Uruguay v. Mexico
The unexpected leaders of Group A face off in what should be an interesting game. From a safety perspective, a tie will suit both teams fine as it will guarantee Mexico’s qualification for the second round while Uruguay would be assured of finishing top.
However, knowing the second place team will likely face Argentina then expect both teams to go full throttle for the win. However, if it is still tied at the 80-minute mark don’t be surprised if both teams take their foot off the pedal.
Two Latin teams playing each other can often produce scintillating football. It could be the case here. It will be a good test for Mexico’s young forwards to try to break down the experienced, tough, and smart Uruguay back line. Don’t be surprised if Manchester United’s new signing Javier Hernandez starts up top for Mexico with the impressive Giovani Dos Santos (Galatasaray) who has come of age in this tournament. Meanwhile, the combination of Diego Forlan (Atletico Madrid) and Luis Suarez (Ajax) adds the silk and guile up top for Uruguay.
A good test for both sides with a smidgen of pressure.
France v. South Africa
France's coach Raymond Domenech walks towards journalists holding a letter from his players at the Fields of Dreams stadium in Knysna on June 20, 2010 during the 2010 World Cup football tournament. The French World Cup squad refused to train because of striker Nicolas Anelka's expulsion, according to a letter written by them and read out to the media by under-fire coach Raymond Domenech. Getty Images / FRANCK FIFE
Fingers crossed South Africa comes out on top of this match-up.
France is truly a disgrace in how it has dealt with its internal strife – particularly its players, who are selfish beyond belief. Okay, so the French Federation made a big mistake in keeping Raymond Domenech in the first place, then magnified it by announcing he would be leaving at the end of the World Cup. Then Domenech lost the plot with who he selected in his squad. Clearly he did see who he could count on.
In either event, players should take care of their own knitting – training and playing well – and nothing else. Irrespective of who is the coach players represent their country. It should not make a difference.
On the other side of the field, South Africa will fight to the bitter end with another sold-out crowd willing it on. More than ever it will also have a global audience pulling for it to end the tournament with a win and hoping for a miracle.
From the outset the Bafana Bafana really lacked the experience and talent to go far in the tournament. What it hasn't lacked however are the intangibles which are missing in France’s team and squad: commitment, hard work, persistence, togetherness, and great spirit. If they show the same against the French they can win. In doing so they would teach them a lesson they deserve.
Argentina v. Greece
Argentina's striker Carlos Tevez (R) jubilates as South Korea's goalkeeper Jung Sung-Ryong reacts after missing an own goal by South Korea's striker Park Chu-Young (unseen) during their Group B first round 2010 World Cup football match on June 17, 2010 at Soccer City stadium in Soweto, suburban Johannesburg.— AFP/Getty Images
After an exciting win against Nigeria in its second Group B game, Greece enters its game with Argentina knowing it can still qualify for the second round. However there are two main problems.
Firstly, they will have to go for a win because in the event South Korea beats Nigeria – a distinct possibility – it would need six points plus a superior goal difference. The problem with this is that they are a better defending team than attacking and so the shift in gears will be a test for them.
