Portugal v Brazil

Group G, 14:00 GMT, June 25, 2010

Durban Stadium, Durban, South Africa


It is something of a shame that the standout game of the entire group stage will be devoid of real tension due to the comfortable situation both sides find themselves in, but Brazil and Portugal are still competing for top spot in Group G - an honour which could see them avoid Spain in the second round.


Dunga's Brazil have already qualified following back-to-back victories over North Korea and Ivory Coast, and while Portugal's place in the next round is not formally confirmed, the Ivorians need a nine-goal swing if they are to snatch second place in the group. In reality, this game is a straight shoot-out for top spot, which Brazil will secure with a win or draw in Durban.

The seleção were superb in their 3-1 defeat of Ivory Coast - a performance which confirmed they still possess the style associated so intimately with Brazil - but the victory came at a cost. Kaka, the victim of some horrendous playacting on the part of Kader Keita, will be suspended for the Portugal tie following his red card. That means Brazil could move Robinho into a central role or call on Julio Baptista, but the loss of Kaka will be keenly felt by a side that relies on his expert use of the ball. Elano, too, may be missing as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury.

Portugal's own Brazilian, Deco, is another likely absentee due to a hip injury and his replacement, Tiago, scored twice in a 7-0 destruction of North Korea that saw Carlos Queiroz's side finally cast aside doubts over their prowess. Cristiano Ronaldo scored his first goal for his country in almost two years as an insipid 0-0 draw with Ivory Coast was quickly forgotten amid a shower of goals. Now two countries united by language will hope to put on a show of fluent football.

Portugal player to watch: Liedson. The striker was relegated to the bench for the 7-0 drubbing of North Korea but scored after his emergence in the second half. Doing so again on Friday would be special indeed for a player who was born and grew up in Brazil and has only represented Portugal for 12 months. Liedson, like team-mates Deco and Pepe, has been warmly welcomed by his adopted nation but will not sing the Portuguese anthem on Friday as a mark of respect for Brazil.

Brazil player to watch: Lucio. With Cristiano Ronaldo back in goalscoring form, Brazil's captain may have to be at his commanding best to repel the Real Madrid forward. Lucio is the cornerstone of a Brazil side that, under Dunga, has a reputation for favouring solidity over style. That may be somewhat misleading as Brazil still possess greater flair than the majority of teams at the finals, but there is no doubt that in Lucio they have a player well versed in the destructive arts. Athletic, alert and inspirational, the Inter defender is an elite player.

Key battle: Fabio Coentrao v Dani Alves. The tussle between these two dynamic wide men will be a real spectacle on Friday. Coentrao is a winger turned full-back who was vastly impressive in Portugal's win over North Korea, linking up with Ronaldo to devastating effect and providing first-class delivery from wide on the left. Alves, meanwhile, is the Ringo Starr of the Brazil squad. Is he the best right-back in the world? No, he isn't even the best right-back in the seleção. But with Maicon settled at the back and Elano struggling with injury, the Barcelona star will be pressed into action in an advanced role on the right. Both players possess pace and skill in abundance. Sparks will fly.

Trivia: After scoring twice against Ivory Coast, Luis Fabiano has surpassed David Villa and now boasts the best scoring rate in international games of any player at the World Cup (minimum ten caps) 1. Luis Fabiano, 27 goals in 40 matches. 2. David Villa, 40/60. 3. Jong Tae-Se, 16/26. 4. Didier Drogba, 42/70 5. Soren Larsen, 11/19.

Stats: Under Dunga, Brazil are a formidable defensive unit and after the first two rounds of group games, no team had won more tackles (43).

Odds: Portugal (3.75), the draw (3.00) and Brazil (2.25) with Bet365. Luis Fabiano to score the first goal at 6.00 looks attractive, particularly if he continues to use his arms so productively.

Prediction: Brazil will be inhibited by the loss of Kaka but marry pragmatism with imagination and are a formidable side. Expect them to fend off Portugal and take top spot.

Switzerland v Honduras

Group H, 18:30 GMT, June 25, 2010

Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein, South Africa

After a humiliating home defeat to Luxembourg in qualification, Switzerland are still in with a strong chance of making the second round and dumping pre-tournament favourites Spain or Marcelo Bielsa's impressive Chile side out at the first hurdle.


The Swiss currently sit third in the group, level on three points with Spain but trailing by a goal, and they are two goals and three points behind Chile. However, with Spain and Chile having to take points - and goals - from each other, a 2-0 win will be enough to see Switzerland through.

Switzerland boss Ottmar Hitzfeld is one of the great tacticians at this summer's World Cup, but he will need to ensure his players show creativity and guile as well as a clinical touch to ensure they add to their solitary goal to date. Valon Behrami will not be available following his dismissal against Chile, but Tranquillo Barnetta looks likely to return to the side and should be a strong replacement.

Honduras, meanwhile, have a number of players in elite leagues but have done little to defy suggestions they were among the weaker of the 32 teams to have reached the finals. Coach Reinaldo Rueda has signalled that he wants his team to win but also said they must emerge from the finals with dignity. It will be interesting to see whether the need to preserve dignity overtakes the desire for victory if they fall behind early on.

Switzerland player to watch: Diego Benaglio. Honduras are desperate to restore some pride in their final game, so the Swiss can expect more ambition from their opponents in the early stages at least. Wolfsburg goalkeeper Benaglio has been hugely impressive against attack-minded Spain and Chile so far and, if he can keep another clean sheet, Switzerland have a great opportunity to reach the second stage.

Honduras player to watch: David Suazo. This 30-year-old Inter Milan striker has spent over a decade playing in Italy but, since leaving Cagliari in 2007, he has struggled for goals and he spent 2010 on loan at Genoa. Injury problems have hindered his preparations for the tournament and he missed the opener against Chile with a leg problem, but he returned against Spain and, with 84 minutes under his belt in that game, Honduras will be desperate for Suazo to recover some form and give the country something to celebrate.

Key Battle: Eren Derdiyok v Maynor Figueroa. With captain Alexander Frei still struggling for fitness, Derdiyok could lead the line for Switzerland ahead of him and veteran striker Blaise Nkufo. Derdiyok has a very poor goal-scoring record at international level, but the 22-year-old Bayer Leverkusen man is strong and stands at 6' 3" and will be a nuisance at the least. Wigan left-back Figueroa, meanwhile, is known for attacking contributions in England but has been playing in the centre for his country, so he will need to stay focused.

Trivia: Honduras squad members David Suazo and Hendry Thomas are cousins.

Stats: In their previous meeting with a CONCACAF side at the World Cup, Switzerland drew 1-1 draw with USA in the '94 group stage.

Odds: Switzerland (1.50), New Zealand (7.00) and a draw (4.20) are all available at Bet 365. You can get odds of 9.50 on a 3-0 win for Switzerland.

Prediction: Switzerland are perhaps better at grinding out results than going on the attack, but Honduras have done little so far in South Africa. Goals may prove vital in the final reckoning, so a substantial Swiss win is on the cards.

Chile v Spain

Group H, 18:30 GMT, June 25, 2010

Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria, South Africa


This much-anticipated match between two stylish sides in Pretoria could prove to be a tense affair as Group H comes to a convoluted conclusion. With one game remaining, both Chile and Spain could top the group, qualify in second or take an early flight home. A dramatic contest awaits.


For Spain, a premature exit is unthinkable, but all too possible. Vicente del Bosque's side came into the tournament as favourites but an opening defeat to Switzerland has put their campaign in jeopardy. While a win guarantees them a place in the second round, la Furia Roja must be wary of Switzerland, who are level on three points at present. With Ottmar Hitzfeld's side expected to beat Honduras, a draw against Chile could prove terminal for the Spanish.

It would be a huge shock if a team boasting the most technically-gifted midfield in world football and the attacking talents of David Villa and Fernando Torres were to be eliminated, but that is the scenario haunting Del Bosque. Relief comes with the news that Andres Iniesta is likely to return from injury and he could replace Jesus Navas in an advanced role.

Meanwhile, despite winning their opening two games, Chile have not guaranteed qualification and they will be eliminated if they lose and Switzerland beat Honduras while making up a goal difference deficit of two. Marcelo Bielsa's side are also deprived of Matias Fernandez and Carlos Carmona due to suspension, so there is real cause for concern.

Chile player to watch: Alexis Sanchez. Hardly an original choice given he has been his country's standout performer in wins over Honduras and Switzerland, but Friday's game gives Sanchez the chance to make his mark on one of the tournament favourites. Blessed with pace and superior technique, the winger is a dazzling presence in the Chile side and rumours of a possible move to Real Madrid are likely to gather pace if he can unlock Spain.

Spain player to watch: Iker Casillas. Not long ago, Casillas was regarded as the finest goalkeeper in the world but his reputation has taken a minor battering of late. His performances in South Africa have been unconvincing and with Chile impressing in their first two victories, the Real Madrid 'keeper may have to rediscover his best form if his country are to progress to the knockout stages. Though he is a favourite of Vicente del Bosque, Casillas needs to prove why he is chosen ahead of Jose Reina and Victor Valdes.

Key battle: Claudio Bravo v David Villa. The Chile 'keeper has only had to make three saves in the tournament so far following 1-0 wins over Honduras and Switzerland, and in Villa he comes up against one of the premier predators in world football. Villa scored twice in a 2-0 defeat of Honduras, the first a superb finish, and having missed the chance to claim a hat-trick when poking a penalty wide, he will be looking to make amends and improve his chances of winning the Golden Boot. He is available after FIFA took no action following his spat with Emilio Izaguirre of Honduras.

Trivia: If Spain and Switzerland both win, then three teams will finish level on six points. No team has ever been knocked out with six points in the history of the World Cup. When wins were worth two points, Algeria were knocked out with four points following an infamous 1-0 win for West Germany against Austria that saw both teams qualify.

Stats: Having not won a World Cup game for 48 years, Chile are now looking to make it three from three in the group stage.

Odds: Chile (7.00), the draw (4.20) and Spain (1.50) with Bet365 A 2-2 draw is 21.00.

Prediction: Spain surely have too much class to go home this early. They will dig out a win, but only just.

Full-time - 90'

North Korea
0 - 3
Ivory Coast

Group G, 14:00 GMT, June 25, 2010

Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit, South Africa


Yaya Toure, Romaric and Salomon Kalou were on target as Ivory Coast's World Cup campaign ended with a hollow victory over North Korea.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Romaric - Very tidy in possession and positive when pushing forward, Romaric was industrious throughout the match and deservedly got on the scoresheet. An honourable mention for fellow goalscorer Yaya Toure, too.

North Korea verdict: The early promise of the opening match against Brazil now seems a distant memory. They were in serious danger of being swamped in the opening exchanges of this game, and could have suffered another drubbing, although they showed real character to improve in the second half.

Ivory Coast verdict: After an initial flurry of action during which they looked full of purpose, and eager to claw back the goal difference deficit on Portugal, they soon ran out of steam and belief. A disappointing campaign but the real damage was done in the earlier games.

Could do better: Jong Tae-Se - The 'People's Wayne Rooney' never really managed to deliver, and could not manage his promise of a goal a game. He should have finally got on the scoresheet in this game but wasted a fine chance in the second period.

Stat attack: In 107 previous World Cup matches, no African side has scored more than three goals in a single match.


Sven-Goran Eriksson's side struck twice inside 20 minutes as they tore into their limited opponents from the outset, but only frustration followed in their final Group G game.

The Africans had 14 shots, 10 on target, as they dominated the first half and sensed an unlikely chance to reach the last 16.

But North Korea, fearing more humiliation after their 7-0 hammering by Portugal, closed ranks after the break and only substitute Kalou could break through.

Ivory Coast arrived at the Mbombela Stadium knowing they needed to win, hope Brazil could beat Portugal and see a nine-goal swing in the process.

Despite the seemingly impossible nature of their task - rendered irrelevant anyway by Portugal's draw - they were determined to try and initially overran North Korea with embarrassing ease.

Kader Keita broke into the North Korea box in the first minute but Ri Myong-Guk saved at the expense of a corner.

Ri then grabbed a 40-yard Romaric free-kick at the second attempt before Gervinho jinked his way to the byline and pulled back across the face of goal.

No-one was able to turn the ball in on that occasion but Didier Drogba did head in after ten minutes, only to be flagged offside. Gervinho then showed great skill on the edge of the box but Ri was equal to his shot.

The threatened goal duly arrived after 13 minutes as Toure took a neat touch from an Arthur Boka cross and coolly placed a shot into the bottom corner from 18 yards.

Romaric then clipped the post from distance before a fierce Drogba shot rattled the underside of the bar and bounced off the line to allow Romaric to head in the second.

The unlikeliest of dreams was still alive although North Korea at least threatened as Hong Yong-Jo sent two long-range free-kicks narrowly wide.

Normal service was soon resumed however as Keita just missed the target with a thunderous volley and Gervinho skipped into the area and shot across goal. Ivory Coast ended the first half with another chance as Emmanuel Eboue shot over.

They began the second period in similar fashion as Eboue forced North Korea to clear off the line but the Asian side at last managed to find some fortitude.

Deploying five in defence in a damage-limitation exercise, they quashed the threat of the Elephants for a period and even enjoyed some possession.

Yet Ivory Coast still seemed the side most likely to create chances and Drogba headed wide before Gervinho failed to turn in a Keita cross on the hour.

Kalou entered the action but spurned a good chance when he scooped over at the end of a neat move.

He made up for that when he volleyed in a Boka cross nine minutes from time but by then the players were going through the motions.

Aruna Dindane thought he had added a fourth late on but his effort was disallowed for a foul.

Full-time - 90'

Portugal
0 - 0
Brazil

Group G, 14:00 GMT, June 25, 2010

Durban Stadium, Durban, South Africa

Portugal failed in their attempt to beat Brazil and climb above the World Cup heavyweights in a toothless Group G match in Durban.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Fabio Coentrao - A rare source of energy in what was a lethargic game, Coentrao was particularly impressive in the first half as he drove forwards and put some dangerous balls into the box. With Maicon and Dani Alves both on the right for Brazil, it looked set to be a tough afternoon's work for Coentrao, but he was rarely troubled defensively and attacked with real intent.

Portugal verdict: While they never came alive, Portugal contained Brazil well and had the better of the game's limited opportunities. Raul Meireles looked one of the more threatening players in the Portugal squad and should be looking to get forward more often but, defensively, Ricardo Costa looked a little vulnerable against Nilmar's pace.

Brazil verdict: Knowing a draw would take them through in first place, Brazil made major changes in attack and never looked like overexerting themselves. In isolation, this would be viewed as a poor performance and give Dunga's critics more ammunition, but they have shown they can step it up when required and a perfunctory showing like this is little cause for concern.

Could do better: Cristiano Ronaldo - While he is very capable of moments of magic, his attempts to score every time he receives the ball are generally counter-productive. He needs to stop trying to win every game on his own if Portugal are to succeed at this World Cup, particularly given his poor goal-scoring form for his country.

Stat attack: Prior to the game, Brazil had failed to score just twice in their last 21 World Cup matches, both of which came against France.


Brazil clinched top spot while the Portuguese got the point they needed to finish second in the standings to also progress to the second round ahead of Ivory Coast, who defeated North Korea.

The Brazilians will play the runners-up of Group H in their next game while Portugal will take on the winners from that pool.

Much was expected from the match at a packed Moses Mabhida stadium with both sides possessing plenty of flair and despite an electric atmosphere with the Brazilian fans far outnumbering the Portuguese supporters, there was little action on the pitch.

Brazil had the best chance to claim their third win in as many games on the half-hour mark but Portugal goalkeeper Eduardo made an outstanding save to deny Nilmar from close range.

Portugal should have gone in front before the hour mark, but Raul Meireles struck just wide from five yards after a great run from Cristiano Ronaldo.

A game expected to be full of attacking football instead had seven yellow cards handed out in a first half controlled by Brazil. Portugal came to life after the re-start but failed to test Brazil goalkeeper Julio Cesar.

Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz made four changes to the side that thrashed North Korea 7-0, while the Brazilians were without suspended Kaka and injured Elano in midfield.

As expected, Julio Baptista replaced Kaka while coach Dunga surprisingly left Robinho out of the starting XI and opted to play Nilmar alongside Luis Fabiano up front.

Brazil earned two corners in the opening minutes and had the first chance in the fifth minute. Dani Alves' right-footed strike from 25 yards went wide of the near post.

Brazil tried to loosen up the Portuguese defence but they did not seem to have any sense of urgency to test Eduardo.

In the 14th minute, Julio Cesar did well to punch away Fabio Coentrao's dangerous cross towards the box. Shortly after, Alves tried his luck from the distance and his central effort was saved by the Portugal goalkeeper. At the other end, Tiago's volley from the edge of the area went over the bar.

Midway through the first half, Juan was shown a yellow card after a hand ball to stop a Portuguese counter-attack.

Brazil almost went in front soon after. Luis Fabiano fed Nilmar at the far post and his five-yard shot was deflected by Eduardo's palm to the near post. At the other end, Tiago was booked for diving.

In the 38th minute, Luis Fabiano latched on to Maicon's cross from the right and his header went just wide of the near post. Brazil goalkeeper Julio Cesar had one save to make in the opening half with Ronaldo's 40th-minute strike not causing the Inter Milan man any problems.

Portugal came to life in the second half and Lucio was forced to make a crucial clearance from Ronaldo's cross with Danny waiting inside the area. Before the hour mark, Meireles struck just wide from five yards after a great run from Ronaldo.

In the 73rd minute, Alves' 30-yard strike went wide while three minutes from time Lucio's header was saved by Eduardo.

Substitute Ramires almost earned Brazil victory but his right-footed strike was denied by an acrobatic save from Eduardo in stoppage time.

Full-time - 90'

Switzerland
0 - 0
Honduras

Group H, 18:30 GMT, June 25, 2010

Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein, South Africa


The dream is over for Switzerland in the World Cup after they failed to build on their superb victory against European champions Spain in their opening game.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Edgar Alvarez - In a game short of quality, there were no genuine standout players, but Alvarez was lively and direct for Honduras on the right wing and could easily have provided a winner for the underdogs.

Switzerland verdict: Having shown they could soak up the pressure and sneak a goal against Spain, the pressure was on to show they could take the game to the opposition in this must-win game, but they were far too negative and lacked any sort of cutting edge. They improved slightly when Hakan Yakin was introduced to provide a decent ball into the box, but they lacked quality options to convert them.

Honduras verdict: They were always going to be playing for pride but, playing on the counter-attack, they looked the better team for much of the night. Edgar Alvarez and Ramon Nunez threatened to cause problems and they attacked at pace, but a lack of belief and poor final balls meant they were unable to clinch a shock win.

Could do better: Blaise Nkufo - The veteran Switzerland striker has been a consistent performer for his country but he failed to deliver when it really mattered. He looked cumbersome throughout the game, wasting a decent opening in the first half and generally failing to provide a threat, although the same charge could be levelled at many of his team-mates.

Stat attack: This was the first 0-0 draw for Honduras in their World Cup history. It was the third for the Swiss, with two coming in 2006.

Coach Ottmar Hitzfeld knew if his side achieved a two-goal win in this Group H match then they would progress to the second round, but they were toothless and had to settle for a point against Honduras, who are also going home after failing to find the target in the tournament.

Hitzfeld chose to put Alex Frei on the bench even though the striker says he is 100% fit after an ankle injury - a surprise given that he has scored 40 goals in 76 games for his country.

He eventually came on in the 69th minute but even though they had the majority of possession before and after his introduction the Swiss were left frustrated.

Their heartache was clear to see at the end with players sprawled on the pitch with disappointment etched on their faces.

Honduras exit with a point after their best performance in three games. They showed a lot of steel - Wigan midfielder Hendry Thomas was booked after only four minutes for a lunge at Gokhan Inler - and played some good football.

Switzerland, however, carved out the first chance of the match in the 10th minute but Inler dragged his shot off target after being set up by Tranquillo Barnetta.

Seven minutes later Barnetta floated in a superb cross to the back post, only for Eren Derdiyok to stray offside and head wide, then Barnetta tried his luck from 20 yards out but goalkeeper Noel Valladares was equal to his effort.

Honduras were again pegged back in the 42nd minute and Derdiyok delivered the ball into the area. Blaise Nkufo found himself in the clear, only to get a poor touch and the chance was lost. Then, minutes later, he glanced a header wide.

Hakan Yakin came for Gelson Fernandes at the start of the second half as Switzerland switched things around.

Honduras should have taken the lead in the 54th minute but somehow David Suazo managed to find the wrong side of the post with a header following a cross from Edgar Alvarez.

Barnetta then raced into the area after 60 minutes but Valladares was able to make a comfortable block before Derdiyok sent a shot into the arms of goalkeeper.

Honduras launched a swift counter attack in the 71st minute when Suazo released Alvarez but goalkpeeper Diego Benaglio reacted superbly to push his effort over the top.

Barnetta then picked Stephan Lichtsteiner but he was wasteful in 80th minute as Honduras put up the shutters to get a draw and restore some of their pride.

Full-time - 90'

Chile
1 - 2
Spain

Group H, 18:30 GMT, June 25, 2010

Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria, South Africa


European champions Spain set up a mouthwatering last-16 showdown with Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal after seeing off ten-man Chile in a hard-fought encounter in Pretoria.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: David Villa - Another superb performance from the Barcelona-bound striker. He showed supreme calmness to sidefoot home the first goal following Claudio Bravo's gaffe in goal before setting up Andres Iniesta for the second. Without him they would look toothless up front.

Chile verdict: After starting the game so well, Chile's indiscipline came back to haunt them even if the second yellow card incident itself seemed a little harsh on Marco Estrada. They showed enough attacking flair and ability to trouble one of the tournament favourites, and they will have to do it all again against Brazil.

Spain verdict: Without doubt the least impressive of their three group games, yet that touch of quality in the attacking third proved to be the difference. Xabi Alonso picking up an ankle knock towards the end of the first half may be a worry, but they have strength in depth.

Could do better: Fernando Torres - For the second game running the Liverpool striker was lethargic, had a terrible first touch and couldn't even come close to hitting the target. He could well lose his place for the second round date with Iberian neighbours Portugal.

Stat attack: Spain qualified without a single booking, becoming the first team since Hungary in 1986 to not collect a card in the group stage.


Chile, who had started the day with a three-point lead in Group H, surrendered top spot to the Spanish but still qualified for the knockout stages, where they will now face Brazil.

David Villa put Spain ahead with a long-range shot into an empty net after Chile goalkeeper Claudio Bravo had raced out of his area, and Andres Iniesta doubled his side's lead towards the end of the first half.

An incident in the build-up to that Iniesta goal also resulted in Chile having a player sent off with midfielder Marco Estrada earning a second yellow card after clipping Fernando Torres' heels. There looked little intent on Estrada's part, but the second booking left Chile with a mountain to climb.

Marcelo Bielsa's side pulled a goal back at the start of the second period through substitute Rodrigo Millar's deflected effort, but it was not enough to remain on top of the group and they will now need to overcome the Brazilians if they are to continue their World Cup adventure.

Spain, looking to avoid joining fellow big guns Italy and France in suffering a shock early exit, started well and Torres had two good chances in the opening five minutes, although the Liverpool striker could not make the most of either.

The game then swung Chile's way as the in-form South Americans lived up to Bielsa's pre-match assurance that they would not go out looking for the draw. Mark Gonzalez skied a promising opportunity over, while Alexis Sanchez earned a corner out of Iker Casillas with a delicate chip.

However, it was Spain who took the lead in the 24th minute when Villa took advantage of some reckless goalkeeping from Bravo to put his side ahead with a brilliant finish.

There appeared little need for Bravo to race out of the area and although he beat Torres to a through-ball, the Real Sociedad goalkeeper's clearance went straight to Villa, who lofted the ball into an empty net from 40 yards out and near the left touchline.

Barcelona's new £40 million striker, who scored a brace in the 2-0 win over Honduras and also missed a penalty, now has 41 goals for his country and is just three behind the national record held by Raul.

Chile briefly threatened an equaliser through Beausejour, Gerard Pique getting back to make a superb block, but then came the incident that put Spain completely in the ascendency, taking a 2-0 lead and also seeing Chile reduced to ten men.

A good sweeping move resulted in Villa laying the ball back to his new club-mate Iniesta on the edge of the box, and the Barca midfielder coolly slotted into the far corner of the net.

And as the Spain players raced away to celebrate, Mexican referee Marco Rodriguez sent off Estrada for his innocuous-looking tangle with Torres, who was left lying on the ground on the edge of the area.

Spain could hardly have been in a better position at the interval, but they saw their two-goal advantage halved just two minutes into the second half. Chile, having made two changes at the break, needed a good start and they got just that when one of the newcomers scored.

Millar found space on the edge of the area and fired in a shot that took a huge deflection off Pique before looping past Casillas and into the net. That was a huge boost for Chile, but they could make no further inroads and created little to worry Casillas in the remainder of the half.

Vicente Del Bosque's Spain also created few goalscoring chances of their own, but they did not need to and looked content just to keep hold of their lead as they secured a showdown with Iberian rivals Portugal on Tuesday.

Uruguay v South Korea

14:00 GMT, June 26, 2010

Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth, South Africa


Following France's farcical implosion and England's potentially fatal failure to finish top of their group, Uruguay and South Korea know that their quarter of the draw has opened up nicely and the victors in Port Elizabeth will compete with Ghana and USA for a place in the semi-finals. It is a huge motivation for both countries as they prepare for Saturday's second-round tie.



Uruguay took advantage of the chaos generated by France's misguided industrial action to saunter to first place in Group A and did not concede a single goal when beating South Africa and Mexico and holding les Bleus to a 0-0 draw in their opening game. With prolific forwards Luis Suarez and Diego Forlan both finding the net in the group stage, expectation is growing that Uruguay will reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 1970.

Coach Oscar Tabarez looks set to stick with a three-pronged attack, with Edinson Cavani complementing Forlan and Suarez. The only change to Uruguay's starting XI could be the inclusion of Diego Godin at the expense of Mauricio Victorino, who is one booking away from a suspension.

South Korea's previous meeting with South American opposition was not a happy one as they were hammered 4-1 by Argentina. However, a 2-0 win over Greece and a dramatic 2-2 draw with Nigeria were enough for Huh Jung-Moo's side to progress from Group B. As they embark on their first knockout campaign on foreign soil, Huh may drop right-back Cha Du-Ri after he was at fault for Nigeria's opening goal. Kim Dong-Jin may replace him.

Uruguay player to watch: Luis Suarez. After scoring no less than 49 goals for Ajax last season, much was expected of the lively forward and he looked a touch subdued in the games against France and South Africa. However, Suarez scored the only goal of the game against Mexico as Uruguay cemented top spot and will be a threat with his clever movement and impressive finishing ability.

South Korea player to watch: Ki Sung-Yueng In a fluid midfield that sees players interchange with ease, Ki has been largely overshadowed by his iconic captain Park Ji-Sung and the new great hope of Korean football, Bolton's Lee Chung-Yong. But the Celtic midfielder is a talent in his own right and a real threat thanks to his set-piece delivery, which has so far brought him two assists. With a penchant for the unexpected, Ki is a unique player but at just 21 years of age remains inconsistent.

Key battle: Diego Forlan v Lee Jung-Soo The tussle between Uruguay's premier striker and South Korea's most reliable defender could prove decisive. Forlan hit his stride with two goals in the 3-0 defeat of South Africa and, since leaving Manchester United in 2004, he has never failed to reach double figures in La Liga and the Atletico Madrid star is a formidable opponent for any defender. In Lee he comes up against the heartbeat of the South Korean defence, but also a player who is currently rivalling him in the goalscoring charts having netted against Greece and Nigeria. If he can finish the 90 minutes still level with Forlan, South Korea have a great chance.

Trivia: Uruguay have not lost to South Korea in any of their five meetings. The only World Cup clash between the two came in 1990, when Uruguay won 1-0 thanks to a goal from Daniel Fonseca. Tabarez also managed the side during the finals in Italy 20 years ago.

Stats: South Korea have been the most dangerous side from set-pieces so far in the tournament with three of their five goals coming from dead-ball situations.

Odds: Uruguay (1.90), the draw (3.40) and South Korea (4.50) with Bet365. Diego Forlan to score first and Uruguay to win 1-0 is 11.00.

Prediction: Uruguay are full of confidence after an impressive group campaign and should have enough to shade this game, but South Korea will ensure it is a close contest.

United States v Ghana

18:30 GMT, June 26, 2010

Royal Bafokeng Stadium, Rustenburg, South Africa


USA's reward for beating England to the summit of Group C is a second-round meeting with Ghana instead of Germany. But given that their participation at the 2006 World Cup ended at the hands of the Black Stars, Bob Bradley and his side will not underestimate Saturday's opponents as they look to build on the momentum generated by Landon Donovan's dramatic goal against Algeria.


Four years ago in Germany, USA would have qualified for the knockout stages with a victory over Ghana in their final group game but goals from Haminu Draman and Stephen Appiah in Nuremberg condemned them to an early departure. Nine Ghanaians and seven Americans remain from that contest but, in South Africa, an improved USA side are targeting a place in the quarter-finals, and a meeting with either Uruguay or South Korea.

That they are even contemplating a possible place in the last four of the World Cup is thanks to Donovan. In injury time of their final group game against Algeria, USA were heading out of the competition until the LA Galaxy star displayed a perfect grasp of dramatic timing to snatch top spot away from England. Having outplayed Algeria, suffered injustice at the hands of Slovenia and held England to a draw, USA deserve their place in the second round. Bradley dropped Oguchi Onyewu for the Algeria game but he could return in defence, while Robbie Findley is back from suspension and will come in for Herculez Gomez.

Ghana have been Africa's leading light in a disappointing tournament for the country and have matched their feat of four years ago when they fell to Brazil in the second round. Milovan Rajevac's side have overcome the pre-tournament loss of Michael Essien but goals are a problem with a 1-0 defeat of Serbia and a 1-1 draw with Australia both secured thanks to penalties from Asamoah Gyan. To address that concern, Rajevac could hand a first start of the tournament to promising striker Dominic Adiyiah who was named Africa's young player of the year in 2009.

USA player to watch: Michael Bradley. Previously accused of benefiting from nepotism given that his father coaches the national side, the midfielder is very much a star in his own right after a brilliant World Cup to date. After scoring a crucial goal against Slovenia, Bradley was man-of-the-match in the 1-0 win with Algeria as he impressed with his all-round game. Snapping into tackles and launching counter-attacks, his was a box-to-box performance and reminiscent of one of his heroes, Roy Keane.

Ghana player to watch: Andre Ayew. Another player who has lived in the shadow of a famous father, Ayew has some act to follow in Ghanaian legend Abedi Pele. Though his progress at club level has been slow, the Marseille winger is effective for his country and shone at the FIFA Under-20 World Cup and the African Nations Cup before appearing in all three of Ghana's group games in South Africa. Ayew is a sprightly presence out wide and USA will need to keep him quiet.

Key battle: Clint Dempsey v John Pantsil. The Fulham team-mates will indulge in a personal duel on Saturday with Pantsil operating at right back and Dempsey expected to play wide on the left for USA. Both men boast extensive experience and their contest could be crucial in the context of the game. Dempsey has impressed for USA in South Africa and Pantsil faces a real test in blunting his colleague from Craven Cottage.

Trivia: If Ghana emerge victorious they will match the feats of Senegal (2002) and Cameroon (1990), who are the only two African sides to have made it to a World Cup quarter-final.

Stats: Ghana's past three goals at the World Cup finals (including the second in their 2-1 win over USA in 2006) been from the penalty spot.

Odds: USA (2.70), the draw (3.10) and Ghana (2.87) with Bet365. USA to win in extra time is 13.00.

Prediction: This looks set to be a close contest and do not be surprised if it goes the distance. USA have shown their resilience in the tournament and could just nick it.

Full-time - 90'
Uruguay
2 - 1
South Korea

14:00 GMT, June 26, 2010

Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Luis Suarez's double booked Uruguay's place in the World Cup quarter-finals as South Korea's adventure came to a heartbreaking end.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Luis Suarez - Having scored 49 goals in 48 games for Ajax this season, Suarez delivered on the world stage with two goals to see Uruguay through. He was not involved for much of the match, but he was clinical when the chances came and, in total, he was on target with five of his six shots.

Uruguay verdict: Despite South Korea having much of the possession, Uruguay were not tested too regularly and, while they were generally solid in defence, individual errors allowed South Korea a way back on a number of occasions. Having looked unambitious after taking a 1-0 lead into the second half, they stepped up their game impressively when Lee Chung-Yong equalised in the 68th minute.

South Korea verdict: Energetic and hard-working, South Korea arguably had the better of the game but there was a distinct lack of cutting-edge. They were unfortunate to hit the post with an early free-kick before committing suicide for Luis Suarez' first goal.

Could do better: Fernando Muslera - The Uruguay goalkeeper gifted South Korea a way back into the match as he failed to deal with a free-kick before Lee Chung-Yong headed home. Such mistakes can prove fatal at this level.

Stat attack: Thanks to Suarez's 55th goal in 61 games this season, Uruguay advanced to the quarter-finals for the first time since 1970.

The Asian side looked to have turned the game around when Bolton midfielder Lee Chung-Yong cancelled out Suarez's early strike with 68 minutes gone. But amid a wintry downpour at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, the Ajax striker curled home a brilliant winner 10 minutes from time to confirm Oscar Tabarez's side as the first team to reach the last eight.

Uruguay were the better side before the break and deserved their half-time lead, but they had to survive a major fightback as Korea refused to give up on their dream, and Uruguay keeper Fernando Muslera had to make a vital late save from substitute Lee Dong-Gook to ensure the tie did not go to extra-time.

Tight games are often decided by fine margins, and that point will not have been lost on either coach within eight minutes of kick-off.

Had Park Cho-Young's fifth-minute free-kick come off the inside, rather than the outside, of the post with Muslera helpless, the ball might have ended up in the back of the net and Korea would have been in front.

But it did not, and three minutes later with South Korea keeper Jung Sung-Ryong fatally reconsidering his decision to come for Diego Forlan's teasing low cross when it was too late to do so, Suarez expertly steered the ball into the gaping net from a tight angle to double the dose for the Asian side.

In a half of few clear-cut chances, neither Muslera nor Jung had another save of any real note to make, although the Uruguay man was grateful to see two speculative late efforts from full-back Cha du-ri sail just over his crossbar.

South Korea, as their coach Huh Jung-Moo had promised, played their usual attacking game, and Park Chu-Young, as he has been throughout the competition to date, and skipper Park Ji-Sung caused problems.

However, Uruguay, with Forlan prompting from just behind the front two, had just that little bit more guile going forward and were streetwise enough at the back - they went in at the break still to concede a goal in South Africa - to ensure they largely held sway.

South Korea returned knowing their World Cup was drawing to a close unless they could find a way back into the game, and they resumed with some intent.

Kim Jae-Sung only just failed to connect with full-back Lee Young-Pyo's cross after it had been dummied by Park Chu-Young, and the striker himself blasted over with 51 minutes gone when he might have done better.

The equaliser came with 68 minutes gone after substitute Mauricio Victorino could only half-clear a free-kick and Lee Chung-Yong headed home the loose ball with Muslera and defender Diego Lugano flat-footed.

Uruguay's response was swift and Jung had to turn away Suarez's 73rd-minute shot, and it was he who won the game with 10 minutes remaining when, after a Forlan corner had been headed out, he picked up possession on the left and curled home a superb shot off the inside of the upright.