1930 – Uruguay vs Argentina

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The first ever World Cup saw a repeat of the 1928 Olympics Final. The most memorable thing about this match is the argument over what ball to use, leading to the King Solomon type of decision – each half will be played with a different ball. Argentina provided one in the first half, and led 2-1 after 45 minutes (Carlos Peucelle, Guillermo Stabile). Uruguay provided the ball for the second half, and scored three goals through Pedro Cea, Santos Iriarte and Hector Castro. Both teams played in the (then) traditional 2-3-5 formation. 100 Years old Francisco Varallo of Argentina is the only player from the final who is still alive.

1934 – Italy vs Czechoslovakia

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Vittorio Pozzo led Italy, hosting the World Cup, to the first of their back to back trophies, beating Czechoslovakia, despite the Czech’s taking the lead through Antonin Puc late in the match (76th minute). Raimundo Orsi equalized five minutes later and Angelo Schiavio of Bolonga scored the winning goal in extra time.

1938 – Italy vs Hungary

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France hosted the last tournament before World War II, and Italy became the first nation to win multiple World Cups and consecutively as well. Gino Colaussi and Silvio Piola each scored two goals as Italy beat Hungary 4-2.

1950 – Brazil vs Uruguay

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First of all, this wasn’t actually a final. The first World Cup after 12 years had a Finals group, with the Uruguay Brazil match, played at the Maracana stadium in Rio de Janeiro, packed with 175,000-200,000 fans, who really knows, turning out to be the decider. Brazil only needed a draw to clinch their first World Cup trophy, but shattered the heart of a nation, losing 2-1, despite scoring first through Friaca in the 47th minute. Juan Alberto Schiaffino put Uruguay level, and Alcides Ghiggia ruined the home nation’s celebration plans with his 79th minute goal, making Uruguay two time World Champions. Brazil had to wait for a kid named Pele so they can taste World Cup glory.

1954 – West Germany vs Hungary

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The “Miracle of Bern”. Switzerland hosted the first World Cup on European soil since World War II, with Hungary’s Mighty Magyars favored to win the trophy. They destroyed West Germany in the group stage, beating them 8-3.
Hungary were 2-0 up after eight minutes in the final, with Ferenc Puskas and Zoltan Czibor scoring. Two minutes later, the West Germans were back in the game after a Max Morlock goal. Eight minutes later – Helmut Rahn, legend in the making, made it 2-2. Hungary dominated the match but Germany’s Toni Turek stopped everything thrown his way. In the 84th minute, Helmut Rahn scored the winner for West Germany, that had a huge impact on the nation, sending it into euphoria for the first time since World War II.

1958 – Sweden vs Brazil

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Pele arrived, and Brazil had its first World Cup trophy. Sweden hosted the tournament and made the final match that took place at the Rasunda Stadium in Solna. Sweden scored first, as runner ups tend to do, with AC Milan’s Nils Liedholm, the Swedish captain, making it 1-0 after 4 minutes. The next time Sweden scored was late in the second half, with Brazil already leading 4-1. Two goals by Vava, one by Pele and one by future Brazil coach Mario Zagallo preceded Ange Simonsson’s goal. Pele added his second goal in the 90th minute, and a legend was born. This is still the highest scoring final in World Cup history and Brazil are the only team to score five goals in a World Cup final.

1962 – Brazil vs Czechoslovakia

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Pele was injured when Brazil and Czechoslovakia met during the group stage, drawing 0-0. His replacement, Amarildo, was more than enough. Garrincha himself was pretty much enough. Brazil, like four years earlier, conceded first, with Josef Masopust, maybe the greatest Czech player of all time, scoring after 15 minutes. Two minutes later, Amarildo made it 1-1. Zito and Vava (same one from before) made it 3-1, the final score, Brazil’s second World Cup.

1966 – England vs West Germany

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Famous for three things – Geoff Hurst scoring a hat-trick, Geoff Hurst scoring the most controversial approved goal in World Cup history and England actually winning something.

England hosted the tournament, and made their way to the finals after conceding only once in their first five matches. The West Germany side, with a young Franz Beckenbauer boasted an explosive offense, crushing Uruguay 4-0 in the quarter finals and beating the Soviet Union 2-1 in the Semi Final.

The Final was also a high scoring affair, with both teams level after 90 minutes, 2-2. Helmut Haller put West Germany in front after 12 minutes, but Geoff Hurst equalized six minutes later. Martin Peters scored what appeared to be the winning goal 12 minutes from time, but Wolfgang Weber sent the match into extra time with an 89th minute goal.
101 – Geoff Hurst’s shot hit the crossbar, dropped down to the line and bounced out. The linesman told the referee it crossed the line. To this date, it’s unclear if it was a goal or not. Hurst added another one in the 120th minute, as England came out 4-2 winners.

1970 – Brazil vs Italy

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Two legendary squads, and maybe the greatest Brazil side ever. Maybe the best national side ever. Pele won his third World Cup, the only player to win three. Mario Zagallo, the coach, became the first to win the World Cup as a player and a coach. Pele scored first, Roberto Boninsegna equalized, but Italy didn’t show up for the second half, and Gerson, Jairzinho and Carlos Alberto made it 4-1 in what is also regarded as the best final ever.

Brazil became the first three time champions, earning the right to retain the Jules Rimet trophy permanently.

1974 – West Germany vs Netherlands

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Cruyff vs Beckenbauer, “Total-Football” against German efficiency. Johan Neeskens put the Netherlands up after only 2 minutes, but by the end of the first half, the home team was winning, a lead the kept till the end of the match. Paul Breitner equalized in the 25th minute, and Gerd Muller scored the winning goal two minutes before the half time whistle.

1978 – Argentina vs Netherlands

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The Dutch made their second consecutive World Cup Final, this time without Johan Cruyff, and again had to face the hosts, Argentina. The Dutch were managed by an Austrian, Ernst Happel, known for his short motivational pitch “Gentlemen, two points”. Mario Kempes scored first for Argentina but substitute Dick Nanninga made it 1-1 after 82 minutes, sending the game into extra time. Mario Kempes and Daniel Bertoni were there go give Argentina the 3-1 win and their first World Cup, in a tournament tainted by allegations of fixes (Argentina’s win over Peru) and a Final in which Argentina employed some-not-so-sportsman like tactics.

1982 – Italy vs West Germany

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Paul Breitner scored again for West Germany in the final, but this time his goal came after Italy were already 3-0 ahead. Spain hosted the tournament but didn’t make it out of the second round group stage. Italy scored through Golden Boot winner Paolo Rossi, Marco Tardelli and Alessandro Altobelli, becoming the second nation to win three World Cups.

1986 – Argentina vs West Germany

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Diego Maradona’s moment of bliss – he carried a mediocre Argentina squad on his back, carving his way into the history books. He didn’t score in the final, held at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, but was inspirational in their 3-2 win over West Germany. Argentina scored first through Jose Luis Brown and Jorge Valdano made it 2-0 in the second half. West Germany made an impressive comeback, scoring twice in six minutes through Karl Heinz Rummenigge and Rudi Voller. Jorge Burruchaga scored the winner in the 83rd minute, giving Argentina its second World Cup in eight years.

1990 – West Germany vs Argentina

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Italy, Stadio Olimpico, Rome – The worst World Cup tournament ended in one of the worst finals’ matches. West Germany made a final appearance separated from East Germany, and won the World Cup for the third time through Andreas Brheme’s penalty kick. There quite a few firsts in this final – This was the first time a European side beat a South American side in the World Cup Final match. It was the first time a team didn’t score in the final, and it was the first time a player (actually two Argentinians) got sent off in the final.

1994 – Brazil vs Italy

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We said 1990 had the worst Final? Brazil and Italy beat that final, becoming the first teams to reach a penalty shoot out in a World Cup final after 120 scoreless minutes. Both teams missed their first penalties (Franco Baresi, Marcio Santos) and converted the next two (Demetrio Albertini, Romario, Alberigo Evani, Branco). AC Milan’s Daniele Massaro missed Italy’s fourth penalty and Dunga, yes, Dunga, gave Brazil a 3-2 edge. Roberto Baggio, who carried Italy through the knockout stages and was arguably the best in the world back then, missed, sending the ball flying high, and giving Brazil their fourth World Cup trophy and the neutral fans a chance to smile, thanking Baggio for ending the hellish match.

1998 – France vs Brazil

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France hosted the World Cup for the second time, and looked convincing from the first moment, while Brazil, built with a mixture of 1994 heroes and a younger generation were still favored to win their fifth World Cup. Ronaldo played in the final, but it wasn’t really him. Whatever happened in the dressing room before the match, France came out confident and strong, with Zinadine Zidane scoring two almost identical goals, heading in in-swinging corners. France lost Marcel Desailly to a red card but that didn’t stop them from making it 3-0 in the closing minutes, scored by Emmanuel Petit.

2002 – Brazil vs Germany

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Ronaldo’s redemption – Germany surprised many by making the final, for the first time as unified nation, while Brazil, well, they are always expected to make the finals, but weren’t very impressive on the way through. They got Ronaldinho back from suspension for the final, while Germany didn’t have Ballack, suspended for yellow cards, who scored the winner for them in the Semi Final against South Korea. Ronaldo scored two goals in the second half after Germany were the team to get the better chances, and Brazil won their fifth World Cup, still a World Cup best.

2006 – Italy vs France

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Like the 1994 Final, won’t be remembered for the high quality of soccer demonstrated (there wasn’t any) but Zidane headbutting Marco Materazzi in his final match after the Italian called Zidane’s sister a whore (Exact quote : I prefer the whore that is your sister). I also remember the brawl the followed between Italians and French fans in the Panama bar I was watching the game in. Ironically, both players were the scorers in regulation. Zidane scored the opener after 7 minutes, successfully converting a penalty kick. Materazzi scored 12 minutes later. Italy scored all five penalties, while France’s David Trezeguet missed his shot, and after Fabio Grosso scored Italy’s fifth penalty, there was no need for a fifth French one. Italy were World champions for a fourth time, mostly due to an unbeatable defense and goalkeeper.

Antonio Di Natale Can’t Believe It

Fabio Cannavaro Walking Away, Pondering, Maybe Disgusted

Fabio Quagliarella – The Best for Italy and one Brilliant Goal, Not Enough to Stop the Tears

Daniele De Rossi Knows it’s Over

The Man Responsible for the Debacle – Marcello Lippi

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And the Fans…

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I don’t know if Slovakia deserved to qualify from that group, because they very sympathetic Kiwi’s didn’t lose, drawing all three matches, but I do know, despite my personal preferences, Italy didn’t.

The team looked dead for more than an hour, and only after Pirlo’s entrance did some sort of life sign come blinking from the Italian side.

Still, it wasn’t enough, and despite Quagliarella’s brilliant chip goal, Italy couldn’t score the one more goal they needed, with Pepe missing from close range four minutes into extra time.

A huge celebration for the Slovakians who played very well in the first half and nearly collapsed from fatigue in the closing minutes, making their first World Cup appearance one to remember.

Like Blanc with France, Italy’s next manager has his hands full with a very complicated and difficult rebuilding job, which might take quite some time considering the talent he has to work with.

Not a lot to write about New Zealand’s 0-0 draw with Paraguay – New Zealand had intent and passion, but the teams lacks the ability to create an organized offense, and with Paraguay ready and excelling in defending the long balls, the All-White’s didn’t stand a chance. Paraguay didn’t seem to be trying too hard, settling for a draw, which was enough for them to qualify from first. Paraguay were the best team in Group E and deserved to finish first, and will be favorites to make the Quarter Finals, . Ricky Herbert and his fellas deserve a lot of credit for their bravery and toughness, but a team like that isn’t what we want to see in the knockout rounds.

Japan produced a very impressing performance against Denmark, repeating their 2002 feat and making the second round of the World Cup Finals. Denmark, who settled for cross after cross and only scored from a penalty kick, missed the qualifying from the group stage for the first time in their World Cup History. Japan were efficient, making the most of their opportunities, with Honda giving one of the best individual performances of the World Cup, scoring a beautiful free kick to open things up and building up the third goal in their 3-1 victory in convincing fashion.

The Netherlands beat Cameroon 2-1, but the game didn’t really mean anything, besides two things – The Dutch clinched first, finishing with a perfect nine points in three matches record while not impressing too much, and Arjen Robben got his first minutes in the World Cup, setting up the winner with his shot at the African goal.

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Paul Le Guen finished a miserable World Cup performance with Cameroon, zero points and only two goals in three matches.

Group Tables

Group E

1. Netherlands, 9 points (5-1)
2. Japan, 6 points (4-2)
3. Denmark, 3 points (3-6)
4. Cameroon, 0 points (2-5)

Group F

1. Paraguay, 5 points (3-1)
2. Slovakia, 4 points (4-5)
3. New Zealand, 3 points (2-2)
4. Italy, 2 points (4-5)

Top Scorers

1. Gonzalo Higuain (Argentina), Robert Vittek (Slovakia) – 3 Goals
2. Diego Forlan (Uruguay), Asamoah Gyan (Ghana), Elano & Luis Fabiano (Brazil), Tiago (Portugal), David Villa (Spain), Lee Jung-Soo (South Korea), Kalu Uche (Nigeria), Landon Donovan (United States), Brett Holman (Australia), Samuel Eto’o (Cameroon), Keisuke Honda (Japan) – 2 Goals

Picture of the Day – Crumbling Empire

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Fan of the Day – The Netherlands

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What We’ve Learned

Slovakia – Miroslav Stoch and Robert Vittek are great players. Or maybe it was Italy that made them great? Slovakia weren’t there in the first two matches, but suddenly looked brilliant both in possession and working the counter attacks during the second half against Italy. Weak rivals, or hidden potential? We’ll see against the Netherlands. On second thought, we probably won’t.

Netherlands – Nothing much. Got a comfortable rival in the second round, an finally Arjen Robben got some minutes. Robin Van Persie should be looking more confident after his goal today, muy importante.

Japan – A real wild card. Keisuke Honda looked like one of the more complete players in the world with his ball handling skills, set pieces and passing while Nakazawa and Tanaka formed a formidable Centre back duo. If they come to play, Japan have assets to offer. Interesting to see if Paraguay get lured into their trap.

Tomorrow

Brazil vs Portugal, Ivory Coast vs North Korea – Seems like a done deal. The Ivory Coast need a mega win over North Korea and for Portugal to lose against Brazil, who have the first place set, as long as they don’t lose.
Spain – Chile, Honduras – Switzerland – Both Spain and Chile will be going after a win in what promises to be a high scoring affair, knowing that the chances of the Swiss not grabbing the full 3 points against one of the 3 weakest teams in the tournament are very slim.

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Very similar to the Uruguayans, Paraguay have a strong side, with some very talented front men and a solid defensive midfield and back, but play very conservatively, making it very hard to surprise them. Slovakia’s slow and boring style was not match for the South American efficiency, with Enrique Vera scoring in the first half and Cristian Riveros finishing the job in the 86th minute. Paraguay won’t mess up against New Zealand (just a gut feeling) while Slovakia face Italy needing a win to qualify.

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Lippi, like Capello, is in deep trouble. Italy played worst than they did against Paraguay, going behind early to Shane Smeltz’ goal, despite him being offside and a foul on Gilardino (maybe the worst player in this World Cup so far). Again, Lippi decided to go with the wrong starters, but despite his substitutions at half time, Italy never broke down the Kiwi’s defense except for that penalty kick, converted by Iaquinta, as Mark Paston was fantastic in New Zealand’s goal.

Italy can still qualify with a draw against Slovakia if Paraguay beat New Zealand, but they have bigger troubles, concerning their horrible play and maybe the lack of a future Italian generation.

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A boring first half was upstaged by a fantastic second one. Luis Fabiano scored through a powerful shot in the first half, but both teams were far from impressive, as Brazil just couldn’t get possession and the Ivorians just couldn’t get any decent shots at Cesar’s goal.

Second half? Different story – Melo and Silva took over the middle, allowing Kaka much more freedom to operate and work everybody else.

Fabiano scored the second, which looked like a wonder goal at first sight, but pure cheating after the replay. The referee seemed to be in on it as later replays showed. Very troubling indeed.

Elano added the third as Brazil seemed to en route to a very convincing win before the Ivorians started chopping legs, sending Elano out and not going easy on Kaka, Bastos and Dani Alves.

The ref didn’t send anyone off, so Kaka did a little payback of his own, finding himself sent off. Drogba made it interesting, making it 3-1.

Picture of the Day – Kaka Sent Off

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Fan of the Day – Italy

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Group Tables

Group F

1. Paraguay, 4 points (3-1)
2. Italy, 2 points (2-2)
3. New Zealand, 2 points (2-2)
4. Slovakia, 1 point (1-3)

Group G

1. Brazil, 6 points (5-2)
2. Portugal, 1 point (0-0)
3. Ivory Coast, 1 point (1-3)
4. North Korea, 0 points (1-2)

* North Korea and Portugal have played only one match

Top Scorers

1. Gonzalo Higuain (Argentina) – 3 Goals
2. Diego Forlan (Uruguay), Asamoah Gyan (Ghana), Elano (Brazil), Luis Fabiano (Brazil) – 2 Goals
3. 46 Player with one goal, 2 own goals

What We’ve Learned

Paraguay – Not surprised at all by the Paraguayans, who Peter picked to top the group. A little less selfishness by their forwards could have resulted in a much more impressive win but still, looked solid and tough, like expected. Only need a draw against New Zealand to qualify, but despite the All-White’s surprising results, I can’t see them dropping points there.
Slovakia – Didn’t show up. They have talent, which they showed against New Zealand, but maybe the shocking draw there knocked the wind out of Weiss’s men, without anyone playing anything close to a decent offensive game. Have a battle with Italy, and Slovakia have to win. Italy are weaker than ever, but still, Slovakia just seem to slow and lacking purpose to pose any real threat.
Italy – Where to begin? The goal they conceded should have been disallowed, but Lippi is making the same mistakes over and over again. Camoranesi should start, Gilardino shouldn’t, and maybe it’s time for Pirlo to make an appearance. Italy just lack any kind of sophistication and creativity most of the time, without off the ball movement and clever double-pass plays, they’re at risk of not going through the group.
New Zealand – Two matches and still no loss – Ricky Herbert’s squad is defying the odds and have a small chance, if they stun Paraguay, to qualify from the group. Doesn’t matter what happens next, they’ve made history with today’s draw.
Brazil – Something clicked for Brazil in the second half, and when they turn it on, there’s nobody better. Melo and Gilberto Silva took over in the second half, and that’s the key in order to let Kaka start running the show. Maybe Dani Alves should get a chance to start instead of Robinho who really looked off today.
Ivory Coast – Talented group, but with an injured Drogba and a nobody at the sidelines “un-coaching” the team, they didn’t stand a chance. Even when they controlled the game in parts of the first half, just didn’t look dangerous. Need a North Korean miracle to keep their hopes alive.

Tomorrow

Portugal – North Korea – After England and Italy, anything is possible. Despite the clear advantage the Portuguese have, no one will be surprised if the tough Koreans get a point. After all, Ronaldo didn’t seem to be handling the pressure to well in game 1.
Chile – Switzerland – The battle for the top of the group – the technical Chileans against the organized and tough Swiss. Very tough one to call – Switzerland have yet to beat a South American rival at the World Cup, and I do prefer technical sides. Chile also learned from Spain’s loss I believe, and Switzerland will probably be a bit more open against the South Americans.
Spain – Honduras – Another upset? Can’t see it. Spain are just too good to not go through, and a big win over the Hondurans, the weakest team in South Africa, could be a great start on their way back to the top of the group. Just don’t forget to start with Torres.

Last – Goal count: 57 Goals, 29 Matches. Good day, 1.97 is looking much better.

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They did need a lucky own goal by Simon Poulsen to get the lead, but there was no doubt who was the better team throughout the match, excluding a couple of Denmark chances. The Dutch lacked speed upfront, with Kuyt and Van der Vaart placed as wingers. Kuyt is a hard working player, a “coaches player”, but zero flair. Rafa? He’s not a winger, and I don’t like his pairing with Sneijder. Van der Vaart kept cutting to the middle, leaving the flank empty and over crowding the midfield. When Elia came in, things became much better. Denmark, despite needing the equalizer, just don’t have the tools to create chances against a team like the Dutch, and the 2-0 result in the end was deserved.

*For the Goals – Go here

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Eastern Asia continues to rock, while Africa’s records stands at 2 losses, 1 draw and one win. Cameroon came in as favorites against a John Doe type Japan, but pulled out a horrible performance out of Paul Le Guen’s hat, while Japan, like South Korea two days ago, played fast, organized and effective.

Daisuke Matsui was excellent for Japan and Tanaka did very well to lead the defense, while Cameroon seemed to only wake up in the final 15 minutes. Samuel Eto’o was hardly involved and Cameroon seem to have a big problem with their keeper, Hamidou, who just can’t hang on to a ball even if his life depended on it.

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Is this good for Italy or bad? In my gambling pool, this game worked out perfectly: a 1-1 draw, with Paraguay taking the lead – a full 10 points. Maybe a bad start for Italy means things can only improve. It seemed Lippi was learning throughout the match, about having no players on the wings in his 4-3-3 which has no players to create chances, at least with the lineup that came out. Camoranesi didn’t do much, but he did opened things up for the Italians, giving Montolivo and De Rossi more space. The defense isn’t 2006 – And Buffon isn’t 2006, replaced at half time after reportedly suffering a back injury.

Antolin Alcaraz, 39th minute

Paraguay will be pleased, playing something similar to the way Uruguay played against France on Friday – no midfield, nine men behind the ball, but with a stronger aerial prowess, and weren’t far from grabbing a stunning win.

Daniele De Rossi, 63rd minute

Group Tables

Group E

1. Netherlands, 3 points (2-0)
2. Japan, 3 points (1-0)
3. Cameroon, 0 points (0-1)
4. Denmark, 0 points (0-2)

Group F

1. Italy, 1 point (1-1)
2. Paraguay, 1 point (1-1)
Slovakia and New Zealand haven’t played yet.

Scoring Charts

17 Players with one goal, 1 own goal.

Picture of the Day – Love, Love, Love

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FanS of the Day – Netherlands Win This Battle Too

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What We’ve Learned

Netherlands – The way the Dutch play, the need speed. Robben isn’t healthy, but still, they can do better. Either start Elia and leave Van der Vaart off or put Van Persie on the wing and Kuyt in the middle. We expect more from the Dutch offense.
Denmark – Actually, this is what the Danes have to offer. Maybe Tomasson healthy would have made a change, but the side is limited, but still, if it wasn’t for that un lucky shave off Agger’s back, who knows. I still believe Denmark can get 4 points or more in the next two games.
Japan – See South Korea, and do copy paste, just replace Park with Honda and Matsui, not from Baseball. They’re going to be very difficult, even for the Dutch. Still, goals are going to be hard to come by.
Cameroon – Eto’o as a winger – didn’t work. Song on the bench? Didn’t work. Le Guen needs to put life into his team, that had a very hard time creating chances and just lacked passion and purpose the entire match.
Italy – The warm up games, Euro 2008, Confed Cup 2009, you can’t create magic after almost four years of playing bad. 4-3-3 Works, but if you play with wingers. Having Iaquinta on the wing doesn’t do anything, and from the looks of things, Gilardino should start on the bench, with Di Natale and Pepe on the flanks, or drop Pepe and start with Camoranesi, allowing more freedom for Montolivo and De Rossi, otherwise things just don’t look good for Lippi’s men.
Paraguay – Strong and aggressive, no creativity in the midfield, dangerous strikers in the air. Don’t expect them to change, but don’t be surprised if they chew up Japan and Cameroon.

Tomorrow

New Zealand – Slovakia – Potential of being worst than France Uruguay or Slovenia Algeria, but I expect Hamsik to show why he’s such a sought after player. Anything but a Slovakia win, in their first World Cup, would be surprising.
Ivory Coast – Portugal
Great potential, but it depends how or even if Drogba plays. The Ivory Coast are still good, but without their leader, heart and soul, Portugal, despite being Ronaldo and ten more, should be good enough to get a win.
Brazil – North Korea 5? 6? The pressure from home is huge, and anything less than a 3-0 win will create more question marks for Dunga and his men.

* Goal Count – 18 Goals, 11 matches – 1.63 per game. We need about 10 goals tomorrow to start feeling happier about this tournament.

Previous Posts – Group A, Group B, Group C, Group D, Group E

Italy

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Is this how Italy likes it? Coming in with tons of criticism and low expectations, at least from the outside of the country, based on their weak Euro 2008 and 2009 Confederations Cup showings, but with Marcello Lippi on the sidelines. Good enough for a 2006 repeat? It’ll start with Buffon. Italy play a 4-3-3, but it’s not the Dutch type, it’s how you expect Italy to play. Strong, slow, defensive maybe. Especially against quality opponents. Italy based their 2006 campaign on a super defense, led by Cannavaro in the back four and by Buffon between the posts. Like Juventus, both have seen better days. Both, like seven more players, are still with the squad, but the big question mark is if they can recapture the magic from four years ago. If Buffon is healthy, it’s a good start.

Roma’s De Rossi is the man at the helm in the middle, and he’s ability to play both ways, supporting the back and the attack, could determine if Italy make a deep run and even, yes, look partially enjoyable while doing it. Upfront? No one knows. Di Natale had a fantastic season for Udinese with 29 goals, but he’s still unproved with the national team. Gilardino, Iaquinta, Quagliarella – good Serie A strikers, but limited, each in his own way. No Luca Toni this time and no Giuseppe Rossi for some reason. Lippi is gambling with tough cards.

Paraguay

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Fourth consecutive World Cup appearance for the Albirojas, and after another fine qualifying campaign, it seems they’re ready to finally break their second round curse and make a first appearance in the tournament’s quarter finals. Why? Cause Paraguay, always a very strong, physical and aggressive side finally has a very talented group of attackers, despite missing Salvador Cabanas, still hoping to make a return to the game after getting shot in the head.

Lucas Barrios and Nelson Valdez of Dortmund, Roque Santa Cruz of Manchester City and Oscar Cardozo from Benfica, with Valdez and Santa Cruz having the international credit, while Cardozo and Barrios (recently turned Paraguayan)  are backed by fantastic seasons with their clubs. A comfortable group and an outside shot at finishing first ahead of the unimpressive Italians make Paraguay, in my opinion, the best chance of a surprise in this World Cup.

Slovakia

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When you visit the World Cup for the first time, just getting there is enough, right? I guess they don’t see it that way in Slovakia, making it to a major tournament for the first time since the split with the Czech Republic. They had a fantastic qualifying campaign, finishing first in their group, leaving Poland and the Czech’s out of the World Cup, with Bochum striker Stanislav Setsak scoring six goals. He’ll be joined upfront by Robert Vittek, hoping he’ll regain his 2006 form, when he scored 16 goals for Nuremberg in the Bundesliga. Now with Lille, scoring 8 goals in two seasons with the French side, Vladimir Weiss is hoping his hard working attacker will be able to find his scoring touch once again after not scoring once during the qualifiers.

Slovakia’s strength, like you’d expect from a Eastern European side, is their strength, tactical discipline and team effort. For everything else, there’s Hamsik. The 22 year old has been one of Europe’s most sought after young players, and his time with Napoli seems to be coming to and end. He provides the flair and creativity, alongside Miroslav Stoch (Chelsea, who have a thing for Hamsik as well), and his scoring touch (30 goals for Napoli last three seasons) gives Slovakia the hope and belief they can join Italy into the last 16.

New Zealand

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Do you believe in miracles? Ryan Nelsen, Blackburn’s rugged defender is New Zealand’s talisman and captain, is their “star” player, and New Zealand’s chances of making a better appearance than in 1982, their previous and only World Cup visit to date, aren’t looking good. It was three losses, 2-12 scoring record in Spain. This time? The All-Whites enjoyed Australia’s blessed departure to the Asian qualifiers, leaving them the chance to rule Oceania and after a hard fought battle with Bahrain, Ricki Herbert and his lads made history. True underdogs, maybe the weakest side in the tournament with North Korea, but with a much more sympathetic twist to them, more than zero points would be a surprising feat by the All Whites.

Group Schedule

June 14th – Italy – Paraguay (Cape Town)

June 15th – New Zealand – Slovakia (Royal Bafokeng)

June 20th – Slovakia – Paraguay (Free State), Italy – New Zealand (Mbomela)

June 24th – Slovakia – Italy (Ellis Park), Paraguay – New Zealand (Peter Mokaba)

Predictions

1. Paraguay (Yes, I believe in them)

2. Italy

3. Slovakia

4. New Zealand

Inter might have had more shots and chances during the game, but Giampaolo Pazzini’s goal in the 72nd minute gave the home side the win, Inter’s first defeat of the season but more importantly, put Sampdoria at the top of the Serie A, at least until tomorrow.

October 4th – Chelsea vs Liverpool

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Will Chelsea still be perfect when they host Liverpool in nine days? Good chance they will be, but anyhow, with Liverpool seemingly catching their form, with Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres seemingly catching their form, with Chelsea relishing to beat Liverpool and really distance them and getting payback for Liverpool’s two league wins over them last season, it’s going to be a big match at Stamford Bridge next week.

October 25th – Liverpool vs Manchester United

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Meeting number 153 between the two most successful clubs in English soccer. Liverpool gained a double over United last season, including a 4-1 drubbing at Old Trafford, which didn’t stop Man U from picking up their 18th league title, tying them at number one all time with Liverpool. Liverpool could be nine points from the top spot by the time this game arrives, but even so, United at Anfield is always one of the biggest fixtures on the soccer calender.

October 4th – Sevilla vs Real Madrid

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The Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan is never a good place to visit. Sevilla are very hard to beat there, even for Barcelona and Real Madrid. On the other hand, Real look like they’re clicking, at least so far. Ronaldo seems to be scoring at will, Kaka is assisting at will and generally it looks like the La Liga is just there to help Barca and Real polish their swords before they meet. Can Sevilla show there is more to the Spanish League than the big two?

October 17th – Juventus vs Fiorentina

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Juventus were perfect up until a few days ago when they managed to wrestle a draw out of Genoa, but generally, they’re doing pretty good. The problem is that the team without Diego and Del Piero but especially without the Brazilian just drops a level or two. Fiorentina? You never know what to expect, but generally they don’t look too good when they leave Florence, and this game will be a good test to see if it’s another year battling for a Champions League spot or maybe this time it’ll be something more.

October 17 – Genoa vs Inter

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Despite losing Motta and Milito to Inter, Genoa have made a pretty solid start to the league, currently 3 points behind Inter. They gave Juventus quite a game this week, drawing with the “Old Lady”, and they won’t make it easy for the champions.

October 17th – Hamburg vs Bayer Leverkusen

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Busy day on October the 17th, if you noticed. Two undefeated teams ( if they’ll still be), the two league leaders (while Bayern seem to be slowly catching up), the fantastic Leverkusen strike force of Helmes, Derdiyok and Kiessling against the best attack in Germany led by Jose Paolo Guerrero in the most unpredictable league in Europe makes a great recipe for a great game.

1 point for getting to the World Cup group stage

2 points for losing in round 2 of the world cup

3 points for losing in the Quarter Finals

4 points for losing in the Semi Finals

5 points for finishing runner up

7 points for being World Champion

We used this scoring system on all nations that played in the last five world cups – 1990 in Italy, 1994 in the United States, 1998 in France, 2002 in Japan and the Korea Republic and 2006 in Germany. 7 nations have played in all five – Argentina, Brazil, Germany (West Germany in 1990), Italy, South Korea/Korea Republic, Spain and the United States. Korea and the United States didn’t make it into our top eight, not getting enough points, with the entrance score being 10 points, meaning a nation “averaged” at least qualifying into the second round. So here are the top 8 nations in the last five FIFA World Cups -

Number 8 – Spain – 11 points

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It’s weird thinking that only 3 years ago, after Spain’s 3-1 loss to France in the 2006 World Cup second round, the national team players were branded losers. Spain always had gifted players, among the best around the continent, especially in the middle of the field, but only in Euro 2008 did everything come together, and La Furia Roja won the Euro 44 years after winning their first and only major trophy. They’ll be heading into the 2010 World Cup as favorites, or one of the top four favorites to go all the way, despite the 2-0 shocking loss to the United States in the Confederations Cup. They are perfect were it matters, in the World Cup Qualifying group, winning six of six so far.

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Spain have reached all the World Cups in the last 20 years, and actually have been to the last eight World Cups, missing the event last in 1974. But their achievements in the last five have been pretty disappointing – 2 quarter finals (1994, lost to Italy and 2002, lost to Korea), 2 second round appearances in 1990 and 2006 and once, shamefully, didn’t make it out of the group stage, in 1998, including the memorable loss to Nigeria 3-2. In Spain They’re hoping Fernando Torres, David Villa, Xavi and and Andres Iniesta can lead the team to glory for the first time in the World Cup.

Number 7 – The Netherlands – 11 points

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The Netherlands, or Holland, have 11 points, like Spain, but they reached the Semi Finals in 1998 only to lose to Brazil there in penalties. The Oranje are always one of the more popular teams no matter where they play, with many still having fond memories of the 70’s team that made 2 world cup finals in 1974 and 1978, led by Johan Cruyff and the 1988 team the won the Euro, with Marco Van Basten starring back then.

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Since then, Holland are always considered one of the favorites in any tournament they play, but fact is, dutch soccer isn’t as dominating as it once was – Yes they did reach the semi’s in 1998, but they also missed the World Cup in 2002 under Louis Van Gaal, the current Bayern Munich manager. They reached the quarter finals once, in 1994, losing 3-2 to Brazil in a great match and also have two second round finished in 1990 (loss to West Germany) and the violent game for 2006, losing 1-0 to Portugal. The Dutch team did play brilliantly at times in the 2008 Euro’s but lost in the quarter to Russia. They have qualified already for the 2010 World Cup, winning seven out of seven so far in the group qualifiers. Holland do have an amazing roster in the midfield and attack, with Huntelaar, Sjneider, Van Der Vaart, Robben, Van Persie and more, but have a lot of problems with their back four, which could mean another disappointing exit in 2010.

Number 6 – England – 12 points

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Every World Cup, every tournament – England are always one of the teams on the shortlist of potential winners. Well potential and ability during the money time don’t always agree with each other – England haven’t won anything since the 1966 world cup held in England. So why is there a feeling this time it’s going to be different? Maybe it’s Fabio Capello coaching the team now, or maybe it’s the domination of English club in the Champions League, but I think there’s a feeling that come next summer, England are going to be a legit threat on the World Cup trophy.

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England didn’t make it to the 1994 world cup in the United States, and they also didn’t make it to the 2008 Euro, but they’re still number six. One Semi Final, back in 1990, with Bobby Robson on the lines, and one penalty missed by Stuart Pearce that sent England home. Another Penalty defeat, this time to Argentina in 1998, an instant classic, with Michael Owen scorching the field with a brilliant goal and one David Beckham red card. 2002 – Quarter Final exit, losing to Brazil despite Owen putting the team in front, and one crazy Ronaldinho goal with David Seaman to blame. 2006 – quarter final exit again, penalties again, Portugal to blame, Wayne Rooney sent off, Cristiano Ronaldo to blame. Can Gerrard, Lampard, Rooney and the rest finally make the words “It’s coming home” true?

Number 5 – France – 13 points

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Funny with France being number five – they didn’t make the world cup in 1990 and 1994, still hungover from the 1980’s squad that won the 1984 Euro’s and reached two world cup semi’s in 1982 and 1986. But then came 1998, and Zidane, and the 3-0 Les Bleus victory over Brazil in the final, and France were World champions for the first time. France also won the 2000 Euro, with a golden goal by David Trezeguet. And then came the 2002 World Cup, that started with an amazing upset loss to Senegal, 1-0, in the opening match, and eventually winning only one point in the group stage without scoring any goals. In 2006 the French were back in form and reached the finals after beating Spain, Brazil and Portugal only to lose to Italy in the final, in penalties, and have Zidane headbutt Materazzi in one of the most memorable moments in World cup history.

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So where do France go this time? They didn’t make it out of the group stage in the 2008 Euro and are currently second in their qualifying group, behind Serbia, but right now they’re in the playoff spot and still with a chance to win first. With Ribery, Benzema, Gourcuff, Henry and more it’s hard to believe that France won’t make it to South Africa, but I don’t think they’ll be one of the favorites to win it. That actually might be a good thing for them.

Number 4 – Argentina – 14 points

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The first of two South American teams on our list, and a team in a lot of trouble in their qualifying group while the countries most famous son is coaching the team. September 5, 2009 – mark it down – Brazil are coming to Argentina. Argentina haven’t missed a World Cup since Mexico 1970, but haven’t been as successful as they’d like to be in the last 20 years. They did win it in 1978 and 1986, but after reaching the Final in 1990, losing to West Germany 1-0, Argentina haven’t been further than the Semi final. 1994 – Diego Maradona back on the team that started out very well, but he was found positive for ephedrine and got sent home – Argentina lost in the second round to Romania. 1998 – Quarter Final loss to Holland in a great game, but a beautiful Dennis Bergkamp goal sent the Albicelestes home. 2002 – Lowest of the low. After dominating the South American qualifiers, Argentina fail to qualify from the group stage for the first time since 1962, and lose to their arch rivals England 1-0, with a David Beckham penalty to complete his personal revenge. 2006 – A great display in the group stages including a 6-0 demolition over Serbia, a great 2-1 victory over Mexico in the second round but than it was Germany with penalty kicks that sent Argentina home.

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As we said earlier, Argentina aren’t really cruising through the qualifiers and have already lost four times, including a humiliating 6-1 loss to Bolivia. Maradona has an amazingly talented group, with Messi, Aguero and Tevez to top the squad, but something isn’t clicking, and there is a real chance of Argentina not finishing in the top four. They have four games left, including one in Paraguay and one in Uruguay. Not something to smile about.

Number 3 – Italy – 20 points

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They may be the defending world champions, but Italy currently can’t be anything to be proud of. They looked horrible in Euro 2008 and were knocked out by Spain in the quarter final and couldn’t qualify from the group stage this summer in the confederations cup, with a loss to Egypt and a 3-0 defeat to Brazil. The team looks old, and the youngsters climbing up the ranks aren’t good enough right now, and maybe still won’t be by next year.

Italy hosted the tournament in 1990 and lost in the semi’s to Argentina after a penalty shootout, as the crowd in Naples cheered for their club hero, Maradona. In 1994 it was again penalties that crushed the Italain hopes, this time in the finals as Brazil went on to win the trophy after Roberto Baggio missed the final kick. 1998 – penalties again, loss again, this time against eventual champions France. 2002 – Again outed by the host nation, this time South Korea, in a very controversial match with a lot of dubious ref calls. 2006 – The 24 year wait for a title was over – and Italy were finally on the winning side of a penalty shootout, in the Finals, against France.

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Italy lead their group, still undefeated after six games with four left, but the team doesn’t look good in Marcello Lippi’s second tenure as head coach, and although it’ll be a big shock if they don’t make it to South Africa, with the way the team looks right now, don’t be expecting Italy to reach far in the world cup.

Number 2 – Germany – 22 points

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Germany were actually West Germany from 1950 to 1990, and all their world cup trophies, three of them, with the last one coming in 1990, were achieved as West Germany, although the National unified German team keeps those titles under its name. There used to be a saying ” Soccer is a game you play for 90 minutes, and in the end Germany wins.” Although still a dominant and strong side, Germany isn’t what it used to be although the 2006 World Cup and the rise of the Bundesliga in recent years may hint that the German national team could be a contender again.

It’s not as if Germany were bad – they just weren’t as good as people expect from the German side in 1994 and 1998 and also the 2000 and 2004 Euro’s. There was the 1990 World cup win in Italy over Argentina, but then came the 1994 shocking loss to Bulgaria in the quarter final, in a world cup that many thought Germany would win, or at least reach the final of. In 1998 came another Quarter final exit, with another surprise loss, this time to Croatia. In 2002 it was another surprise, but this team the surprise was Germany made it to the Final, but lost to Brazil 2-0. In 2006, on their home soil the team produced some very nice soccer displays, but lost in the semi final to Italy.

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Germany are first in their qualifying group, but it’s still isn’t over there, with Russia giving them a good fight for the top spot. The Germans aren’t among the best teams and heavy favorites to win, but they do have an outside chance of going far in 2010.

Number 1 – Brazil – 24 points

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Most of the nations on this list see themselves as contenders for the World Cup title every four years, but it’s something else with Brazil and Brazilians. Doesn’t matter who’s in the squad and what’s the situation, Brazilians believe, the team believes, that they are the best. And winning the thing isn’t enough, they have to do it in style in order to satisfy the fans. But still, these expectations are there for a reason, and in the last 20 years Brazil have been the best World Cup team without a doubt. Twice World champions – 1994, victory over Italy in the finals after a penalty shootout, breaking a 24 year drought with Romario and Bebeto leading the team, and 2002, with Ronaldo, Rivaldo and a bit Ronaldinho and a 2-0 win over Germany in the final. In 1990 it was a second round exit with a loss to archrivals Argentina. The Brazilians claim that the Argentinians drugged their water, some even confessed. In 1998 Brazil reached the final but were beaten 3-0 by France and in 2006 a heavily favored side pre-tournament was very dissapointing from the first moment and lost to France in the Quarter final.

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Brazil are first in the South American group although it’s not exactly smooth sailing, but they’ll get to South Africa eventually, and with another trophy for the cabinet won in the 2009 Confederations cup they’ll be THE favorites to win the 2010 World Cup.

Juventus blew a chance to shorten the distance from A.C. Milan and the second place, finishing in a 2-2 draw with Atalanta and not going in through the window of opportunity given to them after Udinese beat Milan last night 2-1.

All the goals were scored in the first half. Luca Cigarini was aided by Nicola Legrottaglie’s foot to put Atalanta 1-0 up after 2 minutes. Vincenzo Iaquinta equalized with his head in the 26th minute and Cristiano Zanetti put Juve 2-1 up with a beautiful long range effort. Atalanta equalized just before half time with Maximiliano Pellegrino the scorer.