2010 FIFA World Cup Previews: June 24, 2010

Paraguay vs New Zealand

In theory, New Zealand could still progress through the group stages if they beat Paraguay, which is of course unlikely, but they have pulled off some pretty respectable draws against Italy and Slovakia. New Zealand are expected not to change any of their line up and keeper Mark Patson is expected to keep his place, despite the return of New Zealand’s first choice goalkeeper Glen Moss. And it is completely understandable seeing as the side has been playing above and beyond themselves throughout the competition.

Paraguay will be looking to gain a spot in the final 16 and a draw here would solidify that place. Alcaraz will have a last minute fitness test and assuming that he passes, Paraguay will likely name a completely unchanged side to start against New Zealand. This is a match that Paraguay should win, although, if nothing else, it seems that the underdogs are pretty likely to put in a respectable performance.

Slovakia vs Italy

The world champions haven’t exactly been performing at the top of their game so far in the tournament, although it’s not as if they’ve looked as bad as some of the other big teams. Odds are they should win this match and seal their spot in the knockout stages. Playmaker Pirlo has been declared fit again, although it is possible that he’ll start on the bench and be eased back into the side. The champions often make slow starts to tournaments, although the New Zealand draw comes as a shock even for them.

The Slovakians could recall winger Stotch, who has recovered from his minor injury. Cech is also likely to make a return to the side in place of defender Salata. In theory, they could still qualify, in practice the odds aren’t exactly in their favour and this is not a match that they would’ve wanted to rest their hopes on.

Cameroon vs Holland

Cameroon have given a massively disappointing show of themselves thus far in the World Cup. There is little chance of them getting any sort of result from this match with the way they have been playing, not that it makes any difference to them. There is no possible way that Cameroon could stay in the World Cup, all they can do is salvage some pride against Holland. The most they can hope for is to play for a draw and not be whitewashed in the group stages.

Holland have already secured qualification and this match is nothing more than a victory lap. It is more than likely that they will want to collect a full set of victories in their group, it would certainly be a good set up to continuing the competition. Judging by the way the have been playing, Holland have a chance to go very far and could even challenge for the title.

Denmark vs Japan

This will decide who goes through to the knock out rounds with Holland. The Japanese do have a bit of an advantage in this, due to the fact that a draw will send them through on goal difference, which could be all important if push comes to shove. Japan are on pretty good form and have only lost three of their last 18 competitive matches, which is certainly something to consider.

Denmark are the favourites for this match and on paper they do have a better side, so it isn’t all too surprising that this is the case. The interesting thing will be whether they can actually capitalize on this fact or not. It isn’t as likely that Rommedahl will be given the opportunities that he got against Cameroon, after all, the Japanese have a much more organised defence, however, he’ll still be the player to watch.

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