Euro 2012 – the 14th European Championship for teams sanctioned by the UEFA – is scheduled to be played between 8th June and 1st July 2012 in Poland and Ukraine.

Spain are the current holders of the cup – they defeated Germany in the final in Austria / Switzerland version of the tournament in 2008.

The groups and the schedule of the Euro 2012 have been announced and the groups are as follows:

Group A: Poland, Greece, Russia, Czech Republic
Group B: Holland, Denmark, Germany, Portugal
Group C: Spain, Italy, Republic of Ireland, Croatia
Group D: Ukraine, Sweden, France, England

You can see the team by team preview of Euro 2012 from a couple of weeks ago and here we’re covering the football gear to be used by the national teams in the tournament.

Before we look at what kits the players will be donning for the competition, lets look at the official Euro 2012 match ball:

adidas Tango 12

The official match ball that will be used for the duration of the tournament in Poland and Ukraine in the coming summers is the adidas Tango 12. It is a brand new ball inspired by the famous line of adidas Tango balls.

Here’s a picture of the ball. As soon as it is made available, we will have it up for grabs in the Soccerlens Store.

Official UEFA Euro 2012 Match Ball: adidas Tango 12
(Click to enlarge image)

All the football gear and kit manufacturers have lined up for the biggest tournament in Europe and they present to you the Euro 2012 shirts:

Croatia

Coming soon to the Soccerlens Store…

Czech Republic

Chelsea stopper Petr Cech, Arsenal midfielder Tomas Rosicky and Galatasaray forward Milan Baros will probably be featuring for the last time in a major tournament and surely, they will all want to end their careers on a high.

Czech Republic will wear a Puma manufactured red shirt with white and blue details. They will be playing in Group A.

Czech Rep. Home Shirt

Click here to buy Czech Republic Euro 2012 home shirt.

Denmark

Coming soon to the Soccerlens Store…

England

England captain John Terry came under much scrutiny before the start of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa but this time around, things seems to be relatively smoother. Fabio Capello will be looking to exit the job with grace.

England are placed in Group D and will play their opening fixture against the French national team. The Three Lions will wear a plain white shirt, manufactured by Umbro.

England Home Shirt

Click here to buy England Euro 2012 home shirt.

They will wear navy blue away shirts with light blue collars.

England Away Shirt

Click here to buy England Euro 2012 away shirt.

France

France are also placed in Group D and they will play their opening fixture against England. The French squad is relatively younger blood from last time around. Karim Benzema is set to lead the attack as Franck Ribery will takeover the creative part.

Les Bleus will wear a Nike manufactured navy blue shirt. The only details on the shirt are the Nike swoosh and the team emblem.

France Home Shirt

Click here to buy France Euro 2012 home shirt.

The Frenchmen will wear a white away shirt with black horizontal stripes – kind of like the prisoners.

France Away Shirt

Click here to buy France Euro 2012 away shirt.

Germany

Euro 2008 finalists, Germany are seeded in Group B and it is the toughest group in this tournament. Mesut Ozil and Lukas Podolski will be looking to steal the show with sound backing from the rest of the squad. Joachim Low will be looking to leave previous disappointments behind.

Germans will wear a very attractive white shirt with diagonal black, red and yellow lines on the front and black adidas pin-stripes on the shoulder.

Germany Home Shirt

Click here to buy Germany Euro 2012 home shirt.

Greece

Coming soon to the Soccerlens Store…

Holland

Coming soon to the Soccerlens Store…

Italy

Participating in Group C, Italy will open the tournament with a match against the world champions. Juventus’ fantastic shot-stopper Gianluigi Buffon will look to play this tournament through as Daniele De Rossi and his midfield will have to take the pressure off of defence and supply Mario Balotelli up front.

Italy will wear the Puma manufactured blue shirt with a white collar containing details in the colours of the Italian flag.

Italy Home Shirt

Click here to buy Italy Euro 2012 home shirt.

Poland

Coming soon to the Soccerlens Store…

Portugal

Coming soon to the Soccerlens Store…

Republic of Ireland

LA Galaxy striker and national team captain Robbie Keane will look to lead Ireland to at least give a tough time to the giants of Group C. He will need all the expertise Shay Given, John O’Shea and Darron Gibson have to offer.

Ireland will wear a white away shirt with green details. The kits are manufactured by Umbro.

Rep. of Ireland Away Shirt

Click here to buy Republic of Ireland Euro 2012 away shirt.

Russia

Arsenal striker Andrie Arshavin will captain a Russia side out of which only four players ply their trade outside of the country. Tottenham forward Roman Pavlyuchenko, Vfb Stuttgart forward Pavel Pogrebnyak and Everton midfielder Diniyar Bilyaletdinov are the three other players who play outside of Russian Premier League. Yuri Zhirkov’s services will also be available.

Russia will wear an adidas manufactured red shirt with a blue and white diagonal stripe going down the front.

Russia Home Shirt

Click here to buy Russia Euro 2012 home shirt.

Spain

Reigning world and European champions, Spain will play Euro 2012 in Group C. Since the triumph in the World Cup, the Spaniards haven’t been in top form but they should never be underestimated with the quality of the squad they possess.

Head coach Vicente del Bosque will be looking for a repeat performace from his team which features five Real Madrid players and eight Barcelona players. Another three Barca players have been called-up for the squad recently (Martin Montoya, Thiago Alcantara and Pedro).

Spain will wear a red jersey proudly featuring a single golden star above their team emblem. The kit is manufactured by adidas.

Spain Home Shirt

Click here to buy Spain Euro 2012 home shirt.

Sweden

Coming soon to the Soccerlens Store…

Ukraine

Andriy Shevchenko captains the Ukraine side and the former AC Milan and Chelsea striker will look to impress in front of his home crowd. Ukraine are in Group D and will face tough competition from Sweden, France and England.

They will wear an adidas manufactured yellow shirt with blue details.

Ukraine Home Shirt

Click here to buy Ukraine Euro 2012 home shirt.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Update: Groups Draw details and the official match ball of Euro 2012 added. Scroll down to view.

With the 16 teams competing in Euro 2012 now selected and the qualifying process complete, all eyes look to Poland and Ukraine as time ticks down. The seeding for the selection of the group stages has been completed also, with the draw for the pool stages happening in Kiev on December 3rd. English and Irish fans will look for a favourable draw, but both nations will know that the competition is packed with top teams.

Pot 1 consists of co-host Poland and Ukraine, world champions Spain and a technically gifted Netherlands side; most participants will be keen to draw the hosts rather than the other two powerhouses.

SPAIN

Spain’s mantle as the top team in the world has been slightly diminished of late, as poor results in friendlies against Spain and Costa Rica have tarnished the end of 2011 for La Roja. Vicente Del Bosque has a plethora of players to choose from however, with a strong base from Barcelona and Real Madrid making up the majority of the team.

The Spaniards midfield is still as menacing as ever, with Andres Iniesta, Cesc Fabregas and Xabi Alonso world class players that opponents will struggle to compete against; however Xavi is still Spain’s main man and will orchestrate long periods of possession for the world champions.

NETHERLANDS

Holland impressed during the qualifying rounds, and again must go into the tournament as one of the favourites. Bert van Marwijk’s men, similar to Spain, have had an under-par end to the year however, as the Oranje lost their last qualifying game to Sweden and were put to the sword by Germany in a recent friendly, losing 3-0.

Despite this the squad is full of talent and a number of young players are battling the established names for a place in the starting XI. Although their defence at times can be questioned, their attack cannot.

Rafael van der Vaart and Wesley Sneijder will look to provide chances for red hot striker Robin van Persie. The Arsenal man is proving himself to be one of the top hitmen in Europe, and will look to fire his nation to glory.

POLAND

On of the downfalls of hosting a major tournament is the fact that you do not get to take part in qualification, and Polish fans will hope that Franciszek Smuda’s men do not suffer due to a lack of competitive fixtures. Solid performances in friendlies over the last 12 months have seen the host draw with Germany and beat the likes of Belarus and Hungary; the home crowd will also play a key part in their chances.

Borussia Dortmund attacker Robert Lewandowski was a key figure in the German club’s Bundesliga success last season, and will be counted on to get goals for the Eastern European side.

Poland are co-hosts.

UKRAINE

Ukraine have had inconsistent form over the last year, and with the glory days of Sergei Rebrov and Andriy Shevchenko over, Oleg Blokhin has had to look to the youth in his side.

Dynamo Kiev forward Andriy Yarmolenko holds the weight of expectation on his shoulders, as the 22-year-old has shown the necessary promise to fill the boots of the generation before him.

Ukraine are co-hosts.

England find themselves in the second tier of the seeding, alongside old enemy and highly-fancied Germany; 2006 World Cup winners Italy and an unpredictable Russia team make up this quartet.

ENGLAND

England have been inconsistent over the qualifying rounds, and despite showing their quality at times can also lack creativity and the ability to break teams down. Fabio Capello will be buoyed on by an unbeaten qualifying campaign and friendly victories over Spain and Sweden, but will look for more from his team if they are to pose as realistic challengers.

Wayne Rooney’s absence in the pool stages will be a real blow for The Three Lions, and the Italian coach will be under pressure to find a replacement that can fire the side into the knockout rounds. Scott Parker has really matured over the last 12-18 months, and the Tottenham man could showcase the determination and will to win to inspire his team-mates; a North London central midfield partnership alongside Jack Wilshere could just prove the balance England needs.

GERMANY

Germany, as always when a major tournament rolls round, must be considered as serious contenders.

Joachim Low has comprised a squad with an enviable mix of experience and youth, and a flawless qualifying campaign proves testament to the side’s motivation to succeed.

The German side is packed full of quality, but playmakers Mesut Ozil and Mario Gotze in particular have vital attributes in creating chances for sharpshooter Mario Gomez.

ITALY

Italy traditionally have blown hot and cold when it comes to international tournaments, and the Azzurri this time round have shown inconsistency and a lack of a real killer instinct in the qualifying rounds.

Cesare Prandelli has a football mad nation keen to recapture the glory days, and a wide ranging player base to choose from – however the side in blue will most likely adopt cautious tactics and look to win fixtures by the odd goal.

Mario Balotelli looks to have been given a real chance to start up front in the absence of Giuseppe Rossi and Antonio Cassano, and may lead the line alongside Juventus’ Alessandro Matri.

However the key man for Italy will be at the back, where Giorgio Chiellini will look to emulate great Italian central defenders of the past, and organise a stubborn rearguard upon which the midfield and attack can build upon.

RUSSIA

Dick Advocaat’s Russian side will fancy their chances of upsetting some of the bigger names, as the proximity of the tournament favours the Eastern European side. A solitary defeat in qualification has shown that Russia are an emerging superpower in the game, and they undoubtedly harbour a number of excellent players.

Andrei Arshavin and Roman Pavlyuchenko are struggling currently at their North London clubs; the experienced duo will need to find their form to inspire a talented but not yet proven team.

The third pot is made up of four seasoned and competitive nations, as Portugal, Sweden, Croatia and Greece lie in wait. The likes of Zlatan Ibrahmovic and Cristiano Ronaldo are first rate players in supposed third rate teams, but none of the participants in this pot will be pushovers.

PORTUGAL

Portugal were beaten to the top of Group H by Denmark, but the Iberian nation powered past Bosnia and Herzegovina in the playoffs to book their place at Europe’s top table. Coach Paulo Bento has ruffled some feathers since taking charge of the team, with veteran duo Ricardo Carvalho and Jose Bosingwa retiring from international football after falling out with the former midfielder.

Despite the absence of the experienced pair, Portugal still have an abundance of quality, with the likes of Nani and Joao Moutinho sure to terrorise opposition defences. Their key man is obviously Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, and if the 26-year-old  can replicate the form and goalscoring ability he shows for his club on the international stage, Portugal will take some beating.

SWEDEN

The Swedes have a technically gifted and balanced side, made from a mix of players playing in their homeland and the top European leagues. Erik Hamren’s side qualified as a top runner up in qualification, and had they not had Netherlands in their group may well have topped a pool.

Temperamental but clearly gifted Zlatan Ibrahimovic hold the nation’s destiny in his hands.

Although Ibra was ineffective in the recent game against England at Wembley, his club record tells a completely different story. It will be a long-shot, still, to believe that he can single-handedly take his nation all the way through the competition.

GREECE

The Euro 2004 champions look to have recovered form and showcased some excellent football in an unbeaten qualification process.

Fernando Santos’ squad still has some remnants from the triumphant side from seven years ago, which is complemented by exuberant youngsters breaking into the international fray.

PAOK striker Dimitris Salpingidis has learnt from some of the senior goal-getters in recent Greek history, and has the ability to cause opposition defences a headache.

CROATIA

Slaven Bilic’s men made the finals by comprehensively beating Turkey 3-0 in the playoffs, and should not be written off. The Croats follow Luka Modric’s direction, and the Tottenham playmaker has the ability to hurt any side in the world, whilst Bayern Munich attacker Ivica Olic will be keen to add to his tally of 15 international goals.

Modric’s club teammate Niko Kranjcar and Bolton Wanderers’ Ivan Klasnic will also be available for selection. Both of them last played for the national team in October against Latvia.

Finally, Republic of Ireland find themselves in the lowest tier of seeding for the tournament, but will have expected this. Giovanni Trapattoni’s men are bunched alongside an under-performing France, dark horses Czech Republic and Denmark.

FRANCE

France have not shown enough quality to make it into the top pots, and the French public will not be happy as being deemed as a fourth-tier side. A late goal against Bosnia and Herzegovina ensured Les Bleus automatic progression to the tournament, but their form in qualification was nothing to write home about.

Laurent Blanc is widely seen as the man to spark a renaissance, and the coach undoubtedly has talented players to call upon. Experienced international heads such as Franck Ribery and Karim Benzema will harbour most of the responsibility for leading their nation’s dreams – but look out for Sochaux playmaker Marvin Martin.

The starlet has rose to fame over the last 12 months, and his craft and guile has prompted many in the game to compare him to Zinedine Zidane; it could be Martin’s time to announce himself to the world game.

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND

The Emerald Isle will be competing in the European championships for the first time since 1988, and a wave of expectancy has washed over the country since a 5-1 aggregate victory over Estonia ensured Ireland’s place at the finals.

Giovanni Trapattoni still relies on old heads Richard Dunne, Shay Given and Robbie Keane, but faith should be put in some of the younger players such as Aidan McGeady to compete at the highest level.

DENMARK

The Danes qualified for the tournament by topping Group H ahead of Portugal, and Morten Olsen’s men will go into the competition full of confidence.

If the Scandinavians can get off to a good start they will be a match for most, and in Christian Eriksen they have one of the brightest prospects in the world game. The Ajax midfielder will look to impress to force a transfer to one of Europe’s biggest clubs, and has the energy and guile to win a game for Denmark.

CZECH REPUBLIC

It is fair to say that the Czech Republic are not the force that once saw them challenge for international tournaments in the 2000′s, but Michael Bilek’s men will still provide a tricky test to their opponents next year.

Arsenal’s Tomas Rosicky captains the side and is a talisman for the nation, but the Czechs are going through a transitional period as a number of the under-21 players make the step up to the seniors.

However, still the elders of the team, like Milan Baros, carry the hopes of their nation.

So there you have it; although there is a lot of football to be played before Euro 2012 starts in earnest, most of the major players in the continent will have one eye on the finals. With the groups being drawn in the forthcoming weeks excitement over the tournament should build, as there are many nations that could realistically experience glory next year.

Groups

Group A: Poland, Greece, Russia, Czech Republic.
Group B: Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, Portugal.
Group C: Spain, Italy, Ireland, Croatia.
Group D: Ukraine, Sweden, France, England.

Euro 2012 Schedule

Match schedule
All kick-offs CET, Ukrainian time is one hour ahead

Friday 8 June 2012
#1: POL v GRE, 18.00CET, Warsaw
#2: RUS v CZE, 20.45CET, Wroclaw

Saturday 9 June 2012
#3: NED v DEN, 18.00CET, Kharkiv
#4: GER v POR, 20.45CET, Lviv

Sunday 10 June 2012
#5: ESP v ITA, 18.00CET, Gdansk
#6: IRL v CRO, 20.45CET, Poznan

Monday 11 June 2012
#7: FRA v ENG, 18.00CET, Donetsk
#8: UKR v SWE, 20.45CET, Kyiv

Tuesday 12 June 2012
#9: GRE v CZE, 18.00CET, Wroclaw
#10: POL v RUS, 20.45CET, Warsaw

Wednesday 13 June 2012
#11: DEN v POR, 18.00CET, Lviv
#12: NED v GER, 20.45CET, Kharkiv

Thursday 14 June 2012
#13: ITA v CRO, 18.00CET, Poznan
#14: ESP v IRL, 20.45CET, Gdansk

Friday 15 June 2012
#15: SWE v ENG, 20.45CET, Kyiv
#16: UKR v FRA, 18.00CET, Donetsk

Saturday 16 June 2012
#17: CZE v POL, 20.45CET, Wroclaw
#18: GRE v RUS, 20.45CET, Warsaw

Sunday 17 June 2012
#19: POR v NED, 20.45CET, Kharkiv
#20: DEN v GER, 20.45CET, Lviv

Monday 18 June 2012
#21: CRO v ESP, 20.45CET, Gdansk
#22: ITA v IRL, 20.45CET, Poznan

Tuesday 19 June 2012
#23: ENG v UKR, 20.45CET, Donetsk
#24: SWE v FRA, 20.45CET, Kyiv

Wednesday 20 June 2012
No matches

Thursday 21 June 2012
#25: 1A v 2B, 20.45CET, Warsaw

Friday 22 June 2012
#26: 1B v 2A, 20.45CET, Gdansk

Saturday 23 June 2012
#27: 1C v 2D, 20.45CET, Donetsk

Sunday 24 June 2012
#28: 1D v 2C, 20.45CET, Kyiv

Monday 25 June 2012
No matches

Tuesday 26 June 2012
No matches

Wednesday 27 June 2012
#29: W#25 v W#27, 20.45CET, Donetsk

Thursday 28 June 2012
#30: W#26 v W#28, 20.45CET, Warsaw

Friday 29 June 2012
No matches

Saturday 30 June 2012
No matches

Sunday 1 July 2012
#31: W#29 v W#30, 20.45CET, Kyiv

Official Match Ball

In 2010 World Cup in South Africa, the adidas Jabulani caused a few problems for goalkeepers and out-field players because of its unique flight and all the new technical advancements. Adidas have now revealed the official Euro 2012 match ball and called it the adidas Tango 12.

Hoping that it will be more human than it’s predecessor, Tango 12 has been inspired by the famous line of adidas Tango balls. Here’s what the ball will look like:

Also see: Euro 2012 News | Euro 2012 Statistics | Euro 2012 Fixtures | Euro 2012 Football Gear.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

After more than a year of matches, the group stage of UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying is down to its final two matchdays. Co-hosts Poland and Ukraine, reigning European and world champions Spain, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands are all set for next summer’s tournament, but by Tuesday evening, we’ll know who the other six automatic qualifiers are, along with the eight sides who’ll duke it out in two-legged playoffs in November for the final four spots.

There’s certainly a lot to look forward to at Euro 2012, but before we look ahead too far, there are several key matches on Friday and Tuesday that stand to play a role in how everything shakes out.

Here, we take a look at the three most important matches of that bunch.

Group B: Ireland v. Armenia

Irish fans might not be surprised that their Euro 2012 hopes could come down to Tuesday’s match in Dublin, but what’s surprising is that Armenia could go into the match still mathematically in the equation to finish second, or even first.

Group B is the most wide-open group there is, as Russia, Ireland, Armenia, and Slovakia all still have a chance to win the group. Russia top the group with 17 points, with Ireland in second on 15. Those two are the favorites for first and second, but Armenia are in with a shout after last month’s shock 4-0 win in Slovakia. That win has them third on 14 points, ahead of Slovakia due to two head-to-head wins.

The picture should become a lot clearer on Friday, as Ireland are away to super-minnows Andorra, Slovakia host Russia, and Armenia host fifth-placed Macedonia. At the same time, it could remain every bit as muddled, especially if Slovakia beat Russia. Slovakia need that result, but Ireland and Armenia need it also. Ireland need it to put themselves in the driver’s seat for top spot because they’d lose out on the all-important head-to-head against Russia. Meanwhile, Armenia need it because with two wins and two wins by Slovakia, Armenia would, quite stunningly, win Group B and reach their first-ever European Championship.

It’s a long shot, but it’s still a fantastic story nonetheless, given Armenia’s previous minnow status. While Armenia need help plus the performance of their lives, Ireland have some control over their destiny, as two wins will ensure them of no worse than a playoff spot. You’d have to back them to do it, but if Armenia come to Dublin still in the race, they’ll hit the pitch with belief, and crazy things can happen when you believe. At the very least, Ireland wouldn’t be able to underestimate Armenia and could have to really fight for three pivotal points. Who’d have expected that when the draw was revealed?

Group B: Slovakia v. Russia

As mentioned above, Friday’s meeting in Zilina is not only important for Slovakia and Russia, but it‘s also every bit as important for Ireland and Armenia.

For Russia, it’s fairly straightforward. A win or a draw plus a win over Andorra on Tuesday, and they win Group B. But if Slovakia win, they will be in position to at least finish second if they win away to Macedonia on Tuesday, and with the right results, they could still automatically qualify for Euro 2012.

If Slovakia hadn’t capitulated in the second half against Armenia, their path to first or second would be at least somewhat clearer, but Friday’s match is now a must-win for their Euro 2012 hopes.

Group F: Greece v. Croatia

Greece are unbeaten, but Croatia head into their crunch clash in Piraeus on top of Group F. Croatia sit on 19 points, with six wins, one draw, and a lone defeat to Georgia, and they’re one point ahead of Greece, who have won five and drawn three.

Greece are already assured of a playoff spot, but anything less than a win on Friday dampens their hopes for automatic qualification. An away win for Slaven Bilic’s side will render Tuesday’s matches completely meaningless, but even a draw for Croatia will all but book their place in Euro 2012, as their final group match is on home soil against Latvia, who are fifth in the six-team group.

However, Croatia will still fancy their chances to win the group even if Greece nab all three points. Greece finish up with a tricky away tie against Georgia, and considering that Croatia should dispose of Latvia in Rijeka, Greece will need to beat Georgia to finish first. That might not be easy, seeing as how Georgia drew 1-1 in Greece and notched a 1-0 home win over Croatia.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Good morning everybody and welcome once more to the daily World Cup column on Soccerlens.

England take on Group C leaders Slovenia (that just doesn’t sound right does it?) later today and need to pull a convincing win out of the bag in order to, at least momentarily, silence their growing phalanx of doubters.

Could this be the game where it all finally clicks into place for ‘Crazy’ (see below) Fabio’s men? Only time will tell.

Here’s the best of this morning’s World Cup-related bag o’ mashings…

(If you would like to subscribe to this column  – and others like it on Soccerlens – then please feel free to follow this link, or you can also just enter your email address on the SL homepage.)

France 1-2 South Africa…

Despite ending their tournament campaign on a high, South Africa couldn’t prevent themselves from becoming the first host nation in World Cup history to fail to reach the second round.

Carlos Alberto Parreira‘s side battled to a richly-deserved victory over a despondent French outfit but, thanks to results elsewhere (see below), unfortunately still finished third in Group A and were eliminated on goal difference.

South Africa were two goals up at half-time through Bongani Khumalo and Katlego Mphela, and looked on course to provide the shock of the group so far. With Mexico drawing with Uruguay in Rustenburg, Bafana Bafana needed just two more goals to advance through to the last 16 – and it didn’t look beyond their reach, as France continued to play with an air of acrimonious petulance.

However, the South African’s couldn’t add to their tally and eventually faded when news of a Uruguay goal filtered around the stadium.

Raymond Domenech‘s men, who had midfielder Yoann Gourcuff sent off in the first-half for a dangerously-raised elbow, did pull a goal back fifteen minutes from time through Florent Malouda – but never looked like showing the resolve needed to salvage any shred of dignity from what has proven to be a shambolic tournament (one point and one goal) for Les Bleus.

Highlights…

Read the France v South Africa match summary.

Speaking of dignity…

What a thoroughly odious little pr*ck that man is.

Domenech apparently refused to shake Parreira’s hand after the game as the South African coach had dared to criticise France’s ‘method of qualification’ (i.e. Henry’s handball) for the World Cup last year.

Mexico 0-1 Uruguay…

A single goal from Ajax forward Luis Suarez was enough to ensure that Uruguay would finish on top in Group A and safely book their passage into the knock-out phase.

It was widely expected that the two sides would merely play out the draw needed to guarantee both country’s qualification to the second round, but an end-to-end encounter scotched the conspiracy theories before they’d even begun to take shape.

Top spot in the group (and therefore the probability of avoiding Argentina in the next round) was up for grabs for the victor, and Suarez secured his country’s position at the top of the tree when he headed home Edinson Cavani‘s looping right-wing cross minutes before half-time.

Mexico were lively throughout, with Andres Guardado striking the underside of the bar and Giovani Dos Santos seeing his close-range effort blocked by Jorge Fucile, but just didn’t have the decisive final product to unlock the Uruguayan defense.

Upon learning of the result in the other Group A game in Bloemfontein (i.e. France v South Africa), both sides were able to celebrate at the final whistle.

Highlights…

Read the Mexico v Uruguay match report.

Greece 0-2 Argentina…

The Albiceleste booked their place in the last 16 with a third straight Group B victory over a lumpen Greece side that tried, but eventually failed, to stifle Argentina without venturing forward in search of a goal themselves.

Otto Rehhagel deployed the same negative tactics that saw his side crowned European champions in 2004 after a string of 1-0 wins, and successfully kept Argentina at bay until the 77th minute when centre-back Martin Demichelis pounced on a rebound to lift a shot into the roof of the net from six yards out.

Lionel Messi, who was relentlessly man-marked by Sortirios Papastathopoulos, then tore through the Greek defensive lines and cracked a vicious effort against the post – the Barcelona forward again cruelly denied his first goal in South Africa by the woodwork.

However, a second goal eventually arrived in the 89th minute when 36-year-old Boca Juniors striker Martin Palermo rolled a shot past Alexandros Tzorvas after the Greek stopper palmed Messi’s crisp shot into the path of the veteran hitman.

Highlights…

Read the Greece v Argentina match report.

Nigeria 2-2 South Korea…

South Korea booked a second round tie with Uruguay after securing the point they needed to edge past Greece into second place in the final Group B standings.

Nigeria created a steady stream of chances all night, and took the lead in the 12th minute when Kalu Uche stole in front of his marker to prod Chidi Odiah‘s driven cross past Jung Sung-Ryong.

The Asian side hit back five minutes before the break when Lee Jung-Soo bundled the ball across the line (heading into his own foot) following Ki Sung-Yeung‘s whipped free-kick.

South Korea then got their noses in front five minutes after play resumed, when Park Chu-Young‘s free-kick wrong-footed Vincent Enyeama in the Nigerian goal and found it’s way inside the far post.

Everton striker Yakubu restored parity for the Super Eagles from the penalty spot, but only after fluffing an open goal – somehow slotting wide from four yards out when it was easier to score.

Nigeria pressed in search of a further goal, but South Korea held out for the point they needed to qualify for the second round for the first time in a World Cup staged on foreign soil.

Highlights…

Read the Nigeria v South Korea match report.

Stat attack…

• Argentina ended their game against Greece having had an amazing 82% of the possession – the highest of any World Cup match since 1966. (Eurosport)

• By my reckoning, Park Chu-Young‘s goal against Nigeria yesterday was the first goal to be scored directly from a free-kick (I’m not counting Kalu Uche‘s effort against Greece, as it was blatantly a cross!) at the South African finals.

The truth is out there…

France captain (at least I think he’s still the captain) Patrice Evra has vowed to ‘reveal the truth’ about his country’s disastrous World Cup campaign.

The left-back, who was dropped for the South Africa game after falling out with coach Raymond Domenech and fitness advisor Robert Duverne, told TF1 that he intends to call a press conference during the next few days in which he will detail the reasons behind France’s dismal showing this summer;

“It’s not the time now for the settling of scores, it’s the time now for apologising and for feeling all the suffering that the millions of French are feeling.

This apology goes directly to them. I wanted to do it yesterday but I was forbidden by my coach. I’m not going to go into details, I’ll give a press conference during the week.

I really respect the suffering the French are feeling at this failure. They need to know the truth, they need to know exactly what happened that this disaster came about.

People will know how we came to this point. But I didn’t come here to say that now, I came to say sorry. I’ll repeat again that I wanted to say it yesterday but I was forbidden.”

The Manchester United defender then went on to reveal, amongst other things, that he had no idea why he was dropped for the potentially crucial clash against Bafana Bafana last night;

“Tonight there was no valid reason at all for why I wasn’t on the pitch. I’m not a liar, I will tell the truth. People don’t yet know the whole history but you will.

But you have to respect people and so there’s a huge apology even if that doesn’t change anything. I feel really bad, the French people even more so than me and you have to respect that today.

I will detail everything, what I experienced, every minute. Believe me I won’t hide anything, I will tell the truth.

But believe me what I have to say, tonight is not the time. The French need to know and they will know, during the week, as soon as possible.”

I can’t wait!

Crazy, but that’s how it goes…

England manager Fabio Capello has insisted that he ‘isn’t crazy’ to still be backing his side to reach the World Cup final, despite an underwhelming (to put it politely) start to their tournament.

England have only amassed two points from their opening two games, but Capello believes that a good performance in this afternoon’s game against group-leaders Slovenia will be the catalyst his players need to kick-start their campaign into action;

“We did a good job in getting here but now we’re not in a good moment, but I know this group of players are still good because I’m not crazy when I said my target was reaching the final of the World Cup.

They have shown they are a really good [squad]. This is not about my reputation – that is not important – because we are a team, a group.

Sure, we have to improve and I expect to see the spirit I saw in qualification again, with us fighting in every moment to win the ball back.

But I think if … no, not ‘if’, when we win this game, all the teams will have to fight to beat us.

This is a play-off. For me, it’s like a final or semi-final in the Champions League. We are either in or we are out. Only one result will do. We have to play with that kind of spirit from the first moment and we have to win. We’ll be fit to fight.”

As per usual, Capello is refusing to name his starting XI until hours before kick-off, but the general consensus on Fleet Street this morning is that Jermaine Defoe will partner Wayne Rooney up front, Matthew Upson will fill in for the suspended Jamie Carragher, David James will continue in goal and James Milner will deputise for Aaron Lennon on the right wing after the Tottenham man failed to impress during the Algeria game.

Quote of the day…

“As players and for me as captain we have to switch our attention to this game because it is a do-or-die situation.”

England skipper Steven Gerrard puts his head on the block.

Animal magic…

Ever wondered what David Villa’s opening goal against Honduras the other night would look like if it was recreated by plasticine animals? This way please…

The screaming orangutan chosen to represent Villa is an inspired choice!

And in other news…

Serbia striker Milan Jovanovic may pull out of his deal to join Liverpool to instead join former Reds boss Rafa Benitez at Inter Milan. (F365)

England have been ‘boosted’ by the return to fitness of Michael Carrick ahead of their decisive Group C clash with Slovenia. (BBC Sport)

FIFA may retrospectively suspend Spain striker David Villa after he admitted to punching a Honduran defender during the two team’s Group H clash. (Guardian)

David Ginola has threatened to sue Gerard Houllier after the former France manager once again blamed him for Les Bleus’ failure to qualify for the 1994 World Cup. (Sporting Life)

The French press are fairly unanimous in their verdict of France’s World Cup campaign, and it ain’t good! (F365)

Soccerlens Fantasy Football…

Soccerlens Fantasy Football gives you the option to go against friends and fellow competitors over a day’s games.

This means that you should pick your fantasy team from players involved in the games happening on that specific day. It also gives you the option of picking your fantasy team with the players you might be more familiar with.

Either way, it’s fast and action packed. So pick the specific round(s) you want to join from the home-page and join a competition!

You can also challenge your friends over a specific round by creating a private competition

Today’s (Wednesday 23rd June) round is as follows:

• Slovenia vs England

• USA vs Algeria

• Ghana vs Germany

• Australia vs Serbia

Give it a go and you may come away with a cash prize!

The 2010 World Cup on Soccerlens…

There will be comprehensive coverage of the World Cup on Soccerlens over the coming months.

With the dedicated World Cup section (chock full of info, including fixtures and stats – and even links to buy replica shirts) on SL, there really is no need to go anywhere else for your World Cup needs this summer!

You can even follow us on Twitter and Facebook if you’re that way inclined.

Also on Soccerlens…

• England v Slovenia: The Road To The Final Starts Here

• Kaka’: “Maradona’s Goal Was An Intentional Handball”

• Argentina’s Persistence Pays Off To Defeat Otto Rehhagel’s Greece

• Zizou-zela: Vuvuzela Meets Zinedine Zidane

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Argentina’s persistence over a dogged and vintage Greek side finally paid off after they ensured their 100% record in the competition remains intact with a two-nil victory at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.

Greece are notorious for their lack of adventure going forward as they sought nothing more than a draw with the hope of cashing in on goal via a counter attack. Argentina dominated the game in terms of possession but the Greeks stifled them with their defensive play.

Lionel Messi who has been absolutely mesmerizing thus far in South Africa with his trademark sparkle and creativity didn’t enjoy one of his better nights which was due to him being marked out of the game for pretty much the entire ninety minutes of play.

Coach Diego Maradona made seven changes to his side which had already qualified barring a miracle against them in terms of goal difference thanks to victory in their previous fixture but did not have top spot guaranteed. Captain Javier Mascherano was rested with other key figures Carlos Tevez, Walter Samuel and the tournament’s top goal scorer Gonzalo Higuain also sitting out the game. The 49 year old however opted to keep Lionel Messi in the team as he continues to excite the people of South Africa with his aura and artistic flair with the Jabulani ball. Maradona explained his decision to unleash the Barcelona star as a show of respect to the people of Africa:

“We want to be world champions with Messi. We had the opportunity to leave him out but we wanted to play him. A lot of people come to see him play. To leave him out would be a sin.”

Although Otto Rehhagel’s tactical approach with his teams are not all too popular they did do a job on Argentina by obstructing their usual technical swagger. Despite their success in restricting the Argentines, they offered little with their attacking emphasis as Giorgos Samaras led the line up top on his own. Too his credit the Celtic man can be pleased with his work for the team but missed a golden opportunity to put them in front after a mistake from Demiichelis in the second half opened up the space for the front man to run into but he fluffed his lines at the critical moment and blasted the ball wide off Romero’s goal.

Juan Sebastian Veron returned to the side after missing out on the 4-1 victory over South Korea with a calf problem. Despite his age the veteran orchestrated proceedings in the middle of the park again with his wide range of passing. He has been a marvel since his return to grace and looks as good at the age of 35 as he did ten years ago. He really has been rejuvenated since his move to his homeland with Estudiantes. He is a key member of the squad with his experience proving to be invaluable. His partnership with Mascherano in the centre of midfield is key for Maradona’s dream to prosper on July the 11^th as their leadership qualities can really make a difference along with their fearless attitude.

Greece had a real opportunity to advance to the knockout rounds as the score line in the other game between Nigeria and South Korea was working in their favour with both sides ancelling each other out twice before concluding with the eventual 2-2 draw. The Pirate Ship should have given it a real go and take the bull by the horns and surprise Argentina but Rehhagel’s philosophy of defensive football has been cemented into the Greek way of football and little do they know how to play in any other fashion. They showed spirit with their team work but their approach going forward was very tame.

Argentina created plenty of half chance but nothing clear cut. The game was beginning to drift by in the second half and looked to be heading for a goalless draw before Martin Demichelis smashed La Albiceleste infront after pouncing on a lucky break following a corner from Lionel Messi in the 77^th minute. The Bayern Munich man connected to the set piece by heading it inadvertently into Diego Miltio before blasting in the rebound past Greece’s Alexandros Tzorvas. It was well deserved for Maradona’s men who himself lightened up the sideline with exuberant celebrations as he embraced his colleagues with hugs.

Lionel Messi nearly scored a trademark solo effort after architecting the chance himself with his intricate footwork and his drop of the shoulder which stunned Vangelis Moras but could only find the frame of the goal instead of the net.

Martin Palermo who is more renown by people outside of Argentina as the man who fluffed three penalty kicks against Colombia in the Copa America eleven years, which still stands as a Guinness World Record today, came on as a late substitute for Diego Milito and killed the game off after pouncing on a rebound to tuck the ball home. Messi was once again involved as it was his stinging shot which was well saved by Tzorvas but the unlucky keeper couldn’t deny veteran Palermo on the follow up as he preceded his coach by becoming the oldest Argentine to score at a FIFA World Cup at the tender age of 36.

The victory was more than Argentina deserved. Maradona showed his joy at the final whistle celebrating with his players but showed his gracious nature too as he shook the hands of the defeated Greeks. This now sets up a tantalising last sixteen tie with Mexico who ironically they met in the same stage four years ago where a wonder strike from Maxi Rodriguez capped off a terrific game. More of the same this time around would be just the ticket.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Greece 0-2 Argentina
2010 FIFA World Cup
22 June 2010

Argentina would remain undefeated in the 2010 FIFA World Cup with two late goals to defeated Greece 2-0.

The win eliminated Greece from the knockout stage while clinched first place in Group B for Argentina. Greece were able to play solid defense and keep the match scoreless until late in the second half. Argentina continued to push forward and attack which paid off in the final 11 minutes.

Martin Demichelis and Martin Palermo would score the goals for Argentina to give them the three points. It could have been a wider margin as Argentina had chances throughout but couldn’t convert. Several of the regular starters such as Gonzalo Higuain and Carlos Tevez were given a rest as Diego Maradona has seven new starters for the match.

Argentina will now play Mexico in the round of 16 in which they will be a favorite. Greece still has not gotten out of the group stage in a World Cup.

Greece 0-2 Argentina Goal Videos

Greece 0-1 Argentina – (Demichelis) 79′

Greece 0-2 Argentina – (Palermo) 89′

See all2010 World Cup Video Highlights.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Bienvenue and welcome to the daily World Cup column on Soccerlens.

The big story from yesterday was France‘s abject performance against Mexico, that saw El Tri post their first ever victory over Les Bleus in international football – not that the French looked remotely bothered.

As expected, the French media have had a field day at outbound coach Raymond Domenech‘s expense, with some outlets speculating that ‘Dom’ may have intentionally botched his country’s campaign as direct revenge for his pre-tournament walking orders – although previous records seem to suggest that he is, in fact, just sh*t!

Here’s your easy-to-swallow round-up of what the World Cup has to offer up today…

(If you would like to subscribe to this column  – and others like it on Soccerlens – then please feel free to follow this link, or you can also just enter your email address on the SL homepage.)

Argentina 4-1 South Korea…

The first hat-trick of the South African finals (courtesy of Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain), coupled with an own goal from South Korean golden boy Park Chu-Young was enough to ensure that Argentina left Soccer City in Johannesburg with a comprehensive win under their collective belt.

Diego Maradona‘s men pressed from the off and duly took the lead after quarter of an hour, when Lionel Messi‘s left-wing free-kick struck the knee of Chu-Young and flew into his own net past the wrong-footed Jung Sung-Ryong.

Both teams then enjoyed a peppering of speculative efforts but South Korea fell further behind on the half-hour mark when Nicolas Burdisso flicked Maxi Rodriguez‘s cross into the path of Higuain and the Real man nodded in at the far post.

On the stroke of half-time, a defensive lapse from Martin Demichelis allowed Bolton winger Lee Chung-Yong to steal in and grab a wildly-celebrated goal that would unfortunately prove to be a mere consolation for the Asian side.

South Korea started the second period in high spirits, and enjoyed a sustained period of relative parity (Yeom Ki-Hun wasting the best opportunity that fell their way) until a sharp Argentinian counter-attack resulted in Messi clipping a shot against the near post – the rebound rolling tamely across the goal-line for the waiting Higuain to tap home.

However, the Albiceleste saved their best for last as a sweeping move saw second-half substitute Sergio Aguero delightfully re-route Messi’s chipped throughball across goal allowing Higuain to round off his treble with another deadly headed finish.

Highlights…

Read the Argentina v South Korea match report.

Greece 2-1 Nigeria…

Greece broke new ground after registered their first World Cup goals and victory at a finals and in the process also became the first side to come from behind to win in South Africa this summer.

Nigeria took an early lead when Kalu Uche‘s swirling 16th minute free-kick found the far corner when a clever dummy from Peter Odemwingie sold Greek ‘keeper Alexandros Tzorvas down the river.

The Super Eagles looked comfortable after nudging in front, that was until Sani Kaita saw red a quarter-of-an-hour later for foolishly raking his studs down the thigh of Vasilis Torosidis after the ball had rolled harmlessly out for a throw-in.

Canny Greece manager Otto Rehhagel, who masterminded their shock triumph at the European Championships six years ago, took advantage of the numerical advantage by switching to a more offensively-minded system – a gamble that quickly paid off.

A massively deflected strike from Dimitrios Salpigidis drew Greece level at the break and twenty minutes from time Torosidis ceased his chance to write his name into the history books – capitalising on a rare Victor Enyeama handling error to stab the loose ball home, sparking rapturous celebrations on the sidelines.

Highlights…

Read the Greece v Nigeria match summary.

France 0-2 Mexico…

Three substitutes combined to score the two richly-deserved second-half goals that gave Mexico their first ever victory over France, leaving Les Bleus on the brink of a shamefully early World Cup exit.

The supposed lack of harmony within the France camp manifested itself on the pitch as Raymond Domenech‘s side failed to create any chances of note, whilst their much-maligned coach looked on indifferently from the sidelines.

With Thierry Henry snugly wrapped in a tartan blanket on the bench, the French again struggled to find an attacking focal point, with both Nicolas Anelka and Franck Ribery drifting from the centre repeatedly – often leaving the Mexico area ominously free of blue shirts.

The Mexicans started the second-half on the front foot and promptly took the lead in the 64th minute when Manchester United new boy Javier Hernandez broke a lackadaisical French offside trap, rounded Hugo Lloris and rolled the ball into an empty net.

El Tri doubled their lead with ten minutes left to play when another replacement Pablo Barrera glided past a non-plussed Patrice Evra only to be bundled over in the area by Eric Abidal. 37-year-old veteran Cuauhtemoc Blanco dispatched the resultant spot-kick (after an alarmingly railroad-style run up) with the kind of confidence that years of experience can afford a man.

France’s response to both Mexico goals was underwhelming and their night ended in a whimper as Domenech continued to lean against his dugout, inexplicably staring into the middle-distance with a nondescript smirk etched upon his face.

Highlights…

Read the Mexico v France match report.

The aftermath in quotes…

“We need a miracle now.”

France ‘coach’ Raymond Domenech. You said it Bucko!

“We must save our honour. It is shameful to lose like that. It’s hard to react so soon after the game. We cannot leave without winning a match.”

Florent Malouda leaves it a bit late.

“I am disappointed because France did not have a single shot on goal – and that should be the least to be expected.”

France legend Zinedine Zidane didn’t like what he saw…

“We couldn’t pass the ball properly.”

…and neither did bench-bound playmaker Yoann Gourcuff.

“At least with [Laurent] Blanc there will be some logic.”

Former France defender Jonathan Zebina looks to the future.

“I’m disgusted, and we owe it to ourselves to beat South Africa, but as for miracles, I don’t believe in them too much.”

At least France captain Patrice Evra is giving us something to look forward to in the final game…ah.

“It’s a catastrophe, that’s all we can say. We are not a great team.”

Evra then sums up his side’s night by saying what we were all thinking.

Fabio is making his ‘keepers sweat…again

After rotating his three ‘keepers during a training match yesterday, it would appear that (from the outside looking in) England coach Fabio Capello is again set to wait until a few hours before kick-off to name his number one.

The Italian is widely expected (by the British papers at least) to keep faith with Rob Green, despite the West Ham man’s high-profile cock-up against the USA in England’s opening game although nothing will be certain until tomorrow afternoon.

Capello and his team have been scrutinising England’s goalkeeping options intently over the past couple of days and it seems the 64-year-old schemer may be edging toward giving Green a chance to atone for his costly error, telling a press conference yesterday;

“All players can make mistakes, whether they are forwards, goalkeepers or defenders. I have to choose players on the value they offer to the team, not on their mistakes. I will speak to him on Friday, not before.

I picked Green because he was in a good moment [form-wise] and had played very well in that first half of our friendly against Mexico at Wembley. But the real problem for the goalkeepers here is the ball. Sometimes the bounce is higher than normal. We will decide.”

Asked whether or not keeping his cards so close to his chest may undermine his players’ confidence, Capello replied in his typically stoic manner;

“No. Why would it be? All the players are ready and focused. There are no problems. I’ve always done it this way, it’s my way, and I’d prefer not to change.

Actually, not always. In my first year in management at Milan I used to tell the players if they were selected or not the day before, after dinner.

But, three times that year there was an injury or an illness the next day, and someone else had to play. So I stopped. I have not done it since.”

UPDATE: Bookmaker William Hill have stopped taking bets on David James starting in goal for England this evening – which is usually a good indicator of things to come. Looks like Green may have paid the price for his costly fumble after all!

Further team news…

It would appear that we are going to see Steven Gerrard reverting to his familiar left-wing role for England against Algeria this evening, with Gareth Barry returning to the deep-lying central berth after being forced to sit out the USA game with an ankle injury.

There were whispers that Jermaine Defoe was set to partner Wayne Rooney up front, but it would now appear that Fabio Capello is going to stick with Emile Heskey.

Jamie Carragher will deputise in the centre of the defence for the injured Ledley King, with the rest of the back four remaining unchanged.

Algeria are expected to name the same side that started their first game against Slovenia, although ‘keeper Faouzi Chaouchi may miss out – with rookie stopper Rais M’Bohli waiting in the wings.

Algerian coach hoping to ‘do a Switzerland’ on England…

Algeria coach Rabah Saadane is hoping that his side will take inspiration from the way unfancied Switzerland upset tournament favourites Spain on Wednesday, in a bid to help the Desert Foxes claim a similarly unlikely scalp when they meet England later today.

When asked if he’d like to replicate his Swiss counterpart Ottmar Hitzfeld‘s feat, Saadane answered;

“I hope so. If it’s possible I’d like that very much. Obviously this is something trainers watch very closely, so there is lots to be learned from each match. But everybody plays with their own means, each team is different.

I think it will be an important match for both teams. I think we’ll see a good match, it’s the World Cup so undoubtedly it will be a fine spectacle and that’s the interest of the tournament.

I have a lot of respect for Mr Capello and the England team. We don’t have any questions to ask and we’re looking forward to the match.

We’ve seen how they play, let me say again that we have no complexes [about being under-estimated], we will play as well as we can to produce a good performance and a good match.”

Saadane was then asked if he intended to employ the über-defensive tactics used by Switzerland to frustrate La Furia Roja, but the 64-year-old manager vowed otherwise;

“I don’t think we’ll play like North Korea against Brazil or Switzerland against Spain, we’ll play differently because we have different human components and we play according to our possibilities.

England have their backs to the wall. We have nothing to lose and everything to win.”

Like Capello, Saadane is yet to announce whether he will keep faith with ‘keeper Faouzi Chaouchi, the numpty that let Robert Koren‘s soft shot slip past him in Algeria’s opening game defeat to Slovenia.

Nothing like a bloody struggle to stir the soul…

With their clash against England looming, under-dogs Algeria have watched the film ‘Battle of Algiers’, a graphic account of Algeria’s bloody struggle for independence from French colonial rule for inspiration.

It obviously had the desired effect on midfielder Hassan Yebda, who left the screening with a pumping in his chest and a tear in his eye;

“I had never seen it before. It was very moving, and it was very moving to spend the time together. This is the kind of thing we need to do to feel together.”

I know what you mean Hassan. I was left feeling much the same way after seeing ‘Steel Magnolias’ for the first time.

Lost in translation…

When asked about the affection he shows toward his players at a press conference yesterday, Argentina coach Diego Maradona obviously received a very different question through his earpiece.

World Cup Economics…

Mint.com have produced a wonderful graphic to help illustrate the economics involved at this summer’s World Cup – well worth a look.

Stat Attack…

• England have never met Algeria before at any level of the game.

• The Desert Foxes will become the 82nd different country England have ever played against.

• Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain‘s hat-trick yesterday was the first treble scored at a World Cup since Portugal striker Pauleta managed the same feat against Poland in 2002.

• Higuain is only the third Argentine to score a World Cup hat-trick, joining Gabriel Batistuta and Guillermo Stabile in the record books.

Quote of the day…

“Obviously he is extremely disciplined but the manager is cool, he’s got good banter.”

Striker Jermaine Defoe on England manager Don Fabio. Can’t quite see it myself.

And in other news…

Crocked defender Rio Ferdinand will not be returning to the England camp (Telegraph)

Top 10 World Cup shocks of all time. (Goal)

Ivory Coast coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has hinted that Didier Drogba may feature from the start of Les Elephants‘ second group game against Brazil on Saturday, despite still nursing a broken arm. (Sky Sports)

Australian midfielder Tim Cahill has been handed a one-match ban following his red card against Germany. (Telegraph)

Martin Keown has warned England over the dangers of tight marking. Thank you Martin. (Mail)

Soccerlens Fantasy Football…

Soccerlens Fantasy Football gives you the option to go against friends and fellow competitors over a day’s games.

This means that you should pick your fantasy team from players involved in the games happening on that specific day. It also gives you the option of picking your fantasy team with the players you might be more familiar with.

Either way, it’s fast and action packed. So pick the specific round(s) you want to join from the home-page and join a competition!

You can also challenge your friends over a specific round by creating a private competition

Today’s (Friday 18th June) round is as follows:

• Germany vs Serbia

• Slovenia vs USA

• England vs Algeria

Give it a go and you may come away with a cash prize!

The 2010 World Cup on Soccerlens…

There will be comprehensive coverage of the World Cup on Soccerlens over the coming months.

With the dedicated World Cup section (chock full of info, including fixtures and stats – and even links to buy replica shirts) on SL, there really is no need to go anywhere else for your World Cup needs this summer!

You can even follow us on Twitter and Facebook if you’re that way inclined.

Also on Soccerlens…

• Can Serbia Surprise Germany At The World Cup?

• Three Reasons Why USA Will Lose To Slovenia

• 10 Things You Should Know About England v Algeria

• Italy ‘Keeper Marchetti: Seeing Death Up Close Changes Something In You

• Les Bleus On Brink Of Elimination – Domenech’s Parting Gift?

• Pakistan For The 2022 World Cup?

• England v Algeria Preview

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

In a sentence

Kaita’s moment of idiocy triggers a Greeks comeback, leading to a comfortable victory.

Blame the keeper or the ball?

Fresh from denying Messi, Enyeama came up with more heroics before his blunder led to the winner. This incident is going to be analysed again and again by those seeking to make a case against the Jalubani ball. The key question: did it swerve late? Replies did not suggest much movement but every goalkeeper error will prolong this debate.

Not pretty but reasonably effective

Greece’s drab and toothless opening was similar to their performance against South Korea. After the sending-off they did begin to carry some threat. Very little intricate passing but plenty of crosses and shots from distance.

Nigeria need a midfield general (i.e. John Obi Mikel)

While Shittu and Yobo kept things reasonably solid at the back, Nigeria need a ball-winner in the centre of the park.

The moment to forget – Obasi’s miss

A Nigerian counter-attack finished with Obasi needing to convert a rebound from a few yards. Nigeria would not get another decent chance after this horrible miss.

What’s next?

While they should enjoy their first World Cup win, Argentina will ensure that Greece won’t make the second round. Nigeria, however, will fail to take advantage and a draw in their final game will send South Korea through.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Greece 2-1 Nigeria
2010 FIFA World Cup
17 June 2010

The Greeks would score their first goals in a World Cup along with the country’s first result thanks to a red card against Nigeria.

Nigeria were the first to strike as Kalu Uche scored in the 16th minute but the lead wouldn’t last. The momentum would switch to Greece as Nigeria player Sani Kaita was given a red card in the 33rd minute. After the red card, Greece began to get some confidence and have most of the chances in the match.

They would level the match just before halftime as Dimitrios Salpingidis scored in the 44th minute with a shot that deflected of a Nigerian defender. It was a bit of luck for the Greeks but they clearly took control of the match when Nigeria were forced to play with 10.

It seemed only a matter of time before Greece took the lead in the second half and they did with a 71st minute Vasilis Torosidis pounced of the rebound from a shot to make it 2-1. Nigeria did have a few chances in the second half but generally were forced to play very defensive.

Both teams still have a chance to move to the knockout stage. Greece faces Argentina while Nigeria will play South Korea.

Greece 2-1 Nigeria Goal Videos

Greece 0-1 Nigeria –  (Uche) 16′

Greece 1-1 Nigeria – (Salpingidis) 44′

Greece 2-1 Nigeria – (Torosidis) 71′

See all 2010 World Cup Video Highlights.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

South Korea 2-0 Greece
2010 FIFA World Cup Group Stage
12 June 2010

The South Koreans would start off strong once again in a World Cup with a 2-0 win over Greece on Saturday afternoon in South Africa.

It was a quick start for the Koreans who took a 1-0 lead with a 7th minute goal from Lee Jung-Soo. Greece continues to struggle in World Cups and has not scored in their last four matches (didn’t score in all three group stage matches in 1994).

The match would remain 1-0 until early in the second half when South Korea extended their lead to 2-0. Manchester United’s Park Ji-Sung scored in the 52nd minute to give South Korea a comfortable margin and secure the three points.

Even though South Korea won the first match, it doesn’t guarantee they will make it out of the group stage. In the 2006 World Cup they won their opening match but failed to make it to the next round. Greece will have a tough road to make it to the next round as they will probably need at least 4 points and possibly 6 out of the next two matches.

South Korea 2-0 Greece Video Highlights

(1-0)

(2-0)

See all 2010 World Cup Video Highlights.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News