Technology debateHawk Eye decisions are ''instant''

July 2, 2010


Paul Hawkins, the man behind 'Hawk Eye', has revealed in an exclusive interview with Soccernet that the technology could be introduced to football - providing accurate and instant verdicts to contentious goal-line decisions.

Interview with Paul Hawkins

Goal-line technology has long been a subject of debate and has always been rejected by football's lawmakers, but FIFA has revealed that after Frank Lampard's 'goal' against Germany it will be reviewing whether or not it can be used in the sport.

Hawkins has seen his technology used successfully in tennis and cricket but says that, should FIFA decide to bring it in, the system would be instant, with no delay.

"The football system is slightly different to tennis and cricket. What FIFA have asked for is a system that will immediately tell the referee. So there's no review and no time taken out of the game," Hawkins said. "As soon as the ball crosses the line the referee receives a beep in the ear-piece that he already has to communicate with the linesman, so it's seamless. From a fans' perspective in the stadium you wouldn't even know it's there."

"We've discussed the system with FIFA also telling them if the ball is close to the line without actually crossing it, the referee will receive positive information that it hasn't. Because it is instant it doesn't slow the game down. If anything it speeds it up."

One of the main opponents to the use of technology has been FIFA president Sepp Blatter, who has maintained that it is not 100% effective, but Hawkins played down his fears.

"For any camera-based system the key area that people need to be convinced by is in a crowded penalty box with people around the ball obscuring it," he said. "That is the cleverest thing about our technology - being able to do that by positioning the cameras to detect the ball if only a small part of it can be seen."

Blatter apologised to England and Mexico after poor decisions cost them a place in the latter stages of the World Cup, but the incidents also prompted FIFA to put goal-line technology back on the agenda at next month's official meeting in Cardiff.

''On the face of it, it is encouraging. But the champagne is very much on ice. We'll have to wait and see what FIFA say after their meeting in July,'' Hawkins added. "It is a shame he tries to form his opinion on how a system works. What any non-scientist needs to do is form an opinion based on test results and whether it works or not.

"It is human nature to be slightly afraid of change and tennis was a little bit split, certainly before the 2004 US Open when there was a big controversy over line calls. That was really the catalyst for change."

"We'll have to wait and see whether this latest instance in the England versus Germany game is the catalyst for change in football."

Dunga to step down as Brazil boss

July 2, 2010

Dunga has said Brazil's quarter-final exit at the hands of Netherlands on Friday will be his last game as head coach of the seleção.

Brazil justified their status as favourites for the tie in Port Elizabeth when taking the lead through Robinho after just ten minutes, but fell apart when Felipe Melo scored an own goal and was then sent off after Wesley Sneijder had made it 2-1 to Netherlands.

Brazil topped Group G ahead of Portugal and comprehensively defeated Chile in the second round, but any hopes Dunga had of adding to his victories in the 2007 Copa America and 2009 Confederations Cup disappeared with a poor second-half performance.

Dunga, appointed in 2006, has always maintained that his job was for four years and did not shift from that perspective when speaking following Friday's defeat.

"We knew when I started that I would be here for four years," Dunga said. "It's sad, it's difficult, nobody prepares to lose.

"We were not able to maintain the same rhythm in the second half. If you play with only ten players against a quality team like Holland then it makes it difficult. Without a shadow of a doubt, I am the coach of the Brazilian team, I have the greatest responsibility."

Melo, who will be blamed by the Brazilian media for their exit, said: "There's no way I'm the villain of the 2010 World Cup. It was a collective mistake. When I was sent off, it was already 2-1... I accept my share of the blame. I apologise to the Brazilian fans because we wanted to be world champions and it didn't work out."

Goalkeeper Julio Cesar, who was at fault when failing to clear Sneijder's cross that Melo headed into his own net, admitted Brazil were not contemplating possible defeat when facing Netherlands.

"It's not the end of the world," Cesar said. "I just think now we have to leave with our heads held high. In Brazil people always put a lot of pressure on us. This was a result no one expected. Every game Brazil enters, we enter to win."

Argentina v Germany

14:00 GMT, July 3, 2010

Green Point Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa


Few people expected Diego Maradona's Argentina to cruise into the quarter-finals with such serenity, but a side that looked chaotic and clueless during qualification for the World Cup has found harmony in South Africa and appear to be improving with every game.


Gonzalo Higuain jointly leads the tournament's goalscoring charts with four, Nicolas Otamendi put himself forward as the solution to La Albiceleste's problems at right back with accomplished performances against Greece and Mexico and Lionel Messi has tapped into previously elusive form with the national team and is yet to contribute goals.

With a supporting cast that features both star talent and experience, Argentina make a formidable attacking outfit. However, their defence is yet to face a stern test and has already showed signs of fallibility. Martin Demichelis gifted a goal to South Korea in the group stage, and the defensive unit as whole has lacked concentration on various occasions. Any slip up against a German side that humiliated England 4-1 in their second-round match could prove costly.

Despite the tender age of some of Joachim Low's youthful German side they have shown no fear, beating Australia 4-0 and then recovering from a blip against Serbia, when they played with ten men for 54 minutes, to beat Ghana and then England. Thomas Muller and Mesut Ozil, who were plucked from the youth ranks, the latter from the Germans' UEFA Under-21 Championship winning side, are vital cogs in the high-tempo, attacking German machine.

Throw in Sami Khedira, who has been so good that no one seems to notice the absence of Michael Ballack, talented Bayern Munich midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger, the attacking instincts of captain Philipp Lahm from full back and the experience of strike duo Lukas Podolski and Miroslav Klose and Germany have a team more than capable of testing Argentina's weak spot at the back.

However, there are issues for Germany to contend with. Lahm, fellow defender Arne Friedrich, Schweinsteiger, Khedira, Muller, Ozil and striker Cacau are all just one yellow card away from suspension and could be inhibited by the prospect of missing out on a semi-final. Argentina have similar concerns over Gabriel Heinze, Javier Mascherano and Mario Bolatti.

Argentina player to watch: Carlos Tevez - Overshadowed by the mesmerising skills of Messi and the goals of Higuain in the group games, Tevez decided to grab some of the spotlight against Mexico by firing in a straight-to-YouTube classic and fuelling the technology debate with an offside opener. His high work rate and endless harassment of defenders was enough to retain a place in the team ahead of Diego Milito and Sergio Aguero and now that he has added a goalscoring touch there is no stopping the Manchester City striker.

Germany player to watch: Mesut Ozil - The Werder Bremen player has brought a touch of finesse and improvisation to the German midfield and was a key part of their crushing 4-1 victory over England in the last round. The youngster was a constant thorn in the side of the English defence, with his off-the-ball movement pulling players out of position and his clever passing opening avenues for the other attacking players. Ozil assisted the fourth and final goal in the 4-1 win, and also created four other goalscoring chances for his team-mates.

Key battle: Thomas Muller v Gabriel Heinze - Languishing in Bayern Munich's second team a year ago, Muller now leads Germany in both goals and assists at the World Cup. The 20-year-old scored his first international goal against Australia in the opening match and has grown in confidence since. The lanky player can stay out on the right flank or drift inside to make a useful target at the back post. Heinze will be the man charged with stopping Muller and will have to utilise all the dark arts in his repertoire to halt the German. Argentina have looked great going forwards but have been prone to lapses of concentration at the back.

Trivia: Diego Maradona has never seen Argentina draw a match under his 23-game tenure as manager of the side.

Stats: Lionel Messi has attempted the most shots (17) without scoring in the World Cup so far.

Odds: Argentina (2.30), Germany (3.40), the draw (3.10) are all on offer at Bet365. But a 2-2 draw after 90 minutes will get you 15.00.

Prediction: Both teams have issues at the back so it is unlikely that the match will be a defensive affair. Argentina have more ammunition going forward and are likely to edge a high-scoring quarter-final.

Paraguay v Spain

18:30 GMT, July 3, 2010

Ellis Park, Johannesburg, South Africa


Paraguay have found goals increasingly hard to come by at this World Cup and as a consequence became the first team to face the trauma of a penalty shootout following a drab 0-0 draw with Japan in the second round. Gerardo Martino's side began their campaign with a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Italy and cruised to a comfortable 2-0 win over Slovakia before the goals dried up against New Zealand in their final group game and then again against the Blue Samurai.


However, at the back La Albirroja have been breached just once and if they are to stand a chance in their quarter-final with the Spanish they will mainly have to rely on that solid defence again. The good news is that Del Bosque's Spain have struggled against defensive sides. Ottmar Hitzfeld's well organised Switzerland pulled off a shock 1-0 win against the European champions in their opening game and Carlos Queiroz's Portugal held firm for 63 minutes before eventually losing their second-round match 1-0.

Del Bosque will once again be looking for David Villa to lead the charge. Barcelona's new €40 million striker has already scored four crucial World Cup goals to get Spain out of some sticky situations and the manager's biggest problem is who to play alongside the Golden Boot contender.

Out-of-sorts striker Fernando Torres, who has been publicly backed by Del Bosque, has played in all four games and started the last three, but has been hauled off around the 60-minute mark in every game after failing to make an impact. Against Portugal, Torres was replaced with Athletic Bilbao striker Fernando Llorente and his introduction had an immediate impact, with Villa scoring the winner just minutes later. It would be no surprise if Llorente started ahead of Torres, who attempted just two shots on target in four games, in an otherwise unchanged Spanish team.

Having reached the quarter-final stage for the first time in their history, it's already mission accomplished for Paraguay. In many ways all the pressure is on Spain, who are joint-favourites to win the tournament.

Paraguay player to watch: Cristian Riveros - Sunderland's new signing is the hub around which Paraguay's midfield operates. He offers a mix of sharp tackling, box-to-box running and an excellent pass-and-move game. La Albirroja have used him on the left of a three-man midfield to control and win the ball back and he will have to be at the peak of his powers against Spain's much vaunted midfield duo of Xavi and Andres Inieista. So far he has met every challenge.

Spain player to watch: Xavi - The best playmaker in world football has already created more chances, played more successful passes and had more touches of the ball than any other Spanish player since 1966 so it would be incredibly difficult to overstate his importance to the team. His passing range is unmatched and his awareness of what is going on around him gives him the vision to pick out a killer pass. He created eight goalscoring chances in his last match against Portugal alone and no player has created more in a single game at this World Cup.

Key battle: David Villa v Paulo Da Silva - Barcelona striker Villa finished Euro 2008 as the tournament's top scorer and he is well on the way to winning the Golden Boot in South Africa after scoring four goals in four games. With regular strike partner Fernando Torres unable to hit a cow's arse with a banjo at the moment there is even more pressure on Villa to maintain his goalscoring touch and few would back against him doing so. Hoping to stop one of Europe's most fearsome strikers is Paraguay skipper Da Silva, who will have to call on all his years of experience as a versatile defender to do so. The 30-year-old's main aim will be to stop Villa cutting in from the left flank and he may well have to call on defensive partner Antolin Alcaraz to help him out.

Trivia: No team that is still in the competition has conceded as many fouls and so few shots on goal as Paraguay. But despite their physical approach the South Americans have given away nearly no free kicks in the danger area.

Stats: David Villa has scored five of Spain's last six goals at the World Cup. He assisted the other.

Odds: Paraguay (7.50), Spain (1.50) the draw (4.00) are all on offer at Bet365. But a 0-0 draw after 90 minutes will get you 9.00.

Prediction: These two sides have met on three previous occasions, with two of them ending in goalless draws and Spain winning the other. It is likely to be a low-scoring affair with Del Bosque's team just edging it.

Full-time - 90'
Argentina
0 - 4
Germany

14:00 GMT, July 3, 2010

Green Point Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

Six days after turfing England out of the World Cup with a magical display, Germany cast their spell on Argentina with a brilliant quarter-final performance.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Bastian Schweinsteiger - The Bayern Munich star provided the assists for Germany's first and third goals and was imperious in midfield throughout the match. In defence he was tenacious in the tackle and going forwards he invariably made the correct pass at the correct time.

Argentina verdict: Diego Maradona's side started slowly and then never recovered after conceding the early goal. There was plenty off huff and puff as Argentina fought to get back into the match but they never really created any clear-cut chances, despite all their possession. As La Albiceleste pushed forward they played into the hands of Germany's quick counter-attacks and were picked off late on.

Germany verdict: Joachim Low's side started the match on the front foot, scored an early goal after just three minutes, and never looked back. There was no chance this attacking, high-tempo German team would sit on their lead and there were shades of the onslaught against England in the previous match as Die Mannschaft carved open their opponent's defence time and again. Klose's first goal after 67 minutes left the Germans strolling down Easy Street for the remainder of the match.

Could do better: Nicolas Otamendi - The Vélez Sarsfield defender suffered a torrid time at right full-back, but to be fair to Otamendi he is a centre-back by trade. He struggled to contain Lukas Podolski and Mesut Ozil and was hauled off after 70 minutes as Argentina chased the game.

Stat attack: Germany have not conceded a second half goal in this World Cup.

Argentina were buried thanks to a third-minute goal from Thomas Muller and two second-half efforts from Miroslav Klose either side of one from Arne Friedrich. Even Diego Maradona would had appreciated it had he not been in the opposite dug-out. An imperious masterclass from a side on the march.

Games of this magnitude can often be dull, sterile affairs, where two giants cancel each other out completely. This spectacular never had a chance of being that way.

An Argentina team containing Lionel Messi, Gonzalo Higuain and Carlos Tevez, managed by one of the most creative forces there has ever been, is not exactly set up to defend. Germany's talents are not as well known. But over the past week Joachim Low's team have made some statement.

When Nicolas Otamendi brought Podolski down by the touchline, the start of what turned out to be a tortuous opening period for the young full-back, Bastian Schweinsteiger curled the free-kick to the near post. Muller escaped Otamendi's attentions and rose unchallenged.

The youngster should have sent a firm header into the corner. Instead, he got the faintest touch which deceived Sergio Romero, who must have thought he was going to be beaten anyway. It shot off the Argentina keeper's leg and rolled into the net.

For a good 15 minutes, those famous blue and white shirts were seen twisting and turning in all directions as they tried to keep their opponents at bay.

Klose wasted a golden opportunity to double the advantage when Muller capitalised on Gabriel Heinze's error and squared for the veteran frontman. On his 100th appearance, it should have been his 51st goal. But he rushed the opportunity and side-footed over.

Too young to be considered for Germany's triumphant Under-21 squad at last summer's European Championships, what a year Muller has had. In reaching the Champions League final with Bayern Munich, he had already confirmed himself as one of the best young players in the world.

On successive weekends, both England and Argentina have discovered the 20-year-old is a rich talent as well. Unfortunately, football can be a cruel sport and a harsh booking for handball means the youngster will miss Wednesday's semi-final in Durban.

After being hurt so badly so quickly, Argentina at least managed to clear their heads and began to respond. The problem was Germany's defence was rock solid, their movement choreographed superbly.

Messi tried to sparkle but he was forced further back to gain meaningful possession, and then surrounded instantly to ensure there was no escape.

Another star name destined to leave South Africa without making a significant mark, or scoring a goal, Messi did his best with the scraps that were offered without making the mesmerising burst or defence-splitting pass his team craved.

On the touchline, Maradona stood, knowing the difference between a great player and the absolute best is their ability to produce when the pressure is at its greatest, as he did in 1986. Since then, Germany have gained revenge, both in the 1990 final and the quarter-final four years ago.

In his amusing dismissal of England, German skipper Philipp Lahm said he wanted to win inside 90 minutes, for his country to finally defeat a big team. It was time for his youthful team-mates to announce their arrival.

First, a prone Muller stabbed the ball into space and set Podolski free to present Klose with a tap-in.

Then, pushing forward even though the game was won, Friedrich was on hand to finish from close range after Schweinsteiger had cut through the Argentine defence like a knife through butter.

Klose finished the rout and with another four-star performance, Germany roll into the semi-finals with every chance of lifting the trophy.

Full-time - 90'
Paraguay
0 - 1
Spain

18:30 GMT, July 3, 2010

Ellis Park, Johannesburg, South Africa

David Villa enhanced his reputation as the World Cup's outstanding striker with a late goal to give a below-par Spain a 1-0 win over Paraguay and book a semi-final clash with Germany, in what will be a repeat of the Euro 2008 final.


MATCH SUMMARY

Men of the Match: Iker Casillas and Justo Villar - In a game devoid of much quality, both goalkeepers get an honourable mention. They both saved penalties to keep their respective teams in the match and the last time that happened was back in 1930 in a match between Argentina and Mexico.

Paraguay verdict: Gerardo Martino's side quickly slipped into their usual routine of defending tenaciously and hitting on the counter-attack. It worked a treat in the first-half but despite some slick interplay Paraguay were unable to capitalize on their early dominance. La Albirroja paid the price in the second-half as holes appeared at the back and David Villa eventually found a way through.

Spain verdict: Vicente del Bosque's side simply didn't turn up for the first-half. They were slow, lethargic, well off the pace and didn't muster a single shot on target. But with the coach's angry voice still ringing in their ears Spain rediscovered some of their fluid style after the break. When Torres and Alonso were replaced by Fabregas and Pedro, La Roja began to create chances and took the one that mattered.

Could do better: Xabi Alonso - Striker Fernando Torres could easily have been handed his fifth straight 'could do better' award but just to spare him such ignominy we have handed it to Alonso, and with justification. His much-vaunted passing was way off the mark and he also missed from the penalty spot. He was replaced by Pedro after 74 minutes.

Stat attack: Spain came into the 2010 World Cup having converted 14 of 14 penalties. They have missed two in this tournament.

The 28-year-old struck his fifth goal of the finals to send the perennial underachievers into the last four of the World Cup for the first time.

It was tough on Paraguay who had matched the European champions for much of the game - and though this has been a World Cup of shocks, the needle would have gone off the Richter scale if the South Americans had triumphed.

Spain now face Germany in the semi-finals - not since 1950, where they were part of a four-team final group, have they had such an opportunity to reach the final itself.

Both sides contrived to miss penalties before Villa came up trumps after Andres Iniesta had carved out an opening for Pedro, who hit the post with his new Barcelona team-mate producing the perfect follow up.

Until then, Paraguay coach Gerardo Martino, who made no fewer than six changes from the side that scraped past Japan on penalties, had got his tactics just right. Spain's coach Vicente del Bosque kept faith with the same starting line-up for the third game in a row but familiarity bred contempt for the first hour.

Paraguay could have gone ahead in the very first minute had they taken advantage of an excellent opening. The Spanish defence was split open by Oscar Cardozo who found Jonathan Santana on the edge of the box but his shot was tame and Iker Casillas was not troubled.

Cristian Riveros headed over as Paraguay continued their refusal to be overawed while Xavi, dogged by Cristian Riveros snapping at his heels, had a poor first half.

Spain failed to bring a single save out of Justo Villar in the first 45 minutes - Xavi's spin and volley that dipped just too late their one highlight, while Fernando Torres looked woeful.

After Joan Capdevila's free-kick was blocked, a break by Paraguay saw a stunning cross by Claudio Morel that was just missed by Santana.

Villa, who had looked the liveliest of the off-colour Spaniards, dragged a chance wide before Paraguay were controversially denied the lead.

Nelson Valdez brought down the ball and finished expertly but was flagged offside - replays showed he was just on - and he put his next chance high and wide after turning Carles Puyol inside and out at pace.

After 10 minutes of the second half del Bosque had seen enough and he sent on Cesc Fabregas for Torres and suddenly a drab game exploded into life.

Paraguay were awarded a penalty after Gerard Pique hauled down Cardozo. The Benfica forward dusted himself down and stepped up but Casillas saved low to his left.

Almost immediately referee Carlos Batres from Guatemala awarded a spot-kick at the other end after Villa was felled by Antolin Alcaraz. Xabi Alonso put it away only to be made to re-take it due to encroachment and this time Villar came up trumps - and he then got away with clipping Fabregas who reached the loose ball first.

Iniesta, who had been much subdued, suddenly woke up and brought a terrific save out of Villar with a curling effort, then lofted another effort high over the bar. Fabregas' hustling saw Xavi presented with a shooting chance and he hit it almost too well as it whistled past the post.

With seven minutes left Spain finally produced a goal worthy of their lofty reputation when Iniesta went on a fantastic run and set up Pedro whose shot hit the post, with Villa reacting instinctively to fire it in off the other upright. Now he has 43 goals for his country, only one behind Raul.

It was left to Casillas to rival Villa as Spain's hero with a double save in the dying seconds to keep out Lucas Barrios and Roque Santa Cruz.

Uruguay v Netherlands

18:30 GMT, July 6, 2010

Green Point Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa


The only undefeated countries left in this year's World Cup go head-to-head for a place in their third World Cup final, though their records make for somewhat different reading. While Uruguay have won both their two previous appearances in the showpiece - in 1930 and 1950 - Netherlands have carried the two successive final defeats in 1974 and 1978 like an albatross around their neck ever since.

The last time the Oranje competed in a World Cup semi-final was in 1998, when they were knocked out on penalties by Brazil following a 1-1 draw that included one of the greatest ever finals goals, a finish of real beauty from Dennis Bergkamp. This time around, Brazil were vanquished in the quarter-finals and South America's only remaining contenders in South Africa stand in the way of Netherlands' date with destiny.

Bert van Marwijk's side have won all five of their matches in South Africa, seeing off Denmark, Japan, Cameroon, Slovakia and Brazil in a style that can be more accurately labelled as ruthlessly efficient than Total Football. Netherlands now have a great chance to exorcise the demons of '74 and '78, and with Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben firing on all cylinders, they appear to possess both more quality and more big-game experience than Uruguay - a nation playing their most significant match since beating Brazil to win the 1995 Copa America.

Few would have predicted Uruguay's place in the last four before the tournament, but they have proved an opportunistic side, high on energy and talent. In a group containing a shambolic France, a South Africa team possessing less quality than any previous host nation and a flair-filled but defensively frail Mexico, Oscar Tabarez's side advanced with some comfort to the knockout stage. Against South Korea in the second round, Luis Suarez was the hero - netting twice in a 2-1 victory and with Ghana the opposition in the quarter-finals, the Ajax striker was the saviour once more.

Suarez has been demonised by some, canonised by others, for his last-minute handball - but the subsequent red card and his suspension for this semi-final would appear ample punishment for Uruguay. The South Americans must suffer the absence of the most prolific goalscorer in European football last season for their biggest match since defeat to Brazil's greatest ever side in the 1970 World Cup semi-finals.

Uruguay player to watch: Edinson Cavani. After struggling to a dour 0-0 draw with France in the opening game, the introduction of Cavani to the starting line-up has drastically improved Uruguay's fortunes. Despite not finding the net in South Africa, Cavani has proved the perfect foil to strike partner Luis Suarez and has allowed talismanic captain Diego Forlan to drop deep and influence proceedings, playing behind the front two. Cavani's movement off the ball, passing and work-rate have been impressive, but with Suarez suspended, the Palermo forward must now step out of his shadow and prove his goalscoring credentials.

Netherlands player to watch: Mark Van Bommel. One of the Oranje's unsung heroes in South Africa, Van Bommel and fellow midfield enforcer Nigel De Jong have frequently done the Dutch dirty work - breaking up play to allow the creative talents of Dirk Kuyt, Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben to flourish. The Bayern Munich man is proficient at doing the simple things such as passing and intercepting effectively and played a crucial role in keeping Kaka quiet in the second-half against Brazil. This time around he will be charged with keeping Forlan at bay and if he manages to stifle Uruguay's dangerman, Netherlands have a great chance of progressing.

Key battle: Diego Godin/ Mauricio Victorino/ Álvaro Pereira v Arjen Robben. The suspension of Uruguay left-back Jorge Fucile has given Oscar Tabarez a huge defensive dilemma: who should be charged with shackling Netherlands star turn Arjen Robben? The Bayern Munich winger has been in sparkling form since returning from injury and the loss of Fucile, who was expected to provide a stern test after proving one of Uruguay's most impressive performers in South Africa, is a big blow. Alvaro Pereira, who has been deployed as a left winger during the tournament, has displayed his ability at left-back for club side Porto and will have the pace, if not the defensive nous, to track Robben. The other options are dependent on the fitness of captain Digeo Lugano and fellow centre-backs Godin and Victorino; if the former is fit than one of the latter two may switch to the left and take up a man-marking job on Van Marwijk's most explosive weapon.

Trivia: New Zealand could feasibly finish as the only unbeaten side at the 2010 World Cup, should the winner of this clash between Netherlands and Uruguay go on to lose the final.

Stats: Uruguay are without a win in their last 13 World Cup finals games against European opposition (six draws, seven losses) with their last success over a European side coming in 1970 when they beat the Soviet Union 1-0 at the quarter-final stage.

Odds: Uruguay (7.50), Netherlands (1.61) and the draw (3.50) are all on offer at Bet365. Wesley Sneijder to score first might be worth a flutter at 8.00.

Prediction: South America's sole representatives have yet to face a side of Netherlands' quality and it could well be their undoing. The loss of key players in Suarez and Fucile presents dilemmas in both tactics and personnel for Uruguay, and the Dutch are primed to fully exploit their deficiencies, after fighting back to beat Brazil. Robben and Sneijder hold the key; expect them to have what it takes to unlock the Uruguay defence and book a place in the final.

Full-time - 90'
Uruguay
2 - 3
Netherlands

18:30 GMT, July 6, 2010

Green Point Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa


Holland will have their chance to exorcise the ghosts of World Cup finals past on Sunday after beating Uruguay 3-2.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Wesley Sneijder - It was not the most vintage of performances, and he needed a large slice of luck for his goal, but the midfielder once again showed the reason why Manchester United are reportedly planning a £25 million offer for the Inter Milan playmaker. Arjen Robben's final execution just let him down meaning Sneijder picks up the award.

Uruguay verdict: Although Uruguay set themselves up as a strong unit, with two men on Robben, they lacked a cutting edge up front with Luis Suarez suspended. Substituting Diego Forlan with six minutes to go said plenty about how Oscar Tabarez had run out of ideas, despite needing two goals in such a short space of time. Tabarez may wish he still had Forlan on the pitch as his side tried to get a late, late leveller.

Netherlands verdict: The Dutch may have stuttered at times but they were the better side. That said, Netherlands still have room for improvement ahead of a World Cup final against either Germany or Spain. Robben may be allowed a little more freedom in that game, which could hold the key to the Dutch triumphing for the first time.

Could do better: Maarten Stekelenburg - Despite having a good tournament before this game, the Dutch No.1 looked far from assured in this match. He was caught out by Diego Forlan for Uruguay's first, was caught in no man's land early in the second half and let Maxi Pereira's late effort past him far too easily. He will have to be on much better form on Sunday.

Stat attack: The last time a team scored three in a World Cup semi-final was 1982, when West Germany and France drew 3-3. (West Germany won on penalties).


Goals from Giovanni van Bronckhorst, Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben secured a semi-final victory over Uruguay in Cape Town and a chance to avenge defeats on the game's biggest stage in 1974 and 1978.

Bert van Marwijk's side may not delight like the 'Total Football' Dutch teams from the playing days of Johan Cruyff.

But having waited so long, the Oranje will care little for that as they prepare to bring their own glow to Johannesburg in a meeting with either Spain or Germany.

Captain Van Bronckhorst brilliantly put his side in front before former Manchester United star Diego Forlan levelled with a goal that ultimately was not quite enough, even though Maximiliano Pereira's strike gave a glimmer of hope in stoppage time.

Forlan was too isolated to cause Holland damage after Van Bronckhorst scored that stunning opener. And, with the clock ticking down towards half-time, there seemed to be little on when Forlan collected possession 40 yards out. But, offered space to advance into, he then delivered the kind of shot this hotly-debated Jabulani ball was made for, though big questions will be asked of goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg.

Stekelenburg's part in the equaliser ensured Van Bronckhorst's opener was the better of two eye-catching first-half efforts. As with Forlan, there seemed no danger when the Dutch skipper receive possession on the left.

Due to retire when this tournament is over, the 35-year-old defender planted a fierce shot high to the goalkeeper's left, so far into the corner that it struck the inside of the post before finding the net.

Uruguay had not made their impact in South Africa through dazzling skill and unchecked flair. They are defensively aware and exceptionally well organised by wily old coach Oscar Tabarez.

Netherlands took their time to get about their task in the second period as Uruguay's defence threatened to hold firm, so it took a bit of good fortune to bring about a second goal.

Sneijder's shot deflected off Maxi Pereira, and past an off guard Robin van Persie, before flashing beyond the outstretched arm of Muslera and into the corner of the net.

Three minutes later, Robben rose to head home Kuyt's cross and the game looked over.

Uruguay did get a late second through defender Pereira's strike from the edge of the area and then besieged the Dutch goal. But they couldn't find a third to take the game into extra-time.

For Uruguay, the game was up. For Holland, the glory that proved so unobtainable all those years ago, is in reach again.

Germany v Spain

18:30 GMT, July 7, 2010

Durban Stadium, Durban, South Africa

Germany manager Joachim Low described his side's 4-0 annihilation of Argentina in the quarter-finals as a "performance of champions" and in doing so made a statement of intent. His youthful German side are not just at these finals to gain valuable experience but to lift the trophy.


Their defeat of Argentina was the third time in five games that Germany scored four goals in a match - defeating Australia 4-0 in their opening group game and England 4-1 in the second round - and Die Mannschaft go into this match as the team in form. Low's side have developed a quick-flowing, counter-attacking style that has proved too hot to handle for more than one opponent.

The Germans have brought a breath of fresh air to a tournament that has often been bogged down with defensive tactics and their attacking intent will pose a whole new set of problems for a Spanish side that is used to facing massed defences and looks vulnerable at the back.

While Germany were romping to a famous victory over Diego Maradona's previously unbeaten Argentina, the below par Spaniards fought out a 1-0 victory over Paraguay following a similarly attritional 1-0 win against Portugal in the second round. It's fair to say the Vicente Del Bosque's side are yet to hit the form that enabled them to win Euro 2008, coincidentally with a 1-0 win over Germany in Vienna, and the sorry sight of an out-of-sorts Fernando Torres is emblematic of that.

The subdued Liverpool striker has started the last four games for Spain since recovering from injury, but has been hauled off around the 60-minute mark in every match after failing to make an impact. It can be no coincidence that his exit against Paraguay coincided with an improvement for Spain and it would be no surprise if Del Bosque opted to start Fernando Llorente or Pedro instead.

It may be late in the day to start making unforced changes but something needs to be done or Spain, who will be playing in their first ever World Cup semi final, face the prospect of being swept aside by a German side high on confidence and talent. But Low must make a significant change of his own with man-of-the-moment Thomas Muller, who jointly leads Germany in both goals and assists, suspended. The Bayern Munich starlet will be a big miss.

Germany player to watch: Bastian Schweinsteiger - Argentina singled out German midfielder Mesut Ozil for special treatment in their quarter-final clash and so Schweinsteiger assumed the role of creator-in-chief with devastating effect. The Bayern Munich star provided the assists for Germany's first and third goals and was imperious in midfield throughout the match. With Muller missing against Spain Schweinsteiger will again have to deliver a top notch box-to-box performance.

Spain player to watch: David Villa - It may be an obvious selection but Barcelona's new €40 million signing has carried Spain this far and all eyes will be on him as he attempts to do so once again. Villa has scored five of Spain's seven goals in South Africa and is well on the way to winning the Golden Boot. Already recognised as one of Europe's most fearsome strikers he is now making a substantial impact on the world stage.

Key battle: Miroslav Klose v Gerard Pique: Germany striker Klose has mustered more goals in this World Cup than he managed in the entire Bundesliga season and in doing so stands on the brink of making history. The often derided Bayern Munich forward has already overtaken Pele in the World Cup's all-time goalscoring charts with 14, and just one more will see him tied for first place with Ronaldo. Hoping to stop Klose will be Barcelona centre-back Pique, who had torrid time against Paraguay and resorted to hauling down opponent Oscar Cardozo. Fortunately Cardozo failed to score from the resulting penalty.

Trivia: The last encounter between these two nations was in the Euro 2008 final. Spain won 1-0 thanks to a Fernando Torres strike.

Stats: All 14 of Miroslav Klose's World Cup goals have come in open play and been scored from inside the box. Half of them have been headers.

Odds: Germany (2.80), Spain (2.62) and the draw (3.20) are all on offer at Bet365. But a 2-1 win for Germany will get you 11.00.

Prediction: These two sides both love to attack but while Spain have been stuttering, Germany have hit their stride and that could be the crucial difference.

Full-time - 90'
Germany
0 - 1
Spain

18:30 GMT, July 7, 2010

Durban Stadium, Durban, South Africa


For all of Spain's brilliant passing in their semi-final against Germany, it was a Carles Puyol header from a corner that put La Roja into their first ever World Cup final.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Pedro - The Barcelona forward was picked ahead of Fernando Torres and justified the decision with a lively start. His mazy runs and slick interplay caused the German defence multiple problems and he maintained that level throughout the match. When Spain eventually made a change in attack it was David Villa that went off, not the 22-year-old.

Germany verdict: Joachim Low's side couldn't get their game going early on as Spain pressed high up the pitch and the absence of the suspended Thomas Muller deprived them of width on the right. Although the Germans happily surrendered possession they maintained a threat on the counter-attack, but after the break they lost that threat. Low tinkered with his team to try and find a spark but were reduced to hopeful punts into the box as time ticked away.

Spain verdict: Vicente Del Bosque's decision to finally drop Torres initially seemed to hamper Spain as the change meant goal-machine David Villa had to abandon his normal tactic of cutting in from the left and instead led the line. After the break Del Bosque got it right as his team upped the tempo and began to carve through Germany. It was only a matter of time before they got the goal their slick possession football deserved. However, when it came it was from a corner - Carles Puyol heading in after 73 minutes - not from open play. But another 1-0 win will do.

Could do better: Piotr Trochowski - The Hamburg SV midfielder was unable to fill the rather large boots of Muller, refused stay out wide and deprived the Germans of their safety valve. He couldn't really get into the game and was replaced by Toni Kroos after 62 minutes as Germany looked to get something going.

Stat attack: Since the statistic was first tracked starting in 1966, Spain have now become only the third team to complete 3,000 passes at a single World Cup. (Brazil, 1994 & Netherlands, 1998)

The Euro 2008 winners dominated possession in Durban but initially struggled to create clear openings against Joachim Low's impressive young side. But after failing to break through with their subtle approach, Spain eventually brought out the sledgehammer in the second-half.

Iker Casillas deserves plenty of credit for his fine save to deny Toni Kroos moments before the goal.

But when midfield schemer Xavi curled a corner deep into the German box, 32-year-old Puyol showed the German young guns what experience can bring as he rose highest and then powered an unstoppable header beyond Manuel Neuer.

For Germany it was a game too far. But with their impressive victories against England and Argentina, they have signalled a new dawn for their national team.

Spain's prowess has been known for some time. That is why they had the strength to leave out a strangely shot-shy Fernando Torres.

And against Holland at Soccer City on Sunday, they will attempt to confirm their class, as FIFA waits to crown a new champion, no matter what the outcome.

It was one of those games that is usually described as being for the purist. An alternative assessment would be boring. There was nevertheless a bewitching tactical battle that Spain started in the ascendancy and Germany slowly hauled their way back into.

The format was fairly predictable. Spain dominating possession, Xavi and Andres Iniesta attempting to pierce their opponent's defence with intelligent and incisive close passing, while Germany looked to hit back with greater power on the counter-attack.

Aiming to become the first team since West Germany in 1972 and 1974 to follow up a European Championship triumph by lifting the World Cup as well, Spain's problem was the ferocious discipline of their opponents' defence.

On their charge to the last four, Mesut Ozil, suspended wide-man Thomas Muller and Miroslav Klose have captured most of the headlines. But Germany could not function without Arne Friedrich and Per Mertesacker doing the business at the back.

Having axed Torres, Spain coach Vicente del Bosque was putting more responsibility than ever on the shoulders of David Villa. Yet the Barcelona-bound forward had just one sight of the German goal, when Torres' replacement Pedro threaded a pass through for him to run onto. Neuer was out just as quickly to make a brave block.

Germany hardly touched the ball for 25 minutes and as it turned out, would have probably benefited from a more English-style route one approach. But when Spain finally paused for breath, Piotr Trochowski, the man entrusted to fill Muller's right-sided berth, forced Iker Casillas into a scrambling low save and thereafter the Spain skipper was the busier goalkeeper until the break.

The interval just triggered a repeat of the opening to the first half, as Spain totally dominated their bewildered opponents without making it count.

Their best opportunity came when Pedro let fly with a speculative effort that was too strong for Neuer to hold. Andres Iniesta was onto the rebound in a flash, drilling the ball across goal from the left to where Villa, sliding in at the far post, just failed to make contact.

As they had done before, Germany began to make their presence felt midway through the half when Lukas Podolski chipped a cross to the far post which substitute Kroos met perfectly.

In such moments are big matches won and lost. On this occasion Casillas thundered across his goal and made an impressive and important save. Minutes later, Spain had their lead.

That it should come in such a direct manner after the neatness that had gone before just highlights the paradox of the game.

Puyol's skill was to evade the arm grabs that are now commonplace at all corners by beginning his run from deep. It had the added advantage of giving him the power to ensure once he had got his head to Xavi's corner, Neuer had no chance of keeping the ball out.

Germany did their best to press for an equaliser but in the end, they lacked enough nous.

Indeed, had it not been for the greed of Pedro, who could have presented substitute Torres with a late tap-in, the margin of victory could have been greater.