Rahema, Mohammed Ali Karim, Dara Mohammed Habeeb
Midfielders: Halgurd Mulla Mohammed, Mahdi Karim, Nashat Akram, Hawar Mulla Mohammed, Abdul-Wahab Abu Al-Hail, Salih Sadir
Forwards: Karrar Jassim, Emad Mohammed, Alaa Abdul-Zahra, Younis Mahmoud, Luai Salah

Current FIFA Ranking: 77

Strengths:
Although relatively inexperienced in the international arena, this Iraq team makes up for it through the experience of their Serbian coach. The core of this team have remained the same since they won the Asian Youth championship. As with Spain, these players are very familiar with the way each other like to play. Iraq plays well when the trio of Nashat Akram, Younis Mahmoud and Emad Mohammad combine well.

Weaknesses:
They may have won the 2007 Asian Nations Cup but they will not be representing Asia in the 2010 World Cup. The confidence is not high, they have not performed well since that unexpected Asian Nation Cup win in Malaysia.

Player to Watch: Nashat Akram

Tournament Prospects:
Cannon fodder for the Spanish Machine, may beat South Africa and will get 3 points against New Zealand.

The Fans:

New Zealand (OFC Oceania champions)

Coach: Ricki Herbert
Goalkeepers: James Bannatyne, Glen Moss, Mark Pasto
Defenders: Andrew Boyens, Tony Lochhead, David Mulligan, Steven Old, Aaron Scott, Ben Sigmund, Ivan Vicelich
Midfielders: Andy Barron, Leo Bertos, Tim Brown, Jeremy Christie, Simon Elliott, Chris James, Duncan Oughton
Forwards: Kris Bright, Jeremy Brockie, Chris Killen, Shane Smeltz, Jarrod Smith, Chris Wood

Probable starting formation:

(GK) Paston — (D) Mulligan, Lochhead, Old, Sigmund — (M) Elliott, Oughton, Brown, James — (F) Smeltz, Killen

Current FIFA Ranking: 82

Strengths:
The strike partnership of Chris Killen and Shane Smeltz have produced 25 goals for the national team. The duo are arguably the two best players in this Kiwi side. They will be looked upon to drive the team forward in this competition.

Weaknesses:
New Zealand lack world class players and so will look to build on team experience here. They will use this tournament to prepare for the World Cup play-off with the fifth best Asian nation. The loss of the excellent Ryan Nelsen will not help the Kiwi's cause or hopes.

Player to Watch: Shane Smeltz, Leo Bertos

Tournament Prospects:
No chance and no points in this tournament.

The Fans:

South Africa (Host country)

Coach: Joel Santana
Goalkeepers: Brian Baloyi, Itumeleng Khune, Rowen Fernandez
Defenders: Matthew Booth, Siboniso Gaxa, Morgan Gould, Tsepo Masilela, Aaron Mokoena, Bryce Moon, Bongani Khumalo
Midfielders: Lance Davids, Kagisho Dikgacoi, Teko Modise, Steven Pienaar, Macbeth Sibaya, Siphiwe Tshabalala, Benson Mhlongo, Elrio van Heerden, Innocent Mdledle
Strikers: Bernard Parker, Katlego Mphela, Thembinkosi Fanteni, Katlego Mashego

Probable starting formation:

(GK) Baloyi - (D) Masilela , Moon, Booth, Gaxa - (M) Modise, Mokoena, Pienaar, Sibaya - (F) Mashego, Mphela

Current FIFA Ranking: 72

Strengths:
South Africa will have home ground advantage for this tournament. The fans will definitely get behind the team and spur them on. The team can rely on Steven Pienaar's industry and hard running in midfield, giving them a creative outlet. Aaron Mokoena provides protection for the back four by breaking up opposition plays in midfield with his tough tackling and physical style.

Weaknesses:
Not recalling Benni McCarthy leaves the South Africans short of attacking options. There is no recognised striker within the team squad. Goals may be hard to come by.

Player to Watch: Steven Pienaar

Tournament Prospects:
Being in the easier group A will surely help the Bafana Bafana. Joel Santana will want to use this tournament to prepare and assess his squad's capability for the 2010 World Cup. The team has the quality to beat New Zealand and Iraq to finish second and qualify for the semifinals. That's when the journey ends for South Africa. Unless witchcraft is used....

The Fans:



Group B
Brazil (CONMEBOL South American champions)

Coach: Carlos Dunga
Goalkeepers: Julio Cesar, Victor, Heurelho Gomes
Defenders: Maicon, Daniel Alves, Alex, Juan, Lucio, Luisao, Kleber, Andre Santos
Midfielders: Anderson, Gilberto Silva, Josue, Ramires, Elano, Felipe Melo, Julio Baptista, Kaka
Forwards: Alexandre Pato, Luis Fabiano, Nilmar, Robinho

Probable starting formation:

(GK) Cesar — (D) Maicon, Juan, Lucio, Alves — (M) Kaka, Silva, Baptisa, Elano — (F) Pato, Robinho

Current FIFA Ranking: 5

Strengths:
A squad which has quality, strength, skill and depth. Like Del Bosque, Dunga has a squad in which he could field two teams capable of winning the Confederations Cup. That's the level of strength that Brazil possesses. For once, goalkeeping is no longer a weakness with the formidable Julio Cesar in goal. Defence is solid and physical. The team is packed with creativity and flair both in midfield and in attack. A magical team.

Weaknesses:
Overconfidence is a worry for Brazil. No doubt, they can beat anyone on paper but it's about getting it done on the pitch as well.

Player to Watch: Alexandre Pato

Tournament Prospects:
Need to fight it out with Italy for the group B leadership. Semifinalist for sure but may not be able to beat the Spaniards. Losing finalists this time around. At least the fans will enjoy a dream final - Brazil vs. Spain.

The Fans:




Italy (World champions)

Coach: Marcello Lippi
Goalkeepers: Amelia, Buffon, De Sanctis
Defenders: Cannavaro, Chiellini, Zambrotta, Dossena, Legrottaglie, Gamberini, Grosso, Santon
Midfielders: Camoranesi, De Rossi, Pirlo, Gattuso, Montolivo, Palombo
Forwards: Gilardino, Iaquinta, Pepe, Quagliarella, Toni, Rossi

Probable starting formation:

(GK) Buffon — (D) Cannavaro, Chiellini, Zambrotta, Grosso — (M) Camoranesi, De Rossi, Pirlo — (F) Quagliarella, Toni, Gilardino

Current FIFA Ranking: 4

Strengths:
An Italian squad filled with experience and world class talent. This team know how to shut out a team, stifle an opposition's creativity and win a game the Catenacchio style. Strong at the back, creative and tough to get past in midfield and sharpness in attack. All these are hallmarks of a tactically well organised Italian side.

Weaknesses:
Lippi takes with him an aging squad for this competition. A better option for him was to inject some youthfulness into the team. Athleticism and mobility are areas lacking in this Italian squad.

Player to Watch: Giorgio Chiellini

Tournament Prospects:
A first-time semifinal appearance for the Italians in South Africa. Will have to negotiate past the unpredictability of Egypt and the athleticism of USA.

The Fans:

USA (CONCACAF North American champions)
Coach: Bob Bradley
Goalkeepers: Tim Howard, Brad Guzan, Luis Robles
Defenders: Carlos Bocanegra, Oguchi Onyewu, Jonathan Spector, Jonathan Bornstein, Marvell Wynne, Jay DeMerit, Danny Califf, Heath Pearce
Midfielders: Michael Bradley, Clint Dempsey, Sacha Kljestan, Jose Francisco Torres, Benny Feilhaber, Ricardo Clark, DaMarcus Beasley, Freddy Adu
Forwards: Landon Donovan, Jozy Altidore, Conor Casey, Charlie Davies

Probable starting formation:

(GK) Howard — (D) Hejduk, Bocanegra, Onyewu, Pearce — (M) Bradley, Beasley, Kljestan, Dempsey — (F) Ching, Donovan

Current FIFA Ranking: 14

Strengths:
Bob Bradley have forged a team with defensive solidity marshalled by the excellent Tim Howard in goal. Midfield will be infused with discipline and positional responsibilities. Freddie Adu's brilliance on the ball can make a difference in tight matches. Athleticism, stamina and endurance are the key qualities of this USA team.

Weaknesses:
This is a USA team that will work hard and chase every ball. Unfortunately at the highest level of international football, a creative spark is required. The Americans do not have this creative or unpredictability element in their ranks.

Player to Watch: Clint Dempsey, Michael Bradley

Tournament Prospects:
USA should not be expected to shake up the competition. They have traditionally performed well in the Confed Cup but this will not be the same. Third placing in the group could be a possibility.

The Fans:

Eqypt (CAF African champions)
Coach: Hassan Shehata
Goalkeepers: Essam Al Hadari, Abdul Wahed Al Sayed Mohamed Sobhi, Al Hani Soliman
Defenders: Hani Said, Mahmoud Fathallah, Wael Gomaa, Sherif Abdul Fadhil, Ahmed Said, Ahmed Al Muhammadi, Sayed Moawad, Hazem Emam, Ahmed Samir Farag
Midfielders: Ahmed Fathi, Mohamed Shawki, Hosni Abd Rabu, Ahmed Khairy, Mohamed Soliman, Abdul Aziz Tawfiq, Ahmed Hassan, Mohamed Aboutrika
Forwards: Ahmed Eid, Mohamed Zidan, Mohamed Abougreisha, Ahmed Abdul Ghani, Ahmed Raouf, Ihab Al Masri, Amr Zaki

Probable starting formation:
(GK) Al Hadari - (D) Al Muhammadi, Moawad, Said, Gomaa - (M) Fathi, Hassan, Shawki, Aboutrika - (F) Zaki, Zidan

Current FIFA Ranking: 40

Strengths:
A very talented Egyptian side combining youth and experience. The Egyptians are familiar with this tournament and will have the desire to prove that they are more than just confederations winners. There are a number of European-based Egyptians in this squad, they will be expected to use their big-game experience to inspire the team.

Weaknesses:
Due to behavioural problems, Mido was omitted from this squad. Egypt's attack is greatly diminished without Mido. Amr Zaki will be asked to shoulder a lot more responsibility which may reduce his goal scoring abilities.

Player to Watch: Mohamed Zidan

Tournament Prospects:
Unpredictable. A giant in African football but hardly produce the goods on the world stage. Will be challenging for the group third placing with USA.

The Fans:

TheFlatBackFour prediction:
Winner: Spain
Runners-up: Brazil
Third Place: Italy
Semifinalist: South Africa

An Englishman with the Brazilian skills

I was thinking about the Maracana Stadium in Brazil and was wondering what the capacity was. That's when I was reminded of John Barnes' amazing goal at the same stadium so I thought I would share this here.

John 'Digger' Barnes was best remembered for this goal while playing for England. He was the classic case of awesome at club but anonymous at international level. Still, he was one of the few truly world-class wingers that England possessed alongside Chris Waddle. Also one of the most capped players for England.
Brilliant though he was as a player, he did not have the same success as a coach. Disliked at Celtic and was hardly given a chance to excel as a coach, although he had a respectable win percentage of 65.5%.
Barnesy now coaches the Jamaican national team. Going back to his roots if you like, where he enjoys hero status during his player exploits. He guided Jamaica to the 2008 Caribbean Cup win - his first achievement as a manager.

At his pomp, he was described as good enough to play in the Brazilian national team and from the video, he clearly walked right through the Brazil defence.

My interest in stadium capacity will have to wait a while longer....