CÔTE D'IVOIRE 3-2 SERBIA AND MONTENEGRO

21 June 2006

Côte d'Ivoire produced a stirring finale to their first-ever FIFA World Cup™ adventure, coming from two goals down to clinch a stunning 3-2 win over Serbia and Montenegro.

The FIFA World Cup Stadium Munich witnessed a terrific match, one of Germany 2006's best to date, and the Ivorian Elephants thoroughly deserved the victory secured by goals from Aruna Dindane and Bonaventure Kalou, after earlier strikes from Nikola Zigic and Sasa Ilic had put the Serbo-Montenegrins 2-0 in front.

As if that drama wasn't enough, there were also a couple of red cards in this match, with Albert Nadj's 46th-minute dismissal a key factor in tipping the balance in favour of a Côte d'Ivoire side who lost captain Cyrille Domoraud in added time.

Despite their first FIFA World Cup victory, Côte d'Ivoire finish third in Group C with three points while Serbia and Montenegro go home without a point, having conceded 10 goals.

The match:
6‘: The match started briskly, with the ball zipping across turf which had been soaked by a huge storm which broke 90 minutes before kick-off. It was still pouring with rain when Arthur Boka had the first shot of the night, but the Côte d’Ivoire defender was well wide of the mark.

10‘: Serbia and Montenegro scored their first ever FIFA World Cup™ finals goal when captain Dejan Stankovic played a cross-field pass from just inside the Côte d’Ivoire half and Nikola Zigic nipped in between Blaise Kouassi and his hesitant goalkeeper Boubacar Barry to control the ball and slide it into an unguarded net (0-1).

16‘: Serbia and Montenegro’s Mladen Krstajic was forced to go off injured after an innocuous-looking accidental challenge led to what looked like a broken arm. He was replaced by Albert Nadj, who was booked almost immediately.

18‘: Côte d’Ivoire came close to an equaliser when Kader Keita broke free down the right and reached the by-line before pulling it back to Aruna Dindane, but his shot was saved by the trailing leg of Dragoslav Jevric and Kanga Akale could not turn home the rebound from very close range.

20‘: Serbia and Montenegro profited from another defensive error as Predrag Djordjevic curled a hopeful cross into the box and when Cyrille Domoraud failed to control it, Sasa Ilic gratefully pounced to turn in the second goal (0-2).

37‘: Serbia and Montenegro conceded a penalty when Milan Dudic handled Boka’s cross from the left. Dindane did well to hold his nerve with a twice-taken penalty, scoring both times with identical kicks amid a cacophony of whistles and a frightening clap of thunder after his first attempt was ruled out for player encroachment (1-2).

39‘: Djordevic forced Barry into a smart save with a well-driven free-kick from 20 metres out.

46+‘: Serbia and Montenegro substitute Nadj was sent off for his second yellow card.

Tricky conditions
57‘: The incessant rain made it difficult for the players to control the ball and after an untidy passage of play, Côte d’Ivoire forced Jevric into another unconventional save. Boka had a free-kick charged down by Ilic and Akale blasted the rebound at goal but Jevric once again saved with his leg.

61‘: Arouna Kone had two attempts for Côte d’Ivoire, the first charged down by Goran Gavrancic, the second was dragged wide.

62‘: A fantastic shot from 25 metres by Kouassi had a helpless Jevric beaten all ends up but it smacked against the crossbar.

63‘: As Côte d’Ivoire piled on the pressure, Dindane’s header went centimetres wide.

67‘: The equaliser Côte d’Ivoire had been threatening to score came when Dindane steered in Keita’s cross with his head to claim his second goal of the game (2-2).

71‘: Yaya Toure clipped a firm shot at Jevric but this time clutched it by taking the ball straight into his chest.

77‘: Stankovic ghosted into the Côte d’Ivoire penalty area unmarked but could only guide Djordevic’s inviting free-kick a metre the wrong side of Barry’s left-hand post.

86‘: Côte d’Ivoire’s remarkable comeback is complete after their second penalty award when Bonaventure Kalou’s shot was handled by Dudic. Kalou stepped up and made no mistake from the spot (3-2).

92+‘: In stoppage time, Côte d’Ivoire’s Domoraud was sent off for his second yellow card.

In conclusion:
With both teams already eliminated and little but pride at stake, they threw caution to the wind – and rain – to produce a fabulous contest. Côte d’Ivoire emerged victorious despite conceding two early goals for a well-deserved win.

Budweiser Man of the Match: Carlos TEVEZ (ARG)

21 June 2006

Argentina forward Carlos Tevez showed why so many European teams are trying to pry him away from Brazilian side Corinthians with his impressive display of hard work and attacking skill in his team’s final group match against the Netherlands, and the performance earned him Budweiser Man of the Match honours.

Although strike-partner Lionel Messi also displayed some dazzling skills, Tevez’s combination of strength, speed and skills proved to be a constant danger to the Dutch defenders, and when virtually everyone else seemed to settle for a point late in the match, Tevez was still working to try to get the match-winner, latching onto a long ball and firing a powerful volley just wide in injury time.

“In an evenly contested match, Tevez was the strongest,” said FIFA Technical Study Group member Jim Selby.

“He fought for every ball and caused problems for Netherlands not only with his attacking play, but also by occasionally dropping back into midfield to win the ball and even helped the defenders.

"Ultimately, he made several efforts to create his own scoring chances. For his work in the attack and also his collaboration with the defence, he is the Budweiser Man of the Match.”

NETHERLANDS 0-0 ARGENTINA

21 June 2006

Argentina secured first place in Group C and a Round of 16 meeting with Mexico after a 0-0 draw with the Netherlands in Frankfurt on Wednesday, 21 June 2006.

The stalemate between two sides already assured of qualification left them tied on seven points at the top of the group, with Argentina finishing first virtue of their better goal difference. While Jose Pekerman's team move on to face Mexico in Leipzig on Saturday, the Dutch will play Portugal in Nuremberg 24 hours later.

The match:
7': The Dutch controlled the opening exchanges but Argentina showed the threat they carry on the counter as a perfectly-weighted ball from Lionel Messi looked to have found Esteban Cambiasso until an excellent challenge from Khalid Boulahrouz cleared the ball for a corner.

16': Gradually Argentina got into their stride and with Javier Mascherano pulling the strings and Maxi Rodriguez and Messi adding the flair, they began to look increasingly dangerous. Carlos Tevez curled a shot a yard wide from the edge of the area, but from the resulting goal-kick the South Americans played themselves into trouble.

17': Nicolas Burdisso was caught in possession by Dirk Kuyt who cut into the penalty area and shot for goal, but Boca Juniors Roberto Abbondanzieri turned the ball round for a corner at his near post.

24': Just a few minutes later Burdisso was forced to limp off and was replaced by Deportivo La Coruna defender Fabricio Coloccini.

27': The opening goal almost came direct from a corner, but Edwin van der Sar repositioned himself quickly enough to tip over a vicious inswinger from Juan Riquelme.

28': Again Riquelme caused problems and from his low free-kick, Rafael van der Vaart, stretching to clear, turned the ball onto Van der Sar's right-hand post. Less than a minute later Rodriguez flashed a powerful drive inches wide – Argentina were now moving through the gears.

40': Despite the attacking flair on show, neither goalkeeper was overstretched during the first half.

No breakthrough:
49': Strong and determined play from midway inside his own half from Tevez put the Dutch defence under pressure and Riquelme shot just wide from the edge of the penalty area.

54': Tevez was again the danger a few minutes later when setting up Rodriguez, but after cutting in from the right the Atletico Madrid midfielder shot over.

61': There were swathes of orange around the stadium in Frankfurt but it was the Argentinian fans who were making more noise as their side continued to control the tempo of the second half.

65': For all their possession, direct chances were few and far between for the Albiceleste. Tevez might have made more of a difficult chance when sent through, but he could not get the bouncing ball under his control.

69': Direct efforts from the Dutch were at this stage something of a rarity, so when Phillip Cocu shot narrowly wide from 20 yards it served as a wake-up call to everyone that they were not here just to defend. Cocu's effort precended the departure of Lionel Messi, making way for Julio Cruz following his first start at the FIFA World Cup.

73': Tevez however continued to provide a direct threat and brought a one-handed save from Van Der Sar with a well-struck drive from 20 yards.

84': For all that Argentina had forced the pace, the Netherlands were playing a well-controlled game and tried to snatch the points in the closing stages. However, a free-kick from just short of 30 yards by Van der Vaart was always edging wide.

In conclusion:
The Netherlands have not lost in normal time to Argentina in four meetings in the FIFA World Cup™, but it is the South Americans who finish the group stage marginally happier having secured first place. The unbeaten records of both should ensure they look ahead to the Round of 16 with confidence.

Budweiser Man of the Match: Jose FONSECA (MEX)

21 June 2006

Mexico striker Jose Fonseca was named as the Budweiser Man of the Match after his country’s narrow 2-1 defeat against Group D winners Portugal.

Fonseca was recognised by FIFA’s Technical Study Group (TSG) after putting in an influential display at the sharp end of his country’s attack, particularly after Ricardo La Volpe’s team were reduced to ten men.

The Tricolor coach opted for the Cruz Azul hit-man over Guillermo Franco to partner Omar Bravo, hero of Mexico’s win over Iran, up front. Fonseca’s tireless performance ensured that the coach’s faith was not misplaced. “Throughout the game, he was the hardest-working Mexican forward, always looking for a goal and trying to create chances for his team-mates,” said TSG member Gyorgy Mezey of Hungary.

“He was a crucial player in how the game unfolded. He stood out for his individual play, but also for how much he worked for his team. He also scored a good goal, and almost squared the match for his team, after Mexico went down to ten men.”

PORTUGAL 2-1 MEXICO

21 June 2006

Portugal made it three wins out of three in Group D as they defeated Mexico 2-1 in Gelsenkirchen through goals from Maniche and Simao Sabrosa on Wednesday, 21 June 2006.

While Portugal advanced as group winners to face the second-placed team in Group C - either Argentina or the Netherlands - in a Round of 16 tie in Nuremberg on Sunday, Mexico joined them in the knockout stage after finishing second with four points. El Tri will take on the Group C winners on Saturday in Leipzig.

The Mexicans trailed 2-0 inside 24 minutes in Gelsenkirchen after Maniche shot Portugal into a sixth-minute lead and Simao Sabrosa doubled the advantage from the penalty spot. Jose Fonseca made it 2-1 in the 29th minute but Omar Bravo's missed spot-kick in the second half ensured a defeat for Ricardo La Volpe's team. Mexico also suffered the loss of Luis Perez to a red card, which means he will miss the Round of 16 match through suspension.

The match:
2': Mexico made a fast start as Jose Fonseca, picking up possession on the edge of the box, turned inside his man and forced Ricardo into a good low save with a powerful strike.

6': Having already assured qualification, Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari had left on the bench five players on yellow cards – Cristiano Ronaldo, Costinha, Deco, Nuno Valente and Pauleta. Yet their absences were not felt as the Portuguese took an early lead: Simao Sabrosa raced towards goal and squared for the onrushing Maniche to power a shot into the top corner from around the penalty spot. (1-0)

8': Mexico, two points behind Portugal going into the game, were almost level immediately. Pavel Pardo crossed for Bravo whose acrobatic effort fell inches wide of the post.

24': Scolari's side were looking comfortable and were presented with a golden opportunity to extend their lead when captain Rafael Marquez handled Luis Figo's corner. With Oswaldo Sanchez dancing on his line, Simao crashed the penalty home. (2-0)

27': Mexico were stunned and they almost conceded a third soon afterwards. Helder Postiga's effort from the corner of the area was saved by Sanchez before Tiago fired the follow-up over.

29': Bravo almost pulled a goal back for Mexico. Alone at the back post he volleyed low and hard but Ricardo got down well to block the effort with the ball spinning onto the bar and over. From the resulting corner, however, Fonseca did score, flicking a fine header into the unguarded far post to reduce the arrears. (2-1)

43': Fonseca saw another headed effort float wide before Maniche forced Sanchez into a save from 25 yards at the other end.

44': Mexico pushed for the equaliser. Pardo saw his long-range strike saved and from the resulting corner, Portugal finally cleared the danger after an almighty scramble in their penalty box.

Bravo misses from the spot:
57': La Volpe's men poured forward and and earned a penalty as Miguel handled the ball. However, the chance went begging as Bravo smashed the penalty high into the netting above the crossbar.

61': Miguel was involved in another incident, tussling with Luis Perez in the Portugal box. The Mexican went down but this time the referee gave a free-kick the other way before handing a second yellow and then a red card to Perez.

63': Bravo had another great chance to hand the ten men an equaliser. Clean through on goal, the Guadalajara forward lifted his shot high over the bar.

72': With the news that Angola had gone a goal up, the Mexican bench became more agitated. More good work down the left from Simao presented substitute Nuno Gomes with a chance to add a third but he fired over.

83': Now on the right side, Simao beat his man and sent in a vicious cross that Nuno Gomes was a whisker away from reaching.

87': The Europeans were again close to a third. Sanchez threw the ball against the back of a defender and had to back-track fast as an effort flew inches over the bar.

90+2': Maniche found time again to shoot but the icing on the cake just would not arrive as Sanchez parried.

In conclusion:
Portugal advance to the second round for the first time since 1966 in some style, having claimed maximum points. Mexico - with a win, a draw and a loss - will hope to find some consistency as they head into the knockout stage yet again.

Budweiser Man of the Match: ZE KALANGA (ANG)

21 June 2006

Angola winger Ze Kalanga created chances for his team throughout their 1-1 draw with Iran, and his ability to deliver telling crosses from the right flank did not go unrewarded when it came time for Roger Milla to select the Budweiser Man of the Match.

The speedy midfielder, who plays his club football with Angolan side Petro Atletico, contributed considerably both in attack and defence, combining well with central midfielder Figueiredo on many occasions. Ze Kalanga was involved in virtually every Angolan attack and, most importantly, he was the one who served up the cross from the right wing that was measured perfectly for Flavio to head home his team's first-ever goal at the FIFA World Cup™.

"The Budweiser Man of the Match was Ze Kalanga because he was the centre of all Angolan attacks,” said FIFA Technical Study Group member Milla. “The goal came from his wonderful cross and he was destabilising the Iranian defence with his runs. He also contributed defensively for his team and so the nomination is well deserved."

IRAN 1-1 ANGOLA

21 June 2006

Iran ended Angola's slim hopes of qualifying from Group D, as they held the African side to a 1-1 draw in Leipzig on Wednesday, 21 June 2006.

Angola scored their first-ever goal at a FIFA World Cup™ finals when Flavio headed home Ze Kalanga's cross on the hour mark. However, their hopes of catching Mexico on goal difference were ended when Sohrab Bakhtiarizadeh rose unmarked to convert Mehdi Mahdavikia's corner 15 minutes from time.

The result left Angola in third place behind Portugal and Mexico with two points, while Iran propped up the table with this, their solitary point of the tournament.

The match:
5': After a slow start to the game news filtered through to Leipzig that Portugal had taken the lead against Mexico. This made the Angolan fans inside the stadium dance with delight, as they hoped to help inspire their team to victory.

13': Vahid Hashemian nodded the ball to Ferydoon Zandi on the edge of the area. The Kaiserslautern midfielder skipped inside the box and hit a low shot, which Joao Ricardo did well to parry.

15': Figueiredo's drive from the edge of the box forced Ebrahim Mirzapour into a low save as the Africans pushed forward.

20': There was bad news for Angola as they had two players stretchered off inside 60 seconds. First Mateus left the field after sustaining what looked like a serious leg injury, and then Loco needed medical attention after being involved in a challenge with Hashemian. While Mateus was replaced by Love, Loco was able to continue, having been booked for his foul on the Iranian striker.

24': Iran had a great opportunity to take the lead, but veteran striker Ali Daei missed the target, heading over from just four yards when completely unmarked. The man with 109 international goals to his name was visibly frustrated by his profligacy.

27': For the second time in three minutes, Iran went close. Hashemian rose above the Angolan defence and directed a header towards goal, but Mendonca cleared off the line. Rahman Rezaei sliced the rebound wide.

31': Both coaches were left frustrated by the finishing of their strikers. First Akwa blazed a volley over the crossbar and when play switched to the other end, Zandi was guilty of the same crime.

34': Angola had four corners in a row, but they were unable to create a clear-cut chance and Miloy ended the spell of pressure for the Palancas Negras when he dragged his 20-yard effort wide of the target.

40': Andranik Taymoorian sent in a strong, right-footed effort from 20 yards that forced Joao Ricardo into a fine low save. The keeper also had to be alert to pounce on the rebound as Daei closed in.

45+2: Akwa touched the ball to Love on the edge of the box and his drive was superbly tipped over the bar by Mirzapour. Adventurous Angola
47': Angola started the second half brightly. Less than 100 seconds after the restart, the ball fell kindly for Mendonca in a promising position outside the box, but the midfielder saw his right-foot shot drift just wide.

52': Mendonca went a little closer with a 25-yard effort, the ball flying narrowly off target.

60': Angola took the lead with a superbly taken goal. After showing good skills in the centre of the pitch, Figueiredo played the ball to Ze Kalanga who sprinted down the right-hand side. His ball into the box was perfect and a grateful Flavio headed the ball home for his 14th international goal. (0-1)

69': In almost a carbon copy of the goal, a Ze Kalanga cross from the right was headed towards goal by Love, but this time Mirzapour was well-placed to save the striker’s effort.

75': Against the run of play, Iran drew level. After winning a corner on the right-hand side, which was taken by Mahdavikia, the unmarked Sohrab Bakhtiarizadeh headed the ball into the net, to the fury of Angola No.1 Joao Ricardo. (1-1)

84': Iran's goal appeared to dent Angola's sense of belief and the Africans risked conceding a second as Rasoul Khatibi's shot on the turn was palmed over by Joao Ricardo.

In conclusion:
The odds were always stacked against Angola reaching the Round of 16 going into this match, but when they took the lead through Flavio their hopes were suddenly raised. However, Bakhtiarizadeh’s equaliser effectively ended their dreams. In a spirited display from both sides, a draw was probably the fair result, although Angola will be frustrated that they could not convert more of their opportunities.

Budweiser Man of the Match: Julio DOS SANTOS (PAR)

20 June 2006

On his first start at the 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany 2006™, the 23-year-old Paraguay midfielder Julio Dos Santos was the outstanding player in Tuesday's game against Trinidad and Tobago. His efforts earned him the Budweiser Man of the Match award as voted for by FIFA’s Technical Study Group (TSG).

“He bossed the midfield, he was the man behind all of Paraguay’s attacking moves,” explained TSG member Alvin Corneal. “He was the one who made all the best passes to the forwards and managed to find a way through the opposition’s back line. Dos Santos was the most consistent player in the match. He was everywhere, always looking for the ball, was always the best option for a pass from his team-mates and always seemed to be in the right place. He was quite simply excellent."

Before Paraguay’s third group game, the lanky (1.90m) Dos Santos had only featured once at this FIFA World Cup, replacing Cristian Riveros in the 62nd minute of his side’s previous match against Sweden. An excellent 30-minute cameo performance saw the Bayern Munich midfielder given a starting role for his team’s Germany 2006 swansong against Trinidad and Tobago, and he repaid coach Anibal Ruiz’s confidence with a top-quality display.

PARAGUAY 2-0 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

20 June 2006

Paraguay’s disappointing FIFA World Cup™ campaign finished on a high note as they beat Trinidad and Tobago 2-0 in Kaiserslautern's Fritz-Walter-Stadion on Tuesday, 20 June 2006.

The Soca Warriors, meanwhile, depart Germany without a win or goal to their name, and yet the pride of Leo Beenhakker’s team remains firmly intact, with this gallant defeat typical of their energetic, courageous performances throughout their debut tournament.

Much of this match was, in fact, dominated by a T&T side who fell behind to the most unfortunate of opening goals, headed past his own, helpless goalkeeper by Brent Sancho in the 25th minute.

The second half provided entertaining and competitive fare, and saw Paraguay weather a sustained Soca storm before securing their only points of the tournament with a coolly-taken 86th-minute strike from Nelson Cuevas.

The match:
A Mexican wave swept around the stadium in Kaiserslautern in the minutes before kick-off. Both sets of fans were determined to lend their own colour to the game, with plenty of Trinidad and Tobago flags waved by people from the Caribbean islands as well as neutrals who had adopted the team during the competition.

2': Edgar Baretto swung a free-kick into the box that Roque Santa Cruz met with a glancing header. The effort looked to be heading towards goal, but Kelvin Jack made a superb save, springing to his left to tip the ball around the post for a corner.

5': At the other end, Dwight Yorke picked out Cornell Glen, whose header was turned away by Aldo Bobadilla.

7: A Trinidad and Tobago corner from the right was only partly cleared by Carlos Gamarra. The ball came to Aurtis Whitley on the volley, but the midfielder's effort was well off-target.

9': The Barretto-Santa Cruz combination went close again for Paraguay, but this time the Bayern Munich man’s header sailed over the top of the crossbar.

12': A Yorke free-kick was headed clear by Carlos Paredes, just before Stern John could pounce to steer the ball past Bobadilla.

16': The referee, Roberto Rossetti, awarded Trindad and Tobago another free-kick in a central position which Yorke floated into the box, just as he had done on the previous occasion. This time, Bobadilla punched it away, although the unease of the Paraguay back four was clearly apparent.

23': Another lovely floated ball from Baretto into the box found Nelson Valdez in a central position, but once again the header was off target.

25': The deadlock was broken when Roberto Acuna's free-kick was flicked on by Julio Dos Santos and turned into his own net by Sancho. The Gillingham defender could not hide his disappointment upon seeing the net ripple and the blue shirts of Paraguay converged together in celebration. (1-0)

30': Paredes earned the first booking of the game for a late foul on Whitley and the first substitution was made. Kenwyne Jones came on for Avery John and almost made an immediate impact when his powerfully struck free-kick was blocked en route to goal by one of his own team-mates.

40': A stretcher took Glen off the field after the LA Galaxy striker suffered a serious-looking knee injury. He was given a warm ovation as he was carried to the dressing room.

42': Santa Cruz powered his way down the left flank, beating several Trinidad and Tobago defenders in the process. He cut inside, made his way into the box and fired a low drive which flashed across the face of the goal.

46+': Acuna curled the ball in from the left and only a fantastic save from Jack denied the Paraguayans from doubling their advantage. From the resulting corner, Densill Theobald’s goal-line clearance left Paredes with his head in his hands.

Explosive restart from T&T:
47': Trinidad and Tobago made a bright start to the second half, typified by Jones’ lung-bursting run through the centre of the pitch. He squared the ball to Carlos Edwards, whose low cross into the box was only inches away from being met by Yorke.

55': Paraguay created their first chance of the second 45 when Santa Cruz touched the ball to Paredes on the edge of the box, but the Reggina man’s effort was comfortably gathered by Jack.

62': Yorke burst through the midfield and played the ball to Edwards on the right. His cross narrowly evaded John in the area and fell to Theobald, who blasted the ball into the side-netting. In the same minute, Santa Cruz went close at the other end after a quick break by the South Americans, but his shot whistled just wide of the upright.

63': Jack was called into action by strikes from Santa Cruz and Barretto, however, the Dundee goalkeeper proved equal to both.

71': Chris Birchall skipped past the challenges of several Paraguay players, but the midfielder lost his balance just as he was about to shoot and fired over.

75': With 15 minutes of the game to go, two of T&T’s most experienced players, Russell Latapy and Yorke combined well on the edge of the box, but the former Manchester United man fired his shot well wide.

77': A knock down from Jones found Latapy on the edge of the box and his left-footed volley was only inches away from hitting the target.

80': Trinidad and Tobago went close twice in the space of a minute as Paraguay’s good fortune continued. John was just inches away from converting a Jones cross and the former failed to get any real purchase on a headed effort just seconds later.

86': With Trinidad pushing for an equaliser, Paraguay scored their second of the game. Good interplay on the edge of the box saw substitute Cuevas work a clever one-two with Santa Cruz before firing past Jack. (2-0)

In conclusion:
Paraguay collected their first win of Germany 2006 in their final match, leaving them in third place in the Group B table behind England and Sweden. Trinidad and Tobago, meanwhile, can feel a little frustrated not to have gained a share of the spoils, especially for their attacking second-half performance.

Budweiser Man of the Match: Joe COLE (ENG)

20 June 2006

England midfielder Joe Cole scored what might prove to be the goal of the tournament and delivered an outstanding effort all around in his team's 2-2 draw with Sweden in their last match in Group B. The performance made him the clear choice for the Budweiser Man of the Match.

His 34th-minute strike was absolutely stunning, an amazing volley from over 25 metres that left Sweden goalkeeper Andreas Isaksson with no chance – an undeniably brilliant effort from one of England’s best. Cole also played an important part in England’s second goal, clipping in a pinpoint cross from the edge of the area for Steven Gerrard to head home. It would have been the match-winner if not for Henrik Larsson’s 90th-minute equaliser.

“It was an excellent overall performance from Joe Cole,” said FIFA Technical Study Group member Kalusha Bwalya. “In the first half especially he was the outlet on the left, always positive in trying to take on his man and finding Wayne Rooney and Peter Crouch. He scored a wonderful goal and had an assist.”

SWEDEN 2-2 ENGLAND

20 June 2006

England and Sweden drew 2-2 in Cologne on Tuesday, 20 June 2006 - a result that sends both teams through to the Round of 16 from Group B.

England's prize for topping the section is to play Ecuador in Stuttgart on 25 June, while Sweden must take on hosts Germany in Munich 24 hours earlier. Sven-Goran Eriksson's team had already secured qualification before this match and they were only denied a third successive win by a 90th-minute Henrik Larsson goal.

England had gone in front on 34 minutes through a spectacular strike from Joe Cole. Marcus Allback headed the Swedes level at 1-1 six minutes into the second half but substitute Steven Gerrard restored England's advantage when he headed in their second on 81 minutes.

The match:
2': England suffered a terrible early blow when Michael Owen collapsed in agony close to the touchline after his right knee buckled under him. The injury was so serious that team physio Gary Lewin immediately signalled for a substitution. Peter Crouch, one booking away from a suspension, came on two minutes later as Owen left the scene on a stretcher.

3': Frank Lampard, who has had more shots than any other player at the 2006 FIFA World Cup™ so far, set his sights from 20 metres though the effort went wide.

7': Lampard had another go at goal, but it was straight at Sweden keeper Andreas Isaksson.

12': Wayne Rooney’s determined run and cross was met, yet again, by the ubiquitous Lampard, but his attempted header came off his shoulder and passed harmlessly wide.

21': After surviving a period of pressure and a succession of Swedish corners, England went forward again and Joe Cole went close with a shot just over Isaksson's crossbar.

25': David Beckham released the bustling Rooney but his shot was expertly blocked by Teddy Lucic.

29': Beckham's inswinging free-kick from near the touchline was punched out for a corner by Isaksson.

34': England went ahead through an absolutely fantastic goal by Joe Cole. He chested the ball before sending a looping, textbook volley in off the top of the post from 25 metres out, with Isaksson only managing to get his fingertips to it. (0-1)

40': Lampard had Isaksson scrambling from the same sort of range as Joe Cole, but the ball skimmed the top of the net on its way out for a goal-kick.

Landmark goal
51': Freddie Ljungberg made a positive run into England's penalty area and his shot was blocked by John Terry, who turned it behind. From the resulting corner on the left by Tobias Linderoth, Allback rose high and flicked a header past Robinson, with Ashley Cole failing to keep it out on the line. Sweden had scored the 2,000th goal in FIFA World Cup history (1-1)

54': From a corner on the opposite flank, Larsson rattled England and their crossbar with an instinctive header that Robinson did well to tip onto the woodwork after it deflected off Jamie Carragher.

59': Sweden, playing much better than in the first half, once again had England rocking from a corner. Linderoth delivered it and Larsson headed the ball back for Olof Mellberg who clipped the top of the bar with his right-footed attempt from near the penalty spot.

69': Gerrard, who came on for an obviously frustrated Rooney in England's final substitution of the night, had to hack the ball off the line from Kallstrom's measured left-footed shot as another Swedish corner caused England headaches at the back.

85': England went in front again when Joe Cole crossed for Gerrard, who scored his second goal at Germany 2006, this time with a decisive header. (1-2)

90': Sweden hit back to claim a late draw as Larsson stabbed in from close range just ahead of Mellberg from a low throw-in that England's defenders failed to deal with. (2-2)

In conclusion:
England have still not beaten Sweden since 1968 but, as group winners, they will be happier to be facing Ecuador and not Germany in the Round of 16. Sweden's performance in the second half here, however, should give them confidence ahead of their meeting with the hosts.

Budweiser Man of the Match: ZE ROBERTO (BRA)

18 June 2006

In a team of star attackers, it was the defensive midfielder Ze Roberto who garnered the Budweiser Man of the Match honours for his hard-working performance in Brazil's 2-0 victory over Australia.

On the same field where he celebrated a Bundesliga championship victory just four weeks ago in what was probably his last game with Bayern Munich, Ze Roberto was the man who did the selfless ball-winning work for his more celebrated team-mates.

His biggest single contribution arguably came just minutes after his side had taken the lead early in the second half when he made a terrific defensive recovery, running half the length of the field to stop a clear breakaway for Australia's Marco Bresciano.

“Brazil have many solo artists, the star players whom everybody knows,” said FIFA Technical Study Group member Francisco Maturana, “but such a team needs a worker like Ze Roberto, who hustled for almost 90 minutes to help the stars. Players like him have to be honoured. They are really important for any team, even one like Brazil.”

Budweiser Man of the Match: Michael BALLACK (GER)

20 June 2006

Michael Ballack played a true captain's role in a commanding Germany performance and it earned him the Budweiser Man of the Match honours.

Chelsea’s new midfielder dictated things as the host nation comfortably assured themselves of first place in Group A with a wider margin of victory than might have been predicted before the start.

It was the ability and power of Ballack that helped to crush the South Americans’ spirit and the high point of his performance came when he laid on Miroslav Klose’s second goal with a sublime forward pass. He almost came close to scoring a fourth goal himself but his fierce shot whistled just too high.

“Michael Ballack was the one player who organised the game for a German side containing a lot of good players today,” said FIFA Technical Study Group member Andy Roxburgh. “If you look at the 90 minutes overall, he was the one centrally who had the power and took charge of a lot of the attacks. Additionally he created the second goal which was the decisive one.”

ECUADOR 0-3 GERMANY

20 June 2006

Germany sealed top spot in Group A in impressive style, with a Miroslav Klose brace and Lukas Podolski's first goal of the 2006 FIFA World Cup™ sealing an emphatic 3-0 win over Ecuador.

Both these sides had already qualified for the Round of 16 prior to this match, but it is Jurgen Klinsmann's side who will march on to the next phase in more confident mood after a performance that simply oozed self-assurance.

The sell-out crowd of 72,000 at Berlin's Olympiastadion were certainly treated to a terrific showing from their side, for whom Klose - now tournament top scorer - was particularly impressive up front.

Ecuador, meanwhile, opted to rest a number of the players who had helped secure victories over Poland and Costa Rica in the South Americans' previous two matches, and did not look as potent without the likes of key striker Agustin Delgado.

Germany will now face the second-placed side from Group B in Munich on 24 June, while Ecuador will go head-to-head against the winner of that section in Stuttgart the following day.

The match:
4': After early half-chances at both ends, the hosts took hold of the game with a goal inside five minutes. A looping cross from the left from Per Mertesacker was cut back across the face of goal by Bastian Schweinsteiger and buried from eight yards by Klose to tie the Werder Bremen man with Spain’s Fernando Torres as Germany 2006's top scorer with three goals. (0-1)

19': With the previously impressive South Americans unable to muster much resistance, the Germans sliced them wide open once again. This time, Philipp Lahm's raid up the left channel ended in a whipped-in cross for Bernd Schneider at the back post. However, the Bayer Leverkusen midfielder's well-struck volley flashed over the crossbar to groans from the home faithful.

25': Not long after, a fine chipped through-ball from Schneider picked out the energetic Klose racing into the box. Ecuador goalkeeper Cristian Mora, however, raced off his line to deny the onrushing striker what would have been his second of the match.

33': In an almost identical move, another lofted ball from Schneider found the foot of Klose once again, only for the striker's viciously struck volley to fly over the bar. With time ticking down in the first half, the Ecuadorians were just hanging on.

44': As it transpired, they could not make it to the interval without conceding again. Michael Ballack’s brilliant flicked pass picked out Klose, who overpowered his marker before rounding Mora and slotting into the open net. (0-2)

Podolski off the mark
51': The Germans came out in the second half intent on picking up where they had left off in the first. Ecuador did, though, manage to stamp some authority on the match. Luis Valencia's fierce tackle on Ballack in midfield earned him a yellow card and a stern talking-to from referee Valentin Ivanov.

53': Just a few seconds later, the German response almost yielded a goal as Lahm picked out Podolski, who clipped a low shot just past the far post.

57’: The youngster made amends for his near-miss just seconds later as a brilliant counterattack led to another German goal. Turning defence into attack in a matter of seconds, Schneider crossed from the right to pick out the sliding Podolski, who made no mistake, poking the ball just inside the back post. (0-3)

66': Giovanny Espinoza tried his luck from distance after a rare Ecuadorian break, Jens Lehmann in the German goal was barely troubled, however, and palmed the ball over with a minimum of fuss.

72': A free-kick from 20 yards was the next decent chance the Ecuadorians conjured, with Edison Mendez's swerving effort just failing to dip under the crossbar.

In conclusion:
Germany could have won by even more goals here and will advance to the Round of 16 with the confidence gained from three wins in Group A. Ecuador, despite a difficult day in Berlin, can look forward to their first-ever knockout game having won their first two matches.

Budweiser Man of the Match: Bartosz BOSACKI (POL)

20 June 2006

Poland defender Bartosz Bosacki was named Budweiser Man of the Match after scoring a goal in each half in his team's 2-1 defeat of Costa Rica on Tuesday to send Poland home from the 2006 FIFA World Cup™ with a consolation victory.

He got his first in the 33rd minute after Costa Rica goalkeeper Jose Porras tried to cut off a corner kick but missed his punch. The ball fell to Bosacki, who calmly placed it into the back of the net. Another 33 minutes of football passed before Bosacki struck again, and this time he needed no mistake from the keeper as he rose above Costa Rica’s Paulo Wanchope to head in a cross in the 66th minute.

“He scored the equaliser and the winning goal,” said FIFA Technical Study Group member Kwok Ka-Ming. “ And he did well on defending. He is a great defender and he came from the back to make the victory. He deserves to be the Budweiser Man of the Match.”

COSTA RICA 1-2 POLAND

20 June 2006

Poland rescued some pride with a 2-1 victory over Costa Rica as both sides said goodbye to the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Hannover on Tuesday, 20 June 2006.

With both sides already eliminated after two defeats, they went into this Group A match aiming to end on a high at least, and it was Costa Rica who started the better as they took a 25th-minute lead through Ronald Gomez's free-kick. However, Batosz Bosacki drew the Poles level eight minutes later and same player headed the winning goal in the 66th minute.

Poland's victory means they finish third in Group A with one win and two defeats - the same record as four years ago in Korea/Japan. With three defeats, bottom-placed Costa Rica are left to dwell on their poorest return in three FIFA World Cups.

The match:
The fans from both sides gave it everything for one last time when the anthems for their countries were played. Both sides were playing for pride after failing to qualify from the group stages and there was plenty pride on show from both sets of supporters.

8': As the pace of the game picked up a little, the Ticos won a free-kick 40 yards out. Ronald Gomez went for goal, but while his shot carried power it was deflected for an easily cleared corner.

15': The Poland fans were not slow to let their team know when they disapproved and loud whistles reverberated around the stadium when Maciej Zurawski curled a free-kick wide from 20 yards.

24': Costa Rica showed how it should be done when opening the scoring. Paulo Wanchope went to play a neat one-two on the edge of the Poland penalty area and was brought down by opposition captain Jacek Bak. Up stepped Gomez to send a low left-footed shot through the wall and through the legs of embarrassed goalkeeper Artur Boruc. (1-0)

30': Costa Rica could have had a second goal. A low cross from the right from Wanchope picked out Gomez unmarked 12 yards out but he missed a great chance with a weak shot. Less than a minute later Gomez picked out Wanchope in a similar position but he miskicked completely.

33': Poland were made to pay the price for those misses when, from a left-wing cross, Bosacki volleyed home from six yards.

41': A sweeping move took Poland from their own half to the edge of Costa Rica's penalty area, but a low shot from Ireneusz Jelen was blocked.

Poles take the points
49;: There was an early chance for Costa Rica when play resumed. But after clever control Cristian Bolanos just failed to lob Boruc.

52': Borussia Dortmund's Ebi Smolarek was next to threaten, while Leonardo Gonzalez went close at the other end.

65': Poland were picking up the tempo, however, and a low shot from Krzynowek was turned round for a corner at full stretch by Jose Porras.

66': From the ensuing corner, Poland took the lead as Bosacki rose high on the edge of the six-yard box to head powerfully home.

82‘: The Ticos thought they had found a way back into the game when Wanchope lobbed Boruc and then headed the ball into the open goal, but his celebrations were cut short when he noticed the raised flag of the assistant referee.

87': With the clock ticking down, Poland nearly grabbed a third goal. A left-wing cross caused problems for Porras and Pawel Brozek was inches away from connecting with what would have been a header on an open goal.

In conclusion:
Poland wanted so much more from this FIFA World Cup, but at least they ended with a win. For the Costa Ricans it brings a disappointing finale to a campaign that began with a creditable display in the Opening Match against Germany.

Budweiser Man of the Match: Xabi Alonso (ESP)

19 June 2006

Spain midfielder Xabi Alonso was named as the Budweiser Man of the Match for his part in La Selección’s 3-1 comeback victory over Tunisia.

There were a number of contenders for the award, including goalscorers Raul and Fernando Torres, but Xabi Alonso played a part in virtually every build-up for Spain and was also effective in tracking back to break up Tunisia's counter-attacks.

His leadership in midfield was critical to Spain’s ability to maintain long spells of pressure, and he even almost scored a goal himself in the first half but had his powerful header from a corner kick was cleared off the line.

“He was the mastermind of the Spanish midfield,” said FIFA Technical Study Group member Alvin Corneal. “He made superb passes and controlled perfectly the pace of the game. He figured prominently in every build-up."

SPAIN 3-1 TUNISIA

19 June 2006

A second-half turnaround saw Spain come from behind to register a 3-1 over Tunisia in Stuttgart and consequently book their place in the Round of 16.

The African team got off to a great start when Jaouhar Mnari opened the scoring in the eighth minute. Roger Lemerre’s side held the lead until half-time when his counterpart Luis Aragones made a bold double substitution.

Luis Garcia and Marcos Senna were replaced by Raul and Cesc Fabregas and the pair were extremely influential in Spain’s equalising goal. With 71 minutes gone, Fabregas’ shot was parried by Ali Boumnijel and into the path of Raul who gratefully slotted the ball home.

A brace from Fernando Torres, taking his tally in the tournament to three, gave Spain the victory. It leaves them on top of Group H, three points clear of their nearest challengers Ukraine and five points clear of Saudi Arabia and Tunisia.

The match:
Spain coach Luis Aragones kept with the same line-up that had defeated Ukraine 4-0, while his counterpart, Roger Lemerre, made two changes from the team that had drawn 2-2 with Saudi Arabia, bringing in Anis Ayari and Mehdi Nafti for David Jemmali and Yassine Chikhaoui.

5’: The Spaniards began confidently. Breaking forward, Luis Garcia nodded down to Villa, whose first-time shot from outside the box bulged the side-netting.

8’ Three minutes later the inside of the net shook, but at the other end as Tunisia struck with their first attack. Zied Jaziri did wonderfully well to hold off Carlos Puyol and then the attentions of three defenders in the box before crossing to Jaouhar Mnari who followed up his saved volley to fire past Iker Casillas from close range.

10’: Villa, who scored twice in the opener, was looking menacing and his scorching free kick from just outside the corner of the area had Ali Boumnijel fisting away.

26’: The Valencia striker then slipped Fernando Torres through but Spain’s No. 9 was muscled off the ball by Hatem Trablesi.

31’: Tunisia were already playing on the break and after Puyol had scythed down Trabelsi on the edge of the box, Ayari curled the free kick straight at Casillas.

33’: The Carthage Eagles began to concede a series of free kicks in dangerous places around the area. From one, Garcia, darting to the near post, flicked a header wide.

40’: Another was rolled to Xabi Alonso whose powerful 25-yarder fell a yard wide as Spain pressed.

44’: With the rain pouring down, Torres fired just over from the corner of the box. From the corner, Alonso, unmarked, thought he had scored the equaliser until Ayari stuck out his head to clear off the line.

Holding on:
48’: Spain began the second half as they ended the first. Piling forward, Cesc Fabregas, on for Marcos Senna, had a 20-yard effort fisted away.

52’: Boumnijel was doing the same minutes later, punching Mariano Pernia’s shot clear.

61’: Although offering little as an attacking force, the Africans were now riding the forward waves well. Pernia was gaining ground though and the Argentina-born left-back saw another shot flash wide.

71’: Just when it looked as though Spain had run out of ideas, they struck the equaliser. Joaquin crossed from the right, Torres stepped over the ball for Cesc to shoot. Open-handed this time, Boumnijel palmed the 18-yard effort straight to the feet of Raul who made no mistake from six yards.

75’: Fabregas, breaking into the box, almost gave the Europeans the lead but his shot was blocked by Boumnijel.

76’: No matter - moments later Spain were ahead. Fabregas picked out Torres’ perfect run and the Atletico Madrid striker rounded the keeper and slotted home.

89’: Torres, clean through again, should have added a third for Spain but this time Boumnijel was the one-on-one winner, blocking the shot.

90+1’: Seconds later, he did, striking a penalty under the body of Boumnijel after being held down in the box following a delightful cross from the resurgent Raul.

90+4’: Now on fire, Torres almost grabbed the first hat-trick of the finals, taking down a long pass perfectly before blasting over left-footed.

In conclusion:
A perfect six points, Spain qualify for the second round with another classy display of attacking football. Tunisia, ahead for much of the match, will now need to defeat Ukraine to stand a chance of making the knockout stage.

Budweiser Man of the Match: Maksym KALINICHENKO (UKR)

19 June 2006

Ukraine playmaker Maksym Kalinichenko was the centrepiece of a Ukrainian attack that put the ball in the net four times in their defeat of Saudi Arabia, and he was recognized as the Budweiser Man of the Match.

Kalinichenko’s service was deadly from set pieces, with his fourth-minute corner kick leading to a goal for Andriy Rusol and his 46th-minute cross from a free-kick finding the head of striker Andriy Shevchenko, who headed home. Kalinichenko then put the exclamation mark on his performance by getting on the receiving end of a pass from Shevchenko and slamming it into the net from close range.

“Kalinichenko contributed so much to the team - he scored one goal and created two more and he did everything well today,” said FIFA Technical Study Group member Teofilo Cubillas. “He inspired the players around him with his tireless work. He won the ball, he passed the ball and he was the playmaker. He was definitely the most important player in their team.”

SAUDI ARABIA 0-4 UKRAINE

19 June 2006

Ukraine made amends for their disappointing start to Group H when they defeated Saudi Arabia 4-0 in Hamburg on Monday, 19 June 2006.

Oleg Blokhin’s side, who had suffered defeat by the same scoreline to Spain in their opening match, look desperate to make amends in this match and began in the best possible manner.

Andriy Rusol fired Ukraine ahead in the fourth minute, while a Serhiy Rebrov wonder strike double their advantage on 36. Andriy Shevchenko headed a third just seconds after the restart, while Budweiser Man of the Match Maksym Kalinichenko got the goal his performance deserved six minutes from time.

The match:
4':After the nightmare of their opening loss to Spain, Ukraine made a dream start here. Mabrouk Zaid conceded a corner under pressure from Shevchenko and after the first kick was deflected into the side-netting, Maksym Kalinichenko delivered again and Rusol turned the ball into the net from close range.

6': Mohammed Noor slipped the ball across to Omar Al Ghamdi in the Ukraine penalty box but he lost his footing and the chance was gone.

14': Ukraine had the Saudi defence under severe pressure with a series of corners. From the third, Shevchenko's header was blocked on the line by Ahmed Dokhi and Rebrov blazed the rebound over the crossbar.

21': Ukraine kept coming forward, scenting a second goal. Shevchenko created space to get in a shot but could only direct his effort straight at Zaid. Moments later, the Chelsea-bound striker, who has been struggling for fitness, missed the opportunity to send Andriy Voronin clean through by overhitting his pass.

25': Rusol gave his goalkeeper Oleksandr Shovkovskyi a scare as he diverted a cross from Mohammed Ameen just wide of his own goal. From the ensuing corner, Hamad Al Montashari volleyed wide at the far post from a difficult angle.

36': After Voronin had fired another chance wide, Ukraine finally got their second goal as Rebrov struck from fully 30 yards. Collecting the ball from Anatoliy Tymoschuk, he turned to goal and sent a shot flying past Zaid, who seemed to slip on the greasy surface as the ball sped past him.

43': A mistake from Al Montashari let in Voronin but he flashed a low shot the wrong side of the post.

Shevchenko in on the act:
46': Ukraine needed barely 60 seconds to extend the advantage as Kalinichenko swung a free-kick into the box and Shevchenko headed into the far corner.

55': With the match threatening to resemble a shooting practice for Ukraine, Saudi coach Marcos Paqueta sought to inject fresh life into his team with the introductions of Abdulaziz Al Khathran and Malek Al Hawsawi.

64': Saudi Arabia enjoyed one or two promising moments around the Ukraine penalty area but Oleksandr Shovkovskyi remained untested and it was soon normal service resumed. Kalinichenko looked up and launched a dipping shot onto the top of the crossbar then Shevchenjo twice had sight of goal before being crowded out by defenders.

74': A neat exchange of passes around the Saudi area set up a shooting chance for Kalinichenko but Zaid was equal to it.

84': Ukraine struck again as Kalinichenko finally got his goal. Shevchenko sprinted clear down the inside-left channel and squared to the long-haired No.19 who sidefooted the ball high into the empty net.

90': Kalinichenko went close again. Ukraine may have scored four goals but it could have been twice.

In conclusion:
Ukraine are up and running after this comfortable victory in Hamburg which should serve to restore confidence in the camp after the opening loss to Spain. For Saudi Arabia, the outlook appears bleak, however, with Spain still to come.

Budweiser Man of the Match: Alexander FREI (SUI)

19 June 2006

Switzerland forward Alexander Frei was named Budweiser Man of the Match for his 16th-minute strike and strong all around attacking play in his team’s 2-0 victory over Togo on Monday.

The Rennes man was always busy during his 87 minutes of action, working all over the pitch, but he still managed to be in the right place at the right time to score a classic poacher’s goal. It came after a left-wing cross met Tranquillo Barnetta and he knocked it down back across goal for Frei to pounce .

“He was selected as the Budweiser Man of the match because he scored a wonderful goal and was always dangerous in his whole field of operation,” said FIFA Technical Study Group member Gyorgy Mezey. “He was the key player.”

TOGO 0-2 SWITZERLAND

19 June 2006

Switzerland surged to top of Group G with a convincing 2-0 win over Togo in Dortmund on Monday, 19 June which leaves the Helvetians leading the section on goal difference.

Victory was secured by goals from Alexander Frei and Tranquillo Barnetta in the 16th and 88th minute respectively, the second of which took Kobi Kuhn's side clear of Korea Republic by a single goal. All the Swiss now need is a point against Dick Advocaat's Taeguk Warriors to guarantee their place in the last 16.

Togo, though impressive in flashes, could have few complaints at surrendering all three points, and Otto Pfister's side remain without a point and anchored to the bottom of a group in which Switzerland and Korea both lead on four points from France, who have two.

The match:
2’:: Mohamed Kader found himself in a good position, but Switzerland goalkeeper Pascal Zuberbueher showed great alertness in coming off his line and clearing the ball.

5’: Switzerland’s Ricardo Cabanas fired in a shot, but it was comfortably collected by Kossi Agassa.

10’: Emmanuel Adebayor took advantage of a slip by Cabanas to steal the ball and ran powerfully into the area. However, his cross aimed for Mohamed Kader was just a little to high.

16’: Tranquillo Barnetta touched Ludovic Magnan’s cross into the path of Alex Frei who smashed the ball into the roof of the net for Switzerland’s first goal of the tournament. (0-1)

24’: Togo coach Otto Pfister who looked unhappy on the touchline in the opening stages made his first substitution of the game, bringing on Moustapha Salifou for Kuami Agboh.

35’: A slip from Philippe Senderos gave Thomas Dossevi a free shot on goal, but the Togo midfielder shot wide.

Agassa’s acrobatics:
51’: Togo goalkeeper Agassa showed his agility when he tipped over Barnetta’s shot from the edge of the area.

53’: Hakan Yakin’s swerving strike flew over the bar, much to the relief of Pfister and his charges.

62’: Salifou’s shot from distance sailed high over Switzerland’s bar.

64’: Agassa made another crucial intervention, this time from Hakan Yakin, as the midfielder saw his goalbound effort stopped.

80’: Alexander Frei hit a long looping shot from distance, which hit the top of the Togo net, much to the relief of the African team.

88’: With two minutes of normal time to go Barnetta made the game safe for the Swiss by firing a low shot past Agassa and into the far corner of the net. 0-2

90’: Togo applied pressure to Zuberbuhler’s goal, but saw the keeper save well from Salifou. From the resulting corner, Adebayor missed the target with a header.

In conclusion:
Switzerland moved to the top of Group G with this 2-0 victory. Their four-point haul from their opening two games was equal to that of Korea Republic, but Kuhn’s men moved ahead of the Asian nation on goal difference. The result also ensured that Togo cannot qualify for the Round of 16.

Budweiser Man of the Match: PARK Ji-Sung (KOR)

18 June 2006

Korea Republic's Park Ji-Sung was named Budweiser Man of the Match after scoring the equaliser in his team's 1-1 draw with 1998 world champions France.

The Manchester United man was the key to the South Koreans' comeback after they were dominated in the first half. He contributed a hugely influential performance as the his side fought back and, fittingly, he was the player on hand to poke the ball into the net after Cho Jae-Jin had headed back across the face of goal. It meant a salvaged point for Korea Republic, putting them top of the group.

"In the first half, France controlled the game," said FIFA Technical Study Group Member Jozef Venglos, "but in the second half, Korea were able to change the pattern of the game. Park was essential in that role. He was able to create a lot of spaces, and he was the best player of the match."

FRANCE 1-1 KOREA REPUBLIC

18 June 2006

Korea Republic fought back to earn a 1-1 draw with France as Park Ji-Sung cancelled out Thierry Henry's first-half opener in Leipzig on Sunday, 18 June 2006.

The point salvaged here put the Koreans top of Group G, at least until the end of Monday's match between Togo and Switzerland in Dortmund. The evening began promisingly for Les Bleus when Thierry Henry scored their first FIFA World Cup™ goal since the 1998 Final with nine minutes on the clock.

However, Korea Republic drew level when Park bundled the ball over the line in the 81st minute. To compound France's disappointment, Eric Abidal and Zinedine Zidane both collected bookings which rule them out of their final group game against Togo.

The match:
7': France, making the far brighter start, nearly stunned their opponents with a finely crafted bit of interplay early on. Thierry Henry slipped a neat through-ball to Sylvain Wiltord, but the Lyon striker saw his close-range strike batted away by the outrushing Lee Woon-Jae.

9': That proved just a warning shot as as the one-time Arsenal team-mates linked up again soon afterwards. With Wiltord turning provider, Henry collected a deflected shot from his team-mate inside the penalty area and pushed the ball coolly past the Korean keeper to settle French nerves that must have been jangling since their goalless draw with the Swiss. (1-0)

24': After jinking into space near the edge of the box, Lyon's powerful midfielder Florent Malouda sent a tame shot trickling wide of the post. However, the French were keeping up the pressure and it seemed another goal was in the offing.

28': Henry looked to be clean through again after controlling a brilliant long ball in the Korean area. But it came to nothing and the striker's protests for a penalty were ignored by referee Benito Archundia as Lee Young-Pyo timed his last-second tackle perfectly.

30': From an inch-perfect corner-kick, Patrick Vieira powered in a header from close range and must have thought he had scored. However, the scrambling Lee Woon-Jae managed to keep the ball out before it had crossed the line.

36': The Koreans tried to hit back and nearly equalised when Lee Chun-Soo's free kick picked out Cho Jae-Jin. The striker missed his kick, though, and the ball bobbled harmlessly past the post.

Koreans roar back
53': Henry got on the end of a hoisted ball up from midfield and nodded down for Wiltord. The resulting shot was disappointing from the Lyon front-runner, however, skipping wide of the mark by a substantial margin.

60': In the hope of injecting fresh inspiration into his attack, France coach Raymond Domenech took off the tiring Wiltord and brought on Marseille's Frank Ribery.

74': Unable to find a clear way through the Korean defence, Malouda decided to try his luck from distance only to see the ball skip past the top corner.

81': The Koreans grabbed an equaliser with a goal that revived memories of their semi-final run four years ago as hosts. A stunning cross from substitute Seol Ki-Hyeon out on the right was nodded down at the back post by Cho Jae-Jin and Park Ji-Sung poked the ball over the head of a despairing William Gallas to send the red-clad fans into hysterics. (1-1) In conclusion:
Both sides went close to sealing victory in the dying minutes but in the end they had to be content with a share of the spoils. The Koreans will surely be the happier of the two as the French still hunt their first FIFA World Cup win since the Final of France 98. As Group G stands now, Korea Republic lead the pack with four points with France second with two points. Switzerland and Togo have one and no points respectively ahead of their second game.

BRAZIL-AUSTRALIA: Players' Quotes

18 June 2006

RONALDO (BRA)
I played better today and I created the opening goal. I’m getting my fitness back and I’m very pleased with my performance. Australia defended very well but Brazil were always going to win.

ROBERTO CARLOS (BRA)
The team is performing a lot better, despite the very high temperatures, and we’re full of confidence. It was a difficult game, they marked us very tightly. We’re going to keep playing like we did today, and as a top side we’re well capable of winning our next games. It’s not about winning one game, it’s about winning the competition. We’re on the road to our sixth title – the team is on the right track.

CAFU (BRA)
This was my 18th World Cup game for the Seleção. I’m really pleased to have broken the record. I now need to make sure that my performances match the way the team is playing.

ADRIANO (BRA)
It was our most difficult game so far, but we played better than in our previous match. It was an incredible feeling to score my first World Cup goal, and I’m dedicating that goal to my son.

RONALDINHO (BRA)
We’re going to improve with every game. The World Cup is a marathon, not a sprint. Brazil are capable of playing nice football and the team is getting stronger with every game.

KAKA (BRA)
The Australians marked us very tightly in the first half, but after the break the heat took its toll and we were able to find enough space to score our goals. Brazil’s quality is there for all to see. We had to play a patient game. The team is evolving and we’re growing together in every way.

Mark VIDUKA (AUS)
It was a tough match, but a fair one. It was difficult for us to score, as Brazil have got so many superstars in their team. Our aim is still to make it through to the next round. It was great to play in a match like this surrounded by so many Australian fans. Now we want to beat Croatia.

Harry KEWELL (AUS)
We played well, it was a good team performance. The atmosphere in the stadium was fantastic. Now we want to go and beat Croatia – we’re not looking for a draw.

Mark SCHWARZER (AUS)
We’re not yet talking about the Round of 16, we’re just concentrating on our last group match against Croatia.

John ALOISI (AUS)
Brazil were a very good team, they now have six points and they’re through to the next round. You can be pretty sure that they’ll go a long way in this tournament. We showed what we were made of today and played really well; it’s just a pity that we let those two goals in.

Lucas NEILL (AUS)
We’re really frustrated and disappointed, but we played very well and I’m really happy to be a part of this Australian team.

Vince GRELLA (AUS)
We played very well and created a few good chances. We put Brazil under pressure. The defeat won’t knock us off our stride as it’s still possible for us to get through to the last 16. We want to approach the next match the way we played Japan. We’re confident that we will be able to beat Croatia – we know we’re good enough.

Marco BRESCIANO (AUS)
Brazil deserved to beat us today, they were better than us. The World Cup has really been an incredible experience for us so far.

Scott CHIPPERFIELD (AUS)
We knew that it would be tough against Brazil. We created some chances, but didn’t quite have the luck we needed. We really pushed forward towards the end, but we couldn’t quite turn our pressure into goals.