Full-time - 90'
Australia
2 - 1
Serbia

Group D, 18:30 GMT, June 23, 2010

Mbombela Stadium

Australia beat Serbia 2-1 to seal both teams' exit from the World Cup. The Socceroos looked like they might cause an upset after going ahead, but Serbia's Marko Pantelic hit back to see them miss out by a single goal.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: - In a hard fought match, super-sub Brett Holman changed the course of a game that Serbia were in control of. Tim Cahill scored just two minutes after the AZ Alkmaar midfielder's introduction and Holman then scored himself with a 30-yard wonder goal to give Australia a 2-0 lead.

Australia verdict: Struggled to get into the match as they opted for the direct route in the first-half. After the break the Socceroos played more of a passing game, keeping the ball on the floor, and it suited them better.

Serbia verdict: The Serbs were dominant in possession in the first-half and looked comfortable. But the White Eagles made a slow start after the break and lost their way. Zoran Tosic's introduction as sub in the 62nd minute got them back on course, but it was too little, too late.

Could do better: Nikola Zigic The 6' 7" striker missed a header from point-blank range when unmarked in the first-half. He didn't improve after the break and was hauled off after 69 minutes, to be replaced by Marko Pantelic.

Stat attack: This was the Socceroos' first win in six games at the World Cup finals (two draws and three defeats).

Ultimately Serbia paid for their earlier profligacy as second-half goals from Tim Cahill and Brett Holman sent them crashing out.

Australia's effort dragged them off the bottom of the group but it was too little too late as Ghana edged them out of the second round on goal difference. It was a face-saving win for Australia that seemed barely likely in the first half as they struggled to cope with Serbia's pace and technical excellence.

Serbia had the first opportunity when Milos Krasic, booed by Australia's sizeable following after a tumble in the box moments earlier, burst into the box and fired at Mark Schwarzer from a tight angle.

Krasic had another chance after 11 minutes as Serbia broke quickly following an Australia corner. Milos Ninkovic played him through with a superb pass but the CSKA Moscow star shot high and wide after rounding the advancing Schwarzer.

Serbia maintained the pressure and went close again when Zdravko Kuzmanovic shot across the face of goal.

Australia were struggling to handle the speed of the Serbian attacks and were grateful when Schwarzer stuck out an arm to deny Chelsea's Branislav Ivanovic from inside the six-yard box. They were limited to firing in crosses from deep but it was 32 minutes before Serbia failed to deal with one and Cahill headed his side's first good chance wide.

Australia were almost caught out by another slick Serbia move before the break but Krasic was marginally offside before flicking the ball past Schwarzer.

The Socceroos began the second period with more purpose and won a free-kick after Cahill tangled with Nemanja Vidic. Marco Bresciano drilled the set-piece in low but Nikola Zigic was back to clear.

Cahill also sliced a shot wide from a Josh Kennedy flick-on but the Socceroos remained vulnerable on the counter-attack. Milan Jovanovic broke clear on the left and Zigic controlled his cross brilliantly only to shoot over.

Australia, again showing more intent, went close as Jason Culina drilled a low shot wide.

Bresciano then forced Vladimir Stojkovic to make his first serious save from a low free-kick after Ninkovic was booked for a late tackle on Luke Wilkshire.

Kuzmanovic headed a good chance wide for Serbia but the eastern Europeans were starting to look concerned.

They paid the price for their earlier profligacy as Wilkshire picked out Cahill with a superb cross in the 69th minute and the Everton star headed powerfully home in familiar fashion.

Serbia were rattled and Australia began to sense an unlikely opportunity as substitute Holman broke forward four minutes later and unleashed a ferocious shot that flew past Stojkovic from 30 yards.

Serbia grabbed a lifeline six minutes from time as Schwarzer spilled a long-range Zoran Tosic shot and fellow substitute Pantelic pounced from close range.

That allowed them to regain their composure and they created one last gilt-edged chance but Pantelic was unable to stay onside and missed the target anyway.

Paraguay v New Zealand

Group F, 14:00 GMT, June 24, 2010

Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane, South Africa

If New Zealand were to pick up a scoring draw and Italy were held 0-0 by Slovakia, then the All Whites would go through on goal scored and if they both manage to draw by the same scoreline then it goes to the drawing of lots. A win against Paraguay would also ensure New Zealand's progress (possibly as group winners) and it would represent the single biggest shock in World Cup history if they were to qualify.


Not given a hope of even getting a point at the tournament, they have impressed with their functional style of play and picked up two impressive points in their first two games. Who is to say they can't do it again?

Paraguay won't be an easy proposition though. The team that impressed more in the qualifiers than Argentina have shown that they have the spirit to push for top spot with a convincing win over Slovakia and a battling draw against Italy. Playing decent attacking football, with a high-energy approach, they have quality throughout their ranks and should be favourites.

Paraguay player to watch: Cristian Riveros . Steve Bruce may have picked himself up a bargain as the new Sunderland recruit has looked imperious in the Paraguay midfield. A brilliant pass-and-move player, his stamina has impressed and he has been one of the shining lights of Group F thus far. Boasting a tough tackle as well, Paraguay have used him on the left of a three-man midfield to control and win the ball back, while he has been encouraged to join the attack as much as possible.

New Zealand player to watch: Rory Fallon. While fellow striker Shane Smeltz has taken the headlines for his goal against Italy, Fallon has been the battering ram up front that creates space for his team-mates. Criticised by the Italians for use of the arm while jumping, Fallon is a tough customer and can hold the ball up with his strength to give New Zealand a different option up front. The hero of the Bahrain play-off could use a goal though.

Key Battle: Lucas Barrios v Tommy Smith. Barrios has managed three goals and two assists in five games for Paraguay so far in his career and his star is on the rise. With pace and skill up front, he was tipped as one of the players to watch out for before the tournament and has come good. Alongside Ryan Nelsen, Smith has shown his talent at the tender age of 20, marshalling the defence and forming a great partnership with the Blackburn man. He gave away a silly penalty against Italy, but with that to the back of his mind, he will have his hands full stopping Barrios.

Trivia: This is the 750th match in World Cup history.

Stats: Twelve of Paraguay's last 13 wins have come when they have kept a clean sheet, while New Zealand have scored two goals from just three shots on target in this World Cup.

Odds: Paraguay (1,50), New Zealand (7.00) and a draw (4.20) are all available at Bet 365, but a 0-0 draw will get you 9.00.

Prediction: If New Zealand can play like they have thus far, they stand every chance of picking up another draw. One feels a tough 1-0 defeat may await them though.

Slovakia v Italy

Group F, 14:00 GMT, June 24, 2010

Ellis Park, Johannesburg, South Africa

The world champions come into a must-win game in poor form. Italy have drawn against Paraguay and New Zealand already at this World Cup and their last three matches in the tournament (including the 2006 final) has seen them concede first before drawing 1-1.

In-fighting has seen coach Marcello Lippi criticised by some of his players for his tactics. Claudio Marchisio, the most vocal, has grown tired of what he calls ''experiments'' in the formation, but Lippi has maintained that the team spirit is intact. We shall see.

But they come up against a Slovakia side that have only managed three shots on target after their first two games. With star midfielder Marek Hamsik failing to fire, Slovakia have not impressed, but it is a measure of the competition thus far that if they manage to beat the Italians (and Paraguay beat New Zealand) they would qualify.

The only previous encounter between these two sides was a 3-0 win for Italy in 1998, but with Group F the group of draws, one wonders if Italy have enough to see themselves safely through.

Slovakia player to watch: Martin Skrtel. The Liverpool defender was an injury doubt before the tournament, but he has come to the fore and shown some commanding performances in the heart of Slovakia's defence. Strong and as committed as any player in South Africa, Skrtel's physicality has stopped the minnows being rolled over and he will have to be at his best again to keep Italy off the scoresheet.

Italy player to watch: Daniele De Rossi. The Roma star is highly rated by his team-mates and is seen as one of the best midfielders in the world. Combative, tough and aggressive, he has said that Italy must put in a much better performance than they have thus far, saying: ''We'll have to improve quickly, because otherwise we won't be going far." How he manages to distribute the ball in the centre will play a large part in Italy's hopes of success.

Key Battle: Jan Mucha v Vincenzo Iaquinta. If Slovakia follow their pattern of play, then a lot of the game could be played in their own half. Italy have strikers who are the subject of interest in every transfer window, but they have not lit up the World Cup thus far. Mucha has shown glimpses of his talent in between the sticks, while Iaquinta has struggled in front of goal and only managed to net from the spot against New Zealand.

Trivia: Italy have conceded two goals from the only two shots on target they have conceded at this World Cup.

Stats: Italy have scored 11 of their last 16 goals at World Cup finals from set-pieces, while three of the four matches in Group F have finished 1-1.

Odds: Slovakia (6.50), Italy (1.53) and a draw (4.00) are all available at Bet 365, but a 1-1 draw will get you 8.00.

Prediction: A 1-1 draw seems likely given the poor form of both teams, but one feels Italy have to turn it around eventually and now may be that time.

Cameroon v Netherlands

Group E, 18:30 GMT, June 24, 2010

Green Point Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa

With the Dutch already qualified and Cameroon already out, the match holds little importance, save for a chance to restore some pride to the Indomitable Lions.

Paul Le Guen's team have not won in their last seven games and confidence is at an all-time low after in-fighting in the camp that saw the coach come in for blooding young players too quickly. But with very little positive news to take from their experiences in South Africa, the side have a chance to upset the likely group winners, who will already be targeting a potential game in the second round against Italy.

Bert van Marwijk's team performed well in their warm-up matches and have extended that run into the tournament, with many tipping the Dutch to go all the way. With an emphasis on attacking football, they have won over many neutrals and should not be troubled too much by the first side to drop out of the World Cup.

Cameroon player to watch: Souleymanou Hamidou. Keeping Carlos Kameni out of the side, the veteran goalkeeper has had to watch as his side dropped out of the tournament. Not expected to keep the No.1 spot, he has now made it his own and will be tested to the fullest against a sharp Dutch attack.

Netherlands player to watch: Arjen Robben. He may not be granted a start if the coach decides to stick with the same XI as the win over Japan, but the fit-again winger will certainly be given some playing time. Having recovered from a hamstring injury that he picked up attempting to do a backheel in a warm-up match, Robben will be a key player for the Dutch if they are to progress further in the tournament.

Key Battle: Pierre Webo v Johnny Heitinga. Leading the line with Samuel Eto'o, Webo plays an important role in using his strength and power to create space for his team-mates. Boasting good pace and clever off-the-ball runs, he has not fired in front of goal, but is an important part of Cameroon's attack. Meanwhile Netherlands have only conceded two goals in their past six World Cup matches, keeping four clean sheets in the process, and Everton's Heitinga has played a vital role in this. Strong and committed, he is the star of an underappreciated Dutch back four.

Trivia: This is Cameroon's 20th World Cup match, the most by any African side, but they were the first side to be knocked out of the 2010 World Cup.

Stats: Twenty-six of the 32 goals Cameroon have conceded at World Cups have come against European opponents - and they haven't won any of their past nine meetings with European sides at finals.

Odds: Cameroon (4.50), Netherlands (1.83) and a draw (3.60) are all available at Bet 365, but a 3-0 win for the Dutch will get you 15.00.

Prediction: With nothing but pride to play for, Cameroon will surely be turned over by an efficient, if not quite Total, Dutch side.

Denmark v Japan

Group E, 18:30 GMT, June 24, 2010

Royal Bafokeng Stadium, Rustenburg, South Africa

Specialists at this stage of the competition, if Denmark beat Japan they will reach the second round of the World Cup for the fourth time in four World Cup appearances. They also have a very good record against Asian sides, having won ten of their 15 meetings, drawing three times and losing just once.


The 2-1 win against Cameroon marked the first time that Denmark had come from behind to win a match at the World Cup, so they will be full of confidence going in to the game, as the Japanese come off the back of a defeat to Denmark.

Three of the last four goals that Japan have conceded came from shots from outside the box in open play and Wesley Sneijder's effort suggests that the Danes might be best following his lead and having a go from distance. Japan have only won one of their six meetings with European sides at the World Cup so the Danes are firm favourites to set up a potential clash with Paraguay in the second round.

Denmark player to watch: Dennis Rommedahl. He may not extend the same influence as he has managed in the past, but the flying winger's goal was crucial in saving the game against Cameroon. Still boasting a good turn of pace, his tricks on the flanks will create plenty of chances for his team-mates and he will be one of the main attacking outlets for the Danes.

Japan player to watch: Makoto Hasebe. The Japan captain will need to lead from the front to drive his side on. A tough tackler, he also has finesse to his game and his role in the centre of the pitch will be key for his country. Still only 26, he carries the expectations of his country on his shoulders.

Key Battle: Christian Poulsen v Yasuhito Endo. The Juventus midfielder is the tiger in midfield that wins the ball back and generally causes havoc for the opposition. He is a committed tackler and has a fiery temper, but also now has the experience to keep it in check. He made an error in the Cameroon game and will be keen to atone for it, but he will have to use every bit of energy to track down Endo. A creative force, with a great delivery from set-pieces, if Japan are to claim the point they need then Endo may be key.

Trivia: Denmark have never missed a penalty at the World Cup, scoring all four of their spot-kicks.

Stats: Only in two of their 12 World Cup matches have the 'Blue Samurai' scored more than one goal and have never won a World Cup game in which their opponents have scored.

Odds: Denmark (2.25), Japan (3.40) and a draw (3.30) are all available at Bet 365, but Japan to lead at half-time, Denmark at full-time gets you 29.00.

Prediction: A draw is enough for Japan to get through in second place, but Denmark will be going all-out in attack and should have enough to get the win.

Full-time - 90'
Slovakia
3 - 2
Italy

Group F, 14:00 GMT, June 24, 2010

Ellis Park, Johannesburg, South Africa


Champions Italy crashed out of the World Cup as first-time qualifiers Slovakia booked a surprising place in the second round after an epic game at Ellis Park.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Robert Vittek - The joint-top scorer in South Africa demonstrated his poaching prowess once again but was also a constant menace with his off-the-ball running. He held the ball up brilliantly and was imperious in the air, winning plenty of headers. His two goals were just rewards for an excellent all-round display.

Slovakia verdict: Showed a distinct improvement after their defeat to Paraguay. Undoubtedly the greatest result in the country's short history. Vittek led the line well and the midfield showed fantastic energy right up to the end. Defensive errors must be cut out if further progress is to be made but it was a resolute performance and Vladimir Weiss's side fully deserve their place in the second round.

Italy verdict: A shocking first-half display and the concession of two-goals gave them far too much to do and it was too little too late in terms of the intense pressure in the final 15 minutes of the game. Quagliarella's introduction livened things up but there were far too many underperforming players in the team, something that the any new manager must address. It was an inglorious end of the Azzurri's tenure as champions and they were woeful throughout their three-game defence of the trophy.

Could do better: Fabio Cannavaro - Has looked a shadow of the player that won both the World Cup and World Player of the Year award in 2006 and was again out of his depth against Slovakia. Vittek caused him problems throughout and he was perhaps lucky to avoid a first-half sending off, having already been on a yellow. Will bow out of top-level football and may perhaps be more at home playing in Dubai next season.

Stat attack: It is the first time in World Cup history that the two losing finalists from the previous tournament have failed to progress from the group stage having competed.

Robert Vittek's brace put Slovakia in control but Antonio Di Natale halved the deficit and Fabio Quagliarella looked like he had levelled it at 2-2, but an offside decision went against him.

Substitute Kamil Kopunek made it 3-1 to Slovakia before Quagliarella's brilliant lob gave Italy fleeting hope, but they could not find a third to save their skins as they joined fellow 2006 finalists France in sinking out of the tournament at the first hurdle.

Italy started positively enough with Di Natale's volley almost catching out Slovakia goalkeeper Jan Mucha inside the first 30 seconds. Vincenzo Iaquinta then dragged a shot well wide after good link-up play with Di Natale before Napoli midfielder Marek Hamsik, Slovakia's star man and captain, miscued a volley after the ball was flicked on to him by Vittek.

Iaquinta had the ball in the net after 10 minutes but Webb had already blown for a foul by the Juventus forward on defender Jan Durica in the box. Webb produced his first yellow card for Slovakia midfielder Zdenko Strba, who caught the hard-tackling Gennaro Gattuso late.

Slovakia had to win to go through and they forged ahead in the 25th minute when Daniele De Rossi's stray pass was picked up by Juraj Kucka and he rolled a pass forward to Vittek who directed a low right-foot shot past Italy goalkeeper Federico Marchetti from the edge of the box.

Strba could have made it 2-0 with a fierce 30-yard drive which Marchetti had to dive to his right to push wide for a corner as the half entered its final minutes. Italy were lacking in inspiration and a speculative Riccardo Montolivo effort from long range drifted harmlessly wide.

Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel had to head over his own crossbar from a floated Gattuso cross, and the AC Milan battler then cut open Strba's knee in a tackle. The midfielder asked to continue though, with substitute Kamil Kopunek returning to his seat.

Slovakia ended the half on a high and almost conjured the goal of the tournament when Vittek cleverly worked the ball back to Kucka for a viciously-struck volley which flashed into the side-netting.

Italy brought on forward Quagliarella for Gattuso and Christian Maggio for Domenico Criscito at half-time and they created the first opening of the second half when Iaquinta headed off target from a Simone Pepe cross.

Di Natale should have done better when played in by Maggio after 55 minutes, skewing a shot wide with only Mucha to beat. The biggest Italian cheer of the afternoon to that point greeted Andrea Pirlo's introduction in place of Montolivo, as Azzurri fans hoped he held the key to their revival.

Di Natale hit 29 Serie A goals for Udinese last season but could not find a way past Slovakia as a curling shot from the edge of the box was held by Mucha. Italy came within a whisker of an equaliser when Pepe's cross sailed over Mucha's head and Quagliarella fired goalwards with the keeper committed, but Skrtel got back to block on the goalline.

The holders were taking more chances, allowing Slovakia to find more space on the break and Miroslav Stoch flashed one shot across Marchetti's goal. The game looked up for the champions though in the 73rd minute when Hamsik half-volleyed the ball across from the right and Vittek got to it before Giorgio Chiellini to steer it in at the near post.

Italy pulled one back with nine minutes to go after a clever one-two with Iaquinta played Quagliarella in and when Mucha parried his shot, Di Natale was on hand to prod the ball in. There was then a skirmish inside the goal as Quagliarella scrapped with Mucha to retrieve the ball, with Webb booking both men.

Quagliarella thought he had equalised when he turned home a Di Natale cross from the left, but the Napoli man was flagged offside by assistant Darren Cann in the tightest of decisions.

A throw-in by Peter Pekarik then caught Italy sleeping and substitute Kopunek raced through to lob the ball over Marchetti. Quagliarella pulled one back with a sublime lob but Pepe fluffed their final chance deep into stoppage time when he shanked wide at the far post.

Full-time - 90'
Paraguay
0 - 0
New Zealand

Group F, 14:00 GMT, June 24, 2010

Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane, South Africa

New Zealand's World Cup campaign ended with another draw as they held group winners Paraguay 0-0 but went out of the tournament.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Lucas Barrios - It says a lot about the quality of the game that a substitute was the pick of the players, but the striker showed real intent when he was introduced. Looked lively after coming on, getting into good positions on the wings and producing a couple of dangerous crosses.

Paraguay verdict: Very disappointing following two impressive performances against Italy and Slovakia. Lacked a real cutting edge and failed to produce in the final third. Were reduced to woeful long-range efforts and must reproduce their form of the previous fixtures to have any hope of advancing.

New Zealand verdict: Too limited, the All Whites didn't push forward until the final ten minutes and never really looked like forcing anything from the game. They didn't possess enough quality but must be praised for their fantastic run - an unbeaten World Cup campaign represents an incredible achievement for the minnows.

Could do better: Oscar Cardozo - One shot from long range is all the striker had to show for his 66 fruitless minutes and he will almost certainly be dropped in favour of Barrios for Paraguay's second-round match. His hold-up play was abysmal and he is perhaps still feeling the effects of a pre-tournament injury.

Stat attack: Paraguay advanced from group play in both 1998 and 2002, but had the misfortune to face one of the eventual finalists in the second round in both years, losing to France in 1998 and Germany in 2002, both by a 10. They will have to negotiate a way past either Japan or Denmark in the second round this time, with Brazil their likely opponents in the quarter-finals.


New Zealand finished Group F unbeaten, having drawn with defending champions Italy and a talented Paraguay team who qualified ahead of Argentina in South America.

And another resolute performance by a nation playing at only their second World Cup - the first coming in 1982 when they lost all three matches and conceded 12 goals - will have at least given the fans back home who stayed up for the 2am kick-off New Zealand time something to cheer.

New Zealand's game-plan, as it had been all along, was to keep things locked down at the back. Their five-man defence, marshalled by Blackburn's Ryan Nelsen, was supplemented by holding midfielders Ivan Vicelich and Simon Elliot sitting just a few yards in front.

Playing for the first time in the tournament in the black shirts so synonymous with the country's rugby team, they began well.

Shane Smeltz, who attained hero status by scoring in the 1-1 draw with Italy, blazed wildly over from outside the penalty area in the fifth minute while Middlesbrough's Chris Killen was only inches away from connecting with Elliott's hanging free-kick to the far post.

When the space did open up for Paraguay, Nelson Valdez overhit his cross from the left while Denis Caniza followed suit with a volley after Manchester City striker Roque Santa Cruz had lifted the ball over Tony Lochhead.

It said a lot about New Zealand's tactics that right-back Caniza was getting all the chances as he hit a 20-yard swerving shot over the angle of crossbar and post and then dropped a dipping drive onto the roof of Mark Paston's net. Benfica striker Oscar Cardozo also blasted over as Paraguay finished the half on top.

New Zealand returned early after the interval and it was immediately apparent Herbert had released some of the shackles with Lochhead given more licence to get forward.

It almost paid off within three minutes of the restart when the left-back's cross deflected into the path of Elliott whose strike fizzed past Justo Villar's right-hand post.

Nelsen was booked for halting the run of former Blackburn team-mate Santa Cruz in the 57th minute but Cardozo's free-kick was disappointing.

Paston, who had been relatively untroubled, produced an instinctive save from new Sunderland midfielder Cristian Riveros' diving header as the South American's quality began to tell. His heroics continued as he dived low to his right to parry substitute Edgar Benitez's shot and brilliantly tipped the ball away from Lucas Barrios when he seemed certain to score.

The last ten minutes should have seen the charge of the All White Brigade but they had exerted so much energy in keeping Paraguay at bay there was little left in the tank.

Another draw ensured they finished above four-time World Cup winners Italy in third place, though, and that does them great credit, while Paraguay finished on top of Group F.

Full-time - 90'
Denmark
1 - 3
Japan

Group E, 18:30 GMT, June 24, 2010

Royal Bafokeng Stadium, Rustenburg, South Africa

Japan booked their place in the last 16 of the World Cup after outstanding first-half free-kicks from Keisuke Honda and Yasuhito Endo sent them on their way to victory over Denmark in Rustenburg.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Keisuke Honda - Scored one of a pair of sensational free-kicks for the Blue Samurai, and aside from that looked a threat whenever he had the ball at his feet - also providing a beautifully worked assist for Okazaki's goal. Showed excellent distribution and offered an effective outlet throughout; proved again at these finals that he is a player who possesses genuine class.

Denmark verdict: Completely one-dimensional, Morten Olsen's side were woeful in the first-half and though they threw caution to the wind in the second, the Danes were unable to unlock a compact and well-drilled Japanese unit. On this showing, they certainly deserve to be heading out of the tournament with their tails between their legs.

Japan verdict: Impressive. Passed crisply, moved intelligently and finished clinically. Looked very comfortable in possession and a warning to their second round opponents Paraguay - underestimate this Japan team at your peril. A completely different side to the one that was in such dreadful form coming into the tournament, Japan are now hitting the high notes at the right time.

Could do better: Thomas Sorensen - A player who has a reputation for being one of the Premier League's most consistent performers was anything but against Japan. Should have done better with Honda's free-kick after being completely wrong-footed, and set-up his wall completely wrong for Endo's goal. Was almost embarassed a la David Seaman v Brazil at the 2002 World Cup but managed to gather unconvincingly.

Stat attack: Japan's goal was the fastest they have ever scored in a World Cup match (previous mark was 26th minute against Australia in 2006).

Needing only a draw to qualify from Group E, Japan took the lead in the 17th minute when CSKA Moscow midfielder Honda smashed in a set piece from 30-yards out on the right, though Denmark goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen will feel he could have done much better.

Although not as spectacular, Japan's second goal followed on the half-hour mark when Sorensen had lined his wall up expecting another Honda effort, only to see his team-mate Endo curl the ball into the bottom corner.

Jon Dahl Tomasson saw his penalty saved nine minutes from the end, but bundled in the rebound to give his side a glimmer of hope, only for Shinji Okazaki to seal Japan's triumph and book a last 16 tie against Paraguay.

The Scandinavians had the first real chance inside five minutes, but Tomasson found himself in the wrong position as he tried to deal with a deflected Simon Poulsen cross and the chance went begging.

Yoshito Okubo then sent in a low cross from the left that was flicked on nicely by Daisuke Matsui 10 yards out, only for Sorensen to intervene outstandingly with his feet. Moments later Makoto Hasebe latched on to a defence-splitting pass, but wastefully shot over.

At the other end captain Tomasson was again played in, on the left side of the box this time, but his low shot curled agonisingly wide. The deadlock was broken the next time Japan went up-field thanks to Honda's stunning free-kick, his second goal so far at the finals.

It came after Matsui was fouled 30-yards out on the right and a curling and dipping shot was sent over the wall into the far corner beyond an outstretched Sorensen.

Tomasson had his third chance inside the opening quarter when Christian Poulsen lifted the ball over the defence, but the Feyenoord front-man failed to connect cleanly and Eiji Kawashima parried the ball away to safety.

Endo then made it 2-0 when he bent his free-kick around the wall into the right-hand corner. After Christian Poulsen tried his luck from distance, Sorensen prevented his side falling further behind before half-time when he tipped over Yuichi Komano's effort from the right.

The Stoke City goalkeeper was saved from embarrassment by his right-hand upright less than three minutes after the restart when he spilt a routine catch from an Endo free-kick.

Kahlenberg then seemed to be taken by surprise when the ball came to him at the back post, guiding the ball wide from a tight angle, while Tomasson was again let down by his control in the six-yard box after Lars Jacobsen swung over a useful cross from the right.

Denmark continued to pile on the pressure and substitute Jakob Poulsen was next to come close, with his long-range effort punched away by Kawashima. Christian Eriksen, another replacement, then saw his strike from outside the box fade away as the Danes looked short of ideas.

When they did manage to get into the penalty area, the out-of-form Tomasson, on a 15-match goal drought before the match, was unable to convert. With 11 minutes to play, another effort from distance by Soren Larsen left the crossbar shaking, but seconds later Tomasson finally managed to hit the back of the net.

After Daniel Agger received a shove in the back to win a penalty, the veteran striker saw his shot stopped by Kawashima, but the rebound was unconvincingly sliced hope.

It gave Denmark hope, but substitute Okazaki killed their spirit in the 87th minute when Honda teed him up beautifully to send Japan through.

Full-time - 90'
Cameroon
1 - 2
Netherlands

Group E, 18:30 GMT, June 24, 2010

Green Point Stadium


Holland made it three wins from as many Group E matches with victory in their dead rubber against Cameroon in Cape Town.


MATCH SUMMARY

Man of the Match: Arjen Robben - While the Dutch were generally solid and occasionally produced flashes of quality, Robben's 73rd-minute introduction suggested the Dutch have every reason to dream of a first World Cup triumph this summer. He was inventive and bright, and the strike that came off the post to provide Klaas-Jan Huntelaar with the winner was sublime.

Cameroon verdict: Uninventive, the Indomitable Lions were always looking for Geremi to provide the ammunition but his delivery was not quite up to scratch. Eto'o provided moments of genuine quality, and a young Aboubakar looked lively after being brought on, but it was an uninspired performance from a team that had already failed to live up to their potential and suffered the ignominy of an exit before the final game had begun.

Netherlands verdict: Far from their best, the Oranje played in second gear for much of the game, not really coming alive until Robben's introduction. There were flashes of quality to suggest that they may be genuine contenders but, in a listless match in which they simply looked to stay in control, they rarely looked troubled.

Could do better: Rigobert Song - A seasoned veteran, Song looked well out of his depth when he came on for a brief cameo. Should be honoured for his tremendous commitment to the national team, but he showed that it is time to step aside and let some young blood step into the national set-up. Showed zero pace and Robben ran him ragged.

Stat attack: Cameroon have never conceded first and come back to win. In 1998, the Indomitable Lions came back from one down to draw against Chile.


With Holland already through to the second round and Cameroon out, it took Robin van Persie's 36th-minute flash of inspiration to get things going.

Samuel Eto'o's second-half penalty levelled matters until substitute Klaas Jan Huntelaar's 82nd-minute winner continued the group winners' momentum heading into a last-16 clash with Slovakia.

Holland came into the match on an unbeaten run of 21 international matches and had produced wins against Denmark and Japan to secure their progression.

Bert van Marwijk opted not to risk starting with Arjen Robben, who is yet to feature due to a hamstring problem, while Van Persie and Nigel de Jong were included despite being a booking away from suspension.

Rafael van der Vaart dragged one wide for Holland early on and Cameroon's Aurelien Chedjou fired a weak effort at Maarten Stekelenburg.

Dirk Kuyt picked up a needless booking before Van Persie could only fire straight at Hamidou Souleymanou after brilliantly setting himself up by chesting down Giovanni van Bronckhorst's chip forward.

In the 31st minute Cameroon midfielder Jean Makoun headed over from Geremi's cross before Kuyt dragged one wide for Holland. Finally the crowd had something to cheer after 35 minutes when Van Persie opened the scoring, playing a neat one-two with Van der Vaart before firing between Souleymanou's legs.

After five minutes of the second half Mark van Bommel played a nice sweeping ball forward for Van Persie which his colleague wastefully hit at the goalkeeper.

Sneijder's free-kick was on target but lacked power while Cameroon showed little conviction going forward. Van Persie was withdrawn before the hour mark with Huntelaar coming on.

Cameroon's best chance came moments later when substitute Vincent Aboubakar's clever reverse pass found Makoun - who looked offside - but the midfielder was denied by Stekelenburg with Chedjou then blasting over from the loose ball.

Cameroon were then handed a 64th-minute penalty by referee Pablo Pozo when Van der Vaart raised his arm to block Geremi's free-kick, receiving a booking for his trouble. Captain Eto'o kept his nerve to convert a perfect spot-kick.

Van Marwijk sent on Eljero Elia for Kuyt with Robben still waiting in the wings while De Jong could not properly connect with Van der Vaart's teasing free-kick. Van Bronckhorst was then harshly booked for pulling down Aboubakar.

Stephane Mbia headed over from a set-piece before Cameroon boss Paul Le Guen made substitutions of his own, with veteran Rigobert Song getting a brief taste of his fourth World Cup tournament.

Meanwhile, Robben's strip-tease down to his playing kit excited the crowd before he came on for Van der Vaart. He made an impact quickly, too, cutting inside and firing a trademark left-footed shot which hit the post and fell to Huntelaar to restore his side's lead.

North Korea v Ivory Coast

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

Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit, South Africa


Ivory Coast need something approaching a miracle if they are to prolong their participation at the World Cup. Sven-Goran Eriksson's side must beat North Korea, hope that Brazil do likewise to Portugal and enjoy a nine-goal swing if they are to snatch second place from the European side. However, a sliver of comfort comes in the fact that North Korea conceded seven in their last outing.


The Chollima's humbling at the hands of Portugal means they are out of the competition, but having had their embarrassment in Cape Town broadcast live to the North Korean nation - a rarity in the secluded state - they will be wary of bringing the country into further disrepute. A performance more in keeping with their 2-1 defeat to Brazil will be required.

Given the improbability of a scenario in which they would qualify, Ivory Coast are also looking to restore pride after a 3-1 defeat to Brazil that saw the Elephants outpassed and outclassed. Kader Keita also heaped embarrassment on the side with his ridiculous playacting that resulted in Kaka being shown a red card. Ivory Coast will not have given up on reaching the second round but, as the old saying goes, it's the hope that kills you.

North Korea player to watch: Cha Jong-Hyok. While North Korea's defence clearly crumbled as they conceded six in the second half against Portugal, the right-back has still been one of his country's standout performers in South Africa. Surging forward at every given opportunity, Cha boasts impressive stamina and no little skill. His service from a wide position is important for North Korea and he is not afraid of shooting from range. Cha is the very model of a modern full-back, including in his propensity to get caught out of position.

Ivory Coast player to watch: Gervinho. The forward was relegated to the bench for the defeat to Brazil but benefitted from a poor performance from Aruna Dindane and came on after 54 minutes. A threat from an advanced position on the wing, Gervinho can be relied upon to supply some trickery and that may be needed to unlock a five-man North Korea defence.

Key battle: Hong Jong-Jo v Yaya Toure. Hong is the only North Korean player to ply his trade in Europe, representing Russia's Rostov, and is a key member of a side designed to counter-attack. Though he can play as an advanced forward, his best position sees him drop in behind lone striker Jong Tae-Se and that should put him firmly on Toure's radar. The Barcelona midfielder is a bullish presence in the holding role and will look to restrict Hong's influence on the game. Boasting fine technique, Toure is also instrumental in launching Ivorian attacks.

Trivia: In his previous role as Notts County director of football, Sven-Goran Eriksson was sounded out about leading North Korea at the World Cup. He turned them down, and was appointed Elephants boss in March.

Stats: There has only been one African win in nine World Cup encounters against Asian opposition. That came in 2002 when Cameroon defeated Saudi Arabia 1-0.

Odds: North Korea (8.50), the draw (5.00) and North Korea (1.36) with Bet365. North Korea to win to nil at 11.00 looks tempting, given they are likely to close ranks after the Portugal hammering.

Prediction: Do not expect a high-scoring game, North Korea will not want to suffer another humiliation. This game will be cagey, and Ivory Coast may be on the receiving end of a shock result.